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2007 Winners

Emerging Business

1 - 10 Employees

Founded in 1995, Schwarz Hanson Architects is a full-service architectural and planning firm with experience in municipal, educational, institutional, religious, health care, residential, and a wide variety of commercial projects and is located in Fort Worth. A small firm with large-scale project experience, Schwarz Hanson offers innovative design solutions, attention to detail, and prompt responsiveness. Schwarz Hanson has won an Honorable Mention Golden Trowel Award for the Union Gospel Mission, a Ken Roberts Memorial Delineation Competition Citation, and was listed in the 2006 Aggie 100, a list of the fastest growing Aggie-owned companies for the previous three years.

11 - 50 Employees

Skyline DFW Exhibits & Graphics mission is to help clients maximize the return on their marketing investment by providing them with the highest level of service to ensure a successful trade show and event marketing experience. Core values are honesty, integrity, professionalism, leadership, teamwork, education and profitability. Its success is mainly attributable to the incredible people who make up the Skyline DFW team. Over the last five years they have worked with nearly 1000 clients, including prominent companies like American Airlines, American Heart Association, Blockbuster, CompUSA, Lockheed Martin, NBC5, Pier1, RadioShack, Sabre, SMU, TCU, Verizon and VHA.

51 - 100 Employees

Huckabee and Associates was established 40 years ago as a school design firm. They are architects, planners, managers, and construction observers who focus as much on what happens inside the school walls as on designing the walls and everything within them to endure. They are different from other firms because they don’t just design a school for a community - they became a part of it. You’ll see their staff working concession stands, volunteering at school functions and participating in sporting events. They don’t want to   be just the district architect; they want to be a valued community partner.

101 - 250 Employees

Higginbotham & Associates, Inc., one of the nation’s 100 largest independent insurance agencies, is recognized for its commitment to the client, employee, insurance carrier and local communities. Named a “25 Most Innovative Agent in America,” a “Best Company to Work for in Texas” and honored within the philanthropic and carrier communities, the agency’s mantra rings true to all its constituencies: Higginbotham is their “Single Source for a Secure Future.” Founded in 1948, Higginbotham offers business and personal insurance, risk management, employee benefits, life insurance and retirement plan expertise, as well as an employee culture that rivals the best in Texas.

2006 Winners

Emerging Business
Advanced Chemical Logistics, Ltd.
In April 2004, Advanced Chemical Logistics (ACL) started as an independently owned chemical distributor located in Fort Worth, Texas.  ACL is currently supplying chemicals in a 350-mile radius of the D/FW market with the ACL fleet of trucks.  The principles have spent their entire careers in chemical distribution.  As partners in Hancock Industries, Cary Hancock and Kelly Hancock held management and sales positions in the company prior to its sale to Holland Chemical International in 1992.  With a combined 40 years experience with both international corporations and privately held business, the company has a uniquely enhanced management strategy of quality service with integrity.

1-10 Employees
Buzz Fence Services, LLC
Buzz Fence Services, LLC sets itself apart by its philosophy of treating people honestly and with respect; not just customers, but employees, sub-contractors, manufacturers and vendors.  Consistently, they receive kudos in regard to their attitude and actions towards others.  They understand the future of their company is determined by their reputation.  Buzz Fence Services’ success is attributed to hard work and pride in service.  This attitude enables a phenomenal rate of growth.  With an innovative business model, along with skilled and knowledgeable employees, they strive to be the industry leader in North Texas.

11-50 Employees
Concussion Advertising, LLC
Concussion Advertising, launched in 2001, is a full-service agency offering creative and strategic marketing solutions for local, national and international clients.  The firm’s results-oriented work for high-profile accounts has garnered attention from national industry publications and numerous creative awards.  Company CEO Allen Wallach was recognized as one of The Fort Worth Business Press’ “40 Under 40,” and creative partner, Andrew Yanez, has had multiple designs published in prestigious peer review journal Print and Creative Arts.  Concussion’s attention to detail, personal chemistry and ROI-based results have forged lasting client relationships and a highly successful new business referral network.

51-100 Employees
Painless Performance Products
Founded in 1990, Painless Performance has become the leading manufacturer of automotive electrical systems and components serving the classic car, off-road and racing markets.  In that period of time the company has received nine new product awards for “outstanding and innovative design achievement” by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).  In 2002 the company was recognized as Manufacturer of the Year by the Performance Warehouse Association.  Painless Performance Products invests heavily in research and technology in order to continue to lead the market.  They also take great pride in investing in the well-being of their employees.

101-250 Employees
May Advertising International, Ltd.
May Advertising International, Ltd. is a privately held company founded in 1946 as a small sign company catering to local firms in Fort Worth.  In 1956, an oil company contracted May to manufacture a changeable pricing system to advertise gasoline.  The success of this product allowed May Advertising to become the world’s largest manufacturer of aluminum gasoline signs.  Today, May is a leader in screen printing and custom sign manufacturing.  It has broadened its product lines to offer a variety of stock and custom products for diverse markets including petroleum, fence, security, ATM, point-of-purchase, real estate and infinite other businesses.

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2005 Winners

Emerging Business
Colonial Health Group
Colonial Health Group (CHG), formed in 2002, is a nationwide physician recruiting firm based in Fort Worth., Texas. CHG is dedicated to making a strategic fit between the client they serve and the best physician candidates available. Their client list ranges from solo to group practices, single to multi-system hospitals, and specialty to community-based facilities. CHG is committed to success and take every physician job search as a personal endeavor. CHG was established on four fundamental principles: honesty, integrity, accountability, and results.

1-10 Employees
Best Used Trucks
Best Used Trucks opened its doors May 2001 and sells used heavy-duty trucks and trailers to retail and wholesale markets nationwide. What makes their business stand out is their people. All have great character, high moral values, are knowledgeable and respected in the industry for their honesty and integrity. They are professional and experienced, and enjoy the reputation of having one of the nicest, cleanest and friendliest used truck dealership in the country.

The success of any business can be attributed to hard work and the dedication to principles. Their motto: “Perform something worthy of being remembered.”

11-50 Employees
Pulliam Pools
Pulliam Pools is the continuation of a family construction business founded in 1916 and the oldest swimming pool company in America. Responsible for many firsts in the industry, Pulliam Pools is the premiere in-ground swimming pool builder operating in a five county area in the Fort Worth Metroplex. Specializing in custom gunite pools, renovations, pool repair and service, Pulliam Pools employs a year round staff of 50 professional and 26 sub-contractors who collectively employ more than 300 skilled craftsmen for a superior product.

51-100 Employees
Diamond H Recognition
Diamond H Recognition provides employee recognition services to large companies nationwide. Working with human resource departments, we serve as an outsource solution for employee service award programs – handling everything from managing the anniversary data, to providing solicitation and congratulatory materials, manufacturing emblematic jewelry, and shipping the gift itself.

Their corporate culture - commitment to integrity and teamwork - sets them apart and makes them most proud. Their history dates back 100 years as the manufacturing division of Haltom’s Jewelry. We’ve received partnership awards from many companies, and their CEO was recognized in 2004 as one of the Fort Worth Business Press’s “40 under 40.”

101-250 Employees
Southwest Office Systems, Inc.
SOS, founded in 1964 by Victor Puente Sr., began as a two-man typewriter repair company. Rapid growth led to sons Buddy & Vince joining their father in 1972. Eventually Victor turned over the helm to his sons who are now the principals of the company.

Today, SOS is considered to be one of the “movers and shakers” in the Document Communications Systems (DCS) industry. Their 39,000 square foot facility is nationally recognized as one of the finest DCS facilities in the nation. SOS is in the top 3 percent of all independent DCS dealers, the largest Hispanic owned dealership in the nation, and one of the largest minority owned businesses in North Texas.

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2004 Winners

Emerging Business
The Artisan Works Group, L.L.C.
The Artisan Works Group is Fort Worth’s premier solution provider for turnkey design, architectural, general contracting, real estate, and associated financing needs. AWCommercial Services focuses on the development, design, renovation, and construction of commercial properties. Examples of recent projects include an office for Edward Jones, a $1.6 million U.S. Veterans Administration medical hospital, and a 20,000-square-foot, 700-person sanctuary. The Artisan Works Group L.L.C. is SBA certified, American Indian-owned and is bonded, licensed, and insured. AWResidential Services focuses on custom, new home design and construction; restoration and renovation; home additions; insurance claims assistance; and trade specific repairs.

1-10 Employees
Teresa’s Treasures
Teresa’s Treasures is a corporate gift business with gourmet baskets, stand-alone gifts, and centerpieces. Founded in 2000, in a small room, the company has grown to 4,500 square feet; six employees; 2,000 items; and clients across the world. The company received the 2003 Small Business of the Year and Mayor’s Business Award and American Business Women’s Women of the Year. Free delivery, outstanding service, huge selection, unique designs, and a Christian environment separate us from the industry. We have been blessed by respecting our clients and employees and by our dedication to never settle for less than the best!

11-50 Employees
The Lonesome Dove Western Bistro
The Lonesome Dove Western Bistro opened in June 2000 as the first white tablecloth restaurant in the Fort Worth Stockyards. The 13-table restaurant offers cowboys and businessmen alike mouth-watering dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of those early rawhide days on the trail. The Lonesome Dove offers private dining facilities as well as off-site catering. Chef Tim Love and his “urban western” cuisine have received overwhelming critical acclaim from across the country. Honors include recognition by the “Today Show,” Associated Press, Bon Appetit, Southern Living, New York Times, National Geographic Traveler and Cowboys and Indians.

51-100 Employees
Branch-Smith Printing, L.P.
Branch-Smith Printing specializes in printed product solutions such as publications, magazines, catalogs, directories, books, and other bound printed materials. It provides turnkey services including design, printing, binding and mailing. Its mission, “Expert Solutions for Publishers,” reflects the company’s focus on the needs of corporations, associations, and other publishers who provide information to their members, employees, or product and service related customers. The company in 2002 received the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest honor for business excellence. In 2000, the Texas Association of Businesses and Chambers of Commerce named it Texas Business of the Year.

101-250 Employees (Tie)

Empire Roofing, Inc.
Empire Roofing, Inc. is a full service roofing company specializing in roof replacement and repair of commercial office and industrial properties. Our services include budget reports, due diligence, preventive maintenance programs, roof leak repairs and total roof replacement. Our fully automated sheet metal shop supports our roofing crews as well as metal standing seam applicators.

Higginbotham & Associates, Inc.
Higginbotham & Associates, one of the nation’s 100 largest insurance agencies based on revenue and National Underwriter’s “2002 Agency of the Year,” offers a full line of insurance and financial services to businesses and consumers throughout North Texas and the nation. Utilizing a complete relationship approach, Higginbotham’s professionals carefully assess a client’s risk areas and recommend a comprehensive insurance program that can encompass business insurance, employee benefits, executive compensation, personal insurance, life insurance, risk and claims management services, retirement plans and financial planning. Since 1948, business and individuals have counted on Higginbotham as their “Single Source for a Secure Future.”

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2003 - No Award Given - Timing of Event Caused Change

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2002 Winners

Up to $250,000 in Annual Revenue
Teresa's Treasures
A dramatic surge of promise occurred early on for Teresa’s Treasures, a corporate-gift supplier founded as a literal cottage industry in November of 1999. Barely six weeks after the January 2000 opening, as owner-and-CEO Teresa Nelson recalls, a rush of 250 orders had assured her that she must be on the right track. The merchandise is amenities, plain and simple – those little things that leave a large impression, such as gourmet delicacies in gift baskets, centerpieces, party favors, sales-team recognition items and so forth. Under the heading of "and so forth," there falls a great deal of expansion, inasmuch as the inventory has proved impossible to confine to a simple range. Nelson has since added themed products for specific occasions, along with collectibles and personalized memorabilia. Tying together all this diversity of product lines is a brand-awareness policy that stamps every item with a distinctive logotype. Nelson’s first holiday season nailed 1,200 orders, which in turn prompted a move into larger quarters housing showroom, workshop and office-and-storage space. Growth has progressed steadily all along, requiring expansion to a staff of three with ad hoc additional personnel for large assignments. Where 2001 saw a 45 percent increase in sales, Nelson sees the potential for a 135 percent surge by the end of 2002.

$250,000-$1 Million in Annual Revenue
PML Permite Corp.
Fort Worth ’s PML Permite Corp. has been a mainstay since 1977 of the automotive, janitorial and manufacturing industries on a nationwide scale. Permite’s growth began in earnest 10 years ago, when long-time sales associate Sam Emmerson purchased the company with an eye toward product-line expansion. As president of Permite, Emmerson has seen that line of products increase by 56 percent, accompanied by a regimen of classes in the safe handling of chemicals for the customers. A compact workforce of four full-time employees keeps the operational framework direct and uncomplicated, with a networking system to contract services with other small businesses as needed. An aggressive marketing stance has paid off in the face of a difficult economy, Emmerson says: "Forty percent of our customers are doing less business than they did last year, but despite these setbacks, we are ahead of last year’s sales by three percent." It helps matters, of course, that Permite’s customer-retention rate has consistently topped 95 percent since 1992, with steady growth in the customer base. Growth strategy at Permite involves a close-to-the-vest operational system, coupled with vigorous promotional activities — one-to-one communication between salespeople and clients is the preferred method, supplemented by monthly catalog updates — and streamlined methods of production.

$1 million and $5 Million in Annual Revenue  
TriQuest Technologies, Inc.
As a Microsoft Certified Partner, TriQuest, under the leadership of Gary Tonniges, provides network management services tailored to companies operating between 25 and 150 computers. In its five years-and-counting, the company has grown from two employees and a physical plant consisting of a truck and a file cabinet, to nine employees and a 3,000-square-foot office. TriQuest has garnered national media attention for an innovative accounting-software package and developed a variety of major-league corporate partnerships. Last year saw a breakthrough to a formalized business plan, with calculated growth achievements, including a client-tracking system and the development of a manual of standard operating procedures. But while 2001 was a year of building, it also provided for growth in revenues, meeting a minimum goal of 60 percent. Although Tonniges characterizes the business plan as "a living document, revised annually," he also acknowledges it as "simply a plan," allowing flexibility in response to the internal and external economic forces that can affect any business at random. A roster of key objectives provides a barometer for improvement initiatives, keeping specific goals in perspective with what Tonniges calls "our understanding of the big picture."

$5 million-$20 Million in Annual Revenue
Optima Homes
Customized homebuilding within a generalized range of affordability has become a hallmark of Optima Homes in its seven years as a contender in such competitive arenas as Burleson, Azle, Weatherford and Springtown. With 13 neighborhoods in and around Fort Worth on the active list, Optima has consistently delivered upon its promise of facilitating the first-time homebuying experience while delivering more than a starter-type household property. With the first- and second-time homebuyer market established as a primary clientele, founder/president Joey Goss has positioned Optima in the $75,000-$190,000 buy-in range, bolstering its position with a Certified Master Builder credential usually associated with the pricier properties.

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2001 Winners

$250,000-$1 Million Annual Revenue
TriQuest Technologies, Inc.
TriQuest Technologies, Inc. was founded in 1997 by Gary Tonniges, Jr., president of the company. Adversity has played a major role in the company’s success, according to Tonniges. The March 2000 tornado destroyed all of the company’s physical assets, but he says, "It forced us to reevaluate how badly we wanted to survive. We are a much stronger company as a result." TriQuest has also targeted a narrow segment of the market and therefore is able to deliver superior service says Tonniges.

$1Million to $5 Million Annual Revenue
Preferred Machine Tools
Founded in 1996, Preferred Machine Tools sells used machine tools and gauges. President Judith (Judy) Griggs noted that the company has overcome significant difficulties including stock market crashes, floods and illness to become successful. Among the company’s successful strategies are the elimination of "stale" inventory by offering a rent to own program, acceptance of credit cards and ensuring that all used inventory is in good running order.

$5 Million to $2 Million Annual Revenue
Santé Rehabilitation
According to Louis Church, president and CEO, streamlining the operation and updating the office technology helped the company over cash flow problems in 1996. Today, Santé shows profits of 10-15 percent range. The company’s strategy for success includes its multiple locations, central intake system and extended hours. These have resulted in a 95 percent satisfaction rate among its patients.

A special award will be presented to Reata Restaurant Management Corporation-Fort Worth Division. The "Spirit of Perseverance" Award recognizes all the obstacles that Reata Restaurant had to overcome in the wake of the March 2000 tornado. That twister did nearly $1,000,000 worth of damage to the restaurant atop the Bank One Building. With the support of customers, employees and vendors, the restaurant was repaired and reopened in six weeks. However, this past February, it was announced that the restaurant would have to close, as Bank One was to be demolished. Less than a month after closing, Reata on the Road was created to offer private catering, cooking schools and event production. It was recently announced that Reata will reopen in the spring of 2002 in the old Caravan of Dreams site in Sundance Square. The lower level, ground level and rooftop will again offer Reata signature dishes. And, Reata on the Road will continue its catering and event business as well.

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2000 Winners

1-10 Employees
TimeSavers Data
TimeSavers Data is a mail house that performs business mail preparation and data base management. The company, which has only three full-time employees, was begun in a garage in 1985. President Janice C. Payne has been successful because she has focused on growing at a pace that would not compromise their consistently high service level. "Everyone working with us understands the importance of getting the work out and keeping the customer coming back," said Payne in her nomination form. Whatever it takes to get the job done is what we do."

11-50 Employees
Steele & Freeman, Inc.
Steel & Freeman, Inc., a general contractor. According to Michael Freeman, president, the award is not only recognition for their employees, he feels it will enable the company to continue to recruit talented people. "Anything that separates from our competition helps us in recruiting," said Steele. The company believes in working hard and playing hard including the annual "Flu Fry," a combination annual fishing trip and voluntary flu shot for the entire staff.

51-100 Employees
First American Payment Systems
First American Payment Systems is a merchant credit card processor, is the winner in the. According to Neil Randel, president and CEO, First American Payment Systems is an innovative, competitive company that employs the best and brightest people which can be difficult in such a good, competitive economy. "We have a fantastic staff," says Randel. "Our people make the difference." Randel agrees that such an award is helpful in recruiting top employees.

Technology-Based Businesses

1-10 Employees
NetWorth Enterprises, Inc.
NetWorth Enterprises, Inc., is a computer consultants to mortgage bankers. Founded in 1996, President Randy Dorman also sees the award as recognition for his employees and their hard work. NetWorth's company beliefs include motivating and empowering their employees, always doing the right thing, delivering more than is expected and selecting great team members. "Our clients believe our employees are great," says Dorman. "My philosophy about employees is if they need to be managed, I shouldn't have hired them."

11-50 Employees
The Buxton Company
Founded by Tom Buxton, president and CEO in 1994, the company does market and demographics research. "I feel this award is a confirmation to both our clients and our employees as to the quality company we are," said Buxton who added that the award would also help him in recruiting the best candidates. "We have a tremendous commitment to technology. We never limit ourselves in new technology."

51-100 Employees
Employer Resource Network, Inc.
Employer Resource Network, Inc. is an employee benefit consulting firm. CEO Jeanne B. Baker notes in her nomination form that the company works with its employees to help them continue schooling and to provide a flexible work schedule for working parents.

Home-Based Business

Project Partners
Project Partners is a project management and consulting firm, was founded in 1994, by Lia Zaccagnino and Lerii Smith. They are the winners of the first Home-Based Small Business of the Year award. Recently, the company was featured in Entrepreneur Magazine as an example of the kind of entrepreneurs doing business in Fort Worth. "Many companies start out home-based with the idea of moving into offices as the company grows," said Smith. "Our goal is remaining home-based. Our strategy is how do we grow and stay home-based. That's our challenge."

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1999 Winners

1-10 Employees
Ware & Associates, Inc.
Ware & Associates, Inc., the first African-American, woman-owned public relations firm in Fort Worth, was founded in 1987 by Wyntress Booker Ware. She began the business in her home with one employee. In the past 12 years, the firm has grown into a thriving corporation with as many as seven employees. The primary goal of Ware & Associates is to deliver client messages to customers via the most cost-effective channels. Since 1987, the company has served an extensive client list including Texas Health Resources, the City of Fort Worth Water Department, DFW Airport, the City of Dallas and the University of Texas at Arlington. The company provides a wide range of services for many industries, including government entities, hospitals, healthcare networks, churches, universities and non-profit organizations. As part of the corporate philosophy, Ware & Associates takes part in many civic endeavors and employees have established excellent networking relationships with community organizations. Associates are encouraged to join civic and industry-related organizations and to get involved in their community. The philanthropic philosophy of Ware & Associates has truly set them apart as a successful public relations firm in Fort Worth.

11-50 Employees
Pulliam Pools
Pulliam Pools, the continuation of a family construction business founded in 1916 by Theo Pulliam, has grown into a premier in-ground swimming pool builder in Tarrant County. Pulliam Pools currently employs a year-round staff of 44 professional and 28 separate subcontractors who collectively employ over 300 skilled craftsmen. The result is over 2,000 satisfied customers. Customer service and quality are the primary focus of Pulliam Pools, a powerful combination that has produced annual sales growth of 25 percent over the last three years.
Pulliam Pools has developed a flexible, creative, family-friendly work environment for their employees. In addition to standard benefits, employees receive a special 10-day winter holiday, company vehicles and gas credit cards, monthly chair massages during the busy season, complimentary hotel stays for the Christmas party, weekend management retreats for staff and spouses and catered meals for employees when it's "too busy to stop." Pulliam Pools stresses community involvement and has been instrumental in developing well-known water safety programs throughout the area and has provided countless volunteer hours for various service organizations. Pulliam's philosophy -- "Pool companies don't build pools, people do!" -- is reflected by their commitment to customer service, community involvement and employee satisfaction.

51-100 Employees
Tensor Information Systems, Inc.
Three engineers, Fred Fleury, Rob Hatcherson and Travis TeSelle, met at General Dynamics working on defense projects. In 1992, they formed their own company, Tensor Information Systems, Inc. In 1998, Tensor was recognized as one of the fastest growing private companies in America. From 1993-1997, Tensor experienced 1,514 percent sales growth. Tensor specializes in systems integration using the Internet to connect company computer networks. Additionally, Tensor builds contained internal networks known as intranets, uses computer hardware and software combined with in-house software to fashion integrated systems tailored to client needs, and provides consulting and customer training. Most of Tensor's new clients find them by referrals from such companies as Hewlett-Packard, Netscape and Apple. Tensor prides itself on the creativity and competitiveness of its benefits plan for employees and the competitive salaries they offer. Training and continuing education highlight the company's philosophy of providing employees the best and most comprehensive tools available to do the job. Tensor encourages employee involvement in the community and is involved with various organizations on different levels. Tensor executives believe the most challenging part of having a business with so many new employees is establishing a common philosophy and developing a company culture to make sure the employees have the same ethics, knowledge and desire to serve the customer.

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1998 Winners

1-10 Employees
SohoPros Dan Harris

11-50 Employees
Stuart Bacon Jim Stuart

51-100 Employees
Sedalco Bill Young and Tom Kader

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For more information contact:
Lydia Hall
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 272