Conroe, TX December 2022

The Founder's Edition A R T S + C U LTU R E

E N TE R TA I N M E N T

LO O KS AT OU R PA ST, PRESENT AN D FUTU RE

TH E M CCO LLU MS , H O M E FO R TH E H O LIDAYS

D E C E M B E R 2 022

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December 2022 PUBLISHER

Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Founder's Edition Happy Holidays, and thank you for joining me on this exciting new Conroe City Lifestyle adventure, where living on the edge puts you right in the middle.

Growing up in Idaho and having lived coast to coast and border to border, I can attest that Conroe is a special place. In starting this publication, I wanted a way to build strong connections with the community my family has chosen to call home.

Our cover shot represents a portion of this—people who support and operate businesses in and around our downtown area. As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this holiday season, I want to thank them for working so hard to make Conroe a special place to shop, be entertained, and live.

Many people here describe where they live as “on the edge.” It’s almost like they aren’t sure which community to call their own. Whether it’s the edge of The Woodlands, the edge of Lake Conroe, the edge of the Sam Houston National Forest, Montgomery, Magnolia, Willis, Woodloch, Cut and Shoot, or Porter Heights… what I’ve come to realize is, if you’re on the edge of these places, Conroe is the center. I want to help the greater Conroe area buy into that belief.

Conroe City Lifestyle will define the best that this area has to offer. It will focus on the people, businesses, and events that elevate living here. We will examine our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to our future.

In this founding edition, we interview nationally renowned local artist Craig Campobella who masterfully sculpts snapshots of past events to remind us of the area’s rich heritage. We ask community leaders and business owners to define Conroe's Lifestyle. Unsurprisingly, a recurring theme was community, a notion that we will do our best to support this and every month to follow. We also highlight billionaire entrepreneur Jake Jabs, owner of America's Furniture Warehouse, to show you the type of businesses Conroe is attracting. With his independent spirit, he’ll fit right in. Finally, we have a special feature on country music sensation Parker McCullum and his new wife Hallie Ray, who agree there is no place like Conroe for the holidays.

As one of the fastest-growing places in the country, a lot is happening.

I hope you enjoy learning about it as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.

EDITOR

Margie Taylor | margie.taylor@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Jo Hammon | jo.hammon@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Sara Minor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Amy Barnett, Alison Kartevold, Annette Palmer

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

God bless, ALISON K ARTE VOLD, PUBLISHER @CONROECITYLIFESTYLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/CONROE |

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Conroe City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Conroe area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Conroe City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Laid-Back Luxury Laid-Back Luxury

a Wedge Away From it All

Schedule a tour of the residential resort with Bluejack National Realty today www.bluejacknational.com | (281) 475-2166 | life@bluejacknational.com 4430 south fm 1486 | montgomery, texas 77316 Pricing, plans and specifications subject to change without notice. See sales consultant for details. © Copyright 2021 Bluejack National. All Rights Reserved.

DECEMBER 2022

inside the issue The Premiere Issue

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28

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 History Everlasting

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

14

Our Town

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Local Limelight

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Back Stage

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Locals Only

28

Gift Guide

30

Giving Back

32

Events

An insight into the sculptural world of Craig Campobella

20 The McCollums, Home for the Holidays The light is brightly shining

26 New Billionaire in Town

America's Furniture Warehouse Founder, Jake Jabs

28 A Few of Our Favorite Things A Holiday Gift Guide

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Justin Ruiz of JustinRuizMedia.com This month's cover shot shows a few people who make the greater Conroe area special by running local businesses.

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LI FE + C U LT U R E A RTS + C U LTU R E

ENT ERTA I NMENT LO CA L S ERV I C ES

S HO PPI NG LI FE + C U LT U R E

DECEMBER 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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LATOYA COLLINS

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ALISTONE PRODUCTIONS

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TAYLORIZED PR

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DERRICK BRYANT

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MELONHEAD PHOTOGRAPHY

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COURTNEY FROST (CAC)

CONNIE MCNAB

1: 12th Annual Woodforest Charity Run, Sept. 17 from Heritage Park. 2: 15th Annual Community Assistance Center Duck Race Sept 24 at Big Rivers, New Caney. 3: Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Launches with Children's Books on Wheels Sept 23 at Buckalew Chevrolet.

4: Lobsterfest- Lobster and steak with 800 friends hosted by the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce. 5: Veterans Day at the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park- new recruits swearing in. 6: Fun was had with inflatables, silent auction bids, dog adoptions, and BBQ at OctoBEARFest. 7: Brian and Jenn Finely, Roof Concepts Construction, take in Lobsterfest with our Publisher Alison Kartevold.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @conroecitylifestyle

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C I T Y SC E N E

Thank you to our Founding Partners for believing in us and the Community Alison Kartevold

Conroe City Lifestyle

Beach Walk Coworking and Office Space

Lisa Gregory Real Estate Group

Bluejack National

Lone Star Family Health Center

Britt Construction Group Inc.

Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe

Burrows Muscle and Nerve Center

Mirror Lake Designs

Ciccio’s Pasta

Roof Concepts Construction

Classic Floors and More

Susan Scott Watts - Keller Williams Advantage Realty

Grasten Power Technologies

New Danville - Kathy Sanders

Jazzy Junque

Woodforest National Bank

DECEMBER 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Photography by Montgomery County Memorial Veteran’s Park

Photography by Shea Homes

Groundbreaking for the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park Education Center The Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park and Educational/ Visitors Center took 5 years of labor

by Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Commission, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and enriching our youth, families, and communities to the services and sacrifices of our US Veterans and First Responders. Funding efforts were spearheaded by State Representative Will Metcalf. The Center is a way to accomplish our Honored Mission. Judge Jimmie C. Edwards, III - USMC Ret. Chairman Honoredmission.org

Photography by Taylorized PR

Shea Homes Breaks Ground on Evergreen Community

Brownlee Jewelers Celebrates 90 years Serving Community!

Located on the northwest corner of FM 242 and FM 1314 in Conroe, Evergreen will accommodate approximately 2,000 homesites. The first phase will include 247 homesites consisting of 40-, 50-, 60- and 70-foot lots.

Named for its natural landscape, Evergreen will have approximately 100 acres devoted to parks, green space and amenities. Signature amenities will include a creek that traverses the property, a modern recreation center, and additional areas dedicated to open space and trails.

Learn more at Sheahomes.com

Located in historic downtown Conroe, Brownlee Jewelers has served the community for over 90 years. Owner Janice Parish is a GIA Graduate Gemologist and continues the Brownlee family tradition of providing high-quality craftsmanship and ethical business practices.

Customize a design you had in mind for jewelry, update heirlooms, watch repair, jewelry repair, or add gemstones to an existing piece. Stop by and visit Janice or Judy Brandon, her assistant, at 201 Simonton Street.

BrownleeJewelers.com

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B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

Greater Conroe Arts Alliance- Conroe Awarded Cultural Arts Designation The Greater Conroe Arts Alliance has grown to 19 organizations since 2010 and has become the basis for Conroe to qualify for the designation of being a Texas Cultural Arts District.

A few of the organizations that are a part of the GCAA include the Conroe Art League, The Players Theatre Company, Stage Right of Texas, the Conroe Symphony Orchestra, Montgomery County Choral Society, Jazz Connection, Montgomery County Literary Arts Council, and the Heritage Museum.

GreaterConroeArtsAlliance.com

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Debut of Beach Walk a Coworking & Office Space concept Professionals and business owners seeking a greater level of work/life balance will be excited to know that Beach Walk Coworking & Office Space, a new flex office and executive suite concept, will soon open near the waterfront area of Lake Conroe.

Matt Arceneaux is the founder of Beach Walk Coworking. He also owns Washington Office Co., a flex office concept near downtown Houston on Washington Avenue.

BeachWalkOffice.com

MOCO Food Hall Conroe welcomes the MOCO Food Hall where culinary and beverage masterpieces gather under one roof! International concepts include House of Roux Cajun Spirited Kitchen, Rollin Phatties Pakistani food fusion, Ciccio’s Pasta, Super Smash Burgers & Fries, Juice Freaks, Dulce Vida Treats, Breakroom Bagels, MoCo Coffee and Miracle City Bakery. Visit mocofoodhall.com.

Photography by Honor Cafe

Honor Cafe on Texas Bucket List Show Chris Sadler, Veteran U.S. Marine, and his wife, Mandi Sadler, own/operate Honor Cafe. This veteran-themed restaurant opened in July 2020, displaying photos and memorabilia donated by the community adorned on their walls. Homestyle comfort food is served, including burgers, shrimp & grits, brisket tacos, and breakfast specialties all day.

Hosted by Shane McAuliffe, “The Texas Bucket List” TV show features “bucket list-must-see” destinations in Texas. Honor Cafe was on the show November 12. Visit honorcafe.us

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Conroe

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ONE QUESTION

Conroe’s Life Style What does it mean to you?

ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN RUIZ

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O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

MARY MCCOY

Conroe Legend - Texas Radio Hall of Fame – Currently of K-Star FM 99.7

“There is no place like Conroe. It's been my home since 1950. When we moved to Conroe, I told my daddy I wasn't moving anymore. I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to be on the radio, I wanted to sing, I wanted to make records, and when the radio station signed on, I went on with it.”

RONALD ENRIQUEZ

DONNIE BUCKALEW JR. Buckalew Chevrolet – Lifelong resident

“Community. It takes people to come together to form a community, and the volunteerism here is unbelievable.”

Owner of Classic Floors and More – Resident 26 years

“It's got a small-town feel with a big attitude. It has provided for my family all these years and now we like to give back to your neighbors.”

JODY CZAJKOSKI Mayor of Conroe

DEBBIE KRUGER

Co-Owner of Branding Iron Custom Goods – Lifelong resident

“It’s traditional, but with a lot of cool hip things happening.”

JANICE PARISH

Owner of Brownlee Jewelers – Lifelong resident

“Welcoming, though we are growing and bursting at the seams, we still feel like a hometown.”

“Our community is full of wonderful assets that contribute to the great quality of life and are part of the reason we are one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. An airport, a National forest, a historic downtown with a live music scene, and a beautiful lake, are just a few of the multiple jewels in the crown of Conroe. It’s Conroe’s time to shine!”

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History Everlasting

Sculptor Craig Campobella with his recent sculpture of Marty Stuart.

Photo by Denton Florian

An insight into the sculptural world of Craig Campobella

ARTICLE BY ANNETTE PALMER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED BY CRAIG CAMPOBELLA

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Anyone who has visited Conroe will have noticed the breathtaking statues by resident sculptor Craig Campobella. Steeped in Texas history, symbolism, and humanity, these proud works preside over the city of Conroe and are also in many public and private art collections worldwide. With monuments across the USA, Conroe being the epicenter of his realm, we are honored to have such an accomplished sculptor in our midst.

Campobella’s sculptures stand above others. He is adept at recognizing the details and finite gestures that make them believable, almost alive. The subtle tilt of a head, the drop of a wrist, wisps of hair, and other micro gestures, are the components that bring these historical figures to life with a “split second” pose only a master of the arts can capture.

In the past, our sculptor has worked closely with Dean Bass, the CEO of The Spirit of Texas Bank, as well as the Texas Monument Flag Park, who have created a balance in the community by supporting the arts as well as keeping the area beautiful, this has been very important for Conroe.

I was privileged to ask Craig a few questions for CCL about his work and presence in the area.

WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO CONROE, WERE YOU BORN HERE? “I was born in downtown Houston, and moved to Conroe when I worked in radio, eventually, the sculpture took over, and it became my career.”

CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SCULPTURES IN CONROE AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS? “As well as “The Texian” at Texas Monument Flag Park and “Lady Liberty,” I have a series of busts in Founders Plaza as well as work further afield in The Woodlands, Montgomery and Waco.”

DO YOU USE SYMBOLISM IN YOUR PIECES? “I love to add symbols to my work, it creates a different level of interest, and the stories the symbols

represent are educational. It makes learning about the past fun, like solving a puzzle!”

HOW DID YOUR SCULPTURE JOURNEY BEGIN? “My Mom was a painter, and one day I took her to the art store. She was taking a while, so I bought some air-drying clay while I was waiting. Later, I sculpted my first piece, a friend, who didn’t believe I’d made it bought it for $50. In the 1980s, that was a great price, so I made more, and the rest is history!”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCULPTURE, AND WHY? “When we went as a family to the Houston Zoo, I always liked to stop and look at the Sam Houston sculpture in Hermann Park by Enrico Filiberto Cerrachio. I marveled at the movement of the horse and the height of the sculpture with Elton John's lyrics from “Your Song,” “If I was a sculptor…” resonating in my head. I wasn’t familiar with any other sculptures, but this one was an inspiration.”

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST RECENT PROJECT? “I have recently completed a sculpture of Marty Stuart, country music icon, it’s called “The Pilgrim” and is currently in Jackson, MS.

WHERE DO YOU WORK? “I have relocated from my studio in downtown Conroe to my home studio, it allows for more spontaneous work and for me to be around my family more.

I can work whenever the inspiration finds me. It’s a more immersive situation, but altogether it feels like a more natural approach to my work.”

Perhaps it might be interesting to tour a “Craig Campobella Sculpture Trail,” where we view these magnificent sculptures and learn more about history by counting symbolic numbers of buttons, stars, and other nuances, placed like puzzles to be solved to tell us more about our history!

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"Lady Liberty", at The Star of Texas Bank, Conroe

"The Texian" can be seen at Conroes Monument Flag Park

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An onstage kiss celebrates the start of a new life together as cheering fans look on.

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ARTICLE BY AMY BARNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS KLEINMEIER

“THE LIGHT IS BRIGHTLY SHINING”

Backstage fun

The McCollums, Home for the Holidays After a whirlwind year of touring, recording, winning major industry awards, and marrying the love of his life, Hallie Ray Light, country music superstar Parker McCollum is unplugging his guitar, stepping away from the mic, and heading home for the holidays. The first leg of his much-needed vacation is in Nashville at home with Hallie Ray, where they are celebrating their first Christmas as a married couple and creating their own family traditions.

“We are really excited about Christmas,” said Parker. “We love this time of year. We got some of our first ornaments together last year, and I know collecting ornaments for our tree is something we’ll continue to do.”

“We are looking forward to putting Christmas lights up on the house and decorating the tree for the first time as our own family,” added Hallie Ray. “Parker’s tour schedule is slowing down quite a bit, so we can just enjoy each other. He will be spending a lot more time at home, and I think that is the perfect way to spend our first Christmas together as a married couple.”

Hallie Ray loves to cook and is also excited about incorporating some of her favorite recipes into their holiday traditions.

“Growing up, my sisters and I made Puppy Chow with my mom and snacked on it throughout December. Last year I made a Christmas tree out of garlic cheese balls, and they were so good! I will most likely make those again this year,” she said.

Downtime in Nashville may include some Christmas shopping as well, but Parker shared that he already has a lot of that covered.

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“This is the first time in my life that I shopped early. I went shopping for Hallie Ray in October. I felt very grown up doing that,” he said. “But I’m sure there will be some last-minute gifts.”

After some shopping, overdue alone time, and catching up on some R & R, the McCollums will be spending the remainder of the holiday season—leg two of their vacation time—in Parker’s hometown, Conroe.

“Conroe and this time of year just go together for me. I look forward to this all year long,” Parker said.

He has spent every Christmas of his 30 years at his grandmother JoJo's house, and this year will be no different. Christmas in Conroe means getting to spend time with his mom's family, the Yancey's, and his dad's family, the McCollums, which

Parker playing his first guitar.

Mom Stacey with Parker and Tyler on the road together.

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Parker playing the “infamous” Nutcracker in 4th grade.

Christmas with sister Michael and her husband John.

Hallie Ray pictured with her sisters, Kamri and Kaylee modeling their KiHK athleisure wear fashion line

includes his Meemaw and Papa. Then add all of his aunts, uncles, and cousins who either still live in the Conroe area or also make their way back for the holidays. It’s a time for reminiscing about his childhood, especially Christmases growing up with his brother Tyler, and sister Michael.

“I was the youngest, so I was always up the earliest and would try to get everyone else up. As soon as we’d open all the presents, we’d get to eat my mom’s Christmas breakfast casserole,” he said.

He said his mom still makes this breakfast casserole every year. She explained it as something she started making when her kids were babies, and it has evolved over time.

“It’s the French bread casserole that you pour eggs, milk, and cheese over, and then you can add whatever else you want. As they got older, I added more to it and it got a little more interesting,” she said.

“My mom always did a great job going all out for Christmas, she really did,” said Parker. “Even when we didn’t like it, she made us put the decorations up together and the lights in the yard together—we did it all.

That’s probably why I am so fond of this time of year.”

Christmas memories in Conroe also include Parker getting his first guitar when he was 10 years old. Yancey bought guitars for both of her boys in 2002 and recalls it was money well spent.

“They picked them up and never looked back. That’s the one thing they did that I never had to ask them to practice. They were obsessed after that,” she said.

And then there was Parker’s fourth-grade year when the spotlight found him not once but twice.

“I took Michael to the Crighton Theatre for an audition,” said Yancey. “Parker and I were sitting and doing his homework when the director came out and said, ‘I’m going to audition him next.’ I told him we just came for my daughter, but they wanted him to audition. The next morning, I got a call, and he got the part of Tommy, the lead boy in ‘Miracle on 34th Street.’”

“My sister got a small role without any lines, and I got the lead role for the little kids. I think they just needed a little kid to do it,” added Parker.

That same year he played the lead in Giesinger Elementary’s production of “The Nutcracker.”

“Yes, they happened simultaneously. But that is the extent of my acting career,” Parker said with a laugh.

The holiday season also provides the perfect opportunity for reflecting on the past 12 months and giving thanks for incredible blessings. Parker and Hallie Ray have each had milestone years.

Parker toured with country artist Thomas Rhett, opened for his hero George Strait, and recorded a show for Austin City Limits. He had his second national No 1 song, set the all-time record for attendance at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, and sold out the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo—something he had dreamed about since he was a kid.

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Christmas Day 2002: Parker, holding his first guitar, with sister Michael and brother Tyler.

“We are looking forward to putting Christmas lights up on the house and decorating the tree for the first time as our own family.

Parker’s tour schedule is slowing down quite a bit, so we can just enjoy each other. He will be spending a lot more time at home, and I think that is the perfect way to spend our first Christmas

A glimpse behind the scenes in the runup to a concert.

together as a married couple.”

“It was so insane to be out there on that stage at NRG. You work for something for as long as you can remember. Then one day, you get off the bus, and you’re doing it. It was really hard to take it all in. I’m glad we’re getting a second chance to do it this next year. I will probably take the day in a lot slower this time and try to enjoy it more,” he said.

He also turned a hand injury into a positive 2022 memory. When he couldn’t play guitar, he called on his brother, Tyler, to join his band for a few weeks and play acoustic guitar while he recovered.

“That was so cool for me because he was such a big influence on me as a kid and the whole reason I found out about songwriters and learning to play guitar and doing

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this for a living. So, to do shows that big and have him there on the road—the vibe was just so good. To have a little bit of home with you on the road is always a good thing,” he said.

In 2022, Hallie Ray teamed up with her two sisters, Kamri and Kaylee, to launch their own company, KiHK. “We wanted to start a brand that represented everyday athleisure, combining all three of our styles! The brand name, KiHK, was created from each of our initials with a lowercase “I” to form a word that makes sense,” she said.

Hallie Ray and her sisters design their own products by first starting with individual ideas and then combining their concepts into one final product.

“I think that is what makes it so fun, seeing all three creative minds bring one product to life and then getting to share that with our audience. We always strive for our pieces to be trendy and comfortable, making our customers feel and look their best,” she added.

In 2023, Hallie Ray and her sisters hope to expand KiHK to reach a larger audience with their stylish athleisure. Parker plans to put out a new album, start a headlining tour, and open the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

But for now, they will cherish the December slowdown, trim the tree, and take in all the holiday season has to offer.

— Merry Christmas from the McCollums!

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new billionaire in town ARTICLE BY ALISON KARTEVOLD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE

There's a new entrepreneur in town whose backstory reads like the screenplay of a biopic.

He came to town to do business, and his background and attitude will make him fit right in.

Conroe checked all the boxes when poor farm kid turned billionaire Jake Jabs, CEO of America's Furniture Warehouse, was looking for a place to put his 15th furniture store.

At age 81, he says accessibility to land, infrastructure, people, and a business-friendly environment was vital. Situated on the west side of I-45, the massive 440-thousand+ square foot warehouse and store is a working monument to fulfilling Jabs' American Dream.

The Coloradan believes the secret to success is finding and filling a need. And selling furniture is about visibility and referrals.

"Repeat customers, you've got to have that today to do business," says Jabs.

In 2020, with just 14 stores, Jabs' privately held company did a billion dollars worth of business. He buys large volumes from manufacturers around the globe for cash, never returning damaged goods. Instead, he fixes it in his workshops and then ships it with his fleet of trucks across the United States, all of which allows him to sell quality furniture at discounted prices.

Jabs believes luxury doesn't have to be expensive, and he wants Conroe to know that he isn't just an entrepreneur. America's Furniture Warehouse is here to be their partner.

"I'd like people to know we do give back to the community, we aren't greedy, we like to sponsor all kinds of programs, from schools to charities, to police; my walls are full of them," says Jabs, "[and] we also give customers a value."

As a self-taught businessman and entrepreneur, Jabs sees tremendous value in education.

Local school fundraisers are a mainstay of this philanthropic outreach. For example, if you buy a mattress from him, you can designate 2% of the sale to your favorite school. He has also given more than $35 million to his alma mater Montana State and the University of Colorado Denver for their business and entrepreneurship schools that bear his name.

Jabs didn't start with a big bankroll. His tale is one of perseverance and innovation. From ranching to war, music to sales, manufacturing to tigers, the stories this trailblazer has to tell should fill a Hollywood screenplay.

Raised on a poor cattle ranch in Montana, he served in the Korean War, delivering classified communications across Africa. When he came home, he played music and toured with the likes of Marty Robbins before getting into the furniture game. Music is a lifelong passion, and Jabs needs little prompting to pick up a guitar and sing you a tune.

In Colorado, Jake Jabs is something of a legend. A member of the state's businessman's hall of fame, those who don't know him for his business acumen and philanthropy recognize him as the guy who used to have exotic animals in his furniture ads. He never owned any, but that is why you'll find boxes of stuffed toy tigers on his showroom floors. Now that he has three stores in the Houston area, he plans to expand his ties to Conroe, Webster, and Katy.

"When we first went into Katy, they didn't really want us there 'cause they didn't know us," says Jabs, "now they love us."

He plans to be in the store he designed in Conroe monthly. The operation employs 350 people locally, who underwent training Jabs still participates in personally. He says first he has to sell them on AFW's philosophy before he asks them to sell to anyone else.

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G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

ARTICLE BY CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISTONE PRODUCTIONS

A Few of Our Favorite Things A HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE The elves at Conroe City Lifestyle have been busy curating a fantastic and local gift guide for the holidays. These unique gift ideas all come from our neighborhood shops and small business owners. Enjoy the crackle of aromatic scented handmade candles, shining jewels and gorgeous clothes and accessories for the lady of the house. For the guys, a rugged backpack and a stylish flight of beer glasses for the bar! Happy Holidays to you!

1.

2.

3.

Emerald and Diamond Ring.

CamilosJewelry.com

Faux Lambs Skin Vest, Light Weight Turtleneck, Hat and Gold Chains. @ModBoutique.TX

Duluth Pack Rambler Canvas Backpack.

BrandingIronTX.com $330

4.

5.

6.

Crackling Wood Wick Candle in Gray Vessel. AlmostAugust.shop $28

Honey Bee Woodcraft Beer Flight Boards.

BrandingIronTX.com $60

Large Soft Stripe $48, Small Geo Bag $36, Micro White Tooled Bag $30.

MakeupJunkieBags.com D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C O N R O E

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does.

To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.)

Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.)

With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue.

“We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.”

City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?

Scan Code to

Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022

Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders!

To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link.

All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once.

The amount given to each recipient will be based on need.

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DECEMBER 2022

Work’s A Breeze at Beach Walk

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

DECEMBER 10 TH

Hot Sauce Festival

S O UT H E R N STA R B R E W I N G | 1 2:0 0 P M Local hot sauce creators and local vendors from all around Texas are coming together to make this event bigger and better than ever. Eating challenges will include noodles, pods, and hot wings! Facebook. com/SouthernStarBrewing (events) DECEMBER 10 TH

Christmas in Historic Montgomery

COMING SOON – Q1 2023 Flexible Workspace & Fully Furnished Private Offices Modern Lake Conroe Office Experience Central Lake Conroe // Next To Lakeview Marina CONTACT OUR TEAM FOR

PRELEASE & TOUR INFO (936) 697-9204 BEACHWALKOFFICE.COM 96 BEACH WALK BLVD. CONROE, TX 77304

1 4 4 20 L I B E RT Y, MO NTG OM E RY | 1 0 :0 0 A M Montgomery's holiday activity highlight kicks off with a parade at 10 am.

Winding through Historic Downtown Montgomery, it showcases an astounding array of civic groups, school spirit, and others who love participating. Bring your holiday spirit to Montgomery to watch, shop in the holiday market, and tour the historic open homes for this beautiful day of events.

DECEMBER 10 TH

Toby Powell Conroe Christmas Celebration

H E R I TAG E P L AC E PA R K- 5 00 ME TCA L F | 1 1 :0 0 A M The Toby Powell Conroe Christmas Celebration takes place in downtown Conroe on December 10th, from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm! The FREE holiday festivities include pictures with Santa, two snow slides, a trackless train, a carousel, a petting zoo, a live nativity scene, and food and craft vendors. The Kiwanis Club Christmas Parade begins at 1:00 pm through downtown.

CONTINUED >

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EXPRESSIVE TILE & STONE UNIQUE

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LET US DESIGN THE CUSTOM SPACE OF YOUR DREAMS Visit our showroom Tuesday - Friday from 10a-6p or Call/email to set up an appointment with one of our designers.

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(936) 494-0 275 | expres s ivet ileands t one.c om 1506 FM 2854 Road Conroe, Texas 77304 D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / C O N R O E

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EVENTS CONTINUED

CLASSIC FLOORS IS NOW MORE.

DECEMBER 10 TH

Lake Conroe's Christmas Boat Parade

L A K E C O NR O E -NE A R MA R GA R I TAV I L L E O N LA K E | 1 0 :0 0 P M Come one, come all, for the most beautiful night on Lake Conroe of the year. Homeowners, boaters, businesses, and the Lake Conroe Community will gather for Lake Conroe's Christmas Boat Parade 2022 to benefit Love Heals Youth, the nonprofit for 2022. Free to watch. LakeConroeLive.com DECEMBER 17TH

Bad Bob's Annual Christmas on the Lawn Family-owned and operated since 2002

Let us help you with your interior cabinets and countertops as well.

Call for an appointment. ( 8 3 2 ) 2 5 0 -27 3 6 | classicf loorst x.com

103. S. BELMONT WEST | 6:00 PM Grab your lawn chairs and snag a spot on the grass for Bad Bob's Christmas Bash to listen to jazzy Christmas music and a plethora of holiday lights performed by the students of the Jazz Connection. Don't miss this FREE event.

DECEMBER 17TH-18TH

TerrorFest: A Christmas Horror

LO NE STA R C O NV E NT I O N C E NT E R | 1 0 :0 0 A M A Christmas Horror Convention with everything you'd expect from a horror convention but so much more.

Battle Of The Bands judged by famous rock stars, costume contest, celebrity guests, games, spooky campfire stories, Q&A panels, Spooky Santa Clawz Photoshoot & More! Two-Day Event Saturday, Dec. 17-Sunday, Dec. 18 until 6:00 pm. Terrorfest.net

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Conroe

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AUTOMATIC STANDBY GENERATORS POWER THROUGH THE STORM.

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FOR A FREE ESTIMATE, call 281-259-6500 Grasten Power Technologies 10890 Texas 242 Conroe, Texas 77385 grastengenerators.com