January 2019 Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce • 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270 • (318) 255-2031 • www.rustonlincoln.orgCHAMBER CONNECTION 1 Deliver to: Chamber Connection

CALENDAR A Publication of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce January 2019

January 1 Happy New Year! 99th Annual Awards Banquet (Chamber office will be closed) presented by Bank of Ruston

January 10 Thursday, January 15, 2019 • Ruston Civic Center Leadership Lincoln Economic/Workforce Devt This event will kick-off a year of * Recognition of Young Business Year – K-9 Team, Sergeant Robbins Volunteer of the Year Day celebration for the Chamber’s Leaders to Watch – Brent Kyle Luker and Sergeant Boco, – Catherine McVea 100th Anniversary, recognize Causey, Morgan Garrison, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, The Banquet will begin at January 14 incoming and outgoing Board Carlyn Harbour, Victoria Sexton, and Educator of the Year – 6 pm. with a wine-and-cheese Student/Teacher of the Year members, and honor several & Tori Ward Davis Coach Donnie Barmore, Cedar social. Dinner will be served exemplary citizens. Creek School at 6:45 pm. Attire is business Awards Gala Awards to be presented on * LP School District’s or semi-formal. Tiered level 6 p.m. Awards to be presented by behalf of other Ruston-Lincoln Distinguished Partners in sponsors of this event are Chamber: Organizations: Education – First Baptist Origin Bank and Hunt Guillot January 15 * Robert E. Russ Award – Kyle * Ruston Rotary Club’s Bill Church-Ruston & Newk’s & Associates. 99th Annual Chamber Awards McDonald Best Humanitarian – Eddie Eatery Tickets are $40 each for Banquet * Business of the Year – Ruston Barnes * Ruston Lincoln Convention Chamber members, and $50 for Brick, LLC * Ruston Kiwanis’ Firefighter and Visitors Bureau’s non-members. A reserved table January 22 * Young Business Leader of the of the Year – District Chief Hospitality Award - Nicholas of eight, for Chamber members S.A.I.L. Year – Dylan Sanders John E. Price, Sr., Lincoln Bustamante and Whitney is $325, non-members is $405. Business/Economic Devt Day * Ambassador of the Year – Ron Parish Fire District #1, Law Trisler Causey Registration is open online at Veitch Enforcement Officer of the * Junior Auxiliary’s Betty www.rustonlincoln.org. January 22 Business After Hours Better Living Market Top 20 Events award presented Second Annual Chili 5-6:30 p.m. for Louisiana Peach Festival Cook-Off Winners January 23 Congratulations to the winners of the 2nd Annual The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Ribbon Cutting Battle for the Paddle Chili Cook-Off and thanks to all of Commerce has been presented the participants, judges, tasters, Rick Godley and the Seedlinks Behavior Mgt. the Top 20 Events award from the 11:30 a.m. Ruston Farmers Market! This event was sponsored in Southeast Tourism Society (STS) in part by 2High Trampoline Park. More photos can be recognition of the Louisiana Peach seen on Facebook.com/RustonChamber. January 23 Festival. Ambassadors Meeting “The Louisiana Peach Festival 12 p.m. is the largest and longest running event held in Ruston, LA. The event 2019 Business takes over Downtown Ruston for a weekend, where attendees can enjoy After Hours carnival rides, live music, kids’ activities, and hosting the “Cobbler Gobbler” 4th Tuesdays, 5-6:30 p.m. peachy goods, parade, shopping and Peach Cobbler Eating Contest in 2016. February 26, Courtyard by more. Peach Festival offers something The Louisiana Peach Festival is an iconic, Marriott for everyone with events catering to all beloved event in the area and only interests. Attendees can shop the Arts continues to grow in size and popularity March 26, Bank of Ruston & Crafts Show that features more than with each passing year.” STS.com April 23, Centric FCU 100 booths, attend the antique car show, The 2019 festival will be held June enjoy live music from several artists/ 21-22 in the theme of A Peach in Time. May 28, The Depot-FBC bands in Railroad Park, watch the Peach STS is dedicated to promoting and July 23, Available Cobbler Eating Contest, or enjoy any developing tourism in its member states Pictured from left to right are third-place winner Jeri of the other Peach Festival activities, of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, August 27, Pearce Lumber Lynn Webb of Team Webb; Judy Copeland, Ruston- such as the rodeo, 5K, tennis and bass Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Lincoln Chamber of Commerce president; second- September 24, SciTEC tournaments, kids’ fishing tournament Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, place winner George Puckett, Lincoln Builders; and or fabric art show. The Peach Festival is a Virginia and West Virginia. In 1985, October 22, Holiday Inn first-place winner Matt Shirley of Team Portico. Express huge economic driver for Ruston Lincoln in recognition of the unique, diverse Parish, producing an economic impact and unparalleled events in the region, Winners: 1st Place ($500 & wooden paddle) - Team November 26, 81 Pines of $2.37 million to the community and STS began the Top 20 Events award Portico, 2nd Place ($150 & wooden spoon) - Lincoln Vacation Home providing the area with thousands of program. A Top 20 Award seeks to Builders, 3rd Place ($100 & wooden spoon) - Team visitors. The community takes great bring more publicity and recognition Webb, and People’s Choice ($200 gift basket) - Med- pride in this event with local businesses, to the best events in the Southeast, Camps of Louisiana. People’s Choice prize package Monthly Public schools and organizations participating whether it be media, attendees or was provided by Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers, Meetings in the Peach Festival Parade, in settting both. STS selects the Top 20 events, I-20 Escape​, Lincoln Lights Up the Pines​, Mitcham the Guinness World Record for Largest per month, and publishes them on a Farms​, Origin Bank​, Pearce Lumber​, Townsend House 1st Monday Peach Cobbler at the 2015 Peach festival quarterly basis. Ruston City Council Gifts​, Utility Brewing​, and Vintage & Vogue​.

1st Tuesday LP School Board

2nd Tuesday LP Police Jury

3rd Monday Ruston Planning & Zoning 2 CHAMBER CONNECTION January 2019 Letter From The Chair Executive Board of Directors Chair, Earl Smith By Earl Smith, Chamber Chair Wells Fargo Advisors

Reflecting and Looking Ahead Chair Elect & Community Development Marisol O’Neal, Origin Bank It is hard to believe that the New Year is upon ing here almost every day. Our universities are us, but it is. For many of us, this a time where we growing and thriving due to the leadership of Dr. set our goals, and set out our New Les Guice, and President Rick Gallot. Events Planning & Development Year’s resolutions. This is an impor- Our local governments are devoting Jessica Hughes, Southern Grace Events & Blessings tant exercise, but I think it is equally the infrastructure resources we need important to look back on what has to support, and spur this growth. It Membership Development been accomplished and how far we is truly a great time to be in Lincoln have come as we close out another Parish. Eric McCulloch, Edward Jones year. I am honored that the Board of It is even more fitting that we do so Directors of the Ruston-Lincoln Organizational Development this year as it is our 100th year cele- Chamber of Commerce has given me Chad Ginn, HiTech Computers bration. Our records indicate that our the opportunity to serve as Chairman. chamber of commerce was founded in I look forward to serving with each of the spring of 1919. Just a few months them alongside our excellent Chamber Immediate Past Chair after the close of World War I. Our Earl Smith Staff of Judy Copeland, Ivana Flower, Lee Denny, Bank of Ruston forefathers started this organization to and Melissa Carpenter. help energize the economic engine of our com- In 2019. we will add four newly energized Board of Directors munity. board members in Adam Hohlt, John Deason, Cathan Brooks, Henderson Financial Services In 1919 our parish had only about one third of Grace Tirado, and Ron Veitch. In addition, we the population that it does today. In those days have recently had a board vacancy, and Tyler Cathan Brooks, Henderson Financial Services the main roads through town were the Dixie Storms will be stepping in to fulfill the rest of that John Deason, Fairfield Inn & Suites Overland Highway and the Pershing Way. Today, term. I am thankful for each of them agreeing to we call them US 80 and US 167 respectively. A serve, and I am eager to see what they bring to Chad Ginn, Hi-Tech Computers century ago, the two railways were major parts of the table. Summer Hammons, My Happy Place Vintage Market our economic engine, and today our two univer- I am also beyond excited about serving with Kristi Hardaway, Princeton Place sities have surpassed them in economic impor- our executive committee this year. Marisol tance. Telephones, electricity, indoor plumbing, O’Neal, Jessica Hughes, and Eric McCulloch have Adam Hohlt, Hampton by Hilton of Ruston and automobiles would all have been relatively all agreed to stay in their current Vice-Chair Ryan Madden, Napper & Madden recent modern conveniences, with most people in roles. They will bring stability to our committees April McGuirt, First National Bank the parish being able to remember a time without for the year. Chad Guinn has agreed to step into Tyler G. Storms, Storms & Storms Law Office them. The world and our community has changed the role of Vice-Chair of Organizational Develop- a great deal since then. ment. Chad has impressed us with his willingness Grace Tirado, Genesis Energy However, there are somethings that have not to serve and take on many volunteer roles. He Michelle Tolar, United Way of NELA changed during the last century. Our community will make a great addition to our team. Lastly, I Ron Veitch, Anti Pest & Veitch still needs a strong business organization that am very grateful to have Lee Denny continuing seeks to boost the local economy. It needs an with us in his role of immediate past chair. His organization that offers to connect its members, wisdom, and experience with the Chamber are advocate for business needs at the state and local invaluable to us. Ex-Officio Directors government level, attract outside businesses and One last note, our annual Chamber Awards visitors, and provide professional development Banquet will be our first of many opportunities to and training to local businesses. These are the celebrate our 100th year. The Awards Banquet will Andy Durrett, Ruston Lincoln CVB very things that the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of be held Tuesday, January 15th at the Ruston Civic Dr. Les Guice, LA Tech Univ. Commerce is committed to doing for the commu- Center. This year’s event will certainly be one that Courtney Hall, LP Police Jury nity, Lord willing, for another 100 years. you will not want to miss. We hope to make this As we look forward to 2019 we have many banquet the best yet. Make sure you reserve your Eldred Hardison, LP Sheriff’s Office things to be excited about. Our community is tickets for the event by calling the office at (318) Kristi Lumpkin, Ruston Economic Devt. continuing to grow, and new businesses are open- 255-2031 or register online at rustonlincoln.org. Greg McCarter, RL Crime Stoppers Marc Newman, Grambling State Univ. Doug Postel, LA Delta Community College Letter from the President Lindsay Tomlinson, Origin Bank Ronny Walker, Ruston Mayor By Judy Copeland, President Chamber Staff Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Judy Copeland, President Ivana Flowers, Communications & Special Events Commerce is 100 years old Melissa Carpenter, Office Manager/Bookkeeper Victoria Sexton, S.A.I.L. Program Manager As we approach our 100th milestone, I find As I peruse through the minutes in a beautifully Rachel Cooper, Ambassador Program Manager myself researching the history of our Chamber of bound, but old journal, I find notations about Rock Erika McFarland, Intern Liaison Officer Commerce. Preparations are underway to have Island, Dixie Overland Hwy. (Hwy. 80), Cumber- quarterly celebrations with several of land Telephone Company service issues, our members who are having their 125th Hotel Ruston, Carroll Common Sense CVB Staff anniversary. Watch our weekly emails Nail Counter Factory, Doughtie Hotel, Travis Napper, President for those event updates. Our Chamber Lincoln Parish Fair Committee, Ruston Amanda Quimby, Marketing Director minutes make it easy to research the Aircraft Company, and Louisiana Meth- Jennifer Mamon, Manager history from 1920, but I had to do a little odist Orphanage to name just a few. bit of digging to find information from In 1921, the budget totaled $12,750 Hannah Delgado, Coordinator 1919. I found newspaper archives that with line items such as: rent, postage, Kathryn Morgan, Student Worker list the President of the Chamber in janitor, newspaper sub, traffic man, 1919 was A.H. Henderson. At the time agricultural man, secretary, stenogra- Judy Copeland the President was what is now consid- pher, water/light/ice/fuel, telephone/ Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce ered the Chair and my position would telegraph, stationary/supplies, equip- Established 1919 have been Manager. ment, membership sub/dues, traveling expense, 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270 The first meeting minutes recorded are from advertising, miscellaneous, civic committee, and (318) 255-2031 April 13, 1920. A sampling of the minutes that promotion. The population of Ruston at that time www.RustonLincoln.org day include, “The Civic Committee reported that was 3,377. their failures to have the rubbish removed from the I am in awe of the work that was being done streets was due to the fact that they were unable during that time and I’ve only sampled one year to secure adequate teams, but assurance was made with you. I hope you’ve enjoyed this moment of that a brief lapse of time would see the streets free reflection. I plan to share more with you through- @RustonChamber from rubbish.” out the year. January 2019 CHAMBER CONNECTION 3 A Pause at the Podium

By Cathi Cox-Boniol, Coordinator, Lincoln ACHIEVE United Voices “I have a voice.” positive impact, now and in the future. For focused on food insecurity and poverty; Chamber of Commerce), Judy Copeland Those words stopped me in my that, we owe them our deepest thanks. Bruce Seigmund (Re/Max Results Realty (President, Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of tracks. The tone wasn’t aggressive or First, our deepest gratitude for The and Ruston City Council) targeted Commerce), and Jane Brandon (COO, confrontational but instead Wellspring team—Jacquiela divisiveness; John Waltz (City Planner, The Wellspring). Your ability to truly hear confident and promising. I was McFarland, Deri Gayle, and City of Ruston) highlighted lack of public our students while providing phenomenal intrigued. I turned and there Ann Thompson—and the transportation and infrastructure issues/ feedback, insight, and encouragement was sat a reporter interviewing a Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of road and bike path safety; Dr. LaTonya unparalleled and no doubt further inspired diverse group of high school Commerce for presenting Pierce (Louisiana Tech University) and them to create the kind of change our sophomores about their this amazing opportunity Ryan Pierce (Delta Community College) world needs through the effective use of participation in our 2nd Annual with ACHIEVE. Not all addressed lack of diversity; and Amanda their voice. Civic Engagement Institute. communities are the beneficiary Quimby Carrier (Ruston-Lincoln Yes, our students have a voice. However, As a wave of pride washed of such visionary commitment Convention and Visitors Bureau) worked because of the input of so many amazing across me, I felt compelled to in developing tomorrow’s through lack of entertainment options. voices throughout our community, our hear more. Within minutes leaders. However, in Lincoln These remarkable adult advisors made an students are discovering more ways to use these aspiring young student Cathi Cox-Boniol Parish we are and to every incredible difference in the ability of our their voices for good. They are learning leaders had expressed their person involved from each of students to effectively use their newfound to be problem solvers rather than problem desire to use their newfound voice for these entities, thank you for your ongoing voice. We salute each of you. perpetuators and how to support a united good, to be effective, proactive stewards investment in our future. Then to the marvelous panel that community with equitable opportunities of their newly discovered knowledge To the mentors who sat around the our students stood before to make their for all. My goodness, what this world about the community they live in, to table with each student team during the promising pitch—what an inspiration could learn from these exquisite young focus on unity and equity, and to remain first day, laying the groundwork for the you are! Panelists included George Lee people. a committed part of the solution to life’s subsequent proposal presentations that (Temple Baptist Church Minister of Where will your voice be heard this challenges rather than the problem. the students would make—you were Community Evangelism/Life Choices), year? Will you use it in a way that further Not bad, right? However, a group amazing! Jacques Lasseigne (Louisiana Caroline Cascio (President and CEO, The inspires our next generation of leaders? of incredible community stakeholders Workforce Commission) focused on lack Wellspring), Deputy Eldred Hardison Let me challenge you to do just that—be invested their time, resources, energy, of employment opportunities; Jessica (Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department), part of the investment needed to help passion, and expertise toward helping Hughes and Tiffany White (United Way Ronny Walker (Mayor, City of Ruston), create much needed voices of promise and these future leaders not only develop a of Northeast Louisiana) and Stephanie Earl Smith (Wells Fargo Advisors productivity. The voices of tomorrow need constructive voice, but also use it toward Matthews (Christian Community Action) and Incoming Chair, Ruston-Lincoln yours today.

Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade sponsored by 2High Trampoline Park (Photo album viewable on Facebook.com/RustonChamber.) Mr. JN Walpole who received the Thank you to everyone who 2017 Robert E. Russ Award served assisted in making the show go on as Grand Marshal. There were when weather prohibited the parade forty plus businesses/organizations from rolling as scheduled. Thanks that participated in the “Tacky to the Ruston and LA Tech Police Christmas” parade. Departments, LA Tech Athletics and First place favorite was Jed’s Alumni Departments, Kansas City Plumbing; second was Ruston Southern (train management), the Regional Specialty Hospital of N. Sheriff’s Office, all the participants, LA; and third place went to Xtreme volunteers, and most of all everyone Tint & Audio. who came out to watch the parade. 4 CHAMBER CONNECTION January 2019 Lincoln Lights Up the Pines 255–1111 R U S T O N L I N C O L N CRIME STOPPERS Rewards up to $2,000

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The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Vintage Creameries for ice cream donations, to Super 1 Foods for Village, and the staff at Lincoln Parish Park thank every providing hot chocolate and to Kio’s Photography. decorator and all who drove through the 4th Annual Congratulations to the People’s Choice winners! Photos Lincoln Lights Up the Pines Christmas lights trail. The can be viewed on Lincoln Lights Up the Pines Facebook event brought 1,500 vehicles through despite a Friday page. rain out. “We would certainly have surpassed last year’s Business/Organization number of cars considering we matched it in two days this 1st Place – RE/MAX Results Realty year,” Judy Copeland, Chamber President said. “We hope 2nd Place – Petite Paws Pet Hotel all of our businesses and organizations see the benefit of 3rd Place – Lincoln Preparatory School participating and will join us next year.” Campers Special thanks to My Happy Place Vintage Market 1st Place – Doug Shurling for decorating Santa’s Landing, to The Peach 99.3 for 2nd Place Tie - Debbie Nealy, Lynn & Charlie Pippin, Matt broadcasting live and taking requests, to Blue Bell & Stephanie Griffin, Valier Constanza Class #32 Leadership Lincoln Education Day (Event photos can be viewed on Facebook.com/RustonChamber.) Find Where You Fit! Lincoln ACHIEVE . . . building partnerships to benefit education, enhance the business environment, and contribute to a quality life in Lincoln Parish. The focus of December’s class was education. The group toured FINANCIAL SPONSORSHIP VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES the Louisiana Center for the Schools of Academic Excellence Initiatives Leadership And Achievement Initiatives Blind before meeting with Dr. Les Student and Teacher of the Year Student Internships Guice, President of Louisiana Tech Adopt-A-School Job Shadowing University and enjoying lunch on campus at the ROPP Center. They toured New Tech Academies at Ruston High School with Dustin Whitlock then heard from Cathi Cox-Boniol about her position as the coordinator of Lincoln Parish School’s ACHIEVE. The day The shop at Louisiana Center for the Blind wrapped up with a presentation from Grambling State University Leadership Lincoln helps identify community. Visit RustonLincoln. President, Rick Gallot. January and motivate emerging community org/Pages/LeadershipLincoln will focus on Economic & leaders and challenges those leaders for more information about this Contact Cathi Cox-Boniol, Lincoln ACHIEVE Coordinator Workforce Development. to increase their participation in the program. [email protected], 318-255-1430 January 2019 CHAMBER CONNECTION 5 Member Spotlight

Beau Vines Steakhouse offers a fine dining interpretation of the classic American steakhouse with hints of Creole “What an excellent influence throughout the menu. Featuring classic cuts of surprise this place premier beef, Beau Vine has chargrilling over an open fire perfected. was! The drink

The Bar options were great, Beau Vines proudly offers a wine list of selections from the steak was to around the world for everyone from the novice to the wine connoisseur and serves a variety of specialty spirits. die for, the burger was wonderfully Outdoor Deck In addition to indoor “Great food, come seasoned, the dining, Beau Vines features a deck that hungry because you’re fries were unique can accommodate up going to have a full and delicious, to 800 people. With 3 fully stocked bars plate. Take my advice, and dessert was and over 6,000 square amazing. We didn’t feet of unique deck don’t get the burger configuration, no because from that day leave one crumb on celebration is too big our plates! We will for their team. They forward you’ll never be will work with you the same when eating be back!” - Erin S. to develop a menu of platters and drink a burger.” - Byron W For pricing options and to book your next event, Monday-Thursday, 5-9pm options that meet your email [email protected] or call (318) 255-1008. Friday-Saturday, 5-10pm tastes and your budget. Sunday Brunch, 10am-2pm “We eat here often on our way to Arkansas. Best Business Meetings, Presentations & Private Parties 2647 South Service Rd. West, Ruston Just bring your HDMI or VGA enabled laptop and you can steak we’ve ever eaten. Always the same, always www.beauvines.com display your presentation on a 70-inch flat screen monitor. good. Highly recommend.” - Vickie N (318) 255-1008 Wiggin’ Out recieves donation through the Adopt-A-School program

On behalf of those fighting cancer in North Louisiana, thank you Lincoln Parish Schools! A check for $11,001.39 was presented to Wiggin’ Out through the Adopt-A-School program. Wiggin’ Out offers support by purchasing wigs, headwear, lymphatic garments and prosthetic bras. Adopt-A-School is a collaborative effort Pictured with Cathi Cox-Boniol (center) are Wiggin’ Out Board Members Vicki Caskey, Mandy Miller, between the Chamber and Lincoln Parish School’s ACHIEVE. Elizabeth Turnley, Kim Kavanaugh & Cain Yarbrough.

JOIN OUR FAMILY! Dicky Nealy BE A PART OF OUR Broker THRIVING ART COMMUNITY! 2406 Kavanaugh Road Office: (318) 255-7480 REGISTER ONLINE AT NCLAC.ORG. NCLAC.ORG Ruston, LA 71270 Mobile: (318) 243-6253 [email protected] Fax: (318) 254-8077

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Please Join Us for Business After Hours at Better Living Market S.A.I.L.By Victoria Sexton, Program Manager January 22, 5-6:30 p.m. Media Day, November opportunity to announce sponsor At GSU, Jovan Hackley, scripts, shoot a live action video, and Kim Belue, Associate Vice President of Strategic visit the game day trailer with all the Tourism/Hospitality Day, December Stacy Stroud Initiatives and Marketing, spoke media equipment used to produce an Our students learned about what about his day-to-day tasks and athletic event. Thank you, Grambling drives tourism in Ruston, how events and all the staff goals he accomplished to be where State University, for rolling out the are marketed and sustained from he’s at. The students then visited red carpet for our students. They will year to year, how the city continues look forward to with Karen M. Carty, Assistant surely never forget such an amazing to provide many things for everyone Athletics Director for Marketing experience. to do, and how hotels in town operate your visit. and Communications, Greta Carter, Thank you to Louisiana and prepare for busy seasons. Media Relations Specialist, and Tech Athletics’ Malcolm Butler, Thank you to our speakers Travis Featuring: Alan Blakeney, Director of GSU’s Associate Athletics Director of Napper, President/CEO & Amanda • Samples of some of the tastiest, healthiest TV Center about what all goes into Communications, Learfield Sports, Quimby Carrier, RL Convention & food options marketing and producing a football and Gary Northen, General Manager, Visitors Center, Tori Ward Davis, • New coconut blend candle line VOLUSPA game at Grambling. From sponsor LA Tech Sports Properties for giving Main Street Director/Community • New natural fiber undergarments line presentations, video highlights, our students a tour of the newly Coordinator, City of Ruston, and Boody Wear playback video, announcements, and renovated press box, suites, and media Ronnie Rawls, General Manager & And more! more, the students learned what game rooms. We already have a few students Adam Hohlt, Sales Manager, Hampton day is like for a Communications and inquiring about a Communications or Inn by Hilton of Ruston. Media employee. Broadcasting degree. What a fun and More photos are viewable on 301 North Monroe St., Ruston Our students were then given the informative visit! Facebook.com/SailLincolnParish. (318) 254-0761 betterlivingmarket.com

Business After Hours is a well-attended, “end-of-the- workday” networking event designed to help you make new business contacts, develop potential new customers, and build exposure for your businesses. The event is complimentary for members.

RustonLiving The exclusive Ruston publication Meet Our Board Member for our residents. Publisher: Jonathan Magee

We get you in front of the affluent homeowners Grace Tirado who buy your goods, so call (318) 278-1832 Genesis Energy/Davison Transportation to learn more about our sponsorship opportunities. (318) 255-3850 | [email protected]

What is my role at work? I view my job at Genesis Energy/Davison Transportation as the Chief Greeter. Every day I wake up in a good mood. I thank the Lord for my life, my dog and my adopted family who insisted I move to Ruston. As Receptionist, it is my duty to greet my fellow employees and guests with a smile and a kind word. I love them all. Sometimes, when Mr. James (Davison) walks out the door, he says “you’re in charge.” I don’t take that literally!!

What does true leadership mean to me? To me true leadership means asking a lot of questions, getting a consensus, saying a prayer and then going with your gut. You can’t always be the “good guy,” but you can David Bossie, author and President Trump’s former always be honest and respectful. Teaching plays a big part deputy campaign manager in leading, but being a good listener is paramount. What’s the weirdest job I’ve ever had? If I could do another job for just one day, what would it be? When I got out of college, I went to work as a Customer If I had another job for one day, I would drive one of the Rep at Monsanto Chemical Co. I loved that job. My boss huge earth-movers you see at construction sites. Large was in the St. Louis headquarters so I ran our division equipment like that has always fascinated me. They are like mostly by myself in Pittsburgh. I visited the steel mills graceful dancers. where I had to don a jumpsuit-type outfit, boots and wear What would I most like to tell myself at age 13? a hard hat to watch our acid “pickle” the steel in the rolling If I could go back to age 13, I would tell myself to trust mills. Wow – I thought I was something! 318-255-2222 in God and follow my instincts. My sister was a brilliant But when I went with a girlfriend to Puerto Rico on student – and I was therefore not quite as smart – at least vacation, I decided I wanted to stay there – on the beach – that’s what she always told me. But what I soon learned in the sunshine – forever. One month later, after I resigned was that you don’t have to be brilliant as long as you have from my beloved job, packed a trunk and made long-term a happy disposition and a bright smile. A pleasant and reservations at a lovely guest house, I moved. My parents positive attitude will always win. It’s a philosophy I try to thought I’d last about 6 months. I was there 7 yrs. It’s pass along to others. where I began my long career in hotel management.

Something that might surprise you about me? How do I define success? When I was about 4 or 5 yrs. old, I had to start wearing I believe success means being happy with yourself – the real glasses. It embarrassed me terribly, and I would often hide person you are. It doesn’t mean you have the most money behind my Mother. Finally I got to choose my frames, and or the biggest and best car or the nicest house. It means I had some doozies!! When I learned about contact lenses, that you are living your life with the direction and love you bet I was first in line – the hard ones that I would of God in your heart. It means that you can go home at sometimes ”wash off” in my mouth. They helped me to night knowing that you did your best - you were kind and blossom and come out of my shell! considerate – you were thoughtful and genuine. January 2019 CHAMBER CONNECTION 7 Happy Anniversary Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau January By Amanda Carrier, Director of Marketing 80+ People Centered Support Services Genesis Energy Quality Inn Redd Pest Control of Ruston, Inc. Bustamante, Causey Win 75+ Riley Company of LA, Inc. Dixie Center for the Arts Ronnie Ward Automotive Group, Inc. Louisiana Tech Division of University Hospitality Award Advancement Russ Place Ruston Country Club The Ruston Lincoln Convention & has worked on twelve large-scale murals Ruston Brick, LLC Visitors Bureau is proud to announce throughout north Louisiana. Ruston Daily Leader Ruston Rotary Club - Noon the 2018 Hospitality Award will be given Causey is an Assistant Professor of T.L. James & Co., Inc. Secur-It Self Storage Shelter Insurance - Dan Preaus to Nicholas Bustamante Studio Art at the Louisiana 65+ Sherwin Williams and Whitney Trisler Tech University School of Mitcham Farms, Inc. Squire Creek Country Club & Causey for their design and Design where she teaches in Ruston Glass & Mirror Development implementation of three the Foundations Department. Sterling Pharmacy murals in Ruston. The award While teaching is one of her 50+ will be presented at the great passions, Whitney feels KXKZ/ESPN 97.7/KPCH 99.3/KRUS Stor-A-Way Mini Storage 1490 Super 1 Foods Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of complete with a paintbrush Napper & Madden Super 8 Motel Commerce Awards Banquet in her hand. Alongside O’Nealgas, Inc. The Bridge Community Church on Tuesday, January 15 at the teaching and painting murals The Fashion of Ruston Ruston Civic Center. Whitney creates portraits 40+ The Lincoln Agency Bustamante and Causey that question the notion of Driggers & Blackwell Enterprises, Inc. Tommy’s Tees completed the two murals as Amanda Quimby identity and challenges our State Farm Insurance - Skip Russell Trinity United Methodist Church a team between 2017-2018. Carrier understanding and reading Today’s Realty, Inc. Tyler Graham Storms Walmart Supercenter The first is located found at of the face. As an artist, she United Way of Northeast Louisiana the corner of N. Vienna and Alabama has exhibited her paintings nationwide 30+ Vantage Health Plan, Inc. in downtown Ruston and features including New York at the Chautauqua Captain D’s Restaurant Vision Center tagline “Ruston, Louisiana” with colorful Institution, and Cleveland Ohio, at the Chemical Dynamics Waggoner Engineering, Inc. geometric shapes. The second mural Manifest Gallery and Drawing Center. Frosty Factory of America, Inc. Warren Frazier Construction Company is located on the side of the Louisiana For more information and to view the Michael L. Walpole, Architect, LLC Wells Fargo Advisors Center for the Blind’s woodshop facing work, visit whitneytrislercauseyart.com. Origin Bank Westside Self Storage S. Trenton St. and represents Ruston’s Bustamante and Causey were honored State Farm Insurance - Robert Temple Whittington Architects close connection to the blind community. to be selected for the Hospitality Award 20+ This mural is scripted with “Ruston” and prepared the following statement. Advantage Resourcing 5+ 4 Paws Rescue, Inc. and features the caption in giant braille. We are extremely grateful to have been Albritton Service Company, LLC Bustamante and school of design given the opportunity to be a part of the Blue Bell Creameries, LP A+ Computer Specialists La Capitol Federal Credit Union Barnes & Noble @ Louisiana Tech students completed a third mural located beautification of downtown Ruston. With LifeShare Blood Centers Beau Vines Steakhouse @ The Revelry inside the I-20 service road tunnel each new mural, our goal is to always Manpower Temporary Services Davis & Associates underpass that connects Woodward engage the residents of the community, NetTech DeWitt French Giger & Sitton, LLP Ave. and the frontage road with images and it has been a true blessing to be able Ruston Aviation, Inc. Elite Healthcare Alliance depicting Ruston’s Rock Island Greenway to experience firsthand how the residents The Cleaners of Ruston Ensure - The Insurance Agency shared-use path. of Ruston have fully embraced the murals 10+ Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana “We’re so pleased that these two are as iconic aspects of Lincoln Parish. Acme Glass & Mirror G & C Energy Services receiving this year’s Hospitality Award,” We feel that murals are like symbolic American AVL H&R Block says Travis Napper, CVB President/ self-portraits of a city itself. A mural Amethyst Construction Hunter Energy Corp. CEO. “These murals Nick and Whitney can change not only the landscape of a Aramark at LA Tech James L. Davis Construction LLC created have had a tremendous impact small town or city, but the outlook the Ardagh Glass, Inc. Kona Ice of NELA on the visual appeal of our community residents of the community have about Argent Financial Group, Inc. Leslie Lakes Retirement Center and provide a great sense of pride in the where they live and work. For us, it has Avenue Christian Bookstore LifeChurch.LA Baldwin’s Jewelers area. They’ve also provided a fun photo always been important that we create a Lincoln Health Foundation BancorpSouth sharing opportunity for both visitors and piece of art that encompasses imagery Belue Family Clinic Lincoln Parish School District locals.” in a symbolic way to represent the Cedar Creek School Lincoln Parish Tax Assessor Sheila Bustamante began his art studies at town and the pride the residents have CenterPoint Energy Bordelon Humboldt State University where he in their community. Being a part of the Century Ready Mix Martin Presence Property Management received his Bachelor of Art in Studio revitalization of Ruston, and having our Chironetwork Chiropractic Clinic M.L. Smith, Jr., LLC Art. Bustamante went on to receive work be accepted to the extent that it Coburn’s Supply MCS his Master of Fine Arts in Painting has, creates a profound bond with a place Country Inn & Suites Med-Camps of Louisiana at California State University Long unlike any we have had before. We are Crawford Environmental Services, LLC Morrison Companies Crow Burlingame, Inc. Beach. He currently serves as the thankful for this beautiful City called Days Inn Murphy Bros. Trucking & Construction, LLC Studio Program Chair in the School of Ruston and the opportunity to have an Dr. Wesley O. Lynch III Design at Louisiana Tech University impact on its future. Ewing Timber, LLC Nadel & Gussman Ruston, LLC where he teaches traditional and digital In 1999, the Ruston Lincoln CVB First Baptist Church New Beginnings Wellness Center & Franke Consumer Products, Inc. Spa painting, conceptual design, pre-medical began to recognize members of the Fuqua Companies, LLC Pennington Financial, LLC illustration, scientific visualization and community who make a significant Gilbert Realty RAW Sushi, LLC senior portfolio courses. Bustamante is impact on our area and help fulfill the Hennigan & Wilt, Inc. Regions Bank also co-founder of the Visual Integration CVB’s mission by honoring them with Hunt, Guillot & Associates RelaDyne Hill Oil Company of Science Through Art program the Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award. iBERIABANK (VISTA) at LATECH. Bustamante is a J.E. Barnes Realty, Inc. Rocketfast Car Wash Jim Taylor Ford Lincoln Roma Italian Bistro nationally recognized painter, included in About the Ruston Lincoln Convention Johnston Dental Care Senator Mike Walsworth private, public and museum collections. & Visitors Bureau Ken’s Coffee Service Serenity Springs Specialty Hospital Throughout his career he has had sixteen The Ruston Lincoln Convention & Kilpatrick Funeral Homes St. Thomas Aquinas Church solo exhibitions and has been included Visitors Bureau is a destination marketing Law Offices of Michael S. Coyle STC, LLC in thirty-eight group exhibitions. organization that works to create, preserve Legacy Outpatient Therapy Services Tax Max Bustamante’s medical illustrations have and enhance a variety of quality visitor Lincoln ACHIEVE University Crossing Apartments been published in textbooks and research experiences through the promotion Lincoln Realty, Inc. Yeager, Watson & Assoc., Inc. Louisiana Center For The Blind journals such as the American Chemical Lincoln Parish. For more information, Louisiana Insurance Services Society. Within the last five years he visit www.experienceruston.com. Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home 1+ Mabry Company, LLC Dairy Queen Ruston Merrill Lynch Edward Jones - Jeremy Hebert Would you like to receive electronic newsletters Meyer, Meyer, LaCroix & Hixson, LLC Financial Advisor National Jewelry Company, Inc. Newk’s Eatery to keep you posted on what’s happening in North Central LA Arts Council (NCLAC) Party Galaxy, LLC Northern Louisiana Medical Center Providence Real Estate, LLC Ruston-Lincoln? O’Neal’s Farm & Garden Southern Grace Events & Blessings, Oral Surgery Associates Go to www.rustonlincoln. Pafford Emergency Medical Services, LLC Inc. T & M Overhead Door org and click on “Sign Up Paramount Healthcare Utility Brewing Company Patrick Stuckey, D.D.S. Vintage & Vogue to Stay In the Know” at Peach Tree Dental WHS Productions the top of the page. 8 CHAMBER CONNECTION January 2019

McCarter Financial Group, LLC Business After Hours Psalm 1:3 Most people don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan. (Photo album on Facebook.com/RustonChamber.) S. Greg McCarter, LUTCF

2028 E. Kentucky Ave. 318-255-1444 Ruston, LA 71270 FAX 318.255.1480

[email protected] mccarterfinancialgroup.com

www.ensureagency.com

November Business After Hours at Ruston Florist and Belle de Fleur Boutique

Debbie Allen, Owner/Operator 1103 Farmerville Hwy. (318) 255-8747 www.rustonflorist.com Groundbreaking

Event photos can be viewed on Facebook.com/RustonChamber.

The new 13,000 sq. ft. facility will feature HOIST Fitness equipment, a cardio mezzanine, an 1800 sq. ft. women’s only gym with separate entry, restrooms, showers, tanning, and recovery room, and more. of Ruston Current location: 304 East Reynolds Dr., Ruston

Owners: Walker Alford & Randy Seegars CFO: Tara Smith Gen Mgr: Trey Smith http://www.allhoursfitness.com

All Hours Fitness future home: 1506 Commerce St., Ruston New Members

The Chamber Connection (023/623) is published monthly for $12 a year by the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Ruston Self Storage Seedlinks Behavior Management, LLC 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270. Application to mail at Periodicals 1612 Commerce St., Ruston 408 West Mississippi Ave., Ruston postage rates paid at Ruston, LA and (318) 547-6017 (318) 626-5597 additional mailing offi ces. www.rustonselfstorage.com www.seedlinks.net POSTMASTER: Send address changes Owners: Michael Graham and Derek Busby Medical Director: Dr. Greg Brown to the Chamber Connection, 2111 North Trenton St., Ruston, LA 71270-4420. All contents copyright and may not be Seedlinks Behavior Management, LLC reproduced without permission of the publisher. Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting will be held on Jan. 23at 11:30 a.m. Printed and produced 2018 by RSVP by Jan. 16 to [email protected]. Ruston Newspapers, Inc.