2022 BBB Awards For Excellence Nominees - East Texas

Small Business Category

Moon Fencing

Founded and operated by Hiram Moon, Moon Fencing provides customers with privacy and safety with all types of fencing such as wood privacy, chain link, ornamental iron, ornamental aluminum, custom iron gates, field fencing, custom gates, and automation. They operate in Flint, Tyler and surrounding areas and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2019.
In their own words: “[Our business deserves the BBB Award for Excellence for our] BBB rating and quality of work.”

 

Core Insights, LLC

Core Insights is a leadership development company that specializes in creating experiences for businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.  Brian Brandt is the President of Core Insights, a Tyler-based company, providing training programs, a speakers’ bureau, executive coaching, and strategic planning.  They understand the pain of low morale, lack of vision, high turnover, and poor communication and have positively changed the trajectory of countless clients.  Core Insights has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2013.

 

Texas Medicare Supplement Specialist

With more than 15 years of experience in Medicare, David Hecker leads Texas Medicare Supplement Specialist as he connects customers to the right insurance. David is licensed in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. They are located in Longview and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2017.
In their own words: “Texas Medicare Supplement Specialist helps Medicare beneficiaries find the best, most cost-effective plan for their specific situation. Always available to help them with any questions or problems that may arise.”

 

Rutledge Remodel & Construction LLC

Started in 2015 by Stephen Rutledge, Rutledge Remodel & Construction LLC is a family owned company specializing in new construction, remodels and special projects. Stephen has worked in all phases of construction in his 17 years of experience. Located in Mineola, Rutledge Remodel & Construction LLC has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2020.
In their own words: “we are a construction company that takes pride in honesty and quality!”

 

The Holloway Partnership

Owned and operated by James and Erin Holloway, The Holloway Partnership is an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of investment and insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives. With offices located in Tyler and Longview, The Holloway Partnership has been BBB Accredited since 2016.
In their own words: “The Holloway Partnership is a retirement and estate planning firm. They truly want you to be knowledgeable, involved, and confident about going into and throughout retirement. James and Erin Holloway host monthly educational seminars for the public to teach people tools that can help them in their own retirement.”  

 

Humes Inspection & Foundation Company

Rick Humes, a licensed building inspector since 1986, owns and operates Humes Inspection & Foundation Company. With over 34 years of experience in all aspects of construction, Rick provides a thorough inspection of the home’s chimney, foundation, roof, attic, electrical and much more. Operating in East Texas, Humes Inspection & Foundation Company has been BBB Accredited since 2001.
In their own words: “Humes Inspections & Foundation Company has been an A+ Accredited business for over 30 years. In years past they won two BBB Gold Star Awards (2001 & 2011). The exemplify how to work for the consumer and insure their finished product is of the highest quality. A frequent compliment is that they leave their job sites cleaner than it was when they began a job. Mr. Humes and his crew hold themselves to the highest standards in foundation repairs and home inspections.”

 

Mid-Sized Business Category

Innovative Pest Control Inc.

Founded in 1992 by Tony and Kelly Santangelo, Innovative Pest Control Inc. is a family-owned company providing pest control services to get rid of insects, mice, rats and termites as well as moles and gophers. They also issue WDI and termite inspection reports for realtors, home buyers and provide pre-treatments for new home construction. With offices in Tyler and Longview, Innovative Pest Control Inc. has been BBB Accredited since 2008.
What others are saying: “They’ve been in business since 1992 and prides themselves on excellent work and excellent employees.”

 

Gecko Pest Control LLC

Locally owned and operated in Marshall, Texas, Gecko Pest Control and its founder, Daren Horton has provided professional, reliable pest control services in different areas in East Texas since 2000. Daren Horton is an Associate Certified Entomologist, one of the toughest accreditations in the industry and has over thirty-nine years’ experience in pest control. Gecko Pest Control has been voted the "Hometown Best" pest control company for ten years in a row, 2011 - 2020. They have been a BBB Accredited Business since May 2012.
In their own words: “We have been in business for 13 years (14 in 20222). We have over 350 Google reviews with a 4.9 rating. We were nominated for the Award of Excellence in 2021. 2016 Small business of the year in Marshall and voted Hometown Best Pest Company for the last 11 years in a row.”

 

Y'all's BBQ & Produce, LLC

Owned and operated by Ben Warren and Shelli Warren, Y'all’s BBQ & Produce, LLC provides customers with barbecue and fresh seasonal produce. Apart from their southern style BBQ, their produce is grown organically and without chemicals. They are located in Tyler and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
In their own words: “We give back to our community by keeping our prices low. We have supplied jobs to numerous people in our neighborhood and elsewhere who otherwise couldn't get them. Our customers love us and our food. We get rave reviews constantly we do lots of catering we do donations to schools and funerals. We've been featured twice on the East Texas weekend on the news. We've done lots of donations to pass in the past. As well as driving around giving homeless people food and hygiene.”

 

Danny Langford Roofing

Danny Langford Roofing was founded by Danny and Laura Langford providing residential and commercial construction as well as remodeling services. They specialize in a variety of roofing services, including roof installation, roof repairs, roof remodel, shingle roofing, asphalt roofing, metal roofs, rubber roofing, hot tire roofing and more. Danny Langford Roofing provides services in Gilmer and surrounding areas. They have been BBB Accredited since 2020.
What others are saying: “This business has served the East Texas community for many years. The owner of the business Danny Langford recently passed away unexpectedly and his son Taylor has taken over in his stead. They recently completed a job for me and I could not be happier. I am nominating them to thank them for their years of service and to encourage the continuance of a great family company.”

 

Walker Heating & Cooling

Dustin Walker founded Walker Heating and Cooling in 1999 with a bag of tools and a retired firetruck that he converted to his first official service truck. With over 20 years serving East Texas, they provide professional design, installation, and service for every residential and commercial heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, geothermal, and air duct cleaning needs. Operating out of Tyler, Walker Heating & Cooling has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
In their own words: “Serving Tyler and East Texas since 1999, Walker Heating & Cooling is owned and operated by Dustin Walker. Specializing in HVAC, this company is the epitome of integrity and it shows through their actions, service and reviews. E. Almon - Google review Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value Walker is a phenomenal company. We moved into our “new” home recently and the AC went out. I worked through my home warranty company and had to use their “preferred” contractor. That contractor proceeded to make a mess of the situation. I subsequently reached out to Walker on my own and Trish worked with me to get a technician out the same day! Jose was tremendous and very knowledgeable. I now have cold air again thanks to the Walker Team! I highly recommend this company for any and all of your AC/heating needs!”

 

La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery

Locally owned and operated by Mike Murphy, La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery is committed to selling products that meet or exceed industry standards for quality and safety. He has two furniture store locations in Tyler and Longview. La-Z-Boy Furniture has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2001.
What others are saying: “Mike Murphy has been in the furniture business for 50 years. His father Bill Murphy opened the family furniture store in downtown Tyler called Broadway Furniture in 1950. Mike Murphy started working for his father in 1970. In 1978 Bill Murphy opened Murphy’s Furniture Gallery and sold the business in 2000. Mike wanted to stay in the furniture business so opened up his 1st La-z-boy in Tyler in 2001. The 2nd one opened on 2005 in Longview. Mike and his family have done so much for different organizations in Tyler Texas. I have worked for Mike going on 27 years starting with his father in Jan 1995. I nominate Mike Murphy for the BBB Award of Excellence. He is a man with integrity and honesty. He deserves this award for his Excellence!”

 

Lexcom Systems Group

Owned by Bryan Janz, Lexcom System Group is a business consulting firm that specializes in information technology helping clients create and manage IT service strategies for their business. They offer business consulting, datacenter, cloud and networking, managed IT services, cybersecurity and risk management, and more. They are located in Tyler and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
What others are saying: “I feel that Lexcom puts their client's businesses first and solve problems that other companies can't. They help businesses become more successful and give back to the community and local nonprofits.”

 

Large Business Category

Gollob Morgan Peddy & Co PC

Gollob Morgan Peddy was founded in 1982 when a group of seven people set out to create a better accounting firm. A Top 300 firm, GMP provides tax services, audit and accounting, client accounting services, CFO advisory and bankruptcy services for trustees locally, nationwide and even internationally. Located in Tyler, GMP has been a BBB Accredited Business and a charter member since we began our East Texas operations in 1985.
In their own words: “GMP exists to create relationships and build trust that results in success for our business partners. Since the doors opened at Gollob Morgan Peddy in 1982, our goal has been to serve. Serve our clients, our community and our staff. GMP’s work is as much about tomorrow as it is about today. Our staff is here to help you achieve your highest goals. In today’s economy that means planning for the future, not just reacting to the present.”

 

Henry & Peters, P.C.

Since 1929, Henry & Peters has worked to understand clients' needs in order to exceed expectations without compromising the viability of the firm or its people. These accomplishments are indicative of the benevolent, unselfish nature of the company's owners, who always placed the success of the firm as a whole ahead of their own. Today, the firm is operated by Jana Broussard and provides accounting, tax and consulting services in East Texas. Located in Tyler and Longview, Henry & Peters, P.C. has been a BBB Accredited Business since May 2008.
In their own words: “With offices in Tyler and Longview, Henry & Peters has actively served the East Texas community for more than 90 years with all types of tax and accounting services. Everywhere you look in our community, H&P is there. Represented on more than 30 community boards, H&P officers and staff provide financial planning and guidance, as well as financial support to the area's civic and charitable organizations, and has had over 20 graduates of the cities' leadership programs. H&P's own Kay Latta is a recipient of the coveted Leadership Tyler Distinguished Alumni Award, and represents the H&P value of enhancing the quality of life now and for future generations. H&P consistently represents the best of all that East Texas has to offer - integrity, growth and prosperity.”

 

Burns Commercial Properties, LLC

Originally Burns & Noble when founded in 1991, Burns Commercial Properties, LLC is currently the largest real estate firm in East Texas. BCP is a commercial real estate company with leasing/management agreements for over 2.4 million square feet of commercial properties. BCP is owned by Mark Whatley, CCIM, who along with founder Taylor Burns, have a combined experience of over seventy years in the East Texas real estate market. Located in Tyler, BCP has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2010.
What others are saying: “I have worked for this business for more than 23 years and both the former owner, Taylor Burns, and the current owner, Mark Whatley have shown high moral standards, ethics and integrity in the conduct of the business. Mark is very active in the community and supports many organizations within the community.”

 

Veteran-owned Business Category

Bailey Electric Co., Inc.

Established in 1972, Bailey Electric Co., Inc. is operated by President J Dean Bailey. They are in the electrical contractor and other wiring installation contractor industry in the Tyler area. Bailey Electric Co., Inc. has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2002.

 

Pro Clean Restoration

Based in Tyler Texas, Pro Clean Restoration is a family-owned business that has been providing Tyler, Longview, Jacksonville, and all of East Texas with water damage and storm damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration along with carpet cleaning, tile cleaning, air duct cleaning, and oriental/ area rug cleaning since 1996. Located in Tyler, Pro Clean Restoration has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2013.

 

Peter G. Milne, P.C.

Licensed in the state of Texas since 2002, Peter G. Milne head his own firm Peter G. Milne, P.C. Peter is a member of the Smith County Bar Association, the State Bar of Texas Tax Section and the Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Section. Their practice areas include business law, elder law, estate planning, family law, probate law and tax law. The firm is located in Tyler and has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2010.

 

Tyler Roofing Company

Since 1983, Tyler Roofing Company has been serving the East Texas area for over 30 years. Headed by President Tommy Sukiennik, they are a quality roofing repair and installation company. Their goal is to complete the job quickly and in the most unobtrusive manner for an affordable rate. Tyler Roofing Company is based in Tyler and has been an accredited year since 1986.

 

Nonprofit Category

Next Step Community Solutions

Next Step Community Solutions is a 501 (c) 3 Texas incorporated non-profit organization and has been located in Tyler, Texas since their founding in 1984. We were originally established as Sister Communities Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (SCCADA) to address the issues of youth alcohol and substance abuse. Their vision is to promote hope, help and strength among youth in East Texas, so they can lead happy, healthy and productive lives. With Greg Thompson as their Executive Director, Next Step Community Solutions has been a BBB Accredited Charity since 2014.
What others are saying: “[Their nonprofit deserves the BBB Award for Excellence for] providing youth mental health and substance abuse counseling on school campuses across East Texas.”

 

ARC of Smith County

Founded in 1962, The Arc of Smith County is part of a non-profit, nationwide volunteer organization of involved parents and family members, active professionals and interested friends who work on behalf of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Serving more than 1,500 families, The Arc works with community agencies to develop better programs in areas of education, job training, advocacy, support and public awareness. They are located in Tyler, Texas under the direction of Susan Hawkins and have been a BBB Accredited Charity since July 2019.
In their own words: “The Arc of Smith County is the only organization in this area that is involved in direct services to persons with intellect and developmental disabilities, their families and caregivers. In addition, The Arc works with community agencies to develop better programs in areas of education, job training, advocacy, support, public awareness and much needed respite for the caregivers and the 1500 families that the Arc serves. The Arc provides a variety of programs for our clients and families which include 6 camp programs , Funlover's dances at the Rose Garden, Fine Arts programs, Arc Performing Artist programs, Tyler Rose Advocates, Project Lifesavers, Life's Blessings Day Hab, Ballroom dancing for the entire family, Arts and Crafts, and special evenings at the Tyler Civic Theater. The Arc started in 1962 and every year the Arc grows with the number of clients served.”

 

P.A.T.H. - People Attempting To Help

PATH has been serving low-income individuals since 1985. Founded by Gertrude Windsor, PATH was established to help those in need. Thirty-six years later, collaboration among organizations, congregations, government and social service agencies, economic and ethnic groups remain a hallmark of PATH's work in the community. Initially founded on community collaboration, PATH seeks to restore hope with a personalized approach to empower East Texas neighbors to thrive in our community. PATH offers many unduplicated programs and services in Smith County and is a point of referral for area churches and nonprofits.  They are located in Tyler and have been a BBB Accredited Charity since 2015.

In their own words: “Over the past two years and even through the impact of COVID-19 on our organization, the community and those we serve, PATH has continued to achieve a high level of success for a locally founded nonprofit organization. In 2019, PATH received grant funding from the Women's Fund of Smith County to expand the Transitional Housing Program by adding a caseworker position. This position focuses on families not currently in PATH-owned homes who wish to achieve financial stability. Since the addition of that caseworker, PATH doubled the number of families receiving case management. PATH added a special event, the Mardi Gras celebration, as a way to engage young professionals and introduce them to PATH. In the past 2 years, this event has raised an additional $60,000 toward PATH's budget and 80% of the donors are first time donors to the organization. PATH also received grant support in 2021 from Women's Fund of Smith County for rent assistance targeted to women and children. This population makes up 35% of our rent assistance requests. PATH also continues to consistently receive recognition for stability and financial transparency - we achieved Gold-Level status on GuideStar, are a BBB accredited charity and a Charity Navigator 4-star charity. PATH also went through a smooth leadership transition from our previous 7-year Executive Director Greg Grubb to our new Executive Director, Andrea Wilson. PATH also received grant support in 2021 from Women's Fund of Smith County for rent assistance targeted to women and children. This population makes up 35% of our rent assistance requests. Each year, PATH serves approximately 20,000 individuals. In 2020 experienced an increase in our service numbers to 23,685. Our percentage of new clients served also doubled (from 10% to 20%). Unfulfilled requests for assistance have also increased as well, especially over the past year. Historically, 2-1-1 refers 70% of their rent assistance inquiries to PATH. One area where the majority of our clients’ struggle is with finding decent, safe, affordable housing. Average rent in Smith County has increased by over $100 since 2018, while wages for those working low paying jobs have not increased at the same rate. Our standard program measures also remain consistent: 85% of those receiving rent assistance are still housed 6 months later. Possibly our greatest successes have come due to COVID-19. Flexibility was key to our operations in 2020. Staff covered in the pantry when we were short volunteers. In creating new processes for service delivery, we found out quickly what did and didn't work. Processes that didn't work were either finetuned or scrapped all together. New fundraising efforts, such as the Emergency Relief Fund, were launched. The health and safety of staff and volunteers was considered in all we did, and PATH avoided any shut downs due to COVID-19 during 2020 and 2021. PATH remains open, safe and ready to serve those in need.”

 

Christian Women's Job Corps of Tyler

Christian Women’s Job Corps in Tyler was founded by Sandra Mitcham in 1998 while she was on staff at Green Acres Baptist Church. In 2001, CWJC was incorporated as a nonprofit and held its first class of six women. Since then, more than 1800 women have completed the 12-week computer skills and employment readiness program. Graduates of their 12-week Employment Readiness Program gain computer skills, self-confidence, purpose, direction, and hope for their future through Jesus. Today, CWJC is directed by Lesley Jones in Tyler and has been a BBB Accredited business since 2017.
In their own words: “Christian Women's Job Corps equips women with job skills and life skills in a Christ-centered environment. Graduates gain computer skills, confidence and hope for their futures. The lives of women and their families are positively impacted as they are empowered through education and encouragement. Outcome: employment!”

 

Spark Award

The Mortgage House

Teri Killingsworth and Marque Ross co-own The Mortgage House and have been in the mortgage industry for over a decade and wanted to change the way that home loaning financing was done. They pride themselves in being an online resource for personalized mortgage solutions, fast customized quotes, great rates, and service with integrity. They are located in Tyler and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
In their own words: “The Mortgage House strives to help people understand the different pathways to homeownership. They offer services to veterans, first-time homebuyers, and homeownership counseling to those seeking to purchase. They are also locally owned and operated.”

 

East Texas Elite Exteriors, LLC

Family owned and operated with a team of over 30 years of combined experience, East Texas Elite Exteriors, LLC provides custom exteriors to fit their customer needs. They specialize in pergolas, patio covers, sun rooms, new windows, screen porches, and more. Owned by Brad Jacobson, East Texas Elite Exteriors, LLC has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
What others are saying: “One of the best small business home-improvement companies in East Texas”

Certified Roofing Contractors & Consultants

Starting in construction at a young age, Chris Dowell is the owner of Certified Roofing Contractors & Consultants. They are well versed in insurance claims, building code requirements, storm damage and different types of roofing (replacement, repair, inspection and maintenance packages). Located in Longview, they have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
What others are saying: “Amazing company, really know insurance laws that protect customers and building requirements. Went above and beyond to provide excellent customer service, making sure the job was done right, and to our satisfaction. Have recommended them to all my family and friends. Love that they are local and involved in giving back to the community.”

 

Dickson Roofing

In March 2020, Owner, Shon Dickson, started Dickson Roofing out of a desire to have integrity and customer driven service being the foundation upon which his company is built. With over a decade of roofing and insurance experience, Shon, along with his team, started Dickson Roofing to serve East Texas. They specialize in roof repair, inspection and replacement for residential, commercial and new construction. Dickson Roofing is located in Tyler, Texas and has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2020.
What others are saying: “They have grown organically off of word of mouth due to quality service. They are on their way to becoming the best roofing company in East Texas.”

 

B-Squared Designs

Established in 2019 by Brycelyn Beall, B-Squared Designs specializes in having a custom apparel shop with exciting new brands and styles. Their products are inspired by the unique style and energy of Texas. They operate in Longview and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
What others are saying: “This business deserves the BBB Award for Excellence for their consistent involvement in the community as well as their positive outlook solutions for those in need. They always provide their customers with a positive experience.”

 

Cottrell Floors & More

Owned and operated by Connor Cottrell, Cottrell Floors & More is a home improvement business specializing in residential and commercial flooring and all remodeling needs. Complete with custom work, they are a Lindale based business and have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2021.
What others are saying: “The owner, Connor Cottrell, has poured every ounce of his soul into his business. This flooring company strives to make every day better than the last and it is shown through their hard work. Cottrell Floors & More has not had a single complaint with any work completed on any job, but has many rave reviews. Mr. Cottrell treats every single contract as if it were his own house he was working in. This business is compassion based rather than profit based and this is evident through their hard work!”

 

iConnect Businesses Network, LLC

Owned and operated by Dionne Johnson, iConnect Business Network, LLC helps businesses with their promotional needs with various promo products. From design to packaging they strive in setting up their clients with success. Located in Tyler, they have been a BBB Accredited Business since 2020.
What others are saying: “The owner prides herself self in quality service. She operates in a spirit of excellence. She goes out of her way to make home & business deliveries to those clients who are unable to come pick up their items. She accommodates every client. Even if it is a rush order; she will burn the midnight oils to make it happen. She has several high end clients here in the East Texas area. She is responsible for much of the political signage; that you see around town; But you would never know; because she remains humble and values client confidentiality. She gives back to the community by donating her time to helping fellow business owners (most often without pay). She wants to see others succeed and will do whatever she can to help anyone in need (including clients and fellow business owners). She offers a wide variety of business services ranging from graphics to business 101. I connect business is a pillar in the community and truly deserves this award!”

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