DECEMBER 2016 Chairman of the Board Kurt Alfred Brenham National Bank First Vice Chair Kyle Merten Blinn College Foundation Second Vice Chair Randy Wells Faith Mission and Help Center Secretary James Pharaon Germania Insurance Treasurer Walter Jackson Brenham ISD Superintendent Immediate Past Chairman Wesley Brinkmeyer Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Eric Berg Washington County Court-at-Law Sharon Brass Kwik Kopy Business Center Cathy Cole Heritage Texas Country Properties Chad Gerke Gerke Law Firm Becky Hanath Rodney’s General Repair Suzy Hankins Ant Street Inn Tammy Jaster City of Brenham– Blue Bell Aquatic Center Jeannie Kroll Brenham Clinic LaVerne Krumrey Brenham Monument Co. Cyndee Smith Oldham Goodwin Group Brad Stufflebeam Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten Jenny Van Dorf Blue Bell Creameries Randy Weidemann Van Dyke Rankin Insurance Kristie Wensel Brenham State Supported Living Center
ChamberWorks
brenham, texas
washington county chamber of commerce
Man and Woman of the Year-Lifetime Achievement Award Nominations Now Being Accepted As the end of the year approaches, it is time to start thinking about who deserves the honor of being selected for the 2016 Man and Woman of the Year-Lifetime Achievement Awards. This is a long-standing tradition of the Washington County Chamber, recognizing the achievements of two extra-special individuals each year. The tradition includes the announcement of the winners at the Annual Banquet of the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Foundation. The 2015 recipients were Twila Tate and Leon Toubin. The next Annual Banquet will be held Jan. 31, 2017. Prior to the banquet, the immediate Past Chairman of the Chamber Board will select a committee (comprised of past award recipients) to review all nominations and vote on the candidates for the current year.
If you know someone you would like to nominate for this honor, please pick up a nomination form from the Chamber office or download it from the website: www.BrenhamTexas. com. It includes the judging criteria. You may also call to have a form faxed or emailed to you. Completed nomination forms are due back by noon on Monday, Jan. 9, 2017. Winners are only selected from nominations received. Please note that prior nominations (submissions from prior years) may be considered if resubmitted by the January 9 deadline.
Chamber Says Farewell to Retiring Directors
These outstanding volunteers will retire as Chamber board members this month. They have been closely involved with the mission of the Chamber since January 2014: Randy Weidemann, Van Dyke Rankin; Sharon Brass, Kwik Kopy Business Center; Nathan Wade, Lazy Bee Honey; Cathy Cole, Heritage Texas Country Properties; Chad Gerke, The Gerke Law Firm; Suzy Hankins, Ant Street Inn, Back Lot Gallery and Main Street House. These volunteer leaders have been valuable members of committees and projects over the past three years. They will be greatly missed from the board’s monthly meetings, but we know they will always remain strong members of the Chamber and our local business community. Please join us in thanking them for their years of service to the Chamber membership the next time you see them!
Annual Banquet Date Announced
Save this date! The 2017 Annual Banquet of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Brenham Economic Development Foundation will be held on Tuesday, January 31. The event will be hosted at the Firemen’s Training Center on Hwy. 290. This year’s banquet will begin the Centennial Celebration of the Chamber as its 100th year of service is observed in 2017. Details about the speakers, sponsors and program will be unveiled later this month. Invitations will be mailed to all Chamber members. Mark your calendars now, because you will not want to miss it! Tickets will go on sale on January 3, 2017. Reservations for corporate tables may be called in to the Chamber office at (979) 836-3695.
Page 2 | Chamber Works | December 2016
Ribbon Cutting
Grand Re-Opening
New Location
Hospice Boutique Resale Supervisor - Karen Gardner 114 E. Alamo Street, Brenham
New Member
Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library
Puppy Dawgs & Cat Tails
Librarian - Andria Heiges 100 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Brenham
Owner - Lisa Wix 321 S. Baylor St., Brenham
New Member
New Location
New Owners
Gist Law, PLLC
The Gunnery
Kruse Village
Owner - Gwen Gist 114 E. Alamo St. Suite #27, Brenham
Owners - Stephen Vyvjala & Stephen Vyvjala Jr. 210 E. Alamo St., Brenham
Associate Executive Director - Coy Fontenot 1700 E. Stone Street, Brenham
Washington County Chamber of Commerce
Groundbreaking
Hazel Lawson Adaptive Sports Complex Brenham State Supported Living Center 4100 Hwy 36 South, Brenham
Page Michel, President & CEO Jane Hinze, Member Services Mgr. Shae Janner, Business Programs Mgr. Dawn Konieczny, Communications Coord. Lu Hollander, CVB Adv. & PR Mgr. Jenny Mills, Website & Social Media Mgr. Courtney Powell, Visitor Center & Group Mktg. Coord. Debby Welch, Visitor Center Assistant Cheryl Sevin, Bookkeeper Support Staff: Darlene Denman, Jeanine Presswood and Nelda Snow.
GROUP BUYING POWER Chamber members can now get major savings on credit card payment processing. Learn about our new member benefit program.
Contact Will Watson at (979) 345-2988 • will.watson@infintechllc.com
www.infintechllc.com
Business Spotlight Vincent’s Roofing
Tile roofs are one of the oldest and most reliable forms of roofing. Their modern design provides natural water shedding and ventilation. With all of the available colors and designs for today’s tile roofs, you are sure to find a style that fits your home! Most tiles are colored using natural sources that bond to the tile material, so they hold their color even after decades of weather exposure. Tile roofing can sustain high winds, rain, extreme heat, and cold so they are an excellent long-lasting choice for your home.
Tile roofs have long life expectancies and require limited maintenance when installed correctly. Vincent’s Roofing, Inc. has skilled and knowledgeable employees who have installed tile on numerous luxury residential homes and commercial projects. Vincent’s Roofing delivers high quality customer service and satisfaction, and their tile roofs are equipped to withstand winds of up to 130mph. Let them be your choice for a new tile roof today! Types of tile roofs Vincent’s Roofing provides are clay, cement, slate, composition, and metal tile. Call 979-247-4587 for a free estimate or visit www.VincentsRoofing.com.
December 2016 | Chamber Works | Page 3
New Members ANDINO RANCH Owners: Alan & Misty Feazle 501 Nixon Lake Road Burton, Texas 77835 Phone: 979-289-1489 sales@andinoranch.com www.andinoranch.com Coffee CRICKET WIRELESS Owner: Saqib Toola 516 HWY 290W Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-353-5548 cricket.katy@gmail.com Cellular Phones/Accessories FAYETTE COUNTY TOURISM ASSOCIATION President: Vicki LaRue PO Box 552 La Grange, Texas 78945 ctatx@gmail.com www.visitfayettecounty.com Non Profit Clubs & Organizations LULLABIES AND LAUGHTER CHILDCARE Owner: Dorthy Heintschel 276 Happy Hollow Road Brenham, Texas 77833 Phone: 979-421-8047 lullabiesandlaughterchildcare@gmail.com Child Care
“Letters to Santa” Banner-Press deadline - December 14 Santa’s mailbox is up at the Chamber! The deadline to have letters reach the North Pole in time is December 14th. This is also the deadline so that the childrens’ letters will be printed in a special section in the Banner Press newspaper. Children’s drawings may also be dropped in the mailbox.
Thank you to our Chairman’s Circle members ...
Brenham Clinic
Thank you to our Presidential Level members ...
OF BRENHAM
Bluebonnet Electric
Metropolitan Water Company, L.P.
BRENHAM
THE GUNNERY Owners: Stephen Vyvjala & Stephen Vyvjala, Jr. 210 E. Alamo Street (Physical Address) PO Box 2169 (Mailing Address) Brenham, Texas 77834 Phone: 936-537-4623 info@vyvjala-arms.com Guns & Accessories
Page 4 | Chamber Works | December 2016
Renewing Chamber Members
November 1-30 Thanks to the following members for continuing your investment in the Chamber. You are long-term “partners” in our mission to promote and preserve this great community, and we appreciate your confidence in the Chamber’s ability to promote your business. Memorial Oaks Chapel — 42 years Schovajsa’s Catering — 36 years H & H Machine Service — 32 years Bevers Kitchen — 31 years National Equipment Corporation — 24 years Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union — 20 years Pleasant Hill Winery — 20 years Brenham Floral Company — 19 years Westwood Cinema 6 — 19 years Volare Italian Restaurant — 18 years RWG Construction Management — 17 years Fayetteville Propane Company — 16 years Tres Chic — 16 years Brenham Oaks — 14 years Eberly Ranch — 12 years KWIK KOPY Business Center — 12 years Brazos Bed & Breakfast — 11 years Christ Lutheran Church & Day School Foundation — 11 years Horseshoe Junction Family Fun Park — 11 years JR’S Antiques and Collectibles — 11 years Evergreen Builders — 10 years Leftovers Antiques Home Mercantile — 10 years Denny’s #7916 — 8 years Our Integrity Works — 8 years R Place at Washington on the Brazos — 8 years Express Home Furnishings — 7 years Mission Brenham — 6 years Melissa L. Gerke DDS, PA — 5 years Premier Metal Buyers — 5 years Rhodes Building Systems — 5 years Spherion Staffing — 5 years Brazos Valley Pediatric Dentistry — 4 years Law Office of Carole Anne Chamberlain — 4 years Country Butler — 4 years
St. Paul’s Christian Day School — 4 years Branded Boutique — 3 years Brenham Orthodontics — 3 years Champion Fellowship — 3 years Leslie Wood Consulting — 3 years Searchers Realty — 3 years Barking Ranch Pet Resort — 2 years
Historic Holle House — 2 years Oldham Goodwin Group — 2 years Washington County Genealogical Society — 2 years Berkeley Eye Center - Brenham — 1 year Enterprise Rent A Car — 1 year Rockin’ O Shoe Repair — 1 year
Thank You, Blue Blazers!
The Chamber treated the Blue Blazers club to a holiday luncheon and ornament exchange. A big round of thanks goes out to the 17 Blue Blazers for all of their hard work during the year and for helping to make the Chamber such a strong organization. Thanks also go to Jane Hinze, Member Services Manager and Blue Blazers coordinator, for going above and beyond to make sure the club stays organized and energized!
Washington County Blue Blazers The Blue Blazers is a club with 15-20 members and 40 years of tradition. They support the mission of the Washington County Chamber. The volunteers in the club act as official greeters and hosts of our community. Their activities include monthly meetings, greeting at Chamber functions, recruiting new Chamber members, and conducting ribbon cuttings and grand openings.
Michael Branton
Tammy Jaster
Seidel Schroeder
City of Brenham-Blue Bell Aquatic Center
Darlene Denman
Florence Julian
Joyce Dickschat
Crystal Locke
Washington County Chamber Brenham National Bank
Wendy Frazier
Associated Credit Union of Texas
Eddie Harrison
Retired-Brenham Municipal Judge
Retired-Individual City of Brenham
Brice Milliorn
Edward Jones Investments
Michelle Panko
Barking Ranch Pet Resort
Linda Pipes
Retired-School Teacher
Kathy Randermann
KTTX 106.1/KWHI 1280
Barbara Wilganowski Spherion Staffing
Kristie Wensel
Brenham State Supported Living Center
Debra Wenckens
Brenham State Supported Living Center
Christy Schlottmann
Christy Schlottmann Farmers Agency
Randy Weidemann
Van Dyke Rankin & Company
WASHINGTON COUNTY “ADOPT-A-SIGN” PARTNERS To ensure the long-term care of the Welcome Sign monuments at the five entry points to Washington County, four landscaping companies from our community have volunteered to oversee their maintenance.
Precision Lawn Management — U.S. 290 West Sign Designing Landscapes — U.S. 290 East Sign Glasco & Company Landscaping — Hwy. 36 North and South Signs Wise Landscaping — Hwy. 105 Sign
December 2016 | Chamber Works | Page 5
Leadership and Law Enforcement The November session of the Leadership Washington County program introduced the group to local law enforcement. The class met at the Brenham police station where Corporal Chris Jackson (LWC Class of 2011) led them through a full day. Brenham Chief of Police Craig Goodman (LWC Class of 2017) gave a presentation on leadership. The class also heard
from District Attorney Julie Renken (LWC Class of 2001) and County Attorney Renee Mueller (LWC Class of 1995). The action-filled day was comprised of more than just lectures. After a tour of the Washington County jail and lunch, the class participated in breakout sessions, including a “Shoot or Don’t Shoot” scenario, staged traffic stops with police officers and
Brenham Police Chief Craig Goodman welcomes participants.
Citizens on Patrol members, and an informative demonstration by the SWAT/HNT/ Narcotics officers. One student commented, “This session made me aware of what does happen in the community and how we can support the officers and help be their eyes and ears.” The next leadership session will focus on Health Care. Leadership Washington
County Attorney Renee Mueller explains what her job entails.
County is a program of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce designed to train and motivate current and future leaders for our community. The program runs from August to May each year. The next class will form in July 2017. Those interested are encouraged to call the Chamber office at 836-3695. Details are posted on www.BrenhamTexas.com.
The class toured the Washington County Jail and got to see a sample of inmate lunches.
Young Professionals name new directors
Linda Schumacher bravely takes a look inside one of the isolation cells, unsure if someone was inside.
Shane Nelson performs an arrest during one of the traffic stops.
Create Member-to-Member Traffic to Your Business The Chamber will be re-branding “Business After Hours” in 2017 by introducing “Connect After 5,” monthly networking events with the same concept. The “Wake Up, Washington County!” quarterly networking breakfasts will still be held, with the first one in February.
Members that attend really enjoy the door prizes at these events. What better opportunity for you to connect with another member than for them to win a door prize that you’ve donated! It’s easy. If you have something that your business gives away that is personalized or if you want to give a gift certificate to your business, it is a great
opportunity for you to participate. When you are a door prize donor, you will receive extra promotion by being thanked on social media and in Chamber news. We strive to give away three or four door prizes at each event, so if you are interested in participating just give Jane Hinze a call or bring it by the Chamber.
The Young Professionals of Washington County is a personal and professional development program of the Washington County Chamber that encourages young business people to interact socially, exchange ideas, share common interests, learn more about the area’s business community and engage in the community’s future. The Young Professionals began in 2011 and meet at least once a month for a networking event. If you are interested in being “in the loop” for future YPO activities, or if your company would like to either host or sponsor one of our events, please send your contact info to: youngpros@brenhamtexas.com
YPO Directors for 2017 President Jennifer Phillips Development Directors Katie Matthews & Frank Castro Media Director Lauren Cox Networking/Event Director Hope San Filipo Membership Director Mackenzie Huff
www.twitter.com/VisitBrenham or ChamberWashCo
Page 6 | Chamber Works | December 2016
Annual Photo Contest Deadline – Dec. 31
Tourism News
Did you take any great photos this year? Maybe during bluebonnet season, the County Fair, a Hot Nights Cool Tunes concert, the Scarecrow Festival, or on Texas Independence Day at Washington on the Brazos? How about any other subjects that reflect the beauty of Washington County? If you did, plan to enter the 2016 “Slice of Life in Washington County” photo contest. It is sponsored by the Washington County Chamber every year and there are cash prizes for the top three entries. Plus the winning photo will have the honor of being made into a glossy souvenir postcard. Entry forms may be picked up at the Visitor Center or the Chamber office, or found online at www.BrenhamTexas.com or www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com. The deadline for entries is Dec. 31, 2016. Find complete rules on the entry form or call the Visitor Center with any questions (979-836-3696).
“Little Women,” the Broadway Musical
Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life, Little Women follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication and weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their experience growing up in Civil War America. This timeless, captivating story is filled with personal discovery, heartache, hope, everlasting love, and a lifting of the spirit. Running December 1 through 18. Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 4pm. Ticket info is at www.unitybrenham.org.
Ledbetter Lane of Lights
The Ledbetter Lane of Lights is running every Friday and Saturday until Christmas, hosted by the Ledbetter VFD. Enjoy a hayride through a path of Christmas lights, and Santa will be on site each night, too! $8 per person, 6-9pm. Children 2 years and under are free!
Christmas on the Brazos
On December 10, the historic traditions of Texas in the 1800s will transport visitors into the past at “Christmas on the Brazos” at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site. Free and low-cost holiday activities for all ages include period music, craft making, readings, food samplings and sale of artisan gifts. The day culminates in the park’s popular Candlelight Christmas event at Barrington Living History Farm, featuring vignettes of Texan frontier festivities with music, musket firing, dancing and a candlelit tour of the farm. Many holiday activities occur throughout the day and are staggered throughout the park. Check the calendar at www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com for a schedule of events.
Holiday Crystal Wine Trail
Tour the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail’s “Holiday Crystal Wine Trail” on December 10-11. Your trail ticket allows you to enjoy two specially selected wine tastings, paired with a terrific holiday food sample at each winery on the trail. As an added bonus, have your ticket stamped at six of the member wineries and receive a beautiful commemorative keepsake crystal wine glass featuring the Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail logo. For participating wineries, trail hours and to get tickets, visit www.texasbluebonnetwinetrail.com.
Christmas at Winedale
A mid-19th century Folk life Reenactment includes folk life demonstrations with wagon rides, hay rides, mini horse carriages, spinners, weavers, wood carvers, quilters, blacksmith, encampment, outdoor cooking, butter churning, period music, square dancers, storytellers, crafts for children, German Santa, Historic Houses will be decorated as they would have been in those times. Food available for a donation. Saturday, December 10, 12-4pm.
Children’s Chorus Christmas Concert
The Brenham Children’s Chorus celebrates the season with two musical performances on December 15 and 16 at 7pm. Find more details at www.brenhamchildrens chorus.com.
Live Nativity Scene in Independence
On Sunday, December 18, experience the live Nativity Scene in Independence. Walk or ride along on the hay ride and enjoy seeing Santa and sharing hot chocolate, cookies and hot dogs from 6-8pm.
Marketing Our Community Across the State of Texas
Working for YOU! As a Chamber member, your promotional information is seen by thousands of people every month.
WALK-INS Visitor Center HQ Building
Nov. 2016 — 422
Nov. 2016 — 562
WEBSITE www.BrenhamTexas.com Total Pages Unique Visitors
Nov. 2016 — 7,145
Nov. 2016 — 14,203
WEBSITE www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com Total Pages Unique Visitors
Nov. 2016 — 11,377
Nov. 2016 — 22,301
Did You Know?
… in 1836, the townspeople fled Washington in the “Runaway Scrape” due to the advancing Mexican Army. … in 1846, the New Year’s Creek Church was organized (present day First Baptist Church in Brenham). … in 1869, the Old Rock Store in Chappell Hill was built by merchant John E. Glass of thick sandstone walls, massive hand-hewn and pegged pine timbers, and door and window shutters made with square nails.
The Washington County CVB is a proud and active member of the following state and regional tourism industry associations: Texas Travel Industry Association Texas Assoc. of Convention & Visitors Bureaus Texas Hotel & Lodging Association Texas Society of Association Executives Texas Independence Trail Region I-10 Corridor Association Presidential Texas Central Texas Bluebonnet Travel Council American Bus Association South Central Motorcoach Association
December 2016 | Chamber Works | Page 7
What’s Happening in December Dec 8-11, 15-18 “Little Women” at Unity Theatre This timeless, captivating story is filled with personal discovery, heartache, hope, everlasting love, and a lifting of the spirit, find ticket info online (www.Unity Brenham.org).
Dec 10, 17 Lone Star Gallery Open every Saturday featuring vintage, antique, re-purposed, shabby, & more. Free admission, free parking, indoor shopping, on-site concessions, 4214 S Hwy 237, Warrenton (www.thelonestargallery.com).
Dec 12, 20 Oil Painting Class Brenham Fine Arts League is honored to have Janita Jackson for Monday oil painting instruction, beginner to advanced levels, 9am-1pm, Downtown Art Gallery, 113 W. Alamo, Downtown Brenham.
Dec 9-11, 16-18 Photography “Travels Near & Far” Art show at Back Lot Gallery featuring local photographers Kathlyn Dragna and Scott Hill. Gallery hours are Fri-Sun noon-7pm, 308 S. Park St., Downtown Brenham.
Dec 10, 17 “Step Into the Past” Tours Multiple historic sites throughout Washington County are open today for you to explore from 10am-5pm, full details online (www.VisitBrenhamTexas.com/step-intothe-past).
Dec 13, 20 Oil Painting Class Oil painter Patsy Supak offers ongoing art classes for all skill levels, 9am-1pm, Downtown Art Gallery, 113 W. Alamo St., Downtown Brenham (979-277-2170).
Dec 9 Ribbon Cutting - Cricket Wireless Join in welcoming this New Member located at 516 Hwy 290 West, Brenham, 3pm.
Dec 10 Pet Photos with Santa Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, 11am-4pm, 100 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway (www.t-bar.org).
Dec 9-10, 16-17, 23 Ledbetter VFD’s Christmas Lane of Lights Enjoy a hayride through a lighted path of Christmas reflections. Santa will be there each night, FM 1291 and Hwy 290, Ledbetter, $8 per person, children 2 and under free (979-540-0105, 979-966-3477). Dec 9-11, 16-18 Brazos Valley Brewery Patio Open Enjoy craft beer with friends, Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 12-8pm, Sunday 1-6pm, 201 W. First St., Downtown Brenham (www.BrazosValleyBrewery.com). Dec 9-11, 16-18 Live Music in the Biergarten At Home Sweet Farm Market, times vary, 307 S. Park St., Downtown Brenham (www.HomeSweetFarm.com). Dec 10 Christmas on the Brazos Begin the holiday season by spending special time at Washington on the Brazos. Activities begin early afternoon and go into the evening, full details online (www. wheretexasbecametexas.org).
Dec 10-11 Holiday Crystal Wine Trail Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail, tickets must be purchased online (www.texasblue bonnetwinetrail.com). Dec 10 Christmas at Winedale-Folklife Event A mid-19th century folk life reenactment with wagon rides, hay rides, mini horse carriages, spinners, weavers, wood carvers, quilters, blacksmith, encampment, outdoor cooking, butter churning, period music, square dancers, storytellers, crafts for children, German Santa, Historic Houses open for tours, free admission, noon4pm, Winedale Historical Complex, 3738 FM 2714, Round Top (979-278-3530, winedale@austin.utexas.edu). Dec 11 Groudbreaking Abiding Word Lutheran Church Join in celebrating this Groundbreaking at 1:30pm, 464 Oak Tree Crossing Dr., Brenham (next to Blinn College-Rankin Agricultural Complex off Old Mill Creek Rd.).
Dec 13 Maximize Your Online Presence ChamberMaster Representative will be onsite for a Chamber Member group training session, 11:30am-1pm, Chamber Conference Room, free for Chamber Members, RSVP to shae@brenhamtexas.com or call 979-836-3695. Dec 13, 15, 20, 22 Play in the Clay One night make your own pieces then return a second night to decorate/glaze. $80 per person for 2 classes, Tuesday and Thursdays from 7 - 9 pm. Arrangements can be made for other nights. BYOB for a fun night out. Reserve seats (979-2893765, www.BluebonnetPottery.com). Dec 14 Basic QuickBooks Workshop All-day, basic level course, 8am-5pm, Blinn College A.W. Hodde, Jr. Technical Education Center, 2910 S. Blue Bell Rd., Brenham. Cost is $100 (www.Blinn College.SBDCnetwork.net, 979-830-4333). Dec 14, 21 Watercolor Painting Class Artist Jane McKinley teaches the fine art of watercolor, drawing to framing, 9am1pm, Brenham Fine Arts League, 113 W. Alamo St., Downtown Brenham (979885-9259).
Dec 14, 21 Children’s Drawing/Art Classes Well-known local artist and children’s art teacher Sara Parker will resume drawing classes after school several days each week, 4-5:30pm, Brenham Fine Arts League, 113 W. Alamo, Downtown Brenham. (979-830-3443).
Dec 15 Friends of Bluebonnet Opry Featuring Paul Schlesinger, Priscilla Speed, Bob Appel, and the Bluebonnet Opry House Band, doors open at 5:30pm, food served at 6pm, show starts at 7:30pm, $5 admission (www.FriendsOf BluebonnetOpry.com).
Dec 15, 16 Brenham Children’s Chorus Christmas Concert Brenham’s First Baptist Church, 7-9pm, Adults $15, children 12 and under $5 (www.BrenhamChildrensChorus.com).
Dec 16 Pastel painting art classes Nationally acclaimed pastel artist Tina Szajko teaches pastel art techniques, with an emphasis on portraits, 9am-1pm, Brenham Fine Arts League, 113 W. Alamo, Downtown Brenham. Contact Tina for additional information (281-558-5598).
Dec 16 Live Music at Nathan’s BBQ Nathan’s Christmas Concert featuring Cool Freddie E. and the crew, singing Christmas Favorites along with some oldies, country, motown, plus many more. 6-9pm, 1307 Prairie Lea, Brenham (www. NathansBBQ.com).
Dec 18-19 Bethlehem in Independence Live Nativity Scene Live Nativity Scene in Downtown Independence. Cowboy Santa will arrive on his fire truck at 6:30 p.m. Hot chocolate, hot dogs, cookies, and crafts, 6-8pm.
Maximize Your Presence Online
Statistics indicate that people searching the internet are experienced, educated consumers who use the web to help make purchase decisions. An estimated 82 percent of American adults use the internet and 78 percent of those users are looking for information about a product/service while online (according to PEW Research 2012). People visiting the Chamber website are making decisions about where to do business specifically in this community. Are you reaching this targeted market? Many members realize the benefit of membership and the value of targeting the market already driven to the Chamber’s online Business Directory. It is about utilizing the web and the Chamber’s credibility to promote your business. Suzanne Johnson, Internet Marketing Consultant from ChamberMaster (our software & marketing partner), is in Brenham until December 16th to help members promote their local businesses to the targeted, potential consumers using the Chamber’s website.
There will be a free group training session on Tuesday, December 13, from 11:30am–1pm at the Chamber to demonstrate the online tools available to you and present options to further promote yourself online. Opportunities include the ability to display a logo in the online Business Directory, how to increase visibility of your own website link, and enhancements that give a more professional first impression. How to gain additional, exclusive exposure to the Chamber website traffic is something that will also be discussed. At the group session, a free Basic Listing tutorial will be given. Did you know that your FREE listing on the Chamber’s online Business Directory includes the following: • A 200-character business description • Your hours of operation • Driving directions • Personalized keywords • Free online job postings
• Free online “Hot Deal” promotions • The ability to update the Chamber’s database if your information changes without having to call or email the Chamber office You should check to see how your listing is showing up right now. The basic free listing requires your attention to update your business description, key word/search terms, hours of operation, etc. to maximize your presence and searchability. To sign up for the group session, call 979-836-3695 or email shae@brenhamtexas.com. To schedule a one-onone consultation with Suzanne Johnson from Chambermaster, call her at 800-825-1785 extension 314 or email suzanne.johnson@micronetonline.com. If you would like to get on the list to be contacted personally, reply to one of the Chambermaster emails or you can always contact the Chamber at info@brenhamtexas. com.
Page 8 | Chamber Works | December 2016
Calendar Continued from page 7
Dec 19 Handel’s “Messiah” Brenham Choral Society annual concert at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 2310 Airline Dr., Brenham, 7-8:30pm, free with a reception following (www.StPeters Brenham.org).
January Highlights
Jan 1 First Day Hike Nails Creek State Park hosts a “First Day Hike,” bring family, friends, and family dog with you to come experience some of the many trails that are located near you. After the hike take advantage of free fishing or hunting for geocaches. Bring bicycles to ride around the park or take a paddle around the lake by renting a canoe or kayak. $4 per person over 12, free for 12 and under. For more information call 979-289-2392.
Jan 4-7 Brenham Regional Qualifier Blinn College will host the National Christian Forensics and Communications Association (NCFCA) Speech & Debate All Region Tournament. Community volunteers are needed to help judge these events to provide valuable feedback to competing students. Contact Jenny Stufflebeam 979-530-7992 or email BrenhamTourney@gmail.com.
Jan 31 Chamber/EDF Annual Banquet Save the date! Washington County Chamber and Brenham Economic Development Foundation Annual Banquet. Tickets go on sale Jan 3.