Chamber newsletter distributed through the Fort Worth Star-Telegram the first Tuesday of each month to approximately 120,000 subscribers as well as the entire membership.

Latest Edition - January 2006

• Year in Review
• Forecast
• State of the City
• President’s Column
• NCHA
• Eco Update
• International Seminar
• Dateline
• Business After Hours
• Leads Group
• Action Ambassador of the Month
• Small Business of the Year Finalists
• Leaders in Government
• In Focus
• Total Resource Campaign
• Ribbon Cuttings
• Username
• Save the Date
• Stock Show
• Roberts
• Kids Stuff
• Dress Western
• Stock Show Events
• Youth Scholarship Tour
• Shopping
• New Markets
• Improvements
• Stock Show Website

Year in Review

2005 Year of Recognition, Growth for Fort Worth

	Fort Worth Skyline reflects a perfect Texas sunset.

The past year has been a notable one for Fort Worth, Tarrant County and the Metroplex as a whole. “The Chamber is pleased with the level of economic activity and announcements for 2005,” said Bill Thornton, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Chamber. “Fort Worth continues to receive unprecedented attention from all corners of the U.S and the world.”

In March 2005, the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex was named the “megamarket” of the year by Site Selection Magazine. According to David Berzina, executive vice president of economic development for the Fort Worth Chamber, the criteria for that award required that projects involve at least $1 million in investment, 50,000 square feet of building and at least 50 new jobs created. These projects excluded governmental, medical and retail projects.

“The Metroplex won the coveted award by submitting 277 projects fitting the criteria,” noted Berzina adding, “and the largest municipal contributor in the Metroplex in terms of projects was Fort Worth with 40. Dallas was second with 37.”
Site selection professionals have definitely taken notice of Texas in the past year as the entire state was recognized as the top state in the union in terms of economic activity, also by Site Selection.

By Dec. 1, 2005, the Fort Worth Chamber had tallied 38 projects for the year that fit into the Site Selection criteria with many other projects in the works.

“The aerospace industry continues to create investment opportunities in 2005,” said Tim Keleher, vice president of governmental and urban affairs. “Lockheed Martin Aeronautics continued pre-production activities surrounding the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the ongoing production of the F-16 and F-22 continue to impact the economic climate in Fort Worth.”

Lockheed, in collaboration with Bell Helicopter and Italy’s AgustaWestland, won the contract to build the VXX also known as Marine One, the next-generation presidential helicopter.

“Lockheed’s employee base currently surpasses 12,000 in Fort Worth and Bell has 6,000 anchoring the aerospace cluster in Fort Worth and the Metroplex,” said Berzina.

From a technology recruiting standpoint, 2005 saw the addition of cell phone repair and manufacturing opportunities with ATC Logistics and LG Electronics adding jobs in the Alliance area. ATC will add 500 jobs while LG will add 700.

Longtime Fort Worth corporate citizen Allied Electronics was being actively courted by Oklahoma and Arkansas to move their headquarters. The company, however, chose not only to stay in Fort Worth, but also to expand its headquarters retaining 300 jobs and adding 300 more over the next few years. Allied will invest an additional $40 million in the area with the construction of a 370,000-square-foot facility in north Fort Worth.

Recruiting new businesses to locate in the area is important, but retention of existing businesses continues to be the cornerstone of the Chamber’s efforts. “Fully 80 percent of all new jobs in a community come from the existing employment base,” said Berzina. “That’s why the Fort Worth Chamber annually conducts an aggressive retention/visitation program. In 2005, Chamber staff visited over 200 companies. This year, we plan to visit 125 companies.”

Internationally, the Chamber, together with the Fort Worth International Center, has set its sights on the ever-expanding opportunities in China. In 2005, Chamber staff and corporate partners visited Beijing and Shanghai on an economic reconnaissance trip to secure Chinese business partners interested in working with businesses in Fort Worth. In April, the Chamber, the Fort Worth International Center and the Greater Dallas Chamber will return on a trade mission with area business people who have been screened and matched with potential Chinese trading partners. The advance matching work will take place over the next couple of months to maximize the trip’s impact for participants.

“China is one of the most dynamic markets in the world,” said Mary Weaver, the Chamber’s director of international business development. “Our partnership with Chase Bank and its existing presence in China has allowed us unprecedented access to firms in Beijing and Shanghai.”

2005 also saw the Chamber update and upgrade its economic development marketing materials. These materials included an overhaul of the Chamber’s website and the creation of a signature marketing piece that includes demographics, quality of life and employment information to prospects. In 2006, the Chamber will begin distributing an electronic newsletter to site selection consultants, real estate executives, prospects and community stakeholders which will highlight and underscore noteworthy economic development related activities.

Looking forward to 2006, Berzina foresees continued growth in the especially in the distribution sector. “We are currently working with several ‘big box’ projects encompassing in excess of 500,000 square feet as a result of our superior interstate highway access as well as our location in the central time zone at the geographical heart of the U.S.”

2006 will also see the Chamber working aggressively with partners such as the University of North Texas Health Science Center, Tech Fort Worth and BIO DFW in order to capitalize on the emerging interest from life science and new age economy related projects.

“The DFW Metroplex has the existing infrastructure that will allow us to compete with states such as California, Colorado and New Jersey in this highly competitive life science arena,” said Berzina. “Legislation was passed in 2005 creating the Emerging Technology Fund, which will greatly enhance the state’s ability to recruit and retain new age jobs.”

“From a residential standpoint, 2005 will supplant the record-setting year of 2004 in terms of building permits issued and the symbiotic relationship between the growth of commercial, retail and industrial projects,” said Berzina. “The added rooftops will support additional commercial growth at all levels further perpetuating Fort Worth’s rapid pace of growth in both population and tax base.”
 

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Forecast

Industry Leaders to Reveal 2006 Outlook for Tarrant County Commercial Real Estate

At the 2006 Tarrant County Commercial Real Estate Forecast, industry leaders will reveal what they expect to happen during the coming year. Will it be a boom or bust year? What market trends will affect Tarrant County? Will leasing rates for office, industrial, and retail properties go up, down, or remain flat? What can we expect regarding occupancy? What are the prospects for market growth in downtown Fort Worth and in the suburbs? What makes sense for investment?

•  What: 2006 Tarrant County Commercial Real Estate Forecast
• When: Wednesday, Jan. 18, 7-11:30 a.m.
• Where: Fort Worth Convention Center, Ballroom A, 1201 Houston St., 76102
• Cost: $50

Topics and speakers are:

•  “A View From 30,000 Feet: Trends in Commercial Real Estate,” keynote speaker Matt Valley, editor-in-chief of National Real Estate Investor
• “How Tarrant County Rates Nationally,” Ben D. Loughry, MAI, managing partner, Integra Realty Resources DFW, L.L.P.
• “Infill/Residential Development,” James R. Harris, partner, James R. Harris Partners, L.L.C.
• “Industrial Market,” Robert J. Scully, principal, Trammell Crow Company
• “Retail Market,” James M. Makens, president, The Makens Company
• “Office Market,” George D. Duncan, Jr., Senior Vice President, Southwest Corporate Services, The Staubach Company.

The Forecast is presented by Integra Realty Resources DFW, L.L.P; Jackson Walker L.L.P.; Texas Capital Bank; Alamo Title Company (Advertiser); Brazos Tax Group, L.L.P.; Fort Worth Business Press; Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce; Red Oak Realty, L.L.C.; Society of Commercial Realtors; The Staubach Company; and Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P.

Check in between 7-7:55 a.m. and enjoy networking and continental breakfast.

Presentations will begin at 8 a.m. and run until 11:30 a.m.

For information, contact Netty Matthews at nmatthews@fortworthchamber.com or 817-336-2491, ext. 250.

Cost is $50 per person and proceeds will benefit the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s economic development program. Register online by Thursday, Jan. 12, at www.fortworthchamber.com/events.


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State of the City

Mike Moncrief to Deliver State of the City Address

Save the date!

Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief will deliver his third annual State of the City address to the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and there will be much to talk about – continued downtown and neighborhood revitalization, an upswing in downtown residential building, the successful (for Fort Worth) conclusion of the Base Realignment and Closure process may be among the potential topics.

The luncheon is presented by Southwest Office Systems.

• What: Annual State of the City Address by Mayor Mike Moncrief
• When: Wednesday, Feb.15, noon-1:30 p.m. Networking and registration begin
  at 11:30 a.m.
• Where: Fort Worth Convention Center Ballroom, 1201 Houston St., 76102
• Cost: Chamber members - $40; Gold members - $35; non-members - $70; and table for 10 - $450.

Platinum sponsor is Integra Realty Resources DFW.

Gold sponsors include: Cantey & Hanger, LLP; Jackson Walker, LLP; Lockheed Martin Aeronautics; and TexasBank.

Silver sponsors include: Carter & Burgess, Inc.; Coors Distributing Co.; Fort Worth Transportation Authority (The T); Gideon Toal, Inc.; OmniAmerican Credit Union; and Weaver & Tidwell, LLP.

Bronze sponsors are: AccuSource Solutions; Atmos Energy; Republic Title of Fort Worth; TXU/Electric Delivery; and Wells Fargo.

For more information on the State of the City address, contact Jeanean Herod at jherod@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 275. Register online at www.fortworthchamber.com.

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President’s Column

Every year, Fort Worth residents and visitors from around the globe head over to the Will Rogers Memorial Center to attend the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. This premier event, which will run from January 13 to February 5, is a showcase for Fort Worth and the agricultural industry. It doesn’t get any better than these 24 days of western heritage and Texas tradition. Of course, the Stock Show is also a major economic engine for our city, bringing in millions of dollars to Fort Worth hotels, stores and restaurants.

The 2006 Stock Show offers the finest in entertainment for the entire family. Throughout this newsletter, you can get details about the many activities and performances available to you. There really is something for everyone.

If you know someone who has never attended the Stock Show, make it a point to bring them along this year. A half day or full day on the Stock Show grounds, plus a matinee or evening rodeo performance, is something everyone should experience. I also encourage all of you to welcome our out-of-town visitors and show them our famous Fort Worth hospitality. Plus, don’t forget “Dress Western Fridays,” when you put on your finest western outfit, boots and hat. It’s a great way to get involved in the Stock Show and be a part of this cherished Fort Worth tradition.

Get ready for the biggest and best annual event in Fort Worth. The 2006 Stock Show & Rodeo is waiting for each of you to come enjoy the festivities. I believe that Fort Worth is truly fortunate to host such an amazing event. I hope to see you there!

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NCHA

Auction Benefits NCHA’s ‘Triple Crown of Cutting’

An auction of 2006 breedings to stallions was held last month with stallion services going to the highest bidder. All profits go to the North Texas Cutting Champions Club, a non-profit extension of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, the sole purpose of which is to ensure the National Cutting Horse Association’s “Triple Crown of Cutting” remains in Fort Worth. Western Bloodstock and the Chamber have teamed up to offer these breedings to some of cutting’s best stock.

The following is a list of participants:

“The Chamber thanks these stallion owners for helping ensure the future of cutting in Fort Worth,” said Bill Thornton, president of the Fort Worth Chamber. Monies raised will fund the efforts of the North Texas Cutting Champions Club. Membership in the Champions Club is available to all who wish to support the club’s efforts.

For more information on the North Texas Cutting Champions Club, contact Lisa Dodson at 817/336-2491, ext. 237.

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Eco Update

Recap of Recent Economic Activity in Tarrant County

In the Works

Two local founders of the Huff Brous McDowell firm have announced plans to open their own real estate brokerage firms in Fort Worth. Jack Huff, along with 25 brokers, have formed NAI Huff Partners. Sam Brous, in partnership with former Stoneleigh brokers, has formed The Westover Group, which will be located in City Center II. The location of NAI Huff Partners was not disclosed. Fort Worth Business Press, Oct. 31 – Nov. 6

Sam Moon Trading Co., a discount fashion accessories and handbags store with locations in Dallas and Plano, is expected to open in spring 2007 in Alliance Town Center. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 7 – 13

Fort Worth’s Klabzuba Oil and Gas Co. plans for a new Class A office building, a new 10-story building on the western edge of downtown Fort Worth. The company plans to begin construction on the 200,000 square foot office building by mid 2006. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 7 – 13

DeBartolo Development, a Tampa-based national real estate firm, will develop an 18.5-acre site on the northeast corner of Interstate 30 and Eastchase Parkway with several retailers. The lineup so far includes Walgreens, Steak 'n Shake and Washington Mutual. Star Telegram, Nov. 7

TCU is planning a $100 million construction project to include four residence halls, a university union building and a large green space situated between the new university union building and the current student center. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14 – 20

Under Construction

Construction has begun on a 9,900-square-foot retail building in Park Glen Marketplace, a professional office, medical and retail development at 5411 Basswood Blvd. Star Telegram, Nov. 28

After two years in the planning stages, Vertex Asset Partners, L.P. is breaking ground on December 3 on an 82-acre mixed-use urban village in east Fort Worth. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21 – 27

On the Dotted Line

Sztamenits FLP purchased more than 67,000 square feet of office space located at 9001 South Freeway. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 7 – 13

Gabor Sztamenits, founder and owner of G.A.S. International, a supplier of telecommunications parts and equipment, bought the former PolyOne Corp. building at 9001 S. Freeway. Star Telegram, Nov. 14

Wachovia Bank has entered into a long-term ground lease at 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., where it plans a branch location. The bank is scheduled to open in the spring. Star Telegram, Nov. 14

Ophthalmologist Brian Ranelle has bought a 21,000-square-foot tract on the northwest corner of Ninth Avenue and Pruitt Street, where he plans to build a clinic. Star Telegram, Nov. 14

Farmhouse Production, a retail store that carries women's accessories and linens, has leased 656 square feet of retail space at 2402 Forest Park Blvd. Star Telegram, Nov. 14

Jose Meza has leased a 2,500-square-foot building and a 1-acre tract at 2101 Ephriham Ave. for his business, Meza Motors. Star Telegram, Nov. 21

Litigation Solutions in Fort Worth has bought a 3,750-square-foot building at 1409 Summit Ave., a block north of Interstate 30, and plans to move in the next few months. Star Telegram, Nov. 28

Kashish Corp. of Dallas has bought the unfinished gas station, convenience store and restaurant site at 1650 N. California Parkway in south Fort Worth with plans to finish the property. Star Telegram, Nov. 28

Allied Electronics, a subsidiary of Electocomponents, purchased more than 40 acres of land in east Fort Worth to construct a new headquarters and distribution center. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21 – 27

Openings

The I Do! Bridal Salon and Boutique has opened on Fort Worth's west side, at 4816 Camp Bowie Blvd. Star Telegram, Nov. 21

Sassy Pantz by Two Sisters opened in the Stockyards Station. Sisters Holly Dunn and Candace Pettigrew along with their mother, Kathy Morton, leased 700-square feet for their women’s store offering clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories and home furnishings. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 14 – 20

Fort Worth-based TTI Inc., an electronics business, announced the opening of its new 200,000 square-foot warehouse near its global headquarters at 2441 Northeast Parkway. Fort Worth Business Press, Nov. 21 – 27

Did You Know?

Ben E. Keith Co. was named the number one company in the exclusive Fort Worth Business report on the Top 100 private companies. A comprehensive list was announced in the Business Press. Fort Worth Business Press, Oct. 31 – Nov. 6

The Trinity River Uptown plan has been honored with the top award for planning at the 19th annual Excellence on the Waterfront Awards held by the Waterfront Center, a nonprofit corporation that promotes and helps communities enhance urban waterfronts. The award was among 14 projects honored recently at the center's 23rd annual conference in Savannah, Ga. Star Telegram, Nov. 21

S&J Electric in Fort Worth and Claffey Pools in Southlake have been honored with the Golden Torch Award for outstanding marketplace ethics. The award is presented annually by the Better Business Bureau of Fort Worth. Star Telegram, Nov. 21


Data provided by Strategic Insight Group Intelligence Research Partner of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce

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International Seminar

Foreign Trade Compliance Seminar Discusses Top International Issues

In this global economy, knowing the ins and outs of the import/export business is essential. To that end, the Fort Worth Chamber, in association with the Fort Worth International Center and Strasburger & Price, LLP, conducted a seminar on foreign trade compliance, “Going Gl.obal: The Essentials of Foreign Trade Compliance.” The half-day event was attended by representatives of such companies as RadioShack, Nokia, Asian Antiques Ltd. and Gardner-Denver who expressed concerns with such issue as due diligence, compliance procedures and taxes related to international operations.

Among the topics explored during the seminar were:

• Import/export regulatory framework
• OFAC regulations
• Foreign corrupt practices act
• Customs compliance
• Developing and implementing a global compliance program
• Tax issues
• Human resources and immigration policies

The most important and most basic steps to effective export compliance according to Douglas N. Jacobson from Strasburger & Price’s Washington D.C. office are these:

1. Learn the rules.
2. Classify the item or information to be exported.
3. Screen names, locations and end-use.
4. If necessary, obtain an export license or qualify for an exemption.
5. Implement an export compliance and technology control program.
6. Keep records and have procedures for dealing with violations.

International Trade on the rise

China is Fort Worth/Dallas’s number one trading partner with more than $7.16 billion as of third quarter 2004. The Fort Worth Chamber, the Fort Worth International Center and the Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce are planning a joint business mission to China in April, 2006 in conjunction with American Airlines inaugural flight to Shanghai, China. And given the importance of trade with China, this business mission will provide an important opportunity to get acquainted with the fastest growing economy in the world, and to look for and follow up on business opportunities.

Delegation members will meet with pre-qualified business representatives and participate in briefings hosted by professionals with extensive “on the ground” experience in China.

Persons interested in participating in this business mission can contact Mary Weaver at mweaver@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 229 for more information.

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Dateline: Fort worth...

Fort Worth: A vibrant mix for meetings

Fort Worth is emerging as a premier destination for conventions and meetings in Texas. No other city in the Lone Star State offers such a vibrant mix of exceptional convention facilities, spectacular culture and Western heritage, and exciting attractions. A $75 million expansion and renovation project at the Fort Worth Convention Center has dramatically improved this outstanding facility, which features 253,226 feet of exhibit space, 41 breakout rooms, a 28,160-square foot ballroom, and a 13,500-seat arena. Attendees can easlly walk from the Center to downtown restaurants, hotels and the popular Sundance Square district.

Fort Worth offers many unique meeting sites, from elegant ballrooms to Western-style settings. Top choices include Texas Motor Speedway, Will Rogers Memorial Center, Stockyards Station, the Fort Worth Zoo and Cowtown Coliseum. Many of the city’s museums also offer spaces for events and parties.

Meetings & Conventions
June 2005

Omni to Build Luxury Convention Hotel

In 2005, Omni Hotels expects to break ground on a $90 million luxury hotel adjacent to the Fort Worth Convention Center. The 600-room, Texas-themed hotel will offer 48,000 square feet of meeting space, two restaurants, a ballroom, a pool, an exercise facility, a parking garage, and other first class amenities. The hotel is expected to open in 2008. “The City of Fort Worth has been a bold, forward-thinking partner,” said Mike Deitemeyer, president of Omni Hotels. “Together we can build upon the city’s growing reputation as a leading destination for meetings and conventions.”

Meetings & Conventions
June 2005

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Business After Hours

BAH Honors Small Business of the Year Finalists

The judging has been completed for the 2006 Small Business of the Year and finalists have been selected from more than 100 nominees. A reception is planned for the finalists at this month’s Business After Hours to be held at the historic Radisson Plaza Hotel. The 2006 Small Business of the Year Awards are presented by Citizens National Bank.

• What: Small Business of the Year Finalists Reception
• When: Thursday, Jan. 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Where: Radisson Plaza Hotel, 815 Main St.
• Cost: Chamber members - $10; Gold members – no charge. (Credit card will be required to make reservations, but only billed for no show.)

The first BAH of 2006 will be the setting for an evening of networking with exemplary business people and a chance to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments with fellow Chamber members.

Platinum sponsor is Raymond James & Associates. Gold sponsors are Weaver & Tidwell and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Silver sponsor is Pro Staff Personnel Services.

For more information, contact Lydia Hall at lhall@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 272.

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Leads Groups

Leads Groups Great Networking Opportunity

Leads Groups are comprised of no more than 30 individuals with each one representing a different industry. They meet weekly to help members generate new business. Participants must be members of the Fort Worth Chamber. There is a $50 annual fee per company, but a company may be in two Leads Groups, until/unless that slot is needed for another company in the same industry. Gold members participate for free with the same restriction.

To visit a Leads Group, either contact the coordinator or call the leader directly to ensure there is no conflict of industry. Each group has its own rules and personality, although they all loosely fall under Chamber guidelines. Consistent attendance provides the maximum benefit.

Coordinator: Diana Dugan, 817/336-2491, ext. 258, dugan@fortworthchamber.com

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Action Ambassador

Action Ambassador for October 2005

Congratulations to Erin Landis, the Fort Worth Chamber’s top Action Ambassador for October 2005. Landis has been an ambassador only since August 2005, although this is her second stint with the group. She is a bookkeeper for Specialized Property Management, Inc.

Action Ambassadors work on behalf of the Chamber calling on new members and serving as greeters at various Chamber functions. Ambassadors must be members of the Fort Worth Chamber. It is also a great networking tool allowing ambassadors to contact Chamber members on the Chamber’s behalf.

Contact Teresa Pearson at 817/336-2491, ext. 249 for information on becoming an Action Ambassador.

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Small Business of the Year Finalists

Finalists for ‘Rising Star’ Awards Named

After poring over the 34 applications received, judges for the Fort Worth Chamber’s 2006 Small Business of the Year Awards have chosen the 15 finalists in five categories. The Small Business of the Year Awards recognize and honor best practices from exemplary small businesses. The finalists will be honored at a special Business After Hours, Thursday, Jan. 5 (see Business After Hours story this page). The winners will be announced at a luncheon Wednesday, March 22, presented by Citizens National Bank and the Fort Worth Business Press.

Now the difficult task of judging and deciding the winners begins.

This year’s finalists include:

Platinum sponsors are TCU’s Neeley School of Business and Raymond James and Associates. Gold sponsors include Advantage Rent-A-Car, Charter Busienss and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Sam’s Club and Weaver & Tidwell, LLP. Silver sponsors include HireMax, Pro Staff and 95.9 The Ranch.

For more information on the awards, contact Lydia Hall at lhall@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext 272.

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Leaders in Government

Federal Reserve Bank CEO Highlights Leaders in Government Luncheon

	Fisher

Richard W. Fisher, the new president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, will be the featured speaker at the next Leaders in Government Luncheon presented by Wells Fargo.

• What: Leaders in Government Luncheon with Richard W. Fisher

• When: Thursday, Jan. 19, noon-1:30 p.m. Registration and networking begin at 11:30 a.m.

• Where: The Petroleum Club Wildcatters Room, 777 Main St., 39th floor, 76102

• Cost: Chamber members - $35; Gold members - $30; non-members - $60; and table of eight - $350

Fisher assumed the presidency of the Federal Reserve Bank in April 2005. IN this role, he serves as a member of the Federal Open Market Committee, the Federal Reserve’s principle monetary policymaking group. During 2005, and every third year following, Fisher will be a voting member of that committee. He is the former vice-chairman of Kissinger McLarty Associates, a strategic advisory firm chaired by former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.

Gold sponsors for the event are BNSF Railway; Jackson Walker, LLP; Kelly, Hart and Hallman; and TXU.

Silver sponsors are Cantey & Hanger, LLP; Haynes & Boone, LLP; TexasBank; and Weaver & Tidwell, LLP.

Bronze sponsors are TriQuest Technologies, Inc.; Lockheed Martin Aeronautics; Carter & Burgess, Inc; SBC; NSA Juice Plus+ ; Hahnfeld Hoffer Stanford Architects; Reliant Energy; Law, Snakard & Gambill, PC; Republic Title of Fort Worth; and OmniAmerican Credit Union.

Register online at www.fortworthchamber.com or contact Jeanean Herod at jherod@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 275.

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In Focus

Business Interests and the Supreme Court – Part II
By Bill Chamblee and Jeff Ryan

Total Resource Campaign

Total Resource Campaign Reaches Goal; Barnard New 2006 Chair

Goals are set to be achieved and the Fort Worth Chamber’s 2005 Total Resource Campaign (TRC) reached its ambitious goal of $525,000. Under the leadership of TRC chair Vernon Bryant, the second year campaign hit its stride.

Top producers for 2005 included Lynn Montgomery (in a repeat performance from last year), TexasBank; Susan Halsey, Jackson Walker, LLP; Bill Adams, TexasBank; Chris Rogers, SBC; and Kip White, TXU.

Total resource campaigns market sponsorships of Chamber programs, events, publications and electronic media while recruiting new members and have proven successful in chambers of commerce across the country. In a highly structured three-month period, volunteers raise funding for the Chamber programs for the entire year.

“TRCs are a great way to raise the public’s level of awareness of chambers of commerce as well as what they do for a community,” said Netty Matthews, vice president of membership for the Fort Worth Chamber. “We couldn’t do without the generosity of participating businesses and their employees who form the teams.”

Teams participating in the 2005 TRC included TexasBank; Jackson Walker, LLP; SBC; TXU; Raymond James & Associates, Inc.; Carter & Burgess; Pro Staff; Summit Bank; The Beck Group; and Hillwood.

The Chamber’s third TRC kicks off March 22 and runs through June under the leadership of new chair Brian Barnard of Haynes & Boone. “Vernon has done a fantastic job getting the Total Resource Campaign up and running,” said Barnard. “I have some big shoes to fill in order to reach this year’s goal.” Barnard added that he is still looking for teams for this year’s campaign. Companies interested in participating in the 2006 TRC can contact Netty Matthews for more information at 817/336-2491, ext. 250.

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Ribbon cuttings

Recent Ribbon Cuttings

~~A ribbon cutting was held to celebrate the grand opening of Hill Villa Retirement Community located at 8000 Calmont Ave. To learn more about the facility, contact Mike Miller at 817/560-0346.

~~Another Man’s Treasure, a flea market located at 6600 Baker Blvd., held a grand opening recently. Contact Bill or Arlissa Schober at 817/595-2022 to learn more about the market.

~~Electronics retailer Best Buy marked the opening of a new location at 5944 Quebec St. with a ribbon cutting. For more information on the store, contact Stephen Zettler at 817/238-6025.

~~Riverside Kennel, a pet services facility, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at the 1801 Bomar Ave. location. To learn more about the kennel, contact Suzette Watkins at 817/683-0428.

~~A new retailer specializing in the sale of sugar-free, low-carbohydrate foods, Diabetic Delights LLC, held a grand opening at its 6623 North Beach St. location. Contact John Ambrose at 817/306-0033 to learn more about the store.

~~Wells Fargo – Camp Bowie marked the opening of a new location with a ribbon cutting. The new bank branch is located at 5800 Lovell. For more information about the branch, call Jane VanScoy at 817/782-2300.

~~To mark its grand opening, Digital Mapping Services/Frontier Surveying, a geographic information systems and land surveying company, held a ribbon cutting at 6811 Corporation Parkway, Suite 200. Call Robert Young to learn more about the company at 361/877-1450.

~~N3 Capital, LLC, a real estate services company, held a groundbreaking ceremony at its 23-unit town home development at 4700 Dexter Ave. To learn more, call Tappan Bailey at 817/300-8924.

~~Penguin Promo, Inc., a promotional products company, held a ribbon cutting at its 5111 North Beach St., Suite 116 location. Contact Donna Jones at 817/581-9350 for more details.

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Username

Forgot Your Username? Do We Have Your E-mail?

Chamber members, in today’s world of e-mail and internet, the Fort Worth Chamber must have your current e-mail to communicate Chamber programs and benefits to you, and for you to be able to register for events or purchase publications online through the Chamber’s website. Have you forgotten your username or password? If we have your e-mail on file, you can have them automatically emailed to you by going to the Members Only section of the Chamber website, www.fortworthchamber.com.

If your e-mail address is not on file with us or if it has changed, please contact Member Relations at (817) 336-2491, ext. 249.

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Save the Date

Employment Law Updates Important HR Info

Mark your calendar now for the Fort Worth Chamber's 16th Annual Employment Law Update presented by Haynes & Boone, LLP.  Register before Feb. 24 to take advantage of Early Bird pricing

• What: 16th Annual Employment Law Update Presented by Haynes & Boone, LLP
• When: Friday, March 31, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
• Where: Ralph M. Smith Leadership Development Complex, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1701 Boyce, 76115
• Cost (through Feb. 24): Chamber members - $95; Gold members - $75; and non-members - $130
  After Feb. 24: Chamber members - $125;  Gold memberrs $95; and non-members - $150.
  A 10 percent discount applies to companies registering four or more.  Breakfast and lunch are included in the registration fee.

Update topics typically include:

• OSHA compliance
• Safe workplaces
• Family and Medical Leave Act
• Internal investigations and ethecal considerations
• Sexual harassment

Register today online or by contacting Jeanean Herod at jherod@fortworthchamber.com or 817/336-2491, ext. 275.

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Stock Show

	Excitement abounds at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo – just ask this bull rider.

Are You Getting Enough “Yee-Haw” in Your Life?

This year’s Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo performances offer all the excitement you can possibly handle.

On the first weekend of the Stock Show, grab your tickets to the popular “Best of the West” Ranch Rodeo during Ranching Heritage Weekend. This rodeo features a wild cow milking contest, sorting competition, bronc riding and some of the finest horses and cowhands in the Southwest. Take your pick of two rowdy shows of the “Best of the West” Ranch Rodeo, Friday or Saturday night, Jan. 13 or 14.

The Ranch Rodeo is a big part of Ranching Heritage Weekend, presented by Western Horseman magazine, which helps connect new generations with real ranching traditions and the western way of life. The weekend also features the AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse Class, the Invitational Ranch Horse Show and Sale and the AQHA Best of the Remuda Sale.

Get ready to discover the centuries-old traditions of Mexican charros, who are famous for their horsemanship, bull riding and trick roping. The “Best of Mexico Celebración” with Jerry Diaz will bring these time-honored skills to the Will Rogers Coliseum on Sunday night, Jan. 15, and Monday afternoon, Jan. 16. Diaz, a fourth-generation charro, delights audiences as he displays his immense talent and charisma. He’ll be joined by many other national and local performers – from musicians to bull riders to Folklorico dancers – in a variety show that fills the coliseum with colorful sights and sounds.

Powerful bulls, courageous cowboys and enthusiastic crowds are always on hand at “Bull’s Night Out” – PRCA Extreme Bull Riding at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. You can witness all the thrills live at two evening performances: Tuesday, Jan. 17, and Wednesday, Jan. 18. At each performance, 40 fearless contestants go for the glory to win the nightly championship. After a single mount for each rider, the 12 contestants with the top scores roar into the arena once again. Presented by Farm Credit, Bull’s Night Out has quickly become one of the favorite events during the Stock Show.

Then, it’s on to the PRCA Stock Show Rodeo, which features so many time-honored traditions. The grand entry, which packs the arena floor with proud horses and riders, is always a magnificent sight. The rodeo events – featuring cowboys from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and cowgirls from the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association – get the crowd going through bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. There’s also the Coors Cowtown Cutting at each performance. The Calf Scramble, presented by Justin Boots and Mrs Baird’s Bakeries, is always a hoot, and the GMC Chuck Wagon Races really make the dirt fly. Up above, you can’t miss the replays on the LamaVision screens, presented by Harris Methodist Hospitals and Western Warehouse. The rodeo entertainment, including the finest trick riders in the world, adds an extra level of appeal to the festivities.

All of it combines to make the World’s Original Indoor Rodeo one of the best you’ll find anywhere. This year, the Stock Show’s PRCA rodeo will feature 30 performances from Friday, Jan. 20 to Sunday, Feb. 5. Grab your seats now and get ready for another year of prime rodeo.

2006 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo Sponsors
We salute the companies that continue to support the rich heritage of the Stock Show through major sponsorships. The significant and ongoing support of the following organizations help make the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo a memorable and successful event: State Farm, Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company, GMC, Star-Telegram and WFAA-TV Channel 8.

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Ed Roberts

	Ed Roberts

Bill King Award Recognizes APHA’s Ed Roberts

 During the Stock Show, Ed Roberts will receive the 2006 W.A. “Bill” King Award for Excellence in Agriculture. Roberts will be recognized for his contributions in building the American Paint Horse Association into one of the largest breed organizations in the world.

A legend in the paint horse world for his dedication to the breed, Roberts had a 28-year tenure at the APHA before retiring in 2002. When he joined the APHA in 1975 as Executive Secretary, the association had 10 employees and was registering approximately 6,000 paint horses annually. Today, the association has 150 employees and registers around 50,000 horses each year. Of the 660,000 horses registered with the APHA, around 604,000 received their certificates during Roberts’ tenure.

Named for the late Bill King, who founded the Fort Worth Farm and Ranch Club and served as Stock Show Livestock Manager for many years, the annual award recognizes businesses or individuals who have made significant contributions to the agricultural or agri-business industry.

“When you look at all of his remarkable achievements, you can easily see why we named Ed Roberts as the recipient of this year’s Bill King Award,” said Nan Fidler, President of the Fort Worth Farm and Ranch Club. “More than anyone else, he’s responsible for the great success of the APHA.”

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Kid Stuff

	One buckaroo takes his first ride on the Midway.

All-Natural Way to Cure Boredom

Make sure your kids get their recommended daily allowance of fun – at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. You’ll find many fascinating exhibits and events for children at the 110th annual extravaganza.
On Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m., the largest all-western parade in the world will attract tens of thousands of folks to the streets of downtown Fort Worth. You won’t want to miss this year’s array of horses, wagons, horse-drawn floats and marching bands as they parade down Main Street in this annual, “non-motorized” tribute to western heritage.

Your trip to the Stock Show wouldn’t be complete without letting loose at the Carnival Midway. Grab a corn dog and some cotton candy before you hop on an exhilarating ride or test your skill at one of the game booths. The Midway is located on the east side of the Will Rogers Coliseum.

Children can get an interactive look at the world of farming and ranching at “Planet Agriculture,” presented by TXU Energy. Admission to the exhibit is free, but the value in entertainment and education is out of this world. Planet Agriculture is a 5,200-square-foot showplace that tells the story of farming and ranching through sight, sound and touch. The displays include exhibits showcasing cotton ginning, touch screen computer games, animal byproducts and much more. Open daily during the run of the Stock Show, Planet Agriculture is created by the Texas Farm Bureau and is located in the South Exhibits Hall between the Sheep Barn and Cattle Barn 1.

At the TexasBank Petting Zoo, kids and adults can get first-hand experience with a whole bunch of young farm animals – including goats, sheep, zebra and wallabies. Don't just look at the animals – touch, pet and feed these furry friends. The TexasBank Petting Zoo is located under the tent near the north entrance of Will Rogers Auditorium.

For a glimpse of life on the farm, stroll over to the FFA Children’s Barnyard. Kids can watch a variety of farm animals care for their offspring in an authentic environment that is sure to get a whole lot of “ohhhs” and “ahhhs.” FFA members from local schools not only care for all the animals, but also answer any questions that visitors may have. The FFA Barnyard is located between the Swine and Sheep Barns, and is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day.

Are your kids getting enough calcium? Need a way to get them excited about drinking their milk? The Stock Show’s Milking Parlor, sponsored by the Southwest Dairy Museum, is not to be missed. Your kids will be fascinated to find out how milk is really produced. This fully certified, Grade-A dairy shows the entire milking process. The cows at the milking parlor are only a few of the 400,000 dairy cows in Texas, which together produce a total of 5.6 billion gallons of milk annually.

As you can see, the 2006 Stock Show is chock-full of the western heritage and old-fashioned favorites your family will love.

	Petting zoos let kids get up close and personal with the animals.

Now Kids Can Join the Moos Crew – Free!

Hoss and Elwood Moos, the official ambassadors of the Stock Show, debuted last year and were a big hit with both kids and adults. Now, they have their own fan club – and you can join for free at the Stock Show website. It’s easy, and won’t cost you a thing. Just log on to www.fwssr.com and click on The Moos Brothers link. Once you sign up, you’ll receive exclusive access to the Moos Crew fan club. As a Moos Crew member, you can:

• Download a membership certificate and badge
• Read news about Hoss and Elwood and the Stock Show
• Visit the Moos Brothers Joke Corral
• View photos of Hoss and Elwood in action around the Stock Show and out and about town
• Receive a special message from Hoss and Elwood on your birthday

The Moos Crew is a great way for kids to get involved in the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. So sign up today!

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Dress Western

Get in Gear for “Dress Western Fridays”

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is one of the most authentic western events in the world. When you participate in “Dress Western Days,” you’re showing your pride in the Stock Show and Fort Worth’s western heritage. Starting Friday, January 13, local businesses and their employees are encouraged to take part by pulling on their cowboy and cowgirl duds.

“Dressing western really livens up the office on Fridays during the Stock Show,” said Dee Kelly, Jr. of law firm Kelly, Hart & Hallman. “Everybody gets into the spirit of it and has a lot of fun.”

Companies across the city participated in this event last year, and even more are expected to join in this year. You don’t want to be the only one in town without your boots on! Spread the word at your place of employment and get the whole gang involved.

“Fort Worth has an incredibly rich heritage and a flavor all its own,” said Bill Meadows of William Rigg Insurance. “Wearing your boots and hat at work during the Stock Show is a great way to honor that tradition.”

If your western wardrobe could use a little sprucing up, there are plenty of fine western stores in Fort Worth where you can stock up on the proper attire. Once the Stock Show begins, you can find lots of western wear in the Commercial Exhibit Halls.

Don’t miss your chance to join in the festivities of the 110th Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, and have a great time!

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Stock Show Events

Mark Your Calendar for Stock Show Events

You don’t want to miss a minute of the action, so plan now to attend several of this year’s performances. Here are some of the highlights:

Get Your Tickets Now to Rodeo Performances

Tickets for all the special performances, as well as the PRCA rodeo, can be purchased at the Will Rogers Ticket Office or by calling 817-877-2420. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster outlets by calling Metro 972-647-5700 or going online to www.ticketmaster.com. You can also print an order form at www.fwssr.com.
If you have a group of 25 or more, you’re eligible for discounted prices to the rodeo! For details and a list of performances available under the Group Sales Discount Program, visit our website – www.fwssr.com – or contact the Stock Show office at 817-877-2420.

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Youth Scholarship Tour

Longhorn Breeders Earn ‘Moolah’ from Autobahn Motorcar Group Youth Scholarship Tour

The Autobahn Motorcar Group Youth Scholarship Tour will cruise into the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo on January 17. Scholarships totaling $50,000 are up for grabs in the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America’s World Qualifying Youth Show Circuit.

The Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America recognizes the tremendous importance of encouraging the new generation of cattle breeders. In 2000, with the leadership of Autobahn Motorcar Group owner John Chase and his wife Diann, The Autobahn Motorcar Group Youth Scholarship Tour was established to further this goal. Today, the tour has over 200 participants.

The Association expects over 500 entries to be exhibited, with over 300 head of cattle entered in the youth division. The classes will be held on Jan. 17 and 18 in the Watt Arena.

“We’ve provided an additional $20,000 in scholarship money this year to allow more participants a better chance to earn the valued scholarship money,” said John Chase. “We will split $45,000 between the first through fifth place winners in each youth class, and $5,000 will be awarded to the first through third place winners in each of the eight showmanship classes.”

A total of $150,000 in scholarship money will be awarded during the 2005-2006 show year, which also includes events at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas and the Texas Longhorn Breeders of Tomorrow National Youth Show in Fort Worth. For more information about this program, visit www.autobahnyouthtour.com.

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Shopping

	Shop 'til you drop in the Commercial Exhibits area.

Therapy for Shopping Withdrawal

Walking the aisles of the Commercial Exhibits at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is always a pleasure. Of course, you’re going to get some exercise if you want to see them all – the Commercial Exhibits take up close to 200,000 square feet of space.

Need to spice up your wardrobe a little? You’ll find plenty of cowboy hats, boots, shirts and more. While you’re at it, pick up some beautiful items for your house, including leather furniture and home accessories. There’s no telling what you’ll come across: equestrian gear, Native American jewelry, belt buckles, metal roofing, portable buildings, the latest tractors and a wide range of farming tools and agricultural implements. The quality and quantity of the products on display attracts a steady stream of shoppers throughout the Stock Show’s run. That’s why every square foot of the
Commercial Exhibits is sold out every year. Believe it or not, some exhibitors have been selling their wares at the Stock Show for more than 25 years.

Don’t forget to pick up something to remind you of the big time you had at the 110th annual Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. You can choose from coffee mugs, jackets, T-shirts, sweatshirts, ball caps, bandannas and more. There are many places on the grounds to buy official Stock Show merchandise, including the Stock Show General Store located in front of Cattle Barn 2.

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New Markets

Stock Show Reaches Out to New Markets

In an effort to further broaden community reach, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo formed an advisory committee of 12 Hispanic business and community leaders. For the first time, the ticket brochure and visitor’s guide were produced in Spanish and distributed to businesses within the Hispanic community. The Show has also added informational signs in both English and Spanish throughout the grounds, bilingual staff members and a dedicated phone number (866-AL RODEO) staffed by Spanish-speaking representatives.

The Stock Show has named Univision the exclusive Hispanic broadcast media partner. Be sure to look for Stock Show promotional support on KUVN-TV 23 Univision, KSTR-TV Telefutura, 107.9 KESS, 94.1 KLNO, 99.1 KFZO, 107.1 KDXX and 1270 KFLC. Univision will also staff a Hispanic Information Center in the concourse of the Amon G. Carter Jr. Exhibits Hall. Additionally, the Stock Show will be promoted through the newspaper Diario La Estrella and outdoor boards. Visit www.fwssr.com/espanol for more information.
2006 Hispanic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs:
John Hernandez
Juan Hernández

Committee Members include: Rebecca A. Dozal, Frank Molano, Sal Espino, Cathy Ochoa, Oscar Espinosa, Juan Manuel Oropeza, Jr., Manuel Lopez III, David Sedeño, Sebastian Martinez, Antoinette Vega, and Estela Martinez-Stuart.

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Stock Show Website

Visit New, Improved Stock Show Website

Information about the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is easier than ever to find on the new and improved Stock Show Website! Visit www.fwssr.com, and then be sure to “bookmark” the site to return often. Some of the things on the site include:

• Ticket order forms for all performances
• Group sales information and order forms
• Maps showing parking lots and the Stock Show grounds
• Daily events and entertainment guide for 2006
• Money-saving offers for the carnival midway
• History and highlights of the Stock Show
• Commercial exhibits information
• Premium lists and entry forms for all events
• New Hispanic section featuring general information in Spanish
• Fun with the Moos Brothers, the official Stock Show ambassadors

Before visiting the Stock Show, spend some time at the official Stock Show website. Also, be sure to sign up for the free Stock Show e-mail updates.

Support the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate

Participating in the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate is an investment in educational and vocational opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders in agriculture. Since 1980, the Syndicate has raised more than $18 million for young exhibitors at the Stock Show, and has provided more than $400,000 in scholarships for 4-H and FFA members.

Each year, members of the Stock Show Syndicate contact local companies to raise money to increase the bids at the annual Junior Sale of Champions, and hundreds of organizations answer the call. To learn more, log on to www.fwsss.com.

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Improvements

Stock Show Continues Improvements at Will Rogers

Exhibitors and visitors arriving at the 2006 Stock Show will be greeted by two new state-of-the-art LED Message Centers. The message centers will be used to display important information and promote upcoming events. The primary message center replaces the 50-year-old marquis at the corner of University Drive and West Lancaster. The second center is residing at the new location on University Drive at Crestline Road.

“This is a continuation of the Stock Show’s effort to make improvement to the Will Rogers Center for the benefit of the public and the Center’s tenants,” said W.R. Watt, Jr., Stock Show President and General Manager.

In addition, a new lighting system was installed in the Cattle Show Arena for the 2006 Show. This new system will enhance the exhibition and judging of livestock.

The Stock Show moved from the Stockyards area to Will Rogers Memorial Center in 1944 and has since spent in excess of $23 million on a variety of improvements at Will Rogers.

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Chamberletter contact below:

For more information contact:
Arden Dufilho
Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
817-336-2491 Ext. 259