Connections Summer 2026

Connections

A look back on the Chamber’s popular signature event.

Page 20

Nonprofit Spotlight: Salvation Army of Montgomery County

Built To Last: Maintaining Brand Relevance Over Time

Red Carpets & Ribbon Cuttings: The Art of Celebration

PAGE 27

PAGE 31

PAGE 45

VOL. 6 | ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2026

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Table of Contents Welcome................................................................. 5 Board of Directors & Chamber Team................... 6 Platinum & Emerald Members.............................. 8

F E AT U R E S T O RY

Built to Last: Maintaining Brand Relevance Over Time.......... 31 O U R VA L U E D M E M B E R S

New and Renewing Members............................ 37

NET WORKING EVENTS

Coffee Network, Fun After Five, and Morning Mingle............................................ 10

CHAMBER EVENTS

YPN update........................................................... 14

Athena Leadership Award Luncheon Highlights............................................................... 40

C E L E B R AT E N E W B E G I N N I N G S !

S TA N D O U T M A R K E T I N G

Ribbon Cuttings.................................................... 16

Red Carpets & Ribbon Cuttings: The Art of Celebratione....................................... 45

T H E C H A M B E R I N AC T I O N

Chamber Diplomats Update.............................. 18 COV E R S T O RY

Celebrating 40 Years of Lobsterfest................... 20

LEADERS IN TRAINING

Next Generation Leadership.............................. 48 Leadership Montgomery County....................... 50

N O N - PR O F I T S P O T L I G H T

The Salvation Army of Montgomery County....................................... 27

ABOUT THE COVER TURNING 40 IS NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF – ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE A CHAMBER EVENT THAT HAS ONLY GOTTEN BIGGER – AND BETTER – WITH AGE! Lobsterfest began in 1987, and this year will be the 40th edition, presented by Woodforest National Bank.

In this issue, we look back at the history of the Chamber’s signature event – commonly referred to as Montgomery County’s annual ‘homecoming.’

In the black and white photo from 1987 is Doug and Frank Bertine, while the color photo from 2025 features Cody Bartlett.

CONNECTIONS | 3 | SUMMER 2026

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L E T T E R F R O M T H E PR E S I D E N T

When I’m traveling and meeting with other chamber of commerce leaders, they are often shocked that our Chamber has held the same event for 40 years. “Why don’t you change it?” they ask. And I respond with a simple, “Because it works!”

Lobsterfest is one of those iconic events that seems to transcend time. It’s something you can tweak, but you don’t change it. It is a feel-good event that has stood the test of time. Steak. Lobsters.

Golf. Old friends, new friends. Lots of fun. Casual environment.

Quite simply, it fits the culture of our community.

So, enjoy this look back at the first 40 years of Lobsterfest. And look forward to 40-plus more years of the same!

Scott Scott Harper, President

CONNECTIONS | 5 | SUMMER 2026

T H A N K YO U F O R A L L YO U D O !

Chamber Leadership 2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE GUY BARKER BOM Bank Chairman of the Board

BRYAN FOWLER Fowler Law Firm Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs/ Community Development

MELANIE BUSH Better Bookkeepers Chair Elect, Vice Chair, Workforce/Leadership Development

NATALIE DALLMER HCA Houston Healthcare - Conroe Vice Chair, Membership Development

NICK DAVIS Guaranty Bank & Trust Treasurer

TIFFANY IADAROLA Gullo Dealerships Vice Chair, Marketing & Communications

COLIN MCKENZIE McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers Vice Chair, Business & Entrepreneurial Development

CLINT NICHOLS Texas Children’s Hospital Immediate Past Chair

CHAMBER STAFF SCOTT HARPER President

STEVE SCHEFFLER Director, Marketing & Communications

PAULINE VEAZEY Vice President, Operations & Finance

RILEY BORCHGARDT Director, Special Events

GIGI PEACOCK Director, Membership Sales

MARCELA ORNELAS Manager, Marketing & Communications

BRITTANY CASTELLON Director, Membership Experience

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 6 | CONROE.ORG

T H A N K YO U F O R A L L YO U D O !

Chamber Directors TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2027

TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2028

TERMS EXPIRING JANUARY 2029

Melanie Bush Better Bookkeepers, Inc.

Sara Beth Bubak SB&K Benefits

Guy Barker BOM Bank

Darwin Canales Crown Brand Building Packaging

Jared Burns Astro Fence Company

Josh Fowler Woodforest National Bank

Rebecca McDonald Moody Bank

Nick Davis Guaranty Bank & Trust

Eric Hagebusch World Investment Advisors

Warner Phelps Dean & Draper Insurance Agency

Bryan Fowler Fowler Law Firm

Tiffany Iadarola Gullo Auto Group

Natalie Dallmer HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe

Judge Wayne Mack Montgomery County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1

Ben Lichnovsky Cole & Taylor Insurance

Mario Valadez Conroe’s Incredible Pizza + Fun

Kristine Marlow Montgomery County Food Bank (retired)

Carl White Cam Light Video Production

Colin McKenzie McKenzie’s BBQ & Burgers

Clint Nichols Texas Childrens Hospital

Sarah McClure Youngblood City of Oak Ridge North Adara McKeever Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Linda Nelson Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center

APPOINTED DIRECTORS

(One-year term through January 2027) Kirk Barajas Fidium

Rachel Rost Story Built Homes

Dr. Paul Zarutskie SHSU School of Osteopathic Medicine

The Chamber staff caught World Cup fever in June and July. From l. to r.: Scott Harper, Marcela Ornelas, Pauline Veazey, Riley Borchgardt (World Cup queen), Brittany Castellon, Steve Scheffler and Gigi Peacock.

CONNECTIONS | 7 | SUMMER 2026

W E L OV E O U R M E M B E R S !

PLATINUM INVESTORS

EMERALD INVESTORS Action Buggies

Crown Brand-Building Packaging

Ranger A/C & Refrigeration

Alpha School

DeMontrond Auto Country

Rodgers Stein Chiropractic Center

America’s Home Place

Fidelis Willis Apartments

Austin Bank

First Insurance Services

Spectrum Catering, Concessions & Events

Beckett West Fork

First National Bank Texas

Staffing Texas

Brand Advantage

Grand Central Park

Stainless Structurals America

Brenham National Bank

Henry’s Home – Horse & Human Sanctuary

The Corral Restaurant at Willis

KDW LTD

WeKinnect Global Branding Agency, LLC.

Christian Brothers Automotive

Lone Star College-Montgomery

Wellwise Pharmacy

Citadel Security

MD Anderson Cancer Center

Wiesner Buick-GMC-Hyundai

Conroe Professional Firefighters Assoc.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Chambers Creek by Caldwell Communities

VeraBank

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 8 | CONROE.ORG

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.

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C R E AT I N G CO N N E C T I O N S , G R O W I N G B U S I N E S S E S

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

May 2026 Sponsored by Senior Care Authority

June 2026 Sponsored by Express Employment Professionals

July 2026 Sponsored by M/I Homes

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 10 | CONROE.ORG

C R E AT I N G CO N N E C T I O N S , G R O W I N G B U S I N E S S E S

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

May 2026 Hosted by Tailgators Bar & Grill Lake Conroe

June 2026 Hosted by Texas Regional Bank

July 2026 Hosted by Howard Hughes / The Woodlands Hills

CONNECTIONS | 11 | SUMMER 2026

WANT TO SPONSOR A NETWORKING EVENT?

Contact Brittany Castellon at brittanyc@conroe.org for full details.

C R E AT I N G CO N N E C T I O N S , G R O W I N G B U S I N E S S E S

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

May 2026 Co-Hosted by Premiere Events & Eggs Up Grill

June 2026 Hosted by Austin Bank

July 2026 Co-Hosted by Main Event & BOM Bank

CONNECTIONS | 13 | SUMMER 2026

C R E AT I N G CO N N E C T I O N S , G R O W I N G B U S I N E S S E S

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

OUR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HAD A SUMMER FULL OF GROWTH AND CONNECTIONS! In May they enjoyed networking and social time with an afternoon surrounded by music and friends at Lucy Blues in Conroe.

In June, the Young Professionals Network attendees were awed and inspired at a special Lunch & Learn featuring a true young professional in the making (10 years old!) and cancer survivor, Fitz Davis. He spoke enthusiastically about the Power of Positivity.

Lucy Blues

The Power of Positivity Luncheon

In July, YPN prepared for ATHENA’s keynote speaker Elizabeth Smart with a watch party for the documentary: ‘Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart’ courtesy of The Players Theatre Company at the Owen Theatre in downtown Conroe, alongside event sponsor All-Star Catering Co., which provided delicious refreshments!

ATHENA Watch Party at The Players Theatre

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 14 | CONROE.ORG

M A K E N E W CO N N E C T I O N S , H AV E S O M E F U N !

Fall Networking Events MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

CO F F E E N E T W O R K 1S T W E D N E S DAY O F T H E M O N T H

MORNING MINGLE 2 N D T H U R S DAY O F T H E M O N T H

FUN AFTER FIVE 3 R D T H U R S DAY O F T H E M O N T H

SEPTEMBER 2 | 8:30-10 A.M SPONSORED BY SAM HOUSTON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME

SEPTEMBER 10 | 7:30-9 A.M SPONSORED BY GUARANTY BANK & CONROE’S INCREDIBLE PIZZA CO.

SEPTEMBER 17 | 5:05-6:30 P.M. HOSTED BY LUCY BLUES

@ Lone Star Community Center 2500 Lone Star Pkwy., Montgomery, TX 77356 OCTOBER 7 | 8:30-10 A.M SPONSORED BY S.H.I.N.E. BENEFITS @ Lone Star Community Center 2500 Lone Star Pkwy., Montgomery, TX 77356 NOVEMBER 5 | 8:30-10 A.M SPONSORED BY ALPHA GRAPHICS @ Lone Star Community Center 2500 Lone Star Pkwy., Montgomery, TX 77356

@ Conroe’s Incredible Pizza Co. 230 South Loop 336 West Conroe, TX 77304 OCTOBER 8 | 7:30-9 A.M SPONSORED BY FIRST FINANCIAL BANK @ First Financial Bank 1800 W. White Oak Terrace Conroe, TX 77304 NOVEMBER 12 | 7:30-9 A.M *ASK ABOUT BEING A SPONSOR!* @ North Montgomery County Community Center 600 Gerald St., Willis, TX 77378

@ Lucy Blues 711 Madeley St. Conroe, TX 77301 OCTOBER 15 | 5:05-6:30 P.M. HOSTED BY CONROE’S INCREDIBLE PIZZA CO. @C onroe’s Incredible Pizza Co. 230 South Loop 336 West Conroe, TX 77304 NOVEMBER 20 | 5:05-6:30 P.M. HOSTED BY CHILDREN’S SAFE HARBOR @C hildren’s Safe Harbor 3006 N. Loop 336 E. Conroe, TX 77301

REGISTRATION & FULL DETAILS conroe.org

Contact Brittany Castellon at brittanyc@conroe.org for sponorship opportunities.

CONNECTIONS | 15 | SUMMER 2026

C E L E B R AT E N E W B E G I N N I N G S !

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

5.01 APE-X Garage

5.04 KeySmiles Dental

5.06 Casa Umami!

5.26 Battlefield Trailer Solutions

5.26 WineShop At Home

5.28 Davis Investigation Services

5.28 HVACR Trades, Inc.

6.04 AAMCO Total Car Care

6.09 Chuy’s Tex-Mex

6.16 Ambria Assisted Living

6.18 Seniors Helping Seniors

6.25 NuSpine Chiropractic

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 16 | CONROE.ORG

C E L E B R AT E N E W B E G I N N I N G S !

MAY 2026 TO JULY 2026

7.09 Jet Clean Pressure Washing

7.16 Taylor Made Lawncare & Services

7.16 T WFG Amber Pillsbury Insurance Jodie Johnson

7.18 GodSpark & Holiday House

7.20 Farmers Business Insurance Ali Lane

7.21 Adams Homes

7.23 Freedom Caregivers & Companions

7.23 Nothing Bundt Cakes - Hwy. 242

7.28 Go Mini’s Moving & Portable Storage

BOOK YOUR

RIBBON CUTTING 7.30 1623 Events & Productions

7.30 TCG Tech Services

CONNECTIONS | 17 | SUMMER 2026

SCAN HERE TODAY!

T H E C H A M B E R I N AC T I O N

Diplomats Update The Chamber’s Diplomat team is much more than a smiling face greeting you at a networking event. Since 1965, our Diplomat Team has been the critical link between the Chamber staff and current and prospective members, expanding their roles and responsibilities as the Chamber has grown.

The team meets each month to develop new strategies for engaging members and finding new ways to assist in many of the Chamber’s activities. They also play a big part in the success of our signature events - the Chairman’s Ball, Tastefest, ATHENA, and Lobsterfest volunteering their time to make sure the venues are ready and everyone has a good time.

If you are interested in becoming a Chamber Diplomat, you’ll have the opportunity to apply this fall during the September/ October application period. Look for notices in the weekly eFYI newsletter.

Diplomats LaTina Roberson and Heather Tafelski guard the nametag table.

Diplomats have fun at Morning Mingle

The May Diplomat lunch meeting was sponsored by RMA Design.

The June Diplomat lunch was sponsored by Hyatt Regency Conroe.

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 18 | CONROE.ORG

W E L OV E O U R M E M B E R S !

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COV E R S T O RY

And rew Can tu gr ills stea ks at Lobste rfe st 20 24.

This October, the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce’s annual signature event, Lobsterfest, will celebrate its 40th annual golf, steak & lobster dinner – a significant accomplishment in an era when events come and go or change at the drop of a hat. This year the Chamber looks back at the past 40 years to learn about the great history of what has become known as Montgomery County’s homecoming event.

THE BEGINNINGS Launched in 1987, Lobsterfest quickly surfaced as one of the Chamber’s biggest success stories.

In an earlier interview with Don Moore, the Executive Vice President for the Chamber in 1987, he explained that he came to Conroe after being the Huntsville Chamber Manager for several years where an event called “LobsterFiesta” began in 1969 and had proven to be very successful. He brought the idea of “LobsterFiesta” with him to

Conroe and modeled what is now “Lobsterfest” after this event.

Former Congressman Kevin Brady served as president/CEO of The Woodlands Area Chamber during that time, and he remembers how the difficult economic times forced chambers – including both Conroe and The Woodlands – to look at new events that could bring in revenue to support local businesses.

“In our chamber, we lost half of our members in one year,” he said. “We were looking for an event that would be good for our members and good for the community. It came down to two events – one of which focused on local restaurants (which became Congressman Kevin Brady his chamber’s ‘Taste of the and wife Cathy enjoy Town’) and the other was Lobsterfest in 2022. a lobsterfest-type event - similar to what Huntsville was doing. Boy, the Conroe Chamber just grabbed it and went all in, making it an incredible event.”

The Chamber’s board minutes on September 19, 1987, state, “Don Moore informed the Board that Grady Spikes will chair the first Lobsterfest, which will become an annual event. A similar event

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 20 | CONROE.ORG

COV E R S T O RY

began in Huntsville in 1969 and is now one of the most popular events sponsored by Huntsville’s chamber and is attended by 800 each year.

A golf tournament will precede the dinner. Conroe Country Club has donated its facility. Tickets will be sold by a committee now being formed.”

And, so began the legacy of Lobsterfest. As the years went by, certain aspects of the event would change to accommodate its growth.

Lobsterfest #1: 1987 at Conroe Country Club

“While the purpose shifted early on from economic development to Chambersupported programs, the Lobsterfest vibe has never changed,” said Scott Harper, Chamber President. “Our members and the community come together by volunteering, sponsoring and participating in Lobsterfest, all while having lots of fun in the process. In the end, it is our Chamber members who benefit from the outcome – and that will never change.”

The Tickets The tickets for inaugural Lobsterfest in 1987 were

David Friday and Vernon Bowers in 1992.

HERE IS A SUMMARY OF LOBSTERFEST’S KEY ELEMENTS. The Purpose The purpose of Lobsterfest in 1987 was to attract people to Conroe but mainly as an economic development program since there was no funding for the Conroe Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) like there is today. CEDC was eventually funded by the city’s one-half cent sales tax when, in 1994, the City of Conroe adopted the tax to help fund it. CEDC was part of the Chamber until it became a department of the City in 2012. So, for the first six or seven years, the proceeds from Lobsterfest went to support CEDC rather than the Chamber and its members.

Today, funds from Lobsterfest directly support the Chamber’s efforts of providing leadership for progressive development and business growth while enhancing the quality of life in Montgomery County. Of all the Chamber’s events, Lobsterfest has been – and continues to be – its largest in terms of both attendance and revenue.

Live auction in 2019.

$50, which included both golf and dinner. The November 18, 1987, board minutes state, “Grady Spikes again expressed appreciation to all who contributed toward the success of the event.

Ticket sales [for the first year] totaled $20,625.00.

Expenses were $9,051.38. Net Income was $11,573.63.”

This year, tickets for the Lobsterfest steak & lobster dinner are $150 (individual) or $1,500 for table of 10, while golf teams of four are $1,000.

The Cookers To keep this legacy going many volunteers are involved with making Lobsterfest a success. Moore explained that the original head cookers were Darrel Childers, who owned DC Barbecue and was a manager of a local Sonic, Vernon Bowers, whose family still owns Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish, and Raymond Hartis, owner of Pits & Spits. Others mentioned helping with Lobsterfest in the October 21, 1987, board minutes were, “Randy Amaud, Buck Nichols, and the Chamber staff.”

In an interview with Raymond Hartis, he

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COV E R S T O RY

Chamber board promote Lobsterfest in early 2000s.

Don Buckalew with Andrew Cantu at a Lobsterfest dinner.

mentioned that the first few years of Lobsterfest the lobsters were cooked in large kettles inside the Conroe High School kitchen while the steaks were cooked on-site on a large restaurant sized charcoal grill. Andrew Cantu, now with VeraBank, explained that it eventually became too hard to regulate the heat for that many steaks so Hartis built two cookers specifically for the event. When Clint Campbell took over as the head cooker, he purchased one of the grills and the Montgomery County Fair Association and the Chamber purchased the other.

Both are still used today for Lobsterfest. For the past 25-plus years, Scott Knee has brought his personal crawfish trailer to the Convention Center to cook what is now more than 1,000 lobsters for the attendees.

According to Donnie Buckalew, who, along with his family, has been intimately involved with Lobsterfest since the beginning, Vernon Bowers was the initial cog that got everything going with the cooking team.

“He’s the one who recruited me to help, and I reached out to my friends, and they asked their friends, and for the last 20-plus years, it’s

Lobsterfest golf tournament in 1995.

State representative Will Metcalf as auction spotter in 2019.

been one big family, all cooking and having fun together.”

The end result, every year, is a memorable dinner for 1,000-plus hungry attendees.

“The food is what makes Lobsterfest unique,” says Buckalew. “Steak and lobster – where else are you going to go to get that? Not only is it eyeappealing, but it’s good!”

The Venues While the first Lobsterfest was held at the Conroe Country Donnie Buckalew Club for both the golf and the packs steaks prior dinner (held on the same day), to dinner. the venues have diverged – and changed – several times over the years. For the first five years, the golf tournament preceded the dinner, but both were held at the golf venue.

In 1992, that changed with the golf tournament happening at River Plantation and the dinner shifting to the Montgomery County Fairgrounds to accommodate a growing number of attendees.

The dinner eventually landed at the Lone Star Convention & Expo Center when it was built

Lobsterfest in 1987.

Lobsterfest in 2024.

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 22 | CONROE.ORG

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in 2000. The golf tournament, however, has rotated across several courses, including Wedgewood, Texas National, Bentwater, Walden, River Plantation, April Sound and, since 2018, Panorama Golf Course.

Always in October?

One common Lobsterfest myth is that the event is always held on the first Thursday in October. While that has been the case almost every year, in 1999 Lobsterfest took place on Thursday, September 30, marking the only time it was held before October. In 2020, however, modifications were made due to the COVID pandemic, and the event was dubbed “Lobsterfest to Go,” with the steak & lobster dinners served in a ‘drive-thru’ fashion and the traditional silent auction conducted virtually.

The golf tournament was held in person at Panorama.

LOBSTERFEST THEN & NOW THEN (1987)

NOW (2026)

Location (dinner)

Conroe Country Club

Lone Star Convention Center

Location (golf)

Conroe Country Club

Panorama Golf Club

Cost (individual)

$50 (golf & dinner)

$150 (dinner); $200 (golf)

Attendees

Approximately 400

Approximately 1,250 (including dinner & golf)

Purpose

Promote tourism & fund the Conroe Economic Development Council

Fund Chamber programs in support of its member businesses

Menu

North Atlantic Lobster, strip sirloin steaks, salad and corn on the cob

North Atlantic Lobster, strip sirloin steaks, potatoes, corn on the cob

Special golf prize

Ol’ Hunter (used pick-up truck ideally suited for deer camp or other hunting outing)

Trophies and gift cards for the winning teams

Why Lobsterfest Matters At some point during the past 40 years, Lobsterfest became more than just a Chamber event. While he can’t pinpoint exactly when that happened, longtime Chamber volunteer and local businessman Donnie Buckalew, knows that it is definitely the case.

“When you get involved in an event like Lobsterfest, you want to have fun,” he said.

“So, we get the people together to help that we enjoy being around. It just becomes a big party. It’s all camaraderie, and it’s all about friendship and helping one another.”

Ultimately, he say, Lobsterfest isn’t rocket science. “It’s pretty simple – make it fun and they’ll come!”

“This Chamber has made Lobsterfest an iconic event for the whole county,” adds Brady. “I can’t imagine what our community would be like without it. For me and my family, it’s one of the best nights of the year! Good things happen when communities come together, and that’s what Lobsterfest does – it brings us together. And, it’s become part of our identity.”

Lobsterfest golf tournament in 2022.

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COV E R S T O RY

NEW LOBSTERFEST LOGO UNVEILED FOR THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY

1990s

2012

2015 2017

In early 2026 as the 40th anniversary approached, the Chamber’s Marketing Committee put a call out to members who might be interested in giving the Lobsterfest logo a refresh. More than 20 entries were submitted, with the winning logo coming from Brand Advantage, a relatively new Chamber member with little Lobsterfest experience.

Brand Advantage’s Kim Nadasky (President and Co-Founder) and Allison Stark (Vice President of Operations) were the main force behind the logo design.

“For Lobsterfest 2026, we wanted the look to feel like a real celebration of 40 years,” says Nadasky. “So, the logo puts a laid-back lobster in sunglasses front and center on a vintagestyle patch, with a gold 40th annual banner and classic navy, red, and cream colors. This logo, we felt, was something that captured the heart of Lobsterfest. When we found out that we had won the design, we were thrilled! It was

fun to be a part of this and we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at Lobsterfest!”

Brand Advantage’s comprehensive services span every facet of brand expression and operational support, including workspace branding, print management, and impactful marketing activations.

“We had a difficult choice with many clever and creative entries,” said Steve Scheffler, the Chamber’s Director of Marketing & Communications. “But the logo from Brand Advantage captures the playful, casual nature of Lobsterfest. It also has a nostalgic, classic feel that won the committee over. The sunglasses on the lobster are hard to resist.”

According to Scheffler, the Lobsterfest logo has evolved over the years, with the most recent logo appearing in 2017.

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 24 | CONROE.ORG

C e k o a n r L o / e e o C r h n a o m C b e e h r o T t p d r u e o s r e nt is p

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Thursday, Oct. 1: Lobsterfest Dinner / Live & Silent Auction Lone Star Convention & Expo Center; 6 p.m.

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Nonprofit Spotlight:

Salvation Army of Montgomery County WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE SALVATION ARMY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY? The Salvation Army of Montgomery County exists to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

At our core, we are not simply a nonprofit organization, we are a church. Long before someone receives a meal, a backpack, shelter,

or financial assistance, they encounter a ministry committed to sharing hope, restoring dignity, and demonstrating the love of Christ in practical ways. Every day across Montgomery County, lives are being transformed. A family facing eviction finds stability. A teenager discovers purpose and belonging. A struggling parent receives encouragement and support. A person experiencing homelessness takes steps toward

CONNECTIONS | 27 | SUMMER 2026

N O N PR O F I T S P O T L I G H T

a new beginning. A child or senior wakes up on Christmas morning to gifts they otherwise would not have received. These moments are not just acts of charity; they are opportunities for lives to be changed.

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at 304 Avenue E now serves as the center for many of our community and ministry programs, including worship services, youth development programs, discipleship opportunities, food pantry services, rental and utility assistance, Pathway of Hope and case management services, volunteer engagement, seasonal assistance programs, and community outreach initiatives.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST-KEPT SECRET THAT PEOPLE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE SALVATION ARMY?

The biggest-kept secret is that we are far more than most people imagine. Many people know us for the Red Kettles at Christmas, Angel Tree, WHEN (AND HOW) DID IT BEGIN? HOW DID THE food assistance, or the overnight shelter. Others LOCATION COME ABOUT? recognize us as a charitable organization that helps people during difficult times.

The Salvation Army’s story While all those things are true, they began in 1865 when William and only tell part of the story. What Catherine Booth set out to share — many people do not realize is the love of Jesus Christ with those that The Salvation Army is first and who had been overlooked and OUR WORK IS foremost a Christian movement. forgotten by society. Their vision was simple but powerful: meet people where they are, care for both their physical and spiritual needs, and offer hope that transforms lives. More than 160 years later, that mission continues around the world. And, for more than 40 years, it has been lived out right here in Montgomery County.

NOT DRIVEN BY PROGRAMS; IT IS DRIVEN BY A CALLING.

Perhaps the greatest secret, however, is that hope is still changing lives every day. We have seen people overcome obstacles that once seemed impossible. We have watched children discover — confidence, families find stability, individuals recover from addiction, and community members who once needed help return to serve others.

Our campus in Conroe has evolved alongside the needs of our growing community.

The Salvation Army established its first permanent shelter facility at 304 Avenue E in 1986. For many years, that building served as the heart of our ministry, providing shelter, assistance, and spiritual support to countless individuals and families throughout Montgomery County. In 2017, The Salvation Army opened the Wayne Bergstrom Center of Hope at 301 Avenue E to address the growing demand for emergency shelter services.

Today, we operate from both locations.

While many people recognize The Salvation Army for its shelter services, our ministry extends far beyond emergency housing. The original campus

WHAT ARE WAYS THE COMMUNITY CAN SUPPORT THE SALVATION ARMY? One of the greatest strengths of The Salvation Army of Montgomery County is that there is a place for everyone to make a difference.

Whether you have an hour a month, a specialized skill, a heart for mentoring, or a desire to serve your community during times of crisis, there is a meaningful way to get involved. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission. Every year, hundreds of individuals, families, churches, civic organizations, and businesses partner with us to serve Montgomery County. Their impact is felt in

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countless ways, from serving meals and mentoring youth to assisting families during emergencies and supporting our largest community events.

WHAT EVENTS/ACTIVITIES DOES THE SALVATION ARMY USE TO RAISE FUNDS/RESOURCES/ AWARENESS FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY? Our largest and most important fundraising effort each year is the Red Kettle Campaign. For many people, the sound of a bell ringing outside a local store is a symbol of the Christmas season, but the impact extends far beyond the holidays. The Red Kettle Campaign is the primary fundraiser that supports all our programs and services throughout the year.

Another well-known community initiative is Angel Tree, which provides Christmas gifts to children and seniors who might otherwise go without during the holiday season. While Angel Tree is not a fundraiser, it is one of our most visible opportunities for community engagement and generosity, bringing together businesses, churches, civic organizations, schools, and individuals to make a difference in the lives of local families.

Throughout the year, we also host Behind the Red Shield Tours, which provide community members, business leaders, and organizations an opportunity to see firsthand the work taking place across our campus. These tours have become one of the most effective ways to raise awareness because they allow people to experience the mission in action and better understand the challenges facing many of their neighbors.

WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON FOR THE SALVATION ARMY? IN OTHER WORDS, WHAT NEW THINGS IS THE ORGANIZATION WORKING ON? One of our greatest priorities moving forward is increasing community involvement and collaboration. We believe the future of effective community impact lies in partnerships. No single organization can meet every need alone, and some of the most meaningful solutions happen when nonprofits, businesses, churches, schools, government agencies, civic organizations, and

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N O N PR O F I T S P O T L I G H T

— ONE OF THE GREATEST STRENGTHS OF THE SALVATION ARMY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY IS THAT THERE IS A PLACE FOR EVERYONE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

—

community leaders work together toward a common goal. We are actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with organizations throughout Montgomery County to expand services, share resources, eliminate gaps in care, and create innovative solutions that better serve our neighbors.

Another exciting area of growth is our Emergency Disaster Services program. As Montgomery County continues to experience severe weather events and emergencies, we are working to expand our volunteer disaster response capabilities. We would love to build additional local disaster response teams equipped to serve not only here in Montgomery County but also across Texas and throughout the nation when large-scale disasters occur.

We are excited about what lies ahead, and we believe the best chapters of our story are still being written together with the people, businesses, churches, organizations, and leaders of Montgomery County.

THE SALVATION ARMY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY IS LED BY CAPTAINS CODY AND AMANDA JOHNS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SALVATIONARMYHOUSTON. ORG/HOUSTON/CONROE. CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 30 | CONROE.ORG

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BUILT TO LAST: Maintaining Brand Relevance Over Time is Nothing New to These Montgomery County Mainstays Longevity isn't about resisting change—it's about adapting while staying true to your mission. For many small- to medium-sized businesses, simply staying open is a win. But, once you’ve survived the initial challenges of keeping your business going, creating staying power – true brand relevance – can be even more challenging.

In this article, we solicited input from some of the most enduring brands in Montgomery County, including Woodforest National Bank, Howard Hughes Holdings, Inc., Entergy and the Gullo Dealerships. What made them relevant? How did they weather the storm(s)? What advice do they have for businesses in our region? Here’s what they told us.

YOUR ORGANIZATION HAS REMAINED SUCCESSFUL THROUGH CHANGING MARKETS, TECHNOLOGY, AND CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS. WHAT IS ONE MAJOR CHANGE YOU'VE EMBRACED THAT ULTIMATELY MADE YOUR BUSINESS STRONGER? HH: At Howard Hughes Communities, we put meaningful experiences and fostering connections for businesses, residents, and visitors as the center of everything we do. That focus has pushed us to think more holistically about how we serve our communities and create long-term value for all stakeholders. By prioritizing quality, innovation, and community relationships, we have continued to evolve into a stronger, more resilient community developer.

ENTERGY: “We recognized early on that staying ahead of our customers' needs required us to engage with stakeholders early and often. By involving community leaders, legislators, and emergency personnel in decision-making, we’ve built trust and gained valuable insights that help us make better decisions. For our customers, this means more reliable service and planning that reflects real community needs. This stronger, collaborative approach helps to ensure our electricity service not only meets but anticipates customer needs, the changing market, and technology advancements to sustain the communities we power.”

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WOODFOREST: We leveraged our digital platform to give customers greater flexibility through mobile banking, daily notifications, and more choices in how they manage their finances. We also introduced the Greenlight program, which helps parents manage their children’s finances while teaching financial responsibility through an easyto-use app. In addition, the program can assist seniors who may benefit from support from a trusted family member. This year, we are also bringing Zelle to our customers, providing even greater digital convenience. Woodforest continues to meet changing customer expectations while remaining deeply connected to the communities we serve. This approach improves convenience, increases accessibility, enhances operational efficiency, and ensures we continue to deliver the level of service our customers expect in an increasingly digital world.

GULLO: One of the biggest changes we've embraced has been providing customer service on the customer’s schedule. Whether it be mobile service, pickup and delivery or doing most of the car buying

experience before setting foot in the dealership. As the automotive industry has evolved and customer expectations have changed, we realized that success isn't just about selling vehicles— it's about building lasting relationships and continually improving the experience we provide. That's why we created a Customer Relations Director role dedicated to hearing directly from our customers, addressing concerns, celebrating what's working well, and sharing those insights with our leadership team.

That feedback helps us adapt our processes, strengthen our customer experience, and better understand what our community values and expects from us. We've also invested in technology that makes buying and servicing a vehicle more convenient. By combining innovation with a genuine commitment to listening, we've strengthened our business while staying true to the family values that have guided Gullo Dealerships for generations.

EVERY LONG-STANDING ORGANIZATION FACES SETBACKS OR PERIODS OF UNCERTAINTY. WHAT CHALLENGE TESTED YOUR ORGANIZATION THE MOST, AND WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM IT?

HH: Like many long-standing organizations, we have been tested most during periods of economic uncertainty and rapid change. Those moments reinforced the importance of discipline, adaptability, and staying focused on the long term rather than overreacting to shortterm pressures.

ENTERGY: “One challenge that continues to test us along the Gulf Coast is the increasing frequency and intensity of storms.

This has taught us two important lessons: first, strong community partnerships and proactive, consistent communication are essential for a safe and effective storm response; and second, investing heavily in resilient infrastructure is critical to keeping our system prepared. These priorities guide how we strengthen our operations and support the communities we serve before, during, and after severe weather.”

GULLO: One of the greatest challenges our organization has faced was navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. As an essential business, Gullo dealerships remained open to continue serving our customers, first responders, healthcare workers, and others who relied on

Woodforest National Bank Charity Run

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THANK YOU TO OUR EXPERTS:

Patricia Brown Josh Fowler Jim Carman Woodforest National Bank Woodforest National Bank Howard Hughes

dependable transportation during an incredibly uncertain time.

While staying open was important, it also meant we had the responsibility of protecting both our employees and our customers while adapting to constantly changing circumstances. Like many businesses, we also faced supply chain disruptions, inventory shortages, and changing customer expectations. Those challenges required us to become more flexible, communicate more effectively, and find creative ways to continue delivering exceptional service. What carried us through was our people. One of the things we're most proud of is the longevity of our employees.

Many of our team members have been with us for decades, creating a culture built on trust, loyalty, and a shared commitment to serving our community. The biggest lesson we learned is that strong relationships—both with our employees and our customers— are the foundation of long-term success.

WHAT CORE VALUE, PRINCIPLE, OR ASPECT OF YOUR COMPANY CULTURE HAS REMAINED CONSTANT, EVEN AS YOUR BUSINESS HAS EVOLVED?

Tiffany Iadarola Gullo Auto Group

HH: A constant for us throughout our history has been our commitment to long-term stewardship. We believe lasting success comes from thoughtful planning, disciplined execution, and building trust with the businesses, residents, and partners who shape our communities. That commitment has remained steady as our business has evolved, guiding the decisions we make and the value we strive to create.

ENTERGY: “Our core values of safety, integrity, teamwork, respect and always learning remain the foundation of our culture. Safety leads the way.

Every employee, contractor and customer deserves to work, live and return home safely each day and we take that responsibility seriously. Safety isn't just a value for us; it’s a daily practice.

Our teams regularly conduct hands‑on emergency drills, participate in ongoing safety trainings, and continuously review performance to identify areas for improvement. We also strengthen our approach through field audits, updated procedures, and lessons learned shared across our teams. These actions help us stay prepared, protect our people, and ensure we deliver reliable CONNECTIONS | 33 | SUMMER 2026

Stuart Barrett Entergy Texas

power safely to the communities we serve.”

WOODFOREST: As an employeeowned bank deeply rooted in Conroe and Montgomery County for over 40 years, we remain committed to our employees, our customers, and our community.

Our core value of customers first, community always is what keeps us grounded and focused.

GULLO: At Gullo, our business has grown and evolved over the years, but one thing has never changed—our commitment to our motto: "Treating You Like Family."

It's more than a slogan; it's the foundation of everything we do.

That philosophy starts with our employees. We believe in investing in our people, supporting them through every season of life, and creating an environment where they feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. It also extends to our customers and our community. We want every interaction to feel personal.

We strive to build relationships, not just transactions. At the end of the day, cars may change, technology may change, and the marketplace may change—but "Treating You Like Family" will always be the heart of who we are.

F E AT U R E A R T I C L E

WHAT TREND OR CHANGE DO YOU BELIEVE BUSINESSES IN OUR REGION NEED TO BE PAYING ATTENTION TO OVER THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? HH: Businesses in our region need to pay close attention to how growth, infrastructure, and quality of life intersect. Population growth creates tremendous opportunity, but it also raises expectations around transportation, housing, public services, and resilience.

Our region will continue to thrive through responsible growth, thoughtful planning, strategic investment, and responsiveness to the evolving needs of residents and businesses.

ENTERGY: “Growth is a defining trend shaping our region’s future and it’s happening at a remarkable pace. In Montgomery County, we’re seeing some of the fastest population growth

Gullo’s annual Christmas lights event.

A GREAT REPUTATION ISN’T BUILT OVERNIGHT—IT’S EARNED ONE RELATIONSHIP AT A TIME. - Tony Gullo Sr., Gullo Auto Group in the nation. Staying ahead of that growth requires strong partnerships with customers and communities to understand their evolving needs. That’s why we developed the Southeast Texas Energy Plan, known as STEP Ahead, which will meet the region’s power needs ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable power. The plan will help fuel economic opportunities while supporting local jobs and families for years to come.

The decisions we make today ensure the success of the thriving communities we serve.”

WOODFOREST: Technology and AI will continue to evolve, and Woodforest will continue to monitor and adapt to new technologies that best serve our customers.

GULLO: One of the biggest trends businesses in our region need to pay attention to over the next five years is growth—not just population growth, but how we prepare for it. Businesses will need to be ready to meet the needs of a more diverse customer base, invest in technology that improves the customer

experience, and continue finding ways to attract and retain great employees.

At the same time, people are looking for something that technology can't replace— authentic relationships and trust. While artificial intelligence, automation, and digital tools will continue to transform how we do business, they should enhance the customer experience, not replace the human connection. Another trend is the growing expectation that businesses be active members of their communities. Customers want to support companies that give back, invest locally, and genuinely care about the people they serve. Community involvement is no longer just good public relations—it's part of building a strong, sustainable brand.

IF YOU COULD SHARE ONE LESSON WITH A BUSINESS OWNER WHO HOPES THEIR COMPANY WILL STILL BE THRIVING 20 OR 30 YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE? HH: Think in decades, not quarters.

Stay close to your customers, invest in relationships, and be willing to evolve without losing sight of what makes your business valuable in the first place.

Longevity comes from balancing consistency in your values with flexibility in your strategy.

WOODFOREST: Success is built on a foundation of employees who embrace your organization's

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mission and care about the communities they serve.

Skills can be taught, but qualities such as integrity, compassion, accountability, and a commitment to doing what's right for customers are what create a lasting culture.

fortunate to learn that lesson from Mr. Tony Gullo Sr. His vision was never just about selling vehicles. He believed that if you took care of your employees, treated your customers with honesty and respect, and gave back to your community, success would follow. His dedication to helping others has become part of the DNA of our organization.

Through charitable giving, supporting local schools, nonprofits, first responders, and countless community organizations, he showed us that when your community succeeds, your business succeeds too. Another lesson is to never stop evolving. The automotive industry has changed dramatically over the years, but the values that built our company have never changed. We continue to adapt to new technology and changing customer expectations while staying true to our commitment to treat every customer and employee like family. A great reputation isn’t built overnight—it’s earned one relationship at a time.

GULLO: Build your business on people, purpose, and service—not just profits. At Gullo, we've been

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Motel 6 - Conroe MOW-B Terrain Systems My Friend in RAL Nothing Bundt Cakes - 242 Oliver Partners Outcome Orbit AI, LLC. Pest Buster: DIY Pest and Lawn Supply, LLC. Plato’s Closet - Conroe Precision Concrete Coating Premium Residential Remodeling Puddle Pool Services of The Woodlands Questco Revolution Aesthetics and Wellness Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q Sales Connect AI Senator Brett Ligon Stephony Garrett with eXp Realty and The Home Sync Team Swim Across America Taylor Made Lawncare & Services TCG Tech Texan Mattress Montgomery Texas Tap Company The August Company The Burns Phillips Law Firm The NET Level Up Networking United Built Homes VMI Security Wash House of Conroe, LLC. West Conroe Baptist Church WFG National Title Winds of Change

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2026

LEADERSHIP AWARD LUNCHEON HIGHLIGHTS

DIANA WHITE NAMED 2026 ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT Diana White, president of the board of the Friends of Conroe Symphony Orchestra, was named the 2026 ATHENA Leadership Award recipient by ATHENA International during the 9th annual ATHENA event, presented by Better Bookkeepers and put on by the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce. The prestigious award honors individuals who demonstrate professional excellence, community service, and

a commitment to helping women achieve their leadership potential.

This year, the Chamber received 23 ATHENA Leadership Award nominations from across Montgomery County. From that group, three outstanding finalists were selected by an ATHENA International committee and celebrated for their impact: White, Savannah Crihfield with CH&P Management, LLC; and Captain Amanda Johns with The Salvation Army of Montgomery County. The award was presented at the ATHENA

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 40 | CONROE.ORG

C H A M B E R S I G N AT U R E E V E N T S

CONGRATULATIONS,

DIANA WHITE

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C H A M B E R S I G N AT U R E E V E N T S

Leadership Luncheon on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Hyatt Regency Conroe.

ATHENA Leadership Award celebrates those who lead with courage, wisdom, and generosity.

White credited her mom, who was a dedicated volunteer herself, as her first and primary leadership mentor.

Harper also praised Elizabeth Smart, ATHENA’s keynote presenter, who gave an inspiring speech that captivated the attendees. Smart is an abduction victim-turned-advocate whose engaging story resonated with the audience. She gave a sobering account of her 2003 abduction as a 14-year-old and, just as important, the powerful lessons it has taught her in terms of resilience and leadership.

“She taught me to approach every challenge with confidence and a solution-focused attitude.”

White retired in 2022 after a 39-year career as a licensed CPA in Texas. She is also a certified financial coach through Ramsey Solutions and has served in leadership roles with numerous organizations, including the Ladies Association of Walden, Walden Follies, Houston Women’s Society of CPAs, Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras, Conroe Symphony Orchestra, and Friends of the Symphony.

“Diana represents the values and criteria of the ATHENA Leaderships Award,” said Scott Harper, President of the Chamber. “She has mentored and changed the life trajectory of many women and young girls, forming them into the next generation of female leaders in our community.”

The Chamber partners with ATHENA International to present the ATHENA Leadership Award, recognizing women who help improve the quality of life for others while actively assisting women and young girls in realizing their full potential.

Presented in over 500 communities worldwide, the

Savannah Crihfield

“Elizabeth’s message on overcoming tragedy and pain with elegance and dignity was powerful and life changing,” Harper said.

“We need to viciously guard our happiness,” Smart told the audience, “because that might be the thing that carries you through your darkness.”

The ATHENA event, through its wine pull and popup shops, also raised money for its designated beneficiary, Hands of Justice, a local non-profit that confronts human trafficking head on.

“This year’s ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon was the biggest yet, with more than 650 in attendance,” said Scott Harper, Chamber President. “Most important, the event showcased the incredible female leaders and entrepreneurs who uplift our community in so many ways.”

Captain Amanda Johns

2026 ATHENA Leadership Award finalists

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 42 | CONROE.ORG

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John Garrett FOUNDER, COMMUNITY IMPACT

Creating Impactful Storytelling: Speak in Headlines!

John Garrett is the CEO and Founder of Community Impact and Community Impact Printing & Mailing, delivering hyperlocal news to more than 50 Texas communities since 2005. He launched the company with his wife, Jennifer, and grew it into one of the nation’s largest privately owned community newspaper publishers. He is also an active community leader and has received honors including Best CEO by the Austin Business Journal and Distinguished Young Alumnus by Sam Houston State University.

PANEL DISCUSSION

INTERACTIVE PRESENTATION

Telling Your Story Locally: Lessons from National Brands

Mason Benitez

Moderated by: Margie Taylor, Taylorized PR

Erika Sumner CHICK-FIL-A

105 & Lone Star Pkwy

Lupe Martinez STATE FARM INSURANCE

Tiffany Iadarola GULLO FORD, TOYOTA, MAZDA

OWNER, BISHOP ADVERTISING & AI

Authentic Storytelling in the Age of AI Mason Benitez is the Founder and CEO of Bishop Advertising & AI, helping businesses grow through advertising, AI, and emerging technology. With more than 20 years of experience in media, sales leadership, and marketing strategy, he has led revenue teams at major companies including Townsquare Media and iHeartMedia. Today, he helps businesses across Texas increase visibility and drive results on Google, social media, streaming TV, and AI-powered platforms like ChatGPT.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

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S TA N D O U T M A R K E T I N G

S E M I NAR S E R I E S

Red Carpets & Ribbon Cuttings: The Art of Celebration BROUGHT TO YOU BY EVENT EXPERT, JEN MOORE OF EVENTS BY JEN

WELCOME TO THE NEWEST SECTION OF CONNECTIONS: STAND OUT MARKETING Here, you will find helpful tips & tricks to improve the marketing efforts of your business – and allow you to “stand out” in the crowded marketplace.

This article is derived from a presentation that Jen Moore, local event planner extraordinaire and owner of Events

by Jen, gave at the Chamber’s 2025 “Stand Out Marketing” series.

THE BEST EVENTS – LARGE OR SMALL – ARE THE ONES THAT STAY IN YOUR MEMORY. If you’re a business hosting an event, it gives you the opportunity to elevate your brand and make you stand out above your competition. In her event planning, Jen focuses on the power of collaboration. “The best events are produced by strong teams – not solo acts,” she says.

For an event to expand your brand, Jen points to four key areas to consider:

Engagement Every handshake is a marketing opportunity worth seizing.

The formula Jen uses in creating pre-event buzz and then executing a successful event are as follows: Awareness Create excitement through strategic promotions and teasers Engagement Foster community involvement and encourage audience participation

Consistency Build trust through reliable messaging and appearance

Preparation Finalize logistics and ensure all details are covered

Visibility Regular presence keeps your brand top of mind.

Execution Deliver a memorable experience that resonates with attendees

Authenticity Genuine interactions foster deeper connections with audiences.

CONNECTIONS | 45 | SUMMER 2026

Follow-Up Measure impact and gather feedback for future events.

S TA N D O U T M A R K E T I N G

CURATION IS THE ART. SCALING IS THE STRATEGY.

FOLLOW-UP, SHE SAYS, IS ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL. “Understanding your event’s return on investment is crucial.

Analyze attendance rates, engagement levels, and sponsorship contributions to refine strategies for maximum impact in future events.”

The art of ‘curating’ an event is really all about crafting a story. Every element, she says, from decor to entertainment, should be intentionally chosen to evoke emotion, reinforce purpose, and reflect brand identity. This is where creativity meets meaning.

CURATING AND SCALING EVENTS Curating an event is about crafting a story.

Every element, from décor to entertainment, is intentionally chosen to evoke emotion, reinforce purpose, and reflect brand identity. It's where creativity meets meaning.

One of the more interesting – and utilitarian – takeaways from Jen’s presentation was her “Oh Sh*t Kit” master list - (i.e., the things you should probably have on hand before, during and after your big event). See list on the next page...and happy shopping!

Scaling, on the other hand, is the strategy behind the magic. It's understanding what worked, amplifying what resonated, and building systems that allow growth without losing the personal touch. Scaling means leveraging relationships, tracking ROI, and creating repeatable processes that turn one success into many.

When you merge curation and scaling, you move from hosting events to building experiences that last.

Experiences that strengthen communities, elevate brands, and create legacies.

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 46 | CONROE.ORG

” t i K t * h S h O “ Mas t er Lis t ADHESIVES & FIX-IT ITEMS ❑ Double-sided tape ❑ Clear tape (matte & glossy)

S TA N D O U T M A R K E T I N G

❑ E xtra bulbs (for string lights or uplights)

E-TOOLS & HARDWARE ❑ Multi-tool / Swiss Army knife

❑ Packing tape

❑ Screwdrivers (flathead & Phillips, multiple sizes)

❑ Masking tape

❑ Allen wrenches

❑ Fabric tape & hem tape

❑ Pliers (needle nose & standard)

❑ Glue sticks & glue gun

❑ Hammer & mallet

❑ Spray adhesive

❑ Measuring tape (25 ft), Measuring Laser,

❑ Poster putty ❑ Rubber bands & binder clips ❑ Safety pins & paper clips ❑ Twine, rope & fishing line

SEWING & WARDROBE REPAIR ❑ Mini sewing kit (needles, thread, scissors) ❑ Fabric tape / hem adhesive ❑ Stain remover wipes (Shout, Tide-to-Go) ❑ Lint roller

❑ Measuring Wheel ❑ Scissors & box cutters ❑ Utility knife with extra blades ❑ Small wrench set

❑ Fire extinguisher (small)

❑ Regular Paper

❑ Reflective vest / cones

❑ Cardstock

❑ Roadside emergency kit

❑ Portable speaker / Bluetooth mic

❑ Blanket & bottled water

FOOD, BEVERAGE & COMFORT ❑ Granola bars, nuts, crackers ❑ Bottled water / electrolyte packets

❑ Fishing line & monofilament

❑ Cups, plates, napkins, utensils

❑ Command strips / hooks

❑ Reusable straws

❑ Velcro dots

❑ Cooler & ice packs

❑ E xtra candles, tealights & lighters

❑ Disposable gloves ❑ Hand warmers / fans (seasonal)

PERSONAL & VANITY

❑ Wire cutters

❑ Mirror (tabletop or handheld)

❑ Staple gun + staples

❑ Hair ties, bobby pins, hairspray

❑ Mini drill + bit set (fully charged!)

❑ Deodorant & body spray

❑ Super glue, Gorilla glue, and Loctite

❑ Lotion & hand cream

❑ Toothbrush / toothpaste ❑ Makeup wipes

❑ Fashion tape

❑ Bungee cords

❑ Nail file & clippers

CLEANING & SPILLS

❑ Feminine products

❑ Small ironing board or pad ❑ Scissors (fabric & general) ❑ Sewing clips & thimbles ❑ E xtra hangers (plastic & velvet) ❑ Garment bags

ELECTRICAL & POWER ❑ E xtension cords (multiple lengths)

❑ Paper towels & microfiber cloths

❑ Eye drops

❑ Mini sewing machine (optional for large events)

BONUS: “Save the Day” Items ❑ Duct-taped “Mystery Bag” with your MVP tools ❑ E xtra chargers labeled by device type ❑ “Vendor Survival Pack” (snacks, wipes, pens, mints)

❑ E xtra lanyards & zip ties

❑ Small broom & dustpan

OFFICE & ADMIN

❑ E xtension cord reel

❑ Trash bags (13-gal & contractor size) ❑ Hand sanitizer ❑ Gloves (latex & work gloves) ❑ Febreze or fabric spray

❑ Lint-free rags ❑ Baby wipes (unscented) ❑ Small vacuum or handheld Dustbuster

❑ Clipboard & notepads

❑ Small stool or step ladder

❑ 3 -Hole Puncher

❑ Mini fan or mister for outdoor events

❑ Stapler ❑ Laminator & Laminating Sheets

❑ Foldable wagon or dolly

❑ Printing Labels

❑ Toolbelt or crossbody bag for day-of

❑ Sharpies, pens, pencils

❑ Portable Power Station

❑ Highlighters

❑ WD-40

❑ Sticky notes

❑ E xtra Caffeine

❑ Labels & label maker

❑ E xtra Snacks

❑ E xtra event signage clips / easels

❑ Portable phone chargers / power banks

VEHICLE & SAFETY

❑ USB cords (Lightning, USB-C, Micro)

❑ Jumper cables

❑ QR code printouts / guest lists

❑ Tire pressure gauge

❑ Name tags & markers

❑ Multi-outlet adapters & cube taps

❑ Flashlight + spare batteries

❑ Ziplock bags (snack to gallon sizes)

❑ Rain ponchos

❑ Laptop charger / mouse

❑ Batteries (AA, AAA, 9V, C, D)

❑ Umbrellas

❑ Portable Printer

❑ First aid kit

❑ E xtra printer ink or toner

❑ Work light or clip-on LED light

❑ Touch-up paint pens

❑ Static guard spray

❑ Stain remover

❑ Flashlights & headlamps

❑ Hot glue gun + sticks

❑ Magic Erasers

❑ Air freshener

❑ Zip ties (small, medium, large)

❑ Blister bandages / Band-Aids

❑ Ribbons / bows / ties

❑ Multi-plug splitter for vendor booths

❑ Gaffer tape (black, white, silver) ❑ Electrical tape (various colors)

❑ Lip balm

❑ Scissors (ribbon & decor)

❑ Lint roller

❑ Power strips & surge protectors

❑ Duct tape (heavy-duty)

❑ Floral wire / tape ❑ Floral shears

❑ Level (mini and full size)

❑ Disinfecting wipes

DECOR & EMERGENCY FIXES

❑ Mints & gum

❑ Velcro strips & Command hooks (various sizes)

❑ Iron & steamer (with distilled water)

❑ Easel(s)

❑ Coffee pods / instant coffee

❑ Safety pins (multiple sizes) ❑ E xtra buttons & zippers

❑ Lanyard Stand

CONNECTIONS | 47 | SUMMER 2026

LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Education for Tomorrow Alliance partners with more than 90 businesses to strengthen the future workforce through internships

Education for Tomorrow Alliance (EfTA) partnered with the business community across Montgomery County and beyond this summer to provide internship experiences for 240 area high school students, demonstrating the critical role employers play in preparing the region’s future workforce.

Through EfTA’s Student Internship Program (SIP), rising high school seniors gain firsthand exposure to a variety of career fields while developing the professional skills and industry connections that help prepare them for success after graduation.

For two weeks, students are matched with internship hosts who open their doors to the next generation of talent. Interns shadow professionals and gain an understanding of potential career paths, while employers have the opportunity to invest in and inspire future employees. EfTA serves as the bridge between education and industry, matching and supporting both students and internship hosts throughout the experience.

Beyond the workplace, students participate in professional development opportunities designed to strengthen their career readiness, including skill-building workshops and a networking reception presented by TDECU that celebrates the accomplishments of students and internship hosts.

Education for Tomorrow Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating education and community partnerships that advance student success. To learn more, visit efta-us.org.

CONNECTIONS | 48 | SUMMER 2026

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LEADERSHIP TRAINING

LMC continues growing leaders, leadership footprint Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) celebrated a quarter of growth, achievement, and continued investment in developing leaders who strengthen Montgomery County.

cohort of accomplished leaders committed to lifelong learning, collaboration, and creating lasting community impact.

In partnership with Texas A&M

to intentionally lead their own growth through her presentation, Be the CEO of Your Own Career, while encouraging them to invest in others along the way.

Looking ahead, Leadership Montgomery This spring, LMC County will celebrated the host its annual graduation Leadership LMC’s quarterly leadership breakfast. of the Summit on Signature Class August 28, LMC’s Master Class #4 of 2026, recognizing a year University’s convening of leadership development, Center for leaders from increased understanding of the Executive Development, LMC across the county for a morning community’s opportunities and hosted its Quarterly Leadership of learning, inspiration, and challenges, and meaningful Breakfast, bringing together collaboration. connections among emerging more than 120 leaders from To learn more about Leadership leaders. LMC also honored across Montgomery County.

Montgomery County and the graduates of Leadership Dr. Bridgette Chambers upcoming programs and events, Master Class 4, a distinguished challenged attendees visit LMCTX.org

The class graduation ceremony was Tuesday, May 12, at Blue Magnolia.

CONROE LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | 50 | CONROE.ORG

Decades of trust.

Right here at home.

Woodforest National Bank® is proud to call Montgomery County home. Since 1980, we’ve built our reputation on outstanding customer service, strong relationships, and a genuine commitment to the communities we serve.

As an employee-owned bank, our success is rooted in the same place as yours, right here, supporting people and businesses that help Montgomery County thrive.

• 45+ years of employee-ownership • 30 branches in Montgomery County • Dedicated to community success

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender An Equal Opportunity Employer

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