January February 2017 BusinessLink

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

2016

YEAR IN REVIEW

The mission of the Lufkin/Angelina Letter from Outgoing
County Chamber of Commerce is to Chairman Gene Lee
continuously improve the economic
prosperity, the business environment Being able to serve as the 2016 Lufkin/Angelina
and the quality of life in Angelina County. County Chamber of Commerce Chairman has been
an awesome experience. Over the last year I’ve had
Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce the good fortune to strengthen old friendships and make
1615 S. Chestnut, Lufkin, Texas USA 75901 new ones as I joined our Chamber’s exemplary staff, giving
phone (936) 634-6644 fax (936) 634-8726 volunteers and dedicated Members in serving our local
business community. I’ve witnessed first-hand that these
2016 EXECUTIVE BOARD G. William Newton businesses are comprised of the most resilient and hard
Codie Jenkins Angelina Plastic Surgery working people you could ever know and the knowledge
Board Chairman that the backbone of our local, state wide and national
First Bank & Trust East Victor Patel economy is truly small business has only been reinforced.
Texas Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn
Express, Comfort Suites While small businesses creation and development
Jeff Todd has long been a focus of our Chamber, our City and our
Board Chairman-Elect Scott Slusher Economic Development Partnership, that commitment to
Advanced Financial Group PID Service, Inc. one another was evidenced this year as the day to day
leadership and functions of the Economic Development
Gene Lee Kyle Swift Partnership was transferred to the Chamber with the
Immediate Past Chairman Woodland Heights Chamber President now presiding over both groups.
Lee TranServices, Inc. Medical Center Programs meant to encourage new Small Business
activity are being developed, such as “Made in Lufkin”,
Martha Quintanilla Kelli Wayland which offers individuals and businesses with ideas for a new business and/or products to
Secretary GE Oil & Gas showcase a business plan to judges for the chance to win $5000 cash. Plans for a small
La Unica Tortilleria business incubator are underway to assist startups with the myriad of daily functions that can
Jeremy Yancey stymie their growth. And probably most important was the development of a new mission
Brian Cyr Timber Creek Church statement, (”to advocate to improve economic prosperity and the business environment in
Treasurer our community”) which will provide direction for the efforts of all involved.
Commercial Bank Jackie Zimmerman
of Texas Zimmerman Progress with lasting impact is never easy. Many Chambers across the country are trying
Communications to accomplish some of the same things but we have something that makes us unique, we
John Alston have partnership and a commitment to each other. Just like the help I received from the past
Vice Chairman 2016 APPOINTED Chairman, Aimee Slusher and the willingness by our incoming Chairman, Cody Jenkins to
Brookshire Brothers BOARD MEMBERS assume leadership. Being committed to one another makes all the difference.

Chad Roberts Melinda Moore Letter from Incoming
Vice Chairman Cascade Health Services Chairman Cody Jenkins
City Wide Directories LLC LLC
It is truly an honor to serve as the Chairman of the Lufkin/
Terry Morgan Shawn Penn, DVM Angelina County Chamber of Commerce for 2017.
Vice Chairman Southwood Drive Animal I have had the privilege of living and working in
Morgan Insurance Hospital Angelina County for the past eighteen years. There is
Scott Skelton no better place in Texas to live, work and raise your
Terry Morgan Skelton Slusher Barnhill children. The heart of this community is built on faith and
Vice Chairman Watkins & Wells PLLC lifelong friendships — friendships that grow from business
Morgan Insurance relationships often developed through the Chamber of
Commerce.
2016 ELECTED CHAMBER STAFF With our beginning in 1919, the Chamber of
BOARD MEMBERS Jim Johnson, IOM Commerce is 98 years strong. 2017 will prove an exciting
President & CEO year as we continue to fulfill the Chamber’s mission for its
Shawn Barnett Susie Cardwell members: advocating to improve economic prosperity and
CHI St. Luke’s Health Community Development the business environment in our community. We want to be
Memorial Manager a resource for you as your business develops and grows in
Tori Charanza Angelina County.
Jim Cumbie Marketing Coordinator As a lender with First Bank & Trust East Texas, I am part of a locally owned bank that
Georgia-Pacific Tori Jones first opened its doors more than 60 years ago in Angelina County. We are very proud to
Membership Coordinator have strongly supported the Chamber all of those years. Being involved with the Chamber
Malcolm Deason Jill Roberson has offered our employees opportunities to network and volunteer, giving back to Angelina
First Bank & Trust East Business Manager County. I would encourage you to become involved in your Chamber of Commerce,
Texas Melissa Wheeler, IOM enhancing business opportunities through volunteering and networking.
Program & Operations The staff members and board of directors are working on some great opportunities that
Mark Dunn Manager will further enhance member value and are aimed at helping facilitate the vitality of small
Dunn Construction business in Angelina County.
BUSINESSLINK STAFF Please know that we are here to serve you as we focus on our mission.
Chris Fleniken Rebecca West
Real Graphics Layout Design JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

David Flowers for advertising
Huntington ISD information call
(936) 631-2630
Dr. LaTonya Goffney
Lufkin ISD

Stephen King
Consolidated
Communications

BusinessLINK
is a publication

in partnership
with

2 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG

CONTENTS LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 3

2 Chairman Letters
4 New & Renewing Members
4 Member Anniversaries
5 Thank You to Our Sponsors
6 Calendar & Event Spotlight
7 Science & Tech Fair
8 Ribbon Cuttings
9 97th Annual Chamber Banquet
10 Lufkin Convention & Visitors

Bureau
11 Lufkin/Angelina County Day
12 Year in Review
26 Angelina Beautiful / Clean
26 Junior Achievement
27 Greetings from the Expo!
28 Angelina Arts Alliance
29 Economic Development
30 Economic Indicators
31 On the Scene

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

NEW MEMBERS Massingill’s Meat Market TYHOAUNKfoCthroeubCneLotiuynmfgkCmihanea/mArmcneebgm!eerblieonrfaof
Naskila Gaming
A. Lamar Casparis Smith Sawmill Service Office Furniture Warehouse
Angelina County Service Company T&C Gutters, LLC Old Souls Food Truck
Dedicated Orthopedic Urgent Care Tall Timbers Gymnastics Physicians Of East Texas, L.L.C.
Dye Hard Hair Salon U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Sam Rayburn Pioneer Crossing for Families
East Texas Powersports Polk Energy Partners, LLP
East Texas Restoration & Reconstruction Reservoir Posados Mexican Cafe
First Flight Woodland Heights Internal Medicine Regional Physical Therapy Center
Lufkin Family Dental Shelton’s Place
Signs By Debbie
RENEWING MEMBERS Direxion Marketing Socia Septic Systems
Don Reily Southwood Drive Animal Clinic
AAA Self Storage - 69 East Texas Monument Company Strickland Plumbing
AAA Self Storage - 94 East Texas Profesional Credit Union Tall Timbers Gymnastics
AAA Self Storage - Diboll Farmers Insurance - Bradley Clement Taylor McKewen D.D.S.
AAA Self Storage - Southwood Farmers Insurance- Kris King Terracon Consultants
AAA Trophy, T-Shirts & Sport Shop Fenley & Bate, Attorneys At Law Texas Custom Catering
Agape Home Care Services Fox Run Apartments The Cedar Tree
Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of Deep East Guardian Force Security Services The Institute for Lifestyle, Preventive and
Guardian Reliability Group
Texas Harold’s House-East Texas Alliance for Family Medicine
Alderman, Cain & Neill PLLC The Pines Theatre
Alligator Annie’s Septic Systems Children The UPS Store
Angelina County Farm Bureau J.A.M. Distributing United Country Land & Timber
Angelina Plastic Surgery Kaye M. Alderman, Attorney at Law Wishing Well Antiques & Gifts
Angelina Rotary Club Kovar Capital
Billy Ball - Justice of The Peace Kwik Kopy Printing
Bob Inselmann L & S Floor Works
BodyMasters Quality Collision Repair Let’s Go Travel
Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc. Lori Crawford
Career Uniforms Massingill’s Meat Market
Casa Ole’ Restaurant Merry Maids
Cascade Health Services, LLC Mike Love & Associates LLC
Chala Sports and Family Chiropractic Moe’s Southwest Grill
Cheddar’s Casual Cafe Morris Air Conditioning, Inc.
Chicken Express Museum Of East Texas
City of Lufkin Planning
D & J Roofing Construction Company

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

25 YEARS Community Coffee Company Innovative Office Systems Point A Media, Inc.
Burke Center Community Title Junior Achievement Texas Document Solutions
Dupre Tire Company Tri-Tech Surveying Company, L.P.
Mack Carnes Deep East Texas Council Lower Neches Valley Authority Truss & Son Plumbing, Inc.
15 YEARS of Governments Machine Services, Inc.
Alene’s Florist Excel Car Wash Medicine Shoppe 10 YEARS
Angelina Excavating City Wide Directories LLC
Angelina Glass Feather Crest Farms, Inc. Moore Building Associates Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin
Ferrara’s Heating & Air Conditioning Mueller Inc.
4 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG Regions Bank
Gann Medford Real Estate Parkwood Place Zimmerman Communications
Haglund Law Firm
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Thank you to our 2016 sponsors!

A-1 Party Rentals of Lufkin, Inc. Fenley & Bate, L.L.P Morris Air Conditioning &
Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy Ferguson Heating
Accent Vending First Bank & Trust Morrison Supply
ADRA Medical Imaging First Missionary Baptist Church Oncor
Advance’d Temporaries, Inc. Forestar Real Estate Group Orange Leaf
Alderman Cain & Neill PLLC Fox Run Apartments Pepsi Bottling Group
Alene’s Florist Gann Medford Real Estate, Inc. PineCrest Retirement
Alexander & Spencer, P.C. Gentiva Community
Alexander, Lankford & Hiers Georgia Pacific Planet Fitness
Allen Loggins & Sons Gipson Funeral Home Premier Kia
American Enerpower Goff & Herrington, P.C. Ray’s Drive-In
Angelina Arts Alliance Goodwin-Lasiter-Strong Real Graphics
Angelina Beautiful/Clean Grandough Baking Co Regions Bank
Angelina College Habitat for Humanity of Angelina Restoration Wine Bar
Angelina Hardwood Sales County, Inc. S&W Expert Collision Repair
Company Haglund Law Firm, P.C. Sandra D. Sorrell, CPA
Angelina Plastic Surgery Haney Trucking Inc. Savvy, The Agency
Angelina Radiation Oncology Harbor Hospice - Lufkin Schlotzsky’s
Associates HDR Engineering, Inc. Security & Guaranty Abstract
Angelina Rotary Club Heritage Land Bank Security Shredding
Ashley Furniture Homestore Hicks Co. Selena Mitchell Farmers
Audiological Services Hinckley Orthidontics Insurance
Austin Bank Holiday Travel Agency Servpro of Lufkin/South
Axley & Rode CPA’s Hospice in the Pines, Inc. Nacogdoches County
BancorpSouth Huntington State Bank Shafer Funeral Home
Bartlett Baggett & Shands IHOP Simon Louise & Henderson
Insurance Agency Investors of the Kingdom Foundation
BC Plumbing Jeff Havard Insurance Skelton Slusher Barnhill Watkins
Beard Fine Jewelers Joe W. Elliott House & Wells
Best Western Crown Colony Plus Johnson Furniture Slaughter & Son, Inc.
Buckeye Construction Junior Achievement Sleep Inn- Main Stay
Buffalo Wild Wings K and B Moonwalk Sound Techs
Carpets By Curiosity Ken Smith & Associates PC Southern Reliant Electric, Inc.
Carroway Funeral Home Kovar Capital Southern Supply Inc
Casa Ole Restaurant KSWP/KAVX Radio Southland Federal Credit Union
CCM Electric Kwik Kopy Southland Rehabilitation and
Charanza Law Office Larkspur Healthcare
Cherokee Industrial Fab., Ltd. Law Office of Jeremy Crew Spherion
CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lee TranServices, Inc. St.Cyprian’s Episcopal School
Chick-Fil-A Legacy Institute for Financial Studio 319
Choice Cut Meat Market Education Taco Casa
Citizens National Bank Linda Oliver Texas Heritage Furniture
City of Lufkin Little Caesar’s Pizza Texas State Bank
City Wide Directories LLC Lockheed-Martin Texas Timberjack
Coburn’s Loggins Plumbing The Advanced Financial Group
Commercial Bank of Texas N.A. Lori Crawford The Center For Sight
Commercial Metals Company Loving Toyota-Scion The Coalition
Community Title Lufkin Coca-Cola The Heart Institute of East Texas
Connie & Crew Lufkin Convention and Visitors The Junior League of Lufkin
Consolidated Communications Bureau The Lufkin Daily News
Cook Tire & Service Center Lufkin Economic Development The Pines Theatre
Courtyard by Marriott (Lufkin) Corporation Tome Catering
Crown Colony Country Club Lufkin First Church of the Townsquare Media
Davis Insurance Nazarene Trent Ashby for State
Double S Industrial Contractors, Lufkin Golf Club Representatives
Inc. Lufkin Independent School TXU Energy
Downtown Cafe District United Country Land & Timber
Dr. Kaywin Carter & Dr. Jerry Lufkin Printing Company, Inc. Urgent DOC
Johnson Lufkin Rubber & Gasket Verizon Wireless Premium
Duncan-Two, Ltd. Lufkin State Supported Living Retailer - Mobile Destination
East Texas Asphalt Co. Center Walmart
East Texas Family Medicine Marco’s Pizza Wes Suiter
Edward Jones Investments - Memorial Clinics Whataburger
Vince Treadwell Mercer Nissan Which Wich? Lufkin
El Chico Merrill Lynch William George Company, Inc.
Ellen Temple Merry Maids Windco, Inc
Etech Moore Brothers Construction XETX Business Solutions
Family Crisis Center Company (Xerographix East Texas)
Farmer’s Insurance - Garrett Moore Building Associates Zimmerman Communications
Massie Morgan Insurance Agency

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 5

Calendar & Event BUSINESS AFTER FIVE FIRST FRIDAY LUNCHEON
Spotlight
POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST SALUTE TO HEALTHCARE BANQUET
January 12
Business After Five
Business After Five Thursday, January 12, 5:30pm-7:00pm hosted by Al Meyer Ford
5:30pm hosted by Al Meyer Ford Thursday, January 19, 5:30pm-7:00pm hosted by Regions Bank
Thursday, February 16, 5:30pm-7:00pm hosted by Sleep Inn/Main Stay Suites
January 13 Tuesday, February 28, 5:30pm-7:00pm hosted by WingStop
First Friday Luncheon
State of the City Luncheon Friday, January 13, 12:00pm at Crown Colony Country Club
12:00pm State of the City Luncheon
Crown Colony Country Club First Friday Presenting Sponsor: Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
State of the City Gold Sponsors: Lufkin Economic Development Corporation, Gipson Funeral Home, and
January 19 Oncor
State of the City Silver Sponsors: Lee TranServices & Hospice in the Pines
Business After Five Friday, February 3, 12:00pm at Crown Colony Country Club
5:30pm hosted by Regions Bank State of the County Luncheon
First Friday Presenting Sponsor: Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
January 26 State of the County Presenting Sponsor: Woodland Heights Medical Center
State of the County Gold Sponsor: East Texas Asphalt Co.
97th Annual Chamber Banquet & Meeting Power Networking Breakfast
6:00pm Reception Friday, January 27, 8:00am presented by Servpro of Lufkin/South Nacogdoches County
7:00pm Dinner, Remarks, & Awards Presentation by: Holiday Travel
Community Room
January 27 January Sponsor: Holiday Travel
Friday, February 24, 8:00am presented by Servpro of Lufkin/South Nacogdoches County
Power Networking Breakfast Presentation by: The Heart Institute of East Texas
8:00am in the Community Room At The Heart Institute of East Texas
January Sponsor: Holiday Travel Feburary Sponsor: The Heart Institute of East Texas
Presenting Sponsor: Servpro of Lufkin/South Nacogdoches County Young Professionals Network
Tuesday, January 10, 5:30pm-7:00pm at the Naranjo Museum
February 3 Night at the Museum Scavenger Hunt
Wednesday, February 8, at the Angelina College Gym
State of the County Luncheon Angelina College Roadrunners Basketball Game
12:00pm
Crown Colony Country Club JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

February 8

Women’s Networking Luncheon
Presentation by: Karen Norton, “Mom, God’s Got This”
11:30am
Pitser Garrison Convention Center

February 15

Lufkin/Angelina County Day Reception in Austin
5:30pm
The Austin Club in Downtown Austin

February 16

Business After Five
5:30pm hosted by Sleep Inn/Mainstay Suites

February 22

Chamber University featuring Eric Spellman
8:00am

February 24

Power Networking Breakfast
8:00am at the Heart Institute of East Texas
February Sponsor: The Heart Institute of East Texas
Presenting Sponsor: Servpro of Lufkin/South Nacogdoches County

February 28

Business After Five
5:30pm hosted by WingStop

6 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG

SCIENCE & TECH FAIR staffing group

Students Compete in “We Place You First”
20th Annual Science & Tech Fair CLERICAL

Students from Angelina County compete in the 20th Annual Angelina INDUSTRIAL
County Science & Tech Fair on May 4-5, 2017 at the George H. TECHNICAL
Henderson Jr. Exposition Center. Students in grades 6-12 from public, FLEXIBLE STAFFING
private and home school have the
opportunity to use their creative 3810 S. Medford Dr.
minds and resourceful brains to Lufkin
compete for awards.
818 University Dr. Suite 101
This year’s events include: Nacogdoches
Conversion Contraption, Catapult,
Invention, Life Science, Wiffle 936-632-2223
Robotics, and SuGo Robotics. 936-559-7777
Students interested in competing
should contact a technology teacher LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 7
at their school and go to
www.angelinascienceandtech.com
for more information on entry, rules,
and competing. Anyone interested
in volunteering to help with the event
should contact Susie Cardwell at
[email protected] or call 936-634-6644.

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual
Science & Tech Fair. A committee of avid technology volunteers, headed
by co-chairs Stephen King and Bobby Fenley, both of Consolidated
Communications, coordinates the event. A special thanks to Lockheed
Martin, Presenting Sponsor of the 2017 event. Event Sponsor is
Consolidated Communications. Gold Sponsors are Double S Industrial
Contractors, Inc., and Little Caesar’s Pizza. Bronze Sponsors are Cherokee
Industrial Fab., Ltd., Choice Cut Meat Market, Gipson Funeral Home, and
Southern Reliant Electric, Inc. Media Sponsor is KTRE TV 9.

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Ribbon Cuttings

KomLoeaddoeDrsrhaigpoLnuDfkiisnplay Newk’s Eatery

Leadership Lufkin Komodo Dragon Display - The 34th Leadership Lufkin held a ribbon cutting Newk’s Eatery - Newk’s Eatery is now open! Newk’s offers a wide range of culinary delights
ceremony for their completed class project, a Komodo Dragon display at the Ellen Trout Zoo. For including fresh tossed salads, California-style pizzas, hot toasted sandwiches, made-from-scratch
more information about the Leadership Lufkin program, visit LufkinTexas.org/LeadershipLufkin. soups and desserts. Newk’s Eatery is located at 2906 Brentwood Drive, in front of Academy.

Lufkin Family Dental Solitaire Homes

Lufkin Family Dental - The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Lufkin Solitaire Homes - The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Solitaire Homes
Family Dental with a ribbon cutting. Dr. Derek Williams is very excited to be carrying on Dr. Bates’ to the Chamber with a ribbon cutting. Solitaire Homes is one the nation’s leaders in mobile and
legacy in caring for his patients. Lufkin Family Dental is located at 701 S. John Redditt Drive. manufactured home construction. They offer beautiful homes for a great price! Solitaire Homes is
located at 1202 Medford Drive.

EmeNrgeeinghcyboCresnter Trout Primary School

Neighbors Emergency Center - Neighbors Emergency Center celebrated their grand opening with Trout Primary School - The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce recognized Trout
a ribbon cutting. They are now open for operation 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week. They provide a Primary School with a Red Carpet Salute to celebrate their 60th anniversary. Thank you Trout
variety of emergency services and are excited to serve East Texas. Neighbors Emergency Center is Primary for serving East Texas children for 60 years!
located at 101 S. John Redditt Drive.

8 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

CHAMBER BANQUET

97th Annual Chamber Banquet

On January 26, The
Lufkin/Angelina County
Chamber of Commerce
will host the 97th Annual
Chamber Banquet and Meeting
presented by Premier Kia. The
banquet will feature a reception
allowing time for socializing
and networking while enjoying
beverages and appetizers.
Following the reception, dinner
will be served. This year’s dinner
will be provided by Square
Shooters.

Adding to your banquet experience, presenting sponsor Premier Kia
will have a display of new Kia’s during the reception. Check out the newest
models Premier Kia has to offer, and envision yourself in a brand new Kia!

This year’s banquet program includes a review of the past year, the year
ahead, and two award recipients. Come and join us as we celebrate the
accomplishments of the past year and look forward to the New Year!

Thursday, January 26, 2017
6:00pm Reception

7:00pm Dinner & Banquet
Pitser Garrison Convention Center
$600 Reserved table of eight with corporate identification

$50 Individual tickets
Please RSVP by January 20, 2016. Reserve your ticket by calling
936-634-6644 or email [email protected].

9CB7THAHANAMQNNBUUEEARLT PRESENTING SPONSOR
Premier Kia

GOLD SPONSORS
CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial

Citizens National Bank
Lockheed-Martin

SILVER SPONSORS
First Bank & Trust East Texas

Lee TranServices, Inc.
Whataburger

RECEPTION SPONSOR
Lee TranServices, Inc.
MEDIA SPONSOR
KTRE TV 9

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 9

LUFKIN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

LCVB kicking off the new year with a bang!

The Lufkin Convention and Bistro or Corks & Forks, this is your chance to enjoy a H
Visitors Bureau would like to fabulous night out on the town. Tickets are $30 each and H
wish everyone a Happy New are on sale now at the Lufkin Convention and Visitors H
Year! The New Year not only brings Bureau. You may call 936-633-0359 to reserve your H
new beginnings but it also welcomes tickets. Only 300 tickets will be sold, so please do not H
a new star-studded season of The wait to purchase your tickets! H
Pines Presents! H
If you are not able to get your hands on tickets H
The Pines has something for for Corks and Forks, we have another wine and food
everyone this year; from timeless experience just around the corner. The Lufkin Convention
classics to new favorites! The and Visitors Bureau is once again proud to partner with
2017 Pines Presents series kicks Brookshire Brothers in bringing Pour and Explore back
off this month with, Tenore, an for round 3, but this time we will be exploring the wine
award winning tenor trio who has regions of Argentina! Mark your calendars for Thursday,
garnered international acclaim with February 9th. Call 936-633-0359 for tickets and more
powerhouse vocals and passionate details.
performances! In February, join us
for chart-topping Country duo, The Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook at Visit Lufkin to be
Bellamy Brothers. You definitely the first to know about upcoming Lufkin events. We hope
won’t want to miss Jarrod Spector & to see you in the near future at The Pines or sipping wine
Kelli Barrett in April as they explore at one of our upcoming events!
love songs from storied musical
partnerships with “This is Dedicated:
Music’s Greatest Marriages.” Then in
September join us for “Comedy and
Western” group, Riders in the Sky,
as they mix classic Western music
with their legendary wacky humor
and way-out wit. The Company
Men will be shaking things up in
October as they weave today’s hits
with re-imagined classics of the last six decades. In
November, GRAMMY and Dove winner, Jason Crabb,
takes the stage for a night of passion! We end the 2017
series with a special performance of Christmas classics
by Michael Martin Murphey. Each show promises a
unique sensation, so you won’t want to miss a single one!
Season tickets are still available and individual tickets are
on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at
www.thepineslufkin.com or by calling 936-633-0359.

With 2017 underway, the annual Corks & Forks event
is right around the corner! Join us at 7:00pm on February
4th in downtown Lufkin. If you love Lufkin’s Bistro then
you will surely love Corks & Forks. Corks & Forks is a
smaller more intimate setting, similar to Lufkin’s Bistro,
featuring wine and samples from local restaurants and
caterers. Corks & Forks falls right before Valentine’s
Day which makes for a very romantic evening filled with
music by Bryan Harkness, wine, champagne, appetizers
and desserts. If you have yet to attend either Lufkin’s

10 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Lufkin/Angelina County Day

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce will host the annual
Lufkin/Angelina County Day in Austin in honor of state official, legislators,
and agencies.
The Reception will be held on Wednesday, February 15 from 5:30pm to
7:30pm at The Austin Club in Downtown Austin. There will be opportunities
to meet with key regulatory and legislative leaders, as well networking with
other East Texans interested in government affairs. Food and beverages will
be provided at The Austin Club to attendees at the reception. Please RSVP to
[email protected] by February 10, 2017.

Wednesday, February 15th, 2017
5:30-7:30pm

The Austin Club
110 E. 9th St., Austin, TX 78701

Hilton Austin
Make Hotel Guest Room Block Reservations by January 25, 2017
512-482-8000 | 1-800-236-1592
Reference the Lufkin/Angelina County Day or group code LAC
https://resweb.passkey.com/go/LufkinAngelina17

H We would like to our sponsors for making this event possible!
H A special thanks to

Presenting Sponsor: Lufkin/Angelina County Community Title
Economic Development
H First Bank & Trust East Partnership East Texas Asphalt Co.
Texas Fenley & Bate LLP
H Gold Sponsors: Silver Sponsors: Gann Medford
H CHI. St. Luke’s Health American Enerpower Real Estate Inc.
H Angelina & Neches River Lufkin Independent
Memorial School District
City of Lufkin Authority Moore Brothers
Consolidated Angelina College Construction Co.
Communications Skelton Slusher Barnhill Oncor
Lufkin Economic Watkins & Wells PLLC

H Development Corporation Bronze Sponsors: The Lufkin Daily News
Axley & Rode CPA’s

HHHHHHHHHHHHHBusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 11

2016

YEAR IN REVIEW

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS
FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR IN ANGELINA COUNTY!

12 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

96th Annual Chamber Banquet
Since 1919 the Lufkin/Angelina
County Chamber of Commerce Ray Ann Baker received the
has helped support the local Diplomat of the Year Award.
economy with its dedication to
strengthening businesses and growing
the community. On January 28th, the
Chamber’s legacy was celebrated at
the 96th Annual Chamber Banquet
held at the Pitser Garrison Convention
Center. Guests socialized while
enjoying beverages and appetizers
from Brookshire Brothers. Rufus
Duncan received The Golden Anvil
Award presented by the Pineywoods
Foundation, Ellen & Buddy Temple
received the Angelina Award
presented by First Bank and Trust East
Texas, and Ray Ann Baker received
that Diplomat of the Year Award.

Ellen & Buddy Temple received the Angelina Thank you to our
Award presented by First Bank & Trust East sponsors!
Texas (award accepted by Ellen Temple).
Presenting Sponsor:
Premier Kia

Gold Sponsors:
CHI St. Luke’s Health

Memorial
Citizens National Bank

Lockheed-Martin

Silver Sponsors:
First Bank & Trust East

Texas
Lee TranServices

Whataburger
Woodland Heights

Medical Center

Reception Sponsor:
Brookshire Brothers

Media Sponsor:
KTRE TV 9

Rufus Duncan received the Golden Anvil LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 13
Award.

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

2016 ATHENA Leadership Award

The 2016 ATHENA Leadership Award
recipient, Dr. Patricia McKenzie, has given
countless hours of volunteer service to
over two dozen community organizations during
her career. She has served on boards and
committees for the American Heart Association,
Hospice in the Pines, Volunteer Services Council
of the Lufkin State Supported Living Center, the
Board of CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial, the
Mosaic Center and many others. She is a charter
member and Past President of the Angelina
Rotary Club. She is a former Leadership Lufkin
Graduate, Recipient of Leadership Lufkin’s Silver
Spike Award for Community Service and the
2012 Salute to Healthcare’s Individual of Merit.
And, not least, she is actively involved in her church, Long Chapel C.M.E. Church of Lufkin.

A native to Lufkin, Dr. McKenzie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Prairie View A&M
University, Masters Degree from the University of Pittsburgh, and her Doctoral Degree from Texas A&M University.

Beginning her nursing career as a school nurse for grades 9-12 in Wichita Falls, she then taught nursing and
conducted community development for improved health as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Dominican Republic.
Moving her career back to Lufkin in 1969, she became a full-time nursing instructor at Angelina College. In 1976, she
became the Associate Director of Health Careers at Angelina College, and the Vice President and Dean of Instruction
in 1987, which is the position she holds today.

Dr. McKenzie has an outgoing personality, a commitment to excellence, and a generous, warm spirit. She displays
a true commitment to future professional leaders and is staunchly loyal to the growth of our educational systems.
Under her instructional leadership, she has developed new programs for Angelina College in Respiratory Therapy,
Sonography, Pharmacy Tech and Surgery Technology, while continuing the tradition of excellence in the nursing
programs.

Silver Spike Award

On October 7th, the Lufkin/Angelina
County Chamber of Commerce
presented the 26th Annual Jack O.
(Butch) McMullen Silver Spike Award to
Dana Smithhart.Those selected to receive
the award are leaders in their profession and
community, a source of positive influence
and encouragement for others and someone
who has a vision for Angelina County. Thank
you to presenting sponsor: First Bank & Trust
East Texas.

Dana Smithhart, center, accepts the 26th Annual
Jack O. (Butch) McMullen Silver Spike Award.

14 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Diplomats Club

The members of the Diplomats Club are the Chamber’s public relations arm. They assist with the Chamber’s
Annual Banquet, Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, Red Carpet Salutes, Power Networking Breakfasts, and
Business After Fives. They also handle the New Member Showcase. The activities of the Diplomat program
enable Chamber members to learn about business opportunities, networking, community education, economic
development and legislative issues. For more information on becoming a member of the Diplomats Club, contact
The Chamber at 936-634-6644.

Members of the Diplomats Club assist with the Chamber’s Annual Banquet, Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, Red Carpet
Salutes, Power Networking Breakfasts, Business After Fives and much more.

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 15

Thank you to our
Texas State Forest
Festival Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor
Brookshire Brothers
Platinum Sponsors
Lufkin Convention & Visitors Bureau
Simon & Louise Henderson Foundation
Transportation Sponsor
Lufkin ER
Gold Sponsors
Commercial Metals Company
Georgia Pacific
Silver Sponsor
A-1 Party Rentals, Inc.
Etech
Loving Auto Group
Whataburger
Bronze Sponsor
Commercial Bank of Texas
Schlotzsky’s
Texas State Bank
Corporate Sponsor
Angelina Neches River Authority
Axley & Rode CPA
Buffalo Wild Wings
Hertiage Land Bank
Lee TranServices
Sound Techs
Taco Casa
Texas Timberjack

16 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Thank you Friends of the Forest Festival!

Angelina Land Works, LLC Huntington State Bank Southern Reliant Electric, Inc.
Austin Bank La Unica Express Southland Federal Credit Union
Community Contractors, LLC Lee TranServices Southwood Drive Animal Clinic
Consolidated Communications LiveWell Athletic club Stafford Family
Davis Forestry Insurance Agency Lufkin Coca Cola Bottling Co. Griff Strange
Inc. Maddux Lumber & Hardware Terracon
Diboll Correctional Center Moore Bros. Construction Co. Texas State Bank
Dylan E. Richardson Photography Music World Texas Urological Clinic
East Texas Asphalt Co., Ltd. Dr. Sid and Catherine Roberts The Heart Institute of East Texas
East Texas Professional Credit RoyOMartin Corrigan OSB LLC Tomé Catering
Union Security & Guaranty Abstract Co. Woodland Heights Medical
Edward Jones Investments/ Security Shredding Center
Ashley Bratton Financial Advisor Socia Septic Systems
LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 17
BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

Salute to Healthcare Banquet

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce hosted the 9th Annual Salute to Healthcare Banquet. This is
a night of celebration as the community honors our healthcare section, including not just the medical profession
but all those who serve patients in carious capacity. Lufkin has established itself as the regional hub for
healthcare, with resources and capabilities far more advanced than most communities our size.

The healthcare industry contributes 25% of the jobs in Angelina County, and the Chamber wants to honor our
physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, nursing care facilities, rehabilitation facilities, dentists, hospices, home health
agencies, for becoming the dominant engine of the economic growth in this area.

2016 Nurse of the Year: Tina Ford, RN
Our nurse of the year has been described as detail-
oriented, meticulous, and thorough. She has demonstrated
outstanding knowledge, competence and compassion in her
field. She is a team player. All of these characteristics led to
her recruitment by a physician to be his nurse and nursing
director. She has mentored and taught over 200 nursing
students and other healthcare professionals. Beyond the
office, she has been instrumental in founding the Angelina
Heart Alliance and has been president of the local chapter
of the American Heart Association, organizing heart walks
and other events. She is active in her church, working with
youth of all ages, including leading Children’s Church,
Vacation Bible School, and teaching Sunday School each
week, despite working 10 hour days and often Saturdays.
One of the best words used to describe her is servant. She
has seen over 10,000 patients in her career. She exemplifies
the “others above self” that has improved the quality of
healthcare for our entire community and that this award
seeks to recognize. Tina Ford, RN accepts the 2016 Nurse of the Year Award

Gary Looper accepts the 2016 Lifetime Achievement 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award: Gary Looper
Awards Our Lifetime Achievement recipient first came to Lufkin a
month before the 9/11 attacks. He was the new CEO at
18 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG Woodland Heights, and – never shy about his faith – he
gathered staff together and led them in a prayer for our
country. That was just one of what would be many examples
of his compassionate and effective leadership of both
hospitals in town. The medical staff of both hospitals trusted
that even if they might not agree with a direction or decision,
they knew and respected it was never made with anything
but a pure motive. During his tenure at Memorial, he led the
planning for over $60 million in capital investments, oversaw
the integration of the Heart Institute of East Texas into the
Memorial system, and was, of course, instrumental in leading
Memorial to affiliate with CHI St. Luke’s Health, positioning
the system not only for survival but for success well into the
future. Both hospitals – indeed, the entire region – benefited
from his compassionate, prayerful leadership. Lufkin’s solid
and growing position as the healthcare hub for deep East
Texas has been significantly impacted by his leadership.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Cheryl Suiter, MD accepts the 2016 Healthcare Professional of the Year Award 2016 Healthcare Professional of the Year:
Cheryl Suiter, MD
Our recipient of the Healthcare Professional
of the Year award has been described as
having a healing influence on everyone
he or she meets. She is a product of
Angelina County, born in Lufkin, high
school in Diboll, undergraduate degree
from SFA in nursing. She worked as a
nurse at Woodland Heights for four years
before deciding to go to medical school
and residency in San Antonio. She has
practiced in Lufkin for 18 years now,
delivering countless babies and caring for
the women of East Texas. She has given
back to the healthcare community in many
ways, including mentoring students from
many different healthcare programs.

2016 Individual of Merit: Tina Alexander Tina Alexander Sellers accepts the 2016 Individual of Merit Award
Sellers
She has been described as embodying
the values of compassion, humanity, and
outreach. Whether it is working to provide
screening opportunities for high blood
pressure and diabetes to health fairs, church
events, she brings credibility and a smile to
every event. She has been especially cited
for strengthening healthcare relationships
with minority communities and the Alabama
Coushatta tribe in Livingston. She was
instrumental in the implementation of a
scholarship awards program for the NAACP
and Concerned Black Men. Her community
service efforts, such as with the United Way
and the Chamber of Commerce, to name
a few, are far and above her work-related
efforts.

Thank you to our sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor Silver Sponsors Reception Sponsor
CHI St. Luke’s Health Lufkin Economic Angelina Radiation
Development Corporation Oncology Associates
Memorial Woodland Heights Speaker Sponsors
Gold Sponsor Medical Center Boston Scientific

Lufkin ER

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 19

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW Tee It Up For Teachers
is an annual Golf
Tournament hosted by
the Lufkin/Angelina County
Chamber of Commerce. The
9th Annual Tee It Up For
Teachers was held on June
13, 2016 at Crown Colony
Country Club. Dedicated
to improving access to
education, Tee It Up For
Teachers raises funds and
provides scholarship to
teachers employed at any
of the six Angelina County
independent school districts.
Teachers wishing to further
their education by pursuing a
Master’s Degree in Education
are eligible to apply. The money from this tournament and previous years
provided the funds necessary to bring in Liz Murray, author of “Homeless to
Harvard,” to speak to local teachers.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

Presenting Sponsor Media Sponsor Hole Sponsors
Premier Kia KTRE TV 9 Allen Loggins & Sons
Carroway Funeral Home
Gold Sponsor Putting Green Sponsor
Whataburger Servpro of Lufkin/S. Nacogdoches Etech
Pepsi Bottling Group
Golf Towel Sponsor Snack/Beverage Cart Sponsors S&W Expert Collision Repair
Schlotzsky’s Farmer’s Insurance- Garrett Massie The Advanced Financial Group

Hole-In-One Sponsors Heritage Land Bank
Loving Toyota Scion
Walmart

Young Professionals Network

The Young Professionals Network of
Lufkin and Angelina County is a group
of professionals ages 21 to 40 who meet
monthly for happy hour at local restaurants or
professional development presentations at The
Chamber. We would love for you to come and
join us in growing our network of business-
minded professionals and future leaders in our
area. The Young Professionals Network takes
part in community services programs and
professional development sessions. Join us for
at one of our monthly happy hours, Lunch &
Learns or social events! Call the Chamber for
more information at 936-634-6644.

20 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Leadership Lufkin

Class of 2016-2017

Ashley Berry Melissa Keeling Clay Oliver

Zoe Ministries Citizens National Bank Brookshire Brothers

Pastor David Briggs Matt Knight Alexis Pigg

Abundant Life United The Advanced Financial Merrill Lynch
Methodist Church Group
Kevin Pratt
Marian Corley Taylor Kovar
Etech Texas
Gann Medford Real Kovar Capital
Estate Nicole Torrez
Sharon Kruk
Kelly Follie Lockheed Martin
Junior League of Lufkin
Impact Lufkin & Leadership Lufkin April Turner
Alumni Association
Emily Gay Lufkin Daily News
Matt Maisen
T.L.L. Temple Foundation Karen Vines
Century 21 Cota Realty
Peter Gergen American Real Estate,
Melinda Moore ERA & Leadership Lufkin
Angelina County & Cities Alumni Association
Health District Cascade Health
Services, LLC Britany Vinson
Dr. LaTonya Goffney
Kristyn Nesrsta Tome Catering
Lufkin ISD
First Bank & Trust East Hilary Haglund
Briana Harkness Texas Walker

Lufkin ER Maegan Prejean Regions Bank
Emily Hobbs
Woodland Heights Angelina Beautiful/Clean Tara Watson-Watkins
Medical Center
Connie McLaughlin Lufkin Convention &
Paul Johnson Visitors Bureau
Mike Love & Associates,
Hospice in the Pines, L.L.C. Janet Yancey
Inc.
Erika Neill CHI St. Luke’s Health
Memorial
Alderman Cain & Neill

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 21

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Business Hall of Fame

Every year, the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Joseph Hubert Kurth
Commerce recognizes past prominent business 1857-1930
leader who have made extraordinary contributions Joseph H. Kurth, born in
to Angelina County. The 2015 Business Hall of Fame Germany, immigrated to
Inductees were: Texas in 1878. Initial work
in a commercial lumber
Simon Wood Henderson yard led to his purchase of
1859-1923 a mill at Kurth Station and
Simon Wood Henderson eventually to purchasing
came to Texas in 1883. a larger mill at Keltys, just
Henderson acquired a north of Lufkin. Angelina
general mercantile in County Lumber Company
1886 and was active was born of the venture.
in timber and land A company railroad, the
sales. He was involved Angelina & Neches River Railroad, also resulted from
in numerous sawmill the enterprise. Becoming very influential in the southern
ventures throughout forest products industry, he also co-owned Lufkin
East Texas, including a Foundry and Machine Company.
sawmill in Keltys, and in
the Angelina & Neches Thank you to our sponsors!
River Railroad, a company-owned line of Angelina
County Lumber Company. His business acumen led him Presenting Sponsor: Lufkin Economic
into many other related enterprises in the Pineywoods Development Corporation
Regions, including Lufkin Foundry & Machine Company,
organized in 1902. Silver Sponsor: Merrill Lynch
Bronze Sponsor: Loggins Plumbing

22 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG Leadership Tomorrow

Acelebration was held for the graduation of
the twenty fourth Leadership Tomorrow Class
was held on April 18, 2016 at the First United
Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Bonnie Dowdy
was the Chairman and Emcee with Emmanuel
Guillory as guest speaker. Graduates were: Ian
Cavenall, Caroline Chance, Garrett Coleman, Helena
Collmorgen, Caroline Deaton, Kristen Ferrara,
Whitney Floyd, Ari Garza, Lauren Glass, Christina
Hernandez, Gabriel Hernandez, DJ Jordy, Rachel
March, Haley McGaughey, Chandler Moree, Wade
Penn, Mary Grace Polk, Haley Roe, Stephanie
Salinas, Jacob Sanders, Lauren Slusher, Travis
Spore, Rand Teer, Hunter VanSchoubroek, and Kadie
Beth Wisener.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Lufkin/Angelina County Day in Austin

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Lufkin/Angelina County day in Austin in
honor of state officials, legislators, and agencies on February 18.
The reception was held from 5:30pm until 7:30pm
at the Austin Club in downtown Austin. Food and
beverages were provided to attendees. There were
opportunities to meet with key regulatory and legislative
leaders, as well as network with other East Texans
interested in government affairs.
Thank you to thank our sponsors who made this
event possible including our Presenting Sponsor:
Lufkin/Angelina County Economic Development
Partnership; Gold Sponsors: CHI St. Luke’s Health
Memorial, City of Lufkin, Lufkin Economic Development
Corporation, Servpro of Lufkin/ South Nacogdoches,
Consolidated Communications; Silver Sponsors:
American Enerpower, Angelina College, Skelton Slusher
Barnhill Watkins Wells PLLC; Bronze Sponsors: Axley &
Rode CPA’s, Community Title, East Texas Asphalt Co.,
Fenley & Bate, LLP, Gann Medford Real Estate, Inc.,
Lufkin ISD, Moore Brothers Construction Company,
Oncor, The Lufkin Daily News; Media Sponsor: Attendees of the Lufkin/Angelina County day in Austin.

KTRE TV 9.

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DEBIT/CREDIT CARDS

AND MUCH MORE! WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/GENCOFCU

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 gencofcu.org • 936.637.7710 • 800.922.6428

I I1402 South John Redditt Drive Lufkin Federally Insured By NCUA

LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 23

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

Small Business
of the Year Awards

Small business is a vital to the American free enterprise system. Each year, the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber
of Commerce recognizes the finest local small businesses. The Chamber proudly recognized the 2016 Small
Business of the Year Award winners: Air Cooled Engine Co., The Center for Sign, and PID Group!

The PID Group was named Small Business of the Year, The Center for Sight was named Small Business of the Year,
Division I. Division II.

Air Cooled Engine Co. was named Small Business of the Year, Division III. Thank you to our sponsors!

24 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG Presenting Sponsor
City Wide Directories, LLC

Gold Sponsors
Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy
Commercial Bank of Texas

Gipson Funeral Home

Silver Sponsors
Alexander & Spencer PC

Davis Insurance
Edward Jones- Vince Treadwell

Lee TranServices
Pepsi Bottling Co.
Slaughter & Sons Inc.

Walmart
Zimmerman Communications

Media Sponsor
Lufkin Daily News

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW

19th Annual Science & Tech Fair

The 19th Annual Angelina County Science & Technology Fair was held on April
28, 2016 and April 29, 2016 at the George H. Henderson Exposition Center.
Angelina County students in grades 6-12 from public, private, and home
school had the opportunity to show their enthusiasm for science and technology by
competing for exciting rewards and prizes. This year’s events included: Catapult,
Conversion Contraption, Invention, Life Science, SuGo Robotics and Wiffle Robotics.

Thank you to Presenting Sponsor: Lockheed Martin; Gold Sponsors:
Double S Industrial Contractors Inc., Little Caesar’s Inc., Consolidated
Communications; Silver Sponsors: CCM Electric, Southern Reliant Electric
Inc., Forestar Real Estate Group, Cherokee Industrial Fab Ltd., K&B
Moonwalk, Servpro of Lufkin/South Nacogdoches County, Gipson Funeral
Home, Loggins Plumbing, Lufkin Golf Club, and Choice Cut Meats; Event
Sponsor: Robotics - Schlotzsky’s Deli; Media Sponsor: KTRE TV 9

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 25

ANGELINA BEAUTIFUL/CLEAN

AB/C Celebrates Arbor Day

Angelina Beautiful/Clean is celebrating Arbor
Day. The non-profit organization invites you to
the annual tree seedling give-a-way. Campbell
Global, Angelina Beautiful/Clean and the Texas
A&M Forest Service will give away more than 10,000
seedlings at Lowe’s (3501 South Medford Drive) on
Thursday, February 2. The event will take place in the
parking lot at 10 a.m. A variety of hardwood trees will
be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

A special thank you to Woodland Heights Medical
Center, Campbell Global, Lowe’s and Texas A&M
Forest Service.

Junior Achievement

Join the fun as Junior Achievement hosts its annual Bowl-a-thon Feb. 6th, 7th and 9th from 6pm-9pm. Three
nights of fun, supporting financial
literacy, entrepreneurship and
work readiness programs for local
students.

It’s a bird, it’s a plane….No, it’s JA!
Be a JA Superhero and bowl with JA
board members & friends on Feb. 6th.
Capes, masks and super powers will
be everywhere!

S’Mores & Strikes Bowling under the
Stars with Woodland Heights. Get
out your plaid and join WHMC as they
present the second night of bowling
on Feb. 7th. A great night of fun with
an outdoor feel - dress in your favorite
camping gear and enjoy your favorite
campfire snack…S’Mores!

Or rock out with big hair, bright neon
and great 80s tunes and join Lufkin ER
as they present the 3rd night of bowling
on Feb. 9th. This awesome party will
have you supporting JA…like Totally!

JuniorAchievementAngelinaCounty.org
[email protected]
936.632.0490

26 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Greetings
from the
Expo!

We hope you all had a great Christmas and are looking forward to a fantastic and LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 27
productive 2017. 2016 was a great year for the Expo, and I’d like to thank all of the
sponsors and volunteers that give time and treasure to make each event we host go
smoothly and provide good memories for our visitors.

As I visit other facilities and events, I come to realize what a great asset to our
community we enjoy, not just the buildings, property and equipment but the support
it receives from our Law Enforcement, Judges, Justice of the Peace, County
Commissioners and the City of Lufkin. Every appeal for assistance on behalf of the
Expo has always been met with positive enthusiasm.

A couple of examples…
• When there were approximately 600 head of cattle here for a national show, we
had a major electrical failure. In less than two hours, our City Manager had temporary
generators hooked up until repairs could be made. From an event management
standpoint, a disaster was averted.
• Time and labor are critical when we have back to back events. To clean up
(think about 265 horses, in stalls for three days!) remove all trash, break down and
reconfigure our setup requires manpower and equipment. Sheriff Sanches has
arranged for the inmate work crew to be available and assist us in having the Expo
ready for visitors.

THANK YOU to our city and county officials for what they do for us “behind the
scenes”

As 2017 gets under way, make plans to attend some of the great events we have the
privilege to host.

As always, we look forward to seeing you at the Expo as we keep working to attract
new and bigger events! Go to www.angelinaexpocenter.com to check out our events
calendar or like us on Facebook.

Burt Hairgrove, Director

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

ROARING into 2017 with a Pre-historic
FAMILY DAY at the Temple Theater

ERTH’S DINOSAUR ZOO LIVE! – FAMILY FUNDAY in American playwriting - Neil Simon. It seems fitting
2 pm & 5 pm Sunday January 15, 2017 this season to honor the play that put Neil Simon on the
map, and celebrate 50 years with one of the best theatre
What if Dinosaurs came back and walked the earth companies in the country; Montana Repertory Theatre.
AGAIN? Here is a dinosaur experience like no other, Barefoot in the Park, is a comedy of the heart. Paul
with a chance to get up close and personal. This show Bratter is Mister Straight. Corie is his new wife, who
delivers fun, excitement and a great learning opportunity! dedicates her life to the pursuit of fun. As the ecstasy
These two - 1 hour-long performances are a MUST for of the honeymoon gives way to the reality of setting
all DINOSAUR LOVER, and will deliver an unforgettable up housekeeping in a five-flight walk-up apartment in
family experience. Plan a little extra time to enjoy the Greenwich Village, the harmony of marriage turns to
cool and creative activities in the theater lobby designed comical discord. The mother-in-law complains a lot—
to bring families together. The fun begins when the the middle-aged neighbor upstairs flirts too much. Joy
theater lobby opens at 12:30 pm. There you can DIG turns to anguish. But there is little doubt that the young
for your own fossils at the DINO DIG site sponsored by people will kiss and make up in the end, just as there’s
the Naranjo Museum of Natural History, have little faces little doubt that the mother and the neighbor will find
painted, and enjoy refreshments – ALL FREE! If you are each other. This Neil Simon classic was made into a
brave enough ask about VIP seating in the first five rows film in 1967 starring Robert Redford and Jane Fonda,
– tickets are $20 – Youth, and $25 – Adult, which include and like the best romantic comedies, explores love,
a free souvenir for the kids, and a ‘meet and greet’ with relationship, family, marriage, the pangs of loss, and the
the dinosaurs before the show! The FAMILY FUNDAY joy of reunion.
Series are Sunday shows - full of fun, action-packed, Rating: Parental guidance suggested—mature themes/
family friendly entertainment that is easy on the wallet language
with general admission tickets priced $5 - $10. HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE TEMPLE THEATER!
Don’t forget a Family Funday ‘Family – 4 – Pack’ of tickets
makes a great stocking stuffer! ALL tickets for the 2016-2017 season went on sale
Neil Simon’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK · Tuesday, August 1st! Make your purchases TODAY - by phone,
February 28, 2017 / 7:30 pm online, and at the Temple Theater Box Office! Visit our
website to view videos, photos and for ticket information.
Fifty years ago Barefoot in the Park was produced (936) 633-5454 www.angelinaarts.org
on Broadway, jump starting the career of a true giant

28 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

CI TY OF LUFK
S
INUFKIN, TEXA
L
LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 29
BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

Economic Development Indicators Lufkin/Angelina County

Labor Force Statistics for Lufkin/Angelina County

Last Year (October 2015) This Year (October 2016)

Area Labor Force Employment Unemployment Rate Area Labor Force Employment Unemployment Rate

U.S. 157,096,000 149,197,000 7,899,000 5.0 U.S. 159,712,000 151,925,000 7,787,000 4.9

Texas 13,114,424 12,531,868 582,556 4.4 Texas 13,334,556 12,749,778 584,778 4.4

Deep East Texas 152,441 143,256 9,185 6.0 Deep East Texas 151,268 142,439 8,829 5.8

Angelina 37,021 34,760 2,261 6.1 Angelina 36,536 34,379 2,157 5.9

Lufkin 15,524 14,592 932 6.0 Lufkin 15,299 14,432 867 5.7

According to a press release from the Texas Workforce Commission the September and October labor market data for Texas, including the total nonfarm jobs and the unemployment rate, were postponed due to the Federal
shutdown. According to ADP Regional Employment Report Texas added 22,330 Private Sector Jobs in September. For more information, please visit Texas Workforce Commission’s labor market database at www.tracer2.com.

City of Lufkin

Sales Tax History-Cash Basis 2013-2017

Month FY 2012-13 FY 2013-2014 FY 2014-2015 FY 2015-2016 FY 2016-2017 Increase/Decrease
from Previous Year
October $1,038,819.47 $1,028,742.67 $1,073,521.04 $1,076,600.49 $1,162,313.30
November $1,174,785.12 $1,072,565.72 $1,243,722.39 $1,295,623.56 $1,255,477.44 7.96%
December $1,095,142.70 $1,094,006.48 -3.10%
January $986,749.77 $997,167.18 $1,108,342.98 $1,220,720.25
February $969,343.57 $777,486.15 $1,564,497.54 $1,606,869.55 $2,417,790.74 1.92%
March $1,567,624.14 $1,490,009.83 $1,067,202.55
April $1,011,733.01 $943,200.10 $1,067,603.69 $964,470.24
May $1,093,675.87 $1,021,055.22 $1,311,373.79 $1,072,173.68
June $1,326,336.42 $1,317,880.66 $1,048,003.29 $1,416,074.98
July $994,927.04 $1,055,012.06 $1,025,437.84 $1,087,555.02
August $1,001,108.76 $1,067,975.66 $1,333,216.74 $1,109,991.69
September $1,274,895.79 $1,257,510.87 $1,140,947.44 $1,339,533.02
Totals $972,280.47 $1,076,881.27 $14,079,011.99 $1,107,172.87
$13,412,279.43 $13,105,487.39 $14,390,791.83

City of Lufkin Cities Comparison

Sales Tax Historical Analysis for October 2016 receipts

Month % Change % Change % Change % Change % Change State Collections only
2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17
October 5.23% -0.97% 4.35% 0.29% 7.96%
November 3.11% -8.70% 15.96% 4.17% -3.10%
December 2.33% 1.06% 9.83% -0.10%
January -3.94% -19.79% 42.55% 10.14% City Net Payment Comparable % Change
February 4.30% -4.95% 5.00% 2.71% This Period Payment
March 15.73% -6.77% 13.15% -9.63% Lufkin Prior Year -3.45%
April 10.59% -6.64% 4.56% 0.43% Beaumont $1,247,053.98 -0.81%
May 5.73% -0.64% -0.49% 7.98% Diboll $3,691,292.02 $1,291,682.53 -24.07%
June 5.60% 6.04% -0.66% 3.77% Henderson $3,721,743.34 -11.79%
July .13% 6.68% -3.98% 8.25% Jasper $47,613.26 31.49%
August 1.95% -1.36% 6.02% 0.47% Nacogdoches $528,268.98 $62,714.06 -0.96%
September 2.05% 10.76% 5.95% -2.96% Tyler $467,015.82 $598,901.10 -2.96%
$563,031.81 $355,168.25
$3,617,818.61 $568,525.56
$3,728,293.76

30 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

On the Scene
Snapshots from recent Chamber events.
To learn more about upcoming events
see the Chamber Calendar on page 6.

Salute to Healthcare Business After Five
hosted by
Citizens National Bank

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 31

ON THE SCENE

Business After Five
hosted by Texas Heritage Furniture

Business After Five
hosted by Beard Fine Jewelers & Cattle Baron’s Kick-Off

32 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

ON THE SCENE

First Friday Luncheon November

Business After Five LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 33
hosted by Buffalo Wild Wings

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017

ON THE SCENE

Business After Five
hosted by Crown Colony Country Club

Business After Five
hosted by Ferguson

34 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

ON THE SCENE

Business After Five
hosted by Georgia Pacific

Power Networking Breakfast
November

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 35

ON THE SCENE

Elected Officials Reception

Power Networking Breakfast
October

36 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Carroway

FUNERAL HOME

Locally Owned and Managed in Lufkin & Huntington

A name you know.
People you can trust.

Call 936-699-7107 today! 2704 S. John Redditt Dr. Roy Carroway
Lufkin Owner
BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017
936-634-2255 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG 37

ON THE SCENE

State of the Schools Luncheon
December

38 LUFKINTEXAS.ORG JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017  BusinessLINK

Helping People Succeed

Respecting People. AL&H
Impacting Business.
ALEXANDER
• Administrative LANKFORD &
• General Labor
• Sales/Marketing HIERS, INC.
• Welding
• Engineering 4000 S. Medford Dr.
• Professional Staffing Lufkin, Texas 75901-5500

936-632-1171 936-560-1810 (936) 632-7771
Lufkin Nacogdoches CERTIFIED PUBLIC

Thank you for voting Express the ACCOUNTANTS
Best Employment Agency in both A Professional Corporation

Lufkin & Nacogdoches! Lufkin Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

BusinessLINK  JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2017 Proudly Supports
the Chamber

Serving Angelina, Polk & Trinity Counties
Since 1905

704 Webber • Lufkin • 936-639-2355

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