Readers' Choice

Page 1

Alterations • Apartment Complex• Auto Body Shop • Auto Repair Shop • Bank • Banquet Facility • Beauty Salon • Bed & Breakfast • Car Wash • Carpet Cleaner • Cellular Provider • Children’s Birthday Place • Church • Customer Service • Day Care Center • Day Spa • Dry Cleaners • Flooring Center • Golf Course • Heating and Air Conditioning • Hotel/Motel • Internet Service Provider • Mortgage Company • Moving Company • Nail Salon • Non Profit Agency • Nursing Home/Assisted Living • Office Supply • Oil Change • Optical Store • Packaging & Shipping Store • Pest Control • Pool/Spa Store • Printing Service • Retirement Community • Sign Company • Tanning Salon • Telephone Service Provider • Theraputic Massage • Travel Agency • Water Supplier • Weight Loss Center • Workout/Exercise Center • Baked Potato • Barbeque • Bread/Bakery • Breakfast • Buffet • Burrito • Business Lunch • Catering Service • Chicken • Chicken Fried Steak • Children’s Restaurant • Chinese Take Out • Chips and Salsa • Cup of Coffee • Deli/Sandwich Shop • Desserts • Doughnuts • Fajitas • Fast Food • Fine Dining • Food Delivery • French Fries • Hamburgers • Happy Hour • Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt • Italian • Margaritas • Mexican • Accountant • Attorney • Barber/Hair Stylist • Car Salesperson • Chef/Cook • Clergy • Electrician • Home Builder • Insurance Agent • Interior Decorator • Landscaper • Mechanic • Personal Trainer • Pet Groomer • Photographer • Police Officer • Radio Personality • Real Estate Agent • Television Personality • Educational Institute • Hospital • Restaurant • Anesthesiologist • Chiropractor • Dentist • Health Clinic • Home Health Care • Nurse • Obstetrician/Gynecologist • Occupational Therapist • Optometrist • Oral Surgeon • Orthodontist • Pain Management Physician • Pediatrician • Pharmacist • Physical Therapist • Plastic Surgeon • Podiatrist • Rehabilitation Facility • Veterinarian • New Restaurant • Oriental/ Asian • Pizza • Salad Bar • Seafood • Special Occasion • Steak • Subs • Wings • Agriculture Store • Accessories Store • Antique Store • Appliance Store • Auto Parts • Bicycle Shop • Boutique • Book Store • Car Dealer (New) • Car Dealer (Used) • Children’s Clothing • Convenience Store • Department Store • Discount Store • Fabric Store • Flooring Store • Florist • Furniture Store • Garden/Nursery • Grocery Store • Home Improvement • Jeweler • Liquor Store • Meat Market • Men’s Clothing Store • Musical Instrument Store • RV Dealer • Resale Shop • Shoe Store • Sporting Goods Store • Tire Store • Toy Store • Vacuum Store • Women’s Clothing

June 26, 2011 A Special Publication of The Eagle


2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 2

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Jewelry Store

J

ewelry is often used to commemorate special occasions, and when people in Bryan/ College Station need the perfect piece of jewelry they trust David Gardner’s Jewelers, the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Jewelry Store.” Julia and David Gardner, along with their longtime associate Dean Wile, began the store in 1983 with the goal to create an environment that fosters creativity, honesty and quality. That goal was rewarded in 1992 when they were extended membership into the American Gem Society. David Gardner’s is part of only 5 percent of jewelers, designers, appraisers and suppliers nationwide who have met the exacting standards of the organization - standards that include a dedication to ethics, knowledge and consumer protection. “We are honored every time someone walks in the door, and when we are given an award that is voted on by our community it really makes us feel like we are doing something right,” David said. “It is also somewhat surprising and humbling, because there are still some days that all we can see are all the things that need improvement. Plus there are so many other worthy jewelry stores in our area that stand out as well.” Part of David Gardner’s Jewelers’

popularity in the area stems from how active Julia and David are when it comes to giving back to the community that has generously supported their business. They are proud supporters of the various community organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Brazos Valley, American Cancer Society, MSC OPAS, Twin City Mission, Young Life, Junior League, and numerous others. The “Aggie Spirit” is alive and well at David Gardner’s Jewelers. Julia and David are ardent supporters of Texas A&M University. They are frequent speaking guests in the College of Business and are sponsors of the Center for Retailing Studies. In 2006, David Gardner’s Jewelers began a partnership with the athletic department and is the “Official Jeweler of Aggie Athletics.” “We hope we are known for exciting, creative jewelry that customers can buy knowing they are getting a great value” David said. “We try to carry jewelry that we hope will be exceptionally well received. We love being involved in the communityand as we are blessed with growth in our business we are thrilled to be able to help more and more worthy organizations.” The key to the store’s success rests in the skilled and courteous staff.

Julia and David make sure their employees know the importance of taking care of the customer whether they are coming in for a routine watch battery replacement or buying a couture custom design. “We are passionate about helping people. Every customer is a blessing,” David said. “We welcome customers into David Gardner’s like friends into our home, and our staff is like our family. We love that our friends feel comfortable coming to us to ask for a fabulous piece of jewelry to add to their wardrobe for a special occasion or request a donation for a worthy cause - we hope that those are the reasons that the readers chose us for this award.”

David Gardner’s Jewelers 911 University Drive East College Station • 979.268.0800 www.davidgardnersjewelers.com


Best Vein Center

S

Central Texas Vein Center

Sunday, June 26, 2011

ummertime can be an embarrassing time of year for people suffering from vein diseases such as varicose veins. People suffering from such conditions want fast relief and by providing that in a friendly environment, Central Texas Vein Center has been named the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Vein Center.” Dr. H. Andrew Hansen has been treating vein problems for more than 30 years and believes that the key to any successful practice is making the patient as comfortable as possible from the time they walk in the door to the end of their visit. “Growing up as an Aggie, I’ve always believed in treating people the way I would like to be treated,” Hansen said. “The patient always comes first and we provide that service in a quiet, private office setting.” Central Texas Vein Center employs some of the latest technology in vein treatment. They recently began offering the VeinWave procedure for spider veins that avoids the need for compression hose that is required for sclerotherapy (injections). Patients can resume normal activity and go out in the sunlight immediately. For varicose veins, the VNUS Closure uses a radio frequency catheter to quickly and relatively painlessly

Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass, the Transmyocardial Laser Revascularization and the Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm repair. Hansen and his wife, Kathy, have five children and he credits his family as the inspiration for his success in treating patients. The importance of family for him is what leads him to care for the patients and their families the way he does. Being recognized by his patients through the Readers’ Choice Awards is very special to Hansen and his staff at Central Texas Vein Center. “I would like to thank all of the patients and friends who voted for us,” he said. “We are thrilled to be recognized and we’re going to strive to be even better in the future.”

2011 Readers’ Choice

close diseased veins for good. The RF energy heats the affected vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. The procedure takes less than an hour and the patient is up and walking almost immediately. It is covered by most insurance and Medicare. “I’ve been really impressed with the way treatment has progressed with venous disease over the last 5 to 10 years,” Hansen said. “The new treatment technology has gotten to the point where you can resume normal activity without any interruption. You could get this procedure done on your lunch break and be ready to go right back to work with virtually no risk.” Hansen comes to Central Texas Vein Center with an extensive background not only in vein care, but cardiovascular surgery as well. He has more than 4,000 open heart procedures and more than 2,500 peripheral vascular surgeries to his credit. He graduated from Texas A&M in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in zoology. From there he attended the Texas Tech School of Medicine and the Baylor School of Medicine, where he studied under renowned heart surgeon Dr. Michael DeBakey. In addition to his surgical experience, Hansen was also the first surgeon in Texas to implant the first Jarvik Acute Ventricular Assistance device and was also the first in the state to perform the Minimally

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

2803 Earl Rudder Freeway, Suite 100 College Station • 979.696.8346 www.centraltexasveincenter.com

Do you experience discomfort, leg pain or swelling? Do you have VARICOSE VEINS?

Have unwanted SPIDER VEINS ? Dr. Hansen is the only provider in the region now treating spider veins with the latest FDA-approved procedure – VeinWave.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

The underlying cause of varicose veins and heavy, achy legs can be treated in our office with the VNUS Closure® procedure. • Minimally invasive • Fast and mild recovery • Covered by most insurance

• No bandaging or bruising • No scarring • No skin discoloration or loss of pigmentation • No hiding from the sun • For treatment on the legs, feet and face • Works well on men and women • An alternative to painful laser treatments

Call for a vein consultation at our new location: 979-696-8346 (VEIN)

H. Andrew Hansen II, M.D. • Central Texas Vein Center 2803 Earl Rudder Freeway, Ste 100 • College Station, TX 77845 www.centraltexasveincenter.com Monday – Friday: 8:30 - 5:00

Weekend and evening hours available by appointment.

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Retirement Community

W

ho said retirement living has to be boring? Not only does Watercrest at Bryan, winner of the 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Retirement Community,” disagree with the idea, they set out to redefine the lifestyle with their Active Adult Community. Located on 16 scenic acres in the exclusive Park Hudson district of Bryan/College Station, Watercrest at Bryan offers resort-style living for active adults. The campus features 205 independentliving apartments, a heated saltwater pool, beauty salon/

barber shop with manicurist, media library and learning center, fitness center, arts & crafts classroom center, massage therapy salon and much more. The 13,000 square foot clubhouse is the “centerpiece” of the community where residents are able to take advantage of a wide array of quality recreational and social choices dedicated to active adults. Unlike other Active Adult Communities Watercrest at Bryan offers its residents optional service packages based on your desires including meal plans,

housekeeping and linen services; other complimentary services include a continental breakfast, transportation, state of the art wireless emergency response pendent, fitness and wellness center, and a full calendar of daily social activities led by our full time Resident Lifestyle Director. In addition Watercrest enjoys expanded basic cable with HBO and high speed internet complimentary to each resident. Watercrest’s apartment homes are luxury living at its finest. With 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans; all units include spacious kitchens with granite countertops and black on black appliances. Large closets await you, along with balconies attached to every apartment. Pets are welcome, and even have their own outdoor play area! The employees at Watercrest are happy to be recognized by their residents and the community. As the newest retirement community in town, it is nice for the staff to see how much of a difference they have made in a short time. “The staff and management are so proud to work for such a beautiful community with

loving and caring residents,” said Leasing & Marketing Director, Jennifer Rust. “We work hard every day to enrich the lives of our residents and their families and that is reward enough for us; the Eagle’s Readers’ Choice honor is just the cherry on top.” The value of living at Watercrest is more than the beautiful apartment homes and excellent on-site maintenance. Their goal is to give you worry free and maintenance free living. The location near the corner of University Drive and Booneville Road is also a big plus for residents. With Watercrest taking care of

things, residents have more time to enjoy the surrounding area whether that is the nearby shopping or Aggie sporting events. The staff at Watercrest at Bryan is happy to be a part of this community and looks forward to providing the best in Active Adult Living for many years to come. “The Brazos Valley has embraced Watercrest with open arms, and we are so happy to be a part of such an outstanding community,” Rust said. “If you have not discovered Watercrest at Bryan, feel free to stop by and take a tour of our beautiful community.”

Watercrest at Bryan 3801 East Crest Drive • Bryan • 4

979.703.7088 www.watercrestbryan.com


Watercrest at Bryan was voted the best

Retirement

Community!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

n o i t a c a V t n Permane

2011 Readers’ Choice

See why

Hot Summer Specials going on Now!

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Spend your summer in our covered salt water swimming pool. Enjoy water aerobics, outdoor putting green, horseshoes, and our outdoor grilling station for family get-togethers! Relax with optional dining services, housekeeping, and linen services. Your permanent vacation at Watercrest at Bryan will include daily activities, including trips to the Casino, train adventures to New England, and much much more!

Call 979.703.7088 to make an appointment, or just stop by. 3801 East Crest Drive  Bryan, TX 77802  www.watercrestbryan.com (near the corner of University Drive and Boonville Road)

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 6

2011 Readers’ choice Winners SUB-CATEGORY Dining Overall Favorite New Restaurant Asian/Oriental Barbeque Baked Potato Bread/Bakery Breakfast Buffet Burrito Business Lunch Caterer Chicken Chicken Fried Steak Children’s Restaurant Cup of Coffee Deli Sandwich Shop Desserts Doughnuts Fajitas Fast Food Delivery Frozen Yogurt Hamburgers Happy Hour Ice Cream Italian Mexican Outdoor Dining Pizza Salad Bar Seafood Special Occasion Sports Bar Steak Subs Sushi Sweet Tea Take-Out Dining Wings Goods & Services Alterations Apartment Complex Auto Body Shop Auto Repair Shop Bank Beauty Salon Bed & Breakfast Car Wash Carpet Cleaners Cellular Provider Children’s Birthday Place Church Computer Service Concrete Contractor

WINNER Cheddar’s Casual Café, pg. 57 Chuy’s T Jin’s, pg. 28 C & J’s, pg. 39 Potato Shack Blue Baker IHOP Golden Corral Freebirds Cheddar’s Casual Café, pg. 57 Buppy’s Catering Chicken Express, pg. 49 Longhorn Tavern McDonald’s Starbucks Jason’s Deli, pg. 54 Café Eccell Shipley’s Ninfa’s Whataburger T Jin’s, pg. 28 Spoons Yogurt Koppe Bridge, pg. 68 Sonic Ben & Jerry’s Olive Garden Casa Rodriguez Mexican Restaurant, pg. 65 Ozona, pg. 63 Pizza Hut Jason’s Deli, pg. 54 Fish Daddy’s, pg. 57 Christopher’s World Grille Boston’s Texas Roadhouse Centex Subway Inc., pg. 19 Atami Steak & Sushi Chicken Express, pg. 49 T Jin’s, pg. 28 Wings-n-More Custom Alterations by Bea, pg. 49 Huntington Jack Winslow Body Shop Atkinson Toyota, pg. 36 Wells Fargo, pg. 44 Celebrity Spa & Salon, pg. 72 7F Lodge Wolf Creek Quality Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialists A T & T, pg. 60 Grand Station St. Joseph Catholic Church, pg. 8 Computer Works, pg. 34 Jose Luis Ponce

SUB-CATEGORY Credit Union Dance center Day Care Center Day Spa Dry Cleaners Event Facility Flooring Center Foundation Repair Funeral Home “Green” Company Gymnastics Hotel/Motel Housekeeping Martial Arts School Mortgage Company Moving Company Nail Salon Non-Profit Agency Oil Change Optical Store Permanent Cosmetics Salon Pest Control Pool/Spa Store Printing Service Rentals Retirement Community Roofing Company Security Company Storage Facility Tanning Salon Tatoo Parlor Telephone Service Provider Travel Agent Water Supplier Wedding/Reception Location Weight Loss Center Workout/Exercise Facility Pets Feed/Agriculture Store Pet Store Pet Boarding Pet Grooming Veterinarian Medical Allergist Assisted Living Facility Anesthesiologist Audiologist Cardiologist Chiropractor Dentist Dermatologist Family Physician General Surgeon Senior Care Provider

WINNER Aggieland Credit Union Expressions Dance Studio Camelot Learning Center, pg. 68 Celebrity Spa & Salon, pg. 72 Villa Maria Cleaners The Woman’s Club, pg. 38 Aggieland Carpet One, pg. 68 Anchor Foundation, pg. 71 Callaway Jones, pg. 48 Greenhouse Bakery Powersports Hilton Merry Maids, pg. 51 Academy of Modern Martial Arts City Bank Mortgage, pg. 18 D&D Moving & Storage, pg. 32 Celebrity Spa & Salon, pg. 72 Hospice Brazos Valley, pg. 40 Atkinson Toyota, pg. 36 TSO Carmen’s Studio ABC Pest & Lawn Services, pg. 64 Mobley Pools, pg. 69 Copy Corner Party Time Rentals Watercrest at Bryan, pg. 4 Schulte Roofing CEO Etc., pg. 31 A&M Super Storage, pg. 66 Darque Big Daddy’s Verizon Noel’s World Travel Jacob’s Well The Woman’s Club, pg. 38 Weight Watchers Aerofit, pg. 13 Producer’s CO-OP Petsmart Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center, pg. 43 Petsmart Dr. Rob George, pg. 53 Dr. Barry Paul, Allergy Associates Crestview, pg. 59 J.B. Dott Jr., M.D., pg. 16 Listen Hear Audiology Center, pg. 41 Dr. Kennon Wigley, M.D., F.A.C.C., pg. 47 Drew A. Johnson, D.C. Michael K. Reece, D.D.S., pg. 23 Dr. Jason Weaver, MD Thomas A. Ginn, M.D. Dr. Henry Bohne, pg. 29 Home Instead Senior Care, pg. 17


SUB-CATEGORY Medical (Continued) Independent Living Facility Medical Equipment Supply Nursing Home Obstetrician/Gynecologist Hand Therapist Oncologist Ophthalmologist/Optometrist Oral Surgeon Orthodontist Orthopedic Surgeon Pain Management Physician

Electrician Financial Planner Firefighter Hairstylist Home Builder Insurance Agent Interior Decorator Landscaper Locksmith Personal Trainer Photographer Plumber Police Officer/Police Dept. Private School Real Estate Agent School Teacher/Educator/Professor Tax Service Waiter/Waitress Recreation Live Music Venue Driving Range Free Entertainment Place

Jim Trotter Bill Youngkin Richard Miller - Atkinson Toyota, pg. 36 Aggieland Bail Bonds City Barber Shop Christopher Lampo Msgr. John McCaffrey-St. Joseph Catholic Church, pg. 8 Britt Rice Electric, pg. 46 Wade Myatt, RBC Wealth Management, pg. 15 Michael Land, Bryan Fire Department, pg. 11 Laura Atkinson, Celebrity Spa, pg. 72 Laran Construction, pg. 55 Bruce Boyd, State Farm Insurance, pg. 39 Karen Loehr Interior Bluebonnet Horticulture Service Griffin Locksmith & Hardware Trevor Carney Specialties Photography, pg. 24 Ed Phillips Plumbing, pg. 14 Pat Massey, CSPD St. Joseph Catholic Church, pg. 8 Monica Palasota, pg. 30 Rick Landmann, Forest Ridge Elementary BCS Tax Group Erika Jenkins - Cracker Barrel Lakeside Icehouse, pg. 18 Jackson Hole Driving Range Wolf Pen Creek

Live Performance Movie Theatre Museum Golf Course Park Shopping Accessories Store Antique Store Appliance Store Auto Part Store Bicycle Shop Book Store Boutique Car Dealer Children’s Store Computer/Electronic Store Convenience Store Cosmetics Department Store Discount Store Florist Frame Shop Furniture Store Garden/Nursery Store Glass Retailer Grocery Store Home Improvement Store Jewelry Store Liquor Store Mattress Meat Market Men’s Clothing Store Musical Instrument Store Office Supply Store Pawn Shop Produce Market Resale Shop RV Dealer Sewing Machine Shoe Store Sporting Goods Store Tile Tire Store Toy Store Tractor/Farm Equipment Vacuum Cleaner Sales Women’s Clothing Store Other Favorites New Business Local Annual Event Local Band Local Website TV Show Male Celebrity Female Celebrity

WINNER Brazos Valley Symphony Premiere Cinema, pg. 68 George Bush Presidential Library Pebble Creek Central Park Charming Charlie’s Attic Buddy’s Appliance Atkinson Toyota, pg. 36 Aggieland Cycling Barnes and Noble Celebrity Spa & Salon, pg. 72 Atkinson Toyota, pg. 36 Blue Kangaroo Best Buy Rattler’s Ulta Dillard’s Wal Mart Nita’s Flowers Hobby Lobby Ashley Furniture Homestore, pg. 22 Lowe’s Acme Glass HEB Lowe’s David Gardner’s Jewelers, pg. 2 Spec’s Mattress Sleep Center Readfield Meats & Deli Dillard’s Lippman Music Office Max College Station Pawn Farm Patch Hospice Thrift Store, pg. 42 RV Station Sew Vac City Brown’s Academy Aggieland Carpet One Discount Tire, pg. 58 Toys R Us Coufal Prater Equipment LTD, pg. 33 Sew Vac City Stein Mart RE/MAX Select, pg. 50 Texas Reds Festival, pg. 10 Texas Twisters, pg. 39 tamu.edu Deadliest Catch Gary Blair Danielle Adams

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Physician Plastic Surgeon Podiatrist Private Care Home Psychologist Radiologist Rehabilitation Facility Urgent Care/Emergency Facility Vein Center Professional Accountant Attorney Auto Salesperson Bail Bondsman Barber Chef/Cook Clergy

Carriage Inn Medi-Care Equipment Crestview, pg. 59 Dr. Justin Gayle Melissa N. Merritt, PT, CHT, OCS, pg. 49 Dr. Terry Jenkins, pg. 12 Dr. William Marr Dr. Curtis Garrett Elms, pg. 20 Dr. Joe Bramhall Dr. James Stonecipher, Texas Pain & Spine Consultants, pg. 9 Dr. Kenneth Matthews Bryan Medicine Chest, pg. 67 Leon Bradway & The Sports, Back and Pain Mgmt Clinic, pg. 18 Dr. Bonds Dr. Malcolm Rude, pg. 35 Dr. Brian Abbey, pg. 26 The Grace Place Dr. Bradley Powell Bryan Radiology Associates, pg. 18 St. Joseph Regional Health, pg. 25 St. Joseph Regional Health, pg. 70 Central Texas Vein Center, pg. 3

SUB-CATEGORY

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Pediatrician Pharmacy Physical Therapist

WINNER

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 Readers’ choice Winners

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Best Pastor, Church & Private School

I

n 1871, the City of Bryan was incorporated and St. Joseph Catholic Church was established; the President of the United States was Ulysses S. Grant and Brazos County was in the midst of reconstruction following the Civil War. The present St. Joseph Church building stands today

on the very same block of land purchased originally for $500, over 135 years ago. The first church building to be dedicated on this site was in 1883. The church you see today was constructed in 1958 being 53 years old this year. St. Joseph Catholic Church has been serving the spiritual needs of the Catholic

community in and around Bryan, Texas for over a century. It has grown from a little frontier mission to a large, urban parish with a church that stands tall and beautiful on the exact bend in the road where the little church once stood, modest and hopeful. Msgr. John A. McCaffrey, who currently shepherds the parish community of over 1,700 families, has led the church for 26 years and is only the fourth

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

St. Vincent de Paul Society, Habitat for Humanity and respect for life through Good Samaritan Life Center and Coalition for Life. St. Joseph also has a Parochial School, which has been in existence since 1894. Under Msgr. McCaffrey’s leadership, a high school and nursery have been added to the system, thereby providing care and education for children from six weeks old through the 12th grade. Msgr. McCaffrey and parishioners of St. Joseph Catholic Church along with the staff and students of St. Joseph Catholic School are honored and grateful for being named the Readers’ Choice Winners in 3 categories this year: • Best Pastor in the Brazos Valley • Best Church in the Brazos Valley • Best Private School in the Brazos Valley.

St. Joseph Catholic Church 600 E. 26th Street Bryan • 979.822.2721

The Eagle • theeagle.com

St. Joseph Catholic School

Educating the Mind, Body, and Spirit since 1894

11

r Class of 20

Senio Graduating

Since 1894, St. Joseph Catholic School has demonstrated that the pursuit of knowledge is as important as the acquisition of knowledge. Today in the tradition of excellence and a spirit of innovation, St. Joseph challenges young minds from pre-school through 12th grade academically, socially, physically and spiritually.

St. Joseph believes in the total formation of the child and offers a curriculum that is intrinsic to character-building values. Students are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussions and apply learned lessons to their everyday lives. 8

permanent pastor since its beginning. He recognizes the importance of providing and encouraging Catholic development through spiritual growth, evangelization and social outreach. St. Joseph Church offers several opportunities for spiritual growth to those who worship with us through six weekend celebrations of the Mass and weekday Masses also. Many other organizations and ministries are offered also to meet the spiritual and social needs of all its members. These include the Women’s Guild, Knights of Columbus, Ushers, Liturgical Ministers, Senior Citizens Group, Religious Education Classes for children, Church Nursery, Youth Ministry for our teenagers, Adult Education Classes, Bible Study, Prayer Groups, Music Ministry, Fraternal Organizations and the list goes on. Social outreach includes helping those in need through the

(979) 822-6641 • www.stjosephbcs.org

Graduating

Kindergarte

n Class of 20

23

Where faith and knowledge meet respect and service Now enrolling! Call for your personal tour

979-822-6641


Best Pain Management Physician

J

ames Stonecipher M.D. has been voted The Eagle’s Readers’ Choice winner for Pain Management Physician for the sixth year in a row. As the founder of Texas Pain and Spine Consultants, Dr. Stonecipher boasts over 16 years experience treating

chronic and acute pain syndromes. Dr. Stonecipher and associate Tim Gray F.N.P. have created a muchneeded medical clinic whose services are unmatched in the Brazos Valley. Established in 1998, Texas Pain and Spine Consultants is the only full

impingements and most neuropathic pain disorders. Dr. Stonecipher and his team treat the source of the pain. X-ray guided nerve blocks, selective epidural steroid injections and radiofrequency nerve ablation are non-operative forms of pain management. Therapeutic injections may be considered an adjunct to medication and physical therapy. Surgical options include vertebroplasty, spinal cord stimulation and implantable spinal pumps. Dr. Stonecipher is pleased to announce the expansion to the new Health Science Center campus in late Summer 2011. Dr. Marcus Parker will also be joining the practice in August of 2011. He is completing his fellowship at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and will be a valuable addition to the practice. Dr. Stonecipher expresses his sincere gratitude to his patients for choosing him as their preferred Pain Management Physician.

Dr. James Stonecipher Texas Pain & Spine Consultants 3841 Sagebriar Dr.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

time, full service diagnostic and interventional clinic dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of pain syndromes. Texas Pain and Spine Consultants offers high quality care in a state-of-theart clinic, which offers 99 percent of all procedures on-site. Dr. Stonecipher comments, “Our facility, expertise and experience is unsurpassed in the Brazos Valley.” It is estimated that chronic pain affects more than 65 million people in the United States. The cost to American Society is staggering. The cost of patient suffering is immeasurable. Texas Pain and Spine Consultants recognize that everyone’s pain is unique. Conditions treated may include, but are not limited to, spinal injuries, disc herniations, cancer pain, osteoporotic vertebral body compression fractures, nerve

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Bryan • 979.774.1377 www.texaspainandspine.com

We Greatly Appreciate

Experienced

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Your Vote of Confidence 6 Years in a Row.

Advanced Proven James T. Gray, R.N., M.S.N., F.N.P. James V. Stonecipher, M.D., P.A. Diplomate American Board of Anesthesiology Diplomate American Board of Pain Medicine

Texas Pain & Spine Consultants 3841 Sagebriar • Bryan (979)774-1377 www.texaspainandspine.com

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Best Annual Local Event

O

ne thing you can’t say about Bryan/College Station is that there isn’t anything to do. The area boasts a wealth of special events, most of them annual affairs that the public waits anxiously for each year. One event has stood out this year more than the others to be named the 2011 Readers’ Choice for Best Annual Local Event, and that is the Texas Reds Steak and Grape Festival. The free event is modeled after other successful wine festivals from around the state, and was created to be the City of Bryan’s annual signature event. It was designed to showcase the City of Bryan and Texas Heritage by promoting local businesses and tourism by providing quality activities, food, and entertainment for all ages. The festival has grown since their inaugural 2007 event from the addition of wineries, food and craft vendors and artists. This year the event will be making changes to reflect the popularity of Texas Reds. Surveys are taken after

each year’s event where the event planners go to work to ensure an even greater experience. “Almost all of the critiques of the past events dealt with the heat during the festival in June,” said City of Bryan Interim Communications Director, Allen Bruggman. “As a result, we have changed the festival to Oct 7 and 8, to take advantage of cooler temperatures. The festival will also have additions such as a music stage on the north end of the festival grounds, a tailgate tent with televisions for our football fans, wine education classes, steaks on Friday and free shuttle service on Friday as well as Saturday.” Moving the date has also allowed the city to combine the Texas Reds kick-off celebration with the popular Downtown Bryan “First Friday” festivities. That along with the cooler weather means more people will be able to enjoy the festival, which will also be expanding to include the grounds from 28th to 23rd Streets.

Bruggman said the event project to ensure that the time to vote for Texas Reds. organizers are very happy to festival-goers have a positive We hope to have you all back have Texas Reds recognized experience and we are proud again this year to experience ‘The Good Life, Texas Style’ to be acknowledged. by the community. “We want to thank everyone on Oct 7 and 8 in historic “It is a great honor for the City of Bryan employees who has ever attended the downtown Bryan.” who work on making Texas Texas Reds Festival and Reds happen,” Bruggman especially those who took the said. “We are proud to have a signature event Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival with such great popularity. It www.TexasRedsFestival.com is a year round

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

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2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Firefighter

F

Guard from 2000 to 2006. He was in Iraq for 18 months and came back to his job at BFD after that. His position is firefighter/paramedic at Station 1 in Downtown. He said he wanted to become a firefighter, because he wanted to become a rescue technician. He said, “When I was in the National Guard I saw a poster that showed a helicopter rescue taking place, and I thought, ‘I want to do something like that.” Fire Chief Mike Donoho said it is always exciting when a member of the department is recognized and that Land is a good choice for this year’s award. “We always appreciate when one of our members is recognized for doing their job well,” Donoho said. “I think it shows that our citizens recognize that our folks love their jobs, and love what they do each and every day.” The Bryan Fire Department operates out of five fire stations, serving more than 70,000 residents covering more than 43 square miles of area. The department uses some of the most advanced pre-hospital medical protocols available. BFD also has trained rescue teams specializing in confined space, high angle, building collapse, trench and water rescues as well as wilderness searches. Bryan Fire Department is also

active in the community through its many public awareness and education programs. The goal of these programs is to promote fire prevention and life safety training as well as promoting overall wellness in the community. Land is proud to serve both the department and his community. Winning this award gives him the opportunity to say something he,

and countless other firefighters, hear plenty, but rarely get a chance to say back: thank you. “I want to thank the community for their support of the Bryan Fire Department. When we’re wearing our uniforms out in public, people routinely stop us to say thank you – and we appreciate that.”

Sunday, June 26, 2011

irefighters don’t do what they do to win awards or get their names in the paper. By the very nature of their work, the men and women in fire departments across the nation are the kind of people that put others before themselves. That’s what allows them to run into a burning building or any other number of hazardous situations to assist others. That selfless dedication is also what makes it so special when the community takes the time to show appreciation to the people that would put themselves in harms way so the rest of us can live a little safer. It is in that spirit that The Eagle’s readers made Bryan Fire Department’s Michael Land the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Firefighter.” Land was surprised to hear he had won and was quick to point out the work he does is a team effort. “I’m flattered that people voted for me, and we (firefighters) appreciate everyone’s support,” Land said. “It’s really a reflection of our entire team and our family here at the Bryan Fire Department.” Land has been with BFD since 2004. He’s a LaGrange, Texas native. He started in 2004 and worked nearly 4 months before he was deployed overseas to Iraq with the National Guard. He served with the National

Michael Land Bryan Fire Department

The Eagle • theeagle.com

The City of Bryan is very proud of Michael Land for his dedication to the citizens of the community as a firefighter/paramedic.

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Oncologist

I

n every profession there are those who standout - those that rise above the average and the common place. It usually isn’t a position they seek, but something that evolves naturally from a commitment, a passion for what they do. People see this. They feel it. They know its sincerity and genuineness intuitively. In the profession of cancer care, we are fortunate to have three individuals who have achieved this same level of unspoken respect and recognition. They are Drs. Tripathy, Jenkins and Fleener. Together they are simply known as The Cancer Clinic. While there are many positive words that patients use to describe these three talented individuals perhaps no other words are used more than compassion and competency. Diverse in background, education and individual specialization, these three physicians together have come to comprise a medical practice that is now seen by many patients as a premier destination for advanced cancer treatment in Texas. Dr. Tripathy founded The Cancer Clinic. His commitment to continual cancer education, his well earned reputation for listening and caring and his commitment to seek the very best possible outcome for every patient has

earned him rave reviews from patients, co-workers and fellow physicians for decades. Dr. Jenkins’ exhaustive background in direct patient care and cutting edge clinical trials add to the depth of talent at The Cancer Clinic. Known for his jovial personality and analytical thinking, Dr. Jenkins teaming up with Dr. Tripathy has proved a powerful combination of talent for patients. Dr. Erin Fleener’s resume rounds out the Cancer Clinic team’s approach to patient care and provides for yet another advance for their many patients. Her perspective and experience dovetails seamlessly with her colleagues and in total they have become a well-honed cancer care team. This destination status for The Cancer Clinic, didn’t come by chance, but rather by design, stemming from a collaborative effort begun over 29 years ago by Dr. Tripathy, the founder of The Cancer Clinic. In two short decades, St. Joseph Regional Health Center has built a freestanding, dedicated cancer treatment facility followed by a dedicated inpatient oncology unit. Providers from other areas of cancer expertise have steadily moved to the area. Surgeons, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, imaging, primary

care physicians and specially trained cancer care nurses have all come together as a team to create what is now a seamless continuum of cancer care. Today, patients can truly call this area a cancer treatment destination. The Cancer Clinic’s commitment to seeing new patients within 24 hours is still a vital and core value of the practice and a great source of comfort to those who have just learned they have cancer. And maybe most importantly, patients no longer have to travel great distances knowing with

full confidence that every aspect of complete cancer treatment is available locally. Growing demand in recent years has also meant more than just adding physicians to the Cancer Clinic, it has also meant expansion of the Cancer Clinic facilities. The new facility represents the very latest in patient comfort, convenience and efficiency of design. Recognition has also followed the successes of The Cancer Clinic. Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Tripathy have both been recognized by Texas Monthly as a Texas Super Doctor. Add in this year’s vote of confidence by the 2011 Eagle Readers’ Choice Awards and it is easy to see how The Cancer Clinic has become the preferred choice of many patients. To doctors Tripathy, Jenkins and Fleener the awards have been a nice complement to their commitment to make the Cancer Clinic the best cancer care destination available.

Cancer Clinic 2215 E Villa Maria, Ste. 110 • Bryan 979.776.2000 www.cancerclinic.com

Three Award Winning Doctors Dr. Jenkins • Dr. Fleener • Dr. Tripathy One Convenient Cancer Fighting Location The Cancer Clinic Eagle Reader’s Choice Award Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 Texas Super Doctor – Texas Monthly 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

Terry Jenkins, M.D. Kumud Tripathy, M.D.

12

Erin Fleener, M.D.

2215 E. Villa Maria, Suite 110 • Bryan, Texas • 979.776.2000 • 800.327.1880 • CancerClinic.com


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Workout/Exercise Facility

A

Artist rendering of upcoming faciltiy in partnership with the College Station Medical Center set to open in Fall of 2012. doing our exercise programs. We make sure that we create a welcoming environment. Our staff learns our clients’ names and makes them feel at home at Aerofit.” Winning the Readers’ Choice Award gives Isham confidence that he and his staff are on the right track as they continue to grow Aerofit and help Bryan/College Station get fit. More importantly, he is happy to see that his clients have enjoyed their Aerofit

experience enough to go out of their way to make sure the business is recognized. “We’d like to thank everyone who voted for us,” Isham said. “This is very validating for all of us here. While all of the services and facilities we offer may get most of the attention, I’d like to give the credit to our staff. It’s the friendly staff that keeps people coming back.”

Aerofit www.aerofit.com

VILLA MARIA LOCATION 1900 W Villa Maria • Bryan

979-823-0971

CARTER CREEK LOCATION 4455 Carter Creek • Bryan

979-846-8724

Thank You For Voting Us Your Favorite

The Eagle • theeagle.com

THANK YOU

by the continued support of loyal Aerofit customers. Isham has worked hard to make his business the most complete exercise and recreational facilities in the area. Aerofit offers swimming pools, tennis courts, racquetball, basketball and indoor track in addition to their children’s fitness programs. Isham believes that diverse offerings for people of all ages and his friendly employees are the key to Aerofit’s success. “We have a wider spectrum of services for children all the way up to seniors,” Isham said. “A lot of other gyms cater to the college-age crowd.” Another area of growth for Aerofit has been the personal training services. Aerofit has focused on hiring the best, most qualified trainers available. By focusing on a wider customer base, Aerofit is able to create a more relaxed environment where people are not intimidated to come exercise. Isham said that many people who do not feel they are in shape are afraid to come to the gym where everyone else is more athletic. They often feel they have to get in shape before they join a gym, something Isham said is not the case at Aerofit. “We want people to be comfortable here,” Isham said. “Even if someone is overweight, they can be comfortable coming to our pool in a swimsuit and

Sunday, June 26, 2011

fitness center isn’t just for the workout warriors and bodybuilders. A good fitness center offers something for the entire family, and that has been Aerofit’s approach. Their family-friendly approach and affordable prices have helped them win the 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Workout/ Exercise Facility.” Aerofit was established in 1984 to serve as a family recreation center. Co-Owner Larry Isham said that since the Bryan/College Station community does not have a YMCA, Aerofit was able to immediately fill a void in family fitness opportunities. In 1996, Aerofit expanded with the purchase of the Royal Oaks Racquet Club, and in April of 2011 Aerofit acquired the Anytime Fitness Centers, giving their customers even more workout options with four convenient locations. The growth isn’t finished yet, either. In the Fall of 2012, Aerofit is scheduled to open its fifth facility with a partnership with the College Station Medical Center. The planned wellness facility will house both fitness and physical therapy, and orthopedic services. “We’ve been really blessed in this last two years with some pretty good growth,” Isham said. That growth has been made possible

Workout/Exercise Facility!

NOW OFFERING 2 NEW AEROFIT EXPRESS LOCATIONS!

1411 Wellborn Rd. • College Station

979-693-5380 3100 Wildflower • Bryan

979-774-5364

www.aerofitclubs.com

NEW SOUTH

COLLEGE STATION

LOCATION

COMING IN

FALL 2012

3526 LONGMIRE DRIVE • 979-846-8724 FOUNDING 500 MEMBERSHIP FEATURING: LAP SWIMMING • PRECOR & HAMMER STRENGTH • FREE WEIGHTS STEPPERS • ELLIPTICAL TRAINERS • RECUMBENT BIKES • ROWING MACHINES INDOOR CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND • GROUP EXERCISE ON DEMAND

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Plumber

W

hen a plumbing problem arises, you want fast, reliable service. Ed Phillips Plumbing has been providing the Bryan/ College Station area with that very thing since 2004, and The Eagle’s readers have rewarded that dedication to service by naming them “Best Plumber” for two years in a row in the Readers’ Choice Awards. Master Plumber Ed Phillips founded his company on the simple premise of providing fast, reliable, and friendly customer service. His attention to detail has set him apart from the competition in his clients’ eyes and that is something he is very proud of. “I feel that we are always a step above average because we are a 24/7 service company and we always answer our phone,” Phillips said. “We’re always available and we try to get to our customers as quickly as possible.” Day or night, when someone calls Ed Phillips Plumbing, they are going to

talk to someone. Phillips said that is a major priority for his business. After-hours, weekends, and holidays people will be redirected to an answering service and not have to leave a voicemail and hope someone checks it. Phillips knows that an afterhours call is usually a big deal for the client, and making sure someone answers the phone ensures his team will be able to move quickly and help the customer resolve their issue. Ed Phillips Plumbing specializes in commercial and residential service calls. They do repairs on water lines, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sewer lines, water heaters and gas lines. They also install water heaters, faucets, toilets, gas lines and much more. In addition to performing the “normal” plumbing tasks they also perform specialty work like leak detection, line location, video line inspection, hydrojetting, and are licensed in medical gas service and installation. “We do a lot of

specialty work, which is a big reason we stay busy,” Phillips said. “We also do a lot of residential and commercial remodels, but our niche is service and that’s what we do best.” Each of Ed Phillips’s service teams are lead by a licensed plumber with either a tradesman or journeyman certification. They are assisted by apprentices who also hold a number of specialty licenses. Phillips makes sure each of his employees understand the importance of how they present themselves to customers and how to ensure

the customers are happy with all parts of their experience with Ed Phillips Plumbing. “I feel like we are reinventing customer service in our field,” Phillips said. “My technicians know they are there to provide quality service to the customers. They have to show up to a job with a good attitude and

look professional. Our technicians arrive at your job well groomed and uniformed. Whether it is leaving a worksite cleaner than they found it or simply thanking a customer for choosing their business, the staff at Ed Phillips Plumbing has made an impression on the community. Winning “Best Plumber” sets a standard for the business and is something Phillips is grateful for. “We really appreciate our customers’ support for the last two years in Readers’ Choice,” he said. “Seems like all you hear most of the time is the negative experiences people have with a company, so it’s a real honor to get this recognition. I’d personally like to thank our customers for giving us the opportunity to work for them and we’d like to keep doing so.”

Ed Phillips Plumbing 4556 Gloria Allen • College Station 979.731.1500

The Eagle • theeagle.com

SERVING THE BRAZOS VALLEY FOR ALL THEIR PLUMBING NEEDS SINCE 2004

for Voting Us Best Plumber 2 Years in a Row! WE SERVICE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL. Plumbing services: Commercial and residential service and repair, commercial and residential plumbing fixtures, gas, sewer, and water line repair and replacement, water heater repair and replacement, garbage disposal, video inspection of sewer line, drain line locating, hydro-jetting, electronic leak detection, medical gas certified, backflow assembly tester and installer, new construction and remodeling.

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ED PHILLIPS PLUMBING M37443

WE’RE THERE WHEN YOU NEED US!

979.731.1500 ANSWERED 24 HOURS A DAY – 7 DAYS A WEEK

4 5 5 6 G L O R I A A L L E N • C O L L E G E S TAT I O N • FA X : 9 7 9 . 7 3 1 . 1 4 4 4


Best Financial Planner

I

Wade is an Aggie grad and has lived in Bryan/College Station area with his wife, Yolanda, for 35 years. He’s been a part of the local community through raising his family and through church, and can be seen playing guitar and singing in the popular local band “The Texas Twisters.” Since he is an active member in the community and knows his clients personally, he’s hardly a fair-weather investment advisor. That’s why Wade was excited when RBC selected the Institute for Public Health and Water Research and its affiliated partner, the Texas A&M Health Science Center, to receive a grant for $300,000 in support of the RBC Blue Water Project. The RBC Blue Water Project is a wide-ranging multi-year program designed to help foster a culture of water stewardship, so that people have clean fresh water today and tomorrow. Wade is part of a team who share his commitment to service in taking care of their client’s needs and the community. Partner

RBC Wealth Management

Sunday, June 26, 2011

t’s easy to be a financial advisor during good economic times, but it takes a little something extra when times are rough. For his willingness to go the extra mile for his clients in uncertain times, Wade B. Myatt, Vice President - Financial Advisor, with RBC Wealth Management has been voted the Readers’ Choice for “Best Financial Planner” by The Eagle’s readers. “It’s great to win this award again,” said Wade, who previously received this recognition in 2008. “We’ve got a great team here, and we’re so appreciative to our clients for honoring us with this award.” Wade and his team make it a priority to give their clients a high level of personalized service and are backed up by the strength, stability and integrity of RBC Wealth Management which is an institution known for its fiscal dependability and sound risk management practices. “Clients here aren’t just a number or a ticket. That sounds cliché, but it’s true and it is a big part of our success,” says Wade.

Al Ragsdale, Senior Vice President – Financial Advisor, Registered Client Associate, Lynde Jackson and Mary Lancaster, Client Associate, round out the team of four. “In our business and with the environment we’ve been in these last few years, it’s nice to know this is what people have to say about us,” Al said. “It’s a great compliment.” Al has more than 30 years of financial experience and has been with RBC Wealth Management since 2003. Along with Wade he helps clients – both businesses and individuals – build portfolios and map out investment strategies. RBC Wealth Management is a firm dedicated to helping individuals, families and businesses achieve their financial goals. Whether you’re looking to reprioritize your current portfolio, someone seeking tax-free investments, a professor needing ORP advice, a small business owner looking to start a retirement plan, or anything in between, RBC Wealth Management can help. For more information on their services, call (979) 694-7788. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/ FINRA/SIPC.

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

2405 S. Texas Ave. Ste. 302 College Station • 979.694.7788 www.rbcwm-usa.com

The Eagle • theeagle.com

(979) 694-7755

(979) 694-7766 al.ragsdale@rbc.com

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2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Anesthesiologist

Y

ou have a choice. Many patients are completely unaware that they have a choice in selecting their anesthesiologist. This primarily comes from a misunderstanding that the anesthesiologist is ‘assigned’ to your case or is included

them throughout the many different types of surgeries they may have over the course of several years. The reason for this shift is simple; the patient’s anesthesiologist of choice is the one consistent physician from one procedure to the

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Healthy, grateful patients have been his reward ‘automatically’ with the surgery team. While this may be the perception, it is not a fact. The trend across the U.S. is for more and more patients to put as much thought and effort into choosing their anesthesiologist as they put into picking the surgeon performing their procedure. There is good precedence for this effort considering the anesthesiologist’s important role in producing good surgical outcomes. Today, it is not uncommon once a patient has found an anesthesiologist that they are comfortable with, to stick with

next. Since each surgery or procedure usually requires a different primary surgeon working on the patient for the first time, patients find it greatly reassuring that their anesthesiologist knows their particular physiology, has a history with them, and will care for them in the operating room. J.B. Dott has been a leader in providing this type of individualized approach to anesthesia care since 1983 in Bryan/College Station. For the past 28 years, many patients have come to consider him a permanent member of their healthcare team along with

their primary care physician. Besides an easygoing manner, Dr. Dott is known for taking the time to do presurgery consultations and post-surgery follow-ups with all of his patients and provides only physician-administered anesthesia. It is this depth of caring and confidence of knowing that Dr. Dott is there for them that has made many fans of Dr. Dott’s style of personalized medicine. And in a reversal of traditional roles of years past, patients are just as likely to call Dr. Dott about his recommendations for surgeons for needed procedures as they are to ask their primary care physician. For elective procedures, informed patients have even been known to book Dr. Dott far in advance to guarantee his availability before scheduling their surgery. Competent, personalized, one-to-one, accessible health care has become Dr. Dott’s hallmark. Healthy, grateful patients have been his reward. Congratulations to Dr. Dott for his fifth win of The Eagle Readers’ Choice Award. Dr. Dott can be reached at 693-7167.

J. B. Dott, Jr., MD College Station • 979.693.7167

Just when you thought individual, one to one and personalized health care was a thing of the past.

8

8 J.B. Dott, Jr., M.D. BCS Physicians Anesthesia Services B Serving the Brazos Valley Since 1983

Dr Dott can be reached directly at 693.7167 Dr. 16

www.no1sandman.com

Accepting all major insurance.

553-time -time Readers’ Choice Award AwardWinner Winner Reader’s Choice


Best Senior Care Provider

I

t takes a special kind of person to be a caregiver, and Home Instead Senior Care’s commitment to finding and training those special people has earned the company the title of “Best Senior Care Provider” in The Eagle’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. David Gest, owner of Home Instead Senior Care

in Bryan, said it is the effort of the CAREgivers in their daily interactions with clients that has made Home Instead successful and is the reason for being recognized with this year’s Readers’ Choice Award. “Outstanding CAREGivers make the difference in our relationships with our clients,” Gest said. “They are

Back row, Left to Right: Ginger Moore, Trish Petter, Donna Williams. Front Row, Left to Right: Brandi Medina, David Gest, Maggie Konderla Alexander

of the Home Instead family for many years. Medina, the Director of Human Resources, has moved up the ranks since starting as the staffing coordinator in 2006. Moore, Home Instead Administrator, has been with the company since 2002 and handles licensing requirements and accounting duties. Donna Williams and Maggie Konderla Alexander often serve as the faces of Home Instead in the community with their duties. Williams is the Director of Client Care, a job that has her creating individualized service plans for each client and she frequently makes in-home visits to be sure the plan meets the client’s needs. Alexander serves as the Community Service Representative. She handles marketing functions as well as special client events. Trish Petter is Home Instead’s staffing coordinator, meaning she is the one matching CAREgivers with clients. She works with the

company’s stable of more than 100 CAREgivers to make sure they are properly matched with clients for maximum compatibility. This is the beginning of Home Instead’s 10th year of operation in Bryan/College Station and Gest said the emphasis is still on improving and finding new ways to serve their clients even better. The business underwent a managerial reorganization the last year with Gest taking over sole ownership of the business. In doing so, he has rededicated his team to excellence in customer service and client care. Receiving a Readers’ Choice Award serves as a point of validation for both him and his employees. “We’re humbled to receive this award,” Gest said. “We don’t do what we do to be recognized. It’s enough for us to make our clients and their families happy. Getting this award is like icing on the cake for us and validates what it is that we’ve been doing for the past 10 years.”

Sunday, June 26, 2011

all carefully screened, trained, and prepared for working with the seniors in the Brazos Valley. They recognize that they are responsible for more than tasks like companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders and other duties. They know that their success is entirely dependent upon their ability to establish and maintain extraordinary relationships with their clients. They attend Quarterly CAREGiver Meetings to further their education with regard to providing care for seniors. They are surely the heart and soul of Home Instead Senior Care.” Backing the CAREgivers is the Home Instead office staff. Gest said they are the ones that keep the business moving and many have been with Home Instead for a while. “We have really been blessed with a tremendous staff at Home Instead Senior Care,” Gest said. “They are dedicated to caring for the elderly, and it shows when we are able to be recognized like this.” Ginger Moore and Brandi Medina have been members

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Home Instead Senior Care 1908 Greenfield Plaza • Bryan 979.268.6880

The Eagle • theeagle.com

“We Are Humbled to Be Honored Again”.

Bryan/College Station/Brenham

979.268.6880 www.homeinstead.com/bcs 17 Each Home Instead Senior Care franchise office is independently owned and operated. © 2011 Home Instead, Inc.


2011 Readers’ Choice

Voted Best Physical Therapy Clinic! Thanks to all who voted for us! We have great patients and a great staff!

Thank you for voting us

Best Mortgage Company in Bryan/College Station

Sunday, June 26, 2011

At City Bank Mortgage, we have a clear understanding that our services are essentially about your family’s future. We’ll strive to exceed your expectations while making the home buying process as smooth as possible.

2006 · 2007 · 2008 · 2011

Call us today for your free pre-qualification or apply online at www.citybankmortgage-bcs.com

Fast Relief from Pain and Injury Acute and Chronic Pain • TMJ/Headaches • Back & Neck Pain Sports Injuries • Balance Problems • Health/Wellness Programs Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation • Incontinence Issues

Brenda Williams and Robin Hicks LOAN OFFICERS

(Most Insurances Accepted) VA Approved,Tricare Welcome

2011 E.Villa Maria • 979-776-BACK(2225) www.bvphysicaltherapy.com

The Eagle • theeagle.com

LakeBryan.com

Thank You

for voting us Best Live Music Venue.

305 Arguello Drive

College Station, Texas

979-846-7844

*APR-Annual Percentage Rate. Maximum loan amounts and other restrictions may apply. Ask for details. Some products may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Terms and conditions apply. All rights reserved. ©2011 City Bank Mortgage. 0616IJN13013

BRYANRADIOLOGYASSOCIATES Brazos Valley’s leader in advanced diagnostic imaging since 1962

MRI * 64-Slice CT * Ultrasound * X-ray Digital Mammography * Bone Density

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Enjoy stunning sunsets, great food, cold drinks and live music all year long on our 5k sq. ft lakeside patio or inside our newly remodeled restaurant! 8200 Sandy Point Road | 979.361.0861

Ask your physician about us today! 2722 Osler Boulevard Bryan, TX 77802 Main (979)776-8291 Scheduling (979)776-0929


Best Subs

W

ith more than 30,000 shops worldwide, Subway is one of the most recognizable sandwich brands around, and that’s the case in Bryan/College Station as the home of the “$5 Footlong” took the “Best Sub” category in the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards.

first Subway in Texas was on Southwest Parkway. Now there are 15 Subways in the Bryan/College Station area and hundreds across the state. Subway enjoyed a fresh popularity boom in the late 1990s thanks to Jared Fogle. Fogle, then a student at the

Subway sandwiches began in 1965 when Fred DeLuca and Dr. Peter Buck partnered to open Pete’s Super Submarines in Bridgeport, Conn. Eight years later, they ran 16 stores throughout Connecticut. In 1974, DeLuca and Buck started franchising Subway shops. College Station was an important part of Subway’s nationwide expansion. The

University of Indiana, weighed 425 pounds and was frustrated after trying numerous diets with no success. He picked up a nutritional guide during a visit to a Subway and developed his own diet. Every day he would eat a six-inch turkey sub for lunch and a footlong veggie delight for supper. He also started walking to his classes instead of taking the bus. He

sandwiches, which can be served on muffins, flatbread or Subway’s popular artisan breads. Even though they are no strangers to accolades, the people at Subway know that no business can thrive as they have without the support of loyal customers. “Getting this recognition is very important to us,”

said Scott Haynes of Centex Subway. “Our number one goal is to make sure people enjoy eating at Subway, so it is very fulfilling to have the public vote for us like they have.” Stop by any of the B/CS Subway locations and enjoy the best subs in town.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Now customers can start their day with breakfast sandwiches, which can be served on muffins, flatbread or Subway’s popular artisan breads.

lost an astounding 245 pounds on his Subway diet and quickly become the face of Subway’s line of healthy selections. S u b w a y sandwiches are known for their freshly baked bread, quality meats and fresh vegetables. C u s t o m e r s can choose the toppings they want on their sandwich with more than 2 million possible combinations. For those watching their weight, Subway offers eight sandwiches with six grams or less of fat. The sixinch versions of the ham, oven roasted chicken breast, roast beef, Subway club, sweet onion chicken teriyaki, turkey breast, turkey breast & ham and Veggie Delite all offer big taste with less than 400 calories and six grams of fat. Subway has also expanded its offerings to include breakfast. Now customers can start their day with breakfast

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Subway www.subway.com

Visit Us At One Of Our Many Locations Bryan

601 W University Dr, Ste 103 979-846-2165

3601 E 29th St Ste 4 Brookwood Square 979-846-4972

330 George Bush Dr 979-693-0346

725 E Villa Maria Rd Ste 900 979-823-7827

913 Harvey Rd, Suite C 979-764-3990

507 N Harvey Mitchell Pky 979-779-7756

806 Earl Rudder Fwy Gateway Fuel Subway 979-846-7533

2305 Booneville Rd Ste 750 Colony Park 979-731-1847

2418 Texas Ave S, Ste C 979-696-4418 2048 Holleman Subway Shell Gas Station 979-696-6045 1815 Brothers Blvd Wal-Mart #1150 979-693-4975 12815 FM 2154, Ste 100 979-693-9173 1722 Rock Prairie Rd 979-764-8602 **Opening Soon 949A William D. Fitch Pkwy

The Eagle • theeagle.com

College Station

100 N Main St 979-823-3147

Thank You

For Voting Us

BEST SUB

6 Years In A Row!

19


2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 20

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Orthodontist

I

n a recent interview of one of Dr. Elms’ patients, the patient stopped midsentence and said, ‘Have you met Dr. Elms? He’s wonderful’. It’s a sentiment that is widely shared by Dr. Elms’ patients both young and old. Happy patients want others to know about their great experience. It’s rare that an orthodontist can build a large and thriving practice but manage to give each and every patient the individual attention that leads to lifelong friendships. The kind of friendships that lead to enthusiastic word of mouth recommendations. Dr. Elms has not only managed to create a truly special environment, but has done so without compromising orthodontic quality. This combination is what endears patients to Dr. Elms, his loyal staff and to the great results he produces. Dr. Elms knew from the very beginning that he wanted to create a special practice. A practice that simultaneously focused on quality orthodontic care and caring for the individual. A practice that honed in on a patient’s hopes, dreams and aspirations. By

creating a great, confident smile, Dr. Elms could help them achieve their dreams. It was a different way of thinking that moved far beyond the pragmatic straightening of teeth. Patients liked the difference. They liked the results and they liked Dr. Elms. As word spread, soon the practice was growing by leaps and bounds. And as the practice grew, so did Dr. Elms’ desire to change the actual office experience he wanted patients to have. Dr. Elms realized that he needed to build a freestanding building that could house his growing file folder of ideas. He needed to create his patients a new home. Today, Elms Orthodontics occupies a building that embodies every idea Dr. Elms ever wanted for his patients and has become the benchmark for what a modern orthodontic practice can be. Located conveniently on the North East corner of the intersection of the Highway 6 Bypass and 2818/Emerald Parkway the building is unmistakeably inviting on the exterior. A huge portecochere welcomes cars and

knocks the Texas heat off arriving patients before they enter to experience the home-like interior lobby. A thousand little touches make it special. Like the movie theater room that entertains while you wait. The receptionist and treatment team know your name. Though most patients enjoy the friendly banter and a chance to catch up with

more. Dr. Elms evaluates each patient’s lifestyle and recommends what is best for their day-to-day needs and long term expectations. In all cases the end result becomes a better aligned bite, straight even teeth and a beautiful new smile. For some adult patients, it is their first experience with an orthodontist, for others it represents a second time around to correct a drifting

If you are considering braces for your child or yourself, give Dr. Elms a visit. the staff, many pick up the hand held consoles at each treatment station and spend a few minutes surfing the internet. Since 1991, Elms Orthodontics has also grown to encompass a thriving adult orthodontic practice along with its traditional youth orthodontics. As baby boomers continue to live longer and more active lives, many are turning to orthodontics to extend the health of their teeth and keep their youthful smile. For adult patients the options are many - traditional braces, invisible braces, Invisalign braces and

tooth or bite. When it comes to youth orthodontics, Dr. Elms is in a league of his own. Students love the Elms experience beginning with the Orthomobile. Conceived by Dr. Elms as a service to help busy working parents by offering free

rides to and from school for orthodontic appointments, the Orthomobile was an immediate hit. The kids love the freedom of getting to ride to the appointment in a customized, chauffeured Hummer, the parents like the convenience and the school systems have been completely supportive. In the summer, Dr. Elms rents the entire aquatic center for his patients in what has become a most anticipated summer event. Food, fun and antics take center stage as hundreds of patients from the Brazos Valley have the party of the summer all courtesy of Elms Orthodontics. And, to peek in, it would appear that Dr. Elms and team are having as much fun as the guests. If you are considering braces for your child or yourself, give Dr. Elms a visit. It will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made and, one of the best experiences. You’re going to love Dr. Elms!

Dr. Troy N. Elms 1501 Emerald Parkway College Station • 979.693.6300 www.drelms.com


The Eagle • theeagle.com

Dr. Troy N. Elms

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Elms Orthodontics Winner Eagle Reader’s Choice Award 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011

2011 Readers’ Choice

Great Things Happen with Great Smiles

Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics Invisalign Premier Provider www.drelms.com 979.693.6300 1501 Emerald Parkway College Station, TX 77845

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 22

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Furniture Store

W

hen shopping for furniture, most people are looking for three things: quality, price and customer service. Striking the right balance of all three can separate a store from the competition and that is exactly why Ashley Furniture HomeStore is the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Furniture Store.” Shoppers to the Ashley Furniture HomeStore on Highway 6 in College Station are able to browse the best that Ashley has to offer in an atmosphere designed to highlight and accent the furniture itself. The signature Ashley waterfall greets customers as they walk in, and the showroom is sectioned off to create individual showpiece room setups complete with wall decor and furniture accessories. This presentation method not only shows off the furniture, but gives buyers a preview of how the pieces work together in a room setting. The newly designed showroom allows the customer to walk freely and

look into the room settings as it would look in your home. Other stores simply don’t offer you a look like the eye appealing displays at Ashley Furniture HomeStore. Innovative presentation combined with quality customer service is what has made Ashley so popular with the community. Storeowner Mark Wilks said the company takes great pride in how his employees interact with shoppers. He stresses to them that great customer service is the first priority, with the furniture itself being the second. “The communication we have with customers is what sets us apart,” Wilks said. “We do follow-up calls with customers after a sale and when we do something wrong, we make sure that we go back and make it right the second time. People like to be taken care of, so we’re always trying to do a great job of that.” The Wilks family owns three Ashley Furniture HomeStore locations. They opened their first on in Lufkin in 2005. The College Station store opened

1

#

in 2007, with a store in Waco opening shortly thereafter. Each store has won awards in their communities for service and quality. Wilks said each award serves as proof that their customer service philosophy works. “At the end of the day, you can buy a sofa anywhere,” Wilks said. “What it comes down to is who are you comfortable buying it from? Who is going to give you the best value? Who is going to give the best service after the sale? Everyone is going to say they have the best service, but until you prove it, it doesn’t mean anything.” Wilks said he is proud that his store has earned the community’s business and trust. Winning the Readers’ Choice Award is further indication that Ashley Furniture has a bright future in Bryan/College Station. “We just want to say thank you to all our customers who voted for us for their support and giving us a vote of confidence,” Wilks said. “This store is locally owned and operated. We live here and we spend our money locally, so it’s great to have the community respond back to us like this.”

Ashley Furniture HomeStore 1201 Earl Rudder Frwy S College Station • 979.694.0202 www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com

Name in Furniture. Quality, Style, Selection, Service.

1201 Earl Rudder Frwy S College Station, TX 979.694.0202

Thank You

to Our Loyal Customers In the Brazos Valley For Making Us Number 1 in Readers’ Choice

“Get More Without Paying More”


Best Dentist

D

r. Reece has never been one to rest on his laurels. So when we caught up with him recently, as the Eagle Readers’ Choice Award Winner for 2011 we were not surprised to see how excited he was about his latest offering: Teeth-In-A-Day. Teeth-In-A-Day is an unusual name for a revolutionary idea that can

literally change a patient’s life. Because bone loss is not reversible, once a patient loses their teeth or begins wearing a non-implant supported denture, a marked change in a person’s facial appearance begins to occur. Without teeth, your jawbone becomes smaller and smaller until the recognizable ‘sunken-in’ or ‘receded jaw look’ starts

still block taste, texture and temperature detection. However, Teeth-In-A-Day, with a chewing efficiency of 90% easily duplicates the natural, eat anything capabilities of real teeth. Teeth-In-A-Day is the answer for denture wearers who want to stop bone loss, increase their dental health, attain a natural and functional bite and a realistic, natural looking smile. Plus, the procedure can take as little as a day.

Advantages to Teeth-In-A-Day

• Eat Your Favorite Foods Again • Experience The Return of Taste, Texture and Temperature Detection • Do Not Have to Remove Your Dentures Or Use Adhesives • Increased Self Confidence. Teeth-In-A-Day Don’t Fall Out • More Affordable Than Ever - They Last Decades

• Faster Procedure, Faster Recovery Time • Teeth-In-A-Day are as comfortable as natural teeth • The Ability To Laugh Freely Again Without Fear Of Dentures Coming Out • Never Have A Denture Produced Sore Spot Again

Are You A Candidate For Teeth-In-A-Day?

Dr. Reece in one short visit can tell you if you are a viable candidate for the amazing Teeth-In-A-Day procedure.

Teeth-In-A-Day Last Decades

With proper maintenance, Teeth-In-A-Day can last most patients decades requiring only regular brushing and flossing just like real teeth. To learn more about Dr. Reece’s Teeth-In-A-Day system call 846.6515 or visit his website at DrReece.com.

Michael K. Reece, DDS 1615 Barak Lane, Ste. 1 Bryan • 979.846.6515 www.drreece.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

to unfavorably define the person’s features. Dr. Reece can now replace a patient’s mouthful of unhealthy teeth or ill-fitting dentures in one day. Using as few as four implants per upper and lower arch which will rigidly secure a long lasting set of beautiful, fully functional, non-removable fixed teeth. This procedure which is also called All-On-4, as well as Teeth-In-A-Day, returns structural stability in the jaws and effectively stops bone loss. Dr. Reece’s skill as a cosmetic dentist allows him to use the teeth he constructs to fill out the recessed area of the upper and lower lips effectively returning a patient’s youthful appearance that gives a pleasing, reinvigorated look. Previous to TeethIn-A-Day, patients had few options. Conventional dentures had a chewing efficiency of less than 20%. Implant retained dentures, which are better, only have a chewing efficiency of 50%, and need to be removed. They

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Do You Have Missing Teeth or Wear Dentures?

Denture Comparison Chart Stay in Chewing Ability to Efficiency Taste Food 24/7/365

Conventional Dentures

Teeth-In-A-Day, also known as All-On-4™ is an unusual name for a revolutionary idea that can literally change your life.

Removable Implant Dentures Teeth-In-A-Day Implant Dentures

Stops Longevity Bone Loss

< 20%

No

No

No

Years

50%

No

No

Maybe

Years

90%!

Yes!

Yes!

Yes!

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Teeth-In-A-Day is the answer you have been waiting for!

Decades!

Dr. Reece can now replace your mouthful of unhealthy teeth or ill-fitting dentures in one day using as few as four implants per upper and four per lower arch that will rigidly secure a set of beautiful, fully functional, fixed teeth that you don’t take out. If you have missing or compromised teeth or struggle with bad fitting dentures, Teeth-In-A-Day is the answer for you. Winner Eagle Reader’s Choice 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

23

979.846.6515

1615 Barak Lane, Bryan, TX

drreece.com


2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 24

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Photographer

T

he Brazos Valley has selected locally owned and operated Specialties Photography, Inc as their favorite photographer in the Eagle’s Readers’ Choice awards again this year. This is their fourth year to win the coveted award. Specialties Photography is a professional portrait studio and full digital lab serving the Brazos Valley since 1993. (Owner James Nowak was actually born and raised in Bryan!) The Readers’ Choice awards reflect their loyal customer base that appreciates a higher standard in portrait photography and in customer service. With more than 35 years combined in the photography business, James Nowak, Marcie Greenbaum and staff have designed an atmosphere of professionalism and service unmatched in the area. Specialties offers three complete photography studios with the very best inhouse processing and digital

enlargement lab services. They specialize in newborns, seniors, daycare, schools, sports, realtor resumes, passports, special events, engagement, bridal and wedding day photography. Their talent goes much further than the lens. Specialties Photography has state of the art in-house processing and digital enlargement laboratory services. This allows you a valuable resource when you need custom black and white, or color digital prints, from your images (sized in miniwallets to 30” x 40”). They color correct each individual image (unlike many chain labs) and use only Kodak products for a lasting, high quality portrait that is guaranteed to last a lifetime. Specialties Photography can reproduce, rebuild and archive old family photos before those precious heirlooms are lost forever. They can preserve your irreplaceable family history by transferring old family photos or slides to a CD

with their scanning services. Local photographers can take their projects to the next level by bringing in portrait and wedding day sessions for Specialties’ artists to skillfully enhance, retouch, and print images from proofs to heirloom finishes. The Specialties website, specialphoto.com, is a great tool, too. You can view your photographs online and share them with your family and friends. In addition, you can create, proof

and order professionally printed wedding invitations, graduation announcements and Christmas cards on their website. It’s convenient, fast and very easy. You can design

your card and preview it online before you place your order. For your special photo needs, call Specialties Photography at 979-696-9898 or go by 524 University Dr. E. Suite B, in College Station. Hours are Monday - Friday from 9:00a 6:00p, and Saturday 10:00a - 6:00p (closed Sundays). Friend them on face book for exclusive monthly specials. S p e c i a l t i e s Photography is active in the local community as a chamber member and by offering a 20% discount to military families and to the St. Joseph Spirit of Women.

Specialties Photography 524 University Dr. E., Suite B College Station • 979.696.9898 www.specialphoto.com


Best Rehabilitation Facility

H

St. Joseph Rehab has been voted the best. For many patients, the Rehab Center is a way for them to return to their life before the injury occured. Family involvement is very important in the recovery process and family members are encouraged to be involved in the rehabilitation from the beginning of the process, learning how to help their loved ones sit, stand, walk, pick up objects, and many more daily tasks that most people take for granted. SJRC offers inpatient and outpatient therapy services including physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, stroke rehabilitation and aquatic physical therapy. “Our goal is to help every patient perform to their maximum function and independence,” said Amy Gray, Director of Therapy at St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center. Inpatient rehab is a

specialized service that offers patients recovering from illness or injury an intense interdisciplinary process comprised of a team of clinicians. This process promotes independence, quality of life and return to a safe and fulfilling lifestyle in the home setting. SJRC is the only free-standing accredited Inpatient Rehabilitation Center in the Brazos Valley. It is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In simple terms, inpatient rehabilitation is designed to help you return home at your highest level of independence. In addition to treating the patient we also have a strong focus on family involvement and education to facilitate

your return home. The therapy services that are offered at St. Joseph Rehab are at a higher level of care and include close medical supervision by a specialized physician, 24-hour specialized rehab nursing, an interdisciplinary team approach and intensive, personalized therapy sessions – 3 hours per day 5 days per week. Once a patient leaves the

St. Joseph Rehabilitation

Sunday, June 26, 2011

aving a stroke is a scary, life-changing experience. But, once the initial treatment is over and it’s time to begin recovery, the hard part begins. And that is where St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center comes in – for whatever life-changing injury you may have. The motto at St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center (SJRC) is “Improving Independence One Step at a Time.” The rehab facility is designed to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation program to improve a patient’s independence following an injury or illness. Many patients that use the rehab services are recovering from a stroke, brain injury, cardiac injury or pulmonary injury. But St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center can also rehab patients with spinal cord injuries, amputees, orthopedic injuries and more. The St. Jo s e p h Rehabilitation Center was voted the best rehab center in the Brazos Valley this year, making it the fifth year that

inpatient rehab program, they continue to work towards recovery and improved independence. St. Joseph Rehab’s outpatient services are all available for patients that need to continue therapy even after they are discharged. There are many options for this and the rehab team can help determine what will best meet each patient’s needs. St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center’s main location is at 1600 Joseph Drive in Bryan. We have many other locations, including a specialized Sports Medicine location and a new location in South College Station. To find one of our many locations, visit our website, www.st-joseph.org/ rehab. To learn more about the services available at St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center or to arrange for a tour please contact our facility at (979) 821-7550.

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

1600 Joseph Dr. • Bryan 979.821.7500 www.st-joseph.org/rehab

St. Joseph Rehabilitation Center Helping every patient perform to their maximum function & independence. 29th Villa Maria

N

St. Joseph Rehab & Manor

Joseph Dr.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Blinn Campus

Path To Recovery

St. Joseph Regional Health Center

1600 Joseph Drive, Bryan, TX

Locations: St. Joseph Rehab Center – Bryan 979.821.7500 St. Joseph Brazos Valley Sports Medicine 979.731.5274 St. Joseph Therapy Services – College Station 979.690.4250

Services Include: Aquatics Pediatrics Sports Medicine Personal Training Group Workouts Sleep Medicine Wellness

Cardiac Rehabilitation Occupational Therapy Infusion Therapy Physical Therapy Speech Therapy Inpatient Rehabilitation Outpatient Rehabilitation

The Difference

A Ministry of Sylvania Franciscan Health

www.st-joseph.org/Rehab

979.821.7500

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 26

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Podiatrist

I

t’s easy to take our feet for granted, but when something is wrong we see just how important they are. When you have foot problems, you want someone who can get you back up and moving around as safely and quickly as possible. For doing just that, The Eagle’s readers have named Dr. Brian Abbey “Best Podiatrist” in the 2011

Readers’ Choice Awards. Dr. Abbey practices at Brazos Valley Foot Care in Bryan, where he leads a respected team of podiatrists. A La Grange native, Dr. Abbey received his bachelors degree from Sam Houston State University before continuing his education at the California College of Podiatric. He is board certified by the

American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry. He holds board certifications in both Primary Care in Podiatric Medicine and in Podiatric Surgery. “It’s certainly an honor for both me and Brazos Valley Foot Care,” Dr. Abbey said. “It’s nice to be held in a good light with the patients. We’re very grateful for the support we get from the community.” While it is Dr. Abbey’s name on the award, he is quick to share the honor with the entire Brazos Valley Foot Care team. From the office staff to the nurses to his fellow podiatrists, Dr. Abbey credits the quality of his coworkers with his success in the Readers’ Choice Awards. Brazos Valley Foot Care administrator Bill Glaze said it wasn’t surprising to see Dr. Abbey win this award because of the amount of respect that both colleagues and patients have for him as a doctor. “Dr. Abbey is, in my opinion, an exceptional doctor,” Mr. Glaze said. “His heart is always in the right place and he takes every part of his practice and how he does his job very seriously. I was very pleased to see that out of all of the other podiatrists, he was the one who won.” Dr. Abbey is the senior doctor at Brazos Valley Foot Care and sets the tone for the clinic’s level of service. He is joined by Dr. Eduardo Orihuela (Aggie Class of ’95), Dr. Robert Aguilar, Dr. Julie Albert (Aggie Class of ’99) and Dr. Tyler Kearney (Aggie Class of ’04). Together these doctors cover a service area that

includes offices in Bryan, College Station and Brenham, as well as regular visits to facilities in Madisonville, Caldwell and Navasota. Mr. Glaze said one of the things the doctors at Brazos Valley Foot Care have in common is their approach to treating foot problems. Their thorough methods of care and treatment have won over patients in the area. “Our doctors practice very conservative care with our patients,” Mr. Glaze said. “They do whatever they can do non-surgically to make the patient functional and comfortable, and only turn to surgery once the more conservative options have been exhausted.” Beyond the medical part of the care, what endears Brazos Valley Foot Care to its patients is the way they are treated by the staff. Mr. Glaze said patients can always expect smiles from everyone in the building as they come in for their appointments. Patients can expect even more smiles now that one of Brazos Valley Foot Care’s doctors has been named the Readers’ Choice. “I think having this award come to our office reinforces that we’re doing the right things,” Mr. Glaze said. “We

firmly believe that we are the best podiatry group in this area, and we’re please to get this validation.” Brazos Valley Foot Care began over 30 years ago years ago as a single doctor practice. Dr. Abbey joined the practice in 1999. It has grown along with the community and branched out to the surrounding communities. Partnerships with area nursing homes and a growing network of doctors who confidently make patient referrals has aided that growth. Mr. Glaze said that while growing the practice has always been important, an emphasis has been placed on responsible growth. “We have a philosophy that our growth is driven by this communities’ need for more foot care,” Mr. Glaze said. “When we grow, it’s because our patients need us to, not because we just want to be bigger.” As they expand now, they do so knowing their patients and the public are supporting them along the way. Dr. Abbey and the entire staff at Brazos Valley Foot Care are excited and thankful for that support in the form of their Readers’ Choice Award this year.

Brazos Valley Foot Care 2701 Osler Blvd. • Bryan 1.888.284.4643 www.brazosvalleyfootcare.com


2011 Readers’ Choice

Brazos Valley Foot Care

We Put Your Feet First

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Tyler Kearney, DPM Joining the Clinic in August

Brazos Valley Foot Care offers a full array of podiatric services to help you maintain healthy feet. Aching Feet • Ankle Sprains • Arthritis • Bunions Bursitis • Children’s Disorders Circulation Disorders • Club Feet • Foot & Leg Trauma/Injuries • Hammertoes

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Robert Aguilar, DPM | Julie Albert, DPM | Brian Abbey, DPM | Eduardo Orihuela, DPM

Heel Pain • Heel Spurs • Ingrown Toenails • Infections • Nerve Disorders Sports Injuries • Swelling • Tendonitis • Ulcerations • Warts Locations in Bryan, College Station, Brenham, Caldwell, Cameron & Navasota Se Habla Español • Medicare & Most Insurance Plans Accepted

Bryan College Station

(979)776-6060 (979)694-5222

Brenham Toll Free

(979)836-2992 1-888-284-4643

w w w. b r a z o s v a l l e y f o o t c a re . c o m

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Asian, Take-out, Delivery

T

here are plenty of places to eat in Bryan/College Station, but T. Jin’s China Diner is hands down one of the local favorites after winning the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best Asian Food,” “Best Take-

Out Dining” and “Best Food Delivery.” T. Jin’s has been serving Bryan/College Station for seven years. Popular dishes like their General’s Chicken and Sweet & Sour Chicken have been keeping customers

happy and coming back for more at both the original T. Jin’s location in Kroger Shopping Center on Longmire Drive in College Station and The Boonville Kroger Shopping Center in Bryan Owner Shin Jin said the second T. Jin’s location came about by popular demand. “We had a lot of people coming from Bryan to eat here and they always asked why we didn’t have another restaurant closer to them,” he said. “We opened a restaurant in Bryan and it has done very well. Sometimes people eat here when they visit town and say we should open a restaurant there, but that’s too far away for us.” T. Jin’s offers a large menu with something for almost any taste. Their lunch menu has some of their most popular dishes like the General’s Chicken, Kung Pao

Three Delights and China Town Stir Fry. The lunch specials range from $5.25 to $6.50, making T. Jin’s a popular lunch spot as well. Jin said customers trust T. Jin’s because they know the restaurant uses the best quality ingredients, such as only using white meat chicken, and enforce strict quality control on their dishes. Whether dining in, taking out or calling in for delivery, T. Jin’s menu is one of the best in town. Their house specials have been a big hit since the restaurant first opened. New dishes like the Seafood Deluxe and Shrimp with Pepper and Salt join old favorites like Orange Beef, Happy Family, Thai Chicken & Shrimp and the Lamb with Sar Char Sauce.

The menu also includes eight soups, including egg drop and wonton; seven appetizers, including their popular shrimp rolls and pot stickers; rice and noodle dishes and a kid-sized offerings of Sweet & Sour Chicken, Chicken Fried Rice and Chicken Lo Mein. Winning these Readers’ Choice Awards this year has been a source pride for the T. Jin’s staff. Jin said whether it is winning an award or just seeing a customer leave happy, it is great to serve people in this community. “When someone comes in and tries our food, they almost always come back,” Jin said. “We appreciate our customers and we’re happy that they like our food. We do our best to make sure that everyone who eats here leaves happy.”

T Jin’s China Diner 3515 Longmire Drive College Station • 979.696.3666 2305 Boonville, South 650 Bryan • 979.776.9903 www.tjindiner.com

T.JIN China謝謝Diner (Thank you)

2305 Boonville Rd - Bryan - 979.776.9903 3515 Longmire Dr - College Station - 979.696.3666 28


Best General Surgeon

T

rust is a key part of any professional practice, but maybe none more than in the surgical field. Having a surgeon you can trust helps not just the patient, but the patient’s family and friends as well. Forging trusting relationships with his patients has helped Dr. Hank Bohne, MD, win the 2011

Readers’ Choice Award for “Best General Surgeon.” This is the third year in a row that Dr. Bohne has won, something that surprised him. “This is very humbling because I don’t think that I do anything different than any of the other surgeons,” Dr. Bohne said. “There are guys

a quality, caring surgeon. He said he knew he wanted to come back to Aggieland after finishing medical school. “I was born and grew up in this part of the state,” Dr. Bohne said. “The community reflects the values that I believe in.” Dr. Bohne said one of the biggest challenges in general surgery is having to make on the spot decisions in life or death circumstances. The challenge of having to make those choices and being able to completely change the course of treatment makes the job challenging, but also very rewarding. But things do not always turn out well in surgery and Dr. Bohne knows that how he responds to those situations makes every bit as much a difference to his reputation as when everything goes as planned. “We are often in situations

where what we do may save a patient’s life in an acute situation,” Dr. Bohne said. “When we are successful, there is no better feeling. Unfortunately, we also get into situations where the outcomes are bad. The feelings of ‘being human’ and knowing how out of control things can sometimes helps us empathize with patients and their families in their vulnerable times.” Through good times and bad, Dr. Bohne has repeatedly shown that he is there for his patients. Receiving recognition from the community through the Readers’ Choice Award is something Dr. Bohne takes to heart. “Thank you all for your trust,” Dr. Bohne said. “I am humbled by your choice and will continue to do the best I can to provide for your needs.”

Dr. Henry “Hank” Bohne College Station Surgical Associates 1602 Rock Prairie Rd. Ste 2000 College Station • 979.696.3171

Sunday, June 26, 2011

who are probably technically much better than I am, or maybe perform a wider range of procedures. If anything, I credit the gals here in my office. We try to go overboard to treat people well, see them on time and to go the extra mile to help them with other specialists and those are the ladies who make that happen.” Dr. Bohne and his staff strive to always make sure the patient comes first in everything they do. He never wants a patient to regret choosing him and makes sure they know that everything he and his staff does is done with their individual needs in mind. “We have a long history of concerned, compassionate caring for our patients,” Dr. Bohne said. “Although our community has grown and changed over the years, we strive to be stable, traditional and always put the patient first. A patient should always know that our highest priority is to meet his or her individual needs in every aspect of care.” Dr. Bohne, Aggie Class of ’72, set up practice in Bryan/College Station in 1981 where he started earning his reputation as

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Congratulations Being Voted Best General Surgeon Past 4 Years In A Row

1602 Rock Prairie Rd # 2000 College Station, TX (979) 696-3171

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Dr. Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Bohne

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Real Estate Agent

W

hether buying or selling a house, having the right real estate agent can make the transaction considerably easier. When readers of The Eagle were asked, RE/MAX Select agent, Monica Palasota was clearly chosen as the “Best Real Estate Agent” in the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. For more than 12 years, Monica has been passionate about providing the best possible service to her clients. Having her client’s show their appreciation through this award is an honor and something she is thankful for. “This award has special meaning to me since it was given by the community, the readers and my clients,” Monica said. “Winning is such a blessing. It confirms my belief that my hard work is satisfying my clients.” Monica is a Bryan native and along with her husband and high school sweetheart, Richard, she has raised her own family here too. Having been a member of this community her entire life, Monica has built a strong network of friends and colleagues which

allows her to go above and beyond what the average real estate agent can do. She is able to help her clients find their ideal homes and purchase it at the ideal price. She has a team of lenders, suppliers, repairmen, movers and stagers that make her a virtual one-stop shopping real estate service. She and Richard also own Richmon Homes, meaning Monica can help families looking to build their dream home as well. “I want to be the kind of Realtor clients know they can rely on to get the most out of their real estate experience,” she said. “My clients know they can call me any time during and after the transaction. They are confident when making referrals to me because they know their friends will receive the same priority and

great service they received.” Monica credits her success to the fact she treats her clients as business partners during the home buying or selling process. She strives to make the process a team effort and includes her clients throughout the transaction. This allows the client a strong voice in the decisions along the way. The end result is usually something stronger than a regular agentclient relationship. “I love my job and I love working with the people in this community,” she said. “As I work with clients many become more like family to me.” The local real estate market is large and there are many agents from whom shoppers may choose. Monica knows this and is grateful to be singled out by her clients and the community as one of the BEST. Energized from her Readers’ Choice Award, she is ready to make new friends and help more people find their dream home.

Monica Palasota RE/MAX Select 4101 S. Texas Avenue Bryan • 979.571.6109

Thanks for Voting Me Best Realtor!

Big or Small - Whether You Buy, Sell or Build

I can do it all!

Monica Palasota, Realtor • (979) 571-6109 • monicapalasota.com

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Best Security Company

P

has been very popular with customers; allowing clients to control everything from their security system, to their home entertainment system to their thermostat, remotely from their smartphone or iPad. Jackson and Stanfield both have CEO Security systems in their homes and use the automation service to keep tabs on what is going on while they are away. “With the setup I have in my home, I can control everything through my iPhone,” Jackson said. “I get text messages every time someone arms or disarms my alarm system; the system also identifies who it is, by their access code. I can control my lights and locks; I can be out of town and view all of my security cameras right on my phone. Our security systems, no matter how elaborate or simplified, allow peace of mind when it comes to our families, home, and businesses.” CEO Etc. can set up a home or business with 24-hour security monitoring, burglar alarms, access control and video surveillance. They work with customers to find the

with their clients, and their knowledgeable staff and field technicians are trained to service not only with efficiency, but with a friendly attitude and personalized touch. The results speak for themselves as CEO Etc. has tripled its staff in the last two years to keep up with business demand. Adding a Readers’ Choice to their list

of accomplishments has the whole CEO Etc. team very excited. “It’s a real honor to receive this kind of award as such a young company,” Jackson said. “We’re excited at the response we have received and we hope we can continue to build that reputation with the rest of the community.”

CEO Etc.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

eople rely on home security systems to protect their families and property and give them peace of mind. But who is the community’s pick when deciding with whom to entrust their safety? With their combination of state-of-theart technology and good old fashioned customer service, CEO Etc. has earned the 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Security Company.” CEO Etc. began about two and a half years ago when local business partners Reagan Jackson and John Stanfield combined their businesses to start Office Etc. Since then, the duo has added a number of additional services, rebranded their business as CEO Etc. (Computers, Electronics, Office Etc.), and set out to be the area’s one-stop shopping destination for office supplies, and both home and business technologies—including having recently become an authorized DirecTV dealer. One of the many areas where CEO Etc. excels is in home and business security. Their home automation service

right solution to any of their c o m p u t e r, electronics, security or office needs. They offer s e c u r i t y solutions to clients with existing homes and offices, and also work with area builders to fully integrate security, audio, and network features into a home or office during the building’s construction. Whether they are doing security work, installing a network for a business, repairing a personal computer, or delivering office supplies, Jackson said the CEO Etc. approach to customer service has been the biggest factor in the company’s success and growth. Jackson and Stanfield both view the trusting relationship with each of their customers as the most important factor of their success. Both owners have a “hands on” approach

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

11990 Old Wellborn Rd., Ste 6 College Station • 979.446.0054 www.ceoetc.com

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank You For Voting Us

The Reader’s Choice for Security Company!

• 24 Hour Monitoring • Video Surveillance • Home Theater Design & Installation

• Home Automation • Low Voltage Prewire • Direct TV Dealer

• Computer Repair/Upgrade • Network Set Up • Office Supplies & Furniture

Servicing The Brazos Valley and Surrounding Communities 11990 Old Wellborn Rd. ste. 6 | 979.446.0054 | www.ceoetc.com

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Moving Company

F

ew things are as dreaded as moving. The hours of packing and loading are long and strenuous, and then you have to turn right around and do the unloading and unpacking. A good moving company can eliminate much of that stress, and The Eagle’s readers have named D&D Moving company the 2011 Readers’

Choice winner for “Best Moving Company” for the third time in four years. Owners Dan and Leigh Ann Daniel have worked hard to earn the company’s reputation for being ethical, professional and affordable, and are honored to be recognized again for their efforts.

“Dan and I are grateful to the community, to our customers and to our employees,” Leigh Ann said. “We couldn’t have done any of this without your support.” Winning this year’s Readers’ Choice Award isn’t the only reason for celebration at D&D Moving these days. In March 2009, the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), officially certified D&D Moving and Storage as a ProMover. The AMSA provides ProMover certification only after a company passes numerous background checks of its operations and has agreed to continue to abide by the AMSA’s code of ethics. “I am extremely pleased and extremely proud of our company,” Dan said. “This achievement will give our customers the assurance they are dealing with a legitimate, professional mover and not a fly-by-night con artist out to rip them off. “Becoming a ProMover is consistent with our company’s long history of treating our customers fairly and honestly.” The ProMover program works with federal and state governments to mitigate unethical moving practices.

It clearly separates those who masquerade themselves as a legitimate mover. “Just because a company has a website, a truck, a trailer and a few guys doesn’t make it a legitimate, ethical moving company,” Leigh Ann said. “Do your homework, it’s worth it.” All of D&D’s employees attend training classes to ensure they meet the professional and ethical standards the Daniels built their company on. Maintaining those high standards are an important part of their customer service. “Moving is not a pleasant experience for most,” Leigh Ann said. “Our inspiration comes from satisfied, happy customers. It’s our job to provide a stress free move and that’s exactly what we do.” D&D Moving and Storage, a Better Business Bureau accredited business with an A+ rating, provides local, instate and out-of-state moving services including all packing materials. Whether it’s a small apartment, large home or commercial office, D&D Moving does it all.

D&D Moving & Storage

The Eagle • theeagle.com

3700 Texas Ave. S. • College Station 979.693.6233 • www.ddmovers.com

Thanks for Voting Us The

2011 Reader’s Choice

for Best Moving Company!

32


Best Tractor/Farm Equipment

A

griculture is king in this part of Texas and Coufal-Prater is the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Tractor/Farm Equipment Dealer.� Coufal-Prater Equipment, LTD opened its first store in Temple in 1974 as Coufal Equipment Company. As a John Deere dealer, Coufal Equipment grew as John Deere

grew through the late 70s and early 80s. In 1985 a store was opened in Cameron. The Prater Equipment Company opened its Bryan location in 1992 and expanded into Navasota in 2001. In November of 2004, the Coufal and Prater companies merged to form Coufal-Prater Equipment and has been providing top-notch service ever since. Further

staff for parts and service work. They also show their support for the agricultural community through in-house financing options and other services such as the John Deere credit card and the Farm Plan – a program that allows flexible financing for farmers. A commitment to customers and dependable service has won Coufal-Prater plenty of loyal customers that do not hesitate to recommend the

store to their friends. Having the customers show their appreciation through the Readers’ Choice Awards is something the entire CoufalPrater staff takes pride in. “We are honored to win the Readers’ Choice Award,� Hitchcock said. “We want to thank all of our customers for their business and support. We will continue to work on improving our business to ensure that we are always delivering the best value.�

Coufal-Prater Equipment, Inc. 3110 Highway 21 West Bryan • 979.822.7684

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The Eagle • theeagle.com

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Sunday, June 26, 2011

expansion was made in March 2010 with the addition of their Taylor location. The employees and management at Coufal-Prater strive to be the source for all their customers’ needs from offering the very best products to making sure the staff is able to support those products with unmatched customer service and know-how. It is also their goal to build customer trust and loyalty both in the store and around town through sponsoring local events and encouraging employees to be active members of the community. “We are very proactive in supporting local community events and in supporting our customers,� said Phil Hitchcock, general manager for Coufal-Prater. “We support our governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, 4-H organizations and FFA for our youth. We strongly support our smaller communities and their fund raising opportunities for community centers, volunteer firemen and booster organizations.� Customer support is the hallmark of CoufalPrater’s business. Their stores offer extended business hours, as well as weekend on-call

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

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33


Best Computer Service

C

omputers play a vital role in nearly every home and business. If anything goes wrong with one of those computers, valuable personal or professional information could be lost. When The Eagle’s readers need help with their computer issues, they turn to Computer Works, the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Computer Service.” Computer Works is a full service

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 Readers’ Choice

computer store specializing in sales and repair work. Owners Mark and Krystal Broussard (Aggie Classes ’95 & ’00, respectively) also offer network consulting, network cabling, security systems and IT support services. “Krystal and I and everyone here at Computer Works would like to say thank you to everyone who has voted for us,” Mark said. “We’re happy that we’re able to serve our customers well enough for them to take the time to

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

recognize us like this.” This is the second year in a row that Computer Works has taken home this award. Last year, Mark said the staff was shocked because they are a smaller business than some of their competitors. This year he said everyone is excited to be able to win again. As a small business and one not located in the middle of town, Mark said he knows his business has to work harder to build their reputation. “We may be a little outside of town,” he said, “but we’re always striving to let people know we’re here and that we’re worth the five or ten minute drive out of town.” Mark said that fast, honest service is the hallmark of Computer Works and it’s well worth the short drive to Koppe Bridge Road in Welborn to check them out. “We strive for a 24-hour turnaround on our repair jobs,” Mark said. “The average turnaround time for other businesses in this area is three to five days before you get your computer back on residential repairs. Whenever possible we like to start on your

computer as soon as you bring it in.” In addition to fast service, Computer Works also offers a full data back up to ensure your files and data are not lost during repairs. They also offer a flat rate for their repairs instead of hourly rates. Mark said they do that because in many cases if the job ends up taking three of more hours, the repair bill can easily exceed the worth of the computer. Mark said the business philosophy of being fast and being fair has helped get Computer Works to where it is now. “It all comes down to customer service,” Mark said. “We try to be courteous and prompt in our service, and we make sure the customer feels like they have gotten what they paid for.” So whether you are looking to buy a new computer, get rid of a virus, set up a home network or IT support for your business, give Computer Works a try and find out what makes them the best.

Computer Works 4242 Koppe Bridge Road College Station • 979.778.3380 www.texascw.net

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank You for Voting Us

Best Computer Service 2 years in a row!

IN-STORE OR ON-SITE • VIRUS REMOVAL COMPLETE NETWORKING SERVICES SERVERS/WORKSTATIONS • WIRELESS/CABLING CERTIFIED SECURITY CAMERA INSTALLERS HOME COMPUTERS • HOME ACCESSORIES BUSINESS WORKSTATIONS

Experience Our Service Trust Our Name

LAPTOPS • SOFTWARE NETWORK EQUIPMENT PRINTER REPAIR/SALES SUPPLIES

SPECIALIZING IN COMPUTER SALES, SERVICE & REPAIR

4242 Koppe Bridge Road College Station (Across from the Wellborn water tower)

(979) 778-3380 • www.texascw.net 34

INDUSTRY CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS WITH OVER 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AGGIE OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 2000

Committed to providing the best products and services in the industry by partnering with leaders such as Microsoft, Intel, and Hewlett Packard


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Plastic Surgeon

F

procedures.” Dr. Rude’s practice is dedicated to offering personalized care while striving to make the experience of each patient unique. Personalized care includes making a specific plan to address a patient’s cosmetic and/or reconstructive goals. His recommendations and advice are the result of professional judgment and experience. Part of what makes Rude so popular with his clients is his understanding that beauty is intensely personal. He stays current with recent advancements and technologies, allowing him to stay on the cutting edge of cosmetic surgery. He also meets extensively with patients prior to any surgery, treatment or therapy. Rude uses these meetings to educate patients and discuss all available options to ensure the patient is making an informed decision. Dr. Rude and his staff are very grateful to have won their fifth-straight Readers’ Choice award. “Thank you, Brazos Valley, for the greatest compliment of choosing us as the best plastic surgeon. We are committed to ensuring that each patient will receive quality care as well as have total confidence in our superior service, which caters to each patient’s individualized needs.”

Dr. Malcolm Rude 2304 De Lee St. Bryan • 979.776.8825 wwwdrrude.com

Best Plastic Surgeon in the Brazos Valley

2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2011 Facial Cosmetic Surgery • Skin Care • Breast Surgery Skin Cancer • Body Contouring • Lasers • Hand Rejuvenation Botox • Radiesse • Tummy Tucks

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Malcolm Rude M.D.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

or the fifith year in a row, Dr. Malcolm Rude is the Readers’ Choice for the area’s “Best Plastic Surgeon.” Rude, Aggie class of ’93, opened his private practice in 2004 after serving his residence under the former president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Rude specializes in breast surgeries, including augmentations, lifts and reductions, but his extensive training also allows him to diagnose and treat a variety of disorders in all areas of plastic surgery. Other common procedures Rude performs include tummy tucks, liposuction, facial rejuvenation, lasers, Botox and Radiesse. In opening his own practice, Rude was able to fulfill his dream of giving women in the Bryan/College Station access to the best procedures modern plastic surgery had to offer. “I wanted to provide state-of-the-art plastic surgery to the Brazos Valley,” Rude said. “It is very important to have a board-certified plastic surgeon doing your surgery. Plastic surgery is wonderful and the results are very gratifying, but safety should always be at the forefront. I feel that plastic surgery procedures should be performed in hospitals or accredited surgical facilities by doctors that have hospital privileges to do those

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Malcolm Rude, M.D. Board Certified in Plastic Surgery

Class of ‘93

2304 De Lee Street • Bryan,TX, 77802 979-776-8825 • www.drrude.com

35


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Auto Dealership, Auto Repair Shop, Auto Parts Store, Oil Change, Auto Salesperson

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

P

36

aul Atkinson, Dealer /General Manager of Atkinson Toyota, will be the first to tell you it’s been a rough two years for the Toyota brand, but he’s also glad to point out that the car manufacturer and its dealerships are still going strong thanks to loyal customers. The proof of that is obvious locally with Atkinson Toyota winning 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best Auto Part Store,” “Best Auto Repair Shop,” “Best Car Dealer,” “Best Oil Change” and “Best Auto Salesperson” for Atkinson employee Richard Miller. Atkinson said winning so many awards is humbling for

both he and his staff. “I feel like Gomer Pyle,” Atkinson said. “Just like he used to say it, I just want to say, ‘thank you, thank you, thank you.’” Atkinson pointed to the vehicle recalls and Congressional hearings of the recent past as things that could have tarnished the Toyota brand, yet that is not what has happened. Atkinson said the honest and transparent way both the company and dealerships nationwide handled the crisis only served to strengthen the trust customers have in the brand. It has also made the company stronger moving forward. “Our customers have become even more loyal through all of this,” Atkinson said. “We’re weathering this storm and we’re better for it.” At the local level, Atkinson credits his staff with keeping customers happy and loyal during the tough times. He said he has more than 160 associates, many of whom do not come from an automotive background. Beyond all else, the Atkinson dealership looks for people of good character to work with their existing team. He said he can teach just

about anyone the car business, but you can’t teach integrity and character. “We are in the people business,” Atkinson said. “When someone comes to Atkinson Toyota, they come to our home. It’s a different atmosphere here than in most dealerships. We have greeters out front who ask you why you’re here, and lead you exactly where you need to go because this is our home. We want you to feel comfortable here, and to know you can come back whenever you want to.” The Atkinson dealerships run so effectively because of their People, Processes and Product – in that order. Good people are essential to a good business and Atkinson Toyota prides itself on hiring good, solid citizens. Associates are assigned to teams known as ‘Signature Teams’. Signature Teams are responsible for mapping and processing the business, and evaluating the customer experience. Team members are encouraged to

suggest and implement new processes if the result is an improved workflow. This empowers the associate and lets them know that their input is valued. This business model clearly defines its processes and allows each associate to act, rather than react. The Eagle’s readers singled out Miller as salesperson of the year. He has worked at the dealership since the inception of Atkinson Toyota and is a key member of the sales team. “I never have to worry about what is being said to the customer with Richard,”

Atkinson said. “Richard is an honest salesperson and he takes care of his customers. In this line of work, all you have is your reputation and he has a huge following of loyal clients because he has that reputation of honesty.” Atkinson Toyota is also home of the Repo Joe sales event for the last 10 years. The monthly used car sale has become a big event with car shoppers and helps create new Atkinson customers each time. Whether it is from a new car sale, a Repo Joe event or an experience with their top-notch automotive department, Atkinson Toyota continues to win over people in the Brazos Valley. Even when times are tough, Paul Atkinson and his team are right there with smiles on their faces ready to help you however they can. “We’ve been here for 12 years and served thousands of customers,” Atkinson said. “We’re honored by the trust and loyalty they have in us and we’re going to do everything in our power to continue to earn that trust.”

Atkinson Toyota 728 N. Earl Rudder Freeway Bryan 979.776.0404 • 877.824.0404 204 I-45 South • Madisonville 936.349.0909 • 877.349.0909


Sunday, June 26, 2011

SALES EVENT

2011 Readers’ Choice

HOME OF THE

Thank You Brazos Valley

Thank you for putting your trust and confidence in the Associates of Atkinson Toyota Scion. We look forward to many more years of servicing your needs.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

for selecting Atkinson Toyota as the Best Car Dealership 6 Years in a Row and Best Auto Repair Shop by The Eagle Readers’ Choice.

ATKINSON TOYOTA Your Hometown Toyota Dealerships

936-349-0909 • 1-877-349-0909 204 I-45 South, Madisonville, Texas

979-776-0404 • 1-877-824-0404 728 N. Earl Rudder Fwy • Bryan, Texas

www.atkinsontoyota.com

37

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Event Facility, Wedding/Reception Location

F

ounded in 1895 as the “Mutual Improvement Circle,” the Woman’s Club has been actively involved in community service for over 100 years. In 1902, the organization played a major role in bringing the Carnegie Library to Bryan by securing a grant from the Carnegie Foundation. The ladies continued their support of the library by maintaining the grounds and purchasing books. In 1918, members planted live oak trees to

create a beautiful and i m p r e s s ive entrance to the TAMU campus. Many of these trees

are still standing. The Woman’s Club continues its long tradition of community service. To show its support of education, the club annually presents a scholarship to a young lady graduating from each high school in Bryan/ College Station. Every December, members provide sixty dozen home-baked cookies for the annual lighting ceremony in downtown Bryan. In addition, annual proceeds from club projects help support local

charities while individual m e m b e r s assist local organizations, logging over 18,000 hours of volunteer service yearly. The Woman’s Club is an i d e a l ve n u e for any special occasion. Conveniently located and elegantly decorated, our facility features amenities such as a wood parquet floor, chandeliers, a stage, and a grand piano. The large, lighted parking lot provides convenient parking, and our commercial grade kitchen is a caterer’s dream. In addition, we offer a state-of-the-art audio/video system with projector and drop down screen. Last year, our most popular rental event was the wedding reception; however, we also hosted a piano recital, a tea and style show fundraiser for the Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra, a mother-daughter brunch for a sorority at TAMU, and a Parents’ Weekend banquet for the TAMU Corps of Cadets.

Club President Martha Murphy noted, “We want to make your special day a memorable event and invite you to visit our facilities for a personal tour.” She added, “We think that you will agree that our service, amenities, and tastefully appointed facility combine to make The Woman’s Club an exceptional destination for your special event.” The Woman’s Club is honored to win the Reader’s Choice Award for Best Event Venue and for Best Venue for a Wedding/Reception. We appreciate the vote of confidence, and we will continue to offer outstanding personal service, working with you to make sure that every detail is just right for your special occasion.

The Woman’s Club

The Eagle • theeagle.com

979.822.5019 www.womansclubbcs.com

�� ������ ��b

a tradition of community service since 1895 38


a good place for

eatin’

College Station

(Featuring a Drive-Up Window for Call In Orders)

(979) 696-7900

College Station

Bryan (on the Bend)

4304 Harvey Road

1010 South Texas Ave.

(979) 776-8969

(979) 822-6033

(2 miles East of Post Oak Mall)

(3 miles North of University Drive)

Check out our menu on the web at www.cjbbq.com

Manny Lopez - bass/vocals Wade Myatt - guitar/vocals Hank Allen - drums/vocals Dave McDermand - keyboards/vocals

Sunday, June 26, 2011

VOTED BEST BARBEQUE

2000 • 2001 • 2002 • 2003 • 2004 • 2005 • 2006 • 2007 • 2008 • 2009 • 2010 • 2011

105 Southwest Pkwy.

2011 Readers’ Choice

Thanks Brazos Valley for voting us Best local band in 2007 2008 and now 2011

you Brazos Valley for Voting u Thank for 11 years running s !

For bookings contact: thetexastwisters@msn.com

The “Party Band” of Aggieland www.myspace.com/thetexastwisters FOLLOW US:

For Voting Me Your Favorite Insurance Agent

Bruce Boyd,

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank You! LUTCF

(979) 693-1683

www.bruceboydagency.com 300 University Drive East • College Station Toll Free: (800) 900-1622 • Fax: (979) 693-0255 Mon-Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm • After Hours by Appt.

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Non-Profit Agency

F

or their commitment to provide comprehensive, quality end-of-life care Hospice Brazos Valley is the 2011 Reader’s Choice winner for “Best Non-Profit Organization.” Hospice Brazos Valley has provided comfort to residents in central Texas since 1989. The organization has established a rich history of service, dedicated to specialized care which enhances the quality of life for patients with a terminal illness by preventing and alleviating pain and suffering. According to Craig Borchardt, President and CEO, “we believe our patients value the treatment of the whole person – body, mind and spirit. Everyone involved in our mission values a plan for delivering care that is dedicated to achieving quality of life as defined by our patients.” Hospice Brazos Valley’s

dream of bringing an inpatient facility to our community is becoming a reality. Remodeling has begun on the facility that will allow care to be provided for

patients, who are appropriate for inpatient care in a homelike atmosphere designed, staffed and specifically equipped for complex end-oflife needs. This environment will ensure the highest level of comfort and care for patients with pain and symptom issues too complex to address in a home setting. The care at Hospice Brazos Valley centers on the patient’s ability to live life to the fullest. Each member of the palliative care team embodies a role important in hospice care. Doctors and nurses support dignity at every stage of life. Care aides and social workers compassionately respect each person in our care, and encourage patient and family participation in planning and decision making. Chaplains and bereavement counselors are available to the patient and family to promote emotional and spiritual well being and aid in the grief and loss of a loved one. Volunteers provide companionship and valuable assistance to patient and caregivers. Borchardt said this team approach fosters the highest quality of care and enhances services for the patient and

family. Hospice care is funded by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans. As a non-profit organization, Hospice Brazos Valley also receives financial support from the community, allowing Hospice Brazos Valley to offer a greater level of care as well as extend care to those who have no financial resources. “We are honored to be recognized for the Readers’

Choice award,” Borchardt said. “Such recognition is indicative of the support we have received from the community for over two decades. As an expression of our sincere appreciation to all those in the communities we serve, everyone at Hospice Brazos Valley remains dedicated to providing the best care possible for our patients and their families.”

Hospice Brazos Valley 502 W. 26th Street Bryan • 979.821.2266

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank You For Voting Us The "Best Non-Profit Non-Profit Agency" Hospice Brazos Valley is the only non-profit, non-profit, community-owned hospice committed to caring for individuals touched by lifelimiting illness, grief and loss. Focusing on the patient, caregiver and family. Emphasizing quality of life. Visiting patients wherever they receive care. Supporting physicians in the care of their patients. Guiding research initiatives in palliative and hospice care. Clinical Excellence. Unwavering Compassion.

1-800-824-2326 40

Hospice Brazos Valley – experts in comfort care


Best Audiologist

R

Audiology from the University of Florida and a Master of Science in Audiology from Lamar University. He has over 17 years experience in helping those with impaired hearing. He regularly attends conferences to obtain continuing education hours in advanced courses relating to the field of audiology and hearing aids. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Audiology and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA). He currently serves on the Professional Development Committee for AAA and he is a board member for the Scott Haug Audiology Foundation, a group dedicate to the improvement and education of Audiologists from all over the country. He is also a member of the Texas Academy of Audiology. What makes Listen Hear Audiology different from other providers in the area? All patients are seen by a Board Certified audiologist for testing and hearing aid fittings. Multiple hearing aid manufacturers are available

Robert Herring, Au.D.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

obert Herring, Au.D., audiologist and owner of Listen Hear Audiology Center is honored to receive the Reader’s Choice Award for “Best Audiologist” for the third straight year. Dr. Herring would like to thank all of the people in the Brazos Valley who voted this year. Listen Hear Audiology Center is a private audiology practice dedicated to improving quality of life through better hearing health. It is the only private audiology practice in the region, offering a variety of hearing services including the following: • Adult and pediatric hearing aid fitting and dispensing • Newborn to adult comprehensive hearing evaluation • Hearing aid service and repair of almost all brands • Multiple brands of hearing aids available • Custom noise protection for shooters and hunters • Custom ear plugs for swimming Dr. Herring is a licensed audiologist with a Doctorate in

including ReSound, Oticon, Lyric by InSound Medical, Phonak and Starkey. Another difference is Dr. Herring is committed to patient satisfaction and customer service. This means no hurried appointments, being on time with appointments, and comprehensive evaluations. Hearing aid fittings are verified and validated using the criteria outlined by the American Academy of Audiology. This includes Real Ear Measurement and Live Speech Mapping. The mission of Listen Hear Audiology Center is to provide the highest standard of audiological care in the Brazos Valley, utilizing professionalism, technology, and a genuine care for improving the quality of life of those with hearing impairment. Listen Hear Audiology is located in Bryan, TX near the St. Joseph Regional Health Center. Their address is 3030 E. 29th Street, Suite 117. The telephone number is 979.776.4327 (HEAR) and the website is www.listenhearaudiolog y. com. A more comprehensive list of services can be found on the website.

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Listen Hear Audiology Center, LLC 3030 E. 29th Street, Ste. 117 Bryan • 979.776.4327

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Scott and White Provider

41


Best Resale Shop

W

hat an honor to be voted #1 Resale Shop in the Brazos Valley! Thanks to all of our loyal customers (and donors)! Since 1993, the Thrift Store has been supporting the mission of Hospice Brazos Valley. Our primary goal is to provide financial resources

to help our parent agency, Hospice Brazos Valley, care for patients at the end of their lives. Our secondary goal is to provide a great shopping experience for our customers. We say we have a “thriftique” frame of mind—a thrift store with a boutique mentality. We take great pride in the way we present our merchandise and

the cleanliness of our store. It is our hope that customers return again and again to support our mission. Also, did you know that we work with a recycler? If you have a stain or tear in a shirt, don’t throw it away— recycle it. Our recycler buys our unusable clothing, shoes, belts, and stuffed animals to make rags or to sell them to third world countries. In compliance with State regulations, we spray our furniture, linens, and other appropriate materials with

Sterifab. It contains a chemical that destroys microorganisms and a pesticide that destroys bedbugs. On our most recent State inspection, the inspector commented that our facility was one of

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Hospice Brazos Valley

THRIFT STORE Upscale apparel and fashion accessories Mention this ad and... SAVE 50% OFF ONE ITEM! (Excludes Jewelry) M-F 10 am - 5 pm & Sat 10 am - 2 pm Offering clothing, household items, furniture, appliances, electronics, books, art and decorative items. Donations are always welcome. Proceeds are used to fund the Hospice Brazos Valley mission.

42

979-775-7227 | 2814 Cavitt - Bryan w w w. h o s p i c e b r a z o s v a l l e y. o r g

the nicest he has seen in the whole state of Texas. Please stop by and visit our store at 2814 Cavitt Avenue in Bryan. We look forward to seeing you.

Hospice Thrift Store 2814 Cavitt Ave. • Bryan • 979.775.7227


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Pet Boarding

P

Clinic Manager Samantha Gathright said it was unexpected to win for pet boarding since the clinic is known for so many other services. “It was surprising for us in the sense that our boarding is not something we really highlight as much as our veterinary medicine,” she said. “We do stay fully booked at our boarding facility, but again, it was surprising.” In addition to the traditional boarding, Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center also offers a very popular “Doggie Daycare” for pet owners who do not want to leave their pets unattended all day. Dogs are grouped by size and allowed to play and exercise while their owners are away at work or school. “A lot of people use our doggie daycare,” Nieuwoudt said. “We have some very loyal dogs and owners thanks to that program.” Part of what makes the boarding at the clinic so popular is that the animals are under veterinary supervision and care during their stay. The staff keeps the animals active through exercise and play, and is also able to recognize any medical problems that may arise. Pet owners know their animals are under expert care and can rest easy knowing their pet is in good hands.

The entire staff was excited to be recognized with a Readers’ Choice Award for their hard work, and both Nieuwoudt and Gathright said everyone is eager to serve their customers even better in the future. “Winning this award is really a great

honor for us,” Gathright said. “We love to give back to our community and we’re thankful to our clients for recognizing that we’re here to take care of our patients and promote the well-being of the animals in Brazos County.”

Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center

Sunday, June 26, 2011

ets are beloved members of our families, and their well-being is always important. In situations when having a pet boarded is necessary, owners want someone they can trust. Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center has earned that trust over the years, making them the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Pet Boarding.” The Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center is a full-service veterinary clinic offering services ranging from simple immunizations to complex soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries. Clinic owner Dr. Johan Nieuwoudt and his staff are dedicated to making pets healthy and happy. Winning a Readers’ Choice Award this year has been a source of pride for everyone at Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center. Nieuwoudt has worked to instill his love of animals and care into his staff, many of whom are working their way into veterinary school at Texas A&M. “The animal always comes first here,’ Nieuwoudt said. “If you get the animal healed, you’re going to have a happy owner. I teach my staff that if you provide the best possible veterinary care, the rest takes care of itself.”

2851 Rock Prairie Road West College Station • 979.693.7806 www.wrvmc.vetsuite.com

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center Johan Nieuwoudt , DVM, Ph.D • Rachel Hibbitts , DVM • Karri McCreary , DVM • Josh Jackson , DVM The Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center is a full-service veterinary medical facility located in College Station, Texas. We promote responsible pet ownership by providing the best possible medical, surgical and dental care to our patients as well as educational opportunities to our clients. At the Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center, we offer excellence in veterinary medicine. Please take a moment to learn more about our practice and how we can serve the needs of you and your cherished pet.

2851 Rock Prairie W • College Station, TX

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM Saturday 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM Sunday 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM

979-693-7806

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 44

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Bank

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ells Fargo has been serving the Bryan-College Station area since 1885, when Wells Fargo & Co. opened an express office in Bryan. This long history, this deep sense of place, helps explain our connection to the people here. At Wells Fargo, our vision is to meet all our customers’ financial needs, and help them succeed financially. We know we can only be successful when the communities we serve are successful. This is where we live, work and play. It’s where our roots are. So we feel responsible for being part of the growth and prosperity of BryanCollege Station. Our team members have been serving customers here -- and volunteering on their behalf -- for years. In fact, you may have seen us partnering with the Bryan/ College Station Habitat for Humanity, Boys & Girls Club of Brazos Valley, Bryan and College Station ISD education foundations, Texas A&M University, Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans w/ Disabilities, Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center, and many, many more. With over 130 team members here, Wells Fargo remains deeply invested in the community. “We believe in people as a competitive advantage. Our team members who serve Bryan-College Station are part of what makes Wells Fargo one of America’s great companies,” said Carol Gravis, Community Banking President for Wells Fargo. The Wells Fargo name reaches deep into the history of Texas, as well – starting with that day in 1858 when the very first Wells Fargo wagons crossed the Red River at a spot called Colbert’s Ferry, just a few

miles north of present-day Denison. Those stagecoaches were part of Wells Fargo’s famed “Butterfield Line” that carried mail, gold and valuables westward to El Paso. Changing horses every 12 miles, the 900-mile journey took three weeks. Today across Texas, Wells Fargo has more than 700 banking locations, over 1,000 ATMs and more than 20,000 dedicated team members. Nationally, Wells Fargo is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.2 trillion in assets. Headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 9,000 stores, 12,000 ATMs, the Internet and other distribution channels across North America and internationally. With more than 278,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy all our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. Yet no matter how big we are, or how much territory we cover, we are a community bank. We share values that bind us as one team, working on behalf of our customers, our company and each other. At Wells Fargo, we want to be known as the best financial services company in Bryan-College Station. If we do this – by helping our customers succeed financially – the rest will take care of itself. That’s why we are gratified to be recognized by the readers of The Eagle. We appreciate receiving this recognition, and understand that we must continue working to deserve it.

Carol Gravis Community Banking President

Wells Fargo 3000 Briarcrest • Bryan • 979-776-3277 www.wellsfargo.com


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Thank you Eagle readers for voting Wells Fargo ‘Best Bank’*

2011 Readers’ Choice

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Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

Texas A&M University • General Services Complex (GSC) Student Business Services, 2nd Floor • 979-268-3238 University Drive • College Station, 321 University Drive • 979-691-8366 Southwest Parkway • College Station, 200 Southwest Parkway East • 979-776-3424 Rock Prairie • College Station, 1801 Rock Prairie Rd. • 979-776-3266 Harvey Mitchell Parkway • Bryan, 501 N. Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. • 979-821-3120 Briarcrest • Bryan, 3000 Briarcrest • 979-776-3277 wellsfargo.com * Readers’ poll, June 2011, The Eagle © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. (552004_02236)

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2011-06-16 16:16:48


2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Electrician

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ou see them everywhere, the beige Britt Rice Electric vans. Like a well-organized military operation, they spread out over the Brazos Valley each morning just as they have every working day since 1974. To say Britt Rice Electric is a meticulous, well-organized team is an understatement. And, to fully understand what a great company they have become, you have to first examine their visionary leader, Britt Rice. When others see a problem, Britt Rice sees an opportunity. Britt is simultaneously creative and big picture focused, yet attentive to the smallest details. He expects the best from himself and of his team of over 300 employees. You can instantly identify work that has been done by Britt Rice Electric. It is precise, accurate and neat, even when it will never be seen again. In homes, on campus and in commercial buildings all over town is some of the finest craftsmanship you’ll ever ‘not’ encounter hidden behind a wall or tucked away in an attic or electric box. It is this attention to detail, every conduit lined up precisely and each

wire connection made accurately that add up to equal pride in a job well done no matter how big or small the project. Long ago Britt Rice saw opportunity in the projected growth of the Brazos Valley. But, he also recognized the challenge of not having enough trained, professional electricians to handle the growth. A position that would have left his company vulnerable to outside contractors, but Britt had an answer. Ever the innovator, Britt developed the idea of creating an electrician apprenticeship-training program that would create jobs and opportunities for young people who wanted to learn a challenging professional trade. At the same time, the now federally approved program has provided a steady stream of highly qualified graduates to staff openings at the ever-growing Britt Rice Electric. Win-win. Which is the Britt Rice way. As the company has grown so has the Britt Rice Electric pool of exceptional talent. Uniquely, Britt has encouraged employees with multiple talents and nurtured their growth by tapping into these skilled tradesmen and expanding the service offerings of Britt Rice Electric. Now, divisions of the company handle data, voice, fiber,

The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is one of many Britt Rice Electric projects that showcases their commitment to the highest standards of workmanship and attention to detail. security, CATV, CCTV and fire alarm installations along with HVAC controls and electrical design services. Now Britt Rice Electric is housed in multiple office buildings and features registered engineers, RCDD certified technicians, design engineers and CAD operators along with 15 Master Electricians, 110 Journeymen Electricians, 85 Apprentice/Helpers, 15 Certified Fire Alarm Technicians and a multitude of BICSI Certified Data/Fiber Technicians.

Britt Rice Electric

3002 Longmire Drive College Station • 979.693.4076

Wiring the valley (and beyond) since 1974. Winner -Best Electrician 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 The Eagle Reader’s Choice Award Engineering & Electrical Design Fire & Security Alarm Sales & Services Electrical Construction & Repair Wired & Fiber Data Services CATV & CCTV Services

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Many companies fail under rapid growth or during diversification. Britt’s secret is in his people. Many of which have been with him for decades. Responsibility is earned, recognized and rewarded creating a most unique and dynamic enterprise that has guaranteed that even though the company has grown, the customer service and the quality of work has remained at the highest possible level of excellence.

briceco.net 979.693.4076 3002 Longmire Dr. College Station, TX


Best Cardiologist

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physicians in the community, both primary care and specialists.” While his medical colleagues and the skilled staff of great local facilities such as the Chest Pain Center at St. Joseph’s Regional Health Center help Wigley succeed professionally, he looks to his faith and family for the inspiration to help him continue to provide the best care possible to his patients and their families. Having the knowledge and ability to impact lives is not a responsibility Wigley takes lightly, and is a gift he is thankful for every day. The strength of his faith and love of his family allows him to face the daily pressures of a job that places another person’s future in his hands each day. “The opportunity to serve others in the medical profession is a God-given gift and a sacred trust,” Wigley said. “I believe all healing comes from the Lord. If we keep these principles in mind, the rest of the practice will

take care of itself. “I am thankful to have had the opportunity to practice cardiology here in the Brazos Valley for 22 years. I realize none of this would be possible without the wisdom, strength and loving support of my family. Wigley embodies a teamfirst mentality and is quick to point out that while his is the name on the award, being named the 2011 Readers’ Choice for best cardiologist was a group effort. “I am thankful to have been selected for this honor, but I really believe this award is a testament to the entire staff who support our practice,” Wigley said, “including the front office personnel, nurses, medical assistants, imaging specialists, and administrative staff who serve our patients and enrich their experience in our office and in the hospital.”

Kennon D. Wigley, MD Central Texas Heart Center 2700 E. 29th Street, Ste 220 Bryan • 979.774.4008 www.centraltexasheart.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

heart attack is a frightening moment not only for the person having it, but for that person’s family as well. A good cardiologist is able to both treat the patient and help put the family at ease at the same time. With his attention to both the technical and emotional aspects of his practice, Dr. Kennon Wigley of the Central Texas Heart Center was named the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Cardiologist.” Dr. Wigley came to the Bryan/C o l l e g e S t at i o n area in 1989 and joined Dr. Gordon Mitchell’s practice. He has been with the Central Texas Heart Center for 22 years where he is a part of a talented team of doctors. Being surrounded by quality doctors is something Wigley values dearly in his work. “The delivery of good medical care truly requires a team,” Wigley said. “I believe the quality of medical care in the Brazos Valley is high. I consider myself fortunate to be associated with many fine

“The opportunity to serve others in the medical profession is a God-given gift and a sacred trust.”

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

The Eagle • theeagle.com

The Faces of Hope CENTRAL TEXAS HEART i s t h e l a r ge s t , m o s t ex p e r i e n c e d a n d m o s t c o m p r e h e n s i ve p ro v i d e r o f n o n - i n va s i ve, i n va s i ve, a n d i n t e r ve n t i o n a l c a r d i o l o gy s e r v i c e s a n d p e r i p h e r a l va s c u l a r c a r e i n t h e B r a z o s Va l l ey. 979-774-4008 TOLL-FREE 866-629-5545 WWW.CENTRALTEXASHEART.COM ST. JOSEPH PROFESSIONAL BUILDING • 2700 E. 29TH STREET • STE. 200

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Best Funeral Home

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n behalf of his family and staff, Cody D. Jones thanks everyone for taking the time to vote Callaway-Jones Funeral Home & Crematory as the community’s “Best Funeral Home” for the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. As a familyowned business for five generations serving the people of Bryan and College Station, the Callaway-Jones staff considers it an honor and a privilege to provide reputable and respectable professional service to all the families of our community who choose to place their confidence and trust in the Jones family. “We would like to dedicate this award to third-generation funeral director Raymond C. Jones, and fourth-generation funeral director Michael D. ‘Mike’ Jones,” said Cody Jones. “They both received sincere and abundant joy from knowing people. They loved their profession because they believed it gave them the opportunity to help others. They both loved their family

Mike Jones 1956-2009 Raymond Jones 1931-2009 and friends, and everyone was their friend. It is their spirit that inspires and leads everyone at Callaway-Jones.”

Cody D. Jones

A native of Bryan, Cody is a fifth generation funeral director. He is a 1998 graduate of Bryan High School and a 2002 graduate of SMU, both of which he graduated in the top ranks of his class. Like his father and grandfather, Cody is also a graduate of Commonwealth Funeral Institute of Houston, where he received the distinguished

honor of admittance into the National Funeral Service Honor Society. He is a proud member of the Bryan Rotary Club and has received honors as a Paul Harris Fellow. He is a member of the Bryan/ College Station Chamber of Commerce. For the past 4 years Cody has served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Funeral Director’s Association where he has sat on the Legislative & Membership committees. Cody has recently been nominated for a 3-year term on the Board of Directors of the Cremation Association of North America. If elected, he will experience first hand knowledge of the newest

Cody D. Jones

Lorene Jones

trends and concerns in the cremation industry and will have the opportunity to educate our local community from his experience.

director of Pre-Planning. She is a licensed funeral director and insurance agent. Lorene has served on the Board of Keep Brazos Beautiful as both treasurer and secretary. Callaway-Jones Funeral Home & Crematory is a fifth generation family-owned funeral home and the only private and local crematory serving the B/CS area. We invite you to find out more about our unique services at CallawayJones.com.

Lorene A. Jones

Lorene attended Madisonville High School and graduated from Texas A&M University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. She is also a Certified Public Accountant. Lorene serves as the Funeral Home Vice-President and

Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory 3001 S. College Ave • Bryan 979.822.3717

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

979-822-3717 CallawayJones.com 48

“The only thing a funeral has to be, is whatever you want it to be”


Betty B. Smith

Winner of the $200 prize drawing in The Eagle’s 2011 Readers’ Choice ballot entry contest.

Thank You! for Voting Me

Best Hand Therapist

2011 Readers’ Choice

Congratulations!

THE UPPER EXTREMITY EXPERT

We work closely with physicians and patients to provide the highest quality of care.

POSTOPERATIVE REHABILITATION, PREVENTATIVE NON-OPERATIVE,OR CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT

Melissa Merritt, PT, CHT, OCS Physical Therapist and Certifi Certified ed Hand Therapist Evaluation and Therapy including custom splinting for hand and arm injuries and conditions.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE!

Thank you to everyone that shared your votes in this year’s Readers’ Choice survey.

979-776-5533

3201 UNIVERSITY DRIVE, SUITE 415 • (The Physicians' Centre) • BRYAN

BEST N KE CHIC

Chicken

®

BEST SWEET TEA

THANK YOU!

for Voting Us your FAVORITE CHICKEN for SIX YEARS in a Row & your FAVORITE SWEET TEA again this year!

As a Thank You Fresh Brewed Iced Tea

Only 50¢ All During July!

2 Locations

Open 7 Days a Week

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Dine In or Drive Thru at Either Location

Wellborn Rd. • 12875 FM 2154 • 764-7781 University Dr. • 710 Earl Rudder Fwy.• 846-7781 CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED • Now accepting applications for all positions.

Voteed Th ! Best11 FOR 20

Men’s, Ladies, Children Including: Wedding Dresses, Formals, Leather & Motorcycle Leather

The Eagle • theeagle.com

EXPRESS

AND NOW NEXT DOOR: BEA’S BRIDAL!

Thank You!

To Our Many Valued Customers & Friends in the Brazos Valley.

We look forward to continue serving you! Visit Bea’s Bridal

Monday - Friday 10-6 & Saturday 10-4

(979)703-8745 • www.beasbridal.com

Bea’s Alterations ❀ Bea’s Bridal 1120 Harvey Rd., College Station

(979) 693-7228 Tue-Fri 9-6 • Sat 9-4

SINCE 1982 ALMOST 30 YEARS!

(979) 703-8745 Tue-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-4

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best New Business

S

ometimes a business reaches the point when it needs a change. That’s what happened at RE/ MAX Texas Heritage. The time came to shake things up and try something new. The end result is RE/MAX Select, the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best New Business.” B r o k e r / Owners Brady Brittain and John Byers express their appreciation Brittain to the BryanCollege Station community for standing behind their business and their agents. Brady Brittain and John Byers have been active in the Bryan-College Station community since their days at Texas A&M University. John graduated from A&M, class of ’87 and Brady graduated class of ’99. Both majored in Business, which set the foundation for their desire to own and operate their own business. Their days at A&M caused them to fall in

love with the Bryan-College Station area and led to them open their own business here. “It is a blessing to live and operate a business in the Bryan-College Station area,” said Brittain. “It’s a special honor for our agents, because they make their living by selling Bryan and College Station to new residents and helping to build this Byers c o m m u n i t y. The reason they are so successful in their careers is because they love it and it shows.” Currently home to 16 agents, RE/MAX Select is relocating and expanding to a new building on Earl Rudder Freeway. In addition, the office recently unveiled a new agent Resource Center. The Resource Center was designed as an intranet for agents to navigate the many tools RE/MAX Select offers. The Resource Center is a quick and easy method for agents and

the community to access quick links to sites like MLS and Brazos CAD. It also contains information about Texas A&M, Bryan and College Station school districts, and much more! Brittain said RE/MAX Select would not have been able to make the transitions it has in the last year, nor would it be able to continue to operate was it not for the great support it gets from its clients and friends. “We are grateful to have a community like Bryan and College Station to represent,” Brittain said. “With all the changes, additions and expansions our company has initiated in recent months, this community is at the heart of it all. By providing better resources for our agents, we ultimately can provide better service to our clients.” RE/MAX Select stands out among the many agencies in town because of our qualified agents, office teamwork, and

quality client service. All of our agents are qualified licensed professionals, and some designations that our office agents hold include; CRS, GRI, and CDPE. These designations give our office a higher level of knowledge, which is integrated into all of the business transactions that we complete. At RE/MAX Select, our office works together as a team and we have a strong sense of community. Teamwork is the key to success in an office setting and although our agents work individually, they are fully backed by a strong support system. Finally, at RE/MAX Select, our clients come first. We work hard to meet your needs and to provide each client with unmatched top-quality service.

RE/MAX Select 4101 S. Texas Avenue Bryan • 979.846.5788

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank you Brazos Valley For Voting US Best New Business!

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(979) 846-5788

www.RemaxSelect.com


Best Housekeeping

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professionals into your home to address your cleaning needs that were previously identified from a free in-home consultation by their cleaning consultant. While some companies will quote a price over the phone, Merry Maids feel it’s important to view the home and consult with the owner about their specific cleaning needs. It is also important that they understand our cleaning process. Rather than quote an hourly rate, where you may or may not be able to complete the cleaning, Merry Maids believe it is more advantageous to the customer to quote a fixed price for the job. That way, regardless of the amount of time, Merry Maids will complete the cleaning. Merry Maids will provide one time cleaning specials or place the customer on a regular scheduled cleaning of a weekly, bi-weekly, and triweekly or monthly service. Most Merry Maid customers are on a regular scheduled service where they receive the same team for each cleaning.

“It’s great to get positive feedback from customers in the service business because it says you are heading in the right direction,” David said. “However, positive feedback can turn negative just as quick if you don’t focus on pleasing every customer. The most difficult part of this business is when you lose a customer because you didn’t deliver on your promise. Every customer

has to realize value from the cleaning.” Merry Maids has made great strides since opening here 12 years ago, and the Kings plan to continue that trend in the future. They thank the Eagle’s readers for awarding them with a Readers’ Choice this year and look forward to earning more votes in the future.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

iving clients one less thing to worry about has been Merry Maids’ philosophy since the company was founded in 1979. David and Josie King brought that attitude to Bryan/College Station in 1999. A dozen years later they are still helping customers and are the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Housekeeping.” Merry Maids, the nation’s largest professional residential cleaning service, has been servicing the cleaning needs of the Brazos Valley since 1999 when Josie and David King opened the local business. “We considered several different industries, but settled on the cleaning industry and particularly Merry Maids after visiting their Memphis headquarters and visiting several offices throughout Texas,” David said. “We had a little bit of a shaky start, but we won the company’s Rookie of the Year out of 35 new franchises nationwide.” Merry Maids will send a team of two trained cleaning

No contracts are required. “We have a great team of employees that have been with us for several years and I believe our employee retention is one of the keys to our ability to provide the quality of service our customers expect,” David said. “It is our employees that have won this award and we give them all the recognition for making this possible. They are the ones that cement the relationship with our customers. I believe the quality of our service today is greater than several years ago because of our experienced staff.” David said that winning an award voted on by their customers helps validate the work they do. We appreciate and thank our loyal customers and the readers for taking the time to recognize us in this manner and we will strive to live up to this award.

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Merry Maids 2551 Texas Ave. South #G College Station • 979.595.1111

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Thank You Brazos Valley For Voting Us

Best House Keeping! 979-595-1111

Call Today!

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Congratulations to the Eagle Newsroom!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Texas APME Journalism Excellence Awards Top Awards

What the judges said:

First Place:

“Powerful stories.” “A shining example of watchdog journalism.” “...aggressive and thorough.”

Third Place:

• Star Breaking News: Matthew Watkins and Vimal Patel

“Star-caliber work to be sure.” “Terrific timing and great action.” The Eagle • theeagle.com

• Best Online Newspaper: Staff • Community Service: News staff for series of stories on the plight of the Brazos Animal Shelter • Star Reporter of the Year: Vimal Patel • Star Investigative Report: Vimal Patel • Star Photographer of the Year: Stuart Villanueva

“Excellent sense of space.”

First Place • General News Photography: Stuart Villanueva • Sports Photography: Stuart Villanueva • Stuart Villanueva: Photojournalism • Short Feature: Vimal Patel Second Place • Sports Column Writing: Richard Croome • Eagle Editorial Board: Multiple editorials written by Opinion’s Editor: Robert Borden

Stuart Villanueva

Vimal Patel

Matthew Watkins

Robert Borden

Robert Cessna

Larry Bowen

Cassie Smith

Richard Croome

52 Darren Benson

Chris Hawkes

Liz Webb

Dave Mcdermand

Kim White

Third Place • Newspaper of the Year: Staff • Best Blog: Robert Cessna • Best Video Under 2 Minutes: Dave McDermand and Cassie Smith (McDermand shot; Smith edited) • Best Video Over 2 Minutes: Cassie Smith • Photo gallery of Student Bonfire: Stuart Villanueva • Sports Photo: Dave McDermand • Feature Photo: Dave McDermand • Spot Sports Writing: Larry Bowen • Spot Photography: Dave McDermand • Team Page Design: Managing Editor Darren Benson, Copy Desk Chief Liz Webb, Assistant Copy Desk Chief Chris Hawkes and copy editor Kim White Honorable Mention • Specialty Reporting: Matthew Watkins • Short Feature: Larry Bowen


Best Veterinarian

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he Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH) at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM) employs over 100 faculty members who work with residents,

surgery; soft tissue surgery (including laser instrumentation and minimally invasive surgery capabilities); neurology and neurosurgery; oncology and radiation oncology (including TomoTherapy by the fall of 2011); orthopedics, orthopedic surgery, and rehabilitation; primary care and emergency medicine; and zoological medicine and surgery. For large animals, services include community practice, critical care, equine dentistry, equine field services, equine medicine and surgery, equine lameness, equine reproduction, food animal medicine and surgery, and food animal field service. Other specialty services include anesthesiology, imaging (radiology, ultrasound, CT, and MRI), and clinical and diagnostic pathology. The Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital is located on Raymond Stotzer Boulevard on the campus of Texas A&M University. The website for the VMTH is vetmed.tamu.edu/ vmth. For more information, an appointment, or a referral, contact the Small Animal Hospital at 979-8452351 or the Large Animal Hospital at 979-845-3541.

Dr. Robert George Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Small Animal Hospital 979.845.2351 Large Animal Hospital 979.845.3541 vetmed.tamu.edu/vmth

Sunday, June 26, 2011

interns, staff, and veterinary medical students to deliver the high quality and compassionate care that every animal deserves and each client expects. The hospital’s commitment to excellence is embodied in Dr. Robert George, an intern in the Small Animal Hospital who was recently selected as “Best Veterinarian” in the “The Eagle’s Redaders’ Choice” poll. Dr. George has provided emergency care for concerned owners and patients in the Brazos Valley for nearly a year at the CVM. Although Dr. George has participated in numerous specialty services in the Small Animal Hospital this year, he has developed a special interest in cardiology. A native of Wisconsin, he is hoping to remain in the Brazos Valley because he

appreciates the relationships he has built with his clients and the kindness they show to their pets. “As veterinarians we have a true passion for wanting to help animals,” says Dr. George. “Working in a clinical setting has opened my eyes to not only the animal’s needs, but the needs of their owners. I love helping animals, because this also helps the people that are so compassionate and loving toward those animals.” The VMTH strives to maintain excellence in patient care by utilizing modern, high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic instrumentation to serve patients, clients, and veterinary practitioners in the local community and throughout Texas. Faculty members in the CVM, including Dr. George, participate in the training of veterinary students and positively impact the future of the veterinary medical profession. The VMTH offers patient care through the Small Animal and Large Animal Hospitals. For small animals, services include canine internal medicine; cardiology; critical care; dermatology; feline internal medicine; gastroenterology; general

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

The Best of the Brazos Valley The Eagle • theeagle.com

Congratulations to Dr. Robert George, Veterinary Intern Instructor in the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Texas A&M University! Dr. George was recently voted “Best Veterinarian” in the Best of the Brazos Valley readers’ poll. The Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences has a long and distinguished history of serving Texans and their pets. Faculty clinicians and skilled veterinary technicians have helped to define diagnostics and treatments which improve quality of life for all species. As an American Animal Hospital Association accredited teaching hospital, we provide excellent service to referring veterinarians and we provide primary care through our community practice services. At the same time, our faculty and staff are able to train the next generation of veterinary leaders who will be impacting the future of veterinary medicine. As a leader in veterinary hospitals we have invested in our future through bringing state-of-the-art technology to our facility. Projects such as the Imaging & Cancer Treatment Center, which will open its doors in August 2011, help make leading-edge diagnostics and treatments accesible to animals across Texas and beyond.

We offer 24/7 emergency services for both small and large animals. Contact us today to set up a referral or ask for an appointment. • Small Animal Dentistry • Dermatopathology • Rehabilitation • Imaging – MRI/CT • Zoological Medicine • Small Animal ICU • Large Animal ICU • Gastroenterology

• Equine Medicine and Surgery • Equine Lameness • Equine Reproduction • Equine Dentistry • Food Animal Medicine and Surgery • Food Animal and Equine Field Services • Laser Surgery

• Orthopedics/Osteopathology • Neurology • Oncology • Cardiology • Primary Care • Farrier Services •Radiology/Oncology

Visit us on the web at vetmed.tamu.edu/vmth

Small Animal Hospital Appointments: (979) 845-2351 Veterinarians Only: (888) 778-5523 Fax: (979) 862-1039

Large Animal Hospital Appointments: (979) 845-3541 Veterinarians Only: (888) 778-5521 Fax: (979) 845-9315

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Deli Sandwich Shop, Salad Bar

J

ason’s Deli has been serving customers in Bryan/College Station for more than 20 years, and has built a loyal following in that time. Thanks to all of those happy customers, Jason’s Deli was named both “Best Deli Sandwich Shop” and “Best Salad Bar” in the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. Beginning in Beaumont, the first Jason’s Deli opened in 1976 by founder and Aggie grad Joe Tortorice Jr. In 1988, Tortorice and his partners began franchising and the little Aggie-owned Beaumont deli quickly grew to encompass more than 225 locations across the country. In recent years, Jason’s Deli has made the move to making the menu even healthier than before. In 2005 they eliminated trans-fats from their food and eliminated high fructose corn syrup in 2008. The end result is a healthy menu that retains all of the great taste that customers have come to love over the years. College Station store

General Manager Spencer Bath believes it is the commitment to quality and nutrition that sets Jason’s Deli apart from the competition. “We have high-quality, clean food with no trans-fats or high fructose corn syrup,” Bath said. “We have home made recipes that we come in at 6 am every morning and make fresh, and our salad bar is the best.” Items such as the turkey wraps and wild-caught salmon sandwich join the salad bar as customer favorites, but the soups and baked potatoes are always popular as well. That combined with personalized service and a staff that gets to know frequent customers by name has been a winning recipe for Jason’s Deli. Being recognized for their efforts is a point of pride for the entire staff and something Bath said motivates his team to work even harder. “This even strengthens our pride in being part of the College Station community,” Bath said. “Having voters

name us ‘Best Salad Bar’ and ‘Best Deli Sandwich Shop’ is very flattering.” Bath said employees are encouraged to act as though Jason’s Deli is their home and to treat their customers as they would treat a guest in their home. That means everyone is greeted with a smile when they come in and thanked for their business as they leave. Bath said the standards for customer service and food quality are something Jason’s

Deli employees refuse to compromise on and it shows with loyal customers who take the time to vote for the store for awards such as a Readers’ Choice. “We’re very honored to be recognized by our customers

with this award,” Bath said. “We enjoy being a part of this community and we will continue to strive to do our absolute best to provide the community with the great food and service they deserve.”

Jason’s Deli 1460 Texas Ave. S. College Station • 979.764.2929

We’re honored… Thank you for voting and making us your #1 Sandwich Place and #1 Salad Bar for 2011.

Aggie Owned & Operated

1460 Texas Ave. S. • 979-764-2929 www.jasonsdeli.com

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Best Homebuilder

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market. That early experience as a sub-contractor is something Knight values. He said having the perspective of a sub-contractor makes it easier for him to have a complete understanding of what is going on in all phases of construction. Knight has built his client base by delivering quality service and always being available. His clients know they can reach him on his cell phone most any time and that he is going to do what is needed to deliver their home on time. “The amount of attention we give to our customers is something I think sets us apart a little,” Knight said. “My phone is always on. Whether it’s the evening or the weekend, my customers can call me with any questions they may have.” Knight has lived in the area since he first attended Texas A&M in 1975. He’s developed deep ties both personally and professionally, and said he can’t

Laran Construction 602 Southwest Parkway College Station • 979.777.3557

reality.” Knight thanks all of his customers and people who voted for him. He also invites those who haven’t done business with him to consider Laran Construction for their new construction and remodeling needs.

We’re here through every step of the home planning and building process, to ensure your custom home is everything you dreamed it would be.You can count on our innovation, quality materials and meticulous craftmanship to create a home that stands the test of time beautifully.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

from idea to ideal

Sunday, June 26, 2011

hoosing a homebuilder is a major decision, the effects of which – good or bad – will be felt for many years. Homeowners want the best builders possible and readers of The Eagle have singled out Laran Construction as the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Home Builder.” Owner Randy Knight was excited to be recognized out of a strong field of local builders. “It’s very humbling and gratifying to know the hard work we put into our building was appreciated by our customers,” Knight said. “There are some really good builders in our area. We’re happy to be singled out like this.” Knight (Aggie Class of ’79) formed Laran Construction in the early 80s with a business partner, and took over full control of the operation in the late 80s. Laran Construction initially started out as a framing contractor and expanded into the building

think of a better place to live and work. “The people here are so friendly,” he said. “I grew up in the Dallas area, and it’s not the same. People here will see you and say ‘howdy’ as they’re walking out of a store or just out around town. You don’t find that in the bigger cities.” Living and working in Bryan/College Station has allowed Knight to meet all kinds of people with whom he’s formed lasting friendships. He said the Brazos valley is a very educated area with wonderful people, which makes doing business all the more enjoyable. “This company is not just a way of making a living for our family,” Knight said. “It’s a part of our lives. Every day we enjoy working with people and turning their dreams into

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

LARAN CONSTRUCTION “Thank You For Voting Us Best Home Builder” Serving the Brazos Valley Since 1982

Randy Knight, Owner A&M Class of ‘79 979.777.3557

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

Best Daily Deals

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hether you’re looking for deals, happy hours, restaurant specials, garage sales or coupons, Shopbrazos.com has it. Coming in July Shopbrazos will begin offering Daily Deals. The Concept is simple. Shopbrazos.com partnered with The Eagle will offer consumers a fantastic, money saving deal each weekday. You will save 50 – 90 percent on all the things you love to do, eat, buy and experience in the Brazos Valley. It’s never been easier to score savings at restaurants, spas, and retailers. Sign up today at Shopbrazos.com/deals and have the savings delivered directly to your inbox everyday. You could win a iPad 2, Schlitterbahn tickets or $100 gas card just for signing up. The Web site, www.shopbrazos.com, is a comprehensive listing of services including restaurants, arts and entertainment, legal, medical, banking, contractors, weddings, real estate, education, home and garden, salons, spas, automotive and agricultural. Click on the “Specials” tab for a listing of daily specials from local bars and restaurant. The specials include happy hours, early bird

specials and when certain restaurants let kids eat free. Shoppers can also get alerts on these specials via Twitter (http://twitter.com/shopbrazos) or the Shopbrazos.com Facebook fanpage (http://www.facebook.com/ shopbrazos). Several restaurants have menus on the sites, where you can check out their pricing and options. Click on the entertainment tab to view where to take vocal, instrument, songwriting or art lessons, where to hear live music, drink a cold beverage, see movies, go to golf, play Bingo, go ice skating, catch a baseball game, go dancing, take a swim, see car races, go sky diving or even where to hire a clown. Before heading to the grocery store shoppers can also print out coupons from the Shopbrazos, garnering savings on items such as toilet paper, bandages, pet products, food items, over-the-counter medicines and shoes. Click on the real estate tab to a list of local realtors. The home and garden section has services ranging from pest control to glass service, plumbing and carpeting. Businesses can get the most from their advertising dollars with Shopbrazos because it uses search

engine optimization, meaning it provides content, keywords and links in such a way that search engines like Google, Yahoo and Ask can identify, index and rank the site for users. This means more people will see the business’ microsites. Developers are able to use a search engine optimization campaign based

on information that is provided in the business write-ups along with keyword tagging. So with a consumer’s search for an auto insurance company, for example, local advertisers will appear in the listings for auto insurance. Businesses can contact juliet. mccarthy@theeagle.com for more details.

Shopbrazos www.Shopbrazos.com/deals

The Eagle • theeagle.com

6 Weeks of Summer Give Away

coming soon! Sign up now and you’ll be automatically entered to win one of these great prizes.

Apple iPad 2 • $100 gas card 4 Schlitterbahn tickets 56

Sign up at


2011 Readers’ Choice

TO OUR WONDERFUL CUSTOMERS... Thank you for your support!

Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

FAVORITE Overall and Business Lunch Restuarant

FAVORITE Seafood Restaurant 57


2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Tire Store

T

he College Station Discount Tire store located at 2321 Texas Avenue South is honored to be chosen as “Best Tire Store” by The Eagle readers. The store and its staff have proudly served College Station for the past 25 years. Quality employees are vital to the success of Discount Tire. They represent its philosophy by remaining knowledgeable, friendly and honest. By offering the highest level of customer service, more product choices and low prices, Discount Tire has earned the right to be College Station’s trusted tire retailer. Since 1960, Discount Tire has served customers in local markets across the U.S. Today the company provides exceptional customer service at more than 800 locations in 23 states. It sells leading brands such as Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Yokohama, Kumho, BFGoodrich, Pirelli, Hankook, Falken, along with Discount Tire exclusive brands such as Silver Edition and Roadhugger. Discont Tire also offers wheels from Enkei, Konig, Liquidmetal, TSW, Akuza and exclusive brands including MB Wheels and G-games. Discount Tire also provides free tire checks to help motorists identify potential problems related to tire air

pressure, alignment, rotation and tread. Correcting these problems is critical to road safety and may extend tire life and increase fuel economy. With summer temperatures beginning to heat up and vacationers starting to hit the roads, it’s now more important than ever to practice proper tire care. Additionally, Discount Tire serves its customers at www.tires.com. Customers can locate a store, search for and purchase tires and wheels for their vehicle, schedule appointments for installation, register for email discounts and gain access to safety tips and other helpful information. The company’s online Interactive Wheel System allows customers to visualize wheels on their vehicle prior to purchase. Discount Tire is also a major sponsor of NASCAR Nationwide Series and Formula D racing. Discount Tire and Penske Racing recently celebrated a historic milestone with the win of their first NASCAR championship. Brad Keselowski drove the No. 22 Discount Tire car to victory in the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide series. News, driver appearances, show car schedules and racing schedules can be found at DiscountTireMotorsports.com. For those interested in becoming part of the Discount Tire family, the

company is committed to promoting from within and is always looking for qualified individuals to join them in their exceptional growth. Career opportunities can be found by visiting

Discount Tire’s website or a local Discount Tire store. To reach the local College Station store, call (979) 693-0177.

Discount Tire 2321 Texas Avenue South College Station • 979.693.0177

THANK YOU, EAGLE READERS FOR VOTiNG US “BEST TiRE STORE!” We work hard every day to bring you the best brands at the best prices!

COLLEGE STATiON

2321 Texas Ave.

979-693-0177

58

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU!

MONDAY–FRIDAY: 8:00–6, SATURDAY: 8:00–5 • OveR 800 STOReS NATIONwIDe!


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Assisted Living Facility, Nursing Home

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with many serving more than 20 years and one who has been on staff for a remarkable 33 years. “Our mission is to provide quality living for senior adults in a Christian environment,” said Crestview Executive Director, Matthew Currie. “Anyone can meet basic healthcare needs. We go above and beyond by meeting the psychological, social and spiritual needs of our residents. Every day that we come to work, we are inspired by the smiles, laughter and happy faces of our residents. There is nothing more rewarding than to leave work knowing that you made a difference in someone’s life.” Crestview’s atmosphere of caring extends beyond the walls and property of the facility. The on-staff chaplain routinely visits the hospital if a Crestview resident is having to stay there. The chaplain checks in on the resident to remind he or she is not alone and that their Crestview family is thinking of them and wants them to get better. To have their residents and the residents’ families recognize them through this award is very special to the Crestview staff. “Our management and staff are both honored and thankful that those we serve have chosen us for this award,” Currie said. “To our residents – thank you for this honor and for allowing us to serve you and your families.”

Crestview Retirement Community

Sunday, June 26, 2011

hoosing a retirement community is one of the bigger decisions one can make. Finding a place with the right attitude and quality of life is key, and for the Eagle’s readers, Crestview Retirement Community is the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Assisted Living Facility and Nursing Home.” Crestview Retirement Community was founded in 1964 by a group of civic leaders and Methodist clergy members with the goal of building a home to serve the senior citizens of Bryan/College Station. The campus has grown over the years to become a multi-faceted community offering residential apartments, independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and home health care. This fall, Crestview will further extend its offerings to include added support for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. With Phase I of Crestview’s redevelopment nearing completion, our vision is to transform our aging campus into a stylish, modern and vibrant community that offers appealing new choices in terms of residences, amenities, health care, and future planning options for senior adults. Part of what has made Crestview so successful is the dedicated staff. In an industry riddled with turnover, Crestview has worked hard to attract and retain caring people who are passionate about serving others. Over a third of the staff has been at Crestview for more than 15 years,

2505 East Villa Maria Rd • Bryan • 979.776.4778

The Eagle • theeagle.com

HELP YOURSELF TO CARE.

Reliable health services the Crestview way. Opening this fall to serve our community, Crestview residents and the residents of Arbor Oaks, the new independent living community with Life Care: our beautiful new Health Center. Here, you’ll find compassion, professionalism and the highest level of care — in the trusted tradition of Crestview. • Rehab

• Assisted Living

• Skilled Nursing

• Memory Care

• Home Health Care

To find out more about our new Health Center, call (979) 776-4778 now. 2501 E. Villa Maria Road • Bryan, TX 77802 • www.mrcaff.org 2501

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 60

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Cellular Provider

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ounded in 1885, AT&T has been at the forefront of telecommunications for almost as long as telephones have existed. Now, 126 years later, AT&T is still a leader in the industry and the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Wireless Provider.” AT&T is the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, serving millions of customers and enabling them to travel and communicate seamlessly with the best worldwide wireless coverage. The company offers voice coverage in more than 220 countries, data roaming in more than 200 countries and mobile broadband in more than 130 countries. It is AT&T’s goal to connect its customers to the world everywhere they live and work. The company does so by offering its customers access to innovative products and services that challenge the public’s notion of what a wireless phone can be. AT&T’s portfolio of services — perhaps the most robust in the marketplace — delivers choice, value and convenience across a range of options. Millions of consumers have chosen AT&T’s comprehensive service bundles because of its competitive pricing, world-class customer service and knowledgeable sales staff. And AT&T is committed to bringing mobile broadband

advances and the future of wireless to consumer and enterprise electronic devices. AT&T has already taken the lead in wirelessly empowering a variety of netbooks, laptops, tablets, e-readers and more for consumers as well as services for enterprise, including devices for major package delivery companies to wirelessly enable their fleets. AT&T is recognized as one of the leading worldwide providers of IP-based communications services to businesses. AT&T also has the largest international coverage of any U.S. wireless carrier, offering the most phones that work in the most countries; the largest Wi-Fi network in the United States based on branded and operated hotspots; and the largest number of total broadband connections in the United States. In addition to AT&T’s top-of-the line service and technology, the company is also a leader in charitable initiatives. They’ve partnered with Cell Phones for Soldiers to set up more than 2,200 locations nationwide where people can drop off their old phones, which can be recycled with proceeds being used to secure prepaid phone cards for soldiers overseas. AT&T and its employees are grateful for the sacrifices that military

personnel make every day on behalf of the nation, and they share the goal of providing them an affordable way to call home. To date, AT&T has built roughly 70 calling centers in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan and has donated nearly $8 million worth of prepaid calling cards for military personnel. The company also continues to support meaningful programs that provide free streaming video communications to military families, entertainment for military members away from home, and relief for those called to active duty.

“AT&T is bringing it all together for our customers, from revolutionary smartphones to nextgeneration TV services and sophisticated solutions for multi-national businesses,” said Chris Penrose, Vice President/General Manager of AT&T’s South

Texas Region. “For more than a century, we have consistently provided innovative, reliable, highquality products and excellent customer care. Our mission continues to be to connect people with their world everywhere they live and work, and to do it better

than anyone else.” Despite having a global profile, AT&T still prides itself on working at the regional and local levels to give customers the best service possible, as evidenced by winning the 2011 Readers’ Choice Award. “It is an honor to be recognized by The Eagle’s readers in the 2010 Readers’ Choice poll,” Penrose said. “AT&T is a proud supporter of the Bryan/College Station community, including Texas A&M University, and is a proud sponsor of Texas A&M Athletics.” Have a question? Need assistance? Looking for information? You can reach AT&T online, at your local AT&T retail store, by telephone, or on popular social media sites, including Facebook and Twitter.

AT&T

www.att.com


2011 Readers’ Choice

No compliment means more than yours.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Samsung Infuse™4G

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Thank you for voting AT&T Best Cellular Service Provider in Bryan/College Station.

1.866.MOBILITY – ATT.COM – VISIT A STORE Official wireless sponsor of Texas A&M athletics. AT&T Stores Bryan 1801 Briarcrest Dr. (979) 777-7000

College Station 1712 Rock Prairie Rd. (979) 695-2990

1505 Texas Ave, Ste. A (979) 693-6214

4GspeedsdeliveredbyHSPA+withenhancedbackhaul.Availableinlimitedareas.Availabilityincreasingwithongoingbackhauldeployment.Requires4Gdevice.Learnmoreatatt.com/network. Mobile broadband not available everywhere. See stores for coverage map. Screen images simulated. ©2011 AT&T Intellectual Property. Service provided by AT&T Mobility. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com 62

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Outdoor Dining

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ustomers of Ozona Grill & Bar in College Station associate the restaurant with the relaxed patio atmosphere. So do The Eagle’s readers as the local hot spot won the Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Outdoor/ Patio Dining.” The College Station Ozona is the second location for the popular restaurant. The original Ozona opened in 1992 near SMU in Dallas. Named after a famous West Texas town, the menu at Ozona Grill & Bar was inspired by traditional Texas and border cuisine. The Dallas Ozona’s trademark was its patio dining areas, often regarded as the biggest and shadiest in the city. In 2003, Ozona expanded to College Station, bringing that same outdoor experience to Aggieland. “Ozona provides a unique dining atmosphere to the B/ CS area,” said Brian Morris, General Manager of Ozona. “We believe we have the largest, shadiest and most natural patio environment in town. We try to combine that with a casual and fun atmosphere that can be enjoyed while watching sports,

listening to live music or simply relaxing over brunch, lunch or dinner.” With the relaxed patio atmosphere and variety of happy hour specials like Working Women’s Wednesday, it’s not hard to see why Ozona Grill & Bar is a popular place to find people unwinding at the end of a tough day. “We enjoy seeing our guests smiling and enjoying themselves when they are dining with us, and seeing them leaving happy and ready to come back again.” Morris said. Ozona is pleased to add “Best Outdoor/Patio Dining” to their list of accomplishments. “We are honored to be recognized by our guests in this way,” Morris said of Ozona’s Readers’ Choice wins. “We are proud of the service we provide, and are so appreciative of our customers. Thanks to everyone that thought of us!” So stop by Ozona Grill & Bar at 520 Harvey Road and kick back with your friends and a big plate of nachos and enjoy the best happy hour on the best patio in town.

Ozona Grill & Bar

520 Harvey Rd. College Station • 979.694.4618 www.ozonagrill.com


2011 Readers’ Choice

Sunday, June 26, 2011

The Eagle • theeagle.com

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Best Pest Control

W

hen you have unwanted pests in your house, you want them out quickly and you want them to stay out for good. The staff at ABC Home & Commercial Services in College Station understands this and their reputation for getting results have won them the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Pest Control,” as voted by readers of The Eagle. ABC started more than 60 years ago in San Antonio as ABC Pest Control. Since then, the company has expanded throughout Texas under the leadership of brothers Bobby, Raleigh and Dennis Jenkins. The services have also expanded to include lawn and landscaping services. ABC came to Bryan/College Station in the 1980s when ABC bought Aggieland Pest Control and took over operations of the business. They haven’t looked back since as they’ve built a loyal customer base through great service and proven results. Jerry Johnson, general manager of the College

Station location said that the main difference between pest control companies isn’t how they treat the pests, but how they treat the people. “I think what sets us apart is our level of customer service,” Johnson said. “The pest control application side of the business is actually pretty similar in most places. We focus on having the best response times possible and treating people the right way. Making our customers feel that we are the best option in town is what we strive for.” Johnson said that ABC has been particularly effective in bed bug cases lately, so much so that they have received referrals from other companies that have not had as much success with the infestations. The bed bugs are a good example of why ABC Home & Commercial services have won the award this year. Many companies treating bedbugs will spend about an hour checking and treating a home. ABC takes about three or four hours as the technicians check the entire

home with a remarkable attention to detail in order to root out any place the bed bugs might be hiding. Regardless of what the problem is, ABC will work with the customer to come up with the best solution from the treatment plan to the billing. “Pretty much if it comes into your house, we’re going to get it out of there,” Johnson said. “That includes insect and rodents and we’ve even been called in to trap a skunk in someone’s attic. That’s not a place you expect to find a

skunk.” Johnson said winning the award is something everyone in his business takes pride in. While they don’t do their job to win awards, it’s always nice to be recognized by their clients.

“It’s a real honor,” Johnson said. “We won awards over the years, but it is always nice each time the people in town favor us and it lets us know we’re delivering the kind of customer service we strive for each year.”

ABC Home & Commercial Services 4202 State Highway 6 S # B College Station • 979.361.0500

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Specialists for Your Environment

• Pest & Termite Control • Bed Bugs • Rodent & Wildlife

• Landscape • Sprinkler • Lawn Services

• Hoilday Lighting 64

Thank You Brazos Valley For Your Support Over The Years!

(979) 361-0500 • 4202 State Hwy. 6 South • College Station, TX


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Mexican Restaurant

A

depot in downtown Bryan. He served homemade Mexican stew and other dishes that became very popular with both locals and travelers. Among those dishes was the chili recipe that is still served today at Casa Rodriguez. Many of those recipes were passed down to Paul and Chelo Rodriguez, who passed them down to Richard and Beatrice, who in turn passed them down to Debbie and her daughters Lauren and Jamie. It is those cherished family recipes that set Casa Rodriguez apart from other restaurants in the area and have sent many a customer running to Downtown Bryan to get their “Casa Rod fix.” “Popular dishes like El Mobley, fried taquitos, fried avocado and, of course, the El Memo Enchiladas,” Montalbano said. “Weekends we have homemade Caldo (soup) until it’s all gone. We are excited to have recently renovated and put in a full bar, serving mimosas, sangria and our CasaRita’s and Memo Punch.” Casa Rodriguez has worked hard for its recognition. The staff and management strive daily to provide the best service to their loyal customers. “It is a humbling feeling that makes our family proud to know that our hard work and team effort finally paid off,” Debbie said. “To all our loyal returning and future customers, we thank you

from the bottom of our hearts.” Casa Rodriguez is located at 300 N. Bryan Avenue in downtown Bryan. See their menu and specials online at

www.casarod.com. Stop by on the 1st and 2nd Fridays every month to enjoy live entertainment with your meal.

Casa Rodriguez

Sunday, June 26, 2011

local institution since opening in 1978, Casa Rodriguez is the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Mexican Food.” Founded by Richard and Beatrice Rodriguez with the blessings and recipes of Paul and Chelo Rodriguez, “Casa Rod” as loyal customers know it has been winning over lovers of great Mexican food for more than 30 years. Whether they come for a steaming plate of enchiladas, a delicious breakfast taco or a bowl of Casa Rodriguez’s famous chili, customers can count on the great service this family-owned restaurant prides itself on. “We stress to our employees that our customers’ experience should always and will be one that they won’t ever forget,” said Debbie Montalbano, daughter of Richard and Beatrice Rodriguez. “We make our customers feel as if they’re family.” While Casa Rodriguez opened in 1978, the true history of the restaurant stretches much farther back. The Rodriguez family cooking legacy dates back to 1898 when a young man from Zacatecas, Mexico named Manuel Rodriguez came to Bryan to work the railroads. Manuel took the money he earned on the railroads and opened a Mexican restaurant behind the Ben Knox Saloon, near the railroad

Mexican Restaurant 300 N. Bryan Ave • Bryan 979.779.0916 • www.casarod.com

ley f xican l a V s Brazo avorite Me t Us F estauran R 1 in 201

The Eagle • theeagle.com

OU ting Y K N THA or Vo

Full Bar Now Open! Come try a CasaRita or El Memo Punch!! JOIN US FOR BREAKFAST! Tues. thru Fri. Sat. & Sun. 8am-11:30am 7am-10:45am Serving the Best Mexican Food in the Brazos Valley Since 1978! 300 N. Bryan Ave. • Historic Downtown Bryan • 979-779-0916 Monday 11am-2pm • Tuesday-Thursday • 7am-9pm Friday 7am-9pm • Saturday 8am-9pm • Sunday 8am - 8pm

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2011 Readers’ Choice Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Storage Facility

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ow prices, first class facility, and going the extra mile. From Iraq (yes, that Iraq!) to Humble, Texas, they serve their client’s needs. The facility is handily accessible on the Highway 6 – just one mile south of the new HEB and Lowe’s. No need is too big or too small. Need to meet at 9 p.m to rent a unit? It can be arranged. Meet on Sunday afternoon? Just see the customer’s comments below. In Iraq, and you need to get your car to our Boat/RV facility for storage? No problem. Need a moving company, a client of yours, XD Moving, is located here on site to help. Quality storage facilities likely aren’t the kind of things you think about until you need them. That was the case with Hub Kennady. Inspired by a fruitless search in 2006, he opened A&M Super Storage in 2008, and is the 2010 AND 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Storage Facility.” “I determined there was a need for more climate controlled, non-climate controlled storage, with RV/boat parking available as well,” Kennady said. “We can store a 40’ RV for $105, with covered parking.” A&M Super Storage have spaces as small as 25 square feet, or up to 400 square feet, and we can accommodate larger clients as needed. They have over 86,000 square feet between two

facilities. Also, XD Moving has moved into A&M Super Storage, and can easily service your move AND storage. A&M Super Storage opened in May 2008 and business immediately took off. A great location on Highway 6, one mile south of the College Station water tower, meant many students could see them as they came into town. A&M Super Storage customer service and low prices won them over. Moving and storage and even renting Penske trucks, A&M Super Storage can do it all! The manager, Dave Oakes, has a saying he learned from his Dad, “Son, our customers are our boss.” With that kind of approach - how can you go wrong? A&M Super Storage staff is willing to make the extra effort. Whether it’s staying open late or meeting someone on a Sunday evening, just call A&M Super Storage. “Our phone number is easy, 690-5000, and my after hours direct number is 255-2057. Please call us,” Kennady said. They can even rent you office space on a month basis. Jeff Horak was moving items from Humble and wasn’t going to be able to make it during normal business hours. “We called Hub and he agreed to meet us Sunday afternoon late” Horak said. “In a business like this, what makes you stand out is customer service. I

think it sets you apart.” Jeremy Nelms was in Iraq and needed help. Kennady and his crew facilitated transfer of his vehicle to the secure Boat/RV location at 4000 Greens Prairie Road. “Here I am in Iraq, and they went the extra ‘7,465 miles’ to help get me good service, even transporting my car! Hoo-rah. Can’t beat that!” “The customer is our boss and we remember that every day,” said A&M Super Storage manager, Dave Oakes. “The fact they chose to do business

with us is a compliment to everyone here.” Kennady said that winning a Readers’ Choice Award is an accomplishment for a business like his that places an emphasis on competitive prices and customer service. “We are honored by the customers and friends of customers who have been referred to us,” Kennady said. “We will continually strive to earn the business of those who have a need for storage. Let us make it easy for you.”

A&M Super Storage, Inc. 17333 State Highway 6 South College Station • 979.690.5000

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Texas A&M University A

Storage Facility 2010

Storage Facility 2011

Pebble Creek Country Club

College Station Water Tower

40

B

Climate Controlled & Non-Climate Controlled Storage Units RV Covered Parking & Truck Rental 66

www.aandmsuperstorage.com 17333 state highway 6 • college station, TX 77845 979.690.5000 & After Hours 979.255.2057


Best Pharmacy

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edicine Chest Pharmacies is a fast-growing regional pharmacy chain based in Sulphur Springs, Texas. They currently own over 25 retail pharmacies and 3 institutional pharmacies. The institutional pharmacies serve the needs of the nursing home community.

Since purchasing their first pharmacy in 1975, Medicine Chest has been committed to excellence in customer service. Medicine Chest believes that their employees are the key to their success, and encourages employees to always go the extra distance to assist customers in any way that they

pharmacists are always available to answer any questions that a customer may have about their medications, and any special needs that a customer may have will always be addressed and time will be given to see to those needs. Many of our customers are multigenerational, and we appreciate their trust in the services that we provide, and thank them for allowing us to be a part of their family as well. Winning the Readers’ Choice award has given the Bryan Medicine Chest staff, as well as the entire Medicine Chest family, a great sense of accomplishment and has made us proud of the services that we are providing to our customers. This award lets us know that we are fulfilling our customer service goals and gives us encouragement to exceed those goals in the future. We would like to thank all of our customers for their continued support and trust in us and in the services that we provide, and to express our sincere appreciation for taking the time to vote for us. We hope to continue to meet or exceed your customer service expectations in the future, and strive to continue meeting the needs of the community and providing excellence in customer service to the Brazos Valley.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

can. Medicine Chest’s philosophy is “Making a Difference With Service.” Since purchasing the pharmacy in Bryan last year, Medicine Chest has strived to maintain the quality of service that existing customers had come to expect, while also looking for new ways to improve that service. For those with busy lifestyles, Bryan Medicine Chest offers convenient drive-thru service and free prescription delivery to your home or place of work. The free delivery service is especially helpful to those who are homebound or unable to drive, thus helping to relieve the burden on family members. During flu season, flu shots are available in-store. There is also a generic savings plan available through Medicine Chest for $10 per year that offers discount prescription pricing for the entire immediate family for those without insurance or with prescriptions not covered by insurance. The staff of Bryan Medicine Chest is committed to providing individualized customer service, and treating each customer as if they were our only customer. Our existing customers are always greatly appreciated and always greeted by name, and new customers are welcomed and encouraged. Our

2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Medicine Chest 2300 De Lee St • Bryan • 979.776.6800

Thank You For Making Our

Making A Difference With Service

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Bryan

First Year A Great One!

2300 De Lee St • Bryan, TX (979) 776-6800 ACROSS 29TH STREET FROM ST. JOSEPH HOSPITAL Hours: Monday-Friday : 8:30am - 6:00pm • Saturday: 8:30am - 12:00pm

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Now 100% Digital ON ALL 16 SCREENS

Thank You For Voting Us "Best Movie Theater"

Sunday, June 26, 2011

The Best Big Burger in Town!

OPENS JULY 15TH 12:05AM PRESENTED IN 3D WITH 11777 Wellborn Road College Station, TX

(979) 764-2933

3940 Harvey Road College Station, TX

(979) 776-2833

www.koppebridge.net

Mon - Sat 11am - 9pm • Wed - Sat 11am - 10pm • Sun 11am - 9pm

The Eagle • theeagle.com

KOPPE BRIDGE VOTED BEST BURGER! 1999-2010 The Eagle Readers’ Choice Award

Thank You for Voting Us Best Daycare Center!

Language Activities • Bible Stories • Learning Centers Gymnasium for Indoor Play • 3 Age Appropriate Playgrounds for Physical Activities

PROUDLY SERVING BCS FOR 25 YEARS

Our Goal is to Help Children Grow Intellectually, Physically, Socially and Spiritually by providing a Loving Christian Environment!

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CAMELOT Learning Center For Children 4232 BOONVILLE RD. • BRYAN • 979-774-7116

VIEW SHOWTIMES & ORDER TICKETS ONLINE AT

WWW.PCCMOVIES.COM AGGIELAND 16 950 N EARL RUDDER FWY

774-4200 What are your floors wearing?

Thank You!

for Voting Us Your Favorite Tile and Flooring Center 4 Years in a Row! We promise you’ll love the way your new floor looks, or we’ll replace it FREE – including installation!†

FOLLOW US: (979)690-6766 • 4093 STATE HWY 6 SOUTH MONDAY – FRIDAY 9AM-6PM • SATURDAY 10AM-5PM

†See actual warranty at store for details.

aggielandcarpetone.com


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Pool/Spa Store

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employees. “I feel obligated to do my best for Mobley Pool Company because the families of my employees are depending on the business for their livelihoods. I obviously cannot do it by myself, so I need to take care of the employees I have. I’ve had two employees for 29 years now. I treat my employees like they are part of the business, not working for the business.”

“We would like to thank our loyal customers for their continual support. It is a pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful community.” “We stay informed so that we can provide the customer with the highest quality product and workmanship. We want to provide the customer with a first-class experience, so we always aim to be polite

and greet people with a big, friendly smile.” One of the best compliments Mobley receives is business referrals from others in the community. “I sell more pools from referrals than any other form of advertising,” Mobley said. “When you refer someone, you are going out on a limb for that person. We would like to

thank our loyal customers for their continual support. It is a pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful community.”

So if you want the bestbuilt pool - and the best-rated service five years running you want a Mobley pool.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

obley Pool Company, winners of The Eagle’s Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Pool Store” for the fifth year in a row, values honesty as well as integrity. Owner Gary Mobley said, “Just to be nominated is a great thing. I feel honored that people would take the time and effort to vote for us for the Readers’ Choice Award.” Mobley graduated from college and went to work for the original “Mobley Pool Guy,” his father, John Mobley. “My dad was always in business for himself. I never really thought I would work for somebody else. I always knew my dad and I would work together. It didn’t even cross my mind to work somewhere else,” he said. After 38 years of servicing the Brazos Valley, Mobley said his company policy has never changed: “Be honest and do the best job possible. We never compromise our structural integrity.” Integrity is also a trait Mobley shares with his

Mobley Pool Company 2004 E. Villa Maria Rd Bryan • 979.776.5557

Custom Gunite Pool & Hot Spring Spas The Eagle • theeagle.com

2004 E. Villa Maria Bryan, Tx 77802

(979) 776-5557 Visit us online at: w w w.mobleypools.com

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2011 Readers’ Choice

Best Urgent Care/ Emergency Facility

I

t’s late Saturday afternoon and things have slowed down just long enough for you to wonder if that cold your little-league star has been fighting– might be strep throat. Now you need to know, because if it’s strep: 1) you want him on antibiotics before Monday, 2) he can’t go to that sleepover tonight, and 3) you want to separate him from your little ballerina and your future basketball star before they get sick. Oh, and it’s your night to take dinner to your friends who just had a new baby. It’s not a full-blown emergency but you need to see a doctor today – and soon. Thankfully, a St. Joseph Express location is just down the road and you don’t need an appointment. Whether you live in Bryan or College Station, an Express is just minutes away. Staffed with board-certified physicians, St. Joseph Express is open on Saturdays and is your answer when illness suddenly comes knocking. Along with St. Joseph’s ERs, St. Joseph Express was voted Readers’ Choice winner for “Best Urgent Care/Emergency Facility” for the third year in a row. You can find a St. Joseph Express on Villa Maria just down the road from Blinn, in Bryan or by the new Lowe’s in South College Station near the William D. Fitch exit of Highway 6. Both are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. They’re even open on holidays. “The Express facilities are here for

you when you need to see a doctor right away, but can’t get in to see your family physician,” said Leanne Janke, Director of St. Joseph Express Clinics. “On weekends and holidays when your medical options are limited, people really appreciate our Express locations.” Janke said she believes the attractive, comfortable facilities and great care are the difference in the continued success St. Joseph Express has enjoyed. The St. Joseph Express model has been so successful, two new locations are expected to open by the end of this year. When true medical emergencies arise, you can have confidence in St. Joseph’s Level III trauma-designated Emergency Center in Bryan, the first in the Brazos Valley to be named an Accredited Chest Pain Center and the only Certified Primary Stroke Center in the area. Our freestanding 24-hour Emergency Center in South College Station, next to St. Joseph Express, opened in 2009. With an ambulance bay, helipad, full diagnostic services, short wait times and exceptional customer service, it’s no wonder St. Joseph’s College Station ER is a part of the Reader’s Choice Award. “The St. Joseph Difference is all about providing patients the best experience,” said Janke. “So being recognized as a Readers’ Choice winner is an honor for all of us at St. Joseph.”

St. Joseph Express/ER www.st-joseph.org

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Primary Stroke Center SJRHC

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St. Joseph Express Walk-In Care

St. Joseph Emergency Center-Bryan

In Bryan at 2010 E Villa Maria In College Station at 4401 HWY 6 S Mon- Fri: 8am - 8pm Sat: 8am - 4pm Sun: 12pm - 6 pm

St. Joseph Emergency Center-College Station

Level III Trauma Center 2801 Franciscan Drive Major Emergencies • Open 24/7 441 HWY 6 S

The Difference

A Ministry of Sylvania Franciscan Health


2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Foundation Repair

A

their deep-drill method. The foundation support pier runs 10 to 12 feet deep, meaning the support is anchored in soil that maintains a relatively constant moisture level. Customers are quick to praise Anchor Foundation for the quality of work. One letter sent to them from a homeowner selling his property stated he found paperwork from a foundation repair 14 years earlier as he was going through the property records. Realizing how well the repairs had held, he was compelled to contact Anchor. “You may have forgotten the job by now, but I wanted to let you know your foundation repair has held up perfectly all these years,” the letter read. “It’s almost hard to believe 14 years have gone by since you repaired the foundation, but it is still in perfect condition.” Anchor Foundation matches the quality of its technique with the quality of its service. The 2009 Better Business Bureau Torch Award winner for marketplace ethics, Anchor Foundation focuses

their repair work on only what is necessary to protect their customers’ homes. They are up front with what they do and believe that is why their customers have voted them as a Readers’ Choice winner. “We are very honored to win this award,” Tripp said. “I would like to thank my customers for their trust in my work and their continued referrals.” Don’t wait if you find cracks

in your mortar or think you may have foundation problems. Protect your investment with a call to Anchor Foundation. Tripp and his team of skilled workers will come out and

give you a free estimate. If you need work, you can rest assured knowing the repairs will be handled by workers voted the best in town by the community.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

home is the biggest investment most people make in their life, and foundation damage can ruin that investment. When it comes to making sure your home is on the level, Anchor Foundations is the 2011 Readers’ Choice for “Best Foundation Repair.” Anchor Foundation was founded in 1985 by Ken Tripp. He came to Bryan/College Station from Houston where he worked for the people who pioneered modern foundation repair. Anchor’s deep-drilled bellbottom pier techniques have been proven effective for more than 40 years by the VA and FHA. “Homes repaired with this technique have stood the test of time,” Tripp said. “My employees and I continue to make lasting repairs to homes. Our customers are very happy with the results and tell their friends and neighbors about us.” The majority of foundation problems come from homes built on a grade or on unstable soil. Anchor Foundation can fix either problem with

Anchor Foundation Repair 2924 Cain Rd • College Station 979.690.2020

ANCHOR FOUNDATION REPAIR CO. I have over 34 years of solid foundation repair experience, and over 8,000 homes repaired. I use only the finest repair techniques proven for 38 years by the F.H.A. And V.A. If you don’t call me for an evaluation of your home’s foundation, we both lose! So call today for your free estimate! Sincerely, Ken Tripp

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Lifetime Conditional Guarantee • SLAB, PIER & BEAM, BLOCK & BASE • NO Subcontractors • FHA – VA Approved Methods • Deep Bell Bottom Piers • Out-of-Town Jobs Welcome • Professional Service • 34 Years Experience • Insured For Your Protection

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Dear Homeowner:

FREE INSPECTIONS & ESTIMATES

979-690-2020 2924 Cain Rd • College Station 77845

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2011 Readers’ Choice

2011 READERS’ CHOICE

Best Beauty Salon, Day Spa, Hair Stylist, Nail Salon

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Sunday, June 26, 2011

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or the fifth year, Celebrity Spa is the favorite in 4 separate categories in The Eagle’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. They were designated as Best Beauty Salon, Best Day Spa and Best Nail Salon. Special recognition goes to Laura Atkinson, the senior stylist at Celebrity, who was again voted the Favorite Hairstylist in the Readers’ Choice Awards. Laura Atkinson, with her sister Leah Lucas and mother Cindy Atkinson, have been co-owner’s of Celebrity Spa & Boutique since 2006. They offer a complete range of salon services, the latest trends in spa pedicures and manicures and luxurious spa treatments essential for creating a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. Each guest is considered as an individual with his or her own needs and desires. At Celebrity Spa & Salon, they offer the highest level of expertise to provide customized services for their

guests. Laura Atkinson is a member of the Celebrity team of highly trained stylists who have a knowledge of all the latest trends. “Fashion is always changing, so we have to change with it,” said Laura. “We must continue our education and training in the industry so we can offer the highest quality service.” In 2010, Laura became a Redken Certified Colorist, and is also a certified Master Redken Specialist. “With each guest, I start with a consultation. What is their personal style, what kind of lifestyle do they have, how do they typically style their hair, etc. From there we create a look that coincides with their hair type, face shape and skin tone. “ Laura is also a certified Pureology Pureologist, and a certified Jane Iredale make-up artist.

Celebrity Spa is one of the few Elite Redken Salons in Texas and they understand that your hair is your best fashion accessory—when it looks amazing, so do you. Using professional products in a salon setting such as Celebrity gives you access to the newest techniques and advances in color science, whether you’re heading in for first-time color, or ready to try out a bold new fashion look… Celebrity Spa offers it all. The tranquil spa offers full day spa packages, plus massages, performed by certified massage therapists. Customized facials help restore the health of your

Thank You for Voting Us Your Favorite 5 Years in a Row! manicures • pedicures • facials facial & body sculpting • body waxing

skin, facial and body sculpting treatments with micro-current technologies to firm, tone and reverse the signs of aging. Aestheticians offer professional makeup application featuring The Jane Iredale skin care makeup line for customers interested in makeup that’s good for the skin. This makeup is so effective it is recommended by plastic surgeons, dermatologists and skin care professionals.

The Celebrity team of professionals have a goal “make every guest feel like a Celebrity from the moment they walk in the door”. For clients’ convenience, Celebrity is open on Mondays, and until 8pm most nights (until 6pm on Monday and Saturday); closed on Sunday. Visit www. celebrityspa.net to make appointments, read bios about the skilled staff and instantly print out purchased gift certificates.

Celebrity Spa & Boutique 4091 State Hwy 6 South, Ste. B College Station • 979.690.6200 www.celebrityspa.net

CELEBR I T & B O U Y S PA TIQ UE Full S ervic

massages • make-overs • makeup application eyelash perms • eyelash extensions men’s haircuts • FULL SERVICE HAIR SALON

Gift Card

e Spa & Salon

979.690.6200 • 4091 HWY. 6 • SUITE B 72

HOURS: MON 9AM-6PM•TUES-FRI 8AM-8:30PM•SAT 9AM-6PM (take barron road exit located on East Frontage Road) CHECK OUT OUR INSTANT GIFT CARDS ONLINE AT:

w w w. c e l e b r i t y s pa . n e t


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