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 - September 2004
Guest Column
Bill Rosenthal
Co-Chair, Fort Worth Chamber's Environment, Health and Safety Committee
More hot days are predicted for the last few weeks of summer. On the hottest days, we will undoubtedly have more Air Pollution Watches, signaling that conditions may be right for the unhealthy accumulation of ozone (smog) pollution. But if current trends continue, few of those watches will turn into warnings that pollution has actually reached unhealthy levels.
We have done well this summer. In spite of the DFW region's rapid population growth that averages more than 275 new people per day, and the cars and energy demands that accompany them, our air quality continues to improve. Stricter tailpipe emission checks, cleaner buses, trucks and construction equipment along with cleaner power plants and cuts in industrial emissions account in large part for the improvement. Subtle changes in the way people live are beginning to have an impact. People are beginning to drive less, use alternative transportation more, and find ways to reduce their own energy consumption. It's all working. Investments in cutting edge science, technological advances, research and development, transportation planning and public awareness are paying off.
According to real time air pollution measurements at monitors throughout the Metroplex, we have had only three days this summer when air pollution barely exceeded federal (one-hour) limits and reached unhealthy levels (the highest only three parts per billion over the125 parts per billion standard).
Compare this year's low number and only three days in 2003 and seven days in 2002, with the 1980's and 1990's when the Metroplex routinely exceeded the standard on ten or more days each summer. Consider further that this year's exceedances were for only one hour each day on three different days at three different measuring sites that did not even exist in the 1980's and 1990's. Even measuring with the new, stricter (eight-hour) standard, the Metroplex has had only eighteen exceedence days this year compared to thirty-one days last year and thirty-seven days the year before and forty days or more per year throughout the 1990's. The region is on track to meet federal air quality standards even as the 8-hour standard is transitioned into place. That's why scientists, federal and state officials and community representatives will be gathering to work out a strategy to transition to the new standard and begin development of a plan to achieve air quality compliance on or before the federally mandated deadline of year 2010.
Officials are already working on a plan to remove an additional sixty tons per day of pollutants from our air over the next three years. Even with these pollution reductions the challenge to meet the 2010 deadline will be great. The federally mandated air quality goals for 2010 are coming into focus. With strong community commitment I am confident we will continue to clean the air.
Eco Development
Outside Interest in Fort Worth on the Rise
In a recent four-week time span, the Fort Worth Chamber’s Economic Development Department has received 13 requests for information from companies considering an expansion to the Fort Worth area. “That’s an amazing amount of activity,” says David Berzina, executive vice president of economic development at the Chamber.
“In talking with Bill (Thornton, Chamber president) who has more than 15 years of economic development in this marketplace, he says the activity level is as high as he as ever seen it,” added Berzina.
Just since mid-July, the Fort Worth Chamber has been contacted by project representatives of 13 companies from outside the area, and notes Berzina, most of the projects are “sizeable” in nature. Most notably, California companies are making inquiries about expanding in the Metroplex. The sectors the Chamber is hearing from most include aerospace, distribution and light manufacturing.
“It makes sense that aerospace companies would take a hard look at us because of the aerospace companies already located here,” said Berzina. “We also have great aerospace training programs going at Tarrant County College.”
Another fact that seems to be making outside companies sit up and take notice of Fort Worth is the city’s move from the 25 th to the 20 th largest city in the U.S. as well as the designation as one of the “most livable cities” in the country. These designations, as well as Fort Worth’s central location, central time zone and excellent transportation options make the city easy to pitch to outsiders.
Among the recent announcements of projects in the area are:
- Del Monte’s 700,000-square-foot distribution site in Railhead Industrial Park adding 150 jobs;
- Fort Worth’s own Williamson-Dickie’s new 150,000-square-foot, $20 million headquarters adding 30 jobs;
- Cott Beverages’ 500,000-square-foot, $60 million supply and distribution center adding 200 jobs;
- And another homegrown Fort Worth company will shortly announce a 10,000-square-foot new corporate headquarters.
“We’re seeing many projects moving through the pipeline and beginning the construction phase,” Berzina noted. “And, we’re in the running with other Texas and regional cities for 20 viable projects including areas such as life sciences, light manufacturing, distribution and aerospace.”
The Economic Development Department is continuing its aggressive business retention visitation program wherein Chamber staff will meet with representatives of 250 area companies during the fiscal year. The purpose is to determine what the representatives view as the positives of the Fort Worth business climate and what they see as challenges. The staff has completed about one-fifth of those visits and learned that the consensus so far is that the business community believes the national economy has turned the corner. Orders are up and some small companies that postponed expansion in 2002-03 will move forward in 2004-05.
On another front, Berzina notes that downtown Fort Worth continues to grow. “In the next six months, Pier 1 and RadioShack will move to their new locations,” says Berzina. “With the relocation of D.R. Horton, Inc. to downtown, that’s a classic case of growing the pie, not dividing it up.”
Downtown Fort Worth continues to grow on the residential side as well as the commercial. “According to Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., there are now 3,200 people living in and around downtown now,” notes Berzina. “There are 22 more projects announced that will add 2,550 more units, virtually doubling the downtown population. DFWI would like to see 10,000 residents in the downtown area by 2014.
“Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. and the Chamber are certainly pleased with the advent of new residential development in the central business district,” said Berzina, “as well as the aspect of 24-hour, seven-day-a-week activity taking shape in downtown Fort Worth.”
Economic Update
Recap of Recent Economic Activities in Tarrant County
New Developments
Bank One has opened a branch at 7630 McCart Ave. in south Fort Worth, the bank's 33rd in the Fort Worth area. The 3,400-square-foot office has a 24-hour drive-up ATM and night depository. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
DeGuire Properties has started construction on a 2,783-square-foot office building for Jackie Halpin-Osteen, of State Farm Insurance at 2530 Legacy Point. The construction is expected to be complete in October. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
A 54,000-square-foot mixed-use development is planned for 6.4 acres at the intersection of Davis Boulevard and Bear Creek Parkway. Colleyville-based Realty Capital Partners has acquired the land and plans to develop it using the name RCP Hidden Lakes. The project will combine retail, restaurant, office and medical buildings at the site. The first phase is expected to begin in September. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
An investment group called Landmark Loop 820, headed by Bill Stonaker, a longtime developer, bought 23.767 acres west of Texas 199 at Quebec Road, behind Lowe's Home Improvement store. The property is being developed into Landmark Lakes, a shopping center with more than 200,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space that will include an anchor store such as J.C. Penney, Kohl's or Sears. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 19
d/b constructors begins construction this week on an accounting office at 840 Thousand Oaks Drive in Hurst Town Center. The 6,000-square-foot office is for Paula Jefferson and Associates. Fort Worth Star Telegram, July 26
Fort Worth -based Pier 1Imports will be among the retailers to lease space in Montgomery Plaza, the revival of the vacant Montgomery Ward store and warehouse on West Seventh Street. Joining Pier 1 will be Ross Dress for Less, Marshall’s,PetSmart and Linens 'N Things. Those retailers will occupy about 80 percent of the 165,000 square feet to be added to the property. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 30
Expansions and Moves
Real estate agent Jeanne Hatfield and her husband, certified public accountant Robert Hatfield, bought the former Steak and Ale restaurant along Interstate 30 in the Woodhaven neighborhood, where they are opening offices. Robert Hatfield said he is relocating his business, Hatfield & Hatfield, to Bridge Street from the Texas 360 and I-30 area in Arlington. Jeanne Hatfield is relocating from Grapevine. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
James R. Harris Partners, a Fort Worth-based real estate development company, has increased its holdings along Foch Street. The firm recently bought the former Clemens Sheet Metal Works at 1001 and 1101 Foch Street, totaling about 95,000 square feet. The larger of the buildings is 80,000 square feet and is occupied by GST Manufacturing. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
Etta's Place , a downtown bed-and-breakfast at 200 W. Third St., has added Etta's Attic, a 700-square-foot suite positioned in the most private corner of the building. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 12
J3 Group , an advertising, communications and marketing firm, has moved to 1501 Norwood Drive in Hurst. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 12
The Morrison, Clinage & Cox law firm has added 1,521 square feet to its offices at 2011 E. Lamar Blvd. The additional space will be used for a First American Title Co. office. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 19
Alberto Pagan, owner of Caribe Motors, has bought an acre at 3112 E. Abram St. with 300 feet of street frontage to expand the sales and service departments of the used-auto dealership. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 26
The HealthCare Facilities Development Corp. is starting construction on a $13 million medical plaza adjacent to the hospital. The three-story, 70,000-square-foot medical office building is the third building for physician offices and specialty services. Fort Worth Star Telegram, July 26
The MPS Group, a large provider of specialty staffing based in Jacksonville, FL, has expanded its DFW Parker & Lynch services in Hurst at 8701 Bedford-Euless Road, Suite 320. Fort Worth Business Press, July 23-29
Burlington Northern Santa Fe announced today that it is hiring 2,300 more workers to handle growing freight volume expected next year. http://www.kltv.com/Global/story.asp?S=2095321, July 27
Under Construction
A shopping center at Hulen Street and Overton Ridge Boulevard has been leveled to make way for a new lifestyle center. Old Navy will occupy 17,000 square-feet, while the other anchor will be a 25,000 square-foot Barnes and Noble. Fort Worth Press, July 23-29
Steele & Freeman Inc. has begun a 7,500 square foot renovation and expansion of the new vehicle showroom at Sewell Lexus in Fort Worth, 5100 Bryant Irvin Rd. Fort Worth Business Press, July 30-August 5
Openings
Basset Furniture Direct is planning to open a furniture store this month in the Gateway Plaza shopping center at Texas 114 and Southlake Boulevard. The 10,000-square-foot showroom will have mattresses, bedding and midpriced furniture. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 5
Moonstruck Original Designs , a boutique jewelry store specializing in handcrafted designs in sterling silver, gold, precious and semiprecious stones, has opened at 501 Main St. The store leases 1,000 square feet of space. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, July 12
John Deere Landscapes will open a 10-acre location at 811 W. Harris Road this month. The site will have a nursery and a landscape and irrigation supply center. Fort Worth Star Telegram, July 19
Hibernia National Bank will open its first Tarrant County locations in the northern part of the county. The first location will be in Southlake and the second in downtown Keller. A third location is planned for North Beach and North Tarrant Parkway near Wal-Mart. Fort Worth Business Press, July 9-15
Fidelity Investments is opening an investment center in Southlake, making the fourth location for the financial services giant in the area. The 4,050-square-foot office is located at 1576 East Southlake Boulevard. Fort Worth Business Press, July 9-15
DeVry University , an institution for business technology and management education, will open a facility at 301 Commerce Street in the City Tower II building. Fort Worth Business Press, July 16-22
LOGIX opened one of Fort Worth’s first “Smart Buildings” at 1300 Summit. The LOGIX Smart Building system consists of pre-wiring a building with its own telecommunications network to provide immediate, on-demand broadband Internet access and digital telephone services to building tenants. The company has nearly 550 customers in Tarrant County. Fort Worth Business Press, July 30-August 5
Out of Town Reporting
The U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship was held at Mira Vista Golf Club in Fort Worth. The U.S. Girls' attracts approximately 1,000 out-of-town visitors; requires about 400 volunteers and $350,000 in fund-raising and causes innumerable logistical headaches -- from how to transport the players and their families to where to park the spectators. The Idaho Statesman, Idaho, July 25
Officials in Fort Worth are considering a proposal by a private developer to build a $90 million convention center hotel to complement the city's newly renovated and expanded convention center. The proposal by Omni Hotels of Irving includes a 600-room luxury hotel with a Texas theme. The city would provide tax incentives to the developer worth about $47.5 million, as well as building parking facilities for the hotel.
The Bond Buyer, New York, July 29
Data provided by Strategic Insight Group,
Intelligence Research Partner of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
Dateline: Fort Worth...
Rediscovering Cowtown
A trip to Fort Worth used to be a stopover during a visit to Dallas. Now it's the reason to go to North Texas.
Every city needs a tag line and Fort Worth has a swaggering doozy: "Where the West Begins." Decades ago, Amon Carter, publisher and relentless civic booster, stuck the phrase on the masthead of his newspaper, the Star-Telegram, where it remains today. The notion is as good as branded on the psyche of the citizens here who delight in touting their Western heritage. But a story that begins with cattle drives and stockyards doesn't end there; Cowtown has moved beyond its bovine beginnings to become a hotbed of fine art. "What I like about Fort Worth is the cowboys-and-culture contrast," says Kathryn Jones, writer and longtime resident. "You can go to a rodeo at the art deco-style Will Rogers Coliseum and walk across the street to view Rubens at the Kimbell Art Museum. People here prize good art as much as they do good horses."
The redbrick and history-rich city center's lively mix of restaurants, bars, muic venues, and shops has been revitalized with a vengeance, thanks to the largesse of the billionaire Bass family, the Medicis of Fort Worth.
You'll never milk Cowtown of all its culture in two weeks, much less two days. The highly concentrated Cultural District, on a slight hill overlooking downtown, bursts with expanded museums.
National Geographic, December 2002
Business Exec of the Year
Herchert Honored as 2004 Outstanding Business Executive
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Robert L. Herchert,
Chairman, Freese & Nichols, Inc. |
Freese and Nichols Inc. Chairman Robert L. “Bob” Herchert will be honored as Fort Worth’s Business Executive of the Year at the 35 th Annual Business Hall of Fame dinner on Thursday, Sept. 23. The event is sponsored by Texas Wesleyan University, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Worth Business Press.
The keynote speaker for the evening is Bob Bolen, senior advisor to the chancellor at TCU and former mayor of Fort Worth. Terry Ryan, senior advisor to the executive management of TexasBank and former president and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, will give the “Remarks of a Friend,” and Rice Tilley Jr., senior member with Law, Snakard & Gambill, will emcee the festivities. All proceeds benefit the Wesleyan School of Business scholarship program.
- What: 35 th Annual Business Hall of Fame Dinner
- When: Thursday, Sept. 23; reception begins at 6 p.m. in the Trinity Room. Dinner and program begin at 7 p.m. in the Horizon Room.
- Where: Fort Worth Club, 306 West Seventh St.
- Cost: Tickets for the black tie optional event are $250 for individuals and tables of 10 are $2,500.
The Business Hall of Fame was founded in 1970 to honor the Business Executive of the Year, an individual who has made a profound impact on the business world. Herchert, serves as the chairman of Freese and Nichols Inc., a consulting firm for engineering, architecture and environmental science, based in Fort Worth. Prior to his chairmanship, Herchert held the position of president and CEO of the company, which under his leadership has experienced considerable growth. It is currently recognized by CE News as one of the top two firms to work for in the country. From 1978 to 1985, Herchert served as the city manager for Fort Worth. Prior to that, he served as executive vice president of Texas American Bancshares Inc.; deputy city manager in Kansas City, Missouri; city manager in Camden, Arkansas; and assistant city manager in Fairborn, Ohio.
A dedicated citizen, Herchert has been actively involved in civic, non-profit and professional activities, as well as membership on several boards, including the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth TXU Advisory Board, Harris Methodist Health Foundation, International City/County Management Association, North Central Texas Council of Governments and Summit Bank.
The event will also recognize the recipient of the Thomas H. Law Scholarship, to be chosen at the beginning of the 2004-05 school year. Established in 1998, the scholarship was named in honor of the1987 recipient of the Business Executive of the Year. Thomas H. Law Scholarship recipients are chosen annually by Wesleyan’s business faculty.
For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, contact Texas Wesleyan’s Office of the President at (817) 531-4401.
Legislative Policy Issues
What State Issues Matter Most to You?
With another state legislative session on the way, it’s time for Fort Worth Chamber members to start thinking about state legislative and regulatory issues that affect their businesses and industries. Tim Keleher, vice president of governmental and urban affairs for the Chamber, has been surveying Chamber members to ascertain what issues are most important to them as the 2005 Legislative session approaches.
“This process allows me to take the pulse of our members’ concerns and understand their perspectives on the issues,” says Keleher. “The feedback from chamber members helps the chamber to focus its efforts in the state capitol. When we advocate on behalf of Fort Worth businesses, this kind of information helps us know where to put our emphasis.”
Keleher put together the following list of 10 policy issues he sees on the horizon of the coming legislative session and has asked members of Chamber Area Council boards and committees to rank them. (Numbers in parentheses indicate the weight of importance each issue was given in compiled members’ surveys. A ranking of 1 is most important and 10 is least important.)
- Air Quality Compliance (4) – Continue funding of the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) which provides state-funded grants to the owners of commercial vehicles for the purchase of newer, low emission vehicles or the installation of pollution-reducing equipment.
- Asbestos Litigation Reform (8) – Suspend asbestos-related lawsuits for those plaintiffs who have been exposed to asbestos but are not sick.
- Billboard Regulation (10) – Prohibit new billboard construction either through a statewide ban or by an expansion of county government regulatory authority.
- CHIP and Medicare Funding (3) – Restore state funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid programs at a level which maximizes the availability of federal matching funds.
- Economic Development/Job Training (2) – Continue and expand funding for the Texas Enterprise Fund, a statewide economic development incentive program designed to stimulate job creation, infrastructure development, capital investment and job training.
- Equine Event Enhancement (9) – Allow Fort Worth to retain a portion of state bed tax revenues to be dedicated to the enhancement of major equine events held at publicly owned facilities in Fort Worth.
- Public School Finance and State Tax Restructuring (1) – Reduce reliance on local property tax revenue to fund schools and restructure state taxes to fairly distribute the overall tax burden on taxpayers while raising sufficient revenue to support public education and other essential public services.
- Public Transit Funding (Bus and Commuter Rail) (6) – Allow up to six Metroplex counties to jointly fund a seamless, regional public transit system through a voter-approved, sales tax increase.
- Transportation Funding (Roadways) (5) – Increase funding for construction of new and expanded highways in Fort Worth and throughout the Metroplex by
- indexing the state gasoline tax rate to the consumer price index
- allowing the Metroplex region to enact a voter-approved, local option transportation tax
- reallocating state highway user fees and taxes from the state’s General Revenue Fund to the Texas Mobility Fund.
- Workers’ Compensation Reform (7) – Reduce the cost of workers’ comp medical care by enacting reforms to the system that allow employers to be directly involved in the immediate treatment and follow-up medical care of injured employees.
Across the board, public school finance and state tax restructuring was the number one issue, but several write-ins made the list too. Those included:
- Sales tax collection/administration
- Funding for homeless living facilities
- Mental health care to prevent homelessness
- Earlier Intervention to help keep children in school
- Base Realignment and Closure and the NAS JRB
- Immigration problems
- Casino gambling to fund education
Keleher invites anyone with any other legislative issue concerns to contact him at 817-336-2491, ext. 264 or tkeleher@fortworthchamber.com. Or take the survey and fax it to him at 817-877-4035
Mackay Breakfast
Have Breakfast with Best-selling Author Harvey Mackay
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| Author Harvey Mackay |
Millions of people have devoured Harvey Mackay’s inspirational book, “Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive,” a groundbreaking New York Times number one bestseller for 54 weeks. Mackay’s book promises readers they will “outsell, outmanage, outmotivate and outnegotiate” their competition. Mackay has a new book about to hit the stands -- “We Got Fired! And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us.” The best selling author and syndicated columnist Mackay will address the Fort Worth Chamber’s Small Business Council on the eve of the book’s publication.
- What: Small Business Council Breakfast presents Harvey Mackay
- When: Tuesday, Oct. 19, 7:30 a.m.
- Where: Holiday Inn North, 2540 Meacham Blvd.
- Cost: Chamber members - $30; non-members $40. Price includes a copy of Mackay’s new book, “We Got Fired! …And It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Us.”
At 26, Mackay bought a failing envelope company. Today he is CEO of Mackay Envelope, an $85 million corporation producing 17 million envelopes a day. His real world solutions to common business problems are ones everyone can relate to. “The word is out that this is the hottest ticket in town,” says Jill Melancon, Supreme Roofing Systems. “I can’t wait to attend his presentation.”
Filled with wit, wisdom and real life examples, Mackay talks enrich the business and personal lives of his audiences while sharing his secrets of how to develop more productive relationships, survive the ever-changing job market and out-anything your competition.
For more information, contact Diana Dugan at 817/336-2491, ext. 258. Register online or with Doris Becker at dbecker@fortworthchamber.com or ext. 288
Golf Tournament
September’s Time to Tee it Off at Golf Classic
It’s almost here, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in Fort Worth --
the 18th Annual Fort Worth Chamber Golf Classic presented by XTO Energy. Join Fort Worth’s heavy hitters as they tee off at beautiful Ridglea Country Club, Monday, Sept. 20. An afternoon of golf with colleagues can be a fabulous networking opportunity or an excellent way to entertain clients.
- What: 18 th Fort Worth Chamber Golf Classic
- Where: Ridglea Country Club, 3700 Bernie Anderson Ave.
- When: Monday, Sept. 20 (Rain date: Sept. 27)
- Tee Times: Registration – 11:30 a.m.; Lunch – noon; Shotgun start - 1 p.m. – North and South course. Florida Scramble format. Registration deadline is Aug. 29.
- Cost: $780/team of four for afternoon tee times; $195/individual
This year, the Chamber Golf Classic will offer only afternoon play. The day will begin with a lunch of grilled hamburgers donated for the fifth consecutive year by Outback Steakhouse, and sponsored by Holt Cat and a 1 p.m. shotgun start. As always, play will take place on both the North and South Ridglea golf courses. The day wraps up with an awards dinner at the Club.
The Fort Worth Chamber Golf Classic is also a great marketing opportunity. Be sure to get your company’s name in front of many of Fort Worth’s movers and shakers. It’s not too late to take advantage of terrific sponsorship opportunities. For more information, contact Richelle Hicks at 817/336-2491, ext. 243.
Vets Hiring Fair
Veterans Hiring Fair Planned
Veterans of United States armed forces seeking employment can take advantage of a hiring fair designed just for them. Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County has planned a Veterans Hiring Fair.
- What: Veterans Hiring Fair
- When: Tuesday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m-2 p.m.
- Where: Resource Connection Conference and Recreation Center, 2300 Circle Dr.
“Most of us would say that our veterans are appreciated and most of us support them by flying the flag or applauding them,” says Limous Walker of Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County. “But we want to do something tangible that shows our veterans how much we appreciate them.”
Participants are urged to dress for a job interview, bring r ésum és and proof of service (DD214, Veterans Administration letter, military I.D.) or print out of Work Registration in Work in Texas showing veteran status.
The hiring fair is open to veterans only from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; it is open to the public from 12:30-2 p.m.
For more information, contact the local Workforce Center at 817/413-4000
Get to Know Your Chamber
Learn More About Your Chamber
School’s back in session and now would be a great time to learn more about the Fort Worth Chamber and what it does for you, our members.
GTKYC is a great opportunity to learn about Chamber programs designed to help you and your business prosper. It’s also an opportunity to network with your fellow Chamber members. The event is sponsored by FutureNet Solutions.
GTKYC sessions are held bi-monthly for new as well as long-time Chamber members. Everyone is welcome. At GTKYC, members can meet Chamber staff and learn about programs, benefits and events available to Chamber members. These lively sessions are jam-packed with useful information served up with light snacks and beverages. Attendees also get an opportunity to network with fellow Chamber members and learn what’s new at the Chamber.
- What: Getting To Know Your Chamber
- When: Thursday, Sept. 9, 3:30-5 p.m.,
- Where: The Fort Worth Club, 306 West Seventh St., 12 th Floor
There is no cost to attend these informative sessions, which are open to Chamber members only. Reservations are required by Sept. Sept. 7 and may be made by calling Doris Becker at 817/336-2491, ext. 288 or by email at dbecker@fortworthchamber.com. For more information, call Teresa Pearson, ext. 249
Most Livable City
Fort Worth’s Quality of Life Is Something to Celebrate
Last spring, Partners for Livable Communities – a national non-profit leadership organization – named Fort Worth as one of America’s most livable cities for the decade. The honor has gone to 33 other communities of varying size across the country. Fort Worth is one of nine large cities to receive the award in 2004 and the only Texas city to be honored this decade.
To celebrate the honor Texas style, Fort Worth will host a daylong party featuring food, entertainment, sporting events, exhibits and culminating in a huge fireworks display over the Trinity River. The Saturday, Oct. 9. event will be held at Gateway Park, 751 North Beach.
Partners for Livable Communities cited Fort Worth as “a world-class destination that embraces its cowboy heritage while revitalizing its downtown and building the nation’s third largest cultural district.”
“This national honor reflects the hard work of Fort Worth leaders and the pride that Fort Worth citizens take in their city,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief. “The award belongs to everyone who calls Fort Worth home.”
Exhibits at the celebration will highlight the 10 areas by which Fort Worth was chosen for the “most livable” designation:
- New economy
- Tourism
- Housing
- Central city
- Leadership
- Finance
- Regionalism
- Environment
- Human development
- Neighborhoods
Throughout the daylong celebration, activities will promote neighborhood associations throughout Fort Worth.
For more information on the event, contact Eileen Houston-Stewart (817) 392-6415.
SBOY 2005
Get those Small Business Award Applications in
The nominations are in for the “A Rising Star – Small Business of the Year 2005” Awards presented by Citizens National Bank. Now it’s time to for nominated businesses to complete the application and send it in. Completed applications are due Friday, Oct. 1.
Platinum sponsors of the awards are The James A. Ryffel Center for Entrepreneurial Studies at TCU’s Neeley School of Business and Raymond James and Associates. Media sponsor is the Fort Worth Business Press and supporting sponsor is Roundtree Advertising + Marketing, Inc.
The Small Business of the Year Awards recognize and honor businesses who have demonstrated “best practices” of entrepreneurship and have been in business three or more years. They are awarded in five categories:
- Emerging Business (start-up company in business less than three years, cannot be a buyout of an existing company)
- 1-10 employees
- 11-50 employees
- 51-100 employees
- 101-250 employees
Among the judging elements considered are business growth and performance; sound business strategies and practices; customer service strategies and practices; business challenges; unique and innovative approaches; community involvement and contribution; and employee relations.
Two-time winner Teresa Nelson, owner of Teresa’s Treasures highly recommends the process.
“When I talk to other business owners about pursuing the Small Business of the Year Award, I stress two things,” says Nelson. “First, of course, is the recognition and free advertising you get. But more importantly, going through the application process is a chance to gauge where your business stands. It stands a benchmark and gives you an opportunity to assess where your business stands and where it’s going.”
Another two-time award winner Gary Tonniges, Jr. of TriQuest Technologies, strongly encourages other small business owners to participate. “The application process is a great chance to take a top down look at the high points of your business and how it’s functioning,” he says. “It’s snapshot of your business. And the application process is not difficult. Most of the information comes straight from your business plan.”
For more information on the awards, contact Lydia Hall at 817/336-2491, ext. 275 or go to www.fortworthchamber.com and click on the “Rising Star” logo.
FastTrac
Eleventh FastTrac Class Begins This Week
If you own or operate a small business, then clear Thursday evenings on your calendar for the next few months. The eleventh session of FastTrac is gearing up to begin Thursday, Sept. 9. That’s when you can start your business on the fast track. This FastTrac program is the longest continuing program in Texas and boasts over 90 graduates.
FastTrac is designed to help small business owners streamline business processes, analyze strengths and shortcomings, and achieve more balance in their work and personal lives. FastTrac is a cooperative program of the Fort Worth Chamber and the Tarrant County College Small Business Development Center.
- What: FastTrac
- When: Starts Thursday, Sept. 9, 6-9 p.m. and continues each Thursday through Dec. 9
- 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.
“I decided to participate in the FastTrac program because staying on top of the changes that businesses face is as important today, as we celebrate our 120th anniversary this year, as it was in 1885,” says Walter Littlejohn, general manager of the Fort Worth Club. “The instructors were professional, knowledgeable and, most of all, willing to help you with specific issues pertaining to your business. The quality of the materials more than exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend this to beginners as well as those who are interested in taking their business to the next level.”
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.
“One of the traps I fell into after being in business about five years was trying to be everything to everybody,” says Doug Staneart, owner of the Leaders Institute. “My leadership and public speaking programs covered skills that people in just about every different industry could benefit from, so I tried to market to the general public. It was expensive and not very productive. During FastTrac, the instructors help me identify the industries I was already working with that gave me the most return on my advertising and marketing investment. As a result, we were able to expand into new markets much faster than before.
“In the last few years, we've expanded from offering public speaking programs and leadership programs to just about every major city in the U.S. and Canada plus a number of cities in Europe. Our company size -- based on employees, revenue, and profit -- has grown by 700%. Our instructors are quickly becoming best-selling authors and have been quoted in a number of local, national and international publications.”
For more information on the program and its cost, contact Lydia Hall at 817/336-2491, ext. 272 or Netty Matthews at ext. 250.
Ambassador of the Month
Action Ambassador for June 2004
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Shane Cassem
Action Ambassador, June 2004 |
The Fort Worth Chamber’s top Action Ambassador for June 2004 was Shane Cassem, an Ambassador only since January 2004. Cassem is owner of the Rusty Spur Western Bistro.
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, however, Ambassadors must be members of the Fort Worth Chamber. 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
Business After Hour
60K Square Feet of Fun at Business After Hours
The Chamber members that play together, network together. At least they will at the October Business After Hours slated for Main Event Entertainment. Mark your calendar for fun and games and professional mingling.
- What: Business After Hours at Main Street Entertainment
- When: Thursday, Oct. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Where: 4801 Citylake Blvd.
- Cost: Members only - $10; Gold members free.
If you’re looking for a chance to bowl, play laser tag and video games with some of your colleagues, then this is it. Main Street Entertainment features over 100 video and arcade games, an ultra modern laser tag arena and state of the art bowling lanes. So bowl a few frames. Laser tag a few business acquaintances or master the universe of video games.
Plan to join your fellow Chamber members for a little game playing as well as hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.
For more information, contact Teresa Pearson at 817/336-2491, ext. 249 or tpearson@fortworthchamber.com. RSVP to Doris Becker at dbecker@fortworthchamber.com or ext. 288.
EAC Luncheon
New UTA President Spaniolo Addresses Chamber
When James D. Spaniolo took over as president of the University of Texas at Arlington in February, he was hailed as the ideal person to lead the school into a new era of prominence. The seventh president of the institution, Spaniolo was appointed in November 2003 by The University of Texas System Board of Regents. He will share his vision and priorities for the school at a Fort Worth Chamber General Membership Luncheon hosted by the East Area Council and sponsored by Wells Fargo.
- What: General Membership Luncheon featuring UTA President James Spaniolo
- When: Thursday, Sept. 30, noon-1:30 p.m. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m.
- Where: UTA-Fort Worth, 7300 Jack Newell Blvd.
- Cost: Chamber members - $25; Gold members - $20; and non-members - $40
On taking office, Spaniolo immediately began building an administrative team and reaching out to stakeholders to map a course for U.T. Arlington’s future. Boosting research and private support for the state’s seventh largest university are among his other priorities.
Spaniolo’s experience in higher education, law, philanthropy, politics and journalism qualify him to lead a comprehensive teaching, research and public service institution like U.T. Arlington. With an enrollment of approximately 25,000 students, UTA is the second largest of the 15 components in the U.T. System.
For more information, contact Jeanean Herod at jherod@fortworthchamber.com or ext. 275. Or register online at fortworthchamber.com by Sept. 28.
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Chamberletter contact below:
For more information contact:
Arden
Dufilho
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 259 |
