Chamber of Commerce Board
Our Buffalo Gap Chamber of Commerce is led by a passionate team of local volunteers who are devoted to safeguarding the historic charm of our town while actively fostering its growth and future opportunities.
OUR MISSION
Developing The Economy. Preserving Our Way Of Life.
The Buffalo Gap Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information is dedicated to promoting and developing the economy while preserving the quality of life in the Buffalo Gap area.
Nathan Lowry
Chairman of the Board
President & CEO, Big Country Title
Nathan moved to the Big Country in 2005 and attended Hardin-Simmons University. He joined the Chamber board in 2021. He and his wife, Misty – a Big Country native – own Big Country Title. They have three active children and an English pointer. The Lowrys live just outside the city limits of Buffalo Gap and enjoy the quality of life that our community offers. You can find them roaming The Gap on any given weekend.
Michael Hull
Vice Chairman
Founder Partner, Cedar Gap Wealth Management
Michael Hull is a founding partner of Cedar Gap Wealth Management in Abilene. He grew up in the small West Texas town of Rotan, which instilled a love for small-town living. He loves hunting, shooting sporting clays, and an occasional round of golf. Michael serves on the Jim Ned Little League board and enjoys coaching youth sports. He and his wife, Natalie, are huge community supporters, and, with their son, Tyler, are happy to call Buffalo Gap home.
Lota Zoth
Treasurer
Founder, Inspired Services
Lota Zoth leads Inspired Services, an organization dedicated to bettering communities. The volunteer Executive Director of Buffalo Gap’s own Camp Able, Lota is a CPA who is heavily recruited to be on global for-profit boards. No matter how far she roams in her corporate role, though, she is always delighted to come home to Buffalo Gap where she is often seen hanging out with Santa Claus and two adorable King Charles Spaniels.
Lisa Perini
Board Member
Co-Owner, Perini Ranch Steakhouse and Country Market
Lisa has been a driving force in creating the Buffalo Gap Chamber, most recently serving as Treasurer. A previous Chamber executive herself, she also helped develop the Texas Heritage Trails Program. As co-owner of several area businesses, she served as president of the Texas State Restaurant Association. She and her husband, Tom, are dedicated to preserving the country way of life in our community while welcoming newcomers from all walks of life.
Camela Balcomb
Board Member
Executive Director, Shades of Hope
Cam Balcomb is the Executive Director of Shades of Hope, an almost-secret jewel in Buffalo Gap that helps people throughout the nation battle addiction. She moved here from the DFW Metroplex in 1988. Camela has always had a passion of serving others and helping those who need a hand up. She appreciates the quiet life Buffalo Gap has to offer and is interested in enhancing positive growth in the community while preserving the quaintness and ambiance of the Buffalo Gap community. She has one son who currently attends Missouri Baptist University.
Trish Dressen
Board Member
President & CEO, SIX27 Creative Company
Trish grew up in Abilene and has fond memories of the Buffalo Gap Arts Festival, trips to the Flea Market, and frequenting Deutschlander’s Catfish House while growing up in the area. She and her husband, Jeff, are proud to raise their children in Buffalo Gap and usher in a new generation to help preserve the history and heritage of this area as members of the Chamber board.
Carolyn Landess
Board Member
Owner of Copa at the Gap
Born and raised in the Big Country area, Carolyn spent several years teaching in the San Antonio region before returning to her roots in Buffalo Gap. Surrounded by family and a deep connection to the community, she and her husband, James, own and operate Copa at the Gap, a cherished local wine bar. In addition to her entrepreneurial efforts, Carolyn volunteers weekly with the Senior Citizen’s Center, showcasing her commitment to supporting the local community. She is passionate about preserving Buffalo Gap’s unique charm and contributing to its future growth.
Heather Vinson
Board Member
Owner of Buffalo Gap Hardware and Supply
Heather Vinson, a dedicated board member of the Buffalo Gap Chamber of Commerce, is the proud owner of Buffalo Gap Hardware and Supply. Alongside her husband, Zane, Heather has poured her heart and soul into the community, not only through their business but also by organizing the Buffalo Gap Farmer’s Market. With their precious children by their side, the Vinsons are committed to preserving the charm and spirit of Buffalo Gap.
Dean Criswell
Board Member
Owner of The Barn at Cliff Spring
A recent addition to Buffalo Gap, Dean Criswell, along with his wife, Sarah, and their wonderful children, has quickly become a cherished member of our community. As the owner of The Barn at Cliff Spring, Dean brings a deep passion for the rural nature of Buffalo Gap. The Criswells are dedicated to preserving and expanding their roots, as well as contributing to the rich local heritage that makes Buffalo Gap so special.