Abilene Chamber Connection NOV2017

2 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

CHAMBER PRESIDENT/CEO CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP AWARDS CELEBRATION More info on chamber programs & events can be
DOUG PETERS Annual meeting and celebration honoring our found on our website : abilenechamber.com
CONTENT COORDINATOR members with awards & accolades. The Chamber’s CHAMBER SIGNATURE PROGRAMS
ERICA PANGBURN biggest party of the year. DLEeAveDloEpRiSnHgIlPeaAdBeIrLshEiNpEskills and community
DESIGN BAUnnSuTaElDgoPlfUtToTuErnRamGOenLtFhCelLdAiSnSpICartnership with the knowledge
ADRIAN GOMEZ, JOEL TORRES, LETTY HINOJOSA Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee. HISPANIC BUSINESS COUNCIL
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS: TEXAS FARM RANCH WILDLIFE EXPO Advancement of Hispanic businesses through
DOUG PETERS, DOUG WILLIAMSON, Annual agribusiness event at Taylor County Expo education, training, advocacy and networking
TRISH DRESSEN, SIDNEY LEVESQUE, Center, in partnership with Texas A&M AgriLife YAOttrUacNtiGngP,RreOtaFiEnSinSgIO, eNnAgaLgSing yp’s in Abilene
AUDREY SCHROYER, MARSHALL MORRIS Extension Office. RWEeDlcCoOmAinTgSnew & growing businesses with
CHAMBER AFFILIATES: BAuBsuinseinsessMs-teor-cCaodnosumer fall family EXPO targeting ribbon cuttings/ ground breaking ceremonies
DAeBvILeEloNpEAbINileDnUeS.cToRmIAL FOUNDATION Abilene’s Hispanic community & celebrating anniversaries
ABILENE CONVENTION & VISITORS MONTHLY & QUARTERLY CHAMBER MILITARY AFFAIRS
BUREAU NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Supporting Abilene’s Dyess AFB community
Abilenevisitors.com THE CHAMBER IN 60 with quarterly luncheons, the Abilene Trophy
ABILENE CULTURAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL Quarterly meeting for new members and members want- & the world’s largest barbecue
Abilenecac.org ing to reacquaint themselves with the chamber ABILENE BUSINESS COUNCIL
CHAMBER PREMIER EVENTS HMIoSnPtAhNly InCeBtwUoSrIkNinEgSlSunLcUhNeoCnH@EOmNemS ber Developing business growth through
BUSINESS EXPO restaurant education, recognition of outstanding
The Chamber’s annual premier opportunity for you to FARM & RANCH CLUB businesses & business people
showcase your business. Monthly networking breakfast with a guest speaker AFoGruRmICUfoLrTaUgRriEcuCltOurMalMinIdTuTsTtrEieEs to share
SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS LUNCHEON WAKE UP! WEDNESDAY innovations, ideas and information
Spotlighting businesses and individuals who play a Monthly networking breakfast event GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
vital role inbuilding our community and economy. sponsorship opportunity Advocating at the local and state level on
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS behalf of member businesses
Monthly networking event @member
business - sponsorship opportunity
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
A gathering of the Big Country’s 21-40 year old demo-
graphic. Come connect and seek out new opportunities
to plug in at AYP After Five. Abileneyp.org

GOLD STAR INVESTORS

The Abilene Chamber thanks its Gold Star Investors who voluntarily show extraordinary support of chamber programs and activities. Find a complete list of our members at abilenechamber.com

AEP Texas RESTORATION Honda of Abilene Senter, REALTORS
Abilene Banking Center - Coleman Coca-Cola Refreshments USA, Inc. Imperial Construction, Inc. Star Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep-Hyundai
Condley and Company, LLP KTAB-TV/KRBC-TV Starks Construction Co.
County State Bank Davis Kinard & Co, PC KTXS/KTXE/This TV Abilene/ Suddenlink Communications
Abilene Christian University Dodge Jones Foundation Taylor Electric Cooperative, Inc.
City of Abilene Eagle Aviation Services, Inc. CW Abilene Tejon Exploration
Abilene Diagnostic Clinic Exceptional Brands Lithia Toyota of Abilene Texas Oncology - Abilene
Abilene Independent School District First Bank Texas Lockheed Martin Texas State Technical College
Abilene Regional Medical Center First Financial Bank Lowe’s Home Improvement Center
Abilene Reporter-News Funeral Directors Life Mall of Abilene West Texas Abilene
Abilene Teachers Federal Credit Union Mansefeldt Investment Corporation Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Alon/7 Eleven Insurance Company Market Street Underhill Investment Management LLC
Arrow Ford Mitsubishi, Inc. Garver McMahon Surovik Suttle, P.C. United Supermarkets
Atmos Energy General Electric Renewable Energy McMurry University David Waldrop Interiors, Inc.
BBVA Compass Bank H. E. Butt Grocery Company Philpott Florist & Greenhouses Walmart
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas Lawrence Hall Abilene Prosperity Bank West Texas Rehabilitation Center
The Boeing Company Hardin-Simmons University Reed Beverage - Abilene Whitten, Hacker, Hagin, Anderson,
BRIERCROFT FIRE & WATER Hendrick Health System Rentech Boiler Systems
Allen & Self, P.C.

Note from the presidentCONNECTION | NOVEMBER12,2017 3
FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEOGoodday,Abilene!
Greetings from the Abilene Chamber of
Commerce, our Board of Directors, profession-
resentative Stan Lambert and his colleague,
Senator Dawn Buckingham, for the heavy lift.

We still have a stretch to go before we
Dear Valued Chamber Memberalstaffandmostimportantly,the1,400small
businesses we represent here in our great
community.
I write to you as I look out my office
cross the finish line, but we can see it from
here. Currently, a deep-dive market assess-
ment is being completed and the final piece
will come in a vote by City Council to approve
and the Abilene Community:window–thebirdsaresinging,thegrassis
green, people are out and about (and hopeful-
ly spending money!) and there is a sense of
great things happening all across our area.
Soon, our little ones will head off to the project. Let’s all keep our fingers crossed
that this project – and all that follows it –
keeps sailing along as it has.

The summer also brought us news that
Abilene has approved the sale of alcohol
enscdhooofl atnhde wper’ollvaellrgbeitablarcokpteo.it – contribut- ntherro,utghhe2Dame.veWlohpilme tehnatt dCooesrnp’tosroautniodnlikoef
I’m grateful for the tremendous crooiaacnlnom“egmdR.iimTnebnnAeughoainniunihsnigrtdsoykawa.lntipofchdoraeekar”rtnpyiaolnsatf.cmhoweuisLohnr,emaskgtture’mposanwpbartonioenryamutgbihtniWoagntvuhedgetsertceeyaTaualotelpcxeuchd-aarsuses toAahmaontnebiaylaneniyrnlgybde.saiangtusiDvemdruiaesee(riaDgioatlnnnrhCtgedoafOatotsahAtrogeAmtap)hci,belnoeaaiuoftclnufrheesdtauneutstero,aooefiuithososrdtfuoyvaodrsoreiotwustewnowomangrfakeetsotordmtiwtenghrnaencnelt,orloerewtrs--e
support that you’ve provided me other Sopfeaakninigmopfosrchtaonolt, Iinwiatsiaptriivveileogfed to bautiosinn–eswsh,obmuwt ealwsoorkashaardptloackeeetphaastpiasrt of
over the course of the last two years.
Being a member of the Abilene
community has been everything my
family had thought it would be – and thpearCtichiapmatebienrt’sheBsutrsaitnegeiscspClaonunnincgilex–ertchisee doeuerpwloyrkcfoomrcem–itgteendertaollyednotnr’etpvreenntuerue roiuatl
then some. And although the last iBuunydeBritgakCeonubnytAryISDca, mthpe ascihgono.l board, Super- sfuorcctheesse.vening until late. This measure by
two years have flown by, I’ve had bethyCitsinhigaootettunehbsnlsbTscaudoUwoihtcengrnenikes,nrdstbuteeehkDoputrpof.apcrtosvaohekofrAidedeeerAuanilttYgecsrdboahtweiudoitsvtlineiuTeedhtrguhsrneaihenannessinmtdpkdcsdahaoeoasoyhnnnfofiladeDosiegvfylrtglhies.eelrnt,aaE–leedmiidfnnaneimd.igtxrgni,seosegwenstsho--o EAAostthenutIbrhemFteiersClmrfeetHioTtcepntyhirrharetaeittwe.tethr’hnsseiawlBeefnlhooeiuEaafrIrlhsfrlhoioosnbtnpawphoeevpeeiweAoopnthurthbehtmrpiuelienpcorlnsesoDoriApetmnugyCapsbermcOfra,etiouoolAmrohgnecrreoin,otearuyesBmeBnrs,tutEpdcoooieiivstliftioieindnezlaurlceiwnltnranuhnisgtde.hien,- eafinyonedrteol2renF0nti’as1nal8laatllitllohiymsa,nttaaahtklheCeitCsharhnasapavmemeefcfbbloiaeerpltrrr’m-stoos5ogpc0nreo-taplhnemlbuswros,ailrytlleeeeb.dadrri-nbgy,
the privilege of meeting and work- ouparrtriociapdatse,ds.uWppe oshrotsultdhaollsbeeienxcniteeeddt,o see ibmupt oknrtoawntthcatoomupr oconmemnut noiftytihsefircsot mfocmuuse-d oClhdaMmilbitearryCAhfafaiirrms CaonmJmaicttkeeRweinllthzoladnidts
ing alongside many of you, and I’m anwdhagtolieess ahhoeamdefowr AitIhSDt,haonsdeseumpppolrot ytheedm as nointyb’esinegctohneobmesitcAdbeilveneelowpemcaennbt es,twrahti-le ahninsuwalipferemBeiecrkeyg.olfOenveAntp, trhile 1Bu, sJtaedckPutter
grateful for the overwhelming spirit CalnadssiBc,efcekatyurwiniglla dsaeluptaerttotthheis UyeSaAr’s fHoornor-
of cooperation and the commitment oahsaBnaiupsrfaneiypsanwtdihptjCleeoieoihcnnnrcdMautegggiealrlA,rebytmmbCuCeosareferhaanniDanmt,nieldanyDtbnDesaearsei.yarsttardJeareAsnisvecms,smoFdtacvaiBeWnnan.snitdspgededIiboeDtahwsueninrtonxs.edidplrWtgype.chteieiybhDvmbroouierislpuu.eits’aoWenrnlinrlrne.tcpejalxoeibeWnanisatsntrstdgateuetircrsch-
to helping Abilene to “win,” day in ftohrefuercthoenrodmetiacilspsoowone!rhouse of Shang-
and day out. iementchtmto.hhooAoeertnnyEeebbotlveehaimAimslnesntesrybndonsymaoucetrwhmarhtk.no,idaoToymototlhrnhwoeedeifeansipwnsmyttircoordaoeowouigmcenngsnthaipretsiaeiniyevisesnsesnoctuiihfltfvdnooaeoaestllsoelonslcotrytueawrrttwteatoheepstadeacbioutgdotfeeftyonceTtbrvoaietnoumeonxnfagcibtnskei.go-n wetamnshsgceeaahyvtkte.hneedreeesFBuTaneuielbsnhedcfstaodaaornwlrttlaufedyohot,“orlroeonfadigtnonwgiohnygcneneeg,u’sotfcatasahrvfablleoellloau.rlt–Wgtnshsieeioetitntsnuhat,ebneTsesoiesqucuexuotgnsaestagvsnalyelFierrssatstohtsituresantpmtahm’tnssah,d,t”eantt hai. IThhopeettrhiapt,yaolul-ribnucsliunessisvies fstrroomngLanAdX
Arbeailietyneth, awn eit’ps eovkeer baehenolbeefionret.hAatcibtyupcrki-- aRnoddecoownitlilnbue ahlelrye,bwuitihlda-llosuotrttshoef gtroeoatls lTdtmwriehnoeoaaxeeicurtnlaanlnlgysul,sodatwda,husltelo’eirrfsnrweiBsrpthelaEoeusiSmcaprxTcaiponrauBprmnftrealedoamytricetcejieoitaortnbinscren,gatcdoiiAongstatehumrmsooeayemtSutrfoooaihunocmCmraaddinChtalayotkhgit!rneialhaiomvaAannebibas,s,ei-s,wlraetonlolrek,,
That spirit is alive and well in eto,riatyndforthmoasney dyeoalrlsa, rIs’ve–emnjuoycehd ntheeepdreodcess aanctdivriteisesouanrdcevsisaitvoarsilfarobmlefatroatnhdowseidwe. hLoet’s poOrntawtairodn! and more – at a cost of
Abilene. And while I continue to tttoyotbotthhhfysk–aeehuttecrehbLpewealepseppepooipgituonut’lriaslgrorondlct.jcateeeoatltscTnlohltanhabdtedbeethveserlonaeoeditlccceeuflawkudoaestn,rndoeltesidoussfnsolcpokdorlwieauoofnlerieutguploog.lerrsiufpmisupnlrroanaaogftrlcdvlityootsi,idnhnmtgbeoeetienmtnofhsnueeAueolrenfaunicuetltsildeirttt-dyoin coofrpMhfpoeimrtoopcantoeolohitmBstmrheSyetbE,efmupitewtroritnosuhentttiminhotttcAaioyibhemtskxebyewetretoi.ewiblpnltelrhohdaineonurenoegtaraunrsrbbreoieulsrefwerskaixsenmHnspagtoci.etoshusropgiseaoaepnAnftncirubhciousnieHlvgmetroeniAdrbaecibenteehalirdogele-sen-e onDlyou$g2,099 per traveler ($2,199 for
sometimes scratch my head over com- owthne lobcuacl rkeeqtu.irement to bring the deal to fru- pbrroatveitdheeshfisotroruy,pcutoltu$r2al5c0o,n0t0ri0buintioanws aanrdd non-Chamber members). We’ll have
ments I hear occasionally from those an information session on November
who may be less than thrilled about 20 for those interested in participat-
our great City, the overwhelming ma- itionI.’mA hpeaartfieclut tlhaarnlyk yporuoutodouorf Stthatee Rep- mmoonreefyrotmo osuurcHciesspsafnuicl cboumsminuneistsy.stKaeretp-an ing. I hope you’ll come to hear more
jority of folks – particularly among about it.
the business community – remain
committed to creating a uniquely On behalf of the Board of Di-
successful community for all of us. rectors, our incredible volunteers
In fact, I’ve come to understand that and our dedicated professional staff,
Abilene will always believe that our partnership that exists between the up pitches. New business formation thank you for your support of the
City isn’t good enough for any of us public and private sectors here in is critical, and BE in Abilene goes Big Country’s chief business advoca-
until it’s good enough for all of us. Abilene. Many local elected officials a long way to helping to ease the cy organization. For more than 100
What is “good enough?” It’s understand that here in Abilene, Tex- burden of capitalizing a new small years, your support has helped the
a city which economic opportunity as we have an economic engine that is enterprise. Check it out at www. Chamber to help this great City. We
abounds for each of our citizens. It’s driven by small business. In fact, the developabilene.com or www.bein- look very forward to that continued
a community that’s inclusive and smallest employers in Abilene ARE abilene.com. partnership.
committed to doing the right things the economic engine. They provide And finally, we’re looking very
for the right reasons. It’s a region the lion’s share of first jobs for our forward to the new year, and we are Onward!
where we include and engage our young, they train our workforce, hopeful that the spirit of coopera- Doug
neighbors because of their role in they sweat out payroll and govern- tion that is notably Abilene touches Douglas S. Peters
working, shopping, employing and ment tax and regulatory burden. each of us as we pursue opportunity President & CEO
learning with us. And at the end of the day, they hope for ourselves, our families and our
Crossing the goal line of “good to keep a nickel of their earnings for great City. 2018 promises much value
enough,” in my view at least, is their work. to the Chamber’s growing member-
only a starting point. The Abilene Because of that public/private ship – from our core role as business
Chamber is committed to helping to partnership, the Chamber’s Abilene advocate to providing promotion,
create more than that. We want to be Industrial Foundation (AIF), a private networking and added-value to each
the best, and that level of excellence affiliate of the Chamber is working of our members.
requires all of us to pull on the same closely with our public-sector part- One of the new value offerings

4 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

The Abilene Chamber is proud to congratulate
Chamber-member Tige boats on this award

Tige Boats is the proud recipient of 2017 Platinum
Safety Partner Award by Texas Mutual Insurance. Only
200 out of the 68,000 Texas Mutual companies were
recognized with this award in 2017.

The Platinum Safety Partner Award is presented to
companies that demonstrate commitment to workplace
safety by implementing an exemplary safety program
and controlling their workers’ compensation losses.
This award is significant due to the level of hand done
processes and the use of chemicals that goes into the
Tige product. Using modern tactics and a full team
effort, Tige Boats is proud to produce world-class boats
through a progressive and safe company culture.

“We are known at Tige for our progressiveness and
quality throughout the Tige product, and we take the
same approach in regards to safety,” stated Charlie Pi-
geon, Founder and CEO of Tige Boats. “This recognition
honors the commitment of our team for their efforts and
continuous improvement. With our safety practices in
place, we see a significant increase in overall employee
moral and empowerment to craft the best boat possi-
ble.”

Tige Boats employs more than 200 people and
amassed a total of over 400,000 work hours in 2016.
Tige is proud to empower its employees to contribute
ideas or concerns to best practices. Tige Boats also puts
a significant amount of effort into ‘going green’ and
taking care of the environment throughout the manufac-
turing process.

• DRILLING EQUIPMENT Serving the Big Country Since 1962!
• PRODUCTION
Bunkley Electric Industrial • Commercial • Residential
EQUIPMENT
• OILFIELD, INDUSTRIAL Company • Licensed, bonded, and insured!
• New commercial construction
SUPPLES AVAILABLE • Design build
• Residential and commercial
242 South 11th, P.O. Box 1286 Abilene, Texas 79604
service work
www.ectool.com • Electrical service upgrades
• Ask your home warranty
Office: (325) 673-3781 • Fax: (325) 673-1035 • Toll Free: (800) 395-4142
AB-1446615 company about us!
AB-1447380
(325) 677- 4460 • 1173 Woodlawn Dr., Abilene, TX • BunkleyElectric.com

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 5

EIDE BAILLY DEBUTS IN TEXAS

Davis Kinard & Co. to Join Firm on Dec. 4
Davis Kinard & Co, PC will become vative firm, always looking for better
part of Eide Bailly LLP, a regional cer- and different ways to serve our clients.
tified public accounting and business We’re excited to be able to bring these
advisory firm, on Dec. 4. services to more businesses in Texas
and the surrounding regions.”
Davis Kinard & Co will assume the
Eide Bailly name and add 11 partners Eide Bailly’s robust culture and
and 80 staff members to the firm. The breadth of services attracted Davis
joining marks Eide Bailly’s debut in Kinard & Co, said its President/CEO
Texas, with offices in Abilene, Haskell, Russell Guthrie.
Plainview and Seymour.
“We’ll be able to grow with our
“We’ve had our sights set on Texas clients by offering more resources and
for a while, and Davis Kinard & Co will services like state and local tax, tech-
be a great addition to the Eide Bailly nology, forensics and cyber security. In
family,” said Eide Bailly Managing Part- addition, our staff benefit with greater
ner/CEO Dave Stende. “Texas fits with opportunities to advance their careers
our growth strategy to expand west of through training and specialization,”
the Mississippi and gives us a great- Guthrie said. “Eide Bailly’s culture
er presence in banking, government mirrors ours so we’ll continue to be ac-
and nonprofit, which are prominent tive in our communities. We’re looking
industries for our firm. We are an inno- forward to joining the firm.”

ABOUT EIDE BAILLY LLP

Eide Bailly’s journey began in 1917. By embracing change and focusing on innovative ideas, we’ve grown with
our clients to become one of the top 25 accounting firms in the nation. Accounting is about numbers, but our
business is about relationships. Talented, down-to-earth people work at Eide Bailly, and we’re inspired to deliver
outstanding expertise and care to our clients across the nation in the areas of audit, tax, accounting and business
advisory services.

— NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OTHER FUNERAL HOME —

Services in Our Chapel, 325-692-2232
Your Church or at Graveside
ROBERT & KARLA HAMIL
Cremation Services Owners & Managers
Affordable Preneed

Insurance Plans

6449 Buffalo Gap Road 1065 S 2nd St | (325) 677-3575
3433 N 1st St | (325) 677-8178
www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com 3600 S Treadaway, (325) 695-1170

AB-1017952 AB-1740598

6 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

Hey, MAC, what
are you doing?
By Doug Williamson
INTERIM MILITARY AFFAIRS VP policy, military operations and
many other defense-oriented
Keeping and Growing. activities. So, decisions made
That’s what your Military in his committee and moved
Affairs Committee (MAC) has up the line to the whole U.S.
for its targets. House of Representatives can
have significant direct effects
Keeping Dyess Air Force on Dyess and Abilene.
Base and the total military
presence in Abilene strong He spoke to a Military
and viable. Affairs Committee luncheon
at McMurry University and
Growing Dyess by ex- spent hours on the base,
panding current missions and visiting with leadership and
gaining additional ones. Airmen. While he was here,
he heard the Dyess story, its
MAC spent much time and successes and its capabilities,
effort on hitting those targets but he also shared with us the
in the third quarter of 2017. direction he sees the military
Since we still have the World heading, along with the obsta-
Series on our minds, I’d say cles. With that knowledge, we
we hit some home runs. can craft our message and our
targets.
To keep and grow, we have
to inform, and we certainly Arrington spoke at the
have been successful in that luncheon, praising the jobs
effort. But we also have to lis- Dyess personnel do in defense
ten. And that’s really equally of the country and the Mili-
significant. Finding out what tary Affairs Committee does in
the military or Congress needs supporting the base.
from us and what challenges
they have to overcome helps He also played a major role
us chart our course in MAC. in the second significant ac-
complishment of the quarter,
In August, U.S. Reps. Jodey where a delegation from the
Arrington and Mac Thorn- MAC spent time on Capitol
berry visited the base and the Hill and at the Pentagon, once
city. Arrington, our congress- again, informing and listening.
man, invited Thornberry to
the city and Dyess. Thornber- Arrington briefed the
ry also ranks right up there group on the status of many
at the top of the important projects that could be related
list, serving as the Chairman to Dyess, and listened to our
of the House Armed Services needs.
Committee. His committee CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
has jurisdiction over defense

Team Dyess 2017 at the Annual DC BBQ,
held at George Washington’s River Farm.

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 7

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 office. right on top of this. It would be a activity, but less-formal events,
While at the Capitol in Septem- At the top of our discussion list great boost to the base and the city, also are important. Again this year,
ber, members of the Abilene MAC and a good thing to do for the long- MAC sponsored a Texas Cowboy
group also spent time with Sens. for each of the meetings was the B-21 term security of our nation. Cookout, featuring a great dinner
John Cornyn and Ted Cruz. In addi- “Raider,” the Air Force’s next-gen- from Tom and Lisa Perini, of Perini
tion, parts of the group briefed staff eration bomber. It is likely to come The B-21 wasn’t the only thing Ranch Steakhouse. It was held on the
members from the Texas delegation online in the mid-2020s, and we feel we discussed on the Hill and at the grounds of George Washington’s Riv-
and from the Senate Armed Services secure that Dyess would be an ex- Pentagon. We spoke of the daily er Farm, also the home of the Ameri-
Committee and Senate Defense Ap- cellent place for it to be based and a missions of the 317th Airlift Wing can Horticultural Society.
propriations Subcommittee. proven successful training location. in supporting military and humani-
Another MAC group went to the We detailed to all those tarian efforts around the world. Just A number of the folks we talked to
Pentagon and met with Air Force officials some of Dyess’ a couple of months ago, Dyess Air during the week took off their uni-
Secretary Dr. Heather Wilson; Gen. selling points: Mobility Command personnel and forms or suits and donned their jeans
Stephen “Seve” Wilson, Vice Chief ■ More than 3 million additional feet of aircraft were on five continents at and boots. The casual night event
of Staff of the Air Force; Brigadier ramp space available the same time. also featured Energy Secretary and
General Jay Jensen, Director of Air ■ Little-to-no encroachment problems former Texas Governor Rick Perry
Force Reserve Plans, Programs and ■ Quickly accessible training routes In addition, we spoke on the need and his wife Anita as special guests.
Requirements; the Deputy Assistant ■ A track record as a training base to repair almost 175 dormitory rooms
Secretary for Installations; and an ■ A welcoming community on the base, expand the presence As you can see, your MAC’s been
upper-level representative from the of Air Force Reserve units at Dyess, busy informing and listening. For more
Strategic Plans and Requirements We don’t know when the deci- continue to upgrade the B-1 “Lanc- information about how you can get
sions will be made, but we’re staying er,” and a number of other topics. involved, contact Doug Williamson,
Interim Military Affairs VP, Abilene
Sitting in offices, face-to-face Chamber of Commerce. 325-665-0571.
with decision-makers is a vital

8 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

Chamber to embark on global experiences
Saint Augustine said, “the world is a book, features Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill
and those who do not travel read only a page.” as well as the Seventeen Arch Bridge and the And then you’ll depart Shanghai to fly back you at the November 20 travel orientation ses-
Marble Boat. to Beijing, followed by a comfortable flight sion where you can ask questions, learn more
Isn’t that the truth? It’s a big world we live back to L.A. and meet with others who will travel in April.
in, and to experience the culture, business Day four will deliver you to the Great Wall,
practices, governments and people of the world the 4,000 mile long and 2,000 year old struc- And get this – we’ve leveraged special Lastly, I took this trip just a few short years
is one way we all learn to improve our own ture which is the only man-made structure group pricing exclusive for Chamber members ago as a member of a delegation of Chamber ex-
communities. visible from the moon by the naked eye. You’ll of $2,099 per person, including all interna- ecutives from across the U.S. Simply put, it is
visit the Ming Tombs, which has 13 Tombs tional and Chinese domestic flights, all deluxe one of my most fond memories and I developed
This quarter I want to let you know of a altogether, one of which is fully excavated and ground transportation, three meals each day friendships with my fellow travelers as well as
new initiative of the Chamber, created by Jack open to explore. and four and five-star accommodations. The relationships across China that still serve me
Rentz (Rentech Boiler Systems), the Chamber’s only additional expense you’ll incur is your well to this day. An incredible value, and trust
2017-18 Chairman of the Board. And it’s an On day five, you’ll board a flight from flight to and from LAX, our departure city. me – the tour company – Citslinc – thinks of
opportunity we believe will provide depth and Beijing to Shanghai and tour Suzhou (pro- There will be plenty of shopping opportuni- everything. And as a bonus, who wouldn’t
perspective to those who choose to engage in it. nounced “SU-jo”) the Lingering Garden, Tiger ties for items such as silk rugs, jade, pearls want to travel with Jack and Becky Rentz?
Hill, Hanshan Temple and the Chinese National and other native items that originate in the
In early April, Jack and Becky Rentz will Embroidery Institute to see silk embroidery, a country. Also included are all taxes, entrance Call or email today to reserve your place on
host a tour of China for members of the Abilene local craft with thousands of years of history. fees for attractions and fluent English-speaking this unique experience, and mark your calen-
Chamber. These excursions, hosted by Cham- You’ll end the day with dinner and a show translators. Non-members may also participate dar for the orientation on November 20.
bers across the US, are gaining in popularity featuring traditional Chinese music. at a rate of $2,199.
among many business leaders and their spouses As famous entertainer Danny Kaye once
because of not only the tremendous bargain, Day six features a morning bus trip to If you’re interested in exploring the first said, “to travel is to take a journey into your-
but also because of the exposure to the world Hangzhou (pronounced “HON-jo”) for a visit international experience, hosted by Jack and self.” I hope you’ll join us on what will be the
marketplace they provide. to the Economic Development Zone as well as Becky Rentz, be sure to let us know by email- first of many travel experiences – including
the centuries-old Lingyin Temple, which fea- ing Erica Pangburn, trip director at Erica@ destinations such as India, Dubai, Ireland/
Departing LAX on April 1, 2018 and tures a 64.3 foot high camphor-wood carving abileneChamber.com. We’ll reserve a seat for Scotland, Croatia and Eastern Europe, Cuba
returning to the United States on April 9, the of Buddha. and others.
Chamber’s first organized trip abroad will fly
members (and non-members at an additional Day seven is one to look forward to, for
cost) direct into the Chinese capital of Beijing. sure. You’ll enjoy a morning boat cruise on
The flight, aboard Air China, is both enjoyable West Lake with a relaxing stopover at jew-
and comfortable. After all, you’ll be accom- el-like pagodas and tea houses, followed by a
panied by some of your closest friends and tour of the economic powerhouse of Shanghai.
business peers.
While in Shanghai, you’ll visit the Yu
On the third day of your China experience, Garden, an incredible maze of pavilions, ponds,
you will visit famous Tiananmen Square and rocky works and overarching trees. You’ll also
the Temple of Heaven, built in 1420 A.D. You’ll visit the Bund, Shanghai’s famous waterfront
also travel to the Palace Museum (also known park (you’ll see the Mary Kay cosmetics factory
as the Forbidden City) which boasts 9,999 from there) and tour the Pudong Economic
rooms as well as the Summer Palace which Development Zone.

AB-1458504



Abilene on the rise

12 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

Abilene Young Professionals Update
Marshall Morris
FIRST FINANCIAL BANK 2017-2018 AYP CHAIR

October & November marks a lot of change for our shape AYP into something that provides great value
community. Cooler weather is on the horizon, school to Abilene and to YOU. We are working hard on new
is back in full swing, fall sports may determine many professional development initiatives, as well as new
of our young professional’s schedules, and your resources that will allow you to better market yourself
Abilene Young Professional (AYP) Steering Committee to the AYP network at-large. Again, this is all in an
has a change in command. effort to provide an even more valuable AYP member-
First off, a big thank you to our outgoing Chair, ship to you.
Alex Russell, (Oddly Natural) for her hard work over
the last year. Alex has brought a tremendous amount I’d also like to say a big thank you to all of our AYP
of vision, energy and leadership to AYP and Abilene sponsors:
is better for it. I’m honored to serve in this capacity n Abilene Regional Medical Center
alongside her and the other 14 individuals who make n Condley & Company, LLP
up the Steering Committee. n Davis Kinard & Co, PC
Over the past three years, AYP has grown from an n First Financial Bank
ambitious idea in 2014 into a group of 535 members n Funeral Directors Life
with a calendar full of networking opportunities and n Hendrick Health System
numerous programs that plug young professionals n Taylor Electric Cooperative, Inc.
into the heart of Abilene’s civic and business commu- n Abilene Christian University
nities. In just the last year, we have launched several n McMahon Surovik Suttle
new initiatives that are already making a positive Marshall Morris AYPChair n Wagstaff, LLP
mark. Get on Board initiative launched in December n Arrow Ford
2016 has so far placed over 15 young professionals on Community Art Initiative – Key City Keys – a color- n Reed Beverage – Abilene
community and non-profit boards. Visit abileneyp.org ful, functioning piano at Vera Hall Minter Memorial n Disability Resources, Inc
to check it out. Park as a thank you to the City of Abilene, which has There wouldn’t be AYP without their support.
We also co-hosted the first-ever Dyess Abilene
Strong event this past May where AYP members been so incredibly supportive of AYP since inception.
(Thanks to the Trey Todd family and Stephanie Pross-
teamed up with Airmen and competed to win prizes. er for helping with this initiative!)
We will continue to recognize and value our rela- But, we’re not done yet! In order to fulfill our mis-
tionship with our friends at Dyess Air Force Base! As sion - to attract, retain, and engage young profession-
well, in an effort to engage and retain the talent on als in Abilene - we MUST ensure that we are deliver-
our college campuses we recently launched Campus ing value to you, our members, and we have several
Connect, a program in which participants from each things in the works that are aimed at doing just that!
of Abilene’s universities have been paired with an Over the coming months we are going to ask for a
AYP member in a career field that the participant is
interested in pursuing. lot of your feedback, and I personally request that
you’ll take the time to give us candid, honest and cre-
And finally, in September we rolled out our first ative answers that will help us continue to grow and

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 13

What is the Abilene Industrial Foundation?
DCOA funding. Type A projects are primarily: manufacturing and
By Audrey Schroyer industrial facilities, research and development facilities, military facili- of this program is based on Strategy 3 in the Strategic plan (also iden-
ABILENE INDUSTRIAL FOUNDATION ties, recycling facilities, distribution centers, small warehouse facilities, tified as an objective in the Chamber’s Advantage Abilene plan) to “De-
primary job training facilities for use by higher education institutions, velop an innovation ecosystem that spawns and supports innovative
What exactly is the Abilene Industrial Foundation? What are they and regional or national corporate headquarters facilities. people and businesses.” The program is modeled after other mid-sized
responsible for? Whose organization are they affiliated with? In March of 2016, TIP Strategies completed the Abilene-famous Texas cities such as Amarillo and Midland that have a mechanism
“strategic plan” for the Development Corporation of Abilene, and its in place, and is designed to provide dedicated incentive dollars in
These are three most frequently asked questions that have been partners, that would serve as a road map for the entire economic devel- connection with a partnership between the DCOA, AIF, ACU’s Spring-
circulating around Abilene since the organization received its Certif- opment program for the next 5 years. This plan was then followed by board program and TTU’s Small Business Development Center.
icate of Incorporation from the State of Texas in 1962. They are also the Chamber’s Advantage Abilene plan designed to outline its role in
the three most frequently asked questions that have been circulating this same process. Both of these plans are rooted in the realization that The BE in Abilene program is a collaborative effort of those four or-
around Abilene especially in the past few years. in order to position Abilene for long-term growth in a rapidly chang- ganizations for “Building Entrepreneurs in Abilene”. The objective is
ing economic landscape, an updated strategy was absolutely necessary. based on a need to place greater emphasis on a “homegrown approach”
Most important to note, the Abilene Industrial Foundation (AIF) for promoting job creation and business investment at the local level,
is an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, working under This new plan called for a “new vision” for economic development thereby enhancing income opportunities and the quality of life for
contract to the Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA) in a in Abilene, challenging the traditional approach the program pursued Abilene residents. Led and funded by the DCOA, the BE In Abilene
public-private partnership (PPP). The purpose of the AIF is to promote for many years. This new vision identified 10 strategies, each with its program seeks to award up to $250,000 in cash to local entrepreneurs
the growth, development and diversification of the economy in and own execution plan that involves multiple community organizations in through a local competition.
around Abilene, by attracting new industries, retaining and expand- addition to the AIF, the Chamber and the DCOA. Of these 10, the AIF
ing existing industries, and supporting the federal, state and military successfully led the following 4 strategies for fiscal year 2016-2017: As with any investment from the DCOA, the AIF will work with
agencies presently located in Abilene. Ultimately, the AIF is respon- prospective candidates to establish their business in Abilene and
sible for site selection assistance, marketing, and existing business Strategy 1: Aggressively market and promote Abilene as a destina- demonstrate their superior capacity to contribute to the local economy.
retention/expansion, and is a source of comprehensive information for tion for new investment and employment As part of the organization’s efforts to support Strategy 6 of the Stra-
expanding the relocating business. tegic Plan that aims to “make downtown Abilene a center for employ-
Strategy 2: Build a deep and highly skilled talent base through ment and investment,” the AIF spent a significant amount of private
In fulfillment of its contract with the DCOA, the AIF devotes a development, retention and attraction dollars towards the visioning process of a downtown hotel. The City’s
considerable amount of effort generating contacts. From these contacts, initial work to acquire Request for Proposals from private sector devel-
the organization aims to produce qualified leads for new business. Strategy 4: Position Abilene as top of mind for businesses and talent opers were not answered. In response, the AIF led an effort to reimage
Once qualified leads have been identified, a diligent effort is under- in the DFW Metroplex the initiative as part of a greater vision for downtown Abilene. This
taken to translate each of these into actual projects for new business vision focused on creating “a sense of place” for this vital part of the
development. Strategy 5: Support the growth and prosperity of existing businesses city, which included a downtown hotel and convention center.
While the TIP Plan called for a new approach to the economic
In this capacity, the organization is capable of working between the development process, it placed strong emphasis on continuing existing As a result of that effort, a more comprehensive RFP was submitted
two entities to accomplish a goal that is “mutually beneficial” to both practices that have demonstrated success for the community. These which garnered immediate attention from several private developers.
parties. Similar to a consultant, the AIF works on DCOA’s behalf to practices include, but are not limited to, the leveraging of talent, land/ The response was significant enough to warrant an extension of the
bring prospects to the table and formulate solutions unique to each buildings and incentives to attract manufacturing and services to deadline to allow two additional developers that wished to submit a
individual business. Clients often express items of interest or concern Abilene and are represented in the actions described in Strategies 1, proposal, but needed more time to do so. After receipt of these propos-
to the AIF that would not have otherwise done so. 4 and 5. als, the City selected Garfield Public Private as the choice developer
It is also important to note that this plan, by no means, had the for this endeavor.
Conversely, being under contract with the DCOA requires the AIF intent to replace any part of the economic development program deliv-
to not only work for the benefit of a business, but also for the benefit ered by the AIF, but instead enhance its practices. However, Strategy Since that time, the organization, in concert with the Chamber and
of the DCOA, whose goal is to generate capital investment and job 2 represented a new programming endeavor for the organization and a the City of Abilene, has been working to support the critical legisla-
creation for Abilene. Therefore, each prospective project undergoes a significant addition to its activates and overall focus. tion needed to provide the public incentives for this project. As part
review process to help determine the economic impact of a project in In late 2016, the AIF underwent an organizational restructure to add of this process, the AIF composed a draft economic impact analysis
such a way that balances an incentive with the benefits to the commu- a new dimension to the activities of the AIF while maintaining its tra- to demonstrate the project’s economic value over a 20-year period of
nity. This helps businesses understand that the receipt of funds from ditional marketing and development programs. Doing so preserved the time. This draft study estimated that at full operation, the new facility
the DCOA is not defined by an incentive, but one that is defined by historic role in the economic development program and set the stage to would generate $21.9 million of economic output each year and in-
the creation of a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. formally establish related programs. crease the region’s gross area product by $13.7 million.
The AIF undertook a new workforce initiative with a primary focus
Ultimately, this is designed to convey an enduring partnership with to serve as a liaison between business and education. This initiative So, who exactly is the Abilene Industrial Foundation? The answer
each business in such a way that fosters a system of support that will was supported by creating a new position to oversee its implementa- is pretty simple: The Abilene Industrial Foundation is the mechanism
help them grow and prosper, drastically reducing the likelihood of tion through a “Director of Talent Development.” that joins private investment with public resources to grow the econ-
downsize or closure. In its first year, this initiative materialized in the culmination of omy. Together with many other agencies, the organization leverages
nine programs to synergize the capacities in Business, Education and the assets and resources of each to work for the greater good of the
Now remember: due to the structure of the half-cent sales tax in Community in such a way that better utilizes existing resources at little Abilene community. Get to know the AIF better at www.developa-
Abilene, the AIF only recruits Type A projects that will qualify for or no additional cost. bilene.com.
These activities have put several new programs in place that have
garnered significant attention from several community and state-wide
organizations as the AIF develops new methods for upskilling the local
workforce.
Most recently, the AIF was asked by the DCOA to lead the develop-
ment and management of an entrepreneurship program. The pursuit

Pediatricians • Urgent & Emergency Care
Specialty Care • Home Health Care

AB-1769278

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM 2016

2016-2017 MEETINGS, CONVENTIONS, EVENTS SERVICED: $27,000,000
2017-2021 MEETINGS, CONVENTIONS, EVENTS ALREADY BOOKED: $22,040,004
Tourism generates $416.1 million in economic impact and $11.5 million in local tax revenue

while employing 3,930 friends, neighbors or loved ones of Abilene.
Tourism is economic development. Help make a positive difference through travel and tourism

to the Abilene economy by hosting a group, meeting or convention.

For more information visit www.abilenevisitors.com.

photo by Doug Hodel I AM

ABILENE.TM

BENNIE WYLIE, JR.

I AM PROOF THAT ABILENE IS BEYOND STRONG.

I am Abilene. We all want to do our part to make our community thrive and travel to Abilene does just that. Last year over
$416.1 million was pumped into our locVaisl itecwownwo.mabyilebneecvaisuitsoerso.cfotmoutorislemarnefmfoorrtes.. People visit Abilene to experience our
legendary events, stellar attractions and vibrant culture. No, we aren’t a big metropolitan area, but we are big on what
matters: hospitality, culture and our western heritage, which is why over 3.69 million people choose to visit Abilene each
year. Invite your friends, groups, teams to visit, stay and play to give them experiences they can’t get anywhere else. As a

community we can continue to make Abilene great through travel and tourism. Plan to book a meeting in 2018!
Together, we are Abilene. Visit www.abilenevisitors.com to learn more.

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 17

The Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau’s mis- ON A MISSION

sion is to improve the quality of life in Abilene
through travel and tourism by marketing Abilene
as the destination of choice for group and leisure
visitors. The dedicated ACVB team collaborates
with many tourism partners, and in doing so,
Abilene is the benefactor through the economic
impact visitors bring to our city. It all starts with
strategic planning.
A destination marketing organization’s tourism
program is a critical piece to building a success-
ful economic driver to cities, states and countries
around the world. Destination marketing is not
simply a promotional effort. It is a sophisticated,
strategic, well-developed plan of action to gener-
ate economic activity. The Abilene CVB is armed
with research, industry trends, the competitive
landscape and tourism professionals as well as
insights gleaned from tourism partners.
With almost five decades of hosting conventions
and events, generating leads, targeting potential
groups and independent travelers, researching cus-
tomer needs, hospitality training, securing PR and
literally communicating with thousands of event
planners, no one is better equipped and better
prepared than the Abilene Convention and Visitors
Bureau to strengthen the impact of tourism and
market Abilene’s existing and new tourism assets.
This past year, Abilene hosted 365 conventions,
sports, tours and meetings that brought in 80,198
visitors who generated $25.6 million into the
Abilene economy. Abilene’s future is bright, as The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau works tirelessly with meeting planners and group marketing planners to sell Abilene as a
the ACVB secured $22 million in future conven- destination for meetings and events. In total, it took 10,492 interactions with clients to book and service 2016 fiscal year meetings and
tions, meeting and events. events that led to $26,520,425 in economic impact.

The Abilene CVB Brief:

n Solicits conventions, meetings, events, sports, tours
and reunions
n Services conventions, meetings, sports, groups and
leisure visitors
n Provides registration to convention and sports
delegates The ACVB is proud to announce they have been awarded a bid to host the 2021 Annual Convention for “Texas Crime Stoppers” 10/20-
22/2021 for their 40th Anniversary meeting. This two-day conference is estimated to pump $247,500 into the Abilene economy.
n Promotes Abilene through advertising to group
meeting planners and leisure travelers
n Fulfills advertising requests and conducts advertis-
ing conversion studies videos, literature, social media, public relations and traction Pass and other visitor related literature
local awareness n Provides Bellman on Call to motor coach tours
n Provides hospitality training n Solicits and distributes visitor coupons, visitor n Maintains and distributed calendar of events
n Responsible for Abilene visitor messaging through guides, Top 10 Things To Do and the Roundup At-

18 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

Storybook Saturdays

aim to attract families
downtown year round

By Sidney Schuhmann Levesque
On a recent Saturday in downtown Abilene, more than 100

families gathered on the green hills of the Adamson-Spalding
Storybook Garden overlooking the Charlotte and Wilbur stage.
They brought lawn chairs and spread out blankets. Little ones
played peekaboo with the storybook sculptures and waited their
turn for balloons and face painting.

The weather was cooperating, with sunny skies and cool fall
temperatures.

Then a trio of special guests arrived and giggles turned into
broad smiles. These guests were celebrities, after all, national
best-selling illustrator-authors who flew to Abilene from across
the country to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the National
Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature. David Shannon,
Marla Frazee and Mark Teague were the perfect people to kick
off the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council’s new initiative called
Storybook Saturdays, said Lynn Barnett, ACAC executive direc-
tor.

“We were honored to have David, Marla and Mark join us to
launch the Storybook Saturdays,” she said.

The three guests read books, drew pictures of their charac-
ters and signed books sold by the NCCIL. Frazee is the author
and illustrator of the best-selling “The Boss Baby” book, which
was made into an animated movie. The movie was shown at the
Abilene Public Library the afternoon of Oct. 14 as part of the
Storybook Saturday event. In addition to the library and the
NCCIL, the arts council partnered with the Abilene Chamber’s
Hispanic Business Council to cross-promote Storybook Saturday
with Business Mercado happening inside the Abilene Conven-
tion Center the same day. The two events brought hundreds to
downtown Abilene.

The arts council hosts the Children’s Art & Literacy Festival
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 19

CONITNUED FROM PAGE 18
The arts council hosts the Chil- THE NEXT STORYBOOK SATURDAY
DEC. 2
dren’s Art & Literacy Festival each
June themed around the summer Center for Contemporary Arts
artist on display at the NCCIL. But not Attend the Children’s Performing
everyone can attend that event, and Arts Series show “Sleeping Beau-
Barnett wanted to offer people more ty Christmas” at the Paramount ($9
reasons to visit the Storybook Capital tickets). After the show, celebrate all
many times during the year. things Sleeping Beauty at the Story-
book Saturday party ($5 per family).
“We wanted to start Storybook
Saturdays to celebrate storybooks TICKETS
throughout the year,” she said. “This “Sleeping Beauty Christmas” at
initiative will provide regular oppor- www.cpasabilene.org
tunities to bring storybooks to life for Storybook Saturday event at www.
families.” abilenecac.org

The next Storybook Saturday will
be Dec. 2 in conjunction with the
“Sleeping Beauty Christmas” show
the Children’s Performing Arts Series
(CPAS) is bringing to the Paramount
Theatre. CPAS is a program of the arts
council. For that Storybook Saturday,
people can enjoy a Sleeping Beau-
ty themed party at the Center for
Contemporary Arts when the 11 a.m.
show ends. The party will include
crafts and activities for boys and girls.
The cost is $5 per family. Families can
save time by pre-registering at www.
abilenecac.org.

Another Storybook Saturday is in
the works for April 21, the same day
as Big Day Downtown. This event will
take place in the Storybook Garden
and the arts council is partnering
with the Abilene Christian University
Theatre Department. The ACU Theatre
will present a short performance from
their children’s show this season,
“James and the Giant Peach,” followed
by face painting, art acidity, bubbles
and balloons.

20 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

STOMP hits Abilene stage on national tour
By Sidney Schuhmann Levesque “STOMP” has grown into an interna- er, which includes drinks and desserts. on March 6 and “Chicago” on May
“STOMP,” the international percus- tional sensation over the past 20 years, “STOMP” is the first of the four- 2. Celebrity Attractions has a bonus
having performed in more than 50 show coming Dec. 21 that is not part
sion sensation, makes its Abilene return countries and in front of more than 24 show Broadway in Abilene season. The of the regular season called “Rudolph
Nov. 16 five years after its sold-out million people. Tickets for the show are shows are made possible by a partner- the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musi-
engagement at the Abilene Convention on sale now and range in price from ship between the Abilene Cultural Af- cal” that brings the original television
Center. $30 to $60. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. fairs Council and Celebrity Attractions, classic to life.
in the auditorium. Come early for the which is based on Oklahoma. The other
From its beginnings as a street pre-show party at 6:30 p.m. in the foy- shows this season are “”The Wizard CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
performance in the United Kingdom, of Oz” on Feb. 13, “Dirty Dancing”

CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 21

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20 awards, and sell-out engagements, is and a comic interplay of characters state budget cuts, hunger organizations
Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve the winner of an Olivier Award for Best wordlessly communicating through have seen an overwhelming demand for
McNicholas, “STOMP” continues its Choreography (London’s Tony Award), dance and drum. food assistance. In Abilene, Celebrity
phenomenal run with four global pro- a New York Obie Award, a Drama Desk Attractions and the Food Bank of West
ductions: the ongoing, sell-out produc- Award for Unique Theatre Experience, Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms Central Texas joined forces by offering
tion at New York’s Orpheum Theatre, and a Special Citation from Best Plays. become a sweeping orchestra, eight access to tickets via pre-sale to anyone
a permanent London company, and Zippo lighters flip open and closed donating at least two canned food items
North American and European tours. The performers “make a rhythm out to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles to the barrels hosted inside the Abilene
Throughout its life, the show has con- of anything we can get our hands on thump and clack in a rhythmic explo- Convention Center from Oct. 9 through
tinued to change by creating new ma- that makes a sound,” says co-founder/ sion. “STOMP” uses everything but Oct. 12. Two whole barrels of food were
terial. This year, it will incorporate two director Luke Cresswell. A unique conventional percussion instruments donated.
new pieces. It is safe to say you will combination of percussion, movement - dustbins, tea chests, radiator hoses,
never again look at supermarket carts and visual comedy, “STOMP” has boots, hub caps - to fill the stage with a “We collected 165 pounds of food,”
or plumbing fixtures the same way… created its own inimitable, contempo- compelling and unique act that is often said food bank executive director Jody
or paint cans, or kitchen sinks or any of rary form of rhythmic expression: both imitated but never duplicated. Houston. “That is the equivalent of 138
the other inventive materials used. household and industrial objects find meals.”
“STOMP,” an overwhelming success new life as musical instruments in the “STOMP” has made its mission to
marked by rave reviews, numerous hands of an idiosyncratic band of body partner with food banks across the “STOMP” tickets are available by
percussionists. It is a journey through country to “STOMP Out Hunger.” Due phone at 800.869.1451, online at www.
sound, a celebration of the everyday to the current economic climate, in- celebrityattractions.com and in person at
cluding high unemployment rates and the Abilene Convention Center box office.

22 NOVEMBER 12, 2017 | CONNECTION

Save the Date

Nov 28
29TH ANNUAL CITY SIDEWALKS
AND FOX 15 CHRISTMAS PARADE

Historic Downtown
• City Sidewalks/ 5-8pm
• Parade/ 630pm
• Tree-lighting 730pm
• FREE
Sponsored by the Abilene Down-
town Association. Rediscover the charm
of Christmas in downtown as mer-
chants, museums and galleries open
their doors for an evening of holiday
cheer! Activities Include a Fox 15
Abilene Christmas Lights parade, com-
munity tree, performances by Abilene
Independent School District students
and free goodies.

Dec 1 MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR 2018 Sponsored by
GLENN SHEPARD SEMINAR “HOW
TO SUPERVISE PEOPLE AND LEAD A Feb. 20-21
TEAM”
Taylor County Expo Center
Get details and Register by email: wil-
[email protected]
The best
managers
have learned
how to deal
with prob- of farm, ranch and/or wildlife the Big Country agribusiness
lems without Feb 20-21 managers and rural consumers community.
missing a TEXAS FARM RANCH WILD- in the Big Country.
beat. Now LIFE EXPO The annual Agriculture Schol-
you can too! This event, hosted by the arship Luncheon - held on the
In this short, Taylor County Expo Center Abilene Chamber of Com- second day of the event, honors
Glenn Shepard FREE ADMISSION merce’s Agricultural Commit- the Farm Family of the Year,
intensive and enjoyable seminar, you’ll tee, showcases more than 80 while raising money for local
learn how to effortlessly: Defuse ten- The Texas Farm Ranch and businesses and 150 booths agriculture scholarships.
sion, derail toxic behavior, and defang Wildlife Expo (TFRWE) is a with an attendance of 3,500
even the most malicious employee. unique, one-of-a-kind agribusi- plus. The Texas Agrilife Exten- SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!
Energize your people and bring every- ness event that serves as an sion Office provides continuing Email kimbosher@abilenecham-
one together solidly as a team. opportunity for vendors to inter- education opportunities for ber.com for more information or
face directly with a combination to reserve a booth.

Save the Date CONNECTION | NOVEMBER 12, 2017 23

Thank you Annual Membership
Meeting & Awards Celebration
Planning Committee!

March 28, 2018 April 30 - May 4, 2018
BUSINESS EXPO SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
Abilene Convention Center
Did you know that more than half of Americans either
The Chamber’s annual premier business trade show own or work for a small business, and they create about
opportunity for both Chamber members and non-cham- two out of every three NEW jobs in the U.S. each year?
ber members. This high-energy, high traffic trade show, Join the Abilene Chamber of Commerce as we help cele-
attracts around 7,000 businesses and consumers in a brate National Small Business Week and highlight the
dynamic business-to-business atmosphere. Presented impact of outstanding entrepreneurs and small business
by the Abilene Business Council, this signature event is owners across the Big Country. For more information on
a great opportunity to gather new leads, customers, and how you can get involved, visit abilenechamber.com.
to give your brand visibility in the Big Country market-
place. Have a new product or service to introduce to the
community? This is THE place to be! Contact Kim Bosher
at 325-677-7241 to reserve your spot today.