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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 -
August 2005
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Dr. Melody Johnson
FWISD Superintendent |
State of Education
New FWISD Superintendent Dr. Melody Johnson Delivers State of Education Address
With less than two months on the job, new Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Dr. Melody Johnson is preparing to deliver her first State of Education address to the Fort Worth Chamber. The luncheon is presented by Weaver & Tidwell. Reception sponsor is IBM. Gold sponsors are Cantey & Hanger and Turner Construction.
No stranger to the challenges facing urban school districts in general and Texas school districts in particular, Dr. Johnson is returning to Texas after serving two years as Superintendent of Providence (R.I.) Schools.
“I am so blessed to end up in Fort Worth,” said Dr. Johnson. “This is the one place I wanted to come back to. This is the most incredibly wonderful community.”
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What: State of Education Address featuring Dr. Melody Johnson, Superintendent FWISD
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When: Monday, Aug. 22, noon-1:30 p.m. Registration and networking begin at 11:30 a.m.
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Where: The Fort Worth Club, Horizon and Terrace Rooms, 306 West 7th St., 12th floor, 76102
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Cost is: Chamber members – $35; Gold members - $30; non-members - $60; and a table of eight - $350.
Dr. Johnson began her new job armed with a 90-day plan to enable her to hit the ground running. The plan includes some rather ambitious, but, she believes, achievable goals.
“My goal is to make FWISD a high-performing urban school system of excellence recognized nationally and internationally,” Dr. Johnson said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge, but it’s going to take the hard work of lots of good people. I can’t do it alone.”
As noted in her entry plan of goals and objectives submitted to FWISD School Board, Dr. Johnson lists the top priority goals she plans to work toward in the coming days.
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Goal 1. Ensure effective district governance through positive board/superintendent relations.
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Goal 2. Increase student achievement.
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Goal 3.
Improve public trust and confidence through
open, honest communication and positive
relationships.
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Goal 4. Increase organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
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Goal 5. Establish a supportive, positive district climate and culture.
In her short time here, Dr. Johnson says she has been gratified by her warm welcome and overwhelmed by the good will she has received. “There is tremendous, broad-based support here for public education.”
That said, she recognizes the challenges facing the district including high numbers of students from disadvantaged neighborhoods; high numbers of students for whom English is a second language; and a high drop-out rate.
“Today we are getting kids from all over the world,” said Dr. Johnson. “Some have never even been to school. But American public education is different than in other parts of the world. We take everyone. And every child deserves a quality education. The quality of a child’s education should not be left to chance and it should not be based on income. Equity begins at the schoolhouse door.”
Another challenge to be met head on is school funding – how to achieve such ambitious goals when the need is great, but the money is limited.
“That is also
going to take lots of thought and planning,” she
said. “Accountability requirements are not matched
by available resources."
True to her plan, Dr. Johnson started her first days by working to streamline and strengthen the IDS’s infrastructure.
“I want to streamline function here and organize for effort,” said Dr. Johnson. “The school board has been wonderful and supportive giving me the autonomy and support I need to get the job done.”
Dr. Johnson expressed her admiration for the Stay-In-School Initiative and said she looks forward to working with community partners to address FWISD’s drop-out problem.
“Much must be done in partnership with the community,” said Dr. Johnson. “We must work together and plan collaboratively to maximize limited resources to get the biggest bang for the buck when it comes to drop-out intervention and prevention.”
The stakes are high, notes Dr. Johnson. Ensuring that all students get a quality education is vital.
“We must do this job if our country is to survive.”
For more information on the State of Education luncheon, contact Jeanean Herod at 817/336-2491, ext. 275.
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Call for Small Business Nominations Goes Out
The Fort Worth Chamber is gearing up for its seventh annual “A Rising Star: Small Business of the Year Awards.” Deadline for nominations is Sept. 16. Presenting sponsor is Citizens National Bank. Platinum sponsor is Raymond James & Associates. Gold sponsors include Weaver & Tidwell and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Silver sponsor is ProStaff Personnel Services.
The nomination process remains the same this year – anyone may nominate a small business or self-nominate their own business for the award. The awards will be broken out by number of employees. Award categories are 1-10 employees, 11-50 employees, 51-100 employees, 101-250 employees and emerging business (in business less than three years and not a buyout of an existing business). The awards luncheon will be held in March, 2006.
“The Small Business of the Year Awards recognize and honor businesses that have demonstrated ‘best practices’ of entrepreneurship such as sound business planning, fiscal responsibility and work process innovation in day-to-day operations,” said Lydia Hall, director of Business Services for the Chamber, adding that participation in the application process holds many additional benefits for small companies.
Criteria for the awards include:
- Any for-profit business headquartered in Tarrant County
- Applicant must be owner, partner or major shareholder of the business and active in its day-to-day operations
- Business must be financially stable and operational for a minimum of three years with the exception of the “emerging business” which is less than three years and not a buyout of an existing business
- Businesses providing a current member of the Fort Worth Chamber Board of Directors will not be eligible for consideration
- Businesses must be members of the Fort Worth Chamber at the time award is presented
Nominees will be recognized in future issues of the
Chamberletter as well as listed on the Chamber’s website (see page 3 for a story on SBOY winner Diamond H Recognition). Finalists – announced in January -- receive four complimentary reservations to the awards luncheon, recognition in the program along with a company profile and mention on the Chamber website as a finalist. In addition to an award to display, winners will receive a display banner, feature articles in the
Fort Worth Business Press and the Chamberletter. They will also be listed as winners on the Chamber’s website and in the Chamber’s Annual Meeting program.
Judging elements will include business growth and performance; sound business strategies and practices; business challenges; unique and innovative approaches and community involvement and contribution.
For more information on the awards, how to nominate a business or any other questions, go to www.fortworthchamber.com or contact Lydia Hall at 817/336-2491, ext. 272. For information on sponsorship opportunities, call Becky Matson at ext. 243.
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19th Annual Chamber Golf Classic Tees Up
Soon the dog days of August will give way to September and it will be time for the 19th Annual Fort Worth Chamber Classic Golf presented by XTO Energy. Get your foursomes together and plan to take a Monday afternoon to play golf. Or consider being an event sponsor. There is still plenty of time.
This year, the Chamber Golf Classic will offer only afternoon play. The day will begin with a lunch of grilled hamburgers at noon at the Club and a 1 p.m. shotgun start. As always, play will take place at Ridglea Country Club. The day wraps up with an awards dinner at the Club.
- What: 19th Fort Worth Chamber Golf Classic
- Where: Ridglea Country Club, 3700 Bernie Anderson Ave.
- When: Monday, Sept. 19 (Rain date: Sept. 26)
- Tee Times: Registration – 11:30 a.m.; Shotgun start - 1 p.m. – North and South course. Florida Scramble format.
- Cost: $800/team of four for afternoon tee times; $200/individual
The Fort Worth Chamber Golf Classic is recognized as one of the area’s best and is a fabulous networking 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 Becky Matson at 817/336-2491, ext. 243.
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Publications
New Membership Directories Are Here
The 2005-2006 Fort Worth Chamber Membership Directory and Buyer’s Guide, the 2005-2006 Fort Worth and Tarrant County Economic Report are finally here.
- The 2005-2006 Fort Worth Chamber Membership Directory and Buyers Guide puts information about your business at the fingertips of Fort Worth-area decision makers. Members are listed alphabetically or by categories, and it also includes a special section of Chamber resources, services, and board members.
- The 2005-2006 Fort Worth Economic Report is Fort Worth’s annual, premiere 4-color economic development magazine highlighting demographics, climate, employment, education, health care, transportation, taxes, utilities, cost of living, major employers and major business parks. This is also bound into the Membership Directory and is a major business-to-business resource.
Fort Worth-based Magnolia Media Group, publisher of
Fort Worth, Texas Magazine, published the Chamber’s books.
Next up: the 2005-2006 Fort Worth & Tarrant County Newcomer’s Guide.
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Presidents Column
You’ve heard the age old question: Which
came first, the chicken or the egg?
A similar question comes to mind when one ponders
all the recent accolades and recognitions that have
come Fort Worth’s way. Did Fort Worth’s recent
growth spurt in both population and jobs generate
the accolades? Or did the accolades result in more
people and companies moving into Fort Worth?
I suspect the answer to those questions is yes and
yes, respectively.
In the last year, Fort Worth has broken into the
ranks of the top 20 largest cities in the country,
now resting comfortably at number 19 with a
population of 603,337. That puts us ahead of such
economic powerhouses as Seattle, Boston, Denver and
Charlotte, N.C. And of the top 20 most populous
cities in the U.S., Fort Worth is the fastest
growing. Indeed, 2004 saw Fort Worth ranked fifth
overall nationally in population growth according to
the U.S. Census Bureau.
That’s just population. For new residents to want to
move here, there must be an excellent quality of
life as well as good jobs available. Since 2004, the
Fort Worth-Arlington area has added 21,500 residents
and 11,500 jobs, according to the Texas Workforce
Commission.
Fort Worth also received national recognition as
being one of the country’s Top Ten Most Livable
Communities in 2004. And as a result of our recent
population and economic growth, other national
accolades have been rolling in.
In April 2005, Site Selection Magazine named the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex as the top metro area in
the country for new and expanded business
facilities. The Dallas/Fort Worth region was honored
with this distinction due to its corporate
recruiting success in the 12-county Dallas/Fort
Worth Metro area. More than 277 companies -- well
over one third of all Texas’ 2004
relocations/expansions -- chose the region to expand
and relocate in 2004, with a total investment of
more than $3 billion. And Fort Worth led the way
with 40 of those announcements.
But wait, there’s more. Just last month, Southern
Business and Developments magazine named the DFW
area the “Mega-Market of the Year” in its annual
SB&D 100 ranking.
This kind of growth and recognition doesn’t just
happen. It is the result of the diligent efforts of
economic development professionals, not just here at
the Chamber, but with the City of Fort Worth and the
entire development community as well. Working in
concert, we have been able to achieve phenomenal
results that are good for Fort Worth’s – and the
regions -- bottom line.
Here at the Chamber, we receive and respond to
dozens of inquiries a month from business people
interested in locating, relocating or expanding in
Fort Worth. And, with such positive praise as we
have garnered of late, the job of promoting Fort
Worth has become easier. But we must not become
complaisant.
Successful economic development efforts require the
support of the entire community. Here at the
Chamber, we will continue to work with the City to
promote Fort Worth as the fantastic place to live,
work and raise a family that it is.
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Ozone Season Is
Here
So far, 2005 has been a bad year for air
quality in North Texas. Between May 20 and June
29, the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ) issued 17 air pollution watches
for the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex compared to
two watches issued during the same time last
year. And more have been issued since that date;
one look at the skies tells the tale.
The DFW region violates federal clean air
standards and must take action to reduce air
pollution to healthy, acceptable levels.
“Drive alone commuting is the biggest reason
North Texas faces serious air quality and
traffic congestion problems,” said Brian Boerner,
2005 chairman of the North Texas Clean Air
Coalition and director of Fort Worth’s
Environmental Management Department. “More than
half of the harmful ozone-causing emissions in
the DFW region come from cars, trucks and SUVs.
The North Texas Clean Air Coalition (NTCAC)
recognizes this and is offering solutions to
reduce the number of vehicles on our roadways.”
Texans’ love affair with their vehicles is
legendary, so convincing North Texans to drive
less to reduce air pollution calls for
innovative measures.
The NTCAC has been rewarding commuters who tried
parking their vehicles for cleaner air and less
traffic congestion since July 1.
The Commuter Challenge is an internet contest
that has been rewarding North Texas commuters
who carpool, vanpool or take the bus or train to
work.
“It all adds up to fewer vehicles on our
roadways and less air pollution,” Boerner said.
“That’s something all of us can get behind.”
When temperatures heat up during the summer and
there’s little or no wind, vehicle emissions
begin to “cook” creating air pollution that is
especially harmful to children, the elderly and
people with lung diseases like asthma. Air
pollution season in North Texas runs from May
1-Oct. 31.
During this time of year, the NTCAC sponsors
Commute Solutions Season, a public awareness
campaign promoting alternatives to drive-alone
commuting through advertising, employer
outreach, e-mail campaigns, media relations and
the Commuter Challenge.
July was Try Transit Month. August is
Vanpool/Carpool month. September is Telecommute
Month and October is Clean Commuter Employee
Recognition Month.
For more information about ways your company can
get involved in the effort to clean up our air,
go to www.northtexasair.org.
The NTCAC was formed to educate North Texans
about air quality and encourage individuals to
“do their share for cleaner air.” Members of the
NTCAC included the North Central Texas Council
of Governments, North Texas Commission, Greater
Dallas Chamber, Fort Worth Chamber, Dallas Area
Rapid Transit, Fort Worth Transportation
Authority, Denton County Transportation
Authority and numerous businesses and
individuals.
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Ozone
Season Tips
11 Ozone Season Tips to Reduce Air Pollution
One look at Metroplex skies lately tells us it’s
summertime and that means ozone season. We must
all do our share to help clean up the skies over
North Texas. Here are a few simple suggestions
that can make a big difference.
- Share a ride instead of driving alone,
especially on Air Pollution Watch days. Ride
public transportation, carpool or join a
vanpool. Visit
www.northtexasair.org for more
information.
- Combine errands into one trip. Starting a car
that has been sitting for more than an hour
pollutes up to five times more than starting the
engine when it’s warm.
- Telecommute or vary your work schedule to
remove cars from roadways during peak traffic
times.
- Ride your bike or walk to work or lunch. It’s
a great way to exercise and reduce vehicle
emissions.
- Bring your lunch to work instead of eating
out. That’s one less car trip during the day.
- Keep your vehicle well maintained. One poorly
maintained vehicle emits as much pollution as
about 28 clean-burning cars or trucks.
- Drive at fuel-saving, moderate speeds.
Jackrabbit acceleration uses more fuel than your
engine can efficiently burn.
- Avoid excessive idling. Drive during off-peak
hours to avoid congested traffic. Avoid highway
construction projects and lines at drive-through
windows.
- Refuel your vehicle after 6 p.m. and avoid
spilling gasoline. Don't top off the tank and
check to make sure your gas cap seals properly.
- Don't mow your lawn or use gas-powered lawn
equipment in the morning on Air Pollution Watch
days. One hour of operating a lawn mower or
edger equals about 50 miles of car driving.
Consider electric or hand-powered models.
- Pay attention to Air Pollution Watch days.
High levels of air pollution occur throughout
the summer months, so while it is important to
practice ozone-reducing behaviors every day,
it’s even more important on Air Pollution Watch
Days.
To find out if tomorrow is an Air
Pollution Watch day and to review previous Air
Pollution Watch/Ozone Action days visit
www.dfwcleanair.com.
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Eco
Update
Recap
of Recent Economic Activity in Tarrant County
IN THE
WORKS
After the announcement of plans for a Wal-Mart Supercenter and
Sam's Club on Texas 183,
Dallas-based Margaux Development is proceeding
with plans for retail and residential projects
across the street. Stretching along the south
side of Texas 183, from Roaring Springs Road on
the east to Green Oaks Road on the west, the 70
acres will be built out with a variety of
retail, residential, office and restaurant
projects. Called Westside Plaza and Westover
Village, the developments will probably include
boutique shopping and a hotel. Fort Worth Star
Telegram, June 20
A development group that recently bought 11
acres at the northwest corner of Sendera Ranch
Boulevard and Diamondback Lane is negotiating
for a supermarket anchor for the planned Sendera
Market Center. The center will also include
40,000 square feet of retail space, likely to be
built in two, 20,000-square-foot buildings.
There will also be room for at least six pad
sites for restaurants and other businesses. Fort
Worth Star Telegram, June 13
Midtown Village, a $35 million mixed-use
project, will be constructed on 9.4 acres of
vacant land at the intersection of Forest Park
Boulevard and West Rosedale Street. Fort Worth
Business Press, May 30-June 5
Fort Worth’s La Gran Plaza, formerly known as
Fort Worth Town Center could see a significant
revitalization effort. Developer Jose de Jesus Legaspi has plans to convert the shopping center
into a retail Mercado. Fort Worth Business
Press, June 13-19
Houlihan’s, a 33-year-old chain of popular
eateries, announced plans to open five locations
in Fort Worth. The locations represent franchise
opportunities for local entrepreneurs, and will
create 100 jobs per location. Fort Worth
Business Press, June 27-July 3
EXPANSIONS AND MOVES
Architectural firm HKS Inc. announced its plans
to relocate its Fort Worth office, effective
August 1. It will relocate to 1000 Macon Street,
Suite 150, in Fort Worth’s downtown district.
Fort Worth Business Press, June 20-26
ATC Logistics and Electronics, a subsidiary of
Aftermarket Technology Corp., will expand into a
375,000-square-foot building and add 500 jobs at
Fort Worth Alliance Airport, the company
announced. The company plans to add the
positions before the end of the year. RadioShack
Corp., ATC’s partner for testing, refurbishment
and repair services of cell phones, is expected
to add 150 of the 500 jobs. Dallas Business
Journal, June 20
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
The new Lincoln at Trinity Bluff complex broke
ground on June 23. The 304 residencies will be
located on the bluff, 90 feet above the Trinity
River. Fort Worth Business Press, June 20-26
ON THE DOTTED LINE
Luke Gilcrease, owner of Lucasso Stone in
Dallas, has bought a 9,800-square-foot warehouse
and office building at 809 W. Vickery Blvd.,
where he plans to relocate his company. Lucasso
Stone is a wholesale supplier of marble and
stone from around the world. Fort Worth Star
Telegram, June 20
Two lots at College and Terrell Avenues,
totaling about 17,000 square feet, have been
sold to Dayaker Gagadan, a Fort Worth doctor who
plans to build medical offices. Fort Worth Star
Telegram, June 20
Two sites of well-known restaurants on East
Lancaster Avenue, Smokey's Ribs and the
Griddle
diner, have been sold to new owners who plan to
reopen them. Sothy Lee and Lexie Lee, whose
family operates different fast-food style
restaurants, have bought the former Smokey's
location, 5300 E. Lancaster Ave. Ray Mao has
bought the former Griddle No. 12 location at
4013 E. Lancaster Ave. The sale included the
1,998-square-foot restaurant and a
17,200-square-foot parcel of land. Fort Worth
Star Telegram, June 27
The Utah State Retirement Fund has sold a
131,600-square-foot distribution facility at
1125 Joel East Road, in the Carter Park
Distribution Center near the intersection of
interstates 35W and 20, to local real estate
investor Gary Havener. Fort Worth Star Telegram,
June 13
Witherspoon Advertising and Public Relations has
sold its property at 1000 W. Weatherford St. to
a limited partnership that includes local real
estate investor Jim Finley and Richard "Dick"
Brannon, with Brannon Oil & Gas Co. in Fort
Worth. Fort Worth Star Telegram, June 13
221B Baker St. Pub & Grill has leased 6,500
square feet at 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., in the
Village of Camp Bowie. 221B Baker St. Pub &
Grill offers a British pub atmosphere and a
selection of draft beers and ales. Fort Worth
Star Telegram, June 13
Capital Light Services, a lighting supply house,
signed a lease for 75,000 square feet at 6851
Snowden Road in Carter Business Park. Fort Worth
Star Telegram, June 13
Sally Beauty Co., a beauty supplies retailer,
has leased 1,400 square feet at The Shops of Hulen, Interstate 30 and Hulen Street.
Fort
Worth Star Telegram, June 6
Texas United Title has leased 4,100 square feet
at The Offices at Mont Del, 6221 Southwest Blvd.
Fort Worth Star Telegram, June 6
Anne Penman Laser Therapy, which offers therapy
treatment to help people stop smoking, has
leased 2,200 square feet at 3430 Hilldale Road.
Fort Worth Star Telegram, June 6
Worthington National Bank
signed a seven-year
lease for 5,111 square feet on the ground floor
and mezzanine level of the Burk Burnett
Building. The office will be open by mid-summer
and will employ 15 people. Fort Worth Business
Press, May 30-June 5
Arlington-based SCM Real Estate Services has
purchased a 12,970-square-foot building on Main
Street in downtown Fort Worth to convert into
office and professional space. Fort Worth
Business Press, June 27-July 3
Allegiance Hospitality of Charlotte, N.C.
purchased two 20-year-old Holiday Inn Hotels for
a total of nearly $9 million. The properties are
located at the intersections of I-35 and Meacham
Blvd and I-35 at Alta Mesa Blvd. Fort Worth
Business Press, June 27-July 3
OPENINGS
Hobby Lobby opened a location in Lake Worth on
June 27 at the Lake Worth Towne Crossing
shopping center, 65-80 Lake Worth Blvd. The
store, the chain's 77th in Texas, will employ
more than 50 people.
Fort Worth Star Telegram,
June 27
ReCept Pharmacy, a pharmacy business based on
old-fashioned service, has opened at 6789 Camp
Bowie Blvd., in the Texas Spine Institute. Fort
Worth Star Telegram, June 13
AROUND TOWN
The 2005 Mayor’s Global Business Awards were
presented June 29 at the Fort Worth Convention
Center. Fort Worth Business Press, June 27-July
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OUT OF TOWN REPORTING
On June 2, the Duke of Gloucester visited the
offices of BAE Systems at Lockheed Martin
Aeronautics Company, while the Duchess of
Gloucester visited Cook Children's Health Care
System. Her Royal Highness, President, the Royal
Academy of Music, visited the Bass Performance
Hall. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester
attended a lunch given by the Mayor of Fort
Worth, Michael Moncrief, at the City Club. Their
Royal Highnesses then visited the Kimbell Art
Museum. The Times, London, June 3
The unofficial motto of Fort Worth is "Where the
West Begins." Every four years the city also
becomes a place where young pianists get their
start. Honoring the local son who was swept to
fame during the height of the Cold War by
winning Moscow's Tchaikovsky Piano Competition
in 1958, the Van Cliburn International Piano
Competition was established here in 1962. The
12th competition concluded on June 5 in the Bass
Performance Hall with the awarding of a gold
metal, $20,000, and an array of concert dates
and recordings to 25-year-old Alexander Kobrin
of Russia.
The Times Union, New York, June 11
The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
in Fort Worth ended a few weeks ago with a
splashy finale. The winners were a diverse mix
of artists who survived the 17-day marathon
event with style and panache. Asbury Park Press,
New Jersey, June 19
Did You Know?
The number of commercial foreclosures in Fort
Worth and Dallas scheduled for July is down 40
percent from last month and 24 percent from the
same period last year, according to Foreclosure
Listing Service in Addison, which tracks the
data. Fort Worth Star Telegram, June 27
According to Ross Perot Jr., Fort Worth is the
fastest growing part of North Texas. Four
thousand homes are platted to be built in this
area. Fort Worth has gone from the 26th largest
city in the country to the 20th. It is one of
the fastest growing major cities in the country.
Fort Worth Business Press, May 30 – June 05
Cabela’s pulled in more than 20,000 visitors on
its first day of operation. Fort Worth Business
Press, May 30-June 5
Data provided by Strategic Insight Group,
Intelligence Research Partner of the Fort Worth
Chamber of Commerce
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Ralph D. Heath,
Lockheed Martin Corp. |
Business
Forum
LMA’s Heath Touches
Down at Business Forum
We’ve landed Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company’s
President Ralph D. Heath as the featured speaker at
the upcoming Fort Worth Chamber’s Business ForumThe
event is presented by Weaver & Tidwell. Platinum
sponsor is Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Silver
sponsor is Wells Fargo.
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What: Business Forum featuring Ralph Heath,
President, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company
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When: Thursday, Aug. 11, noon-1:30 p.m.
Registration and networking begin at 11:30 a.m.
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Where: Radisson Plaza Hotel, 815 Main St., Crystal
Ballroom D, 76102
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Cost is: Chamber members - $35; Gold members -
$30; non-members - $60; and a table of eight - $350
Heath pilots the corporation’s military aircraft
business activities and leads military aircraft
business activities overseeing locations in Texas,
Georgia and California, including 15,500 employees
in Fort Worth. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics’ product
lines include combat aircraft, air mobility,
advanced development programs and reconnaissance
aircraft. Here in Fort Worth, the F-16 has been a
stalwart and the Joint Strike Fighter contract means
continued output for the plant.
Heath joined the company in 1975 as a design
engineer at the start of the F-16 fighter program
and has since risen through the ranks. Prior to
joining LM, he served four years in the U.S. Army as
a combat engineer officer and was qualified as an
Airborne Ranger.
Hear Heath as he details his vision and priorities
to move the company forward over the next decade and
the challenges the aviation giant may face.
Register online at
www.fortworthchamber.com or with
Jeanean Herod at
jherod@fortworthchamber.com or
817/336-2491, ext. 275.
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Bill Meadows |
Hwy
121T
On the Road? The Status of SH121T
If you have been wondering about the status of State
Highway 121T, then you’re not alone. Join the Fort
Worth Chamber’s next General Membership Luncheon
hosted by the South Area Council and get the scoop
on SH121T from Bill Meadows, executive vice
president and director of Wm. Rigg & Co. The
luncheon is presented by Wells Fargo; Gold sponsor
is Advantage Rent-A-Car.
- What: General Membership Luncheon hosted by the
South Area Council – SH121T
- When: Wednesday, Aug. 24, noon-1:30 p.m.
Registration and networking begin at 11:30 a.m.
- Where: Colonial Country Club, 3735 Country Club
Circle, 76109
- Cost: Chamber members - $25; Gold members - $20;
non-members - $40; and a table of eight - $250.
- Register online at
www.fortworthchamber.com or
contact Jeanean Herod at
jherod@fortworthchamber.com
or 817/336-2491, ext. 275.
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Brie Horigan,
Action Ambassador,
May 2005 |
Action
Ambassador
Action Ambassador for May 2005
Congratulations to the Fort Worth Chamber’s top
Action Ambassador for May 2005, Brie Horigan. She
has been an ambassador only since March 2005 and is
a financial advisor with Raymond James & Associates.
Action Ambassadors work on behalf of the Chamber
calling on new members and serving 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 fun way to learn more about
the Fort Worth Chamber and play a leadership role.
It is also a great networking opportunity. Contact
Teresa Pearson at 817/336-2491, ext. 249 for
information on becoming an Action Ambassador.
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Diamond H
Recognition staffers pose before a
display case of sample items they sell.
From left, Robbie Floyd, Helen Grimes,
Barb Hnatko, Hank Billman, Lesa Blakey
and Pete Chambers. |
Diamond H
Recognition
Diamond H Recognition Recognized with Small Business Award
For a company
dedicated to helping other companies recognize
their employees, being recognized as a Fort
Worth Chamber Small Business of the Year (SBOY)
Award winner was truly gratifying. “It’s a
wonderful feeling to win this award,” said Pete
Chambers, president of Diamond H Recognition.
“We’re in the business of recognition, so it’s
nice to be the ones recognized for a change.”
Diamond H Recognition, the winner of the SBOY
Award in the 51-100 employee category, provides
employee recognition services to companies
nationwide. Working with human resource
departments, Diamond H serves as an outsource
solution for employee service award programs
handling everything from managing the
anniversary data, to providing solicitation and
congratulatory materials, to manufacturing
emblematic jewelry, to shipping the gift.
It’s a far cry from where Chambers thought he
might be at this point in his career. He had
worked for Chemical Lime Company, the nation’s
largest lime producer. The 1992 TCU graduate
worked there until the company was sold to a
European partner. Says Chambers, “I was 28 with
nowhere to go.”
Then he was approached by his uncle John
Chambers with a proposition to buy the
100-year-old manufacturing division of Haltom’s
Jewelry, and the rest is history.
Chambers stresses that Diamond H is a small
company competing against some real
heavyweights, but winning more than its share of
business.
“We’re the largest company of our kind in Texas,
but we do have competition nationwide,” he said.
“It’s David versus Goliath.”
Chambers credits his company culture, values and
environment with their success. Diamond H is
committed to integrity, respect for others, team
work and life balance.
“At our core, we are people serving people,”
Chambers said. “We strive to make a positive
impact on each individual and every company we
serve.”
And Chambers recognizes Diamond H employees as
the company’s greatest resource. “Our people
work hard to make sure doing business with us is
a great experience,” he said. “Winning this
award means we’re doing something right. It’s
great to see the pride and excitement in our
employees’ faces.”
But, says long time employee Hank Billman, times
are changing in the recognition business and
Diamond H is working hard to keep up with the
changes. Older employees may appreciate
different types of recognition awards than the
younger generation.
“Something symbolic representing the company may
be more appealing to older workers,” said
Billman. “Maybe a ring or lapel pin. But a
younger employee may really like a DVD player.”
And that’s what Diamond H does. They research
the company, its culture and employees and
devise and administer awards programs that will
be truly effective.
“Our customers want it all perfect because these
awards represent significant milestones in
peoples’ lives,” said Billman. “We’ll even coach
managers on how to make these presentations if
necessary. Whatever it takes to satisfy our
clients.”
Chambers echoes that sentiment.
“The good Lord has blessed this company,” he
said. “We have a team of people who always go
above and beyond. We ask for that kind of
dedication all the time, and we get it.”
The Small Business of the Year Award is Diamond
H’s symbol of recognition, something with which
they can truly identify.
Back
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Mayors Awards
Chamber Members Honored at
Mayor’s Global Business Awards
Two of the three honorees at the recent 2005
Mayor’s Global Business Awards were Fort Worth
Chamber members – Mother Parker’s Tea and Coffee
and Trans-Trade Inc. The third winner was Link
Simulation and Training.
Finalists in the event, hosted by the Fort Worth
International Center and the Fort Worth Chamber,
are judged in several categories. Among them are
the volume of inbound or outbound goods and
services, local job creation, community
involvement and creativity with global
competitiveness.
“In the challenging business climate we face
today, Fort Worth realizes that one of the keys
to our economic growth is to increase
international trade between Fort Worth companies
and the markets around the world,” Mayor Mike
Moncrief said during his comments.
“Globalization is no longer a trend — it is a
fact of life.”
Three companies were chosen for the awards from
a field of 22 applicants and nine finalists.
“The Mayor’s Global Business Awards are our
opportunity to recognize excellence in
international business in Fort Worth and Tarrant
County,” said Mary Weaver, director of
international business for the Chamber. “The
2005 Award winners are truly impressive, as are
each of this year’s applicants. They reflect the
kind of forward thinking global style that
continues to move our economy ahead.”
The Kenneth Barr International Flagship Award
was presented to the Van Cliburn Foundation in
recognition of its dedication to promoting Fort
Worth internationally. Chairman of the
foundation Alann Sampson, was the event’s
keynote speaker and spoke on the importance of
arts in Fort Worth and the impact the Van
Cliburn International Piano Competition has on
the international image of the city.
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Career Institute
Career Institute Inspires Teachers
Recently, the 2005 Advanced Summer Institute for
Educators was held at the University of Texas at
Arlington and offered area middle school and high
school math and science teachers the opportunity to
learn about dynamic careers available to students in
the engineering, semiconductor, healthcare and
aerospace industries. The highly interactive
five-day program focused on these industry clusters
and featured hands-on applications in these most
progressive industries in the DFW Metroplex. It also
allowed educators to learn cutting-edge
problem-solving techniques while networking with
peers from across the region. The program was free
to educators and offered them up to 31 hours of
professional development credit.
The Aerospace Day featured tours of the largest
indoor roadway in the country where testing water
flow on roadways was demonstrated. The UTA project
is funded by the Texas Department of Transportation
and will be featured on an upcoming segment of the
History Channel’s program, “Modern Marvels.”
“This program provides real world connections to
what we are teaching,” said Tara Hernandez, a South
Hills High School physic teacher. “It helps us guide
students in order to benefit their lives by having a
great career. We want to be able to change their
futures and urge their parents to encourage the
students to go to college.”
Hernandez found the aerospace presentations
impressive. “They were amazing,” she said. “We never
have enough time in the classroom to guide the
students to what careers are available. Having
speakers volunteer to do just that is a wonderful
asset.”
The five-day event was presented by UTA, the Fort
Worth Chamber, the Greater Dallas Chamber, the
Arlington Chamber, Destination Digital, DFW RHC,
Work Source for Dallas County and Workforce
Solutions for Tarrant County.
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Ribbon Cuttings
Unity One Federal Credit Union celebrated
its grand opening with a ribbon cutting recently.
The new location is at 2625 North Main, next to Los
Vaqueros Restaurant. Contact Natalie Parish at
817/306-3114 for more information.
A new eatery in downtown – the Downtown Market &
Deli -- held a ribbon cutting to mark its grand
opening. Located at 901 S. Throckmorton, the deli is
located in the old Barber Book Store. For more
information, contact Jana huges at 817/850-9494.
A new bank in downtown Fort Worth held a grand
opening. Regions Bank, located at 100 Main
St. To learn more about the financial institution,
contact Ken Hicks at 817/810-2015.
Moe’s Café held a grand opening at its 4705
River Oaks Blvd. location. For more information,
contact Mayer Haddad at 817/3778-9262.
All Tune and Lube, an auto repair shop,
celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting
at 3761 N. Beach St. Contact Phil Willard for more
details at 817/831-0370.
Onis Stone, Inc., a distributor and installer
of granite and marble, held a ribbon cutting to mark
its new location and showroom expansion at 1116 E.
Vickery Blvd. Sheri Bennett at 817/336-7500 has
details.
Whole Hog Café celebrated its grand opening
at 5491 S. Hulen. To learn more, contact Terri Greer
at 817/231-8800.
A grand opening for The Gallery @ the Frame Up
fine art gallery was held at 4919 Camp Bowie.
For details, call Robin Edghill at 817/731-2551.
PRAXAIR welding parts and supplies held a
ribbon cutting at its 3330 N. Freeway location. Call
Dave Austin to learn more at 817/378-9080.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit marked its grand
opening with a ribbon cutting at 5724 Bryant Irvin.
Call Larry Box for more details at 817/361-1034.
A grand opening and ribbon cutting marked the
opening of PlainsCapital’s new location in
downtown at 777 Taylor St. Call Sandra Mitchell for
more details at 817/258-3812.
Wireless Toyz, a cellular phone business,
marked its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at
6504 Camp Bowie. To learn more, contact Chris Hindo
at 817/731-2333.
An apartment community, the Park at Sycamore
School Apartments held a grand opening
celebration at 3801 Sycamore School Rd. Call Nena
Holcomb at 817/292-2402 to learn more.
Clayton Yes! @ Greenbrier Preshcool, the
first preschool opened by Clayton Yes!, held a
ribbon cutting at 5701 Wedgwood Dr. Contact Anna
Battis for more details at 817/923-9888.
Navis Pack and Ship Centers marked its grand
opening with a ribbon cutting at 2669 Gravel Dr. To
learn more about the crating and shipping company,
contact Dawn Brace at 817/589-1569.
Edward Jones Financial Services held a ribbon
cutting at 4747 S. Hulen, #106. Contact Teri Ducar
to learn more at 817/370-1864.
Ice cream was scooped as Ben & Jerry’s Partner
Shop, an ice cream shop, opened at 6115 Camp
Bowie. For more details, contact Brandy Butler at
817/332-6191.
Mortgage company Countrywide Financial Corp. –
Countrywide Home Loan held a grand opening at
5401 N. Beach St. To learn more, call Belinda
Williams at 972/526-6336.
An exclusive women’s fitness center and spa,
Shapexpress of Fort Worth held its grand opening
at 6115 Camp Bowie, #174. Call Roger Guerra at
817/732-7729 for more details.
Frank Kent Motor Company – Hummer marked the
opening of its new building with a ribbon cutting at
3535 W. Loop 820 S. Learn more from Matt Holder at
817/696-4005.
Rahr & Sons Brewing Company, a micro-brewery,
marked its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at
its 701 Galveston Ave. location. Contact Erin Rahr
for more details at 817/810-9266.
 |
| Developers of Trinity Bluff Tom
Struhs and Elizabeth Falconer, second
and third from the right are joined by
Mayor Mike Moncrief, Councilwoman Becky
Haskin and other dignitaries at the
recent groundbreaking of the four-story
luxury apartment building. |
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Chamberletter contact below:
For more information contact:
Arden Dufilho
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 259 |
