We wanted to let you know that we have a Guest Speaker this Wednesday, September 19th, 2018. Judge Andrew W. Cable, Justice of the Peace Precinct 3.

In case you aren’t familiar with Judge Cable, here’s a bit of information about his philosophy and his background/experience.

Judge Cable has structured his tenure as Justice of the Peace under the motto of “community justice”. In this effort, he has created an office that serves specifically to the needs of the community.

During his time in office, he has worked to improve relations with the community through various efforts including working with the schools to bring in students missing schools, assisting in resolution to get these students back in the classroom and holding them accountable to the community.  His office has also been significantly instrumental in the recovering restitution for ‘hot’ checks for community businesses. Before taking office these checks were filed with the District attorney’s office. Local businesses have appreciated being able to file these checks locally and collect on the restitution much faster than in the past. Additionally, he has tightened up on the enforcement of deed restrictions. His impartial rulings in the courtroom have put the property rights back in the hands of the property owner in eviction cases. He operates his office in an organized but minimal manner in order to maintain accountability of taxpayer dollars and utilize his office for the betterment of the community and county.

The Judge graduated from Southwest Texas State University in 1992 and received his Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice. In 2007 he furthered his education and received his masters in criminal justice form texas state university and is certified in Alternate Dispute Resolution for civil and family disputes. As lead mediator for Omni Dispute Resolution, he specializes in local government, city, county and state disputes, real estate disputes, deed restrictions disputes, deceptive trade practices, and landlord/tenant disputes. He has adjudicated over 4000 cases involving similar disputes. He has extensive courses and accredited hours in real estate law, finance and deed restriction. Judge Cable maintains his real estate license and is a licensed intensive community corrections officer and certified in commercial banking.

So please come to the Hometown Networking Group meeting on Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 and meet the Judge!

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Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

September

September 19th Judge Andrew W. Cable 

25th  Terry Lawrence  Reliable Automotive                                                         Education Moment Trish Wilder Edward Jones 

 

 

INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

How about checking us out? We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us!

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

Yes kids are officially back in school and a few HNG members were coming in late as they had ‘momma’ or ‘poppa’ duty getting kids ready and out the door. It takes a few weeks for us all to get into the swing of the new schedules.

Education Moment was done by Celeste Messer with Adkor Group with Maxavenue. She pointed out that ‘snail mail’ has really made a comeback in today’s world and people appreciate handwritten, (key is handwritten) notes and cards. This being the case she reminded the group that now was a great time to order Christmas or Thanksgiving cards at a discount to have them ready to send out to all or a portion of your client list. Keeping top of mind awareness is always a good thing for small business owners.

About twenty people were in attendance this morning to hear the “Member Spotlight”. Today Ryan Vickers, an attorney with John Hall and Associates Law Firm, gave us all a peek at his life, his family and his priorities.

Ryan shared that his Faith in Jesus was an important part of his life but that it hadn’t always been that way. Like many, myself included, Ryan was brought up in the church but based on what he saw he felt many who attended were hypocrites. And like many, that experience made him run the other way when he got old enough to do so.

He credits his wife Lindsey in helping him change his view…and it sounds like his ways too…

Ryan, a self-proclaimed sports fanatic, re-iterated the fact that he and his wife is and always will be, die-hard A & M fans.

Ryan is a real family man and has always been close to his family and extended family. His dad even served as the best man at his wedding. Ryan explained that his dad has always been a model for behavior and a man of integrity so it only seemed right for him to be the best man.

Ryan was especially close to his grandparents, which is not always the case.  One of his grandmothers died before he was able to meet her, yet she too had an impact on him.  She was a very proficient fisher-woman and hunter. He shared a photo of her when she was young and sitting beside her was a HUGE bass fishing trophy. This was a tournament where she competed head to head with the men. If you think about the time when this took place, about a half century ago, it’s impressive that she was able to get into the competition let alone WIN the whole thing. What a strong woman she must have been. He’s hoping he can someday get her into the Bass Hall of Fame as she truly was a trailblazer for her time.

Ryan was able to tell us that his wedding anniversary is October 23rd, 2015. This was a test and he passed with flying colors. It was especially important as his anniversary is right around the corner. it’s clear he’s head over heals in love with his wife and is proud of her work.

John also shared a story of how a woman named Crystal, guided him and served as his mentor in college. He called her his ‘angel’.  It’s clear she helped him stay on track while he was getting his feet under him and figuring out who and what he wanted to be.

After we got some of Ryan’s personal story he took a few minutes to once again share some Top 10 tips regarding needing or avoiding the need to get a lawyer. It’s as simple as Follow the Golden Rule, do unto others as you want others to do unto you.  And if you do get a lawyer, for heaven’s sake don’t lie to them. He said he understands how you might want to lie to your mother, but NEVER lie to your lawyer.

I’ll make a plug here for Ryan. Granted you may not feel the need to have a lawyer, BUT if you don’t have a Will drawn up then I’d recommend that you don’t keep putting that off. You don’t have to look far to see how much more difficult a death of a loved one is on a family when there is no will.  If you don’t know how to begin…call Ryan. Trust me, He’s a guy you’d want helping you. It only takes a minute talking to him to feel comfortable and know that he cares about his clients and will do whatever he can to help you.

You can learn more about Ryan, the John A Hall & Associates services by calling 512-268-6425 or by going to their website John A Hall & Associates 

 

 

 

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One last note: After every meeting we put our cards in a hat, this morning it was a popcorn bag, and pull one lucky members card for a $15.00 IHOP gift card. Well this morning Jim Collins won. Now while that would normally be the end of it, Jim has managed to have his card pulled 4 times in the last 7 weeks or so. The guy has got to buy a lottery ticket. He’s been crazy lucky.

 

Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

September

12th John Hardy Divided Sky and Roofing                                                       Education Moment  Irene Melendez  Broadway Bank

19th  Guest Speaker  Judge Andrew Cable                                                          Education Moment Rob Oskins Blue Crest Media

25th  Terry Lawrence  Reliable Automotive                                                         Education Moment Trish Wilder Edward Jones 

 

 

INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

How about checking us out? We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us!

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

It’s back-to-school time so the traffic pattern is changing and things are a little more hectic in many households across the area. But that didn’t keep the members of the Hometown Networking Group from making their Wednesday morning meeting.

The Education Moment was presented by Trish Wilder with Edward Jones. Trish’s moment was about Networking Do’s and Don’ts.  She provided reminders when you go to an event such as Chamber meeting, you need to remember you are the face of your business. Suggestions included things such as: Put your best foot forward, Don’t be afraid to say hello. Practice your ‘elevator speech. Have business cards to share. Be sure to follow up with people. Always have prepared questions. She had some don’ts as well including a common sense one, but one that is sometimes forgotten…don’t get drunk. Hopefully the last reminder wasn’t needed but in any case, it’s always good to have reminders of the Do’s and Don’ts of networking.

Member Spotlight: Based on group size about twice a year or so members get to share a little bit about themselves in what we call; The Member Spotlight. They take 10 minutes or so to talk about themselves and/or their business. Over the years the group has been together I’ve been surprised how candid people are with the information they share. Now as surprising as it is, it’s important for us to know each other and build relationships so we can trust to send referrals their way.

It was Brenda Spencer’s turn to share today. She shared some recent photos of her lovely family, her husband and fifteen-year-old daughter on their family vacations. Her daughter is going into high school and is active in soccer both in school and in the competitive soccer team in Hays. She admits to being nervous and I have to say my heart goes out to her. Two of my daughters were in soccer and I worried about them and was a nervous wreck on their behalf but it was the moms of the goalies I always felt sorry for. I was sooo glad my daughters didn’t choose to be a goalie. That is one important and very stressful position on the team.

Anyway back to Brenda, Brenda shared briefly how her positions in television and advertising all came to together in her current position in Publishing at Best Version Media. She currently has one local magazine publication up and running, Neighbors of West Buda, but she announced that her new publication, Neighbors of West Kyle and Mountain City was going to be out soon.

The Magazines already has a ‘sister publication in Lakeway called Neighbors of Lakeway which has proven that Brenda knows what she is talking about and that she has a winner. Like the Lakeway version, Neighbors in West Buda and the other, Neighbors in West Kyle and Mountain City, each magazine is hyper-focused on the community it represents. It is this type of laser beam targeting that gives business owners who work with that market, a great and cost-effective method of reaching out to that customer base. The concept of putting together a magazine that is highly localized is proving to be very popular and proves despite technology people are people. Yes, people love to see national news online and scan through the feeds for regional stories, but with all the new technology people still love the local stuff. They immediately engage when they see people, like themselves, people from right down the street, on the cover of the magazine. This type of focus, like the music and clothes of the seventies, has found its way back into the mainstream, and I for one and glad it did.

This is one publication that doesn’t go straight from the mail to the trash can. In fact, in recent surveys it has an astounding 84% open rate!!!. Some refer to this type of publication as being the Facebook of print media. It ties together so nicely with what people want, connection with a community.  If you would like to reach out to these communities and let them know about your business, by advertising in the magazine, reach out to Brenda. Her email is bspencer@bestversionmedia.com.

Upcoming Events:

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name must be Kyle. We thought originally it could be first middle or last or some derivative of Kyle, but we found out that your first name must be Kyle to qualify. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

FREEDOM DAY: Dr. Paulette Sanford DDS from Kohlers Crossing Dental reminded us that Freedom day was coming October 10th. She has participated several years giving free dental services to military, their families and first responders. For more info, or to set up an appointment, call Kohler’s Crossing Dental at 512-262-0689.

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

August

29th   TBD                                                                                                                  Education Moment Rob Oskins Blue Crest Media

September

5th  Ryan Vickers Attorney  John A Hall and Associates                                    Education Moment  Celeste Messer Adkor Group with Maxavenue

12th John Hardy Divided Sky and Roofing                                                       Education Moment  Irene Melendez  Broadway Bank

19th  Guest Speaker  Judge Andrew Cable                                                          Education Moment Rob Oskins Blue Crest Media

25th  Terry Lawrence  Reliable Automotive                                                         Education Moment Trish Wilder Edward Jones 

And how about checking out our group? We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us!

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (n I35 Southbound Access Rd, just south of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and the meeting ends promptly at 9:30.

School is back in session…wow it’s hard to believe how quickly the summer went. We all are now having to adjust to our new Fall schedules. Those with kids now have carpooling to work out and getting the kids up, dressed and out. Those without kids also have to make adjustments. We need to get up a bit earlier with the added traffic. Life is full of cycles. But one thing that continues, Summer or Fall, is our weekly networking meeting on Wednesday mornings at the IHOP in Kyle.

Evelina McBroom, wife of  memberJeremy McBroom, celebrated her 20 year anniversary this week of becoming an American city which was cool. And Terry Lee and his wife welcomed their new baby Hannah last week. Hannah came in at 5 lbs 10 oz and 18 3/4 inches long. Congrats to all.

Education moment: Trish Wilder from Edward Jones gave us the Education Moment this morning. As a financial advisor, Trish talks to a lot of people and sees a lot of situations that impact families financially as well as emotionally. She reminded us all that with kids going away to college we as parents need to make sure we have a Medical Power of Attorney for our child. Because once they turn 18 they are considered an adult. It was a good reminder. Something so simple to do can take a tough situation and make it easier.

This week’s Member Spotlight was presented by: Tyler Eads with Guild Mortgage. Tyler shared more about his background. He describes his childhood as being almost idyllic. He was raised in a little town called Medina and his graduating class had only 22 kids in it. With this size he was able to be involved in all the sports teams and he knew everyone in the school. He shared that sometimes he’s thought about how nice it would be if his two boys could experience that simple type of childhood. Maybe we all think that. The world is a much different place nowadays.

Tyler is a Mortgage Loan Officer with Guild Mortgage, who was Ranked #1 “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Primary Mortgage Originations” by J.D. Power. We also learned that while Tyler works many types of loans, he’s found to be a valuable resource in the loan niche of “Down-payment Assistance Programs”.

So if you or someone you know is in the market for a loan, we’d highly recommend that you reach out to Tyler. You can reach him at his office 512-583-5485 or email him at teads@guildmortgage.net.

 

Upcoming Events:

Mathnasium Grand Opening August 18th 11:30-1:00 5401 S. FM 1626 Ste 180 Kyle, TX (IN THE HEB STRIP)

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name must be Kyle. We thought originally it could be first middle or last or some deritive of Kyle, but we found out that your first name must be Kyle to qualify. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

FREEDOM DAY: Dr. Paulette Sanford DDS from Kohlers Crosing Dental reminded us that Freedom day was coming October 10th. She has participated several years giving free dental services to military, their families and first responders. For more info, or to set up an appointment, call Kohler’s Crossing Dental at 512-262-0689.

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

August

22nd  Brenda Spencer Best Version Media                                                           Education Moment  Trish Wilder – Edward Jones

29th   Irene Melendez  Broadway Bank                                                                 Education Moment Irene Melendez-Broadway Bank

September

5th   To Be Decided                                                                                                   Education Moment  Celeste Messer Adkor Group with Maxavenue 

And how about checking out our group? We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us!

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (n I35 Southbound Access Rd, just south of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and the meeting ends promptly at 9:30.

 

 

The Education Moment was presented by Rob Oskins, Blue Crest Media. He shared the importance of optimizing your “Google Business page’. He said that is getting more and more important. He suggested also that you get a list of 200 questions (He’s going to provide the list to us), and sit down and answer all the questions. Then post it with one email (someone else’s asking the questions) and your email providing the responses. Then you put a link back to your facebook, instagram, website etc. To be honest I’m not sure how that works but Rob offered to give us a brief training so we could do it. He explained how this would help with the rankings. One member of the group he is currently working with, Stephanie Murphree, Republic Veterinary Hospital, has already begun the process and having success with it.

 

Member Spotlight Chad Holmin, Like New Building Solutions

Chad Holmin was in the spotlight today. Chad shared a little about his upbringing in the Northwest. Though Chad has been a part of the group for several years, many of us didn’t realize that when he was in his early twenties he was working a full-time job,  going to school to get his Bachelors Degree, AND raising a son as a single parent …now that was a busy guy.

He started his business back in 2007 in Spokane, WA, but in 2012 he and his new wife moved to Kyle and he opened his doors and never looked back. Chad said he enjoys the variety in his days. He said he is passionate about the Custodial Service aspect of his business and helping businesses keep their establishments in great condition. It’s funny (at least to me) that he REALLY enjoys stripping and waxing floors. You’d think that would be one of the most dreaded jobs but Chad says otherwise. He also does construction cleanup, lawn care, windows and small handy man jobs.

Chad’s son Damien joined his dad in the spotlight today. He shared that when he was 16 he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. They trusted God and has never forgotten his gratitude for those who helped him heal. Since that time he told us he shaves his head in October for Cancer Awareness month. It’s an ongoing reminder of how life is a gift and we must not forget that. Damien also shared that he will be joining the Air Force shortly serving his country.  We salute you Damien!  And thanks in advance for helping protect our country.

Upcoming Events:

Mathnasium Grand Opening August 18th 11:30-1:00 5401 S. FM 1626 Ste 180 Kyle, TX (IN THE HEB STRIP)

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name must be Kyle. We thought originally it could be first middle or last or some deritive of Kyle, but we found out that your first name must be Kyle to qualify. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

FREEDOM DAY: Dr. Paulette Sanford DDS reminded us that Freedom day was coming October 10th. She has participated several years giving free dental services to military, their families and first responders. For more info, or to set up an appointment, call Kohler’s Crossing Dental at 512-262-0689.

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

August

15th  Tyler Eads Guild Mortgage                                                                             Education Moment Rob Oskins – Blue Crest Media

22nd  Brenda Spencer Best Version Media                                                           Education Moment  Trish Wilder – Edward Jones

 

 

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

 

We had a pretty good turnout this morning for a summer already starting to wind down and people squeezing in some last minute school shopping.

The Education Moment was presented by Celeste Messer part of the Adkor Group with Maxavenue.  Celeste pointed out that no matter what the product or service we are ‘selling’ we are all in the relationship business. In our technology world, people are losing the personal touch with their past clients and even friends and family.  Celeste suggested that we remember this and reach out to our clients, perhaps identifying a small group of them, and send a card or make a call. Make sure they know that you care.

Irene Melendez from Broadway Bank mentioned that recently a customer came in and mentioned his wife was sick. One of the Broadway team took it upon themselves to send his wife a card. She was floored when she got it and really touched. The customer was so taken with the gesture that he returned to thank the bank for making his wife’s day.  So take a few minutes and make someone’s day. You might be surprised how much it means to them!

Member, Dr. Paulette Sanford DDS from Kohlers Crossing Dental reminded us that October 10th is Freedom Day. it’s a day to give back to our veterans. She has participated every year since she opened her offices and finds it extremely rewarding and finds the vets really appreciate it. She suggested that the rest of us look and see what special discount, item etc we could offer on this day of giving thanks to those who have served our country.

 

Member Spotlight Jeremy McBroom from Mathnasium of Kyle;   

Jeremy shared his background with us and for most of us it was the first time we really got a glimpse of what makes Jeremy …well Jeremy.  He shared that a HUGE part of his life has been his service to the United States Military. This included being away from home for long periods of time serving our country during which time he was given numerous awards including the Bronze Star.

Jeremy has a total of 21 years in the military, first in the Navy, then he left the service but after 911 he decided to go back in. So he re-enlisted, this time in the Army as he was now married and didn’t want the long months away from his family that is required in the Navy. Today Jeremy remains a member of the US Reserves and says he will do it for as long as he can.  Thanks so much for your service to our country!!!!!

Jeremy is married and has one son and one fur baby. And while you might think he’d open the business of Math tutoring because he has always been a whiz at math, but in fact, it’s the opposite. It’s because he struggled in math and could have used the support that being part of a franchise like Mathnasium, which is designed to help kids K-12 with their math skills made sense to him.

Mathnasium is conveniently located in the HEB strip and is having a Grand Opening August 18 from 11:3- to 1:00. But you don’t have to wait for a grand opening or a ribbon cutting. Give Jeremy a call, or better yet stop in and check out his place.

Mathnasium of Kyle    5401 S. FM 1626, Suite 180, Kyle TX 78640(737) 414-5757   kyle@mathnasium.com

Upcoming Events:

Mathnasium Grand Opening August 18th 11:30-1:00 5401 S. FM 1626 Ste 180 Kyle, TX (IN THE HEB STRIP)

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name must be Kyle. We thought originally it could be first middle or last or some deritive of Kyle, but we found out that your first name must be Kyle to qualify. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

FREEDOME DAY: Dr. Paulette Sanford DDS reminded us that Freedom day was coming October 10th. She has participated several years giving free dental services to military, their families and first responders. For more info, or to set up an appointment, call Kohler’s Crossing Dental at 512-262-0689.

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

August

8th Chad Holmin    Like New Building Solutions                                                   Education Moment Irene Melendez  – Broadway Bank

15th  Tyler Eads Guild Mortgage                                                                             Education Moment Rob Oskins – Blue Crest Media

22nd  Brenda Spencer Best Version Media                                                           Education Moment  Trish Wilder – Edward Jones

 

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

 

It’s hard to believe that Christmas is only 5 months away!!!  I even watched some Hallmark Christmas movies this month when they had their Christmas in July shows. The year has been whizzing by.

But even as fast as time is going the members of the Hometown Networking Group still take their time on Wednesday mornings to come together at Kyle’s IHOP and meet. Our goal is to get to know one another and in turn help each other grow their business.

Education Moment: was presented by Trish Wilder with Edward Jones.   She shared a great story about a farmer who shared his prize winning seed corn with his neighbors. When asked by a reporter why he would be willing to do that as it would mean that his neighbors might win the competition, the farmer seemed surprised at the question. He explained that in order for his corn to be strong, he must count on the pollination of the plants that are growing in neighboring farms. His corn couldn’t continue to be good if their corn wasn’t.

So it is with our lives. Those who choose to live in peace must help their neighbors to live in peace. Those who choose to live well must help others to live well, for the value of a life is measured by the lives it touches. And those who choose to be happy must help others to find happiness, for the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all.
Great message, Trish!

This week’s Member Spotlight was Ron Martin with Ron Martin & Associates and PrimeMyBody.com   Ron shared his upbringing and photos

of his lovely family, including his daughter Ashley Atwood who is an actress in Hollywood. He let us in on some really exciting news; She’s filming a movie with the likes of John Travolta and Morgan Freeman! How cool is that! He also told us that she has recently won several awards for a short film she co-produced, wrote AND acted in called “Mimi’s Misadventure” So the talent seems to run in the family!

Ron’s background and something he really enjoys doing, is in the arena of corporate branding. He explains that, just like a personality, you have a brand, whether you know it or not. He shared the importance of thinking through what it is you do, what services you provide, who your target market is and then roll it together into a brand that works for you. He’s been in the business so long that he had a ton of logos that he created with and for past clients. His background and knowledge is truly amazing.

Ron also took some time to explain a new passion of his, hemp oil. Yep…hemp oil. He explained how he came across hemp oil when he was diagnosed with cancer and used hemp oil in his treatment. Both he and his doctors were amazed at the positive benefits of this oil. He stressed that it is legal in all states so no one has to wonder about that. So whether you are dealing with a new business, or updating an existing business, or you are in a health crisis, or wanting to avoid a health crisis, give Ron a call or shoot him an email. He can be reached at 979 219 0110 or at Ron@RonMartinAndAssociates.com

Upcoming Events:

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name must be Kyle. We thought originally it could be first middle or last or some deritive of Kyle, but we found out that your first name must be Kyle to qualify. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

August

1st  Jeremy McBoom   Mathnasium of Kyle                                                            Education Moment  Celeste Messer –  Adkor Group with Maxavenue

8th Chad Holmin    Like New Building Solutions                                                   Education Moment Irene Melendez  – Broadway Bank

15th  Tyler Eads Guild Mortgage                                                                             Education Moment Rob Oskins – Blue Crest Media

22nd  Brenda Spencer Best Version Media                                                           Education Moment  Trish Wilder – Edward Jones

 

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

It’s mid Summer in Texas and as usual…it’s hot. Like really hot. But luckily Hometown Networking Group meets in the cool of Kyle IHOP every Wednesday morning. Here we can come in and beat the heat and have a good cup of morning coffee and mingle with some friends. If you need more than that…then order some of their amazing breakfasts. You walk away knowing that all is right in the world.

Education Moment: Trish Wilder with Edward Jones shared some networking tips in today’s Education Moment. She covered 6 networking strategies: 1)Hone your elevator pitch, 2) It’s all about how you make ‘them’ feel. 3) Shift from a ‘getting mindset’ to a ‘giving’ mindset  4) Find new ways to connect, 5) Be responsive and 6) Be an advocate for yourself,  Many of the strategies might be familiar to business owners, but often, we get so busy doing the business that we forget the basics. It’s always good to have someone remind us. Thanks Trish!

This week’s Member Spotlight was Stephanie Murphree with Republic Veterinary Hospital.   

Stephanie shared her path from birth, on an airforce base in Massachusetts before making her way to today, Owner and Vet at Republic Veterinary Hospital here in Kyle Texas.

Stephanie shared that she did her undergrad at Baylor University before heading to Africa with the Peace Corp (yep she was in the Peace Corp!) How cool is that!! Not so cool however was the fact that she caught malaria which cut her stint in Africa a bit short. But still how many people can say they were in the Peace Corp, went to Africa and/or caught malaria?  After being back in the states awhile Stephanie worked with Green Peace organization and several other interesting jobs before she decided to go back to school and become a vet.

Stephanie admits her job as a vet is a lot of work BUT she says it’s also a lot of fun. How many people can say they had to pry a lizard’s (or was it an iguana…are they the same thing?) tooth off its owner’s finger during the middle of the night?  Seriously she’s been around long enough to have a bunch of stories.

While Stephanie has her own cat and two dogs, when asked her favorite animal she said, without hesitation, cats.  She loves them so you know you’re furry baby will be well taken care of by Stephanie and her staff.

Republic has a myriad of services including:

Exams – International Health Certificates – Dental Care – Laboratory Tests – Surgery – X-rays – Microchips and while it’s always a sad event, their office also sensitively handles Euthanasia.

The Republic Veterinary Hospital is located in the same shopping center as Fox’s Pizza at 154 Elmhurst Dr, Suite C, Kyle TX 78640. You can call the office at 512-269-0738 and find out why you can trust your pet to their care.

 

And who else has clients that are this cute?????

 

 

Upcoming Events:

Labor Day is just around the corner so be sure you have the Kyle Hot Air Balloon Festival on your calendar: Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Last year was the first year and despite the lousy weather we had over 12,000 visitors. The estimate for this year’s even bigger and better festival is 20,000 people coming to the event!  As part of the event the Rotary Club is going to try for the Guinness World Record for the most ‘KYLE’s’ in one place. That means your first name, middle name or last name can be Kyle, or Kylie. So if you’re a ‘Kyle’ or you know a ‘Kyle’ have them go to the Pie in the Sky website for info on how to enter. We only need about 250 ‘Kyles’ to make the Guinness World Record. Be a part of history!

The event runs from Friday afternoon August 31st through Sunday September 2nd packed full of events. Check out the schedule and come back often for updates!  Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival Schedule of Events

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

JULY 

25th Ron Martin     Ron Martin & Associates (and Hemp Oil)                                Education Moment: Trish Wilder- Edward Jones

August

1st  Jeremy McBoom   Mathnasium of Kyle                                                            Education Moment  Celeste Messer –  Adkor Group with Maxavenue

8th Chad Holmin    Like New Building Solutions                                                   Education Moment Irene Melendez  – Broadway Bank

15th  TBD                                                                                                                     Education Moment Rob Oskins – Blue Crest Media

22nd  TBD                                                                                                                    Education Moment  Trish Wilder – Edward Jones

 

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

We’re officially into the Summer vacation time of year. Life’s schedule gets a little more chaotic for some and slows down for others. Whichever side of the fence you’re on, you can still start off your Wednesday by joining the Hometown Networking Group at the Kyle IHOP as we do every Wednesday morning, rain or shine…(except for holidays.)  This week was no exception.

We’re meeting so often we even start dressing alike.  Here we have members Irene Melendez from Broadway Bank and Trish Wilder from Edward Jones coming in dressed as the “polka dot sisters”.  Polka Dots never looked so good!

This week’s Member Spotlight was Jim Collins with Firelight Laser.   

Jim shared some of his family history including the fact that he heard his future wife’s name on the loud speaker in H

igh School with all the awards she was getting etc and finally in his Junior year he had a chance to meet her and as they say the rest is history. We won’t mention his age but he did say this was 39 years ago…so you do the math.

He and his wife have two sons and it’s clear his family is a HUGE part of his life. I’ve known Jim for years and still I heard things about him today that I didn’t know.  I do know that back in 2009 Jim was looking for other career options, because as many of us found out, there was a recession on and jobs were hard to come by. So resourceful people like Jim, made their own opportunities.

A friend told him about Laser technology and Jim checked it out and the result is Firelight Laser.  Jim describes the laser process as a blend of art and technology. He also claims he can pretty much laser anything, as he proved a couple of years ago by lasering on another member of the networking groups arm cast. Yep a cast. Wouldn’t say there would be much demand for that but it was fun to see proof that he can laser pretty much anything. He even showed us how he can laser on something as little as a toothpick and the words still be readable.  The technology has come a long way and is nothing short of amazing.

The truth is engraving and lasering go far beyond what we would think of, Jim says you’re only limited by your imagination. He engraves things like: weapons of all kinds, wine glasses, bottles, wood items of all shapes and sizes, acrylic, sports equipment like bats, gloves, clubs, Yeti cups or Yeti-knockoffs, promotional gifts, client gifts, musical instruments, awards and trophies of all kinds and signs. Literally the list goes on and on.

In fact one of Jim’s mottos is:

“WE MAKE IT YOURS”, “

Anything you can get on the computer screen, we can get on material.”

 

Jim really means it!  So if you’re looking at personalizing a gift, or you need awards, or nametags or you just want that unusual thing for the hard to buy for family member…consider having something engraved.  Firelight laser is conveniently located  1 1/2 blocks off I35 at 1645 Main Street, Ste B   Buda, Texas  78610 .  Or call Jim at 512-814-8927. You are going to be surprised at your options.

Education Moment: Celeste Messer with Adkor Group with Maxavenue  took the moment today to remind members that sometimes a small business owner sometime needs to take that drastic step of;  “Firing a Client”.

Granted it’s not an easy thing to do but there are some people you can never please no matter how hard you try and they are a drain on your energy and your resources. So it’s always a good reminder that as a small business owner YOU have the right to choose who you work with. You owe it to yourself and your employees to “fire” those clients that aren’t a good match for your business…sometimes  the money is simply not worth it.

 

Upcoming Events:

Sue Ferrill’s turning 90!  There’s going to be a celebration on June 23, at 2pm at Kyle United Methodist Church at 408 W Lockhart St, Kyle TX 78640 to celebrate Sue’s 90th birthday. Sue wants us to remind folks…no gifts. Sue is a jewel so if you’re in town come join in to celebrate this wonder.

“Wet-working” on the River: (instead of ‘net’ working….get it?…) on the river is coming up June 20th. Ron Martin and his lovely wife Stacey are hosting this annual event. The group  be meeting in Gruene at Gruene River Company 11am for a potluck picnic. Then the plan is to get into river about 1 probably ending around 4 or 5.  It was agreed that each member can bring a guest (or two) significant other and/or potential networking members and HNG will pay the $15 ticket (for a

tube and a ride back to the car).   This is the 3rd year that Ron and Stacey Martin have hosted the event and it’s a fun and wet way to get to know some people.

Balloon Festival : Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky Balloon Festival. Estimates are we may have 20,000 people coming in for the event.

Sip and Savor: The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Workshop on how to improve your SEO : Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlight and Education Minute Speaker Schedule:

JUNE

20th: Everend Thorne  ET’s Home Repair                           Education Moment:  Rob Oskins

27th: Joe Wargo CPA                                                               Education Moment: Trish Wilder

JULY 

4th  REMEMBER NO MEETING  Have a wonderful Fourth of July!!!!!

11th Paulette Sanford        Kohler’s Crossing Dental       Education Moment: Irene Melendez

18th Stephanie Murphree Republic Veterinary Hosp     Education Moment: Rob Oskins

25th Courtney Dieckman   US Health                                Education Moment: Trish Wilder

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org

 

What a way to start a day. Coffee and breakfast with local business men and women.

Started with announcements of some upcoming events which got everyone excited about the ‘happenings’ around Kyle. These included: Sip and Savor coming in September and Pie in the Sky coming Labor Day weekend.

Member Spotlight time today was spent discussing: How to invite people to the Hometown Networking Group and how do we build our businesses. The discussion was that we would like to add more mini-seminars and/or discussions to share business ideas of marketing, building business, client data management etc. More will come on that.

Education Moment: Celeste Messer with Adkor Group with Maxavenue piggy-backed on the Spotlight discussion to discuss using Fourth of July as an opportunity to reach out to our clients. As Trish Wilder with Edward Jones put it, sending notes and cards has become a lost art.  Trish shared that she sends out one or two cards a day, finding ways to keep in touch with her clients, contacts etc.

Upcoming Events:

Sue Ferrill’s turning 90!  She’s having a Birthday party on June 23, at 2pm (I’ll post location next week) save the date!

“Wet-working” on the river is coming up June 20th. We’ll be meeting in Gruene at 11am for a picnic then planning to get on the river about 1 probably ending around 4 or 5. Details will be forthcoming. It was agreed that each member can bring a guest (or two) significant other and/or potential networking members and HNG will pay the $15 ticket (for a tube and a ride back to the car).

This is the 3rd year that Ron and Stacey Martin have hosted the event and it’s a fun and wet way to get to know some people. 

Remember to hold open Labor Day weekend for the Pie in the Sky festival. Estimates are we may have 20,000 people coming in for the event.

The Rotary’s annual Sip and Savor is right around the corner in the fall so keep your eyes peeled for info regarding date/time/location.

Rob Oskins from Blue Crest Media, is still planning on having a training regarding easy ways (he promised even I can do it) to use videos to improve your SEO and position on Google. Date/Time and location is still up in the air.

 Upcoming meeting, Member Spotlights:

JUNE

13th: Jim Collins    Fire Light Laser                                        Education Moment:  Irene Melendez

20th: Everend Thorne  ET’s Home Repair                           Education Moment:  Rob Oskins

27th: Joe Wargo CPA                                                               Education Moment: Trish Wilder

JULY 

4th  NO MEETING Fourth of July

11th Paulette Sanford        Kohler’s Crossing Dental       Education Moment: Irene Melendez

18th Stephanie Murphree Republic Veterinary Hosp     Education Moment: Rob Oskins

25th Courtney Dieckman   US Health                                Education Moment: Trish Wilder

 

NOT A MEMBER AND INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE HOMETOWN NETWORKING GROUP?

Come check us out. We welcome you to join us on Wednesday morning and meet some great local business owners.  What have you got to lose? Your first breakfast is on us! Dues are $60/quarter or $200/year. If you’re not ready to commit or can’t manage to come every Wednesday but you would still like to connect? We have an option for you. You are welcome to come any time you’d like and pay $10.

The group meets every Wednesday morning at Kyle IHOP  5401 Kyle Centre Dr, Kyle, TX 78640 (I35 Southbound Access Rd, just South of Kyle Expressway and I35 intersection).  Informal networking begins at 8:15, Meeting begins at 8:30 and ends promptly at 9:30.

You can find out more about our group at: https://hometownnetworking.org