For years, Lance & Associates has opened the doors of the log-cabin office on Hervey during the holiday season, establishing a merry tradition of hospitality simply to say "thank you" to the community. Today, that tradition continued in festive fashion as Lance & Associates Real Estate hosted its annual Christmas Community Coffee, welcoming friends, family, and neighbors for a morning of fellowship and delicious fare catered by Amigo Juan’s.
However, this year’s gathering held a deeper significance than usual. It was an event defined by the blending of two distinct sentiments: honoring a cherished past and celebrating a bright new future.
For Steve Lance, the event was a moment to pause and remember the legacy of his late wife, Cindy, who passed away in August. Cindy was a vital heartbeat of the Lance & Associates team and a beloved figure in Hope. Her presence was missed today, but her spirit was certainly felt as guests took time to view previous years’ Christmas cards displayed in her memory.
"For this year’s Coffee, I wanted to do two things: remember Cindy and promote Lindsey," Lance said, recognizing the emotional significance of the season. "We want to honor Cindy and acknowledge how much she meant to all of us; she is deeply missed. But we are also celebrating the future and a new beginning.”
That new beginning is the next step in the Lance & Associate’s story. Lindsey Townsend has officially assumed the role of Principal Broker, taking the helm on day-to-day operations, while Steve Lance has transitioned to Executive Broker. Townsend is no stranger to the values instilled in the company by Steve and Cindy. She recognizes that events like the Christmas Coffee are about more than just real estate; they are about maintaining the close-knit relationships that define doing business in Hempstead County. She expressed her gratitude for the heartfelt well-wishes she has received and made it clear she intends to not only keep these beloved traditions alive but to build on the strong foundation laid by Steve and Cindy.
"I was so pleased with the turnout we had at the Coffee today as well as the warm reception I have received from the community since I’ve assumed this new role," Townsend said. "I not only want to continue the traditions of Lance and Associates, but also build upon them so the company and our L&A family can thrive in the future."
Those sentiments expressed by Lance and Townsend appeared to be shared by the guests as well. Warm hugs and laughter circulated in the room as everyone joined the L&A team in sharing stories of the past plus their hopes for the future. With a full house and a cheerful atmosphere, this morning’s event proved that while titles may change, the heart of Lance & Associates, and its commitment to the people of Hope, remains as strong as ever.
