Chairman’s Vision for 2014

Turner_Annie-Chairmans-photo-PRAnnie Turner
VP/Business Banking Manager, Wells Fargo
2014 Chairman of the Board, North SA Chamber

Annie Turner was born and raised in Laredo, Texas and was one of eight children. She attended Baylor University where she earned a degree in journalism, and one summer thereafter started working at what she thought would be a temporary job as a teller at Wells Fargo Bank.

Early in her banking career, Annie was offered a role to profile prospective borrowers and prepare loan packages to present for approval. Having an appreciation for small business – her mother a pharmacist and entrepreneur, Annie melded her knowledge of small business and journalism skills to help borrowers build persuasive, informative presentations to get loans and access capital to help grow their small businesses. She stayed on that track throughout her career, and Annie has progressed with Wells Fargo as a manager of lenders assisting small businesses for over 33 years.

She and her husband relocated to San Antonio 15 years ago to raise their family in Boerne. Annie’s management role at Wells Fargo provided her the opportunity to volunteer, and so began her service with Chambers. She served on the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber board for five years, and then transitioned to service on the North SA Chamber board.

Annie says, “The most rewarding part of my Chamber service is the recognition of what small business owners – particularly women business owners – have done in our community.”

Her mother was widowed when Annie was a teenager, and was the sole provider for eight children – of which six were under the age of 16. “I grew up with seven siblings and all of them are professionals. Four are physicians, two are nurses and I am a banker. So education is really important in my family, and I am especially passionate about leadership and helping others along to success and personal and professional growth,” Annie explains.

40 Years of Keeping Bexar County Strong
Now in her sixth year of board service to the North SA Chamber and during the organization’s 40th Anniversary, Annie has demonstrated that commitment through her Chairmanship of the Leadership & Professional Development Council, overseeing the Enterprising Women’s Conference and Leadership Lab programs, and now through her role as the 2014 Chairman of the Board – and as only the seventh woman in 40 years to lead the 1,300-member strong organization.

In 2014, Annie will guide the North SA Chamber to focus on veterans, workforce development, small business advancement, the millennial workforce and community collaboration to promote our mission to strengthen member businesses and the community through the delivery of advocacy, networking, recognition, leadership and professional development programs.

Heeding the Call to Support Veterans
In 2013, the North SA Chamber and our nonprofit arm, Lead SA, recognized USAA chief executive Maj. Gen. Joe Robles, USA Ret. with the Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. Salute to Excellence Award. In his acceptance remarks, Gen. Robles said, “You gave me an award, and I’m giving you a challenge.” Gen. Robles appealed to the business community to hire veterans and help them transition from military life to the civilian workforce, and the North SA Chamber is heeding the call.

“This is ‘Military City,’ we should be doing more to offer resources for this segment of our workforce,” says Annie.

The North SA Chamber’s first response is to offer a discounted level of membership for individual and retired veterans, and veteran-owned businesses.

“We have already noted an influx in veteran inquiries in 2013,” Annie explains. “The North SA Chamber recognized the opportunity to expand our relationship with veterans and began offering discounted memberships, and now we’re going to formalize that commitment to all veterans seeking the resources we provide,” she adds.

Workforce Development
Additionally, the North SA Chamber will continue to meet the needs of businesses for a readied workforce and ongoing professional development. First, the North Chamber launched a Job Bank in late 2013, and the online search tool is a free community resource to job seekers.

“We will promote the Job Bank heavily in 2014 to veterans, transitioning professionals, college students and recent grads,” says Annie. In this way, the North Chamber will help veterans to access career opportunities and assist member employers with an additional no-cost tool to access a larger pool of applicants.

“So many business owners are looking for qualified people. If you have a qualified workforce, then that just improves the community overall,” says Annie. “The North SA Chamber can help veterans, millennial workers and just about every professional in any interest area to access resources to sharpen their professional skills and build relationships through our various instructional and networking events and volunteer opportunities,” she adds.

The North Chamber offers a myriad of instructional programs starting with Leadership Lab, the Chamber’s nine-month leadership development academy. Annie describes Leadership Lab as “our top tool to help our member businesses develop the leaders in their companies, retain talent and aid in succession plan strategies.” Additionally, the Chamber will continue to offer a wide range of education topics from technology and finance to sustainability, women’s leadership, social media, small business operations and more.

Moreover, recognizing the growing time scarcity among busy professionals, the North SA Chamber is exploring online training offerings to provide a more vast range of course topics and to accommodate members’ busy schedules.

Small Business Advancement
Approximately 75% of the North SA Chamber’s membership is comprised of small businesses, and the organization will continue to advance small business in the coming year. Since 1996, the Chamber has been recognizing the efforts and accomplishments of entrepreneurs through a program that started as the Pride in Progress Awards and evolved to become the Small Business Leaders Awards (SBLA). Having grown tremendously over almost two decades, SBLA honors small businesses across multiple categories including innovation, community service, employee relations, career and business achievement, and new in 2014 – veteran-owned businesses and smaller non-profits who operate much like a small business.

Annie’s husband is also an entrepreneur, and she says, “I know what it takes to run a business and how hard they work. They need the resources a Chamber provides. That’s why I love my job as a banker and my service to the Chamber so much.”

Through Annie’s direct experience in lending at Wells Fargo, she says that more than ever millennial workers are interested in starting their own businesses. According to Forbes magazine, in 2013 millennial workers were making the transition to freelancing and business ownership in droves. “Previous generations wanted the security of a 9 to 5 job. Millennial professionals are more creative and independent, and they want to work on their terms,” she adds.

Annie sees an opportunity for the North SA Chamber to expand its reach to attract millennial professionals to make the North Chamber their Chamber of choice. “We’re working to offer new individual levels of membership for college students, recent grads and transitioning professionals,” says Annie. “We are seeing much younger professionals, and it’s important to get them engaged early on,” she adds. Annie says the key is to connect with them across social media and online channels. An area of professional development that Annie feels is just as important for mature businesses to adopt.

“Business needs to get on the train with social media. It’s our responsibility to educate them and show them how,” she says. This is an area the North SA Chamber addresses through Social U, a social media university for savvy marketers and professionals with a vested interest in the profitability of marketing initiatives.

Advocating for Business
Founded in 1974, the North SA Chamber had the foresight to anticipate San Antonio’s future growth beyond downtown, and we’ve continued to play a major role in shaping and defining solutions for urban and quality of life issues including transportation infrastructure, water quality and supply, energy diversification, economic and workforce development, health and wellness, technology and education.

The North SA Chamber government affairs committee and board will work with members and community partners to develop, present and endorse a Legislative Agenda for the 2015 session. “We have a long history of supporting the advancement of higher education in our immediate community,” explains Annie. “The next Legislative Session will be no different. We will advocate for Tuition Revenue Bonds for growing state institutions including Texas A&M – San Antonio, the University of Texas at San Antonio, and the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio.” As with the 2013 Legislative Session, the North SA Chamber will look to partner with other Chambers of Commerce, trade and civic groups to ensure “our voice is loud, clear and unified before legislators that higher education is a need for our community.”

Once again, we will advocate for funds for transportation infrastructure and work with the San Antonio Mobility Coalition and Alamo Regional Mobility Authority to press for funding alternatives for projects that best leverage our resources and benefit the residents and businesses of Bexar County and surrounding areas.

Annie’s position is that, “Roads and highways are a productivity issue. Time is money. Our workforce is much more productive in the office than they are sitting in a car.” She says well-planned roadways attract business to San Antonio and keep them here. “It’s a quality of life issue with economic impact consequences.”

Be a part of it.
Over the last 40 years, the North SA Chamber has left an indelible mark on the city with our culture of entrepreneurialism and cooperation. Today, the North SA Chamber has earned a reputation as one of the state’s most dynamic and inclusive trade organizations. Resolute in our efforts to advocate for business and education, recognize deserving leaders and provide professional development – we deliver opportunities to make results-oriented business-to-business connections.

“I invite each of our members to do what they can to engage in that 40-year legacy and join us in our efforts,” says Annie. “The North SA Chamber has only come this far because of the commitment, dedication and action of our volunteers. We need your involvement more than ever. Thank you to our board, volunteers, members and supporters for all you do to keep Bexar County strong. And I look forward to working with you and serving you in 2014!”

 

Chairman’s Reflection on 2013

Rollins_Brad-Chairman lgAs the 2013 Chairman of the Board, I want to extend my appreciation to the North San Antonio Chamber and Lead SA Board of Directors, our volunteers, members and Chamber staff for your support, involvement and accomplishments this year.

Over the last year, our volunteers and staff collaborated to: increase visibility and promote commerce among our members; deliver best in class leadership and professional development programs; recognize outstanding business leaders; and hear your voice on important issues affecting San Antonio.

Promoting Your Business, Promoting Commerce
At the beginning of 2013, I called upon our member businesses to Buy Local – Buy North Chamber – and commit to doing business with a fellow member. To support that effort, the North Chamber has implemented a number of strategies to help you get noticed.

Through the Chamber’s website and social platforms, members had the opportunity to increase their online presence and improve their visibility among fellow members and the community. We now offer improved web services like: enhanced online directory listings, special offers, and the inclusion of links to member social profiles. Additionally, chamber staff received and posted nearly 4,500 member news items across our social platforms and blog – creating thousands of impressions for our member businesses.

And, we launched yet another tool to help you operate your business. Our new Job Bank went live in October, and has already seen an abundance of listings and activity. The Job Bank is a free community resource and no cost to members to post job opportunities.

I’m proud to announce special recognition the North Chamber received at the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives conference this past summer. Two Chamber staff members earned 20-year Tenure Awards – congratulations to Chris Bugg and Marilyn White for their many years of dedication to our membership and the community. Additionally, the North SA Chamber website, marketing and social media programs were recognized with Media Excellence awards.

Leadership & Professional Development
The North Chamber worked diligently to engage our emerging leaders and millennial workforce through a number of programs – primarily, Leadership Lab. The number one priority for area businesses is an educated and prepared workforce. Our nine-month leadership academy, Leadership Lab, is the centerpiece of our effort to respond to that need.

This year, the program surpassed 2012’s record-breaking class registration with 79 Lab participants – the largest graduating class to date. Lab participants heard from many local thought leaders and explored topics including self-awareness and leadership style, ethics, high-performance, communication, negotiation and change, community and leadership in action.

As we all operate in the digital age, the North SA Chamber is committed to educating business and bringing our members into the world of social media. Through our quarterly How 2 Series and our newest program – Social U, we are helping businesses replace concerns about social media with information to undertake and implement interactive marketing techniques.

Finally, the North Chamber has distinguished our programming with events designed to meet the specialized needs of financial, technology, construction and facilities professionals and our community’s women leaders. You supported and attended several educational events including CFO and CIO Breakfasts, Business Technology Series, the CIO Panel, On the Horizon, SustainAbility Seminars and the Enterprising Women’s Conference.

Honoring Leadership
We know that people make the difference in our companies and our community. And the North Chamber is dedicated to honoring the individuals who are innovating, contributing to our community, achieving in business and leaving a legacy from their life’s work.

In 2013 we honored pediatrician Dr. Dianna Burns-Banks as the Small Business Leader of the Year and CPS Energy for their Small Business Advocacy. Lead SA saluted USAA CEO Maj. Gen. Joe Robles, USA Ret. for his transformative leadership and commitment to education with the Governor Dolph Briscoe Excellence Award. We recognized Conceptual MindWorks CEO Elaine Mendoza with the ATHENA Leadership Award, SeeKing HR’s Jennifer Swisher with the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award, Susan G. Komen San Antonio with the ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award, as well as acknowledged many others for their achievements in small business, personal and organizational leadership.

Amplifying Your Voice
Finally, our voice is never stronger than when we speak as one on the issues that affect our businesses and quality of life. Last year, our members had a number of opportunities to be heard before their elected officials at every level.

Members met with U.S. Congressman Lamar Smith at the Spring Chairman’s Council breakfast, and Senator Ted Cruz hosted a small business roundtable at our Chamber headquarters. County Judge Nelson Wolff and Mayor Julián Castro each addressed our members – and guests even got a surprise performance from Indy rock band, Girl in a Coma, as Judge Wolff promoted Bexar County as an ideal venue for an outdoor music festival.

The North Chamber Government Affairs Council partnered with a number of like-minded organizations and chambers to advance a legislative agenda focused on: creating a sustainable, long-term source of revenue for transportation infrastructure funding; restoring funding for public education and tuition revenue bonds for public universities; and diversification of water resources. Locally, the board of directors endorsed: 1) a local supplier ordinance that allows the City of San Antonio to give preference to businesses located in the city; and 2) Texas Constitutional Amendment No. 3 to eliminate the tax levy on aircraft and other manufacturing inventory, and No. 6 implementing the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund.

Furthermore, we partnered with the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber to present the Mid-Year Economic Report to our members, and conduct a City Council Meet & Greet with both of our Chamber boards in attendance. My special thanks to North SA Chamber President & CEO Duane Wilson and Hispanic Chamber President Ramiro Cavasos. I’m appreciative of their continued efforts to do the good work of Chambers – promoting economic development and prosperity for our business community.

Keeping Bexar County Strong
As I exit my post as Chairman of the Board, I want to extend to you my sincere thanks for the honor of serving this organization and each of your businesses. We’ve had an incredible year, and I’m grateful to each of you for your membership, involvement and patronage. Our volunteer work is supported by the day-to-day and hands on efforts of the North Chamber staff and the leadership of Duane Wilson. I want to offer special thanks to them for their commitment to our member businesses and the community.

Finally, please join me in welcoming our 2014 board chair, Annie Turner of Wells Fargo. I call on you to continue to support her and the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce in all that we endeavor in the New Year. We’re humbled that you have chosen us as your Chamber and we’re here to be a resource to you. Thank you for all you to do keep San Antonio and Bexar County strong.

November 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanBrad Rollins
Dahill

Well, 2013 is drawing to a close. The North SA Chamber has filled the year with a number of events and programs that have informed our members and brought businesses together to promote commerce among them. We have a few more events left, and I invite you to register online for the December Social U and Networking Breakfast, as well as consider getting to know fellow members by attending one of the Ambassador ribbon cutting ceremonies scheduled between now and the end of the year.

Ll_Logo_2012Additionally, it will be my honor to congratulate the largest graduating class of Leadership Lab at the commencement ceremony this Friday, November 22. The North Chamber’s Leadership Lab academy is an amazing resource for cultivating the emerging talent within our businesses. Lab exposes leaders to a rigorous year of building self-awareness, creating lasting relationships and challenging individuals to expand and hone a range of professional skills.

On behalf of Dahill, I’m proud to support and recognize the participants and I want to thank each of the Leadership Lab sponsors including eESI, Padgett Stratemann & Co. and Security Service Federal Credit Union. Special thanks to the location sponsors: Alterman, Bank of America, Westin La Cantera Hill Country Resort, Northeast Lakeview College, Rackspace Hosting, Rio Cibolo Ranch, Southwest Research Institute and University of the Incarnate Word for providing facilities for each lab session.

Additionally, my hat is off to the Leadership Lab program chair Malcolm McGee, CMIT Solutions of San Antonio North, and his co-chair Lisa Pinto, SWBC. They have done an incredible job planning and implementing each session.

The North Chamber is accepting applications through December 10 for Leadership Lab candidates for the Class of 2014. If you are interested in nominating yourself or a member of your team, learn more by downloading the Lab Brochure or access the Lab Application here.

I know you will join me in honoring the commitment and achievements of the 2013 Class of Leadership Lab graduates.

Congratulations! Leadership Lab Class of 2013

  • Rob Adams, Comerica Bank
  • Tony Alarcon, ENTRUST Technology Consulting Services
  • Freddy Apolinar, Ancira Nissan, Inc.
  • DePaul Armijo, SWBC
  • Patti Baker, Beyer Plumbing Co.
  • Becky Banko McLane, Deacon Recruiting, Inc.
  • Sean Bates, Quality Fence & Welding
  • Amanda Behrens, Structure Tone Southwest
  • Tim Bernas, Security Service Federal Credit Union
  • Steve Bridges, Leadership Lab Alumnus
  • David Brown, Ernst & Young, LLP
  • Hillary Cadra, SpawGlass Contractors, Inc.
  • Georgia Cantu, Texas Wilson Office Furniture & Services, Inc.
  • Letty Castillo, San Antonio Water System
  • Kali Chatham, Baptist Health System
  • Michael Cline, North Central Baptist Hospital
  • Mike Connor, Connor Creative Company
  • Cyndi Crist, Dahill
  • Cyrena Davis, Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
  • Debbie Dickson, Beyer Mechanical
  • Stephen Ethridge, Frost
  • Rodney Flint, Alterman
  • Scott Gillette, Accenture
  • Mario Gomez, Security Service Federal Credit Union
  • Jessica Gonzales, Family Service Association
  • John Grothues, Leadership Lab Alumnus
  • Melodee Gruber, Jackson Walker LLP
  • Dr. Debbie Hamilton, Northeast Lakeview College
  • Katie Hille, SWBC
  • Jennifer Krause, eEmployers Solutions, Inc.
  • Jeffrey Kruse, CPS Energy
  • Cory Kuchinsky, CPS Energy
  • David Kuncho, Capital Group
  • Ann-Marie Laird, Walton Signage
  • Peter Licalzi, Joeris General Contractors, LTD
  • Lisa Lopez, Crosspoint, Inc
  • Conrad Martinez, RVK Architects, Inc.
  • Joe Martinez, HFS Company
  • Wes May, Leadership Lab Alumnus
  • Erin Mayes, H-E-B Grocery
  • Julio Medrano, Broadway Bank
  • James Mendiola, Leadership Lab Alumnus
  • Jen Mesiano, Walton Signage
  • Cassie Meuth, ATKG, LLP
  • Billy Nelson, Joeris General Contractors, LTD
  • Todd Newton, SWBC
  • Brett Niccum, Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
  • Connor Ortiz, Morningside Ministries
  • Michelle Parker, Accenture
  • Lauren Parsons, Rackspace Hosting
  • Robby Paysinger, CPS Energy
  • Kyle Pippin, Denim Group, Ltd
  • Tom Piszczatoski, North Central Baptist Hospital
  • Anna Polanco-Ramos, San Antonio Water System
  • Vidya Rangachar, CPS Energy
  • Donovan Rhone, Dahill
  • Kelly Rice, Broadway Bank
  • Brian Rodriguez, Ancira Nissan, Inc.
  • Juan Rodriguez, San Antonio Water System
  • Matt Russell, River City Federal Credit Union
  • Taryn Saavedra, Robot Creative
  • Michael Saenz, Lone Star National Bank
  • Arturo Salinas, Alterman
  • Laura Sanchez, Bestica, Inc.
  • Matt Sawtelle, Structure Tone Southwest
  • Mark Schnur, San Antonio Water System
  • Shannon Schumacher, eEmployers Solutions, Inc.
  • Will Smith, The Lynd Company
  • Mandy Smith, SWBC
  • Debra Sommers, Dahill
  • Ajay Tejwani, Social Media Sapiens
  • Saul Tellez, Walton Signage
  • Jay Tkachuk, Security Service Federal Credit Union
  • Javier Trevino, Security Service Federal Credit Union
  • John Tyler, Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc.
  • Anastasia Valdes, San Antonio Water System
  • Dan Velasquez, San Antonio Water System
  • Bryan Verette, GTECH
  • Jason Welch, Walton Signage

October 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanAs you know, the North SA Chamber has a long history as an advocate for business-friendly initiatives and legislation, as well as infrastructure improvements. We work to consistently champion a pro-business agenda and endeavor to serve as a collective voice to represent our large and small business members in government policy and legislative issues, especially at the local and state levels.

Our board of directors, government affairs and infrastructure committees monitor and suggest necessary changes and/or improvements on a number of issues including infrastructure. Regularly the North SA Chamber board of directors takes positions of endorsement or opposition of such issues.

At the September 24th North SA Chamber board of directors meeting, board members heard from Cris Eugster, Group EVP at CPS Energy, regarding the CPS Energy proposed rate increase to be voted on and approved by City Council, and from our Government Affairs Council Chair, Rob Killen of Kauffman Killen, regarding the Proposed Texas Constitutional Amendments Nos. 3 and 6, which are on the ballot for the November 5th election. The North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce board of directors reviewed, held discussion, voted and endorsed each proposition.

CPS Energy Rate Adjustment
In late September CPS Energy was proposing a 4.75 percent rate increase – the first since 2010, to keep up with an expanding customer base and to upgrade existing infrastructure. The North SA Chamber understands that even with a rate increase CPS Energy’s rates still will be among the lowest in Texas, and our board believes it’s critical for economic development and business retention to provide efficient reliable power to keep our economy strong. Following our board meeting, City Council and the public have expressed concern over the utility’s bonus program, and chief executive Doyle Beneby has since announced a reduction in the proposed rate increase to 4.25 percent as well as a 50 percent reduction in employee bonus plans for years 2015 and 2016, thus making the rate increase more satisfactory to its detractors. City Council will vote on the rate adjustment at the November 7 Council meeting, and if approved, the new rates will take effect February 1, 2014.

Constitutional Amendment Election – November 5, 2013
Additionally, the North SA Chamber encourages our members and the community to vote “Yes” for the proposed Constitutional Amendment, No. 3 on the ballot, “The constitutional amendment to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of qualifying for the tax exemption.” Texas is one of only 11 states to levy a property tax on inventory. Learn more at the Texas Association of Manufacturers’ website, or download the Proposition 3 Fact Sheet.

Furthermore, the North SA Chamber encourages our members and the community to vote “Yes” for the proposed Constitutional Amendment, No. 6 on the ballot, “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the financing of priority projects in the state water plan to ensure the availability of adequate water resources.” Learn more at the H204Texas website, or download the Proposition 6 Fact Sheet.

Photo Identification
Remember, with the passing of Senate Bill 14, voters are now required to present an approved form of photo identification in order to vote in all Texas Elections. Visit VoteTexas.Gov for more information.

Photo ID Required for Texas Voters
Identificación con Foto se Requiere para Votantes Tejanos

On behalf of the North SA Chamber board of directors, we ask for your thoughtful consideration of these items and encourage you to exercise your civic rights by offering feedback to your City Council member and voting in the November 5th election. Thank you for all you do to keep San Antonio and Bexar County strong.

September 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanIn August, the North SA Chamber offered our members the opportunity to hear first-hand from Mayor Julián Castro, recognized USAA CEO Maj. Gen. Joe Robles with the Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. Salute to Excellence Award and partnered with the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber to inform our members of important economic trends at the Mid-Year Economic Report.

As both of our Chambers endeavor to advance business and economic development in San Antonio, it has truly been a pleasure to work with the Hispanic Chamber CEO, Ramiro Cavasos, and their board toward our common goal to serve business. A big part of that, of course, is to serve as an advocate for business and provide our members a collective voice before their elected officials. We came together at the joint chamber City Council Meet & Greet, hosted by Frost, and our boards visited with the newest and returning Council members, as well as Mayor Castro.

I want to thank Frost for their demonstrated support of business and downtown redevelopment, as well as Government Affairs Council Chair and 2015 Chair-elect, Rob Killen, for his volunteer leadership and help in coordinating this event, and for his efforts to keep our members informed of the important issues that face our community and their businesses. Additionally, on behalf of our board of directors and membership, we thank our elected officials for their public service and the work they do on behalf of our citizens and businesses.

MPO Public Meetings
The North SA Chamber has a demonstrated commitment to keeping San Antonio moving. As you may know, according to the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), “By 2040, the San Antonio metro area will have nearly 1.5 million new residents raising the region’s population to over 3.4 million people.” That’s approximately one million or more cars added to our roadways in the next 25 years. The MPO conducts careful deliberation to ensure that major transportation projects are planned with public feedback. To address future transportation needs, we currently have a 25-year metropolitan transportation plan (MTP) that programs approximately $12 billion in transportation funding through year 2035. The MPO is now working on “Mobility 2040” which must be approved by December 2014. Area residents are invited to review plans and provide input on Mobility 2040’s vision and goals at a series of public meetings. Click here for the schedule.

Calendar of Events
We have a number of events coming up and hope you’ll join us.

The Business Technology Series features UTSA’s Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security, Ray Simms, and is scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, starting at 7:15 a.m. at the Petroleum Club. Learn how to Maximize Security and Control Costs with cyber hygiene, wireless security and online commerce.

The Enterprising Women’s Conference will be Tuesday, October 1, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Omni Hotel Colonnade. Featured speaker will be author and trainer Jennifer Webb, Magic Communications, and the luncheon program from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. will feature the ATHENA Leadership Awards® presentation. Congratulations to the finalists and we’re excited to reveal the award recipients at the luncheon.

Additionally, learn about the latest digital trends at On the Horizon on Wednesday, October 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Hills Country Club. Hear from IT and cyber security specialists about digital fraud and how to avoid cyber break-ins.

You can register for these and all of the North SA Chamber events here.

Thank you for all you do to keep Bexar County strong and I hope to see you soon.

August 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanFor nearly 40 years, your North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce has been hard at work advocating for business and education, providing professional development, delivering opportunities for you to make results-oriented business-to-business connections and recognizing deserving leaders. With staff and volunteers focused on these efforts daily, it’s my privilege to shift the focus to the staff and recognize their many accomplishments.

Chamber staff people are a special breed of individual, and it is a unique and personal calling each answers to serve. Not only does it take a “Jack-of-all-trades” person to wear the many hats of a Chamber executive – from fundraiser and event manager to volunteer coordinator and finance manager, it takes an amazing level of dedication to serve in this role for decades. And that is just what many of our staff has done.

Staff Tenure Awards

20-10yr anniversaries

This summer, four members of the Chamber staff were recognized by the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives for their commitment to serve business, our membership and the community as demonstrated by their tenure with the North Chamber. At the July board of directors meeting staff were recognized and presented with tenure awards including: Sr. Vice President of Operations, Chris Bugg – 20 years; Administrative Assistant, Marilyn White – 20 years; Vice President Leadership Programs & Lead SA, Yolanda Crittenden – 10 years; and Vice President IT & Finance, Debby Zucker – 10 years. I hope you will join me in congratulating and thanking staff for their service to the membership and for all they do to keep San Antonio and Bexar County strong.

Media Excellence Awards

TCCE Media Award

Additionally, I am proud to announce that the North SA Chamber now has an “award-winning” marketing approach, website and social media program. At the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives conference in June our Vice President of Marketing & Business Development, Renée Crittenden Garcia, accepted three Media Excellence Awards in the largest chamber size category. Judges chose the top three entries in seven media categories and the North SA Chamber received the following accolades: Second Place – Marketing Program; Second Place – Website; and Third Place – Social Media. Congratulations to Renée, her marketing staff and the many member companies – particularly Full Fusion, Texas Creative and Zukini Creative, who contributed to the marketing infrastructure re-development.

Social Networking
We are committed to helping our members succeed at doing business in the digital age. Join us for the Small Business How 2 Series on Wednesday, August 21, for How 2 share social media content on Flickr, Pinterest, Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter at the Hilton San Antonio Airport. Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m., and the program runs from 8 to 10 a.m.

Finally, why not join the conversation online? Come “like” and “follow” the North SA Chamber on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – it’s a great way to stay informed of member, community and Chamber news. Want to get more visibility for your member business? Send the North SA Chamber your news and staff will share it to Chamber social media channels and/or blog (based on membership level).

Thank you for all you do to keep Bexar County strong and I hope to see you soon.

July 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanAs we head into the dog days of summer, you can beat the heat at a number of North SA Chamber programs.

Upcoming Events
On Tuesday, July 30, the North SA Chamber will honor exceptional professionals at the Small Business Leaders Awards at the Oak Hills Country Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. I know you’ll join me in congratulating the 2013 finalists including: William Balthrope, Muzak; Dr. Dianna Burns-Banks, South Texas Center for Pediatric Care; Bill Carlisle, Jr., Evapocore, Inc. dba Carlisle Auto Air; Tommy Galligan, ServePro of Lackland Terrace/Timber Ridge; Jesse Garcia, Deltra Systems; John Garcia, Alpha Facilities Solutions; Amber Lenz, First Texan Realty; Dale Lewis, Trinity Title of Texas; Shelley Morkovsky, Morkovsky Law Firm, PLLC; Rashesh B. Rangrej, American Regional Center, LLC; and Brent H. Warrilow, CBI Group.

The Small Business Advocate of the Year Award will be presented to CPS Energy for their efforts in purchasing from small, minority and women owned businesses. And awards will also be presented in categories including Small Business Leader of the Year, Career Achievement, Business Achievement, Community Service, Employee Relations, New Business and Business Innovation.

Furthermore, we will honor Major General Josue “Joe” Robles, USAA, at the Salute to Excellence Luncheon on Thursday, August 1, at the Westin La Cantera Resort from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. I hope you’ll join us for this tribute to his incredible leadership and service.

Additionally, I invite you to attend the Mayor’s Vision for San Antonio on Tuesday, August 20, at the Oak Hills Country Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mayor Julián Castro will share his priorities for the City and it should be a great networking opportunity as well as an informative event for upcoming community initiatives.

Social Networking
The North SA Chamber knows our members are seeking information on doing business in the digital age. You won’t want to miss the How 2 Series or our newest program, Social U. Join us for the Small Business How 2 Series on Wednesday, August 21, for How 2 share social media content on Video/Photo platforms, Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter, at the Hilton San Antonio Airport. Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m., and the program runs from 8 to 10 a.m.

Social U, a social media university for savvy digital marketers, will premiere on Wednesday, September 4, at Omni San Antonio Hotel – Colonnade, from 7:30 to 11 a.m. This brand new series will focus on innovation, taking existing marketing programs to the next level and measuring success. This program is designed to deliver continuing education for marketing and PR practitioners who work at the business of interactive marketing each day and is specially designed for non-profits, small to mid-sized business owners, executives or managers who are stakeholders in the profitability of marketing trends and tactics. Join us for instruction, discussion and networking among local thought, strategy and implementation leaders in social and digital media marketing.

Join the conversation online. Come “like” and “follow” the North SA Chamber on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – it’s a great way to stay informed of member, community and chamber news. Want to get more visibility for your member business? Send the North SA Chamber you news and staff will share it to chamber social media channels and/or blog (based on membership level).

Thank you for all you do to keep Bexar County strong and I hope to see you soon.

June 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanWe are at the halfway point of 2013 and it’s been an amazing year so far of advocacy, networking, recognition, leadership and professional development.

Advocacy
In May, the North SA Chamber presented the Eighth Annual State of the County Address with Judge Nelson Wolff. The Judge discussed the continued revitalization of the city’s core and the need to attract and retain young professionals in the downtown area. Judge Wolff presented his vision to make San Antonio a live music scene to rival Austin. He noted the need to cultivate better relations with music promoters, to create a major outside music festival and to tune in to the evolution of Independent music bands as a way to appeal to the millennial workforce. To reinforce his message, the Judge welcomed special guests Girl in a Coma, a San Antonio-bred indie rock band that’s signed to Joan Jett’s label Blackheart Records.

If you missed the event, you can read more from coverage by the San Antonio Express-News and The Current.

Additionally, I hope you’ll join us for the Mayor’s Vision for San Antonio on Tuesday, August 20, at the Oak Hills Country Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mayor Castro will share his priorities for the City and it should be a great networking opportunity as well as an informative event for upcoming community initiatives.

Networking
As you know, promoting commerce among our members is a top priority in 2013. You can start by considering North SA Chamber members for your company’s purchasing needs. You can search for members in the Find A Member online directory and even look specifically for those offering a coupon with special offers for North SA Chamber members.

There are many ways to connect with other professionals here at the North SA Chamber. Consider joining the Ambassadors, our volunteer corps that brings goodwill to members at Ribbon Cutting celebrations throughout the year. The Ambassadors also meet monthly to share ideas, gain professional education and expand their community network.

Finally, you can engage in social networking and follow the North SA Chamber on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter – it’s a great way to stay abreast of member, community and chamber news. The North SA Chamber is competing in the Business Journal’s #SocialMadness competition, so your engagement counts. Your likes, shares, retweets and favorites get the North SA Chamber closer to moving through the competition and playing to win $10,000 for a local, member charity. Don’t forget to vote daily for the North SA Chamber at www.socialmadness.com, select a City: San Antonio, and vote for the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce in the small category.

Recognition
On Tuesday, July 30, the North SA Chamber will honor exceptional professionals at the Small Business Leaders Awards at the Oak Hills Country Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. I know you’ll join me in congratulating the 2013 finalists including: William Balthrope, Muzak; Dr. Dianna Burns-Banks, South Texas Center for Pediatric Care; Bill Carlisle, Jr., Evapocore, Inc. dba Carlisle Auto Air; Tommy Galligan, ServePro of Lackland Terrace/Timber Ridge; Jesse Garcia, Deltra Systems; John Garcia, Alpha Facilities Solutions; Amber Lenz, First Texan Realty; Dale Lewis, Trinity Title of Texas; Shelley Morkovsky, Morkovsky Law Firm, PLLC; Rashesh B. Rangrej, American Regional Center, LLC; and Brent H. Warrilow, CBI Group.

The Small Business Advocate of the Year Award will be presented to CPS Energy for their efforts in purchasing from small, minority and women owned businesses. And awards will also be presented in categories including Small Business Leader of the Year, Career Achievement, Business Achievement, Community Service, Employee Relations, New Business and Business Innovation.

Furthermore, we will honor Maj. Gen. Josue “Joe” Robles, USAA, at the Salute to Excellence Luncheon on Thursday, August 1, at the Westin La Cantera Resort from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. I hope you’ll join us for this tribute to his incredible leadership and service.

Thank you for all you do to keep Bexar County strong and I hope to see you soon.

May 2013 Word from the Chairman

Rollins_Brad-ChairmanOn behalf of the board of directors, thank you for your membership and involvement with the North SA Chamber. Since the beginning of the year we have welcomed more than 80 new members and refocused our energies on orienting new members and facilitating participation across the organization. In doing so, we have initiated a personalized welcome for all new members at monthly Networking Breakfasts, personal calls from Membership Committee members, an email series detailing visibility opportunities, and most recently, we have added a new staff member to help navigate new members into involvement that best matches individual focus areas. Christabel Cook is the North SA Chamber’s new Marketing & Membership Services Coordinator and she is available to help connect you to chamber resources.

Government Affairs
On May 1st, the North SA Chamber was honored to host U.S. Senator Ted Cruz for a Small Business Roundtable discussion at the chamber office. A dozen business owners had the opportunity to ask their Senator direct questions and express their concerns over topics including tax reform, government contracting availability for small businesses and health care reform – among many others. We thank Sen. Cruz for asking the North SA Chamber to host the discussion and we were pleased to provide our members the opportunity to have their voices heard before their elected official.

More recently, our Government Affairs committee gained insight on the issues of higher education funding, downtown development, health care and justice.

UTSA Director of External Affairs Albert Carrisalez reviewed the State’s changing role in higher education funding. He explained that up until the 1970s, public universities relied heavily on the legislature for funding. Today, State funds are only about 17% of UTSA’s budget. UTSA been a responsible steward and has been successful in raising private funds from the community for many of their capital building and research funding needs. The university is now seeking approximately $46M from the State to build a new science building to replace their existing 37 year-old obsolete building. The university asks for your support before the legislature to support SB 16 for revenue bonds.

We were also joined by Director of Center City Development Lori Houston. As a direct result of SA2020 vision planning, Houston’s department was created to facilitate redevelopment of our inner city and downtown core and her team is focused on creating more housing and retail opportunities. Here’s a quick synopsis of our downtown economic impact. Downtown is home to an $11B tourism industry – the city core’s anchor, 65K employees representing $2.4B in wages, and 3.4K households accommodating 18K downtown and surrounding area residents. Overall, this has a $6B economic impact on San Antonio. Additionally, Center City is working to mitigate the regulatory challenges to development in downtown, reviewing and amending the Universal Development Code annually and offering incentivized development. If your business is part of a new development or redevelopment project in downtown or the surrounding area, please seek out Center City Development to help facilitate meetings with city departments.

Finally County Commissioner Tommy Adkisson reviewed the County’s focus areas in transportation, healthcare, neighborhood revitalization, jail population reduction, resource recovery – recycling, and energy consumption reduction. Overall, approximately 62% of County revenue comes from property taxes and the County focuses 80% of their efforts on health and justice. Commissioner Adkisson explained that as property values have increased, the County has been diligent to maintain or lower tax rates. The County works with the State, Texas Workforce Commission and nearly 40 nonprofits to correct offenders re-entering society in an effort to reduce re-offenses and volume in Bexar County jail. On the heath front, Commissioner Adkisson says the University Health System is focused on clinical treatment versus emergency, reactive care. The UHS is moving to a leadership role in diabetes control to lessen the costly care that can result from lack of preventative treatment.

Upcoming Events
We’ve got a full slate of summer programs scheduled and there’s sure to be a topic to meet you interest area. Our first CSO SustainAbility Summit is Wednesday, May 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton San Antonio – Airport. CSO Workshops, presented by the Mission Verde Alliance, precede the Summit from 8:30 to 11 a.m.

I hope you’ll join us to “Get the Bexar Facts” at the Eighth Annual State of the County Address with Judge Nelson Wolff on Friday, May 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Omni San Antonio Hotel at the Colonnade. Judge Wolff will present the County’s priorities and will likely announce a newsworthy initiative or two.

Additionally, the Small Business How 2 Series topic is How 2 Generate Social Media Content: Strategy, Photo, Video and Blog. The seminar is designed for small businesses just launching a social media strategy and will take place Thursday, June 6, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Hilton San Antonio – Airport.

Lastly, the Technology Council presents the Business Technology Series: Accounting Software & Your Business on Wednesday, June 12, from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at the Petroleum Club. Learn more about what considerations should be made before purchasing, upgrading or transitioning programs.

Be a part of it.
I hope you will join us at these and our other upcoming events, enroll on a committee and be a part of it all here at the North SA Chamber. Thank you for all you do to keep Bexar County strong and I hope to see you soon.

April 2013 Word from the Chairman

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThis year is off and running and it’s hard to believe we find ourselves starting the second quarter already. April brings many exciting initiatives, updates and opportunities to our membership. The North Chamber will be participating in Fiesta for the first time this year and we invite you to join us in that effort. Additionally, our Government Affairs Council endorsed the City of San Antonio’s local preference program, which passed in March, and North Chamber event season is in full swing.

Viva Fiesta!
The North Chamber is excited to be a non-profit member of the Fiesta Commission and to participate in San Antonio’s largest celebration of our community, culture and heritage. This year the North Chamber will offer our inaugural Fiesta medal sale – and our theme is “Buy Local. Buy North Chamber.” In support of our non-profit entity, medal proceeds will benefit Lead SA and help to sponsor scholarships to area colleges and universities, as well as grants for small business and non-profit members to attend various leadership and professional development programs offered by the North Chamber. Medals go on sale at the North Chamber office Wednesday, April 17, and are available for $10 each while supplies last. We will also participate in the Fiesta Opening Ceremony and Pin Pandemonium medal swap in Alamo Plaza on Thursday, April 18, from 5 to 9 p.m. The event is open to the public and we hope to see you there. To purchase medals, visit the North Chamber office or contact Yolanda Crittenden.

Buy Local.
While I encourage you to join a committee, volunteer and attend events – even if your schedule doesn’t permit extensive involvement, you can always rest assured that your North Chamber is working on your behalf regularly to advocate for business and other quality of life issues.

As you know, I am spending this year promoting commerce among members as a top priority for 2013. Through our “Buy Local. Buy North Chamber.” campaign, we’re encouraging members to do business with one another and search our Find A Member online membership directory when considering suppliers for purchasing needs. So when the City Council considered a resolution to conceive a local preference program, our Government Affairs Council Chair, Rob Killen, brought the issue before the North Chamber board of directors and members voted to endorse the program.

Rob, our CEO Duane Wilson and others spoke before Council in support of the ordinance and we’re proud to announce its passage by a unanimous Council vote. Effective May 1, 2013, specific City of San Antonio contracting categories will carry a predisposition to “Buy Local.”

Mark Your Calendar
Wednesday, April 17, is a big day for the North Chamber Technology Council. We will participate in the Innotech Conference & Expo at the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and we will present the luncheon CIO Panel program: New CIO – Got the job! What’s first? from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attend the Expo and join us for lunch.

I hope you’ll join us for a little friendly competition and a day on the green at the Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 9, at the beautiful and challenging TPC San Antonio. We’re getting an early start this year with tee time starting at 7:30 a.m. As we anticipate a bright sunny day, you can still register for a foursome or join Dahill in sponsoring the tournament.

Finally, on behalf of our North Chamber staff and board of directors, I thank you for your continued membership, involvement and support. We appreciate all you do to keep Bexar County strong, and I look forward to seeing you soon.