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COTTON COMPANIES UPDATES

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AS GOOD AS GOLD: COTTON CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIP BAR-B-QUE CONTEST

For a few magical evenings in late February, guests stepped into the Cotton ‘Q Club at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (WCBBQC), and they were transported to a gilded world of larger-than-life decor, culinary delights and world-class entertainment.

Going for Gold at the Cotton ‘Q Club

As the Title Sponsor of the WCBBQC for the third year in a row, Cotton Holdings aimed to elevate the traditional rodeo experience into one of grandeur and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the WCBBQC in style. From decking out the more than 10,000-square-foot cedar-framed Cotton ‘Q Club “tent” with over 2,000 golden roses to partnering with Dripping Springs Distilling, Casa Del Sol Tequila and WhistlePig Rye Whiskey to enhance their custom cocktail menu, the...

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COTTON HOLDINGS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF THE WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIP BAR-B-QUE CONTEST WITH GOLD GRANDEUR

Cotton ‘Q Club Celebrates with Gilded Décor, Award-Winning Barbecue, Celebrity Champagne and Famed Country Concerts

HOUSTON (February 15, 2024) – Cotton Holdings, Inc., a leading disaster and infrastructure support services company headquartered in Houston, in partnership with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest from Thursday, February 22 – Saturday, February 24, 2024. Not only will the more than 10,000-square-foot cedar-framed Cotton ‘Q Club “tent” showcase golden roses throughout to commemorate the celebratory year, but, as Title Sponsor of the weekend-long event, Cotton Holdings also plans to celebrate this anniversary with an iconic country music lineup, celebrity champagne partnership and customized caviar bar for the Gold Pony Lounge.

“It’s important for our Cotton family to recognize everything that the Rodeo and the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest have done over the past 50 years,” said Pete Bell, co-founder and CEO of Cotton Holdings, Inc. “We...

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Cotton’s Finest - Blake Adkins

Cotton is proud to employ some of the most professional and experienced people in the industry, and today we’d like to recognize one of them. Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Blake Adkins, Director of Strategy Deployment.

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COTTON HOLDINGS ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ACQUISITION OF 24 RESTORE

Cotton acquires once-largest locally owned restoration company in New England

HOUSTON, TX (January 9, 2024) – Cotton Holdings, Inc. (“Cotton”), a Houston-based disaster relief and infrastructure support company, has announced the strategic acquisition of 24 Restore, formerly New England’s largest locally owned full-service disaster restoration company, specializing in restoring commercial and residential properties to their pre-loss conditions.

“We are excited to partner with an organization that prides itself on creating a culture of excellence,” said Pete Bell, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cotton Holdings. “Not only is the team dedicated to their clients and focused on delivering the highest-quality service, 24 Restore has also established itself as a true leader in the New England community.”

Headquartered in Houston with an international logistics center and several regional offices, Cotton provides property restoration and recovery, construction, roofing, consulting, infrastructure support services and culinary services...

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Cotton Holdings Serves as Inaugural Presenting Sponsor of Southwest Classic Game, Featuring the Texas A&M Aggies & Arkansas Razorbacks

DALLAS, TX – The athletic departments of Texas A&M University and the University of Arkansas announce Cotton Holdings, Inc. as the presenting sponsor of the Southwest Classic in an agreement supported by athletics multimedia rights holder LEARFIELD – the media and technology company powering college sports. Cotton Holdings will present the Southwest Classic in 2023 and 2024.

The Southwest Classic highlights the longstanding rivalry between the Aggie and Razorback football programs – a rivalry that dates back 120 years. This year’s game returns to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Saturday, September 30.

“The Cotton family has long recognized the importance of this historic rivalry for both players and fans,” said Pete Bell, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cotton Holdings, Inc. “We are honored to keep this incredible tradition alive as the first-ever presenting sponsor for the legendary Southwest Classic game, and we look forward to cheering on the Aggies in iconic AT&T Stadium.”

Cotton’s agreement with Texas A&M also...

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COTTON HOLDINGS ANNOUNCES MULTI-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH TEXAS A&M ATHLETICS AND NIL DEAL WITH TRUE FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICAN QB CONNER WEIGMAN

Disaster Relief & Recovery Company Proudly Partners with University’s Athletics Program and Signs NIL Deal with Quarterback

HOUSTON (August 22, 2023) – Cotton Holdings, Inc., a Houston-based disaster relief and infrastructure support company, has announced an exciting new long-term corporate partnership with Texas A&M Athletics beginning with the 2023-24 football season, as well as a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Deal with 2022 freshman All-American quarterback Conner Weigman.

“Cotton’s relationship with Texas A&M is one with a lot of history,” said Jeff Erler, Chief Legal Officer of Cotton Holdings, Inc. and Texas A&M Former Student. “Cotton is proud to have many current and former Aggies among our employee ranks, and we have partnered with A&M many times through the years to provide our full suite of services when they’ve needed a helping hand.”

Cotton Holdings’ successful track record as a years-long provider of commercial disaster recovery and turnkey support solutions to both the College Station campus and the...

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Cotton’s Finest - Jessica Alvarado

Cotton is proud to employ some of the most professional and experienced people in the industry, and today we’d like to recognize one of them. Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Jessica Alvarado, Accounts Payable Supervisor.

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Come See The Cotton Companies at RISKWORLD 2023!

On April 30 - May 3, the Cotton team is headed to Atlanta, Georgia for RISKWORLD 2023, the largest annual gathering of global risk professionals. At this year’s conference, you’ll have the chance to discover all of the Cotton Companies in one place. Stop by all week to discover each of the turnkey services offered by our brands that ensure we’re the only call you or your policyholders need to make for a total recovery.

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NOT OUR FIRST RODEO: COTTON HOLDINGS AT THE 2023 WORLD'S CHAMPIONSHIP BAR-B-QUE CONTEST

Approaching nearly a decade of participation in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s signature events, Cotton Holdings knew it had to turn up the heat in 2023. We’re passionate about serving our community, and the Rodeo’s commitment to supporting education through scholarships, program grants and more is making a significant difference in the lives of Texas youth.

Beyond serving as the Title Sponsor of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (WCBBQC) for the second year in a row, the Cotton Companies pulled out all the stops and joined in on the fun of all the Rodeo Houston events, helping them raise money for students across the state.

Cooking Up Magic at the Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup & Best Bites Competition

At the start of the festivities, the Cotton Culinary team brought their creative vision to life at the...

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COTTON HOLDINGS, INC. ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP PROMOTION

This month, Cotton Holdings, Inc. announced that Elias “Eli” Carrillo has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Finance, reporting to Bryan Michalsky, Chief Financial Officer. Carrillo will continue to lead the company’s finance department with responsibility for strategic financial initiatives and operations with division presidents.

“Since joining Cotton in March 2020, Eli has made an incredible impact working with Executive Management and the Merger & Acquisition team to bring in strong and successful companies to our portfolio. His ability to align strategic processes with business and financial goals has led to a more effective, high-performing finance team,” says Bryan Michalsky, CFO.

Carrillo has over 17 years of experience in finance and accounting with private equities and publicly held organizations across industries such as manufacturing & distribution, industrial, chemical, and pharmaceutical & biomedical. A Houston native, Carrillo...

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Cotton Holdings Partners with Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as Title Sponsor of World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

Local Disaster Relief Company Steps Up for 2024 Rodeo Season

Cotton Holdings, Inc., a Houston-based disaster relief and leading infrastructure support company, in partnership with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, has announced its return as the Title Sponsor of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest. The contest, scheduled from February 22 – 24, 2024, will kick off the 2024 rodeo season and the organization’s 92nd anniversary.

“For years, Cotton Holdings has been a part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and I’m excited about the opportunity to take our participation a little further as Title Sponsor of this year’s World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest,” said Pete Bell, Founder and CEO of Cotton Holdings, Inc, before the announcement in 2022. “As a Houstonian, I grew up attending the Rodeo and have always loved the energy and pride it brings to our community. Knowing that Cotton is directly supporting the Rodeo’s ongoing efforts to support the community, scholarships, and local pitmasters is an incredible feeling. After a two-year delay, we are...

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Cotton is Here for Our Florida Family

Friends and Family,

There are no words to describe the heartbreak we’re all feeling after witnessing the extent of Hurricane Ian’s destruction. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the communities impacted, especially those along the West Coast of Florida, where wind speeds of up to 155 mph brought devastating storm surge and structural damage.

Days ahead of landfall, our organization deployed almost 2000 personnel and strategic assets around the state to ensure we were ready to help every community affected by the storm. We’re now a week into Hurricane Ian’s second landfall, and our teams in Fort Myers, Orlando, Tampa, Ocala and beyond have been working day and night to assess commercial property damages and rebuild the communities from the State of Florida to the Eastern Coast of the Carolinas and Georgia.

Governor DeSantis was right when he said it will take several years to fully rebuild the communities affected by this catastrophe, but know that the entire Cotton Team is here for you every step of the way....

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Cotton Holdings, Inc. Announces Executive Leadership Promotion

Cotton Holdings is pleased to announce the promotion of Jesse Casas to Executive Vice President of Health, Safety, and Environment.

Today, Cotton Holdings, Inc. announced that Jesse Casas has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Health, Safety, and Environment, reporting to Randall Thompson, Chief Operating Officer. Casas will continue to lead the company’s HSE department with responsibility for global health and safety initiatives.

“Since joining Cotton in 2021, Jesse has transformed the company’s HSE department by implementing procedures that reduce risk and align with our overall business goals. As EVP, we are confident that he will continue to lead the Cotton team to new heights and help us provide an exceptional experience for all of our partners,” says Randall Thompson, COO.

Jesse Casas has more than 20 years of experience providing vision and guidance across teams to identify areas of opportunity in risk mitigation, change management, and team leadership. He obtained his Master of Science in Occupational Safety & Health from Columbia...

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Hear From the Cotton Disaster Recovery Experts In Our Storm Stories Video Series!

Every storm season presents different challenges, along with diverse stories of resiliency in the face of adversity. We’re proud to share just a few of those stories from the people here at Cotton who have lived them in our video series, Storm Stories!

Hear from dozens of Cotton legends, each with a unique story to tell from the countless storms and disasters that our company has responded to over the years, and discover the many lessons they have learned from their experience.

These courageous individuals left behind family, homes, and daily life to head to the front lines of some of our nation's most devastating storms simply to help those communities recover in their time of need. Listen to their stories now and learn what has made Cotton the preferred partner in disaster recovery and response for the last 25 years: our people.

Watch the trailer below and you can view the entire series now on YouTube.

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Cotton’s Hurricane Forum Recap

When a storm hits, businesses need a reliable ally who can immediately design and execute a hurricane recovery plan that reduces downtime for their organization. As your trusted partner, Cotton is committed to being that for you and we do not take this responsibility lightly.

To ensure our teams are in sync 24/7 and can deliver exceptional quality throughout the hurricane season and beyond, leaders from every division get together each year to discuss their responsibilities and learn from others. We’ve outlined a few of our key topics in hopes that this will help you during your emergency planning sessions.

KEY AFTER ACTION REVIEW

While we were able to help many companies restore their operations last year, our team was aware that there was still room for improvement. By gathering every department in one room, we successfully identified what we did well and what we could improve to help our clients better. This then opened up the conversation about roles, responsibilities, and...

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Join us in celebrating 26 years!

Cotton Family & Friends,

As I sit here and reflect on the past 26 years, I’m amazed at how far we’ve come. When Daryn and I set out to launch this company, we never imagined that it would become the global turnkey solutions provider that it is today. But I’m not surprised.

From the beginning, we assembled a team of hard-working, talented people that never backed down from a challenge. Together, we’ve created a culture that puts our clients’ needs first and one that excludes the word “no” from our vocabulary. In fact, if there’s one thing that clients have learned to expect from Cotton is that we will always find a solution, even if it means achieving the impossible.

I think the first time we proved this to be true was in 2001 when Tropical Storm Allison inundated our hometown. That was the first storm that put Cotton on the map. We had to scale the company overnight and worked 30 days straight to restore essential businesses in Houston. It’s also the year we introduced our construction services because we understood that our clients would need a reliable...

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COTTON HOLDINGS, INC. APPOINTS DARIO KANEVSKY AS NEW EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

HOUSTON, TX, June 1, 2022 – Today, Cotton Holdings, Inc., a leading infrastructure support services company, announced that Dario Kanevsky has been selected to join the company as Executive Vice President of Human Resources.

For the past twenty-five years, Kanevsky has led successful HR teams across different industries, including medical supplies and technology. Most recently, he was the Human Resources Vice President at Emerson Electric, where he oversaw the development of strategies in talent management, organization and performance management, change management, training and development, and compensation.

As the EVP of Human Resources at Cotton, Kanevsky plans on driving transformational change by developing a high-performance Human Resources team that supports the organization's strategic goals. His plan includes supporting company culture while providing long-term value to clients, stakeholders, employees, and communities in which Cotton operates.

“Dario’s passion for innovation and commitment to culture will be essential to the growth and...

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HOUSTON ASTROS AND COTTON HOLDINGS ANNOUNCE MULTI-YEAR PARTNERSHIP

Disaster Relief & Recovery Company Proudly Partners with Local Major League Baseball Team to Support the Houston Community

HOUSTON (April 12, 2022) – Today, Cotton Holdings, Inc. announces a new corporate partnership with the Houston Astros and the Astros Foundation. The five-year long partnership is in support of the Astros Community Leaders program which provides resources for various community initiatives including Military appreciation, children’s cancer research and community youth baseball and softball programs.

“Cotton Holdings is honored to partner with our hometown Houston Astros and the Astros Foundation to further support the needs of our community,” said Bryan Michalsky, Chief Financial Officer at Cotton Holdings, Inc. “The Astros efforts go well beyond the field and, as a lifelong Astros fan, it’s exciting, yet humbling to now be able to support not only the team, but also the city that is home to both our corporate headquarters and a large portion of our workforce.”

Cotton Holdings has provided local, national, and...

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COWBOY CHIC AND EVERYTHING NEAT: COTTON HOLDINGS AT THE WORLD’S CHAMPIONSHIP BAR-B-QUE CONTEST

For the past eight years, the Cotton Companies have participated in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s pre-rodeo events, including the Best Bites Competition and the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (WCBBQC). However, this year, our participation was taken to the next level as we were selected to be the Title Sponsor of the WCBBQC. As a Houston-born company, this title is truly an honor and we’re proud to be a part of the Rodeo’s mission to support Texas youth.

During the weekend of February 24 - 26, over 250 teams of barbecue aficionados and 158,215 supporters gathered at the Rodeo cook-off, sponsored by Cotton Holdings. Each night, the chilly air at NRG Park was filled with the sweet smells...

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COTTON HOLDINGS, INC. ANNOUNCES PROMOTION OF JEFF ERLER FROM GENERAL COUNSEL TO CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER AS COMPANY EXPANDS ITS BURGEONING LEADERSHIP TEAM

HOUSTON, January 11, 2022 – Today, Cotton Holdings, Inc. announced that Jeff Erler, formerly General Counsel, has been promoted to Chief Legal Officer, reporting directly to Pete Bell, Founder and CEO, effective immediately. He is the first person to hold the position with the company. Mr. Erler will continue to lead the company’s legal and risk departments, with responsibility for all legal, regulatory, governance and compliance matters and strategies, including a particular focus on the Company’s organic and acquisitive growth strategies.

“Jeff is a proven executive and advisor with extensive legal expertise that helps us achieve our long-term strategic goals. Jeff’s business-minded approach, legal acumen and depth of insight around a wide range of governance, compliance, and merger & acquisition matters are a significant asset to our organization. Most importantly, Jeff understands the importance of culture and building great teams,” said Pete Bell, Founder and CEO.

Mr. Erler said, “I am pleased to expand my role with this talented senior...

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COTTON HOLDINGS, INC. ACQUIRES ADVANCE CATASTROPHE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC AND TARGET SOLUTIONS, LLC, FURTHER EXPANDING COMMERCIAL RESTORATION CAPABILITIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

HOUSTON, January 4, 2022 ーCotton Holdings, Inc. (“Cotton”), a leading infrastructure support services company with 25 years in the commercial restoration market, has acquired Advance Catastrophe Technologies, LLC. (“ACT”), and Target Solutions, LLC. (“Target”), further expanding the strategic breadth of its commercial restoration capabilities.

ACT, a national disaster remediation and restoration service provider specializing in water mitigation, fire restoration, mold remediation and storm disaster response, has grown its client base to over 8,000 commercial properties serving the hospitality, senior living, and student housing end markets. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, ACT will retain its name and operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cotton under the continued leadership of Christian Wiley, President and CEO of ACT, who will retain an ownership interest in the business....

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Cotton Holdings Partners with Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as Title Sponsor of World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

Local Disaster Relief Company Steps Up for 2022 Rodeo Season

HOUSTON (November 17, 2021) – Cotton Holdings, Inc., a Houston-based disaster relief and leading infrastructure support company, in partnership with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, today announced its position as the new Title Sponsor of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest. The contest, scheduled from February 24 – 26, 2022, will kick-off the 2022 rodeo season and the organization’s 90th anniversary.

“For years, Cotton Holdings has been a part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and I’m excited about the opportunity to take our participation a little further as Title Sponsor of this year’s World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest,” said Pete Bell, Founder and CEO of Cotton Holdings, Inc. “As a Houstonian, I grew up attending the Rodeo and have always loved the energy and pride it brings to our community. Knowing that Cotton is directly supporting the Rodeo’s ongoing efforts to support the community, scholarships, and local pitmasters is an incredible feeling. After a...

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MEET DEREK CLARK, SVP OF SALES (OPERATIONS & STRATEGY)

This month, join us in welcoming Derek Clark, Cotton’s Senior Vice President of Sales - Operations and Strategy.

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Cotton Unveils Brand New Sign Atop Houston Headquarters

After 25 years in business, here at Cotton we’re still reaching new heights that we would have never thought possible when we got our start all those years ago. Following many years of planning and dreaming, we’re so thrilled to unveil our brand new Cotton Holdings sign affixed to the top of our global headquarters in Houston, TX!

For us, this sign is a fantastic symbol that represents our incredible transformation as a company. What started as a small 5,000 sq. ft. warehouse on Arc Street in Southwest Houston has now grown into an international brand with teams and offices across the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Through our visionary leadership, determination as a team, and unmatched technical capabilities we are confident that this is still just the beginning of what we hope to accomplish.

Check out our video and gallery below to see the journey our new sign took on its way to the sky, or take a short drive down Beltway 8 south of I10 and take a look for yourself!

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Key Takeaways From Cotton’s Hurricane Forum

Just as Cotton encourages its clients to formulate and review their emergency plan every year, we too make this a priority. Recently, members from each Cotton department gathered at our Operations Headquarters in Katy, TX to discuss our own plans and procedures for the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Everyone in attendance shared their experience, learnings, and discussed ways their team supports the entire organization. We also brainstormed new ways to help our clients prepare and recover from the unexpected.

While every organization is different, there are some key takeaways we’d like to share with your team as your organization creates their own plans and procedures.

REVIEW LESSONS LEARNED

No matter how well you plan, something is certain to go awry. Fortunately, every year grants us the opportunity to learn and improve our plans and procedures. As you gather with your team, encourage everyone to share their past hurricane experience. What worked and what didn’t? Open up the floor and discuss ways you...

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Cotton25 Ball: A Night of Celebration & Gratitude

To commemorate 25 years of operational excellence as Cotton Holdings, Inc, we gathered to revel in this historic milestone. In the Grand Ballroom of the luxurious Post Oak Hotel, we brought together all of the clients, vendors, partners, and friends who helped us become what we are today to thank them for their invaluable support of our vision from the beginning.

We started the evening with cocktails and catching up, as many old friends and colleagues had not seen each other’s faces since those early days. As we moved into the ballroom for our program, the attendees were greeted by a room nestled in florals, three different stages, and of course a few very impressive Cotton logos filling the room.

During dinner, we had a chance to thank many of our earliest supporters and partners for believing in us when all we had was our passion and our determination, in addition to honoring some of those that we’ve unfortunately lost over these many years. We also took a few moments to talk about all of the great services Cotton offers everyday that have made it a company worth...

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A Heartfelt Thank You From Founder & CEO, Pete Bell

Dear Cotton Family,

Wow, what an incredible journey this has been. For twenty-five years, Cotton has broken through barriers and established itself as the brand of assurance. Not by luck or coincidence but because we’ve worked hard to get here and have the best support system. Today, as we celebrate the successes of the past two-and-a-half decades, I’d like to acknowledge all of the people that have helped get us here, beginning with Daryn Ebrecht. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner to start this journey with. Neither of us knew exactly what we were getting ourselves into but we were determined and pushed one another to develop this phenomenal business. Together, we scouted and convinced the best leaders to join our team. Bryan, Randall, Russell, Johnny, Chris, and James - my brothers - we’ve been through a lot together, professionally and personally. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for consistently showing up and using your expertise to propel Cotton forward.

To our families and loved ones, you have no idea how grateful we are to you for always having...

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COTTON HOLDINGS, INC. ACQUIRES FULL CIRCLE RESTORATION AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC., EXPANDING THE COMPANY’S CAPABILITIES IN THE SOUTHEAST

HOUSTON, Texas, June 8, 2021ーCotton Holdings Inc. (“Cotton”), a leading infrastructure support services company in the fast-growing commercial restoration market, has acquired Full Circle Restoration and Construction Services Inc. (“Full Circle”), a leading Atlanta-based provider of disaster mitigation, remediation, restoration, and reconstruction services.

Full Circle will retain its name and operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Cotton under the continued leadership of Orlando Ojeda, Founder and President, and Dan Duke, CFO and EVP of Operations, who will retain an ownership interest in the business. Financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

The purchase of Full Circle comes four months after the acquisition of Stellar Commercial Roofing and aligns with Cotton’s strategic growth plan to meet the growing demand for commercial restoration services in North America and globally. Headquartered in Houston with an international logistics center and several regional offices, Cotton provides property restoration and...

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Cotton's Finest - April 2021

Cotton is proud to employ some of the most professional and experienced people in the industry, and today we’d like to recognize one of them. Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Kevin Fowler, Director of Production - Construction Services.

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Cotton Holdings, Inc. is Celebrating 25 Years of Service

For a quarter of a century, we've been committed to unsurpassable customer service and solutions that facilitate business continuity.

During the summer of 1996, Pete Bell and Daryn Ebrecht established Cotton Holdings, Inc. to provide innovative solutions and exceptional customer service to businesses needing restoration. Twenty-five years later, we are proud and grateful to be celebrating this significant milestone with our team, clients, and partners.

Since day one, Cotton Holdings has been committed to being your full-service recovery partner. We've expanded into four subsidiaries, each designed to minimize downtime: Cotton Global Disaster Solutions, Cotton Logistics, Cotton Culinary, and Stellar Commercial Roofing. Plus, we launched Cotton Foundation, a non-profit organization that restores hope in the communities we work in. Today, we have 28 physical offices throughout the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. We employ over 500 professionals and continue recruiting subject matter experts each year.

In our two-and-a-half decades, we've...

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Meet the CIO - Ron Veillon

This month, we’re spending some time getting to know Cotton Chief Information Officer Ron Veillon.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are 3 words you would use to describe it?

A: CIO. Technology, Development, Optimization

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: Ecuador was one of the most personally interesting places I have been.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Cottonuity means to be accountable to your team and to solve problems with ingenuity.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: We are nimble which allows us to be very easy to do business with.

5. Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us!

A: I am originally from a very small cajun French speaking town in Louisiana. I spent much of my youth helping my grandpa tend to his farm where he had many crops, cattle, and horses.

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Cotton Success was a Virtual Success

If 2020 taught us anything, it was to expect the unexpected. Even so, it wasn’t easy to accept that we couldn’t all gather for Cotton Success as we’ve done for the past 24 years. Although it might not be the same, we still found a way to celebrate our work of 2020 and plan for the future through a 3-part virtual series.

James Scaife, President of Cotton GDS, opened up the series by celebrating a couple of 10-Year and 20-Year anniversaries and thanked each person for their great work throughout the years. We look forward to their continued success as well as that of our entire Cotton Team.

During Part II of the series, the presidents and respective leaders of each subsidiary spoke about significant achievements and the goals each has for their divisions. To cap it off, COO Randall Thompson closed it out with a keynote speech, addressing his expectations for Cotton Holdings in 2021.

With the future on our minds, in Part III, we’ll be hearing from Chief Information Officer, Ron Veillon, as he addresses his vision for the company. Ron’s extensive background in IT...

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Cotton Holdings, Inc. Acquires Stellar Restoration Services, Adding Roofing Restoration to Commercial Disaster Recovery Capabilities

HOUSTON, January 12, 2021 – Cotton Holdings Inc. (“Cotton”), a leading infrastructure support services company in the fast-growing commercial restoration market, today announced the acquisition of Stellar Restoration Services (“Stellar”), a provider of comprehensive roofing restoration services for hail and weather-related damage to commercial properties. Stellar will retain its name and operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cotton under the continued leadership of co-Founders Michael de la Mora and Rick Bailey, who will retain an ownership interest in the business. Financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition of Stellar is part of Cotton’s expansion strategy to meet the growing demand for commercial restoration services in North America and globally. Headquartered in Houston with an international logistics center and a number of regional offices, Cotton provides property restoration and recovery, construction, roofing, consulting, temporary workforce housing and culinary services to public and private...

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SAYING GOODBYE TO 2020 AND PREPARING FOR 2021

The Cotton Team proudly worked hard throughout 2020 to provide key restoration, logistical, and catering services to businesses throughout the country. We opened a new office in Tennessee and expanded our line of services to better support our clients in the medical industry, data centers, and environmental departments. All told, our Cotton Family put in hundreds of thousands of man-hours, provided thousands of beds, and served several thousand meals.

But it is now time to bid farewell to 2020 and look to the future. With 2021 on the horizon, Cotton is not slowing down. We’re more committed than ever to our mission of helping businesses around the country and internationally recover from natural or manmade disasters. We’re going to be taking the innovative spirit fostered by this year’s challenges and taking it into next year.

As we prepare for the new year and new challenges, we invite you to check out the resources below so that you too can be ready for the unexpected.

Happy holidays! We look...

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Wishing Our Partners a Happy Thanksgiving

Although 2020 threw some serious curveballs our way, we’re happy to say that we hit each of them out of the park. We came out swinging, adapting to new circumstances and staying true to our mission. We owe our success as much to the hard work of our employees as to the partnerships we have built and fostered. Thanks to you, our year ends on a high note!

In the spirit of the season, we want to offer our gratitude to all our partners. Without them, we would not be able to fulfill our mission of providing long-term value and sustainability to clients, employees, and more. It is our hope that we have provided equal assistance to our partners and helped them have a successful year.

As we transition to the final weeks of 2020, we will continue to work alongside all our partners to make sure the year ends on a positive note for everyone.

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Cotton's Finest - October 2020

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Mike Carmack, Director of Remote Site Catering.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: As Director of Remote Site Catering, I am responsible for the day-to-day operations of remote site services in West Texas and Southeast New Mexico. When needed, I also travel to assist with emergency response jobs throughout the country and the Bahamas.

The three words I would use to describe my role are: Quality, Food, and Service.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: I like being in the water - on a beach, a lake, a river, or a mountain stream - with my wife, 2 daughters, and 3 grandchildren. I also enjoy riding my bike and have taken several 7- to 10-day bike rides. So far, I have ridden through 30 of the lower 48 states and my goal is to ride to all of the lower 48. I once rode 4,442 miles in 8 days from San Antonio, TX to Washington State and back!

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Cotton’s Finest - The Cotton Team

A busy hurricane season in the Atlantic means a busy season for Cotton. This month, we’d like to recognize and thank each Cotton Team member who has been on the ground in our various command centers, assisting businesses and communities in the aftermath of Hurricanes Laura, Sally, and Delta. Thank you for your tremendous efforts, operational excellence, and teamwork!

From Lake Charles to Pensacola, Cotton is providing water damage mitigation, construction, roofing, temporary facilities, and emergency catering to those affected by the storms while continuing day-to-day efforts for our clients around the globe. Contact us today to learn how Cotton GDS, Cotton Logistics, and...

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Cotton's Finest - August 2020

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Irene Nichols, Risk and Insurance Manager, Holdings.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am the Risk and Insurance Manager for Cotton. My role is to support company operations by assessing and mitigating risk to protect Cotton Holdings and its subsidiaries. That can include contract reviews, certificates of insurance, claims management, corporate insurance programs, subcontractor and vendor compliance, and anything that moves the Cotton Companies forward. Three words to describe my role are focus, detail, and teamwork!

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: I love being on the water, specifically boating on the lake.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: “Cottonuity” is a collaborative, unified effort to bring services and solutions to our clients daily while completing client requests as a team and a family.

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Twenty-Four Years Later

The year was 1996. The Chicago Bulls were on their way to winning their 4th NBA Championship and young Pete Bell and Daryn Ebrecht had a dream of modernizing the restoration industry.

After hearing about their vision, Mr. Wayne Cotton, the founder of Cotton Moving and Storage, knew they were onto something great. With a generous offer from Mr. Cotton, our two founders were given the opportunity to make their dream come true.

Cotton Commercial USA was established that year in Houston, TX.

Grounded on the principle of providing innovative solutions and superior service, Cotton quickly earned a reputation for operational excellence. Success led to expansion and the organization now has several strategic partners and established response centers throughout the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Twenty-four years later, Cotton Holdings and its subsidiaries play an integral role in the recovery efforts following some of the world’s most catastrophic events. We are proud of the growth, strength, and drive of the entire...

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Memorial Day: Honoring America’s Heroes

Memorial Day is a day to remember all of the airmen, sailors, soldiers, marines, and service members who gave their lives in combat. It is because of their bravery that we can all live with the freedoms we enjoy today.

Since 1900, many battles have been fought to protect our country - WWI, WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, the Global War on Terrorism - and millions of men and women gave their lives in these battles. Just as they guarded our freedom, we too shall guard their memory.

The Cotton Team thanks and prays for our heroes and their loved ones, today and always.

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WHY IS SOCIAL DISTANCING IMPORTANT?

By now, we’ve all heard of social distancing as it relates to the Coronavirus. The act of keeping at least six feet of distance between yourself and others could reduce the risk of contracting and spreading the virus.

You can maintain social distancing by:

  • Staying home from work and school

  • Avoid visiting family and friends

  • Ordering takeout rather than dining in

  • Postponing nonessential travel

  • Rescheduling doctor appointments that aren’t critical

  • Exercise at home or outdoors and not a public gym

If you need to leave home during the day, be sure you’re keeping a safe distance and practicing the following health tips, provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

  • If soap and water are not available, use...

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COTTON’S FINEST - COTTON’S CLIENTS AND PARTNERS

This month’s Cotton’s Finest is dedicated to our incredible clients, vendors, and partners. Whether you’ve trusted us with your commercial property or recommended us to another business, you’ve contributed to our growth and we thank you for that. We are forever grateful for your love and support throughout the years and look forward to helping you, or partnering with you, in future projects. Happy Valentine’s Day from the Cotton Family!

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WE’RE SHAPING THE COTTON VISION

We already know that Cotton has some of the most dedicated associates out there, but it became especially apparent during our annual CottonCon and Success meeting. Over 400 Cotton Team members attended the two-day event to discuss this year’s achievements and our theme for the new year -- Vision 2020.

Vision 2020 reminds us of Cotton’s vision for the future and the role each one of us plays in achieving it. It also inspires us to create visions of our own, so that we’re constantly improving and creating positive experiences for our clients, communities, and colleagues.

We kicked off CottonCon 2019 on Thursday with divisional meetings throughout the day. Each division of Cotton had the opportunity to celebrate all they had accomplished in 2019 and shared their visions for the future. Before the day ended, guests gathered for a Cotton Social to enjoy light bites with the rest of the team.

On Day 2, our very own C-Suite leaders Pete Bell, Randall Thompson, and Bryan Michalsky took the stage to share their visions for Cotton during an opening keynote address....

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Happy Thanksgiving from Cotton!

The Cotton Team would like to thank everyone who has made an impact on our growth, both personally and professionally.

To our friends and families for always showing their support and understanding when duty unexpectedly calls.

To our esteemed clients for trusting us and pushing us to become better partners, service providers, and innovators.

And to every member of the Cotton Team for the sacrifices you’ve made this year. Thank you for making us stronger.

May you have a beautiful Thanksgiving Day, surrounded by those you love most.

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Cotton's Finest - October 2019

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Brian Miller, Senior National Project Manager.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am Senior National Project Manager and I describe the role as leading by example.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: Anywhere with my family and friends.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: To me, Cottonuity means opportunity. Opportunity to grow the brand and show what Cotton has become over its 23 years of existence.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: “No” is not in our vocabulary. We have always gone above and beyond to find ways of meeting our customers’ requests. We finalize a job and make sure the customer is back where they were or, in most cases, in a better place than they were prior to the event that brought Cotton to their doorstep.

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Cotton's Finest - September 2019

For this month's Cotton’s Finest we’d like to honor all those responding to Hurricane Dorian and Tropical Depression Imelda relief efforts, especially our Cotton Disaster Response Teams. Recovery efforts are underway in the Bahamas, Beaumont, Houston, and southeast Texas. The Cotton Team has boots on the ground in all locations, working quickly to get businesses back to serving their community.

From water extraction and backup power generation to building stabilization and reconstruction services, our teams are standing ready to assist as needed. Working around the clock, Cotton has the ability to provide temporary facilities, catering, and emergency food services to the first responders on the ground, as well as assisting others in remediation efforts.

We are proud of our team and the drive they exhibit to help communities get back on their feet. If your business has recently been affected by Dorian, Imelda, or another event, contact us today to begin the road to operational recovery. Cotton is available 24/7 to help get...

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COTTON'S FINEST - AUGUST 2019

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Luis Olivares, Project Manager, Restoration.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am a Restoration Project Manager for Cotton Global Disaster Solutions. I direct other employees through operations procedures, 24/7.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: My favorite place is with my family. I enjoy relaxing and spending time with them every free moment in my day.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Cottonuity is waking up every morning with the goal to move Cotton forward, achieve company goals, and make sure every employee is successful.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: Cotton puts businesses back together so customers can reopen quickly. We have a great team to assist clients to the best of our abilities. No matter the task or how long a job takes, Cotton will get it done.

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Cotton's Finest - July 2019

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Jeremy Woolley, VP Construction, Logistics.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am currently the VP Construction, Logistics. Three words I would use to describe my role are balance, excitement, and anything in construction is always rewarding.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: Texas is my favorite place. If the state had mountains and snow, I would never want to leave.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Cottonuity is One Team working together to achieve a common goal. It is never telling someone “no,” as there is always a solution.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: At Cotton, we continuously preach, sell, communicate, and deliver on our message. Client satisfaction on every job is the “Cotton Way.”

5. Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us!

A: I love...

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COTTON'S FINEST - MAY 2019

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: Chon Wilson, Corporate Recruiter.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am currently a Corporate Recruiter at Cotton, and lead for Logistics, Culinary & HSE talent searches. Three words I’d use to describe my role are dedication, innovation and rewarding!

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: I love being behind the lens of my camera. I’m a photography hobbyist!

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: I believe “Cottonuity” is never using the word, “No,” when it comes to our client’s needs.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: Cotton’s uniqueness is how everyone works together to the job done, no matter the circumstances. We figure out the necessary course of action, put a plan together, and execute.

5. Tell us something about yourself that might surprise us!

A: I am an avid Game of...

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Cotton's Finest - April 2019

Meet this month's Cotton's Finest: John Mercaldi, Procurement Specialist.

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am the Procurement Specialist for the Global Disaster Solutions Division. I work with account holders in completing and submitting proposal and information requests, pre-qualification vendor packages, maintaining Cotton vendor compliance and supporting the execution of service agreements. My main goal is to maximize Cotton’s ability to generate new clients and revenue streams. Three words I would use to describe the position are: integrated, discipline, winning.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: My favorite place in the world is Yankee Stadium, especially when the Yankees play the Red Sox.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: I believe “Cottonuity” is streamlining our service lines to meet the needs of our most vulnerable clients while quickly getting them back to operational.

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Cotton's Finest - March 2019

Meet this month’s Cotton’s Finest: Erin Cornelius, Director of Corporate Catering

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: As the Director of Corporate Catering, I run Culinary operations for the Houston region as well as manage pricing for Corporate Catering events. Three words I would use to describe my position are Operations, Sales, and Customer Service.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: Floating down a river with my family. Something about the river makes my boys open up and tell me things they would never mention any other time.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: To me, Cottonuity means our Cotton Family coming together for the greater good. It means putting the needs of others before ourselves, especially when it comes to our clients.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: We jump through hoops and do whatever is necessary to exceed the expectations of the...

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Cotton's Finest - February 2019

Meet this month’s Cotton’s Finest: Shane Carey, Director of Operations - Construction

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: My role is Director of Operations for Construction. I work closely with the Executive Vice President for Construction, Chris Sneck, project coordinators and the business development team to start projects successfully and get them finished on time and within the budget.

The three words I’ve used to describe Cotton for the past 12 years is “THE NOW BUSINESS!”

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: The United States of America

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Its means never saying NO to any ask from anyone, whether that’s the client or Cotton personnel. We make it happen.

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

A: We never give up. No matter the situation, location, environment or need, we deliver and consistently...

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Cotton's Finest - January 2019

Meet this month’s Cotton’s Finest, Bill Jatzlau, Construction Project Coordinator

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are three words you would use to describe it?

A: I am a Project Coordinator, because “miracle worker” looked too presumptuous on my business card. My responsibilities range from developing new business to helping our customers understand the build-back process, providing estimates for scope of work, working with adjusters to agree on scope, invoicing and collections.

Three words I’d use to describe my role would be “exceeding customers’ expectations.”

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: My room. My wife and I have five kids, so any place that’s quiet.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: It means that we are all in this together. We are a growing family that carries the Cotton brand with pride and integrity. We believe that we can take on any challenge because of our internal support system. I can send out an email...

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Cotton Takes the Next Steps

For more than 20 years, Cotton Team members from all regions have gathered for Cotton Success, an event that celebrates the successes of the past year and defines our vision for the future. This year’s event -- themed “Taking the Next Steps” -- brought together nearly 400 Cotton Team members at the Cotton Houston Response Center to hear from leadership, strengthen their teams, and celebrate the end of another year of hard work.

Cotton leadership kicked off the day by looking back at the year’s successes, company growth and the opening of new offices in Houston, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Then, divisional leaders shared each division’s accomplishments and how each subsidiary is taking the next steps. The team viewed a special message from General Stanley McChrystal, who offered his thoughts on growth and Cotton’s next steps. After celebrating 10 and 20-year employee anniversaries, the team participated in a team building event that challenged...

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Season's Greetings

From all of us at Cotton, we wish you peace, joy, and prosperity throughout the coming year. Thank you to for your continued support! Merry Christmas from The Cotton Team!

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Cotton's Finest - the Cotton Team!

Between Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Michael, the Cotton Team has been hard at work for weeks. Cotton’s leadership would like to thank every single member of the team as they continue to help restore areas that were hard-hit by two massive hurricanes. Your work has given hope to people just in time for the holiday season. You are all Cotton’s Finest.

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Happy Thanksgiving From Your Friends at Cotton

This Thanksgiving, we are thankful for family, friends, health and our homes.

We’re also thankful for you: our clients and partners. Cotton’s most important job is to give you peace of mind during unexpected emergencies and events. We care about getting you and the communities you support back in business and we are grateful that you call on us to do so.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Cotton family to yours!

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Cotton's Finest - October 2018

Meet this months Cotton’s Finest, Garrett Allen, Project Coordinator - Restoration

Cotton’s Finest – Garrett Allen, Project Coordinator - Restoration

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are 3 words you would use to describe it?

A: I am a Project Coordinator. My responsibilities range from Business Development and marketing our services to facilitating operations and collections on projects. No two days are ever the same as a PC, as I’m often wearing multiple hats simultaneously. At the end of the day, my goal is to interpret the client’s needs, communicate said needs with my Ops team, stand up Operations, support those ever-changing needs/Ops throughout the project and overcome any obstacles with a “never say no” attitude.

Three words I’d use to describe my role would be “Dynamic, Persistent, Ingenuity.”

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: That’s a tough one! Obviously nothing compares to time with my family, but outside of that it’s anywhere I’m on water and holding a fishing pole. My favorite country I’ve traveled...

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Cotton's Finest - September 2018

Meet this month’s Cotton’s Finest, Veronica Gilliland, Executive Assistant of Cotton Construction

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are 3 words you would use to describe it?

My role with the Cotton Team is to make a difference and to provide support! I assist in many tasks and assignments that allow Cotton Construction to perform at its highest level. Three words I would use to describe my role are meticulous, reliable, and rewarding.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

My favorite place in the world is, of course, the country and the Gilliland farm.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

Pride, Prestige, Excellence - Togetherness as a team (ONE FAMILY).

4. How does Cotton go above and beyond for our clients?

Cotton’s desire not to just deliver good customer service but to deliver excellent customer service. We make sure we exceed our clients’ expectations and treat each client as if they were family.

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Cotton's Finest - August 2018

Meet this month’s Cotton’s Finest, Travis Bice the Vice President of Logistics Operations

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are 3 words you’d use to describe it?

A: My role at Cotton Logistics is to expand the platform for future operations growth at our OneLodge facilities where our priority is to give our clients the feeling they have a home while on the road away from their families.

Three words I would use to describe my role at Cotton would be Adaptability, Consistency and Progressiveness.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: My favorite place in the world is at the DD Ranch in Columbus, TX where you can get to your limit of fish and waterfowl and still get to Whataburger for breakfast before 11:00 AM.

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Cottonuity to me means togetherness. It means family. It means rising up to every challenge and being the best. In everything Cotton does, we do it...

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Cotton's Finest - July 2018

Meet this months Cottons Finest, Blake Hunt the Director of Culinary Operations!

1. What is your role on the Cotton Team? What are 3 words you’d use to describe it?

A: My role at Cotton is to ensure that all culinary operations run smoothly and professionally from start to finish whether it’s a plated dinner for 10 VIPs or a huge safety reward lunch for 10,000.

Three words I’d use to describe my role at Cotton would be Leadership, Motivation, and Passion.

2. Where is your favorite place in the world?

A: My favorite place in the world is Tennessee!

3. What does “Cottonuity” mean to you?

A: Cottonuity to me means the way you treat your clients and the way you treat your employees. It’s also being able to come together with your coworkers at the drop of a hat to do what most would consider impossible regardless of the situation or...

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Cotton's Finest

June 2018 Cotton's Finest

In review of Fiscal Year 2018, the Cotton Holdings Inc. Board of Directors gathered in Houston to reflect on the company’s contribution to recovery efforts in the United States, Mexico, and Caribbean following the 2017 catastrophic hurricane season and also strategized with other Cotton key leaders for what will be yet another active season according to recent predictions.

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Cotton Displays National Presence April 15-18th

On April 15-18th the Cotton Team is in San Antonio, Texas for the 2018 Annual RIMS Conference and also to Orlando, Florida for the 2018 PLRB Claims Conference & Insurance Services Expo. The Cotton Team’s national presence will simultaneously be on full display this week, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to showcase our capabilities and achievements, while networking with others in the industry.

RIMS

April 15-18 | Booth #2215

Cotton is pleased to announce our sponsorship with the 2018 Annual RIMS Conference. The Annual Conference is the premier event for the risk community and those involved within the same vertical to come together to learn and network. Stop by the Cotton booth (#2215) to learn more about Cotton’s international expansion and building a successful Business Continuity Plan.

Not only will Cotton be exhibiting for another year but Cotton's EVP of Global Risk Management and former RIMS President, Lance J. Ewing, will speak at three sessions this year!

Monday, April 16th

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New Year, New Moves!

Cotton Holdings Relocates Corporate Offices and Expands Operational Headquarters

Cotton Holdings, Inc. (“Cotton” or the “Company”) announced today the relocation of its global headquarters to Houston, Texas. The executive management team of Cotton Holdings as well as the centralized functions of Marketing, Finance, Legal, IT, and Risk Management, will move from the existing headquarters in Katy, Texas, to CityCentre, a mixed-use development near Houston’s Energy Corridor District.

To support the continuing growth of Cotton’s core business segments, the campus in Katy is undergoing renovations that will be completed in March 2018. The expanded facilities will continue to serve as the operations hub for certain Cotton subsidiaries and their leadership teams.

“While Cotton was originally founded as a disaster restoration company over 20 years ago, Cotton Holdings is now a diversified holding company with multiple operating subsidiaries serving clients worldwide,” said Randall Thompson, Chief Operating Officer. “Centralizing the executive team and key...

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The Year Wraps With 2017-18 Annual Cotton Success Meeting

The Cotton Team celebrates "success" with a two-day event at Corporate Headquarters

Every year as Cotton prepares for Christmas, we also celebrate “Success”. Each December, Cotton Holdings invites full time employees from all divisional lines to a two-day event at our corporate headquarters. The event allows us to review and celebrate the “success” of the past year, and to define our “success” in coming years as we set future goals. The event culminates in our Cotton Christmas Party.

“The holiday season presents a great opportunity for the team to come together and celebrate. It was so exciting to meet all the new faces and see the tremendous amount of growth we’ve had over the last calendar year.” - Britney Smith, VP of Marketing

This year the Cotton Team was treated to a “Cotton Harvey” video, reflecting the hard work, dedication and self-sacrifice of our team members following this epic storm. The Cotton Team also celebrated Martha Colvin and Mirna Garcia for their continued...

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Thank you to our clients

Dear valued clients and vendor partners,

As Thanksgiving approaches, we’d like to use this special season to take the opportunity to express our gratitude to you, our valued clients and partners. We are deeply thankful that you believe in the Cotton brands and we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering top rate service. We want to thank you for your remarkable patronage.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving with abundance and peace. May the joy of the holidays extend to you and your family now and throughout the coming year.

-The Cotton Team

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Operation 100: Mission Accomplished

Cotton worked around the clock to get WWII veteran back into his home following hurricane devastation in time for his 100th birthday

The Cotton Foundation recently teamed up with former United States Navy SEAL, Marcus Luttrell, and his wife Melanie Luttrell, with the Team Never Quit Foundation for “Operation 100.” This project entailed the complete demolition and remodel of a veteran’s home after it was inundated with flood water during Hurricane Harvey. 1st Lieutenant Fly served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. Our mission was to complete his home’s remodel by his 100th birthday on November 13th! Cotton, along with Team Never Quit and multiple vendor partners, worked diligently over the last two months to ensure the home was move-in ready in time for his special day.

The Welcome Home Ceremony was held on November 9th and will air on Fox & Friends this Veteran’s Day on Fox News...

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Cotton Cares

After times of tragedy, the Cotton Foundation steps in to assist the communities we work in

Cotton has been humbled by the immense support that Houston and the greater Gulf Coast region has received locally and nationally in the form of monetary donations, food, water, clothing, school supplies and other needed goods. When times of tragedy occur, the Cotton Foundation also steps in to support the local communities we work in, providing aid beyond Cotton's core restoration services.

Last month, Cotton Ranch Events partnered with Foxmark Corporation to store and distribute donations that were driven 1200 miles all the way from Illinois! Concerned citizens and volunteers from the generous community of Orland Hills rallied together and collected enough water, cleaning supplies, toiletries and household goods to fill six trucks! Because of their efforts, families from a local school district received critical items...

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Harris Williams & Co. Advises Cotton Holdings, Inc. on Its Recapitalization

October 11, 2017 10:15am

RICHMOND, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Harris Williams & Co., a preeminent middle market investment bank focused on the advisory needs of clients worldwide for more than 25 years, announces that it advised Cotton Holdings, Inc. (Cotton) on a successful recapitalization with BBVA (NYSE:BBVA), providing the company with significant liquidity, operational flexibility and the ability to execute on attractive growth opportunities. Cotton is a leading, nationwide disaster restoration services and workforce logistics company providing services to public and private entities throughout the U.S. and internationally. Harris Williams & Co. served as the exclusive advisor to Cotton. The transaction was led by Derek Lewis,...

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Hurricane Harvey Update

September 12, 2017

As we continue to assess the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, it is with a heavy heart I write this memo. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Cotton Team are with all those affected by this storm.

The storm and its resulting damage has had a tremendous impact on Houston and the Texas Gulf Coast Region, and the cleanup effort in the affected areas will be formidable. The Cotton Team is already hard at work confronting this challenge.

The Texas Gulf is our home. It is where Cotton began and where our home office and largest presence remains. Every day we see the impact of this storm on our neighbors, friends, and family. We also appreciate the trust that you have placed with us over the years. Let me assure you, the Cotton Team is focused on responding to our clients’ needs in the fastest, most efficient way possible.

Cotton is working with our clients to assess their property damage, mitigate any further damage, and provide clean up assistance in accordance with environmental protocols. Cotton is also preparing to provide construction...

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The "Cottontron"

Out with the old, in with the new (sign)!

As Cotton continues to strengthen its visibility, The Cotton World Headquarters welcomes our new outdoor sign, spanning 24 feet high and 10 feet wide. The towering display showcases the diversity of the Cotton brand of Companies and welcomes our guests to our campus.

Look out for messaging and updates as you drive by our Headquarters in Katy!

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From D-Town to Cowtown

Cotton showcases expansion with successful DFW Open House

To commemorate and celebrate the landmark opening of Cotton’s Global Response Center in Dallas, TX, Cotton held an Open House on July 20th while to showcase our services for our clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth market. Cotton has had a presence in Dallas for over a decade, we recently increased our footprint from a modest 4,000 square foot satellite office to an 80,000 square foot Global Response Center to support ongoing operations.

The Open House was a great success, and a fun-spirited time for over 200 hundred clients and friends of Cotton. Entertainment included Country music artist Charlie Robison playing an acoustic set, while Dallas Cowboys Legends Jay Novacek and Chad Hennings made appearances and signed custom Cotton footballs.

While exhibiting comprehensive service lines, Cotton also gave guests a “taste of Dallas” by incorporating local Dallas vendors. Specialty cocktails crafted by Uptown Dallas’ Bowen House were...

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Summer Travel Safety Tips

Travel safety begins before you leave your home

FBI statistics show that property theft crime rates rise by 10 percent in June, July, and August, the peak summer vacation months. Thieves know this, so it is imperative to take steps to help protect your home while you are away. Secure your home by making it look occupied, even while you are traveling, to deter potential burglars.

Before you Leave for Vacation

  • Tell a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend your travel itinerary and ask them to keep an eye on your property and alert the police of any suspicious activity.
  • Have mail and newspaper delivery paused. A clear sign that nobody’s home is a stack of mail, as well as garbage cans left at the curb. You can temporarily stop delivery by contacting your newspaper carrier and the United States Post Office and have a neighbor bring in your garbage bins so that it isn’t obvious you are away.

At the Airport

Once at the airport keep a close eye on your luggage at all...

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Cotton Dallas Expansion

Over a decade ago, Cotton expanded its national footprint to include a satellite office in Dallas to support the greater Dallas-Fort Worth market. Through the years, this location has grown into a centralized hub for Cotton’s international logistics, allowing for quick deployment of assets to destinations all over North America and beyond, and housing the company’s main inventory of heavy equipment. To support ongoing operations, that initial office has grown from a modest 4,000 square feet to a roughly 80,000 square foot Global Response Center. “I’ve had the privilege of being a part of that exceptional growth both nationally and within the DFW market for the last 10 years”, said Stewart Geldersma, Vice President. “I’m excited to build upon the opportunity for continued growth and to support our local clients with a new world class facility”.

Cotton’s full suite of services is available to commercial clients within the DFW market including Disaster Restoration, Construction, Roofing, Environmental Remediation, Workforce Housing and Catering services. We look forward to...

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Lance Ewing Announced as Speaker for the 2017 CLM & Business Insurance Retail, Restaurant & Hospitality Conference

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: (February 3, 2017) – The Claims and Litigation Management Alliance (CLM) is pleased to announce EVP Global Risk Management & Client Services Lance Ewing, EVP Global Risk Management & Client Services, will be speaking on “Standard Operating Procedures for Indemnity Claims Management in Retail, Restaurant and Hospitality Litigation.” This summit will be held on February 22-24 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, TX.

Lance J. Ewing has extensive executive experience in the field of risk management and insurance including his current role EVP of Risk Management at Cotton Holdings, Inc. Previously he was Industry Practice Group Leader for AIG. Prior to this position; he served in senior risk management capacities for Harrah’s Entertainment, Caesars Entertainment, GES Exposition Services/VIAD and for the City of Philadelphia School District. Mr. Ewing additionally worked for various insurance companies including Lumbermen's Underwriting Alliance, Pennsylvania Hospital Insurance Company (PHICO) and NY Lumberman's...

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disaster roofing

GROWTH TREND CONTINUES ACROSS COTTON

October 20, 2016

Cotton is pleased to announce the addition of three new managers to support company operations across the Roofing, Logistics, and Culinary specialized divisions. During a month of increased operations due to Hurricane Matthew, for which Cotton’s disaster recovery crews are operating along the Atlantic coast – from Florida up through the Carolinas, and even in the Bahamas – the day to day operations of the other divisions continue to experience steady growth in their respective markets.

Ed Stanley joins Cotton’s Roofing division as VP of Roofing Services, after years of running his own successful multi-office roofing and construction business across the Midwest and Southern United States. Stanley’s working relationship with Cotton dates back eleven years since first being engaged as a subcontractor during Cotton’s Hurricane Katrina response. Stanley’s entrepreneurial drive and keen marketing sense will be a force multiplier for Cotton as the roofing division expands amid advancing technologies in the marketplace.

Trey Trammell joins the team as Sales Director for...

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Cotton Risk Manager to Present a Lineup of Sessions at RIMS 2017

September 21, 2016

Cotton Holdings Inc., a Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) member, has been chosen to present four sessions at the 2017 Annual Conference and Exhibition in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The first session, “M&M and M&A: Getting a Taste for Mergers & Acquisitions,” will be presented by Cotton’s EVP of Risk Management, Lance Ewing, and Larry Warner of Warner Risk Group. The second educational presentation is titled “Two World's Joined. Risk and Compliance”. Jennifer Santiago, Strategic Risk Management Leader for Novartis Pharmaceuticals and Lance Ewing will copresent. Additionally, Lance Ewing will present “Knowing the Risks When You Cross Over. Doing Business in Mexico and Canada” in the RIMS Hub Thought Leader Theatre on the exhibit hall floor. Last, “The Wild World of Entertainment”RIMS Industry Session will be a two-hour panel discussion on risks facing the entertainment industry. Moderated by Lance Ewing, the panelists include Anthony Avitabile of Major League Baseball, Tim East of the Walt Disney Company, Vincent Foderingham of Feld Entertainment and...

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Appealing to Fear

Insurance company defense teams must plan ahead to overcome plaintiff attorneys who use scare tactics to sway juries.

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Cotton Holdings Expands Leadership Team

August 31, 2016

Cotton Holdings, Inc. (“Cotton” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce Jeff Erler and Keith Benton have joined the Company as General Counsel and Health, Safety and Environmental ("HSE") Director, respectively.

Jeff Erler joined Cotton in June and brings 20 years of experience advising clients, including Cotton, in a variety of legal matters. His legal work has been recognized by his peers, having been repeatedly named a “Rising Star” and then “Super Lawyer” by Texas Monthly magazine – a distinction given to less than 5% of the lawyers in Texas. He has also been selected as a “Best Lawyer in Dallas” by D Magazine. Erler will be responsible for enterprise legal matters, including risk and litigation management, corporate governance and transactions.

Keith Benton joined Cotton in May after spending 15 years as HSE Manager for BP America Production Company. Benton, a Certified Safety Professional, will be responsible for maintaining Cotton’s commitment to providing a safe, efficient and environmentally sound workplace through the development, implementation, and...

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SCHOOL BOARD DECLARES EMERGENCY, HIRES DISASTER CLEAN-UP COMPANY

August 17, 2016

By Don Ellzey

A disaster clean-up company has been hired by the Tangipahoa Parish School Board to begin operations immediately to get Amite West Side Middle Magnet School suitable for the resumption of classes.

The school took on about 18 inches of water during the weekend’s flood.

In a hurriedly called special meeting of the board in Hammond Saturday morning at the law office of board President Brett Duncan, the group voted to declare the school situation an emergency and hire Cotton Global Disaster Solutions to begin the cleanup operation. By declaring an emergency, the board did not have to take bids.

The board hopes the work will be completed in time for classes Thursday.

Cotton Global is the same company that handled the cleanup of Hammond Eastside Elementary following a fire about three years ago. The board at that time was well pleased with the speed and efficiency by which the company completed the job.

At Amite West Side, the gym, office and a few classrooms were the only areas spared flood damage.

Another school...

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Mass Shooters and Workers’ Compensation Claims

By Lance J. Ewing

On March 27, 1981, in Washington, D.C., six bullets were fired in 1.7 seconds as President Ronald Reagan and his entourage left the Washington Hilton. The first bullet struck White House Press Secretary James Brady. The second struck District of Columbia policeman Thomas Delahanty. The third struck no one. The fourth bullet hit Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy, and the fifth bullet bounced off the waiting limo landing on the concrete walkway. The final bullet fired in those brief seconds rebounded off the limo striking President Reagan. A mass shooting takes very little time. Most mass shooting events are over in less than five minutes unless the shooter goes mobile. While the actual event is short-lived, the aftermath of such an incident takes much longer to recover from, including those where workers’ compensation is concerned. Recent events in Orlando, Dallas, and San Bernadino prove that mass shootings quickly are becoming more commonplace than ever, making preparation for them more critical. While there is no federal law specific to the...

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Executive VP of Global Risk

Former Risk Manager of the Year Joins Cotton’s Leadership Team

July 28, 2016

Cotton Holdings Inc. (“Cotton” or the “Company”), announced today that Lance Ewing, a former Vice President and Industry Practice Leader at American International Group (AIG), has joined the Company as Executive Vice President of Global Risk Management and Client Services. Prior to his role at AIG, Ewing headed Global Risk Management for Caesar’s Entertainment, served in various executive board and senior risk management positions, and was president of three insurance captives.

Ewing was appointed as National President for the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) 2003 – 2004 term and was also the Chief Risk Officer (CRO). A recipient of many esteemed industry awards, including being named Business Insurance’s Risk Manager of the Year in 2007 for his work during Hurricane Katrina, Ewing frequently speaks at insurance and risk management forums nationally and abroad. He was honored as the Real Estate Insurance Leader 2014 – 2015 by GlobeSt.com and is currently an active instructor for the National Alliance of Insurance Education.

"I have had the privilege to...

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Board of Directors

Cotton Holdings Elects Bobby Jindal to the Board of Directors

Cotton Holdings, Inc. (“Cotton” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce that it has added Bobby Jindal, the 55th Governor of the State of Louisiana, to the Board of Directors.

Mr. Jindal was elected as the nation’s youngest governor in 2007 and spent two terms as Louisiana’s chief executive officer to rebuild and diversify the state’s economy and financial footing in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Prior to serving as Governor, Mr. Jindal held positions as the head of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, President of the University of Louisiana System, Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Congressman, and Executive Director of the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicare. Beyond the public sector, Mr. Jindal previously advised senior management of Fortune 500 companies as an associate at McKinsey & Co.

"Having known and worked with Bobby over the past several years, I am very pleased to now have him join the Board as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Company," said Pete...

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Cotton Logistics Breaks Ground on OneLodge North Lake Workforce Housing Complex

June 8, 2016

Cotton Logistics celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony with the community today at its OneLodge North Lake development located at 516 Prater Road, at the intersection of Old Spanish Trail and Prater Road, Sulphur, LA 70669. Special guests in attendance included elected officials, members of the Chamber of Commerce and representatives from the McNeese State University Foundation, who accepted a donation from the Cotton Foundation in honor of David Conner and his many contributions to the Southwest Louisiana area and McNeese State University.

The OneLodge North Lake project represents a unique housing solution and is a culmination of two years of planning to create a facility which will serve as an anchor for temporary workforces. A study completed in 2015 commissioned by SWLA Economic Development Alliance and administered by CSRS., predicted the need for 20,000 temporary workers to support local industrial expansion projects. Recognizing the need to address the significant shortage of lodging for these workers migrating into the region, Cotton Logistics established a task...

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