Connections Spring 2025

VOL. 4 | ISSUE 1 | SPRING 2025

connections

All in the Family

FAMILY BUSINESSES, LIKE SB&K BENEFITS, ARE THE HEART OF THE CHAMBER! PAGE 23

Non-Profit Spotlight: Heritage Museum of Montgomery County

Member Success Story: A Second Round Glass

Montgomery County Day at the Capitol

Annual Events: Tastefest, Chairman’s Ball, and ATHENA

PAGE 32

PAGE 35

PAGE 47

PAGE 42

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VOL. 4 | ISSUE 1 | SPRING 2025

connections

05 Letter from the President

32 Non-Profit Spotlight: Heritage Museum of

06 Board of Directors & Chamber Team 07 Chamber Staff

Montgomery County

35 A Member Success Story: A Second Round Glass’ Arc from Lone Star 1st Saturday to Ribbon Cutting to Media Celebrity

09 Platinum & Emerald Members 10 Networking Events: Coffee Network,

Morning Mingle, Fun After Five, and Young Professionals Network

39 New and Renewing Members 42 A nnual Events Highlights: Chairman’s Ball, Tastefest, and ATHENA

16 Ribbon Cuttings

47 Montgomery County Day at the Capitol

21 Chamber Diplomats

48 Leadership Montgomery County

23 A ll in the Family: All in the Family: A profile

49 Next Generation Leadership

of several member businesses that are run by multiple family members. Featuring All Star Catering, SB&K Benefits, McKenzie’s BBQ & Burgers, and The Color Bar Hair Salon

About the cover: Todd Bryant, founder of SB&K Benefits, and his daughter Sara Beth Bubak, navigate the challenges – and rewards – of operating a family-run business.

Many of our Chamber members are doing the same – spouses,

50 Bruce Kuehn Makes You Say ‘Wow!’

father & son, mother & daughter, etc. Some, like All Star Catering, involve multiple family members, including in-laws.

The theme is the same – working with family is a blessing that outweighs any challenge.

Cover photo by Carl White / Camlight Video

LETTER FROM TH E PRE SI DE NT 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year for our

region. All throttles are full speed ahead at the local, state and national level for business growth. Our Chamber is well positioned to help support that growth, as we see a tidal wave of new businesses, start-ups, relocations, and expansions throughout Montgomery County. It is always rewarding to see Chamber members supporting each other.

O ur feature stories in this issue hit on some of the

unique family-run businesses that belong to the Chamber. Spousal-run businesses, multi-generational family businesses, siblings. It’s all in the family, and these organizations represent the heart and soul of our business community.

Don’t forget!

Don’t forget to help our food service industry by

supporting Tastefest, which runs through the end of May. We are honored to put the spotlight on local restaurants and catering businesses; they’ve been through a lot in the past several years with the pandemic, natural disasters, etc. So, don’t just shop local...eat local!

Scott Harper President

CONROE.ORG | 5

Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce

2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CLINT NICHOLS Texas Children’s Hospital

MONETTE SMITH Pink Poodle PR

Chairman of the Board

Vice Chair, Marketing & Communications

GUY BARKER First Financial Bank

COLIN MCKENZIE McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers

Chair Elect

Vice Chair, Business & Entrepreneurial Development

BRYAN FOWLER Fowler Law Firm

MELANIE BUSH Better Bookkeepers

Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs/Community Dev.

Vice Chair, Workforce/Talent/Leadership Development

NICK DAVIS Guaranty Bank & Trust

JENNIFER MILLINGTON Primrose School of Conroe

Treasurer

Immediate Past Chair; Vice Chair, Membership Engagement

DIRECTORS TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2026 Guy Barker, First Financial Bank

Darwin Canales, Crown BrandBuilding Packaging

Kristine Marlow, Montgomery County Food Bank

Brittany Chandler, Entergy

Rebecca McDonald, Woodforest National Bank

Colin McKenzie, McKenzie’s BBQ & Burgers

Warner Phelps, Dean & Draper Insurance Agency

Monette Smith, Pink Poodle PR

Jennifer Millington, Primrose School of Conroe Kelly Dietrich, Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc.

Natalie Dallmer, HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe

Dr. Robert Suter, Sam Houston State University - College of Osteopathic Medicine

Tiffany Iadarola, Gullo Dealerships

Mario Valadez, Conroe’s Incredible Pizza + Fun

APPOINTED DIRECTORS

Linda Nelson, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center

Carl White, Cam Light Video Production

Clint Nichols, Texas Children’s Hospital

TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2028 Jared Burns, Astro Fence Company

Jennifer Huffine, Montgomery County Assistance Center

Nick Davis, Guaranty Bank & Trust

Brent Stokes, A Second Round Glass

DeAndre Guin, Meals on Wheels— Montgomery County

TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2027 Sonya Brazeal, Amazing Window Cleaners Melanie Bush, Better Bookkeepers Inc.

Bryan Fowler, Fowler Law Firm Judge Wayne Mack, Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 6

(1-YEAR TERM THROUGH JAN. 2026)

Kirk Barajas, Consolidated Communications

CHAMBER STAFF SCOTT HARPER

GIGI PEACOCK

President

Director, Membership Sales

PAULINE VEAZEY

SHANNAN REID

Vice President, Operations & Finance

Director, Community Relations

RILEY BORCHGARDT

STEVE SCHEFFLER

Director, Special Events

Director, Marketing & Communications

BRITTANY CASTELLON

MARCELA ORNELAS

Director, Membership Experience

Manager, Marketing & Communications

Chamber staff at the Go Texan Parade breakfast.

CONROE.ORG | 7

SMALL BUSINESS BIG (BRANDING) IDEAS

310.569.3023 risaauger@ymail.com risaauger.com IG @risaauger

Our members are the best!

PLATINUM + EMERALD INVESTORS PLATINUM MEMBERS

EMERALD MEMBERS America’s Home Place

First National Bank Texas

Rodgers Stein Chiropractic Center

Beckett West Fork

Grand Central Park

Chambers Creek

by Caldwell Communities

KDW LTD

Spectrum Catering, Concessions & Staffing Texas

LEO at West Fork

Stainless Structurals America

Lone Star College-Montgomery

The Vale

MD Anderson Cancer Center

VeraBank

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Wiesner Buick-GMC-Hyundai

Conroe Professional Firefighters, Assoc.

Crown Brand Building Packaging DeMontrond Auto Country

Pink Poodle PR CONROE.ORG | 9

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NETWORKING EVENTS

Hope’s Bridge 11.06.24

Ninke Tax & Financial Solutions 12.04.24

CLICK HERE TO RSVP FOR THE NEXT COFFEE NETWORK EVENT! Brenham National Bank 2.05.25

Ranger AC & Refrigeration 3.05.25

Avenity Business Solutions 4.02.25 CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 10

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NETWORKING EVENTS

Visit Conroe! 11.14.24

Conroe’s Incredible Pizza & Rave Financial Credit Union 12.12.24

Black Walnut Cafe 1.09.25

WorkHub Flex 2.13.25

The Woodlands Hills / Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc 3.13.25

Citizens Grill 4.10.25

CONROE.ORG | 11

15472 Village Woods Dr · Conroe, TX 77302 HVACR State License TACLA119874C Regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation ● PO Box 12157 ● Austin Texas 78711 1-800-803-9202 ● 512-463-6599 ● www.tdlr.texas.gov

C&C HVAC Services is a small, proud, woman-owned & operated family business specializing in the commercial HVAC construction & service industry since 2021, serving Montgomery County & surrounding areas. C&C HVAC Services has over 70 years of industry experience in commercial HVAC construction with 30 years industry experience in commercial HVAC Service with a market focus in medical, government, higher education, K-12, commercial real estate including multi-story office buildings, & natatoriums (Certified Blue Duct Installer).

Services: C&C HVAC Services, LLC is able to provide commercial HVAC services from new construction events, plan & spec work, along with demand service & preventative maintenance from light commercial with the ability to serve markets from restaurants, retail strip centers, office buildings to heavy commercial with the ability to service over 25-tons and up from Mini-Split Systems, Split Systems, Roof Top Units (RTU’s) , S.C.U.D Units, Water & Air Cooled, including Cooling Towers & Chillers, Fan Coil Units (FCU's), etc.

Service Offerings: ➢ HVAC Service, Preventative Maintenance, Replacements, & Retrofits ➢ Cooling Tower Maintenance, Repairs, & Replacements

➢ Boiler Repair, Replacements, & Preventative Maintenance ➢ Motor Repairs (Rewind, Bearings, & Bake) ➢ Pump Repair & Replacement

➢ Water/Refrigeration Coil Replacement

➢ Walk-In & Reach-In Coolers/Freezers Services & Preventative Maintenance ➢ Co2 Monitor Installation & Calibration ➢ Vibration Analysis

➢ IAQ Duct Cleaning, Antimicrobial Coatings.

➢ Insulation services - Ductwork & Piping Insulation ➢ Blue Duct Installation and repair

CONROE.ORG | 12

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NETWORKING EVENTS

Family Promise 11.21.24

Good Charlie’s Oyster Bar + Seafood Kitchen 12.19.24

Rodgers Stein Chiropractic Center 1.16.25

SaleQuick.com 2.20.25

Montgomery County Fair Assoc. 4.02.25

Dean & Draper Insurance, Griffin, Cain & Herbig Attorneys at Law, Woodforest National Bank 3.20.25 CONROE.ORG | 13

J. Patrick Homes 4.17.25

Creating Connections

GATHERINGS

Happy Hour hosted by The Pink Shutter House November 2024

Lunch & Learn sponsored by Rave Financial Credit Union December 2024

Volunteer Day at SCI TECH Exposition January 2025

Happy Hour hosted by Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux February 2025

Lunch & Learn presented by Pink Poodle PR March 2025

YPN Volunteering at Community Assistance Center April 2025 CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 14

Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch Coffee-Cocktails-Wine-Beer We cater

Open 7 days a week We cater

936.224.5515

www.madamebriochebistro.com madamebriochebistro@gmail.com 2400 FM 1488, Conroe, TX 77384

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NEW BEGINNINGS

A Second Round Glass 11.07.24

Engineering Excellence 11.12.24

Rinkers Boat World 11.13.24

Lockaway Storage 1488 11.14.24

Story Built Homes 11.14.24

Austin Bank 11.21.24

Lockaway Storage 105 11.22.24

Northwestern Mutual Patrick Logan 11.25.24

Ultra Corpotech Inc 12.05.24

Sharkeys Cuts for Kids 12.06.24

Stella Maris Orthodontics 12.06.24

Enhance Anti-Aging IV Hydration and Wellness 12.10.24

Texas Regional Bank Groundbreaking in Progress 12.19.24

Small Sliders Texas - Willis 1.04.25

Next Level Urgent Care 1.15.25

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 16

29th Annual

GOLFERS AGAINST CANCER Tournament & Gala PRESENTED BY:

OCTOBER 25-27, 2025 Honoring Abby Thomas, a 14 year old from Conroe, TX suffering from an inoperable brain tumor. You can join the movement through donations, sponsorships, or participation in our tounament, gala, raffles and auctions, or voluteering at the event.

VOLUNTEER

REGISTER NOW

For volunteer information contact: Melissa Sellers Melissa@golfersagainstcancer.org Text: 281-704-7381 936-256-3194

app.galabid.com/gac2025 Contact info@golfersagainstcancer.org for registation questions.

www.golfersagainstcancer.org

& DEDICATION OF THE LINE

Parking located across the street at the Park & Ride Lot, and overflow parking will be at 100 I-45 N, Conroe, TX 77301

1776 FREEDOM BLVD., CONROE, TX 77301 HONOREDMISSION.ORG

(936)521-3668

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NEW BEGINNINGS

First National Bank 1.16.25

Hikma Integrative Healthcare 1.17.25

Cottonwood Bridal 2.08.25

City of Willis Ground Breaking 2.10.25

SHSU College of Osteopathic Medicine 2.12.25

Premiere Events 2.18.25

Crepes of Brittany 2.19.25

Chennault Aviation 2.19.25

Color Interiors 2.20.25

Eggs Up Grill 2.21.25

Popeyes 2.26.25

Memorial Hermann Medical Group Willis Family Medicine Practice 3.06.25

Manuel Builders 3.07.25

The Dog Wizard 3.11.25

Milano Nail Spa - Willis 3.20.25

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 18

Creating Connections | November 2024 - April 2025

NEW BEGINNINGS

Montgomery Welcome Center 3.25.25

Rave Financial Credit Union - Willis 3.26.25

GuadalaHARRY’s Bar & Grill 3.27.25

Rave Financial Credit Union - Conroe 3.27.25

Beckett West Fork Apartments 3.28.25

The Color Bar Magnolia 3.28.25

Voda Cleaning and Restoration 3.28.25

Senior Benefits Consulting 4.03.25

Buttermilk Events 4.04.25

WorkHub Flex 4.08.25

The Everstead at Conroe 4.09.25

Sherwin Williams Magnolia West 4.23.25

—CLICK HERE TO—

TODAY!

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CHAMBER DIPLOMAT RANKS EXPAND

O ur Chamber Diplomat team grew this spring with

the addition of five new members. Each new member completed an application process and was selected for the new cohort of Diplomats.

Throughout the winter and spring, the Diplomats

have shown up strong at Chamber events, including monthly luncheons, networking events, and, of course, our frequent ribbon-cutting ceremonies, in addition to regular meetings of their own.

Current Chamber Diplomats Amanda Anders – Guaranty Bank & Trust Andrea Katen – Avenity Business Solutions Benjamin Lichnovsky – Cole & Taylor Insurance Bruce Kuehn – Southern Cross Communications Caroline Mason – Whitestone Printing Cherelle’ Simon – Spherion Staffing Cortni Peters – Nothing Bundt Cakes Velvet Dove – Gladd Foundation Eric Hagebusch – World Investment Advisors Jade Zeno – Visit Conroe!

Jared Burns – Astro Fence Company Jessica Hogland – Ranger Guard Joanne Heitmiller – Assistance League of Montgomery County Josh Davies – Mosquito Hunters of North Conroe - Montgomery - Magnolia Kathy Kirby – Wineshop At Home Lou Ann Tiger – Liberty Office Products Nila Ciesiel – Conroe Service League Owan Wade – Beauty By Owan Gray Summer Hvasta – San Jacinto River Authority Terri Strozier – Lone Star Convention & Expo Center – Montgomery County

New Diplomats Cyndi Turrigiano – Turrango’s Dry Fire Range Daintee Hurst-Dietz – Medicare Houston Erika Sumner – Chick-Fil-A Montgomery Jessie Lamb – Bright Beetle Consulting LaTina Roberson – Rave Financial Credit Union

CONROE.ORG | 21

Cover Story

ALL IN THE

Family

Members of the Spence family enjoy time together at the Chamber’s annual Tastefest event, providing samples of All Star Catering’s delicious menu.

While working with family members brings challenges, the rewards of a family-run business are many. You are working with people who are trustworthy and loyal. There’s a strong work ethic. It provides more stability and flexibility. Decisionmaking doesn’t have to be as complicated. There’s also a deep sense of legacy and tradition in a family-run business. However, it can result in blurred boundaries. There may be a resistance to change, especially in multi-generational situations. Keeping it ‘all in the family’ is something that many of our Chamber members are doing. Here is a spotlight on just a few.

relationships and serve others, and that is what my father had spent the last 18 years doing. As a family we are very close and after talking with him about the business, my goals, and briefly on his succession plan, I was excited to make the switch to this business.

TODD BRYANT, FOUNDER/OWNER, ESTABLISHED SB&K BENEFITS IN 2005. THREE YEARS AGO, HIS DAUGHTER, SARA BETH BUBAK, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, JOINED THE BUSINESS TWO YEARS AFTER GRADUATING FROM TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY.

What was your motivation in starting or joining a family-run business?

Todd: I started SB&K Benefits, LLC 20 years ago to use my benefit knowledge to help business owners with their benefit plans. I found they all had the same needs – clear guidance, help with timelines, and someone who would be there to help with issues that come up.

Sara Beth: Prior to joining the business, I was employed in the finance industry with a great company, however, I kept hitting roadblocks in the path I was on. I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I was able to build

What reservations (if any) did you have in starting or joining a family-run business?

Todd: I had no reservations. I had purpose and a goal to focus on. My wife Pati was very supportive and encouraged me to make it happen.

Sara Beth: Both of my parents built successful businesses and had instilled the entrepreneurship spirit in me from a young age. I always thought I would go on to build a company of my own from scratch, and I never thought it would be in insurance. My parents have been incredible motivators when it comes to encouraging me to use my own strengths whether it be in modernizing current processes, marketing my brand, or building a book of business that is my own.

CONROE.ORG | 23

Cover Story

What is the biggest challenge you face in working with family member(s)?

Todd: Keeping business and family in good balance. I don’t want every family get-together to turn into a business meeting.

Sara Beth: Overcoming communication styles in the workplace. My dad and I have always had open communication within the family, but exploring what that looks like professionally daily has been something we have continued to work through and adapt according to needs.

What is the biggest reward in working with family member(s)?

Todd: I love seeing my daughter grow in her expertise and confidence. Sara Beth has really grown in her knowledge and has been instrumental in setting meetings, doing marketing efforts, and solving problems for clients.

We are also big believers in giving back to the community, and I enjoy getting involved with Chamber and Rotary projects with Sara Beth.

Sara Beth: I have the best mentor in the world! Also, being family, we naturally care about each other’s successes, professional development, and work/life balance.

What do you bring to your business that your daughter/father does not?

Todd: I bring knowledge, important connections, and key contacts within our industry.

Sara Beth: Being both extroverted and freshly motivated to prospect, I have been a big advocate for getting out and involved in the community. Todd has been extremely helpful in introducing me to friends in different nonprofits and organizations, as well as getting back out himselfattending events such as those put on by the Chamber.

What does your daughter/ father bring to your business that you do not?

Todd: Sara Beth brings fresh ideas for marketing, communications, and workflow tracking. Just the other day she showed me some new tools she had created to help with follow up and timelines.

Sara Beth: He has spent his whole life in the insurance world. He is so incredibly knowledgeable in every aspect of our industry, in a way that is only accessible by years of first-hand experience.

What have you learned about your daughter/father since working with them?

Todd: I’ve learned that Sara Beth likes to be busy and challenged by her work. During slow times she often reaches out to me to see what she can do next.

Sara Beth: My father is an incredibly hard worker who deeply cares for each of his clients. Growing up I observed him working through weekends, family vacations, and some very late nights, and now I can see, and sometimes relate to, the product of that work ethic.

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 24

Todd Bryant shares a moment with daughte Beth Bubak and granddaughter, Charlotte. generation destined for SB&K Benefits?

Cover Story

Did you enter this family business to help ensure succession of the business?

Father-daughter co-workers Todd Bryant and Sara Beth Bubak enjoy networking at a Chamber Morning Mingle.

Todd: Sara Beth joined me initially to learn the business and build her own client base. Over time it has evolved into more of “how can we make SB&K Benefits grow” and we have been talking about what the future of the company looks like. I love what I do so I won’t be retiring anytime soon, but I love to have a glimpse of what the future holds!

Sara Beth: I initially joined the business to learn more about the industry and grow my own portfolio. Growth and the changes necessary surrounding that have regularly become part of our weekly meetings, but there is still much time before anyone will be retiring.

What is your best piece of advice when working with/for family members?

Todd: Keep family matters and business matters separate. For me, I’m focusing on being more of a leader/mentor for Sara Beth and trying not to go into “dad mode.” Have regular meetings to discuss goals, challenges, and frustrations keep communication open and create an environment where it’s okay to talk about anything.

Sara Beth: Naturally there will be a time period of transition from just family to coworker (or boss), but it is so rewarding to be able to work with your lifelong role model and get to share in each other’s professional successes.

er Sara Is a third

JUSTIN KILLINGSWORTH, FOUNDER/ CO-OWNER WITH SPOUSE TONY KILLINGSWORTH, OPENED THE COLOR BAR HAIR SALON IN 2019, AND SINCE THEN, IT HAS GROWN TO MULTIPLE LOCATIONS – INCLUDING HUNTSVILLE, MONTGOMERY, MAGNOLIA, CONROE AND THE FM 1960/CHAMPIONS AREA.

What was your motivation in starting or joining a family-run business?

The motivation for starting our business was simple: we wanted to create a space where people could feel beautiful and confident, while also building something that we could work on together as a family.

Both Tony and I have a passion for the beauty industry, and it was important for us to create a business that not only allowed us to share that passion but also allowed us to spend more time together as a family. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how our vision has come to life.

What reservations (if any) did you have in starting or joining a familyrun business?

One of the biggest reservations we had was the potential difficulty of separating personal and professional life. It can be tricky to find that balance when you’re both working and living together. However, over time we’ve learned to communicate openly and establish boundaries to ensure that our work doesn’t spill over into our personal lives. It’s definitely a challenge, but also part of the adventure.

What is the biggest challenge you CONROE.ORG | 25

Cover Story

face in working with family member(s)?

The biggest challenge is balancing the professional and personal aspects of our relationship. We’re constantly learning how to maintain a healthy dynamic both in the salon and at home. It’s important to have patience and understanding, as emotions can sometimes get in the way when working so closely with family. But we’ve learned how to navigate this, and it’s made us stronger as a team.

What is the biggest reward in working with family member(s)?

The biggest reward is having someone you can trust completely by your side. We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we can support each other in ways that make the business stronger. Seeing the business grow and knowing we’re building something lasting together is incredibly fulfilling.

What do you bring to your business that your spouse does not?

I bring a lot of hands-on experience working directly with clients, as I still do hair 2-3 days a week. My background in the beauty industry and my personal connection to our clients helps me maintain a close relationship with the day-to-day operations of the salons.

What does your spouse bring to your business that you do not?

our salons. He also has a natural ability to connect with and manage the diverse personalities of our employees, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported.

What have you learned about your spouse since working with them?

I’ve learned a great deal about Tony’s patience and big heart. He’s always able to stay calm and composed in challenging situations, and he approaches every problem with a level-headed mindset.

Did you enter this family business to help ensure succession of the business?

Yes, we did. From the very beginning, we wanted to create something that could be passed down through generations, as we have a beautiful 8-year-old daughter. Building a business together has not only been about achieving personal success but also about creating something that can continue to grow and be a part of our family’s legacy.

What is your best piece of advice when working with/ for family members?

My best advice is to communicate openly and set clear boundaries.

While it’s important to be supportive and understanding, it’s just as crucial to maintain a professional relationship in the workplace.

Tony brings a strong eye for design and construction, which has been crucial in creating a visually appealing and functional space for

Justin and Tony Killinsworth co-founded The Hair Salon in 2019 in Huntsville. It has since g include multiple salons throughout Montgom

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 26

Cover Story

Justin (left) and Tony Killingsworth, owners of The Color Bar Hair Salon, celebrate following the ribbon-cutting ceremony at their new location in Conroe.

e Color Bar grown to mery County.

CODY SPENCE, SON/CEO, ALONG WITH OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS INCLUDING FATHER/FOUNDER DON SPENCE, MOTHER/CO-FOUNDER COAINA SPENCE, AND SPOUSE/ VP OF OPERATIONS KANDACE SPENCE, CURRENTLY LEAD ALL STAR CATERING, WHICH CELEBRATED ITS 20-YEAR ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR.

What was your motivation in starting or joining a family-run business?

Cody: For joining, at the beginning, it wasn’t a choice. You worked in the family business; you helped your family. Later, when I decided to come on full time and learn the ins and outs of the business, it was out of love. I found I love the business; I love serving people and using my creativity to better our company.

Coaina: We had sold a business and needed to invest the money made in the sale of the business fairly quickly, so Don and I spent time discussing what we wanted to do. He really knows the food business but wanted something that was not 365 days a year and open 7 days a week.

After a lot of prayer, we decided a catering company was the answer!

What reservations (if any) did you have in joining a family-run business?

Don: No reservations at all. God gave us

CONROE.ORG | 27

a vision and we just followed His leading and the rest is history. I will say this, if you follow God’s leading, you can never go wrong.

Cody: My reservations fully stemmed from not knowing what I could contribute to an already successful small company. Adding to that, what would my relationship look like with my parents moving forward? At that time, I hadn’t learned how to separate the employee/employer relationship with my parents with the mom and dad relationship. The different relationship dynamics blended together.

Kandace: How it would affect our marriage since we were newlyweds.

What is the biggest challenge you face in working with family member(s)?

Cody: Disagreements following you home.

There is nothing worse than being mad at one another in the workplace, getting in your car to go home and then walking in the door at home, and being hit with it again.

Don: Family issues, but there haven’t been many problems whatsoever.

What is the biggest reward in working with family member(s)?

Cody: In reference to my Mom & Dad, spend an incredible amount of time with them. That is an opportunity most people

Cover Story

don’t get. Are there bad days? Yes. Do the good days outweigh the bad? Without a doubt. In reference to my wife, the best reward has been not only growing together in our personal life but also in our professional life as well. We have become an incredible team. Are there rough days? Yes. Is it hard to shut off work when the one you work with is always with you?

Yes. But it is hands down the most incredible blessing, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Coaina: Working together every day Kandace: Seeing my husband daily.

And my mother-in-law has become one of my closest friends.

Don: Getting to spend time with your family!

What do you bring to your business that your other family members do not?

Cody: I would say creative design and personal relationships with the community.

Don: The knowledge of food production and food management.

Kandace: Calm within a storm.

What does your family bring to your business that you do not?

Cody: My wife brings an enormous amount of organization to our company and keeps our feet on the ground and moving forward.

Mom & Dad bring both financial knowledge along with a lifetime of service industry knowledge and experience that can’t be replaced.

great businessman/great food business knowledge/best husband of 41 years. Son: great business perspectives, great sense of humor and the joy of being his Mom and getting the privilege of working with him daily. Daughter-in-law: sweetness, kindness, and a gentle approach in handling issues

What have you learned about your family since working with them?

Cody: What I have learned about my wife is what a tough and resilient woman she is. Running a business is hard and at times, like the COVID years, you really find out who is surrounding you because you have to lean so heavily on one another. What I have learned about my parents is they are risk takers.

Starting a catering company before the explosion of the area was a risk. Also, just how hard working they really are. I always knew to an extent, but you never really know until you are in the day-to-day grind with them.

Members of the Spence family along with other All Star Catering team members.

What is your best piece of advice when working with/ for family members?

Cody: Learn to keep work issues at work and home issues at home.

It is hard. Very hard. But it is like a muscle, you just have to work at it and eventually it becomes a strength.

Coaina: Be patient, listen and teach all you can!

Don Spence (left) with Cody Spence.

Coaina: Spouse: best advice/ CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 28

Cover Story

COLIN MCKENZIE, SON OF FOUNDER DARIN MCKENZIE, IS VICE PRESIDENT AND CO-OWNER OF MCKENZIE’S BARBEQUE & BURGERS, A 30-YEAROLD ICONIC RESTAURANT AND CATERING BUSINESS.

strengths complement each other, and that balance has made our partnership effective.

What was your motivation in starting or joining a family-run business?

We face the same challenges any business does—it’s just that, when you work with family, you’re also seeing each other outside of work. That overlap can make it a little harder to separate business from personal life, but it also pushes you to communicate better.

I grew up working for my dad (I was six weeks old when my parents opened our business), and from an early age, I knew I had the entrepreneurial spirit. When I went to college, each summer, I returned home to work at McKenzie’s. During that time, my dad began to expose me to more of the business side of things.

Between my sophomore and junior year, I approached my dad with a proposal to join the company full-time after graduation.

Once that path was set, it transformed how I viewed my education. I began connecting what I was learning in the classroom directly to our business, applying those insights in real time and gaining a deeper understanding of how to create value and drive growth.

What reservations (if any) did you have in starting or joining a familyrun business?

I had no reservations. If anyone had concerns, it was probably my mom—she worried about how my dad and I would handle working together. But the truth is, we work extremely well as a team. Our

CONROE.ORG | 29

What is the biggest challenge you face in working with family member(s)?

What is the biggest reward in working with family member(s)?

The time we get to spend working together is the biggest reward. There’s something really special about sharing in the wins— success feels even better when you’ve achieved it together as a family.

What do you bring to your business that your father does not?

As an extrovert, I bring strong people skills to the table. That’s been a big asset—not just in connecting with customers, but also in building relationships and morale with our team.

What does your father bring to your business that you do not?

He brings a level of organization and attention to detail that really balances out my strengths. It keeps the business running smoothly and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

Cover Story

What have you learned about your father since working with him?

Thinking back to when I was a kid working at the restaurant, I learned just how resilient and selfless my dad is. Watching him lead by example made a lasting impression on me and shaped the way I approach the business today.

What is your best piece of advice when working with/for family members?

Clear and honest communication is key. When you’re working with family, it’s even more important to stay open, respectful, and intentional in how you communicate—both in and out of the business

Father (Darin) and son (Colin) pose at the McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers in Conroe.

There’s something really special about sharing in the wins

Darin McKenzie (right) talks about the development of McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers at the opening of the Davis Room

– success feels even better when you’ve achieved it together as a family.”

– COLIN MCKENZIE, MCKENZIE’S BBQ & BURGERS

The McKenzie family recently celebrated the grand opening of the Davis Room, a special event venue, at their Conroe location.

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 30

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Non-Profit Spotlight

THE HERITAGE MUSEUM OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY What is the mission of the Heritage Museum?

O ur goal at The Heritage Museum of Montgomery

County is to educate the public about Montgomery County’s rich history! The museum features exhibits showcasing the county’s roots, from the lumber and oil industries to the everyday lives of Montgomery County residents.

Museum grounds

The museum offers visitors displays in two historic

homes and several outdoor exhibits as well as a gift shop which features unique hand-crafted items and other Texas-themed gifts. A signature project of the museum is the oral history interview project, which captures the stories of a variety of people from across the county. Most of the interviews are posted on the museum’s website and can be accessed at any time. The museum hosts monthly programs for adults and families as well as special events throughout the year. There is no admission fee to visit the museum or attend one of the programs.

Museum gift shop

When (and how) did it begin?

Front of the muse the Grogan-Coc

Community leaders worked in the early 1980s to

establish a county museum. Original plans called for the museum to be housed in the former Missouri Pacific Depot in downtown Conroe, but the depot burned down in 1981. The Heritage Museum of Montgomery County was formally established in 1985 when Carolyn Meadows Walker donated the historic Grogan-Cochran home, built in 1924, for the purpose of housing a museum.

M ayor Carl Barton and the City of Conroe provided land

adjacent to Candy Cane Park on the I-45 north feeder road for the museum’s permanent location. The Museum formally opened in November 1986. Through a fundraiser and generous donors, the Conroe Service League was able to open the museum in 1986 and served as its administrative branch until the museum grew strong enough to stand on its own financially.

How has the museum developed and changed over its history?

O ver the past 40 years, the museum has expanded

to include two historic homes. The Grogan-Cochran home houses the main collection of the museum which includes historic documents, photographs, and memorabilia, in four galleries. It also includes a display dedicated to Dr. Charles Stewart and the creation of the Texas flag. One of the galleries includes a recreation of an early log cabin and a turn-of-the-century general store.

The second museum building is the Strake-Gray House,

which was donated to the museum by Sarah Bess Gray Crow in 2015. She grew up in the home originally located on Duffy Road in the Conroe Oilfield. This house features exhibits focusing on the people who lived and worked in the oilfield. It also contains space that is used for museum programs, meetings, and other events.

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 32

homes and outdoor exhibits so we depend greatly on the Friends of the Museum for their assistance. We are very grateful to those individuals who provide regular financial support to the museum.

What events/activities does the museum use to raise funds/resources/awareness from the local community?

We maintain a website and a Facebook page featuring

current news about the museum as well as links to oral history and continual story telling of people and places in the county. We host the Intimate Gatherings series which are monthly programs open to the public featuring keynote speakers on a wide variety of topics. During the summer, we offer the Saturday Pioneer Adventure series which focuses on programs for families. We also have hosted car shows featuring the Piney Wood Model A Car Club and we exhibited the Old Conroe Christmas village created by Pam and Kyle Walker.

Suann Hereford, Executive Director

What is on the horizon for the museum?

In other words, what new things is the organization working on?

It is always a challenge to maintain the historic integrity

of the museum while making subtle changes that keep the experience fresh and exciting for our visitors. Over the coming year, we will be making some changes in the first two galleries that will allow us to expand our Black history section as well as include new displays to include The Woodlands and communities in East Montgomery County.

eum, formerly chran home

We are excited to host the extensive Santa Claus

How can the community support the museum?

The primary way to support the museum is to visit and to become a Friend of the Museum each year with a financial donation. We also have a wonderful gift shop which features Texas themed products, handmade items from local artisans, local honey, and unique children’s toys. Many of our hand-made items are created by the members of the Heritage Sewing and Craft Club. These items are one-of-a-kind and can’t be found anywhere else. The Heritage Museum is also a source of books from many local authors such as Larry Foerster, Sondra Hernandez, Robin Montgomery, Blake Spencer, and Bernie Sargent.

collection of Laney Whiteman. She has collected every imaginable kind of Santas from around the world. There will be an opening of the exhibit on November 8 and it will run until mid-December.

Volunteers celebrate the opening of the museum in 1986.

The only sources of income to support the work of the

museum are donations, grants, and sales from our gift shop. It is expensive to maintain the two historic CONROE.ORG | 33

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Feature Story

FROM EMPTINESS TO FULFILLMENT: AN UPCYCL.ING SUCCESS STORY Half full or half empty is a typical question that defines whether you’re an optimist or a pessimist. At A Second Round Glass, however, an empty glass was the inspiration that started it all. An idea that turned into a hobby. A hobby that quickly turned into a business.

And a business that is thriving, thanks, in part, to a strong relationship with the Chamber.

It all began during a 2018 work trip in Chile. Brent Stokes, a former global product line manager for a mineral/mining company, and his wife Scarlett, a marketing consultant, were traveling in South America when they first witnessed upcycling – the repurposing of empty glass bottles into drinkware. The couple brought a few of the glasses back to their home in Montgomery – but they also carried with them the idea of reproducing what they saw in Chile.

Lone Star 1st Saturday 2017

C/LCC ribbon cutting Nov. 2024

Together with their son, Brandon, who had just graduated from the University of Arkansas, they have turned what could have been an interesting hobby into a truly fascinating business success story – all within a five-year span. To say that A Second Round Glass’s (A2RG’s) glass is half full would be, well, an understatement.

“We like the ‘circular-ness’ of (upcycling),” said Brandon.

“They (Brent & Scarlett) saw it as a gift – turning something that was waste and creating opportunity from it.”

Courier Article Dec. 2024

ABC13 News Localish Segment CONROE.ORG | 35

Unfortunately, there were very few, if any, models of success with glass upcycling in the United States, which meant learning the business – one “mistake” at a time.

“Much of our success has been through trial and error – the misapplication of technology,” added Brandon, who serves as President focusing on business development and product planning. (Brent’s official title is “Innovation Specialist” while Scarlett is A2RG’s CEO.) According to Brandon, making the production process “standard and repeatable” was the focus during the company’s start-up phase. To reach that point, the business went through multiple production lines, tweaking new equipment and technology while outgrowing their work space several times. It was a challenge, he said, for no one in the Stokes’ family is a trained engineer.

In fact, an early accident – Brent burned himself while experimenting with a gas torch in tight quarters with Brandon – helped them realize the need for a larger, more streamlined production space.

A2RG founders — Brent and Scarlett Stokes

As the family adjusted their manufacturing operations, and as interest in their hobby-turned-business increased, they also realized that making connections in the community would be another critical component of their success. Enter the Chamber.

“We joined (the Chamber) in 2021,” said Brandon. “At that point, we were still kind of a hobby, with a DBA under Scarlett’s name.”

One of the first events they attended was Lone Star 1st Saturday, a crafters’ market in downtown Montgomery that the Chamber facilitates for local artisans. “We have been attending this event for almost five years, along with other Chamber events that bring our business in contact with the community.

We’ve been pleasantly surprised at how many legacy members are part of the Chamber. It’s a friendly environment and all the businesses get well connected.” – BRANDON STOKES

Brandon Stokes, A2RG’s President, shows off an e

Brandon said that one of his Chamber regrets is not taking advantage of all that the Chamber has to offer from the very beginning.

“The recent merger of the Montgomery Area Chamber with the Conroe/ Lake Conroe Chamber has quadrupled our access to more businesses,” he added. “There are more attendees, more friends, more connections.”

THE BOTTLE BRIGADE One of the key ingredients for A2RG’s business model is creating and maintaining a dedicated network of recycling partners – businesses that are willing to donate used bottles – a true “Bottle Brigade,” as Brandon refers to it. In fact, A2RG has become the ‘garbage man’ for many of the CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 36

Finished upcycled glassware for sale

early production prototype.

local wineries that belong to the Bottle Brigade.

“Connections we’ve made from the Chamber helped establish this group,” he said. “And they serve as an important resource for our business, which is one of the only fullservice upcycling businesses in the region.

Without the networking events hosted by the Chamber, we wouldn’t have been able to establish relationships with local business resources.”

Just like the Stokes have made their business a family affair, they see the Chamber family as an extension of their own. “You can’t do it alone,” said Brandon. “It takes a village. It’s a lot like raising a kid.”

He points to how friendly and cooperative the Chamber’s members are, especially at ribbon cutting ceremonies, networking events, and even the professional business development seminars that the Chamber offers.

“We try to attend as many events as we can.

Inevitably, it pays off. For instance, my mom (Scarlett) is a dedicated attendee at the Coffee Network event at Chick-fil-A. She’s made so many connections through that.”

GOING VIRAL Recently, A2RG went viral following a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its current location off McCaleb Road in Montgomery.

Pictures from the event were noticed by the Conroe Courier newspaper, which ran a feature article about the business. This caught the attention of Houston’s ABC News affiliate, Channel 13, which spotlighted A2RG in its “Localish” segment.

For Brandon, the media onslaught, which has also included articles in Community Impact and the local Postcards magazine, has been a key element of A2RG’s marketing strategy. So, too, are the Chamber’s events, some of which have included marketingfocused content.

CONROE.ORG | 37

“It’s been a huge benefit to us,” he said. “We couldn’t have done half of what we’ve done without the Chamber and its support.”

Today, A2RG has five full-time employees operating in a 3,000-square-foot facility.

Brent Stokes says that the business is truly creating generational change.

“This journey of milestones (for A2RG) was all created through the support of the Chamber.”

– BRENT STOKES “We found our outsourcing partners, such as our local bank, our insurance, our suppliers, and more, through the connections we made in the Chamber. What’s allowed us to grow is our involvement with the community and the Chamber.”

A2RG continues to expand and reach new milestones, such as 3-4 tons of glass being recycled each month at its location, making it one of the biggest recyclers in the region.

Recently, it was one of just a handful of businesses chosen by the Texas Historical Commission to sell its upcycled glass product at specific designated historic sites throughout the state.

Through it all, the Stokes family sees a continued partnership with the Chamber as central to their success.

“We had no idea what this was going to turn into,” admits Scarlett Stokes. “It’s a brandnew concept. But, from the very beginning our involvement with the Chamber has paid off in so many ways. As we have grown, so has our relationship with the Chamber, and it will continue to be an important resource for us in the future.”

Welcome to the Chamber

NEW MEMBERS

(From Nov. 1, 2024 - April 30, 2025)

Platinum C&C HVAC Services, LLC

Dual – Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber

Frontier Waste Solutions

A Better Way Chiropractic - Conroe

Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands

A Better Way Chiropractic Montgomery Gameday Men’s Health The Woodlands

Emerald Beckett West Fork

Sapphire Ultra Corpotech, Inc.

Ruby ActionCOACH Piney Woods Aksa Power Generation USA, LLC Buttermilk Events David Weekley Homes Embracing Functional Wellness Gentle Dental Care Montgomery Legacy Title & Abstract Manuel Builders Nazca Technologies and Consulting, LLC Senior Benefits Consulting Shall Prosper Industries, LLC The Bihm Firm, PLLC Urgent Care of Conroe Voda Cleaning and Restoration of Greater Houston - North

Gold Aymankvr, LLC Boyd Grants Donnie and Leesa Buckalew Herzog Financial Solutions

PFS Investments Sunstate Equipment

Business

Pop & Swirl Frozen Treats and More Popeye’s Positively Unfiltered Body Salon Price 4 Limo Houston ProCoat Epoxy Flooring, LLC Rejuvé Salon + Spa Sherwin Williams - Montgomery Sherwin Williams - Magnolia West Sipping Goats, LLC dba Lucy Blues Snapdragon Studio

21st Century Quality Home Care

Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation

401(k)Focus

That 1 Painter Conroe

Active Life Fitness & Pilates

The Color Bar Hair Salon - Magnolia

Art Aguilar Law Firm, P.C.

The Everstead at Conroe

AssuredPartners

The Noodle Master, Inc.

Big Top Entertainment, LLC

The Powerful Athlete

Bright Beetle Consulting

The Woodlands Hills Community Church, a campus of FMC

Cinnaholic - The Woodlands Claims XP Clayton Claire Boutique Clean Sweep HTX, LLC Community Resource Credit Union Cottonwood Bridal

Together Senior Concierge Vertical Web Walker Media Agency Weight Loss Now - Willis Woodforest Wealth

Crowl and Crowl, PLLC Ellie Mental Health in Conroe Enloe Entertainment, LLC Executive Women’s Alliance ExploreTexas.com First American Title - Conroe Forest Cottage Senior Care Goodall Plumbing Company Grand Pines Reserve GuadalaHARRY’s Bar & Grill, LLC Houston Apartment Association Houston Hustle Realty Group

Hikma Integrative Healthcare

Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce

King Ranch Ag and Turf

JPL Home & Business Renovations

Kingsbridge

KP Construction

Marshall’s Tavern

Langley Alloys, Inc.

Montgomery Bend by Pulte Homes

McKnight Title - Conroe

Music City

McKnight Title - Montgomery

Next Level Urgent Care

Pallotta’s Italian Grill

That IV Girl - Mobile IV Health & Wellness

Perigee Networks, LLC

CONROE.ORG | 39

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CHAMBER

Thank you

RENEWING MEMBERS (From Nov. 1, 2024 - April 30, 2025)

Platinum

Simmons Bank-Conroe

Ruby

Better Bookkeepers, Inc.

Baker’s Bouquet

Guaranty Bank & Trust

ClearWater Express Wash Montgomery

Gullo Ford, Toyota, Mazda Keating Chevrolet Primrose School of Conroe Quadvest

Emerald Conroe Professional Firefighters Assoc.

Crown Cork & Seal USA, Inc.

Dean & Draper - Montgomery County Juggernaut Payment Processing LightPoint Engineering Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands MJR Services, Inc. Overhead Door Company of Conroe

First National Bank Texas Conroe

Ranger A/C & Refrigeration

LEO at West Fork

Spuds Potato Bar

MD Anderson Cancer Center Nothing Bundt Cakes Rodgers Stein Chiropractic Center Staffing Texas Stainless Structurals America The Lakes at Woodhaven Village Webb’s Custom Apparel

Sapphire Center for Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery CenterPoint Energy One Source Residential Service The Flats at Hooper Hill Promark Partners Tujay Homes Brookshire Brothers

Dual Enhanced - Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber Lauren Alexander Optical Payed Processing SureStay Studio by Best Western

Spear Point Engineering Texas First Bank The Abbey at Montgomery Park Tropical Smoothie Cafe - Willis

Gold Second Chance Families Zen Gab Foundation A&H Electric Co., LLC Black Walnut Cafe Cashner Funeral Home & Cemetery Clayton Lee Plumbing Fun Town RV Conroe Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Home Instead Magnolia Hope & Causey, P.C. Lamar Advertising MoCo Plumbing Services

Spherion Staffing - Montgomery County Sunbelt Business Brokers The Loop Apartments Third Coast Bank Thornton Financial Services Time to Spare Bowling Walden’s Lakeview Dining & Venue Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux Whataburger, LP Beacon Restoration Corp Jacobs Properties RapidCare Emergency Room April Sound Country Club Bauer Equipment America Metcalf Funeral Directors

Dual Basic Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber Sunflower Bank NA Springwoods Market Dental Care Castillo CPA PLLC Hiland Dairy

Business A/C Max AdviCoach Air Tech of Conroe Amazing Window Cleaners Angels Care Home Health

Montgomery Self Storage

Aqua Terra Real Estate

Professional Service Industries, Inc

Autumnwood Apts Baker’s Bouquet

Randy Roan Construction, Inc.

Batteries Plus Bulbs #949

Ranger Guard of Conroe, LLC

Bayway Cadillac of The Woodlands

River Wood Apartments San Jacinto River Authority

Beautiful Minds Blinds & More

Schoenmann Produce Company

Best Version Media

Beauty by Owan Gray

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 40

Black Diamond Oilfield Rentals, LLC Blanton Advisors, LLC Bradbury Brothers Cooling Heating Plumbing Buff City Soap Campbell-Randall Machinery Co. Cannon CPR Training & Services, LLC Capital Farm Credit, FLCA Capri Villas Carbon Salon, LLC Carriage Inn - Conroe CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County Chandler’s Event Venue Chateaux Serenity Assisted Living & Memory Care Facility City of Conroe City of Panorama Village City of Willis Clara Vista Eyecare Clarity Hearing Coffee News Cole & Taylor Insurance Community Impact Compassion United, Inc. Conroe Art League Conroe Dental Health and Cosmetic Centre Conroe Door & Hardware, Inc. Conroe ISD Education Foundation, Inc. Conroe Lakeside RV & Boat Storage Conroe Machine Conroe Senior Village Conroe Veterinary Clinic Consider the Lilies Home Care, Inc. Countryside Manor Assisted Living Cruise Planners - Clare Crust Pizza Company Lake Conroe D&N Economy Plumbing, LLC

Thank you

RENEWING MEMBERS

(From Nov. 1, 2024 - April 30, 2025)

Dackler Construction, LLC

Knowledge Point Network

Ranger Oilfield Products, LLC

Darren Morris, GR Property Group

Kroger-142

Renewal by Andersen

Diabase Bookkeeping Services

La Quinta Inn & Suites

Diversified Well Logging, LLC

Leadership Montgomery County

Revive Aesthetics & Regenerative Medicine

Dock Line Magazine, Inc.

Lebox Moving & Storage

Rigid Roofing, LLC

Dragon’s Breath

Lone Star Cowboy Church

Riverwalk Apartments

Events Plus

Long Air Conditioning

RMA Design

Excalibur Pest Control

Love’s Pro Moving Company, LLC

Rockrose Ranch

Express Employment Professionals

Rubberatkins Texas Manufacturing Inc

Lucas Cedar, Inc.

Family Promise of Montgomery County

Makeup Junkie Bags

Fireplace & Patio

McNutt Funeral Home, Cemetery & Cremator

First Baptist Church - Conroe First Presbyterian Church Foshee & Associates, PLLC Freese, Peralez & Associates, LLC Friends Of Conroe GFI Southwest, LLC Haarmeyer Electric Hauser Land Services Hired Guns Home Services Hopkins Auction Hunger Crush Cafe, LLC Infinity Texas Development J Properties J. Patrick Homes JD Precision Plumbing Services, Inc. Jersey Mike’s Subs-Sizzling Platter Joe’s Italian Restaurant Joseph R. Anderson DDS Journey Home Jr’s BBQ & Catering Karen Gordy, Realtor The Cain Team, Keller Williams Keller Williams Advantage Realty Kennedy Construction Key Benefit Solutions Kitchen Tune-Up of Montgomery Knapheide Truck Equipment Center

Rick Schissler-Silver Fox Advisor

Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home - Montgomery

Maxliving Miracle City

Texas Stump and Land Services, LLC The Custom Sign & Graphics Haus The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion The Ferm Meadery The Fredricks Group The Highland Pine Company The Law Firm of Blanche D. Smith, P.C. The Law Firm of E. Tay Bond The Lodge | Uptown Conroe

Sam Houston State University

The Pizza Shack - Montgomery

Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

The Revolution Rail Group, Inc. The Sproba Team at Synergy Real Estate

Medicare Houston

School of LIVE Music

The Strong Firm, P.C.

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management-Mike Rees

Serenity Salt Spa

The Terrace at Pine Lake Cove

Signarama Conroe

The UPS Store #6888

Minuteman Press

Simmons and Fletcher, P.C.

The Vineyard Church of Conroe

Mister Sparky of Conroe

Simmons Bank - Montgomery

The Woodlands Paint Doctor, LLC

Modern Pest Control

Smart Financial Credit Union / Smart Insurance Group

Thomas Printing & Publishing

Social Concept

Trapp Law Firm

Meals on Wheels Montgomery County

Montgomery County Food Bank Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission Montgomery County Women’s Center

Social Indoor Northeast Houston Sonic Drive In

Montgomery Self Storage Hwy 105 E

Southern Cross Communications

Montgomery Self Storage Hwy 105 W

Spartan Global Logistics, LLC

Mosaics

State Farm Agent, Shanon Salsbury

Ninke Tax & Financial Solutions, LLC

Staff Force

Stellar Bank

Nunn & Morrell Dental Packard International, Inc. Patriot Exterior Cleaning Pecan Hill Florist & Gifts Petbar Boutique

Stellaris Care, LLC Steve Scott - The Houston Business Coach Sunflower Senior Living Consultants Supreme Pools & Spas

Photography by Niki Positive Recovery - Conroe

Taylorized PR

Pour Boyz Bartending

TCB Realty Group

Precision Printing the Alphagraphics of Conroe

Tejas Bingo TES International, Inc.

Prosperity Enterprise Funding

Texan Title

Pyramid Waterproofing, Inc.

Texas Custom Knife Show

CONROE.ORG | 41

Trade Rite Auto Sales, Inc. Treescapes, Inc., Landscaping & Irrigation Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare Trulove Webworks TWFG - Amber Pillsbury Insurance Twisted Parrot Luxury RV Resort Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish Voyages Behavioral Health of Conroe Waffle House Wags 2 Whiskers Veterinary Hospital Weiss Air Conditioning & Heating Willis Independent School District Wood Waterworks Woodlands Wealth Builders Woodmark Homeowners Association

Annual Chamber Events

CHAIRMAN’S BALL: WHAT A NIGHT! THE CHAIRMAN’S BALL AT MARGARITAVILLE WAS AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING, FILLED WITH ELEGANCE, MAGICAL FUN, AND INCREDIBLE COMPANY. We had the honor of celebrating the remarkable leadership of our outgoing Chairman, Jennifer Millington, who passed the gavel to our incoming Chairman, Clint Nichols. Her dedication has left a lasting impact on our community, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

We were also thrilled to have State Representative Will Metcalf join us in the celebration. The enchanted evening also included awards given to board members, diplomats and volunteers. Outgoing chairman Millington presented the Horizon Award to Colin McKenzie (McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers Conroe), the Newcomer Award to Eric Hagebusch (World Investment Advisors - The Woodlands) and the Chairman’s Award to Monette Smith (Pink Poodle PR, LLC). The Diplomat of the Year is Amanda Anders (Guaranty Bank & Trust). Congratulations to all the hard-working Chamber board members, volunteers and sponsors. Presenting sponsor was SaleQuick.com. Outstanding photos were provided by in-kind sponsor Melonhead Photo.

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 42

THIS YEAR’S EDITION OF TASTEFEST, PRESENTED BY CROWN BRAND-BUILDING PACKAGING, KICKED OFF IN LATE MARCH WITH THE EVER-POPULAR LAUNCH PARTY AT THE LONE STAR CONVENTION & EXPO CENTER. ATTENDEES ENJOYED TASTINGS FROM A WIDE VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS, CATERERS AND AREA CLUBS. Chamber and community members are taking advantage of nine weeks of tastings at local restaurants. This year, your TastePass, sponsored

by Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, is digital, which provides a more versatile experience right from your phone. Participating restaurants have the flexibility to offer a variety of tastings throughout the Tastefest event.

Annual Chamber Events

TASTEFEST THANK YOU SPONSORS! Presenting Sponsor

TastePass Sponsor

Tasting Tray Sponsor

Executive Chef Sponsors

Cocktail Table Sponsors

5Point Credit Union | Astro Fence Company | Consolidated Communications, Inc. Entergy | MidSouth Fiber Internet | Rave Financial | Renewal by Andersen Rockrose Ranch | Texas First Bank | The Abbey at Montgomery Park | The Color Bar Total Point Emergency Center | Woodforest National Bank In Kind Sponsors

Colortech Direct | Faust Distributing Co. | FASTSIGNS-Conroe Melonhead Photo | Silver Eagle Distributors Houston

With one TastePass ($35/ member, $50/non-member), you can enjoy tastings from any of the 30 participating restaurants.

Check out their establishment, enjoy their tastings, stay awhile, or venture to the next place!

When you use your TastePass, make sure to take a selfie with your sampling and then post it on social media. Don’t forget to tag the Chamber and include #Tastefest2025. Each week, there is a drawing for a Tastefest restaurant gift card for one of the lucky posters!

Thank you for supporting our members in the local food and beverage industry. Happy eating - and drinking!

Outstanding Tastefest Launch Party photos were provided by in-kind sponsor Melonhead Photo.

CONROE.ORG | 43

Annual Chamber Events

VALORIE BURTON ANNOUNCED AS ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKER! Nationally-renowned life strategist and international speaker Valorie Burton will deliver the keynote address at the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon, presented by Better Bookkeepers. The luncheon is scheduled for Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe | Houston.

“Better Bookkeepers is honored to once again support the ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon,” said Melanie K. Bush, owner, Better Bookkeepers. “The female leaders in our businesses, local organizations and government are empowered to reach higher every day.

Like our speaker this year, ATHENA leaders raise the bar – and help others achieve more.

They consistently strive to be a beacon of hope for those coming behind them. It is our joy to celebrate those ATHENA leaders!”

CONNECTIONS SPRING 2025 | 44

Annual Chamber Events

SAVE THE DATE!

For the eighth year, the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce will partner with ATHENA International, an organization that develops, supports, and honors girls and women from the classroom to the boardroom, building a global pipeline of women leaders.

The luncheon on July 18 will recognize nominees, honor finalists, and celebrate the recipient who is announced at the event. This is the only women-focused event in Montgomery County that celebrates female leaders from all industries, ages, and backgrounds. Over 500 guests are anticipated to attend the luncheon.

“Valorie Burton has changed lives, giving women empowerment, vision, leadership and hope,” said Scott Harper, President of the Chamber.

“What she brings to ATHENA is the perfect fit for our audience. She is the ultimate mentor to a new generation of women who are looking to thrive and control their future.”

BURTON WILL SPEAK ON LEADERSHIP STRATEGIES. Valorie Burton is CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute. Her life-changing message has an intriguing, researchbased emphasis in the pioneering field of applied positive psychology - the study of what happens when things go right with us. Her company provides coaching, coach training,

and resilience training and has served clients in all 50 states and 20 countries on six continents.

Since 1999, she has written 13 books translated into multiple languages, including “Let Go of the Guilt,” “It’s About Time,” and “Successful Women Think Differently.” She has appeared regularly on the TODAY Show, CNN, Dr. Oz, and Essence, and has spoken for hundreds of organizations around the globe. She was named one of the top 60 motivational speakers in America and one of the Top 100 Thought Leaders in the field of personal development.

For over 15 years, Burton’s books, speaking engagements, and coaching programs have helped people: Make major life changes that are exciting and scary at the same time; Be happier and have more fun, even when life seems routine; Become strong leaders, navigate office politics, and achieve professional dreams; Navigate setbacks and disappointments in a way that makes life better, not bitter; Speak up with confidence rather than settling for less; Go to sleep at night feeling at peace about decisions; And conquer emotions that cause procrastination, emotional spending, and selfsabotage.

She and her husband Jeff live on a ranch south of Atlanta with their children.

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FORMER ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS INCLUDE:

2024 Nicole Robinson Gauthier 2023 Judge Kathleen Hamilton 2022 Natalie Saikowski Goertz 2021 Carol Gooch 2020 Dr. Dana Hoyt 2019 Dr. Marlen Tejeda 2018 Danielle Scheiner To recognize the wonderful women in Montgomery County, the Chamber collects nominations for the ATHENA Leadership Award and sends them to ATHENA International, where a committee selects three finalists and an award recipient based on the following criteria: • Demonstrates a high level of professional excellence • C ontributes time and energy to improve the quality of life for others • Actively assists women and girls in achieving their full potential

Non-Profit Spotlight

THE HERITAGE MUSEUM OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Advocacy

MONTGOMERY COUNTY DAY AT THE CAPITOL O ur Montgomery County Coalition of Chambers had an

impactful and engaging day at the Texas State Capitol during the 89th Legislative Session. Leaders from across our region—including members from the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber, Greater East Montgomery County Chamber, Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber, Southwest Montgomery County Chamber, and The Woodlands Area Chamber—joined forces on March 4, 2025, to advocate for the priorities of our business community.

Engaging with Our Lawmakers

O ur delegation was honored to meet with Senator Paul

A huge thank you to our Title Sponsor, Entergy, for making this event possible! Supporting sponsors: • C onsolidated Communications •E ast Montgomery County Improvement District • B etter Bookkeepers, Inc. • M id-South Fiber Internet • Texas Regional Bank •C onroe Economic Development Council • L eadership Montgomery County • L one Star Family Health Center

Bettencourt, Senator Brandon Creighton, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Representative Cecil Bell, Representative Janis Holt, Representative Will Metcalf, and Representative Steve Toth. In addition to engaging discussions with our Montgomery County legislators, we were privileged to hear from Texas Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows and Deputy Comptroller Lisa Craven, who provided valuable insights into key legislative initiatives shaping Texas’ future.

A Day of Recognition and Advocacy

The day included special recognitions on both the House

and Senate Floors, opportunities to visit individual legislative offices, and meaningful conversations about the policies that impact our businesses and communities.

A Memorable Conclusion

The day wrapped up with a group photo on the South

Steps of the Capitol and a Delegation Reception at the Heyday Social Club—hosted by our Montgomery County legislators—on the rooftop of the Hyatt Centric, overlooking Congress Avenue. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of staying engaged in the legislative process and advocating for our local businesses. We are proud to represent Montgomery County and look forward to continued collaboration with our elected officials!

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Leadership in the Making

LMC SIGNATURE, MASTER CLASSES STAY ENGAGED THIS SPRING THE LEADERSHIP MONTGOMERY COUNTY CLASS OF 2025 AND MASTER CLASS 3 RECENTLY PARTICIPATED IN HIGHLY IMPACTFUL AND ENGAGING SESSIONS. The LMC Class of 2025 explored public safety with hands-on experiences in law enforcement, fire service, and EMS. They toured The Woodlands Emergency Training Center, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, 911 Communications Center, Real Time Crime Center, and Montgomery County Jail, before concluding with a law enforcement equipment and vehicle exhibition.

The February Leadership Master Class 3 session, hosted by the Chamber, included a panel discussion on leadership in the Chamber Board Room and a tour of local industry. In March, the Master Class was hosted by The Woodlands Area Chamber, and this included insights about future opportunities for The Woodlands and a leadership panel of LMC alumni.

The class heard from Haydar Kustu of Black Forest Ventures over lunch.

The day concluded with a special presentation and interactive session on organizational culture by Culture+, brought to LMC by the Texas A&M Center for Executive Development.

Education and Public Safety are two of the most recent sessions that were held for Leadership Montgomery County’s Signature Class this spring. The Signature Class graduation ceremony was recently held at The Blue Magnolia.

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Leadership in the Making

NEXT GENERATION LEADERS STAY BUSY THIS SPRING

By Cory Pierce and James Massey

THE SPRING SEMESTER HAS BROUGHT AN ARRAY OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES FOR THIS YEAR’S NEXT GENERATION LEADERSHIP (NGL) STUDENTS. The January meeting kicked off with presentations based on a previous activity led by Gigi Woodruff of Gigi Woodruff LLC. Students created their own values presentations, showcasing their unique identities and plans for the future.

The February session brought the NGL students much-needed knowledge as they get ready to enter the next stage of their lives in college and beyond. Students learned about financial literacy and expressed a big interest in the public safety panel asking many questions about personal safety.

The March session was held at the HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe Hospital.

Students received a presentation on career development from CEO Matt Davis, giving the group valuable advice on how best to present oneself in the corporate world while maintaining a work-life balance. A panel of HCA employees also took questions from students, a considerable number of them hoping to enter the healthcare field. At the end of the session, the group received a unique opportunity to view the HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe emergency helicopter up close.

May 6 was the date of the end-of-year reception honoring the NGL Class of 2025.

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Marketing Spotlight

A TAGLINE THAT MAKES YOU SAY, “WOW!”

Click to view interview with Bruce Kuehn about his business tagline.

Chamber member demonstrates the importance of a catch phrase.

Few will argue that having a memorable tagline –

or slogan – can be a huge advantage for a business.

Certainly, corporate giants like Nike (“Just Do It!”), State Farm (“Like a good neighbor…”) and Capital One (“What’s in your wallet?”) have long relied on taglines to create connection with their customers.

But for smaller businesses, including many of our

Chamber members, creating a slogan that has staying power in the minds of potential clients isn’t easy. The business itself often gets in the way. Who has time for brainstorming a clever marketing jingle when there is so much else to do?

For Bruce Kuehn, however, establishing an authentic,

yet catchy, tagline, combined with his engagement in the Chamber, has been a strategy that has paid off. When he started his business, Southern Cross Communications, which specializes in telecommunications and cloud VoIP systems, he knew that networking would be a key strategy to raise awareness about his business. Along

with that, he says, is having a memorable tagline. It’s something that his business coach has told him is a crucial component in achieving brand awareness.

At Chamber and other networking events, Bruce’s

tagline is, perhaps, the most well known of any member business. He consistently concludes his networking commercial with “…because every business deserves phones that say, ‘Wow!’” “ Absolutely it’s critical,” says Bruce of his tagline.

“Often, you’re in a room with 50, 60 or more people. And, as the microphone gets passed, everyone starts to zone out if it’s the same pitch, over and over. But if your commercial stands out, people are going to remember you.”

In this interview, Bruce talks about the importance of

taglines, how he developed his, and how any business can catch on to the catch phrase game. And Kuehn brags on the Chamber a little bit, too!

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Welcome to The Lone Star Convention & Expo Center and The Montgomery County Fairgrounds!

Welcome to the third-largest convention, expo and fairgrounds complex in the greater Houston area, behind only George R. Brown Convention Center and Reliant Park. Our location is ideal for easy access: three miles from I-45 in Conroe, TX, 45 miles north of downtown Houston and 30 miles from Bush Intercontinental Airport.

“We are the home of the Montgomery County Fair.”

The LSCC is ideal for events of any size and complexity—“from blue jeans to black ties” — family reunions, weddings, corporate meetings, business luncheons, trade shows, conventions, fairs, rodeos and livestock shows, and everything in between. Large or small, let us host your next event.

“FROM BLUE JEANS to BLACK TIES” Amenities • Flexible facilities and accommodations • Friendly, helpful service • Outstanding food and beverage catering services 9055 Airport Rd. Conroe, TX 77303

• Full-range of sound, display, technical support services • Prime outdoor spaces • Ample parking

Tel 936-538-8000

Toll Free 877-843-6346 www.thelonestar.org

Woodforest National Bank® has offered outstanding customer service and stood among the strongest community banks in the nation since 1980. We focus on building relationships, discovering opportunities to better serve our communities, and understanding the financial needs of every customer we serve.

With over 30 branches conveniently located in Montgomery County, we are proud to be your neighborhood bank. We offer a variety of products and services to meet your business needs. Stop by one of our convenient branches or contact us today.

For complete details, please speak with a Woodforest Retail Banker.

www.woodforest.com Member FDIC

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