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Leaders Talk Future of Texas Forest Country At 2015 Economic Development Summit

Education, water, oil, and their impact on the economy here in East Texas were the focus of the 2015 Economic Development Summit held Nov. 4, 2015, at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center.

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Rep. Trent Ashy joins Sen. Robert Nichols on a panel about water in East Texas at the 2015 Economic Summit on Nov. 4, 2015.

The Summit opened with a panel discussion featuring Senator Robert Nichols and Rep. Trent Ashby answered questions about the recent hot topic of ground water.
For both politicians, balance is key to protecting water rights and providing for struggling areas across Texas. “We have to make sure we are mindful of what’s going on around us,” Ashby said. “We can’t take the approach that some had that its our way or the highway. Its relationships in the legislature. We have what we need for the long term but at the same time be respectful of their needs of water. We want to work with them on this issue. That’s a big part of being successful in this issue.”

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Dr. Michael Simon, President of Angelina College, shares the stage at the 2015 Economic Development Summit with Aaron Demerson of Texas Workforce Solutions in a panel about education and employment partnerships.

Texas Workforce Solutions Coordinator of Employer Initiatives Aaron Demerson also spoke partnerships are to the area’s economic development. He praised the relationships between Angelina College and the area’s schools and businesses, recognizing a link between education and i a healthy, growing economy.

“The relationships that have been gathered between the community colleges and the ISDs and the business community is going to be one that continues to place Texas in a place where when our students graduate they can go on to community college, or enroll in the dual credit program, and if they want to go on to a Bachelors’ they can.”

“The community has already hired us, “said Dr. Michael Simon, President of Angelina College. “The tremendous investment in your community college is really special. Its very clear these communities value higher education, and we want to return the investment made into them.”

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Carlton Schwab, President & CEO of TEDC, shares an update of rural East Texas’ economic development at the 2015 summit.

Revitalizing Rural East Texas was the theme on paper, and as speakers and panelists addressed the crowd, it became evident partnerships and relationships were the key to this revitalization. It’s a term speaker Carlton Schwab, President and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Council called ‘regionalism.’

“Regionalism is very commonplace in our state,” he said. “Regionalism is an expression of common sense of identity and purpose combined with the creation and implementation of institutions that creates a particular identity,  and shapes collective actions.”

Dr. Ray Perryman, the keynote speaker for Economic Development Summit, rounded out the meeting with predictions of a recovery in the oil business in the near future as world demand grows.”

Carry on the Proud Tradition of Protecting, Serving Texas

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The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging the public to consider a career in law enforcement, and to proudly serve and protect Texas by becoming a Texas State Trooper. DPS is accepting applications for trooper recruit classes scheduled for 2016. The next application deadline is Jan. 27 for the class beginning July 10, 2016.

“The men and women who graduate from the DPS Training Academy will join an elite and reputable crime-fighting force that has answered the call to serve and protect the great state of Texas for nearly 200 years,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “DPS carries the enormous responsibility of protecting Texas from a wide range of public safety threats, and we are seeking a diverse group of first-rate recruit candidates who want to join one of the premier law enforcement agencies in the country.”

In 2015, the Texas Legislature and Texas Leadership authorized 250 additional trooper positions to be permanently stationed in the border area by August 2017, along with additional DPS recruit schools to help fill that need. Four trooper trainee recruit classes are planned for 2016.

After gaining experience on the job, Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers have the opportunity to promote within THP or to other divisions or specialized units within the agency, such as the Texas Rangers, Criminal Investigations, SWAT, Tactical Marine Unit or Aircraft Operations. The department’s 13 divisions and highly-trained personnel are steadfast in their commitment to serving and protecting the state, many of whom use cutting-edge technology and equipment to identify, disrupt and deter crime as well as dismantle dangerous organizations such as Mexican cartels, their gang counterparts and other criminal threats.

DPS is an equal opportunity employer, and the starting pay for accepted trainees is $4,623.44 monthly or $55,481 yearly, based on the current 10-hour workday (50-hour workweek). Basic requirements for acceptance into a DPS recruit class include the following:

  • 20 years of age at the time of application and 21 years of age upon graduation
  • 60 college-earned hours from a regional accredited college/university; or 24 months active duty military or full-time peace officer experience; or six years of service in the military reserves or National Guard
  • Pass a physical fitness test, written assessment, criminal history check and polygraph exam

“DPS employees are second to none, as the choice to join our department and fulfill our mission to protect and serve Texas demonstrates a selfless commitment to the people of our state,” said Director McCraw. “DPS has a proud history of keeping Texas safe, and we are eager to meet the brave men and women who will carry on that tradition as the next Texas State Troopers.”

For more information about the upcoming recruit class dates and deadlines, minimum requirements or to apply, visit www.JoinDPS.com. Individuals can also contact a regional DPS recruiter by calling 1-866-898-7667. After submitting an online application, applicants will be notified by email if they are selected to continue to the testing phase.

The current recruit class graduates on Dec. 18, 2015, and the next school begins Jan. 10, 2016.

 

John Thompson Receives 2015 Silver Bucket Award

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John Thompson of Livingston is the 2015 recipient of the Silver Bucket Award, presented by Jay Shands, President of First Bank and Trust of East Texas, at the 2015 Economic Development Summit held by the Texas Forest Country Partnership at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center on November 4, 2015.

“I’m so very appreciative,” Thompson said. “In life your lucky to work in an area where you have passion and I have passion for this East Texas, and for economic development, and making the lives of folks that live here better.”

Thompson is a native of Houston, and attended University of Louisianna-Monroe where he received Bachelor’s of Pharmacy. After moving to Livingston, Thompson began work at a pharmacy and three years later was the owner of Livingston Drug Store, “where he moved right into a lifetime of public service,” said Shands.

Thompson was elected to Livingston City Council in 1983, served as Mayor pro temp from 1985-1990, and served as Executive Director of the Polk County Chamber of Commerce in 1988.

Thompson led efforts for two facilities that provide over 1,000 jobs in Polk county. He helped organize a successful bid for construction of the state prison unit, which created over 800 permanent jobs and provides over $37 million in payroll. In 2004, he led efforts to for construction of the IAH Secure Adult Detention Facility, which provides jobs for 250 residents.

John Thompson receives the 2015 Silver Bucket Award at the Economic Development Summit. held in Lufkin, Texas.
John Thompson receives the 2015 Silver Bucket Award at the Economic Development Summit. held in Lufkin, Texas. (Photos: Misty Boggs | MSGPR)

Thompson was elected as Judge in Polk county in 1991, “giving him more opportunity to focus on economic growth and development for our area,” said Shands.

“His desire to improve education in his community led to building the Angelina College Polk County Center,” said Shands. Thompson is also the Chairman of the Polk County Higher Education & Technology Foundation.

“He has dedication and foresight beyond his county,” Shands said. “Thompson was a strong force across the state to improve transportation. He has started a consulting firm that will continue his legacy of focusing on business and government solutions with emphasis on economic development, transportation, and pharmaceuticals.”

“To be thanked for working and doing a job is great, but the blessing has been mine and I appreciate it very much,” Thompson said. He and his wife, Kim, have seven children and three grandchildren.

 

East Texas Small Businesses Recognized at Economic Development Summit

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Small business across East Texas were recognized during the 2015 Texas Forest Country Partnership (TFCP)Economic Development Summit held at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin, Texas, on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2015.

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Susan Winkler, owner of Mike’s Family BBQ Pit, receives the Small Business Award for Tyler County at the 2015 Economic Development Summit held at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin, Texas. (Photos: Misty Boggs | MSGPR)

Winners were DEMCO Manufacturing, Angelina County; Hallmark Center Fixture Operations, Shelby County; Animal Science Products, Nacogdoches County; ElastoTech Southwest, Inc., Houston County; Mike’s Family BBQ Pitt, Tyler County; Thomas Supply, Polk County; Vaughn & Associates, San Jacinto County; Hamburger Depot, Jasper County; Mike Perry Buick, Chevrolet, Kawasawki, San Augstine County.

“Small business is the backbone of our community,” said Bill Malnar, Director of Imaging Services, Temple Cancer Center at CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial and Board Chairman of the TFCP. “It’s not just the jobs they provide, but the services they provide to our communities through their charitable donations of money and time.”

TFCP is a growing economic development organization that serves twelve counties in the Piney Woods. The Economic Development Summit provided key information on water resources, economic growth, and future expectations for the region.

Top Debt Management Tips to Save You Money Each Month

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(StatePoint) Want to learn how to save money? You’re not alone. An overwhelming number of Americans want to learn more about managing their finances, according to a recent Wells Fargo survey.

“One way to manage debt is to pay it down sooner,” says Gary Korotzer, who leads the Wells Fargo Consumer Credit Solutions Marketing team. “You can save on interest over time and on the total cost of borrowing.”

Korotzer offers these tips to save money by paying off debt sooner:

• Pay off debt sooner and save significantly on interest by paying more than the minimum each month on loans. Also, try paying half your monthly bill every two weeks instead of the full amount monthly; you’ll make one extra payment over the course of a year — and you could pay your debt off sooner. Ask if your lender applies these partial payments to your principal.

• Prioritize paying off loans with the highest interest rate first.

• Stay on top of debt by setting up automatic transfers — simply select the date, the amount, and the debt you’d like to pay off.

• Bank with a responsible lender that gives you options for paying down debt on terms better for your bottom line. For example, Wells Fargo offers consumers options that could shorten the length of loans, such as refinancing and debt consolidation. There are many different ways to consolidate debt, so talk to your bank about your options.

• Reduce your overall monthly expenses by lowering the rate of your current loans. If your credit score has improved or if overall interest rates have gone down since applying for a particular loan, you may be able to lower the rate of your auto, home, personal, or student loans or your credit cards. Consider any fees that might be associated with refinancing.

• Be savvy about credit. Check all three national credit bureaus annually to verify there are no errors. Don’t worry; requesting your reports won’t affect your credit score.

• Know your limits. Being close to or maxing out your credit limits may negatively impact your credit score. Keep balances low on credit cards and other revolving accounts; keeping your balance below 30 percent of your total available credit may improve your credit score. Always pay on time, and more than the minimum due, if possible.

• Use free educational resources, such as Wells Fargo’s newly redesigned Smarter Credit Center (www.wellsfargo.com/smarter_credit) to help you make responsible financial decisions. The site offers interactive features that explain key credit concepts, such as building credit, improving or rebuilding credit, taking charge of existing debt and practicing good credit habits. The redesign is more mobile friendly, letting you learn even when you’re on the go.

Getting better money management skills can help you lower your monthly expenses on big ticket items like loan repayment and reduce the overall cost of your debt over time.

5 Strategies For Getting The Most Out Of Meetings

Many employees probably groan and grumble when they see that the boss has scheduled yet another meeting.

But Cameron Herold, a business development expert and author of “Double Double: How to Double Your Revenue and Profit in 3 Years or Less” (www.DoubleDoubleBook.com), insists it doesn’t need to be that way.

“Meetings aren’t terrible,” Herold says. “We’re just terrible at running meetings.”

He says businesses can make better use of the time spent in meetings, and improve employee morale and productivity in the process, if they follow five simple steps.

Have an agenda. Meetings that don’t have a clear agenda tend to get off track easily. They also often include people who don’t need to be there and would be better off back at their desks, completing important projects, Herold says. The agenda can be short, but should include the main purpose of the meeting, the possible outcomes and the action items to be covered.

“An agenda prevents the meeting from being hijacked by some random topic,” Herold says. “It also allows your more introverted team members to prepare what they want to say in the discussion. Most introverts won’t chime in when they don’t know the agenda ahead of time and you could miss some great ideas.”

Determine a meeting style. There are basically three styles of meetings: information share, creative discussion and consensus decision. In an information-share meeting, the information flows in one direction. Either employees tell the leadership something, or senior management has something to say to employees.

Creative discussions are brainstorming sessions. People toss out ideas without any judgments made about feasibility or validity, and decisions come at a later date. Consensus-decision meetings are held when a decision is needed. Herold warns that these can get testy, but eventually the participants need to reach a consensus. “Once you’ve concluded the meeting, put it behind you,” he says. “Don’t continue the discussion outside the meeting.”

Start on time and end early. If you scheduled the meeting for 10 a.m., start at 10 a.m. “This shows respect for people’s times, and also reflects something much bigger,” Herold says. “If you can’t start a meeting on time, why would it be any different for anything else that’s going on in a company?” End the meeting five minutes early. That gives people time to grab a cup of coffee, check emails, go to the restroom or chat with colleagues before their next meeting.

Foster useful communication. Some people talk a lot in every meeting. Others rarely speak. For a meeting to be successful, you need to get everyone engaged, Herold says. Foster dialogue with newcomers or quiet people first, and then go around the table, moving up in seniority as you solicit feedback or ideas. Also, make sure people are not distracted because they are responding to email on their cell phones or laptops.

Know your role. Every meeting should have a chair, a timekeeper, participants and a closer. The chair announces the type of meeting it is and makes sure everyone sticks with the agenda. “The job of the chair is to prevent the meeting from going sideways,” Herold says. The timekeeper does what the name implies, making sure everyone stays on schedule and that no one lingers too long on any one point. The participants should not be passive observers. They need to arrive prepared to contribute and to remain interested throughout the meeting. The closer generally is going to be the chair. Herold says meetings should always end with the chair posing the question: “Who’s doing what, and by when.” That way each person acknowledges their assignment and their deadline for achieving it.

“Employee frustration will drop drastically if you can keep meetings focused on the task at hand and avoid wasting time,” Herold says. “You should be able to get more done faster, and with fewer people involved.”

About Cameron Herold

Cameron Herold, author of  “Double Double: How to Double Your Revenue and Profit in 3 Years or Less” (www.DoubleDoubleBook.com), began his first business at age 21. He has been instrumental in the successful sale, branding and integration of 500 business locations with three major companies. He’s best known as the driving force behind 1-800-GOT-JUNK?’s spectacular growth from $2 million to $106 million in revenue in six years. His range of executive roles includes strategic planning, negotiating corporate acquisitions, operations, people, sales, marketing, call centers and public relations. Herold is a top-rated lecturer at the EO/MIT Entrepreneurial Masters Program and a powerful and effective speaker at EO/YPO & Vistage events around the world.

Local Pediatrician Collecting Supplies For Animal Shelter

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PineyWoods Pediatrics is joining forces with the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter and the Humane Society of Nacogdoches County to serve as a collection point for supplies that will be delivered directly to animals in need at the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter.

“Our animal friends are very important to our patients and their families,” said Dr. Amy Huggins of PineyWoods Pediatrics. “We’re proud to offer PineyWoods Pediatrics as a collection site. We support the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter’s efforts to help care for animals and find them permanent homes.”

All proceeds and donations benefit the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter. Please make checks payable to the Humane Society of Nacogdoches County. Donations will be accepted at PineyWoods Pediatrics, 3614 N. University Drive, through November 16.

The top cat items needed include dry food for adults and kittens, canned kitten food (no seafood, please), and flea and tick medicine for adults and kittens. The animal shelter also needs cat litter, toys (nothing with catnip or buttons, please), flea shampoo for kittens, nail clippers for cats and small scratch pads.

The top dog items needed include dry and canned food, flea and tick medicine and medium-large Nylabones. The animal shelter also needs wheat- or grain-free food, Milk Bone biscuits, hypoallergenic treats, Thundershirts and Kong hard rubber toys.

The animal shelter also needs antibacterial hand soap and wipes, H.E. laundry detergent, paper towels, heavy duty contractor bags, waterless pet shampoo, adhesive tape (1”/ 2″), gauze, bandages, alcohol, towels, latex and non-latex disposable gloves, and gift cards to PetSmart, Petsense, Target, Walmart, Sam’s Club and Lowes.

East Texas is home for Dr. Huggins; she grew up in Lufkin. After graduating from Lufkin High School, she attended Texas A&M University for her undergraduate degree. She completed medical school at the University of North Texas Health Science Center and her residency in Pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carolina where she served as Chief Resident.

In 2006, Dr. Huggins opened her private practice in Nacogdoches. She expanded her services with the grand-opening of PineyWoods Pediatrics, P.A. in 2010. Dr. Huggins is Board Certified in Pediatrics and a member of the Texas Pediatrics Association, Texas Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Angelina College Hosting Reunion Weekend And Hall Of Fame Inductions Day

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AC’s Lady Roadrunner 2014 National Championship softball team became the college’s first team to earn a national title and the first Texas team to win an NJCAA softball title. The team will be inducted into the new Angelina College Athletics Hall of Fame during Alumni Day ceremonies on Nov. 7. (Photo by: AC News Service)
AC’s Lady Roadrunner 2014 National Championship softball team became the college’s first team to earn a national title and the first Texas team to win an NJCAA softball title. The team will be inducted into the new Angelina College Athletics Hall of Fame during Alumni Day ceremonies on Nov. 7. (Photo by: AC News Service)

The Angelina College Athletics program has a long history of success stories, from the 1998 men’s basketball team

qualifying for the national tournament, to the 2003-2004 women’s team’s long post-season run and on to the 2014 softball national title.

Along the way, the programs have seen their share of All-Americans and other athletes who entered major-college and professional ranks. Roadrunner legends such as Roderick Anderson, Eric Chatfield and Chip Cartwright (men’s basketball); Lesa Jones and Mozell Brooks (women’s basketball); Dennis Cook, Clay Buchholz, Andrew Cashner and Josh Tomlin (baseball); and Kassie James and Gia Johns (softball) left indelible marks in AC sports history, with some of them carrying on at the upper echelons of sport.

On Nov. 7, AC will host an Alumni Day as part of a Roadrunner Reunion Weekend in order to recognize those teams and athletes from the past. A full day of activities will include a basketball Old-Timer’s

Former Lady Roadrunner softball player Kassie James, who led AC to a national title and holds every offensive record for the program’s history, is scheduled for induction into the AC Hall of Fame. (Photo by: AC News Service)
Former Lady Roadrunner softball player Kassie James, who led AC to a national title and holds every offensive record for the program’s history, is scheduled for induction into the AC Hall of Fame. (Photo by: AC News Service)

game inside Shands Gymnasium at 11 a.m.; a baseball/softball Old-Timer’s game (weather permitting) at Roadrunner Field at noon; and regular-season basketball games featuring the 2015-2016 Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners later in the day. AC’s ladies will play McLennan College at 3 p.m. as part of the Angelina Classic (Panola College and Seminole State will play at 1 p.m.), and the Roadrunner men will take on Greater Houston Prep at 5 p.m.

Registration for the events will take place at 9:30 a.m. inside Shands Gymnasium.

In addition, the college will establish a permanent Hall of Fame, with several former ‘Runners scheduled for induction on that day. Baseball players Cashner (San Diego Padres) and Tomlin (Cleveland Indians) will be honored, along with the 1998 men’s basketball and the 2003-2004 women’s basketball teams.

Fans also will have the opportunity to purchase AC merchandise in the campus bookstore.

In addition, former Roadrunner athletes are encouraged to visit the AC web site’s Athletics page and complete the Roadrunner Alumni form by clicking on the link.

For more information, contact the AC Athletics office at 936-633-5282.

AC Basketball Teams Split Games On Opening Weekend

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Angelina College’s basketball teams both opened the regular season on the road this past weekend, with the Lady Roadrunners competing in the McLennan Classic in Waco on Friday and Saturday and the Roadrunners battling in the East-West Challenge in Plano.

By Sunday night, both AC teams had earned splits in their first two games.

Following Friday’s disappointing 71-65 loss to Temple, the Lady Roadrunners rebounded for a 62-54 win over McLennan College on Saturday. The Lady ‘Runners combined for 12 three pointers, including four each from freshman Mikayla Crockett and sophomore Briana Caro. Crockett would finish with a team-high 14 points, Caro added 12 and La’Neique Nealey 10 in the win.

Also on Saturday, the Roadrunner men opened the season with a convincing 79-57 win over Western Texas. The ‘Runners, according to head coach Todd Neighbors, played “relentless defense” in holding Western Texas to just 22 points in the first half. Neighbors said his team generated numerous deflections and steals leading to transition buckets for the AC offense.

Freshman Corinthian Ramsey knocked down 31 points in his AC debut. Shane Temara added eight points but his biggest contributions came on the defensive end and on the boards, where Temara added 12 rebounds and four blocks for AC.

The Roadrunners capped the Plano road trip on Sunday against Midland College, eventually falling 90-85 to a tough Chaparral team.

The Lady ‘Runners (1-1) on Tuesday travel to Shreveport to take on Southern University-Shreveport at 5 p.m. Later in the week, AC’s ladies will open the Angelina Classic at home, with games scheduled for Friday (vs. Seminole State at 7:30 p.m.) and Saturday (vs. McLennan College at 3 p.m.).

The Roadrunners, also 1-1, are at McLennan College in Waco on Tuesday. Game time is 7 p.m. The ‘Runners will be at home at 5 p.m. on Saturday against Greater Houston Prep.

The e-mail address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu

Volunteer Auxiliary Donates Vital Sign Machines

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The CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lufkin Volunteer Auxiliary recently purchased vital sign monitors for two medical surgical units at the Lufkin hospital. The portable monitors provide nurses and nurse aids with accurate readings of a patient’s temperature, blood pressure, oxygen levels and more – all necessary information for understanding more of what is going on with the patient’s condition and improving his or her health while in the hospital.

Vital Sign Monitors for K3Laurie Wood, RN; Sharonda Davis, US; Doris Harkness, Volunteer; Brenda Taylor, Director of K3; Don Newland, Volunteer Auxiliary President; Barbara Shea, Volunteer;Lance Jones, IT and Crystal Balch, CNA are pictured with two new vital sign monitors donated by the CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Volunteer Auxiliary on medical surgical unit K3.

Don Newland, Volunteer Auxiliary President; Sonya Marzette, PCT; Doris Harkness, Volunteer; Lois Overshine, PCT; Viola Jenkins, CNA; Barbara Shea, Volunteer and Renata Caddell, PCT are pictured with two new vital sign monitors donated by the CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Volunteer Auxiliary on medical surgical unit K5.

About CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial

Memorial provides more than a quarter of a million patient services each year and has a longstanding history of providing quality, innovative health care in East Texas.

With hospitals in Lufkin, Livingston, San Augustine and Memorial Specialty – the area’s only long-term acute care hospital – CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial provides millions of dollars in charity care and community support each year.  Our mission is to nurture the healing ministry of the Church, supported by education and research.  Fidelity to the Gospel urges us to emphasize human dignity and social justice as we create healthier communities.

Memorial offers a wide array of services, including the area’s first dedicated heart and stroke care facility and radiation oncology at the Temple Cancer Center. It is also known for the area’s only comprehensive diabetes, heart and stroke education center. Other specialty areas include imaging, orthopedic care, women’s services, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, homecare, wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, kidney & diabetes treatment, sleep disorders treatment and express lab.

About Catholic Health Initiatives

Catholic Health Initiatives, a nonprofit, faith-based health system formed in 1996 through the consolidation of four Catholic health systems, expresses its mission each day by creating and nurturing healthy communities in the hundreds of sites across the nation where it provides care. One of the nation’s largest health systems, Englewood, Colo.-based CHI operates in 19 states and comprises 105 hospitals, including four academic health centers and major teaching hospitals and 30 critical-access facilities; community health-services organizations; accredited nursing colleges; home-health agencies; and other facilities that span the inpatient and outpatient continuum of care. In fiscal year 2014, CHI provided $910 million in charity care and community benefit — a nearly 20% increase over the previous year — for programs and services for the poor, free clinics, education and research. Charity care and community benefit totaled more than $1.7 billion with the inclusion of the unpaid costs of Medicare. The health system, which generated revenues of almost $13.9 billion in fiscal year 2014, has total assets of $21.8 billion. Learn more at www.catholichealthinitiatives.com.

Melissa Crager

Senior Marketing Coordinator

Marketing

(936) 676-7555

mcrager@memorialhealth.org

chistlukeshealthmemorial.org