Directions | Winter 2016

D i re c t i onsWinter | 2016
The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Get the

Inside Scoop

on local events

Why You’ll Fall
in Love with

the Chamber’s

New
Mobile App

The

Shop Local

Program is Back and
Better than Ever

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

what does the
chamber of commerce do?

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce is only and many other programs throughout the year.

as strong as its members. A strong Chamber is However, your Chamber is here for you too.
able to assist businesses, large and small, with We provide a quarterly newsletter to keep you
many programs aimed at building a better informed of relevant news and happenings
business network and community. In such a and Weekly Updates emailed every Monday
close-knit community as Deer Park, these ties to keep you updated on upcoming events
become stronger.
and meetings. We also provide governmental

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce is more updates to inform you of how our elected

than luncheons on the fourth Thursday of every officialsaremakingdecisionsthateffectyouand

month. It’s holding workshops to build strong your business. Chamber members also receive

business foundations. It’s hosting leadership notary services free of charge. For businesses

seminars to mentor and groom those who that export goods into the global marketplace,

will take us into tomorrow. It’s you having a your Chamber provides certificates of origin.

voice on the floors of the Texas Legislature and Joining and maintaining membership in
United States Congress. It’s you, and those who the Deer Park Chamber of Commerce is an
think similarly to you, wanting to have a better investment into your business and a strong
business while building a stronger community. Deer Park community. The leaders of the

Your Chamber dues reach far into the roots of Chamber are volunteers who understand

Deer Park. They touch the leaders of tomorrow this investment and want its benefits to be

by providing two $1,000 scholarships to stronger for all members. Your time, talent

deserving Deer Park High School graduating and resources are the foundations to the area’s

seniors. They bring the community closer best network of business people, government

together in events like the annual Mayor's agencies, consumers and residents – all of

Prayer Luncheon, the Salute to Education whom are your customers.

Program, Felton F. Waggoner Hall of Honor

meet your chamber staff

President/CEO Office Manager Communications Coordinator Membership Coordinator
Tim Culp Grace Zubkow Naomi Richison Wanda Morris
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

2

Winter | 2016

In this Issue Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

4 Welcome Messages 110 Center Street
Tim Culp & Brock Bihm have Deer Park, Texas 77536
something to say
(281) 479-1559
11 Business Over Brew
Find out all the exciting things that Executive Board
happened Brock Bihm, Chairman

17 New Members & Ribbon Mr. Electric of Bay Area
Cuttings
Jeffrey Parks, Chairman Elect
23 What is the GCCE?
Learn about the upcoming San Jacinto College District
Leadership Conference
Jeff Lawther, Treasurer
30 Calendar of Events
See what you have to look forward to Deer Park Lumber

Notice something different? The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce’s Troy Cothran, Secretary
Newsletter is back! We will be publishing the Directions Newsletter in
quarterly installments electronically and in limited prints. To view the Victory Properties
complete Directions Library, please visit the Chamber Newsletter tab at
www.deerparkchamber.org. Josie Lightfoot, Past Chairman
Questions? Comments? We’d love to hear your feedback! Contact Naomi at
(281) 479-1559 or [email protected] for comments or content New Dimensions Home Health Care Plus
& photo submissions. We'd love to showcase your photos from around our
community, so send them in! Roger Blackburn Ray Landers

Infinity Construction LifeStyle Financial Advisors,
Inc.
Jennifer Buchanan
Carina Pantoja
Dow Chemical
Eclipse Massage & Spa
Danny Earp
David Rush
Oates Industries, Inc.
Momentum Insurance
Les Ellard
David Taylor
Farmers Insurance
Les Ellard Agent Texas Chiropractic College

Chris Hext JayLynne Touchton

Lubrizol Corporation Ocean Breeze Occupational
Solutions
Deforester Jones
Debbie Westbeld
Shell Deer Park
City of Deer Park
Ron Kirkwood

Kirkwood Medical
Associates

3

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

A Message from the President

As President/CEO of the Deer Park Chamber of Commerce
I would like to welcome you to Deer Park’s only business
organization working full-time to do what no person can do
by him or herself for the City of Deer Park. You might ask
yourself, “What does he mean?”, so let me explain.

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce is the business
community focused on working together to enhance the
economic vitality of our members and the quality of life in
Deer Park.

As a member, this is your Chamber of Commerce. We want to
be considered your most valuable, yet lowest paid employee;
taking as much interest as a partner but leaving you to
be the boss. Many business and professional executives
voluntarily work on committees to improve your business
opportunities and living enjoyment in Deer Park. In serving businesses interested in doing
business in Deer Park, we are devoted to activities designed to create more community
wealth. We collectively look for solutions to your business concerns in order to make your
business prosperous.

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce serves as a clearinghouse of information for
prospective industrialists, visitors, potential and current residents and area businesses who
are interested in learning more about working, playing and living in Deer Park.
Through this collaborative effort your Chamber of Commerce is working daily as an
organization with a definite “know-how” in community development. If you are not yet
a member, we would be honored to have you on our team. If you are already a member,
please get involved. If you feel you don’t have time, please let us know how we can serve
you.

In this newsletter you will find many opportunities for your business and for assistance in
helping to maintain and improve the quality of life in Deer Park. Remember, collectively we
can do what no one person can do by him or herself. Collectively, we can let everyone know
why “It’s a Great Day to be in Deer Park!”

Tim Culp

President/CEO
Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

4

Winter | 2016

The Chairman's Letter

It’s a Great Day to be in Deer Park! There are so many
wonderful things happening in our community that time just
flies by! It’s hard to believe that the year is already gone. It
seems like just yesterday Ms. Josie Lightfoot handed me the
gavel in January… I am very blessed to be part of this year’s
Board of Directors. Since our retreat last December we have
implemented a few changes in our networking opportunities
with “Business Over Brew” instead of our past “Mid-Morning
Coffees”. By alternating months of morning “brew” and
evening “brew”, members have networking opportunities
that accommodate their schedules. This way they have
the chance to listen to the specific topic of the month. The
Business Development Committee did a tremendous job
putting together our “Chamberville” Business Expo. This
gives businesses the opportunity to network and market.

This year’s board has been very active in support of issues that affect our members as well
as our community. It was a unanimous vote to support and provide education regarding
the Type B proposition, which passed in this most recent election. We have written letters
to Congress to help with such issues as: opposing legislation that would threaten Texas
motor vehicle franchise dealer laws, supported constitutional dedication of sporting good
tax revenue for use in state and local parks, supported the overhaul of the Texas windstorm
insurance system and supported the continuation of EX-IM Bank legislation, as well as
many others. Remember the Chamber is here to help you and your business. We encourage
members to reach out to us if they have a need, issue or would like to be more active within
the Chamber.

I consider this year a success and with many more awesome events, gatherings and
networking to come! I want to thank the Chamber President Tim Culp for his hard work
and dedication to our businesses and community, as well as his wonderful staff, Grace,
Naomi and Wanda for their undeniable passion to make the Deer Park Chamber of
Commerce the best it can be!

Brock Bihm

Chairman of the Board
Mr. Electric of Bay Area

5

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

2318
Center Street

Suite 100
Deer Park, TX

Investment & Retirement Planning

Brandon Lockwood, CWS  Retirement Rollovers

Ray Landers, Ed.D, CWS  Advisory Services
 403b Solutions

281-479-6488  Investment Planning
 Risk Management
www.mylsfa.com  401k Optimizer
 Life Insurance

Securities offered through First Allied Securities, Inc.

You’re building
the future.

We’re here to help™.

You need the right equipment, at the right place, right now. With an unmatched
rental feet and branch network, we are ready to help you maximize productivity

and profitability. And our round the clock service and support means
the equipment will work just as hard as you do.

8807 Highway 225 UnitedRentals.com
LaPorte, TX 77571 800.UR.RENTS
281-479-3341
© 2015 United Rentals, Inc.

6

Winter | 2016

TCC Presents Industry Leadership
Award to Chris Hext of Lubrizol

Courtesy of Texas Chemical Council

(From left to right) Todd
Monnette, Dr. Brenda
Hellyer, Chris Hext and
Hector Rivero

TCC was honored to present the Industry education partners,” stated TCC President

Leadership Award to Chris Hext of the Lubrizol Hector Rivero.

Corporation. Chris is the community relations Chris has been a thoughtful and

manager for Lubrizol and has been actively respected leader for our industry for many

involved with the Texas Chemical Council and years. We applaud him for his service and

other industry and community organizations leadership to the Texas Chemical Council, to

for over 20 years. Chris’ wife Terry and son our industry, our community and our nation.

David were in attendance to honor Chris Congratulations Chris!

for his many contributions to the chemical

industry and the entire Houston Ship Channel

community.
“Chris Hext has been a driving force for

Chris Hext has beenthe chemical industry in Texas. He has been

the single individual that can be credited with

“ a driving forceensuring that all of industry in the Houston
Ship Channel community is aligned with local for the chemical
governments, chambers of commerce, and
”industry in Texas.
7

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce Many thanks to our corporate sponsors!

thank you LIFESTYLE FINANCIAL ADVISORS, INC.
for Another “Making Todays Dreams Tomorrows Lifestyle”
Successful
Golf
Tournament

In mid-September the Chamber of Springs of Life Church ● Springs of Life Ministries ● Vopak
Commerce hosted the 2015 Annual Golf
Tournament. Fortunately, the weather Ameraflex Sealing Products, Inc./Kirkwood Medical Associates
Clay Development & Construction, Inc. ● First Choice Emergency Room
Hunter Buildings ● La Quinta Inn & Suites ● Oates Industries, Inc. ● Texas First Bank

Meador Staffing Services ● Capital Bank

held out for the golfers and it was a

perfect day to play.

The Chamber hosts the Intercontinental Terminals 1st Place, 1st Flight
tournament as a fun way to network for

both industry and businesses alike. As Ocean Breeze/Exxon United Rentals
the biggest fundraiser of the year, the 2nd Place, 1st Flight 2nd Place, 2nd Flight

tournament and sale of raffle tickets

helps to offset the operating costs of

the Chamber of Commerce throughout

the year. The Chamber is a non-profit

organization which works to promote

business and economic development

within the community.

Every year teams of players LifeStyle Financial Advisors, Inc. Team Infinity Group
gather early in the morning and enjoy 1st Place, 3rd Flight 1st Place, 2nd Flight 2nd Place, 3rd Flight
a well-rounded breakfast, fueling up

for what must be some pretty intense

competition. Afterward, the golfers

are methodically released to play their

rounds while delighting in vendor

treats, snacks and drinks along the

course. Lunch is also served before Congratulations

announcing the winners and handing to all of our Winners!
out the awards.

If you would like to purchase your Visit www.deerpark.org for more tournament photos
raffle tickets for the chance to win

a Shell Gas Card please contact the

Chamber. The drawing will be held at the Awards Luncheon on December 17th and you could

win one (or more!) of four cards valued from $250 to $1000! For $20 a ticket you could win

up to a year's worth of free gasoline, and only 500 tickets in total are printed out. Visit www.

deerpark.org for more information.  b

8

Winter | 2016

Meador Staffing services and
Ameraflex sealing products
receive top honors

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce for all kinds of industrial needs. The company
honored two long-time entities at its is located at 317 Georgia Avenue and has
November 17th Business and Industry of been operated by the Cothran family since its
2015 Awards Luncheon. Meador Staffing inception.
Services was honored as the Chamber's Both Meador and Ameraflex have
Business of the Year while Ameraflex Sealing devoted countless hours and resources to
Products was awarded the Chamber's Industry many Deer Park and area charitable endeavors
of the Year. including Rotary International, the Deer Park
Meador Staffing is a family-operated Education Foundation and other community
business that has helped link employees and needs.
employers since 1968. With offices across
Houston and Austin, Meador continues to
evolve, serving a national market in direct
hire, contract and temporary staffing. Its Deer
Park office is centrally located at 4001 Center
Street.
Founded in 1965, Ameraflex has
provided gaskets, rubber and sealing products

Students in the DPHS Culinary
Arts Program assist in serving the

luncheon guests

Meador Staffing Services receives
the Business of the Year Award

Ameraflex Sealing Products
receives the Industry of the Year

Award

9

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce
10

Winter | 2016

OvBeursiBnreesws

What Made This Event The
One Not To Miss

written by Naomi Richison

11

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce
unveils their new Resource Guide and

a comprehensive Mobile Application
unprecedented in the City of Deer Park

The fall weather was just setting the new Resource Guide, and tonight was the
in - not quite cool, not quite warm. night. Hours upon hours of brainstorming

As the sun set over the rolling hills of the and editing and going over the new Guide,

quiet green, we knew good things were just forward and backward, were poured into

over the horizon. The light played games it by Chamber staff, K-Team staff and our

with our eyes, casting shades of orange and prized volunteers. We had all agreed to move

purple like a stained glass window over the forward with a "social media" theme for this

Battleground Golf Course, and we realized Resource Guide, complemented with a fresh

we had welcomed many changes within the #thatsdeerpark

organization over the last year. By removing hashtag. We had

some events and trying new ones on for size all felt a wave of

the Chamber staff does their best to meet the relief wash over us

needs of the members, both industrial and when the boxes of

mom 'n' pop-sized. We're always adopting Guides arrived at the

something different to try and will continue Chamber office with

to do so until all of our members are willing to their crisp and clean

take advantage of what we offer. We kept this pages, and now we

sentiment in mind as we hosted our Business had the opportunity

Over Brew event with high hopes at the end to share our most

of October. complete Resource

We buzzed with excitement as we set Guide in years with

up the tables. There was an entire team of us everyone.

that had been working hard on the release of However, in

12

these changing times where Smart progression. We are, as always, Winter | 2016
Phones are glued to the palms of wholly pleased with what the 13
every individual (exactly when K-Team has furnished us.
did we start transitioning from The new Resource Guide
ear to hand?) and office meetings is complete and forward-
are conducted over wifi-enabled thinking.
devices, we asked ourselves:
doesn’t Deer Park represent the “With society
progression of tradition, afterall?
Our petrochemical neighbors constantly moving
stand strong within the heartbeat toward mobile
of America as the Houston Ship technology
Channel booms with perpetual the benefits of
traffic and looks to the future with
expansions well under way. taking part in this
The Deer Park Chamber of application are
Commerce wanted to represent this
inevitable shift in the design of the ”plain to see.
new Resource Guide. Some of you
may even recognize the similarity Yet, we didn’t stop there.
to Instagram, a popular social We are elated to announce
networking outlet where users can the Chamber of Commerce Mobile
post their favorite images to their App is in production, and you’ll
friends and followers (shameless want to be a part of this! This
shout-out: follow us tool will not only link every
@deerparkchamberofcommerce). one of our members together,
Knowing that the guide is essential but point you in the right
to so many households and local direction too, quite literally.
company representatives alike, we
chose to represent this forward …continued on page 16

What can the New loyalty programs or specials

Mobile App do for Me? simply by scanning a QR
code.
•
• Every single member of the • GPS enabled devices will
• Chamber receives a basic alert the user of nearby
listing in the App. This businesses conducting
includes a couple of photos, promotions.
contact info and links to Local Points of Interest will
your website or Facebook. be viewable by everyone,
A built-in passport program complete with step-by-step
easily enables any consumer directions.

to utilize individual member

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

Proud suPPorter
of the deer Park
Chamber of CommerCe

Shell Deer Park is committed to the community and social
responsibility, and being a good neighbor is one of our most
important roles. For that reason, we proudly continue our strong
support of the Deer Park Chamber of Commerce.
www.shell.us/deerpark

14

Winter | 2016

…continued from page 14 up to 24 images. The beauty Complete with
in this app lies at your singing (the good, the bad
Basic features include fingertips - every listing and Marilyn, who stands
business listings, step- is editable so that you can in a league of her own) and
by-step directions to said offer current promotions dancing, an assortment of
businesses, local points of and keep your information delicious finger-foods, of
interest and more. Delve a up-to-date. Links to your which the stuffed mushrooms
little deeper and you’ll have social media pages, such as were my personal favorite,
the opportunity to access Facebook and Twitter, and a stocked and ready bar and
individual loyalty programs your own business website all of the exciting news to
in an easy to access, never- will also be listed. This new share with our members, we
forget-your-coupon kind of mobile application will be thoroughly enjoyed Business
way. All Chamber members advertised and popularized Over Brew, and we hope you
will have access to a basic within every single Chamber did too!  b
listing within the app, and function and outlet. With
members who sign up for the society constantly moving
2016 Shop Local Program toward mobile technology the
will have enhanced listing benefits of taking part in this
capabilities, which includes application are plain to see.

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FIRST CHOICE EMERGENCY ROOM is an Adeptus Health company. © 2015 First Choice ER, LLC and Adeptus Health Inc. All rights reserved.

15

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

ribbon cuttings &
New members

Kona Ice

You may have seen Mike & Shannon Waddell driving
their brightly decorated Kona Shaved Ice truck around
town on a hot Texas day. Kona Ice brings music, fun
& flavor to all ages in Deer Park, La Porte and parts
of Pasadena. They offer creative, interactive, flavor-
your-self tropical shaved ice. Their endless variety of
flavors are sweetened with all-natural Stevia™ or you
may select a sugar-free option. Kona Ice wants to bring smiles to your daycares, schools, sporting
events, fundraisers, parties & corporate events. Contact them at (832) 385-5525 & Celebrate Life
with Kona Ice!

Clark Industrial Services

President & CEO Tommy Clark purchased Local
Industrial Contractors, LLC from the original founders,
the Goolsby’s, in 2014, thus changing the company
name to Clark Industrial Services, LLC. Tommy has
a history of putting together & leading a successful
leadership team & continues to be your safe and
reliable contractor offering such field services as
concrete work, structural steel work, millwrights &
remodeling. Additionally, in their Brazoria shop they provide machining, metalizing, fabrication,
pump repair & turbine repair, to name only a few. Contact them at (979) 647-1090 for more
information.

Melaleuca

Melalueca, the Wellness Company, offers many safe
and green options to replace the products we use in our
everyday lives. Peggy Evans, an Independent Marketing
Executive & Wellness Coach for
Melaleuca, helps people with nutrition,
personal care, home cleaning supplies
& cosmetics. Melaleuca is an online
shopping club with membership perks.
For more information on their wonderful products call (281) 930-7885.

16

Winter | 2016

Perry Health & Wellness

The knowledgeable staff at Perry Health & Wellness
know it can be a frustrating experience for those
who have tried to lose weight without success. Their
exclusive scientifically based program has allowed many
formerly frustrated patients to lose weight regardless
of their age or how many years they’ve spend trying
unsuccessfully to lose. If you have decided that you
want to improve your life by shedding those unwanted
pounds, call the helpful staff at (713) 946-1441, or visit their office conveniently located off
Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena.

Souper Salad

This popular lunch spot boasts more than your typical
salad and soup combinations. Souper Salad's all-
you-care-to-eat buffet features warm made-from-
scratch breads, loaded baked potatoes
and even dessert. Menu items
change daily and seasonally so
you can try something new each
visit as well as savor your favorites. Join a friend for lunch at their location
well situated in the Fairway Plaza shopping center.

Did You Know. . .?

As a member you can access the Members Only
part of the Chamber's webiste to post coupons,

events, jobs & more! Check it out under the
Membership tab at www.deerpark.org.

17

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce
18

Winter | 2016

The Young Guns targets
professionals who are looking to
network, learn, develop and be successful

Are you looking for a different way that regard.

to connect to other young professionals The Young Guns host several events

such as yourself? The Deer Park Chamber of throughout the year inlcuding Business

Commerce, in partnership with the Pasadena Over Breakfasts, Lunch with Leaders, the

Chamber of Commerce, has created the 6th Street Social (our most popular event)

Young Guns organization for this very reason. and our Year End Social. At the majority of

The Young Guns targets professionals who these functions we aim to supply a speaker,

are looking to network, learn, develop and whom has previously exemplified what it

generally be successful in every sense of the takes to be a successful young professional,

word. If this sounds like you, then you need to or a representative who is willing to offer an

come to our next event. alternate relevant presentation. For a nominal

We're a fun group of individuals where fee we invite you to join the crowd and in the

many of us have experienced the same meantime hone the necessary skills you, or

issues and concerns as one another. You can any professional would need to conquer the

consider us an extensive support group in world.

You can register for the events on the

chamber website of which you are a

member of. Those that have dual

memberships have the option of

registering with either chamber.

We encourage you to utilize such

a group as the Young Guns

to get your voice out there.

It is paramount that the

incoming generation of

leaders be prepared for

success and the Young

Guns are here to help. 

19

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

i like the sound
of that

2016
event
calendar

February 17 august 20

Business Over lunch with september 20
Breakfast leaders
lunch with
march 22/23 april 19
leaders
lunch with Business Over
october 26
leaders Breakfast
business over

breakfast

may 20

For More Info 6th street social november 15
in kemah
Contact year end
social
Kim or Naomi

naomi richison Kim Tolleson
deer park Chamber Pasadnena Chamber

281-479-1559 281-487-7871
[email protected] [email protected]

20 *All Dates Subject to Change

Winter | 2016

the new heb location is
already making headlines

courtesy of Bobby Vasquez, insideDP.com

HEB's newest store is already proving Opportunity Center provides emergency
to be a hit with local residents. A packed needs and resources to families needing
parking lot and busy aisles have greeted assistance in Deer Park and Deer Park ISD.
shoppers as local residents stock up for Brenda Cothran, who chairs the
the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas organization graciously accepted the
holidays. oversized grant check, and the members of
The San Antonio-based grocery chain the Opportunity Center were excited and
opened its newest market this week as the grateful for HEB's generosity.
anchor to a master-planned retail center at According to Cencor Realty, the
the intersection of Spencer Highway and East opening of HEB marks the first phase of
Boulevard. The 83,000 square-foot facility the Deer Park Junction development. The
will be the focal point of the development by development will accommodate up to 400,000
Cencor Realty. square feet of retail space once completed,
This store is a major upgrade from the which will include big-box tenants.
previous 20,000 square-foot HEB grocery Cencor also developed the Walmart-
store. That store opened as an HEB Pantry in anchored Deer Park Station, which is
the 1990s and served Deer Park until it closed across East Boulevard from the Junction
November 10th to make way for the new Development.
location.
Unlike its previous Deer Park location, HEB opened its newest store at the intersection of Spencer
this HEB features many amenities such as Highway and East Boulevard this week. The 83,000-square
a pharmacy, bakery, meat and cheese deli foot store features many more amenities than its HEB Pantry
and an expansive produce
department. It also houses predecessor on Center Street. Photo provided by Cencor
a sushi bar and will have Realty Services.
chef demonstrations and
food samplings, similar to
the next closest facility on
Fairmont Parkway. That
store is 70,000 square feet.
HEB has also already
made a splash with a Deer
Park charity. Its corporate
offices presented a $5,000 donation to
the Deer Park Opportunity Center. The

21

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

what is the gcce?

Founded in 1959 the Gulf Coast strategies that positively impact business

Chamber Executives mission has remained outcomes. What's more, the Texas Railroad

steadfast since its early beginnings. Simply Commisioner, Ryan Sitton, will be guest

stated the mission of GCCE is to provide speaking. Sitton was elected in 2014 with

continuing education and support for the over 58 percent of the vote.

chamber professional. Through its annual The GCCE Annual Leadership

leadership conference and scholarship Conference has proven itself to be an

program that mission is being met today. excellent source of quality informaion, a well

The upcoming leadership conference is of networking opportunities and above all

set to take place in February. The theme this a memorable and fun event. Simply send in

year, Evolve: Tools for Innovation, centers your completed Registration form (available

around behavioral economics within the on the following page) to reserve your seat.

workplace. Featured speaker Jeff Tobaben's Special hotel rates are available for a limited

passion for improving employee and customer time.

relationships drove him to start his own

company focused on curriculum design,

development and facilitation to support

companies in their effort to improve the

employee/customer experience. Jeff’s mission

is to empower companies to make data-

driven decisions and execute on corporate

2015 GCCE Officers

Johanna McWilliams Barbara Thomason Tracey Wheeler Sheri Sweeny

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary
Alvin-Manvel Area Houston Northwest Baytown Clear Lake Area

22

Winter | 2016

Save the Date
for the
GCCE Annual
Leadership Conference

Tools for Innovation

February 19, 2016 featuring
Jeff Tobaben
DoubleTree Hobby
8181 Airport Blvd Evolve Performance Group
Houston, Texas 77061 “Behavioral Economics for

 improved performance”

Please make checks payable to: Registration
Gulf Coast Chamber Executives Name: __________________________________________
Chamber:________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________

City: _____________ State: _______ Zip:_______________

Phone:__________________________________________

Discounted Early Registration Email: __________________________________________
$70 per registrant Number of Attendees: _______________________________
Names of Attendees:
After February 12, 2016 _______________________________________________
$75 per registrant

Hotel Group Rates Available _______________________________________________
February 18-19, 2016
DoubleTree Hobby _______________________________________________
8181 Airport Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77061 _______________________________________________
713-289-3630
_______________________________________________
Hotel on-site, M-F 8:30 am-4:30 pm
_______________________________________________
1-800-222-Tree
_______________________________________________
Central Reservations, 24/7
_______________________________________________
Code: GCC
$109 + tax Please return your Registrations to:
Rate Deadline is February 3, 2016
Baytown Chamber of Commerce | 1300 Rollingbrook | Suite 400
Baytown, Texas | 77521 | 281-422-8359 23
[email protected]

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

The Parks and Recreation Department is offering a special chance this year for citizens
to be creative and give back to the less-fortunate –
a Christmas Tree Decorating contest.

Participants will decorate a Christmas tree and donate it to our Tree Plaza in the Jimmy
Burke Activity Center, where entries will be on display during Reindeer Park. Each tree

will be donated to a family in need, and the designer of the winning tree based on
patron votes will win a prize.

Please read all rules and regulations on the
Decorating Contest entry form.

While participation is free of charge, all materials including trees and decorations must be purchased by the participant
and will not be returned after the event.

To register for this event fill out the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest Form
or email Lacy Stole at [email protected]

24

Winter | 2016

Totally Texas Festival has been
cancelled and the future of the
event is up in the air

Courtesy of Bobby Vasquez, InsideDP.com

The city and chamber of commerce sands of people come through. We didn't have

agreed to place the annual festival on hiatus for that," he said. Traveling carnivals want a large

at least one year. At the City Council workshop, attendance at a festival, but if there are small

the item was presented with no discussion. crowds, the carnivals will not come. "And if

City Manager Jay Stokes said city staff felt the there's no carnival there's no crowd. It's like the

attendance energy surrounding the event has chicken and the egg," Stokes said. He said the

dwindled for the last several years. "It seemed city doesn't measure attendance, but city staff

it became methodical year after year and the noticed smaller crowds lining the streets for the

overall community interest was parade and the festival. "The level

not where we would want it to of participation was not what it

be relative to the effort that goes had been in the past," he said.

into it," Stokes said. Instead of the Totally Tex-

Deer Park Chamber of as, the city has indicated it will

Commerce CEO Tim Culp said concentrate its efforts on a more

the city informed the chamber active role in the annual San

that it would not issue a request Jacinto Day Festival at the San

for proposals to host the an- Jacinto Monument. I think that's

nual festival. The city allocates the biggest bang for the buck

$30,000 from the hotel occupan- while we're reevaluating what will

cy tax for Totally Texas. The city happen with Totally Texas," said

contracts with the chamber for Culp. "There is much more expo-

the event. Culp said he was disap- Young children enjoying the car- sure there."
pointed the city chose not to issue nival rides at Totally Texas
City and Chamber staffs do not

the RFP to host Totally Texas, but he agreed feel this is necessarily the end of the Totally

with the reasoning. "We felt like we were start- Texas Festival. "I would say it's the end of Total-

ing to turn the corner in the right direction ly Texas as we know it to this point," Culp said.

with some things, but it was still going to take "I wouldn't say it's completely going to go away,

time," he said. "It's one of those things after not at this point."

evaluating the entire program, we all decided Both parties agreed taking a year off

this is probably the right direction. We'll spend would be best and then reassess the future of

a year and revaluate and see what directions we Totally Texas for 2017 and beyond.

can go. "There may be more interest in it by not

Over the years, Totally Texas has grown hosting it for a year. We'll see if it's missed and

to include a parade, festival, carnival, classic if it is, we'll get a look to see if there is new

car show, arts and crafts booths and more. To energy and ideas surrounding Totally Texas and

get a top notch carnival, you have to have thou- take it from there," Stokes said.  b

25

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

The Shop Local
Program is Back,
and Better than Ever

Deer Park is an incredible place for shopping, and the Chamber of
Commerce – in partnership with the City of Deer Park – is working every day to
promote the unique and exciting businesses we have to offer.
Read further for additional information on the Shop Local Program, a paid program
through the Chamber of Commerce with exciting benefits and promotions to encourage local
shopping. For just $250 a year, you’ll benefit from discounted event registrations, participation in
shopping programs, promotional opportunities and much more.
As a complimentary feature to the existing Shop Local Program offered by the Chamber, the City
of Deer Park has established the “Shop Deer Park” initiative, a two-part approach to encourage shopping
in Deer Park by Houston area residents and beyond. First, Houston area advertisements paid for by the
City will encourage out-of-town shoppers to come to Deer Park to shop. Participants will also have the
opportunity to place collateral, coupons and product samples in the City’s Visitor Center, which will
provide a unique platform for reaching outside the resident base.
With these endeavours, the Chamber and the City hope to increase local shopping and revenue for
our hard-working business owners. Please contact the Chamber to sign up for the Shop Local Program,
and keep Deer Park strong!

Annual Program Benefits Ed's Flower Cottage

- G et listed on the Let the Buck Shop Here Participant page,
alongside your logo

- Participation in the Deer Park Chamber
2016 Mobile App Program

- Inclusion in App Passport & Loyalty Program
- Website & App coupon to offer customers
- Listing on Weekly Updates and a quarter page ad in Directions,

the Chamber Newsletter
- Inclusion in all Program promotional items
- Let the Buck Shop Here sign to place in your business
- Customized QR code for the Program
- A voice on the Shop Local Committee
- P rogram logo to include on your own marketing materials
- Invites to participate in seasonal and promotional events
- Multiple opportunities to win FREE advertising

26

Winter | 2016

Meet the
Ambassador
of the Quarter,
Valorie Whitlow

As told by Naomi Richison

The first time I met Valorie I could tell she awaiting my grandchildren." I chuckle as I
was a genuine person. She milled around the witness Valorie's candid personality shining
room and chatted a little bit with each person. through.
Today, the Chamber is lucky to have her as an
Ambassador, and I'm certain the guys at Mr. With a smile, she concludes, "it is a pleasure
Electric of Bay Area will agree. She shares a to have served as a Deer Park Chamber
little bit about herself with us here. Ambassador for the past six years."

"I am happy to say that I have worked at Mr. The pleasure is all ours, Valorie.
Electric as the office manager for the past
seven years," she discloses. "It is a pleasure
to work for a company that is growing in the
right direction and truly cares about their
employees."

Valorie continues, "I grew up in the Pasadena
area, graduated with a BA from Texas
Lutheran University and migrated to La Porte
where I have been a resident for twenty-
eight years. I have three children that are
the light of my life and I am very impatiently

“Isn’t it a great
day to be in
Deer Park,
”Texas!
Valorie helps greet guests at the
Business & Industry of the Year Awards
Luncheon

27

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

The Human Element BIG SOLUTIONS
at Work.
FOR A GROWING PLANET

Dow combines the power of science and technology to help address
many of the world’s most challenging problems. Together, the
elements of science and the human element can solve anything.

28®™The DOW Diamond Logo is a trademark of The Dow Chemical Company © 2014 www.dow.com

Winter | 2016

December 2015

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
29 30 1 5
234
6 Legislative Golden Division 12
Affairs Meeting Meeting

Annual Banquet Ambassador
Meeting Meeting

78 9 10 11

Annual Banquet
Committee
Meeting

13 14 15 16 17 18 19
December
Annual Banquet Awards
Committee
Meeting Luncheon -
Raffle Winners
Drawn

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Christmas Eve Christmas Day

27 28 29 30 31 1 2

New Year's Eve

Special Notes:

The Chamber office will be closed December 23rd - January 1st
to allow time with family during the Holidays.
*All dates subject to change. Contact the Chamber for more
information.

29

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce

January 2016

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
27 28 29 2
30 31 1

New Year's Day

3 4567 89
Legislative
Affairs Meeting Ambassador
Meeting
Annual Banquet
Meeting

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Annual Banquet
Committee
Meeting

17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Business
Annual Banquet Growth
Committee Committee
Meeting Meeting

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Annual Banquet
Committee
Meeting

31

Special Notes:

As of the time of publishing, the exact date of the Annual
Banquet is yet to be determined. Please stay tuned.
*All dates subject to change. Contact the Chamber for more
information.

30

Winter | 2016

February 2016

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
31 1 2 6
3 45
7 13
Legislative Golden Division
Affairs Meeting

Committee Ambassador
Meeting Meeting

89 10 11 12

14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Business GCCE
Young Guns Growth Leadership
Business Over Committee Conference
Meeting
Breakfast

St. Valentine's Day

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

State of the City
Luncheon

28 29 1 2 3 4 5

Special Notes:

*All dates subject to change. Contact the Chamber for more
information.

31

Deer Park
Chamber of Commerce

110 Center Street
Deer Park, Texas 77536

(281) 479-1559
[email protected]

www.deerpark.org