Kelly Hall CEO
903.237.4004
khall@longviewtx.com
David Jochum
President/COO
903.237.4023
djochum@longviewtx.com
Shawna Stewart Investor Support
903.237.4000
sstewart@longviewtx.com
Catherine Camp
Membership & Retention Coordinator
903.237.4009
ccamp@longviewtx.com
Morgan Wilcox
Business Development & Marketing Manager
903.237.4013
mwilcox@longviewtx.com
THURSDAY
2026 Officers
Andy Hill Chair
Mobberly Baptist Church
Jennifer Ware Chair-Elect VeraBank
Brian Daugbjerg Chair of Finance
Longview Scrap & Metal Company
Lori Ivey Past-Chairman
State Farm Insurance – Lori Ivey
Casey Beddingfield Vice Chairman
RLM General Contractors
Mark Robinson Vice Chairman
AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company
Directors
Clay Thompson Texas Bank and Trust
Wesley Knight
Longview Regional Medical Center
Jessica LaRue
Harbour Smith Harris and Merritt PC
Michael Clements Jr. PDQ America, LLC
Adrienne Deason
Henry and Peters, P.C.
Don Deem
Cablelynx Broadband
Krupal Patel Scotties – Longview
Dana Rutland Right at Home
Andrew Coggins Eastman Chemical Company
Steve Mason LeTourneau University
Shannon Moore
Longview City Council
Bill Stoudt County of Gregg
Kurt DeVaney CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System
“ In today’s environment, speed spreads information. Leadership verifies it.”
It’s easy to believe what we hear today.
Social media moves fast. Messages are confident. Delivery is polished. And if it sounds right, we tend to accept it.
And honestly, I get it.
When something is delivered with confidence and clarity, it sticks. It feels true.
Recently, I came across a clip from The Newsroom featuring Jeff Daniels. Strong delivery. Confident. Convincing. The kind that makes you pause and think, that sounds right.
But when I slowed down and checked it, parts of it didn’t hold.
Some data was outdated. Some overstated. Some framed in a way that made it feel more absolute than it really is.
So I did what we should all be doing more of. I checked it. Then I reworked it using current, credible data.
Not to argue. Not to prove a point. To get closer to the truth. Because how we understand the world shapes how we lead at home.
This isn’t just a national conversation. It showed up right here in our business community.
Recently, a member in good standing was navigating a difficult situation. During that time, individuals began using social media to try to influence customers to take action against the business. Then it escalated.
Someone created a fake identity using our Chamber Chairman’s name. They pulled an old photo from the internet, assigned him a title that was incorrect, and attempted to reference our organization, also incorrectly. From there, they posted comments as if they were speaking on behalf of the Chairman and the Chamber.
The statements were not just inaccurate. They were false.
Fortunately, people who know our Chairman and our team recognized immediately that something wasn’t right. They reached out quickly.
Our chairman acted just as fast. He contacted legal counsel, reported the account to the platform, and within 72 hours the post was removed.
We were fortunate.
Because this could have gone very differently.
This had the potential to impact his personal reputation, his employer, the member business involved, and the credibility of the Chamber. What happened here is not unique. It is becoming more common.
Misinformation is not just frustrating. It carries real consequences. It can damage trust with customers. It can create confusion in the market.
It can pull leadership time into response instead of strategy. And it can impact relationships that take years to build.
For businesses, reputation is one of your most valuable assets. Today, it is also one of the most vulnerable.
Verification is no longer optional. It is part of protecting your business.
If we’re honest, the United States is still one of the most innovative and opportunity-driven countries in the world.
That hasn’t changed. But if we ask whether we lead in every category, the answer is more nuanced.
Freedom exists in many countries, not just ours. Organizations like Freedom House consistently show that.
In education, data from the OECD places the U.S. around the middle of developed nations in math, stronger in reading.
In healthcare, we spend more than anyone. Yet life expectancy data from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention shows we lag behind many peers.
We also have one of the highest incarceration rates globally, according to the World Prison Brief.
And in defense, we lead by a wide margin, based on data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
That’s not criticism. That’s clarity.
WHERE THIS SHOWS UP LOCALLY
Take housing.
We are seeing a growing gap between income levels and available housing that meets workforce needs. That affects hiring, retention, and whether people choose to stay and build their future here.
The same is true across workforce conversations. Employers are not asking for more activity. They are asking for alignment, solutions, and results.
Clear data leads to better decisions. Assumptions slow us down.
We lead in innovation.
We lead in entrepreneurship.
We lead in higher education and research.
People still come here to build something. To take a risk. To create opportunity. That matters.
We don’t get better by repeating what sounds good. We get better by understanding what is true.
This is not about being negative. It’s about being accurate. It’s about making sure the decisions we make are based on what is real, not what is repeated.
And it’s about recognizing that leadership today requires more than vision. It requires discernment.
The first step in solving any problem is seeing it clearly.
We have work to do. And we have the capacity to do it.
That’s what makes this country strong. And it’s what makes communities like Longview matter.
We don’t wait. We verify. We step in. And we move forward. Together.
A simple discipline for leaders and teams
; Who is the source?
; Is the information current?
; Can it be confirmed by another credible source?
; Does it align with what you already know?
; If it involved your business, would you want it verified first?
Call to action:
Take one minute before you share something. Verify it.
That one minute can protect your reputation, your team, and your business.
Our June session of the 40 Under 40 Executive Series is built for leaders who are ready to move from conversation to action.
This session will be led by Abel Sanchez and focuses on one of the most talked about and least understood shifts happening across every industry right now. Artificial intelligence is no longer a future topic. It is already shaping how organizations operate.
The question is not whether AI matters. The question is how to approach it in a way that strengthens your organization without adding complexity that slows you down.
The workshop is designed to keep that conversation practical. No hype. No theory. Just real decisions tied to how your organization actually works.
ǂ How to think about AI across both operations and your organization’s offerings
ǂ How to navigate the pressure to act without overreacting
ǂ Why many organizations are not yet seeing meaningful return on AI investments
ǂ How to lead change while staying grounded in your core customer
We will also challenge a mindset that holds many organizations back. Treating AI as a tool you simply plug in does not lead to meaningful progress. The organizations that move forward are the ones that rethink how they operate, not just what tools they use. That is where real opportunity exists.
At the center of it all is your team. Strong organizations focus on helping people adapt, build new habits, and use AI in ways that genuinely improve their work, not just accelerate it.
This is a working session designed to help young professionals take the next step with clarity and confidence.
Presented by RLM General Contractors
Every community hits a moment where the question shifts. Not “Are we doing well?”
But “Are we ready for what’s next?”
That’s where Longview is right now.
We have momentum. We have strong employers. We have people who care deeply about this place. But expectations are changing. Talent is choosing differently. Growth is creating pressure. And the communities that are getting it right are not guessing. They are learning, aligning, and acting with intention.
That is why we do InterCity.
This year, we are traveling to Northeast Tennessee to spend time in three connected communities: Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. Together, they are known as the Tri-Cities.
They are not one city. They are three distinct communities that have made a deliberate decision to work together as a region. And it shows. Johnson City has built around education, healthcare, and talent development.
Kingsport has focused on advanced manufacturing and innovation, anchored by Eastman Chemical Company.
Bristol has turned its identity into an economic driver, from the Birthplace of Country Music Museum to major destination events at Bristol Motor Speedway. Different strengths. Shared direction.
This is not a sit-and-listen trip. It is built for leaders who want to understand how things actually work. We will spend time inside employer-driven workforce systems, hear directly from young professionals making decisions to stay, and walk through downtown spaces that have been intentionally redeveloped.
We will have honest conversations about housing, growth, and the tradeoffs that come with both.
And we will sit down with industry leaders, including time at Eastman Chemical Company, to understand how business shapes workforce, education, and long-term strategy.
Everything we are focused on connects directly to the work happening here: Workforce. Housing. Downtown redevelopment. Talent attraction and retention. Regional alignment.
This year’s InterCity visit is made possible through the leadership of RLM General Contractors.
“Strong communities don’t happen by chance. They’re built with intention, with the right partners at the table, and with a willingness to learn from others who are doing it well.”
— Casey Beddingfield
That mindset reflects exactly what this trip is about.
We are also grateful to have Eastman Chemical Company and Eastman Credit Union engaged as part of this experience, bringing real-world perspective on how industry and finance help shape a region’s long-term success.
“Workforce doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes alignment between business, education, and community leadership. That’s where real progress begins.”
— Andrew Coggin, Eastman Chemical Company
“Strong communities are built when organizations think beyond their walls and invest in the broader region. That’s where we see lasting impact.”
— Jonathan Webb, Eastman Credit Union representative
InterCity is designed for leaders who are not just observing what’s happening around them. They are shaping what comes next. If you are in a C-suite role, leading a company, organization, or institution, this experience is built for you. You will not just gain insight. You will build relationships. You will help define what comes next for Longview.
We are taking a limited group of leaders who are ready to lean in and stay engaged beyond the trip.
Early registration is open now, with pricing at $450 before August 15. Space is limited, and we expect this group to fill with decision makers and those driving change in our region.
This is not about getting away. This is about coming back with clarity, alignment, and the confidence to act. Let’s go see what’s working and bring it home.
REGION S TATE O F TH E 20 26
The Longview Chamber of Commerce welcomed business leaders, community partners, and regional stakeholders to State of the Region 2026 on Thursday, March 26 at the Infinity Event Center for an important and timely conversation centered on one of East Texas’ most critical resources—water.
This year’s program brought together expert voices to explore how water impacts our economy, infrastructure, and long-term growth. As East Texas continues to evolve, the availability, management, and stewardship of water are becoming increasingly vital to sustaining both our communities and our business environment.
The program opened with remarks from Chamber Board Chair Andy Hill, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for a thoughtful and forwardlooking discussion. Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt followed, helping frame the conversation around the role water plays across the region and why it matters now more than ever.
Attendees then heard from regional experts who provided valuable insight into both current conditions and future considerations.
David Scott of the East Texas Council of Governments offered a comprehensive look at groundwater, regional planning efforts, and the importance of collaboration across jurisdictions. His presentation highlighted the growing demand for water resources and the need for thoughtful, strategic planning.
Laura Overdyke of the Caddo Lake Institute provided environmental and regional context, sharing the significance of Caddo Lake and surrounding ecosystems. Her perspective reinforced the balance required between conservation and growth, and the importance of protecting natural resources that define East Texas.
The program concluded with a panel discussion led by Mark Robinson, bringing together key takeaways and encouraging continued dialogue around this critical issue.
Water is more than a resource in East Texas. From the aquifers beneath us to landmarks like Caddo Lake and Lake O’ the Pines, it is foundational to our way of life, our economy, and our future. As demands increase across the state, conversations like this are essential to ensuring we are prepared for what lies ahead.
We are grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and attendees for contributing
to such an impactful event. State of the Region continues to serve as a platform for meaningful conversations that influence the future of Longview and the greater East Texas region.
The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors who made this event possible:
GOLD SPONSORS:
At the Longview Chamber of Commerce, our members are at the heart of everything we do. This July 6–10, we are proud to continue a meaningful tradition with our Thank You Drive, a dedicated week focused on showing appreciation to the businesses and investors who help move Longview forward.
The Thank You Drive is more than a gesture. It is a meaningful opportunity to strengthen relationships, celebrate the impact of our business community, and personally connect with the leaders and teams who invest in our region’s success.
Every business has a story, and during Thank You Drive week, we have the privilege of hearing those stories firsthand. Volunteers serve as ambassadors of the Chamber, delivering appreciation packages, connecting face-to-face with members, and reinforcing the value of being part of a strong and engaged business community.
Whether you are new to the Chamber or a long-time member, this is a unique chance to build relationships, expand your network, and experience the impact of our work across Longview.
Volunteers will be at the forefront of our outreach efforts, making businessto-business (B2B) calls and delivering thank-you gifts to our investors. This is your opportunity to connect directly with key players in our local economy, hear their stories, and express our collective appreciation for their continued support.
To make participation easy, volunteer shifts will be available throughout the week, and lunch will be provided each day.
In addition to volunteering, we invite businesses to contribute a promotional item for the thank-you bags. Examples include items such as a picture frame message magnet, USB-C charging cable, stylus metal pen, or other branded giveaways.
Please note that brochure placement in the thank-you bags will be reserved for businesses that provide a promotional item. By registering for a volunteer shift, your company is confirming the ability to provide between 200–500 promotional items, to be delivered to the Chamber by June 12.
We invite you to be part of this impactful week. Your time and participation help create a culture of appreciation that strengthens our entire business community.
To sign up or learn more, contact our team or visit our website.
The Thank You Drive reflects what makes the Longview business community special, a shared commitment to supporting one another, celebrating success, and building a stronger future together. Join us as we say thank you, in person and with purpose.
For more than four decades, Leadership Longview has empowered rising leaders in our city by providing a transformative 9-month program designed to educate, inspire, and mobilize individuals to better serve our community. This year’s class of dedicated individuals has truly exemplified the mission: “To strengthen and transform the community of Longview through a program of leadership development, community study, and involvement.”
Each year, participants engage in monthly sessions focusing on crucial aspects of community life, including Education, Community & Economic Development, Health & Emergency Services, Quality of Life, Criminal Justice, and Leadership Development. The program culminates in a graduation celebration in May, honoring not only what they’ve learned but the lifelong connections they’ve made. Class Project: Honoring the Past - Empowering the Next Generation
One of the most impactful components of the program is the class project. For 2026, the Leadership Longview class chose to partner with the The Gregg County Historical Museum. Their ambitious vision focused on enhancing the museum experience through meaningful upgrades that help preserve and showcase the rich history of Gregg County, including exhibits such as Local Legends, Mic Drops & Music Stops, and Homeland & Heritage.
On April 9th, the class hosted a grand reopening ribbon cutting at the Gregg County Historical Museum, celebrating the completion of their class project. Graduation for the Class of 2026 will be held on May 7th during the Longview Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Solutions Luncheon.
Special Thanks to Our Leadership Longview Presenting Sponsor
Connie Abernathy
Jordan Avant
Erica Ballard
Jill Crocker
Caitlin Green
Cheryl Islam
Roxane Johns
Jonathan LaMaster
Tawana McCarty
Sarah Dickey
Kyle Perkins
Keith Pfeffer
Tammy Price
Murrey Rabenhorst
Damien Reese
Ryan Rockett
Lance Sustaita
Michelle Tuttle
Olivia Whaley
Erin Whitehurst
Morgan Wilcox
Your dedication, collaboration, and leadership have left a lasting mark on Longview. We can’t wait to see the incredible things you’ll accomplish next!
The Longview Chamber of Commerce welcomed members and community partners to the Chamber Classic Golf Tournament – Spring 2026 on Friday, March 27 at Tempest Golf Club for an afternoon of connection, competition, and camaraderie.
With a shotgun start at 1:00 PM, teams from across the business community took to the course for a fun and relaxed tournament that continues to be one of the Chamber’s most anticipated annual events. More than just a day on the greens, the Chamber Classic serves as a meaningful opportunity for networking, relationship building, and celebrating the partnerships that help move Longview forward.
Participants enjoyed lunch, time with fellow business leaders, and a lively atmosphere throughout the course. From friendly competition to conversations at hospitality tents, the event reflected the strong sense of community that defines the Longview Chamber.
A highlight of the tournament was the opportunity for players to engage directly with sponsors who helped make the day possible. Special thanks to our sponsors for their generous support:
⛳ Series Presenting Sponsor: VeraBank
⛳ Longest Drive Sponsor: Friedman Industries Inc
⛳ Putting Green Sponsor: Solenis LLC
⛳ Hospitality Tent Sponsors: Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Pro-Motions LLC, and Tarry Title
These sponsors played a key role in creating an engaging experience for all attendees, offering everything from on-course activities to welcoming spaces for connection.
As always, the tournament concluded with awards and prize giveaways, with participants required to be present at the end to win. The closing moments provided a fun and celebratory finish to a successful day on the course.
The Chamber Classic Golf Tournament continues to showcase the power of business relationships in a setting that encourages both connection and community pride. Events like this not only strengthen professional networks but also reinforce the Chamber’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering opportunities for growth.
We are grateful to everyone who participated, sponsored, and supported this year’s tournament. We look forward to seeing you on the course again next year.
The Longview Chamber of Commerce is excited to host the Small Business Solutions Luncheon on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Infinity Event Center from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. This annual event is dedicated to celebrating innovation, and business success while providing key insights to help small businesses thrive.
A highlight of the luncheon will be the recognition of the 2026 Small Business Award recipients, outstanding businesses that exemplify leadership, dedication, and commitment to their industries and the local community. This year’s honorees include:
Woman-Owned Business of the Year – Women’s Health Boutique
Family-Owned Business of the Year – Rader Funeral Home
Small Business of the Year – NCIC Inmate Communications
Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Infinity Event Center | 300 Tuttle Circle | Longview, TX 75605
Additionally, we are thrilled to celebrate the graduation of the Leadership Longview Class of 2026, recognizing the next generation of leaders who will make an impact in our community.
Join us as we celebrate the resilience, innovation, and success of our local small businesses. Reserve Your Spot Today!
Reserved company tables, display tables, and individual tickets are available at this link: Small Business Solutions Luncheon 2026
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network, and celebrate the impact of small businesses in our community.
We look forward to seeing you there!
This event would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors:
CLICK ON business names to link to Chamber directory information or link directly to their business website.
Bent’s Coffee and Donuts PO Box 1645
Hallsville, TX, 75650 Facbook Page
Big Al’s Barefoot Bay 5244 FM 1520 Pittsburg, TX, 75686 bigalsbarefootbay.com
Fibrenew NorthEast Texas 2073 FM 2011
Longview, TX, 75603 fibrenew.com/englewood-texarkana-longview/contact-us
Force Construction Co., Inc. 990 N. National Road Columbus, IN, 47201 forceco.com
God & The Great Outdoors Expo 16462 Hwy 31 W Tyler, TX, 75756 Godandthegreatoutdoors.com
Hawkins Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care
311 E. Hawkins Parkway Longview, TX, 75605 hawkinscreekseniorliving.com
Integrity Real Estate Brokerage 4610 Judson Rd Longview, TX, 75605 integrityrealestatebrokeragellc.com
Interpreting Training and Consulting Services LLC PO Box 632643 Nacogdoches, TX, 75963 itcstexas.com
Longview Home Center 2403 S Eastman Rd Longview, TX, 75602 longviewhomecenter.com
Maid in East Texas, LLC 503 E. Cotton St Longview, TX, 75601 maidinetx.com
Paisanos of East Texas 3122 Nealy Way #227 Longview, TX, 75605 paisanosofeasttexas.org
Prothro, Wilhelmi and Company, PLLC 6855 Oak Hill Blvd Tyler, TX, 75703 pw-tx.com
RISE Leadership Development P. O. Box 27
Overton, TX, 75684 rise-now.net
Solvo Global 213 Lafoy Ln Hallsville, TX, 75650 Directory Listing
Tenacious Trailblazing LLC 9000 Hwy 191 Converse, LA, 71419 deirdregogarty.com
W E L C O M E
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1203 W Loop 281 Longview, TX 75604 JUDSON RD LOCATION
903-230-0771
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Calling the number above will direct you to a licen sed sales agent. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government or Federal Medicare Prog ram. This is a solicitation for
Be the first Chamber member to find the hidden logo ‘bug’ in this issue of H.E.A.R.T. and your company will get a 1/4 page ad in the next issue! When you find it email –mwilcox@longviewtx.com
You must identify the page # and exact location of the ‘bug’. The first person to correctly find it and email Morgan will be notified. You must be a member of the Longview Chamber of Commerce to get a free 1/4 page ad.
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