Small business owners and man-agers throughout the region will want to block a half-day on Wednes-day, June 7, for the fourth annual Small Business Forum to be held in Brenham at the Fireman’s Train-ing Center from 8:30am-1:30pm.

Sponsored by Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Bluebon-net Electric Cooperative, Bren-ham National Bank and Citizens State Bank, this annual forum provides a local opportunity to gain leading-edge knowledge and pro-fessional contacts to help business-es thrive.

It is being co-hosted by the Wash-ington County Chamber, Navaso-ta-Grimes County Chamber and Burleson County Chamber. Attend-ees will hear from several powerful speakers who have been recruited by these three Chambers.

The keynote speaker during the

Small Business of the Year lun-cheon will be Doug Pederson, owner of Twin Cities Properties in Bryan/College Station. Pederson has been a resident of the Brazos Valley for over 35 years. Original-ly recruited out of Minnesota and brought here as a freshman in 1976 to play basketball for Shelby Met-calf at Texas A&M, he never left.

He graduated with a Business Management degree, purchased his

first “fixer-upper” in 1989, and be-gan a career of renovating older properties that today numbers 750 “front doors” and 20 employees.

In 2007 Doug bought 14 run down four-plexes in what is now called “The Green Buildings” on the corner of Broadmoor and Briar-crest in Bryan, completely renovat-ing and transforming the neighbor-hood and selling them in 2011.

2010 was his “Midtown” gentrifi-cation of an entire neighborhood on South College Avenue in Bryan that culminated in the BCS Apartment Association’s creation of the Peder-son-Threadgill award. First given in 2010 to Doug Pederson and Jack Threadgill, it recognizes 20 years of property and community improve-ment, and the reduction of neigh-borhood crime rates.

As part of this honor, Pederson helped set future award criteria. New awards will be given to indi-viduals whose revitalization efforts are a catalyst for other projects, low-er crime rates, transform neighbor-hoods, and improve the communi-ty’s quality of life.

Active in many ways in the com-munity, Doug is a member of the “Renegades Bible Study.” He has also served on the boards of the Better Business Bureau, SOS Min-istries, The Museum of Natural His-tory, Brazos Valley Rehabilitation

Center, the Government Relations Committee of BCS Apartment As-sociation, and is a frequent guest lecturer at Texas A&M University.

Other speakers at the forum in-clude CV Rao on the topic of Cy-ber Security. Rao is the founder and owner of TechOne Centre LLC, a full service information technol-ogy company that began in 2002 and has offices in Houston, Dal-las-Ft. Worth and Austin areas. The company offers a full range of I.T. services including planning, installation, maintenance, support, and training to businesses, schools, colleges, government agencies, and places of worship. Notable clients include ConocoPhillips, Houston Independent School District and METRO Houston. With customers in eight states, TechOne Centre has been recognized by the Houston Business Journal as one of Hous-ton’s “Fast 100” companies.

Rao is actively engaged in his community, holding past and pres-ent board roles in Spring Branch ISD (technology committee), Art Directors Club of Houston and Houston Area Apple Users Group. He is also an active member of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Alumni Program, and speaks on business topics at the UH Bauer College SBDC.

Also speaking will be Lara de Leon. She represents employers of all sizes in all aspects of em-ployment law, and will speak on employment litigation and counsel-ing. She has extensive experience defending clients in federal and state courts, arbitrations and before administrative agencies, including actions alleging wage and hour, dis-crimination, harassment, disability,

Chairman of the BoardKyle Merten

Blinn College Foundation

First Vice ChairRandy WellsFaith Mission

and Help Center

Second Vice ChairAmanda Stolz

Seidel Schroeder

SecretaryJames Pharaon

Germania Insurance

TreasurerWalter Jackson

Brenham ISD Superintendent

Immediate Past ChairmanKurt Alfred

Brenham National Bank

Darren HuckertJones|Carter

Tammy JasterCity of Brenham

– Blue Bell Aquatic Center

Edna KennedyBurton ISD

Superintendent

Jeannie KrollBrenham Clinic

LaVerne KrumreyBrenham Monument Co.

Jim KruseBank of Brenham

Lloyd PowellBrenham Police Department

Cyndee SmithOldham Goodwin Group

Edward Smith IIINinety Six Westand The Citadel

Brad StufflebeamHome Sweet Farm

Market & Biergarten

Jenny Van DorfBlue Bell Creameries

Kristie WenselBrenham State

Supported Living Center

Gena WilimitisMiracle Farm

MAY2017 ChamberWorks

washington county chamber of commerce brenham, texas

“Connect After 5”Washington County Chamber ’s

Networking Event has a new name!

hosted by:

Blinn College Foundationat the Blinn Foundation Whigham House

706 College Avenue, Brenham

Thursday, May 18 from 5-7 p.m.Put a face to your business or organization and meet others.

People like doing business with people they know.Have fun, enjoy food and drinks and exchange business cards & brochures.

Free for Chamber members and employees.

Sponsored by: Nathan’s BBQ , Texas Commercial Waste,Mike Hopkins Distributing and Toppers Liquor

RaoPederson de Leon

Thank you to our Centennial Sponsors ...

Small Business Forum to feature Dynamic Speakers

FORUM continued on page 3

Page 2 | Chamber Works | May 2017

GROUP BUYING POWERChamber members can now get major savings on

credit card payment processing.Learn about our new member benefit program.

Contact Will Watson at (979) 345-2988 • will.watson@infintechllc.com

www.infintechllc.com

Ribbon Cuttings

New Member

Hair IllusionsOwner: Chanda Lockett103 E. Commerce St., Brenham

New Member

Modern Air SolutionsOwner: Chance Garner979-451-5004

New Member

Apple Jack Small Engine RepairOwner: Matt Supak1656 FM 389, Brenham

New Member

Pinnacle Office SolutionsAccount Manager - Kim Breed979-251-0231

Business Expansion

Citizens State Bank – BrenhamPresident: Ben Flencher2007 South Day St., Brenham

New Owner

THYME…a day spa & salonOwner: Mike Gonzales706 Seelhorst Street, Brenham

New Member

Independence Community Events979-836-42119325 FM 390 East, Brenham

Washington County Chamber of Commerce

Page Michel, President & CEOJane Hinze, Member Services Mgr.

Shae Janner, Business Programs Mgr.Dawn Konieczny, Communications Coordinator

Lu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Mgr.Jenny Mills, Website & Social Media Mgr.

Courtney Powell, Visitor Center & Group Mktg. Coord.Debby Welch, Visitor Center Assistant

Cheryl Sevin, BookkeeperSupport Staff: Darlene Denman, Judy Hyman,

Jeanine Presswood and Nelda Snow.

New Member

Brenham Women’s HealthOwner: Dr. Aaron Campbell605 Medical Courts Suite 203, Brenham

May 2017 | Chamber Works | Page 3

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Thank you to our Chairman’s Circle members ...

Networking Happy Hour Tuesday, May 16

Hyundai 1710 Hwy 290 W.

5-7 p.m.

Join in for some good food, good drinks and a great time!

For more information about the Washington County YPO, send your contact information to youngpros@brenhamtexas.com

or visit online: www.Facebook.com/YPOwashingtoncounty

Washington County Chamber of Commerce314 S. Austin Street, Brenham | 979-836-3695

Ribbon Cuttings

Grand Re-Opening

The Dog Park — Animal Friends of Washington County979-277-04003901 Hwy 36 North, Brenham

Business Expansion

Brenham Bus Depot — Brenham Heritage Museum SystemDirector: Doug Price313 East Alamo St., Brenham

leave of absence, and wrongful termi-nation claims.

In addition to litigation, de Leon reg-ularly advises, counsels and trains cli-ents on a wide array of employment-re-lated matters, such as terminations and reductions in force, employee disci-pline, pre-employment screening and hiring, internal investigations, leaves of absence, workplace accommoda-tions, wage and hour compliance, pay equity and other matters of legal com-pliance. She spent ten years as in-house employment counsel for two large pub-licly-traded companies.

Other presenters include Bill Kick-ham, Paul Turney, and Byron Haney from BVCOG, plus Charlie Adams of PricewaterhouseCoopers.

A major highlight of the event will be the presentation of the Small Business of the Year Award for 2017. Last year, the 2016 honor was awarded to Kwik Kopy Business Center and to Glasco & Company Landscaping. The 2015 winner was Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten, and in 2014 Brenham Na-tional Bank and RE/MAX Advantage were the winners.

This year, Johanna Fatheree of RE/

MAX Advantage will be the MC of the 2017 forum.

Tickets to the Small Business Fo-rum are $49 until June 1 ($59 after). Corporate Sponsor tables are available for $499, which includes tickets for 8 people plus your company name will be displayed at the event, online and in-cluded on the printed program.

Doors open at 8 a.m. and the program begins at 8:30. A buffet lunch is includ-ed, and the forum will conclude by 1:30 p.m. For more information, contact the Chamber at (979) 836-3695 or events@brenhamtexas.com.

ForumContinued from page 1

New Blue Blazer Born and raised in Washington County, Matt Wellmann

graduated from Brenham High School in 2009 and con-tinued his education at Texas A&M University where he majored in Ag-ricultural Business with an emphasis in Leadership & Development. While at Texas A&M, he met a pretty blonde on the school bus and decided she was the one. He convinced Julia to marry him and move to the beautiful Wash-ington County in 2014.

Matt is an Insurance Agent at Well-mann Insurance, where he assists community members with finding the best coverage. And when he says “Nothing is out of his reach,” he means it, because he is 6-foot-8!

In his spare time, Matt enjoys working alongside his dad running the family cow-calf operation, where they raise show and commercial Brangus cattle for youth projects. Being involved in the community is very important to Matt. He serves on several committees for the Washington County Fair, is involved in the Brenham Noon Lions Club and is a member of Brenham First Baptist.

Wellmann

Page 4 | Chamber Works | May 2017

Benefit fundraiser for Here I Am Orphan Ministries

John Anderson will perform at the Rockin’ Star Ranch in Brenham on Thursday, June 1, at 6:30 pm. Tickets and tables for the event are available online at https://donate.orphanministries.com/jaconcert. Tickets include dinner and the concert.

Best known for cross-over hits including, “I’m Just An Old Chunk of Coal (But I’ll Soon Be A Diamond Some-day)” and “Swingin,” John Anderson has one of the most instantly recognizable voices in country music today and is the current standard bearer for the traditional country sound. Back in 1977, he began his career with his first hit, and went on to have an amazing career that has spanned nearly fifty years.

Here I Am Orphan Ministries (HIAOM) is a Christian, nonprofit ministry dedicated to caring for orphaned chil-dren domestically and abroad. HIAOM was formed in Jan-uary 2005 and has helped 143 children find their Forever Families. Rockin’ Star Ranch is located at the end of a secluded country road just outside of Brenham on 140 sce-nic acres. Visit the website above for more details!

Bank of BrenhamBank of Brenham is thrilled to be providing educational

bank tours for the community. Tours are available to local schools and organizations seeking a proactive and ener-getic learning experience for their students and members.

By touring the bank, children are able to get a behind-the-scenes look at what a bank does and how it operates. The tour makes a stop at each department and explains the role each plays in the big picture of the bank. Students are given hands-on activities that allow them to practice everyday transactions. The trip concludes with a recap of the tour, a question and answer session and special sur-prise for each student.

Bank of Brenham believes that financial literacy is an es-sential tool for children as they grow up. Being able to understand and manage their money allows them the freedom and the capability to confidently set after their goals. Bank of Brenham aims to have a hand in shaping children’s futures by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call Mack-enzie Huff at 979-836-3332 or stop by the bank at 501 South Austin Street in Brenham.

Blinn Alumni & Friends Invitesthe Community for a

5-day Holiday Trip to NYCThe Dec. 4-8 trip includes airfare, hotel stay in Times

Square, and five meals.“This is another way for the Alumni & Friends Associa-

tion to reach out to the community to talk about Blinn and get people involved,” said Dr. Kyle Merten, Alumni Rela-tions Director. “This will give Alumni & Friends members an opportunity to socialize with the community, all while enjoying the holiday season in New York City.”

Highlights of the trip include a visit to the Statue of Lib-erty, Ellis Island, Greenwich Village, Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, a Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, and a Broadway show. There will be a bus tour of the city in this inclusive trip.

There will be a $200 discount per person for those who register before July 5. The trip is $2,999 per person for double, $4,099 for single and $2,969 for triple.

For trip reservations, contact LeAnne Risgby at Cricket Cruise & Travel, LLC at 836-6600 or email at cricketcruise-andtravel@gmail.com. Brochures can be picked up at the Blinn Foundation House.

Business Spotlight

Spotlight on EducationWhat’s Happening in Washington County Schools

Over the course of the current school year, Burton ISD has been able to achieve tremendous success not only in the class-room, but also in the many extracurricu-lar activities which Burton provides for its students.

One such achievement was the foot-ball team advancing all the way to State Semifinals earning a spot as one of the most successful teams in Burton history. Volleyball also had a successful season advancing to the regional quarterfinals.

Additionally, the Burton band earned multiple awards and obtained a first divi-sion rating for the first time in 13 years. The Burton baseball team is dominating the district. They are very close to win-

ning a district championship and secur-ing a playoff spot. The Burton track team ran away with a district championship and has multiple athletes who will be competing in the regional meet.

Finally, multiple academic UIL teams were able to advance to the Regional Meet. Burton High School has been very successful over the course of this year. Submitted by: Wesley Fehrle and Hailey Blakey.

To discover more about Burton ISD, visit www.BurtonISD.net.

———Brenham ISD is wrapping up another

school year and celebrating many stu-dent, staff and district accomplishments.

Congratulations to this year’s Brenham High School Valedictorian Teylor Thom-as and Salutatorian Andrew Trostle.

Brenham ISD is also proud to recog-nize our 2016-17 Campus Teachers of the Year: Alton Elementary School - Sheila Rollins; Brenham Elementary School - Jamey Maza; Krause Elementary School - Lisa Bolcerek; Brenham Mid-dle School - Janet Ross; Brenham Junior High School - Eddy Jezisek; Brenham High School - Christopher Kenjura; and PRIDE Academy - Toni Jezisek.

Brenham ISD will be opening the Brenham Early Childhood Center in the Fall of 2017 to house all BISD pre-kin-dergarten students. The BECLC will

be housed at the former Alton Elemen-tary School campus located at 304 Kerr Street and will be led by Principal Toni Schwartz. The facility is currently being revitalized in preparation for the new school year!

Brenham ISD is also proud to an-nounce that it has been selected to the Google for Education Reference District program. Google for Education Refer-ence Districts are districts that demon-strate excellence and thought leadership through the innovative use of technology, including G Suite for Education (former-ly known as Google Apps for Education) and Chromebooks, to drive impact and positive learning outcomes.

New Presidential MembersThe Washington County Chamber is proud to welcome three

present members to the Presidential level. Chamber President Page Michel and Member Services Man-

ager Jane Hinze present plaques to Charlotte and Bob Smith of K-Bobs, Nathan Winkelmann of Nathan’s BBQ and Cathy Cole of Heritage Texas Country Properties.

Presidential level membership demonstrates a commitment to building a better local economy by supporting the Cham-ber’s work in advocacy, education/workforce development, tal-ent attraction and leadership development. It is an investment in the future of Washington County. Benefits include premium recognition in the Chamber Magazine, newsletter and eNews, invitation to all Presidential Roundtable events, a table at the Annual Banquet, recognition on the Chamber website, plus the first option to sponsor Chamber events, guaranteed selection of one participant to the Leadership Washington County pro-gram each year, and preferred placement seating at all Cham-ber events.

Heritage Texas Country Properties Nathan’s BBQ K-Bobs

May 2017 | Chamber Works | Page 5

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.

Precision Lawn Manage-ment

— U.S. 290 West Sign

Designing Landscapes — U.S. 290 East Sign

Glasco & Company — Hwy. 36 North and South Signs

Wise Landscaping — Hwy. 105 Sign

Leadership Lessons in EmergencyManagement

The April session of the Leadership Washington County program started off as a “disaster”!

The class met at the EMS station located at 1875 Hwy 290 West in Brenham where EMS Director Kevin Deramus explained what EMS does, its history and how they transport and care for patients. Then other paramedics demonstrated the Lund Hospital Cardiac Arrest System (LUCAS) on a mannequin. The class was given a tour of the down-time room, kitchen, dorms, weight room, the ambulances and other equipment. They class was also treated to lunch at the EMS station.

The group next traveled to the Brenham Fire Department and gath-ered in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) where firefighter Brian Scheffer gave a detailed overview of the operations of this city department that interfaces with every local agency to protect the com-munity. Capt. Scheffer discussed plans for disaster situations and how they prepare for conditions such as tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, etc.

After a briefing on emergency preparedness, the group participated in a mock disaster drill. Everyone was informed that an “emergency” had occurred in Brenham. Separated into two groups, they had to work together during the drill to figure out how to solve the problems that arose. The group experienced what it might be like to be in a real-life crisis situation and observed the importance of working to-gether as a team to “save lives.”

Josh Sebastian then took a few willing participants up in the tall bucket ladder where they had a view of the town below.

The Brenham Fire Department has been operating since 1867 and is celebrating 150 years of service this year with a huge celebration on Saturday, May 27. Visit BFD online for details: cityofbrenham.org/fire.

The final session will be on Economic Development and will in-clude visits to local manufacturing plants and some tourism sites.

Leadership Washington County is one of the key programs of the Washington County Chamber designed to train and motivate leaders for this community. The next class will form in July. For more details or to view the application form, visit the “Leadership” page on www.BrenhamTexas.com.

Leadership participants in front of Washington County EMS ambulance.

LUCAS CPR Demonstration by Washington County EMS Paramedics.

EMS personnel demonstrate equipment as the class looks on.

Tanner Jacob leads a tour of the station and living quarters.

Brian Scheffer explains the disaster situation and plan of action.

John Hughson and Trina Crenshaw check out the view from above.

Josh Sebastian gets ready to take Linda Schumacher and Melissa Duckworth up the ladder.

Just how high is that?

Texas Travel & Tourism Week

May 7-13 is Texas Travel & Tourism week, and the goal is to focus on the people who work within the travel and tourism industry. It also acknowledges the importance of every resident in Brenham and Washington County who smiles and says hello to visitors in our area.

The Chamber-CVB had a special presentation and refreshments during the bimonthly Tourism Tuesday meeting on May 9 to show appreciation to local tourism partners.

To give an idea of the importance of this industry, here are some statistics to ponder. Preliminary estimates show travel spending in Texas increased 1.8% in 2016 to $69.2 billion. This directly supported an estimated 671,600 jobs, an increase of 3.7% over the previous year. So, travel matters to Texans. The travel industry also directly sup-ports jobs in industries including leisure and hospitality, transportation, retail trade, services, finance, real estate, construction, insurance, and others.

Travel spending in our region also enhances the lives of local residents through sales taxes paid by out-of-town visitors, thereby decreasing residents’ taxes to cover ser-vices enjoyed by all.

Who are these visitors who impact our economy? • Average age of travelers to Texas: 45.5 • Married: 63 percent • Children in the household: 38 percent • Average per person per day spending: $119.50 • Travel within Texas by Texans: 62 percent • Average length of stay: 2.02 days • Distance traveled from home: 250 miles or less These visitors enjoy attractions, culture, family/life

events, libation/culinary, nature, outdoor sports and other activities, in that order. Let’s continue to welcome them. It’s great for our economy and we also get to show off our lovely community!

Brenham Children’s Chorus 15th Anniversary

The Brenham Children’s Chorus is celebrating 15 years with a special spring concert. Two performances can be enjoyed on Friday, May 12, at 7pm and Saturday, May 13, at 2pm at the O’Donnell Performing Arts Cen-ter at Blinn College in Brenham. For more information, please call the Chorus office at (979) 277-3897 or visit online: www.brenhamchildrenschorus.com.

Carnival at the Dog Park On Saturday, May 13, leash up your canine kids -- and

your human ones! -- and head out to the Animal Friends dog park on Hwy. 36 North for a day of fun. There will be plenty of play time, demonstrations, contests, food and drinks and fun for all, including a pet costume parade at 11:00am. Find more details on the Chamber-CVB cal-endar.

Peter, Paul & Mary Alive!This tribute band will perform two live concerts on

Saturday, May 13, in the Hasskarl Auditorium in The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre in downtown Brenham.

Noted as the “Best” Peter, Paul and Mary tribute group in the country, Peter Gordon, Will Kruger and Joanie Brown are the three that make up the group, and they will put on a performance that will energize and engage you. Find details at www.TheBarnhillCenter.com. 60’s attire is encouraged!

Traditional British Tea This Mothers’ Day, May 14, take Mom on a Mother’s

Day outing to the countryside for a traditional British af-ternoon tea! Sue, British owner of Sue’s Hideaway, bakes scones and other treats herself. Tea is served from 3-5pm and reservations are necessary. Dress up is encouraged, for extra fun. Call 832-301-2652 or email suelou43@ya-hoo.com for more information.

100 Days of Summer Festival

There will be food and fun for all on Sunday, May 21, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Brenham. Coffee and breakfast at 9am; entertainment, games and food at 11am; and a cake, plant and grocery walk. A silent auc-tion will be held from 9am-2pm. Live auction 12:30pm. Games and water slide for the kids, and more. Mark your calendar for this family-friendly event.

“Leading Ladies” at Unity Theatre

In this hilarious comedy by the author of Lend Me A Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo, two English Shakespear-ean actors, Jack and Leo, find themselves down on their luck. When they hear that an old lady in York, Pennsyl-vania, is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash. But when they get to York, they find out that the relatives aren’t neph-ews, but nieces! Romantic entanglements abound, espe-cially when Leo falls head-over-petticoat in love with the old lady’s vivacious niece, Meg, who’s engaged to the local minister. Meg knows that there’s a wide world out there, but it’s not until she meets “Maxine and Stepha-

nie” that she finally gets a taste of it. Performances run June 1-18. For more information call 979-830-8358 or visit www.UnityBrenham.org.

Floats n Flicks to present “Moana”

On June 1, the City of Brenham Community Services department will present a “Floats n Flicks” outdoor mov-ie at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center. Bring your floats and lawn chairs and join the free fun. Gates open at 7pm. The movie is scheduled to begin 10 minutes after sunset. Bring your own float in order to be in the pool during the movie! Concessions will be available for purchase.

Burton Farmers MarketEarly next month on Saturday, June 3, drive over to Bur-

ton with friends/family, your dog, and don’t forget your market bags! Stock up on fresh baked bread from the Bra-zos Belle Restaurant, mini pies from Prima Vera Farms and organic produce, jams, pickles, jewelry and maybe even local honey and eggs. Farmers Market is 9am-1pm. The Cotton Gin Museum is open 10-4 with tours of the gin at 10 and 2. The Train Depot is also open 10am-4pm.

First Sunday FunDay in Downtown Brenham

On Sunday, June 4, stroll around Downtown Brenham for June’s First Sunday FunDay! There will be shopping, dining and entertainment…RAIN or SHINE! Some activities in-clude live music, an artisans and farmers market, children’s bouncy house, all-you-can-eat crawfish boil, fish fry and oysters, Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar, tour and showing of “The Dawn of Washington County” movie at the historic Simon Theater at The Barnhill Center, and more!

Round Top Music FestivalBeginning Sunday, June 4, young musicians study

and perform in a series of orchestra and chamber music concerts with renowned faculty, conductors and soloists. Special concerts are at 1:30 on select dates. Chamber mu-sic is every weekend at 3:30 and Orchestra music every weekend at 7:30. Individual and season tickets available. The public is welcome to stop by any day to see students learning & practicing. Visit www.FestivalHill.org for concert details and online ticket purchasing.

Page 6 | Chamber Works | May 2017

Tourism News

Working for YOU!As a Chamber member, your promotional information

is seen by thousands of people every month.

WALK-INS

WEBSITEwww.BrenhamTexas.com

Unique VisitorsApril 2017 — 10,371

Total PagesApril 2017 — 19,095

Visitor CenterApril 2017 — 902

HQ BuildingApril 2017 — 610

WEBSITEwww.VisitBrenhamTexas.com

Unique VisitorsApril 2017 — 24,091

Total PagesApril 2017 — 56,693

It’s All About Being Connected

The Chamber of Commerce is the only organization in town that makes all of these connections…

• Connects its members with other members.• Connects its members to customers.• Connects the business community with government

agencies.• Connects businesses with community organizations.• Connects job seekers with job opportunities.• Connects community leaders with leadership oppor-

tunities.• Connects current generations with new generations.• Connects citizens with information.• Connects tourists with the region’s attractions.• Connects members with educational opportunities.

May 2017 | Chamber Works | Page 7

Until May 31Art Exhibit: Maritime ImpressionsArts for Rural Texas presents exhibit by Sam Longoria, longtime Houston resident and Texas native, Ross Gallery, 114 N. Live Oak St., Fayetteville, Tues–Sat 10am-3pm, free admission.

Until June 25 Art Show “Beautiful Aftermath”Local artist Candi Fite shows off abstract paintings. Artist Reception May 27, 5-7pm, Artist Talk June 3, 5-6pm. Back Lot Gal-lery, 308 S. Park St., Downtown Brenham. Gallery hours Fri.-Sat. 12-7, Sun. 11-4.

Until July 27Family History ClassEvery Thursday meet with experienced genealogists for help on your family tree! Any level of experience is welcome, no appointment is necessary, 5:30-6:30pm, Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, 100 Martin Luther King, Jr. Pkwy, Bren-ham, 979-525-3401.

Thru Oct Flying Horses Antique Carousel RidesThe Carousel will be open in Brenham’s Fireman’s Park, Saturdays through Octo-ber 11am-4pm, Sundays 1-4pm, enjoy a ride for only $1.

May 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27Live Music at The Kenney StoreVarying artists perform. Grill opens at 3pm weekdays, noon on weekends, mu-sic starts around 8:30pm, 811 S. Loop 497 (www.TheKenneyStore.com).

May 12Ribbon Cutting: Key 2 Texas Realty-Kim ParedesJoin in welcoming this new Member at 10am in the Chamber Conference Room, 314 S. Austin St., Brenham.

May 12Live Music at Home Sweet FarmMusic, craft beer, wine and fun in the bi-ergarten. Artists change weekly. Doors open at noon; music starts around 8pm, occasional cover charge (www.HomeSweetFarm.com).

May 12Wine Down FridaysRelax on the deck at Pleasant Hill Win-ery with wine, cheese tray, and friends to watch the end of the day disappear, 3pm-sunset, 1441 Salem Rd. (www.PleasantHillWinery.com).

May 12, 19, 26Live Music Friday Nights at Nathan’s BBQEntertainment varies, check website or Facebook. 6-9pm, Cajun specials, 1307 Prairie Lea, Brenham (www.nathansbbq.com).

May 12Brazos Valley Brewery Patio OpenEnjoy craft beer with friends, Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 12-8pm, Sunday 1-6pm, 201 W. First St., Downtown Brenham (www.BrazosValleyBrewery.com).

May 12-13Brenham Children’s Chorus 15th Annual Spring ConcertFeaturing singers from each of the core ensembles, Fri 7-8:30pm, Sat 2-3:30pm, O’Donnell Performing Arts Center, Blinn College, tickets at Children’s Chorus of-fice, 1301 S. Market St. (www.BrenhamChildrensChorus.com, 979-277-3897).

May 13Carnival at the Dog ParkFun for all with demonstrations, contests, food, drinks, and pet costume parade at noon! 10am-2pm, hosted by Animal Friends of Washington County, Dog Park at 3901 Hwy 36 North, Brenham (www.AnimalFriendsTexas.org).

May 13Peter, Paul & Mary LIVEAt the Barnhill Center, concerts at 3pm and 7:30pm, all tickets are Reserved, available online or at the door, 111 W. Main St., Downtown Brenham (www.TheBarnhillCenter.com).

May 13Citizens on Patrol Annual Bake SaleAnnual Bake Sale, 9am-2pm, at Wal-greens, 2411 S. Day St., Brenham.

May 13, 20, 27“Step Into the Past” ToursMultiple historic sites throughout Wash-ington County are open for you to explore from 10am-5pm, full details online (www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com/step- into-the-past).

May 14Mother’s Day BBQ BuffetAll you can eat when you dine in, regu-lar menu items available as well, featuring Texas Wines, Nathan’s BBQ, 1307 Prai-rie Lea St., Brenham, 11am-3pm (www.NathansBBQ.com).

May 14Mother’s Day Buffet BrunchSeating times 10am-2 pm, adults will re-ceive a free mimosa! Live music, flowers, and buffet created by Chef Drymala. Em-ory’s Buffalo Creek, 10827 Hwy 36, Bell-ville. Menu on Emery’s Wedding and En-tertainment Facebook page, reservations required (emerysbuffalocreekwinery.com, 979-865-0702).

May 15TexerciseStatewide fitness program by Dept of Aging and Disability Svcs to educate and involve Texans in physical activities and proper nutrition, Baylor Scott & White Wellness Center, 2111 S. Day St., Bren-ham, 1:00-2:30pm (979-830-5017).

May 16Better Choices Better HealthFree workshop every Tuesday for six weeks for those dealing with ongoing health condition, such as diabetes, arthri-tis, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic pain. Take control of your health and put you on track towards a better life. Senior Activity Center, 1301 E. Tom Green St., Brenham, 9-11am (979-830-5017).

May 16YPO Happy Hour at HyundaiFood, drinks and networking for anyone over 21 who lives or works in Washington County and wants to network for success, 1710 Hwy. 290, Brenham, 5-7pm.

May 16, 18, 23, 25, 30, June 1 Play in the ClayOne night make your own pieces, return a second night to decorate/glaze. $80 per person for 2 classes, Tuesday and Thurs-days from 7-9 pm. Arrangements can be made for other nights. Reserve seats (979-289-3765, www.BluebonnetPottery.com).

May 17CASA Information SessionTo learn how you can help victims of child abuse/neglect, 12 noon-1pm, Waller County Courthouse Assembly Room (www.WeSpeak4Kids.org).

May 17Ribbon Cutting: Lox Beauty GalleryPlease join in welcoming this new Mem-ber located at 2112 S. Market St., Bren-ham, 4pm.

May 18“Connect After 5”Hosted by Blinn College Foundation, 5-7pm, at the Whigham House, 706 Col-lege Ave., Brenham.

May 18Friends of Bluebonnet OpryFeaturing Gene Hackemack, Allison Crow-son, Al Sulak and the Bluebonnet Opry House Band, doors open at 5:30pm, food served at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm, $5 admission (www.FriendsOfBluebonnetOpry.com).

May 19Drive to Be Great!8th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on behalf of Boys & Girls Club of Wash Coun-ty, hosted by Valmont Industries at Bren-ham Country Club. Call or email for more info (979-277-9383, club.bgcwc@gmail.com, www.BGC-Brenham.org).

May 19Adult & Teen Challengeof Texas Benefit Banquet“Now I Can” Benefit Banquet, life-chang-ing testimonies, door prizes, silent auc-tion, choir presentation, catered dinner, Washington County Fairgrounds, 1305 E. Blue Bell Rd., 6-9pm (www.tctexas.org/events, 979-337-9696).

May 20Walk With A DocFor everyone interested in taking steps for a healthier lifestyle. Begins with 5-10 min-ute “health talk” followed by 30 minute walk. Bring friends and family and take part in one walk or the entire series. Wa-ter, refreshments and T-shirts available, Hohlt Park Amphitheatre, 2425 N. Park St., Brenham, 9am (979-337-7254).

May 20Living History SaturdayStaff and volunteers dressed in peri-od clothing bring to life the people and events of Old Washington providing a unique opportunity to discover various aspects of life surrounding the birth of the Republic of Texas (www.WhereTexasBecameTexas.org).

May 23St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Gay Hill Drive-Thru FundraiserBeef spaghetti, corn, bread and free-will donation for desserts, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 8201 Old Gay Hill Rd., Brenham, 4:30-6:30pm, $8 for tickets (979-203-9245).

May 23WC Republican Party Drive-Thru DinnerSchovajsa Catering will provide half chick-en, green beans, mashed potatoes and homemade bread, tickets $10 (979-525-1128, washingtoncountytxgop.org).

May 25Ribbon Cutting: Brenham Floral CompanyPlease join in welcoming the New Owners at 2630 Hwy 36 S., Brenham, 3pm.

May 27Brenham Fire Department Celebrating 150 Years!Open House at the Fire Station 10am-1pm with free hot dogs provided by HEB, cake and beverages. Dinner Celebration at Fireman’s Training Center, $25 tickets available until May 19, 5-6pm social, 6pm opening ceremony, 7pm dinner, 8pm guest speaker (979-337-7300).

May 29Memorial Day CelebrationSponsored by Chappell Hill Cultural Her-itage Group at Chappell Hill Historical Society Museum, 10am-11:30am (www.CHCHG.org).

June HighlightsJune 1Ribbon Cutting:- Palace InnPlease join in welcoming the new owners of this hotel, 555 Hwy 290 W., Brenham, 10:30am.

CALENDAR continued on page 8

What’s Happening in May

Page 8 | Chamber Works | May 2017

June 1John Anderson in ConcertHere I Am Orphan Minis-tries presents legendary John Anderson, includes dinner, program, and con-cert, 6:30-10pm at Rockin’ Star Ranch, 8002 Fuelburg Pease Lane, Brenham, $200 ticket, $1500 ta-ble of 8 (donate.orphan-ministries.com/events/-/e126267).

June 1-18Unity Theatre Presents “Leading Ladies“Hilarious comedy by Ken Ludwig (www.UnityBrenham.org, 979-830-8358).

June 1Floats-n-FlicksCity of Brenham Commu-nity Services dept pres-ents Disney’s “Moana”. Gate opens at 7pm, movie begins 10 minutes after sunset, concessions avail-able for purchase, Blue Bell Aquatic Center, 1800 E. Tom Green, free family event.

June 5Bach Cantata ConcertBrenham Choral Society presents this concert to celebrate the 500th Anni-versary of the Reformation at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 2310 Airline Dr., Brenham, 7-8:30pm, free (www.StPetersBrenham.org).

June 7Small Business ForumFeaturing outstanding business speakers and Busi-ness of the Year awards, 8:30am-1:30pm, includes luncheon, $49 individual tickets, $499 corporate table for 8, Fireman’s Training Center, Brenham (979-836-3695, events@brenhamtexas.com).

CalendarContinued from page 7

1ST TEXAS HOME HEALTHOwner: Suzanne Bozeman324 Meyer St.Sealy, Texas 77474Phone: 979-877-0900scopass1sttexas@gmail.comwww.first-texas.comIn Home Health Care

ADULT & TEEN CHALLENGE OF TEXAS/RESTOREDDirector: Jonathan Mitchell1306 N. Park StreetBrenham, Texas 77833Phone: 979-337-9696jonathan.mitchell@tctexas.orgwww.tctexas.orgSubstance Abuse Rehab CenterThrift Store

APPLE JACK SMALL ENGINE REPAIROwner: Matt Supak1656 FM 389Brenham, Texas 77833Phone: 979-421-8445applejackrepair@gmail.comwww.applejackrepair.comSmall/Lawn Engine Repair

BRENHAM WOMEN’S HEALTHOwner: Aaron Campbell, MD, FACOG605 Medical Courts, Suite 203Brenham, Texas 77833Phone: 979-353-5556jcampbell@brenhamwomens.comwww.BrenhamWomensHealth.comMedical – Clinics

CHAPPELL HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTPresident: Cody Jankowski5295 Main Street (Physical Address)PO Box 194 (Mailing Address)Chappell Hill, Texas 77426Phone: 979-251-4440chappellhillvfd@gmail.comwww.chappellhillfiredept.comEvent/Reception Facilities

ELITE TEXAS PROPERTIES-LUANNE WALLINGRealtor: Luanne Walling8595 Jared Road (Mailing Address)Bellville, Texas 77418Phone: 832-640-3209lwalling@live.comReal Estate

KEY 2 TEXAS REALTY-KIM PAREDES, REALTORRealtor – Kim Paredes7331 Creek Crest Drive (Mailing Address)Houston, Texas 77095979-987-1080kimcparedes@gmail.comReal Estate

L & N BLINDS AND SHUTTERSOwner: Linda Chaviano38931 Addie Gee Road (Mailing Address)Hempstead, Texas 77445Phone: 832-427-7971Ln.blindsandshutters@gmail.comwww.LNBlindsandShutters.comWindow Treatments

PALACE INNOwner: Mehul Ahir555 HWY 290 WestBrenham, Texas 77833Phone: 979-836-4590Mehul_ahir77@yahoo.comwww.palaceinnbrenham.comHotels/MotelsWedding & Event Services

THE CANYON CHICKOwner: Ange’le Caloudas220 East Alamo St. (Physical Address)9501 Hwy 290 West (Mailing Address)Brenham, Texas 77833Phone: 979-353-5541angelecaloudas@gmail.comClothing & Accessories

New Members

April 1-30

Detering Brothers Investments — 35 yearsHerrmann International — 32 yearsLacina & Kenjura PC — 32 yearsBrenham Monument Company — 30 yearsBrenham Trophies & Awards — 30 yearsAnt Street Inn — 25 yearsDoug Baker — 25 yearsKeith Twiggs — 25 yearsMayor Milton Tate — 24 yearsThe Vault — 24 yearsUnity Theatre — 22 yearsHospice Brazos Valley — 19 yearsBoys & Girls Club of Washington County — 18 yearsFirst Baptist Church & School — 18 yearsO’Malley Strand Associates — 17 yearsWoltmann’s Welding & Fabricating — 17 years

Hospice Boutique Resale — 15 yearsJoseph H. ‘’Hal’’ Machat — 11 yearsAnne Kinney — 10 yearsSonic Drive Inn #2 — 10 yearsChristians Development Company — 7 yearsPhilips Veterinary Hospital — 7 yearsTim Walther — 7 yearsStella Designs & Solutions — 6 yearsHodde Real Estate Company-Jim Ripple — 4 yearsFleur de Lis Bed & Breakfast — 3 yearsTerry & Robin Luedtke — 3 yearsPuppy Dawgs & Cat Tails — 3 yearsBack Lot Gallery — 2 yearsColdwell Banker Properties Unlimited-Roger Ross — 2 yearsLauren Concrete — 2 yearsGreen Dinosaur Media Company — 1 year

Renewing Members

Get Noticed…The ChamberWorks newsletter is pub-

lished inside The Banner-Press on the second Thursday of the month. Chamber members have the opportunity to adver-tise in this newsletter. Rates start at only $25 per month.

Another great way to promote your or-ganization is through targeted emails. The Chamber will forward your “e-message” to all members, as long as it meets certain criteria.

E-messages are sent a maximum of once per quarter per member during each calen-dar year.