Making A Difference | Ambassador Service Project

Posted on by Katie Gimenez
Wrapping up two days of hard work! (top row, left to right) Matthew Walden, Misty Hoyt, Kevin Giles, Bob Kehr, Rob Hacker, Dmitri Maglalang, Ron Schoof, Ven Kurvari (bottom row, left to right) Mavis Everett, Christine Wunderlich, Shanette Eaden, Tracy Bartholomew

The Plano Chamber Ambassadors recently embraced a service project to assist one of our Chamber nonprofit members in need. Heritage Farmstead Museum, the premiere living history site interpreting the Texas Blackland Prairie region in North Texas, submitted a service project to Leadership Plano (LP) Class 35 requesting assistance with updates to their property. LP ultimately selected a different class project, so our Ambassador leadership team willingly stepped up to the plate to lend a helping hand.

Thank you for sharing your time with us! (left to right) JB Owen, Mo Nilforoushan, Krishna Murthy, Kalpana Murthy, and Kelly Walton!

Over 25 Ambassadors and LP class members arrived to complete the updates, which included sanding, painting, landscaping, and other organizational tasks. We even had some future Ambassadors join us to contribute their helping hands!

Big thanks to Rob Hacker, Hacker’s Painting, for donating your time, expertise and tools!

We would like to give special recognition to Rob Hacker with Hacker’s Painting as our true MVP of the Day. Most of our volunteers were self-proclaimed DIY novices, so Rob stepped up by not only spearheading the project details, but by also donating his time and personal business supplies for both project days. With his leadership and expertise, we were able to go above and beyond our original plan, paving the way for the Farmstead to host an incredible Community Egg Hunt the following weekend – where they hid over 2,000 eggs for Plano children to hunt!

We are so grateful for the Ambassadors who generously donated their time to support this project, which was made possible in partnership with Heritage Farmstead Museum and Leadership Plano. A special thank you to all of the representatives below, who helped make a difference in our community and bring the Chamber’s vision of “One Vision. One Voice.” to life. Scroll down to see more images from the project!

Ambassador/Volunteer Company Name
Bill Brock WHITE ROCK FILMS, LLC
Bob Kehr KEHR TECHNOLOGIES
Dmitri Maglalang DEXTER & COMPANY
Heather Tresner-Walden HYATT PLACE – DALLAS/GARLAND/RICHARDSON
Jamee Jolly PLANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
JB Owen SERVPRO OF PLANO
Kalpana Murthy WSI DIGITAL MARKETING
Kelly Walton CORNERSTONE PROFESSIONAL PAYROLL SERVICES
Kevin Giles EMPLOYEE MONEY SOLUTIONS LLC
Krishna Murthy WSI DIGITAL MARKETING
Larry Flannery ARTA TRAVEL
Linda Roth YOUR IDEAL BODY
Maria Mott SIGNS BY TOMORROW
Marvin Jolly KELLER WILLIAMS – LOCATION DFW/ MARVIN JOLLY
Matthew Walden MERSATECH
Mavis Everett YOUR BRAND IS MY BUSINESS
Misty Hoyt PHOTOGRAPHY BY MISTY
Mo Nilforoushan TEAMLOGIC IT
Peggy Fenwick ALLSTATE INSURANCE – FENWICK AGENCY
Rob Hacker HACKER’S PAINTING
Ron Schoof CARPET DIRECT
Shanette Eaden CITY OF PLANO
Stephanie Kinnunen ENCIRCLE WEALTH ADVISORS
Ven Kurvari VEN KURVARI @ FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICES

 

Welcome New March 2018 Members!

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

The Plano Chamber was thrilled to welcome 24 new business members in the month of March. Learn more about each member business and the services they offer by clicking the links below.

Membership Thank You

Altice – Suddenlink
AMLI West Plano
Angela Miner
Camp Gladiator
Collin County Electrical
Cook Nguyen & Ressler, PLLC
Dance Vision Plano, LLC
ESRP
Farmer’s Insurance – The Isaacks Agency
Fogo De Chao – Legacy West
Imaging Spectrum, Inc.
Larkspur at Twin Creeks
Manara Academy
Mary Kay Cosmetics – Laurie Cole
The Montfort Group
Motel 6
O’Desi Aroma
Sentry Marketing Group
SMA Insurance Services
Spavia Day Spa
Spencer Fane LLP*
Texas Pool Foundation
Veterans Center of North Texas
Workout Anytime

Are you interested in learning more about the Plano Chamber of Commerce and what your business can gain from joining the Plano Chamber? CLICK HERE for information about member benefits, services, and programs or contact Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development, at tracyb@planochamber.org.

Don’t forget to visit the Plano Chamber Business Directory the next time you are looking for products, services, or a fun night out with friends! Remember to support local businesses and Shop Plano First.

Collin County DC Fly-In

Posted on by Catherine Riggle

The Plano Chamber of Commerce recently partnered with the Allen Fairview Chamber, Frisco Chamber, and McKinney Chamber to lead a delegation of business and community leaders to Washington, D.C. for two days of briefings, meetings, and programs.

The DC Fly-In delegation on a cold and snowy morning before heading to Capitol Hill.

On Tuesday, March 20, the participants sat in on briefings from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce discussing topics ranging from Association Health Plans to infrastructure to NAFTA. Kelly Pollitt, Chief Advocacy Officer with the National School Board Association, discussed challenges and opportunities facing public schools today.

Issue briefings at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Following the issue briefings, participants rode a shuttle to The Monocle Restaurant for a reception and dinner with Congressman Sam Johnson.

Plano Chamber Board Members Jeff Beckley, Lissa Smith, Amanda Rockow, and Matt Foster with Congressman Sam Johnson.

On Wednesday, March 21, attendees traveled to Capitol Hill to meet with Senator John Cornyn and Senator Ted Cruz. Both senators sat with the participants and discussed topics of importance to the Collin County region and business community. Special thanks to Senate Sponsor FedEx Office for supporting this inaugural D.C. Fly-In.

DC Fly-In delegation with Senator John Cornyn.
DC Fly-In delegation with Senator Ted Cruz.

 

Welcome New February 2018 Members!

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

The Plano Chamber was thrilled to welcome 26 new business members in the month of February. Learn more about each member business and the services they offer by clicking the links below.

Membership Thank You

Aloovi, LLC
Apex Air and Heat
Benedict’s
Bulla Gastrobar
Calloway’s Nursery
Chick-Fil-A at Spring Creek & 121
Direct Garage Doors
Executive Press
Fornida*
Genecov Orthodontics
Hawk Security Services
Home2 Suites By Hilton – Plano, Richardson
Hopkins-Laster Law Office
Legacy Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Maintenance of America, Inc
Mixin’ Up Smiles – Cookies & More
One World Bank
Pinner HIO Chiropractic – Health Inside Out
Postal Link, LLC
Solartime USA, LLC
TacoDeli
Tech Check Medical Billing, LLC
The Huntington Urban Village, LLC
The McGowan Team
Tutor Doctor
Wisconsin’s Finest, Inc.

Are you interested in learning more about the Plano Chamber of Commerce and what your business can gain from joining the Plano Chamber? CLICK HERE for information about member benefits, services, and programs or contact Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development, at tracyb@planochamber.org.

Don’t forget to visit the Plano Chamber Business Directory the next time you are looking for products, services, or a fun night out with friends! Remember to support local businesses and Shop Plano First.

The Impact of Voting

Posted on by Catherine Riggle

Early Voting is underway. Our business community is a significant voting bloc and we must make our collective voices heard on issues that impact our region.

When are the Primary Elections in 2018?

Early Voting is from February 20 through March 2. Election Day is Tuesday, March 6. Collin County registered voters can cast their ballots anywhere within the county, not just their precinct. In order to vote in the primaries, you do not have to be registered with a specific party (as is the case in other states).

Does My Vote Matter?

Yes! In 2016, the most recent presidential campaign year, only 31% of registered Collin County voters cast their vote in the primary election. During the last non-presidential primary in 2014, only 7.65% of registered Collin County voters voted in the primary election. Out of the 19 million eligible Texans to vote, only 1.9 million votes were cast (444,000 of which were in North Texas). It is critical that the business community increase their engagement to help ensure that our elected officials are committed to protecting and strengthening our pro-growth business climate that has led to economic vibrancy and a strong job market.

What Can I Do?

Encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to learn more about each candidate and vote not just in November, but during the primaries. Visit Collin County Votes for more details about candidates running in Collin County races and other resources. Visit VoteTexas.gov to look up voter information and view sample ballots.

Are My Current Elected Officials Supporting the Business Community?

View our 2017 Legislative Scorecard for an overview of the select issues tracked by the Plano Chamber last session and votes cast by the Plano delegation.

 

As the 2018 election season continues, the Plano Chamber will continue to update and enhance voter engagement tools, so our member companies and their employees can take full advantage of the resources available to them. In the meantime, please subscribe to our Advocacy & Public Policy mailing list and Take 10: Legislative Landscape newsletters to stay informed.

Thank you for your leadership and commitment to the betterment of our region.

Sincerely,

Jamee Jolly, CAE
President/CEO
Plano Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New January 2018 Members

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

The Plano Chamber was thrilled to welcome 36 new business members in the month of January. Learn more about each member business and the services they offer by clicking the links below.

Membership Thank You

Advanced Background Solutions
Altair Global*
Bill Cody’s Party Time Texas
Camp Bow Wow Plano
D.R. Wilkes Consulting
Danyell Lanier
DFW Headshots
Empowered Success, Inc.
Encircle Wealth Advisors
ExecuStay Corporate Housing
Firehouse Movers Inc.
Firestone Complete Auto Care – 2105 West 15th St.
Firestone Complete Auto Care – 2480 Avenue K.
Firestone Complete Auto Care – 3200 W. Parker Rd.
Harris Team Realty
Holy Temple Cathedral of Praise Ministry
Jason Ruiz State Farm Agency
Keller Williams Realty – The Wolfe Team
La Pawz Dog Care
Landmark Bank Mortgage Center
Little Greek Fresh Grill
Longhorn Steakhouse
Lorie Burch
Mark Phariss
NameLogic
P&K Research
Pegasus Technology Solutions
Penny’s Gift Baskets, LLC
Pep Boys
Pinnacle Prep School
Plano Lifestyle Publications
Ruthies Rolling Cafe
Sarah Depew
Sharon Hirsch
The Taggart Firm, LLC
Tuearis Cyber

Are you interested in learning more about the Plano Chamber of Commerce and what your business can gain from joining the Plano Chamber? CLICK HERE for information about member benefits, services, and programs or contact Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development, at tracyb@planochamber.org.

Don’t forget to visit the Plano Chamber Business Directory the next time you are looking for products, services, or a fun night out with friends! Remember to support local businesses and Shop Plano First.

Welcome New December 2017 Members!

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

The Plano Chamber was thrilled to welcome 19 new business members in the month of December. Learn more about each member business and the services they offer by clicking the link below.

Membership Thank You

Adams Survey Company, LLC
American Vision Windows Inc.
Award Solutions, Inc.
Byron Bradford
Capitol Wealth Strategies DFW
Integrative Veterinary Wellness PLLC
Kehr Technologies
Law Office of Preston Park, PLLC
M Chest Pharmacy – Plano
McDermott Park
Pockets Menswear
SpectrumVoIP, Inc.
Studio 6 – Plano East
Supporting Strategies – Dallas
Synergy Homecare of Northwest Dallas
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
The Clean Can Company
The Giovanna
Union Bear Brewing Co.

Are you interested in learning more about the Plano Chamber of Commerce and what your business can gain from joining the Plano Chamber? CLICK HERE for information about member benefits, services, and programs or contact Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development, at tracyb@planochamber.org.

Don’t forget to visit the Plano Chamber Business Directory the next time you are looking for products, services, or a fun night out with friends! Remember to support local businesses and Shop Plano First.

Meet the Candidates Before the Primaries

Posted on by Catherine Riggle

As the March 2018 Primary Elections draw nearer, it is vital to meet the candidates for each office before your visit the ballot box. Attend each of the upcoming Candidate Forums in 2018 to learn more about the candidates, their qualifications, and their plans for our region.

Texas Legislature Candidate Forum | January 11

State Candidate Forum

Senate District 8 encompasses much of Collin County, including most of Plano. There are four candidates for this seat, with each party’s candidate to be decided in the primary.

Texas House District 66 represents the northwest region of Plano with a small segment of North Dallas. There are two candidates for this seat, one from each main political party.

Texas House District 67 covers most of central and east Plano as well as portions of Allen, Richardson, and Dallas.

Texas House District 89 is currently held by Rep. Jodie Laubenberg, who is retiring. This wide-ranging district represents potions of Plano and surrounding cities in Collin County.

Congressional District 3 Candidate Forum | January 31

Congressional Candidate Forum

The Third District of Texas encompasses the majority of Collin County including all of Plano, surrounding cities, and portions of unincorporated land in Collin County. With multiple candidates running for the Democrat, Republican, and Independent candidate spot, the Plano Chamber is co-hosting this Candidate Forum with the Richardson Chamber. Please CLICK HERE to register for this forum.

Collin County Commissioners Court Candidate Forum | February 6

County Candidate Forum

With rapid growth and development, the need for strong leadership within Collin County is imperative for its future success. Hear from the candidates for Collin County Judge and the Collin County Commissioners, Precinct 2 and Precinct 4, which represent Plano.

 

As an advocate for business in the Plano area, the Plano Chamber’s fundamental purpose is to create and sustain a competitive advantage for businesses in the City of Plano and the North Texas region. CLICK HERE to view the Plano Chamber’s advocacy initiatives.

For more information about upcoming programs, please visit the Events Calendar.

Welcome New November 2017 Members!

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

The Plano Chamber was thrilled to welcome 20 new business members in the month of November. Learn more about each member business and the services they offer by clicking the link below.

Membership Thank You

CAP Family Companies
Coldwell Banker Apex Realty, LLC
Consilium Wealth Advisory
Courtney Manor Apartments
Dean Lindsay Interactive – Business Growth & Performance Coaching
Elite Pro Roofing
Jason’s Deli
JLL
KW Commercial – Central Commercial Group
Law Offices Of Richard C. McConathy
Lionheart Children’s Academy At First Baptist Plano
Loi Graphics Inc.
Miller Law Office, PLLC
Monthly Wisdom Program – Rich Cavaness Coaching
Nekter Juice Bar – West Plano
New Smile Dentistry
North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship
Oil & Resin
Save The Date! Parties & Events
Velocity Transport

Are you interested in learning more about the Plano Chamber of Commerce and what your business can gain from joining the Plano Chamber? CLICK HERE for information about member benefits, services, and programs or contact Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development, at tracyb@planochamber.org.

Don’t forget to visit the Plano Chamber Business Directory the next time you are looking for products, services, or a fun night out with friends! Remember to support local businesses and Shop Plano First.

Small Business Saturday – Share Your Photo to Win!

Posted on by Katie Gimenez

 

Small Business Saturday

Together with American Express, the Plano Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us in uniting communities and supporting your favorite local retailers on Small Business Saturday and year-round. Did you know that over 99% of the businesses across the state of Texas are small businesses? This is all the more reason to patronize these establishments, because when small businesses succeed, we all do.

As we gear-up to celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 25, we want to hear from our Plano Chamber MVPs – our members!

Do you have that favorite local hot spot that is your “go-to” for a unique experience? And on a fun note, would you like to win a $50 gift card? Then join us in supporting our community by not only saying that you shop small, but showing that you shop small. Keep reading to find out how to spread the Plano love!

Please share your photos on social media, using the hashtag #LovePlano #ShopSmall. These photos may be featured as a finalist and win a $50 gift card!

Follow these steps for the perfect #LovePlano #ShopSmall photo:

  • Pick it up! The #LovePlano Cutout that is! #LovePlano Cutouts will be available at the Plano Chamber Business Center – don’t forget to get one. *Friendly reminder that our offices are closed Thursday, 11/23 – Friday, 11/24 for the holiday.
  • Make it creative! Showcase your favorite small business by featuring their storefront, interior, or even their logo in your #LovePlano Cutout. Take it near or from afar, take it as a selfie or with other shoppers…just make it unique and fun!
  • Share it! Upload your photo to Facebook (make sure to make your post public, so we can see it), tag the Plano Chamber’s Facebook page, and be sure to use #LovePlano #ShopSmall. The deadline to post your photo is Sunday, November 26, so post early or miss your chance to win!
  • Vote! The top 4 finalists will be selected and announced on Monday, November 27. Encourage your friends to vote for your photo before the contest ends at 5 PM on Tuesday, November 28.

Have questions? Please reach out to Tracy Bartholomew, Director of Membership Development.