Washington County

---

April 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

Turn Social Media into Business Media Have you started a fan page on Facebook for your business yet? Do you tweet on Twitter? Do you have a profile on LinkedIn? If you answered “No” to any of these questions, or perhaps “What on earth are you talking about?” then plan to attend one or more of the “Stay Hip” seminars the Chamber will be hosting this year. In an effort to better acquaint members with the new trends in Social Media, and more importantly, how to apply them to business promotion and success, the Chamber will be holding “Stay Hip” seminars over the next few months. The first session will be on Wednesday, April 28, at 11 a.m. at the Chamber. This initial, informal session will give a basic introduction to the most

Chamber board planning for future In January, the Chamber board held a Planning Retreat with 30year chamber of commerce veteran Chuck Ewart, who facilitated the session. Ewart delivered a presentation and discussion on “Strong Chambers for the Future” and outlined the best practices and benchmark programs of successful, effective Chambers around the nation. Best practices include: • Quality vs. quantity in program-

The first-ever Non Profit Expo was held in Washington County on March 31, and 26 nonprofits participated. Along with over two dozen exhibitors, there were dozens more people who mingled at the event to learn more about the various organizations. Special thanks go to these event sponsors, who made the event possible for the community:

Appel Auto Country Bluebonnet Electric TFE Company and B&R Industries

KURT PODESZWA Camp For All

WENDY YATES Moorman Tate Law Firm

ming; strategic planning; listening to members first and foremost; developing key partnerships and alliances; always being the voice of business; networking events; being a valuable resource to members; leadership development; keeping up with technology; training and educating staff; having young professionals involved; workforce development projects; and other marketing and PR activities. The Washington County Cham-

Non-Profit Expo

MARK PATRANELLA Blue Bell Creameries

JARVIS VAN DYKE Van Dyke Rankin & Company

popular and prevalent Social Media tools. Attendees will be able to ask questions and identify their challenges or fears about using these tools. Basic, easy-to-understand information will be given out to help those enter the new world of Social Media. Learn about the top concerns businesses must address when beginning to use Social Media sites for branding promotion. Receive tips on how best to incorporate them into your marketing plan. All members will receive an invitation by email. Seating will be limited at this April 28 session. If you are not currently receiving e-mails from the Chamber, please contact Jane Hinze, Member Services Manager, to ensure that we have your correct contact information. Thank you!

Read more about the volunteer opportunities that were promoted at the event in the article on page 4 of this newsletter!

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Bluebonnet Brenham Clinic Electric

ber board was praised for having over 90 years of success in most of the areas. Breakout group brainstorming activities were held and program ideas and objectives were developed in the following key categories: • Small Business Issues, Government Relations & Advocacy, Economic Development & Tourism, Education & Workforce Development, Membership Development & Retention, Leadership

Development, and Organizational Excellence. The board will be conducting focus group sessions to further delve into these topics in April and May. New initiatives will be researched and presented over the next couple of months. The key focus for all projects and programs is to generate a positive economic impact in the community and deliver value to the 780-plus members of the Chamber.

“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” Hosted by:

Blinn College Foundation 706 College Avenue, Brenham

Thursday, April 29 — 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 Blinn College Foundation at www.blinn.edu/foundation

Page 2 Chamber Works April 2010

Representatives from Advanced Data Storage celebrate the groundbreaking of their new facility in the Brenham Business Center with members of the EDF, City Council, County Commissioners, BCDC, Washington County Chamber and Blue Blazers. When completed the 57,000 sq. ft. facility will convert and store seismic data.

Ribbon Cuttings

Austin County Chiropractic Owners: Dr. Michael & Priscila Reid 1408 S. Front Street, Bellville Phone: 979-865-5320

InScapes Plant Leasing & Care Owner: Jill Evans Phone: 979-421-3990

EDF Launches Business Survey This grand prize winner of the 2009 Photo Contest received a cash prize of $150! See it on display in color at the Chamber office. The 2010 Photo Contest deadline is December 29, so there’s plenty of time for you to snap some shots to enter this year. Details can be found online at www.BrenhamTexas.com or at the Chamber.

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 Melinda Rodiek, Asst. Visitor Center Coord. Marge Runge, Support Staff Connie Curlee, Support Staff Lanette Pledger, Support Staff

The Economic Development Foundation (EDF) of Brenham has launched an “Existing Business Survey” as part of its ongoing Business Retention & Expansion Program. For the next few months, the EDF is seeking feedback from all existing businesses in the community via an online survey on its website: www.brenhamtexas-edf.com. With studies continuing to show that 80% of new job growth in a community will come from existing firms and their suppliers, the EDF has made its top priority the retention and expansion of local businesses. “Local businesses are the backbone of the community, and their vitality will be key to the community’s future success,” said EDF Chair Paul Kruse. The Business Retention and Expansion Program is a multiple-step process. Steps include personal visits and surveys of local businesses to better understand business and workforce conditions, expansion needs and any barriers to growth. The results are put in a database and summarized (confidentially). With that information, the EDF will develop plans to address the opportunities and any problems identified. “The Business Retention & Expansion Program is a cost-effective community-driven process,” said Page Michel, EDF president. “The results will be used to assess local economic capacity and develop action plans for the coming years.” The BREP Team consists of EDF staff and board members. Team members will be calling on local major employers to set up one-on-one survey visits. “We are interested to see the responses of our local businesses and compare the data with the survey done in 2008,” said BRE program chair Brett Smith. “Participation from the business community is vital.” “We are entering stage two of the BREP with the survey process,” explained Wesley Brinkmeyer, EDF project manager and BREP team coordinator. “Stage one was the

training and planning, and after the surveys there will also be analysis, implementation and ongoing review.” Goals of the survey process include identifying the following: local business needs and concerns; gauging the local economic business climate; factors that may be preventing expansion of local businesses; any business considering relocation outside the community and why; opportunities for match-making local businesses/suppliers; current and future workforce needs; constructive ideas business owners may have for improving the local economy; and Brenham’s business environment All business owners in Brenham are encouraged to visit the site and give their input. Those who participate in the online survey will be able to view the confidential summary report that will be generated. All information provided by businesses in the BREP surveys will be kept strictly confidential. The results will be summarized and reported in aggregate form only. Find survey link at: www.BrenhamTexas-EDF.com

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

Web Site Hits 2010

January— 6,536 February — 6,850 March — 15,571

www.brenhamtexas.com

Chamber Works April 2010 Page 3

Welcome New Members to the Chamber of Commerce BUD’S SADDLE REPAIR Owner: Bud Reneau 5845 FM 389 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-451-1674 Saddles/Build & Repair

MIMOSA SALON Owner: Ashley Sulik 2548 Ryan Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-1144 Salons Services/Supplies

COMFORT INN & SUITES General Manager: Imran Ali 9345 State Hwy 6 Loop South Navasota, Texas 77868 Phone: 936-825-9464 [email protected] Hotels/Motels

CODY MULANAX CONCRETE & DECORATIVE CONCRETE Owner: Cody Wayne Mulanax 108 Mulberry Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-2664 [email protected] www.mulanaxconcrete.com Concrete – Staining/Engraving

CROSSROADS CORNER STORES Owners: Michael Cox, Daniel Landrum, Ferne Oyster, BJ Wooldridge, Jimmy Thomas 1900 S. Market Street (Physical) Brenham, Texas Phone: 979-530-5400 [email protected] www.crossroadsstores.com Convenience Store DONA LYNN’S GIFT SHOP Owners: Dona Lynn Vrazel & Ervin Parker, Jr. 212 E. Alamo Street (Physical Address) Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 713-828-0663 donalynn@donalynn’s.com www.donalynns.com Gift Shops GREEN DUCT SERVICES Owner: Kamala Kitzman 1802 Buchanan Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-9191 Air Duct Cleaning THE HAIR WAREHOUSE Owner: Kamala Kitzman 1802 Buchanan Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-8188 Salons Services/Supplies HUESKE PROPERTIES Owners: John & Tracey Hueske 6350 FM 50 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 832-967-7272 [email protected] Rental/lease property – office/homes LAVANDE-LAVENDER FARM Owner: Craig Stewart 9665 Loop Road Bellville, Texas 77418 (Physical) Phone: 713-715-8392 [email protected] www.lavandetexas.com Nursery – Flowers/Plants/Trees MIKE URBAN 8300 Woodlands Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-277-9732 [email protected] Farming Services

PEPSI BOTTLING GROUP Manager: Sam Sparks 55 Geers Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-251-6903 [email protected] www.pbg.com Beverages REPUBLICAN CLUB OF WASHINGTON COUNTY P O Box 423 Brenham, Texas 77834 Non Profit Clubs & Organizations SCOTT & WHITE HEALTHCARE Associate Marketing Director: Lindsey Joy 604 HWY 290 West, Suite 301 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-691-3558 [email protected] Healthcare SELECT FURNISHINGS Owners: Jody & Pat Johnson 2652 Hwy 36 South Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-830-0065 [email protected] www.selectfurnishings.net Furniture & Accessories-Retail STANPAC USA Owner: Steve Witt 701 E. Commerce Street Brenham, Texas 77833 (Physical) [email protected] www.stanpacnet.com Manufacturer

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

Renewing Members (March 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. ARTEX USA — 7 years AT&T Retail Store — 9 years Beadboard Upcountry — 4 years Bluebonnet Glass — 3 years Country Inn #2 — 17 years fancy that! — 7 years Goss Communications — 13 years John F. Young, DDS — 21 years Knights of Columbus — 7 years Kountry Boys Sausage — 8 years The Book Nook — 4 years Windy Winery — 8 years

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

BRENHAM IRON WORKS Enhance Your Homestead, Texas-Style Celebrating five years of growth and business in Washington County, BRENHAM IRON WORKS is proud to be enhancing your homestead, Texas-style! With pipe, top-rail and mesh, wrought iron, and barbed wire fencing, they have literally built miles of fences for the community.  They also fabricate and erect metal buildings.  They handle turn-key needs making your project hassle free.  By constructing barns, stalls, loafing sheds, cattle pens, and round pens, BRENHAM IRON WORKS fulfills your complete ranch construction.  Over the years, they have determined which custom gate styles are most popular and now feature those for you to choose from as your starting point on their recently updated website.  Once the basic gate style is selected, you then customize with lettering, adding a circle with your family last-name initial, ranch brand, Texas star, or unique, one-of-a-kind artwork. To view, visit www.BrenhamIronWorks.com or call Brandon Marth (979-277-0151) and he will be happy to discuss your project. 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)

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

Page 4 Chamber Works April 2010

Luedemann Promoted to Visitor Center Manager The Chamber is pleased to announce that Jeanne Luedemann has been promoted to Visitor Center Manager. Jeanne joined the staff as Visitor Center Coordinator in July 2008. She now manages the assistant Visitor Center Coordinators and weekend staff. She is also overseeing the expansion of the Visitor Center to a proposed second site at the Simon Theatre. Jeanne and her husband, William, own Luedemann Grocery Luedemann & Mill in Brenham. They have two sons and two granddaughters. Jeanne was formerly the Financial Secretary at Calvary Baptist Church and an Administrative Assistant for the Baptist General Convention of Texas. She was also an outstanding member of the Blue Blazers!

Volunteering in Washington County Volunteering has always been a way of life for local citizens. Donating special talents to church, neighborhood schools or favorite organizations is a very rewarding experience. There are so many non-profit organizations that are desperate for volunteers. The Chamber’s Leadership Alumni Association held an event last week to showcase them. At the event, we asked some of the non-profit organizations: “What are you looking for in a volunteer?” Camp For All “Campers discover life and the volunteers and staff discover life right along with them,” said Sterling Nell Leija. Program volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and sensitive to the needs of the physically and mentally challenged, able to work with children and adults of all ages, and love the outdoors. They offer many flexible schedules. Call Melissa Waggoner for details on how you can help. (979) 289-3752 or [email protected]

March 2010 Joyce Dickschat

True Blue Animal Rescue Do you like festivals and special events? Do you love animals? Then we have an opportunity for you! True Blue Animal Rescue is in need of volunteers to attend events to assist with pet adoptions. They are always in need of foster homes, animal training and horse farriers. If you are more of an office type, they need help with their website and writing of their monthly newsletter. Contact Melanie DeAeth at (936) 878-2349 or help@ t-bar.org Unity Theatre Unity Theatre loves their volunteers and there is so much to do. What is your talent? They need individuals to help prepare for each performance by sewing costumes and painting backdrops and props. Ushers and concession workers are needed for each performance. If you love the behind-the-scenes in the theatre then you need to sign up to be a member of the running crews. This volunteer position has a strict schedule, as you will need to attend rehearsals and performances. Call Tammy Diehl at (979) 830-1460 or [email protected]

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.

Boys & Girls Club of Washington County The Boys & Girls Club is in need of volunteers to assist students with their homework after school from 4pm-5pm. You could come once a month, once a week or once a day; whatever works into your schedule. Volunteer to teach a one-time class or a series of classes to the students about an interesting subject. Phelicia Marshall is available to answer all of your questions. (979) 277-9383 or pmarshall@ brenhamisd.net

WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER OF THE 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

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

Animal Friends of Washington County On Mondays and Tuesdays the clinic is in need of individuals to help unpack and catalog medical supplies used at the Low Cost Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic. During regular business hours volunteers are needed to care for the animals and sit with them while they recover from surgery. If gardening is your thing, come out and help landscape the grounds of the Connie Clinic, the animals would greatly appreciate it! Call Angela Knauss at (979) 277-0400 or visit www.animalfriendstexas.org Brenham State Supported Living Center Once a month the Volunteer Services Council holds a Sneak-A-Peek at the campus on Hwy 36 South. They invite everyone to call and schedule a one-hour tour to see what life is like for the 363 residents. After visiting the campus, you will have a better idea of knowing what you can do to help enrich the lives of the residents. Call Tamy Metzger at (979) 277-1507 or [email protected]. tx.us.

American Red Cross The Red Cross is looking for active board members that are interested in raising funds for Washington and Grimes County. All funds raised in the county, stay in the county. They are also in need of people that have the training to teach or willing to take classes to be able to teach first aid, CPR, ADH, infant CPR and babysitting training. Bring a team of 4 and play in the golf tournament on April 10 at Brenham Country Club. For information call Steve Miller at 979-836-0737 or [email protected] This is just an overview of a few opportunities for you to give of your time and talents. There are many, many more opportunities. For more information, contact the Volunteer Center of the Brazos Valley at (979) 595-2800. Become involved. Become a leader!

(Left to right) Mary Beth Harrington from Texas Association of Non Profits, the featured speaker at the event, with Teri Van Horn of Events!, who chaired the event for the Leadership Alumni Association.

Twenty-six local non-profit organizations had display tables at the Expo, including Freedom Hill pictured here. Non-profit reps visited with attendees and informed them about their programs and volunteer opportunities.

The Washington County Chamber is a Proud Member of ... • TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS • TEXAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES • TEXAS ASSOC. OF CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAUS • U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chamber Works April 2010 Page 5

Leadership Explores County’s Agri-Business The March session of leadership was all about Agriculture and Agri-Business. The session was planned and facilitated by Christy Moran and Andy Kollman from Blue Bell Creameries, Jane Hinze, Seneca McAdams, and Laverne Krumrey. The day started with a tour of Kieke Egg Farm in Burton. Angie Fritsch and Ricky Kieke took the class on a tour of the facilities and chicken houses and answered many questions about their family owned egg farm. The class could hardly believe how many eggs were produced and shipped

each day, and how painstakingly clean the facility is kept. Next, the class was served a wonderful lunch prepared by Design II and provided by Blue Bell. An ice cream sundae buffet was enjoyed by all. Paul Kruse, CEO of Blue Bell Creameries, spoke to the class at lunch along with Greg Bridges, Production Manager, Bill Weiss, Public Relations Manager, and Eugene Supak, VP of Production. Christy Moran and Andy Kollman took the class on a behind-the-scenes tour inside several production areas and freezers. After the

tour everyone enjoyed the new Strawberry Fruit Bars. Special thanks go to Blue Bell Creameries for the VIP tour and also for donating a delicious catered lunch for the group. The third stop was a guided tour of Ellison’s Greenhouses, led by PJ Ellison Kalil. PJ talked with the group about the operations of this unique greenhouse company in Brenham. She also spoke about leadership qualities and gave a very inspirational talk to the class. Our thanks go to all of the individuals and businesses who have spoken to, in-

spired and motivated the Leadership class members over the past several months. The program is a great success because of all the community support that is received. This year’s program has two sessions remaining, History on April 22 and Natural Resources on May 11. Plans are underway for the next class, and all alumni in the community are invited to get involved and help plan and coordinate the sessions. Please contact the Chamber if you are interested in being a session facilitator for 2010-2011.

Angie Fritsche of Kieke Egg Farm explains the chicken The ‘ladies of leadership’ with Dean Meade in hairnets The tomato plants at Ellison’s Greenhouses are taller than houses to the group. class member Jeff Tilley. ready to tour Blue Bell Creameries.

Labor Market is on the Mend Burgeoning employment numbers demonstrate that the labor market is finally mending. Employment March’s report finally provided some positive news about the labor market, with payroll employment surging by 162,000. It’s the first significant increase in payroll employment since the start of the recession in late 2007. The unemployment rate remained steady at 9.7%, as many previously discouraged workers resumed their job search. The federal government added 48,000 Census employees to its payrolls. Manufacturers added 41,000 jobs. Growth in the service sector, which added 121,000 jobs, was fueled by hiring in temp agencies, in retail stores, and in the leisure and hospitality industry. For the first time since 2007, construction companies added employees. Weekly hours worked increased 0.2 hours to 33.3 in March. The employment rate

may deteriorate a bit going forward, however, as workers that left the labor market may begin to renter it. Not until strong consumer spending returns will most employers gain enough confidence to add to their staffs. Consumer Confidence Consumer confidence surged 6.1 points in March to 52.5, after plunging 10.1 points to 46.4 in February. The large downturn in February can largely be attributed to the major blizzards that paralyzed the Northeast. The expectation component of the consumer confidence index experienced the greatest increase, rising to 70.2 from 62.9. People’s confidence in present conditions also improved, increasing 4.3 points to 26.0. Though March’s report provides hope, confidence in the labor market is poor, thus hampering significant gains to the overall index. ISM Survey The Institute for Supply Manage-

ment’s (ISM) manufacturing survey increased in March to 59.6, up from 56.5 in February. This is the eighth consecutive month the index has been above the expansionary threshold of 50. March’s reading is the index’s highest level since 2004 and points to a sustained economic recovery taking shape. Looking ahead, manufacturing should continue to expand. Factory Orders New orders for manufactured goods rose 0.6% in February after increasing 2.5% in January. This is the sixth consecutive increase in factory orders, another sign that the manufacturing sector is recovering. Orders for durable goods and nondurable goods both rose 0.9% for the month. As federal stimulus spending dries up, however, factory orders should moderate until the economy is on firmer ground. Reprinted by permission. © April 2010 U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

www.brenhamtexas.com

Leadership Alumni Association Quarterly Meeting Friday, April 30, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. Brenham Church of Christ Education Center (2800 Victory Lane, Brenham) Guest Speaker: Rex Phelps, City of Brenham Police Chief All alumni of Leadership Washington County are invited! A catered lunch will be available for $8 per person. RSVP by Monday, April 26, if you plan to attend at 979-836-3695 or [email protected]

Page 6 Chamber Works April 2010

Tourism Tuesday Calling all tourism partners! Please join us on Tuesday, April 13, at 9 a.m. for the bi-monthly Tourism Tuesday meeting! The CVB staff will discuss advertising activities, the Geiger PR press trip wrap-up, and upcoming events. Then let’s hear from you during the roundtable discussion. Mark your calendar and find your way to the Chamber Conference Room on April 13th!

Festivals Galore in April Enjoy the sunset at the end of a beautiful spring day at Pleasant Hill Winery in Brenham. “Wine Down” on the deck and indulge in a glass of wine and cheeseboards with friends from 3 p.m.-sunset. Wine Down happens every Friday in April and May. The winery is located at 1441 Salem Road in Brenham. Plus, don’t miss Pleasant Hill Winery’s 13th Anniversary April 10 & 11. Tour, taste and celebrate Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. or Sunday noon-5 p.m. If live theatre is more your style, Unity Theatre presents a compact version of the timeless “Camelot.” In an idyllic kingdom where might is used only for right, King Arthur, Queen Guinevere and Lancelot, a knight of the Round Table, are caught in a love triangle where passion threatens to destroy their dreams. Performances begin April 21. Visit www.unitybrenham.org for times, ticket prices and more.  

Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas The bluebonnets and wildflowers bloom with life and color in beautiful Washington County! Celebrate the season April 10-11 in the quaint, historic town of Chappell Hill at the Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas. The Bluebonnet Festival boasts more than 300 juried exhibitors featuring home accessories, gardening, artisans, clothing, jewelry and much more. There’s something for everyone. Plus, indulge in the delicious country-style food, live entertainment and music, as well as tours of the historic community. A special Children’s Activity Corner provides pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, a moon walk, barrel train ride and more. Festival hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission to the festival is free; parking is $5. Convenient parking is available for cars, buses and handicapped persons. (No street parking allowed.) Enjoy the Chappell Hill Museum and all this historic district has to offer during the most anticipated festival of the spring.

Burton Cotton Gin Festival & Crawfish Boil The Burton Cotton Gin & Museum brings old fashioned family fun in a celebration for all ages on Saturday, April 17, at the 21st Annual Burton Cotton Gin Festival. Celebrating an era when cotton was king, this festival makes history come alive! Activities begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at midnight. The main parade kicks off at 11 a.m., with the Children’s Bike Parade right after. Tours of the oldest operating cotton gin in America are just one part of the day-long focus on history and fun. Other activities include tractor pulls and antique tractor displays; folk life demonstrations including spinning, weaving, quilting, tatting, bobbin lace, soap making, blacksmith, woodcarving and more; arts/crafts/food booths; pie eating contest and bubble gum blowing contest; and a Kids Zone with petting zoo and games. New this year is an all-you-can-eat Crawfish Boil from 7pm-9 p.m. Entertainment includes the Texas Stars Polka Band and a Battle of the Bands competition. In addition, State Representative Lois Kolkhorst will present the des-

Tourism News ignation of “The Official Cotton Gin Museum of Texas!” Tickets for the Crawfish Boil can be purchased at the Chamber office.

Downtown Brenham’s Country Flavors Festival A Blue Bell Ice Cream Smorgasbord, delicious local foods, arts and crafts, and shopping fill Downtown Brenham during the annual Country Flavors Festival on Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stroll around Downtown Brenham’s historic square for ice cream and an old-fashioned Country Flavors Cake Bake-off sponsored by Must Be Heaven and fancy that! It wouldn’t be a Brenham celebration without ice cream, so enjoy the 20-plus flavors at the Blue Bell Ice Cream Smorgasbord…all-you-can-eat, all day long for only $6! Also enjoy free samples from a wide variety of locallyproduced food and beverage companies, including Windy Winery, Chappell Hill Sausage, Briannas Salad Dressing, Pleasant Hill Winery, Independence Coffee and more. In addition to all the tasty treats, there will be craft and food booths, children’s activities and pioneer folk-life demonstrations. Western shows by Wolf Creek Pistoleros will be at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., and the “Blast from the Past” car show. Don’t forget the Little Mr. and Miss Scoop Contest, open to ages 3-5 with a country theme this year. For entry forms, check the website www.downtownbrenham.com. At the end of the day, enjoy a free evening concert across from the historic Simon Theatre on Main Street.

Travel writer Mickey Goodman e-mailed the following: “I’d like to thank you and the entire Chamber staff for being such gracious hosts while the Geiger press group was in Brenham last week. You have a wonderful area with far too many ‘jewels’ to remain hidden for long.” Publications represented included “Gardening How-To,” “Cowboys & Indians,” “Roadbike Magazine,” “Country Gardens,” “The Christian Press” newspapers, “AAA Horizons,” “Neil Sperry’s Gardens” magazine, “Focus Daily News” from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, “Dallas Morning News” and “AAA Southern Traveler,” to name a few. Writers and photographers selected from a menu of activities, including visits to Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, Antique Rose Emporium, Ellison’s Greenhouses, Blue Bell Creameries, Burton Cotton Gin Museum, Festival Hill, Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, tours of downtown Brenham and Chappell Hill, a narrated history tour, a photo tour, and more. These tours would not be possible, or as successful, without the generosity of the businesses and attractions that hosted events, several-night stays or meals for the group. A huge thank-you goes to all these generous Chamber members!

Journalists Enjoy Washington County Seventeen travel writers and three photographers from other areas of Texas and the U.S. participated in the spring Geiger PR press tour of Washington County. While it was a bit early for fields of bluebonnets to show, the journalists were happy with the subjects they were able to visit and photograph.

On the front porch of one of the rustic cabins at Scenic Hill, host Jim Rolewicz explains to the Geiger PR travel writers how the historic cabin was moved in pieces from North Carolina and reassembled at its present site.

Calendar

(Continued from Page 7) May 7, 14, 21, 28 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, Pleasant Hill Winery, Salem Rd., Brenham (979-830-VINE, www.pleasanthillwinery.com). May 7-8 120th Annual Brenham Maifest One of the oldest German Festivals in Texas with colorful parades both days in Downtown Brenham at 10:30am, Junior and Senior coronations, fun, food, crafts and exhibits, carnival, German Village and more, Fireman’s Park, Brenham (www.maifest.org). May 11 Washington County Career & Job Fair Brenham High School (979-277-6570 x1142, msommer@ brenhamisd.net) May 15 Rowdy Loafers and Upstanding Citizens One hour program at Independence Hall focuses on the colorful characters in Texas history where visitors will see

clothing, accessories and mannerisms from frontiersmen and upstanding Texas citizens, 11am and 3pm, $5/adults, $3/children, regular tour fees apply, Washington-on-theBrazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214 x224, www. birthplaceoftexas.com).

Texas Master Naturalists Public Program Wildscapes and Finding Butterflies in Texas, 1-3pm, free, Winedale, 3738 FM 2714, near Round Top (www.cah.utexas.edu).

May 29-30 Food & Flowers at Barrington Living History Farm Learn about the food pioneers grew to feed their families in 1850s Texas, demonstrations include seed-saving, hearth cooking and making herb vinegars, 10am-4:30pm, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (939-8782214 x246, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).

May 30 100 Days of Summer Festival Games, music, food, talent show, auction, raffle, fun for the whole family, 9am-5pm, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 701 Church St., Brenham (979-836-4441, www.brenhamcatholic.org).

2714, 4 miles east of Round Top ([email protected]/edu, www.cah.utexas. edu) Texas T Patch Ride to Ft. Hood Travel Hwy 36 from Sealy to Ft. Hood, honor the members of the 36th Infantry Division and their family readiness support group, begins 8:30am in Sealy near I-10 and Hwy 36, and travels through Brenham mid-day (713-805-2022, www.wecareevents.com). Let There Be Light Learn how Texas pioneers created tapers of candles using materials from tallow and lard to beeswax, and dip your own birthday-sized candles at Barrington Living History Farm, 10am-5pm, $5/adults, $3/children, regular tour fees apply, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Park ([email protected], www. birthplaceoftexas.com). Republic of Texas District Court Days District Court from the 1830s and 1840s will reconvene in Convention Hall, with participants dressed in period clothing conducting trials from historic cases based on 19th century law, visitors can serve as jurors, 10am-5pm, $5/adults, $3/children, regular tour fees apply, Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Park (936-8782214, x224, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Intro to Natural Horsemanship Techniques for safe handling of a horse from the ground, including catching, leading, lunging, and desensitizing, $45, 9amnoon, Southwind Farms Equestrian Center, 3300 FM 390 E., Brenham (979-277-6531, www.brenhamcommunityed.com). Washington County Historical Juneteenth Association Fundraiser “A New Beginning” with gospel music (979-836-9438). April 18 American Legion Post 48 Drive-Thru Dinner Beef and sausage meal with all the trimmings, American Legion Hall, Fireman’s Park in Brenham, $8, 11am-1pm (979-8362432). April 20 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, [email protected]). April 21 Washington County Cattlewomen Drive-thru Beef sausage, kraut, black-eyed peas, pasta salad and brownie, drive-thru only, $7, 4:30-6:30pm, Washington County Fair-

Calendar

Chamber Works April 2010 Page 7

(Continued from Page 8) grounds (979-830-0357, [email protected]). April 22-24, April 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, Thurs 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 4pm, $25, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Downtown Brenham (979-830-8358, www. unitybrenham.org). 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., 11:30am-1pm, $20 per person, Blinn College Student Center (979-337-4298, www.lifetimelearningbrenham.org). Community Fitness Walk Everyone is invited to this free fun fitness event, to be held at Cub Stadium, Brenham, 4-6pm. “Stars of Texas” A Standard Flower Show Bluebonnet Garden Club of Brenham, open to the public. First United Methodist Church, 400 N Baylor St., Brenham, 3-6 pm. Admission Free April 23 Brenham Regional Qualifiers Meet Fundraiser for the Brenham High School Boys Track team (979-277-6570, x2520, [email protected]). Groundbreaking: Hyundai of Brenham Owners Jon Hill & Greg Appel, 1701 Robert C. Appel Drive, Brenham (Next to Quick Lane & Appel Ford), 4pm. Ribbon Cutting: Mimosa Salon New Member, Owner: Ashley Sulik, 2548 Ryan St., Brenham, 11am. Fruit Tree Program Multi-county agricultural agents fruit orchard maintenance at the Theater Barn building and Winedale Orchard, 1-5pm, free admission, 3738 FM 2714, 4 miles from Round Top ([email protected], www.cah.utexas.edu).

2pm, University Services Building, College Station (979-764-3809, www.cstx. gov/bvswma). April 25 Brenham Children’s Chorus Spring Concert Enjoy the beautiful melodies and pure tones of the Brenham Children’s Chorus at their annual Spring Concert at Festival Hill in Round Top, also see the winner perform from the Battle for the Baton competition, 4pm, call for tickets (979-277-6540, www. brenhamchildrenschorus.org). Chicken Fried Steak Drive-Thru Dinner Hand-breaded chicken fried steak, cream gravy, potatoes, green beans, $8 in advance, benefits the Burton High School class of 2012, 11am-1pm, Burton High School (979-289-3830, [email protected]). Camp for All Family Day & Open House Community invited for a day of activities, food and entertainment. 6301 Rehburg Rd. Brenham, 2-5 pm Free Event. (979-2893752, www.campforall.org) April 29 Business After Hours Hosted by Blinn College Foundation, 706 College Ave., Brenham, 5-7pm. April 30-May 2 Poetry at Round Top 9th annual festival with 3 days of readings, workshops and unique performances, Festival Hill, Hwy. 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org). April 30-May 1 Shakespeare at Winedale Featuring two performances of “The Merchant of Venice”, 7pm, Winedale Theatre Barn, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (www. shakespeare-winedale.org). April 30 Relay for Life American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, 6pm, Cub Stadium, Brenham (979-8304241, 979-830-4023).

A few May highlights…

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 (www.DowntownBrenham. com).

May 1-2, May 6-9 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).

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Pharmaceuticals, medical waste, old paint, antifreeze, oil, gasoline, pesticides, cleaning solvents, computers, household batteries, auto batteries, and fluorescent light bulbs accepted for proper disposal, 7am-

May 1-2 Poetry at Round Top 9th annual festival with 3 days of readings, workshops and unique performances, Festival Hill, Hwy. 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 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).

May 1 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).

Shakespeare at Winedale Featuring two performances of “The Merchant of Venice”, 7pm, Winedale Theatre Barn, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (www. shakespeare-winedale.org).

Senior May Festival Community-wide event for all ages with food, drinks, music, silent auction, arts & crafts, quilt raffle, cookbooks, collectibles, children’s activities and more, 10am-2pm, free, Old Brenham Elementary School campus, 1210 S. Market (979-836-6552, [email protected])

Spring Festival of Play at Winedale Students in grades 3-6 take the stage in a variety of Shakespearean roles, 12-2pm, followed by Eeyore’s birthday party from 2-4pm, Winedale Theater Barn, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (www.shakespeare-winedale.org).

Concert at Mobius Coffeehouse Ashley Blitz performs country/pop/southern rock, 6-9pm, 1120 S. Market Street, Brenham (www.mobiuscoffeehouse.com)

May 3 Loss of a Child by Hospice Brazos Valley A grief support group for parents to develop coping skills and receive support, first Monday of the month, 6:30pm, free, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.org).

May 6, 13, 20, 27 Live Music at Rendez-vous Gene Hackemack performs every Thursday at Rendez-vous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200). May 6 National Day of Prayer Everyone is welcome to attend this special service at the historic Providence Baptist Church, across from Bever’s Kitchen in Downtown Chappell Hill, noon – 1pm.

See Calendar, Page 6

Page 8 Chamber Works April 2010

April 8, 15, 22, 29 Live Music at Rendez-vous Gene Hackemack performs every Thursday at Rendez-vous, 106 E. Alamo, Downtown Brenham (979-337-9200). April 8-10 Spring Open Collection Days For City residents, open collection of nonhazardous materials, household trash, scrap metal, other large items, debris, and yard waste, free, no commercial customers, Citizens Collection Station, 2009 Old Chappell Hill Rd., Brenham (979-337-7455). April 8 Business After Hours Hosted by WCT Outdoors, a Division of Washington County Tractor, 2708 S. Market Street, Brenham, 5-8pm. Healthy Woman Kickoff with Pat Love Enjoy food, wine and door prizes at the Healthy Woman kickoff hosted by Brenham Clinic and College Station Medical Center featuring Dr. Pat Love, author of “How to Improve your Marriage Without Talking About It,” $15, tickets at Brenham Clinic, 5:30-7:30pm, Ant Street Inn, 107 W. Commerce, Brenham (979-764-5213). April 9, 16, 23, 30 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 April and May, Pleasant Hill Winery, Salem Rd., Brenham (979830-VINE, www.pleasanthillwinery.com). April 9 Bluegrass at Mobius Coffeehouse, Inc. Wabash Ramblers in concert. 7-9 pm Small cover charge. 1120 S. Market St. Brenham April 9-10 Brenham Broadway Kids Production of Disney’s “Mulan, Jr.” Blinn College O’Donnell Center, 7 pm Brenham (979-277-6540) April 10-11, 17-18 Independence Historical Society Spring Tours Tours and folk-life demonstrations in Independence (979-836-2825). April 10-11 Official Bluebonnet Festival of Texas in Chappell Hill Over 300 vendor booths, food, live entertainment, music and fun in the heart of

What’s Happening in April bluebonnet country, Sat 10am-6pm; Sun noon-5pm, free admission, Downtown Chappell Hill (www.chappellhillmuseum. org). Pleasant Hill Winery’s 13th Anniversary Tour, taste and celebrate while sharing a bottle with family and friends, Sat 11am6pm, Sunday noon-5pm, Pleasant Hill Winery, 1441 Salem Rd., Brenham (979830-VINE, www.pleasanthillwinery.com). April 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 979-836-9466). April 10 American Red Cross Golf Tournament Annual event at the Brenham Country Club to benefit services in Washington and Grimes County, 8:30am, $75/individual player, $300/4-person team, $100 hole sponsor, rain date is 4/17 (979-836-0737, [email protected]). Heritage Home Tours 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 (979-836-1690, www.giddingsstonemansion.com). Festival of the Arts Somerville Chamber of Commerce presents a celebration of art, with beautiful quilts, art show and sale, amateur photo contest, area home garden tours, storytelling and historical recollections, children’s art activities, vendors, food, fun & music, downtown Somerville (979-596-2383, [email protected]). April 12, 14 AARP-IRS Tax Aide Free income tax assistance sessions provided by AARP TAX-AIDE volunteers to middle and low income taxpayers, especially the elderly, Monday and Wednesday morning, 9am-1pm, St. Mary’s Catholic Church PAC, corner of Germania and S. Park.

April 12 Ergonomics Reduce repetitive stress injuries from the American Red Cross, $25, bring your own lunch or order in for $10 more, 12-1:30pm, American Red Cross, 509 S. Baylor (979-8360737, www.houstonredcross.org/brenham). 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 & Breakfast (877-690-0676, www.murskihomesteadbb.com). April 14 Ribbon Cutting: Zip Cash New Member, Manager-Misty Schultz, 1608 S. Day Street, Brenham, 10:30am. Basic Computer Class Entry level computer class, including using the internet, 6-8pm, $60, Brenham Community Education, 1301 S. Market (979-2776531, www.brenhamcommunityed.com). 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 (979-277-9525, [email protected]). April 15-17 Spring Open Collection Days For County residents, open collection of non-hazardous materials, household trash, scrap metal, other large items, debris, and yard waste, free, no commercial customers, Citizens Collection Station, 2009 Old Chappell Hill Rd., Brenham (979-3377455). April 15 Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Featuring Stephen Pride (brother of Charley Pride), Arnold Parker, Shana Waldes, plus the Bluebonnet Opry House Band, 3rd Thursday of each month, food served at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979836-4347). Ribbon Cutting: Sigma Chi Chi Professional Women’s Club New Member, President: Cheryl DaBera, at the home of Mrs. Gladys Hogan, 1005 Main View Street, Brenham, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 Dedication & Grand Opening of Independence Visitors Center Co-sponsors are Baylor University and Independence Historical Society, 4pm-6pm, 10270 T.S. Saul Rd., Independence. Blinn College Ex-Students Annual Golf Tournament Features new three-person format, 12:30pm shotgun start, Brenham Country Club, $225/team, hole sponsor $100, entry forms on-line (979830-4181, www.blinn. edu/ex-students).

Concert at Mobius Coffeehouse, Inc. Lucas Cook in concert. Progressive acoustic rock. Small cover charge. 7-9 p.m. 1120 S. Market St. Brenham

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 Street, Burton (979-289-3378, www.cottonginmuseum.org).

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 (www.bluebellfunrun. com).

Percussion Galore Discover the wonders of percussion instruments with three concerts of striking music, Festival Concert Hall, Hwy. 237 at Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).

2010 Winedale Symposium “Conserving Texas, Preserving History: Understanding our Texas Landscape” features historian Douglas Brinkley, Conservation History Assoc. of Texas Founder David Todd, and Dr. Steve Windhager, Director of Landscape Restoration at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, plus reopening ceremony for the Joseph Biegel House, tours of Winedale’s historic buildings and a BBQ lunch, $45, 9am-2:30pm, Winedale Historic Complex, 3738 FM See Calendar, Page 7