The countdown is on! TAILGATE 2011 will be held on Thursday, August 25, and tickets are on sale now. The Chamber will host this exciting and fun tailgate-style event at Silver Wings Ballroom in Brenham. It is the one an-nual fundraising event for Chamber programs and activities. Everyone in the community is invited. Tell your friends and neighbors!

There will be plenty of spirited rivalries going on that night ... between fans of Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M, the Blinn Bucs, TCU Horned Frogs, UH Cougars, Texas Tech Raiders, Houston Texans, Burton Panthers, Brenham Cubs and more.

Tickets Only Sold in AdvanceTickets will not be sold at the

door. Stop by the Chamber and pick up tickets this week. For the price of $25 per per-son, you can enjoy all

the delicious food you can eat (from Design II Catering), plenty of foaming cold beverages, a fabulous silent auction, exciting live auction, a great raffle, lots of mingling and networking, music and dancing.

The silent and live auctions will be a major highlight of the night. Chamber member busi-nesses always donate the most fabulous items. See below for some highlights!

A huge round of applause goes to all of the generous sponsors who are making this night possible. Please join us in thanking them, and then come to the TAILGATE 2011 to enjoy the party with them!

CHAMPION SPONSOR

Brenham Chrysler Jeep Dodge

TOUCHDOWN SPONSORSBlue Bell Creameries

Blinn CollegeBluebonnet Electric

Republic Waste ServicesTexas Farm Bureau Insurance

FIELD GOAL SPONSORSAppel Ford

Ballard & Fleetwood PLLCBrenham Floral Company

Brenham Abstract & Title CompanyBrenham Fitness

Brenham ISDBrenham National Bank

County Attorney Julie RenkenEdward Jones-Brice Milliorn

Germania InsuranceHollis Energy Resource Services

Kruse VillageMIC Group

Michele Bright, DDSMike Hopkins Distributing

Moorman Tate Urquhart Haley Upchurch & Yates

Neal Financial GroupRE/MAX Advantage

Renee Mueller/Charlotte SmithRWG Construction Management

Van Dyke Rankin InsuranceWashington County Abstract

August 2011

TAILGATE 2011

See TAilgATe, Page 3

Tickets on Sale Now!!!

“BUSINESS AFTER HOURS”washington county’s favorite networking event

Hosted by:

University Cancer Center - BrenhamA big round of applause goes to Dr. Mark D’Andrea and his staff at the University Cancer Center-Brenham for hosting this event on August 4.

A great time was had by all guests as they were invited to tour the impressive facility and enjoy great food and networking. Special beverages were

generously donated by Mike Hopkins Distributing and Brenham Coca Cola.

Learn more at www.UniversityCancerCenter.com

2011 Board of DirectorsChairwoman

CATHY BOeKeRBlinn College

First Vice ChairBRiCe MilliORN

Edward Jones Investments

Second Vice ChairKURT PODeSZWA

Camp For All

TreasurerTReY HARDY

Germania Insurance

SecretaryMiKe BAKeR

MIC Group

immediate Past ChairJUlie ReNKeN

Washington County Attorney

BARRY BRASSParcel Plus

lAVeRNe KRUMReYHorseshoe Junction

Family Fun Park

JOY NelSONBrenham iSD

Krause Elementary

lOWell OgleCity 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 BAKeRBrenham Fitness

JeNNiFeR BeAUDeTPure Elegance and

Germania Insurance

CAROl BROOKSSeidel Schroeder & Co.

and B&C Victorian Antiques

ROBeRT HAMBrenham State Supported

Living Center

DeBBie HAVeRSRR Donnelley

DR. SHAWN KHANCentral Texas Eye Institute

JOel ROMOAmerican Heart Association

Tweet with us @ www.twitter.com/

VisitBrenham or ChamberWashCo

Page 2 Chamber Works August 2011

Chamber Members are Invited to

Advertise in this SpaceCall or e-mail us for more details!

(979) 836-3695 • news@brenhamtexas.com

Ribbon Cuttings

Scott & White Health Care Imaging CenterCEO: John Simms604 U.S. 290 West, BrenhamPhone: 979-421-2177

Wrigley Redesign and Home StagingOwner: Marilynn Wrigley410 W. Chauncy St., BrenhamPhone: 979-836-4346

Psalms Funeral HomeOwner: Alice F. Harper Sargent1501 S. Blue Bell Road, BrenhamPhone: 936-825-0211

Washington County Chamber of Commerce314 S. Austin Street • Brenham, TX 77833

Phone: 979-836-3695

Page Michel, President & CEOJane Hinze, Member Services ManagerLu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Manager

Seneca McAdams, CVB Mktg. & Sales Mgr.Jeanne Luedemann, Visitor Center ManagerMegan McCoy, Communication CoordinatorSupport Staff: Marge Runge, Judy Grimm,

Lanette Pledger, Mindy Vinklarek.

Allen Dave Funeral HomeOwner: Allen Dave407 Burleson St., BrenhamPhone: 979-830-5510

Hempstead Country Inn and SuitesOwner: Tony Childers44113 Austin Branch Rd., HempsteadPhone: 979-826-0310

AJ Struss Heating & Air ConditioningOwners: Sidney & Barbara Struss2309 South Day Street, BrenhamPhone: 979-836-4646

‘De-Mystifying Email & Social Media Marketing’ Workshop Sept. 9, 2 p.m. at Blinn Student Center

Build relationships that are the key to the success of your business with easy, inexpensive and highly effective email marketing. At this workshop, you will explore the basics of what email marketing is, why it works so well, how it easily integrates with so-cial media sites, and how to use it in your business planning and marketing strategy to achieve special goals.

Presented by Shelley Roth, Con-stant Contact Expert (Springboard Works), this session will teach you how to master email and social me-

dia marketing communications with a comprehensive look at best practices and winning strategies.

You’ll learn how to:• Create email campaigns that get

results and get your emails opened and read

• Interpret email campaign results (open-rates, bounce-rates, click-thru rates, etc.)

• Acquire new customers through social media

• Open the door to social media marketing through email marketing

This workshop is suitable for all experience levels. You do not need to bring a laptop, but are welcome to do so. Note: Participants do not need to be a Constant Contact customer to attend. All information provided can be applied regardless of the system or service you are using for Email Mar-keting.

Registration for Washington County Chamber members: $10 per person ($25 for non-members). Call (979) 836-3695 to register by Friday, Sept. 2.

Chamber Works August 2011 Page 3

WASHINGTON COUNTY CHAMBER BLUE BLAZER

OF THE MONTH

July 2011Sue Muzzy

August 2011linda Pipes

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 cut-tings 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 BlazersDOUG BAKERCity of Brenham

DR. HENRY BOEHM JR. AMA Home Care

and B&L Tire

JOYCE DICKSCHATBrenham National Bank

JOHANNA FATHEREERE/MAX Advantage

COY FONTENOT Kruse Village

PAM GREENRE/MAX Advantage

EDDIE HARRISON Individual Member

TAMMY JASTER City of Brenham-

Blue Bell Aquatic Center

FLORENCE JULIANBlue Bell Creameries

BRICE MILLIORN Edward Jones Investments

SUE MUZZY Mike Hopkins Distributing Co.

LINDA PIPESIndividual Member

JULIE TIEMANNThrivent Financial

RANDY WEIDEMANN Van Dyke Rankin & Company

DON WILHELM Individual Member

Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...

Brenham ClinicBluebonnet

Electric

Scott & White Hospital - Brenham

Metropolitan Water

Company, L.P.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the Live & Silent Auction items you can bid on at the TAILGATE Party. A complete list of all donations will be in next month’s newsletter to recog-nize all the fabulous donations from Chamber member businesses.

Weekend Stay at Four Seasons Resortin Dallas with golf/Spa & Dining

Appel Ford & Citizens State Bank

Chartered Fishing Trip in louisiana

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Jawbone Jam BoxAT&T

Signature Facial & Samples Package

Aesthetic & Acupuncture Clinic of Texas

Dinner for 8 at Bevers KitchenBevers Kitchen

2 Texas A&M Football TicketsBrenham Clinic

Fitness Membership for One Year& Tanning Sessions

Brenham Fitness Center

Two Sideline Passes to Brenham Cubs gameBrenham ISD Football

Coach Glen West

Framed Map of Texas Brenham National Bank

gift Certificates for Photography Class

Brenham Portrait Gallery

One 16x20 Wall PortraitBrenham Portrait Gallery

Dog lover BasketBrenham Veterinary Hospital

Briannas Salad Dressing Deluxe gift Basket

Briannas Fine Salad Dressing

Mini gun VaultBuchanan Locksmith Services

Whitening PenC. Michael Altman, DDS, PC

Chiropractic gift CertificatesCommunity Chiropractic

Wireless Desktop KeyboardComputer Helpers

5 pounds of Fresh SausageDan’s Meat Market

Metal Art-Bible Verse Wall Hanging

Day Star Christian

Crepe Myrtle Tree, 30 gallon sizeDiscount Trees of Brenham

Set of 3 Hurricane CandlesDona Lynn’s Unique Gifts

Happy Smiles gift BasketDr. Bill Reeves, Orthodontist

Bus Ride for 30 to Brenham Cubs Football Away game

Durham School Services

Pine tree, 15 gallon sizeEllison’s Greenhouses

King Outdoor CookerFayetteville Propane Co.

location for BBQ Party for 20Gary & Sandy Appelt

Bush Presidential library gift Basket

George Bush Library

Stunning Turquoise NecklaceHospice Boutique

Antiques Shopping gift CertificateIndependence Antiques

One-Month Boot Camp CertificatesInnovative Fitness - Brenham

Several pairs of exciting tickets!KTEX-KWHI Radio

“giddy Up” BasketLuedemann Grocery & Mill

Bud light Speaker Tower/MP3 PlayerMike Hopkins Distributing

Deluxe gift BasketMimosa Salon

Comprehensive Portfolio AnalysisMitchell Clark & Company

Backyard BarbecueNathan’s BBQ

Overhead garage Door Opener & Chain Rail

Overhead Door Company of South Central Texas

Private Tour & Barrel Tastingwith the Winemaker for 12

Pleasant Hill Winery

Body Pampering Set and Kids Poolside Fun gift Basket

Pooltex American

Football signed by the 2011 Brenham Cubs

Republic Services

Ashley Rocker-ReclinerSelect Furnishings

Pickard China Treasure Box with Texas State Seal

State Representative Lois Kolkhorst

Wind ChimesTegeler Toyota

english ivy in purseThe Flower Market

Sunday House gift BasketThe Sunday House

Teeth Whitening, Aveda Hair Products & Jewelry

Thyme Day Spa & Salon

Bluetooth HeadphonesVerizon Wireless

Concealed Handgun license Class for 2

Washington County Shooting Club

Home Redesign or Staging gold Star Plan

Wrigley Redesign & Home Staging

This is the only fundraising event of the year for the Chamber. All pro-ceeds are put back into the communi-ty in the form of programs, seminars and services designed to enhance the economic climate in our great com-munity. Come enjoy this great event on Aug. 25. Don’t miss this great op-portunity to support your community and have fun at the same time!

Tailgate(Continued from Page 1)

Page 4 Chamber Works August 2011

Welcome New Chamber MembersAlleN DAVe FUNeRAl HOMeOwners: Allen & Micca Dave407 Burleson Street Brenham, Texas Phone: 979-830-5510allendaveusa@yahoo.comwww.AllenDave.comFuneral Home

BURTON CAFÉOwners: Georg & Lucia Zaranovic12513 Washington StreetP.O. Box 514 Burton, Texas 77835Phone: 979-289-2200Restaurant

gReeN gRAiN FeeD & SeeDOwners: Troy Schroeder & Cabin Warmke304 S. Baylor Street, Downtown BrenhamP.O. Box 518 (Mailing Address)Brenham, Texas 77834Phone: 979-836-7169troy@brenhamtechnical.comFeed Dealers

lOUiS & JOYCiNe HANATH4261 Routt RoadChappell Hill, Texas 77426Phone: 979-836-9127joycineh@sbcglobal.netIndividuals – Retired

Mill CReeK CUSTOM HOMeSOwners: Lance & Christie Abel1217 W. Main (Physical Address)P O Box 230 (Mailing Address)Bellville, Texas 77418Phone: 979-865-9580cabel@millcreekhomestexas.comConstruction Contractor

THe MUSiC SHOPOwner: Scott Swaringim104 W. Main StreetDowntown BrenhamPhone: 979-830-5518Retail Musical Instrument Store

ST. JOSePH-BReNHAMManager: Tim OttingerProgress Drive, Lot l, Block E (Physical)Brenham, Texas 1530 E William J Bryan Pkwy (Mailing)Bryan, Texas 77802Phone: 979-776-2458www.st-joseph.orgMedical-Clinics

TRiggeR HAPPY PAiNTBAll FielDSOwner: Darren Quinton5897 Hwy. 36 NorthBellville, Texas 77418Phone: 979-865-1111kquinton@att.net www.triggerhappypaintballfield.comPaintball Fields

WASHiNgTON COUNTY lADieS liONS ClUBPresident: LaVerne Krumrey3823 Jason LaneBrenham, Texas 77833Phone: 713-516-1374Non Profit Clubs & Organizations

A&L Hot Oil Service — 8 yearsA Secret Cottage — 2 yearsDr. Gary L. Appelt, P.A. — 30 yearsArtesian Park RV Campground — 18 yearsBlizzard, Frank & Margaret — 8 yearsBootstrap at Round Top — 5 yearsBrenham Abstract & Title Company — 28 yearsBrenham Cemetery Association — 8 yearsBrenham Collision Center — 17 yearsBrenham Country Club — 22yearsBrenham Grill — 6 yearsBrenham Housing Authority — 9 yearsCapital One — 17 yearsCountryside Lighting — 12 yearsCricket Cruise & Travel — 3 yearsEllison, Jim & Ellen — 8 yearsFirst Finance — 8 years

Grace Community Fellowship — 2 yearsHampton Inn & Suites — 2 yearsIndex Funds Advisor — 1 yearK-Bob’s Steakhouse — 26 yearsK & W Dozer Service — 1 yearLaBahia Antiques — 14 yearsLadco Construction Company — 1 yearLink Staffing Services — 4 yearsLive Oak Resort — 21 yearsMargie Routt Young-Events by Room Service — 14 yearsMax Donuts — 8 yearsMcCarty, Chris, DDS, Pediatrics — 26 yearsMr. Gus Mutscher — 8 yearsNature’s Necessities — 6 yearsPennybacker, William — 22 yearsPipes, Linda & Paul — 1 yearPlumb Level — 8 years

ProServe Automotive — 3 yearsQuick Lane — 9 yearsRE/MAX Advantage — 2 yearsRepublic Waste Services - Presidential level Member — 2 yearsRobert’s Service Station & Grocery — 12 yearsRothermel, Beth A. — 13 yearsScoops at Westwood — 8 yearsSears — 19 yearsSmith, Robert — 2 yearsSt. Peter’s Episcopal Church — 8 yearsWashington County Fair Association — 27 yearsWashington County Farm Bureau — 26 yearsWCT OUTDOORS — 4 yearsWilhelm, Don C. — 2 years

Renewing Members(July 1-31)

Thanks to the following members for continuing your investment in the Chamber. You are long-term “partners” in our mission to promote and preserve this great community, and we appreciate your confidence in the Chamber’s ability to promote your business.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTPleasant Hill Winery

Bob and Jeanne Cottle, proprietors of Pleasant Hill Winery, began as home winemakers in the early 1970s making several different fruit wines in their respective states of Rhode Island and Wisconsin. The hobby got “out-of-control” after a move to Texas in 1979. A lovely piece of land with rolling hills was purchased in Brenham in 1992. Planting and building began, and in 1997, Pleasant Hill Winery opened its doors as Texas’ 27th commercial winery. Both families’ grandparents came from Italy and made wine. The Zaffiro winepress, once used for the winemaking, is now proudly displayed in the Winery.

Pleasant Hill Winery celebrated its 14th year in April. More than a dozen award-winning wines are produced. There is a wine to please every palate from dry reds and whites to sweet wines and ports. Grapes come from the Brenham vineyard, the Texas Davis Mountains vine-yard and from all over the great state of Texas. You can visit the Winery on weekends year-round for a tour and tasting. Browse the well-stocked gift shop. www.pleasanthillwinery.com

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to info@brenhamtexas.com. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase com-munity awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Hospice SoiréeYou are invited to swim with Hospice Brazos Valley at their Voyage

Under the Sea! Stage for the 6th annual Hospice Soirée will be set at the Austin County Fair Convention and Expo Center in Bellville on Aug. 27, 6-11 pm. The night’s events include a meal by Schovajsa Catering, music and dancing by DJ Troy Arndt, gaming by The Casino Connec-tion, auctions and raffle.

Volunteers are always needed to help in a variety of areas: set-up, clean-up, registration, photo area, auction, etc. Sponsorships and auc-tion items are being accepted, and tickets are on sale now. If interested, please contact Deanna Warmke at (979) 277-9525 or dwarmke@hos-picebrazosvally.org.

Hospice Brazos Valley has been passionately serving 17 surrounding counties for over 20 years by enhancing the quality of life of those with a terminal or chronic illness. All proceeds will be utilized to continue their mission. www.hospicebrazosvalley.org

Chamber Works August 2011 Page 5

The 2011 Junior Leadership program will kick off in October, and the Chamber will soon be looking for 20 high school juniors and seniors to participate.

This abbreviated version of the Leadership Washing-ton County program for adults is designed to educate, train and motivate area high school students to become leaders within their schools and communities. The pro-gram provides students with information and leadership skills and prepares them for service to the public.

Participants go through an eight-week program that gives a behind-the-scenes look at community operations and introduces them to Washington County’s elected and civic leaders.

High school juniors and seniors in Washington County are eligible to apply for the Junior Leadership program. In order to allow for adequate class interaction and orga-

nization, the class is limited to 20 participants. To apply, pick up an application at the Chamber. Applications will be confidentially reviewed by a selection committee and the top 20 applicants will be accepted into the program.

Leadership for High School Students

Introducing the Leadership Class of 2012The new class of Leadership Washington County participants will convene this month with an Orienta-

tion followed by a day-long Leadership Development session, and then a Team Building Retreat at Camp For All in September. The participants will graduate from the program in May, 2012.

The twenty-two professionals listed below will be challenged, inspired and educated about the many fac-ets of effective leadership and the structure of this community. They will experience ten in-depth sessions, including a memorable trip to Austin for State Government Day where they will meet personally with state lawmakers and learn about the legislative process.

They will also be treated to amazing, behind-the-scenes tours of some of Brenham’s most unique busi-nesses. During this program, participants will meet top leaders in the community and form relationships that will aid them in their professional careers for years to come.

Here are this year’s Leadership Washington County participants:

Kimberley BehrensBrenham State Supported Living Center

Mark BoekerGermania Insurance

Jennifer BynumBlinn College

Justin ColleyMIC Group

Allen DaveAllen Dave Funeral Home

Alison DreyerBrenham National Bank

Sharon gaddyChrist Lutheran Day School

Kari goerlitzBrenham Clinic

lauren HaevischerWashington County District Attorney’s Office

David HutchinsonBlue Bell Creameries

Kyle KmiecSeidel Schroeder & Company

Brad leuschnerMIC Group

Megan McCoyWashington County Chamber

luis MendozaValmont Industries

Jan PechtGermania Insurance

lloyd PowellCity of Brenham Police Dept.

Trey SaundersMIC Group

Herman SchrammBlue Bell Creameries

Joshua SchroederMIC Group

April SeydelRE/MAX Advantage

Don SilveyBrenham ISD-Krause Elementary

Carin SimmonsDel Sol Food Company

Leadership Washington County is hosted and coordinated each year by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce with assistance from alumni of the program. It is one of the most meaningful ways to give back after you have received all the valuable training and experiences in the LWC program.

A few alumni are still needed to help with sessions for the Class of 2012. Please call Jane Hinze at (979) 836-3695 if you would like more details.

Watch this newsletter for photos and articles about the new class over the next several months as they learn and grow together as professionals and leaders.

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

Leadership Alumni Association

Quarterly MeetingWednesday, Sept. 30 at 11:30 a.m.

(location to be announced)

Everyone who has been through the Leadership Wash-ington County program are invited. The featured speaker for this meeting is a closely-guarded secret at this point. It is a presentation that you will NOT want to miss! A catered lunch will be available for $8 per person. More details will be sent out in early September. If your contact info has changed recently, please send an update to: (979) 836-3695 or alumni@brenhamtexas.com.

Purple Feet Aug. 13-14It’s harvest time for Texas wineries and there are three

wineries celebrating in Washington County...and no reser-vations required! Sure it’s hot, but head out and pick some grapes and stomp them!

Annual Grape Harvest at Windy WineryEnjoy grape picking, hay rides, barrel stomping, keep-

sake t-shirts and, of course, wine. Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m., $25 per adult, $15 for children.

This includes all of the activities plus a keepsake t-shirt with the individual’s purple foot imprints on it, a glass of wine for adults and sparkling grape juice for the kids. Ad-vance reservations are not required. Windy Winery is lo-cated at 4232 Clover Road in the Independence area. For more details, check out www.WindyWinery.com

10th Annual Crush for Fun Pleasant Hill WinerySince it is the 10th Annual Crush for Fun at Pleasant

Hill… *Bring a group of 10 stompers, and one will be free! * If it is your 10th wedding anniversary, get 2 for 1! *One 10-year old child is free with an adult ticket. “LUCY” look-alikes, they are always looking for you!

Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. You get purple feet and a special T-shirt: “I picked, I stomped, I made some wine”. Bring the kids and don’t forget your camera! For more details, www.PleasantHillWinery.com

Saddlehorn Winery The grapes are picked and now it is time to make some

wine! Join in for the tour and tastings. Saddlehorn is now open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Burton area. Check the website for directions and details: www.SaddlehornWinery.com.

Lavender and Wine Fest in Chappell Hill

The scent of fresh lavender is in the air. The Chappell Hill Lavender Farm hosts the sixth annual Lavender Fest on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The festival kicks off the blooming season and guests will have the opportu-nity to cut their own fresh lavender and learn how to make lavender wands.

The popular Tour de Lavender returns this year where guests can explore charming destinations in scenic Wash-ington County. Stops include the Windy Winery, which uses only Texas grapes to make great Texas wine. Try the Lady Lavender wine, and enjoy a hay ride to the vineyard,

live music, great food and more. Other sponsors include the Bluebonnet House & Garden Center, a timeless coun-try gift shop; the Rock Store with historical hand-stitched wall hanging; Chappell Hill Sausage Company; and Bev-ers Kitchen for great home cooking.

Begin your tour at the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm with so much to see and do. Don’t miss the wide variety of craft booths showcasing handmade soaps, lotions, birdhouses, jams, jellies, salsa, linens, candles, jewelry and more. Plus, enjoy live music with Front Porch Friends and sample lav-ender cuisine. Tour the farm’s gift shop with its wonderful selection of lavender-related items. Come and see us. 2250 Dillard Road, Chappell Hill and visit our website www.ChappellHillLavender.com.

Owner of the Hempstead Country Inn & Suites, Tony Childers (left) and Shana Lopez (right) stopped a tour of the property to take a picture with Seneca McAdams (middle). The property joined the Washington County Chamber and became one of over 250 tourism partners with the Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Picking and crushing grapes is fun for the whole family as this mother/daughter team demonstrates. Don’t miss out. Aug. 13-14 is the last weekend for grape stomping.

Media Update from the CVBIn spite of the heat, your CVB staff has been busy pro-

moting travel to Brenham and Washington County. In ad-dition to the regular print advertising schedule, staff have also placed advertising on two Houston web sites.

The first program, which we have participated in several times since 2010, involves Click2houston.com. When you access the web site, click on “Lifestyle,” then find the “Trav-el” tab. That will take you to a page promoting weekend travel opportunities. Our promotions appear on a rotating schedule with some other area tourism destinations.

This summer program runs June–August and involves a giveaway drawing for each of the three months. For June, the winner was Thomas Steplyk from Houston. He won an overnight stay in Washington County, along with admis-sion to grape stomping at all three county wineries and a $50 gift card. The July winner was Stacey Martin from Pearland. She won an overnight stay, four tickets for two hours of play at Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park and a $50 gift card.

From these two months of activity, the CVB has gained 610 names and email addresses to add to our monthly e-newsletter mailing list, plus promoted a variety of activi-ties and attractions on a web site that generates several million hits annually.

We are also looking at expanding this type of program to another Houston TV outlet, and are currently participating in an online promotional effort with the Houston Chroni-cle. As results become known, we’ll keep you posted.

2012 Visitor Guide MailingInformation to participate in the 2012 Brenham/Wash-

ington County Visitor Guide was mailed Aug. 1st to all tourism partners. If you did not receive this mailing, and would like details on participating, please call the CVB at the Visitor Center at (979) 836-3696. The deadline for submitting information at the “early bird” special rate is Aug. 22.

Each year 150,000 Guides are published and distributed around the state to all Texas Travel Information Centers, as well as a number of outlets in large metropolitan areas. Guides are available to visitors to our area, and also indi-vidually mailed to all parts of the U.S. to fulfill reader re-quests resulting from print and online advertising. Bottom line: it’s one of the most economical advertising buys any-where. Contact Lu Hollander at the CVB for more info.

Page 6 Chamber Works August 2011

Tourism News

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

is seen by thousands of people every month.

www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com

WAlK-iN’S

WeBSiTewww.BrenhamTexas.com

Unique VisitorsJuly 2011 — 9,056July 2010 — 11,455

Total PagesJuly 2011 — 44,335July 2010 — 46,457

Visitor CenterJuly 2011 — 1,418July 2010 — 1,370

Relocation CenterJuly 2011 — 762July 2010 — n/a

Unique VisitorsJuly 2011 — 4,606July 2010 — n/a

Total PagesJuly 2011 — 5,454July 2010 — n/a

Washington County “Adopt-A-Sign”

PartnersTo ensure the long-term care of the Welcome Sign

monuments at the five entry points to Washington County, four landscaping companies from our commu-nity have volunteered to oversee their maintenance.

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

Since opening on Dec. 1, 2010, more than 12,000 visitors have walked through the doors of the Brenham/Washington County Visitor Center in the historic Simon Build-ing. While many came from other parts of the state or country, others visited from as far away as the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, China and Japan. Regardless, the beautiful rolling hills, rich historical land-marks, and of course the “Best Ice Cream in the Country,” brought them to the area we call home.

There is no reason those of us lucky enough to live here can’t also enjoy the at-tractions that draws travelers from around the world. During the coming months, let me be your virtual tour guide. As visitor

center manager, my new monthly column will highlight some of the sites and experi-ences that have made Washington County such a popular destination. Whether you were born and raised here, or just got here as soon as you could, join me as we redis-cover the wonderful offerings available in our own backyard.

Our first stop is Yonder Way Farm lo-cated at 5500 Highway 105 in Brenham. Visitors from College Station, Houston, Austin and San Antonio find themselves experiencing a simpler natural pace upon arrival. Farmer Jason Kramer explains the beef, pork, and chickens raised on the farm are pasture-fed and rotated through-out this natural environment using the art

of grass farming. Not an easy task during this extended drought. This locally grown, close-to-home food source is available for purchase through the website www.Yon-derWayFarm.com and at the Farm Store. The store is open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and during Farm Days, the first Sat-urday of each month. Contact Farm Store Administrator, Julie Burnham, at 979-530-4444 or 866-577-2589.

A great opportunity to explore, eat dinner with the farmer, and experience real farm life will be Saturday, August 20, 2011 at the “Tour, Dinner & a Movie Night” at the Farm. Tours will begin at 6 p.m with a full course meal, serving Yon-der Way Farm meats at 7 p.m. Following

dinner, “FRESH the movie” featuring speakers Michael Pollen and Joel Salatin, will give insight into pasture-based grass-roots farming which is the model for Yon-der Way Farm. Tickets for the evening are $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Please RSVP no later than August 13 by going to the website, YonderWay-Farm.com. This event is open to the first 50 families who RSVP.

Next month we will be getting ready for the “Oldest County Fair in Texas,” the 143rd Washington County Fair. Pull on your boots and grab your hat! I’m looking forward to our travels!

Jeanne LuedemannVisitor Center Manager

Chamber Works August 2011 Page 7

Be a Tourist in Your Own Backyard!

Yonder Way Farmer Jason Kramer offers intern opportuni-ties to others interested in grassroots farming.

Chickens are free of confinement at Yonder Way Farm. Grass-fed, Enough Said.

“Precious” is the name of this abandoned fawn being bottle-fed at Yonder Way Farm.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTThe Growth Coach

of the Brazos Valley The Growth Coach is coaching small groups of

business owners located in and around the Bra-zos Valley area to help them survive and thrive.

Local owner Becky Smith is passionate about empowering business owners and professionals to fall back in love with their companies while boosting financial profits and increasing per-sonal fulfillment.

“The demand for business coaching services in the area is high as business owners are increas-ingly seeking professionals to help them boost financial profits and increase personal fulfill-ment, particularly in this challenging economy,” Smith said. “Business owners often lose their passion for their business when times get tough. I am on a mission to help the business owners in my community improve their business and have more time for family and personal freedom.”

New workshops are forming soon. Contact The Growth Coach at 936-825-1600 or visit our web-site at www.theGrowthCoach-BrazosValley.com.

Be the next member in the “Spotlight!” Send submissions to info@brenhamtexas.com. Your “Spotlight” can be about a recent award, event, business expansion or new employ-ee, or simply a couple paragraphs to increase community awareness about your products/services. (100-150 words maximum)

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTA Dream Remembered

Thank you to everyone who attended the Grand Opening of Expedia Cruiseship Centers at 204 East Alamo in Brenham on July 1, and for the very warm welcome from the community.

Most everyone knows about my husband’s near fatal car accident near Dallas on June 7. I have received many good wishes and prayers for his recovery. He is doing well and was scheduled to be released from TIRR in Houston the first week in Aug.. He still has a long way to go in his recovery with physical and occupational therapy and will need someone with him at home at all times.

It is with heavy heart that I have made the decision to close my Expedia CruiseShipCenters office in Downtown Brenham and move my business back to home-based. I have done this for several years so it will not be a big change for me. The store front office was a dream for a long time and it saddens me to see it go, but family must always come first.

Expedia CruiseShipCenters will still be in business and the phone number will not change, so I cordially invite our won-derful clients and friends here, and anyone who has travel needs to contact me for the impeccable service in travel we are known for. You may contact us at (979) 836-6577 or by email at bjamison@cruiseshipcenters.com. For more information and last minute deals go to www.cruiseshipcenters.com/BarbaraJamison.

Thank you, Brenham, for your love and support at this time and for visiting us on the square! I hope I will still talk to you from time to time and whenever a travel need arises.

Kindest Regards, Barbara Jamison, ACC-NACTA

Owner-Agent

www.brenhamtexas.com

Aug. 11- 28Time for Tea Art ShowA collection of ceramic art focusing on the teapot, Copper Shade Tree, 206 E. Mill St., Round Top (979-249-4127, www.coppershadetree.com).

Aug. 12, 19, 26live Music at Stone Cellar PatioHave a pizza, enjoy music and dancing un-der the pecans, 7-11pm, The Stone Cellar, Bybee Square, Round Top (979-249-3390).

live Music at Pig and WhistleGene Hackemack performs every Fri-day at Pig and Whistle of Burton, 12607 W. Washington (979-289-2319, www.pigandwhistleof burtontexas.com).

Aug. 12, 26Carousel RidesRide the Carousel at Fireman’s Park in Br-enham, free, 6:30-8pm (979-836-3120).

Aug. 13Chappell Hill lavender FestCountryside neighborhood festival “Tour de Lavender” will lead visitors to various venues in Chappell Hill as you make your way to the lavender farm, 9am-3pm, free admission, Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, 2250 Dillard Rd (979-251-8114, www.chappellhilllavender.com).

Texas Ranger Day and Big Star Texas NightIn Downtown Burton, honor former and current Texas Rangers starting at 2pm at the Train Depot. Fajita and Bean Cook-off (serving 4-6pm, $6 per person), gun sling-ing re-enactments by the Old West Rang-ers, western swing and old time country music from the Fun Country Band, then enjoy a main street dance with Crossroads and Gary P. Nunn at 6pm, $10 admission (www.burtonheritagesociety.org).

Aug. 13-14Brenham Fireman’s FiestaThe fun begins Saturday at 10am, and con-tinues Sunday with a Sirloin Steak Meal & Auction, dine-in or drive-thru, 11am-1pm, Fireman’s Training Center, Highway 290 W., Brenham (979-337-7300).

Crush for Fun at Pleasant Hill WineryGet purple feet, a t-shirt and a picture. Food available. Tours, tastings and activities have fees. Saturday 11am-6pm; Sunday noon-5pm, 1441 Salem Rd., Brenham (979-830-8463, www.pleasanthillwinery.com).

Harvest grape Stomp at Windy WineryEnjoy a hayride, then pick and stomp grapes, Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 1-5pm, $25 adults, $15 children, 4232 Clo-ver Rd., Brenham (979-836-3252, wine@windywinery.com).

Aug. 13, 20, 27Brenham Farmers MarketVegetables, eggs, home-canned foods, arts & crafts, eat-in or takeaway breakfast burritos, tamales, cakes, pies, bread, cin-namon rolls, kolaches and fresh-brewed coffee! Every Saturday, 8am-12pm, just off the square in Downtown Brenham, 307 S. Park, free (vendors call 979-836-9466, www.downtownbrenham.com).

Aug. 16Monthly grief luncheonJoin 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, 11am-1pm, free, please RSVP (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.org).

Aug. 18Washington County ladies lion Club Style Show & luncheonEnjoy the latest fall fashions for all ages, $15, 12:30-2pm, Washington County Healthy Living, 1200 S. Market.

Friends of Bluebonnet OpryFeatures Donovan Pavlock, Linda Clements, Paul Bennett plus the Bluebonnet House Band, every 3rd Thursday of the month, food 6pm, show 7:30pm, $5 admission ben-efits Hospice, Silver Wings Ballroom, 4100 Highway 105, Brenham (979-836-4347).

Aug. 19Ribbon Cutting: green grain Feed & Seed and Brenham Technical Services304 S. Baylor St., Brenham. 10:00 a.m.

Car Seat Distribution ClassRegister for 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 EMS Station (979-277-6267).

Aug. 20Unity Theatre general AuditionsOpen auditions at Unity Theatre to create current file of available actors and to be-gin casting “The Best Christmas Pageant

Ever,” ages 8-17: 9:30am-12:30pm, ages 18+: 1-3pm, call to register, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).

Yonder Way Farm Tour, Dinner & MovieExplore Yonder Way Farm, eat dinner and experience real farm life, tours at 6pm, dinner 7pm, “FRESH the movie” at 8:30pm, $25 adults, $10 children 12 & under, RSVP by 8/13, Yonder Way Farm, 5500 Highway 105, Brenham (979-530-4444, www.yonderwayfarm.com).

Aug. 24, 31Musical Theatre DanceNo experience needed, dance styles in-clude Charleston, folk dance, polka, waltz, soft shoe and more, culminating in a Main Stage performance on Nov. 16, for 4th grade and up, Wednesdays for 12 weeks, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).

Dance exerciseClass for adult men and women, dance to music from American musical the-atre, disco, jazz, and hip-hop, 12 classes through Nov.16, 6-7pm, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).

Aug. 25TAilgATe 2011At Silver Wings Ballroom in Brenham, 6pm, $25 per person. Details on front page!

Aug. 27Hospice Soiree 2011Join the fun of Voyage Under the Sea with food from Schovajsa Catering, dancing with DJ Troy Arndt, auctions, raffle and gaming, benefits Hospice Brazos Valley, $50 per person, 6pm-11pm, Austin Coun-ty Fair Convention & Expo Center, Bell-ville Fairgrounds (979-277-9525, www.hospicebrazosvalley.org).

Aug. 31groundbreaking Ceremony: St. Joseph express, Brenham190 U.S. 290 West, Brenham, 8:30 a.m.

A few Sept. highlights…Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24Brenham Farmers MarketVegetables, eggs, home-canned foods, arts & crafts, eat-in or takeaway breakfast burritos, tamales, cakes, pies, bread, cin-

namon 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).

Sept. 3 Yonder Way Farm DayVisit the Farm Store at Yonder Way Farm for grass-fed beef, whole & half calves, pastured pork, eggs and poultry, 1st Sat-urday of the month, 5500 Highway 105, Brenham, contact for fees (979-530-4444, www.yonderwayfarm.com).

Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26Monday Art After School for KidsStudents 7-12 years old learn the basics of drawing, painting, sculpture, clay and mixed media, $80, supplies included, 4:30-6pm, Renew Art Studio, (Call (832)474-1730 or visit www.renewartstudio.com).

Sept. 8Unity Theatre galaUnity Theatre’s annual gala with gourmet food, entertainment, plus auction, Unity Theatre, 300 Church St., Brenham (979-830-1460, www.unitybrenham.org).

Sept. 9Brenham iSD 136th Anniversary eventLuncheon at Blinn Student Center banquet room, 11:30 am, $25 per person, advance reservation only (979-277-3895).

Sept. 10-17Washington County FairShows, rodeos, music and fun! Nashville en-tertainment, carnival, crafts, food, livestock, commercial exhibits and attractions, see website for details, Washington County Fair-grounds, 1305 Blue Bell Rd., Brenham (979-836-4112, www.washingtoncofair.com).

Sept. 24-Oct. 1 laBahia Antiques Show & Sale80 plus booths with antiques and collect-ibles, LaBahia Hall on Highway 237, Bur-ton (979-289-2684, www.labahiaantiques.com).

Sept. 28-Oct. 1 44th Annual Round Top Fall Antiques Fair“There is simply not another show like it in Texas.” Locations at the Big Red Barn-Carmine Dance Hall, Tent at the Big Red Barn, and Continental Tent, Highway 237, Round Top (512-237-4747, www.roundtop-texasantiques.com).

Page 8 Chamber Works August 2011

What’s Happening in August