The Executive Committee met on Tuesday morning for their November Meeting. Actions were taken to approve financials, welcome new members and discuss programs of work, Tim Sudela chaired a meeting of the Long Range Planning Division immediately following. The division reviewed their program of work and discussed  key dates for the year.

The Beaumont City Council authorized renewal of a one year contract with the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce to provide economic development services. They also approved a proposed ordinance allowing participation in the Texas Enterprise Zone Program, designating a liaison and nominating ExxonMobil Oil Corporation as an Enterprise Zone Project. Jim Rich testified during the public hearing in support of the ordinance. Texas law allow the Comptroller to approve an allotment of projects based upon a competitive applications to receive sales tax credits. The ExxonMobil Oil Corporation application commits to $250 million in new investment and retained  jobs over the next five years. Other businesses may be proposed now that an ordinance is in place.  

Jim Rich presented to a group of potential investors looking at Lamar University to fund research personnel and new technologies in support of local industry. The potential project will be a part of the Center for Innovation and Commercialization. Lamar faculty and administrators, professors from other universities were present. Another presentation was made to the State Farm Agents of the Golden Triangle. We discussed the opportunities and the challenges facing the local economy.

The November Membership Lunch was held at the MCM Elegante Hotel with State Senator Tommy Williams as the featured speaker. He provided a great review of the issues facing state government and was presented with the Texas Association of Business Free Enterprise Award. The presenting sponsor was the Beaumont Business Journal celebrating two years as a publication. Nathan Cross received a standing ovation when he was introduced to present certificates of appreciation to the outgoing directors and advisory directors. Three individuals were recognized for achieving the status of five years of service as Ambassadors. George Cowart, Tracey Lumpkin, and Kathy Roche are now Ambassador Emeritus. The Astros were named Ambassador Team of the Year. They include Robin Williams, Kellen Bradford, Gale Daigle, Laura Kressman, Tiffane Nguyen, Candy Landes, Dee Lane, and Brandon Spears.

Dessie Richard with BBVA Compass Bank was named Ambassador of the Year. Finally, Robin Williams, with American Personnel & Temps was named Volunteer of the Year for 2011. Congratulations to these individuals and we thank their companies for the support.

Jim Rich attended the monthly meeting of the Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Executives in Alvin on Friday.

Membership Division

We are always looking for motivated individuals to participate on the Membership committee. Please contact Dale at 838-6581 x108 if you are interested.

Mix & Mingle

Flagship Mail Room

Leadership Plus, a program for individuals 55 and older, is seeking applicants to participate in its first class year. The opening session will be Wednesday, January 4, 2011 with other sessions on February 9, March 8, April 19, and graduation will be May 3.    

Leadership Plus is a structured and dynamic program for like-minded individuals interested in putting their talents to work for the greater good of the community.  There will be opportunities to develop new friendships, become more knowledgeable of community needs and services, become updated on area economic development and participate in interesting community projects.