Social Media & Business Networking


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June 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

APPLY NOW FOR LEADERSHIP WASHINGTON COUNTY The Chamber is now accepting applications from those interested in participating in the next class of the Leadership Washington County program. This is the renowned local program designed to seek out current and future leaders from all segments of our community in order to educate, train and motivate them to be effective leaders. See Leadership, Page 5

Social Media & Business Networking On June 22, the Washington County Chamber and Small Business Development Center at Blinn College will team up to host a seminar to help local businesses understand the burgeoning marketing tools known as “social media.” The “Social Media & Business Networking” seminar will feature a top professional marketer from Houston, Denise Patrick from Pierpont. It will be held on Tuesday, June 22, from 2-5 p.m. at the A.W. Hodde Jr. Technical Education Center at Blinn College (on U.S. 290 at S. Blue Bell Road in Brenham). The registration fee is $25 per person. Space is limited to the first 30 people that sign up. Registration can be made by calling the SBDC office at (979) 830-4137 or via email to carol. [email protected]. Deadline to register is Friday, June 18. At the interactive 3-hour workshop, attendees will learn: Which social media networks will work for your business. How to leverage the power of social media to build your customer base. Tips for increasing your reach without spending more money. Regarding the use of social media, the Chamber has found that top concerns among business owners/managers include how much time it takes, privacy issues, how to develop interesting content, and more. Addressing those concerns and providing more information to members is one of the top goals of the Chamber this year. A workshop was held in April to address this topic, and the June 22 seminar will delve deeper into the subject. On July 16, the Chamber will host a work-

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Bluebonnet Brenham Clinic Electric

shop on Microsoft Windows 7 and Office 2010 and other technology tools will be introduced. Additional workshops are planned for the remainder of the year. The Chamber recommends that businesses get started on Facebook for personal use, so that you can become familiar with the networking and marketing that is occurring on this top site. Check out the Chamber’s page at www. facebook.com/Brenham.Texas. On Twitter, visit and www.Twitter.com/ChamberWashCo to see how that site looks and operates. For more information, and to give suggestions on future workshops, contact the Chamber office at (979) 836-3695.

“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” Hosted by:

RE/MAX Advantage 110 East Alamo Street, Downtown Brenham

Thursday, June 24 — 5-7 p.m. Enjoy great networking and refreshments. Bring plenty of business cards and enter for door prize drawings. Free for Chamber members and all employees. Special beverages provided by: Mike Hopkins Distributing Learn more about RE/MAX Advantage at www.AdvantageBrenham.com

Page 2 Chamber Works June 2010

Ribbon Cuttings

Green Duct Services Owner: Kamala Kitzman 1802 Buchanan Street, Brenham Phone: 979-451-9191

The Hair Warehouse Owner: Kamala Kitzman 1802 Buchanan Street, Brenham Phone: 979-836-8188

Select Furnishings Owners: Jody & Pat Johnson 2652 HWY 36 South, Brenham Phone: 979-830-0065

Union Hill Builders-Ruth Circle Subdivision Owner: John Schneider Corner of Neibuhr and Chappell Hill Streets, Brenham Phone: 979-277-9992

RE/MAX Advantage Owners: Johanna Fatheree & Pam Green 110 East Alamo Street, Brenham Phone: 979-251-7500

Westfield Builders, LLC-Stonehill Garden Homes Owners: Gary & Dennie Bollinger Corner of Stone Hill Drive & Becker Drive, Brenham Phone: 979-778-0394

Renewing Members (May 1-31) 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. Advanced Urethane Technologies — 15 years Allied Ace Hardware — 13 years Barrington Bed & Breakfast — 15 years Brenham Clinic - Presidential Level Member — 17 years Brenham Iron Works — 1 year Brenham Monument Company — 23 years Brenham Party Rentals — 4 years Budget Rolloff Service — 3 years Chase - Presidential Level Member — 25 years Edward J. Fay and Associates — 32 years Entec Pest Management — 11 years Family Resource Center — 20 years First Christian Church of Brenham — 3 years Hackberry Hill Guest Cottages — 2 years Independence Historical Society — 9 years Ingleside Bed & Breakfast — 13 years Inn at Dos Brisas — 6 years

Jay Carper Technical Services — 1 year Jerry Olson Designs — 3 years John Brieden State Farm Insurance — 29 years Knights Inn — 3 years Krenek’s Tractor Repair & Wrecker Service — 7 years Lake Somerville Marina & Campground — 6 years Legacy Properties — 3 years Mitchell Clark & Company — 3 years Neal Financial Group - Branch Office — 4 years Nellie’s Boutique — 14 years Overhead Door Co. of South Central Texas — 6 years Pecan Tree Apartments — 6 years R & S Leasing — 28 years Rendez-vous Restaurant — 2 years Schubert Sheet Metal — 10 years Sonic Drive Inn — 36 years Texas Home Health — 7 years

Big Daddy’s Barbecue Owner: Nathan Winklemann 1309 Prairie Lea Street, Brenham Phone: 979-830-1619

Chamber Works June 2010 Page 3

Welcome New Members to the Chamber

BLUE BLAZERS CLUB SEEKING NEW MEMBER This local service club has forty years of tradition in the community. They support the mission of the Chamber year-round, acting as official greeters and hosts of our community. Activities include monthly meetings, greeting at Chamber functions, recruiting new members, and conducting ribbon cuttings and grand openings. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to call Jane Hinze at the Chamber office or stop by the Chamber during business hours to pick up and application. Details can also be sent via e-mail upon request. Please submit interest in joining by July 9.

WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER OF THE MONTH

May 2010 Don Wilhelm 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 and B&L Tire

BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments

JOYCE DICKSCHAT Brenham National Bank JOHANNA FATHEREE RE/MAX Advantage COY FONTENOT Kruse Village Pam Green RE/MAX Advantage EDDIE HARRISON Individual Member

SUE MUZZY Mike Hopkins Distributing Co. BETH ROTHERMEL Washington County Clerk JULIE TIEMANN Thrivent Financial TIM WALTHER Citizens National Bank RANDY WEIDEMANN Van Dyke Rankin & Company DON WILHELM Individual Member

Did You Know? Members, promote your events and business for free in the “Hot Deals” section and “Calendar” on the Chamber website! Contact [email protected] for more details.

MICHELE BRIGHT, D.D.S., P.C. 1406 South Day Street Brenham, Texas 77833 (physical) Phone: 979-830-8811 [email protected] www.drmichelebright.com Dentist

SEEKING A FEW GOOD MEN AND WOMEN...

HOME DEPOT Manager: Stueart Sawyer 2801 Woodridge Blvd, Brenham Phone: 979-277-9964 [email protected] Home Improvement

As a Chamber member, you are invited to join in the process to nominate future board members. The Chamber needs seven new board members each year to fill a three-year term.  Suitable candidates will fit this description: - An active member of the local business community - Participates in Chamber events and programs - Dedicated to Washington County, Texas - A decision maker in his or her field - Interested in serving as a volunteer - A person with vision & leadership skills - Interest in participating in the Chamber’s annual Program of Work - Able to attend monthly board meetings, held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at noon Please give this some consideration, and help us find the right people to steer your Chamber of Commerce in the future.  Submit nominations to the Chamber office in writing from now until July 31. You can send them by mail, fax or email. Thank you!

INDEPENDENCE ANTIQUES & ETC. Owners: Thelma Zwiener & Margaret McCrory 10301 FM 50 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-5055 Antiques

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Independence Visitor Center The Independence Visitor Center welcomes visitors to the historic village located 10 miles north of Brenham on Highway 50 toward Bryan/College Station. Baylor University and the Independence Historical Society are co-sponsoring the center that will serve a number of purposes. In addition to greeting visitors and providing information, the building will serve as a central headquarters for the Independence Historical Society and as an office for Baylor as it operates various historic preservation projects of The Texas Collection (Baylor Library System). The “adobe house”, now the Visitor Center, was built in 1835 and used as an office for John P Coles, one of Stephen F. Austin’s “first 300” settlers. Coles was the founder of Cole’s Settlement which became Independence at the time of the Texas Revolution. Acquired by Richard and Barbara Powell in 2007, the old structure was renovated and now has beautiful cedar flooring, central HVAC and a sparkling white exterior. It’s a must-see for tourists in the area! Open on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. during the months of May, June, July and October. Located on T.S. Saul Street between FM 390 and Lueckemeyer Road in Independence. Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to info@brenhamtexas. com. 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)

JAPHET DESIGN Owner: Juli Japhet 101 E. Commerce Street Downtown Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-251-7756 [email protected] www.japhetdesigns.com Interior Decorators & Designers N. Y. PIZZA CONNECTION Owner: Domenic Catalano 1122 S. Market Street (inside Mobius Coffee) Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-830-1133 www.nypizzaconnection.com Restaurants OMAMACHAUS Owner: Camille Cramer 2570 FM 949 Sealy, Texas 77474 Phone: 979-865-2842 [email protected] www.omamachaus.com Bed & Breakfast TOPS PRINTING President: Steve Britton 2023 S. Texas Avenue Bryan, Texas 77802 Phone: 979-779-1234 [email protected] www.topsprinting.com Printing WASHINGTON COUNTY WILDLIFE SOCIETY President: Richard Thames 1305 E. Blue Bell Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-6212 www.wcwildlife.org Non Profit Clubs & Organizations

Page 4 Chamber Works June 2010

New Media Is Here to Stay By Kelly McGary Over the last year, new media—social networking sites, aggregate news services, blogs, e-mail, and other online messaging tools—has taken a foothold, earning a permanent seat in the marketing mix. In the wake of eroded marketing budgets, new media is flourishing, consistently delivering greater ROI than any other medium. From Fortune 500 corporations to your local hardware store, everyone is drinking the “digital Kool-Aid.” Once considered the domain of teens, the new media ecosystem is increasingly populated by adults and companies or, in other words, potential customers. As of September 2009, 47% of online adults used a social networking website, according to Pew Research. As you throw new media into your marketing mix, here are some strategies to consider: Build trust through your website. Customers have more access to information and more options than ever. If you can’t sell trust, your customers will go elsewhere. Therefore, your company website, often the first impression you give to potential customers, should establish trust. You can do this by providing links to news, research, or product reviews. Get to know your customers through blogging. A blog puts a face on your business and reinforces your brand per-

sonality. It allows you to foster conversation and debate in a public forum with like-minded people. To friend… Facebook is a prime place to gain exposure when starting a new business or launching a new product. Everyone and everything have a place on Facebook. More than 700,000 businesses use Facebook, and one in three U.S. residents has an account on the social network website, according to Nology Media. One fan page dedicated to Flo—the character in the Progressive Insurance commercials—has more than 490,000 fans. …Or follow? Twitter is tops when it comes to building brand equity with little investment. Like Facebook, Twitter reinforces relationships but has the upper hand when you want to retain top-of-mind awareness with customers and industry insiders. Increasingly, service providers such as cable companies are providing 24/7 technical support via Twitter. Get personal with e-mail. Consider dedicating e-mail marketing solely to one-on-one communication. Messages should be personal, relevant, and reinforce what customers perceive to be the unique value of your brand. Leave prospecting to your social channels. It’s difficult to track potential customers through e-mail marketing anyway, as most people forward e-mails directly from their inboxes, instead of using the “forward to a friend” link provided in their e-mail. Reprinted by permission. © 2010 U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

GREEN DUCT SERVICES Green Duct Services is a local A/C duct cleaning company committed to improving indoor air quality in the home and workplace. Air-borne dust is a major cause of health related problems. The American Lung Assoc. estimates that we spend 90 percent of our time indoors. Since indoor air can be 2 to 3 times more polluted than outdoor air, it is easy to see why these services are beneficial. Bacteria, pollen, dust mites, viruses, chemical residues and surface dust all contribute to breathing problems, worsening of allergy symptoms and an increase of sick days. Green Duct Services provides free estimates and will gladly explain how they can improve your air quality. For more information about Green Duct Services go to www.greenductservices.com or call their knowledgeable staff at (979) 421-9191. 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)

Special Thanks

Our thanks go to Karen and Andy Anderson, and the entire staff at Brenham Memorial Chapel, for hosting the “Wake Up, Washington County!” networking breakfast in May. They provided not only a comfortable and friendly setting for the event, but also a delicious array of breakfast foods, coffee and drinks. Approximately 30 people attended, and everyone was given a chance to talk about their products, services and events. Any member interested in hosting an event should contact Jane Hinze at 836-3695 or [email protected].

Marketing Our Community Across the State of Texas The Washington County CVB is a proud and active member of the following state and regional tourism industry associations: Texas Travel Industry Association Texas Assoc. of Convention & Visitors Bureaus Texas Hotel & Lodging Association Texas Society of Association Executives Texas Independence Trail Region

I-10 Corridor Association Presidential Texas Central Texas Bluebonnet Travel Council American Bus Association South Central Motorcoach Association

The Business of Doing Business In Tough Times, Focus on the Basics By Richard W. Bennet III Global Partners Working with more than 2,000 independent small business owners, I find that they are fundamentally flexible and adapt well to changing conditions on the ground, often much better than big business. History shows that many weather economic storms, only to fail during economic recovery because of cash demands. With today’s liquidity crisis, this historic pattern is likely to be much worse than in the past. Small business owners by their nature love what they do, produce, and serve. They are, however, much less likely to revel in the joys of best business practices. The core of the small businessperson’s ethos is helping oneself and not depending on handouts. To that end, the cure for his or her dilemma starts at home, and the steps needed to revive the health of a business are surprisingly consistent. Below are some important tips for small business owners to help themselves. Get the reporting right. Many small businesspeople love working on what they produce or how they serve, rather than on finances and bookkeeping. That is a mistake in any case, but when cash gets tight, it can be fatal. Nothing can be more basic in personal finance than balancing your checkbook. The same is true for small businesses. Prepare an income statement every month to track your expenses and profits. Keep a quarterly balance sheet to track your assets and liabilities and have a cash flow statement. It is startling how many businesses get in trouble by not keeping up with these basic fundamentals. Improve your financial statements. Increase your profits by reducing controllable expenses (occupancy costs and overhead), improve the gross margin (reduce the cost of goods and avoid steep discounting), and eliminate losing ventures. Improve your See Business, Page 5

Washington County Chamber of Commerce 314 S. Austin Street • Brenham, TX 77833 Phone: 979-836-3695 www.brenhamtexas.com Page Michel, President & CEO Jane Hinze, Member Services Manager Lu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Manager Seneca McAdams, CVB Mktg. & Sales Mgr. Jeanne Luedemann, Visitor Center Manager Marge Runge, Support Staff Lanette Pledger, Support Staff Judy Grimm, Support Staff

Chamber Works June 2010 Page 5

Business

(Continued from Page 4) balance sheets by reducing working capital (inventory and accounts receivable), long-term liabilities (rent obligations), and capital expenses. Increase cash flow by taking advantage of trade terms, avoiding penalties, and reducing taxes, among other courses of action. Seek out a financial advisor to help develop a plan. Then, make the tough decisions and stick by them. Access credit markets. It’s amazing to me how many small businesspeople are reluctant to ask for and press for credit. I have found that more often than not a resilient effort backed by a legitimate plan will work, as long as you understand the lending requirements and stick to the plan. These basic points may seem painfully simple to a business academic, but most small business owners focus on their value creation rather than on business per se. In these tough times, they need to improve the “business of doing business” to survive. Reprinted by permission. © 2010 U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The Leadership Washington County program is for those interested in: Learning more about the key issues & challenges facing our community. Developing relationships with other influential leaders in Washington County. Making a difference in the future of our community.

At the team-building retreat, class members are able to experience the “Trust Fall” along with other enlightening exercises.

Family Business Succession Planning The creation and implementation of a sound family business succession plan can provide a smooth and costeffective transition of ownership to the next generation. Though family businesses do not have to worry about a federal estate tax in 2010, state estate taxes are still in effect. And barring any unexpected legislation from Congress, the federal estate tax will return in 2011. Therefore, family businesses should consider strategies for reducing their estate tax liability. These include gifting assets and creating family limited partnerships. Gifting assets often requires extensive planning, but handing over a company’s assets piece by piece on an annual basis can be a simple and effective way to avoid paying certain taxes on the transfer. The annual exclusion amount for gift taxes did not change from 2009 to 2010; gifts of $13,000 or less to anyone are tax free. A $1 million lifetime gift exemption is available as well. These exemption amounts can double when a spouse matches the gifts. However, if the gift is in the form of stock, the

gift recipient is subject to capital gains tax. Family limited partnerships are another tool for preserving assets and transferring control to the next generation. When utilized effectively, limited partnerships can protect assets from creditors and allow significant discounts for gift and estate tax purposes. A family limited partnership (FLP) is a form of a limited partnership where a family member serves as either a general partner (GP) or a limited partner (LP), depending on his or her position within the business and family. When the GP transfers assets to the partnership, that person owns all of the limited partnership interests. From that point forward, the GP can transfer limited partnership interests to his or her successors; this is usually done on an annual basis. Gifts of LP interests do not qualify under the $13,000 annual gift tax exclusion; however, they are counted against the $1 million lifetime gift exemption. See planning, Page 6

Leadership

(Continued from Page 1) Leadership Washington County participants are exposed to educational sessions covering many aspects of the community and region. The sessions create an awareness of the resources of Washington County and put the class in contact with local experts in various fields. Program participants also gain valuable experience from interacting with each other and forming lasting relationships with other professionals. Here are a few quotes from graduates of the LWC Class of 2010: “It was a great opportunity to not only learn about Washington County, but develop positive relationships with new friends in the area.” — Laura Popp, Germania Insurance “I met a lot of great people in the community, including classmates, who I would have never met otherwise.” — Betty Urban, Citizens State Bank “The program has given me inspiration to get more involved, while providing insight to what options I have to select my involvement.” — Chris Callahan, MIC Brenham East “A great opportunity to learn more about Washington County and make new friends in various workplaces throughout the county.” — Dean Meade, Calvary Baptist Church

Leadership participants, above, travel to the Capitol in Austin each year to meet legislators and learn about the process. The class, right, enjoys ‘behind the scenes’ tours of sites such as Blue Bell Creameries and other plants.

“The group was great and I made a lot of business contacts and friends. I think this program ranks above other leadership programs because the tours give you a handson experience and the presenters give you an inside track of what they do.” — Clint Eilers, Blue Bell Creameries

Employers who send key personnel through the class benefit by having an employee who is educated about the resources of the county and has learned new leadership skills. The program involves a time commitment of one day a month for ten months. The program begins on August 11 with a 4pm orientation meeting, followed by a full-day Team-Building Retreat at Camp For All on August 14. Day-long sessions are then held once a month through May 2011. The investment for the program is $550 per participant which covers all program expenses including printed materials, logo shirts, monthly luncheons, group transportation, and Graduation Banquet tickets for each participant, plus his/her spouse and employer. If your business is interested in sponsoring an employee, or if you would like more information for yourself, please contact the Chamber at (979) 836-3695. Applications are now available at the Chamber office and on the website. The deadline for applications to be turned in is Monday, July 20.

Page 6 Chamber Works June 2010

Planning

(Continued from Page 5) The value of limited partnerships are discounted for the lack of control and marketability limited partners have over the business. The GP retains managerial control irrespective of his or her ownership interests. By structuring your family business as a

limited partnership, you can be confident that your family will avoid paying unnecessary taxes as the next generation takes control of the business. Tips for Limited Partnerships Establish a limited partnership early.  Transfer the assets you expect to appreci-

ate the most first. Find a skilled and independent valuation advisor. Do not set up a family limited partnership if the general partner is in poor health or late in life. Do not include an offshore trust in the

family limited partnership. By Richard Houlihan, Houlihan Smith & Company Reprinted by permission. © 2010 U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Calendar

regular tour fees apply, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Round Top Summer Antiques Show Featuring a mix of Americana, European and eclectic antiques at the Big Red Barn in Round Top, $5, Sat 10am5pm, Sun 10am-4pm (512-237-4747, www.roundtoptexasantiques.com). June 26 40th Annual International Festival-Institute 1:30pm Flute Recital, 3:30pm Homage to Ballets Russes with Texas Festival Orchestra, 8pm Chamber Music Program, Festival Hill in Round Top (979-249-3129, www. festivalhill.org). June 28-29 Safe Sitter Course For 11-13 year-olds, 9am-3:30pm, $35,Trinity Wellness Center, 2111 S. Day Street, Brenham (979-830-5017, www.trinitymed.org). June 30 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Master Class with Eteri Andjaparidze, piano,1:30pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top.

A few July highlights… July 1, 8, 16, 22, 29 Live Music at Rendez-vous Every Thursday, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979337-9200). July 1 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Chamber Music with Young Artists, 7:30pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www. festivalhill.org). July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Brenham Farmers Market and Gay Hill Farmers Market July 3 Chappell Hill’s 34th Annual Independence Day Parade and Summer Cowboy Event ‘’Best Small Town Parade in America!’’ Featuring floats, cowboys, antique cars, the renowned Marching Kazoo Band, 10am, downtown Chappell Hill, and don’t miss the “Cowboy” Williams exhibit at the Chappell Hill Museum, with cowboy demonstrators, children’s activities and pony rides (979-337-9910, www.chappellhillmuseum.org).

(Continued from Page 8) “Hot Nights, Cool Tunes” Concert Have a cool time downtown and enjoy “Texas Unlimited Band” performing top country music plus popular songs from the 80s, 7pm, free admission, free parking (www. downtownbrenham.com). 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Orchestral Program with Texas Festival Orchestra, 3:30pm, and Chamber Music Program, 8pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www. festivalhill.org). July 4, 11, 18, 25 Visitor Center of Historic Independence The restored “Adobe House” Visitor Center is now open weekends through July, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm, T.S. Saul Street, Independence. July 4 Fireworks-on-the-Brazos Free Blue Bell ice cream and Coca-Cola, live patriotic concert and fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by H-E-B, 10am-10pm, free admission, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (979-878-2214 or www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Burton’s 121st Annual 4th of July Celebration Fun for all with a barbeque, auction, bingo, cake walks and raffles, sponsored by American Legion Post 242 and Auxiliary, 11am, meals $8 adults, $4 children 6-12, Burton Community Center (979-289-2167). Celebrating Independence in Independence Texas An afternoon parade, food and fun booths, plus a street dance and fireworks, 5pm (979-830-3461, teele@texasbb. com). 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Patriotic Concert: Texas Festival Orchestra, Edwin Outwater, conductor, Fred Child, narrator, 3pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www. festivalhill.org). July 6-7 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Master Classes with Kenneth Goldsmith, violin, Stephen Balderston, cello, 1:30pm each day, Festival Hill.

www.brenhamtexas.com

July 8 Chamber Music with Young Artists At 7:30pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). July 10 “Hot Nights, Cool Tunes” Concert Have a cool time downtown and enjoy “Suede” with songs from the 70s-90s and current hits, 7pm, free admission, free parking (www.downtownbrenham.com).

July 12-16, 19-24 Summer Drama Camp – Unity Theatre Students write, design, and stage original scenes that can be incorporated into a larger play, grades 2-6: 10am-12pm, grades 7-8: 12:30-3pm, grades 9-12: 3:30-6pm, $200, register by July 1, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).

July 14-Aug 8 Shakespeare at Winedale Summer Season Four weekends of performances of Twelfth Night, Macbeth, and Henry VI Part 1, at 7:30pm Thu-Sun, and matinees Sat-Sun at 2pm, $10, Winedale Theatre Barn, Round Top (512-471-4726, www.shakespeare-winedale.org).

July 24-25, July 31-Aug 1 Crush for Fun at Pleasant Hill Winery Get purple feet, a t-shirt (“I picked, I stomped, I made some wine”) and a picture, food available. Tours, tastings and activities have fees. Saturday 11am-6pm; Sunday noon-5pm, 1441 Salem Rd., Brenham (979-830-8463, www.pleasanthillwinery.com).

Harvest Grape Stomp at Windy Winery Stomp grapes and celebrate the end of planting growing and harvesting at Windy Winery’s second annual Harvest Grape Stomp, Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 1-5pm, 4232 Clover Rd., Brenham (979-836-3252, [email protected]).

Working for YOU! 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:

Walk-In Visitors 2010

January— 1,056 February — 1,025 March — 1,856 April — 2,694 May — 1,218

Web Site Hits 2010

January— 6,536 February — 6,850 March — 15,571 April — 18,397 May — 7,713

Tourism News Lone Star Land Steward Award One of Washington County’s own was honored with a Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Lone Star Land Steward Award in late May. Charlotte von Rosenberg is a member of the Gideon Lincecum Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program and received honors for the Blackland Prairie Region for her conservation and restoration efforts of her family’s Quebe Farm in Brenham just south of FM 390. Von Rosenberg also operates a bed & breakfast at Quebe Farm. Congratulations, Charlotte!

Quebe Farm owner Charlotte von Rosenberg accepted a Lone Star Land Steward Award from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept. Pictured: Chairman of TPWD Commission Peter Holt, Quebe Farm B&B owner Charlotte von Rosenberg, and TPWD Executive Director Carter Smith. Photo Credit: TPWD.

ecutives surveyed added that their companies will make it easier to get back on the road: 27 percent said they would relax spending policies for travel that involves meeting new clients or business development. About one-third of respondents indicated they would restrict travel for staff meetings or internal business this year, down from 81 percent in 2009. Just 35 percent said they would restrict travel to conferences and events this year, a drop from 79 percent last year. (MeetingFocus.com - May 2010)

Fourth of July Weekend Celebrations Jump into July with lots of fireworks and music! Here’s an overview of July 3-4 local festivities. July 3: In Chappell Hill, the annual Independence Day parade kicks off at 10 a.m., featuring the “famous” Marching Kazoo Band. Round Top Festival Institute offers two music programs. At 3:30 p.m., an orchestral program featuring the Texas Festival Orchestra and James Dick. Then a chamber music program will be held at 8 p.m. In Brenham, the “Hot Nights, Cool Tunes” outdoor concert series kicks off with Texas Unlimited Band performing top country music and popular songs from the 80s. Sale of beverages and food help support these free concerts that begin at 7 p.m. on the courthouse square. Admission and parking are free.

Chamber Works June 2010 Page 7

July 4: In Burton, the American Legion Post 242 and Auxiliary will host barbecue, an auction, bingo, cake walks and raffle drawings beginning at 11 a.m. at the Burton Community Center. Festivities in the town of Independence will include food and fun booths, a street dance and fireworks. Those activities begin at 5 p.m. with a parade. In Round Top, Festival Hill offers a patriotic concert at 3:30 p.m., featuring the Texas Festival Orchestra with narration by Fred Child. At Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., you and your family can celebrate our nation’s independence where Texas declared her independence! Activities include arts and crafts, 1800s children’s games, music by Tena Rae Helm and band, free Blue Bell ice cream treats and Coca-Cola drinks, and a fireworks extravaganza that is unrivaled in this community sponsored by H-E-B. For more details on these and other events, visit the online Calendar at www.BrenhamTexas.com.

July B&B Owners Meeting

B&B owners, mark your calendars for July 14 and the next familiarization tour. You’ll be visiting Lonesome Dove to see its new rustic cabin, as well as A Journey’s End. Lunch will follow at Southern Flyer Café at the Brenham Airport. A short meeting will include updates on upcoming events and tourism promotion opportunities.

Celebrating Long-Term Members!

175th Anniversary of the Fight for Texas Independence

The Texas Independence Trail Region just wrapped up strategic planning for the 2010-2011 year in Matagorda Bay.  CVB staff member Seneca McAdams is on the TITR board. The board created a scope of work for the organization giving a clear direction. The focus for the year will be the 175th anniversary of the fight for Texas independence. All marketing, publicity and board meetings will center on the major sites associated with the struggle for independence. The Board of Directors consists of David Stewart (San Antonio), Jeannie Thielemann (Dickinson), Bryan Roller (Pearland), Peggy Spradley (Sealy), Kendal Larson (Sugarland), Seneca McAdams (Brenham/Washington County), Margaret Hall Spencer (Sugarland), Pam Summers (Bay Area Houston), Newton Warzecha (Goliad) and Heidi Simmons (Matagorda County). New 2010-2011 TITR Board of Directors include: Abbie Grubb (Houston), Adena Lewis (Smithville), Stacey Osborne (La Porte), Julie Siggers (Alvin) & Jodi Wright (Galveston). Sue Shore and Teresa Caldwell with the Texas Historical Commission facilitated the strategic planning session.

LaRoche Chevrolet

Buddy’s Appliance

Darrell Blum with Chamber board member Trey Hardy

Staff members Becky Demuth & Kristin Supak

Kenjura Pharmacy

Lacina, Kenjura & Haevischer, P.C.

25 years of membership

20 years of membership

AMEX Study: Business Travel Improving The majority of nearly 500 senior finance executives surveyed worldwide intend to maintain or increase business travel spending in 2010, according to the American Express/CFO Research Global Business & Spending Monitor. That majority reflects 57 percent of all respondents. More than one-quarter, or 26 percent, said they will increase business travel spending this year. Many of the ex-

Atwood Kenjura with Chamber board member Cathy Boeker 25 years of membership

Lauren Haevischer, board member Cathy Boeker, L.J. Lacina & Catherine Kenjura 25 years of membership

Page 8 Chamber Works June 2010

June 10, 17, 24 Live Music at Rendez-vous Gene Hackemack performs every Thursday at Rendez-vous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200). June 10-13, 17-20, 24-27 Unity Theatre presents “On Golden Pond” A funny, romantic play about a couple in their golden years and still deeply in love, $25, Thurs 7:30pm, Fri and Sat 8pm, Sun 4pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Downtown Brenham (979-830-8358, www. unitybrenham.org). June 12-13, 19-20, 26-27 Early Blooming at Chappell Hill Lavender Farm Provence Lavender is blooming early, cut and enjoy the serenity and charm of this working lavender farm, Sat 9-5, Sun 11-5, Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, 2250 Dillard Road (979-251-8114, www.chappellhilllavender.com). June 12, 19, 26 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 979-836-9466). Gay Hill Farmers Market Locally grown produce from area farmers, 9am-noon, 10050 Hwy 36 North, Brenham, (979-836-7225, [email protected]). Lavender Bloom U-Pick at Lavander Visit a little corner of France in Texas, stroll the fields, grab a pair of scissors and snip a bundle to take home, 10am-5pm, Lavande Lavender Farm, 9665 Loop Road, Bellville (713-715-8392, www.lavandetexas.com). June 12-July 4 Wild Exhibit “Wild” is a collection of wildlife art created in bronze, fiber, gourds, copper, glass, eggs, silver and metal, Copper Shade Tree, 206 E. Mill St., Round Top (www.coppershadetree.com). June 12-13 Brenham Summer Antiques Show Country & formal furniture, pottery, glassware, sterling, linens, estate jewelry, old toys, collectibles, plus a Farmer’s Market and plant sale, 9am-5pm Saturday, 10a-

What’s Happening in June 4pm Sunday, $5, kids free, Knights of Columbus Hall, 2804 Gun & Rod Rd., Brenham (979-865-5618, [email protected]). June 12 Summer Harvest Celebration Celebrate this tasty season at the Brenham Farmer’s Market with a home-grown fruit & vegetable contest, open to all, enter 8-9:30am, plus at 11am Justin Duncan, Greenhouse Manager at Prairie View A&M, will speak on How to Improve your Vegetable Garden, 8am-noon, 307 S. Park, Downtown Brenham (979-836-9466, www.downtownbrenham.com). Japanese Raku Pottery Firing Glaze your own pottery and take part in the firing and reduction of your piece using the art of Japanese Raku Pottery Firing from Master Potters Stephen & Bonnie Todee of Bluebonnet Pottery, $60, includes pottery, glazing and firing, and a glass of Windy Winery wine, 1-5pm, Windy Winery, 4232 Clover Rd., Brenham (979-8363252, [email protected]). 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Opening Chamber Music Program, 3:30pm, Opening Orchestral Program with the Texas Festival Orchestra at 8:00pm, individual or season tickets available, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). June 13, 20, 27 Visitor Center of Historic Independence The restored “Adobe House” Visitor Center is now open in historic Independence weekends through July, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm, T.S. Saul Street off FM 390 (just east of FM 50) in Independence. June 15, 17 Basic Level Quickbooks Two-part course with certified instructor, Shirley Beum, for those with limited or no experience on Quickbooks, class size limited, $60 pre-payment, 6-9:30pm, Bullock Building, College Street at Prairie Lea, Blinn College, Brenham (979-830-4137, www.blinn.edu/sbdc). June 15 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Young Persons Concert-Texas Festival Orchestra, Emilio Colón, Conductor, James VanDemark, narrator, 11am, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).

First Step Luncheon by Hospice Brazos Valley A monthly grief support luncheon to learn healthy grieving methods encouraging comfort and hope, bring a covered dish to share, beverages provided, 11am-1pm, third Tuesday of every month, free, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.com). June 16, 23 Beyond Grief at Hospice Brazos Valley A 6-week educational support series for adults who have lost a loved one six months ago or more, learn how grief affects you and how to move forward, 3-4:30pm, free, registration required, United Methodist Church, 234 Masonic, Bellville through June 23 (979-277-9525, [email protected]). June 16-17 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Master Classes with Gregory Fulkerson, violin (16th) and Hillary Herndon, viola (17th), 1:30pm each day, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-2493129, www.festivalhill.org). June 17 Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Music food and entertainment every 3rd Thursday of the month, food served at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm, $5 admission donated to Hospice, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979-836-4347). Movie in the Park Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, enjoy “Charlotte’s Web “ sponsored by the City of Brenham Recreation Department, Bluebonnet Electric, Germania Insurance and TFE Company. Concessions open. Hohlt Park on Hwy. 36 North in Brenham, 10 minutes after sunset, free. June 18 WCHJA Fireman’s Park Concert Washington County Historical Juneteenth Association concert featuring Eugene Eugene, 8pm-12am, Fireman’s Park (979-8369438). June 19 WCHJA Juneteenth “A New Beginning” Juneteenth Opening Ceremony at Courthouse Square, 9:30am, parade at 10:30am, activities at noon at Fireman’s Park (979836-9438).

A Call to Arms! Learn what life was like for Texian men in the Army leaving farm and family for the battlefield, see the clothing and equipment of a citizen soldier at Independence Hall, 11am-3pm, $5 adults, $3 student, regular tour fees apply, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (www.birthplaceoftexas.com).

Choctaw Tales with Tim Tingle Storyteller and author Tim Tingle brings the lore of the Choctaw Nation to life with traditional stories, singing, and performance on the Native American Flute and whale skin drum, joined by storyteller and writer Greg Rodgers, free with museum admission of $5 adults, $3 students, under 6 free, 1pm, Star of the Republic Museum Theater at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (www.starmuseum.org).

June 22 Social Media & Business Networking Seminar Held from 2-5pm, Hodde Tech Center on Hwy. 290 at S. Blue Bell Rd (979-8304137, [email protected]). 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Master Class with Emilio Colón, cello, 1:30pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top. June 23 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Master Class with Frederico Agostini, violin, 1:30pm, Festival Hill, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top. June 24 Chamber Music with Young Artists Festival Hill at 7:30pm, Hwy 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (www.festivalhill.org). June 25 40th Annual International Festival-Institute Paul Hindenmith, Konzertmusik for Piano, Brass and Two Harps, Op.49, Lawrence Isaacson, conductor, 8pm, Round Top (979249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).

June 26-27 Aww Shucks! Explore corn and the benefits to man and beast, Barrington Living History Farm, 10am-5pm both days, $5 adult, $3 students, See Calendar, Page 6

Chamber Members are Invited to Advertise in this Space Call or e-mail us for more details! (979) 836-3695 • [email protected]