Chamber newsletter distributed
through the Fort Worth Star-Telegram the first
Tuesday of each month to approximately 120,000
subscribers as well as the entire membership.
Latest Edition - January 2004
From the President
Frequently, this space is used to discuss the amazing growth and expansion going on in Fort Worth. As citizens, we can be justifiably proud of the result of investment - both public and private - in our city. But along with such growth comes the need for municipal improvements.
On Saturday, Feb. 7, the City of Fort Worth will hold a $273,500,000 Capital Improvement Bond (CIP) election. Early voting runs from Jan. 21-Feb. 3. The lead story explains details. How much money are we talking about? What will these funds be spent for? Which proposition covers what? I want to talk about why the executive committee of the Fort Worth Chamber's Board of Directors voted unanimously to recommend its passage.
At just over a quarter of a billion dollars, we are being asked to vote for a major expenditure. I strongly urge Fort Worth residents to do some due diligence and educate themselves as to what is in the package and why we feel it's in the city's best interests to pass the entire package.
A cursory scan of the props won't tell you the whole story. In general we are talking street and storm sewer improvements (prop #1); parks and community services improvements (#2); library improvements (#3); fire service improvements (#4); telecommunication services improvements (#5); and public health improvements (#6). And yes, that hot button topic - public art - is in there as well. More on that in a moment.
This bond package was arrived at after a lengthy and exhaustive public process to allow citizens input and to address their concerns. I hope that you will take a few moments and visit the city's website (www.fortworthgov.org) to learn the specifics. This is a very basic package of improvements, which are essential to keep Fort Worth's stunning progress moving forward. Proposition 1 includes street repairs -- both residential and arterial projects -- as well as much-needed bridge replacement. There is funding for the Southwest Parkway and vital drainage projects are on the drawing board as well.
Prop 2 seeks to replace some playgrounds, upgrade trail bridges and other structures as well as replace some athletic fields and deteriorated ball field lighting systems and add new community centers.
Prop 3 will provide for a much-needed new northwest branch of the library while Prop 4 will replace Fire Station 27 and build new stations in far north and northwest Fort Worth to help reduce critical response times.
Prop 5 will add new radio towers and Prop 6 will help Fort Worth battle its worsening stray animal population by adding a spay and neuter clinic to the Animal Care and Control Center. These are all vital, necessary projects to keep Fort Worth competitive with comparable cities.
Voters who do their homework will see a line item dedicated to "public art" on each proposition. Some are calling this dedication "statue money." Not fair, these dollars are earmarked funds to ensure that each of these projects is an attractive addition to its setting and enhances Fort Worth's enviable quality of life.
Fort Worth residents are fortunate to live in such an exciting and growing city. But it is our responsibility to maintain, upgrade and replace city facilities. And, while voters can vote each proposition up or down, the Chamber urges all registered voters to support the entire package. Help us keep Fort Worth moving in the right direction.
CIP Bond Election
Chamber Urges Passage of Bond Package;
Quality of Life Issues on the Ballot
At its December meeting, the Executive Committee of the Fort Worth Chamber Board of Directors passed a resolution in support of the upcoming $273.5 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP) bond election scheduled for Feb. 7, 2004. Early voting begins Jan. 21 and runs through Feb. 3.
According to Fort Worth City Manager Gary Jackson, this "back to basics" package includes six separate propositions that include funding for improvements on a wide range of city needs.
- Proposition One: Street and storm sewer improvements - $232,900,000
- Proposition Two: Parks and community services improvements - $21,615,000
- Proposition Three: Library improvements - $4,490,000
- Proposition Four: Fire service improvements - $12,635,000
- Proposition Five: Telecommunication services improvements - $1,195,000
- Proposition Six: Public health improvements - $665,000
Jackson stressed that if the bond package is passed, the improvements would be made with no increase in taxes. He also referred to the two percent of the bond package that would be used for public art saying that that has been miscategorized. "This is not statue money," explained Jackson. "This is to ensure that we build quality, attractive facilities. No one wants eyesores in their communities."
District 7 City Council member John Stevenson noted that the bond package had been worked out with much public input and that the items in the package are "bread and butter stuff" such as fire stations and a library.
Speaking in support of the package, John Roach, chairman of the Chamber's Bond Election Finance Committee, agreed that the improvements in the bond package were very basic and urged citizens to contribute to the effort to pass the package. "It is critically important to our city that this bond package be passed," he said. "Fort Worth is growing by leaps and bounds. These improvements are vital to the future of the city."
While the Chamber is in favor of all six propositions and encourages their passage, voters may opt to vote in favor of some propositions and against others.
"The propositions in this bond package are quality of life issues," said Bill Thornton, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber. "We strongly urge our members and all Fort Worth citizens to support this bond package by voting for all six propositions." (See West Area Council story, page 8 to learn more.)
For more information on the CIP bond election, go to the Fort Worth web site.
Recap
of Recent Economic Activities in Tarrant County
Expansions and Moves
Bow Tied Too has moved into 1,870 square feet of space at 6323 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Suite 111.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27 Sterling Equity has moved its offices into 4,844 square feet of leased office space at 3221 Collinsworth, Suite 140.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
Colonial Health Group will relocate its headquarter from 2100 N. Main, Suite 105, to 160 West Magnolia Ave. on or before Dec 15.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
TMI Integrated Services, a supplier of machining tools and manufacturing services, has moved its headquarters from south Fort Worth into offices at 5400 Airport Freeway near downtown. About 40 employees have moved to the new location, with 20 others remaining at the manufacturing complex.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 3
Stage West completed its move to the Fort Worth Community Arts Center in October. The city-owned art center leases office space to about 15 arts organizations and also rents the 500-seat W. E. Scott Theater.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
New in Town
Turtleshells International, Inc, a company that produces a car cover that can withstand up to one-and-a-half inch hail, has moved from Dallas to a 19,000 square foot facility on Lawnwood in downtown Fort Worth.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27 Zo?-Italian, an upscale, modern casual restaurant, has opened in the Bank One building.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
Glenda Thompson opened a marketing and public relations company, Gestures Marketing Communications, in October.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
Under Construction
Construction has begun on Boat Club Plaza, a two-building retail center at 4601 Boat Club Road. The shopping center will have a 12,000 square foot and a 24,000 square foot building.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10 KB Homes and American CityVista have broken ground on Caballito Del Mar, an "in-fill" residential community of 1,500 to 2,000 single-family homes in northwest Fort Worth. Completion of model homes is scheduled for December.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
On the Dotted Line Element of Design, a specialty furniture and home furnishings store, has leased 4,500 square feet of space in Chapel Hill Shopping Center at the southwest corner of Hulen Street and I-30.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14-20 RadioShack Corporation has entered into a contract with ATC Logistics and Electronics to provide wireless handset repairs and refurbishment. The work will create more than 300 new RadioShack jobs for Tarrant County by March 2004.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
Rental One, a construction equipment rental center, purchased the Texas Patios outdoor furniture store at 5742 Airport Freeway. A March opening is anticipated.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27
Maenius Acquisitions, Inc, DBA Ridglea & Vine, has leased 1,763 square feet in the Ridglea Village Shopping center for a wine bar and retail wine store.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 7-13
Danny Saliba, the exclusive Steinway & Sons dealer in north Texas signed a 15-year lease on the 7,500 square foot former Luke Wickman store at 3717 Camp Bowie Boulevard. The new store will be known as Steinway Hall-Fort Worth.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 7-13
TD Industries has leased 5,000 square feet of industrial space at 2413 East Loop 820 in the Riverbend Business Park.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
Texas Health Cares has leased 2,965 square feet of office space in the Cardiology Associates building, 1300 West Rosedale Avenue.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
Stratum Furniture has leased 2,100 square feet at 2901 Suffolk Drive.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
Monarch Velo has leased 1,500 square feet at 2905 Suffolk Drive.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
Steve and Julie Kline and Patrick and Mary Duffy have partnered to build a Primrose School on two acres of land at 5330 Columbus Trail in southwest Fort Worth. The franchise provides preschool and after school care.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 10
Weingarten Realty Investors has purchased Overton Park Plaza, a 350,000 square foot shopping center at Southwest Loop 820 and Hulen Street.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 24
Puma Partners, a real estate investment company, has purchased 3 acres of land at 1800-1900 15th Avenue. Included are 26,000 square feet of multi-tenant buildings.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 24
Starbucks plans to open a new 1,662 square foot location at Houston and Third Streets in Sundance Square in mid-February.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 24
SCB Real Estate Investments has purchased the 6,400 square foot building at 3721 Camp Bowie Boulevard, a professional building that formerly housed the staff of Health Care of Texas.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 24
Williams-Pyro Inc. has been awarded a NASA research grant to develop a sensor to detect defects in aircraft electrical cables. The award was presented under NASA's Small Business Innovative Research program.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 3
Advance America, a financial-services provider, has leased 1,240 square feet at Shoppes of Weatherford Shopping Center, at Interstate 20 and Texas 171.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 3
Amy & Dean's Chocolate Cafe has leased 2,000 square feet at the Peoples Bank Center, 5712 Colleyville Bouelvard.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 3
Pella Windows & Doors has leased 1,700 square feet at 3801 West Freeway, in an 8,000-square-foot building being built by the owners of Techline Furniture and Cabinetry. The building is scheduled to be completed in the spring. Techline will occupy 2,700 square feet.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 3
Wide Open Spaces, the Fort Worth real estate firm developing the $350 million Trinity Bluff development of shops, restaurants, offices and residential units downtown along the Trinity River, is close to completing the deals needed to make the project work. Trinity Bluff is taking in most of Samuels Avenue and the bluff area, Fort Worth's first residential neighborhood. The project is designed to bring more than 1,500 residences, shops and restaurants to downtown Fort Worth.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov.
Openings Jason's Deli opened a new 5,066 square foot store at 5100 Overton Ridge. It is the first Jason's location to offer a pickup window for phone-in orders.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14-20 Pacuigo Italian Gelato opened its first Fort Worth location at Central Market in the Chapel Hill Shopping Center.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14-20
Reese Hillard opened his third Saturn dealership, Saturn of Fort Worth, at 400 West Loop 820 South.
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14-2
Reports from Out of Town The Sunday Oregonian had a lengthy article about locally based Texas Pacific Group: "Texas Pacific... is known for buying troubled companies, then sending wayward earnings into the stratosphere. With $13 billion under management and investments in ventures as diverse as airlines and burgers, Texas Pacific is one of the largest private equity firms in the country."
The Sunday Oregonian, Nov. 23, 2003 The Dallas Business Journal reported: "After quietly turning out tortillas on Cowtown's north side for the past two years, one of the nation's largest farmers cooperatives (CHS Inc.) plans an expansion to Railhead Fort Worth (industrial park) in a bid to streamline its supply of tortillas and tortilla chips to the nation's prisons, schools and other food-service customers."
Dallas Business Journal, Nov. 21, 2003
A Time Magazine article about the healthcare boom mentioned two area companies:
"Texas Health Resources is barreling full speed into a boom. Demand for health care is expected to be so strong that over the next 10 years, this group of 13 hospitals dotting the cities and suburbs of north Texas will hire 2,000 people as part of a $ 1.5 billion expansion.
JPS Health Network in Fort Worth, Texas, helped three local schools add 60 spots to their nursing programs by lending its own nurses, on hospital pay, as instructors."
"Health Kick; Why one industry always has more good jobs than it can fill",
Time Magazine, Nov. 24, 2003
The Calgary Herald reported on the top 10 things to see and do in Texas including, "Boot scoot at the world's largest honky-tonk in Fort Worth (Billy Bob's Texas)."
Calgary Herald (Alberta, Canada), Nov. 22, 2003
"Patterson's team has evolved from feisty underdog to cause celebre" reported USA Today. The article also quoted Gary Patterson, TCU's coach, as saying,"no matter what happens, we've already beat the odds. You can't buy what TCU and Fort Worth have received because of everything that's gone on, the national attention."
USA TODAY, Nov. 20, 2003
Did You Know? John C Goff, vice chairman and CEO of Crescent Real Estate Equities Co., was quoted as saying, "The city (Fort Worth) does a lot of things right. In terms of having its act together to entice companies to move in, it does a great job."
Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21-27 Since the JSF contract victory in October 2001, employment at the Fort Worth Lockheed Martin Aeronautics plant complex has surged to 16,800 from about 11,500.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Nov. 17
The Appaloosa Horse Club held its 2003 World Championship Show at Will Rogers Equestrian Center. This year's event was expected to draw 1,200 horses and 3,000 entries.
Fort Worth Business Press, October 31-Nov. 6
Data provided by Strategic Insight Group,
Intelligence Research Partner of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
Dateline: Fort Worth...
Fort Worth shines with hip downtown, diverse museums
"Cowhands still drive a herd of Longhorn cattle through the Stockyards National Historic District. Billy Bob's remains the world's largest honky-tonk. And the Cowboy Hall of Fame is complemented by the Cowgirl Hall of Fame.
Even an expanding Cultural District with world-class art museums is anchored by the Will Rogers Memorial Center.
Indeed, Fort Worth continues to live up to Oklahoma cowboy humorist Rogers' designation as the place "where the West begins."
But what would Rogers or his good friend and Fort Worth ambassador-to-the-world Amon G. Carter think about sharing space and attention with Andy Warhol and Claude Monet? Chowing down on chicken-fried foie gras? Hip-hopping at a downtown nightclub?
Welcome to Cosmopolitan Cowtown. If you haven't been here lately, you're in for a surprise. While clinging to its Western heritage with justifiable pride, 21st-century For Worth has developed into a dynamic, multifaceted tourist destination.
A revitalized downtown sparkles, too, with innovative restaurants, trendy clubs, residential development and a vibrant but safe environment day and night throughout a 20-square-block area called Sundance Square.
Add a great zoo and the serenity of a beautifully maintained botanic garden, and it's no wonder that 7.5 million outsiders visit annually." Houston Chronicle
December 2003
Retention Survey
Chamber, TWU Conduct Business Retention Survey
Taking the pulse of the local business community, the Chamber's economic development department, in conjunction with Texas Wesleyan University marketing research students, conducted a comprehensive business retention survey intended to assist the Chamber's economic development team recognize the issues facing local businesses. Those results were released recently.
"It was a simple, one-page survey designed to be informative but not too overwhelming or time-consuming," said Carole Myer, director of business development for the Chamber. "We ensured it was comprehensive and would provide us with useful data. We were pleased with the 20 percent response rate."
The survey had several objectives:
- Identifying specific businesses interested in relocation outside of Fort Worth
- Identifying issues affecting business growth
- Determining if there is an adequate supply of skilled labor in the area
- Evaluating the effectiveness of current city services and needed improvements
- Ascertaining manufacturers' attitudes towards local, state and national regulations affecting business
- Verifying what materials are necessary for basic operation and what end products the manufacturers create
- Recognizing the current location and size adequacy for manufacturers' current and future needs.
The TWU students helped develop the survey, which was mailed to 593 local businesses on a manufacturing database. They then analyzed the results. Among their findings:
Fort Worth businesses should take better advantage of foreign trade zones and triple Freeport tax exemptions.
TWU's Dr. Sandy Hart and her research team students presented the results to the Local Business Development Committee in November.
"We select our projects based on a number of factors and are always pleased to work with the Fort Worth Chamber," said Dr. Hart. "We know this project won't sit on a shelf. Survey participants will be contacted and strategies developed from these findings."
Here are some highlights of the survey:
71% of respondents are headquartered in Fort Worth
95% distribute to other countries
75% don't use triple Freeport exemption
82% don't use foreign trade zones
48% expect an increase in revenue this year
40% expect an employment increase
78% found Fort Worth conducive to doing business, with the location, cost of living and affordable labor being the greatest positives.
"One of the things we learned is that we need to do a better job of educating our members as to the economic tools available to them such as the Freeport tax exemption and foreign trade zones," added Myer.
The Freeport tax exemption allows local authorities to exempt taxes on goods that have been acquired in or imported into Texas to be forwarded out of the state within 175 days.
A foreign trade zone is an area within the U.S., which is considered to be outside U.S. Customs territory. Foreign imports and domestic goods remain in international commerce as long as they are held within the zone and are not subject to duties, special tariffs or taxes.
The 2003 Retention Task Force included Sal Adamski, Work Advantage Board; Leslie Brennan, Haws & Tingle; Tim Cox, Royer & Schutts; Matt Graves, Carter Industrial Park; Dwayne Loftis, FBS/Texas, Inc.; and Arnie Gachman, Gachman Metals Co. For more information, contact Myer at 817/336-2491, ext.235.
Eco Campaign
Can You See Yourself in Fort Worth?
Can you see yourself in Fort Worth?
That's the question the Fort Worth Chamber's economic development department is asking companies across Texas. With Pier 1 imports and RadioShack each preparing to move into their respective new corporate facilities, thousands of square feet of Class A office space is about to open up in downtown Fort Worth - a situation not seen here in some time. Rather than wait for that space to be vacated, the Chamber's economic development staff decided to start a proactive search of new tenants for downtown.
"Fort Worth has a great story to tell," said Bill Thornton, president and CEO of the Chamber. "So we decided to find potential tenants for the office space and then launch a targeted marketing campaign to attract them."
Strategic Insight Group was commissioned to find the potential tenants and provide company profiles as well as prioritize them. The Chamber had hoped for a list of 10 to 15 candidate companies. SIG came back with a three-tier list of 133 prospects.
Then Witherspoon & Associates developed the "Can You See Yourself in Fort Worth?" campaign. Clients considered good prospects were sent a special package that included a pair of binoculars and an invitation to visit Cowtown. Also included was a reprint of a business section from the Star-Telegram detailing downtown's phenomenal growth and a personal invitation to visit. The invitation stresses that should they choose Fort Worth, they will be good company amid such corporate giants as AmeriCredit, Cash America and Carter & Burgess as well as RadioShack and Pier 1.
The direct marketing campaign is broken into three phases targeting the most likely prospects first, then the second and third groups. The first mailing has already been sent.
"We are marketing Fort Worth's impressive assets to these companies in order to backfill this office space," said Thornton. "We have a robust, growing downtown, not contracting like some other cities. We have a cultural district envied by many much larger cities and a thriving Western heritage. Truly something for everyone."
Another phase of the campaign will send out a mailing that includes a magnifying glass and copy that asks prospects to "Take a Closer Look at Fort Worth."
"We will be making follow-up calls to our prospects and setting up site visits in the near future," says Marilyn Gilbert, executive vice president of the Fort Worth Chamber. "That will give them an opportunity to take a closer look at all Fort Worth and its downtown have to offer."
For more information on the campaign, call Marilyn Gilbert at 817/336-2491, ext. 239 or mgilbert@fortworthchamber.com.
Trade Mission
Interest in Vietnam Trade Mission Being Gauged
Local interest in a possible trade mission to Vietnam is being gauged by the Fort Worth International Center and the Fort Worth Chamber, according to Mary Weaver, director of international business development for the Chamber.
"We hope that a trade mission to Vietnam would foster commercial relations and promote our local industries," said Weaver. "Participants would benefit from briefings by local experts on the Vietnamese market, abundant networking opportunities, one-on-one meetings with Vietnamese professionals and various economic development possibilities."
The goal of the mission is to give Fort Worth companies local market exposure and to find agents/distributors, manufacturers and business partners in their respective industry sectors says Weaver. "The mission will also promote the Fort worth area to expanding Vietnamese companies and professionals, educate local officials and business leaders on issues relating to imports and exports with Vietnam, and foster a spirit of familiarity and goodwill between the two locales," she added.
Facts and Figures
To put Vietnam in perspective, it is slightly larger than New Mexico with a population of over 81 million (July 2003 figures). The gross domestic product (GDP) was $168.1 billion in 2001 and natural resources include coal, crude oil, zinc, copper, silver and iron. Exports accounted for nearly 55 percent of the GDP in 2001. And, according to the World Bank, 70 percent of all Vietnamese exports could be destined for the U.S. in the near future. These include commodities such as garments/textiles, oil, footwear, rice, seafood, coffee and rubber.
Weaver noted that Vietnam also imports many goods and services from the U.S. such as machinery and equipment, petroleum products, fertilizers, technology items, garment materials, iron and steel products.
"Recent government measures and private investments have significantly improved trade opportunities between the U.S. and Vietnam," said Weaver. "The U.S./Vietnam Bilateral Trade Agreement of 2001 removed high tariff and trade barriers, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Export/Import Bank and Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) are currently offering financial and insurance services to U.S. companies with trade and investment projects in Vietnam."
The proposed scenario is for the Fort Worth delegation to visit Vietnam and focus on commercial area meeting with city officials, business owners and leaders and economic officials. One-on-one and group meetings will be arranged as requested.
If adequate interest in expressed, the trade mission will take place in spring 2004. It is estimated that the trip will cost approximately $2,900 per person with that covering all major transportation, room and board for 10 days.
Persons interested in participating in this trade mission should contact Weaver at the Chamber at mweaver@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 229.
School Supplies
Nash Gets Huge School Supplies Donation
As part of a project by CKI members, students at downtown Fort Worth's Nash Elementary School will be well supplied for a while.
CKI, a college offshoot of Kiwanis, encourages its members to participate in a yearlong project chosen by the organization's governor. The project, Mission T-O DREAM (Texas-Oklahoma, Dedicating Resources to Educating and Mentoring), explores a multitude of service activities allowing CKI'ers to be involved with children within their communitees. This year, chapters were asked to collect school supplies or donations with which to purchase supplies. The first load of supplies collected was delivered to Nash Elementary in late November. It was accepted by school principal, Pamela Day and members of the Fort Worth Chamber's Central Area Council who have adopted Nash Elementary. More than 20 baskets of notebooks, paper, glue, scissors, pens and pencils and other useful items were received.
CKI chapters will continue to gather school supplies for the remainder of the year and another load will be delivered before the end of the school year.
 |
| Nash students as well as Pamela Day, Lee Rogers, Jeanean Herod, Pennie Blossom and Glen Hahn take the school supplies into Nash Elementary. |
SBOY Finalist
Small Business Award Finalists Named
The nominees are in. The applications finalized and the judging completed for the 2004 Small Business of the Year. Finalists have been selected from more than 150 nominees. A reception is planned for the finalists this month. The SBOY Awards will be presented on March 26, 2004.
- What: Small Business of the Year Finalists Reception
- When: Tuesday, Jan. 27, 5-7 p.m.
- Where: The Fort Worth Club, Horizon and Trinity Rooms, 12th floor, 306 West Seventh St.
And the finalists are:
Emerging Business:
Comresco, LLC, Brian Center, President
Crescent City Beignets, Lee Rogers, President
The Artisan Works Group, LLC , Clay Childs, President & COO
1 - 10 Employees:
Printing Plus, Sue Johnson, President
Teresa's Treasures, Teresa Nelson, Owner
Winston Services, Inc., Cherryl J. Peterman, President
11 - 50 Employees:
Café Aspen, David Rotman, Owner/General Manager
Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Tim Love, Owner/Chef and Emilie Love, Owner
Williams Trew Real Estate Services, Marshall Boyd, COO/Managing Partner
51 - 100 Employees:
Branch-Smith Printing, David Branch, President
Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc., Gary J. Teague , President
The Fort Worth Club, Walter Littlejohn, General Manager
101 - 250 Employees:
CI Host, Christopher Faulkner, CEO
Higginbotham & Associates, Rusty Reid, President & CEO
Empire Roofing, Inc., Ronnie McGlothlin, President
For more information contact:
Lydia
Hall
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 272
SBOY Correction Small Business of the Year Correction
In the December Chamberletter, a list of Small Business of the Year nominees failed to include the following businesses due to a technical error.
Aftermarket Technology Corporation
American Iron Horse
Arthur Hagar Air Conditioning & Heating
Bana Box
The Barr Printing
Benchmark Casting
Central Concrete Pumping & Mobil Mix
Education in Action
Eye Works
Farrow Machine & Manufacturing
Fine Line Production
Hui Chuan Inc.
Mi Cocinita Restaurant
Ranch House Trading Company
Reliant Air Conditioning
Sam's Appliances & Furniture, Inc.
The Smartacus Corporation
Timberline Tree Service
Williams-Pyro, Inc.
Womack's Gym
We regret the omission.
Pat on the Back
Pat on the Back
Letter to Editor, printed in Houston Chronicle on Sunday Nov. 16, 2003:
Fort Worth has it right on litter
Regarding the Chronicle's Nov. 9 article, "Some see Super Bowl as ticket to new image": We have a long way to go when it comes to cleaning up our litter. A week ago I was in Fort Worth for a convention - you know the place, that "cowtown" up there next to Dallas, the place "where the West begins."
In three days of driving into, around and out of that cowtown, and walking the length and width of downtown Fort Worth, I saw essentially no litter.
They take "Don't Mess With Texas" to heart! There was no litter and very few billboards.
Downtown streets are lined with trees and flowers - the sidewalks are wide and pedestrian-friendly.
On Thursday there was a "parking lot" party, similar to our "Party on the Plaza," which had maybe 1,500 people in attendance. By the next morning, the parking lot was completely cleared and there was no litter anywhere!
They know how to do things right.
On Sunday, getting back to Houston, I noticed the litter beginning. It's everywhere, folks! We have a lot of work to do if we are going to create a new image in time for the Super Bowl.
Lining the freeways with new trees is nice, but it won't help a lot if there is trash everywhere.
Dan Barnum,
Houston, Texas
BRAC
BRAC Task Force Signs DC Consultant
The Fort Worth Chamber's Base Realignment and Closure Strategic Task Force has engaged a Washington D.C. based consultant to help make a persuasive case for the retention and possible expansion of the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB), Pete Rose of Williams Mullens Strategies.
According to Albon Head, chair of the task force, Rose will help in the development and delivery of a briefing paper which will outline NAS JRB's strengths and value to the nation's defense.
"Pete will be meeting with key Pentagon decision makers over the next couple of weeks impressing upon them the value of NAS JRB," said Head. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld was to deliver initial selection criteria to Congressional defense committees by Dec. 31. The final selection criteria are due to the committees by Feb. 16.
Rose is also collaborating on the NAS JRB briefing paper, which will be hand delivered to key Congressional members this month.
"We feel that NAS JRB is well positioned to survive this round of base closings, but we cannot be complacent," said Head. "The stakes for Fort Worth's economy are simply too high."
Fundraising is currently underway to help finance the committee's lobbying efforts. Already area communities that depend on the base have contributed to the special fund. Now the Fort Worth business community is being asked to contribute to the lobbying efforts. "We will need at least $100,000 to fund our initial efforts," said Tim Keleher, vice president of governmental and urban affairs for the Fort Worth Chamber. "Depending on how long this takes, we made need $200,000. We will be calling on the business community to contribute financially to this effort."
For more information on the BRAC Task Force, contact Keleher at 817/336-2491, ext. 264.
Guard Support Chamber Urges Support for Guard and Reserve
At a time when the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve are serving our country around the world, it is important that we at home protect their jobs while they serve.
"At the Chamber, we recognize the National Guard and Reserve as essential to the strength of our nation and the well-being our communities," said Tim Keleher, vice president of governmental and urban affairs for the Fort Worth Chamber. "We at the Chamber have signed a pledge guaranteeing that, as an employer, no employee who serves in the Guard or Reserve will suffer loss of employment or career advancement as a result of their service. We urge our members and other businesses to do the same."
The pledge reads, in part, "In the highest American tradition, the patriotic men and women of the Guard and Reserve serve voluntarily in an honorable and vital profession. They train to respond to their community and country in a time of need. They deserve the support of every segment of our society.
"If these volunteer forces are to continue to serve our nation, increased public understanding is required of the essential role of the Guard and Reserve in preserving our national security. Their members must have the cooperation of all American employers in encouraging employee participation in Guard and Reserve training programs."
The Fort Worth Chamber urges members to pledge that:
- Employment will not be denied because of service in the Guard or Reserve;
- Employee job and career opportunities will not be limited or reduced because of service in the Guard or Reserve;
- Employees will be granted leaves of absence for military training in the Guard or Reserve, consistent with existing laws, without sacrifice of vacation; and
- The agreement and its resultant policies will be made known throughout their organizations.
For more information on how your business or organization can sign the support for the Guard and Reserve pledge, contact Keleher at 817/336-2491, ext. 264.
NCHA Auction Benefits NCHA's 'Triple Crown of Cutting'
An auction of 2004 breedings to stallions was held last month with stallion services sold to the highest bidder. All profits go to the North Texas Cutting Champions Club, a non-profit extension of the City of Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau, the sole purpose of which is to ensure the National Cutting Horse Association's "Triple Crown of Cutting" remains in Fort Worth.
The Champions Club and the Chamber wish to thank those stallion owners listed below who donated to the auction.
A Chic In Time
Sharon Babcock
Don Ham Quarter Horses
Brooksinies Badger
Sheila Head
Sheila Head Cutting Horses
Cat Silver
Pitchfork Land and Cattle
Babcock Ranch Breeding Division
Dualin Gun
Keith Feister
KeRon Quarter Horses
Freckles Fancy Twist
Roger Cagle, M.D.
Freckles Fancy Twist, LLC
Hesa Peptospoonful
Sharon Riddle
Riddle Ranch
Hickory Bar Bully
Jerry Durant
Joe Landers
It's Just About Me
Ben Emison
DLR Ranch
Kit Dual
Robert Charles Brown
Alpha Equine
Lil Tenino Fair
Dean Sanders
Oswoods
Little Bo Badger
Gary and Marilyn Cottar
Cottar 2x4 Quarter Horses, Inc.
Master Merada
Peter and Nora Stent
Arnold Reproduction
Mister Dual Pep
Sheila Head
Sheila Head Cutting Horses
Painted Dual
Sheila Head
Sheila Head Cutting Horses
Peppy From Heaven
Dale Koller
KeRon Quarter Horses
Red Rey King
William and Billie Aylesworth
Diamond B Ranch
Rum Squall
Leatherman & Sons Farms
Joe Sanders, Inc.
Smart Little Jerry
Jimmy W. Guest
Guest Ranch
Smart 'n Slick
RB Ranch
Babcock Ranch Breeding Division
Sportin High Brow
William and Billie Aylesworth
Diamond B Ranch
Tina's Little Peppy
Bobby and Georgette Hawkins
Hawkins Ranches
Yellow Roan of Texas
Pete and Marilyn Bowling
Oasis Ranch
Young Gun
Terry and Sharon Riddle
Terry Riddle, Inc.
Membership in the Champions Club is available to all who wish to support the club's efforts. For more information, call 817/341-0930 to learn how you can join this effort and enjoy the 3-Bar Saloon during Futurity.
Leads Groups
Chamber Leads Groups Lead to New Business, New Sales
The lifeblood of any successful business is new business, new customers, and new leads. The Chamber's Leads Groups are designed to help our members find those promising new leads.
Leads Groups are comprised of no more than 30 individuals with each one representing a different industry. Groups meet weekly to share leads and find new business. Participants must be members of the Fort Worth Chamber. There is a $50 annual fee per company, but a company may be in two Leads Groups, until/unless that slot is needed for another company in the same industry. Gold members participate for free with the same restriction.
To visit a Leads Group, either contact the coordinator listed below or call the leader directly to make sure there is no conflict of industry. Each group has its own rules and personality, although they all loosely fall under Chamber guidelines. Consistent attendance provides the maximum benefit.
- Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. Texas Tornados
H3 -Stockyards Hotel - Main & Exchange streets
Leader: Kyle Cross, (817) 336-2565, kylecross@hyperusa.com
- Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Big List
Bonnell's - 4259 Bryant Irvin Rd.
Leader: George Fassett, (817) 923 2419, georgefassett@thumbtechs.com
- Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lead Cats
Rail Market-upstairs - 1401 Jones
Leader: Michael Mayes, (817)735 8446, mmayes@futurenetsolutions.net
- Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. Wednesday Group
Rail Market-upstairs - 1401 Jones
Leader: Dugan, (817) 336 2491 X258, dugan@fortworthchamber.com
- Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lead Launchers
Los Vaqueros - 2629 N. Main St.
Leader: Michael Frogge (817) 296 7788,michale@froggeconsulting.com
- Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Leads Masters
Joe T. Garcia's - 2201 N. Commerce
Leader: Tina Hearne, (817) 927 0139, tkhearne@airmail.net
- Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. eLeads Group
Café Aspen - 6103 Camp Bowie
Leader: Maureen Sullivan, (817) 239 7533, maureen@ourfortworth.com
- Friday, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Phoenix Group
Best Western Inn Suites - I-30 & Beach Street
Leader: Mike Hildenbrand, (817) 680 3477, micolga@hotmail.com
For more information, contact Diana Dugan at 817/336-2491, ext. 258 or ddugan@fortworthchamber.com.
Ribbon Cuttings
Recent Ribbon Cuttings
Central Market celebrated the opening of its new Paciugo counter with a ribbon cutting. Paciugo is an Italian gelato with more than 200 flavors. Located within the store at Hulen and I-30, Central Market has made many changes recently. For more information, contact Heather Sinter at 817/335-1373, ext. 116.
A grand opening was held for a new Jason's Deli location at 5100 Overton Ridge Blvd. More information is available from Monica O'Conner at 214/288-3845.
Westlake Ace Hardware held a "board" cutting at the grand opening of the 4440 Basswood Blvd. location. To learn more about the location, contact Shana Carriker at 913/888-8438, ext. 2276.
PlainsCapital Bank marked the grand opening of its new Fort Worth location at 6000 Western Place, Suite 118. To learn more about PlainsCapital Bank, contact executive vice president Doug Cook at 817/258-3700.
Ambassador of the Year Action Ambassadors Recognized for Efforts
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John Porhamer
Action Ambassador of 2003 |
The Fort Worth Chamber Action Ambassador of the Year for 2003 has been announced and John Porhamer is the honoree. The award is given in appreciation of an Action Ambassador who has not only been extremely active on behalf of the Chamber but who has demonstrated dedication to the Ambassador program. Porhamer is the owner of Cowtown Insurance Service, Inc. and has been an Action Ambassador since January 2003.
Ambassador for October
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Paul Smith
Action Ambassador, October 2003 |
The Action Ambassador for October 2003 was Paul Smith, an Ambassador since June 2003. Smith is an outside sales representative for Anixter.
Action Ambassadors keep busy on behalf of the Chamber calling on new members and working as greeters at various Chamber functions. The Action Ambassador program is a great way to learn more about the Fort Worth Chamber and plug in to all of the programs it offers. It is also a great networking tool.
Contact Teresa Pearson at 817/336-2491, ext. 249 for information on becoming an Action Ambassador.
WAC
Stock and Bonds: How Election Affects the Stock Show
The Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show is as important to the economic vitality of Fort Worth as it is to its Western heritage. The upcoming city bond election will fund improvements to the Will Rogers Complex and the Cultural District. At its next Membership Luncheon, the Fort Worth Chamber will present Stock Show President and General Manager W.R. "Bob" Watt, Jr. and Fort Worth Assistant City Manager Charles Boswell highlighting the significance of the upcoming bond election to that area.
- What: Membership Luncheon hosted by the West Area Council
- When: Thursday, Jan. 15, noon-1:30 p.m.
- Where: Back Stage Club, Will Rogers Memorial Center, 3401 W. Lancaster
- Cost: Chamber members - $25; Gold members - $20; non-members - $40
Bob Watt has been associated with the Stock Show since his college years in the 1950s when his father, W.R. Watt, was president of the show. Watt will provide historical perspective on the show and what the future holds. Charles Boswell will stress the importance of the upcoming bond election package and how it will impact the future of the Will Rogers Complex/Cultural District as well as detail other programs in the package.
This luncheon will also be a great opportunity to see the newly remodeled Back Stage Club. Mark your calendar. For more on the Southwestern Exposition & Livestock Show, see the special insert in this issue of the Chamberletter.
For more information, contact Pennie Blossom at 817/336-2491, ext. 267. RSVP online by Jan. 13 at www.fortworthchamber.com or to Jeanean Herod at ext. 275.
December 2003 Edition
November 2003 Edition
September 2003 Edition
August
2003 Edition
July 2003
Edition
June 2003
Edition
Chamberletter contact below:
For more information contact:
Arden
Dufilho
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 259 |
