December 2011 2011 Board of Directors Chairwoman CATHY BOEKER Blinn College First Vice Chair BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments Second Vice Chair KURT PODESZWA Camp For All Treasurer TREY HARDY Germania Insurance Secretary MIKE BAKER MIC Group Immediate Past Chair JULIE RENKEN Washington County Attorney BARRY BRASS Parcel Plus LAVERNE KRUMREY Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park JOY NELSON Brenham ISD Krause Elementary LOWELL OGLE City of Brenham CHRIS CANGELOSI Washington County Abstract CONNIE HALL Ingleside Bed & Breakfast MARK PATRANELLA Blue Bell Creameries KURT PODESZWA Camp For All JARVIS VAN DYKE Van Dyke Rankin & Company WENDY YATES Moorman Tate Law Firm JIM BAKER Brenham Fitness JENNIFER BEAUDET Pure Elegance and Germania Insurance CAROL BROOKS Seidel Schroeder & Co. and B&C Victorian Antiques DEBBIE HAVERS RR Donnelley DR. SHAWN KHAN Central Texas Eye Institute JOEL ROMO American Heart Association
Man, Woman of the Year Award Nominations Now Being Accepted As the new year approaches, it is time to start thinking about who deserves the honor of being selected for the 2011 Man and Woman of the Year-Lifetime Achievement Award. This is a longstanding tradition of the Chamber, recognizing the lifetime achievements of two extra-special individuals each year. The tradition includes the announcement of the winners at the Annual Banquet of the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Foundation. The 2010 recipients were Joycine Hanath and Clarence Gerke. The upcoming Annual Banquet will be held on January 31, 2012. Prior to the banquet, the immediate Past Chair of the Chamber Board will select a committee (including past award recipients) to review all nominations and vote on the candidates for the current year. If you know someone you would like to nominate, please pick up a nominating form from the Chamber of Commerce office. It includes judging criteria. You may also call to have a form faxed or emailed to you. Com-
Chamber says Farewell to Retiring Directors pleted nomination forms are due back by noon on January 13, 2011 Winners are only selected from nominations received. Please note that no prior nominations (submissions from prior years) will be considered unless resubmitted in January.
“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” washington county’s favorite networking event Hosted by:
A.J. Struss Heating and Air Conditioning
Established in 1921 “Third Generation Owned & Operated” 2309 South Day Street - Brenham
Thursday, Dec. 8, 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 Beverages provided by Mike Hopkins Distributing. Learn more about A. J. Struss Company LLC at www.ajstruss.com
Following countless meetings and hours of volunteering at events, the Chamber is sad to say farewell to several outstanding board members. These retiring directors have been closely involved with the Chamber of Commerce since January 2009, and they are greatly responsible for the strides the organization has taken in the past few years. The outgoing directors include: Mike Baker — MIC Group; Barry Brass — Kwik Kopy Business Center; Trey Hardy — Germania Insurance; LaVerne Krumrey – KWHI/KTTX Radio; Joy Nelson – Krause Elementary School; and Lowell Ogle — City of Brenham Public Utilities. Cathy Boeker of Blinn College will remain on the board as Immediate Past Chairwoman. All have been valuable members of committees and projects over the past three years. They will be greatly missed from the board’s monthly meetings, but we know they will always remain strong members of the Chamber and our local business community. Please join us in thanking them for their years of service to the Chamber membership the next time you see them! Congratulations to these seven newly elected board members who will be beginning their three-year term on January 1, 2012: Coy Fontenot — Kruse Village; Michael Watts — Brenham High School; Renee Mueller — Attorney at Law; Michael Haywood — Mission Brenham; Ricky Boeker — City of Brenham-Fire Chief; Judi Houston — Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union; and Liz Hopkins — Hopkins Distributing and Stella Designs and Solutions.
Page 2 Chamber Works December 2011
Ribbon Cuttings
Texas LIVE Network – Expansion Owner: Rachael Hall 1202 S. Austin St., Brenham 979-251-8333
City of Burton – New City Hall Location Mayor Peggy Felder Texas Spur 125, Burton 979-289-3400
Portal Gaming Owners: Cory Billeaud & Clem Baranowski 1002 W. Main St., Brenham 979-830-5113
‘Slice of Life’ Photo Contest It’s not too late to enter the 2011 “Slice of Life in Washington County” photo contest. Entries are due by Dec. 30, and entry forms are available at the Visitor Center in the Simon Theatre building at 115 West Main Street and the Chamber office at 314 South Austin Street. There is no cost
to enter and the top three prizes total $225. There are a number of fall and holiday events that will provide interesting subject matter, including the Poinsettia Celebration, Christmas Stroll and various home tours, just to name a few. Try your hand; you might just be a winner!
Nature By Design Owner: Johnny Visor P.O. Box 1623, Navasota, TX 77868 979-203-4939
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
Washington County Chamber of Commerce This charming shot of boots and an antique lamp won second place in the 2010 contest.
314 S. Austin Street • Brenham, TX 77833 Phone: 979-836-3695 Page Michel, President & CEO Jane Hinze, Member Services Manager Lu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Manager Seneca McAdams, CVB Mktg. & Sales Mgr. Jenny Mills, Visitor Center Manager Megan McCoy, Communication Coordinator Support Staff: Mindi Vinklarek, Marge Runge, Lanette Pledger and Jeanine Presswood.
www.brenhamtexas.com
Chamber Works December 2011 Page 3
Your Online Membership Benefits Did you know that each month, thousands of people use the Chamber’s Online Business Directory to find businesses in our area? Statistics indicate that people searching the internet are experienced, educated consumers who use the web to help make purchase decisions. In fact, 74.1% of United States citizens now use the internet.* *Do you know if these online visitors were able to find you?* We are partnering with ChamberMaster again this year and December 5-21, you will have a few key opportunities to learn more about your online benefits. ChamberMaster Internet Marketing Consultant Suzanne Johnson will be here for personal appointments and group training sessions to walk you through your online benefits and some exclusive upgrade opportunities.
Four group sessions will be held in the Chamber Conference Room on the following dates: December 9 at 9 a.m. December 13 at 3 p.m. December 15 at 9 a.m. December 19 at 3 p.m.
The training sessions will cover: How consumers find your business listing and how it looks; Advertising opportunities to help promote your business; and Using the ChamberMaster Software program. Please call Megan McCoy at the Chamber office to reserve a seat on one of these dates. There is no admission fee for Chamber members to these informative and helpful sessions.
Post some Hot Deals for the Holidays Take a few minutes today and post a “Hot Deal” on the Chamber website with a special offer from your business. There is a lot of promotion for this online feature right now, and thousands of people are clicking on them! Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your goods and/ or services. Visitors are able to print coupons from the site. You will be able to track how many times your Hot Deal was viewed. To see what other members are posting, go to www.BrenhamTexas.com and click on the Hot Deals button.
Renewing Members (November 1-30) 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. Emerson Process Management / PIC Norman’s Pharmacy — 11 years 5 Star Country Properties — 3 years Presidential Member — 19 years Pleasant Hill Winery — 15 years A to Z Printing & Graphic Design — 6 years Express Employment Professionals — 18 years R Place at Washington-on-the-Brazos — 3 years Alexander Oil Company — 25 years Express Home Furnishings — 2 years Jeff D. Reeter — 3 years Altman, C. Michael, DDS — 17 years Freedom Hill — 4 years Rocking B Cowboy Supply — 3 years Appel Ford Mercury — 25 years The Gallery at Round Top — 1 year Roof Roof — 4 years B & R Industries — 6 years Golden Mirror Salon Suites — 6 years Saddlehorn Winery — 1 year Bank of Brenham — 10 years Golden Years Homecare Specialists — 2 years Seward Plantation — 12 years Bill Betts — 13 years Greendoor — 6 years Sophie’s Bed & Breakfast — 3 years Bevers Kitchen — 26 years Heritage Texas Country Properties-Jane Hill — 4 years SportClips — 5 years Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union — 15 years Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Hughes — 12 years Sun Pools — 27 years Brenham Dental Center — 15 years Integrity Works — 3 years Swell Printing — 1 year Brenham Heritage Museum — 17 years International Discount Mattress Company — 4 years Texas Ranch Life — 12 years Brenham Oaks — 9 years JAS Distributing — 5 years Today and Yesterday — 2 years Brenham Office Supply Service — 43 years JR’S Antiques and Collectibles — 6 years Town & Country Realty & Mortgage — 6 years Brenham Self Storage Center — 11 years LaBahia Turn Verein - Event Center — 3 years Tres Chic — 11 years Buchanan Locksmith Services — 2 years Leftovers Antiques Home Mercantile — 5 years Upchurch Architects — 13 years Cannery Kitchen & Gift Shop — 1 year Congressman Michael McCaul, District 10 — 6 years Washington County Appraisal District — 27 years Christ Lutheran Church & Day School — 6 years Memorial Oaks Chapel — 37 years Wells Fargo Bank Country Place Cottage — 11 years John T. Muegge — 1 year Presidential Member — 26 years Denny’s #7916 — 3 years National Equipment Corporation — 19 years Documation of East Texas — 6 years Wild Women Wise Women Bill & Jeannine Neinast — 21 years Dynamic Sounds — 4 years & Farmhouse A La Ca Carte — 1 year New Beginnings Life Ministries — 9 years Eberly Ranch — 7 years Woodforest National Bank — 4 years
Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...
Bluebonnet Electric
Metropolitan Water Company, L.P.
Brenham Clinic
Scott & White Hospital - Brenham
Page 4 Chamber Works December 2011
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Jo’s Wood Gallery After more than 10 years of serving their community in Holmen, Wis., this company has moved to the Brenham area nearer to family, and relocated its small business. A husband and wife team, with careers in engineering, design and manufacturing, are pursuing passions by owning a business, building and designing wood products. Their base business started with creating signs and unique gifts from hardwoods, carved with designs on a CNC router machine. Their computer-controlled equipment and software-designed graphics, combined with master wood-craft skills, allow them to deliver high quality and precision workmanship. They are now excited to work with new customers here, creating furniture pieces, cabinetry, signs and artwork in wood. Call for an appointment at 979-473-9321 or visit www. joswoodgallery.com to see their “Gallery” of wood projects. Can they make something for you?
Local Group Headed to China If you are dreaming of traveling to China, we have the tour for you. The Washington County Chamber is pleased to be hosting a group travel tour of China next Fall. Thanks to professional tour company, Chamber Explorations, we are able to offer a ten-day tour of China for an amazing price. The tour begins on November 4, 2012. It features stops in Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai. Everyone in the community is invited! Chamber members will enjoy a reduced tour price, but non-members are welcome and encouraged to join this once-in-a-lifetime trip. It begins at the Los Angeles airport. You may have friends and family from across the U.S. who would like to join you in L.A. to go on this trip. Space is limited, so please contact the Chamber ASAP to secure your seat. Find all the details online at www. BrenhamTexas.com under “Chamber Events”.
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 CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER OF THE MONTH
Welcome New Members December 2011 Florence Julian The Blue Blazers are a group of 15 volunteers who act as official greeters and hosts of our community. Their objectives include promoting Chamber programs and increasing membership, and conducting ribbon cuttings and special ceremonies for local businesses. The Chamber thanks these volunteers for their service and hospitality, and also their employers for allowing them the time to dedicate to the organization. A “Blue Blazer of the Month” is recognized at each club meeting for the highest total of achievements the prior month.
Blue Blazers DOUG BAKER City of Brenham
Tammy Jaster City of BrenhamBlue Bell Aquatic Center
DR. HENRY BOEHM JR. AMA Home Care and B&L Tire
FLORENCE JULIAN Blue Bell Creameries
Jolene Curtis Texas AgFinance
BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments
JOYCE DICKSCHAT Brenham National Bank
SUE MUZZY Mike Hopkins Distributing Co.
JOHANNA FATHEREE RE/MAX Advantage
Linda Pipes Individual Member
Pam Green RE/MAX Advantage
JULIE TIEMANN Thrivent Financial
EDDIE HARRISON Individual Member
RANDY WEIDEMANN Van Dyke Rankin & Company DON WILHELM Individual Member
BURTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 420 N. Main Street P O Box 101 Burton, Texas 77835 www.burtontexas.org Non Profit Clubs & Organizations CLOVER & MARAK PLLC Owners: Megan Marak & Josh Clover 905 S. Austin Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-7733
[email protected] [email protected] www.clovermarak.com Attorneys INDEPENDENCE FIREARMS Owners: John & Tracey Hueske 6350 FM 50 Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-9677
[email protected] www.gunstogo.com Guns JO’S WOOD GALLERY Owners: JoAnn Lesikar & Charlie Johnson 4431 Wonderhill Road Chappell Hill, Texas 77426 Phone: 979-473-9321
[email protected] www.joswoodgallery.com Fine Furniture-Custom & Handcrafted Signage & Graphics
J.R. FLASOWSKI SEPTIC SERVICE and CONSTRUCTION Owners: Justin R. Flasowski/Suzanne Schawe Flasowski P.O. Box 296 Carmine, Texas 78932
[email protected] www.jrflasowskisepticservice.com Septic System Installations PORTAL GAMING Owners: Cory Billeaud & Clem Baranowski 1002 W. Main Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-830-5133
[email protected] www.portalgaming.net Video Games/Gaming STAR NAILS Owner: Michael Nguyen 2831 Hwy 36 South Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-9826
[email protected] www.starnails4u.com Nails/Spa THRIVENT FINANCIAL FOR LUTHERANS Darlene Wieghat 2004 Geney Street Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-836-1455
[email protected] www.thrivent.com Insurance/Investments
Chamber Works December 2011 Page 5
Leadership on the Right Side of the Law The November session of the Leadership Washington County program introduced the group to local law enforcement. They met at the police station where Officer Chris Jackson (Leadership Class of 2011) introduced them to Law Enforcement day. Chief Rex Phelps from the Brenham Police Department gave a talk on “The Four E’s of Law Enforcement: Empathy, Edification, Enthusiasm and Excellence.” The class also heard the prosecutor’s perspective from District Attorney Bill Parham and Washington County Attorney Julie Renken. The action-filled day was not comprised only of lectures. The leadership participants were given tours of the county jail facilities and the new police department headquarters. Lunch was generously provided by the Washington County Peace Officer’s Association. After lunch, the class participated in breakout sessions, including a “Shoot or Don’t Shoot” scenario, staged “traffic stops” with police officers and members Citizens on Patrol, and an informative demonstration by the S.W.A.T/ H.N.T/Narcotics officers. In December, the leadership class will focus on History and in January the group will travel to Austin for State Government Day. Leadership Washington County is a program of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce designed to train and motivate current and future leaders for our community. For more information, please call the Chamber office or view full details online at www.BrenhamTexas.com.
Kimberley Behrens gets geared up for the “Shoot or Don’t Shoot” activity.
Officer Chris Jackson (left) introduces the class to Law Enforcement. Jackson was a facilitator of the session.
Mark Boeker demonstrates a restraint chair during a tour of the Washington County Jail.
Allen Dave coaxes his “suspect”, Washington County Attorney Julie Renken, out of her vehicle during a staged “traffic stop.” Renken was also a facilitator for Law Enforcement Day.
Sgt. Gaskamp prepares a group for their next activity and discusses the possibly dangerous scenarios that police officers face each day.
Carin Simmons wears a bulletproof vest as she “arrests” a potential suspect at the Brenham Police Department.
Try this on for size! Alison Dreyer tries on S.W.A.T. gear as Officer Oconas and Officer Gully discuss the operations of the S.W.A.T./H.N.T./Narcotics department.
Follow us on Twitter @ www.twitter.com/
VisitBrenham or ChamberWashCo
Page 6 Chamber Works December 2011
Tourism News
19th Century Christmas at Winedale
The Winedale Folklife Christmas event will be on Saturday, December 10, from noon to 4 p.m. Take a ride on the Old West stagecoach as you view the way the countryside might have looked in the 1800s with historic homes, a oneroom schoolhouse and folklife demonstrations. Admission is free and open to the public. Tour historic homes decorated as they would have been in the 1800s, and enjoy demonstrations of blacksmithing, quilting, weaving, spinning, rope-making, basket-weaving, wood-working, pottery, lace making, pioneer encampment and much more. Children’s activities include old-fashioned crafts, games, hands-on chores and kid-friendly farm animals. You might even see our Weihnachtsmann (German Santa Claus)! Featured entertainment will include a Stephen F. Austin reenactor, The German Singers, Star of Texas Dulcimers, Celtaire String Band, Shakespeare players, folk dancers and more. Food and drinks will be available for sale. Winedale Historical Complex, a division of the Briscoe Center for American History, The University of Texas at Austin, is located four miles northeast of Round Top, Texas, at 3738 FM 2714 (off FM 1457). Contact (979) 278-3530 or
[email protected] for further information.
All visitors are welcome but small children must be accompanied by an adult. Ticket prices are $5 adult, $3 student, and free to children 6 and under and to Texas State Park annual pass holders. Accessible for the mobility impaired. For additional details about any of the following events, please call the Visitor Center at 936.878.2214 or936.878.2214 ext. 224 and ask for Scott McMahon or check out www.BirthplaceOfTexas.com.
Unique gift ideas
Holiday Events Not To Be Missed
Drop by the Brenham/Washington County Visitor Center to find several unique gift ideas. “The Burning of Brenham” tells the story of Brenham in the 1860s and was produced to commemorate the development and subsequent opening of Toubin Park which contains one of the many underground cisterns unique to Brenham. $30.
Chappell Hill Holiday Home Tour & Teddy Bear Parade — Dec. 10, Holiday Home Tour 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Teddy Bear Parade 3 p.m. Holiday Hoe-Down at Round Top Festival Institute — Dec. 10, Holiday classics & country holiday songs, 3pm, Adults $20, Children $10 at Festival Hill. Live Nativity in Independence — Dec. 18-19, Enjoy caroling, hot chocolate and cookies plus a hayride as you tour six area churches to view a living nativity in Independence. 25th Annual New Year’s Eve Gala at Round Top Festival Institute — Enjoy dinner, dancing to the tunes of local rockers, The Black Cat Choir. Toast 2012 with champagne, sparklers and more. Reservations required $120 per person. Reservation deadline: Dec. 19.
Before Email – Texas Style
Annual Used Book Sale
Think of the postal system of the Republic. Life before email. Stop and take a rest from the trail and join us for a look at communications and the early postal system of the Republic of Texas. Park staff will bring this oft overlooked part of our history to life through firsthand accounts and reproduction props. Try your hand at using a quill pen and handmade walnut ink, just like our forefathers did more than 170 years ago! You may come to appreciate the dangerous and solitary life of the frontier mail courier, as well as the convenience of today’s communication systems. Presentations at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Visitors will meet at the Visitor Center for the 30-45 minutes presentation. Please be sure to arrive 5-10 minutes early and dress appropriately for the season as the presentation will take place in a period setting.
The success of the annual Fortnightly Club’s Used Book Sale depends on you. There is still time to bring your gently used books to the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, or call the Library at 337-7201 if you need someone to pick up books. Every year the Fortnightly Club of Brenham presents this annual event. In 2012 it will be February 23-25 at the Washington County Fairgrounds. Over 20,000 books, including a wide variety of new and used books, a large selection of novels and some collector’s editions, plus many hardback books, videos, DVDs and CDs will be available during this four-day spectacular. Remember, all proceeds from the sale benefit Brenham’s Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library.
Marketing Our Community Across the State of Texas
• TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS • TEXAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES • TEXAS ASSOC. OF CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAUS • U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Washington County CVB is a proud and active member of the following state and regional tourism industry associations: Texas Travel Industry Association Texas Assoc. of Convention & Visitors Bureaus Texas Hotel & Lodging Association Texas Society of Association Executives Texas Independence Trail Region I-10 Corridor Association Presidential Texas Central Texas Bluebonnet Travel Council American Bus Association South Central Motorcoach Association
Simon Theatre sign ornament: this 5-inch tall ornately tooled image of the Simon theatre sign is cut from mesquite wood. $15 each (supplies limited).
Personalized coaster set: four limestone coasters are screened with the words “Brenham, Texas” and “Washington County.” Assorted colors. $15 set of four.
The Washington County Chamber is a Proud Member of ...
Working for YOU! As a Chamber member, your promotional information is seen by thousands of people every month.
WALK-IN’S Visitor Center HQ Building November 2011 — 614
November 2011 — 788
WEBSITE www.BrenhamTexas.com Unique Visitors Total Pages November 2011 — 7,083
November 2011 — 18,591
WEBSITE www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com Total Pages Unique Visitors November 2011 — 2,460
November 2011 — 2,965
“For the Love of Texas:” a coffee table book containing stunning photographs taken in Washington County by Smithsonian award-winning photographer Timothy Wolcott, accompanied by comments from notable Texans about their love of Texas. For that person who has everything! $95 plus tax (proceeds benefit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site). Texas-shaped ornament: plant the state of Texas! Handmade from recycled, biodegradable fibers and embedded with bluebonnet seeds, this ornament will grow the state flower. Instructions provided. $3.
Chamber Works December 2011 Page 7
Keep Your Business Safe Online New Tool Protects Against Cybersecurity Threats
By Ann Beauchesne The online marketplace is the new Main Street in America. The National Broadband Plan estimates that 97% of small businesses use email and 74% have a company website. According to a recent survey, small businesses are more dependent on the Internet for their day-to-day operations than they were a year ago. That should come as no surprise as the proliferation of smart phones, tablets, and apps enables businesses and households to conduct more and more of their daily activities online — from paying bills to shopping to communicating with colleagues, employees, and customers. Small businesses handle an array of sensitive information (e.g., customer data, financial records, and intellectual property) that warrants protection from bad actors. Unlike larger enterprises, however, many small firms lack cybersecurity policies, including what websites and web services employees can use and whether they can use USB devices — like thumb drives, which can transport malware from a home computer — in the workplace. As larger companies improve their defenses and resilience against cyber threats, small businesses have become the low hanging fruit for cyber criminals. It is vital, therefore, that small businesses take the necessary steps — gener-
ally simple steps — to improve their defenses. Understandably, many of them do not have the resources to hire consultants or dedicated IT personnel to develop and implement a cybersecurity strategy. That’s
why the U.S. Chamber partnered with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to unveil the FCC’s new Small Biz Cyber Planner, a free online tool to help small businesses protect themselves from
cybersecurity threats and make life more difficult for their digital adversaries. The planner provides several no- or lowcost tips for defending valuable information, digital devices, and networks. Training employees to be wary of clicking on links in an unknown email, installing antivirus and other security software, and encrypting data on computers are just a few steps small businesses can take to defend themselves. The Small Biz Cyber Planner enables owners and managers to create a customized plan tailored to their cybersecurity needs by answering a few basic questions: Does your business use credit cards? Does your business have a public website? The Small Biz Cyber Planner comes a year after the Chamber’s release of Internet Security Essentials for Business, which includes a dozen recommendations to help businesses reduce network weaknesses and avoid preventable frustrations, saving them substantial sums. The Small Biz Cyber Planner, the Chamber’s cybersecurity guide, and additional resources are available at www.uschamber. com/cybersecurity. Beauchesne is the Vice President, National Security and Emergency Preparedness, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Reprinted by permission. © 2011 U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Calendar Jan 21 19th Century Hunting Interpreters in period costume tell of hunting adventures in the 19th century, examine tools of the hunter’s trade and more, 11am-3pm, $5 adults, $3 children, free to State Parks pass holders, Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Site (www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Jan 28-29 Making Every Stitch Count Learn sewing and stitching, enjoy handson activities and experience life in the
(Continued from Page 8) Flags of Texas Learn about the history of the many flags that have flown in Texas, with guest speaker and former TSSAR president, Tom Green, 11am-3pm, $5 adults, $3 children, free to State Park pass holders, Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878Jan 28 2214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Synergy Brass Quintet Annual performance at Round Top Festival-Institute, 3pm, $20 Adults, $10 stu- Jan 29 dents, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249- Everything Weddings Expo See dozens of vendors, enjoy a fashion 3129, www.festivalhill.org). show, compete for prizes at this bridal show for the Greater Washington County bride, early frontier at Barrington Living History Farm, 10am-4:30pm, $9 adults, $6 students, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-878-2214 x246, www. birthplaceoftexas.com).
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.
1-5pm, $2, St. Mary’s PAC, 701 Church St., Brenham (979-830-3479, www.pureelegancedec.com).
Jan 31 Chamber & EDF Annual Banquet Annual banquet recognizing the contributions of volunteers to the Boards of Directors for the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, the Brenham Economic Development Foundation and the Blue Blazers, Fireman’s Training Center (979-8363595, www.brenhamtexas.com).
Precision Lawn Management — U.S. 290 West Sign Designing Landscapes — U.S. 290 East Sign Glasco & Company Landscaping — Hwy. 36 North and South Signs Wise Landscaping — Hwy. 105 Sign
Page 8 Chamber Works December 2011
What’s Happening in December
Dec 8 Ribbon Cutting & Holiday Open House Enjoy an open house at Integrity Works, 9am-1pm, 2103 S. Market Street, Brenham (
[email protected]).
dressed or decorated for the holidays and march in the parade, Rudolph hands out prizes, and Mrs. Claus has story time ahead of Santa’s arrival, 3pm, downtown Chappell Hill (www.chappellhillmuseum.org).
Ribbon Cutting & Open House: Nature by Design New member, Nature by Design, Johnny Visor, Owner, 4:30pm, KWIK KOPY Business Center, 2305 S. Day, Brenham.
Bayou City Chorale Performs a “Holiday Hoe-Down,” Festival Hill, 3pm, $20 adults, $10 students, Festival Institute, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).
Dec 9, 16, 23, 30 Live Music at Pig and Whistle Gene Hackemack performs every Friday at Pig and Whistle of Burton, 12607 W. Washington (979-289-2319, www.pigandwhistleofburtontexas.com).
Christmas at Winedale Stagecoach rides, tours of historic, decorated homes, demonstrations of blacksmithing, quilt-making, weaving, and spinning, plus farm animals, story tellers, children’s crafts, music and more, free admission, 12-4pm, Winedale Historical Complex, 4 miles northeast of Round Top at 3738 FM 2714, off FM 1457 (Winedale@austin. utexas/edu, www.cah.utexas.edu).
Dec 9, 23 Car Seat Distribution Class A one-hour class to learn how to install a car seat and ensure your child is properly restrained, 2-3pm, call Loretta or Bryan at Washington County EMS (979-277-6267). Dec 10, 17 Brenham Farmers Market Vegetables, eggs, home-canned foods, arts & crafts, eat-in or takeaway breakfast burritos, tamales, cakes, pies, bread, cinnamon rolls, kolaches and fresh-brewed coffee! Every Saturday, 8am-12p, just off the square in Downtown Brenham, 307 S. Park, free (vendors call 979-836-9466, www.downtownbrenham.com). Barrington Farm Holidays Make decorations and toys, enjoy period music and discover the joy of Christmas at Barrington Living History Farm, 10am4:30pm, $5 adult, $3 student, Washingtonon-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-8782214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).
Dec 11 Christmas Choir Presentation The combined Chancel Choirs of Brenham First United Methodist and Bellville First United Methodist present “The Glory of the Lord,” a Christmas Cantata, 4pm, free, open to all, Brenham First United Methodist Church. Dec 14 Youthful Widows Monthly Reunion Join others who have experienced the death of a spouse and learn healthy grieving methods, 2nd Weds of the month, 6-8pm, bring a covered dish, beverages provided, free, Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-277-9525, www. hospicebrazosvalley.org).
Dec 10 Breakfast with Santa Have breakfast with Santa, 8:30-10am, reservations required, $10, Funky Art Café, 202 W. Commerce, Downtown Brenham (979-836-5220, www.funkyartcafe.com).
Dec 15 Senior Citizen Discount Day Receive a 15% discount on all wellness, vaccinations, dental, spays/neuters at Brenham Veterinary Hospital for pets with owners over 50, call for appointment. Senior Discount Day is held the 3rd Thursday of every month! (979-836-2472, www.brenhamvethospital.com).
Chappell Hill Holiday Home Tour Eight beautiful homes, churches and historic sites decorated for the holidays, enjoy lunch at the Rock Store, 9:30am-5:30pm, $12 advance, $15 day of (979-836-6033, www.chappellhillmuseum.org).
Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Food and music every 3rd Thursday of the month, food 6pm, show 7:30pm, $5 admission benefits Hospice, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Hwy 105, Brenham (979-8364347).
Chappell Hill Teddy Bear Parade Children bring their favorite teddy bear
Dec 16-17 Brenham Children’s Chorus Christmas Concert “Santa’s Playlist” and “Christmas Around the World” choral concert, 7pm on 12/16, 2pm on 12/17, advance tickets $8 adults, $5 children, $10 at the door, O’Donnell Center at Blinn College (979-277-6540, www.brenhamchildrenschorus.org). Dec 17 Carrying the News – Life Before Email Special event at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Take a look at communications and the early postal system of the Republic of Texas. Try your hand at using a quill pen and ink, learn of the solitary life of the frontier mail courier, 11am-3pm, $5 adults, 3 children, free to TSP annual pass holders (936878-2214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com). Dec 18-19 Live Nativity in Independence Six area churches participate in this Live Nativity with caroling, hot chocolate, cookies and a hayride, 6-8pm, free parking, Independence Town Square, FM 390 (
[email protected]). Dec 20 Monthly Grief Luncheon Join others who have experienced the death of a loved one, learn healthy grieving methods, share how grief affects you and what helps during this monthly pot-luck luncheon, bring a covered dish, beverages provided, 3rd Tuesday of the month, 11am1pm, free, please RSVP (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.org). Dec 21 Pet Wellness Wednesday Specials on select products and services, discounts on vaccinations, 3rd Weds of every month, call for appointment or dropoff, 8am-5pm, Creekside Veterinary Service (979-836-6519).
quilts, early baskets, regional art works, Southwest & estate jewelry, and more, catered both days by The Garden Café, $5, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, FM 577, Brenham (979865-5618, www.ruraltexasantiques.com). Jan 7 Yonder Way Farm Day Visit the Farm Store at Yonder Way Farm for grass-fed beef, whole & half calves, pastured pork, eggs and poultry, held each first Saturday of the month, 5500 Hwy 105, Brenham, contact for fees (979-530-4444, www.yonderwayfarm.com).
Jan 9-30 Adult Acting Class 8-week adult acting class, culminating in a showcase performance, 6-8pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Downtown Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).
Jan 11-25 Adult Musical Theatre Dance Class for adult men and women, dance to music from American musical theatre, disco, jazz, and hip-hop, 12 classes through Apr 4, 6-7pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).
Jan 11-25 Musical Theatre Dance Class for Children No previous dance training for grades 1-3, includes warm-up, stretches, simple Broadway-style choreography, 4-5pm. Grades 48 have previous training and work at faster pace using different styles of dance from musical theatre, showcase for both held on 4/4, 5-6pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).
A few January highlights…
Jan 14-15 Butchering and Curing On Saturday, two farm-raised Ossabaw Island hogs will be butchered as it was done in the 1850s and on Sunday, the curing process of drying, salting and smoking the meat begins, 10am-4:30pm, $5 adults, $3 students, State Park pass holders free, Barrington Living History Farm, Washingtonon-the-Brazos State Historic Site (936-8782214, www.birthplaceoftexas.com).
Jan 7-8 Brenham Winter Antiques Show Antique, country & formal furniture, glass, china, pottery , sterling, old toys,
See Calendar, Page 7
Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Gala Round Top Festival-Institute, 7:30pm, 248 Jaster Rd., Round Top (979-249-3129, www.festivalhill.org).
