November 2010 Archives

Recently, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce was pleased to witness one of Irving's most respected companies giving back to the community.  Frito-Lay's Irving manufacturing facility partnered with two Irving ISD elementary schools for its Fourth Annual Frito-Lay Adelante Coat Drive.

Students at Brandenburg Elementary and John R. Good Elementary received not only coats, but also backpacks, binders, spiral notebooks and pencil binder cases. Students were also treated to a pizza party.

"The coat drive is a nationally-sponsored initiative, and each year our employees in Irving have outdone the previous year's effort," said Angel M. Rico, human resources staffing coordinator at Frito-Lay Irving. "This year we were able to provide more than 100 coats for students who would otherwise go cold this winter."

The coat drive and pizza party were made possible by an annual golf tournament and plate drive which raised a total of $4,700 to support the company's community service and charitable efforts.

"Frito-Lay continues to be a great corporate citizen in Irving," said Chris E. Wallace, President/CEO of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce. "From helping to provide needed supplies for community and educational facilities to being very engaged in the Chamber, Frito-Lay exemplifies the spirit of giving that is characteristic of the Irving business community."

Students Pose for a Picture with Chester Cheetah

Happy and Funny Faces from Students at the Frito-Lay-Sponsored Pizza Party!

A closer look at some of the goodies students received in addition to the coats.

Chester visits with a group of kids

The Irving Journal captured some video of the symbolic exchanging of the gavel between Immediate Past Chairman Rick Lindsey and Current Chairman Robert Martinez!  A few highlights from the meeting are available here.  

Santa's elves are coming to Glory House Bistro! The Bistro will be open on Thursday, December 9 for lunch and dinner to celebrate this special early appearance of the elves. Stop by at lunch or during the Holiday in the Heritage event and enjoy a buy 1, get 1 free exclusive coupon just for this event! Hours that day will be 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. - 8:30. The menu will feature Flank steak sauté with mushroom wine sauce, Glory House breaded chicken, black eyed peas, squash casserole, baked sweet potatoes, zucchini rice soup & soup of the day. Enjoy free cookies and complimentary apple cider! Happy Holidays from Glory House Bistro!

There is much progress, redevelopment and revitalization of Irving's historic downtown area. Surely, you have heard about the new McDonald's but equally as impressive is the new JPT Graphics. Please join us on Wednesday, December 8 to see what's going on in Heritage Crossing and to get to know JPT Graphics - an Irving-based company that was started in 1984 by Simon and Shirley Lewenstein.  

What Simon and Shirley have done in rehabilitating their new building at 212 W. Irving Blvd to become their new corporate headquarters and studio for their ten employees is nothing short of remarkable!  The company which was previously located on Grauwyler in Irving took the 5,000 sq ft building on Irving Blvd and totally refurbished it (both exterior and the interior) creating a world-class environment.

The Grand Opening flyer and a couple of sneak peek photos follow!

An Employee of JPT Graphics Designs Material for a Client in her New Office

Shirley Lewenstein, Office Manager and Co-Owner of JPT Graphics discusses a customer's account with one of JPT's ten employees.

The Chamber's Annual Meeting was held today, November 29. This significant event sponsored by Reliant Energy served as a recap of the Chamber's many successes in 2010 and a preview for 2011. Highlights included the symbolic exchanging of the gavel between immediate past chairman Rick Lindsey and current chairman Robert Martinez. Tom Trotter received the Jennings Smith Community Service Award for his service to the Irving community and AT&T presented a check for $30,000 to the Chamber's Education Foundation. A panel of Irving's Legislators was moderated by Juan Elizondo of the Dallas Business Journal. Senators Florence Shapiro and Chris Harris and State Representative Linda Harper-Brown discussed the upcoming legislative session among other topics.

 Tom Trotter accepts the Jennings Smith Community Service Award from last year's winner, Margie Stipes. Mayor Herbert Gears (back left) and Immediate Past Chairman Rick Lindsey (back right) joined Margie Stipes on stage in congratulating Trotter.

Immediate Past Chair Rick Lindsey (middle) and Current Chairman Robert Martinez (right) exchange a gavel symbolizing the changeover in leadership. Chamber President / CEO Chris Wallace (left) recognizes them both for their outstanding contributions to the Chamber.

AT&T shows their generous support of the Chamber's Education Foundation through the gift of $30,000 during a special presentation.

The Legislative Panel from left to right: Moderator Juan Elizondo (Dallas Business Journal), Senator Florence Shapiro, Senator Chris Harris and State Representative Linda Harper-Brown.

Many executive leadership programs exist all over the country for adults to gain management skills, but it's far rarer to find a similar program for the younger generation, which often needs extra skills training beyond the classroom.

The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce offers a leadership program called "Future Leaders of Irving"... 

Continue reading what the U.S. Chamber has to say about it here!  

Your Chamber is introducing a new revenue-generating service for Chamber members to help you grow your business by providing you detailed information for selling to the One Trillion Dollar Public Sector Marketplace.

We will launch this new program by hosting a "Selling to the Government Workshop" December 16, 11a.m. - 3p.m. in the Chamber Tower. Lunch will be provided and there is NO COST TO ATTEND.

Businesses of all sizes will benefit from the program and will gain critical information about how to win our government's business. This leading-edge program, provided to Chamber members through a partnership between the Chamber and Strategic Partnerships, Inc., is one you do not want to miss!

This workshop will prepare participants to maximize this government business development program and improve the success rate for capturing new business. Your participation will benefit your business in the following ways:

o    Learn how to use government intelligence and opportunity leads

o    Leverage an understanding of the marketplace

o    Meet decision-makers

o    Overcome obstacles

o    Win new business

Pre-registration is required!

Irving is home to a diverse range of businesses.  On one hand, there are very large companies like Time Warner Cable. On the other, there are many small businesses like Porter's Army & Navy and non-profits like Irving Cares.  Big businesses and small businesses, for profits, and not-for-profits, all saluted our nation's veterans with significant events leading up to Veterans Day this year.

In honor of Veteran's Day, Time Warner Cable's Chief Operating Officer, Landel Hobbs, came to Irving to honor the North Texas service men and women who work for the local cable provider.  Time Warner Cable employees more than 300 veterans in Texas with more than 50 who are active reservists.  Simultaneous Veterans Day events were held at Time Warner Cable locations in Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi and were organized by the Time Warner Cable Veterans Network.  

Porter's Army & Navy hosted its sixth annual Unite for Troops event. Working with great partners like the City of Irving and Keep Irving Beautiful, Porter's was able to collect hundreds of items for our deployed troops. From toothbrushes to Christmas ornaments to beef jerky, Porter's again did a great job of collecting both necessities and tokens of appreciation and support that go a tremendous way in boosting the spirits of those who fight for our freedom.

Irving Cares and the Chamber, two non-profit organizations, also partnered leading up to Veteran's Day offering a clinic with free legal advice for veterans and their spouses. Attorneys donated their time to provide advice on areas ranging from wills and estate planning to landlord/tenant problems. Working with the Chamber and Irving Cares to make the event possible were the Dallas Asian American Bar Association, the Dallas Hispanic Bar Association, the J.L. Turner Legal Association and the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program.

Chief Operating Officer for Time Warner Cable, Landell Hobbs, speaks to veterans

Porter's Army & Navy Collects Items for our Trooops

Representatives from the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce and the City of Irving recently visited Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico.  The visiting delegation was comprised of Al Zapanta, President of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber, Chris Wallace, President/CEO of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber and Tommy Gonzalez, Irving City Manager and Joseph Chapa, Executive Director of Irving's Sister Cities/International Trade Development and Assistance Center (SCI/ITDAC).

Although a short 24-hour trip, there were three separate objectives and they were all accomplished with a high degree of success.  The first was to participate in a Conference on doing business with Texas, and Irving in particular.  The audience, which included Leon Mayor Ricardo Sheffield, area businesses and representatives from the local media, were given a presentation by Mr. Al Zapanta on the operation of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, its infrastructure, activities, initiatives and programs.  Mr. Chris Wallace spoke about the Irving business community and the activities of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber.  Mr. Tommy Gonzalez spoke about the City of Irving and the very successful quality system that has been implemented, highlighting the areas of productivity and the efficiencies that have been achieved.  Mr. Joe Chapa presented how the International Trade Center functions, its process and methodology in seeking project and matchmaking opportunities to help companies turn them into international business transactions.

The second objective was a meeting at Leon City Hall, hosted by Mayor Ricardo Sheffield and also attended by other relevant local government officials.  During the meeting, and among other general topics, there was an exchange and dialogue on the Sister Cities relationship between Leon, Guanajuato, and Irving.  Mayor Sheffield expressed his interest that the long time cultural ties that the two cities have shared through the Sister Cities Program can continue to lead to yet more important economic ties and benefits for the two cities.  Mayor Sheffield then extended an open invitation to the Irving business community to visit and seek mutually beneficial commerce.  Mr. Al Zapanta then invited Mayor Sheffield to be a guest of honor at a U.S.-Mexico Chamber event in Irving scheduled for December 12 and 13 entitled "Mexico Tourism Investment Forum," which Mayor Sheffield accepted.  Irving Mayor Herbert Gears will also be a guest of honor at this event.

The third objective of the trip was for the group to visit an area business that is representative of local industry.  Thus, a tour was undertaken of a boot manufacturing facility in Leon known as Botas Caborca.  The company produces principally third party brands for the export market (largely U.S. and European nations).  They do plan to market an "own" brand in the U.S. and are currently seeking a sales rep in the Irving area.  All members of the delegation were impressed with the industriousness of the workers, the resourcefulness of management, and the quality of the output.  It became evident why this plant is producing boots in exotic and traditional leather for very demanding customers in the international market.  In an expression of generosity which was totally unexpected by the delegation, the plant management offered to produce a pair of boots for each of the visitors.  This gesture capped a very successful visit by the Irving Delegation.

Irving Delegation in Botas Caborca showroom in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico

Irving Delegation Inside the Botas Caborcas Manufacturing Plant

Save the date!  This is an event you do not want to miss!

Irving ISD in collaboration with the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 15th Annual Business Exchange Days December 9 and 10 at IISD high schools.

This career event gives business professionals from different fields an opportunity to visit IISD high schools and speak to Irving students in the classroom about their future and paths to success. Various speakers are needed to present at the four IISD high schools. Topics may include an informational presentation on a specific career choice, a motivational topic or personal testimony about the speaker's chosen career path.

Based on feedback collected from past events, both the IISD students and guest speakers benefit from these highly interactive experiences. Business community members who would like to share knowledge and experiences are encouraged to contact Thelma Cantu, partnerships in education coordinator, at 972-600-5017 or via email to tcantu@irvingisd.net.

Oncor recently hosted its "Ask Oncor.  We Deliver" expo at the Heritage Senior Center.  Oncor provided a series of stations for Irving residents to ask questions and learn how to improve their energy efficiency.  Lunch was also provided for attendees.  Below are a few pictures from the event.

Jerry Bates listens to a question from Roland Medina

The thirty-one Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Class of 2011 participants focused on Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness on November 5.

The class began the day with a visit to the Irving Criminal Justice Center, where they toured the jail, visited the 911 call center, and spent time with Police Chief Larry Boyd.  The class had the opportunity to learn about the police academy and sign up for a police ride-a-long.

The second half of the day was spent at the Esters Training Facility, where the class received a tactical team presentation from Lt. Michael Coleman and toured the "Homeland Security Mobil Command Vehicle" with Leadership Irving-Las Colinas alumnus Jason Carriere.

The class then enjoyed a lunch donated by DeVry University while they listened to a Fire Department presentation.  Several members of the Irving Fire Department spent the afternoon with the class as they put on fire department uniforms, rode on fire trucks and ambulances, sprayed the fire hose, took apart a car using the "jaws of life", and travelled sky-high in the fire department "bucket".

The class, which represents numerous local private, public, and non-profit organizations, will meet the first Friday each month through April and will focus on a different area of Irving-Las Colinas at each meeting.  In December, the class will focus on Leadership Development.

The mission of Leadership Irving-Las Colinas is to identify, educate, and develop future leaders and to motivate these leaders for civic, charitable, and community involvement.  If you are interested or want to recommend a local business or community leader for the Class of 2012, please email Alysia Bell at abell@irvingchamber.com.

Class of 2011

Adam Grinage, Irving ISD; Allison Sharpe, Brighter Tomorrows; Anita Gibbs, Anita Gibbs Apartment Locators; Asusena Resendiz, Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; David Schmid, HMS; Doug Sevier, Irving ISD; Francesca Marraro, HMS; George Christian, Regions Bank; Grant Pruitt, Cushman & Wakefield; Gwen Craig, Irving ISD Board of Trustees; Harry Marek, ExxonMobil Corporation; Jeff Mues, Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce; Jeff Strater, Research in Motion; Jill Tokumoto, Irving ISD; Joy Pike, Federal Strategies Group, LLC; Kendra Liddell, TXU Energy; Matt Warnock, CFBISD; Melissa Cannon, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau; Nancy Navarro, Attorney at Law; Pownie Fierro, Allstate Insurance Company; Rakesh Patel, Law Office of Rakesh I. Patel, PLLC; Shane Burton, City of Irving; Sheraton Duffey, Universal Academy; Sherry Stephenson, Rick's Independent Car Kare; Steve Candler, Flowserve Corporation; Steven Richards, North Lake College; Steven Wurtz, Irving ISD; Tawnia Wise, Irving Healthcare Foundation; Terry Jordan, Microsoft Corporation; Tina Mayse, HMS; Toscha Reeves, Irving ISD

Congrats to HMS!

David Dawson, VP Government Services-Midwest Region, and Bill Lucia, President/CEO of HMS are pictured with their Dallas Regional Momentum Award received November 12,

HMS received the award for expanding its existing operations in Irving and relocating its corporate headquarters from New York City to Las Colinas.  Lucia serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce.  HMS was one of only eight companies recognized during the awards ceremony. 

A couple weeks back, we told you about the new Supersized McDonald's that has opened in Heritage Crossing.  As we mentioned then, NBC did a great story on the new restaurant  And it's been reported on from Arkansas to  Missouri... but perhaps the best story came courtesy of D Magazine who was on hand for the ribbon cutting last week. Read D Mag's take here.

The Massey family cuts the ribbon on the giant, new restaurant

 A great Chamber turnout!  From left to right - Vernon Proctor, Phillip Dye, Tamara Davis, Andy Fancher and Shaquieta Goldman

Beverage in hand! From left to right - Chris Wallace, Rosalie Jensen and Don Jensen

 Shirley Dobson and Fran Bonilla

McCafe Frappe and her Chamber fan club!

Over the last several years, Irving has emerged as a hot spot for television production. Taking advantage of the great facilities at The Studios at Las Colinas and a pro-film industry, pro-business climate, several television shows have called Irving home. Among them, Prison Break, The Deep End, and Lone Star all were produced here.

With each show, there were wardrobes, set furniture and other props, and much of that stuff has been just hanging around the Studios collecting dust. Wouldn't you love to give some of these items a better home? Well, that's a real possibility as many of these collector's items and relics will be up for sale Thursday, November 11 (7 a.m. - 7 p.m.) through Friday, November 12 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.). 

We suggest you get there early. You can find the Studios at 6301 Riverside Drive. Let us know what you buy!

Jackson-Shaw, a national, diversified commercial real estate development and investment company, has announced today that Nautilus Hyosung, an international manufacturer of ATMs and self-service equipment for the financial services industry, has signed a 94-month lease for 60,000 square feet of office and warehouse space at Parc 114 in Irving.  The company will use the site to relocate and expand its U.S. headquarters, which is currently located in Coppell, and will occupy the space by the end of 2010.

 "The proximity of Parc 114 to DFW International Airport and its visibility from State Highway 114 make the development a perfect location for Nautilus Hyosung's expansion," said Forshey Hoobler, vice president of Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. and broker for Nautilus Hyosung.  "Jackson-Shaw provided some creative solutions to help us secure the space so the company may proceed with expanding its local presence and bringing more jobs to the region."

Nautilus Hyosung's relocation and expansion to Parc 114 will bring the total number of local employees to more than 50.  The site will be used as a primary distribution point for Nautilus' ATMs and for light assembly.

"We've taken a great location and leveraged it with a unique product that combines form and function and delivers a highly sought-after alternative to the traditional big boxes that dominate the marketplace," said Jason Nunley, vice president of development for Jackson-Shaw.

Situated on land bordering DFW International Airport in Irving, Parc 114 is a multi-phased, flex-warehouse development that will ultimately consist of nine buildings containing nearly 600,000 square feet of space.   Earlier this year, Jackson-Shaw broke ground on a speculative building to accommodate a 30,000 square-foot lease for the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).

Parc 114 is a joint partnership development of Jackson-Shaw and ORIX Capital Markets.  GSR Andrade served as the project architect.  The development is exclusively represented for leasing by Chris Jackson, Blake Kendrick and Jeremy Kelly of Stream Realty.

About Jackson-Shaw

Jackson-Shaw, a national real estate development company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, brings more than 39 years of experience in the development of diversified real estate properties that meet the needs of its customers and partners.  The company has completed more than 38 million square feet of development since its founding in 1971. For more information, call 800-351-SHAW (7429) or visit www.jacksonshaw.com.

Smashburger, a nationally acclaimed industry-leading "better burger" restaurant, will open its fifth Dallas-Fort Worth location on Tuesday, November 9, 2010. The Las Colinas restaurant will open at 795 W. John Carpenter Freeway in Irving. This is the first of 10 DFW-area Smashburgers slated to open over the next three years.

To celebrate the Las Colinas opening, Smashburger has partnered with the Salvation Army. From Wednesday, November 10 through Thursday, November 25, 2010, one dollar from each Lone Star Smashburger sold will go directly to support the Salvation Army's mission to "care for the poor, feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, love the unlovable, and befriend the friendless." In addition, franchise partner Tye Williams of BIGG Capital Holdings, LLC and his wife Lynette will personally match donations dollar for dollar up to $2,000 for the two-week promotional period.

"We are excited to bring our 'better burger' to Las Colinas," says Smashburger Founder Tom Ryan. "We are pleased to partner with the Salvation Army and give back to the Las Colinas community."

Dallas Cowboys linemen Marc Colombo and Leonard Davis are joining Williams as franchise partners in opening the DFW-area Smashburgers through DC Rightside, LLC, a separate entity under the umbrella company of BIGG Capital Holdings.

"I am excited to be a part of such a great company like Smashburger and to have great partners in Marc and Leonard," says Tye Williams, franchise partner in BIGG Capital Holdings, LLC. "We are proud to support an organization like the Salvation Army. Not only is this cause near and dear to my heart, but the Salvation Army is heavily supported by the Irving-headquartered Dallas Cowboys. We want to continue in this spirit of tradition and giving."

DFW Smashburgers feature a regional menu created with southwestern flavors and tastes in mind, including:

-The Lonestar Smashburger: 100-percent Certified Angus Beef burger served open-faced with cheddar cheese, beefy chili, diced onions, diced tomatoes, fresh jalepeños and grated cheddar cheese on a chipotle bun. Knife and fork included.

-The BBQ Ranch Smashchicken: Grilled or spicy chicken breast topped with applewood smoked bacon, haystack onions, lettuce, tomato, bbq sauce and ranch dressing on an egg bun.

-The DFW Dog: 100-percent Certifed Angus Beef hot dog topped with pepper jack cheese, guacamole, fresh jalepeños, spicy chipotle sauce, tomatoes and onions.

Named for the cooking method used to create the perfect burger, Smashburgers are a one-third or half-pound ball of 100-percent -- fresh, not frozen -- Certified Angus Beef smashed on a flat grill to sear in the juicy flavor. To further the "better burger" experience, Smashburgers are served on a toasted artisan bun and topped with a selection of real cheeses, the freshest produce, and top-quality condiments.

Smashburger is known for its savory burgers, but the restaurant also serves up delicious Smashchicken sandwiches, Smashdogs, and Smashsalads, with sides like veggie frites and rosemary and garlic-seasoned Smashfries. Burger lovers can pair their meals with beer, wine, Häagen-Dazs shakes, and root beer floats.

About Smashburger
Denver-based Smashburger, the country's fastest growing "better burger" restaurant company, is designed to be every city's favorite place for burgers. It was named a 2009 Hot Concepts! award winner by Nation's Restaurant News. Developed and owned by private equity and concept-development firm Consumer Capital Partners (CCP), Smashburger operates and develops corporate, joint venture and franchise stores across the country. Smashburger will open more than 100 stores by 2010's conclusion and operate more than 200 in 2011. It has sold franchise and joint venture agreements that will bring the total to more than 400 locations over the next five years. To learn more, visit http://www.smashburger.com.

About Consumer Capital Partners
Denver-based Consumer Capital Partners (CCP) is an innovative private investment and concept development firm focused on multi-unit retail businesses, primarily in the restaurant, liquor, food, and leisure industries. CCP has deep experience in the fields of private equity, brand, concept and product development, and strategic consulting. To learn more about CCP, please visit http://www.consumercp.com.

About BIGG Capital Holdings, LLC
Led by National Football League star Leonard Davis and Tye Williams, CFP® Dallas based BIGG Capital Holdings, LLC, is a business development group focused on building a 30 store Smashburger franchise empire over the next 7-8 years. BIGG Capital Holdings, LLC has an innovative structure to allow other burger lovers to join this Smashburger venture in Dallas.

About DC Rightside, LLC
Leonard Davis, joined by his teammate Marc Colombo, created DC Rightside, LLC, a separate entity under the umbrella company of BIGG Capital Holdings, to build the first five units. DC Rightside, LLC will serve to develop and support their franchise locations, while day-to-day management will be contracted to the Smashburger corporate team. Tye Williams, CFP® will be the managing member so that together Leonard and Marc can continue to work side by side off the field just like they do on the field. For additional information contact Tye Williams at tyewilliams@gmail.com.

Irving Mall will be hosting a Holiday Business Expo during Thanksgiving weekend to give area businesses a mall presence during the busiest shopping weekend of the year! This is a limited opportunity with a Chamber member discount for participating. The Irving Mall is now taking reservations for the Holiday Business Expo and the deadline to submit a participation form is Monday, November 22. Interested? Contact Holly Connor  at hconner@simon.com or 972.255.0572.

Chamber members are cordially invited to show their support of the Irving-headquartered Boy Scouts of America's local Circle Ten Council. The event happens Tuesday November 9, at Las Colinas Country Club: 5:30 p.m to 7:00 p.m.    

U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tom Donohue has issued a statement regarding the message American voters sent with last Tuesday's historic election.

See the video here, or read on for the statement.

"Americans sent a powerful message to Washington: Focus on job creation and economic growth. Voters have resoundingly rejected more government spending, higher taxes, and more burdensome regulations that have caused crippling uncertainty for businesses.

We agree with voters across the nation who clearly stated that a strong and vibrant private sector is critical to reviving our economy, creating jobs, and putting us on a path to long-term growth. We will work with members of both parties who support policies that enable businesses of all sizes to do what they do best--create jobs, opportunity, and prosperity.

Congress will have another opportunity to make restoring economic growth its top priority and, with more balance, they will have to work on a bipartisan basis to achieve it. This time, they must take advantage of it."

On October 28, the Irving Hispanic Chamber celebrated its annual awards banquet. In case you missed it, here's a run down of the winners.   

Ambassador of the Year Award
This award recognizes and honors a member who has shown a commitment to the positive promotion of the Chamber to the Hispanic/Minority small business community.  and has effectively helped to promote Chamber programs/services through their outstanding volunteer service and leadership.

Winner: Franco Argueta (Comerica Bank)

Small Business of the Year Award

This award recognizes a small minority owned business who exemplifies successful entrepreneurship through innovation, civic engagement, financial stability and perseverance in continuing to enhance their products, services and employment opportunities in the community.

Winner: Gene Guzman (G&C Direct Mail and Marketing Inc.)

Diversity Award of the Year Award:

This award recognizes an individual that has demonstrated a commitment to the recruitment, retention and promotion of individuals of underrepresented populations.  This person cultivates and promotes diversity initiatives that establish and foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment. 

Winner: Doug Fox (Irving Family YMCA)

Chairman's Choice Award

The Irving Hispanic Chamber's Chairman of the Board of Directors recognizes an individual for their exemplary leadership and service in furthering the chamber's mission. This category is a secret ballot.

Winner: Judy Anderson (Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce)

Emerging New Business of the Year Award

This award recognizes a new business with outstanding business performance and emphasis on community service. This business is distinguished for its participation in numerous chamber activities.

Winner: Miguel Lopez (MITO Financial)

As the first 5-Star Chamber of Commerce in the State of Texas, your Chamber continues to maintain a strong working relationship with all of our elected officials and this tradition shall continue through the 82nd Texas Legislature.

As you are likely aware, voters in Irving have elected a new State Representative Rodney Anderson, representing District 106, and a new County Commissioner Elba Garcia, Precinct No. 4.  The Chamber looks forward to working with these newly-elected officials for the betterment of the Irving business community and the continuation of our leading, pro-business policies.

In fact, the Chamber has already initiated relationships with Representative Anderson and Commissioner Garcia and will soon be informing them further of the great opportunities that lay ahead for our business community. Rest assured, we will be working diligently to ensure your business interests continue to be voiced.  

Please find 2010 Election Results below as well as a save the date for the Chamber's Annual Meeting (November 29) - an important event where you will hear from several elected officials including Representative Harper-Brown and Senator Florence Shapiro.  To register for the Chamber's Annual Meeting sponsored by Reliant Energy, please click here.

Annual Meeting Registration

Annual Meeting Registration

Charity Van Vleet, an active Chamber member and owner of Eagle Eye Web Services, recently checked in with some exciting news. First, she did an internet TV interview on Thursday, October 28 with Jennifer Luney of the Lunch & Learn show.  See the highlights here.

Secondly, Eagle Eye Web Services which just completed helping Jo Ann Goin and Glory House celebrate the first-ever Spooktacular Celebration at Glory House Bistro, has turned their attention to teaming up with Freddy's Frozen Custard in Euless to hold a fundraiser. Visit Freddy's on November 17th between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. or 5 - 8 p.m., and bring your family and friends out to dine on steakburgers, shoestring fries, or their fresh frozen custard (including pumpkin pie for the holidays). Fifteen percent of the proceeds will benefit Crimes Against Kids Eliminated, Inc (CAKE) -- an organization, which is dedicated to eliminating childhood sexual abuse. Donations are welcome through CAKE'S website where you will also find more information on how you can help.

Finally, if you can't make it to Euless or are looking for an exceptional networking opportunity, you can catch Charity speaking at the Irving Women's Network just one day earlier on November 16. Details for that event are available here.  

NBC has a great story on the new downtown McDonald's Restaurant at 302 West Irving Blvd in Irving's Heritage District, an effort which is expected to help spark redevelopment in the area. This new $2.8 million facility built on the site of the original 34-year-old restaurant will house 7,800 square feet of floor space with seating for 180.  Diners will have free WiFi, video trivia and other games along with an oversized play area.  The employee count will increase from 65 to 80. 

According to owner operator Heath Massey, this McDonald's restaurant is the largest built in the past twenty years and is testament to Irving's strong sense of community with six to eight elementary schools, two high schools and many other groups frequently utilizing the restaurant for meetings and community events.

The official grand opening for the new restaurant is set for Wednesday, November 10, 2010, from 2 pm - 5 pm, with the ribbon cutting planned for 3:00 p.m. 

We hope to see you at the grand opening, but in the meantime, please enjoy the great NBC piece below:

Tomorrow is Election Day!  If you have not already voted early in person or by mail, be sure to get to the polls tomorrow and VOTE.

After you have voted, visit www.txprosperity.com for real-time election results and analysis on election night!  Don't miss out on learning who wins and loses and view live tweets from political analysts in D.C.  Whether you are a political guru or a first time voter, our website has you covered for results and analysis across the country.

ELECTION DAY:
Election Day is Tuesday, November 2nd. Polls will be open until 7:00 p.m. 

WONDERING WHERE TO VOTE ON ELECTION DAY?
Your precinct number is listed on your voter registration certificate. Remember, on election day you must vote in the precinct where you are registered.  For more information about voting in your county click here.

ELECTION NIGHT:
The Texas Prosperity Project will be providing up-to-the-minute election results for all federal and state races. Real-time election results will begin streaming at 6:00 p.m. as polls begin to close on the east coast.  Click here or visit www.txprosperity.com and select "2010 Election Results".

Join Chamber Investor, Oncor, for an open house event on Thursday, November 11 from 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the Irving Heritage Senior Center Ballroom! The Heritage Center is located at 200 S. Jefferson Street.

The Chamber recently hosted its 5-Star Business Mixer at the beautiful Urban Towers in the Las Colinas Urban Center.  This was a mixer like no other with several sponsors involved including the Urban Towers, DCURD, Las Colinas Beverage and Gondola Adventures.  Inside the Urban Towers, there was food, wine tasting and great networking while the adventurous were offered a unique opportunity to see the Urban Center by canal via Gondola or from above via the APT (area Personal Transit) people mover.  This camera was dispatched to the APT and what follows are just a few of the many photos we snapped.

All Aboard!

View of the DART Orange Line from the APT

View from the APT at the confluence of tracks 1, 2 and 3

View from across the lake looking back on Williams Square. The Fire Department was out on Lake Carolyn showing off the fireboat.

View of RIM's U.S. Headquarters from the APT

 Whether for convenience or pleasure, we suggest riding the APT through the Urban Center. We recommend taking it to the Bell Tower / Mandalay Canal station where numerous dining options can be found. It runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays.

North Lake College is one of the luckier DCCCD campuses because many companies surround its central campus. The college maintains partnerships with several of these corporations, such as Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco and Research in Motion.

Jump to read the rest of the story from Debbie Fleck at the Dallas Morning News!

The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber salutes our troops and our veterans. Please take note of the following two events.

1)     Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 6, for an event specifically designed to address the legal affairs of our troops.

What: Free Legal Advice For U.S. Veterans and their Spouses

When: Saturday, November 6, 2010. 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

        Where: Irving Cares - 440 South Nursery Road Suite 101 Irving, Texas 75060

Volunteer attorneys will provide brief legal advice (10 to 15 minutes) for U.S. Veterans and their spouses in the following practice areas: bankruptcy, child support, consumer rights, divorce or custody, employment, wills and estate planning, landlord/tenant problems.

This event is sponsored by Dallas Asian American Bar Association, the Dallas Hispanic Bar Association, and the J.L. Turner Legal Association in connection with the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, Irving Cares and the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce.

Contact Romit S. Cheema, Esq. at (214) 979-3077 or Jason Almonte, Esq. at (914) 319-9890 for more information.

2)     And be sure to mark your calendars for November 14 - the date of Unite for Troops: a one-day drive held in Irving to collect necessities for deployed troops. For six years, Porter's Army & Navy has invited the Irving business community to join them in collecting needed items for those serving overseas and their families. We hope to make this year the best yet!

What: Unite For Troops: Supplies Drive
When: November 13, 2010 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Porter's Army & Navy: 600 E. Irving Blvd

Needed Items: Non-breakable Christmas ornaments, Tylenol/Asprin/Cold Medicine, flavored bottled water packets, foot powder, deodorant, net sponges, body wash, razors and shaving cream, travel-sise tooth brushes and toothpaste, letters, batteries, beef jerky, snacks, eye drops, lip balm, shampoo/conditioner. 

DeVry University in partnership with the North Texas Small Business Development Center is hosting a free Community Entrepreneurship Seminar at their Irving Campus (4800 Regent Blvd). The event features four 45-minute workshops that can help you jump-start your new business and as an added bonus, a small business panel to discuss questions over lunch!

WORKSHOPS:

·         From Idea to a Plan: The Basics of Writing a Business Plan

·         Money, Money, Money: How to get Funding

·         Marketing Strategies for Small Business

·         How to handle Small Business Taxes

COST: No Charge to Attend

LOCATION: DeVry University: Irving Campus

DATE: November 6, 2010

TIME: 10:00am - 2:30 pm

ADDRESS: 4800 Regent Blvd. | Irving, TX

Those who are interested in attending should RSVP with DeVry University Community Outreach at 972-929-9351 or acraig@devry.edu.

Irving Healthcare Foundation and the Four Seasons Resort and Club could not have asked for a more gorgeous morning for the annual Cool October event.  The Chamber was well represented in all areas.  Chamber Office Coordinator, Hope Cheadle and friend, Michael Keane of Beer Wells Todd, ran the 5K while Vanessa Segovia, Manager of Events, Matt Barry, QuikTrip Park and Caroline Barry, participated in the Family Fun Run. 

Pictured above: (L) Matt and Caroline Barry enjoy the Fun Run Course. 

From L to R: Matt Barry, Vanessa Segovia, Caroline Barry, Hope Cheadle and Michael Keene enjoy the post run festivities which included chili and sweet treats from Chamber member Sweet Tomatoes, pizza from iFratelli and other refreshments.

Baylor Medical Center at Irving offered free health screenings.  Pictured above, Michael Keene braves the scale as Hope Cheadle looks on in shock. 

All photos were taken with the brand new BlackBerry Torch.