Elect Your New Chamber Leaders

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October 2012 2012 Board of Directors Chairman BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments First Vice Chair KURT PODESZWA Camp For All Second Vice Chair LIZ HOPKINS Hopkins Distributing and Stella Designs & Solutions Treasurer JIM BAKER Brenham Fitness Centers Secretary WENDY YATES Moorman Tate Urquhart Haley Upchurch & Yates Immediate Past Chair CATHY BOEKER Blinn College BARRY BRASS Parcel Plus Boo Christensen RE/MAX Advantage MARK PATRANELLA Blue Bell Creameries JARVIS VAN DYKE Van Dyke Rankin & Company JENNIFER BEAUDET Pure Elegance and Thrivent Financial Kerri Hamilton First Baptist Church School MIKE BAKER MIC Group DEBBIE HAVERS RR Donnelley DR. SHAWN KHAN Central Texas Eye Institute JOEL ROMO American Heart Association COY FONTENOT Kruse Village MICHAEL WATTS Brenham ISD — Brenham High School RENEE MUELLER Attorney at Law MICHAEL HAYWOOD Mission Brenham RICKY BOEKER City of Brenham-Fire Chief JUDI HOUSTON Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union

Elect Your New Chamber Leaders All Chamber members have been sent a ballot to elect new directors to the Chamber Board this month. Members vote to elect 7 new board members each year, and they each serve a three-year term. A nominating committee assigned by the Chairman of the Board developed the following list of candidates. Members have the option to write-in candidates on the ballot, if they choose. Nominees for the 2012 election include: Wesley Brinkmeyer Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Manager of Energy Programs In this position, Brinkmeyer serves all the members of the 14 county Bluebonnet electric service territory and its 60,000 plus members between Houston, Austin and San Antonio. A fifth-generation resident of Washington County, he received his BS degree from Texas A&M in 2006 and in 2010 was the youngest person in the nation to receive the Professional Community & Economic Developer certification. He has served on the Rural Economic Development Advisory Committee for the Association of Rural Communities in Texas, A.W. Hodde Technical Education Center, Junior Achievement, and is a graduate of Leadership Washington County. He is a past chair of Leadership Washington County Alumni Association, Junior Leadership, and is currently a director for the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County, a proud Rotary Member, active in the Washington County Young Professionals Organization, and at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Rehburg. He and his wife Aubrey live in Washington County with their one child, Avery. Dennis K. Crowson, Ph.D. Blinn College Vice President of Student Services Born in Port Lavaca, Texas but raised in Brenham, Crowson graduated from Brenham High School. He earned an Associates of Science degree from Blinn College, Bachelors Engineering Science degree from University of Texas at Austin, Masters in Business Administration from Sam Houston State University, and Ph.D. from University of Nebraska at Lincoln in Higher Education Administration. His experience includes 20-plus years in higher education. He is President of the Brenham chapter of Coastal Conservation Association, a Brenham Gun and Rod board member, Goodfellows volunteer, and Washington County Little League volunteer. His three children are: son Wiley (25), daughter Margaret (22), and daughter Alli (14). Michael Groves The Artex Group LLC - General Manager A native of Pittsburgh, Penn., Groves received his BS and MS in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from Virginia Tech. Michael met his wife Caroline while at

Virginia Tech. They have four children, Emma Kathryn (12th grade), Harper (9th grade), Carson Anne (6th grade) and Campbell (3rd grade). He spent 17 years with Longwood Industries. From 1998-2002 Michael was the

Plant Manager of the Longwood facility here in Brenham. In late 2006, he became President of Longwood, relocated to North CaroSee elect, Page 4

“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” washington county’s favorite networking event Hosted by:

Brenham Clinic

Paint the Town Pink and show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Hasskarl-Giddings Imaging Center 693 North Market Street, Brenham

Thursday, Oct. 25, 5-7 p.m. Attend for great networking and refreshments. Bring plenty of business cards and enter for door prize drawings. Free for Chamber members and employees. Beverages provided by Mike Hopkins Distributing. Learn more about Brenham Clinic at www.BrenhamClinic.com

Page 2 Chamber Works October 2012

Ribbon Cuttings

Brazos Valley Maize - Grand Opening

Adam’s Angels Ministry - New Location

Owner: J. Free 3063 Salem Rd., Brenham Phone: (979) 217-2005

Tim & Donna Culliver 2501 S. Market St., Brenham Phone: (979) 836-0955

Premier Metal Buyers - New Location Grand Opening Owner: Blake Brannon 1555 Hwy. 36 N., Brenham Phone: (979) 830-9060

Sell to Brenham ISD on the ‘Buy Board’ Since the bond election passed for Brenham ISD and new construction projects will be beginning this school year, there will be new opportunities for local businesses to sell goods to the school district. In order to take advantage of those opportunities, businesses need to sign up on the “Buy Board,” an online tool to help school districts make large purchases. Interested? Here’s what you need

to know: go online to www.TASB. com. On the bottom of that website in the red area, in the far right column, click on “Buy Board.” When the Buy Board login page appears, in the top right click on the link for “Vendor Info.” In the middle section of the next page that appears, you will see a link to “New Vendor FAQ.” That is where you can have all of your questions answered and find out how to get started.

Once you’re ready, click on the “New Supplier/Vendor Registration” link on the top right of that page. From vehicles to industrial parts to office furniture, there are many goods that businesses in Washington County may be able to sell to Brenham ISD and other school districts throughout the state. The “Buy Board” streamlines the process and provides highly detailed purchasing information and schedules.

BLUE BLAZER OF THE MONTH Blue Blazers Jolene Curtis Texas AgFinance

EDDIE HARRISON Individual Member

SUE MUZZY Mike Hopkins Distributing Co.

Tiffany Compton-Falk Hodde Real Estate Company

James Janik Texas Farm Bureau Insurance

Linda Pipes Individual Member

JOYCE DICKSCHAT Brenham National Bank

Tammy Jaster City of BrenhamBlue Bell Aquatic Center

Christy Schlottmann Express Employment Professionals

FLORENCE JULIAN Blue Bell Creameries

JULIE TIEMANN Thrivent Financial

BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments

RANDY WEIDEMANN Van Dyke Rankin & Company

JOHANNA FATHEREE RE/MAX Advantage Pam Green RE/MAX Advantage

October 2012

Pam Green

The Blue Blazers are a group of 15 volunteers who act as official greeters and hosts of our community. Their objectives include promoting Chamber programs and increasing membership, and conducting ribbon cuttings and special ceremonies for local businesses. The Chamber thanks these volunteers for their service and hospitality, and also their employers for allowing them the time to dedicate to the organization. A “Blue Blazer of the Month” is recognized at each club meeting for the highest total of achievements the prior month.

Republican Party Headquarters - New Location Contact: Pat Elliot 1406 S. Market St., Brenham Phone: (979) 830-8507

Washington County Chamber of Commerce Page Michel, President & CEO Jane Hinze, Member Services Manager Lu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Manager Jenny Mills, Visitor Center Manager Megan McCoy, Communication Coordinator Judy Hyman, Group Mktg. & Services Coor. Emily Sander, Visitor Center Assistant Cheryl Sevin, Bookkeeper Support Staff: Marge Runge, Lanette Pledger and Jeanine Presswood.

Chamber Works October 2012 Page 3

New Blue Blazer —

James Janik

Raised in Colorado County, Janik moved to Brenham in 1993 to attend Blinn College. After receiving an Associate in Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 1995, he spent several years working in the oil and gas industry. Then opportunity knocked in 1999 when he was offered an appointment to Texas Farm Bureau Insurance, where he has been serving people in Washington County ever since. He has been a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors since 2000. He served the Central Texas Association as Brenham Satellite President for 2003-04, and obtained his Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow designation in 2007. He has also been a member of the Brenham Fire Department since 2000, where he served as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer in 2008 and 2009. He is a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, and in December will celebrate 14 years of marriage to his wife and best friend, Shelley. They have two children: Hayley (11) and Zachary (6). In his spare time, James enjoys spending time with family and friends and working outdoors, camping at the lake, recreational shooting, and competing in barbecue cookoffs.

Chairman’s Circle Members Recognized The Washington County Chamber is proud to recognize the four members of the 2012 Chairman’s Circle. Pictured above left are representatives in front of the new Chairman’s Circle sign inside the Chamber Conference Room. They are (left to right) David Aguilar from Republic Services, Tee Dippel from Brenham National Bank, and Gracie Slattery from Brenham Clinic. On the right is Jason Jennings from Scott & White Healthcare with Brice Milliorn, Chamber Board Chairman, and Page Michel, Chamber president.

Benefits of the Chairman’s Circle include prestigious recognition at all Chamber events, sponsorship of the Annual Banquet and exclusive exhibit/display space, sponsorship of Leadership Washington County, the annual Board of Directors Planning Retreat, and the Staff Continuing Education program, logo space in newsletters, enews and the Washington County Magazine, invitations to exclusive events with local leaders and elected officials, and more. Please join us in thanking these businesses and organizations for their com-

2013 Chamber Magazine now in progress The award-winning “Picture Perfect” Washington County Magazine includes a Business Directory with all 775+ members listed, plus community data, articles about local history, agriculture, education, real estate, healthcare and more. Free copies are available to everyone inside the Chamber’s main office and the Visitor Center, plus at many area businesses. Production of the 2013 magazine is now beginning. All members have been sent details about this valuable advertising opportunity (sent by mail to the primary representative at each organization). You can also view details on the Chamber website under “Chamber Information” then “About Us.”

This is the number one relocation guide for Washington County. It is the “key publication” to be included in if you want to promote your products or services to visiting and relocating individuals and businesses, with the additional benefit of reaching all 775+ members of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Plan now to be part of the 2013 “Picture Perfect” Washington County Magazine, and you’ll be sure to reach local leaders, business decision-makers, new professionals and families moving to town, existing residents, schools and civic groups with information to promote your business.

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

of Brenham Bluebonnet Electric

Metropolitan Water Company, L.P.

mitment to the Chamber as the entity that unifies the public spirit of this community and directs it into constructive channels. The Chamber provides the medium through which members can take effective action for the progress of this community. Members elect to be in the Chairman’s Circle through voluntary contributions at a higher dues level. For more information about the benefits of this membership level, please contact Chamber President Page Michel at 979-836-3695 or page@ brenhamtexas.com.

Brenham

Page 4 Chamber Works October 2012

Customer Service Excellence Workshop Wednesday, Oct. 24 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Blinn College Student Center

This lively, practical and informative course focuses on what you and your staff can do to ensure your approach is truly client driven, and understanding what your customers value, want and need. Implementing excellent customer service results in strong relationships and healthy profits for your company. Presented by Alysia Cook, Senior Economic Development Specialist at LCRA, this training will give you and your staff more than just the foundation for providing good customer service. It will provide the motivation, desire and ownership to satisfy your customers with excellence. Take advantage of this opportunity to improve service quality, enhance business relationships and increase the value of your customer base. Benefits for you and your organization: * Make a positive impression on customers and colleagues * Prepare to meet new clients effectively * Build effective long-term business relationships * Uncover what is important to your clients and colleagues * Acquire powerful new skills for better understanding other people’s perspectives * Improved customer service resulting in increased business results Cost Per Person: $20 for Chamber Members ($28 Non Members). Lunch will be provided. Seating is limited. Please contact Megan McCoy to reserve your seat(s). (979) 836-3695 or [email protected]

Did You Know? Members, promote your events and business for free in the “Hot Deals” section and “Calendar” on the Chamber website!

New Chamber Members CAFÉ’ IN THE GARDEN Owner: Elizabeth C Bordwell 110 W Main Street (Physical Address) Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-9827 [email protected] www.cafeinthegarden.net Restaurant

RE/MAX ADVANTAGE/ CARI KARASEK Agent: Cari Karasek 110 East Alamo Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-451-0593 [email protected] www.advantagebrenham.com Real Estate

CORNER LIQUOR STORE Owners: Rick & Carol Hutchens 210 South Park Street Downtown Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-3218 [email protected] Liquor Store

TEXAS FARM BUREAU INSURANCE/ JAMES JANIK, LUTCF Agent: James Janik 1703 E. Tom Green Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-830-3877 [email protected] Insurance

LAW OFFICE OF CAROLE ANNE CHAMBERLAIN Owner: Carole Anne Chamberlain River Oaks Tower (Physical Address) 3730 Kirby Drive Houston, Texas 77098 [email protected] www.willsattorneychamberlain.com Attorney

WASHINGTON COUNTY INSURANCE AGENCY Owner: Jeffrey “Mart” Neal 2544 Ryan Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-251-7771 [email protected] www.washingtoncountyinsuranceLLC.com Insurance

MILL CREEK MARKET Owner: Chip Leach 4175 Hwy 36 North (Physical Address) Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-1784 Convenience Store

www.brenhamtexas.com

Renewing Chamber Members

September 1-30 Thanks to the following members for continuing your investment in the Chamber. You are long-term “partners” in our mission to promote and preserve this great community, and we appreciate your confidence in the Chamber’s ability to promote your business. AAA Self Storage - Brenham — 5 years Dia - L - Ran Inc. — 2 years Glissmann’s Gift Gallery — 1 year Heritage Society of Washington County — 31 years Lynne L. Holder, Attorney At Law — 9years

Karen’s Skin Secrets & Med Spa — 1 year M & C Equipment — 23 years Roger’s Tree Service — 4 years Beth A. Rothermel, Washington County Clerk — 14 years Sandy Hill Cabinet — 2 years

Elect

(Continued from Page 1) lina, and was named CEO in the spring of 2007. In November of 2010, Michael’s old friend Steve Wilson offered him an opportunity to return to Texas as General Manager of Artex in Brenham, and he readily accepted. Michael is on the Vestry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and serves as Finance Chair. He is a member of Washington County Rotary Club. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and during the Fall keeping stats for the Brenham Cubs. Corey Harmon Chase Investment Services Corp. - Financial Advisor Harmon was born and raised in Port Neches, Texas, by parents Dale and Susie Harmon who have been married 35 years and still live in the house he grew up in. He has a younger brother Caleb, who is currently the starting running

back for Lamar University. He graduated from Port Neches-Groves High school, received a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas State University, and a certificate of completion of the Financial Planning Program from Texas State University. He currently holds a securities series 7, 63, and 65 licenses. He also holds a Life and Health Insurance license. He has 10 years of combined banking and investment experience, and specializes in complete financial planning. He is currently the membership director for the YPO of Washington County and a member of the Brenham Rotary Club. Ash Patel Best Western Inn-Brenham - Owner Ash Patel has been in the lodging and tourism industry in Brenham/Washington County for over a decade. He is a family man devoted to his wife and two

children. Ash enjoys being active and is an avid cyclist. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of Washington County since 2006 and is a volunteer at Camp for All. Gracie Slattery Brenham Clinic — Administrator Slattery joined the Brenham Clinic staff over 15 years ago, and in 2002 became the Administrator with 38 years experience serving as a Registered Nurse. She has been a resident of Washington County for 22 years, currently residing in Chappell Hill. She previously served on the Chamber Board from 2004-06 and in 2006 was Chairman of the Board of Directors. She was a founder and is a current member of MAP (Medical Assistance Program) in Washington County. She is on the Advisory Board for Blinn See elect, Page 7

Chamber Works October 2012 Page 5

Leadership 2013 ... Team Building September marked the second session of learning experiences for the 2013 Leadership Washington County participants. Kurt Podeszwa led a Team Building Retreat held at Camp For All. The group completed several physically and mentally challenging activities. Some of the activities included navigating a maze while blindfolded, following “Captain Kurt’s” orders on his imaginary ship, flipping a tarp while 24 people are standing on it, and other various small and large group exercises. The morning’s challenges brought out leadership skills and traits that some participants didn’t even know they had. They discovered new ways to

work effectively in groups and on their own. The afternoon session focused on the traits of Leading Leaders and the importance of effective communication. Kurt reminded them that, “People pay more attention to what you do than what you say,” and encouraged the class to focus on what they are doing each day, how they communicate, and what example they want to set. Camp Director Kurt Podeszwa, shared the mission and history behind Camp For All, which hosts over more than 7,000 campers annually, and also described the many volunteer opportunities that ex-

“Motorcycle” Mike and Chad “the Dad” prepare for the blindfolded maze challenge.

ist there daily. The day concluded with a walking tour of the camp grounds. This amazing state-of-the-art facility is completely barrier-free. There are no stairs, all bathrooms and shower stalls are wheelchair accessible and sidewalks are concrete and wide enough for two wheelchairs. There is even a tree house that was specially designed so that everyone can reach the treetops, regardless of their challenge! A world unto itself, Camp For All was designed with a “can do” attitude. At Camp For All, children and adults with special needs and challenging illnesses have the opportunity to experience horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, archery, water ac-

Participants navigate through the maze searching for the exit.

tivities, team sports, arts and crafts, nature programs, and much more at their own level. Among the many different animals they have are camp mascots “Forest,” the African Spurred Tortoise, and “Spot,” the blind and deaf horse. Special thanks to Kurt Podeszwa and Camp For All for allowing the use of its facility for the LWC Team Building session. The Leadership program is made possible by the generous sponsorship of our Chairman’s Circle members: Brenham Clinic, Brenham National Bank, Republic Services, and Scott & White Healthcare. The program runs through May 2013. Next year’s class will form in June/July, 2013.

The class really had to focus on Captain Kurt’s orders while on his imaginary ship.

During the afternoon session Kurt helped the class understand that what you see is not always what is there. The tarp exercise was the hardest of the day, but through teamwork and communication (and several failing attempts) the class finally succeeded!

The High Trust Fall lives up to its name – participants had to fully trust their classmates to catch them as they fell backwards.

On tour with Camp Director Kurt Podeszwa.

Forest the Tortoise, one of Camp For All’s mascots.

Check Out the Hot Deals Online! Chamber members post “Hot Deals” on the Chamber website, with special offers on goods and services. Check out the latest deals at www.BrenhamTexas.com. Just look for the Hot Deals icon on the home page!

Page 6 Chamber Works October 2012

Antique Car Tour comes to Brenham

Tourism News

October 21-26, 2012 will find 192 vintage cars (and their owners) visiting and touring the Brenham/Washington County area. The Veteran Motor Car Club of America (VMCCA) is proud to present the national 2012 AAA Revival Glidden Tour — “The Great Texas Trail Drive.” Some 430 car owners and passengers from all parts of the U.S. will headquarter in Brenham for six days and nights, driving their cars (all older than 1942) around the surrounding area as they participate in daily driving tours. These antique cars travel pre-determined routes, stopping in local towns to show off their vehicles; sometimes the drivers wear period costumes. The five days of touring feature the following destinations: Monday, Oct. 22 — Lake Somerville and Bryan/College Station Tuesday, Oct. 23 — Burton Cotton Gin, Carmine and Round Top Wednesday, Oct. 24 — Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site and Navasota Thursday, Oct. 25 — New Ulm, Sealy Tractor Company and Brookwood Village Friday, Oct. 26 — Historic downtown Brenham, Fireman’s Park, Blue Bell Creameries, Bellville and Independence Special events for the group include a chuck wagon supper and mini-rodeo at the Washington County Fairgrounds Monday night, a special performance of the Bluebonnet Opry Wednesday night, Model T assembly at the Fairgrounds Thursday morning and closing banquet at the Fairgrounds Friday evening. The public is invited to visit any of the tour stops throughout the week. AAA Glidden Tours began in the early 1900s as a means of drawing attention to the condition of the road system of that era (which wasn’t designed for the horseless carriage). Automobile manufacturers began to participate in these road rallies to test their new models. During World War II, the rallies were dropped and then revived by the VMCCA to continue the antique car tours. The coveted Glidden trophy is still presented to the winner of the annual national event although the treacherous travel of the early tours is rarely, if ever, encountered today. “The purpose of the Veteran Motor Car Club of America (VMCCA) is to encourage preservation, restoration and use of antique and historically significant automobiles. This is not a military veteran’s organization; the veterans in our name are the cars, not people. Our specialty is touring events, where we drive our cars to interesting places, meeting new people and visiting old friends along the way. We have fun while everyone gets to see, hear and enjoy

Working for YOU! As a Chamber member, your promotional information is seen by thousands of people every month.

WALK-IN’S Visitor Center HQ Building

September 2012 — 338

September 2012 — 767

WEBSITE www.BrenhamTexas.com Unique Visitors Total Pages

September 2012 — 7,346

September 2012 — 14,800

WEBSITE www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com Total Pages Unique Visitors

September 2012 — 4,061

September 2012 — 4,996

old cars driving on our highways.” From the organization’s website, www.vmcca.org. The AAA group will be staying in at least four of the local hotels, with some traveling via motor homes. Keep in mind that a typical traveler in Texas spends about $108 per day — times 400-plus Glidden people — times six days equals a significant economic impact for our area. The CVB is excited to welcome this group to the area and encourages everyone to welcome these visitors and enjoy their wonderfully restored cars.

Multi-tasking phenomenon: Smart phones provide help while on the go to navigate a destination or check flight schedules. Tablets are used more for comparison shopping, checking hotel rates and booking. “Eyeballs” for travelers include TripAdvisor or Expedia. (52 percent of all active travelers visited Expedia within the past 12 months; however, less than 5 percent then converted to a purchase.) In the travel decision process, first-time visitors use both online and off-line media (TV, magazines and travel brochures) while the last-minute traveler visits sites such as TripAdvisor or Expedia. Texas travel statistics: Texas is the third most visited state. Mexico is the largest international market. Canada (Ontario and Alberta) is the second largest tourism market. Europe, with the U.K. leading, is the third largest market.

Front Line Workers

The Crandalls, Jamie (in car) and Pat (on horseback), are the coordinators of the national AAA Glidden Tour.

Texas Travel Industry Association tidbits

Employees are so important to our local attractions, restaurants, shops and businesses. Not just in the tourism industry, but everywhere. Turnover costs employers big bucks and it hurts the delivery of good customer service. Business owners/managers might find the following questions revealing. They are questions any employer should ask to determine employee satisfaction and strive to retain quality employees to help the business achieve its goals. Does the employee know what is expected? Does the employee have the materials/equipment to do the job? Do employees have the opportunity to do what they do best every day? Have they received recognition in the past seven days? Does leadership encourage the employee’s development? Does the employee’s opinion count? Does the mission make the employee feel important? Are co-workers committed to quality work? In the past six months, has the manager talked to the employee about progress (strengths, goals, objectives)? Have employees had the opportunity to learn and grow this past year (training including webinars, additional responsibilities)?

Revolutionary Ghost Stories At the recent Texas Travel Industry Association conference, several dynamic speakers shared a great deal of valuable travel-related information with more than 400 attendees, including CVB Advertising/Public Relations Manager Lu Hollander. Within that outpouring of data, the following trends and related information are of interest. General Travel Behavior: Travel with children is gradually increasing. Multi-generational travel is at 23 percent (grandparents, parents, children). Celebration vacations are popular — life events such as reunions, weddings, milestone birthdays and anniversaries. This type of travel is planned further in advance, more money is spent, the stay is longer and more people come along. For a last-minute trip, the average planning time is six days in advance. Flash sales offered by hotels are appealing. Over 60 percent of travelers cite input from family and friends as a primary source of information when selecting vacation sites. Desirable vacation attributes: Safety, time to relax, scenery, a new destination.

As Halloween approaches, plan to head to Washington-on-the-Brazos for a look at things that go bump in the night. Learn stories that warn, teach, scare and delight. Presentations to be held at 11am, 1pm, 3pm. Tickets are $5/adult, $3/student. Held at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. For more information, call 936-8782214x 228 or visit online: www.birthplaceoftexas.com.

Unity Theatre presents “Nixon’s Nixon”

Don’t miss this Studio Series performance at Unity Theatre, from Oct. 25 through Nov. 4. One night before President Nixon announces his resignation, he summons Secretary of State Henry Kissinger to the Lincoln Sitting Room, where they re-enact scenes of their political triumphs and ultimately devise a dizzying and doomed plot to keep Nixon in office. Performances held on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, and on Sunday at 4pm. Unity Theatre is located at 300 Church Street in Downtown Brenham. Call for reservations: 979830-8358,www.unitybrenham.org.

Elect

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College’s LVN program and Board of Directors for the Washington County Boys and Girls Club. She is also a member of St Mary’s Catholic Church in Brenham. She has been married to husband, Doug, for 35 years and has two sons. Drew, 25, is a graduate of Tarleton State University and at this time serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia, Africa. Will, 23, is a graduate of the University of Dallas and presently lives and works in the Dallas area. Tiffany Winkles Blue Bell Creameries - Visitor Center Director Born and raised in Missouri City, and a graduate of Elkins High School, Winkles attended Texas A&M University and graduated with a BS in Agricultural Development. She has been in the food industry since 2005 and has experience as a production supervisor, quality control supervisor, and currently serves as Visitor Center Director at Blue Bell. She lived in Tennessee for six years then moved to Chappell Hill

3pm, $5/adult, $3/student, Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214, x 228, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Oct 23, 25 Intermediate MS Excel Class Learn tips, tricks and hidden features of MS Excel, Tue & Thu night, 6-8pm, free, Blinn Hodde Tech Center (979-830-4484, [email protected]). Oct 23 Harvest Festival, Country Store and Turkey Dinner Free event, $9 turkey dinner, tickets sold in advance, 8am-7pm, First Methodist Church Activity Center, corner of Baylor and Academy. Mission Brenham Dessert Fundraiser Hosted at Brenham Presbyterian Church from 6:30-8pm, 900 S. Jackson St, (www. missionbrenham.org, htownpreacher@att. net). Oct 24 Ribbon Cutting – Bluebonnet Electric Service Center Grand opening of new service center, 2601 Longwood Dr. in the Southwest Industrial Park, Brenham, 4pm. Oct 25-Nov 4 Unity Theatre presents “Nixon’s Nixon” Performances Thurs 7:30pm, Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 4pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Downtown Brenham (979-830-8358, www. unitybrenham.org). Oct 25 Business After Hours Brenham Clinic, Hasskarl-Giddings Imaging Center, 600 N. Park St., 5-7pm.. Oct 26-27 Highway 36 Art Trail Travel along our 55 mile art trail over 4 counties, includes ceramics, pottery, stained glass, bronze, pastel, oil, watercolor and photography, plus a theatre performance and music show, Fri 12-5pm, Sat 9am-5pm (www.artsatthelake.org).

Chamber Works October 2012 Page 7

to be closer to family. She loves to spend time with family and has three nieces and a nephew who are very involved in sports, band and 4H. She attends Grace Community Fellowship in Brenham. She is Vice President of the Washington County A&M Club, a member of the Young Professionals of Washington County, a Sunday school teacher and active in Bible studies with her church. ——— Following this election, as of January 2013, the remainder of the Chamber Board will include: Immediate Past Chair: Brice Milliorn — Edward Jones Investments Directors — terms expire December 2013: Jim Baker — Brenham Fitness Centers Jennifer Beaudet — Pure Elegance and Thrivent Financial Barry Brass — Kwik Kopy Business Center

Kerri Hamilton — First Baptist Church School Debbie Havers — RR Donnelley Dr. Shawn Khan — Central Texas Eye Institute Joel Romo — American Heart Association Directors — terms expire December 2014: Ricky Boeker — City of Brenham-Fire Chief Coy Fontenot — Kruse Village Michael Haywood — Mission Brenham Liz Hopkins — Stella Designs and Hopkins Dist. Judi Houston — Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Renee Mueller — County Attorney Michael Watts — Brenham ISD-Brenham High School ——— The election ballot is mailed to the primary representative of each Chamber member business/organization. Please call the Chamber office if you do not receive a ballot by October 15.

Calendar

(Continued from Page 8) Oct 31 Oct 27-28 Community-Wide Fall Festival Smithing in Texas The Houston Area Blacksmith Associa- Family-friendly alternative for Oct 31st, tion demonstrates the age-old craft of met- with carnival-type games and door prizes, alworking, with blazing hot steel formed separate pre-school area, 5:30-8:30pm, into beautiful and useful objects, 10am- free, Washington County Fairgrounds. 4:30pm, Barrington Living History Farm at Washington-on-the-Brazos (936-8782214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Oct 27 Music in the Park Free live music with Rock of Ages featuring Payton Kelm, 8-10pm, Dietrich Memorial Amphitheatre in Hohlt Park, Brenham. Oct 27 Music Makes a Celebration Discover the music that inspired celebration and recreation in 19th century Texas with the Roseville Fair Old Time String Band, 11am-3pm, $4/adults, $2/students, Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site, 579 Main St., Anderson (936-878-2214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Oct 28-Nov 4 Quilt Exhibit Part of the Winedale Historic Quilt Collection, available for research and study, exhibit runs thru Nov 4, Winedale Historical Complex, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (979278-3530, www.cah.utexas.edu). Oct 29 CASA Golf Tourney 18 holes of golf at exclusive member-only golf course, fees include golf, cart, lunch, goodie bag and awards, proceeds support advocates and training for abused and neglected children, registration 11:30am, lunch 12pm, shotgun start 1pm, $125/per person, $500/per team, Houston Oaks Country Club, 22602 Hegar Rd., Hockley (979-277-0088, www.wespeak4kids.org). Oct 30, Nov 1 Intermediate MS Access Class Learn tips, tricks and hidden features of MS Access, Tue & Thu night, 6-8pm, free, Blinn Hodde Tech Center (979-830-4484, [email protected]).

November highlights…

Nov 2 Business After Hours Hosted by Brenham Abstract Co. with a tailgate theme, 105 W. Alamo, Downtown Brenham, 4:30-7pm. Nov 8 Candlelit Christmas “Doorway into the Christmas Season” women’s dinner event, 5pm, St. Mary’s Church PAC (979-836-1488). Nov 10 Chappell Hill Chamber Banquet Banquet entertainment by Chris Austin Martinez, guest speaker Rep. Lois Kolkhorst, silent and live auction, dinner and appetizers from Design II, 6pm, Lillian Farms Bed & Breakfast (joel_romo34@ yahoo.com). Handbell Concert 80-plus handbell ringers perform music to “ring in the seasons” of Thanksgiving and Christmas, free, 7pm, St. Mary’s PAC (979-277-9663, [email protected]). Nov 13 Ladies Night Out See the latest trends in gourmet foods, kitchenware, home deco and gifts, with demonstrations and door prizes, 7-9pm, free, Allied Ace Hardware/The Gallery, 307 N. Austin Pkwy., Brenham (www. acehardwarebrenham.com). Nov 15-18 “Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs” Having been disposed of by the queen, Snow White finds her way to the home of 7

friendly dwarfs, but can they save her from the wicked queen? Thurs-Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm, O’Donnell Performing Arts Center, Blinn College (979-830-4024, http://www. blinn.edu/odonnell/). Nov 15 Networking Breakfast Networking event, 7:45 am, hosted at the All Sports Building at Hohlt Park, Brenham.

Afternoon Tea Back by popular demand, Toody Byrd returns for an afternoon of storytelling ranging from school stories to stress management to parenting, grandparenting and great-grandparenting, tea and cookies provided, $15 tickets can be purchased on-line, 4pm, Blinn Student Center Banquet Room, Brenham (www. lifetimelearningbrenham.org).

Nov 17-18 22nd Annual Poinsettia Celebration Beautiful plants, breathtaking poinsettias in different colors and sizes, plant seminars, Poinsettia Christmas tree, entertainment and food, 10am-4pm, Ellison’s Greenhouses, 2107 E. Stone, Brenham (979-836-6011, www.ellisonsgreenhouses.com).

Holiday Home Tour and Trunk Show Heritage Belles in period dress guide guests through historic homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, plus the Trunk Show with holiday shopping from a variety of vendors, $15, Giddings Stone Mansion, 2203 Century Circle, Brenham (979-8361690, www.giddingsstonemansion.com).

Nov 30 Downtown Brenham’s Christmas Stroll & Lighted Parade Enjoy spiced tea or hot cider, entertainment and holiday shopping as you stroll along the beautifully lighted streets of historic Downtown Brenham. Don’t miss the Gingerbread Tour of Homes, live entertainment and Farmer’s Market, plus the downtown lighted parade brings Santa to the square at 6pm, free admission and free parking, 59pm, Downtown Brenham (979-836-3339, www.downtownbrenham.com).

Page 8 Chamber Works October 2012

What’s Happening in October

Oct 11, 18, 25 Home School Days Discover what life was like for a child in the mid-19th century with “Childhood in Early Texas,” reservations & pre-payment required, Thursdays in October, 11am-3pm, $6/adults, $8/child, Washington-on-theBrazos State Historic Site (936-878-2461 x236, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Oct 11 Ribbon Cutting - Jesse Hicks Pecans Hosted at the Chamber office. 314 S. Austin St., Brenham, 4:00pm. Big Read 2012 Charles Porter, History Professor, St. Edwards University will discuss Elmer Kelton and his book, “The Time It Never Rained,” a story of the 1950s drought, plus Unity Theater actors will read portions of the book, 6-9pm, free, open to public, Unity Theatre, Downtown Brenham (www.lifetimelearningbrenham.org). Young Professionals Happy Hour YPO happy hour at Coconuts Tiki Hut at Sealand Seafood and Steak, 2100 Hwy 290, Brenham, 5:30-7:30pm (youngpros@ brenhamtexas.com). St. Paul’s Christian Day School Annual Fundraiser BBQ Sausage on a bun dinner with all the trimmings. Dine-in 5-8:30pm, drive-Thru 4:30-7:30pm, Tickets $7, held at the Washington County Fairgrounds (979-836-4115). Oct 12-Nov 23 Brazos Valley Maize “Get Lost” in the corn maize, and enjoy the pumpkin patch and family friendly activities, Fri 5-9pm, Sat 10-9pm, Sun 1-7pm, 3063 Salem Rd., Brenham, $6-10 per person, visit www.brazosvalleymaize.com. Oct 12 Brenham Cubs Away Game Brenham vs. Montgomery, 7:30pm Oct 13, 20, 27 Brenham Farmers Market From 8am-12p, just off the square in Downtown Brenham, 307 S. Park, free (vendors call 979-836-9466). Oct 13 Music in the Park Free live music with Cody Hodges and the Linemen, 8-10pm, Dietrich Memorial Amphitheatre in Hohlt Park, Brenham.

Oct 13-14 Scarecrow Festival Enjoy the magical land of scarecrows and a pumpkin patch with juried vendors, children’s activities, live music, food and more, plus scarecrow exhibits all over the county, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun noon-5pm, Downtown Chappell Hill (www.chappellhillmuseum.org). Oct 13 Lone Star Water Forum Climatology, surface water, ground water and more during this forum entitled “The Science and Politics of Water,” lunch and door prizes, 8:30am-4pm, $35, Washington County Fairgrounds Event Center (www. wcwildlife.org). Demolition Derby A smashing good time with cars, clowns, face painting, souvenirs, food and prizes, hosted by the Rotary Club of Washington County, $10 adults, $5 12&under, 5pm, Washington County Fairgrounds, 1305 E. Blue Bell Rd, Brenham (979-836-5401, www.wcrotaryclub.org). Sigma Chi Chi 50th Anniversary Celebrating 50 years of service to Brenham and Washington County, guest speaker Patricia Hogan Williams, $20, proceeds benefit the scholarship fund, 6pm, New Life Church of God Family Center, 1990 FM 389 (979-836-7753). Oct 15-27 Free Scrap Tire Collection Limit 8 tires per household, 20” or smaller, no charge, for Washington County residents, proof of residency required, M-F 8am-5pm, Sat 8am-4pm, Citizens Collection Station, 2009 Old Chappell Hill Rd., Brenham (979-337-7455). Oct 16, 18 Intermediate MS Word Class Learn tips, tricks and hidden features of MS Word, Tue & Thu night, 6-8pm, free, Blinn Hodde Center (979-830-4484, jerry. [email protected]). Oct 16 Monthly Grief Luncheon Join others who have experienced the death of a loved one, learn healthy grieving methods, share how grief affects you and what helps during this monthly potluck luncheon, bring a covered dish, beverages provided, 3rd Tuesday of the month, 11am1pm, free, please RSVP (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.org).

Ribbon Cutting – Republic State Mortgage Michelle Jackson-owner, 2542 Ryan St., Brenham, 4pm. Spaghetti Supper Benefits Brenham Pilot Club, 4:30-6:30pm, $8/plate, drive-thru only, Brenham VFW Hall (979-836-7504, 979-277-5559). Oct 17 Pet Wellness Wednesday Specials on select products and services, discounts on vaccinations, 3rd Weds of every month, call for appointment or dropoff, 8am-5pm, Creekside Veterinary Service (979-836-6519). Oct 18 Camp for All Fundraiser “Life’s a Dance” with cocktails, dancing, appetizers and dinner by Funky Art Café and Design II, plus auction and raff le, 6pm, Washington County Fairgrounds Event Center, 1305 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (713-686-5666, [email protected]). Senior Citizen Discount Day Receive a 15% discount on all wellness, vaccinations, dental, spays/neuters, for pet owners over 50, call for appointment, held the 3rd Thursday of every month, Brenham Veterinary Hospital (979-836-2472, www. brenhamvethospital.com). Ribbon Cutting – Hermann General Store Grand Re-Opening/Expansion, 213 W. Alamo, Downtown Brenham, 4pm. Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Food and music every 3rd Thursday of the month, food 6pm, show 7:30pm, $5 admission benefits Hospice, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979836-4347). Shrimporee 2012 Annual fundraiser and banquet for Washington County Peace Officers Association, Fireman’s Training Center, 6pm. Oct 19 Brenham Cubs Homecoming Game Brenham vs Rudder, 7:30pm, Cub Stadium. Oct 20 Heritage Festival Storytellers, fish pond, art and essay contest, Buffalo Soldiers, carousel rides, book

sale, and more, 9am-1pm, Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library and Fireman’s Park (979-836-3120).

KIDFISH 2012 City of Brenham Blue Bell Aquatic Center hosts the 6th Annual KIDFISH!! Free admission, participants please bring 2 canned goods to be donated to Bread Partners, 9am-1pm ([email protected], www.cityofbrenham.org )

Burying the Dead Learn the funerary customs of the Republic of Texas with a special look at the Washington Cemetery, presentations at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, Adults $5, Students $3, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214 x 224, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).

Chamber Orchestra Kremlin & Pianist James Dick Performance by Orchestra Kremlin with pianist James Dick, 3pm, $30/adults, $10/ students, reception after concert at Menke House, followed by dinner for $50.70 (tax & service included), Round Top Festival Institute, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). Oct 20 Music in the Park Free live music with Party Foul, 8-10pm, Dietrich Memorial Amphitheatre in Hohlt Park, Brenham.

Astronomy Day Star Party Bring your telescope or use one of ours to view the stars, planets and constellations, bring a picnic, or enjoy snacks for sale, 6pm, Winedale Historical Complex, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (winedale@austin. utexas.edu). Barn Dance and Dinner Gala Catered dinner, beverages, live auction, door prizes, entertainment and dancing with the Bret Graham Band, $50 per person, benefits the Texas Cotton Gin Museum, 6pm, LaBahia Hall, 550 TX Hwy 237, Burton (979-289-3378, www. cottonginmuseum.org).

Oct 21 Revolutionary Ghost Stories Join us for a look at things that go bump in the night, learn stories that warn, teach, scare and delight, presentations at 11am, 1pm, See Calendar, Page 7