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 - March 2004
Thornton column
To the voters of Fort Worth, let me say thank you.
Last month, you showed once again that you understand the importance of keeping the city's infrastructure maintained and keeping pace with growth by overwhelmingly passing the city's $273.5 million Capital Improvement Program (CIP) bond package.
I also want to extend my congratulations and thanks to Mayor Mike Moncrief, City Manager Gary Jackson and the entire City Council for their hard work in ensuring this much-needed bond package passed. This vote demonstrates that Fort Worth citizens are ready to meet the challenges necessary to continue the unprecedented growth and improvement the city is currently enjoying. Let me also thank John Roach, chairman of the Citizens for a Better Fort Worth Bond Election Finance Committee, for all his hard work in this effort.
In the CIP bond package, voters approved funding for numerous street and drainage projects throughout the city, right-of-way acquisition for the long-awaited Southwest Parkway, park improvements, three new community centers, two new fire stations, a new library, new radio towers to aid police and fire communications, and a new surgical unit at the municipal animal control center.
The passage of the bond package also sends a signal to businesses and individuals around the country that Fort Worth will make the necessary investment in its future. Today, Fort Worth finds itself in an enviable position. Our economy is growing. We have a vibrant downtown. We have major corporations choosing to invest in the future by planting deeper roots in the city. And we have a quality of life second to none. Now, we also have the necessary funds to ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with our growth.
But our work isn't done yet. There is an important school board election coming. May 15, Fort Worth voters must again head for the polls to elect board trustees to represent Districts 1, 4, 6, 7 and 8 as well as a board president who is elected at-large. The issues facing our schools - school funding, the dropout rate, selecting a new superintendent and fiscal management among them -- are as important as those the bond package addresses. It is important that we, as voters, make sure we are informed on those issues. And that we get to know the candidates and their qualifications. Early voting runs from April 28 through May 11, so we have plenty of time to educate ourselves about the issues and the candidates.
Again, thank you for your support in ensuring that Fort Worth continues to make solid progress in the years to come. Now it is time to focus on the needs of our children and the school system that educates them. Please be sure that you are prepared to vote in this important election.
TRC Kick Off
Mardi Gras Madness Morphs into Krewe of Kowtown Kickoff
A dreary Tuesday did little to dampen the enthusiasm at the Fort Worth Chamber's
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| Krewe of Kowtown Chair Vernon Bryant of TexasBank and Chip, the $800K monkey address team members at the TRC kickoff held Mardi Gras Day |
first Total Resource Campaign kickoff last week. Team members gathered amidst carnival decorations and jazz music to get revved up and ready to go sell sponsorships for Chamber programs, services and publications as well as memberships. Dubbed the Krewe of Kowtown, team captains stated their goals and received their ceremonial beads. Krewe of Kowtown chair Vernon Bryant got the crowd going by introducing Chip, the $800,000 monkey on everyone's back. That's the goal for the total resource campaign, but a makeable especially in light of the fact that $137,375 has already been raised. But great sponsorship opportunities are still available and Krewe members will be contacting businesses over the two and a half months to sell them. Among some of the marquee sponsorships still available are presenting sponsor for the Chamber's annual golf tournament, the Tarrant Area Chambers Trade Show, the State of Education Address and next year's State of the City Address and many, many more. A plumb sponsorship still open to four businesses is sponsorship of the Chamber's website. One has sold and each is industry exclusive.
Teams include: AIDS Outreach Center; The Beck Group; Buehler Moving/Mayflower; Cantey & Hanger, LLP; Citizens National Bank; Coors Distributing Co.; Frost Bank-Downtown; FutureNet Solutions, Inc.; Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital; Herman Miller Workplace Resources; Higginbotham & Associates, Inc.; Hillwood Properties; Holiday Inn North & Conference Center; Infinite Network Solutions, Inc.; Jefferson Wells International; JPS Health Network; New York Life Insurance Company; Pate Engineers, Inc.; Pathways Health Services; Pavecon, Ltd.; Raymond James & Associates; Southwestern Bell; Summit Bank, NA; Surety Bank; TexasBank; THUMBTECHS; TXU/Oncor; Wells Fargo; Xspedius Communications; and Y2Marketing/Business Growth Alliance.
Thanks to Scott Dally, Dally, Inc., for creating the Krewe logo.
The Krewe of Kowtown Total Resource Campaign runs through May 18. For more information, contact Richelle Hicks at 817/336-2491, ext. 243.
Update
Recap
of Recent Economic Activities in Tarrant County Ring in the New
City Council members approved zoning changes along West Berry Street to ensure that development will be pedestrian-friendly. This will give residents and developers financial incentives, through a neighborhood empowerment zone, to spruce up the area. Construction is expected to begin this spring on an apartment complex that will include a parking garage and retail space. By summer, work should begin to add a median, widen sidewalks and narrow the street. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 7
An area along Camp Bowie Boulevard in west Fort Worth, once considered the most exclusive shopping area in Tarrant County, has been sold by the families that began developing the property 60 years ago. Its new owner, Dallas-based Trophy Investments, plans a multimillion-dollar redevelopment designed to bring a renaissance to one of the city's oldest retail areas. The new owners have renamed the property The Village at Camp Bowie and vow to return it to its former prestigious niche. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 24
Construction could begin in weeks on redevelopment of the old Texas & Pacific railroad terminal, after the City Council agreed to pump $2.8 million into the project. The $26 million development plan calls for turning the upper floors of the art-deco T&P building into 130 apartments. The bottom floor has already been converted into a station for the Trinity Railway. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 28
The city has scheduled a ribbon-cutting for the first phase of the $14 million reconstruction of Lancaster Avenue. When the projects are finished in 2005, Lancaster Avenue will be a four-lane road with a wide, tree-lined median, head-in parking on each side and wide sidewalks. Narrowing the roadway will also allow the city to sell some of the rights of way along the north side for development. Plans call for dense, urban village-type buildings with street-level shops and offices or apartments on the top floors. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 28
Expansions and Moves
AMG, Austin Marketing Group, has relocated from 4632 Washburn Avenue to 409 Bolliger Boulevard. Fort Worth Business Press, Jan. 16-22
Vintage Capital Partners, a real estate capital company, moved its offices to the 2-story office building it acquired in 2002. The 10,700 square foot building was gutted and remodeled by Vintage. Kelly, Geren & Searcy occupies the first floor. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 26
New in Town
Bill Jackson has opened a Fort Worth office for BMC Mortgage, a nationwide provider of multifamily, triple-net leased and commercial mortgages, at 6512-D Hickock Drive. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
P. F. Chang's China Bistro, a full-service restaurant offering Chinese cuisine, has signed a lease for a space in the Bank One building at Third and Throckmorton streets. Restaurant officials say they expect to open this year.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
Hill Gilstrap, one of Arlington's largest law firms, has leased 2,000 square feet in City Center, Second and Main streets, in downtown Fort Worth. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 19
Under Construction
Master Meter, provider of water meters to cities across the country, is building a corporate headquarters off Broad Street and east of U.S. 287 at the McCaslin Business Park. Master Meter will move its manufacturing operations in Longview and its corporate office in Fort Worth to the new location. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
On the Dotted Line
Stockyards Station Hotel L.P. plans to build an $8-million, 102-room, AmeriSuites hotel just off East Exchange Avenue. Fort Worth Business Press, Jan. 23-29
The Family Dollar store at 6156 Ramey Avenue has been sold to a private investor based in Santa Fe, N.M. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 19
The Boenker & Wheelwright office of Farmers Insurance has signed a lease for 980 square feet at Davis Boulevard Professional Building, 5587 Davis Blvd. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 19
Specialty Restaurant Equipment Company has purchased a 40,000-square-foot office-warehouse building at 941 Avenue G in Great Southwest Industrial District. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 19
Auto Glass Distributors has renewed their lease of 8,500 square feet of industrial space at 351 Exchange Drive. The space will be used for distribution and storage of automotive glass. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 19
Robert Davis has purchased a 2,950-square-foot building at 6912 Loop 820. Fort Worth Business Press, Jan. 23-29
Professional Properties LLP has purchased 1.5 acres at 1600 East Square Street. Fort Worth Business Press, Jan. 23-29
IT Portfolio, a Denver, Colorado-based information technology service and support firm, has merged with Futuremax, Inc, a Fort Worth-based technology solutions provider. Fort Worth Business Press, Jan. 23-29
Azura Properties LLC has purchased 6,501 square feet of office space at 1007 Harrison Avenue. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 26
Kaplan Higher Education, which does business as Career Centers of Texas, has leased 14,486 square feet at 2001 Beach Street for its Fort Worth campus.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 26
Giri Mundluru, a cardiologist, has acquired a 5,559-square-foot building at 424 South Summit Ave., under the name Fort Worth Diagnostic Services Corporation. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
Cityview Shopping Center at Bryant Irvin Rd. and Interstate 20 has two new tenants and a third has expanded its space. Cellular Planet has leased 1,131 square feet and Fireplace & Patio Store has leased 3,033 square feet. Fit For Life has leased an additional 6,000 square feet. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
Ace Cash Express has leased 1,050 square feet in Clifford Crossing at Clifford Street and Loop 820. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
Mary Kay Cosmetics owners Robin Blackmon-Dunda and Stacy Winsett, have leased 2,291 square feet at the Signet Hill Office Building at 400 South Industrial Blvd. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
CES Inc. has leased 16,336 square feet of industrial space at 4922 Northeast Parkway from Jagee Properties. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 5
Openings
The Tower, the former Bank One tower at Fourth and Throckmorton, recently opened its sales office at the corner of Third and Throckmorton, where potential buyers and renters can take virtual tours of the condominium units. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 26
It's About Time, a professional concierge and errand service company has opened in Fort Worth. Jill Joslin is the managing director. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 12
Saltimbocca's Italian Bistro is opening in February in the Courtside Plaza Shopping Center off Interstate 20 and Little Road.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jan. 26
Reports from Out of Town
What's billed as the world's tallest freestanding flagpole ... would take six months to build and, once finished, raising the enormous flag to the top would take seven to 10 minutes, according to Flags USA of Fort Worth, Texas, the company that would construct the massive steel pole. The Augusta Chronicle (Georgia), Jan. 10
The Austin American Statesman took a look at five Texas cities that have "seen the future and its an urban center that is livable, workable, playable." Regarding Fort Worth: ""What we've got here is resort-like compared to most downtowns," said Andrew Taft, president of Downtown Fort Worth Inc.,... New apartment buildings are springing up among the hodgepodge of older and vacant buildings on the west end. Eleven construction cranes pivot over the skyline, and $500 million in construction is under way." The Austin American Statesman, Jan. 1
Fort Worth was listed among the Washington Post's picks for 10 U.S. travel trends in the new year. "No longer the gawky "Cowtown" hiding in the shadow of Dallas, Fort Worth is a sophisticated city in its own right, packed with museums, galleries and theaters." The Washington Post, Jan. 4
The Dallas Observer commented that "the 108th Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show in Fort Worth allows you to celebrate the timelessness of the American cowboy." Dallas Observer, Jan. 15
A release from The Associated Press said, "Besides having great dishes from the Lone Star State, the book ("The Texas Cowboy Kitchen" by Grady Spears) is chock-full of wonderful archival cowboy photography from the Erwin E. Smith Collection at Fort Worth's Amon Carter Museum of Art." The Associated Press, Jan. 12
All during last year's European Fine Art Fair in Maastricht, in the Netherlands, crowds gathered behind red ropes to glimpse Bernini's model for the Fountain of the Moor. This week the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth announced that it had bought the Bernini. The New York Times, Jan. 30
The Los Angeles Times reported on the documentary "My Architect," which follows director Nathaniel Kahn as he explores the life of his late father, Louis Kahn, one of America's most revered architects. Among the most influential of his works is the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, whose vaulted roofs, arranged in long parallel rows, remain one of the most exquisite designs of the 20th century.
The Los Angeles Times, January 18
Did You Know?
Justin Boots celebrated its 125th anniversary at the Will Rogers Memorial Center.
Fort Worth Business Press, January 16-22
Alcon was 59th on Fortune magazine's list of the "100 Best Companies to Work For in the United States," the sixth straight year the company has made the list.
Fort Worth Business Press, January 16-22
Organizers of the upcoming Entrepreneur Expo have lined up speakers from across the country to address the issues of professional empowerment, marketing, working with the media and financial opportunities. The event is scheduled for March 12 at the Fort Worth Convention Center.
Fort Worth Business Press, January 16-22
Data provided by Strategic Insight Group,
Intelligence Research Partner of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
Dateline: Fort Worth
Dateline: Fort Worth...Cowtown earns national kudos
"He drew with expression and detail, using soft red chalk to portray a nude woman reclining, and pen and ink to bring to life religious and mythological scenes.
Francois Boucher, the 18th-century draftsman who became the premier painter for France's King Louis XV, drew some 10,000 pictures during his career. Many were sketched for his students, in preparation for a painting or to refine his work.
Fort Worth's Kimbell Art Museum showcases 80 of his drawings in "Genius of the French Rococo: The Drawings of Francois Boucher (1703-1770)." The exhibit, which includes many pieces never seen in the United States, opens Sunday and runs through April 1. The Kimbell is the second and final venue for the exhibit of Boucher's drawings, first showcased at the Frick Collection in New York.
Celebrating the 300th anniversary of Boucher's birth, it is the first major exhibit of his graphic work on loan from major museums and private collections in this country and Europe.
Because the Kimbell owns four Boucher paintings, museum curators decided to hold a simultaneous exhibit, "Boucher's Mythological Paintings: The Last Great Series Reunited." It includes two paintings on loan from the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles.
"He really epitomized the French Rococo in all of its grand, spectacular beauty and refinement," said Timothy Potts, director for the Kimbell. "In its day, it was the most refined, intelligent and sophisticated art in Europe."
Because the work cannot be exposed to too much light, it remains in storage much of the time.
"Even if you went to museums in Europe, you wouldn't get to see all of these drawings," Potts said.
Associated Press
January 2004
Bell Announcement
Bell Commercial Business Unit Moves to Alliance
Bell Helicopter Chief Executive Officer Mike Redenbaugh recently announced the relocation of the Bell Commercial Business Unit worldwide Sales and Marketing offices and the Bell Training Academy to Fort Worth Alliance Airport in the AllianceTexas development.
"This move will further transform our Commercial Business Unit into an absolute premier world-class organization," Redenbaugh said. "Locating to this upscale facility provides more room, a better workflow, and more accurately reflects the current pride and future growth we expect at Bell Helicopter. In addition, there are plenty of lodging and restaurant facilities nearby to support our many customers from around the world that train with us."
"Bell Helicopter establishing its commercial worldwide sales and marketing offices at AllianceTexas is one of the most significant occurrences in the history of the development," said Ross Perot Jr. chairman of Hillwood. "Hillwood has a tremendous longtime relationship with Bell. We look forward to working with them to grow their commercial business at AllianceTexas."
The relocation, scheduled to begin within the next few weeks, will transfer more than 300 people into the 160,897-square-foot facility. The plan is to be completely in place by second quarter 2004. The move includes the sales and marketing functions and the Bell Training Academy. The facility has more than 64,000 square feet of office space, 82,000 square feet of hangar space and 15,000 square feet of warehousing space. In addition to the facility, Bell has acquired some property west of Interstate 35W to support flight-training operations.
The facility is being leased from Hillwood Development on a 15-year agreement. Built in 1999, the building underwent a $3 million improvement in 2002. It comes with 400 parking spaces.
In addition to Bell Helicopter Marketing and the Training Academy, the facility will also serve as the delivery center and training school for the BA609 when deliveries begin.
Entrepreneur Expo
Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Success
Entrepreneur Expo 2004 is just around the corner. This year's Expo is once again co-sponsored by title sponsors Lockheed Martin and JPMorgan ChaseThe theme for the 2004 event is "Follow the Yellow Brick Road...to Success." The Expo is hosted by the BAC Education Foundation, the Fort Worth Women's Business Center and the City of Fort Worth.
- What: Entrepreneur Expo
- When: Friday, March 12, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Where: Fort Worth Convention Center
- Cost: $80 (through March 10); day-of registration, $100
Entrepreneur Expo has just about everything business owners need for their small businesses including seminars and the Exhibit Hall. BusinessLINC Procurement Matching is back along with the Construction Zone, sponsored by Texas Bank.
Luncheon presenters will include Mayor Mike Moncrief presenting the Fort Worth Mayor's Entrepreneur Award; Wes Turner, president and publisher of the Star-Telegram presenting the Star-Telegram Entrepreneur Expo small Business Award; Dain Hancock, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin; and Mike Snyder, NBC5. The Clear Channel Outdoor Excellence in Business Award will also be presented.
Luncheon keynote speaker will be Janet Hill, president of Alexander & Associates, Inc., a Washington D.C. corporate consulting firm. Hill is also a successful entrepreneur, scientist, professor, wife and mother.
Addition, there will be the TCU Small Business Boot Camp for established business owners and professional services and entrepreneurial arts workshops. As you follow the yellow brick road, don't forget to stop by Auntie Em's Kitchen, sponsored by Sam's Club, and the NBC5 Over the Rainbow Bookstore.
Register online at www.entrepreneurexpo.org or by calling 817/871-6021. All registrations include unlimited access to the Prime Outlets Exhibits Hall, all Expo-related seminars, Mayor's Award luncheon and afternoon reception.
Nominating Committee
Nominating Committee Selections for Term 2004-2007
The Fort Worth Chamber Nominating Committee has nominated 16 community and business leaders as incoming directors to serve a three-year term beginning April 1, 2004. These nominees' terms will expire on March 31, 2007.
The following individuals have been nominated to fill the expiring terms of one-third of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce board of directors. The nominees are:
V. Neils Agather
Executive Director
The Burnett Foundation
Johnny Campbell
President and CEO
Sundance Square Management
Jack Clark
Vice President
Prentiss Properties Limited, Inc.
Ray Dickerson
President and CEO
Citizens National Bank
John C. Goff
Vice Chairman and CEO
Crescent Real Estate Equities Company
J.B. Huck
Private Client Advisor
Bank of America
Philip G. Kramer
Sales Vice President within CMO Group
Nokia
Timothy W. McKinney
Executive Vice President
Texas Capital Bank
Jeffrey R. Moreland
Executive Vice President Law &
Government Affairs and Secretary
Burlington Northern Santa Fe
Steffen E. Palko
President and Vice Chairman
XTO Energy, Inc.
Robert F. Pence
President and CEO
Freese and Nichols, Inc.
Kim Pulliam
Senior Vice President,
Investor Relations and Communication
AmeriCredit Corp.
Brian L. Randolph
Vice President
Mercantile Partners
Pollard Rogers
Partner
Cantey and Hanger, L.L.P.
Cathy R. Smith
Executive Vice President and CFO
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
Gary W. Terry
Regional Vice President
SBC
One individual was nominated for a three-year term to replace a board member who resigned. The following nominee's term begins on April 1, 2004 and expires on March 31, 2007:
Dr. Andre Bens
Senior Vice President
Global Manufacturing and Technical Support
Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
If there are no signed petitions received from at least 25 Fort Worth Chamber members within 10 days of publication of the March Chamberletter, the aforementioned nominees, as presented by the Nominating Committee, will be elected to the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Chamber Day at Speedway
Rusty Wallace Revs Up Chamber Day
In Texas, April showers mean May flowers and NASCAR racing at Texas Motor Speedway. April
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| Rusty Wallace |
also means Chamber Day at the Speedway, Thursday, April 1 - no fooling. It's an annual rite of spring where Chamber members and guests can attend a luncheon at The Speedway Club, get up close and personal with a champion racecar driver and watch time trials that afternoon. This year's featured guest is former NASCAR champion Rusty Wallace. Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief will also talk about the economic impact of Texas Motor Speedway on the Fort Worth economy.
- What: Chamber Day at the Speedway
- When: Thursday, April 1, noon - until
- Where: The Speedway Club at Texas Motor Speedway, 3545 Lonestar Circle. Parking in Crystal Lot only.
- Cost: $30 for Chamber members; $25 for Gold members and $50 for non-members.
Wallace made his racing debut in 1973 and had recorded more than 200 feature-race wins from 1974-78 before joining the United States Auto Club stock car circuit in 1979, where he was named rookie of the year. He was rookie of the year in 1984 for the Cup Series. He started gaining national attention in 1989 when he captured the checkered flag in the Winston all-star race and added six more wins and 20 top-10 finishes in 29 events. Wallace won the 1989 NASCAR championship, beating Dale Earnhardt by just 12 points.
Registrations must be received no later than Friday, March 26 for processing. Attendees must have a parking pass to attend the event and must include an email address so that the pass may be emailed.
For more information contact:
Jeanean
Herod
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 275
FastTrac
FastTrac Spring Class Starts March 11
Mark your calendar for March 11. That's the day that you can put your small business on the fast track with FastTrac.
FastTrac, a program designed to help small business owners streamline business processes, analyze strengths and shortcomings, and achieve more balance in their work and personal lives, is forming its tenth class to begin Thursday, March 11. FastTrac is a cooperative program of the Fort Worth Chamber and the Tarrant County College Small Business Development Center.
- What: FastTrac
- When: Starts Thursday, March 11, 6-9 p.m. and continues each Thursday through May 21
- Where: James E. Guinn Complex, 1150 South Freeway, Suite 229
The 11-week FastTrac program helps participants by allowing them to interact with a group of business pros sharing ideas, strategies and successes. The FastTrac program helps business owners create a network of entrepreneurial peers and valuable mentor relationships. Upon completing the 11-week program, participants can prepare a strategic business plan for growth and possess the skills necessary to successfully handle business ventures.
The FastTrac programs offers business counseling and mentoring in a small class as well as one-on-one assistance. Participants interact with a diverse group of business owners. Upon completion of the program, participants can always access further business counseling and mentoring as necessary. And FT graduates can always repeat any course segment at no additional cost.
"Fast Trac gave me the basics of all aspects of running a business," said Shirley Peterson, president of Computer Moms (r). "Information I didn't know I needed. Fast Trac was a valuable tool in helping me build my own business."
Participants develop successful marketing campaigns by learning the most effective marketing tools for their businesses. FastTrac also gives graduates the financial management tools required to run a successful business as well as how to develop an effective business plan.
"Fast Trac has provided me with follow-up services even after completing the course," said David Ross. "And I have made great business contacts!" For more information contact:
Lydia
Hall
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 272
Business Forum
Business Forum Features Carter & Burgess CEO
Ben Watts, president and CEO of Carter & Burgess, Inc., a full-service architecture | engineering
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Ben Watts,
President and CEO
Carter & Burgess, Inc. |
| construction firm, will be the guest speaker at the upcoming Fort Worth Chamber Business Forum, March 10. The event is sponsored by Cantey & Hanger, Weaver & Tidwell Real Estate and the Fort Worth Business Press
- What: Business Forum featuring Ben Watts, president and CEO of Carter & Burgess, Inc.
- When: Wednesday, March 10, noon-1:30 p.m.; registration begins at11:30 a.m.
- Where: Fort Worth Club, Trinity Room, 306 West Seventh St.
- Cost: $25 for Chamber members; $20 for Gold members; and $40 for non-members
Ben Watts joined Carter & Burgess, Inc. in 1997 and took the helm after the death of longtime CEO Jerry Allen. Prior to coming to Carter & Burgess, he worked 23 years for the Florida Department of Transportation, serving the last eight years as Secretary of Transportation. Under his direction, FDOT was known for establishing aggressive transportation programs in the areas of alternative financing, innovative contracting, toll system development, safety and administration. At Carter & Burgess, Watts oversees daily management of operations and finances, strategic growth of services and manpower resources and the development and implementation of short- and long-term plans for the corporation. For more information contact:
Jeanean
Herod
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 275
Ribbon Cuttings
Recent Ribbon Cuttings
A ribbon-cutting marked the grand opening of Rave Motion Pictures at Ridgmar Mall. For more information on the new, state-of-the-art cinema, contact Donna Harp at 972/692-1651.
Bank of America held a ribbon-cutting Jan. 6 to celebrate the opening of a new banking center at 5670 Bryant Irvin. To learn more, contact Mykanna Jacocks at 817/361-1201.
A groundbreaking ceremony for Techline Furniture & Cabinetry/Pella Texas, Inc. was held Jan. 7. A new 8,000 square foot building will be constructed at 3801 West Freeway. For more information, contact Carol K. Osteen at 817/924-5567.
Genesis Bookkeeping and Tax, LLC, at 5601 Bridge St., held a ribbon-cutting in celebration of their new office Jan. 30. Contact Jean Davis for more information at 817/492-7030.
Unity One Federal Credit Union held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the construction of a new branch at 2625 N. Main St. For more information on the Feb. 6 event, contact Natalie Parish at 817/306-3114.
On Feb. 12, the Center for Rehabilitative Medicine held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new building at a new location, 900 Rosedale. For more information, contact Susan K. Linder, M.D., P.A., at 817/926-7671.
Texas Scholars
Volunteers Educate Students on Importance of Education
In February, 65 volunteers representing private industry, higher education, government agencies, and returning alumni participated in "speaker sweeps" presenting the Texas Scholars program to over 6,000 FWISD 9th graders. The goal of the program is to encourage students to take more demanding classes in high school. The State Recommended Degree Plan for high school students promotes more coursework in the areas of mathematics, science, technology and foreign language. Texas Scholars is recognized as a "best practice" program within the Stay-In-School Initiative.
Endorsed by the Texas Business Education Coalition, the Texas Scholars program encourages students to take the more rigorous courses and graduate with the Recommended diploma because those course requirements will open the doors to higher education, technical schools and higher paying jobs. All FWISD students are placed on the Recommended plan when they begin high school. The Texas Scholars program, with the help of volunteers from the community, reinforces the importance of staying on the plan until graduation.
"One activity I did with the students was work them through a budget based on a $24,000 salary," said Davis Tubre, President and CEO of Aims First Technologies. "Our materials included realistic data on earning power such as skilled vs. non-skilled workers and college degrees vs. high school diplomas. The difference in wages really caught their attention."
"I wanted to go back to Paschal to let students know what the business world is really like and to tell them that I was just like them," said Beth Reynolds, Paschal High School alumna, now working for Pier 1 Imports. "I wanted to encourage every student to try as hard as they can to achieve their goals and that it's not always going to be easy, but to never give up."
Students who graduate with the Recommended diploma and can show need may be eligible for the state's TEXAS Grant, a tuition based scholarship.
Jim Madison, retired and an alumnus of Dunbar High School returned to the school to present to students. "It is important that students be exposed to people who have real-life work experiences. Many students don't have exposure to career fields and to the knowledge of what it takes to do well in college or the working world. We advise them to take the harder courses so they will be prepared for life after high school."
Seniors graduating as Texas Scholars are awarded medallions bearing the Texas Scholars mark, which are underwritten by the Fort Worth Chamber Foundation. The medallions are worn during graduation ceremonies.
For more information on the Texas Scholars program or other Stay-In-School mentoring opportunities, contact FWISD's Janie Christie at 817/871-2448 or Cynthia Fisher Miller at 817/336-2491, ext. 240.
2004 Small Business of the Year Finalists
Small Business Awards Presentation Set
After months of nominations, submitting applications, judging and site visits, the Small Business of the Year winners have been chosen and the awards will be presented later this month. The "2004 Rising Star" Awards are sponsored by Citizens National Bank, KBK Financial, Fort Worth Business Press and TCU's James A. Ryffel Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
- What: 2004 Small Business of the Year "Rising Star" Awards
- When: Friday, March 26, noon-1:30 p.m.; registration begins at 11:30 a.m.
- Where: TCU's Dee Kelly Alumni Center, 2820 Stadium Drive
- Cost: $30 for Chamber members; $25 for Gold members; and $50 for non-members
The 2004 finalists are:
Emerging Businesses:
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, Inc., David Rotman, Owner/General Manager
Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Tim Love, Owner/Chef and Emilie Love, Owner
Williams Trew Real Estate Services, LLC, Marshall Boyd, COO/Managing Partner
51-100 Employees:
Branch-Smith Printing, LP, David Branch, President
Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc., Gary Teague, President
The Fort Worth Club & Tower, Walter Littlejohn, General Manager
101-250 Employees:
CI Host, Christopher Faulkner, CEO
Empire Roofing, Inc., Ronnie McGlothlin, President
Higginbotham & Associates, Inc., Rusty Reid, President & CEO
Thanks to Mike Roundtree, Roundtree Advertising & Marketing, Inc. for creating the Rising Star logo.
For more information contact:
Jeanean
Herod
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 275
Leads Groups
Networking Groups Lead to New Business
New leads are the lifeblood of any successful business. And a consistent source of new leads is a sure way to keep new business coming. That's why the Fort Worth Chamber established Leads Groups.
Leads Groups are comprised of no more than 30 individuals with each one representing a different industry. They meet weekly and generate a lot of 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 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
Clarion Hotel, 600 Commerce
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, 1401 Jones
Leader: Michael Mayes, 817/735 8446, mmayes@futurenetsolutions.net
Wednesday, 7:30-9 a.m. -- BREAKFAST CLUB
Bethesda Gardens, 5401 Alta Mesa
Leader: Debbie Hoover, 817/797 8364, debbie@2busyorganizers.com
Wednesday, 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. -- WEDNESDAY GROUP
Café Aspen, 6103 Camp Bowie
Leader: Diana Dugan, 817/336 2491, ext. 258, dugan@fortworthchamber.com
Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. -- LEAD LAUNCHERS
Los Vaqueros, 2629 N. Main St.
Leader: Michale 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, 817/605 8977, tinagardner801@sbcglobal.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
Café Aspen, 6103 Camp Bowie
Leader: Mike Hildenbrand, 817/680 3477, micolga@hotmail.com
Business After Hours
Stockyards Hotel Hosts Business After Hours
Back by popular demand, April's Business After Hours will be hosted by the Stockyards Hotel. Make your plans now to step back into the charm and Old World elegance of the 19th Century at the hotel where the Wild West history comes to life.
- What: Business After Hours, hosted by the Stockyards Hotel
- When: Thursday, April 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Where: 109 E. Exchange Avenue
- Cost: Chamber members only, $10; Gold members, no charge. Reservations are required.
Join your fellow Chamber members for an evening in the Old West savoring tasty hors d'oeuvres and networking. Bring plenty of business cards.
For more information, contact Teresa Pearson at 817/336-2491, ext. 249. RSVP to Doris Becker at ext. 288 or dbecker@fortworthchamber.com.
Ambassador of the Month
Action Ambassador for November/December
The Fort Worth Chamber's top Action Ambassador for November/December 2003 was Judy
 |
Judy Rosko,
Action Ambassador,
November/December 2003 |
Rosko, an Ambassador only since October 2003. Rosko is a corporate group sales representative for Main Event Entertainment. Action Ambassadors keep busy on behalf of the Chamber calling on new members and working as greeters at various Chamber functions. Currently, the program is recruiting new members. 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 allowing ambassadors to contact Chamber members on the Chamber's behalf.
For more information contact:
Teresa
Pearson
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 249
February 2004 Edition
January 2004 Edition
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 |
