CHAMBER FYI

GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.

04Leadership

Montgomery County

VOL. II ISSUE VIICONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER

JULY 2018

10Ribbon Cuttings

11Member Highlight

13Diplomat Highlight

14New Members &

Renewals

2018 Class Graduates May 2018Carriage Inn of Conroe Shawna HarrisColortech Direct/Impact

Printing

May 2018

leadership award luncheon

C o n r o e / L a k e C o n r o e C h a m b e r h o s t s t h e i n a u g u r a l

H e a t h e r ’ s G l e n • 2 0 0 E P h i l l i p s S t • C o n r o e , T X 7 7 3 0 1J u l y 2 6 • 1 1 a . m - 1 p . m .

p r e s e n t e d b yW o o d f o r e s t N a t i o n a l B a n k

g u e s t s p e a k e rC a t h y N a s h , p r e s i d e n t a n d C E O o f W o o d f o r e s t N a t i o n a l B a n k

You may have noticed (or maybe not) the Chamber opted to not put on the 4th of July Fireworks show this year. Following much discussion last year and into this year, the board of directors determined putting on a fireworks show, while patriotic and community-oriented, wasn’t in the spirit of the mission of the Chamber. First and foremost, we are a business organization advocating for and about business. We are not a governmental entity. When the Chamber put on the shows, we asked our members to pay for the fireworks. Realistically, in most cities and communities, the local governmental entities pay for and put on fireworks displays. It’s something the entire community can benefit from and is a good use of tax dollars.

For several years, a handful of dedicated, caring Chamber members carried the load of investing in the fireworks shows. It’s a significant investment of $25,000-$30,000 to go up in smoke in 15-20 minutes. Then add to this was the challenge of where to shoot them, weather conditions, viewing conditions and many other issues. It became obvious we needed to step away from this tradition. We are very appreciative of our relationships with Ray and Candy Robinson from Celestial Displays, Jace Houston, Rhonda Trow and the entire team at the San Jacinto River Authority and of course, all of the past sponsors who found money in their budgets to make this happen.

Later this month, the Chamber introduces a brand-new program that fits perfectly with our mission. The inaugural ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon sponsored by Woodforest National Bank will be Thursday, July 26 at Heather’s Glen in Conroe. Earlier in the year, nominations were sought to recognize an outstanding woman of character, leadership and success in the Conroe/Montgomery County area. Our keynote speaker for this inaugural event is Dr. Dana Hoyt, president of Sam Houston State University. For the award, 18 nominations were received through the end of May and all of them were shipped to the ATHENA International Leadership headquarters, vetted and returned to us with their ranking. Join us on July 26 to honor the nominees and see who the recipient of the inaugural ATHENA sculpture will be! Tables and tickets are on sale now!!

The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce is striving to become the premier business organization in our area. Strong leadership, fiscal responsibility and responsive programming…three great reasons to be a part of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce.

Brian BondyPresident

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE George Waggoner, First National Bank Texas, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARDDione Booker, Gold’s Gym, CHAIRMAN ELECT Elizabeth Hosea, Elizabeth A. Hosea, CPA, TREASURERGail Cain, Keller Williams Realty, VICE CHAIR MEMBERSHIP DEV.Brent Wunderlich, McKesson, VICE CHAIR GOVT. AFFAIRS/COMMUNITY DEV.Meredith Brown, Community Impact News, VICE CHAIR SPECIAL EVENTSVirgil Yoakum, Johnson Development, VICE CHAIR BUSINESS DEV. Matt Davis, Conroe Regional Medical Center, IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMANBrian Bondy, President, CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER

THREE YEAR TERM (2018-20) Randy Barcus, Consolidated Communications, Inc.Cody Bartlett, Bartlett FinancialMeredith Brown, Community Impact NewspapersPatricia Brown, Woodforest National BankGail Cain, Keller Williams RealtyDr. Rebecca Riley, Lone Star College-MontgomeryMark Stevens, Gullo DealershipsBrent Wunderlich, McKesson

TWO YEAR TERM (2018-19)Denny Buckalew, Buckalew ChevroletGeorge Waggoner, First National Bank TexasCody Spence, All Star Catering Co.Roger Goertz, Mr. Rooter PlumbingDenise Godkin, Amegy BankRick Schissler, Silver Fox AdvisorSergio Martinez, Sergio’s LandscapingVirgil Yoakum, Johnson Development

ONE YEAR TERM (2018) Adrienne Batchelor, Houston Methodist The Woodlands HospitalDione Booker, Gold’s GymMatt Davis, Conroe Regional Medical CenterElizabeth Hosea, Elizabeth A. Hosea CPAJohn Husbands, Soules Insurance Agency, LPRandie Morton, Better Bookkeepers, Inc.Rafael Perez, Total Home ManagementJohn Stacy, AdviCoach

ONE YEAR APPOINTED TERM (2018)Dave Fougeron, Southern Star BrewingEric Lookofsky, Newpark Drilling FluidsRyan Morton, Conroe Welding Supply

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS Monica Bomkamp-Enia, Education for Tomorrow Alliance James Brown, Conroe-North Houston AirportA. Bryan Carlisle, Montgomery Country Sheriff's OfficeDon Carpenter, Jr., The Lone Star Convention & Expo CenterHector Forestier, City of Willis Tim Harkrider, Willis Independent School DistrictFrank R. Holmes, Sam Houston State UniversityJace Houston, San Jacinto River AuthorityRandy Johnson, Montgomery County Hospital DistrictKathy Turner Jones, Lone Star Ground Water Conservation DistrictKen Kreger, Conroe Fire DepartmentMiguel Lopez, Lone Star College - SBDCJerry MacDonald, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Julie Martineau, Montgomery County Community FoundationDr. Curtis Null, Conroe Independent School DistrictShannon Overby, Conroe Convention & Visitors Bureau Honorable Toby Powell, City of ConroeHonorable Leonard Reed, City of WillisDr. Beau Rees, Montgomery Independent School DistrictSarah Rhea, Leadership Montgomery CountyDanielle Scheiner, Conroe Economic Development Council Lynn Scott, City of Panorama Village Paul Virgadamo, City of ConroeHeather Washburn, Congressman Kevin Brady

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Chamber FYI is a publication of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber located at 505 W Davis, PO Box 2347, Conroe, TX 77305. Published monthly it is intended as a public service to Chamber members. No part may be reprinted without permission of the Chamber. Ads in the Chamber FYI are not endorsed by the Chamber. The Chamber reserves the right to refuse advertisements. The Chamber FYI is viewable online at www.conroe.org.

All chamber members have the opportunity to advertise in the Chamber FYI. For pricing and deadline information contact April Jackson, director of marketing, at 936.538.7116 or visit www.conroe.org and view our media kits in our Media Center under Marketing and Communications Guides.

PUBLISHER Brian Bondy, PresidentEDITOR April Jackson, Director of MarketingSALES April Jackson, Director of MarketingDESIGN & LAYOUT April Jackson, Director of MarketingPRINTING SERVICES Wright's Printing & MarketingMAILING SERVICES Wright's Printing & Marketing

ABOUT THE CHAMBER FYI MAGAZINE

CONNECT WITH CHAMBER STAFFMembership questions? Contact Beth Shelton, director of membership development, 936.538.7114.For member and guest services contact Melissa Cuarezma at 936.756.6644.Questions about special events contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, 936.538.7111.Advertising and publication information contact April Jackson, director of marketing, 936.538.7116.Billing questions? Contact John Sellars, director of finance and operations, 936.538.7108.Questions for the President? Contact Brian Bondy, president, at 936.538.7101.

NOTESFROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK

WWW.CONROE.ORG 3

Chamber Chat11 AM FM 104.5/106.1

www.irlonestar.com

PLATINUM INVESTORS

EMERALD INVESTORS

Primrose Schoolof Conroe

The Leader in Educational Child Care®

Protect Controls, Inc.

03

Fun After Five5:05 PM Woodforest

National Bank

12

09

19

26

Morning Mingle7:30 AM Conroe's

Incredible Pizza Company

SAVE THE DATE

Education Committee4 PM The Chamber

Workforce Development Committee

7:30 AM The Chamber

JULYCALENDAR OF EVENTS

FOR MORE DETAILS...

For more information and to register for events go to WWW.CONROE.ORG and visit the chamber calendar.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & SEMINARSAUGUST 16 Chamber University: AdviCoach Lunch & Learn presents The Final Act of OwnershipSEPTEMBER 20 Chamber University: Express Employment presents On Boarding

05Diplomat Meeting

11:30 AM The Chamber

MCABW Conroe Business Coffee Builder

8:30 AM The Chamber

20

ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon Committee Meeting

8:30 AM The Chamber

Chamber University: Automated Marketing Tools -

Capture and Nurture More Leads11:30 AM The Chamber

The Chamber offers free educational seminars to members and not-yet members through the Chamber University programs held at the Chamber office.

These seminars are a part of the Chamber’s commitment to provide continuing education and training on various topics that effect business growth and sustainability.

ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon

11 AM Heather's GlenTickets available for purchase.

4 GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.

business processes. In total, the class raised $15,000 in cash donations and another $50,000 of in-kind donations for the project. They helped SOS purchase and implement new case management software, and purchase and install two refrigerated storage units to increase food storage capacity and eliminate food waste. They also secured a portable building for additional food pantry and classroom space, built an ADA-compliant ramp, and painted all the outdoor units. The class connected SOS with Workforce Solutions to help increase capacity and the resources for their job assistance program. New equipment for use in the jobs classroom was also secured. The class also provided SOS with a refreshed logo, marketing materials, and created a new promotional video.

“I’m so proud of this class and how they’ve worked together to serve and give back to Society of Samaritans in such a powerful way. This class has truly grown as leaders and has earned the recognition received,” said Sarah Rhea, LMC executive director.

“Nine months ago this group of individuals came together as strangers from across our county. Today they are a cohesive, bonded team, who have come together to learn, grow, and make a lasting mark on Montgomery County,” said Phillip Moore, LMC chairman of the board.

The graduating class includes: Doug Adams of The Woodlands Fire Department; Dan Altom of The Woodlands Young Learners Academy; Brian Bondy of Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce; Michael Bradbury of Bradbury Brothers; Kandice Cabets of Quadvest; Breanna Challicombe of Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; Christine Chapman of YMCA of Greater Houston – The Woodlands Family YMCA; Jeff Christy of

LEADERSHIP MONTGOMERYCOUNTYCLASS OF 2018 GRADUATES

The Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) Class of 2018 recently graduated from the program at their Graduation Celebration Luncheon presented by Consolidated Communications and Starzyk & Associates, P.C.

With more than 375 people in attendance, the luncheon highlighted the accomplishments of the current LMC Class over the past year and also celebrated the 2018 LMC Distinguished Alumnus Missy Herndon.

Over the past nine months, the 44-member class of business and community leaders learned about the county through monthly education sessions, completed a leadership series, and worked together to give back through their class project.

The education sessions featured a different topic each month exploring the inner workings of the county. Topics included Economic Development, Education, Government, Infrastructure, Public Safety, Healthcare, Serving Our Community and Leadership Development.

The Leadership Series, sponsored by Repsol and presented by Chad Patterson & Associates, covered the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell. The class worked in small groups with alumni facilitators to study and apply proven leadership principles. These shared experiences caused the class to stretch and grow in their leadership development.

The class left their mark on our county through their Class Project benefiting Society of Samaritans (SOS) in Magnolia. The class pooled their collective talents and skills to strategically serve SOS – helping them maximize their current resources, increase service capacity, and improve

“Nine months ago this group of individuals came together as strangers from across our county. Today they are a cohesive, bonded team, who have come together to learn, grow, and make a lasting mark on Montgomery County.”

- Phillip Moore, LMC chairman of the board

WWW.CONROE.ORG 5

the Conroe Police Department; Christian Collins of Brady For Congress; Melanie Davis of Better Bookkeepers; Allegra Ellis of Entergy Texas, Inc.; Heather McDonald of Lone Star Family Health Center; Adam Fracht of Stibbs & Co., P.C.; Eric Geppelt of Burditt Consultants; Jennifer Graff of Graff Law Firm, PLLC; Terry Green of Consolidated Communications; Amy Gregorcyk of Coldwell Banker; Tom Hauser of The Woodlands Christian Academy; Patty Howard of Conroe Regional Medical Center; Allison Hulett of the Montgomery County Food Bank; Lindy Johnson of Interfaith of The Woodlands; Rashard Johnson of CHI St. Luke’s Health – The Woodlands, Lakeside, and Springwoods Village Hospitals; Dan Kolkhorst of The Woodlands Development Company; Wendy Lambie of The Strong Firm, PC; Carrie Lujan of Woodforest National Bank; Michelle Marek of Keller Williams The Woodlands & Magnolia; Sarah McClure of City of Oak Ridge North; Lisa McElroy of Alegre HR Advisors; Clint Nichols of Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital; Tim Patton of The Woodlands Methodist School; Catherine Prestigiovanni of Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare; Dr. De’ Reese Reid-Hart of Lone Star College-Montgomery; Darrin Rice of Conroe Independent School District; Zach Richmond of Richmond Realty – RE/MAX The Woodlands and Spring; Chris Roznovsky of Jones|Carter; Brian Sauers of Strike, LLC; Tammy Schroder of Veritas Title Partners; Brittany Sloan of Dossey &

Jones, PLLC; Stephen Smith of Soules Insurance Agency, LP; Travis Smith of Caldwell Companies; Dannette Suding of Montgomery County Youth Services; Sergio Van Dusen of Vogt Engineering; Ryan Wade of Manhard Consulting; and Jack Yates of City of Montgomery.

The event also honored Missy Herndon as the 2018 LMC Distinguished Alumnus. Herndon, CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, was honored for her dedication to the community and for all of her work after Hurricane Harvey.

“Missy is a phenomenal leader,” said LMC Executive Director Sarah Rhea. “She has shown a true commitment to Montgomery County and leads with professionalism, integrity, and excellence. We are thrilled to honor her as our 2018 Distinguished Alumnus.”

Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to developing and enhancing current and future leaders of Montgomery County. The mission of LMC is to prepare emerging and existing leaders to understand local issues, grow their leadership skills and connect with others to better serve Montgomery County.

The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce, the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber and the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber are all participating Chambers in the LMC program. Participants are chosen by application process in June of each year.

For more information about Leadership Montgomery County, please visit LMCTX.org.

Not just your ordinary 60 second commercial networking breakfast!Join us the second Thursday each month at Conroe’s IncrediblePizza Company from 7:30-9 a.m. and create new businessrela�onships with great people! Bring a door prize to promote your business!

UPCOMINGDATES

July 12August 9September 13October 11November 8December 13

6 GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.

COMMITTEEUPDATES

EDUCATION COMMITTEEThe education committee has wrapped up two major items on their check list! In May the 2017-18 Next Generation Leadership Class celebrated with a graduation reception and awards program. Because of member support the committee was able to give out $3,500 in scholarships. Thank you to all our donors!

The committee has also received 61 applications for the 2018-19 session! The applications will be reviewed and then make the decision on how many will be accepted into the upcoming class. If you are your business are interested in students and education this committee is for you! The committee meets the second Tuesday of every month here at the Chamber. The next meeting is July 12 at 4 p.m.

To support the education committee and narrow down focus on the chamber's educational programs a taskforce has been formed to specifically look at our Chamber University program. Be on the look out for more information on what direction Chamber University will take! The taskforce will be looking into how the program is structured, how programs are scheduled, what types of programs are to be provided and the overall brand of the program. More information to come the end of this year.

GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRSThe governmental affairs committee is gearing up for Montgomery County Day at the Capitol 2019. The committee is working side-by-side with The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, Montgomery Area Chamber, the Greater Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce and the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber on joint legislative priorities that will be presented to our legislatures in Austin. We are going to show up as one united group working to preserve and protect the business

community. If you are your business is passionate about government and the business community this committee is for you! The committee meets the first Tuesday of each month here at the Chamber. The committee will not be meeting in July but will be back August 7 at 4 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENTS COMMITTEESThe Chamber has special events throughout the year. With each event there is a committee of volunteers that help plan and work the events.

The Chamber has a brand new event this year on July 26. The ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon will be held to honor women in our community who meet specific criteria in professional excellence, community involvement, leadership and involvement in the Chamber.

The ATHENA Leadership Award committee turned over nominations to ATHENA International who has graded them and then sent them back. Be on the lookout for who our top nominees are and make sure to come out and show your support to these women leaders in our community.

Sponsorships, tables and tickets are available. Tables of six are $300 and individual tickets can be purchased for $40 online at www.conroe.org. You don't want to miss the chance to be a part of this inaugural event! Contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, at courtneyg@conroe.org or call 936.538.7111 if interested in participating.

Lobsterfest Committee - If you want to help plan and be a part of the Chamber's BIGGEST party of the year reach out to Courtney Galle and she will put you to work! Standing committee date information will be coming out soon.

"BURN THE NOTE" Up In Flames! Patricia Brown had the honor of dropping the loan papers into the bucket! David Friday provided the bucket which was the same

bucket used to burn the original building note!!

A BIG THANK YOU FROM THE CHAMBER TO OUR DONORS!Consolidated Communications -Randy Barcus and Rob Koester, Conroe Regional Medical Center – Matt Davis, Spirit of Texas Bank – Dean Bass, First Financial Bank – Sam Baker, Wynn Dee Baker and Guy Barker, Woodforest National Bank – Patricia Brown, Soules Insurance Agency – John Husbands, Wilkins Linen & Dust Control Services – David Friday and First National Bank Texas – George Waggoner.

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The Chamber is pleased to announce the inaugural ATHENA Leadership Award Luncheon presented by Woodforest National Bank taking place July 26 at Heather’s Glen. Cathy Nash,

president and CEO of Woodforest National Bank, is the speaker. Tickets are $40 and tables of six are $300. Sponsorships also are available.

The ATHENA Leadership Award celebrates exemplary leadership and is reflective of a quote by Plato. “What is honored in a country will be cultivated there.” Presented to leaders across professional sectors, the ATHENA Leadership Award’s rich history, international scope and focus on mentorship distinguish it as one of the most prestigious leadership awards one can receive.

The ATHENA Award was first presented in 1982 in Lansing, Michigan and has grown to include presentations to more than 5,000 individuals in hundreds of cities in the United States as well as in Canada, China, Russia and the United Kingdom. The award takes the form of a hand-cast bronze sculpture symbolizing the strength, courage and wisdom of the recipient.

EMPOWERING WOMENINAUGURAL ATHENA LEADERSHIP AWARD LUNCHEON JULY 26

A call for nominations was put out to the Chamber and the community in May. Criteria for nominees included demonstrate excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profession, provide valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in the Conroe and Montgomery County community and actively assist women in achieving their full leadership potential.

This year’s nominees include Eva Aguirre, Frankie Alexander, Julie Ambler, Nelda Blair, Melanie Bush, Debbie Buckalew Campbell, LaToya Carter, Angela Copeland, Sharon Fridge, Natalie Saikowski Goertz, Carol Gooch, Rui Martin, Tammy McRae, Linda Nelson, Danielle Scheiner, Gertie Spencer, Helen Thornton and Jill Vaughn.

The nominations were sent to the ATHENA International Leadership headquarters where they will be ranked and returned to us.

Tickets and tables can be purchased at www.conroe.org or by calling 936-756-6644. For information on sponsorships, contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, at courtneyg@conroe.org or call 936-538-7111.

ATHENAGreek Goddess of Wisdom and War

Athena is the goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, strategic warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts and skill. She is known most specifically for her strategic skill in warfare and is often portrayed as companion of heroes and is the patron goddess of heroic endeavour.

The ATHENA Leadership Award is presented annually by chambers of commerce, women’s organizations and universities. The award is established through local host organizations in partnership with ATHENA International’s national underwriters, local businesses and individual sponsors.

Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber’s

Real Men of Montgomery County

Style Show

MONTGOMERY COUNTY'S "REAL MEN" STRUTT THEIR STUFF AT THE CHAMBER'S STYLE SHOW!

AUGUST 9, 2018 5:30 -8:30 PMWIESNER BUICK-GMC SHOWROOM

TICKETS ON SALE!

$60 INDIVIDUAL

$300 COCKTAIL TABLES

*TABLES ARE NOT RESERVED.

WWW.CONROE.ORG

REAL MAN CONTESTWho had the best strut? Which real man modeled the clothes the best? The model that raises the most money, will be crowned the 2018 Real Man of Montgomery County at the event.

For more informa�on contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, atcourtneyg@conroe.org or call 936.538.7111.

VOTING TICKETS! 1 FOR $10 OR 4 FOR $20

leadership award luncheon

C o n r o e / L a k e C o n r o e C h a m b e r h o s t s t h e i n a u g u r a l

H e a t h e r ’ s G l e n • 2 0 0 E P h i l l i p s S t • C o n r o e , T X 7 7 3 0 1J u l y 2 6 • 1 1 a . m - 1 p . m .

The ATHENA Leadership Award was inspired by the goddess of Greek mythology known for her

strength, courage, wisdom and enlightenment. All qualities embodied in the ATHENA Leadership Model.

New this year, the luncheon will honor women in the community who meet specific criteria in professional

excellence, community involvement, leadership and involvement in the Chamber.

For more information contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, at 936.538.7111 or courtneyg@conroe.org.

p r e s e n t e d b yW o o d f o r e s t N a t i o n a l B a n k

g u e s t s p e a k e rC a t h y N a s h , p r e s i d e n t & C E O o f W o o d f o r e s t N a t i o n a l B a n k

t a b l e s o f s i x $ 3 0 0 • t i c k e t s $ 4 0 A v a i l a b l e o n l i n e a t w w w . c o n r o e . o r g . s p o n s o r s h i p o p p o r t u n i t i e s a v a i l a b l e • a l l w h i t e a t t i r e e n c o u r a g e d

10 GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTCARRIAGE INN OF CONROE

Carriage Inn is the place to be when it comes to independent senior living, educational programs and host to local service groups and health organizations as well as offering free events for Conroe residents. They have been able to serve a number of residents who lost their homes to Hurricane Harvey and are helping to live life again and recover by making Carriage Inn their new home.

Carriage Inn has been serving Conroe residents and their families over the last 17 years. They offer independent senior living with 91 cottage style apartments, which are located on one floor, and

situated around two beautiful courtyards. The residents enjoy spacious and beautiful apartments, friends, delicious dining, entertainment, educational programs, personal fitness, transportation, weekly light housekeeping, 24-hour concierge services, a vast array of activities, as well as other amenities for one monthly lease price.

Residents are quick to share their love and satisfaction of Carriage Inn and proud to call it home. Rosetta Day, executive director, offers 16 years of senior living experience overall along with Tony Martinez the executive chef and dining services director who has been serving the residents for the last seven years. As a service-team they strive to deliver excellent and compassionate service in addition to a beautiful well managed community.

Please call Terri Lisenbe, marketing director, at 936.760.1966 or email tlisenbe@rcmseniorliving.com for free events or for lunch and a tour of the delightful community. Carriage Inn Conroe is located at 750 Longmire Road, Conroe, Texas 77304. rcmseniorliving.com

If interested in having your business featured in the Chamber FYI contact April Jackson, director of marketing, at aprilj@conroe.org or call 936.538.7116. There is no cost and is an added benefit to you as a chamber member. Member highlights will be scheduled on a first-come first-served basis.

Call Today for your Complimentary Lunch and Tour 936.760.1966

750 Longmire RoadConroe, TX

www.rcmseniorliving.com

The Chamber Needs You!

Join a chamber committee

Education CommitteeMobility CommitteeGovernmental Affairs

Workforce DevelopmentLobsterfest CommitteeChairman’s Gala Committee

For more information about the committees call 936.756.6644. For meeting times visit www.conroe.org chamber calendar.

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RIBBONCUTTINGSMAY 2018

Leadership Montgomery County Class ProjectNonprofit partner Society of Samaritans

INTERESTED IN ARIBBON CUTTING EVENT?

Ribbon cutting events are a great part to celebrate your new membership with the Chamber or any celebrations that you have as a business. Ribbon cuttings are available to Silver Investors and up.

If you are interested in scheduling a ribbon cutting contact Beth Shelton, director of membership development, at beths@conroe.org or call 936.538.7114.Xscape Theatres

www.xscapetheatres.com

JOIN US JULY 19 FOR A JOINT FUN AFTER FIVE!

5:05 - 6:30 p.m.

FUN, FOOD & LIVE MUSIC! DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS! Come out and promote your business and visit a fellow chamber member!

Woodforest National Bank3101 W Davis St

Conroe, TX 77304RSVP at conroe.org and let us know you are coming!

Conroe Lake ConroeChamber

Conr

oe

/Lake Conroe Chamber’s

Hilltops Apartment Homeswww.hilltopsapartments.com

Why choose Synergi Partners?Synergi has over 150 years experience with Employment Tax Credits. Synergi develops Operational Impact Analysis based on the facts and circumstances of each individual location. This document will determine when the business resumes significant operations after the hurricane.

How does Synergi determine if my business qualifies for a retention credit?To maximize your retention credit, Synergi reviews different areas of the business that affected your operations. These areas include:

• Financial Impact• Operational Impact• Physical Impact• Productivity Benchmarks

After review, Synergi provides a complimentary evaluation to determine the potential credit.

843.206.9587www.SynergiPartners.com

Contact:Fields Norwoodfnorwood@synergipartners.com

When did my business become eligible for a retention credit?On September 29, 2017, President Trump signed into law The Hurricane Disaster Relief Act of 2017 (H.R. 3823 Section 503). It allows businesses that were disrupted after one of the hurricanes with a principal address in the designated hurricane disaster zone eligible to receive up to $2,400 for each employee retained after the hurricane made landfall (Harvey, August 23; Irma, September 4; Maria, September 16).

“Success-based” no risk pricing!There is no financial risk or upfront costs. A contingency fee is due to Synergi after we provide an audit ready package to claim the Employee Retention Credit on your business tax return.

How do I participate in the Employee Retention Credit program?Contact Synergi Partners at 843-206-9587 and ask for a complimentary review.

Hurricane Disaster Relief Act 2017

Is your business located in one of the blue counties?

How was your business disrupted from the hurricanes?

Did your business lose power? Could your employees get to work? Were deliveries delayed? Were your sales down?

Did you incur additional expenses? Did your location close?Then you may be eligible to earn up to $2,400 for each employee

Every business located in disaster area is eligible to receive the hurricane retention tax credit of $2,400 for every employee retained after the hurricane. Hurricane credit is calculated based on the number of days the business was disrupted by the storm and the numbers of days it took to return to significant operations, not just how long the business was closed.

in partnership with:

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Q. HOW HAS THE CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER HELPED YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS?A. During the last few months I have met some great entrepreneurs and business owners that are truly inspiring in their dedication to their business and community. I have made connections that have turned into clients and have been able to contribute to local events via Chamber sponsorships.

The Chamber Diplomat program is built up of volunteers that are committed to promoting the Chamber and its benefits to the community and assisting members in becoming active within the Chamber. The diplomat volunteers are an important role of our success as a Chamber.

If interested in being a Chamber Diplomat you can contact Beth Shelton, director of membership development, at beths@conroe.org or call 936.538.7114. DIPLOMAT HIGHLIGHT

SHAWNA HARRISCOLORTECH DIRECT

Q. WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THE COMPANY?A. My role is co-owner of Colortech Direct. As a co-owner I wear many hats. My background is in graphic design but now I primarily take care of client account management and marketing.

Q. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER EVENT? WHY?A. My favorite event is the Fun After Five monthly after hours networking events. They feel a bit more social and I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Q. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A CHAMBER MEMBER?A. I personally got involved with the Chamber last November. However, Impact Printing which is now a division of Colortech Direct, recently celebrated 20 years as a Chamber member.

1)72 Months Financing, $0 Down + TT&L, $13.89 Per Month Per Thousand Financed. 0% APR w/Approved Credit. w/Approved Credit, Financed thru Ally Finance. Dealer Contribution May Effect Final Negotiated

Price. 1st Payment Not due for the 6 Months from Date of Purchase. Not Available with some Offers.

WIESNER BUICK GMC OF CONROE855-586-8441

1654 I-45 NORTH, CONROE, TXWWW.CONROEBUICKGMC.COM

WIESNER HYUNDAI OF CONROE855-586-8442

1654 I-45 NORTH, CONROE, TX WWW.CONROEHYUNDAI.COM

TRIPLE ZERO!$0 DOWN PAYMENT - 0% APR OR 0 PAYMENTS FOR 6 MONTHS 1

14 GET CONNECTED. STAY CONNECTED.

NONPROFIT

SILVERBBVA Compass-Montgomerybbvacompass.com

Finway Electric

Infinity Home Renovations and Fine Flooring

Batteries Plus Bulbs #949www.batteriesplus.com

Network In Action www.networkinaction.com

Robert McGowan-Keller Williams - 2nd Storerobertmcgowan.kw.com

BUSINESS

NEW MEMBERSMAY 2018

RUBYWings 'N More Expresswww.wingsnmore.com

PLATINUMWOODFOREST NATIONAL BANK MEMBER SINCE 1983 35 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

SAPPHIREBOK Financial Services, Inc.Member since 2016

Montgomery Summit Business Park Member since 2015

RENEWALSMAY 2018

EMERALDCorrect Care Recovery SolutionsMember since 2012

Protect Controls, Inc. Member since 2012

GOLDCrown Cork & Seal USA, Inc. www.crowncork.com

Makeup Junkie Bags www.makeupjunkiebags.com

Distinguished Gentleman's Leadership Groupdgentslead.org

SILVER

JOIN COURTNEY GALLE & BRIAN BONDYTHE FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 11 AM

ON FM 104.5/106.1 OR WWW.IRLONESTAR.COM.Chamber Chat

CONROE/LAKE CONROE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

LONE

Community Radioirlonestar.com/Conroe’s FM 104.5 & 106.1

STAR

Be a guest on Chamber Chat and talk about your business! Contact Courtney Galle, director of special events, at courtneyg@conroe.org or call 936.538.7111.

This is a complimentary service included in your chamber membership.

Conroe Golf Cars, Inc. Member since 2010

Conroe's Incredible Pizza Company Member since 2005

Elmcroft Senior Living Member since 1996

PATIENT FIRST DENTAL CARE MEMBER SINCE 200315 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Pinnacle Tile & Flooring, Inc. Member since 2016

Pioneer Dentistry Member since 2016

BUSINESSAccount-Abilities LLC Member since 2014

SILVER CONTINUED

5Point Credit Union Member since 2015

Adams Transfer & Storage Member since 1975

Baggett, Gordon & Deison Member since 2000

BURDITT CONSULTANTS MEMBER SINCE 200810 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Cashner Funeral Home & Cemetery Member since 2016

EMERALDStaffing Texaswww.staffing-texas.com

GOLDKeating Honda NissanMember since 2017

WALDEN YACHT CLUB MEMBER SINCE 1993 25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

WWW.CONROE.ORG 15

Children's Books on Wheels Member since 2014

CHILDREN'S SAFE HARBOR MEMBER SINCE 2013 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

City of Panorama Village Member since 1999

CONROE TIGER BAND BOOSTERS MEMBER SINCE 2013 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Grace Lutheran Church Member since 2005

New Danville Member since 2006

Sandy Wagner, MCHD Director, Pct. 1 Member since 2004

WAYNE L. MACK, JUDGE, JUSTICE COURT ONE MEMBER SINCE 2013 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

NONPROFIT

REBECCA L. ELLIOTT, APR MEMBER SINCE 2003 15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

INDIVIDUAL

RENEWALS

Amy Gregorcyk - Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS Member since 2014

Bobcat of Houston Member since 2009

Champion Ice Co. Member since 2010

Connie C. Hutton, MD Member since 1990

Conroe Mill Supply, Inc.Member since 1952

Eickenhorst Funeral Services Member since 2010

FAJITA JACK'S MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA MEMBER SINCE 20135 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

g3 Direct Consulting Services Inc. Member since 2017

Heat Transfer Tubular ProductsMember since 2017

Jack Daniel's Delivery Service, L.P. Member since 2010

Margarita & Peppers Mexican Grill & Bar Member since 2004

McNutt Funeral Home & Crematory Member since 2012

BUSINESS CONTINUED BUSINESS CONTINUED

Conroe Lake ConroeChamberuniversity

Monthly Educational Seminars to Further Your Business

July 19 Axix Marke�ng presents Automated Marketing ToolsAugust 16 AdviCoach presents The Final Act of OwnershipSeptember 20 Express Employment presents On Boarding

upcoming dates:

For more information and to register for a seminar visit www.conroe.org chamber calendar.

The Chamber offers complimentary educational seminars to the community through the Chamber University program. These seminars are a part of the Chamber’s commitment to provide continuing education and training on various topics that effect business growth and sustainability.

Paul Davis Restoration of North Houston Member since 2016

Pentair Member since 2016

Perkins Carpet Company Member since 2007

Physical Therapy Associates Member since 2017

Proven Results Marketing Member since 2015

Sandstone Chiropractic Conroe Member since 2016

Security Finance Member since 2017

Skytop ApartmentsMember since 2011

Speed Printing & Office Supply Member since 1979

The Weitzman Group Member since 2005

TURBO DRILL INDUSTRIES, INC MEMBER SINCE 2013 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Woodland Manor Member since 2016