BLKRT U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 102
Commerce, Texas 75428
January 2017
A PUBLICATION OF THE COMMERCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Best Of Our Christmas Parade
Grand Marshals
Julie & Chad Gentle
Grand Marshal Award
10-2-4 Ranch Brush Truck
Best Float
Johnson Family
Best Theme Representation
Alderman Construction & Diversified Insurance
Best Vehicle
Bobby Bearden
Best Mini-Vehicle
Charlotte Bentle
Casino Royale II
Mark Your Calendars for
, Thursday, February 16th
Everyone had so much fun at last year's Chamber's Banquet we decided to do it again!!
Page 2
CHAMBER
P re s ide nt ’s L e tt er
Dear Chamber Members,
Wishing you all a very happy new year. Each new year we set new
goals in our personal lives. The same should be done for our businesses as
well. The Chamber of Commerce is here to help you reach your personal
and business goals.
Here's how we can help you reach your personal goals. Contact us to
find the best local gyms, support groups or organizations. Want a new job,
we can point you in the right direction to possible employers that may meet
your job skills or places to further your education to land your dream job.
Looking more adventure or fun things to do not far from home stop by and
pick up our guide of area things to do most within an hour or two ride. It
includes a calendar of events and fun places to visit.
Want to grow your business this year? Let us help you network with
other businesses. Run an advertisement in our Connection to promote
your business, a special event, or seasonal sale. Be a sponsor to one of
our events and get special recognition on our promotional pieces reaching
everyone that attends.
The Chamber depends on it's members' support and the success of
our events to continue running. We greatly appreciate all of our members
and are happy to help in any way we can to ensure your success. We don't
succeed unless our members do.
Happy New Year,
Shelly Gerard
President
January 2017
CHAMBER
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Shelly Gerard
President
Julie Gentle
Executive Vice President
Joe Shipman
Secretary
VacantTreasurer
Permanent Board Members
Larry Willis, ONCOR
Bonnie Hunter, CEDC
Charlie Alderman,
Superintendent, Commerce ISD
Darrek Ferrell, City Manager
Noah Nelson, Director of
Community Engagement and
Director of Media Relations, Texas
A&M University-Commerce
Elected Board Members
Sarj Agha
Teena Ayres
Holly Bauschka
Ken Bishop
Joe Crenshaw
Vivian Freeman
Jeannie Harris
Marie Humphries
Sandra Martin
Erin McKee
Gary Rusch
Amy Welch
Executive Director
Office Administrator
Paul Voss
Sheryl Millar
1114 Main Street,
P.O. Box 290
Commerce, TX 75429
903.886.3950
f 903.886.8012
commerce-chamber.com
[email protected]
To place an ad in the CONNECTION feel free to contact us.
Do you want to run an ad in the Connection?
Advertising in the Connection is a great way to increase your businesses visibility
beyond the Connection or Chamber website Directories
Display Ad (Horz. 5” w x 3” h or Vert. 3.25” w x 4.625” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 30
Event Showcase (5” w x 6” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 50
Back Cover Ad (10.25” w x 10.75” h) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $300
Chamber Membership Levels
Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.00
Individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $58.65
Clubs and Churches. . . . . . . . . . $58.65
Business Membership . . . . . . . $175.95
(1-10 full-time employees)
Business Membership . . . . . . . $234.60
(over 10 full-time employees)
Hotels, Motels & Apartments. . $234.60
Banks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $293.25
Manufacturers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $586.50
Utility Companies . . . . . . . . . . $586.50
2nd Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1/2 price
Enhanced Online. . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00
Directory Listing
Call 903.886.3950 to join the Chamber today!
January 2017
CHAMBER
Page 3
Calendar of Upcoming Events
Children’s Health Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 14
9:30 am – 11:30 am at The Northeast Texas Children's Museum Free Admission!
Daddy-Daughter Dance: Princess and Tiaras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 4
6:30 pm – 9:00 pm at The Northeast Texas Children's Museum
Annual Commerce Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 16
Rayburn Student Center, 2600 W Neal St, Commerce, TX 75428
Mother-Son Pirate Night. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 25
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at The Northeast Texas Children's Museum
3rd Annual Bois d'Arc Spring Car Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 29
Downtown On The Square
On Going Events
Family Nights at the Commerce Public Library. Every Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00pm.
GriefShare - Begins February 6, 2017 The GriefShare support/recovery group hosted by First Baptist Church of
Commerce will begin its spring semester on Monday, February 6, 2017. Nationally-recognized grief experts teach
via the video-based curriculum developed by a non-denominational group, Church Initiative. The Commerce group
will meet every Monday night, beginning February 6, in the Church Parlor from 6 to 8 p.m. for twelve weeks.
Books are provided free of charge to participants in our local group. For more information, contact Jim or Teena
Ayres at 903-886-8600 or 214-729-7525. More information and resources are provided at www.GriefShare.org.
If you would like to us to showcase your event or have it added to the
Calendar of Events please e-mail your event information to the
Chamber of Commerce at [email protected]
RECYCLE DAY
IN COMMERCE
The First Saturday of Every Month
• January 7
• February 4
• March 4
• April 1
• May 6
• June 3
• July 1
• August 5
• September 2
• October 7
• November 4
• December 1
between the hours of
9:00 am and 11:00 pm.
The City containers have been
relocated to the University parking lot at Campbell and Walnut
in the same area as the University
recycle units.
Clip and Save
This Schedule
Commerce Chamber of
Commerce Mission Statement
The purpose of the Chamber of Commerce shall be to promote the common business interests of merchants and citizens living and working in
the City of Commerce, Texas, and in the immediate area; promote the free
enterprise system; encourage the commercial, industrial and agricultural
development of the City of Commerce and the immediate area; assume a
role of active leadership in community improvement. The Chamber shall
stand for local harmony, cooperation, and progress and shall be non-partisan, non-sectarian and non-sectional in its activities.
Hunt County Tax Office
Commerce Sub-Station Hours
at the Chamber of Commerce
Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
(Closed 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. for lunch.)
Offering full service to our taxpayers including motor vehicle registration and property tax collection services.
Online services available at www.hctax.info.
For further information please call 903.408.4000 or by
email [email protected]
Page 4
CHAMBER
January 2017
Our Community
Welcome To The New Year 2017
By Paul Voss
After the Christmas break, local business owner Bobby Hill brought a
book by the office for me to look through. He had found “ The Handbook of
Commerce Texas 1872-1985”, in a house he was tearing down and thought
the Chamber would like to look through it. I told him I would look at it and
immediately found some great treasures of information about our town.
Commerce has a great heritage and history and through the eyes and hands of
those who have recorded it have brought some of that history to light.
There is a swelling of confidence in our city that is moving through the business
community and the spirit of cooperation is growing. If you are not part of it,
come get on board. The new year has promise and by the growth so far this year,
2017 already has all the ear marks of a banner year.
Thank You to all the businesses and citizens that have made this a banner
year for the Chamber as well. We look forward to serving you and helping where
we can to promote Commerce and everything that is Commerce.
Of course the Chamber of Commerce is dear to my heart and news of past
Chamber activities is very interesting to me. It seems that in 1909, The publisher
of the Commerce Journal was Sterling Hart, who called a meeting of Commerce
businessmen to form a Board of Trade. The members called this organization
the Board of Trade until 1924 when they changed the name to the Chamber of
Commerce. One of the first things that they did was to erect two signs on either
side of the railroad tracks, near the Commerce train depot. The sign read:
“ Commerce, Hunt County, Texas. We have a population of 5000….
Abundant artesian water, water works, roundhouse, machine shops, five
railroad outlets, four banks, three divisions, two public school buildings, and
East Texas State Normal College with 600 students. We raise cotton, corn,
wheat, oats, alfalfa, sweet potatoes, peaches, blackberries, strawberries, and
plenty of timber. For more information, write Commerce Board of Trade.”
The founders of Commerce believed in advertising and promoting their town as
we do now. It is good to know that the spirit that once was is alive and well in
Commerce today.
To quote the book: The best way to summarize the activities of the
Chamber of Commerce, during its first seventy-five years, is to quote a resolution
adopted in the 1930’s:
“We believe that the greatest lesson we have learned……..is that we are
dependent on each other, and we must work together if we expect to go forward.”
The lesson’s that the founders of Commerce learned can be applied today
and should be. The slogan for the Chamber of Commerce today is “This is
Our Commerce” and the spirit of Commerce is alive and well going into 2017.
BhC
BRIARCLIFF
HEALTH CENTER
Voted Best
Nursing Home
6 Years Running
Hunt County Readers
Choice Awards
of Greenville, Inc.
Locally owned and operated.
Serving the Rehabilitation and Long Term
Care needs of Hunt County for over 25 years.
903.455.8729
4400 Walnut - Greenville, TX
Briarcliffhealthcenter.com
Medical Directors
Dr. Richard Selvaggi
Dr. Thomas Selvaggi
Get Happy
Make Us Your
Home
Oak Meadows Town Homes
150 Maple Street
Commerce, TX 75428
903.886.1555
M-F 8a.m.-5p.m.
Connie Clay, Manager
January 2017
CHAMBER
Page 5
Our Community
Commerce Area Alumni Annual Christmas Party
By Ann Julian
President Ray Keck and First Lady Patricia welcomed the Commerce Alumni Chapter into their home on Thursday , December 15. The traditional
annual Christmas party was a fantastic success. Dr. and Mrs. Keck are the ultimate hosts. Seventy members visited and socialized with friends. The
chapter has over a hundred members, but some were unable to attend due to other events on that date. There were so many stories to be shared.
Dr. Keck shared information about the house. All furnishings and memorabilia on the first floor belong to the house. There were stories about the
many artifacts, paintings and pictures on the walls. The chapter presented a blue and gold yard ornament to the couple to welcome them to our university.
In her presentation speech, Chapter president Ann Julian explained that a local alumnae had fashioned the blue and gold glass artifact from bits and
pieces of Commerce. She wanted to emphasize that the chapter was elated that the Kecks chose Commerce. The Commerce residents are also their ardent
fans.
Dr. and Mrs. Keck visit with Rachel Mitchell
Dr. Ray & Patricia Keck with Dr. Jim Toni Deaton
Dr. Ray and Patricia Keck upon presentation of
yard ornament from Ann Julian
Evonne Richardson & Jeanenne Oglesby
Dr. Keith McFarland visiting with Linda King
Scott and Jill Mobley visit with Rachel Mitchell
Page 6
CHAMBER
January 2017
Our Community
Lamar
Red
River
Fannin
Delta
Hopkins
Rains
Kaufman
Van
Zandt
Dallas
COMMERCE
101 Kings Plaza, Ste. H
Commerce, TX 75428
(903) 886-2666
Fax (903) 886-3773
$10 Off To Chamber Members
At Guaranty Bank & Trust, we believe in
growth. Not just for ourselves, but for the
people, businesses and communities we
serve. That growth comes from our
well-trained people, our
forward-thinking, long-term outlook and
a core belief that our success is just a
reflection of the success we help others
enjoy.
Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A.
Member FDIC
Franklin
Hunt
Rockwall
Wood
Titus
Collin
Camp
Upshur
Smith
SULPHUR SPRINGS
1091 Church Street
Sulphur Springs, TX 75482
(903) 439-4757
Fax (903) 885-6278
Toll-Free (800) 216-0970
Toll-Free Fax (877) 214-6884
January 2017
CHAMBER
Page 7
Our Community
University Professor And
Alumna Appointed To The
Texas State Board Of Social
Worker Examiners
By Julia Gessner
Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed Brian Brumley, East Texas State
University alumnus and current Texas A&M University-Commerce director of
field education for the School of Social Work, and A&M-Commerce alumna
Beverly Loss to The Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners.
“I am honored to be chosen. After 26 years in the field, 16 of those in
higher education, I believe I am in a unique position to further the profession of
social work through my service to the board,” said Brumley. “I am humbled by
the support of my co-workers and administration who have offered to assist and
work with me to meet the demands of the appointment.”
CONWAY COMPANY CPAs, PC
ACCOUNTANTS AND ADVISORS
www.conwaycpas.com
Office 903-886-2123
Facsimile 903-886-6580
1021 Park Street
Commerce, TX 75428
The board, which is administratively attached to the Texas Department of
State Health Services, works to regulate the profession of social work in Texas.
The governor appoints nine state licensing board members, and the members
have the ability to adopt and enforce rules.
Brumley earned his Bachelor of Science in political science and economics
from East Texas State University and a Master of Science in social work from the
University of Texas at Arlington. Brumley is a licensed master social worker. He
is currently a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Red River
Valley Fair Association, Lamar County Livestock Association and the Council
on Social Work Education. Additionally, he serves as a volunteer for Community
Helpers, Tigertown Community Center, Dylan’s Drivers, the Joanne Olivard
Foundation and Lamar County Junior Livestock Show.
Loss is currently a licensed master social worker at the Hunt Regional
Medical Center in Greenville. She is an alumna of A&M-Commerce, earning
both her Bachelor of Science in social work and a Master of Science in social
work. Loss previously held a position as a gubernatorial appointee on the
Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities. She is a member
of numerous organizations including the DayBreak Rotary Club of Greenville,
Greenville Landmark Board, Wolfe City Library Advisory Board and the
Wolfe City Educational Foundation. She is currently president of the Wolfe City
Economic Development Corporation and a volunteer ombudsman and certified
benefits counselor for the North Texas Area Agency on Aging.
1229 Washington Street, Commerce, TX
903.886.1234
FREE Lemonade with this ad when you purchase
the Laredo Special, Alambre or Tacos Mexicanos.
Loss and Brumley’s terms are set to expire on Feb. 1, 2021.
903-886-8600
1505 Washington Street
Commerce, TX
www.commercefuneralhome.com
Jim and Teena Ayres, Owners
Page 8
CHAMBER
January 2017
Our Community
10 Sure Ways to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions
By Jane Collingwood
Another year is ending and many of us are gathering up our
willpower for a brand new set of New Year’s resolutions. But have we
learned from past experience? A large number, if not the majority, of
previous resolutions were probably broken in weeks, days, or even hours.
So, how to make this time round more successful? Well it’s not as
hard as you might think — there are some really easy ways to set yourself
on the path to success, and the first is:
1. Keep your resolutions simple.
Sometimes people find themselves aiming for an overhaul of their entire
lifestyle, and this is simply a recipe for disappointment and guilt. It may
be understandable at this time of year, when self-improvement is on your
mind, but experience shows these things can’t all be achieved at once. The
best approach is to focus clearly on one or two of your most important
goals.
2. Choose carefully.
But which to choose? Well, you might like to concentrate on those that
will have the greatest impact on your happiness, health and fulfilment. For
example, giving up smoking will obviously improve your health, but it will
also give you a sense of pride and will make you happy (but perhaps not
immediately!)
3. Be realistic.
Don’t aim too high and ignore reality – consider your previous experience
with resolutions. What led to failure then? It may be that you resolved to
lose too much weight or save an unrealistic amount of money. Remember,
there will always be more opportunities to start on the next phase, so set
realistic goals. Or if you don’t want to hold back, set clear short-term goals
on your way to a big achievement. Which leads to tip number four.
4. Create bite-sized portions.
Break goals down to manageable chunks. This is perhaps the most
essential ingredient for success, as the more planning you do now, the
more likely you are to get there in the end. The planning process is when
you build up that all-important willpower which you will undoubtedly
need to fall back on along the way. Set clear, realistic goals such as losing
5 pounds, saving $30 a month, or going for a run once a week. Decide
exactly how you will make this happen.
5. Plan a time-frame.
In fact, the time-frame is vital for motivation. It is your barometer for
success, the way you assess your short-term progress towards the ultimate
long-term goal. Buy a calendar or diary so you can plan your actions for
the coming weeks or months, and decide when and how often to evaluate.
6. Make notes.
Having made a note of your time-frame, you will have a physical reminder
of what you’re aiming for. Now go further and write down the details of
your resolutions in a notebook, remembering to add your motivations.
You could keep a scrapbook for this purpose, and fill it with photos of
your slimmer self, pictures of sporting or hobby equipment you are saving
for, or even a shocking credit card statement to spur you into action! If
your resolution will directly benefit your partner, children, colleagues or
friends then add their photos too – anything to remind you of your initial
motivation.
7. Treat yourself.
When making your plan, a vital feature should be the rewards and treats
you will give yourself at those all-important milestones. But be warned,
don’t fall into the trap of putting your goal in danger – it’s too easy for a
dieter to say “I’ve been so good, I deserve a few candy bars”, or a saver to
throw caution to the wind with a new purchase. One slip, and it could all
be over
8. Receive support.
It is at such times, when you’ve temporarily fallen off the wagon, that
your support network is crucial. Carefully choose those people around
you who have shown themselves to be trustworthy, supportive friends and
explain your plans. Let them know of ways they can help when the going
gets tough, and if they’re truly caring they’ll know the right things to say
during the hard times.
9. Don’t give up!
Do bear in mind that a slip-up is almost inevitable at some point, and you
must not let this become an excuse to give up. When it happens, you will
need to draw on your reserves of self-belief and strength, so build these
qualities as often as you can. Really feel proud of your past achievements
and don’t become critical of yourself. People with higher self-esteem
and confidence are in a much better position to succeed, so immediately
forgive yourself and say “I’m starting again now!”
10. Put yourself in charge.
These achievements are under your control – other people can advise and
support you but it’s your actions which need to change to see the results
you want. Having a strong sense of control over your life is necessary to
stick with your plans. Those who blame everyone and everything apart
from themselves will not have the resources needed to change. Yes, it’s
scary to take responsibility for your future, but surely it’s better than the
alternative?
Now you’ve read these tips, you are in a great position to consider the best
ways to improve your life this New Year. Your happiness is worth the time
and effort, so get started, and good luck!
January 2017
CHAMBER
Page 9
Our Community
Nursing Progr am Among Top 50 In The Nation
By Mary Grace Rodriguez
The Texas A&M University-Commerce Bachelor of Science in Nursing
program has been recognized as one of the top 50 residential nursing programs in
the nation by TopRNtoBSN.com. A&M-Commerce ranked #50 overall.
In calculating rankings, TopRNtoBSN began by considering accredited
schools that offer accelerated programs. It then determined the “net cost” of the
program and graduation rate as well as admission selectivity, as determined by
the U.S. Department of Education. Within its ranking, TopRNtoBSN “sought to
highlight programs that have good reputations, support students in their studies,
and provide a good economic value.” It found that students find all of these
benefits at A&M-Commerce.
“This is quite an honor for a BSN program that is less than four years old,”
stated Dr. Barbara Tucker, Chair of the Nursing Department. “The program is
fortunate to have experienced faculty who are all advanced practice nurses and
excellent administrative support.”
The nursing program began in 2013 and will find permanent residence
in a new facility slated to open in 2019. The facility itself will be equipped
with its own simulation hospital and state-of-the-art research laboratories. The
brainchild of late President Dan R. Jones, the new facility will house not only
the Department of Nursing but also the Department of Health and Human
Performance and the Biomedical Institute for Regenerative Medicine (BIRR).
Record Attendance of 30,000 Visit Children's Museum in 2016
There was great excitement at the Children's Museum on Wednesday,
December 21, as the Gooding family from Sulphur Springs brought the
yearly number of visitors to 30,000. Debbie had attended Brunch with Santa
and returned for a second visit at just the right time. Balloons and a yearly
membership were presented to Debbie as she entered the Children's Museum.
"Are you kidding? This is wonderful! My boys will love this!" she quickly
exclaimed.
"We want to thank all our visitors who have made this year such a success.
This is a tremendous milestone for the Children's Museum", said Sharline
Freeman, Executive Director. "Since the population of Commerce is 8,000, this
number reflects the support that the Children's Museum receives from throughout
northeast Texas. "
The Northeast Texas Children's Museum features open play, special events,
and school programs throughout the year. Coming soon in 2017 will be the
Children Health and Safety Fair on January 14; a book signing by author Kathleen
Hooten on January 28; the Daddy Daughter Dance on February 4; and Mother Son
Pirate Night on February 25. The Healthy Kids from A to Z pre-school program
will begin the eight-week class on January 11; the fifth grade Weird Science
program begins on February 9.
The Children's Museum opened in 2002. With a full schedule and variety
of events, 2017 promises to be another successful year at the Northeast Texas
Children's Museum. For more information, call the Children's Museum at
903-886-6055.
Debbie Gooding was welcomed as the Children's Museum visitor who brought
the total yearly attendance to 30,000 in 2016. She and her children were
given balloons and a year's membership to the Children's Museum.
Page 10
January 2017
Retired Teachers Holiday Luncheon
By Ann Julian
Sounds of Christmas made the December 12 Retired Holiday Luncheon at
the TAMUC Alumni Building a special festive event. The meeting was called
to order by President Bettina Zvanut. She welcomed twenty six members and
guests, updated the group on recent events, and said a blessing for the meal. Then
the group proceeded to the buffet line for a delicious lunch. The group ate and
socialized for a short time. Then came the joyful program presented by Drs. Bill
Ogden and Tom Bailey. They played traditional Christmas songs and carols and
encouraged the group to join in the singing. The renditions were fun and joyful.
The Twelve Days of Christmas was done in group participation. Needless to say, it
was a very creative project. Bill and Tom sang some original holiday melodies that
really brightened the spirits of all.
After the fun filled program. Bettina thanked the program chairmen and
all who helped today. She closed the meeting by reading A Cowboy’s Christmas
Prayer (author unknown). Here are the last few lines of the poem.
“We speak of “Merry Christmas” Lord—I reckon You’ll agree. There ain’t
no Christmas , Lord, for nobody that ain’t free.
So, one more thing I’ll ask You, Lord, Just help as You can To save seeds of
freedom for the future sons of man!
With that, President Bettina wished a Merry Christmas to all.
Attendees who enjoyed the program included Marty & Paula Massey,
Bettina & David Zvanut,Hoyle & Ann Julian,Dianna & Peter Weiss, Yvonne
Rollins,Kay & Clarence Jensen, Nancy & Bill Ogden,Tom Bailey, Jim & Toni
Deaton,Nancy & Bart Green, Jean & Roger Arnold, Barbara & Steven Swiff,
Frances Thompson, Lena Faulkner, and Richard & Roz Tuerk.
Pride Prep Academy
By Morgan Manning
Texas A&M University-Commerce and Commerce ISD are partnered for
an initiative to provide area high school freshmen with the opportunity to take up
to 36 hours of dual-credit classes, tuition free, through the Pride Prep Academy.
The 2016-2017 academic year is the initiate term for this project. Currently, of
the 14 students enrolled in U.S. History through Pride Prep, 12 are students from
Commerce High School. Parents from Lone Oak and Boles drive their children
to the 7:35 a.m. class three days a week and hurry them to their home campus 45
minutes later.
CHS teacher Matt Brewer is the instructor for the dual-credit class and
an esteemed alumnus from Texas A&M University-Commerce. He says the
expectations for the freshman are the same as for juniors and seniors taking those
dual-credit courses he teaches. “These students are some of our top students.
They took Algebra I in the eighth grade. They are ready for the rigor required.”
Rishi Nippani, a CHS student, said the class was challenging, but exciting.
Maggie Robinson said, “We use technology a lot in this class. We get our
assignments and we turn them in through our devices.” The students agreed that
more students would want to participate in the Pride Prep Academy as soon as
they could. Previous barriers, such as the inability to participate in both band
and the Pride Prep Academy, have been removed to make the program more
accessible to students.
Brewer said that he and his class represent the pilot program and they want
to set a good example so that this opportunity continues for even more students.
When asked if the students felt like trailblazers or guinea pigs, Nippani said he
felt like “a trailblazing guinea pig.”
Commerce Independent School District pays for the tuition of Commerce
High School students. Other districts may choose to pay for their students to
attend as well.
Texas A&M University-Commerce President Ray Keck visited the Pride
Prep Academy to meet with students earlier this month.
January 2017
Page 11
Member Spotlights
Betty Brown
Get a tune-up for your heating system and plumbing
system before the cold weather arrives!
Ashley Plumbing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-2355
Residential Services Coordinator
Powers Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-3300
Commerce Housing Authority
500 Tarter
Commerce, Texas 75428
903-886-2946
Progressive Heat and Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-8322
www.commercehousing-tx.com
Ken Parker Service, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-883-2829
New Covenant Plumbing/Heating/A/C. . . . . . . . . 903-886-8882
Is your pet a special part of your family? Call today for
a grooming appointment and have them looking good
for the holidays. Keep them healthy with these Chamber
members too!
Sulphur River Vet Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-0104
Commerce Vet Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-7941
Hunt County Animal Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-886-3911
2203 Culver Street Commerce, TX 75428
l o n e s t a r e a t e r y. c o m | f a c e b o o k
903.886.2121
PANDA
CHINESE RESTAURANT
D Fine Chinese & Thai Cuisine d
Lunch Specials - $4.99
Delivery Available!
Business Hours:
Sun.-Thurs.11AM-9PM
Fri. - Sat.11AM-9:30PM
1207 Alamo Street
Town Square
Commerce, TX 75428
(903) 886-4008
Page 12
January 2017
Support Groups Offered at
Hunt Regional Medical
Center
You may not know that there are several support groups offered at the hospital.
Hunt Regional Healthcare offers several support groups for the community.
January Mobile
Mammogr aphy Coach Dates
January 2017 Dates for Tubby Adkisson Memorial
Mobile Mammography Coach
January 3
Hunt Regional Medical Partners Family Practice – Emory
January 4
Hunt Regional Emergency Medical Center – Commerce
January 9
Dr. Banjo – Terrell
January 10
Leonard Pharmacy - Leonard
January 12
PCA – Royse City
January 13
Boles ISD - Quinlan
January 16
Hunt Regional Open Imaging – Rockwall
January 20
Home Depot – Greenville
January 24
PCA – Quinlan
January 26
Spring Village Shopping Center – Sulphur Springs
All insurances accepted at Hunt Regional are also accepted for the Mobile
Mammography Coach, including Medicare and Medicaid.
We can also help with payment resources for uninsured/income-eligible women
or those who choose to pay cash.
For help with payment resources please call
The Bridge Breast Network at 214-821-3820 x21 or 903-408-5010.
To schedule individual screening mammograms, please call
903-408-5010
Appointments and pre-registration are requeste
There is no charge for the meetings, and registration is not required.
The following groups currently meet at Hunt Regional Medical Center in
Greenville:
Journey Into Life Cancer Support Group
For patients, families, and friends
Monthly - Third Thursday
6:30 p.m.
Mitchell Reception Room, Lou & Jack Finney Cancer Center
Call 903-408-1064 for more information.
Parkinson's Support Group
For family members, friends, and patients living with Parkinson's Disease
Monthly - Second Thursday
6 p.m.
Conference Room 2
Contact 903-408-5002 for more information.
Grief Support Group
Monthly - Third Sunday
3 p.m.
Conference Room 1
903-408-5720
Alzheimer's Support Group
For family members, friends, and patients living with Alzheimer's
Monthly - Fourth Thursday
6:30 p.m.
Conference Room 2
Remember for Me Alzheimer's Caregiver Group
Informational and emotional support for Alzheimer's caregivers
Monthly - Second Thursday
6:30 p.m.
Sixth Floor Boardroom
[email protected]
January 2017
CHAMBER
Page 13
Our Community
Want 1 million people a month-to see your business?
Outdoor advertising reaches people where they live. When you
strategically place a billboard along the I-30 corridor you are
reaching a local audience with your businesses message. We are a
longtime Commerce family interested in your business success.
Call
469.432.3870
Find out how
billboard advertising works.
www.tamuc.edu
INWOOD
NATIONAL BANK
1312 Washington Street - Commerce, Texas 75428
903 / 886-2126 - Fax 903 / 886-4552
Metro 972 / 226-0969
www.inwoodbank.com
Member FDIC
Texas A&M University-Commerce
CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER
“A 4-Star, Nationally Accredited Learning Program”
2601 State Highway 50-Commerce, TX 75429
903-886-5769
www.tamuc.edu/clc
Page 14
COMMERCE
January 2017
Business Directory
A C C O U N T I N G – C PA’s
Conway Company CPAs, PC
903-886-2123
Deborah Harris CPA, PC
903-886-8727
Kenneth Foust CPA,PC
903-886-3106
ADVERTISING | SPECIALITIES
B&D Signs of Texas
903-513-9463
Giggles & Grins 903-450-4746
Hoss Outdoor Adv. | Billboards I-30
469-432-3870
A I R C O N D I T I O N I N G | H E AT I N G
Ken Parker Service, Inc
903-886-6990
New Covenant Plumbing/Heat/A/C 903-886-8882
Progressive Air and Heat
903-366-8197
A M U S E M E N T | E N T E R TA I N M E N T
NE TX Children’s Museum 903-886-6055
Planetarium 903-468-8652
A N I M A L W E L FA R E
Commerce Humane Assn
903-496-2412
ANTIQUES STORE
Fine Finds 903-886-0881
A PA R T M E N T S | P R O P E R T Y M G M T
American Eagle Properties
903-886-4430
Bradford Place Apts. 903-886-8855
Charlinda Villages
903-886-8807
Churchill at Commerce Apts. (Culver)
903-886-4444
Gant Apartments 903-886-6863
Landmark Properties
903-886-7038
Lion’s Den
903-246-3174
Maple Place Apartments
903-886-4050
Oak Meadows Townhomes
903-886-1555
Sparks Enterprises
817-460-3347
Triple D Properties
903-366-1883
Valentine Properties
903-886-8881
Village Creek Apartments
903-246-3120
ART/GALLERIES/STUDIO
Commerce Office of Cultural Affairs
903-217-8050
ASSISTED LIVING/RETIREMENT
Colonial Lodge Retirement Inn
903-454-6636
Country Homes Estates
903-886-7754
AT T O R N E Y S
Curtis, Alexander/McCampbell & Morris 903-455-8113
Edgar J. Garrett
903-886-3146
AUTOMOBILE DEALERS
Commerce Chevrolet/Buick
903-886-2188
Meador Auto Group
903-886-2660
A U T O M O B I L E S E R V I C E S / PA R T S
D & E Auto Supply
903-886-8040
Hoover’s Automotive
903-886-7781
J J’s Quick Lube
903-886-8775
BAKERIES
Braum’s
903-886-6242
Brookshire’s
903-886-3252
Good Donuts 903-886-1011
Sweeties Donut Shoppe
903-886-6111
BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS
Alliance Bank
903-886-3244
Cypress Bank
903-886-7425
Dixie Turman/State Farm Bank
903-886-7774
Guaranty Bank & Trust
903-886-2274
Heritage Land Bank
903-455-2835
Inwood National Bank
903-886-2126
BOOKSTORES
East Texas Book Store
903-886-3248
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/TRAINING
Center for Applied Leadership
903-461-1823
Commerce EDC 903-886-1121
ProActive Leadership Group 214-325-1159
C A R P E T C L E A N I N G & R E S T O R AT I O N
Jeff’s Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
903-885-1320
C AT E R I N G / M E E T I N G FA C I L I T I E S
Best Western Plus Monica Royale, Greenville 903-454-3700
Peninsula Ranch & Lodge
903-461-9924
Sand Hills Country Club 903-886-4455
Sodexo 903-468-4886
The Billboard House 903-513-9234
CHECK CASHING/LOANS
Chaney’s Check Cashing Express
903-886-8080
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
A&M-Commerce Children’s Learning Ctr
903-886-5769
Jane Jane’s Day Care
903-886-8605
SonShine Center 903-886-0303
CHURCHES
Bread of Life Church of Nazarene
903-886-1515
First Assembly of God Commerce
903-886-0303
Commerce Church of Christ
903-886-6136
Commerce Community Church
903-886-2376
Cross Trails Cowboy Church 903-886-9114
Disciples of Faith Bible Fellowship
903-886-3644
First Baptist Church
903-886-3189
First Christian Church
903-886-2542
First Presbyterian Church
903-886-3783
First United Methodist Church
903-886-3220
Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship
903-886-8585
Griffith Chapel CME Church 903-886-6781
Out of This World Ministries 214-476-3016
Ridgecrest Baptist Church
903-886-6034
St. Joseph Catholic Church
903-886-7135
CLEANERS
Country Cleaners 903-886-1609
CLOTHING/GIFTS
The Bargain Box
903-886-8306
Two Eleven Boutique 903-886-3020
My Sister’s Closet
903-886-1224
Sister Babyz
903-886-3020
COMPUTER SERVICES/FORENSICS
Wolf Security Analysts
903-366-6721
COPIERS
Advantage Copy Systems
903-885-3375
CONCRETE
B & A Concrete 903-886-6845
Brummett Concrete
903-461-2200
D. L. Lennon, Inc.
903-886-3174
CONVENIENCE STORES
Flying L Fast Mart
903-886-8091
COUNSELING
Lakes Regional MHMR
903-455-5770
COUNTRY CLUBS
Sand Hills Golf/Country Club
903-886-4455
DENTISTS
Commerce Family Dental
903-886-3081
McDaniel General Dentistry 903-886-6945
Smile Corner 903-886-0640
DISTRIBUTORS
Ben E. Keith Company
903-886-2158
Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
214-388-6052
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Commerce Economic Dev. Corporation
903-886-1121
E D U C AT I O N
Texas A&M University.-Commerce
903-886-5081
Commerce ISD 903-886-3755
Paris Junior College
903-782-0330
EMBROIDERY/PRNTG/PROMO
PRODUCTS
Adventures In Printing 972-547-4304
B&D Signs of Texas 903-513-9463
Greenville Trophies & Awards
903-455-5441
Personalized Printing 903-886-7173
E M E R G E N C Y M E D I C A L E VA C U A T I O N S
Air-Evac Lifestream
254-218-0930
ENERGY PROVIDERS
Atmos Energy
888-286-6700
Commerce Automatic Gas 903-886-3045
FEC Electric 903-455-1715
Oncor Electric Delivery
888-313-6862
ENGINEERS
Hayter Engineering, Inc.
903-785-0303
EQUIPMENT RENTALS
Luckett Crane Service LTD 903-886-3407
FARM/RANCH
Aaron Ranch
903-886-8836
FA R M S U P P L I E S / F E E D
Fix & Feed Commerce Hardware
903-886-7917
Hunt County Farm Supply
903-862-2273
Price Liquid Feed
903-513-4006
Twin Oaks Farm
903-886-5358
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Active Wealth Management
903-455-6956
AIS Financial Services
903-886-8050
Edward Jones & Company
903-886-3333
Dixie Turman/State Farm Bank
903-886-7774
FITNESS CENTERS
Anytime Fitness 903-886-8811
Commerce Fitness
903-886-1266
FLORISTS
April Showers 903-886-3104
FOOD-STORES/MARKETS/TRUCKS
Brookshires 903-886-3252
Kathy’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream 469-223-4774
Kona Ice Rocks
469-500-6500
Twin Oaks Farms
903-886-5358
FUNDRAISERS
Kona Ice Rocks
469-500-6500
FURNITURE
Affordable Furniture & Etc.
903-886-6096
F U N E R A L H O M E S / C R E M AT I O N
SERVICES
Commerce Funeral Home & Cremation Services 903-886-8600
GOVERNMENT
City of Commerce
903-886-1100
State Representative Dan Flynn
903-455-0971
HAIR/BEAUTY/NAIL SALON
Aracely’s Hair Salon
903-366-9256
Hair on the Square by Kristie
903-886-0191
The Mane Salon & Spa
903-886-0717
T&M Commerce Nails
214-692-1241
H A R D WA R E
Fix & Feed Commerce Hardware
903-886-7917
HOME BUILDERS
Crescent Estates Custom Homes
214-957-8549
H O M E H E A LT H
1st Choice 903-886-2666
Home Health Associates 903-886-0612
HOME INSPECTION
JK’s Professional Inspections 903-886-3069
H O M E R E PA I R / M A I N T E N A N C E /
REMODELING
American Eagle Home Maint/Remodeling
903-886-4430
January 2017
COMMERCE
Page 15
Business Directory
Mas-Con Builders
903-246-1565
Under Construction 903-468-2683
HOSPICE
Gentiva Hospice 903-454-1107
HOSPITALS
Hunt Reg. Emergency Medical Ctr at Commerce 903-886-3161
Hunt Regional Medical Center-Greenville
903-408-5000
HOTEL/MOTELS/B&B’s
Best Western Plus Monica Royale, Greenville 903-454-3700
Holiday Inn Express, Sulphur Springs
903-885-6851
Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Greenville
903-454-8680
Magnuson Hotel Commerce
903-886-4777
HOUSING
Commerce Housing Authority
903-886-2946
HUNTING
10-2-4 Ranch
254-485-3080
INSURANCE
Cornerstone Senior Services
903-456-3514
Diversified Insurance
903-886-6943
Duncan Insurance 903-886-2183
Dyer Insurance 903-886-2131
Farm Bureau Insurance
903-455-6782
State Farm Insurance
903-886-7774
I N T E R N E T / C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
CenturyLink
800-788-3500
JEWELRY & REPAIR
Drake Jewelers
903-454-1671
LIBRARIES
Commerce Public Library
903-886-6858
LONG-TERM AND CORPORATE LODGING
Lion’s Den
903-246-3174
MANUFACT URING
Hydro Aluminum Metal Products
903-468-5012
Polara Enterprises
903-366-0300
Zurn/Pex Hydronics
903-886-2580
MASSAG E / NUT RIT I ON
Fire & Ice Massage by Velvete
903-886-0304
Mane Salon & Spa
903-886-0717
MED ICAL SE RVICE S
Dr. David Liao Orthopedics
903-454-9900
Hulsey Therapy Services
903-886-7669
Live Oak Professional Ctr.
903-886-8818
Raffa Clinic
877-707-2332
Synergistic Healthcare – A Clinic
903-246-3305
Air-Evac Lifeteam
903-390-7022
MEN TAL H E ALT H
Lakes Regional MHMR
903 455-5770
MUSIC PRODUCTION STUDIO
Brad Davis Audio Production
903-886-6027
NEWSPAP E RS
The Commerce Journal
903-455-4220
The Commerce Connection
903-886-3950
NURSING H O M E S/LON G TE R M C A R E
Briarcliff Health Center
903-455-8729
Oak Manor Nursing Home 903-886-2510
OFFICE E Q UIP M E N T
Advantage Copy Systems 903-885-3375
OFFICE SUP P L IE S/P R I N TI N G
Latson’s Office Solutions
903-885-1553
Latson’s Print Services
903-886-2710
Personalized Printing
903-886-7173
OPTICAL CENTERS
Texas Optical Center
903-455-0294
ORGANIZ AT IO NS
A&M-Commerce Alumni Chapter
903-886-6175
A&M-Commerce Athletics
903-468-3033
Aglaia Club 903-886-1968
American Legion Post No. 1
903-886-8479
Boys & Girls Club of NE Texas
903-455-9233
Celebrate The Children, Inc.
903-886-8365
Commerce Classroom Teachers Assn.
903-886-3758
Commerce Humane Society
903-496-2412
Commerce Leadership Institute
903-366-1321
Commerce Office of Cultural Affairs 903-217-8050
Commerce Parks Foundation
903-886-7697
Coterie Culture Club
IOOF Lodge Commerce
903-348-9874
Kiwanis Club 903-886-4733
Ladonia Chamber of Commerce
972-757-8920
Lions Club 903-886-4034
Louise Drake Garden Club
903-886-6263
Masonic Lodge 903-886-3549
N. Hunt Co. Retired Teachers Assn.
903-886-7695
National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) 903-886-8880
No Kill Hunt County & Surrounding Areas 903-450-7083
North Hunt SUD 903-886-3458
Pi Sigma Alpha
903-886-5317
Psychology Club 903-886-6078
Republic of Texas Parrot Head Club
903-366-2737
Rotary Club 903-886-7047
Silver Leos Writing Club 903-468-7391
Thalian Culture Club
903-886-6209
United Way of Hunt County 903-455-7414
PAWN SHOPS
B6UP Pawn and Gun 903-246-3030
United Pawn & Bargain
903-886-7874
PECANS
Campbell Pecans
903-366-1141
PET SUPPLIES/GROOMING/BOARDING
Pet Degrees Mobile Grooming
903-886-8469
PHARMACIES
CVS Pharmacy
903-886-0718
Total Care Pharmacy
903-886-8888
PHOTOGRAPHY
Luminous Productions
903-851-3183
PRINTERS, PUBLISHERS & GRAPHICS
B & D Signs of Texas 903-513-9463
Latson’s Print Services
903-886-2710
Personalized Printing
903-886-7173
P R O PA N E
Commerce Automatic Gas 903-886-3045
PLUMBERS
Ashley Plumbing 903-886-2355
New Covenant Plumbing/Heat/A/C 903-886-8882
Powers Plumbing
903-886-3300
R A D I O S TAT I O N S
E TX Broadcasting, Inc. (95.9)
903-885-1546
Hunt County Radio
903-455-1400
KETR 88.9 903-886-5848
Thunder Country 107.1 903-885-7639
RAILROADS
Blacklands Railroad
903-438-1324
R E A L E S TAT E
Century 21 First Group
903-886-1200
Chapin Real Estate
903-886-6373
RESALE SHOP
Goodwill Industries of NE TX 903-886-3600
My Sister’s Closet (WIN)
903-886-1224
The Bargain Box
903-886-8306
R E S TA U R A N T S | C L U B S
Braum’s 903-886-6149
Chicken Express
903-886-7777
Dickey’s BBQ
903-886-8808
Domino’s Pizza
903-886-2116
Dos Laredos
903-886-1234
Dos Gringos Locos
903-413-5686
Good Donuts
903-886-1011
Lone Star Eatery, Grill and Bar
903-886-2121
Los Mochis Mexican
903-886-8200
Luigi’s Italian Cafe
903-886-2000
Lulu’s Burgers 903-886-3888
McDonalds # 10645
903-886-7771
McKay’s Country Kitchen & BBQ
903-886-6080
Omega’s Biscuits & Eggs
903-246-3002
Panda Chinese 903-886-4008
Peace of Bread Sandwich Shoppe
903-246-3048
Pizza Hut
903-886-9600
Sonic Drive-In 903-886-7166
Spot Brewery 903-886-6969
R E TA I L
Two Eleven Boutique 903-886-3020
Wal-Mart 903-886-3108
ROOFING
RBS Roofing
903-440-4148
Under Construction
903-468-2683
R V PA R K S / C A M P G R O U N D S
Stinson RV Resort
903-455-7878
SELF- STO RAG E FACILITIES
All-American Self Storage
903-886-7575
SIG NS/ BANNERS
B&D Signs of Texas
903-513-9463
Latson’s Print Services 903-886-2710
Personalized Printing
903-886-7173
T I T L E C O M PA N Y
North Texas Title of Hunt County
903-454-3364
T O B A C C O / VA P E S T A T I O N S
Chaney’s Tobacco Station
903-886-8080
TRASH HAULING-COMMERCIAL
City Sanitation 903-886-2314
TREE SERVICE
Shaffer Tree Service 903-582-9160
T R O P H I E S / AWA R D S
Greenville Trophies & Awards
903-455-5441
VETERINARIANS
Commerce Vet Clinic
903-886-7941
Hunt County Animal Hospital
903-886-3911
Sulphur River Vet Clinic
903-886-0104
V I N TA G E S T O R E S
Fine Finds 940-231-1362
WEBSITE DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Luminous Productions 903-851-3183
WEDDINGS
Luminous Productions 903-851-3183
The Billboard House 903-513-9234
Sand Hills Country Club 903-886-4455
Sodexo 903-468-4890
WOMEN'S CLOTHING
Two Eleven Boutique 903-886-3020
WRECKER SERVICES
Benson Bros.
903-886-2765
WINERY/DISTILLERY
Landon Winery
903-454-7878