Volume 6 Number 12December 2014

CHAIRPERSON

Brian Gilbert, Members Trust of the SW Federal

Credit Union

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRPERSON

Trent Salch, Tell Your Tale Marketing & Design

VICE CHAIR

Craig Atkinson, Houston Highway Credit Union

TREASURER

Tony Allman – PrimeWay Federal Credit Union

SECRETARY

Cindy Reibenstein, Reibenstein & Associates.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bill Ballew, CPA

Jeff Bielik, St. Joseph Medical Center in the Heights

Hector Castellanos, Chase Bank

Tom Chigoy, Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel

Dee Farino, Third Coast Impressions

Joe Fuentes, Houston Area Community Services

Jerry Gann, CenterPoint Energy

Susan Jadlowski, Memorial Hermann NW Hospital

Neil McGlone, LegalShield

Alan Rosen, Harris County Constable, Precinct One

Nadia Troutenko, Troutenko Insurance Services

Linda Whittington, Pro Printing

Taylor Woodard, Raymond James & Associates

STAFF

Jacob Millwee, President

Trish Gardiner, Director of Events and Operations

Larry Plasek, Director of Communications

Glenda Clerc, Director of Member Services

FOUNDING DIRECTORS

Norman Adams

Jack Fields

ADVISORY DIRECTORS

Sheriff Adrian Garcia

Scott Lester

City Councilman Edward Gonzalez, District H

City Council Member, Ellen Cohen, District C

GREATER HEIGHTS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

545West 19th Street • Houston, Texas 77008

Phone: 713.861.6735 • Fax: 713.861.9310

www.HeightsChamber.com

A Publication of theGreater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce

2 LINKED December 2014

3 SPOTLIGHTING A NON-PROFIT MEMBER

4 MEMBER PROFILE

6 RIBBON CUTTINGS

9 EDUCATION CORNER

10 CHAMBER YEAR IN REVIEW

14 CRAWFISH FESTIVAL

15 GOLD PATRON PROFILE

LEADERSHIP LEVELSThe Leadership Levels, which includes, Gem, Platinum,Gold and Silver represent the most prestigious designationfor member firms.

Without their financial support we would not be able to offer thewide variety of benefits to all of our members and our community.

December 2014

GEM LEVEL PARTNERSHIPS

Houston Highway Credit UnionDiamond Partner

GOLD PATRONS

Adams Insurance Service, Inc.

Allison Jones and Associates

C & D Scrap Metal Recyclers,Co., Inc.

CenterPoint Energy

Cokinos, Bosien & Young

Comerica Bank - Heights

Computer Wiz

JPMorgan Chase Bank of Texas

Cyclone Anaya’s MexicanKitchen

Fiesta Mart

Heights Medical Tower, Ltd.

Houston Highway Credit Union

IntegraNet

Integrity Bank

Mach Industrial Group

Marek Family of Companies

Memorial HermannNorthwest Hospital

Merchandise Pickup Services, Inc.

PrimeWay Federal Credit Union

Shipley Do-Nuts

Spirit of Texas Bank

St. Joseph Medical Centerin the Heights

Teotihuacan Mexican Café

Tommie Vaughn Ford

Walmart

Westside Lexus

SILVER PATRONS

Allegiance Bank Texas

Grifols Biomet

Mutual of Omaha Bank

Quilts, Inc.

Reynolds & Associates, PLLC

December 2014 LINKED 3

President's LetterDear Fellow Members,

I love the holidays. We celebrate Christmas in my home, and I have the privilege of watching my twoyoung boys experience it each year. Magic is still very real to them, and my childhood memories of thatvery magic are so much crisper and clearer for watching them. Decorations, food, carols, and of courseSanta all permeate the very air in the Millwee house from Thanksgiving until New Years.

While it may be magic for the boys, there is nothing magical about the stress, the planning, and theexpense that goes on behind it. Schedules fill up, bank accounts run dry, shopping never seems to getdone, an on the whole nerves get a little frayed. None the less, my spirits stay up and I am happy toshare the holiday cheer.

We all have an opportunity this season to do that very thing. I hope you find time to reach out to the Chamber memberswhose services you have used or have become your clients and let them know that you appreciate them. It can be as simpleas a Facebook post on their page, or a quick email. For those of you with family and friends coming into town, you have anumber of excellent restaurants in your Chamber. Why not take your guests out for a bite? The Houston Choral Showcase,Opera in the Heights, Express Children’s Theater, HITS Theater, and 14 Pews provide wonderful entertainment opportunitiesfor those same guests. And who can resist popping into our local boutiques and shops?

Whatever holiday your family celebrates this time of year, or even if you don’t celebrate at all, I encourage you to make apoint of greeting and thanking your fellow Chamber members this month. Happiness and joy tend to yield greater returns themore you share them, and who knows? You might re-discover a little magic yourself. Wishing you joy and cheer.

Jacob MillweeYour Chamber President

Jacob Millwee

Spotlighting a Non-Profit MemberThe Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA located at 1234 West 34th Street began serving the Houston Heights asearly as 1919 and was formally organized as the West End-Heights Extension in 1938, then renamed the NorthwestYMCA in 1944. Completed in 1956, it was expanded in 1962 as YMCA services continued to grow. Because of fastgrowth it was dismantled in 2001, and new facilities were dedicated January 25, 2002 on the same site.

Today the facility has over 7,000 members including youth, adults and seniors. The Y offers personal training, onsiteCross Fit (in partnership with Bayou City Cross gFit), GRIT™, Les Mills classes, and over 80 group exercise classes aweek. A state of the art Wellness Center features its cardio equipment with individual viewing screens. YMCAmembership includes free child care while you are on site as well as a 6 lane seasonal pool.

Everyone knows them as four letters: Y-M-C-A. But the Y brings communities so much more.•There’s exercise, but there’s also education through academic enrichment programs.•There’s cardio, but there’s also community volunteerism to improve neighborhoods.•They give swim lessons, scholarships, and financial assistance to those who need it most.

Donations to the Y stay in the community. Every dollar of a donation is used to support a child,family or individual enabling them to learn, grow and develop. The Y is a cause, and thecause is strengthening communities. This happens with programs like Teen Achieverstraining in order to teach youth about values, volunteerism and helping them prepare for thefuture. The Foster YMCA supports two outreach apartment complexes in the Greater Inwoodarea providing a safe place for youth after school, and in summer at no cost. The Y gave youthbicycles in partnership with BBVA Compass and sent five youth to a week of summer camp.

These youth were also recipients of the YMCA Operation Backpack program which collected more than 75,000 back-packs and school supplies city-wide and an Angel Tree program which provided outreach youth Christmas presents.For more information about partnering with the YMCA please contact Rosemary Lengefeld, Community ExecutiveDirector at rosemarym@ymcahouston.org.

Rosemary Lengefeld

Cover photos at Darlene’s Flower & Gift Shop

How will the Houston economy fare in 2015 and the next few years? Which considerations should your business make based onlocal, state, U.S. and global economics? Join the Heights Chamber of Commerce at our annual Economic Forecast Luncheon tohear Dr. Bill Gilmer, Director of the Institute for Regional Forecasting at the Bauer School of Business at the University of Houston,discuss the future of Houston business, employment, interest rates, energy and real estate on January 22 at the Sheraton HoustonBrookhollow Hotel.

Reserve your table today as space is limited. Event sponsorships are available as a way to increase your visibility among Chambermembers as well as numerous guests. Sponsorships are available.

Platinum Sponsors:Houston Highway Credit Union, Members Trust of the SW Federal Credit Union and Insurance & Benefits Advisors

Gold Sponsors: Allegiance Bank Texas • Cokinos, Bosien & Young • Computer WizMarek Family of Companies • Martha Turner Sotheby’s • PrimeWay Federal Credit Union

Silver Sponsors: Andrews Financial Services • Cremate Texas • Harriet & Joe Foster Family YMCA • Knapp ChevroletMembers Trust of the SW Fed. Credit Union • PrimeWay Federal Credit Union • Power Women Group

Prosperity Bank • Tell Your Tale Marketing & Design • The May Group LLC

Enjoy these benefits by being a sponsor:Platinum Sponsorships - $2,500Logo on Chamber website, company banner on stage, promotional product on each seat, first preference for table placement,recognition in press releases, recognition in LINKED, logo and recognition in event program and a table of 8.Gold Sponsorship - $1,000 - Preferred table placement, recognition in LINKED, recognition in event program and a table of 8Silver Sponsorship - $500 - Recognition in event program and a table of 8Single Seat: $65 - Exhibit Tables Available: Boost your visibility by hosting an exhibit table at the luncheon for just $200 whichincludes 1 luncheon seat. Luncheon attendees are encouraged to visit the exhibit area before and after the luncheon.

December 2014 LINKED 54 LINKED December 2014

Economic Forecast Luncheon

member prof i le PAUL OPPERMANN – STANDER & OPPERMANN PLLC

Beginning work, he joined Browning-FerrisIndustries as a staff accountant and moved upto be District Controller with stints in Dallasand Lubbock. In 1991 he came to Houston asController for one of the hauling companies.Gaining additional experience saw him hold-ing responsible positions with Robert Half In-ternational and Specialized Staffing.

Currently he is a Certified Public Accountantand works with clients on behalf of Stander & OppermannPLLC where he is a partner. His lengthy industry experi-ence finds him assisting individuals with tax filings, IRS is-sues and representation, analytical review of businessoperations and benchmarks, cash flow analysis and more.

Paul joined the Chamber to become an active member ofthe organization and to get to know the businesses thatoperate in the greater Heights area. He values the net-

working opportunities and gladly gives refer-rals to other Chamber members.

Besides giving time to the Chamber and itsoperations, Paul is actively involved in manyother organizations. Just to name a few,there is the Texas Society of CPA’s – HoustonChapter, he is past Chairman of the CPAcontinuing professional education conference,a member of the Relations with Taxing Author-

ities committee, the Houston Heights Association and theKnights of Columbus.

The Oppermann family includes wife Nancy and son,Joseph. This multi-talented man enjoys cycling, runningand archery. But that’s not all; he is involved in Beekeep-ing and cattle at a location in Marquez, Texas. Congratu-lations Paul, the Chamber appreciates your support andyour clearly evident enthusiasm for being a member.

Our featured member for this month was born, grew up and attended local schools in Galveston. For hishigher education, Paul chose Stephen F. Austin State University where he earned a BBA degree inAccounting. Next it was on to the University of Houston at Clear Lake for his MBA.

December 2014 LINKED 7

Haute Dimensions Boutique welcomed Chamber members and guests totheir store located at 6521 North Main Street for a wonderful ribboncutting.Chaun and Tiffany Roberts told guests about the store’sbeginnings and displayed a wide variety of merchandise for sale.

Dennis Roberts took on the scissors to cut the ceremonial ribbon. Checkout this impressive Heights-area business at www.haute-dimensions.com.

Young Life Heights celebrated their membership in the Chamber witha ribbon cutting on October 22. Young Life thinks the world of kids.

The staff and leaders are positive role models for young people. They arededicated to building lasting friendships with teenagers and helping themprepare for the future.Will Otto did the honors with the big scissors.

Learn more at www.heights.younglife.org.

Ashley and John Barneby owners of Salata hosted a huge ribboncutting as they welcomed Chamber members to their restaurant located

at 185 Heights Boulevard. John used the scissors to celebrate theoccasion and briefed a big crowd on the merits of “the next generationsalad bar.” Members enjoyed a healthy and nutritious lunch with

excellent service.

Texas Loan Star, a service-oriented mortgage company, celebrated a ribboncutting at their new facility located at 2233 Yale Street. This attractivebuilding houses a staff that excels at providing loan programs that arecustom fit to anyone’s unique needs. President Laith Daik took the bigscissors and the group was treated to outstanding luncheon items,

beverages and a tour of the offices. See more at www.texasloanstar.com.

November 18 was the date for the ribbon cutting at Express Children’sTheatre. This impressive group holds forth at 446 Northwest Mall and isHouston’s oldest touring theatre bringing professional theatrical productionsto thousands of school children each year. Patricia Barry Rumble and

Tim Fried-Fiori did the honors to celebrate the event. See all theirperformance information at www.expresstheatre.com.

The staff at MDAnderson YMCA, located at 705 Calvacade Streethosted a ribbon cutting on November 5. Members benefit from activitiesincluding after school enrichment, youth sports, early childhood and teendevelopment. Currently they are conducting “Operation Give Thanks”which sends letters and Christmas cards to the members of the Armed

Forces overseas. Doing the honors with the scissors wereMaria Arcos and Halina Martinez.

ribbon cutt ings

2020 North LoopWest, Suite 260Houston,TX 77018

Phone 713-316-4560 • Fax 713-316-4561

Member AICPA,TSCPA

Reynolds & Assoc.,PLLCCERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Gene B.Reynolds, CPA, Foundergreynolds@gbrcpas.comwww.gbrcpas.com

6 LINKED December 2014

Painting with a Twist held a ribbon cutting on November 17 at their facilitylocated at 728West 19th street. For reservations and their calendar, go towww.paintingwithatwist.com/houston-heights. Cutting the ceremonialribbon was Dimitri Papakyriacou, assisted by Alberto Haddad.

December 2014 LINKED 9

Education CornerThe holidays are right around the corner and the Education Committee is ready too! The tags for thePOWER UP will be ready for delivery at the December meeting and that is a great gift; the businessespartnered with the schools and the students will benefit! Craig Atkinson with Houston HighwayCredit Union partnered with Washington and Scarborough, Tony Allman with PrimeWay FederalCredit Union partnered with Reagan, and Brian Gilbert with Members Trust of the SW Credit Unionpartnered with Waltrip; Davis High School’s partner ‘just wanted to help’ ‘Davis is a great school.’Thank you Dee Farino for organizing this need!

We had a Teacher Social in November at Cyclone Anaya’s, a Chamber Gold Patron, and Jaclyn Bell with Dearborn andCreggs sponsored this event and a good time was had by all. The Job Fair on February 25, 2015 from 1-5 at the YMCA on

34th needs businesses to sign up! Don’tyou need some weekend help, nighthelp, part-time, PRN and preparing forthe summer? Come and interview somereally good high school students from allour area high schools. See RosemaryLengefeld at the Harriet and Joe FosterYMCA.

The Education Committee is also goingto work with the Heights Library andhelp them with the sorting and makingready storage for some of the historic doc-uments of the Heights. Our elementary,middle and high schools will be donatingtheir time to help this valuable Heightsasset. We are also gathering our schoolsto display their entertainment and it willbe lots of fun! We had a great FinancialReality Fair at Davis High School in Octo-ber and appreciate all the business volun-teers: Beth Mangum with Woodmen ofThe World and Ivee Sauls with MemorialHermann NW Hospital; Brian Gilbertand Craig Atkinson even brought someof their employees. Beth Mangum alsodid a fantastic presentation at St. Rose ofLima—the students learned all about ourFlag and the care of it as well as someveterans came to give their story… thathistory lesson will not be forgotten!

Each month we have a good crowd at ourmeetings; schools continue to join; weneed businesses who wish to partner withus. Consider joining, come check usout. It is always the second Thursdayof the month at the Chamber office at10. Next time is December 11. Anyquestions just let me know.

– Cindy Reibenstein, Education Chair

calendar of events

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12.02RIBBON CUTTING

Yoga One Heights548 West 19th Street12:15 p.m.

12.03NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION

Chamber Offices545 West 19th StreetLunch is provided11:45am - 1:00 p.m.

12.11BREAKFAST CONNECTION

Sheraton HoustonBrookhollow Hotel3000 North Loop WestSpeaker: Steve Lufburrow6:45 - 8:30 a.m.Sponsored by Heights ModernDentistry

12.11HYPOHarold’s350 West 19th Street5:00 – 8:00 p.m.Sponsored by Kathryn Hodge ofAffiliated Mortgage Co.

12.17BOARD MEETING

HACS2150 West 18th Street7:45 – 9:00 a.m.

12.24 -12-25CHAMBER CLOSED

JANUARY

1.01 CHAMBER CLOSED

1.08 BREAKFAST CONNECTION

1.13 RIBBON CUTTING

1.15 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

1.20 RIBBON CUTTING

1.21 BOARD MEETING

1.22 ECONOMIC FORECAST

LUNCHEON

NOTE: Changes may occur inthis calendar after publishing,www.heightschamber.comfor confirmations.

Heights Achievement CornerHouston Choral Showcase Christmas PerformanceHouston Choral Showcase will entertain you at their our annualHoliday Show on Sunday, December 14 at 3pm. Enjoy songs frompopular holiday movies, new arrangements of familiar tunes, andlots of fun music to put sparkle in your season! Buy tickets early toget advance purchase discounts, and bring a group of 8 or morefor the best prices. The performance takes place at 2700 WestSam Houston Pkwy N. at Houston Christian High School(Pampell Chapel).

Gold Patron Members Profiled in “Linked”January Memorial Hermann NW Hospital

February Comerica BankMarch Westside Lexus

April CenterPoint EnergyMay IntegraNet HealthJune Teotihuacan Mexican CafeJuly Cokinos, Bosien & Young

August Chase Bank -Reagan

September St. JosephMedical Centerin the Heights

October PrimeWayFederal CreditUnion

November Marek Family ofCompanies

December Tommie VaughnFord

Houston Highway Credit Union Upgraded toDiamond Level Membership

Houston Highway Credit UnionThis Credit Union became the firstmember to select Emerald status in the new Gem Level Partner-ships. Chartered in Texas in 1952, the organization began servingthe 2,000 employees that worked in district 12 of the Texas HighwayDepartment. With a facility located at 8120 Washington Avenue, theinstitution has grown to provide affordable checking, savings, loansand more to 6,500 member owners and is $59 million strong inassets. President Craig Atkinson leads the Credit Union, has morethan 25 years industry experience, and chaired the 2013 ChamberGala and co-chaired the 2013 Golf Tournament. There were severalimportant reasons why Houston Highway Credit Union chose to be-come an Emerald Partner member. Craig Atkinson said, “My Dadalways told me, just do the right thing, and this is the right thing todo!” In addition, the company believes being involved locally isessential. “After all, how can we have a successful business withouta successful community” And finally, one check is easy to writeand it covers all of their participation throughout the year forsponsorships so they don’t worry about missing deadlines.Congratulations Houston Highway Credit Union, we value yoursupport and great participation.

Members Profiled in “Linked”Jan Stephenson– Jan StephensonGraphic Design, Marietta Hetmaniak – Marek Family ofCompanies, Fred Nevill – Opera in the Heights, LindseyPollock – Garden Oaks Montessori School, Debbie andDr. George Junkin – NW Chiropractic Center, HectorCastellanos – Chase Bank Reagan, Bobby Donaldson –Westside Lexus, Larry Bell – Insurance & Benefits Advi-sors, Crystal Ruiz – CARisma Wash, Erik Hendrickson –Pat H. Foley & Company, Tony May – May InsuranceGroup, LLP, Paul Oppermann – Stander & OppermannPLLC

2014

10 LINKED December 2014

14 PewsAffiliatedMortgage CompanyAflac: Sean A PradiaAmerican Cancer Society –Relay for Life of GreaterHeightsAvedon & PartnersBELFOR Property RestorationBranch Banking & Trust(BB&T)

Cathy Peveto of Edward JonesChic Lash BoutiqueClifton Elementary SchoolContinental Tool & Supply Co.Crescendo Family MusicDearborn & CreggsEklektik InteriorsHouston Health AdvocacyeLearning K12 HoustonEnvoyMortgage

Express Children’s TheatreForgotten SinnersGoldman Sach’s 10,000Small Businesses

Haute Dimensions BoutiqueHeights General StoreHeights Interfaith Ministries Food PantryHistoric HollywoodCemetery, Inc.

Houston AcupunctureandWellness

Incite Energy LLCIn-Line Chiropractic Care, P.A.Insurance & Benefits AdvisorsJade GardenLA FitnessLittle J’s BarLos Cucos Signature Mexican Café –Heights

Mama Fu’s Asian House

M.D. Anderson FamilyYMCA of Greater Houston

Mike Sullivan – Harris County TaxAssessor –Collector

Molly’s Mutt HouseMosaic Clinic Hair TransplantCenterOlga Guin of Edward JonesOmni GearPadilla & Rodriguez, LLPPaintingWith a TwistPiatto RistoranteRegus-BrookhollowCentral III

Rumor Has It Day SpaRusty Jones of SafeguardHome Security

Salata RestaurantSanta Ana Auto Body ShopSente Mortagage

Sports Clip HaircutsStander & Oppermann, CPA’sStorageWestSun RealtyTaylor Real Estate Group, Inc.Technical ToolboxTelpacific CommunicationsTeotihuacanMexican CaféThe Lash LoungeThe Vapor GypsyThree Brothers BakeryToucanMarketing SolutionsWalgreensWalter Law Firm PCWelcomeWagonWindow “Pains” &Solutions, Inc.

Woodmen of theWorldYogaOne HeightsYoung Life Heights

As we reminisce, weare reminded of all thesignificant memberbenefits in the form ofactivities and eventsthat took place in2014. More in depthdescriptions are on thefollowing pages, but

highlighting just a few seems appropriate here.Giving back to the community in the form of supporting

member and area businesses was the focal point of theChamber’s “Buy Local First” campaign. Supporting localbusinesses enriches the community and the Chamber wasproud to take the lead on this initiative. We welcomed thesupport of the Houston Heights Association and the 19thStreet Merchant Association in this endeavor.

Continuing an event that annually draws a crowd eagerto get planning and economic insights, the Chamber hostedthe annual Economic Forecast Luncheon where Dr. BillGilmer presented his views and predictions for the nationalas well as the Houston economy.

Our Education Committee made great strides this yearas Chair, Cindy Reibenstein mobilized our members,

businesses, school administrators and others into a series ofactions that contributed to schools and student progress.Members of the committee identified areas of need andaddressed those with action plans and commitments.The Education luncheon was revived and deservingstudents received scholarships.

The “Gateway to Local Government” luncheon drew alarge crowd and gave members and guests the opportunityto hear the Mayor speak and to talk in person with repre-sentatives of state, county and city officials.

Our “Insights” Breakfast Connection, staged for thefirst time, brought influentialbusiness leaders in to impartthe strategies and businessdecisions that made themsuccessful.

The highly successfulCrawfish Festival and Idol ofthe Heights events exposednew area residents and busi-nesses to the Chamber as a large group of the communityenjoyed a full day of fun for adults and kids.

Here is a look-back at all the activities that took placeduring 2014.

NewMembers Joining the Ranks

The Chamber Year in ReviewWow, another calendar year has come to an end, where did the time go? That’s aquestion many of us ask especially at this time of the year. Twelve months seems topass in a blur, or is that just the recollection of an aging editor?

December 2014 LINKED 11

Anytime FitnessBB&TBelfor Property RestorationBrookdale – Hampton at PinegateBrookdale Place – The HeightsCathy Peveto – Edward JonesCentre Fitness FusionChase Bank – ReaganChic Lash BoutiqueClifton Middle SchoolComputer-WizCrescendo Family MusicDearborn & CreggsDistribution by AirelearningK12Express Children’s TheatreFountain ForwardHaute Dimensions BoutiqueHeights Dermatology &

Aesthetics Center

Heights Interfaith Ministries FoodPantry

Houston Area Community ServicesHouston DynamoHouston Health AdvocacyIn-Line ChiropracticJ.G. Hollins BuilderLiberty GarageMD Anderson YMCAMemorial Assistance MinistriesMemorial Hermann Emergency CenterMemorial Hermann Medical GroupMosaic Clinic Hair Transplant CenterNew School in the HeightsPainting With a TwistPapa Murphy’s PizzaPiatto RistoranteQBQ BookkeepingRegus-Brookhollow Central IIIReveal Home Staging

Rusty Jones of Safeguard Home SecuritySalataSente MortgageSpringhill Suites – BrookhollowStewart TitleStewart Title CompanySun RealtyTexas Loan StarThe Beaded PigThe CenterThe Grove at White OakThe Lash LoungeThe Vapor GypsyTommie Vaughn FordWalgreensWaltrip Alumni AssociationWaste Connections of TexasWindow “Pains” & SolutionsWoodrow’s HeightsYoung Life Heights

Ribbon Cuttings Held During the Year

Chamber Leadership andBoard of Directors UpdateTerry Burge, Chamber President, was avery effective leader in his short-time withthe Chamber. Under his guidance theChamber made significant strides in a num-ber of areas. August brought an opportunityfor Terry to join another organization and heresigned as President. Jacob Millwee, asix-year veteran of the Chamber, and mostrecently the Director of Operations, wasunanimously voted by the Board ofDirectors to be President. Trish Gardiner,formerly Office Manager was promoted toDirector of Events and Operations. GlendaClerc joined the Chamber in October asDirector of Member Services. Larry Plasekcontinues as Director of Communications.

As the new 2014-2015 year began, thesewere the officers:Brian Gilbert of Members Trust of the SWFederal Credit Union – ChairmanCraig Atkinson of Houston Highway CreditUnion - Vice-ChairTony Allman of PrimeWay Federal CreditUnion - TreasurerCindy Reibenstein of Reibenstein &Associates – SecretaryTrent Salch of Tell Your Tale Marketing &Design - Immediate past Chairman.

Newly elected to three year terms were:Bill Ballew, Certified Public AccountantHector Castellanos of Chase BankDee Farino with Third Coast ImpressionsSusan Jadlowski with Memorial HermannNW HospitalNeil McGlone of LegalShield

Directors continuing in their Boardpositions include:Jeff Bielik of St. Joseph Medical Center inthe Heights,Tom Chigoy Sheraton Houston Brookhol-low Hotel,Joe Fuentes of Houston Area CommunityServices,Jerry Gann of CenterPoint Energy,Alan Rosen Constable for Harris CountyPrecinct 1, Nadia Troutenko of TroutenkoInsurance Services, Linda Whittington ofPro Printing and Taylor Woodard ofRaymond James & Associates.

•“Gateway to Local Government” LuncheonAugust 7 was the date for the first “Gateway to Local Govern-ment” luncheon which featured Mayor Anise Parker as thekeynote speaker. In addition, representative of state, countyand city officials manned display tables to talk with attendees.

•Idol of the HeightsFollowing up on last year’s fun-filled “Idol of the Heights”competition, this year’s talented contestants were outstand-ing. The singing competition got underway on February 7with the first preliminary round. Additional preliminariestook place with the semi-finals on February 28. The finalistscompeted at the March 8 Crawfish Festival.

•School Supply Drive Scores A+Under the leadership of Arlene SoRelle, Chair of theCommunity Involvement Committee, the students at EugeneField Elementary again benefited from the generosity ofmembers who donated and contributed to the annual drive.

•Chairman’s GalaOn September 26, the Chamber’s annual Gala was held atthe Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel. This year’s Galafeatured the theme “Black Tie & Boots.”

•Annual Golf TournamentJonathan McElvy of The Leader Newspaper chaired thisyear’s annual golf tournament and it took place October 6 atCypress Lakes Golf Course. Lunch and dinner were providedto players.

•January Breakfast Connection AddressedCity RegulationsKathryn van der Pol of Adolf Hoepfl Garage moderated a3-person panel of Houston businessmen at the January 9Breakfast Connection.

•First Financial Night – January 28Members Trust of the SW Federal Credit Union staged theFinancial Reality Fair at Waltrip High School on the night ofJanuary 28. Students were exposed to career opportunities,budgeting, and other key financial decisions they will makelater in life.

•Economic Forecast Luncheon Fills BallroomDr. Bill Gilmer returned to the Chamber on January 23 topresent his annual economic forecast projections for theU.S. and Houston economies.

•Crawfish FestivalOn Saturday, March 8, the annual Chamber Crawfish Festi-val was held at 411 West 20th Street. A record-settinggroup of attendees enjoyed the crawfish, vendor tables,cold beverages, raffles and musical entertainment. Offeringplenty of activities, members and Heights-area residentscame to partake of the food, children’s fun area and doorprizes given out during the day. Thanks to all the membersponsors, volunteers and for the vendor organizations thathelped to make the festival successful.

•First “Insights” Breakfast Connection – Aug 14The inaugural “Insights” Breakfast Connection was staged togive attendees the opportunity to gain wisdom from localbusiness leaders. Stan Marek of the Marek Family of Compa-nies and George Martinez, founder of Sterling and Alle-giance Banks, spoke about their principles, strategies anddecisions that contributed to their success. Channel 13’s TedOberg moderated the session and subsequent “Insights”meetings are planned.

•Annual Education LuncheonMay 27 was the date for the Education Luncheon whichfeatured U.S. Congressman Gene Green as the keynotespeaker. Outstanding students from local area high schoolswere the recipients of scholarships. A total of six $1,000scholarships were awarded, five students received $500,outstanding teachers received $100, and the Educator ofthe Year received $250. The Chamber Intern of the Yearreceived $150.

12 LINKED December 2014

Jacob MillweeChamber President

Trish GardinerDirector of Eventsand Operations

Glenda ClercDirector of

Member Services

Larry PlasekDirector of

Communications

December 2014 LINKED 13

December 2014 LINKED 15

BASIC UNLIMITED

$14.99 MONTH

EXTREME UNLIMITED

$19.99 MONTH

ULTIMATE UNLIMITED

$29.99 MONTH

CARisma WASH UNLIMITED WASHES

505 N. LOOP W. BETWEEN SHEPHERD AND YALE

RIGHT NEXT TO STARBUCKS

gold patron prof i le

This family owned and operated business was startedin 1956 by Tommie Vaughn, a native of Brownwood,Texas. He was a graduate of Texas A&M Universityand a member of the 1939 Aggie football team thatwon the national championship.

For the last twenty years, Jim Janke has beenresponsible for daily operations. Under Jim's guid-ance and leadership, Tommie Vaughn's grandsonsKyle and Kirby Janke carry on the family commit-ment to honesty, integrity and fair dealing in theirroles as the Service Manager and Sales Manger.Jim Janke, said, "The Heights meant a great deal toMr. Vaughn and he cherished the community andthe strong foundation it gave the dealership. It isour pleasure to maintain this tradition of loyalty andhonest customer service to our neighbors and friendsthrough continuation of his dedicated support to theHeights Chamber."

In 2014, Tommie Vaughn Ford opened itsdoors to a brand new, state of the art dealership at1201 N. Shepard. Now, the new car showroom,service center, and parts departments are under oneroof, with pre-owned sales, the body shop and fleetsales nearby as well. The new dealership has a KingRanch store right in the lobby, is dog friendly, hastwo electric vehicle charging stations and all LEDlighting. During construction, it was the largestcurrent project underway in the Ford system.

On Wednesday, December 17 you are invited tovisit the new showroom at the open house. Enjoy thefestivities with light snacks and drinks as they ring inthe season and draw the name of one lucky child totake home the handmade wooden Model T createdby local Heights artist, Paul Carr. In addition, themen of the Houston Firefighters calendar will bethere to sign calendars and pose for pictures tobenefit the Burned Children’s Fund. And, of course,Santa will be stopping by.

The Chamber recognizes the many contributionsand benefits that the Vaughn organization hasfreely given over the many years of their membershipand proudly salutes them as a featured GoldPatron Member.

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Crawfish Festival in the Heights – March 7Talk about being bigger and better, that’s the mantra for thisyear’s annual Heights Crawfish Festival. The Festival will takeplace at 411 West 20th and it begins at 11:00 a.m. and doesn’tend till sundown! This is an open to the public free admissionfestival including live music, the finale of the “Idol of theHeights” singing contest, performances by local schools,exhibitor booths, a kids fun area and shopping opportunities.

How about the singing competition? The “Idol of the Heights”singing contest will take the stage for the finals. There will belots of good talent and competition for cash prizes being of-fered here as the top candidates advance from the semi-finals.The festival is fun for the kids. There will be plenty of Kid’sZone activities for them to enjoy including the train ride, facepainting and much more.

Companies looking for exposure at the Festival can contract foran exhibit booth. Cost for members is $100, $125 for non-mem-bers and $25 for a table set with two chairs. For exhibitor infor-mation, contact Natalie Coyle at 713-253-6507. Full details areavailable on the Chamber website or from the Chamber office.

Multiple sponsorships are available that range from $5,000down to $250. For sponsorship information contact Dee Farinoat 281-924-2699 or Trish Gardiner at 713-861-6735.

We’re proud to recognize our initial member sponsor:

$5,000 Level – Houston Highway Credit Union

TOMMIE VAUGHNFORD

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newmembersAflac: Sean A. Pradia, An Independent AgentRepresenting AflacSean Pradia805 W 19th St., Houston, TX 77008351-960-1883seanpradia@gmail.comwww.aflac.comAn Independent Agent representing Aflac,” and HRBenefits Consultant. They offer voluntary health care,accident, disability, critical care, cancer, and life insurancepolicies to individuals and small businesses. Pay cash benefitsto their policy holders.

Continental Tool & Supply Co.Ron Jones6021 South Loop East, Houston, TX 77033281-804-3904 cell, 713-641-0501ctsc.2@sbcglobal.net./www.ctschouston.comContinental Tool & Supply Co. is a one stop shop for allIndustrial Supplies.

Little J’s BarJosh Flowers1719 Longhorn Dr., Houston, TX 77007832-831-5015 work, 512-557-0681 celljosh@littlejsbar.com/www.littlejsbar.comLittle J's Bar is an active neighborhood bar that just happensto be located on an entertainment district street.

Los Cucos Signature Mexican Cafe-HeightsSergio Pineda1111 Studewood, Houston, TX 77008832-962-4472 cellce@loscucos.com/www.loscucos.comOur mission is to serve the freshest authentic Mexican food,at the best possible value, in a fun and festive atmosphere,where service is second to none.

Mama Fu’s Asian HouseJack Warren III1574 W Gray St., Houston, TX 77019832-581-4676 work, 281-763-9128 celljwarren@mamafus.com/ www.mamafus.comMama Fu’s brings the legendary flavors and varied tastes ofAsia home. Fresh ingredients and rich combinations of flavorsand spices provide unique dishes that are a world away fromevery day. Every dish at Mama Fu’s Asian House is preparedmade-to-order with the highest quality ingredients andseasonings.

Telepacific CommunicationsJennifer Chavarria2000 West Loop South, Suite 1150, Houston, TX 77027832- 573-5154 cell, 832-529-3661jchavarria@telepacific.com/www.telepacific.comWhen it comes to competitive telecom carriers, one namestands above the rest, TelePacific. This company is nowone of the top communications provider options nationwidewith a private fiber network serving any business in thecountry. This gives competitive advantages to their morethan 40,000 business customers who have over a millionlines in service all across the U.S.

Welcome WagonTracey Willis5830 Coral Ridge Dr., Coral Springs, FL832-962-4472 celltracey.willis@welcomewagon.com/www.welcomewagon.comWelcoming new homeowners for over 85 years.

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height l ights

Belinda Rossiter and Charles Thornburgof the Houston Choral Showcase

Richard Alvarado and John Frels ofSente Mortgage enjoyed the breakfast fare

Willie Diefenbach-Jones and Michele Schroederof Send Out Cards manned an impressive tabledisplay showcasing their business solutions

Judy Bankhead and Susan Tate, owners ofDarlene’s Flowers & Gifts hosted a wonderfulBusiness After Hours where everyone enjoyed

their great hospitality.

Crystal Ruiz of CARismaWash,Doug Burns ofCulturally Creative Travel, Patrick Page of

World Pay US,Christina Martinez of the LeaderNewspaper and Brian Gilbert of Members Trust of

the SW Federal Credit Union

Kathy Saccone of Saccone Bean andJorge Vernaza of BB&T

Mickey Peters of Massage Heights atWashington Heights and Jan Stephenson

of Jan Stephenson Graphic Design

Congratulations to Sybren and Kathryn van der Polwho celebrated their 10 year anniversary of owning

Adolf Hoepfl & Son Garage

Ken Jones, Associate Director of Entrepreneurshipat the University of Houston delivered an inspiringtalk about entrepreneurial insights, actions, and

demonstrated real life examples

Bonnie Sheeren of Houston Health Advocacy andDouglas Baumann of the University of Houston

Small Business Development Center

Wayne Sandlin of Photography by Design andMike Nelson of Westside Lexus

Jan Featherston of Sign-Ups and Banners Corp.,Judy Bankhead of Darlene’s Flowers & Gifts

and Vicki Martin of T-Shirt Works

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happy anniversaryMORE THAN 10 YEARS

JVP Jewelry & JewelersNLine AutomotiveU.S.Auto Connection

MORE THAN 5 YEARS

Delicious ConceptsIntegrity Bank*TDECU Your Credit UnionYellow Cab Houston

MORE THAN 1 YEAR

Cremate TexasCrime Stoppers of HoustonDavidWeekley HomesHouston DanceWorksKraftsmen Baking & CafeMemorial Park VisionNick's Plumbing & Sewer ServiceThe Heights at 2121The Summerhouse

1 YEAR

Chic Lash BoutiqueKeystone Resources

* Gold Patron

BullsEye is Houston owned and operated and theirclimate-controlled buildings are built expressly forstorage sites. Now is a great time for you to sort

and store business records or personal belongings.

You’ll have FREE use of the BullsEye truck tomove your belongings into storage.

They are conveniently located inside the loopat 1715 Airline, just north of Cavalcade.

Call 713-864-1715…tell them you’re aGreater Heights Chamber member…

and receive a special offer!

PRSRTSTANDARD

US POSTAGEPAID

HOUSTON TX.PERMIT 542

545 W. 19th Street Houston, Texas 77008