Washington County

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August 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

TAILGATE Tickets now on sale The countdown is on! TAILGATE 2010 will be held on Thursday, Aug. 26, and tickets are on sale now. The Chamber will host this exciting and fun tailgate-style event at the Fireman’s Training Center in Brenham. It is the one annual fundraising event for Chamber programs and activities. There will be plenty of spirited rivalries going on that night ... between fans of Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M, the Blinn Bucs, TCU Horned Frogs, UH Cougars, Texas Tech Raiders, Houston Texans, Burton Panthers, Brenham Cubs and more. Tickets Only Sold in Advance Tickets will not be sold at the

BARRY BRASS Parcel Plus

JOY NELSON Brenham ISD Krause Elementary

Networking Breakfast

Thursday, Aug. 10 at 7:45 a.m. Hosted by

Hosted by Hospice Brazos Valley 302 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham

LOWELL OGLE City of Brenham

Breakfast Sponsor — Brenham Memorial Chapel Free for Chamber members!

CHRIS CANGELOSI Washington County Abstract CONNIE HALL Ingleside Bed & Breakfast MARK PATRANELLA Blue Bell Creameries KURT PODESZWA Camp For All

beverages, a fabulous silent auction, exciting live auction, a great raffle, lots of mingling and

“Wake Up, Washington County!”

ALEJANDRA RAY Bevers Kitchen

LAVERNE KRUMREY Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park

door. Stop by the Chamber and pick up tickets this week. For the price of $25 per person, you can enjoy all the delicious food you can eat (from Design II Catering), plenty of foaming cold

Come enjoy breakfast and a chance to network with other local businesses and organizations. This is a great way to inform others about your products and services and to learn about what’s new in the community. Everyone gets a chance to give a 30-second commercial about their business/organization to the entire crowd! Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and brochures for sharing.

JARVIS VAN DYKE Van Dyke Rankin & Company WENDY YATES Moorman Tate Law Firm

RSVP to Jane at (979) 836-3695 or [email protected]

networking, and live music and dancing. The raffle will include dozens of great items, and anyone can purchase raffle tickets. You don’t have to be present to win. They are also available now at the Chamber office (six chances for $5 dollars). The silent and live auctions will be a major highlight of the night. Chamber member businesses always donate the most fabulous items. See below for some highlights! A huge round of applause goes to all of the generous sponsors who are making this night possible. Please join us in thanking them, and then come to the TAILGATE 2010 to enjoy the party with them!

Brenham Chrysler Jeep Dodge TOUCHDOWN SPONSORS • Blinn College • Republic Waste Services • Texas Farm Bureau

Insurance

FIELD GOAL SPONSORS • Blue Bell Creameries • Bluebonnet Electric • Boo Dog Advertising • Brenham Abstract & Title • Brenham Fitness Center • Brenham ISD • Brenham National Bank • Brice Milliorn-Edward Jones • Burton Cotton Gin • Dot Borchgardt • Dr. Michele Bright • Germania Insurance • Goss Communications • Hollis Energy Resource Services • Julie Renken • Kruse Village • Lee Anderson Company See Tailgate, Page 3

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Hosted by:

Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library 100 Martin Luther King, Jr. Pkwy, Brenham

Aug. 12 from 5:30-7:30 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 Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library at www.ci.brenham.tx.us/html/library.html

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Bluebonnet Brenham Clinic Electric

CHAMPION SPONSOR

Scott & White Hospital - Brenham

Page 2 Chamber Works August 2010

Ribbon Cuttings

Renewing Members (July 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.

Home Depot Manager: Stueart Sawyer Located at: 2801 Wood Ridge Blvd., Brenham Phone: (979) 277-9964

LWC Alumni Annual Meeting The Leadership Washington County Alumni Association will be hosting the Annual Open Meeting Wednesday, Sept. 29 (location to be determined). This is for everyone who has ever been through the program over the past twenty years. Be looking for your invitation within the next few weeks. If you have been through the LWC program, but have not received any emails or mailings lately, please contact the Chamber office to make sure we have your current contact information. NOTE: alumni are needed to serve on a couple fun committees in the Alumni Association this year (holiday party, speakers bureau, junior leadership program, etc.). This is the type of service you were prepared for! Please contact [email protected] for more details. Thank you!

Leadership for High School Students The 2010 Junior Leadership program will kick off in October, and the Alumni Association will soon be looking for approximately 25 high school juniors and seniors to participate. This abbreviated version of the LWC program is designed to educate, train and motivate area high school students to become leaders within their schools and communities. It provides the students with information and leadership skills and prepares them for service to the public. Participants go through an eight-week program that gives a behind-the-scenes look at community operations and introduces them to Washington County’s elected and civic leaders. High school juniors and seniors in Washington County are eligible to apply to the Junior Leadership program. In order to allow for adequate class interaction and organization, the class is limited to 25 participants. Students can apply by picking up an application at the Chamber or by sending an email to [email protected] by Sept. 20.

A&L Hot Oil Service — 7 years A Secret Cottage — 1 year AAA Self Storage — Brenham — 3 years AMA Home Care — 8 years Apex Instruments — 7 years Appelt, Gary L., M.D., P.A. — 29 years Argent Court of Brenham — 12 years Artesian Park RV Campground — 17 years Best Western Inn of Brenham — 13 years Bluebonnet Pottery & Gift Gallery — 5 years Bogart’s Casa Blanca — 3 years Bootstrap at Round Top — 4 years Brazos Belle Restaurant — 16 years Brazos Valley Foot Care — 7 years Brenham Abstract & Title Company — 27 years Brenham Catering Company — 7 years Brenham Cemetery Association — 7 years Brenham Country Club — 21 years Brenham Crossroads Shopping Center — 5 years Brenham Housing Authority — 8 years Brenham ISD Superintendent — 15 years Burton Heritage Society — 3 years Carrie’s Hallmark — 15 years Cedars Cabins — 5 years Century 21 Lone Star Realty — 25 years Coldwell Banker Commercial Southwest Partners — 3 years Countryside Lighting Co. — 11 years Cricket Cruise & Travel — 2 years Discount Trees of Brenham — 20 years Melvin Ehlert, Jr. & Associates — 26 years El Charro T Mexican Restaurant — 7 years First Finance — 7 years The German American Connection — 1 year Grace Community Fellowship — 1 year Grunder, Mike — 5 years Hampton Inn & Suites — 1 year Haskins, Dr. Jimmy R. — 37 years Haulright — 7 years Heritage Society of Washington County — 29 years Heritage Texas Country Properties — 11 years HR Help Link — 2 years K-Bob’s Steakhouse — 25 years Ken Mutscher Financial Services — 33 years Kenjura Tile — 7 years Kenney Bunkhouse — 5 years State Representative Lois Kolkhorst — 10 years Korth & Linke Welding — 33 years LaBahia Antiques — 13 years Leslie Wood Consulting — 2 years Link Staffing Services — 3 years Live Oak Resort — 20 years Lube Rite — 21 years Luedemann Grocery & Mill — 19 years M&C Equipment — 21 years M. C. Byrd Wealth Management — 1 year Margie Routt Young- Events by Room Service — 13 years Mark Hyatt Insurance Agency, Inc. — 31 years McCarty, Chris, DDS, Pediatrics — 25 years

MHMR Center of Washington County — 17 ears Miracle Farm — 28 years Monastery of St. Clare Miniature Horse Farm — 23 years Mutscher, Gus — 7 years National Processing Company-Thomas Sykows — 1 year Naylor’s Wood Floors — 13 years O. Theodore Dinkins, Jr. — 8 years Oak Creek Apartments — 12 years Pennybacker, William — 21 years Personnel Services — 13 years Pomegranate/Funky Art Cafe — 7 years Prairie Hill Farm — 11 years ProServe Automotive — 2 years Quick Lane — 8 years Rau’s Meat Center — 33 years Republic Waste Services — 1 year Robert’s Service Station & Grocery — 11 years Roger’s Tree Service — 2 years Rotary Club of Washington County — 7 years Washington County Clerk Beth A Rothermel — 12 years Round Top Festival Institute — 9 years Scoops at Westwood — 7 years Smith, Robert — 1 year Spiess Insurance Agency — 33 years St. Paul Lutheran of Rehburg — 7 years St. Peter’s Episcopal Church — 7 years Sycamore Cottage — 2 years Tara Farms — 3 years Texas Log Homes — 10 years United Way of the Brazos Valley — 3 years Upchurch, Laura — Moorman Tate Law Firm — 8 years Wakefield Farms — 7 years Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park Assoc. — 17 years Washington County Fair Association — 26 years Washington County Farm Bureau — 25 years WCT OUTDOORS — 3 years Wilhelm, Don C. — 1 year Williams, Scott M., MD, Orthopaedics — 7 years Yates, Wendy J. — Moorman Tate Law Firm — 3 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, three 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 Wise Landscaping — Hwy. 105 Sign

Chamber Works August 2010 Page 3

WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER OF THE MONTH

July 2010 (tie) Florence Julian

TAILGATE

(Continued from Page 1) • MIC Group • Mike Hopkins Distributing • Money Makeover TeamNeal Financial Group • Moorman, Tate, Moorman, Urquhart & Haley • Must Be Heaven • RE/MAX Advantage • RWG Construction • Scott & White Health Plan • Van Dyke Rankin • Washington County Abstract Here’s a preview of the Live & Silent Auction items you can bid on at TAILGATE 2010 (donations as of August 3): Signature Facial Package Aesthetic & Acupuncture Clinic Portable Gas Cooktop Allstar Restaurant Sales & Service Massage & Gift Basket AMA Home Care 6 Fragrant Antique Roses Antique Rose Emporium

July 2010 (tie) Don Wilhelm

Independence Coffee Basket Argent Court Assisted Living Rustic Wood Cooler Bartay Chiropractic Steak & Shrimp Dinner for 10 Bevers Kitchen

Backyard Barbecue Basket Big Daddy’s Barbecue

Pedicure & Gift Basket Boehm Clinic

Gourmet Dinner for 6 in your home Bites by Anita

Basket of Various Gift Cards Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union

Four Blinn Athletics Season Passes Blinn College Country Store Gift Basket Blue Bell Creameries “Where It All Begins” Package Blue Bell Creameries Round Trip for 4 to Northgate in College Station Bluebonnet Cabs Framed Barnwood Texas Flag Bluebonnet Electric

Tickets to Christmas and Spring Concerts of Brenham Children’s Chorus Brenham Children’s Chorus Five cases of Coke Brenham Coca-Cola 1 Year Fitness Membership & 3 Tanning Sessions Brenham Fitness Center Gourmet Basket with Plant Brenham Floral Company See Tailgate, Page 4

Welcome New Members to the Chamber August 2010 Joyce Dickschat 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

BRENHAM GRILL Owner: Ana Lilia Jimenez 107 W. Commerce Street Downtown Brenham, TX Phone: 979-251-7800 [email protected] www.brenhamgrill.com Restaurant

FRANCO REACHI CONSRUCTION CO. Owner: Claudia Rodriguez 3015 Hwy 290 West Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 210-462-3101 [email protected] Construction Contractors

BRENHAM TRIPS ASSOCIATION Manager: Steve Finn P O Box 1102 Brenham, Texas 77834 Phone: 979-289-5102 [email protected] www.brenhamtrips.com Lodging

INDEX FUNDS ADVISOR Manager: Richard N. Neal 303 E. Lubbock Brenham, Texas 77833 (Physical) P O Box 360 Brenham, Texas 77834 (Mailing) Phone: 979-421-9666 [email protected] www.ifa.com Investments

Dia – L – Ran Inc. Owners: Martin & Brenda Lackey 9950 Palestine Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-5272 Feed Dealers DOE RUN CREEK INN Manager: Chase Stroud 7575 Star Lane Washington, Texas 77880 Phone: 817-613-6785 [email protected] Bed & Breakfast

LITTLE CAESARS PIZZA Owner: Niranjan S. Patel 1610 S. Day Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 281-630-3875 Restaurant LINDA & PAUL PIPES 2106 Jane Lane Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-5524 [email protected] Individuals – Retired

TEXAS ANIMAL IMPRINTS Owner: Joni Daniel 201 Hampshire Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-9734 [email protected] Publishing SANDY HILL CABINET Owners: Martin & Brenda Lackey 9950 Palestine Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-830-0601 Cabinet Contractors-Custom STICK HORSE PUBLISHING Owner: Dianne Dismukes 2668 HYY 36S #326 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-716-0223 [email protected] www.thesmalltownshopper.com Advertising

Washington County Chamber of Commerce 314 S. Austin Street Brenham, TX 77833

Page 4 Chamber Works August 2010

VOTE FOR BUSINESS

It’s more important now than ever to ensure that the voice of business is heard at the ballot box this November. What can you do at your business to help? Learn about how the issues affect you and where your incumbents and candidates stand on those issues” stand on those issues. (see below) Urge your employees to register and vote. Hang a poster in your office building or a common area to remind people to vote. Utilize other forms of communications like bulletin board notices, newsletters, e-mail, and letters to remind your employees to vote. Get to the polls on Election Day: Nov. 2.

The Chamber’s goal is to spread the word about the importance of voting and to make the voice of business heard. Contact the Chamber if you would like any assistance in gathering materials to encourage voting at your workplace. Visit this website: www.VoteforBusiness.com. Look at the “Voter Resources” and find links to your candidates with information on where they stand on important issues. It also has a “scorecard” where you can see how your incumbents have voted over the past few years. Be informed and be prepared for voting on Nov. 2.

TAILGATE

(Continued from Page 3) 2 Reserved Seat Tickets to Brenham Cub Football Games Brenham ISD 2 Sideline Passes to a Brenham Cubs Game Brenham ISD Football Coach Glen West 20lb Liquid Propane Cylinder with Gauge Brenham L-P Gas 2 Certificates for September Photography Class Brenham Portrait Gallery 20x24 Family Portrait on location Brenham Portrait Gallery Groovy Girl Doll & Clothes Brenham Toy Company and Teacher Supply

Dog Lover Basket Brenham Veterinary Hospital Cotton Gin Gift Basket Burton Cotton Gin & Museum Embellished Purse with Beauty Supplies Capelli Salon One Night Hotel Stay Comfort Inn & Suites-Navasota 5 Free Massages for your Office Five Free Exams & X Ray Community Chiropractic

Skin Wellness Basket & Gift Certifiate Deanna Warmke-Nouveau Cosmecouticals Happy Smiles Gift Basket Dr. Bill Reeves, Orthodontist Brianna’s Salad Dressing Gift Basket Del Sol Food Company Bus Ride for 40 to Cubs Football Away Game Durham School Services

Tandem Sky Dive with Video Larry Arnie, Jeff Zernick and David Folchinsky One-hour Consultation & One Month Fitness Classes Lete Phillips Exercise Studio “House Divided” UT/A&M Gift Basket Luedemann Grocery & Mill Two sets of 4 tickets to Astros Baseball Game MIC Group

Laptop Computer Computer Helpers

Overhead Door Garage Door Opener & Chain Rail ESS Group

Confidential Financial Planning Consultation & Portfolio Analysis Mitchell Clark & Company

Brenham Cubs Gift Basket Cubs Den

One Night Stay in a Pool Suite Far View Bed & Breakfast

Coral Swarovski Crystal Set Norman’s Pharmacy

Wok Fayetteville Propane Co.

Rooster Painting Parcel Plus

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Norman’s Pharmacy Welcomes David Woods David Woods recently received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. Prior to Norman’s Pharmacy, he worked along side physicians and nurses at the Harris County Psychiatric Center and UTMB Correctional Managed Care in Huntsville’s prison system. Woods also studied under a clinical pharmacist at Methodist hospital making dozens of interventions each day. He also studied IV compounding at Memorial Hermann hospital learning practical techniques, quality assurance, and quality control. To further his knowledge in his specialty, Woods did research for consultants at Pharmaceutical Compounding Center of America. David plans to specialize in sterile and non-sterile customized medication. David now works at Norman’s Pharmacy as a Compounding Pharmacist specializing in unique dosage forms. Woods plans to offer compounded thyroid medications, bioidentical hormones, veterinary medications, as well as dermatologic and hypoallergenic cosmetic preparations. Please stop by to say hello at 2105 S. Day Street in Brenham. Phone: (979) 836-5264. 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)

5 Piece Luggage Set Glenwood Prenzler Chocolates, Wine & Nuts Gift Basket Heritage Texas Country Properties Ryobi Combo Kit Home Depot Gift Certificate & Bracelet Hospice Boutique Gourmet Breakfast for 12 Ingleside Bed & Breakfast Breakfast at Ingleside Gift Basket Ingleside Bed & Breakfast

Gift Basket Pleasant Hill Winery Knife Set Rau’s Meat Center Collapsable Roller Cooker & Duffle Bag RR Donnelley Pair of Skates & Five Skating Passes Silver Wings Ballroom Wine Gift Basket Stanpac USA

Large Plant Jim & Ellen Ellison

Tabletop Grill with State Seal State Representative Lois W. Kolkhorst

Two $25 Gas Cards K & M Grocery

4 Texas A&M Basketball Tickets Texas Commercial Waste

Tickets to Clay Walker at Cynthia Woods Pavilion - Sept. 3 KTEX 106 FM

See Tailgate, Page 7

Chamber Works August 2010 Page 5

Introducing the Leadership Class of 2011 The new class of Leadership Washington County participants will convene this month with an orientation session Aug. 11, followed by a day-long Team Building Retreat Aug. 24 at Camp For All. The participants will graduate from the program in May, 2011. The 24 professionals listed below will be challenged, inspired and educated about the many facets of effective leadership and the structure of this community. They will experience ten in-depth sessions, including a memorable trip to Austin for State Government Day where they will meet personally with state lawmakers and learn about the legislative process. They will also be treated to amazing, behind-the-scenes tours of some of Brenham’s most unique businesses. During this program, participants will meet top leaders in the community and form relationships that will aid them in their professional careers for years to come. Here are this year’s Leadership Washington County participants: Lea Bartay Brenham ISD Eric Berg Assistant Washington County Attorney Kyle Boer Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Jason Bontrager Blinn College Chris Brewster Parcel Plus Michele Ebner MIC Group–Brenham East Brian Fathauer Brenham National Bank Pam Green RE/MAX Advantage Joe Greenberg Moorman Tate Law Firm Liz Hopkins Mike Hopkins Distributing Justin Hyde Christ Church Brenham

Chris Jackson City of Brenham Police Department Catherine Kenjura Lacina, Kenjura & Haevischer Clint Kolby Economic Development Foundation Jeanne Luedemann Washington County Chamber of Commerce Benjamin Menjares Brenham Housing Authority James Pharaon Germania Insurance Eric Plagens Blue Bell Creameries Elizabeth Price Upchurch Architects Jeffrey Sadler Del Sol Food Company/Briannas Sara Schramm Blue Bell Creameries Monte Shields Brenham ISD Scot Sommerlatte MIC Group-Brenham East Brenda Stelwagen City of Brenham Blue Bell Aquatic Center Leadership Washington County is hosted and coordinated each year by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce with assistance from alumni of the program. It is one of the most meaningful ways to give back after you have received all the valuable training and experiences in the LWC program. A few alumni are still needed to help with sessions for the Class of 2010. Please call Jane Hinze at (979) 836-3695 if you would like more details. Watch this newsletter for photos and articles about the new class over the next several months as they learn and grow together as professionals and leaders.

Leadership participants learn what makes this community work! They form new relationships and forge lasting bonds while touring community sites and hearing from local leaders.

Page 6 Chamber Works August 2010

Crush for Fun and Harvest Grape Stomp Don’t forget the wine! On August 7-8 and 14-15, Pleasant Hill Winery offers its annual “Crush for Fun” celebration. This is your chance to stomp grapes, get purple feet, T-shirt and a photo. The winery is located at 1441 Salem Road in Brenham. Hours are Saturday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday noon-5 p.m. For more information, visit PleasantHillWinery.com. The Harvest Grape Stomp at Windy Winery also takes place on two more weekends: August 7-8 and 14-15. There is fun for adults and children alike as you partake in traditional stomping of the grapes and celebrate the harvest at Windy Winery, 4232 Clover Road in Brenham. Visit the website for more details at WindyWinery.com.

Tourism News pell Hill Lavender Farm where they will enjoy its beautiful lavender-covered hillsides. Don’t miss the wide variety of crafts vendors showcasing handmade soaps, lotions, birdhouses, jams, jellies, salsa, linens, candles, jewelry and more. Plus live music and lavender cuisine. Tour the farm’s gift shop with its wide variety of lavender-related items. For more information, call 979-251-8114 or visit www. chappellhilllavender.com.

Fox26 News, Houston, recently broadcast live from Blue Bell Creamery’s charming ice cream parlor. Anchors interviewed the Blue Bell girl and several other company representatives.

Last Weekend for Shakespeare Enjoy the 40th anniversary of Shakespeare at Winedale. These are the last performances for Summer 2010. This year’s performances are directed by James Loehlin. Tickets are $10 per person or $5 for students with valid UT ID, and all performances will be in the Winedale Theatre Barn. Twelfth Night August 5 and 7 - 7:30pm Macbeth August 6 - 7:30pm August 8 - 2pm matinee Henry VI, Part 1 August 7 - 2pm matinee August 8 - 7:30pm Shakespeare at Winedale is a University of Texas program dedicated to bringing Shakespeare to life through performance. Visit their website for complete details at shakespeare-winedale.org.

B&B owners enjoy camaraderie as they admire the craftsmanship of the new cedar log cabin at Lonesome Dove B&B. Front row: Gay Barnette, Lonesome Dove; Carol Montgomery, The Front Porch; Linda Hallett, Far View; Patsy Klussmann, Country Place Cottage; Marilyn Wrigley, Wrigley House; Steve Zoobkoff, Far View. Back row: Jim Rolewicz, Scenic Hill; John Barnette, Lonesome Dove; and Steve Finn, Knittel House.

An enthusiastic crowd rocked to the music of The Fab Five, a Beatles tribute band, at the July 17 Hot Nights Cool Tunes concert on the square in downtown Brenham.

Save the Date

Lavender Fest The scent of fresh lavender is in the air! The Chappell Hill Lavender Farm will host the 5th annual Lavender Fest on Saturday, August 14, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The festival kicks off the blooming season and guests will have the opportunity to cut their own fresh lavender and learn how to make lavender wands. The popular Tour de Lavender returns this year and includes stops at the Bluebonnet House Gift and Garden Center, offering unique gifts for everyone on your list, and the Windy Winery, which uses only Texas grapes to make great Texas wine. Visitors can begin their tour at the Chap-

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

Mark your calendars for September 8 to participate in the next B&B Owners familiarization tour. Each tour generally includes stops at two or three B&Bs followed by lunch. Watch for more details to come.

The Washington County Chamber is a Proud Member of ... A stroll through the woods leads to the new cabin at Lonesome Dove B&B. The July tour for B&B Owners also visited A Journey’s End Bed & Breakfast, owned by Tammy and Todd Dettling.

• TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS • TEXAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES • TEXAS ASSOC. OF CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAUS • U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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 website. 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 June — 1,215 July — 1,370

Web Site Hits 2010

January— 6,536 February — 6,850 March — 15,571 April — 18,397 May — 7,713 June — 7,940 July — 8,893

Did You Know? H That the Chamber has Washington County Atlas Key Map books for sale. These were published in conjunction with the Washington County Mapping Department and Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce. These key-maps have Brenham’s newest annexations included and the most current listing of county road names and locations. Great for garage salers! Stop by to pick one up this week. ($5 each)

TAILGATE

(Continued from Page 4) Twilight Fan Gift Pack The Book Nook Intro to Baby Signing Time The Book Nook Fluffy Robe, Express Teeth Whitening & Aqua Detox Thyme Day Spa & Salon Two $40 Gift Certificates Toad Hollow Icehouse Printing of 1000 One-sided Color Flyers Tops Printing in Bryan Subscription to Unity Theatre Unity Theatre Xbox 360 Elite Gaming System and Samsung Blu-Ray Disc Player Wal-Mart Supercenter Concealed Handgun License Class for 2 Washington County Shooting Club Dallas Cowboy Folding Chair Wright Distributing Co. Thank you to the following members for making cash contributions to underwrite the event: Ballard & Fleetwood, Joyce Boeker, O’Malley Engineers and Anonymous. This is the only fundraising event of the year for the Chamber. All proceeds are put back into the community in the form of programs, seminars and services designed to enhance the economic climate in our great community. Come enjoy this great event Aug. 26. Don’t miss this great opportunity to support your community and have fun at the same time!

Chamber Works August 2010 Page 7

New Downtown Visitor Center The Washington County Chamber will soon be expanding into a second location. The first phase of renovations to the Simon Theatre are close to completion and the Chamber’s Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) staff anticipate opening the Downtown Visitor Center sometime this Fall at 115 W. Main Street. This new visitor center will specialize in providing leisure and entertainment information about all sites and activities in Washington County and the region. The Chamber’s existing location will become the Relocation Center, with displays and materials focused on providing information to newcomers to the area, both individuals and businesses. Chamber-CVB staff members have worked closely with the project managers at the Simon to create a unique and informative destination for visitors to begin their exploration of Washington County. Recently submitted photographs and printed material will be displayed on a state-of-the-art, interactive audio/visual display. Large color prints of the county’s landscapes, architecture and venues will be featured throughout the visitor center, and a beautifully-designed, inlaid floor map will help visitors navigate to the area’s many splendid attractions. In addition to local information, the visitor center will also offer statewide travel guides, maps and brochures. Once all phases are completed, the restored Simon Theatre will become the Simon Center, a community event center. It

will be a great asset to Brenham’s historic downtown area. The original theatre was designed in 1925 by famed Texas architect Alfred C. Finn and included the finest leather opera chairs, a full stage and an admission price of only 35 cents for adults. Many long- time residents can remember a favorite movie viewed at “The Simon.” The Chamber looks forward to the opportunity to welcome guests and visitors and introduce them to Brenham and Washington County through the new Downtown Visitor Center. When visitors are able to see the impressive displays about everything there is to see and do in this community, the goal is for them to stay longer, return more frequently, and spread the word to others. The Washington County Chamber (and the Economic Development Foundation) will continue to be based in its present location at 314 South Austin Street in Brenham. Basic visitor information and relocation information will be available at both locations, offering Chamber members even greater promotion and referral opportunities than ever before. The two sites will be able to specialize, however, and offer more extensive displays and materials in the two separate locations. The operation of a Dowtown Visitor Center is being made possible by Hotel Occupancy Tax dollars, generated by overnight visitors to lodging properties in Brenham and Washington County.

Calendar

Aug 26 TAILGATE 2010 Make plans now to support your team during Tailgate 2010, tickets $25 per person in advance, 6pm, Fireman’s Training Center, Brenham (979-836-3695). Aug 31 Dance Institute for Adults Round Top Festival Institute introduces jazz and ballet at new Dance Institute, 12 classes $120, 5:45-6:45pm, Round Top Festival Institute, 248 Jaster Rd., Service Bldg. 9, Round Top (979-2493129, www.festivalhill.org).

September highlights… Sept 3 Brenham Public Schools 135th Anniversary Brenham ISD celebrates its anniversary as the oldest public school district in the state, meet several distinguished alumni from the district, 11:30am, $20, Blinn Col-

lege Student Center, Brenham (979-277-6533). Sept 4 Community CPR Class Learn CPR from Washington County EMS, $25, 8:30am-12pm, new EMS station 1875 Hwy 290 W., Brenham, call ahead (979-277-6267). Sept 9 Business After Hours at the Fair! Hosted by the Washington County Fair Association, 5:30 - 8pm. Sept 10 Washington County Fair Kick-Off “Proud of the Past – Poised for the Future.” The Crossroads Band performs, Washington County Fairgrounds, call for details (979836-4112, www.washingtoncofair.com). Sept 11 Hospice Soiree – Las Vegas Nights Las Vegas themed fundraiser for Hospice Brazos Valley Bren-

(Continued from Page 8) ham with food, music, auctions, plus blackjack, roulette, craps and slots, $50/person, 6-11pm, Fireman’s Training Center, Hwy. 290, Brenham (979-277-9525, dwarmke@hospicebrazosvalley. org). Sept 15-18 Washington County Fair Shows, rodeos, music and fun! Nashville entertainment, carnival, crafts, food, livestock, commercial exhibits and attractions, see website for details, Washington County Fairgrounds, 1305 Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979836-4112, www.washingtoncofair.com). Sept 25 Hearth Cooking Class Learn old-fashioned skills that your great-great-great grandparents would have known, help create a feast to enjoy, $30, 9am-2pm, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214 x246, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).

South Central Texas Water Conservation Conference 2nd annual conference, “Your Water Footprint”, register on-line, $15 before Sept. 1, $20 after, includes lunch, 8:30am-3pm, Washington County Event Center, 1305 Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-2776212, http://wcwildlife.org).

sion covers all days and locations, Highway 237 in Round Top (512237-4747or www.roundtoptexasantiques.com).

Sept 28-Oct 2 Marburger Farm Antique Show More than 350 antique dealers on 43 acres, full service café, $10 admission good all week, Marburger Farm, Round Top (800-999-2148, www.roundtop-marburger.com).

Sept 30 – Oct 3 Unity Theatre presents Greater Tuna Come and meet the residents of Tuna, the “third smallest town” in Texas. The town may be small, but the personalities are big, played by two actors whose quick wit and even faster costume changes will make you laugh ‘til you cry for more, Thu 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8:00pm, Sun 4:00pm, call for prices, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979830-8358, www.unitybrenham.org).

Sept 29-Oct 2 Original Round Top Antiques Fair The show that started it all is one of the 10 Best Antique Fairs in the Country with over 350 upscale antique vendors across four sites including the Big Red Barn, acres of free parking, $10 admis-

Sept 30 St. Paul’s Christian Day School Annual Fundraiser BBQ sausage dinner with all the trimmings, dine-in or drive-thru 4:30-7:30pm, silent and live auction, Cake/Book walk, Western Children Choir, bake sale and more, 58:30pm, Fireman’s Training Center,

Page 8 Chamber Works August 2010

Now - Aug 11 The Bison: American Icon Exhibit Exhibit at Star of the Republic Museum explores this iconic creature from the Plains Indian culture of the 1800s through the commercial and national symbol of today. Exhibit is free with $5 museum admission, 10am-5pm, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2461, www. starmuseum.org). Aug 5, 12, 19, 26 Live Music at Rendez-vous Gene Hackemack performs every Thursday at Rendez-vous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200). Aug 5-8 Lammers Clay Spotlights new work by LeBeth Lammers, plus collectible frog pieces, free, Copper Shade Tree, 206 E. Mill St., Round Top (979-249-4127, www.coppershadetree. com). Shakespeare at Winedale Summer Season Four weekends of performances of Twelfth Night, Macbeth, and Henry VI Part 1, at 7:30pm Thurs-Sun, and matinees SatSun at 2pm, $10, Winedale Theatre Barn, Round Top (512-471-4726, www.shakespeare-winedale.org). Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 Live Music at Pig and Whistle Gene Hackemack performs every Friday at Pig and Whistle, 12607 W. Washington, Burton (979-289-2319, www.pigandwhistleofburtontexas.com). Aug 6, 20 Carousel Rides The Carousel at Fireman’s Park will be open for rides, from the Arts Council of Washington County, 6:30-8pm, free. Aug 6 Ribbon Cutting: Texas Animal Imprints New Member, Owner: Joni Daniel, 10:30am, at Parcel Plus 2305 S. Day Street, Brenham. Aug 7, 14, 21, 28 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

What’s Happening in August off the square in Downtown Brenham, 307 S. Park Street, free (vendors call 979-8369466). Gay Hill Farmers Market Locally grown produce from area farmers, 9am-noon, 10050 Hwy 36 North, Brenham, (979-836-7225, [email protected]). Aug 7-8, Aug 14-15 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 (979830-8463, 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 15pm, 4232 Clover Rd., Brenham (979-8363252, [email protected]). Cotton Pickin’ Time Celebrate the beginning of cotton season through picking, ginning, carding and spinning cotton, 10am-4:30pm, $5 adults, $3 students, Barrington Living History Farm at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Aug 7 Community CPR Class Learn CPR from Washington County EMS, $25, 8:30am-12pm, new EMS station 1875 Hwy 290 W., Brenham, call ahead (979277-6267). Aug 10 Networking Breakfast Hosted at Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham, 7:45-9am. 12th Annual Health & Safety Day American Red Cross offers free blood pressure and glucose screenings, information booths, blood drive, fingerprinting and immunizations, free padlocks for first 65 kids, 1-6pm, First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 301 Church St., Navasota (979-836-0737). Aug 11 Kids Day Scott & White Hospital - Brenham offers free health screenings, information booths, shots, entertainment, refreshments, 3-7pm, Brenham High School (979-830-5017).

Younger Widows by Hospice Brazos Valley A monthly grief support group to encourage, comfort and give hope with others who have lost a spouse, bring a covered dish, beverages are provided, free, 6-8pm on the 2nd Weds of the month, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.com). Aug 12 Ribbon Cutting: Michele Bright, D.D.S. New Member, 1:30pm, Brenham Dental Center, 1406 S. Day Street, Brenham. Business After Hours Hosted at Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, 100 MLK Pkwy, Brenham, 5:30–7 p.m. Aug 13-15 Brenham Firemen’s Fiesta All-You-Can-Eat sirloin steak noon meal on Sunday, live auction 11am, tickets $8/ advance from Robert’s Service Station, Farm Bureau, Brenham Fire Station, or $9 at the door, Fireman’s Training Center, Hwy. 290, Brenham (979-337-7300). Aug 14, 21, 28 Music in the Vineyard Relax by the vineyard and enjoy the light rock blues of Mike Gallo, bring your own lawn chair and enjoy wine, cheese and soft drinks available for purchase, $5 cover, 5-7pm, Windy Winery, 4232 Clover Rd., Brenham (979-836-3252, www.windywinery.com). Aug 14 Chappell Hill Lavender Fest Countryside neighborhood festival “Tour de Lavender” will lead visitors on a tour to various venues in Chappell Hill as they make their way to the lavender farm, 9am3pm, free admission, Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, 2250 Dillard Rd, Chappell Hill. (979-251-8114, www.chappellhilllavender. com). Buccaneer Alumni Letterman Assoc. Golf Tournament 18-hole 4-person modified scramble, banquet dinner following, 1pm shotgun start, $400/four member team, Brenham Country Club, 4107 Hwy 105, Brenham (979836-0200, www.blinn.edu/buccaneer/athletics/alumni). Concealed Handgun License Class One day class from the Washington County Shooting Club, pistols provided, $110 full

class, renewal class $75, time TBA, call for reservations (979-836-0986, fclay1@ swbell.net).

Aug 15 Burton Lion & Lioness Clubs Fish Fry Fried fish, French fries, hushpuppies, coleslaw, tea and dessert, 11am-1pm, silent and live auctions, tickets $8/advance from Hair Depot in Burton, Pam’s Beauty Shop, Round Top, or any Lion/Lioness, $10 tickets at door, American Legion Hall, Burton (979-289-2214, 979-289-5555).

Aug 17 First Step Luncheon by Hospice Brazos Valley A monthly support luncheon to learn healthy grieving methods, encourage 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 (979-2779525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.com).

Aug 19 Movie in the Park Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, enjoy “The Blind Side“ from the City of Brenham Recreation Department, Bluebonnet Electric, Germania Insurance, and TFE Company, concessions open, Hohlt Park, 10 minutes after sunset, free.

Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Featuring Larry Youngblood, Reagan Godlewski, Dan Chambers, plus the Bluebonnet Opry House Band, food and music 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 (979836-4347). Aug 21 Holy Open Golf Tournament 19th Annual event at Brenham Country Club, $70 per team member, contact Pastor Parnell, Salem Lutheran Church (979-836-9320).

Aug 24, 31 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, 5:30-7pm, free, registration required, Tuesdays through Sept 28, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-277-9525, [email protected]). See Calendar, Page 7

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