March 2010

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March 2010 2010 Board of Directors Chairwoman JULIE RENKEN Washington County Attorney First Vice Chair CATHY BOEKER Blinn College Second Vice Chair BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments Treasurer TREY HARDY Germania Insurance Secretary MIKE BAKER MIC Group Immediate Past Chair BARNEY LOESCH Thrivent Financial for Lutherans CHRIS BREWSTER Brewster LLC MELINDA FAUBION Boo Dog Design Group LESLIE HARRELL Brenham Abstract & Title Co. KAREN MORGAN Brenham Clinic Association LETE PHILLIPS Lete Phillips Exercise Studio GLENWOOD PRENZLER Retired Educator ALEJANDRA RAY Bevers Kitchen BARRY BRASS Parcel Plus LAVERNE KRUMREY Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park JOY NELSON Brenham ISD Krause Elementary LOWELL OGLE City of Brenham CHRIS CANGELOSI Washington County Abstract CONNIE HALL Ingleside Bed & Breakfast MARK PATRANELLA Blue Bell Creameries KURT PODESZWA Camp For All JARVIS VAN DYKE Van Dyke Rankin & Company WENDY YATES Moorman Tate Law Firm

Non-Profit Expo to be held here One of the great challenges non-profits face today is finding new, qualified Board Members to assist with the growing needs of their organizations. The Alumni Association of Leadership Washington County is interested in getting people more involved with our community. As a result, to address both these needs and goals, the first Non-Profit Expo will be held in Washington County Events Center. It will be held on Wednesday, March 31, 2010. The purpose of this event is to give area nonprofits an opportunity to showcase their programs and meet new leaders who are interested in serving their community. There will be tables set-up at this event for non-profits to display materials and provide information to attendees. This event also includes a luncheon and keynote speaker, Mary Beth Harrington from the Texas Association of Nonprofit Organizations, who will speak on the Profile of NonProfits in Texas and Board Development. Special thanks go to these event sponsors, who are making this first-time event possible for the community: Appel Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep Bluebonnet Electric TFE Company and B&R Industries The Non-Profit Expo is going to be a very educational and productive event and a great opportunity for local organizations to find new people to assist in service and leadership roles. Plan to attend this event and enjoy lunch while learning and networking with other leaders in the community. Tickets are $10 per person, but only $5 for graduates of the Leadership Washington County program and $8 for Chamber members (and all their employees). Tickets will only be sold in advance. They can be purchased at the Chamber office. For delivery, call the office at (979) 836-3695 or send an email to [email protected]. There are still spaces available for nonprofit organizations that wish to participate and have a display table. Contact the Chamber today for more information if you are interested. We hope to see you there!

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Bluebonnet Brenham Clinic Electric

Wildflower Season Bluebonnets and other wildflowers will be in full bloom a bit later this year, according to experts at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin and our own Antique Rose Emporium. That’s thanks to the extra cold weather we’ve been experiencing. And this year we aren’t waiting for rain; it’s been abundant in most areas. Each year the beloved state flower ushers in the season that brings not only a wide variety of blooming wildflowers, but also scores of wildf l o w e r- l o v e r s . These visitors translate into significant dollars for our community and our county. Visitors come to gaze at the wildflowers as they take leisurely drives, and they also take part in our local festivals and recreational activities, as well as enjoy shopping, dining and lodging establishments. For businesses that have been operating in Washington County over the past few de-

cades, the saying is, “When the bluebonnets bloom, business booms!” The extent of this year’s wildflower blooming season, while still unknown, is expected to be outstanding; that in itself should attract a large number of visitors. In addition to the colorful wildflower season, there are also some great festivals planned for the coming weeks. Take a look at the Calendar (starting on page 8) in this issue for dates and details, and take advantage of all the wonderful activities in your own “back yard.” Spotters Needed The staff at the Washington County Chamber will be answering thousands of inquiries this month and next from people wanting to see wildflowers. We always appreciate the assistance of local residents as “spotters.” See Wildflower, Page 2

“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” Hosted by:

WCT OUTDOORS

A Division of Washington County Tractor 2708 South Market Street, Brenham

Thursday, April 8 — 5-7 p.m. Come enjoy some great networking, delicious food and refreshments. Bring plenty of business cards and enter for door prize drawings. Free for Chamber members and all employees. Learn more about WCT Outdoors online at www.WCTout.com Beverages provided by Mike Hopkins Distributing

Page 2 Chamber Works March 2010

Ribbon Cuttings

Don’s Appliance Service

Allstar Restaurant Sales & Service

Owner: Donald Koester 1900 Jackson League Circle, Brenham Phone: 979-836-0031

Owners: Darrell Drews & Kim Kopecky 202 E. Germania Street, Brenham Phone: 979-836-8300

Jerral Johnson Farmers Insurance

Community Chiropratic, PLLC Owner: Dr. Bruce Lee D.C. 2646 Hwy 36 South, Brenham Phone: 979-251-8111

Owner: Jerral Johnson 1004 South Austin Street, Brenham Phone: 979-203-9803

The Clearing Retreat Owners: Drs. William and Margit Riley 3383 Peter’s Lane, Brenham Phone: 979-885-8121

The Assarian Group – Allstate Insurance Owner: Allen Assarian 1006 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham Phone: 979-251-7979

Wildflower

(Continued from Page 1) If you spot an area where wildflowers are particularly appealing, and it is a spot suitable for safe (drive-by) viewing, please call the Chamber at (979) 836-3695 to let us know. We hand out highlighted maps, updated on a daily basis, to guide people to the best blooming spots. We also post regular “Wildflower Watch” updates on our web site, www.BrenhamTexas.com, along with information to educate visitors about respecting both the flowers and private property. This year, all of these updates and info will also be posted online at www. facebook.com/brenham.texas, on Twitter, and on our “NewsSHARE” blog. Caring for Wildflower Areas Wildflowers are just that…wild flowers. They grow at their leisure and wherever they choose to sprout in any given year. They don’t like fertilizer, but do like some rain (which we’ve had in abundance). And, even more important, they need to be allowed to go to seed before their area is mowed. So, if you are lucky enough to have areas on your property filled with these gifts of nature, please just ignore them, don’t fuss over them, don’t feed them and don’t mow too soon.

A.W. Hodde, Jr. Technical Education Center at Blinn College Director: Dr. Milton Radke 2910 South Blue Bell Road, Brenham Phone: 979-830-4443

www.brenhamtexas.com

Welcome New Members to the Chamber ALLSTAR RESTAURANT SALES & SERVICE Owners: Darrell Drews & Kim Kopecky 202 East Germania Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-8300 www.allstarrestaurantss.com Restaurant Supplies & Equipment HD SUPPLY ELECTRICAL Manager: Steve Layton 2701 Stringer Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-4391 Electrical Supply INSCAPES PLANT LEASING & CARE Owner: Jill Evans 801 S. Baylor Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-3990 www.inscapes.net Plant Leasing & Care JERRAL JOHNSON FARMERS INSURANCE Owner: Jerral Johnson 1004 South Austin Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-203-9803 [email protected] Insurance MO MONEY TAX Owner: Bradley Sanders 903 East Alamo Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-9595 www.momoneytax.com Tax Service PHILIPS VETERINARY SERVICES Owner: Dr. Helen Philips 2930 HWY 290 W Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-1118 [email protected] philipsveterinaryservices.com Veterinary SUPERIOR STAINS Owner: Jeremy McGill 405 Kessel Lane Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-0641 www.superiorstainstx.com Concrete – Staining/Engraving ZIP CASH Manager: Misty Schulz 1608 South Day Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-251-9055 [email protected] Loans – Consumer

Renewing Members (February 1-28)

Chamber Works March 2010 Page 3

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. A1AC Comfort Specialists — 6 years Arens, Inc. DBA Arens Services — 2 years B&L Tire & Auto — 13 years Barnhill House Toys & Books — 10 years Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Presidential Level Member — 26 years Brenham Activist Association — 12 years Brenham Banner Press — 26 years Brenham Fitness Center — 9 years Brenham Heating & Air Conditioning  Co. — 26 years Brenham Insurance Center — 8 years Brenham Wholesale Grocery — 25 years Burton American Legion Post #242 — 1 year Collier Construction — 20 years Copper Shade Tree — 3 years Cubs Den — 1 year Dominos Pizza — 13 years Paul Ehlert — 10 years Antiques & Fine Lodging at the Stagecoach Inn — 10 years Faske’s Jewelry — 26 years George Bush Presidential Library & Museum — 6 years Hodde Real Estate Company — 13 years Hollis Energy Resource Services — 3 years Hospice Boutique — 8 years JoBody Fitness — 1 year Karen’s Skin Secrets & Med Spa — 3 years Liberty Dialysis - Brenham — 1 year Longwood Industries — 7 years Martha’s Bloomers — 9 years Master Plumber — 1 year Murski Homestead B&B — 9 years Optimum Rehabilitation & Fitness Services — 5 years Jim M. Plummer, CPA — 12 years Pooltex American — 10 years

RR Donnelley — 37 years Solutions In Sound — 2 years Southern Rose Ranch — 11 years St. Peter’s Lutheran Church — 2 years Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies — 10 years TFE Company — 26 years The Clearing-a Ranch Retreat — 2 years Time Well Spent — 6 years Valmont Industries — 30 years Wal-Mart Supercenter Presidential Level Member — 30 years Wells Fargo Bank — 25 years Woltmann’s Welding & Fabricating — 10 years

Washington County “Adopt-A-Sign” Partners To ensure the long-term care of the Welcome Sign monuments at the five entry points to Washington County, four landscaping companies from our community have volunteered to oversee their maintenance.

Designing Landscapes — U.S. 290 East Sign Glasco & Company Landscaping — Hwy. 36 North and South Signs Pape Scapes — U.S. 290 West Sign Wise Landscaping — Hwy. 105 Sign

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Camp For All

Washington County Habitat for Humanity

Camp For All is a unique, barrier-free camp working in partnership with other non-profits to enrich the lives of children and adults with challenging illnesses or special needs and their families throughout the year. Many of the 7,000 people who attend Camp For All are from the greater Brenham area. Volunteers from the community are welcome and needed to help provide the campers with opportunities they never dreamed they could experience. Volunteers assist staff and campers with a variety of activities, including horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, archery and arts and crafts. They help maintain the site, work in the kitchen, assist in housekeeping, complete maintenance projects and so much more. For more information about Camp For All or to volunteer, go to www.campforall.org or call Melissa Waggoner at (979) 289-3752.

The mission of Washington County Habitat for Humanity is to assist working families with limited incomes to become home-owners. Habitat’s criteria is based on… Need: what is the family’s current housing situation? Ability to Partner: is the family willing and committed to put in the required 400 hours of “sweat equity” in building the home, or in case of disability or age, is another family member willing to make the same commitment on behalf of the partner family? Ability to Pay: is the family financially able to maintain mortgage payments along with utility bills and other costs of living on their current income? At completion of the home building, the partner family assumes an interest-free mortgage to repay building material costs and land, plus a prorated amount for insurance and taxes. Currently those costs are less than $700 per month. Know of an eligible family? Contact (979) 251-9991.

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to [email protected]. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase community awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to [email protected]. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase community awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

Tweet with us @ www.twitter.com/VisitBrenham or ChamberWashCo

Page 4 Chamber Works March 2010

Houston: The Economy at a Glance This article was originally published by the Greater Houston Partnership for March 2010. As local business leaders often quote, “as Houston goes, so goes Washington County.” Therefore, we are reprinting this latest snapshot of the Greater Houston regional economy for your information. Production Recovery Under Way — The Houston Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), a short-term leading indicator for regional production, rose to 53.2 in January, reports the National Association of Purchasing Management-Houston. January’s reading is the 10th consecutive monthly rise from the record low of 39.0 last March, and is the fourth in a row to signal increased production on tap. The Houston PMI has a possible range of zero to 100. Readings above the neutral point of 50 indicate that regional production growth is likely in three or four months; readings below 50 signal coming contraction. Because the Houston PMI topped 50 in October and has continued to rise since, it’s probable that production has begun to grow again and will continue to do so at least into Q2/10. The Houston PMI is based on eight components, five of which showed solid gains from December to January. The largest rises were in Purchases and in Prices Paid for Major Purchases, both indicating resumption of business investment. Sales, Production and Lead Times showed

WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER OF THE MONTH

February 2010 Florence Julian 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.

Blue Blazers DOUG BAKER City of Brenham

FLORENCE JULIAN Blue Bell Creameries

DR. HENRY BOEHM JR. AMA Home Care B&L Tire

BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments

JOYCE DICKSCHAT Brenham National Bank JOHANNA FATHEREE Coldwell Banker Properties Unlimited COY FONTENOT Kruse Village

SUE MUZZY Mike Hopkins Distributing Co. BETH ROTHERMEL Washington County Clerk JULIE TIEMANN Thrivent Financial TIM WALTHER Citizens State Bank

Pam Green Coldwell Banker Properties Unlimited

RANDY WEIDEMANN Van Dyke Rankin & Company

EDDIE HARRISON Individual Member

DON WILHELM Individual Member

more modest gains, while both Employment and Finished Goods Inventory were little changed over the month. Housing Market Seeking Sustainable Level — The Houston Association of Realtors’ Multiple Listing Service tallied closings on 3,049 properties in January, down 7.4 percent from January ’09. Sales of single-family homes fell 12.3 percent to 2,514. The decline in total closings follows four consecutive months of over-the-year gains that probably were induced by the first-time homebuyers tax credit, originally scheduled to expire last November. Prior to last September, the Houston market saw 25 consecutive months of over-theyear declines that dropped the 12-month closings total from more than 87,000 to little more than 60,000. That decline was a necessary correction to inflated housing demand during ’04-’07, when lax lending standards conferred mortgage loans on households that shouldn’t have qualified. Closings now are running at an annual rate very near the volume Houston saw in ’03. The median price of single-family homes sold in Houston in January was $144,500, up 11.9 percent from an unusually low $129,110 in January ’09. Foreclosure sales account for at least part of the difference: foreclosed properties were a third of January ’09 closings, but only 27 percent of January ’10 closings. Excluding foreclosure sales, the median price of January single-family home sales rose from $156,000 in ’09 to $169,400 this year—an 8.6 percent advance. Even though Houston’s housing market has suffered far less than the nation as a whole, Houston’s overall single-family median price remains nearly 20 percent lower than the comparable nationwide figure. The average price of single-family homes sold in Houston rose to $194,154 in January, up 18.4 percent from January ’09, thanks to healthy activity at the upper end of the market. The number of closings increased 21.6 percent in the $250,000-$500,000 bracket and 40.0 percent in the luxury range ($500,000+). The value of closings on all property types in January was $565 million, up 5.6 percent from $535 million a year earlier. Census is About Money and Power — The 2010 census will count the number of people residing in the U.S. and its territories as of April 1. Census questionnaires will begin showing up in mailboxes in a few weeks. At just 10 questions, the 2010 questionnaire is the shortest

since the first U.S. census in 1790. (Each question is required by federal law. The census itself is mandated by Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution.) Getting a population count for Houston that’s as nearly complete as possible is important for two reasons—money and power. • Money — Census data are used to determine how more than $400 billion dollars of federal funding each year is spent on infrastructure and services such as hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, emergency services, and bridges, tunnels and other public works projects. That’s roughly $1,300 per person per year nationwide. An undercount of just 1 percent in the Houston region could cost us more than $75 million per year in federal funding. A 2 percent undercount could mean more than $1.5 billion lost over the coming decade. • Power — Census data are used for Congressional redistricting, state legislature redistricting, and city council redistricting. By most estimates, Texas should gain four seats in the U.S. House of Representatives in next year’s redistricting. The Houston region, with nearly a quarter of the state’s population, stands to garner one of those. Houston could see the census count top 2.3 million—well above the 2.1 million level at which the City, under a 1979 agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, is required to add two council seats. The extent to which individual neighborhoods approach a complete count will affect where council district boundaries are drawn. Given what’s at stake, it’s not surprising that local governments, businesses, religious organizations, and a host of others are doing everything they can to encourage all residents—citizens or not—to complete and return the census questionnaires. Demand for services (health care, for example) and infrastructure (mass transit, for example) are determined by the number of people here, not by the number of citizens. Over more than two centuries, the courts have consistently ruled that the framers of the Constitution intended to count everyone residing in this nation. (The census questionnaire does not contain an item on citizenship status.)

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Hospice Boutique

Have professional portraits taken of your children in the bluebonnets this year and help support the residents at the Brenham State Supported Living Center. The recession is affecting everyone, especially those with mental and physical disabilities. So please, book your portrait session now. The sitting fee is only $20 and you can order your prints online. All proceeds go to the Volunteer Services Council for the Brenham State School. For more information, please call Alicia Cargile (979) 277-4533 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Cargile Photography also offers wedding and event photography services. Please visit our website at www. cargilephotography.com.

Come and shop at Brenham’s Hospice Boutique, nestled among the quaint shops of downtown Brenham. The Hospice Boutique is Brenham’s up-scale ladies resale store with designer labels such as Liz Claiborne, Banana Republic, Talbot’s, Chico’s, Ann Taylor, Michael Kor’s, DKNY, Jones New York, St. John Knits, Kaspar and more. You will find a large variety of shoes, handbags and accessories at unbeatable prices. We also feature a beautiful selection of “new” fashion jewelry. Donations of gently used clothing are always needed and are tax deductable. As a non-profit agency all proceeds go directly toward Hospice patient care. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, where shopping meets purpose. Located at 101 E. Main St. To book a Fashion Show for your ladies club or organization, please call 979-277-9623 and ask for Karen or Dolly.

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to [email protected]. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase community awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to [email protected]. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase community awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

Cargile Photography Fundraiser

Chamber Works March 2010 Page 5

Leadership at the Local and State Levels The eighth session of the 2010 Leadership Washington County program introduced the group to elected officials and staff from both city and county government. Facilitated by Dane Bybee and Robert Smith on Feb. 11, the session opened with Mayor Tate and City Manager Roberts. They spoke about various projects and developments underway. Councilmen Charlie Pyle and Keith Herring both addressed the class. They shared about their backgrounds and what they have come to appreciate most about serving the citizens of Brenham. Lowell Ogle and Dane Rau from Public Utilities assisted Dane Bybee in touring the class through the water and wastewater treatment plants. It was an eye-opening experience for all of the class members. Chief Ricky Boeker spoke to the class and Brian Scheffer gave the group a tour of the new Emergency Operations Center. The entire

group was treated to lunch at the Southern Flyer Café inside the Brenham Municipal Airport. A tour of the Blue Bell Aquatic Center followed lunch, led by Jamie Maurer, Crystal Dahlquist and Tammy Jaster, along with a tour of the city’s Recycling Center led by Bobby Branham. Next, everyone headed to the County Courthouse where Tricia Kuhlmann led the class into the Public Records department and talked about the history of record-keeping at the courthouse. District Clerk Vicki Lehmann met with the class and informed them about her role in county government, and Bill Decker from Brenham Housing Authority was a guest speaker. Judge Dorothy Morgan met with the group in Commissioners Court room. She discussed the role of county judges in Texas, explained the budget process, and

shared personal insights from her many years in public service. On Feb. 24, the Leadership program introduced the group to elected officials and their key staff members at the State Government level. This session was facilitated by Benita Schramme and Barney Loesch. The class traveled to Austin to the State Capitol and enjoyed face-to-face meetings with Representative Lois Kolkhorst and Senator Glenn Hegar. The group also heard from Walter Fisher, a professional lobbyist. Fisher explained the role lobbyists play in the legislative process. He shared some interesting stories and explained the maneuvers of lobbyists at the Capitol. Representative Kolkhorst presented a candid look at how bills are passed and the long hours of work that take place before any vote. She held a mock committee hear-

ing with Leadership class members on the issue “eliminating tanning beds.” Taurie Randermann from Rep. Kolkhorst’s office presented behind-the-scenes insights into the lives of staff members in our state legislators’ offices. Everyone came away with a greater appreciation for our elected officials and their offices. The day ended with lunch at the Capitol Grill and a tour of the Bob Bullock-Texas State History Museum. The March session of Leadership Washington County will focus on Agriculture/ Agri-Business in Washington County. Leadership Washington County is a program of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce designed to train and motivate current and future leaders for our community. The next class will form in July. For more details please call the Chamber at (979) 836-3695.

Mayor Tate-Explains to the leadership class about city Tricia Kuhlmann shares information in the county records Judge Dorothy Morgan explains the role of county governgovernment department. ment.

Leadership participants with State Rep. Lois Kolhorst at Walter Fisher talks to LWC class members about the role of the Texas Capitol. lobbyists in the legislative process.

W.D. Smith, Chris Callahan, Wyatt Matthies, Ernest Eberle, Shelley Scheffer, Dyanna Machinsky, Tiffany McMordie Senator Hegar meets with the leadership group at the State Dyanna Machinsky, Carrie Foster and Tiffany McMordie and Carrie Foster pose under the Star of Texas at the Texas Capitol in Austin. pose together before The Story of Texas begins. State History Museum.

Page 6 Chamber Works March 2010

Tourism News

Spring Break: March 13-21 Are you ready for Spring Break 2010?! Washington County is! Blue Bell Creameries is open and waiting to take you on a tour that ends with a scoop of “the best ice cream in the country!” March 15-19, Blue Bell Creameries will expand their tour hours to accommodate more visitors. Tours of the little creamery will be conducted between 8:10 a.m. and 3 p.m., with groups of 50 people at a time every 10 minutes! This year, visitors will be able to purchase tickets for a specific time at the information booth in Blue Bell’s courtyard. Be sure to get to Blue Bell early to buy your tickets. If you don’t have time for a tour, you can still watch the Blue Bell history movie in an outdoor tent and buy a scoop of our favorite flavor. Visit www.bluebell.com or call 800327-8135. Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is THE place to enjoy the beauty of spring and connect with your inner-Texan! Revered as the “Birthplace of Texas,” it is where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed by 59 brave men as the Texians battled the Mexican dictator Santa Anna. As the document was being crafted, heroes protecting the Alamo died and General Sam Houston built an army that would eventually defeat Santa Anna in the battle of San Jacinto. There is so much to see and do while visiting the nearly 300-acre park! Tour the replica of Independence Hall; mosey on down the trail to see where ferries crossed the Brazos River; tour the two-story Star of the Republic Museum; and don’t miss all the animals and action taking place at Barrington Living History Farm, the 1850s working farm of the last president of the Republic of Texas. The park is open seven days a week. Visit www. birthplaceoftexas.com or call 936-878-2214 Lace up your skates and enjoy Silver Wings Ballroom’s special Spring Break hours. Tuesday, Friday and Saturday have some fantastic deals and even some family rates. For more details, call 979-836-4836 or visit www. silverwingsballroom.com. Remember to head over to Fireman’s Park and take the kiddos to ride on the flying horses antique carousel. Open March 15-19, the carousel in the heart of Fireman’s Park is just one of the great outdoor activities available. Plan enough time to let the children play on the new Greenwade Field playground located behind the pavilion and kitchen. Are you ready to take on the rest of the family and declare yourself the miniature golf pro, king or queen of laser tag, or Jeff Gordon of go-carts?! Horseshoe Junction is the place for all these activities and more! This state-of-theart game world mecca has arcade games galore, laser tag, a rock climbing wall, go-carts, miniature golf and mini bowling! What else could you possibly want? Hours and special rates are featured during Spring Break week. For more information, call 979-251-8701 or check out www. horseshoejunction.com. Another must see for families is the Monastery of St. Clare Miniature Horse Farm. The nuns invite you to roam their grounds and gift shop and see the tiny horses (and maybe a few newborn foals) during their special spring break hours. The farm welcomes visitors during Spring

Break on Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The monastery is closed during Holy Week, the week before Easter. Visit www.monasteryminiaturehorses.com or leave a message at 979-836-9652. The above are just a few of the great attractions to see in Washington County for Spring Break. Of course, the shops, restaurants and other attractions are ready for you to visit, too! Take a look at the Chamber web site for additional details: www.BrenhamTexas.com and click on “Visitor Info.”

Snow and the first bluebonnets brought television news coverage to Brenham recently. Raindrops on the camera lens reveal just how cold and windy it was for this interview with Channel 11 for their evening newscast. Seneca McAdams pointed out early bluebonnets in the area, giving the TV cameraman the opportunity to shoot a close up of bluebonnets tinged with snow.

January— 1,056 February — 1,025

January— 6,536 February — 6,850

March 30-April 3 Marburger Farm Antiques Show Over 350 dealers on 43 acres, with antiques including French, Americana, industrial, garden, early Texas, English, Continental, plus fine art, silver, folk art, early shopping $25 or $10 general (800-999-2148, www. roundtop-marburger.com).

March 31 Easter Senior Appreciation Luncheon Luncheon sponsored by Texas Home Health with glazed ham, fruit salad, potato salad, baked beans, rolls, strawberry shortcake and more, plus door prizes and senior volunteer recognition, 11am-2pm, free, WCHLA Senior Activity Center, 2010 S. Market, the old Brenham Elementary School campus ([email protected]).

Non-Profit Expo Leadership Washington County-Alumni Association presents the first Non-Profit Expo, where non-profits showcase their programs and have the opportunity to meet new leaders interested in serving their community, keynote speaker Mary Beth Harrington from Texas Association of Nonprofit Organizations, 11:30am1:30pm, Washington County Fairgrounds Events Center, tickets available until March 24 (979-836-3695, [email protected]).

A few April highlights… Central Texas Bluebonnet Travel Council members Kim Winker from Burnet; Seneca McAdams from Brenham; Sherry Nefford-Seesse of Seguin; Lindsey Hafner from Conroe; and Lu Hollander from Brenham; met in Burnet to prepare for the spring bluebonnet season. This regional association includes cities and towns in the bluebonnet areas of central Texas.

April 1 Inaugural Brenham Easter Egg-Stravaganza City-wide Easter Egg Hunt, for kids ages 2-9, 6pm, Hohlt Park (979-277-6531, www.brenhamcommunityed.com). April 2 Music Jamboree Country Music Jamboree sponsored by W.C.H.L.A., the Senior Activity Center, held the first Friday of the month, full snack bar available, doors open 6pm, music 7pm, $5, Old Brenham Elementary School Campus on Market St. (979-836-6552 or [email protected]).

April 3, 10, 17, 24 Brenham Farmers Market Vegetables, eggs, home-canned foods, plants, trees, crafts, locally made birdhouses. Eat-in and visit with friends or takeaway breakfast burritos, tamales, cakes, pies, bread, cinnamon rolls, kolaches and fresh-brewed coffee! Every Saturday, just off the square in Downtown Brenham, 307 S. Park, free (vendors call 979836-9466).

As a Chamber member, your promotional information is seen by thousands of people every month…both on display in the Visitor Center and also on the Chamber Web site. Here are totals from two ways we track the exposure:

Web Site Hits 2010

March 30 2010 Arts & Appetizers 6th Annual Young Artist Showcase & Auction. 57:30 pm, Brenham National Bank Lobby, 2211 S. Day Street, Brenham.

March 31-April 3 42nd Annual Round Top Spring Antiques Fair Three locations of antiques including the Big Red Barn and tent, Carmine Dance Hall and Continental tent, $10 good all days, all locations, Highway 237, Round Top (512-237-4747, www.roundtoptexasantiques.com).

Working for YOU! Walk-In Visitors 2010

Calendar

(Continued from Page 8)

Do you recycle? If not, why not? Go green! This photo shows the recyclable waste collected in the Chamber’s offices in a 10-day period of time. How much recyclable material does your office produce?

April 3 Camp For All Hilltop Ride Cycling for all levels, rain or shine, includes lunch, 8am, $50, call for details (979-289-3752, www.campforall.org). See Calendar, Page 7

Chamber Works March 2010 Page 7

Arts & Entertainment is alive and well in Washington County Do you find yourself sitting on the couch on Friday or Saturday night watching reruns in your sweats? Are you in bed asleep before the news? ***** Inject some excitement in your life! Live on the edge… click your mouse and go to www.BrenhamTexas.com and check the online Calendar to find live music events and theatre performances nearly every weekend in and around Washington County. How great is it to see a smash hit musical comedy right here in Brenham? “Church Basement Ladies” will be a perfect night out for the whole family at the O’Donnell Performing Arts Center on the Blinn College Campus. The U.S. Air Force Band concert will be at Brenham High School Auditorium on Wednesday, March 24, at 7pm and it is FREE. Rob Landes will be in concert at Unity Theatre on March 25 and 26. He is back by popular demand and always leaves the audience asking for more. Unity Theatre provides both musical entertainment and live theatre thoughout the year. And there is not a bad seat in the house. March 15-20 there will be a Spring Break Drama Camp for children in grades 2-6. Fun for them and for you! Round Top Festival Institute always has a full schedule of events. On March 27 at 3pm, the University of Texas Symphony Orchestra will be performing along with worldrenowned pianist James Dick. On the way home, stop in Burton and enjoy a gourmet dinner and drinks at the Pig & Whistle. There is live music every weekend. On Friday, Gene Hackemack plays the accordion, and on Saturday nights, John Beland plays the

April 3 A Day in the Country at Miracle Farm Miracle Farm’s annual open house with BBQ lunch, a petting zoo, music, tours and more, 10:303pm, lunch reservations appreciated, Miracle Farm on FM 2621, Brenham (979-836-0901, www. miraclefarm.org). April 7 Seniors Day 2010 Trinity Medical Center’s Seniors Day features free screenings, educational booths, entertainment and refreshments, free, 10am2pm, Fireman’s Training Center, Brenham (979-830-5017). April 10-11 Pleasant Hill Winery’s 13th Anniversary Tour, taste and celebrate while sharing a bottle with family and friends, Sat 11am-6pm, Sunday noon-5pm, Pleasant Hill Winery, 1441 Salem Rd., Brenham (979830-VINE, www.pleasanthillwinery.com). Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas Celebrate spring at the Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas, listed as Texas Highways maga-

guitar. Owner Tom Schooler invites you to stop by and experience the Pig & Whistle entertainment complex. Rendez-vous in the heart of downtown Brenham, across

from the court house, offers live music every week. Feast on a great dinner and enjoy a fabulous bottle of wine while Gene Hackemack entertains with his accordion every Thursday night. Greg Buenger, The Piano Man, will be performing and taking requests on Saturday, March 20, from 7-10 pm. With guitar in hand, Chris Austin Martinez will play for your enjoyment on Saturday, March 26, from 7-10 pm. Every Friday night during the month of March from 6-8 pm enjoy wine by the glass or share a bottle with friends at the “WineDown” at Pleasant Hill Winery on Salem Road in Brenham. Watch the sun set from the back deck and listen to Jack Carr on his saxophone. Buffalo Creek Winery is located on Hwy 36 South between Bellville and Sealy. They have a wonderful deck with a fireplace overlooking a beautiful pond and hay meadow. John Beland plays guitar there on Friday night from 7-10 pm. Enjoy great appetizers and wine every Friday and Saturday night. Country Music Jamboree is held the first Friday of every month at the Old Brenham Elementary School Campus. Doors open at 5 pm and the music begins at 7 pm. Friends of Bluebonnet Opry is held the third Thursday of every month at Silver Wings Ballroom. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the show begins at 7:30pm. Arrive early… this one draws a huge crowd. As you can see, there is music and entertainment for young and old, and especially…for you. Hope to see you out and around the county in March at one of these fine establishments. Find more details, including maps and contact info, on the “Calendar” and in the “Business Directory” at www.BrenhamTexas.com.

Calendar

(Continued from Page 7) zines #7 most popular event, 300plus vendor booths, food, live entertainment, music and fun in the heart of bluebonnet free admission, downtown Chappell Hill (888-273-6426, www.chappellhillmuseum.org). April 10 Heritage Home Tours in Brenham Visit Brenham’s oldest house, the 1843 Giddings-Wilkin House, complete with many original furnishings, then stroll the veranda and rooms of the 1869 Giddings Stone Mansion, 1-4pm, $10, 2203 Century Circle, Brenham (979836-1690, www.giddingsstonemansion.com). April 10-11, 17-18 Independence Historical Society Spring Tours Tours and folk life demonstrations in Independence, call for details (979-836-2825). April 13 Wine Dinners with the Vintner Enjoy a four course wine-pairing dinner with the delicious wines of Windy Winery; package includes one nights lodging and breakfast, Murski Homestead Bed & Break-

fast (877-690-0676, www.murskihomesteadbb.com). April 15-17 Spring Open Collection Days Open collection of non-hazardous materials, household trash, scrap metal, other large items, debris, and yard waste free to all Brenham residents, no commercial customers, Citizens Collection Station, 2009 Old Chappell Hill Rd., Brenham (979-337-7455). April 16 Dedication and Grand Opening of Independence Visitor Center Co-sponsors are Baylor University & Independence Historical Society, 4-6pm, 10270 T.S. Saul Rd., Independence. April 17 21st Annual Burton Cotton Gin Festival Enjoy gin tours, parades, auctions, live music, folk life demonstrations, a carnival, tractor pull, petting zoo, contests and much more, including a Crawfish Boil, plus Rep. Lois Kolkhorst presents the museum with the designation “The Official Cotton Gin Museum of Texas,” 9am-midnight, Burton Cotton Gin & Museum, 307 N. Main, Burton (979-289-3378,

www.cottonginmuseum.org). April 17 Blue Bell Fun Run Benefiting the Brenham High School Athletic Program, categories include 5K & 10K Run, Kids 1-Mile Run, 5K Corporate Team Challenge, Check-in time 7am, $20 fee, register on-line, Brenham High School (www.bluebellfunrun.com). Annual Spring History Symposium Topic: Conservation. Winedale Historic Complex near Round Top, TX Meadows Conference Center ([email protected]/edu) April 22 Lifetime Learning Luncheon Founding director of “Voices Breaking Boundaries,” Sehba Sarwar is a native of Pakistan and writes for publications in India, Pakistan and the U.S., 11:30am1pm, $20, Blinn College Student Center (979-337-4298, www.lifetimelearningbrenham.org). April 22-24, 29-May 2 Unity Theatre Presents “Camelot” In an idyllic kingdom where might is used for right, King Arthur,

Queen Guinevere and Sir Lancelot are caught in a love triangle where passions threaten to destroy their dreams, Thu 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 4pm, $25, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-8358, www. unitybrenham.org).

April 24 Brenham Country Flavors Festival Family entertainment, Blue Bell Ice Cream Smorgasbord, local product sampling, arts & crafts and unique shopping in Downtown Brenham, 10am-5pm, free parking, free admission (888-BRENHAM, www.downtownbrenham.com).

April 25 Brenham Children’s Chorus Annual Spring Concert at Round Top, 4pm, Festival Hill, FM 237 at Jasper Rd., Round Top (979277-6540, www.brenhamchildrenschorus.org).

Camp for All Family Day & Open House The community is invited for a day of activities, food and entertainment. 2-5pm 6301 Rehburg Rd, Burton, TX (979-289-3752, www.campforall.org)

Page 8 Chamber Works March 2010

March 11, 18, 25 Live Music at Rendez-vous Gene Hackemack performs every Thursday at Rendezvous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-3379200). March 12-April 7 Spring Eggs Art Walk Enjoy the colorful decorated eggs on display in downtown and vote for your favorites, winners announced April 6 (www.downtownbrenham.com). March 12, 19, 26 Wine Down at Pleasant Hill Winery “Wine Down” on the deck and watch the sun set, enjoy wine by the glass or share a bottle with friends, cheeseboards available, 3pm–sunset every Friday in March, April and May, Pleasant Hill Winery, Salem Rd., Brenham (979-830-VINE, www. pleasanthillwinery.com). March 13-14 Woodcrafting at Washington-on-the-Brazos Learn how early Texans used hand tools and enjoy the beauty found in hand craftsmanship with “Woodcrafting: A Necessary Skill” at Barrington Living History Farm, 10am-4:30pm, $5, students $3, Washington-on-the Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214 x 246, www. birthplaceoftexas.com). March 13 Stagecoach Day See how people lived in 1850’s Texas, ride a replica stagecoach pulled by draft horses, tour the Inn, enjoy music and reminisce with a cowboy poet, 11am-3pm, donations of $4 adults, $2 children accepted, Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site, Anderson (936-8782214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).

What’s Happening in March

March 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31 AARP-IRS Tax Aide Free income tax assistance provided by AARP TAXAIDE volunteers to middle and low income taxpayers, especially the elderly, Monday and Wednesday mornings, 9am-1pm until April 15, St. Mary’s Catholic Church PAC, corner of Germania and S. Park, Brenham. March 15, 22, 29 Learn Knitting Learn how to knit and make your own gifts during this class at Brenham Community Education, 1301 S. Market, 6-9pm, $70 registration (979-277-6531, www.brenhamcommunityed.com). March 15 Wine Dinners with the Vintner Enjoy a four course winepairing dinner with the delicious wines of Windy Winery; package includes one nights lodging and breakfast, Murski Homestead B&B (877-690-0676, www.murskihomesteadbb. com). March 16 First Step Luncheon by Hospice Brazos Valley A monthly grief support luncheon to learn healthy grieving methods. Bring a covered dish to share, beverages provided, 11am1pm, third Tuesday of every month, free, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979277-9525, [email protected]). March 18 Movie in the Park Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to see “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.” Free Admission. Concessions will be available. Hohlt Park in Brenham, 7:50 p.m.

Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Featuring Kevin Black, Margie Leblanc, Debbie Davis, plus the Bluebonnet Opry House Band, every 3rd Thursday of the month, food served at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979836-4347). March 19-20 15th Annual Herbal Forum “Creativity with Herbs” and a celebration of the Umbel family with dill, the 2010 herb of the year, $75, Festival Hill, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). “Thyme Well Spent” Gift Shop Herb Society of America, Pioneer Unit-Located on the grounds of Round Top Festival Institute. Open to the public. (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org) March 20-21, 27-28 Independence Historical Society Spring Tours Tours and folk life demonstrations in Independence, call for details (979-8362825). March 20 Texas Master Naturalists Public Seminar Wildflowers of East Texas & Native Grasses program, 1-3pm, Windedale, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (979278-3530, www.cah.utexas. edu). Live Music at Rendez-vous The Piano Man, Greg Buenger, performs, 7pm, Rendez-vous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200). March 22 Ribbon Cutting: Inscapes Plant Leasing & Care New Member, owner Jill Evans, held at Mobius Cof-

feehouse, 1120 S. Market St., Brenham, 3pm. New Beginnings Life Ministries Fundraiser BBQ Stuffed Baked Potato drive-thru from Schovajsa Catering, plus bring a pack of diapers with your ticket to enter drawing for fun prizes, tickets $6.50, available at New Beginnings Pregnancy Center or Resale Shop or Brenham Christian Academy, 4-6:30pm, Brenham Christian Academy, 2111 S. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-836-0397, www. brenhampregnancysupport. com). March 23 Church Basement Ladies Musical comedy about the church basement kitchen and the ladies who work there, funny, touching family entertainment, 7-9pm, $25/adults, $10/students, O’Donnell Center, Blinn College (979-830-4024, [email protected]). March 24 Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Conference Room, 11:30am. Cancer and End-of-Life Care Teleconference 17th annual “Living with Grief” seminar focusing on issues affecting the end-oflife care of cancer patients for healthcare professionals and families, 12:30-3:30pm, Blinn College Student Activity Center, Rms 2 & 3 ([email protected]). U.S. Air Force Academy Band In concert at Brenham High School, 7pm, free tickets available (979-277-6570). March 25-26 Rob Landes in Concert Back by popular demand, Rob Landes returns to Uni-

ty Theatre’s stage for a fun evening of favorite tunes and light comedy, 8pm, $20 per person, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Downtown Brenham (979-830-8358, www.unitybrenham.org).

enham, $15/advance, $17/ door, kids under 10 eat free, tickets at Buccaneer Food Store, Webb Printing, Brenham Floral, Gun World, Max Donuts (979-8360986, [email protected]).

March 25 Lifetime Learning Luncheon Dong Wang, Cultural Attaché with the Chinese Consulate in Houston discusses U.S.-China cultural and economic relations, 11:30am-1pm, $20, Blinn College Student Center (979-337-4298, www. lifetimelearningbrenham. org).

Live music at Rendez-vous Chris Austin Martinez performs 7-10pm, free, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200).

Ribbon Cutting: Austin County Chiropractic New member, owners Dr. Michael & Priscilla Reid, 1408 S. Front St., Bellville, 1:00pm. Brenham ISD Annual Employer Appreciation Banquet Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979-277-6570 x1142, msommer@ brenhamisd. net). March 26-27 “Good to Great” Marriage Weekend Interactive workshop designed to be fun and practical for all relationships, Fri 6pm-9pm, Sat 9am-noon, $75, St. Mary’s Catholic Church PAC (979-8364441, www.clearingretreat. org). March 26 Catfish & Chicken Tender Dinner Annual Washington County Shooting Club dinner, raffle, live auction & silent auction, free Budweiser compliments of Mike Hopkins Distributing, social hour 6pm, dinner 7pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 2804 Gun & Rod Rd., Br-

March 27-April 3 La Bahia Antiques Show & Sale Free admission, La Bahia Hall, 290 West at Hwy. 237, Burton, 8am-6pm (979289-2684).

March 27-28 True Texas Women Learn about the women of the Texas frontier and try your hand at spinning, quilting, tatting and crafting, 10am-4:30pm, Barrington Living History Farm, Washington-on-theBrazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214, x 246, www. birthplaceoftexas.com).

March 27 Head for the Hills Bicycle Ride Three routes through beautiful Washington County, with rest stops, SAG support and mechanics, registrants receive event t-shirts while they last, 8am, $30, register on-line (979-8364426, www.wcrotaryclub. org).

The UT Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Gerhardt Zimmerman and Stefan Sanders, along with James Dick on piano, Rebecca Henderson, oboe, 3pm, Festival Hill, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). See Calendar, Page 6