Nacogdoches

Are you the U.S. Small Business of the Year?

2011-12-16T09:17:00.011-06:00

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce seeks applications for the 2012 Small Business of the Year.
First - what is small?
According to the U.S. Chamber, that means annual revenues are less than $20 million.
Award criteria include:

Staff training and motivation

Community involvement

Customer service

Business strategies and goals

Financial performance and business history

Apply online. Cost is $25 for members of the U.S. Chamber and $150 for non-members.The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce is a member of the U.S. Chamber. We'd be glad to help nominate any qualified local Chamber member.All award winners will be honored during the U.S. Chamber's Small Business Summit on May 22, 2012 in Washington, D.C. Blue Ribbon Award® winners will receive one complimentary registration to attend the Summit, courtesy of Sam's Club. Nominations are due January 6 and applications are due January 13. More info: http://www.uschambersummit.com/award

Small Business Saturday - Nov. 26 marketing opportunity

2011-10-12T16:25:00.003-05:00

http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/small-business-saturday-1869/

Following the success of last year's Small Business Saturday, a number of online giants are teaming up to help local owners make this year's event even more prosperous.Facebook, Google and Twitter, among others, are joining with American Express, which founded Small Business Saturday, to offer a free toolkit designed to help small business owners get their cash registers ringing this holiday season.Held last year for the first time, Small Business Saturday – which falls on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend – is a national initiative encouraging consumers to shop at small businesses. It also was created specifically to recognize the importance of small businesses and their contributions to the economy, job creation and local communities.According to American Express, small business merchants saw a 28 percent rise in sales volume during last year's Small Business Saturday, compared to the same day in 2009."An all-star line-up of partners is coming together to provide the tools to help make this year even more impactful for small business owners throughout the country," Mary Ann Fitzmaurice Reilly, senior vice president of American Express OPEN, said in a prepared release.Small business owners are encouraged to take advantage of the free online toolkit, which includes:
Facebook Ads — American Express is giving $100 in free Facebook advertising to the first 10,000 business owners who sign up. For small businesses that don’t yet have Facebook pages, American Express will offer a tool that takes them step-by-step through the free page-creation process.
Video Creation Tools — Google and American Express are partnering to offer small businesses My Business Story, a free tool for creating and posting free online videos about their businesses. With My Business Story, small business owners can create personalized, professional-quality videos for YouTube, social networks and business websites.
Twitter Follow Button — Small business owners will be able to place a Follow button on their websites, allowing consumers to follow them on Twitter with one click of the mouse.
YourBuzz — YourBuzz is a service that helps small businesses reach more customers by enabling them to view and respond to customer reviews and online mentions all from one place. For Small Business Saturday, YourBuzz is giving a $100 credit for LinkedIn Ads for up to 6,500 business owners and $100 in additional advertising credits on Facebook. Business owners also will get 50 percent off any package from Pagemodo, a company that helps small businesses create professional Facebook pages.
The toolkit also includes downloadable, point-of-purchase displays for small businesses to let customers know they are involved in the initiative. The displays allow merchants to include their own branding, details about their business and any special offers they are promoting for Small Business Saturday. Customizable email templates also are available for businesses looking to conduct email campaigns. With an eye on boosting consumer interest in the initiative, FedEx recently announced it would give away $1 million in $25 Shop Small American Express gift cards for use on Small Business Saturday. Thirty thousand of the gift cards will be available, first-come, first-served, starting Nov. 1 on the FedEx Facebook page. FedEx will distribute an additional 10,000 gift cards directly to its customers.American Express is giving its card members incentives by offering a $25 statement credit when they register their card and spend $25 or more on Small Business Saturday at any qualifying small business that accepts American Express.Finally, Women Impacting Public Policy, a nonpartisan organization that advocates for small business issues, has created the Small Business Saturday Coalition — a group of 200 advocacy organizations that plan to raise awareness for Small Business Saturday and motivate consumers to shop at small businesses this holiday season.This year's Small Business Saturday falls on Nov. 26. To access the toolkit, visit the Small Business Saturday Facebook page

Public input for I-69, “Driven by Texans” needed

2011-07-15T14:27:00.004-05:00

NACOGDOCHES – The Texas Department of Transportation’s Segment Committees are seeking public input on the development of the proposed interstate system.
I-69 is a proposed national interstate system that will be developed as a series of improvements using existing highways, including US Highway 59, as much as possible and seeks to utilize citizen input throughout the process.
Five groups of citizens have been making recommendations on how the interstate could best be developed, each segment committee, has its own set of special needs and challenges. Projects identified by the segment committees are merely conceptual at this point, and public input is needed as the process continues.
The I-69 Segment One Committee, which stretches from Texarkana to Lufkin, includes Nacogdoches County Judge, Joe English and City of Nacogdoches City Manager, Jim Jeffers.
There is no current funding to build I-69, however there is a possibility of getting a section of I-69 built in Texas soon.
Designating existing suitable freeway sections as I-69 will establish the interstate in Texas. From there, using the citizen’s plan for I-69, TXDOT and state leaders can begin to identify funding sources to continue improvements on additional sections of I-69. TXDOT’s motto for I-69 is “Driven by Texas,” since the concept requires citizen involvement in the decision making process. “Since I-69 will be Driven by Texans, the residents of Nacogdoches’ input is crucial in this process; at both the beginning stages and later down the road,” said City Manager Jim Jeffers, “we highly encourage everyone to let their voice be heard.”
Local representatives from the Segment One Committee are available now to make presentations to your group or organization.
You can also go online and provide invaluable feedback on the proposed I-69 interstate system by visiting: http://www.txdot.go/DrivenByTexans.%20
You can also call 512-334-3841 to receive a comment card by mail. To schedule a local Segment One Committee member to speak to your group or organization please contact Jan Pigg at 936-559-2506 or email at piggj@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us. For more information on the I-69 proposed routes, issues driving the interstate development, or how to get involved in the planning process visit www.txdot.gov/DrivenByTexans or you can follow the Texas Department of Transportation on Twitter and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TxDOT
http://twitter.com/#!/txdot

Thank You! East Texas Online Auction Donors.

2011-05-11T14:36:00.002-05:00

Aesthetic Concepts - Caroline Hurst
Alley Theatre
American Freedon Museum
Austin Bank
Avenue Flower Shop & Greenhouse
BancorpSouth
Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum
Brad Maule
Brookeland Lake Sam Rayburn KOA
Brookshire Brothers Fresh Harvest
Caldwell Zoo
Capital Cruises
Casa del Mar
CC’s Smokehouse
Chick fil A
Chili's Grill and Bar
Clear Springs/Auntie Pastas
Commercial Bank NA
Community Coffee
Continental Liquor
Cotton Patch - Longview
Cotton Patch - Nacogdoches
Court Club
Craig and Michelle Smith
Creative Photography
Curves
Dallas Arboretum
Daniel Boone's Bean and Burger
Dinosaur Museum and Haunted House
Doug James
Dr. Pepper Museum
Dragonfly Nursery & Garden, LLC
Dripping Springs Vodka
Drury Hotel
East Texas Carpets
Eldorado Resort and Casino
Elliott Electric
Excel Car Wash & Quick Lube/Corp. Office
Fur Masters
G. Patterson Photography Studio and Gallery
Galveston Historical Foundation
Glass Castles Stained Glass Studio & Gift
Graham Barnes Distilling
Hampton Inn & Suites Waco-South
Harry's Building Supply
Heart of Texas
Hilton Fort Worth
Hilton Hotel and Conference Center
Holiday Inn - Emerald Beach
Holiday Inn Express - Nacogdoches
Hotel Fredonia
Houston Astros
Houston City Pass
Julia’s
Just Cheesecake
Keep Nacogdoches Beauiful
Kennedy’s Jewelers
Kimbell Art Museum
Kroger
La Riviera Restaurant & Bakery
Longview Fine Arts Museum
M & S Pharmacy
Macy May
Marble Slab
maurices
Mazzio’s Italian Eatery
MCM Eleganté
Meadow Museum
Messina Hof Winery and Resort
Millard's Crossing Historic Village
Moody Mansion Museum
Morgan Oil
Nacogdoches Eye Associates
Nacogdoches Floral Company
North Street Veterinary Clinic
Omni Hotel
Party ‘N Things
Piney Woods Country Club
Posados Café
R&K Distributors
Ratliff Ranch Golf Link
Representative Wayne Christian
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditoriums
Sam's Town Hotel & Casino Shreveport
San Antonio Museum of Art
Scarborough Renaissance Festival
Scentsy - Joshlyn Wallace
Science Spectrum and Omni Theater
SFA Fine Arts
SFASU Athletics
Shakespeare Dallas
Shelley’s Bakery
Sheraton Arlington Hotel
Silver Lion Photography
Sitton Ducks
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center
Spaghetti Warehouse
Special Find Antiques and Collectibles
Speed Zone
Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center
Suddenlink Communications
Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
Texas Rangers Baseball
Texas State Aquarium
The Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History
The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
The Catfish Cabin
The Daily Sentinel
The Fort Worth Zoo
The Potpourri House
Tito's Vodka
Townsquare Media
TSO
TXU Energy
USA Floors and More
USS Lexington Museum on the Bay
World's Largest Toy Museum
Wyndham Hotel Austin
Rusty and Dawnella Rust
Jim and Kelci Iyoob

Blueberry Golf Bash boasts winners!

2011-05-06T22:27:00.010-05:00

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce concluded a very successful Blueberry Golf Bash Friday, May 6, at Piney Woods Country Club. The event was presented by MyPlates.com and Etech, Inc. Event chair Fern Simmons led a team of volunteers and Chamber staff to produce the event.

Finishing first was the BancorpSouth team, from left, of Stan Sisco, Jerry Alexander, Ron Collins and Ben Wright with a net score of 50.6.

In second at 52.4 net was Etech #1 team, from left, of Don Silva, John Tusa, Ralph Ervin and Cheri Silva.

In third at 53.2 net was, from left, Elect Energy team of Sam Meuwissen, Chase Brashear, Kyle Johnson and Nick Muhl.
In fourth at 53.8 net was the Piney Woods Country Club #2 team of Clayton Woods, Robert Rasberry, Ted Smith and Richard Saldana.

In fifth at 54.2 net were David Smith, Steve Bartlett, Aron Kulhavy and Rachel Smith.

The event fielded 37 teams of four, the largest in recent history. More photos of the event will be available soon at http://www.nacogdoches.org/.

East Texas Online Auction!

2011-05-02T09:45:00.004-05:00

Odessa Odessey -
After golfing at beautiful Ratliff Ranch Golf Links enjoy a great play at the Globe Theatre. Unwind at the MCM Elegante Hotel in Odessa.
This package includes:
• (2) Free round of golf with cart at Ratliff Ranch Golf Links
• (4) tickets to the Globe Theatre my be used at any 2011 season play
• (1) nights stay at the MCM Elegante Hotel in Odessa, Texas. Expires 12/31/2011

Dallas Family Fun -
The whole family will enjoy this Dallas vacation! Package includes:
•Sheraton Arlington - (1) night stay valid through 5/11/2012, some restrictions apply.
•Dallas Arboretum - (4) passes valid through 12/31/2011.
•Shakespeare Dallas - Associate membership.
•Meadow Museum - (2) admission tickets.
•(2) 2-hour passes valid on all racing, games (excluding ticket or prize games), golf.

Austin - Omni, spaghetti and cheesecake! -
Enjoy a night in Austin - with dessert!
Package includes:
•1 weekend night stay in Omni Hotel.
•Spaghetti Warehouse dinner for 2 with cheesecake

Downtown Property Showcase

2011-04-25T12:07:00.006-05:00

Photo: Before and after pictures of 110 S. Pecan, which is now a successful retail business "Heart of Texas."

The City of Nacogdoches Main Street Program and the Nacogdoches Economic Development Corporation are excited to announce the lineup for the Downtown Property Showcase coming up this Tuesday, April 26 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

We have several properties that are available for lease today, and they will be open for folks to tour. We also have two successful downtown business owners who will be on hand in their beautifully restored buildings to answer any questions concerning the benefits of owning property and a small business downtown. Here is the lineup:

Tour Available Properties: 113 E. Main- Jo Carlson & Bob Gruebel, Owner

123 E. Main- Jo Carlson & Bob Gruebel, Owner

300 E. Main- Jerry Alexander, Leasing Agent

106 Church- John Sloane, Owner

Talk to Successful Downtowners: 110 S. Pecan- Gerry Larabee, Heart of Texas

323 E. Main- Teresa & David Darby, Glass Castles

Currently there are no properties for sale along the red brick streets; however the City of Nacogdoches Main Street Program encourages interested parties to visit with their staff about the possibility of someday owning property in the historic district. Approximately seven vacant buildings sit uninhabitable downtown, totaling more than 80,000 square feet. “The task force has been looking closely at those numbers, and coming up with creative ways to combat them is their number one goal,” said Main Street Manager Sarah O’Brien. “It is frustrating to consistently receive calls from people all over the state interested in purchasing property downtown, and have nothing to offer them, yet we still have a huge vacant building problem downtown.”

The Downtown Property Showcase begins at the Visitor’s Center, 200 E. Main Street. Spec sheets, maps, and historic district benefit sheets will be available for everyone to begin their tour. Attendees can start the tour on their own, or be guided by a staff person. Representatives from the Small Business Development Center, Nacogdoches Economic Development Corporation, and city staffers who can answer historic preservation and building code questions will be on site to lend their expertise to everyone in attendance.

The City of Nacogdoches’ Main Street Program aims to make Historic Downtown Nacogdoches a year round destination where visitors and locals experience the heart of our community rich with history, commerce, entertainment, cultural, and educational opportunities by utilizing public and private partnerships to preserve and promote historic downtown Nacogdoches through economic, historic, and cultural revitalization. “Ensuring that our historic structures are put into productive use through appropriate preservation methods is one of our top goals,” said O’Brien “Our residents, visitors and especially our downtowners deserve to have a downtown where vacancies are few and far between.” The Downtown property showcase is just one step in the process to realize our vision and mission.

If you or anyone you know have any questions about the upcoming “Downtown Property Showcase” please contact the City of Nacogdoches Main Street Office at 936-559-2573 or obriens@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us.

East Texas Online Auction update

2011-04-19T09:56:00.003-05:00

The East Texas Auction has so many great items! A few notable packages are called Beautifully Fit, Keep Texas Beautiful and Pampered Pet.

Beautifully Fit includes a light chemical peel and microdermabrasion from Aesthetic Concepts - Caroline Hurst and a 1-month membership at Curves. Bid on this item to start looking and feeling great!

Keep Texas Beautiful includes items donated by Austin Bank and Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful (KNB). There is something for everyone in this package! Items from KNB include a beautiful, collectible "Keep Texas Beautiful" ornament, a bag, cap, trash pick up tongs and poster framed by Coats Gallery. Items from Austin Bank include 3 caps, a mousepad, mini bank bag, clips and pads of paper.

Show your dog you love them with the Pampered Pet package! Items include a pet bowl from Brookshire Brothers, haircut by Fur Masters and bath and nails by North Street Vet. Their tail won't stop wagging!

Astronaut, artist to be guest at Archie McDonald Speaker Series

2011-03-25T09:09:00.004-05:00

Former NASA astronaut Alan Bean to speak at SFA
March 22, 2011 - SFA Public Affairs
Alan Bean kneeling in spacesuit, 1969

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - Reserve tickets and general admission passes are now available for the 2011 installment of the Archie McDonald Speaker Series at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Apollo 12 astronaut Alan Bean, the fourth man to walk on the moon and an award-winning artist, will be the featured guest at the event titled "Leaving an Impression One Step at a Time." The conversation will begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14, in the Grand Ballroom of the Baker Pattillo Student Center on the SFA campus.

Reserve tickets are $75 and available for purchase at www.sfasu.edu/archie. These tickets include a private reception with Bean starting at 6 p.m. in the Twilight Ballroom and priority seating during the speaking event.

Free passes for general admission seating may be picked up at the SFA Involvement Center located on the first floor of the student center or at the downtown Nacogdoches Visitors Center, 200 E. Main St.

"Alan Bean is a member of a most exclusive group - one of 12 people who have walked on the moon and captured the focus and imagination of the nation and the world during the apex of manned space exploration," Dr. Archie McDonald said. "Our speaker series is delighted to feature a fellow Texan who has viewed our world from a perspective few others have experienced."

SFA's speaker series, which debuted last spring, was created to honor and preserve McDonald's legacy as a distinguished scholar, educator and community commentator. A prominent national figure will be hosted annually at SFA to discuss contemporary cultural issues - from politics to art - in the tradition of McDonald's writings and oral presentations. The annual event is sponsored by SFA's Student Government Association and College of Liberal and Applied Arts.

McDonald has taught history at SFA for 46 years and served as director of the East Texas Historical Association and editor of the association's journal for 37 years. He is a past president of the Texas State Historical Association, past vice chair of the Texas Historical Commission and author/editor of more than 20 books on historical topics. Along with teaching, McDonald currently serves as the SFA university/community liaison and is a weekly commentator on Red River Radio in Shreveport.

For more information, call (936) 468-2385.

SFA new food experience

2011-03-22T10:18:00.002-05:00

SFA food production and service class revamps program, opens new dining location
March 10, 2011 - Bria Taack

Photo - Samantha Fuller, a student in SFA's quantity food production and service class, serves guests at a recent Cajun-themed quantity food production and service dinner at SFA.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The Nacogdoches community, along with the students, faculty and staff of Stephen F. Austin State University, now has the opportunity to enjoy a fine dining experience on campus.

The quantity food production and service class has revamped its program and opened a new restaurant location next to the Human Sciences Building in the Human Sciences Annex.

The class offers hospitality, nutrition, and family and consumer science students the chance to work hands on with food production and service. Students learn recipe conversion, menu planning, food cost determinations, recipe standardization, safety and sanitation practices, and efficient food service through the experience of running their own restaurant.

"Instead of having an idea of how a restaurant is supposed to be run, these students actually get to do it," said instructor Vanessa Hooper, a registered dietitian who is teaching the course.

In the past, dining took place on the second floor of the Human Sciences Building. The new location offers a larger dining area that can accommodate up to 50 guests and a larger kitchen with commercial cooking equipment for food preparation.

"We are one of the top four programs in the State of Texas," said Dr. Lynda Martin, director of the School of Human Sciences. "It is really important that these labs are giving the students a really quality experience. That's why we're really excited about branding and turning this into a full-scale restaurant."

This semester, the food service and production class will be working with Dr. Marlene Kahla's marketing of services class to assist with branding and naming the restaurant.

"While we aren't a culinary program per se, we just signed an articulation agreement with Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in Austin," said Dr. Chay Runnels, assistant professor and program coordinator. "The agreement will allow our students to transfer credit into their culinary program after they get their bachelor's degree here at SFA."

Dinners are now being served on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tickets may be purchased with cash or check only by contacting the School of Human Sciences at (936) 468-1022. Tickets will be e-mailed to customers once payment is received. Cost is $8 per meal or $80 for all 12 meals. Dates, times and menus will be posted on SFA Weekly, SFA Today, the Human Sciences Facebook page and the School of Human Sciences Communication Board.

Somerford is first Total Resource Campaign champion team captain

2011-02-24T12:25:00.004-06:00

Pictured is Roby Somerford, Etech Inc., holding the Total Resource Campaign (TRC) Championship Trophy. Somerford is the champion Team Captain for the Chamber's first TRC held in fall 2010.

Somerford led his team "The Winners" to victory with a sales total of $37,375 of Chamber event sponsorships and memberships. The Winners team members are Somerford, Patrick Lanmon with Commercial Bank of Texas and Scott Waller with Xerographix East Texas, Inc.

Southern Power begins biomass plant hiring

2011-02-21T09:06:00.003-06:00

from February 2011 NEDCO e-newsletter:

SOUTHERN POWER BEGINS BIOMASS PLANT HIRING
Southern Power is now in the recruitment and hiring process for the 35-40 full-time employees who will operate its biomass plant in Sacul once it becomes operational.

HR Representatives from Birmingham, Ala., along with local plant management, were in Nacogdoches this week to meet with individuals interested in working at the plant. In addition to an informal Q&A session at the County Annex on Tuesday, Feb 15, the group has also met with representatives from Angelina College and SFASU

The biomass plant is scheduled to begin providing power to its customer, the City of Austin, in mid-2012 and Southern Power intends to hire its employees this Spring so that they can begin the training process leading up to the eventual commissioning of the power plant next year.

A detailed listing of jobs currently available can be found on Southern Power’s “job postings” webpage at http://careers.southerncompany.com. Information on how to apply for the biomass openings, as well as other Southern Power openings throughout the Southeastern U.S., is available on their website - http://www.southerncompany.com/careerinfo/.

Nacogdoches to create high impact service plan

2011-02-11T08:44:00.002-06:00

The City of Nacogdoches and Mayor Roger Van Horn are proud to announce an upcoming Non-Profit Summit scheduled for Monday, February 21st, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 202 E. Pilar Street. The summit is the starting point to gather information so that the City of Nacogdoches can create a high impact service plan as part of its Cities of Service initiative.

About Cities of Service
American cities face serious challenges and many mayors want to take advantage of every resource available to them- including the time and energy of public-spirited residents- to address those challenges. But in cities across America today, citizen service is often an underutilized or inefficiently utilized strategy by municipal governments. Founded in September 2009, Cities of Service supports mayors to leverage citizen service strategies, addressing local needs and making government more effective.

All coalition members have signed a “Declaration of Service,” committing to lead a multi-year effort to expand community service and volunteerism by:
• Developing a comprehensive service plan and a coordinated strategy focused on matching volunteers and established community partners to the areas of greatest local need;
• Working with other mayors and elected officials to advance strategies and best practices that accelerate the service movement and produce measurable goals
• Encouraging other mayors to join this national effort to engage our citizens; and
• Ensuring that the voice of cities is heard in policy and program discussions related to service, which will help the country achieve the ambitious goals of the Serve America Act

For more details you can visit www.citiesofservice.org.

"We are excited to launch the Cities of Service program in Nacogdoches, we are only one of 110 communities in the nation to begin this process,” O’Brien said. “We will begin by assessing our agency’s needs at the Non-Profit Summit so we can establish a service plan that will accomplish our goals.” Nacogdoches Mayor Roger Van Horn signed the declaration of service during the fall of 2010. You can view the declaration at: http://www.citiesofservice.org/about/declaration-of-service/.

The Non-Profit Summit is open to all organizations, agencies and individuals who are interested in utilizing service to achieve their mission and goals. Information gathered at the summit through open discussions and surveys will be utilized to create Nacogdoches’ high impact service plan. The City of Nacogdoches has partnered with the One Star Foundation, SFASU, and the United Way to work together to create the plan.”The Summit is the starting point for our Cities of Service Initiative, we will gather much needed information from our local non-profits and agencies about what their needs are, whether it be financial, volunteers, time, etc. so that we can successfully address those needs in our service plan,” O’Brien said.

Interested citizens need not make reservations to attend the summit. For more information or questions about the upcoming Non Profit Summit or the Cities of Service initiative please contact the Nacogdoches Main Street Office at 936-559-2573 or via email at obriens@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us.

Luncheon honors home town heroes

2011-01-21T15:23:00.003-06:00

Luncheon honors home town heroes - New community service program to be announced

The Nacogdoches County Chamber will recognize the heroics of non-profit organizations during the Chamber’s Fourth Friday Luncheon, presented by Tipton Ford, Inc.

Brett Maisel (pictured left), training sergeant for the City Police Dept. will speak on the impact “Home Town Heroes” make in the community.

The luncheon is noon to 1 p.m., Friday, Jan. 28 at Hotel Fredonia. Immediately following the luncheon, time is set from 1 to 2 p.m. for anyone to visit one-on-one with the non-profit representatives.

Also during the program, Main Street Manager Sarah O’Brien will give an overview of the city’s new community service program.

"We are excited to launch the Cities of Service program in Nacogdoches, also known as the Texas Communities of Service through the One Star Foundation,” O’Brien said. “We will begin assessing our needs so we can establish a service plan that will accomplish our goals and realize the community’s needs.”

According to O’Brien the first step is to host a non-profit summit in February. She will announce the summit date at the chamber luncheon.

“During this meeting Randi Cooper, SFASU & One Star Foundation, and myself will gather much needed information from our local non-profits and agencies about what their needs are, whether it be financial, volunteers, time, etc. so that we can successfully address those needs in our service plan,” O’Brien said.

Nacogdoches Mayor Roger Van Horn signed the declaration of service during the fall of 2010. View the declaration at: http://www.citiesofservice.org/about/declaration-of-service/.

The luncheon serves as the Chamber’s monthly membership meeting, and all from the community are invited to attend. Reservations are required by Jan. 27, and lunch is $16 at the door. A safe “pay online” option is available at nacogdoches.org, or contact the chamber to register, 936-560-5533.

All attending may enter the $50 drawing, and all chamber members are entered in a $250 drawing, but you must be present to win. Both drawings sponsored by First Bank & Trust East Texas.

Event Gold sponsors are Axley & Rode, LLP, and Norbord Texas LP.

________________________________

About Brett Maisel
Brett Maisel has been a peace officer in this community for over 28 years. He is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, a Certified Public Manager and a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He currently serves as the training sergeant, the crisis negotiations team leader and volunteer chaplain for the Nacogdoches Police Department. Brett is married to his college sweetheart Donna, the Executive Director of Economic Development in Marshall, Texas. The Maisels have two grown, married sons and a 2-month-old granddaughter Rylan.

About Cities of Service
Founded in New York City on September 10, 2010, the Cities of Service coalition and its member cities are responding to the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act’s historic call to action by finding new and innovative ways to harness the power of volunteers to help solve pressing local challenges. The coalition aims to accelerate the service movement at the most local level, connecting local needs to willing volunteers in innovative and impacting ways, thus creating a new chapter in America’s longstanding history with service.

Today the coalition includes more than 100 mayors who represent more than 49 million Americans. Like the original seventeen mayors, each coalition member has made a commitment to advance service strategies in their city by crafting a high-impact service plan and to work with other mayors around the country.

Texas Chamber of Commerce Execs names directors

2011-01-07T10:59:00.007-06:00

Austin, TX January 2011---The Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE) has elected a new slate of Directors to serve and represent the interests of chamber professionals in Texas.

Bruce R. Partain, President/CEO of the Nacogdoches County Chamber, is among the volunteers who will serve as an officer of the oldest state association for Chamber of Commerce executives. Partain served TCCE as Vice Chair of Governmental Affairs in 2010, and will serve as Vice Chair of Technology and Communications in 2011.

TCCE is the premier organization for chamber of commerce professionals in the State of Texas that enhances professional growth of its members while developing the skills needed to improve the business climate in Texas.

New to the board and elected to serve a three year term are:

Ray Hernandez, Kyle Chamber of Commerce, Laura Mitchell, Lake Travis
Andy Dill, Community Chamber of East Montgomery County, and Mike Coston, Kilgore Chamber of Commerce

Re-elected to the Board to serve an additional three year term are:
Sam Cartwright, Dumas Chamber of Commerce
Missy Malecheck, West Chambers County Chamber of Commerce
Officers of the organization for 2011 and the communities they represent are as follows:

Chairman: Royce Hickman, Bryan-College Station
Past-Chair: Bruce Hillegeist, Tomball
Chair-Elect: Matt McCormick, Lewisville
Secretary/Treasurer: Beth Journeay, Angleton

Serving as Vice-Chairs in 2011 are:
Chris Wallace, Greater Irving-Las Colinas
Bruce Partain, Nacogdoches County
Eddie McBride, Lubbock
Kelly Hall, Longview Partnership
RaDonna Hessel, Grapevine

Directors - Retiring December 31, 2011:
Steve Ahlenius, McAllen
Rob Cunningham Midland
Jeff Sandford, Texarkana
Gina Spagnola, Galveston
Emily Waite, Wichita Falls
Cindy Harreld, Clear Lake Area

Directors - Retiring December 31, 2012:
Shelby Concotelli, Seminole
Tony Felker, Frisco
Cammy Jackson, DeSoto
Jim Rich, Beaumont
Sherry Trainer, Pasadena
Debra Wakeland, Waxahachie

The elected Board, representing more than 250 Texas chambers of commerce will work throughout 2011, assisting Texas chambers in providing even better services to the business communities that they serve.

For more information, contact Phyllis Snodgrass, Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives at
(512) 637-7711 or online at http://www.tcce.org/ .

Nine Flags presents the Spirit of Christmas Toy Drive

2010-11-09T12:45:00.000-06:00

The 14th Annual Nine Flags Festival is pleased to present the 3rd Annual Spirit of Christmas Toy Drive. The Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, located at 200 E. Main Street will serve as a drop off location from November 12th until December 10th, helping community agencies collect much-needed toys and Christmas presents for Nacogdoches County.

“We are so excited to be able to give back to the community in this way,” Joel Novosad, meeting & event coordinator for the Nine Flags Festival said. All toys donated to the Spirit of Christmas Toy Drive will be given to the Nacogdoches County Community Partners Board to disperse to Nacogdoches County children. “There are so many local children in need during the Holiday Season, we are just thankful that the Nine Flags Festival can assist in providing for these families,” said Novosad.
The Nine Flags Festival will also host drop off spots during both the Nine Flags Christmas Festival on Saturday, November 27 and during the Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 4. We encourage you to bring an unwrapped gift suitable for children ages’ infant to 18 years of age.

The Nine Flags Festival is a celebration of Texas history & culture and will be held Nov. 13 through Dec. 11 in Nacogdoches, located about 150 miles north of Houston via U.S. 59. Nine different flags have flown over the oldest town in Texas throughout its rich history, and this year’s festival will pay special tribute to the attempts to establish Texas as its own republic with the Dr. James Long, Magee-Gutierrez and Fredonia Rebellion flags. Platinum sponsors of the festival include Commercial Bank of Texas and Mike Perry Motor Company.
For more information on the Spirit of Christmas Toy Drive and other Nine Flags Festival events please call (936) 564-7351, log on to www.nineflagsfestival.com, or be our friend on facebook @ Christmas Celebration.

Junior League of Lufkin New Actives and September Volunteer of the Month

2010-10-06T11:06:00.001-05:00

The Junior League of Lufkin began their year by welcoming the 2009-2010 Provisional Class into active membership at their first meeting on September 14, 2010. Congratulations to Shanelle Stewart, Tracy Jerke, Tamara Day, Laci Driscoll, Vanessa Durham, Donna Quarles, Hilary Walker, Anita Boyd, Brooke Vann, Carrie Iversen, Anna Wyatt, April Earley, Whitney Garza, Tracie Reynolds, Claudia DeArmond, Rebecca Davis, and transfer member Allison James.

ABOUT THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF LUFKIN
Since its beginning in 1953, the Junior League of Lufkin has supported many local projects and has made a positive impact on countless lives in Lufkin. The vision of our organization’s members is to enhance the loives of children and women in our community. To date, the JLL has donated close to $2 million dollars to Angelina County. The Junior League of Lufkin is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism and to imporving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. For more information, visit the website, www. Juniorleageoflufkin.org

Photo: New Actives 2009-2010: front row (left to right) – Shanelle Stewart, Tracy Jerke, Tamara Day, Laci Driscoll, Vanessa Durham, Donna Quarles, Hilary Walker, Anita Boyd, Allison James Back row (left to right) – Gina Green (provisional trainer), Brooke Vann, Carrie Iversen, Anna Wyatt, April Earley, Whitney Garza, Tracie Reynolds, Claudia DeArmond and Rebecca Davis (not pictured).

Historic restoration grants applications available

2010-09-27T09:02:00.000-05:00

Beginning Monday, September 27, 2010, applications will be available for the City of Nacogdoches’ annual Historic Restoration Grant Program. This money has contributed to over 2 million dollars of projects preserving and restoring the history of Nacogdoches. The application will be available at the Durst-Taylor Historic House and Gardens at 304 North Street, the Sterne-Hoya House Museum and Library at 211 S. Lanana St. or by contacting the Historic Sites Department at 936-560-4443. Applications are due on Friday, October 15, 2010, by 4:00 pm and can be turned in at the Durst-Taylor House or Sterne-Hoya House.

To be considered for funding, two qualifications must be met. First, a property must be under the City’s Historic Overlay Zoning. Second, the applicant must be granted funding and a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Historic Landmark Preservation Committee before starting the restoration work. Funding is limited to a maximum match of 50 percent of project cost.

In the fall of each year, applicants prepare and present requests for funding to the City’s Historic Sites Department for consideration. These applications must contain information about the project such as cost estimates, detailed descriptions of the work to be done and drawings or illustrations as necessary. A recommendation is then prepared by staff and presented to the Nacogdoches Historic Landmark Preservation Committee, which in turn prepares a recommendation on funding levels and presents this to the City Council for final approval.

Once grants are approved, applicants have one year to complete the work authorized under the grant. The applicant receives payment from the City upon completion of the project and final review by the Historic Landmark Preservation Committee.

For more information regarding this program, please contact the City of Nacogdoches Historic Sites Department at 936-560-4443 or 936-560-5426.

1860 at Nacogdoches University

2010-08-28T13:43:00.011-05:00

Step back 150 years and meet Governor Sam Houston and the new president of Nacogdoches University. Set at what we now know as "The Old University Building," this fast-moving interactive play brings a taste of life (cookies and lemonade!) in East Texas.

You'll thrill to the hoofbeats of the Third Texas Cavalry as they escort Governor Houston onto the university grounds.

You'll declaim poetry, gain hands-on experience in creating your own fan or roll black powder cartridges. You can prepare for the upcoming battles by creating medical supplies.

Delight in the classic refreshments and tap your toes at an authentic 1860 gathering set to the music of the banjo and fiddle.

For reservations, call Jana Redfield, 936-564-9711, or 936-554-1766. Tickets are also available at the Convention and Visitors Bureau, 200 E. Main.

Performances are 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10 and Saturday, Sept. 11.

Matinee performance is 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 12.

Mail checks to NFWC, PO Box 633113, Nacogdoches, TX 75964-3113.

Be sure to call Ms. Redfield to confirm reservation if you mail in a check.

Brookshire Brothers Blueberry Pie Contest Winners and Recipes

2010-07-19T13:50:00.020-05:00

Congratulations to Bridget Coon for being First Place in the 2010 Brookshire Brothers Blueberry Pie Contest.

Bridget's Blueberry Pie

1 can eagle brand milk
½ c. Sugar
1 ½ cartons blueberries
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
1 c. blackberry juice
¼ c. water
2 Tbsp cornstarch
½ c. butter
2 uncooked hytop pie crust

On stove top in small saucepan Mix Mil, sugar, blueberries, vanilla, blackberry juice, and butter, simmer for 10 minutes. Mix water and cornstarch add to blueberry mixture Bring to a boil until thick pour into unbaked pie crust. Add top or lattice work with remaining pie crust Bake @ 350 until golden brow.

Congratulations to Second Place finisher Achaia Martin.

Achaia’s Blueberry Pie

1 c. sugar
3 Tbsp Cornstarch
¼ tsp. salt
¾ c. Black cherry goji juice
½ tsp lemon juice
¼ tsp almond extract
2 tbsp butter
3 c. blueberries

In saucepan place ¼ c. sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well then add goji juice and cook until thick. Add remaining sugar and cook until glossy. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, almond extract, and butter. Add blueberries mix gently. Pour into unbaked pie crust. Bake @ 350 until golden brown.

Congratulations to Third Place winner Lisa Lalumandier.

Sweet and Sassy Blueberry pie

¼ c. flour
½ c. sugar
1 tsp salt
¼ c packed light brown sugar
1 Tbsp quick cooking tapioca
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp crushed lavender
2 pints (4 cups) blueberries
1 Tbsp lemon juice

Mix all ingredients together and pour into pie crust. Make a lattice to cover the top. Bake at 375 for 60 to 75 minutes until it bubbles.

Crust

¾ c shortening
2 c. flour
1 tsp salt
½ c. ice water

Cut shortening into flour/ salt mixture until there are only small bits of shortening. Slowly add ice water and stir, gather all bits together to form a dough.

These are more tasty blueberry pie recipes to enjoy.

Blueberry Pie

Recipe by Tammy Wheeler

Crust ( you will need two batches)
1 1/3 c hytop flour
¼ tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. baking powder
½c. hytop butter
¼ c. milk
Sprinkles of water

Roll the crust out with a rolling pin and place into a 9 inch pie plate, chill until the filling is ready. Save the second batch for the top crust.

Filling

5 c. fresh blueberries
3 Tbsp. hytop Flour
½ stick hytop butter, unsalted
¾ c. hytop sugar
¼ c. honey
1/8 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
13 oz blueberry jam

Pre heat oven to 425.Combine all ingredients in large bowl mix well. Place filling in prepared pie crust and top with second crust, pierce a few holes on top of crust to vent.
Bake 20 minutes and then turn oven down to 350 for an additional 30 minutes. Let it cool completely before serving.

Talitha’s Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Talitha Martin

5 egg yolks beaten
1 ¾ c. sugar
1 c. sweet milk
1 c. blueberry preserves
2 Tbsp flour
½ stick butter
1 tsp vanilla
Pinch of salt

Beat all ingredients together, except preserves. Mix well then mix in preserves. Pour mixture in unbaked pie crust. Bake @ 350 until brown

Texas Star Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Vicki Parkey

4 cups Texas Blueberries
¾ c Hytop Sugar
½ c Hytop Flour
1 tsp lemon rind
1 Tbsp lemon Juice
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1/8 tsp salt

In large bowl combine sugar, flour, lemon rind, salt and cornstarch. Add blueberries and gently toss to coat. Add lemon juice
Spoon blueberry mixture into deep dish hytop pie crust that has been brushed with egg white. Top with lattice or decorate with pie crust. Bake @ 350 for 40 minutes or until crust is light brown.

Blueberry Lemon Crunch Pie
Recipe by George Weaver

Pie filling
1 pkg HYtop pie crust
2 Tbsp. Flour
¾ c. sugar
1 egg beaten
1 tsp lemon juice
¼ tsp. Salt
2 ½ c. fresh blueberries

Lemon crunch topping
2 Tbsp. Flour
1 Tbsp oatmeal
3 Tbsp chopped pecans
1tsp grated lemon peel
2 Tbsp butter chilled & cubed

Preheat oven to 375. Mix together flour and sugar. Mix other ingredients to it blending well. Gently fold in blueberries and pour into bottom crust. Use second crust to decorate edge of pie and bake or 20 minutes. While baking pie, prepare lemon crunch topping. Combine 1st 4 ingredients cut in butter. After baking 20 minutes remove pie from oven and sprinkle topping in center of pie . Bake an additional 15 minutes or until filling is firm.

Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Rayanne Schmid

Pie filling
5 c. fresh blueberries
1 Tbsp lemon juice
2 pie crusts (see recipe)
1 c. sugar
½ c. all-purpose flour
1/8 tsp salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbsp butter or margarine
1 large egg lightly beaten
1 tsp sugar

1. Sprinkle berries with lemon juice, set aside
2. Put half rolled pie crust into 9 in pie plate according to pie crust directions.
3. Combine 1 c. sugar and next 3 ingredients; add berries, stirring well.
4. Pour into pie crust and dot with butter.
5. Unfold remaining pastry on lightly floured surface. Use a marzipan shape cutter to cut small hearts from pastry. Use small amount of water on the bottom of each heart and attach them to the edge of the bottom crust.
6. Use large heart-shaped cutter to make hearts that can be arranged on top of pie.
7. Brush top of pastry with beaten egg.
8. Bake @ 400 degrees for 35 minutes or until golden.
9. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent over browning if necessary.

Pastry ingredients
11 ¼ ounces all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp sugar
½ tsp salt
¼ lb cold unsalted butter, cut in ½ in pieces
¼ c. cold vegetable shortening , cut in ½ in pieces
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
3 ounces cold water

1. Preheat oven to 400
2. Put Flour, sugar and salt in a food processor; pulse briefly to combine.
3. Add the butter and shortening; pulse until coarse crumbs form, about 3o seconds.
4. Add lemon juice and water
5. Pulse just until moist crumbs form
6. Turn the dough onto a work surface and gently shape it into to equal disks about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
7. Wrap plastic and refrigerate at least 1 hour or up to 1 day( can freeze)
8. Take one of the two disks and roll it flat.
9. Place into lightly greased pie dish. By carefully rolling the pastry around the rolling pin and then unrolling it into the dish, it’s less likely to break.
10. Beat one egg yolk. With pastry brush, paint the bottom of the pastry crust to keep it from becoming soggy once you put the filling into it
11. Add pie filling
12. Roll out the second disk of dough and cut into shapes as directed in the blueberry recipe
13. Add a Tbsp of water to the last of the egg yolk and gently “paint” the whole top of the pie
14. Place in oven bake for 35 minutes.

Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Amber Smith

2 Tbsp Eagle brand milk
1 c. sugar
3 ½ Tbsp cornstarch
1/8 tsp. salt
6 c. Blueberries
1 ½ Tbsp butter (cut into thin squares)
½ Tbsp vanilla extract
½ Tbsp Lemon extract

Mix Flour, sugar, salt, vanilla, and lemon extract mix well pour over blueberries. Mix well and pour mixture into prepared pie crust. Dot with butter and drizzle with eagle brand milk. Cover with top crust and bake @ 400 for 40 minutes.

Pie crust

1½ c. flour
½ tsp salt
¼c. butter
2-3 cups cold water

Mix together and divide into to discs. Put flour on flat surface and roll out

Blueberry Pecan Pie
Recipe by Madeline Sabo

1 c. dark brown sugar
1 c. dark corn syrup
3 eggs beaten
1/3 c butter melted
1 tsp fresh lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla
½ tsp salt
1 c blueberries
1 ¼ c pecans
9 inch pie crust

Preheat oven to 350.
Combine sugar, syrup, eggs, butter, lemon, vanilla, and salt. Fold in blueberries. Pour mixture into pie crust sprinkle pecans on top bake for 45-55 minutes

Berry Pie
Recipe by Deena Peterson

1 ½ c. sugar
4 Tbsp plus 1 ½ tsp cornstarch
¾ c. cold water
3 Tbsp lemon juice
3 c. fresh blueberries
2 c. fresh blackberries
Pastry for double crust pie (recipe below)

Pastry recipe (need to double)
1 1/3 c. flour
1 stick butter
1 tsp salt
1 Tbsp sugar
¼ c. ice water

Mix pastry dough in food processor.

1. In saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Stir in water and lemon juice until smooth. Add berries stir gently. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat let cool.
2. Line a 9” pie plate with bottom crust. Add filling. Roll out remaining pastry; make a lattice crust or decorate as desired on top. Seal and flute edges. Cover edges loosely with foil. Bake @ 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees. Remove foil bake 40-50 minutes longer or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool completely.

Fresh Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Staci McCarren

Crust:

1 c. flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp sugar
¼ tsp salt
½ c. butter
1/3 c. ice water

Filling:

2 pints fresh blueberries
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 c. sugar
¼ c. flour
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
Pinch ground cloves
2 Tbsp butter
1 egg yolk

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Make the Pie Crust: In large bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Grate the butter into the flour mixture. Using your hands or a pastry blender work butter into the flour mixture until pieces are about the size of peas.

Add the water 1 Tbsp at a time, and blend until soft, moist dough forms. Form the dough into flat round disk. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. When dough is chilled, wash berries and drain well.

To make the Filling: In large bowl put blueberries in and sprinkle them with lemon juice. Combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the berries and mix lightly. Turn the mixture into the pie crust, piling it in the center and dot with butter.

Roll out the remaining pastry into a circle make several slits near the center and lay the pastry on the filling. Fold the edges of the top crust under the bottom crust. Press together the edges and crimp decoratively. Beat the egg yolk and a little water. Then brush it lightly over the top crust. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the juices start to bubble through the steam holes and the crust is golden brown. Allow the pie to cool at least one hour before serving.

Blazin’ Blueberry Pie
Recipe by John Wyatt

Crust:

5 c. flour
2 tsp sugar
2 tsp salt
1 stick butter (chilled and cubed)
1 c. shortening (chilled and cubed)
Ice water

1. Mix flour, sugar, and salt in food processor.
2. Slowly add cubed butter and shortening while pulsing ( You are looking for a “wet sand” consistency)
3. Slowly add ice water until the dough begins to gather on one side
4. Remove from bowl, divide into half and chill in refrigerator until needed

Filling:

5 c. fresh blueberries
Pinch salt
2 Tbsp Flour
¾ Tbsp cornstarch
½ stick butter
1 lemon
1 c. sugar
12-14 oz Blue Blazes

1. Zest and juice lemon
2. Mix all other ingredients in a bowl with the zest and juice

Glaze:

½ c. sugar
½ c. water
Juice of a fresh orange

1. Mix all ingredients in a small saucepan
2. Bring to a boil and reduce

Instructions:

1. Roll out the dough to ½ inch for the top and bottom of the pie
2. Place one sheet of dough in the pie pan
3. Pour filling and cover with remaining dough
4. Cut some slits in the top of the pie for venting
5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425
6. Reduce temperature to 350 for 30 more minutes
7. Pour/brush on glaze and finish in oven for 5 more minutes

Blueberry Crumb Pie
Recipe by Margot Hill

1 unbaked 10 inch pie crust
1 Tbsp Hytop sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp hytop Flour

Sprinkle flour mixed with sugar over unbaked crust.

2 pints Blueberries
3 Tbsp flour

Mix blueberries with flour pour into pie crust

Topping:

1 c. pecans, chopped
1/3 c. brown sugar
1 stick butter softened
½ c. hytop flour
1/3 c. hytop sugar
Pinch of salt

Put topping on blueberries, bake @ 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

Blueberry Crumble Pie
Recipe by Heather Holloway

Crust:

2 c. all-purpose Flour
½ tsp salt
1 c. unsalted butter
¼ c. cold water

Crumble:

1½ c. all-purpose flour
1c. brown sugar
¾ c. unsalted butter

Filling:

3 pints blueberries
1 c. sugar
4 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp lemon zest
Pinch cayenne pepper

Crust: Combine flour, salt, and cold butter mix well add water Refrigerate dough for at least one hour before rolling out.
Crumble: Combine flour and sugar until well combined add butter and refrigerate
Filling: Combine all ingredients in large bowl use the back of the spoon to smash about 20 % of the berries mix well

Bake in a preheated oven @ 350 about 1 hour or until bubbly

Festival Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Marilyn Matlock

Crust:
2 c. graham cracker crumbs
1 stick butter

Mix and press into 9 inch pie crust

Filling:
3 eggs beaten
8 oz cream cheese
1 tsp vanilla
3 Tbsp crushed pineapple
½ c. sugar

Mix all ingredients together in large bowl. Pour into graham cracker crust. Bake @350 for 20 minutes. Cool

Pie topping:
4 c. blueberries
1 c. water
2 Tbsp butter
Dash of salt
1 Tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp pineapple juice
½ c. sugar

Mix in boiler on stovetop and bring to a rolling boil. Turn to low heat when boiling begins. Cook for 10 minutes on low while stirring. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pour pie topping over the crust and filling.

Cookie Decoration using Refrigerated cookie dough: Use a Texas shaped cookie cutter and cut out and bake @ 350 for 12 minutes. Cool and place on top of pie. Place blueberry marking Nacogdoches on the cookie.

Yogurt Blueberry Pie
Recipe by Jessica Lenderman

1 baked pie crust
2 c. blueberries
½ c. butter
1 ½ c. Hytop sugar
3 Tbsp. Hytop self rising flour
3 eggs
1 c. plain yogurt
1 Tbsp vanilla

Pre heat oven @ 350
In large bowl, cream sugar and butter together until light and fluffy. Add in the remaining ingredients. Bake for 40 minutes. Let cool and serve.

Chamber and Community Event News

2010-07-12T09:42:00.001-05:00

Click the link below for good information!

'Chamber and Community Event News'

Chamber Connection July eNews

2010-07-01T09:59:00.000-05:00

Click the link below for Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce news.
Chamber Connection July eNews

Congressman Louie Gohmert's EAST TEXAS JOB FAIR

2010-06-30T09:42:00.002-05:00

'Congressman Louie Gohmert's EAST TEXAS JOB FAIR'

Congressman Louie Gohmert's
EAST TEXAS JOB FAIR

When: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Thursday, July 8, 2010

Where: Stephen F. Austin State University
William R. Johnson Coliseum, 700 E. College Street, Nacogdoches, TX 75962

Admission is FREE for employers and job seekers

If your business would like to participate, please visit www.gohmert.house.gov or call (866) 535-6302.

Job seekers are not required to RSVP.

Chamber events for June 7 - 12

2010-06-07T17:11:00.000-05:00

'Chamber Events'

Grandma's Yellow rose named Texas Superstar

2010-06-01T08:40:00.004-05:00

A hybrid tea rose found by SFA Gardens research associate, Greg Grant, has been named the newest Texas Superstar. The rose, dubbed "Grandma's Yellow" by Texas A&M Extension horticulturists was originally discovered by Grant growing at an abandoned motel in Nacogdoches.

The rose has been called "the yellow rose for Texas" and is still available from some rose nurseries by its original study name of "Nacogdoches."

According to Texas A&M researchers, "This is a rose that does not need constant spraying to survive and produce lovely yellow Valentine-like blooms. It produces successive flushes of blooms (from spring until frost) and is so disease tolerant that fungicide sprays are seldom required. However, in wet, high-pressure disease years, fungicide sprays will be needed to keep black spot in check. It is an outstanding performer even in highly alkaline clay soils."

AgriLife Extension and Texas AgriLife Researchers extensively test and designate plants as Texas Superstars that are not just beautiful but perform well for Texas consumers and growers.

This is Grant's 11th Texas Superstar introduction, including "Texas Maroon" bluebonnet, "Imperial Purple" trailing lantana, Bonita dwarf Mexican petunia, "Laura Bush" petunia, "John Fanick" phox, "Henry Duelberg" salvia, "Blue Princess" verbena, "Gold Star" esperanza, "Marie Daly" rose and "Lecompte" vitex.

Information on these and other Texas Superstar plants can be found at www.texassuperstar.com.

Map and brochure for Texas Blueberry Festival

2010-05-29T15:58:00.005-05:00

The 21st annual Texas Blueberry Festival presented by Brookshire Brothers is 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, June 12 in downtown and Festival Plaza.

Click to view festival map.

Click to view festival brochure.

See you at the world's tastiest festival!

Funeral services for Gary Lee Justice

2010-05-28T17:26:00.009-05:00

Gary Justice pictured above.

Funeral services for Gary Lee Justice, 61, of Lake Cherokee will be 2 PM Tuesday, June 1, 2010 at the First Christian Church with Rev. Mike Maxwell and Rev. David Farmer officiating under direction of Rader Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Rosewood Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon from 4 until 6 PM.

He was born February 4, 1949 in Lubbock and died May 27, 2010 in Rusk County from injuries received from an automobile accident. He was the General Manager of R & K Distributors in Nacogdoches, TX.

He is survived by his wife, Dena Davis Justice; son, Brad Justice; daughter, Lauren Justice; and a brother, James E. Justice.
Click to read The Daily Sentinel article.

Rader Funeral Home Inc
1617 Judson Road
PO Box 609
Longview, TX 75601

www.raderfh.com
Tel. (903) 753-3373
Fax. (903) 757-3708
info@raderfh.com

Pictured above is Gary Justice, left, with the R&K Distributors golf team at a past Blueberry Golf Tournament.

Mayor display complete

2010-05-26T09:30:00.001-05:00

A few months ago the City of Nacogdoches Historic Sites department announced that we were working on a project and were looking for photos of former mayors. We would like to take this time to say our project is complete, and to thank those who have helped.

No one can deny that Nacogdoches is a wonderful city and we pride ourselves on this, but without the hard work of those who served as mayor, our city would not be what it is today.

Throughout the years these men and women have been involved in creating a better Nacogdoches by making the important decisions that keep our city running. They have helped set up our recreational facilities, airport, libraries and historic sites. They have also helped with our fire and police departments.

In attempts to honor these men and women we have put together a photograph display of our former mayors dating back the early 1900s.

These photos can be found on the first floor inside City Hall next to the City Council Chambers.

If you have not stopped by to look at this new display we encourage you take a look and remember our past mayors who have done so much for our city. Better yet, now that you know what these men and women look like, next time you see one of them around town let them know how much you appreciate a job well done!

Young Life "Reverse" Car Wash

2010-05-25T10:56:00.003-05:00

Young Life "Reverse" Car Wash to raise money to send kids to camp- They will come to you to wash your car. Cars will be $10 and Vans and SUV's will be $20. Please contact Brenna Kelly if you would like your cars washed: breny429@yahoo.com or call : 713-628-7904.

Friends,

This coming Saturday some of our Young Life leaders will be getting together with some of their high school and middle school friends who are going to wash cars, this will go a long way in helping our friends raise the money needed to go to summer camp.

This year we are doing the car wash a little differently than we have in the past! We are doing a reverse car wash, which means we come to you. You let us know and we will come by your house and bring all of the cleaning supplies, all you need is a hose!

Cars will be $10

Vans and SUV's will be $20

Of course we will take additional donations, this is for a great cause and it will make it possible for some of our friends to go to Young Life camp this summer. Please contact Brenna Kelly if you would like your cars washed: breny429@yahoo.com or call : 713-628-7904

Thanks,
Rip Gibbs
Young Life Nacogdoches
Lone Star Region
Associate Regional Director
936-615-9671
ripgibbs@nac.younglife.org

SFA area alumni gathering on Tuesday, May 25

2010-05-24T16:33:00.001-05:00

Reminder from David Madrid:

Please help spread the word about the SFA Nac area alumni gathering tomorrow night – 5:30p.m. at Delacroix’s. I am looking forward to seeing everyone there.

Also, information about a lunch gathering in early June will be communicated very soon. Finally, if you have any suggestions for a community project or two for the summer, please let me know.

Axe ‘Em Jacks!
David Madrid ‘02
936-554-2704

"Congratulations to Stephen F. Austin and its administration, coaches and most of all, its student-athletes for a fantastic competitive record in 2009-10," Southland commissioner Tom Burnett said. "It's been over a decade since a Southland school swept the men's, women's and overall all-sports awards, and what the SFA program accomplished is a rare feat across Division I athletics."

Biomass energy plant public information meeting

2010-05-20T10:27:00.001-05:00

Representatives from Southern Power (owners of the biomass plant in Sacul) and Fagen, Inc. (construction managers for the plant) will hold a public information meeting this coming Monday, May 24, at 9am at the Nacogdoches County Courthouse Annex near the intersection of W. Main St. and North St. The meeting will last approximately an hour-and-a-half.

Ron Ray of Southern Power (Plant Manager for the biomass plant once it is up and operating) and Steve Maus of Fagen (construction project manager) will be there to explain how the bidding process will work for prospective subcontractors and vendors, as well as to provide a general timeline on how the construction phase will unfold over the next two years. Ron and Steve will also answer questions from local vendors and businesses.

Businesses and vendors interested in bidding on contracts during the construction phase, as well as once the plant is up and operating, should attend this important meeting, which is open to the public.

Evening with Brad Maule

2010-05-18T11:49:00.005-05:00

Krista Figgins bid and won a date with Brad Maule in the Chamber's fall online auction. Pictured above are Maule and Figgins enjoying their dinner at Auntie Pasta's restaurant.

The full package Figgins won included:

Dinner for two at either Clear Springs or Auntie Pasta's
Autographed picture of Brad
Silver-plated photo frame from Kennedy's Jewelers for 5" x 7" photo - (to display a photo of you and Brad if you like - bring your camera!!!)
Facial by Caroline Hurst at Aesthetic Concepts
$50 Gift Certificate from Nacogdoches Floral Company

Thanks to all these businesses for donating to the Chamber's fall online auction.

--------------------------------

Although Brad Maule is a bonafide celebrity, he's become just another Nacogdoches good old boy.

Well, that's not exactly true. Anyone who played 20-some years on General Hospital as Dr. Tony Jones is going to retain a certain hearthrob status. Brad's making a name in country music, hosting the Texas County Line series. Brad was also featured on 7th Heaven and The Young and the Restless.

Pictured left is Maule on the General Hospital set.

P3 Professional Sound and Lighting Ribbon Cutting

2010-05-18T09:27:00.003-05:00

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for P3 Professional Sound and Lighting on May 13, 2010. They are located at 114 Odom St.Palestine, TX 75803.Their office phone number is (903) 724-1108.

Owner, Justin Florence welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

Click to view more photos.

Crossover Counseling Ribbon Cutting

2010-05-18T08:47:00.003-05:00

A Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for Crossover Counseling held on May 11, 2010. Their new office location is 2214 N. Pecan St.and their office phone number is 560-6855. Owner and new Chamber member, Laura Smith welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

Click to view more photos.

Chamber Past Chairs and Presidents Breakfast at Cotton Patch Cafe

2010-05-17T16:32:00.010-05:00

Photo: Front: Paul Smith III (2009), Kim Luna Snyder (2007), Joyce Swearingen (1977), Doug Swearingen (1961), Betty Shinn (1989), Donna Finley (2008), Roy Blake Jr. (1998)

Back: Billy Earley (1976), Charles Haas (1972), Ken Wood (1983), I.K. Frazer (1988), Leon Hallman (1985), A.L. Mangham (1970), G.W. Neal (2002), Roby Somerford (1996), Gary Lee Ashcraft (2001)

Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce Chair Paul Smith III invited the Chamber’s past chairs and presidents to a breakfast reception at Cotton Patch Café on May 11. A cross-section of the ‘top volunteers’ from the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s was represented. Chamber President/CEO Bruce R. Partain gave a brief report on current activities.

Chamber vice chairs Scarlett Sloane, Michael Martin and Bill Teague, as well as chair-elect Francis Spruiell were in attendance.

Cotton Patch manager Karen Klein, who sponsored the meal, greeted guests and gave an overview of her company’s support of the community and SFA students in particular.
Pictured right are Smith, Klein and Lester the Rooster.

Photos by Bruce R. Partain.

Blue Washer Board Tournament at Texas Blueberry Festival

2010-05-15T11:37:00.001-05:00

Click here for the Blue Washer Board Tournament registration form.

BB Washer Board 2010 Event Flier

P3 Professional Sound and Lighting Ribbon Cutting

2010-05-13T12:49:00.003-05:00

Owner, Justin Florence welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests to attend the ribbon cutting of P3 Professional Sound and Lighting on Thursday, May 13. Even though he is located in Palestine (114 Odom St.), Justin serves the Nacogdoches and Lufkin area. To learn more visit his website at www.p3prosound.com or call (903) 724-1108.

Blueberry celebration set for June 12

2010-05-13T09:49:00.005-05:00

Photo: With help from uncle Joe Knobloch, Ben Bedwell goes straight for the blueberries in his blueberry pancakes at last year’s festival. The Blueberry Pancake Breakfast begins at 8 a.m. on June 12, and tons of fun will continue until 4 p.m. at the 21st annual Texas Blueberry Festival in downtown Nacogdoches.
Photo by Bruce R. Partain)

The Texas Blueberry Festival, presented by Brookshire Brothers, offers a day-long celebration of the annual blueberry harvest, featuring live music, farm tours, delicious blueberry fare and children’s activities.

“The 21st annual Texas Blueberry Festival will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 12, in historic downtown Nacogdoches, the First Town in Texas,” said Festival Chair Michelle Smith. “Admission and parking are free, and thanks to Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful, it’s a litter free event.”

According to Smith, Cowboy Max will not only be back, but he will meet up with Jack Dagger for a battle of the bullwhips and blades.

“Cowboy Max will give his daring exhibition of trick roping and bullwhip stunts in his wooly chaps,” said Smith. “And Jack Dagger is a knife-throwing dare devil. Look for two performances during the morning hours on the Festival Plaza stage.”

Festival attendees will want to start the day off with a delicious stack of pancakes made with fresh-picked local blueberries. Hayter’s Mill Creek Farm will also be selling fresh blueberries, and free shuttles rides will provide transportation from the festival to a nearby farm where guests can pick their own blueberries right off the bush.

Live musical entertainment, including folk, country, blues and soft rock performances, may be enjoyed all day on three stages. Children’s activities will include the Blueberry Bounce Park, the Too Blue Petting Zoo and the Big Blue Mural. More than 100 arts, crafts and food vendors will also be on site.

Other attractions include a state and nationally-sanctioned 42 tournament, pie-eating contest, pet parade, horse shoes and washers tournament, classic car show, costume contest and ice cream and cobbler competitions. Visit the Cool Zone locations that will allow festival attendees to relax and take a break from the summer heat.

Prime growing conditions make Nacogdoches County the number one blueberry producer in the state, and the annual harvest peaks in early summer. Proceeds from the Texas Blueberry Festival benefit the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce’s various community and business development programs.

Nacogdoches is located in the piney woods of Texas approximately 150 miles north of Houston on U.S. Hwy. 59.

For more information about the Texas Blueberry Festival, call the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce at 936-560-5533 or the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-888-OLDEST TOWN. Find a link to the Texas Blueberry Festival schedule of events and other details at www.nacogdoches.org.

Congratulations to Suzanne Ratcliff, Junior League of Lufkin April volunteer of the month

2010-05-12T10:01:00.000-05:00

Junior League of Lufkin April Volunteer of the Month – Suzanne Ratcliff

Suzanne Ratcliff works hard at her day job, often going above and beyond for her students, works hard at her second job, volunteering at her church (taking on new responsibilities at a pivotal time her in her life and the life of her Parish)…and still has time for her third job within league. Her league position requires structure, organization, and a keen eye, and only she truly knows the sacrifices she has to make to get each issue of Our View Magazine out on time.

She is passionate about her faith, her family and teaching. She is highly organized and able to handle many responsibilities at once. She takes pride in any task you put in front of her – to taking care of her family, to the hours she spends preparing for the classroom, to the time she spends with the League. Her three daughters are a testament to type of woman she is. This volunteer has to juggle between her roles of being a mom, a teacher, a youth leader, a friend and all the others too long to list, but her daughters are always the top priority.

Her husband says the dedication she gives to her 4th graders and to all her volunteer activities is an inspiration to those who know her. He is amazed at how she finds the time and the energy to get so much accomplished each and every day. Most importantly, he is amazed at her total devotion to their family and the Lord…and for that, he is truly grateful.

Blueberry Golf Bash winning teams

2010-05-12T08:15:00.003-05:00

The 13th Annual Blueberry Golf Bash produced by the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce gave golfers a day of fun, food and plenty of friendly competition.

The winning teams are: first place, Wells Fargo - Wendy Buchanan; second place, University Rental; third place, NIBCO, Inc.; and fourth place, Nacogdoches Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

“Congratulations to this year’s golf bash winners, and the committee sends thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers that made the event successful,” event chairwoman Fern Simmons said.

Blueberry Golf Bash sponsors include meal sponsors Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers and LugNutz Sports Bar & Grill; Beverage sponsors R & K Distributors, Stevenson Beer Distributing Co., Giglio Distributing Company, Inc. and Nacogdoches Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

“No one made the Hole in One and walked away with the $25,000, but I’ve heard from sponsor Curtis & Clark Energy Services that the big cash prize may be up for grabs next year,” Simmons said.

Twenty-eight teams played in the tournament held May 7 at Piney Woods Country Club.

Click to view more event photos.

First place team is Wells Fargo - Wendy Buchanan. Players are from left, Ricky Socia, Mike Buchanan, Dennis Ebby and Mike Johnson.

Second place team is University Rental. Players are from left, Taylor Mathews, Clayton Woods, Jordan Elder and Clint Poole.

Third place team is NIBCO, Inc. Players are from left, Dale Layton, Preston Nichols, Jesse Richardson and Tom Spain.

Fourth place team is Nacogdoches Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Players are from left, Drew Hufty, Mike Andress, Mark Jenkins and Greg Luman.

Texas Forest Trail announces 2010 partners

2010-05-11T15:30:00.000-05:00

The Texas Forest Trail is pleased to announce that 23 organizations from across the region have joined the Partnership Program for 2010.

The partner organizations include individual attractions, visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce, and organizations dedicated to increasing tourism in the Forest Trail Region.

“We are delighted to have wide-spread support from such a diverse group of partners,” said Brian Bray, President of the Texas Forest Trail Board of Directors and City of Nacogdoches Historic Sites Manager. He added, “By becoming a member of the Texas Forest Trail Partner Program, organizations receive specific benefits while paying only a fraction of the costs for numerous marketing opportunities, hospitality training, and networking and educational opportunities.”

The following organizations are recognized as 2010 Partner Members: Atlanta City Development Corporation; Ben J. Rogers Regional Visitors Center; Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau; Big Thicket National Preserve; City of Conroe Convention & Visitors Bureau; City of Henderson Tourism; City of Huntsville Convention & Visitors Bureau; City of Jasper; City of Mount Vernon; City of Nacogdoches; City of New Boston Parks & Tourism; City of Shenandoah Convention & Visitors Bureau; Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce; The History Center at Diboll; Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce; Kilgore Chamber of Commerce; Mt. Pleasant-Titus County Chamber of Commerce; Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau; Port Arthur Convention & Visitors Bureau; Sabine County Chamber of Commerce; San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce; Texas Parks and Wildlife Region 8 State Parks; and Texas State Railroad.

Additional information can also be found at www.texasforesttrail.com.

SFA Summer Art Academy registration open

2010-05-11T09:27:00.002-05:00

Registration open for SFA Summer Art Academy

May 5, 2010 - Sylvia Bierschenk- Click for story

A participant in the 2009 Summer Art Academy shows off her work-in-progress. The School of Art will once again offer its half-day, two-week program for students in kindergarten through sixth grade June 7 through 18 in the Art Building on the SFA campus.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Registrations are now being accepted for the Summer Art Academy offered by the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Art. The two-week camp will meet Monday through Friday, June 7 through 18. Students in kindergarten sixth grade may enroll in the classes that include drawing, painting, photography and sculpture.

"The academy offers an exciting introduction to the visual arts and an immersion into specific media," said Gary Parker, SFA art instructor and director of the academy.

Classes are arranged by approximate age and meet from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Art Building on Wilson Drive. The students' work will be exhibited at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 18, in the Art Building. Afterwards, students may take their work home.

The $150 registration fee, which includes all art supplies, refreshments and exhibition expenses, is due by Friday, May 14. Children of SFA faculty and staff may register for $140. Late registration is $160.

"Parents will want to register early since we limit the enrollment to ensure personal attention and instruction," Parker said.

Registration forms are available at www.art.sfasu.edu/ or by calling the School of Art at (936) 468-4804.

Open house at The Helping House

2010-05-10T09:11:00.004-05:00

We are pleased to invite you to attend our
Second Annual Open House

Monday, May 17th, 5 to 8pm
The Helping House
919 Jack Lock in Nacogdoches

Come enjoy complimentary refreshments as you tour our facility and hear more about the exciting things that we are doing at
The Helping House.

Additional information:
Please call 936/371-1536
or email ajohnson@the-helping-house.org for more information.

First Friday Nights

2010-05-06T11:41:00.003-05:00

Hotel Fredonia invites you to join them in historic downtown Nacogdoches, and shop late till eight! Participating downtown merchants will stay late.

**For more information call (936) 559- 2573

The Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, 200 E. Main St., will be open late with a list of participating merchants as well.

Friday Night Cruise Night

2010-05-06T11:16:00.003-05:00

Hotel Fredonia presents Friday Night Cruise Night May 7th! Come out and join them from 5pm-9pm directly across from the Hotel Fredonia for an evening of the finest in American muscle cars as well as classic cars that have survived the decades of time. Swing by 9 Flags Bar and Patio after the tour of cars for Jazz On The Patio and enjoy one of our micro brews, glass of wine, or an orange mojito. With dinner being served till 11pm, Hotel Fredonia offers a wide variety of menu options, including our newest addition of Certified Angus filets, ribeyes, and burgers.

Car enthusiasts are invited to cruise into downtown between 5 and 9 p.m. Car clubs, antique cars, boats, and motorcycles welcome. Enthusiasts are asked to contact Doug James at (936) 615-2742 with questions.

Established as a community hotel in 1955, Hotel Fredonia offers 112 guest rooms and suites in the heart of historic, downtown Nacogdoches. The hotel offers reception, meeting and convention spaces accommodating up to 1,500 people, on-site catering, a full service restaurant, a sports bar, coffee and wine bar, and salt-water pool. Discover a Nacogdoches landmark, Hotel Fredonia, where it is our pleasure to serve you in the oldest town in Texas.
200 North Fredonia, Nacogdoches, Texas 75965Phone: 936-564-1234 Fax: 936-564-0231 Reservations: 800-594-5323

Pick Nacogdoches - local growers guide

2010-05-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

For reasons that range from "it's healthy" to "it just tastes good," you should eat produce grown locally. Find out more in the Pick Nacogdoches, a guide to local growers.

Remember that The Nacogdoches Farmers’ Market, located at the “hitch lot” at the corner of West Main and Pearl Streets, is open from 8 a.m. until noon or later every Saturday - and begins opening on Wednesday mornings May 12.

Fourth Friday Luncheon- Adam Peck

2010-05-05T10:56:00.004-05:00

On April 23, 2010 Adam Peck presented "Harnessing the Power to Create: Lessons from Improvisational Comedy" at the Hotel Fredonia in the Banita Ballroom at the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce Fourth Friday Luncheon.

Click here to view more photos!

Texas Back to Work program

2010-05-05T10:40:00.000-05:00

Texas Back to Work Fact Sheet

Make Texas Friendly the Official Language of Your Business

2010-05-04T13:18:00.002-05:00

Make Texas Friendly the Official Language of Your Business…
Participants will learn about the basics of customer service, opportunities for tourism development, and ways to make Nacogdoches County a tourist-friendly place. All participants will be “Texas Friendly” certified at the conclusion of the session.

This workshop will help your front-line employees:
- Develop positive customer service skills and practices
- Understand the role of excellent customer service
- Learn how to acquire and distribute key information for customers
- Practice skills to improve customer retention and community pride

**Class size is limited. Advance registration required.
Conducted by Mary Turner, Texas Forest Trail Region Executive Director

National Travel and Tourism Week

2010-05-04T13:08:00.006-05:00

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– On May 12, the Texas Forest Trail Region, in partnership with the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, will celebrate Texas Tourism Week by offering Texas Friendly Hospitality Training workshops for local businesses. The workshops will be held at 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the City Commission Chambers on the Downtown Square, 202 E. Pilar Street in Nacogdoches. Texas Forest Trail Region Executive Director Mary Turner, a certified hospitality trainer, will teach participants about the fundamentals of customer service, opportunities for tourism development, and ways to make Nacogdoches a tourist-friendly place. All participants will be “Texas Friendly” certified at the conclusion of the session.

The workshop is free to all attendees, and participants will receive all workshop materials and refreshments. Participants may register in person at the Nacogdoches Visitor Center, 200 E. Main, through May 11. On-site registration will be offered on a space-available basis.

The Texas Forest Trail Region is a regional tourism initiative developed by the Texas Historical Commission that fosters regional economic development by promoting heritage tourism through the preservation of cultural and historic resources and regional partnerships. The Texas Forest Trail Region encompasses 35 counties in East Texas including Anderson, Angelina, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Franklin, Gregg, Hardin, Harrison, Henderson, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Marion, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Polk, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Walker and Wood.

For more information about scheduling a Texas Friendly Hospitality Training session for your community or organization or to receive information about the May 12 workshop by mail or email, contact Regional Coordinator Mary Turner at 936/560-3699 or info@texasforesttrail.com or visit http://www.texasforesttrail.com/

Mothers Day Brunch at The Hotel Fredonia

2010-05-04T12:55:00.003-05:00

Mothers Day Brunch

Come out and help celebrate Mothers Day, Sunday May 9th, 2010 at The Hotel Fredonia. Reservation times are 11 am, 12 pm and 1pm, for reservations call (936) 564-1234. Adults are $45 and children are $22.50

Entrees

· Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin
topped with Apple Creole Mustard Sauce

· Grilled Chicken Breast
stuffed with Spinach-Mustard Cheese
topped with Artichoke and Basil Alfredo Sauce

· Pecan-Crusted Tilapia with Pecan Cream Sauce

· The Perfect Stuffed Flank Steak, Red Wine Demi-Glace, stuffed with Feta Cheese, Roasted Red Peppers, Spinach, and Mushrooms

*Grilled Parmesan Vegetables Stack
*Eggs Benedict
*Country Green Beans
*Rosemary Roasted New Potatoes

Carving Stations
*Prime Rib
*Roasted Pork Butt
*Oven Roasted Leg of Lamb

Omelet Station
*Omelets made to order with
an Assortment of Cheeses and Toppings
*Hash Browns

Sushi
*Ahi Tuna, Salmon, Scallops, Shrimp, Vegetables

Salad and Seafood
*Peal and Eat Shrimp
*Shrimp Tex-Mex Cocktail
*Caesar Salad
*Fresh Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Red Onions
*Waldorf Salad
*Stuffed Roma Tomatoes- with Tuna Salad
*Smoked Salmon
*Fresh Tossed Green Salad with an Assortment of Dressings
*Fresh Fruit
*Domestic and Imported Cheese
*Stuffed Deviled Eggs

Child Menu
*Mac N' Cheese
*Butterfly Fried Shrimp
*Fried Chicken Strips

Dessert
*Fredonia Bread Pudding
*Texas Pecan Pie
*Strawberry Cheese Cake
*Assortment of Fruit Cobblers
*Assortment of Fresh Baked Cakes, Pies, and Cookies

Established as a community hotel in 1955, Hotel Fredonia offers 112 guest rooms and suites in the heart of historic, downtown Nacogdoches. The hotel offers reception, meeting and convention spaces accommodating up to 1,500 people, on-site catering, a full service restaurant, a sports bar, coffee and wine bar, and salt-water pool. Discover a Nacogdoches landmark, Hotel Fredonia, where it is our pleasure to serve you in the oldest town in Texas.

200 North Fredonia, Nacogdoches, Texas 75965
Phone: 936-564-1234 Fax: 936-564-0231
Reservations: 800-594-5323

www.HotelFredonia.com

Chamber Connection eNewsletter for May 2010

2010-05-04T09:56:00.003-05:00

Read the latest news from the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce.

Click here for the May 2010 Chamber Connection.

Historic walking tours set for May

2010-05-03T08:25:00.002-05:00

Downtown walking tours are back for the spring and will be offered at 10:30 a.m. each Saturday in May at the Visitor Center, located at 200 E. Main St. Tickets are $2 and can be purchased beginning at 10 a.m. the day of the tour. Children 12 and under are free. The walking tours are also one way Nacogdoches recognizes Historic Preservation Month.
"The walking tours are a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors to learn more about the city of Nacogdoches and the history that makes it unique," said Sherri Skeeters, assistant director of the Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Our volunteer guides are very knowledgeable about local history and help make the tours entertaining, as well as informative. We are so excited to add the Demonstration Garden to our list of sites this year.”
Historic sites on the tour include the Caddo Indian burial mound, Oak Grove Cemetery, the Old University Building, the Demonstration Garden, Zion Hill Baptist Church, the Adolphus Sterne House, Durst Taylor House and Gardens, and much more. The walking tours take about two hours to complete.
For more information, contact the Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau at 888-OLDEST-TOWN or www.visitnacogdoches.org.

Advertise Your Business package on online auction

2010-04-30T08:54:00.003-05:00

View Actual Size

Online Close: May 14, 2010 7:00 PM

Item Information

Estimated Value: $1,510.00

Item Number: 219

Item Description:

This package is suitable for anyone wanting to promote their business and includes:

* 1/8 page ad in County Line Magazine - $210 value - expires 11/10/10.
* Advertising with GAP Broadcasting - $500 value - may not be used toward political advertising or any open invoice. Not redeemable for cash. Expires 9/30/10.
*1/6 page ad from The Journey Magazine - $375 value - expires 12/31/10. Not redeemable for cash.
*1/4 page ad from East Magazine - $425 value - expires 12/31/10. Not redeemable for cash.

Special Notes:

County Line Magazine
P.O. Box 608
Ben Wheeler, TX 75754
(903) 833-2084
www.countylinemagazine.com

GAP Broadcasting
1216 S. First St.
Lufkin, TX 75901
(936) 564-9411
www.gapbroadcasting.com

The Journey Magazine
P.O. Box 150537
Lufkin, TX 75915
www.tjmag.com

East Magazine
P.O. Box 150537
Lufkin, TX 75915
http://www.tjmag.com/

Donated By:

GAP Broadcasting

Mark May Band Live In Nacogdoches

2010-04-28T08:29:00.002-05:00

MARK MAY BAND LIVE IN NACOGDOCHES

NACOGDOCHES—The Mark May Band, who has officially released its 4th CD,"In Texas Live" (Flyindog Records, 2009), will be headlining a two band live rock and blues show Friday, April 30 beginning at 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. at Harlon’s Barbeque, 603 Old Tyler Road.

The new Mark May CD is the band's first live album and presents a compilation of live songs recorded during 2002-2009. The CD features Mark's smooth vocals along with the dynamic twin leads and dual electric harmony guitar work for which the band is known. The Texas-based blues/rock band's new CD includes Mark's original songs, classic blues, and even steps into the jam band territory on this outing with their versions of "Ohio" and "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed".

The CD spotlights the current band members, Dan Cooper (bass), Paul Ramirez (guitar) and Clyde Dempsey (drums), in addition to former guitarists, including Kirk McKim (Pat Travers Band), Kenny Cordray, and Matt Johnson. Mark May was guitarist, vocalist, and member of Dickey Betts and Great Southern from 2000-2001 and recorded Collectors II/Let's Get Together with Dickey Betts (formerly with the Allman Brothers and now with Great Southern), which features 2 songs written by Mark May. Mark has been featured in magazines such as Guitar Player, Guitar World, Blues Revue Magazine, Vintage Guitar and won musician of the year in Houston in 1998. The band is currently getting heavy rotation on Sirius/XM Radio BB King's Bluesville.

Tony Jamal of Houston will be opening the show with his hot vocals in R&B, Blues and his guitar-slinging style. Tickets are $15.00 at the door the night of the event. Pre-sale tickets are available for $12.00 at Harlon’s Barbeque starting Friday, April 23. Free parking will be available as well as parking lot security. For more information on tickets, please call (832) 330-4849. For more information on the Mark May Band, please visit www.markmay.com.

Prom night primping specials!

2010-04-26T17:07:00.000-05:00

PromSpecialsatNirvaanaMedispa

Downtown merchants window decorating contest for Texas Blueberry Festival

2010-04-26T15:05:00.000-05:00

Letter from Sarah O'Brien, Main Street Manager:

Dear Downtown Business Owner,

We are currently gearing up for this 21st Annual Texas Blueberry Festival. Nacogdoches Main Street will be hosting a window decorating contest. This is a great way to bring visitors into your store. Winners will be announced for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, and bragging rights for the year will be yours!

The rules:

1. The theme of your storefront decorating has to have a “blueberry” theme.

2. Your decorations must be visible from the street. This can include painted windows, or window merchandising.

3. Your storefront needs to be complete by Monday, June 7th, in time for the Texas Blueberry Festival, on Saturday, June 12th.

4. Judging will take place the week of June 7h through June 12th.

5. Winners will be announced during the Texas Blueberry Festival.

This is a great way to win some bragging rights and attract visitors into your store. The cost is free, but we will need a commitment from you. Please click here to download the form, complete and return to me if you would like to participate. Please return it to the Main Street Office no later than June 1, 2010. Please call me at 559-2573 if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Sarah E. O’Brien

Main Street Manager

Poster and shirt designs for the 21st annual Texas Blueberry Festival

2010-04-26T14:03:00.004-05:00

The 21st annual Texas Blueberry Festival, presented by Brookshire Brothers, is set for June 12, 2010 from 8 am- 4 pm. So don't forget to mark your calendars for a fun-filled day.

Posters and shirts will be available soon at the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, 2516 North Street, and the Convention and Visitors Bureau, 200 E. Main St.

Poster design for 2010 event:

T-shirt design for 2010 event:

For more information about the Texas Blueberry festival click here.

Five reasons to talk about the Texas Blueberry Festival in April

2010-04-26T13:58:00.003-05:00

The Texas Blueberry Festival is presented by Brookshire Brothers.

1. It's never too early to have the Texas Blueberry Festival on your calendar. The tastiest festival in the world is always held on the second Saturday in June. It will be in downtown Nacogdoches, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturday, June 12, 2010.

2. Now is the time to test your best recipes for the Brookshire Brothers Blueberry Pie Contest - and the CBTx Blueberry Ice Cream & Cobbler Contests. Details for all contests may be found at www.nacogdoches.org or call the Chamber at 560-5533.

3. Design your pets' costumes for the True Blue Pet Parade.

4. Design your children's costumes for the Blue Threads Costume Contest.

5. Complete and return your Vendor Application now! With limited vendor spaces available, waiting until the last minute may be too late.

Get your blueberry plants at the Farmer’s Market this weekend!

2010-04-26T08:33:00.001-05:00

Join us Saturday at the Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market to stock up on a variety of handcrafted, locally grown items. The Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market is currently open on Saturday mornings and offers fresh produce, unique gifts, and a variety of other delicious items.
This Saturday, April 24, singer/songwriter Paul Martinez (aka The Texas Rambler) will play at the market. Paul is an inductee of the American Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame and currently lives on his East Texas ranch with his family.

Merci's Worldly Cuisine will be at the Market this Saturday featuring:
Breakfast Tortas, Mexican Pastries, Plantains and Black Beans, Tacos, Lunch Plates, Chicken Mole, Tacos el pastor (pork from the spinner) or desebrada (shredded beef) Plates will be served with Rice, Beans, Chips and Salsa and tres leches cake for desert!

Things to look for this Saturday: baked goods (breads, cookies & pies), artisan Texas cheeses, Texas citrus, free-range eggs, tilapia fish, flowers, herbs (mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme), honey, jewelry, perfumes, lotions, plants, starter plants, pottery, preserves and local produce: asparagus, potatoes, butternut squash & sweet potatoes, greens (collard, kale, mustard, Swiss chard & turnip), lettuce (butter crunch, red & romaine), green onions, strawberries & sugar snap peas.

If you would like to sign up for the weekly Farmers’ Market email update, please send an email to obriens@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us. You are also more than welcome to visit www.farmermktnac.blogspot.com for the weekly update. Also be our fan on facebook@NacogdochesFarmersMarket.

The Nacogdoches Farmers’ Market, located at the “hitch lot” at the corner of West Main and Pearl Streets, is open from 8 a.m. until noon or later every Saturday morning. If the market parking lot is full, additional parking is available in the Nacogdoches County Courthouse Annex parking lot.

SFA to present 5-day playreading festival

2010-04-26T08:08:00.003-05:00

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS Ð East Texans have the rare opportunity to get a preview of three playwrights newest works during Stephen F. Austin State University's Festival of New American Plays Tuesday, April 27, through Saturday, May 1, in the Downstage Theatre of the Griffith Fine Arts Building.

The festival's purpose is to give the three participating playwrights an opportunity to see and hear their works-in-progress presented by live actors in front of a live audience, explained Jack Heifner, SFA's playwright-in-residence and festival director.

During the five-day festival, each of the three plays will be presented as rehearsed or staged readings two different times for the audience and its playwright. The focus will be on the scripts rather than on the production elements, so minimal sets, costumes and lights will be used.
Heifner's Jump for Joy will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 27, and Friday, April 30. Heifner describes his newest play as a whacky comedy about the bad advice given by self-help gurus.

The Adventures of Homer McGundy, Revised by Barbara Lebow will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 28, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 1.

Lebow uses her story about the exploitation of a Wild West outlaw's death and contrived legend to explore our culture's preoccupation with celebrities and our fascination with them even after their deaths, said Scott Shattuck, director of the SFA School of Theatre and the play's director.
Seduction by James McLure will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29, and Saturday, May 1. Heifner, who is directing the play, said preparing the comedy about college students putting on a production of Hamlet set in the 1950s has been a lot of fun for the cast since they themselves are a group of college students putting on a play.

The festival is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and School of Theatre and is sponsored in part by Tipton Ford-Lincoln-Mercury. Each of the plays is recommended for mature audiences.

Tickets for each performance are $12 for adults and $6 for seniors and students. For tickets or more information, please visit http://www.finearts.sfasu.edu/ or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

Pinto Pony Cookie Factory ribbon cutting

2010-04-23T16:20:00.008-05:00

Pinto Pony Cookie Factory had a delicious ribbon cutting ceremony at the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, April 21, 2010.

Click to view more photos.

Owner Samye Johnson brought samples of her crunchy, yummy cookies and explained how she ships her goodies everywhere - with custom packaging and personalized messages that make for a super special gift. It's sure to make a great impression! The next time your business needs to send appreciation gifts or thank you gifts in a truly unique way - call Pinto Pony Cookie Factory, (936) 288-0202, or go to www.pintopony.com.

Ribbon Cutting- Pizza Hut of Nacogdoches 4-20-10

2010-04-21T11:43:00.004-05:00

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting celebrated the 40 year anniversary and remodeling of Pizza Hut, located at 2619 North St., (936) 569-7257.

Owners Paula and Larry Marshall, General Manager Priscilla Ward, and Director of Operations Aaron Richard welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

Click here to view more photos!!

SFA Ad Team Performs Presentation for Local Community

2010-04-21T08:42:00.001-05:00

To show how their hard work this semester has paid off

NACOGDOCHES. TX., April 25 – SFA’s Advertising Team took first runner-up at the American Advertising Federation 10th District Competition, competing against 17 universities from a five-state area. That is the highest SFA has ever placed in the regional competition.

“The team is thrilled with the outcome,” said Dr. Linda Bond. “We want to give the community a chance to see all the hard work these students have put into this project and competition.”

There will be a reception Thursday, May 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the SFA Cole Art Center in downtown Nacogdoches. Nineteen students on the SFA Ad Team will present the advertising project for State Farm that won over the judges in Amarillo. Also attending will be collaborating faculty members from the School of Art, Division of Communication & Contemporary Culture and the Department of Management, Marketing and International Business.

Friends, relatives, professors and community members are all invited to attend and enjoy food, fellowship, and a great presentation from the SFA Ad Team.

For more information please contact Dr. Linda Bond at lbond@sfasu.edu or
936-468-1265.

DETCOC - Deep East Texas Contracting Opportunities Conference

2010-04-20T16:00:00.003-05:00

The government spends billions of dollars on service and supply contracts every year. Learn how to get your share!

DETCOC is organized by the Procurement & Property Services, Stephen F. Austin State University (SFASU) and the Angelina College Procurement Assistance Center (ACPAC) with the goal to assist the businesses of the Texas Forest Country to understand, compete, and win government contracts.

DETCOC May 2010 Event Flier

Cajun Beans & Rice Dinner

2010-04-20T10:13:00.001-05:00

Cajun Beans & Rice Dinner

Cushing #368 Order of the Eastern Star is having it's annual Cajun Beans & Rice Fundraiser May 15th from 4-6 pm at the Masonic Lodge Hall in Cushing. Adults $6.00, under 10 eats free. Includes sausage, cole slaw, garlic bread, tea and cookies.
Start Date: May 15, 2010
End Date: May 15, 2010
Time: 4-6 pm

Appleby Fire Dept. ribbon cutting

2010-04-19T13:36:00.009-05:00

Chief Tim Hooper and Assistant Chief Dave Crawford welcomed guests to the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Appleby Fire Department new facility located at 14760 U.S. Hwy. 59 N., (936) 559-5166, www.applebyfire.com.

Click to view more photos.

The annual barbecue fundraiser followed the event. Delicious!

Live United With the Jacks!

2010-04-19T10:37:00.003-05:00

United Way Community Pinic on April 24, from noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Baseball Complex, 3800 W. Stallings Drive; United Way and SFA Lumberjack baseball team host a community event in conjunction with the Lumberjacks vs. Mcnesse State game at 2 p.m. on SFA Jaycees Field.

Game tickets are $3 for students, $5 adults, $8 reserved, 8 and under free.

Free events at the complex will include SFA Steel Drum Band performance, noon until 1:30 p.m. Recognition of United Way supporters, free hotdogs sponsored by NIBCO, soft drinks and water provided by Coke, and games provided by United Way agencies. A dozen baseballs siged by the SFA Lumberjacks will be given away.

For more information, call (936) 564- 5869

Link to online auction

2010-04-17T09:30:00.001-05:00

CLICK HERE to bid in the East Texas Spring Online Auction.

Auction will close at 7 p.m. on May 14. New items will be added, so check back often!

Last day - send it back today

2010-04-16T10:28:00.002-05:00

ONE DAY LEFT AMERICA! FRIDAY, April 16
This is it!
Fill out and mail back your census form TODAY!
If you have questions and would like to speak with a Census representative, call the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, 936-560-5533, 9a.m.-noon, or the library, 559-2970, 1-4p.m.

If you do not mail back your census form, a census taker will visit your home in person to ensure that we accurately count each person in the country. Census takers are your neighbors - people from your community, hired by the Census Bureau, to go door-to-door and collect census information from residents that have not sent back their 2010 Census forms.

Please cooperate with the census takers to ensure an accurate count of your community.

A census taker will visit your home up to six times, each time leaving a door hanger. The door hanger has a phone number on it that you can call to schedule a visit and be counted.

Events - see you there!

2010-04-16T10:20:00.001-05:00

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Events!

Ribbon Cutting

Appleby Fire Department
DATE:Saturday, April 17
TIME:10 a.m.
LOCATION:14760 U.S. Hwy. 59 N.
Chief Tim Hooper, Assistant Chief Dave Crawford, (936) 559-5166

Celebrate the completion of new facility!

Stay for the barbecue dinner beginning at 11 am.
$9/plate. Eat in or take out.

More:

Ribbon Cutting - Pizza Hut of Nacogdoches

Tuesday, 20th April 2010 - 4:45 pm

Join Pizza Hut of Nacogdoches owners, Paula and Larry Marshall and General Manager Priscilla Ward and Director of Operations Aaron Richard for the 40th anniversary and restaurant remodel. Located at 2619 North St. There will be a Hot Food Bar open from 5-6 pm and refreshing beverages will be served.

Ribbon Cutting - Pinto Pony Cookie Factory

Wednesday, 21st April 2010 - 1:20 pm

Come join us in the ribbon cutting for Pinto Pony Cookie Factory. The ribbon cutting will be held at the Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce lobby at 1:20 pm. Join owner, Samye Johnson for a crisp, crunchy and delicious celebration!

East Texas Online Auction - Click to bid!

Running now through May 14. Items and travel packages from Nacogdoches businesses and others across the state!

Click to Join Our Mailing List!

Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce

2516 North St.

Nacogdoches, Texas 75965
936-560-5533

Forward email

This email was sent to business@nactx.com by business@nactx.com.

Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy.

Email Marketing by

Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce | 2516 North St. | Nacogdoches | TX | 75965

There’s still time…so fill out and mail back your census form TODAY!

2010-04-15T09:57:00.003-05:00

After the 2000 Census, the Census Bureau was able to return $305 million in savings to the federal treasury because mail rates exceeded expectations — a move the Census Bureau would like to repeat in 2010.

* Mail back your 2010 Census form and help save taxpayer money:

For every 1 percent increase in the national participation rate by mail, the Census Bureau can save taxpayers $85 million by not having to send census takers door to door to households that failed to return their census forms.

If every household in the United States completed and mailed back their census form, taxpayers could reduce the cost of taking the census by $1.5 billion. It costs $.42 for people to mail back their form, compared to $57 for census takers to visit each home.

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, 2516 North St., and the Nacogdoches Public Library, 1112 North St., are both 2010 Census Questionnaire Assistance Centers.

Now until April 19, Monday through Friday, Census representative Ramona Kellam, pictured above, is available to answer questions at the chamber, 9 a.m. - noon, and at the library, 1 - 4 p.m.

2010 Census forms are available in several languages at both locations and are available to be picked up during the businesses' normal working hours. Call 936-560-5533 for more information.

Dragonfly Nursery & Garden- From desk job to dream job

2010-04-14T15:05:00.002-05:00

By Elizabeth Bailey
Chamber Intern

The owners of Dragonfly Nursery and Garden, Richard and Kimberly Wright, have turned their love of landscaping and gardening into a successful career. They started their business two years ago and became a member of the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 14, 2008.

THREE DAYS LEFT AMERICA!!

2010-04-14T13:06:00.002-05:00

THREE DAYS LEFT AMERICA

There’s still time…so fill out and mail back your census form TODAY!

The 2010 Census is one of the shortest in history – just 10 questions that only takes about 10 minutes to answer.

So, just take 10 minutes and mail your form back today!

Congressman Louie Gohmert’s East Texas Job Fair

2010-04-14T08:48:00.000-05:00

Congressman Louie Gohmert’s East Texas Job Fair

Wednesday, June 2, 2010
10:00am - 2:00pm
Where: Ornelas Gymansium
East Texas Baptist University
1209 N. Grove, Marshall, TX 75670

Admission is FREE for Employers and Job Seekers

If your business would like to participate, please visit www.gohmert.house.gov
or call (866) 535-6302. Job seekers are not required to RSVP.

Congressman Louie Gohmert’s East Texas Job Fair

2010-04-14T08:46:00.001-05:00

Congressman Louie Gohmert’s East Texas Job Fair

Thursday, July 8, 2010
10:00am - 2:00pm
Where: William R. Johnson Coliseum
Stephen F. Austin State University
700 East College Street, Nacogdoches, TX 75962

Admission is FREE for Employers and Job Seekers

If your business would like to participate, please visit www.gohmert.house.gov
or call (866) 535-6302. Job seekers are not required to RSVP.

Earth Day - all invited

2010-04-14T08:24:00.001-05:00

The Third Annual Earth Day outdoor festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 17, at the SFA Mast Arboretum and intramural parking lot. Earth Day is a national event to instill a sense of environmental stewardship. There will be information booths, presenters, organized activities for kids and all ages, food, music and more. The SFA Garden Gala Plant Sale will also be happening simultaneously. Join us in celebrating the earth and learn some great ways to live simply and sustainably.

Spring Market

2010-04-13T16:17:00.002-05:00

Join us for a shopping extravaganza!!! The Junior League of Lufkin is proud to present the Spring Market to be held at the Pitser Garrison Civic Center in Lufkin, Texas.

General Admission & Raffle
Each ticket purchased will enter you for a chance to win a fabulous Louis Vuitton Tote! Buy your tickets today! $5 per person Friday, April 23 10 am to 8 pm. Friday Happy Hour 5 pm to 8 pm. There is a cash bar available with light appetizers. Saturday, April 24 come from 10 am to 5 pm, the cash bar is open from 11 am to 3 pm.

Red Carpet Review
Enjoy an exciting night of discounted specials, entertainment, cocktails and hors d'oevres. Come meet the models from Apricot Lane. Ticket price includes a 2-day shopping pass. "A Hollywood Theme Pre-Party" on Thursday, April 22 6 to 9 pm, this event is $35 per person.

Luncheon & Style Show
"JLL Project Runway" emceed by Lufkin's own Tara Watson Watkins, tickets are $25 per person, or $185 per table of 8. There are 2 seating times available, at 11 am and 1 pm on Friday, April 23.

The Big Ticket
"I want it all!" Plan to attend all the events? Tickets are $50 per person.

All events take place at the Pitser Garrison Civic Center in Lufkin, Texas. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of Lufkin's community projects. Tickets may be purchased from members of The Junior League of Lufkin or any of the following locations:
Brookshire Brothers on Chestnut: 936 637-7086
First Bank & Trust East Texas on West Frank Expressive Images: 936 632-8800
Beard Fine Jewelers: 936 637-2848
The Very Thing: 936 632-2202

For more information you can log on to www.juniorleagueoflufkin.org

Ladies Night Out

2010-04-13T16:16:00.000-05:00

Ladies Night Out is Friday, April 30 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and hosted by Signature Smiles located at 3205 N. University Dr., Suite A. Along with refreshments and wine spritzers, there are discounts for all services provided! Services include:

*Teeth Whitening by Signature Smiles
-Standard whitening: Reg. price $99 / Discount price $50

*Spray on Tans by Pam Hightower
-8 shades to choose from
- Reg. price $35 / Discount price $20

*Color Hair Extensions by Brandi Lloyd
- 6 colors to choose from
- Reg. price $15 per strand / Discount price $10 per strand

*Chair Massages by Marie Sell
- $1 per minute

*Facial Services by Kristine Enrile
- 10% discount on all services
- Waxing
- Free Skin Analysis
- Eyebrow/Eyelash Tinting

***Bring your BFF and have a GR8 time***

SFA Gardens to host spring plant sale

2010-04-12T16:45:00.001-05:00

The SFA Gardens at Stephen F. Austin State University will host its annual Garden Gala Day on April 17 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the lower arboretum parking lot on Wilson Drive. Stephen F. Austin State University Outdoor Pursuits will host an Earth Day Celebration in conjunction with this year’s sale.

The event features the annual spring plant sale fundraiser benefiting the SFA Mast Arboretum, Pineywoods Native Plant Center, Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, and educational programs hosted at the gardens. All the plants are produced at SFA by the staff, students and volunteers.

According to Dawn Stover, Mast Arboretum horticulturist, a wide variety of hard to find, “Texas tough” plants will be available.
The public is encouraged to arrive early and bring a wagon. For more information call (936) 468-4404, or visit http://arboretum.sfasu.edu and click on “upcoming events.”

Celebrity Arts Auction

2010-04-12T11:04:00.001-05:00

Celebrity Arts Auction!
Hotel Fredonia
Saturday, April 24th 2010
6pm-10pm
Tickets Now On Sale
(For Info Call 936.552.3420)

This event benefits Central Heights High School Theatre as the group prepares to take a play to the American High School Theatre Festival, which is part of the Edinburgh, (Scotland) Fringe Festival, the largest performing arts festival in the world! The CH Theatre group is one of about 100 selected from 21,000 nominees from across the country for this honor.

**Items Up For Auction**

*Items from Dr. Gene Dickey:
Home (signed autobiography of Ms. Julie Andrews)

*Defying Gravity (biography of "Wicked" Composer Stephen Schwartz)
Signed by Stephen Schwartz and the book's author, Carol de Giere

*A Little Bit Wicked (signed autobiography of Kristin Chenoweth) (parental discretion advised)

*"A Steady Rain" Playbill signed by both actors:Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig

*XXL t-shirt from Broadway Cares which had the logos of all the shows which played on Broadway during 2009

*XXL t-shirt from the 2009 Tony Awards

*4 CD's, each signed by the artist:
Sutton Foster: "Wish"
Idina Menzel: "I Stand"
Kristin Chenoweth: "A Lovely Way To Spend Christmas"
Patti Lupone: "Live from Les Mouches" (contains some adult language)

*Items from Power and Pamela Boothe:
Deadwood- hoodie, hat, autographed photo
The Final Season- DVD, Father-son baseball shirt, baseball, autographed photo
24- DVD Board Game, Soundtrack CD, autographed photo

*Ernie Hudson:
Ghostbuster Collectibles
DVD, Gum Cards, Japanese Release Program, Nintendo Game, Poster, Autographed Picture

*Beau Bridges:
Signed Stargate Script, Signed Photo, Signed Art

*MacGruber:
Call sheet signed by Will Forte, Powers Boothe, Val Kilmer, and Maya Rudolph

*Gary Sinise:
CSI NYC--5th Season DVDs Signed!
Signed Cast Photo (entire cast)
Signed Script (cast!)

*Saturday Night Live
Signed Cast Photo

*Howie Mandel
Signed Autobiography

*Brad Pitt
Autographed Rolling Stone Cover

In addition to the celebrity/art items below, there will be MANY other items live auctioned or silent auctioned including a beautiful stained glass piece of drama masks and the flag of Scotland (see the Scotland blog for a photo), a motorized bicycle, a variety of entertainment packages, gift baskets, a gas grill.... The list is continuing to grow! Whatever your interests, we'll have something for YOU, so join us for this evening of FUNdraising!

Cartridge World - offers savings on Earth Day

2010-04-09T15:46:00.000-05:00

In recognition of Earth Day, April 22, Cartridge World is reminding everyone that saving money and helping the environment is easy when it comes to reusing printer cartridges.

A discarded printer cartridge thrown into a landfill can take up to 450 years to decompose. So refill and reuse - and save money!!!

The flowers are blooming and produce is arriving this weekend at the Market!

2010-04-09T13:47:00.001-05:00

Join us Saturday at the Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market to stock up on a variety of handcrafted, locally grown items. The Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market is currently open on Saturday mornings and offers fresh produce, unique gifts, and a variety of other delicious items.
This Saturday, April 10, Spiritual Vapor (with Brother Prinz) & Nathan Hunnicutt will take turns playing musical tunes.

Merci's Worldly Cuisine will be at the Market this Saturday featuring:
Breakfast Tortas, Eggs Benedict, French Toast with fruit and whipped cream, and PancakesFrench Country Style Chicken and Vegetables with Rosemary, Grilled Cheese, Bacon Lettuce and Tomato Sandwiches and Deviled Eggs, Plantains & Black beans and Tomato & Asparagus Salad, drinks & delicious sweets!

Things to look for this Saturday: baked goods (breads, cookies & pies), artisan Texas cheeses, Texas citrus, free-range eggs, tilapia fish, flowers, herbs (mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme), honey, jewelry, plants, starter plants, preserves and local produce: asparagus, potatoes, butternut squash & sweet potatoes, greens (collard, kale, mustard, Swiss chard & turnip), lettuce (butter crunch, red & romaine), green onions, sugar snap peas. George will have some strawberries.

If you would like to sign up for the weekly Farmers’ Market email update, please send an email to obriens@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us. You are also more than welcome to visit www.farmermktnac.blogspot.com for the weekly update. Also be our fan on facebook @NacogdochesFarmersMarket.

The Nacogdoches Farmers’ Market, located at the “hitch lot” at the corner of West Main and Pearl Streets, is open from 8 a.m. until noon or later every Saturday morning. If the market parking lot is full, additional parking is available in the Nacogdoches County Courthouse Annex parking lot.

Nacogdoches Main Street to host hospitality training for area businesses

2010-04-09T13:39:00.002-05:00

Helping make downtown Nacogdoches a “Texas Friendly” downtown will be the goal of an upcoming workshop hosted by the Main Street Program.

Sarah O’Brien, Main Street manager for the City of Nacogdoches, will lead the workshop. Participants will learn about Nacogdoches' opportunities for tourism development, as well as the basics of customer service.

The workshop will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at the Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, 200 E. Main Street in downtown Nacogdoches. The session will be held from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. The workshops are open to anyone interested in sharpening his or her customer service skills.

"In today's hurry-up society, we sometimes forget how to slow down and treat the customer or visitor with respect and friendliness," said O’Brien. "It is so imperative for front line customer services workers to treat our visitors with a ‘Texas Friendly’ attitude, often those casual experiences are the impressions that visitors take home with them.”

The program uses curriculum developed by the Texas Agricultural Extension Service. The Texas Friendly program encourages business owners as well as employees to promote hospitality habits when dealing with local customers and visitors.

According to Texas Economic Development, the state agency for economic development, tourism is a $40 billion industry in Texas each year. In Nacogdoches

County travelers and tourists spent nearly $57.0 million in 2006.

"Nacogdoches and downtown have so much to offer visitors," said

O’Brien. "Visitors to Nacogdoches have it all – from unique shopping destinations, history galore, to unparalleled nature tourism- like the Ruby M. Mize azalea garden, Texas’ largest in fact. I don’t think most of our residents realize how big of an impact tourism has on our local economy.”

“We are confident these workshop’s will benefit not only the individual attendees but also Nacogdoches residents and the many visitors we welcome downtown to the oldest town in Texas each and every year,” O’Brien said.

Class size is limited, and advanced registration is required. To register for the Texas Friendly Hospitality Workshop, call the Main Street Office at 936-559-2573. The cost is free for all downtown business and $15 for any other interested participants. Participants will be given a certificate of completion.

Chick-fil-A offers fundraising options

2010-04-09T08:57:00.002-05:00

Dear Raving Fans,

Chick-fil-A at Nacogdoches has many exciting opportunities for your organization, church or school to raise funds! On Tuesday, April 20th, at 10:30 am, I will be hosting a complimentary informational brunch at our Nacogdoches restaurant, 2804 North St. We will be discussing the variety of ways your group can earn money using our famous and well-received products. Feel free to forward this email to anyone on your staff who you feel may be interested in attending.

The deadline to be a part of our fall calendar sales is quickly approaching. Extremely popular and easy to execute, calendar sales are one of our most profitable fund raisers. Be ready to register your group before leaving the brunch!

Please RSVP to my email - nacdoc@peoplepc.com

I look forward seeing you on the 20th!

Blessings,
Michelle A. Sims
Marketing Director
Chick-fil-A at Nacogdoches
nacdoc@peoplepc.com
(936)371-9736

Community service projects needed for The BIG Event ... and other things

2010-04-07T10:47:00.004-05:00

The BIG Event needs more community service projects. Help SFA students help the community!
More information about Meet and Greet SFA Parents during summer orientation sessions.
East Texas Spring Online Auction goes live April 15.

Click here for all the details.

Chamber Connection for April

2010-04-06T11:55:00.001-05:00

Read the latest news from the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce. 'eNews from Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce'

Charm Night Out

2010-04-06T11:14:00.002-05:00

This fun and fabulous evening for women of all ages and phases is May 11, 2010 at Hotel Fredonia from 2 pm to 7 pm. Come out and sample some tasty treats, shop for the latest trends, pick up information to enhance your lifestyle, and enjoy a cocktail at the cash bar.

***Register NOW! Deadline is April 20, 2010. To register for a booth, contact your Daily Sentinel representative or call Retail Advertising at 936 - 564 - 8361.

Blueberry Festival of Quilts

2010-04-06T11:05:00.004-05:00

The quilt show is back at the Texas Blueberry Festival this June 11 and June 12. Come out to Fredonia Baptist Church during the Blueberry Festival and be a part of the Blueberry Festival of Quilts! For more information call 936 - 560 - 4997 or log on to http://www.nacquilters.org/.

Azaleas in Nacogdoches: Blooming photos and report

2010-04-05T10:49:00.011-05:00

A report from one photographer...

The azaleas have been holding back due to cold temps earlier in the year, but they are finally busting out. This should be the beginning of several days/weeks of the really big azalea color.

The ajuga (a hardy ground cover) is showing off deep blue cones of color. Chinese fringe (lorapetalum) is peaking. Jonquils, narcissus and daffodils have had their day, although still present. Dogwoods and redbuds have been taking over.

This week the wisteria have exploded. They are incredible in the country side - taking over large 30 foot trees and covering them completely.

A good time to be in East Texas!

These are fairly good shots considering they are from a camera phone.
More updates: http://www.nacogdochesazaleas.com/index.php

Nacogdoches Blooms

2010-04-02T10:38:00.004-05:00

Beginning in 1998, Nacogdoches Blooms began the mass planting of clusters of jonquils and other heirloom bulbs throughout Nacogdoches. Through annual planting of donated bulbs the program has grown to more than 750,000 blooms, with the bulbs naturally doubling every year.

Trail development began with the assistance of volunteers planting clusters of jonquils and other heirloom bulbs underneath 13 city park signs, in the public gardens around the Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sterne-Hoya Park, and Millards Crossing Historic Village. (map of Jonquil trail).

Since then clusters of bulbs have been added behind City Hall, the downtown parking lot at the corner of Mound and Main streets, Festival Plaza, the airport, along with several locations around the Loop 224. Jonquils have also been planted underneath trees in the historic downtown area.

Information taken from the Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful web site.

Mr. Treat in the neighborhood

2010-04-01T11:55:00.004-05:00

Mr. Treat stopped by the Chamber and entertained with blueberry snow cones and music to munch by. See Mr. Treat at the Texas Blueberry Festival, Saturday, June 12, in downtown Nacogdoches.

Click for more pictures.

Census 2010 participation rate tracker

2010-04-01T09:17:00.003-05:00

Click for more information.

Stock up on easter staples at the market this Saturday

2010-04-01T08:32:00.001-05:00

Beginning this weekend Merci's Worldly Cuisine will be serving freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items at the farmer's market.

Join us Saturday at the Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market to stock up on a variety of handcrafted, locally grown items. The Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market is currently open on Saturday mornings and offers fresh produce, unique gifts, and a variety of other delicious items.
This Saturday, April 3, The Old Time Gospel Project (Cele Knight, Robbie, Jon Hall & John Andy Hazelwood) will entertain us with their unique selection of inspirational songs.

Starting this Saturday, April 3, Merci's Worldly Cuisine will be at the Market Every Saturday Catering to Your every Culinary Desire. Breakfast will start at 7 AM and include Eggs Benedict, Biscuits and Gravy, Cinnamon Rolls, Breakfast burritos, Sandwiches and much more. For lunch, different cuisines from around the world will be featured: French Country Cuisine, Irish, Italian, Mexican, Russian, Soul Food, Vegetarian, Tex-Mex, German, Central American and many more. We will also serve BLT Sandwiches, Grilled Cheese, and other traditional favorites. For your sweet tooth we will have a diverse assortment of delicious cookies, cakes and other confections.

Things to look for this Saturday: baked goods (breads, cookies & pies), artisan Texas cheeses, Texas citrus, free-range eggs, tilapia fish, flowers, honey, jewelry, plants, starter plants, preserves and local produce: asparagus, potatoes, butternut squash & sweet potatoes, greens (collard, kale, mustard, Swiss chard & turnip), lettuce (butter crunch, red & romaine), green onions, sugar snap peas. Look for strawberries soon.

If you would like to sign up for the weekly Farmers’ Market email update, please send an email to obriens@ci.nacogdoches.tx.us. You are also more than welcome to visit www.farmermktnac.blogspot.com for the weekly update. Also be our fan on facebook @NacogdochesFarmersMarket.

The Nacogdoches Farmers’ Market, located at the “hitch lot” at the corner of West Main and Pearl Streets, is open from 8 a.m. until noon or later every Saturday morning. If the market parking lot is full, additional parking is available in the Nacogdoches County Courthouse Annex parking lot.

Lanana Creek T.R.A.I.L Run!

2010-03-31T11:55:00.007-05:00

Nacogdoches Safe & Drug Free Community Coalition presents the Lanana Creek T.R.A.I.L. Run

(Together Reducing All Drugs In Life)

Date - Saturday April 24, 8:00 a.m.

Location - Lanana Creek Trail off Main Street behind Liberty Hall

Registration

Before April 17th

Walkers - $10

Runners- $15

On-Site April 24th

Walkers- $15

Runners- $20

Contact: Debbie Tanner
Community Mobilization Specialist
Nacogdoches Safe & Drug Free Coalition
Another Positive Prevention of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council
1407 N. University Drive, Suite B-2
Nacogdoches, Texas 75961
(936) 564-2446

Photos from the Agriculture Appreciation and Awareness Banquet

2010-03-30T14:14:00.015-05:00

Photos by Silver Lion Photography, Randy and Marcela Coe. View event photo album - click here.

Ninth Annual Agriculture Appreciation and Awareness Banquet
Monday, March 29, at Banita Creek Hall, 401 W. Main St. in downtown Nacogdoches.

Legendary coach and rancher Gene Stallings, pictured left, delivered a memorable keynote speech.

2010 Ag awards
· Farm Family of the Year: Jerry Nichols Family (Sponsor: Tipton Ford)
· Agriculture Pioneer: Albert Thompson (Sponsor: Heritage Land Bank)
· Agribusiness of the Year: Sam B. Hayter Trust (Sponsor: First Bank & Trust, East Texas)
· Agriculture Educator of the Year: Dr. Dale Perritt (Sponsor: Citizens 1st Bank) Nacogdoches County

From left, Jerry Nichols, Dale Perritt, Henry Sunda and Albert Thompson.

From left, Neal Slaten - owner Tipton Ford, Farm Family of the Year sponsor; Linda, Jerry, Gregg, Reece and Matt Nichols.

Left, Jimmy Mize - First Bank and Trust East Texas, Agribusiness of the Year sponsor; and Henry Sunda, Sam B. Hayter Trust.

Front: holding award, Andy Gardner - Heritage Land Bank, Agriculture Pioneer of the Year sponsor; Albert and Deanna Thompson, Ella Burnett, Seth Burnett, Reanna Burnett, Chloey Burnett (baby), Tawna Burnett.
Second row: Timmy Thompson, Amanda Thompson, Perry Skipper, Daniel Burnett, Jeff Burnett, Cheryl Skipper.
Back: Geri Thompson, Casey Thompson, Ted Thompson, Marty Burnett, Perry Skipper.

Dr. Dale Perritt, center; Chris Sidnell and Kim Luna Snyder - Citizens 1st State Bank, Agriculture Educator of the Year award sponsor.

Dr. Perritt, left, with 2010 agricultural scholarship awards recipients and David Alders, right.

The banquet is a cooperative effort of local agencies interested in promoting and honoring agriculture in Nacogdoches County. Local agencies include Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau, Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, Nacogdoches Economic Development Corporation (NEDCO) Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Cooperative Extension Program, Pineywoods RC&D, Stephen F. Austin State University - Agriculture Department and Texas Forest Service.

Get your 2010 Census questions answered

2010-03-30T09:27:00.002-05:00

Need a form? Have questions about the 2010 Census? Get what you need - from a real person! Click for details.

Fourth Friday Luncheon

2010-03-29T09:01:00.004-05:00

On Friday March 26, "Leader in Me" was presented by Education Consultant Landon Shewmake. The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce Fourth Friday Luncheon was held at the Hotel Fredonia in the Banita Ballroom.

Pictured (left to right) Chamber Chairman Paul Smith, Superintendent Rodney Hutto, NISD Public Relations Coordinator Marty Prince, Fourth Friday Luncheon Program Chair Angela Wiederhold, Speaker Landon Shewmake, and Chamber President/ CEO Bruce Partain.

Click here to view more photos!

El Camino Real Sale on the Trail - May 8

2010-03-28T10:27:00.000-05:00

Come shop for treasures in Nacogdoches during the 2nd annual El Camino
Real Sale on the Trail! The sale extends from Natchitoches, LA to
Crockett, TX and beyond! Over 175 miles of bargains!

Historic Downtown Nacogdoches will participate by hosting their
"Saturday Sidewalk Sale" on Saturday, May 8, 2010. Merchants will
feature a variety of great finds, unique specialty items, and
one-of-a-kind antiques.

Those interested in participating in the second annual "Sale on the
Trail" are encouraged to take advantage of a great chance to shop,
sell, or see the sites on the remarkable El Camino Real.

Nacogdoches encourages all land owners, businesses, churches, and
community organizations to hold yard sales, flea markets, festivals,
trade shows, sidewalk sales, etc. along this famous trail, providing a
wonderful weekend of touring and shopping.

The Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau will have "Sale on the
Trail" signs and balloons available for people interested in
participating in the "Sale on the Trail." Signs as well as red and
yellow balloons will provide continuity along the trail for all shoppers
and trail riders to see. Signs and balloons can be picked up at the
Visitor Center, 200 E. Main St. starting May 3rd.

For more information about Sale on the Trail, please contact Melissa
Sanford, executive director of the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors
Bureau, at (936) 564-7351, or Ellen Melton, El Camino Real Trail
Partners representative in Sabine County at (409) 628-4876.

The Big Serve

2010-03-26T16:39:00.002-05:00

Click to read more about The Big Serve by Regents Academy!