Texas Midwest Community Network

Membership Meeting - Jan 31, 2024
2024-01-31 11:30 - 14:30 (America/Chicago) | Hendrick Health Volunteers Hall, 4310 Buffalo Gap Rd, Abilene, TX, 79606, United States
IT’S THE FIRST MEMBERSHIP MEETING OF THE YEAR!
Come find out how the 88th Legislative Session ended, and what bills and laws will now affect our rural communities. TMCN board member and Vice Chancellor of TSTC, Gail Lawrence, will give us an update that will be sure to enlighten.
We will also be hearing a little more about ChatGPT and how to use it in your daily work, grants, etc.
And as always, there will be the inspiring networking with your peers time.
WHEN: WEDNESDAY JANUARY 31, 2024
WHERE: Hendrick Service Center, Volunteer Hall 4310 Buffalo Gap Rd. Abilene, TX 79606
NOTE: This is the old Sears store, Mall of Abilene. Guests will park and enter at the East entrance (North of Best Buy and El Chico)
TIME: 11:30am until 2:30pm
COST: $15

Quadrant Meeting - Hamilton - Code Enforcement
2024-03-06 11:30 - 13:30 | TX
What is Code Enforcement? Well simplified, Code Enforcement is the act of a city enforcing and ensuring compliance with previously adopted city ordinances. Code Enforcement can be defined as: collaboration between the city, property owner, and surrounding property owners to maintain, improve, or remove nuisances that impact the community property values, and quality of life in a positive manner.
Sounds simple enough…but we all know it can be more complex than ‘removing nuisances’. Come learn from speaker Danny Barrett about best practices for Code Enforcement. And we will learn how the community of Seymour streamlined it to a ‘one-page wonder’ form that works for them.
WHEN: March 6, 2024
WHERE: Wenzel’s Lonestar Meat 209 N. Bell St. Hamilton 76531
TIME: 11:30AM – 1:30PM
COST: $20

Grant Writing Workshop 2024
2024-03-20 09:00 - 15:00 | TSTC West campus, 650 E. Hwy 80, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
TMCN GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP is just around the corner!
Because of the facility where it’s being hosted, there are a limited number of seats.
Secure a spot before the hot seats are gone!
This year, we’re bringing you an amazing lineup to help you succeed in going after grants and as well as sharing additional funding sources.
This is your chance to learn straight from grantors and other professionals who can help your community achieve success in obtaining outside funding.
Topics include: healthy organizations, grant writing/storytelling, and marketing. We will also have representatives of state and US agencies that will speak about their funding sources.
So save your spot today!
WHEN: Wednesday March 20, 2024
WHERE: Abilene TSTC 650 E. HWY 80 Abilene, TX 79601
TIME: 9am – 3pm
COST: $40

Membership Meeting - April 2024
2024-04-24 11:30 - 14:30 | Taylor Co. Historical Commission office, 317 Pecan, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
STRUGGLING WITH …TIME MANAGEMENT??
In school, work, and daily life, we may encounter people who seem to have it all together. They are productive, stress-free, high achievers. But chances are, they were not born that way. Managing, organizing, and distributing time are skills that we can learn. Doing so can help you control your time and promote overall satisfaction.
For our April membership meeting, come, listen and take away key tips on Time Management. Our guest speaker will be Shannon Health’s Director of Regional Outreach Nolan Sosa.
WHEN: April 24, 2024
WHERE: 317 Pecan St. Abilene TX 79601
TIME: 11:30AM – 2:30PM
COST: $15

CANCELLED - Quadrant Meeting - Hamlin
2024-05-08 11:30 - 13:00 | TX
2023 brought something to light that many of us hadn’t put much thought or interest into – the phenomenon of ChatGPT!!
John DiMauro/Top Level Training will be giving a LIVE demonstration utilizing ChatGPT, helping implement this “crazy” new tool into our everyday lives! We will see how it can work directly in a grant application process, and MORE! We will have Q & A after the demonstrations, so bring your thoughts and your questions to be put to the test!
WHEN: WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2024
WHERE: HAMLIN – Location TBD
TIME: 11:30am to 1:00pm

QUADRANT MEETING - GRAHAM - COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
2024-05-15 11:30 - 13:30 | NOrth TExas Central College Graham Campus, 928 Cherry St, Graham, TX
One Common Vision – One Common Goal
Cynthia Northrop, the current City Manager of Breckenridge, Texas is set to be the guest speaker at the Graham Quadrant luncheon. During her talk, she will emphasize the significance and benefits of community collaboration. This luncheon provides an excellent opportunity to invite various community leaders, including the Mayor, City Manager, EDC Director, Chamber Director, School Administrators, and Civic leaders. The overarching goal is to empower all member cities within the TMCN (Texas Midwest Community Network) to achieve their best potential, with collaboration being the essential factor. 🌟🗣️
WHEN: WEDNESDAY MAY 15, 2024
WHERE: North Central Texas College – Graham Campus Student Activity Center 928 Cherry St. Graham, TX
TIME: 11:30AM – 1:30PM
COST: $20

ELECTED OFFICIALS WORKSHOP JUNE 12, 2024
2024-06-12 08:00 - 17:00 | TSTC Quantum Loop, 2082 Quantum Loop, Abilene, TX
REGISTRATION CLOSED – SEE YOU WEDNESDAY!
In partnership with West Central Texas Council of Governments, TMCN will be hosting the annual Newly Elected Officials Workshop. This seminar is intended for newly-elected City Council/Commission members as well as any city official wanting a refresher on the best practices of public service.

The Elected Officials seminar will be facilitated by Cisco City Manager Darwin Archer and include the following topics:

Parliamentary Procedure/Open Meetings Act
Making Dollars Count in Your Budget
Maximizing Your Economic Development Power
Ethics and Conflicts of Interest
Effective Working Relationships
Developing Viable Communities Using Grants
Proper Handling of First Amendment Audits

WHEN: June 12, 2024
WHERE: TSTC facility 2082 Quantum Loop in Abilene
TIME: 8:00am until 5:00pm
COST: $40 per person

Membership Meeting - July 24, 2024
2024-07-24 11:30 - 14:00 | Hendrick Medical Center South – Women’s Center, 6250 US - 83, Abilene, TX, 79606, United States
July’s Membership Meeting brings a tough topic – Code Enforcement
What exactly is Code Enforcement?
Code enforcement is the act of enforcing a set of rules, principles, or laws that apply to land and property in a community. Code enforcement officers inspect properties for possible violations and take actions to correct them. Some examples of code violations are: excessive noise, illegal dumping, graffiti, fire hazards, animal control, etc. Code enforcement aims to protect and improve the health, safety, and quality of life of residents, businesses, and visitors1
Our guest speaker will be Jeremy Essary. Jeremy is the former Code Enforcement officer for the city of Early. He will be discussing the best practices of Code Enforcement. There will be time for Q & A, so bring your questions.
This meeting will also be Texas Music Friendly Community program, membership renewal kickoff and updates on Lawmakers Luncheon and our 30th Anniversary Annual Conference! You don’t want to miss this meeting!
WHEN: July 24, 2024
WHERE: Hendrick Medical Center South Women’s Center Conference Room 6250 US Hwy 83 Abilene
TIME: 11:30AM – 2:00pm
COST: $15

9th Biennial Lawmakers Luncheon
2024-09-12 11:30 - 15:30 | Myrtle Wilks Community Center, 1498 W. Interstate 20, Cisco, TX, 76437, United States
TMCN’s 9th Biennial Lawmakers Luncheon is here and we look forward to you join us for this unique and informative event!
The day offers a great format to network with your peers from across the region and visit with your own elected officials. We will also offer you an opportunity to submit questions to the legislative panel. Come hear about their top take-aways from the 88th Session, what are their thoughts for the 89th Session and an opportunity for you to lend your voice to the discussion. Currently, those who have committed are: Senator Perry and Senator Birdwell, Representative Frank, Rep. Lambert, Rep. Rogers and Rep. Spiller. Rep. Darby’s district director will also be on hand.
There is a limited number of seats in this venue, we encourage early registration.
CISCO DEVELOPMENT CORP. – GOLD SPONSOR
THANK YOU

DATE: Sept 12, 2024
LOCATION: Myrtle Wilks Community Center Cisco
TIME: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
COST: $45 Person

CANCELLED Membership Meeting Sept 25
2024-09-25 11:30 - 14:30 | Community Foundation of Abilene, 850 N. 1st, Abilene, TX, 79604, United States
It’s time for our September Membership Meeting! And we have topic that has never been discussed before at a TMCN membership meeting! MOBILE RURAL HEALTH CARE!
Starting the meeting off we will hear from our President Diana Lopez re-capping the Lawmakers Luncheon held earlier this month.
Then we will hear from Kyle Kanei with the My ER 24/7 about a new program they are supporting. It’s called Mobile Health Care. Think Bookmobile or even farther back horse and buggy and a doctor house call.
We will finish up Membership Renewals for 2024-25 and the value of your TMCN membership!
And as always, we will have the networking opportunities that everyone appreciates!
WHEN: September , 2024
WHERE: Community Foundation of Abilene 850 N. 1st St. Abilene, TX 79601
TIME: 11:30AM – 2:30PM
COST: $15

30th Anniversary TMCN Annual Conference
2024-11-13 08:30 - 15:30 | Doubletree Hotel Abilene
TMCN Celebrates 30 Years of Service to the Texas Midwest Region
We are delighted to invite you to a nostalgic reunion and a day of celebration as we commemorate 30 years of advancing economic and community development through the Texas Midwest Community Network (TMCN).

Event Highlights:

Breakout Sessions: Join us for insightful breakout sessions in the morning and afternoon.

Cybersecurity and Physical Security– Enhancing Security in County and City Government Buildings, A Modern Approach to Public Safety. Protecting public servants, residents, and visitors within government buildings has become more critical than ever. This session will highlight the latest security technologies and strategies that safeguard our government buildings, hospitals and public schools. Presented by Mary Leggett, Rose Technologies Group and Eric Bueller, Security Expert from PHYSAAS. CITY EDC
Social Media Disciplines – How to Slay on Social…Even If It’s Slaying You…Successfully managing social media feels like an impossible task for groups and organizations with minimal staff available to tame the beast — but don’t let that scare you away! Learn key do’s and don’ts that even departments-of-one (or multiple halves) can implement. Presented by Mari Cockrell and Blaine Beyer, City of Abilene CHAMBER EDC CITY
Texas Treasures Program – Presented by the Texas Historical Commission, come learn how you can help recognize these treasured businesses in your community and be part of a legacy that strengthens the Texas Midwest region. Presented by Tammie Virden, Executive Director Texas Forts Trail and Julie Smith, TFT Board Member CHAMBER EDC
Hotel Occupancy Tax –The Inns and Outs of HOT, this popular session returns after 4 years to help those of us new to the position and even those experienced to have a refresher on the topic. Learn the who, what and how of Hotel Occupancy Tax. Presented by Erin Corbell, City Manager -Brady CHAMBER CITY
Texas Tourism Friendly Program – Are you interested in learning more about becoming a Texas Music Friendly, Texas Film Friendly or Texas Tourism Friendly Community? This curated panel will go over the application process as well as what they have gained and learned from being listed with the Texas Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism program. Panel includes Karen Hunt, Executive Director Sweetwater Chamber, Amanda Dulaney, Tourism Director Graham CVB, and Robert Lopez, Vice President Abilene CVB. CHAMBER EDC
ADA Website Mandates – Navigating Web Accessibility: Legislation, Deadlines and Compliance. In April the Dept of Justice published a final rule requiring state and local governments to ensure their websites and mobile apps meet certain accessibility requirements under the ADA … or face DOJ enforcement actions. In this low-tech session we’ll review deadlines from the legislation, discuss effective methods to evaluate compliance and share practical strategies for ensuring your websites are ADA-friendly. Presented by Matthew Lowe, Dome Software Solutions CITY
STUDENT SESSIONS: LEADERSHIP TMCN – Do you have high school students that want to learn more about our Leadership TMCN program? Bring them!! The Dynamic Duo of Tutt & Daggs will be here to work with our students and give them a taste of the fun and value of the Leadership TMCN program. Students will have the opportunity to build their personal skillset and be equipped with the leadership skills needed for tomorrow, and given an inside look as to how much of a difference one can make within a community. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM HERE: TMCN Brochure
STUDENT SESSION: How to Build Confidence and Community When Starting Your Career…and Life Starting your career and transitioning into adult life can be both exciting and overwhelming. This presentation will guide you through practical strategies to boost your confidence and build a community as you embark on this journey. Presented by Kasey Nixon, University Recruiter, First Financial Bank
PLEASE NOTE: STUDENT SESSIONS ARE FOR STUDENTS AND MENTORS

Recognition Ceremony: Celebrate the achievements of TMCN’s most influential leaders.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious meal while we honor the recipients of the Leadership TMCN awards, marking the 10th anniversary of our premier Youth Leadership program.
Keynote Speaker: Hear from Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Bryan Daniel, who will provide valuable insights, updates, and encouragement regarding our Rural Workforce Task Force.
Silent Auction: Participate in our silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting the Leadership TMCN program.
Rural Partner: Show your support for rural Texas by sponsoring the event. Sponsorship details here.
Become an Exhibitor: Are you a business or organization looking to reach or do business with rural educational institutions, hospital districts, counties, or cities? Your audience is at this event! Join us as an exhibitor to network and spread awareness of the importance of rural Texas. Details here.

One final note: If you and anyone from your community plan to attend the evening soiree (Grace Museum, Tuesday Nov 12), please be sure to RSVP to Lori at tmcn@tmcn.org. There is NO TICKET required, but we do need to know you’re coming please. If you haven’t received an invitation in the mail or online, please be sure to contact Lori and she can send you all the information for the event!
WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024
TIME: 8:30AM until 3:30PM
WHERE: Doubletree Hotel and Convention – Downtown Abilene | Room rate is $149 – Click Here for Booking
COST: $70 PERSON $25 STUDENT $350 EXHIBITOR $500 RURAL FRIEND

TMCN Annual Conference

Name

First

Last

Title and CommunityTicketsPlease enter how many tickets you needStudent Attendee Quantity

Price:
$25.00

Quantity
Rural Readiness Partner Quantity

Price:
$500.00

Quantity
Conference Exhibitor Quantity

Price:
$350.00

Quantity
Adult Attendee Quantity

Price:
$65.00

Quantity
Total

If registering more than one person, please list all attendeesPhone *(Required)Email*(Required)

Credit Card(Required)

Submit

Δ

January 2025 Membership Meeting
2025-01-22 11:30 - 14:30 | TX
Important Information for the 89th Texas Legislative Session
We are excited to announce our first Membership Meeting of 2025. Our distinguished guest speaker, TSTC Vice Chancellor Gail Lawrence, will share invaluable insights and impactful topics for the upcoming legislative year.
This is a pivotal moment for us, as January marks the beginning of the 89th Legislative Session. It is essential for rural Texans to unite and ensure our priorities are heard loud and clear by our lawmakers.
Your presence is important. Join us in shaping the future of our communities and region by attending this important meeting and making your voice heard. Together, we can make a significant impact.
And as always, we will have time to network with your peers!

WHEN: Wednesday January 22, 2025
WHERE: Hendrick Hospice Care 1651 Pine St. Abilene (PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DIFFERENT LOCATION than the past few times we have been hosted by Hendrick Health. This is across from the main hospital on North Pine.)
TIME: 11:30am – 2:30pm
COST: $20

Quadrant Mtg - MARCH 5 BRECKENRIDGE - Strong Community Collaborations
2025-03-05 11:30 - 13:00 | TX
Interagency Partnerships and Collaborations
is the topic for our first Quadrant meeting of 2025!

How Entities/Agencies in Breckenridge Partner Together and Collaborate
Community Collaboration is one of the most valuable assets your community can possess. Join us in a panel discussion about positive and professional communication, respect, sharing the workload, and much more.
Panel participants:

Judge Michael Roach, Stephens County Judge
Cynthia Northrup, City Administrator, City of Breckenridge
Prairie Freeman, Breckenridge ISD Superintendent
Yuri Huntington, Executive Director Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce
David Miller, Executive Director, Breckenridge Economic Development Corporation

Citizens gain more understanding when they see how we work together: including the mobilization of resources, knowledge sharing, and the leveraging of collective strengths.
It amplifies impact, drives innovation, and promotes sustainable solutions to complex challenges. Come participate in the open Q&A as representatives from the City of Breckenridge, Breckenridge ISD, Shackleford County, Hospital, Chamber of Commerce and Breckenridge EDC discuss their roles in the county and city successful partnerships.
WHEN: Wednesday March 5, 2025
WHERE: TSTC Breckenridge Campus 415 N. Breckenridge St. Breckenridge, TX 76424
TIME: 11:30am – 1:30pm
COST: $20

RESCHEDULED - Quadrant Mtg - March 27 COMANCHE -
2025-03-27 11:30 - 13:30 | 122 N. Austin Comanche TX, 122 N. Austin, Comanche, TX, 76442, United States
DUE TO UNFORSEEN SCHEDULE CONFLICTS, THIS MEETING WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR APRIL. CHECK BACK SOON!!

How Entities/Agencies in Comanche Partner Together and Collaborate
Community Collaboration is one of the most valuable assets your community can possess. Join us in a panel discussion about positive and professional communication, respect, sharing the workload, and much more.
Invited Panel participants:

Judge Stephanie Davis, Comanche County Judge
Jim Winkelmann, City Administrator, City of Comanche
Denise Imiola, Thriving Economy
Carrie Johnson, Executive Director Comanche Chamber of Commerce
Robin Barfield, Executive Director, Comanche Texas Economic Development Corporation

Citizens gain more understanding when they see how we work together: including the mobilization of resources, knowledge sharing, and the leveraging of collective strengths.
It amplifies impact, drives innovation, and promotes sustainable solutions to complex challenges. Come participate in the open Q&A as representatives from the City of Comanche, Comanche County, Chamber of Commerce and Comanche EDC discuss their roles in the county and city successful partnerships.
WHEN: Thursday March 27
TIME: 11:30am – 1:30pm
WHERE: Rathbone Hall 122 N. Austin Comanche TX

Quadrant Meeting - Snyder - April 2 Community Collaborations
2025-04-02 11:30 - 13:30 | Martha Ann Women’s Center, 1600 Martha Ann Blvd, Snyder, United States
Interagency Partnerships and Collaborations
is the topic for our Quadrant meetings of 2025!

How Entities/Agencies in Snyder Partner Together and Collaborate
Community Collaboration is one of the most valuable assets your community can possess. Join us in a panel discussion about positive and professional communication, respect, sharing the workload, and much more.
Invited panelists include:

Terry Williams, Scurry County Commissioner
Eli Torres, City Administrator, City of Snyder
Ella Helms, Cogdell Memorial Hospital
Kenny Miller, President, Snyder Chamber of Commerce
Barbara Leatherwood, Executive Director, Development Corporation of Snyder
Jeff McGinnis, Director of Safety, Snyder ISD

Citizens gain more understanding when they see how we work together: including the mobilization of resources, knowledge sharing, and the leveraging of collective strengths.
It amplifies impact, drives innovation, and promotes sustainable solutions to complex challenges. Come participate in the open Q&A as representatives from the City of Snyder, Cogdell Hospital, Scurry County, Development Corporation of Snyder and the Chamber of Commerce discuss their roles in the successful partnerships of both county and city.
WHEN: Wednesday April 2, 2025
WHERE: Martha Ann Women’s Club 1600 Martha Ann Blvd. Snyder, TX 79549
TIME: 11:30am – 1:30pm
COST: $20
