Grassroots Outdoor Alliance has elected new board members and officers and announced that its twice-annual Connect show will relocate to Oklahoma City and Omaha starting in spring 2027.
Todd Frank, owner of The Trail Head in Missoula, Montana, returns to the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance board, this time as board chair. Joining Frank as a new board member is April Peterson, owner of River Rock Outfitter in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Peterson operates two retail locations in the historic Virginia city, adding East Coast perspective to the board’s geographic diversity.
“We’re excited to welcome Todd back to the board and April is an excellent addition as well,” said Gabe Maier, president of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance. “Both bring valuable insights from different parts of the country to our board, not to mention decades of retail experience in the outdoor industry.”
Charlie Wise, co-owner of The Mountaineer in Keene Valley, New York, continues as vice chair after serving in the role for the past year. His three years of board experience provide continuity during the leadership transition.
Ross Harris, co-owner of The Bear Mountain in Waco, Texas, moves into the treasurer position after one year on the board. Meanwhile, Tina Miller, whose Walkabout Outfitters operates six retail stores across Virginia, takes on secretary duties following two years of board service.
Connect Show Heads to New Markets
GOA’s Connect buying show will establish new roots in the Midwest starting in 2027. The spring edition will move from its current Reno location to Oklahoma City, while the fall show transitions from Kansas City to Omaha, Nebraska.
Both cities were selected for their central locations, quality convention facilities, and walkable downtown areas that serve the needs of retailers and manufacturers attending the trade events, according to a news release.
“Omaha and OKC are fantastic locations that offer great hotels and convention space, walkability of the surrounding area, and are centrally located,” Maier said. “Our team worked hard to determine these locations and they’re both going to suit the needs of our community well.”
June’s spring Connect show brought in 147 manufacturers and 141 retail businesses, with a total of 369 total buyers. These numbers align with recent years’ participation levels, the release said.
