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Mission
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is committed to thrive through business and community advocacy.
Vision
To be recognized as the community's trusted partner.
Core Values
Leadership Excellence Advocacy Diversity Educate Relationships
| | Evolving with Our Community | | |
Since 1984, the South Belt-Ellington Chamber has been dedicated to helping local businesses thrive, enhancing the quality of life, and showcasing South Belt-Ellington as an exceptional place to live, work, and conduct business.
Now, forty-one years later, we proudly continue this legacy. We invite you to explore our past achievements, current initiatives, and exciting plans for the future.
| | Welcome to our Newest Members! | | |
Thank you, Avenida Brazil Steakhouse, for joining our chamber as an Essential Level Investor.
Avenida Brazil Churrascaria Steakhouse in Clear Lake offers a dining experience inspired by southern Brazil. What sets Avenida Brazil apart is its churrasco-style service, where gaucho chefs serve up to 16 prime cuts, including the picanha and tender filet mignon, right at your table. The gourmet salad bar features fresh fruits, cheeses, and hot sides, such as lobster bisque and caramelized pecans, along with the delightful grilled queso.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between elegance and warmth, perfect for romantic dinners or lively gatherings, with attentive staff ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Visit Avenida Brazil at 201 W. Bay Area Boulevard in Webster for a fantastic meal!
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Welcome, University of Houston-Clear Lake, to the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce! The university has committed as a Silver Level Investor.
The commitment demonstrated by UHCL to education, innovation, and engagement positions it as an exemplary partner in our mission to thrive through business and community advocacy within the South Belt-Ellington area. We anticipate an outstanding collaboration that will contribute to a brighter future.
Please extend a warm welcome to our new partner, and let us unite in our support for the Hawks, who reside at 2700 Bay Area Boulevard in Houston.
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Join us in welcoming Zen Business as an Essential Level Investor.
ZenBusiness is a business formation and support company based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2015 by Ross Buhrdorf and Shanaz Hemmati. Its mission is to make entrepreneurship more accessible by simplifying the process of starting and managing a business. Since its inception, ZenBusiness has helped launch over 850,000 businesses across the United States.
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Cellular Sales by Verizon has committed to chamber membership as a Bronze Level Investor.
Cellular Sales is the nation’s largest Verizon authorized retailer, delivering personalized wireless solutions through more than 745 stores across 42 states. Founded in 1993 in Knoxville, Tennessee, the company has grown from a single kiosk into a trusted leader in mobile retail.
Cellular Sales is recognized for its customer-first approach, providing expert guidance, top-tier Verizon products, and a dedication to creating lasting relationships.
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The chamber is pleased to announce Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5619 has committed to membership as a Nonprofit Level Investor.
Veterans of Foreign Wars is an organization for veterans who have served in a combat zone during wartime. Post 5619 is located in South Houston and meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
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Kirkwood Primary Care + Wellness combines compassionate and personalized healthcare with modern wellness solutions. They provide comprehensive primary care for individuals of all ages, as well as specialized services like weight management, men's health, aesthetic medicine, and peptide therapy.
Located conveniently near Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital, at 11003 Resource Parkway, Suite #106, they take pride in offering trusted, relationship-centered care to families within the community.
We are thrilled to welcome them to the chamber as an Essential Level Investor!
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Gerber Collision & Glass offers a range of services for your vehicle. They include collision repair, auto body repair, dent removal, frame straightening, auto painting, bumper repair, paintless dent repair (PDR), and windshield replacement. You can choose between mobile or drop-off glass service options. All repairs come with a National Lifetime Guarantee, and the shop holds I-CAR Gold Class certification, the highest level of training in the collision repair industry.
Visit them at 12621 Ryewater Drive at the intersection of Dixie Farm Road and I-45 South Access Road.
We appreciate the investment at the Essential Level!
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Mixing House is League City's premier destination for custom cookies, cookie cakes, cupcakes, and celebration cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
At Mixing House, every dessert is baked fresh and meticulously decorated. Whether you're planning a birthday party, baby shower, wedding, or want to surprise someone with a sweet gift, their team creates one-of-a-kind desserts tailored to your vision.
Signature specialties include decorated sugar cookies, mini and full-size cookie cakes with festive designs, custom cakes that are both visually stunning and scrumptious, as well as seasonal and themed treats for holidays and special occasions.
Visit them at 2047 West Main Street, Suite A8 in League City.
We are delighted they have become an Essential Level Investor!
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The Laurel at Blackhawk is a luxury apartment community for adults aged 55 and older, located at 9150 Blackhawk Boulevard.
It offers beautifully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments with modern kitchens, spacious living areas, and private outdoor spaces. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities that promote connection and engagement, creating a celebratory community atmosphere.
Conveniently situated 20 miles southeast of Downtown Houston, the area provides easy access to major roadways and nearby shopping centers.
We are excited to welcome them as a Bronze Level Investor.
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July
Ayrshire Corporation
Baywood Crossing Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center
Evelyn Brass
Brookdale Animal Hospital
Burleigh Chiropractic LLC
Cornerstone Learning Academy & Childcare LLC
EventWise Production
ExxonMobil Pipeline Company
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Golfcrest Country Club
Grace Church Houston
KR Koncaba Interests LLC.
MacAbaugh's Cafe & Catering
Saltgrass Steak House
Texas Pride Disposal
August
Allied Foundation Specialist
Beverly Hills Intermediate School
CRG Restaurant Group, LLC DBA Jack in the Box
Fantastic Fire Dept.
Garner Vision Center
Goodwin and Company
Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill
Sagemont Church
Roy Shiflett Realtors
Spike Energy Inc.
September
Beltway 8 South Crisis Pregnancy Center
Community Health Network
Community Transformation Church
Frost Bank
Home Bank
Life Church of Houston
Lutheran South Academy
Memorial Hermann
San Jacinto College
State Farm Insurance - Ken Phelps
| | Shake Shack Baybrook Invests in Chamber Membership | | |
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Shake Shack Baybrook to our member family as an Essential Level Investor.
Shake Shack is an American multinational fast casual restaurant chain based in New York City. It began in 2001 as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park, where it quickly gained popularity. In 2004, it received a permit to open a permanent kiosk in the park, expanding its menu from traditional New York-style hot dogs to include hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, and its famous milkshakes.
Today, Shake Shack Inc. operates over 400 locations globally, and we are thrilled to have this popular establishment find its home in Webster, Texas!
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South Houston American Legion Post 490
Commits to Chamber Involvement
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The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce salutes South Houston American Legion Post 490 Texas, as a Nonprofit Level Investor.
The American Legion's primary goal is to support veterans, military personnel, and their families, while also promoting patriotism and community engagement. It serves as a strong advocate for veterans' rights, provides support to those transitioning out of military service, and strengthens communities through various programs and initiatives.
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My Community Health Foundation Contributes to
South Belt-Ellington Economic Growth
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We are excited to announce that My Community Health Foundation is joining the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce as a Nonprofit Level Investor.
The foundation's mission is to enhance the Community Health Network's ability to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare services to uninsured and underinsured populations. Their goal is to improve health outcomes and promote equitable care for all.
Through their efforts, they aspire to create a future where every individual, regardless of their insurance status, has access to comprehensive health services. They envision a reality in which health equity is achieved in every community.
By securing funding and promoting community collaboration, they aim to uplift health outcomes and improve the quality of life for underserved populations. Additionally, they actively advocate at all levels of government to support healthcare access for everyone, diligently working to enhance health outcomes and the overall well-being of underprivileged communities.
Lisa Holbrook, President of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce, is honored to serve on the foundation's inaugural board of directors.
| | The Nathaniel Apartments Becomes a Proud Member of the South Belt - Ellington Chamber of Commerce | | |
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome The Nathaniel Apartments as a Bronze Level Investor!
Located at 9220 Nathaniel Street in the Greater Hobby area, The Nathaniel Apartments are undergoing a significant transformation to revitalize an aging community that has been around since 1972. Under new ownership and management by Capstone Real Estate Services, a firm recognized for its expertise in managing multifamily communities throughout Texas, the property is undertaking a comprehensive renovation of its 1,066-unit complex, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the neighborhood and its residents.
The ongoing renovations include fully updated apartment interiors featuring modern finishes, brand-new appliances, hardwood-style flooring, upgraded lighting, and fixtures. Additionally, community amenities are being enhanced to include a sparkling pool, a clubhouse, a playground, and on-site laundry facilities. The complex offers a variety of floor plans, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units.
We celebrated this exciting development with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and are thrilled to welcome The Nathaniel Apartments to our chamber family.
| | University of Houston - Clear Lake, Silver Level Investor, is Feted with a Celebratory Ribbon- Cutting | | |
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome the University of Houston-Clear Lake as our newest Silver Level Investor. We celebrated this partnership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at their campus, where we showcased their first permanent facility, the Bayou Building. Following the event, we enjoyed a guided walking tour of the campus, led by Elbby Antony, Executive Director of University Advancement.
Founded in 1971, UH-Clear Lake was created to address the educational needs of the rapidly growing Clear Lake area, particularly in response to the nearby NASA Johnson Space Center. The university's journey began with the construction of the Bayou Building, which started in 1974. Initially, classes were held off-site, serving 1,069 students and 60 faculty members.
Over the years, UH-Clear Lake has expanded its academic programs and outreach efforts. In 2009, it opened a 30,956 sq. ft. facility in Pearland and welcomed its first freshmen and sophomores in 2014, marking its transition to a full-fledged four-year university. By Fall 2024, enrollment at UHCL had reached 8,137 students, with undergraduates comprising 75.15% of that total. The university is dedicated to a student-centered and community-focused approach, having conferred over 75,000 degrees.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 academic year, UHCL plans to introduce a variety of new degree programs, including dual degrees in Computer Engineering, Computer Information Systems, and Computer Science, as well as new graduate certificates and doctoral programs across various fields. Additionally, the campus has several master plan initiatives underway aimed at enhancing the learning environment and improving student life, such as the upcoming STEM II Building, a new student center, and upgrades to dining facilities and campus navigation.
Distinguished alumni, including Frost Bank representative Kenny Koncaba, have made significant contributions to the university community. Additionally, the Chamber's chair-elect, Kristi Koncaba, will be honored with the Marilyn S. Sims Leadership Service Award at Friday's Alumni Celebration.
Welcome to the Chamber family!
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Gerber Collision & Glass Aligns with
South Belt - Ellington Chamber of Commerce
for Growth and Impact
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Gerber Collision & Glass is the newest Essential Level Investor of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce. As a leading provider of auto body repair and glass services, they operate several locations throughout Houston, including a new facility located at 12621 Ryewater Drive.
This location offers a wide range of services, including collision repair, auto body repair, dent and scratch removal, frame straightening, auto painting, bumper repair, paintless dent repair (PDR), and windshield replacement, along with other auto glass services. Customers can choose between mobile or drop-off glass service options. All repairs come with a National Lifetime Guarantee, and the shop holds I-CAR Gold Class certification, the highest level of training in the collision repair industry.
Beyond their repair services, Gerber Collision & Glass is committed to philanthropy, particularly through its involvement in the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. This nationwide initiative refurbishes vehicles to donate to deserving individuals, including wounded warriors, active-duty military members, and veterans. These efforts underscore Gerber's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those who serve and protect, reinforcing their philosophy of restoring lives along with vehicles.
Following a celebratory ribbon-cutting event where State Representative Mary Ann Perez presented a congratulatory certificate, a Toyota Tundra was gifted to a local wounded warrior.
Please join us in welcoming our newest member!
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Congratulations to Memorial Hermann,
Business of the Quarter
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Memorial Hermann has been a cornerstone member of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce since its inception, demonstrating enthusiastic support for the chamber's initiatives over the years. Their commitment to community engagement has been particularly notable in 2024 and 2025, as they have actively sponsored several key events.
Among their contributions, Memorial Hermann has taken a leading role in events such as the Let’s Tickle the Ivories gala and the Bollywood Nights gala, and most recently, the State of the Precinct 2 luncheon. Looking ahead, they will also be instrumental in upcoming events, including the inaugural Toast & Tote-ally Bingo—a fun-filled evening that combines games of chance with a new chamber fundraising opportunity—and Winter Wonderland, which brings holiday cheer to the community. Last summer, they organized a school supply drive that greatly boosted the success of the Backpack Bonanza program, helping to provide essential supplies to students in need. This year, they participated once again, playing a key role in filling the backpacks with necessary items.
Rebecca Lilley, Director of Physician Resources at Memorial Hermann, furthers this commitment by serving on the chamber's board as secretary. In her role, she actively participates in various chamber events, including ribbon-cuttings for new businesses, Government Affairs committee meetings that address legislative issues affecting local commerce, Evening of Cuisine, and Off the Clock networking events. Additionally, she joins other committees whenever her schedule allows.
Rebecca’s enthusiasm for the chamber is tangible; she consistently advocates for the organization within the community, highlighting its positive impact and the efforts that bolster local businesses and enhance engagement. Her support not only uplifts the chamber staff but also cultivates a sense of pride and camaraderie throughout the South Belt-Ellington area..
For all of these reasons, we celebrate Memorial Hermann as our Business of the Quarter, July through September 2025. Congratulations!
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A tremendous thank you to Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse Baybrook for generously hosting our Off the Clock event on Thursday, August 14th, for both current and prospective members of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce.
The restaurant dazzled us with an impressive spread that included a variety of cured meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, artisanal breads, and exquisite Brazilian dishes. To cap it all off, we enjoyed a selection of complimentary Brazilian cocktails.
Our sponsors, AMOCO Federal Credit Union, Community Health Network, and Shell Federal Credit Union, enhanced the celebration by providing adult beverages and fantastic door prizes. Congratulations to all the lucky winners!
It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, kick back, and enjoy the summer season while getting to know one another in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Successful Community Shred Day
Over 5,000 Pounds of Paper Recycled
Thanks to AMOCO Federal Credit Union and Motu Stop
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The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual community-wide shred day on Saturday, September 14th, made possible by the generous support of AMOCO Federal Credit Union and Motu Stop.
Participants had the opportunity to securely shred paper documents and dispose of solid waste and electronics at the event, held at Ellington Field and organized by the City of Houston District E.
A total of 153 cars took part, bringing documents for shredding by Iron Mountain. Over 5,000 pounds of paper were processed, and $173 was collected for the South Belt Community Foundation, the chamber's 501(c)(3) organization that awards scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
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An Unforgettable Feast
28 Local Restaurants Showcase Delightful Cuisine
for South Belt Residents
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On Thursday evening, September 18th, the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce hosted a remarkable Evening of Cuisine.
The event attracted a diverse audience, bringing together food enthusiasts from the local community. An exceptional selection of dishes from local restaurants was presented, each showcasing their unique creations. From savory hors d'oeuvres to exquisite desserts, there was something to satisfy every palate. We extend our gratitude to all participating restaurants for their creativity and dedication.
Six exhibitors joined the festivities: Baywood Crossing Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, Honorable Dolores Lozano, Lone Star Flight Museum, Main Event, South Houston American Legion Post 490, and Southeast Houston Toastmasters.
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, and we are deeply appreciative of their contributions.
We wish to thank all attendees for making this evening memorable. Your participation played a crucial role in the event's success, and we look forward to welcoming you next year for another extraordinary Evening of Cuisine, scheduled for September 17, 2026.
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South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce's
Inaugural
Toast & Tote-ally Bingo
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Hope Village Event Center
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Join us for our Inaugural Toast & Tote-ally Bingo
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening on Thursday, October 23rd, at the Hope Village Event Center. Get ready for a night filled with excitement, luxury, and fun as we bring you twenty thrilling bingo games and the chance to win sixteen incredible haute handbags and four signature spirits.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for mingling, complimentary champagne, and a preview of those coveted bingo prizes.
The excitement continues at 6:30 p.m. when our games begin. Throughout the evening, you'll be pampered by our exclusive celebrity waiters, ensuring your every wish is handled with care.
Tickets are $60 per person. Be sure to grab yours early!
Don't miss out on this spectacular night of bingo, bags, and bubbly!
For more information, contact us at 281-481-5516.
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Clear Brook City MUD &
South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce
Invite You to
4th Annual Winter Wonderland
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Fun Activities
Fantastic Fire Department's Snow Genie & Bouncy Balls
(sponsored by Houston Methodist Clear Lake)
Holiday-Themed Balloon by Artist Clarence Cox
(sponsored by AMOCO)
Photos with Characters including Bluey, Lilo & Stitch, Spiderman, the Grinch & Mrs. Grinch
Photo with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Southeast Volunteer Fire Department
Snow Mountain
Two Trackless Trains
Exhibitors with a Game and Prizes
Commissioner Adrian Garcia, Precinct 2
Community Health Network
Cornerstone Learning Academy
Crossroads United Methodist Church
Friends of Parker Williams Library (Storytelling)
Harris County Public Health Department
Judge Joann Delgado, Precinct 2 Place 1
Lutheran South Academy
Memorial Hermann
Steve Sipes, State Farm Insurance Agent (ID & Fingerprinting)
Betty Walter Dog Rescue
Restaurants
Donut NV
Jeremiah's Italian Ice
Las Haciendas
Mornings Kolaches
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
Sponsors
AMOCO Federal Credit Union
Blackline Engineering
BRIMAR Drone
Burleigh Chiropractic
Community Health Network
Houston Methodist Clear Lake
Memorial Hermann
Norton Rose Fulbright
Texas Pride Disposal
and more to come!
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Lisa Holbrook, President of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce, attended the monthly Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Political Protocol committee meeting, where State Representative Dennis Paul, District 129, provided an overview of the special sessions held this summer to address issues outlined as priorities by Governor Abbott and new, critical legislation with time-sensitive deadlines.
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On Friday, August 15th, Lisa Holbrook, President of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce, attended the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership's State of the Ports program. Port leaders shared updates, challenges, and funding requirements: the Port of Freeport, the Port of Galveston, the Port of Houston, and the Port of Texas City.
The Port of Freeport is rapidly expanding as an export hub, renowned for its efficient operations and specialization in container and LNG handling. Its strategic expansion is positioning it as a key player in global trade.
The Port of Galveston, established in 1825, ranks as Texas's fourth most popular cruise homeport. It features three cruise terminals, as well as handling general cargo and roll-on/roll-off shipments, generating significant economic value and supporting many jobs.
The Port of Houston is a vital hub along the 52-mile Houston Ship Channel, ranking among the busiest U.S. ports in terms of tonnage and foreign trade. Operated by the Port of Houston Authority, it handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers and petrochemicals, while investing in sustainability to maintain competitiveness.
The Port of Texas City focuses on petrochemical and energy cargo, accommodating over 1,000 deep draft vessels annually. With significant upgrades and robust rail connections, it aims to enhance operational capacity.
Together, they form a dynamic maritime network that serves industries ranging from petrochemicals to tourism.
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On Wednesday, August 20th, the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership hosted a membership meeting featuring Commissioner Cassie Brown from the Texas Department of Insurance. Commissioner Brown discussed the agency's history, purpose, and regulatory responsibilities.
The Texas Department of Insurance is the state agency tasked with regulating the insurance industry and the Texas workers' compensation system. TDI protects insurance consumers by ensuring fair practices, licensing insurance professionals, and maintaining a competitive market.
Additionally, the agency provides fire prevention services through the State Fire Marshal's Office and addresses consumer complaints against companies, agents, and other entities involved in the insurance sector.
Living in a dynamic and diverse city like Houston comes with a variety of risks, including hurricanes, flooding, traffic congestion, and health emergencies. To protect against these uncertainties, residents and businesses invest in several key types of insurance. Understanding the oversight of this agency is an important aspect that should be included in everyone’s insurance toolkit.
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On Saturday, August 23rd, Lisa Holbrook attended the Clear Creek Education Foundation gala, which was aptly themed Charting a World-Class Course.
The venue was beautifully decorated, the live auction surpassed all expectations, and the opportunity to connect with friends and business colleagues made for a truly enjoyable evening.
Award recipients included George B. Carlisle recipient Harv Hartman, with the Citizen of the Year honor going to Communities In Schools - Bay Area Executive Director Dr. Peter Wuenschel, and Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Shari Sweeney receiving the Community Impact award.
Having the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce attend as Memorial Hermann's guest allowed an evening to celebrate excellence in education.
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The August General Membership meeting of the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce featured Congressman Brian Babin, who discussed the current session and addressed questions posed by Government Affairs Division Chairman Kelly Page. As the Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Congressman Babin's insights and efforts have a significant impact on our region, particularly in the aerospace, healthcare, and oil and gas sectors.
Events like this highlight the collective power of chambers coming together to uplift communities, share resources, and strengthen regional partnerships. We are all working toward the same goal: to build a thriving business environment for everyone.
Lisa Holbrook attended as a guest of Community Health Network.
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Supporting the exceptional efforts of fellow chambers of commerce is always a pleasure.
What a wonderful event the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce organized on Friday, September 12th!
President Lisa Holbrook attended the 18th Annual Galveston Women's Conference as a guest of Shriners Children's Texas. This conference focused on celebrating and empowering women from diverse backgrounds. Notable keynote speakers included Bethany Zummo, a three-time Paralympic gold medalist in sitting volleyball, and Amy Purdy, a three-time Paralympic snowboarding medalist, author, and motivational speaker. Amy shared her inspiring story of overcoming meningitis and the subsequent loss of both legs at the age of 19.
This year, six remarkable women were honored as the 2025 Ann McLeod Moody Women of the Year. Joy Falgout Fertitta received the Mary Ellen Doyle Legacy Woman of the Year award for her philanthropic contributions.
The conference also featured professional development sessions, a vendor exhibit, and a VIP lounge for networking.
Overall, the event emphasized the importance of supporting one another, highlighting that together, women can achieve anything.
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On Saturday, September 13th, Lisa Holbrook attended the Cheers to 100 Years gala, as a guest of AMOCO Federal Credit Union, in celebration of Alvin ISD's centennial and hosted by the Alvin ISD Education Foundation.
The Alvin ISD Education Foundation, founded in 1998, plays a vital role in enhancing opportunities for both students and teachers. Since its inception, the Foundation has raised over $1.2 million to help bridge funding gaps and support creative educational projects.
The event not only honored the district’s rich legacy but also raised vital funds for scholarships and classroom grants, creating a memorable night filled with celebration, community spirit, and a commitment to students experiencing a world-class education.
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Since its founding in 1980, the India Center Clear Lake (ICCL) has been a vital force in preserving cultural heritage and promoting community engagement in the Greater Houston area. ICCL is committed to enhancing understanding and appreciation of Indian traditions, heritage, and religious diversity.
On Saturday evening, September 20th, Lisa Holbrook, the President of the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce, attended the Navratri celebration as a guest of AMOCO Federal Credit Union.
Navratri is a vibrant nine-night, ten-day Hindu festival that honors the divine feminine, particularly Goddess Durga. The festival's name is derived from Sanskrit words meaning *nine* and *nights,* representing the victory of good over evil. Celebrations typically include prayer, fasting, traditional dances, and reverence for the goddess’s nine forms.
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On Monday, September 22, 2025, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz visited the Bay Area Houston region to speak at a General Membership Meeting organized by the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership.
During his address, Senator Cruz discussed the impact of federal policies and initiatives on local economic development, infrastructure, and key industries—particularly aerospace, maritime, and energy, which are vital to this area.
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San Jacinto College opened its new Center for Biotechnology at Generation Park on September 26th. This marks an important development for Houston's life sciences sector. The center's opening coincides with the construction of a $6.5 billion manufacturing campus by Eli Lilly. The 40,000 sq. ft. facility will focus on workforce development, providing hands-on training, stackable credentials, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in biotechnology. College leaders and representatives from the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) attended the dedication, highlighting the center's role as the exclusive NIBRT training provider in the southern U.S.
The South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the college and congratulates it on reaching this important milestone. The college supports students by offering many degree options.
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