Insite Brazos Valley August 2014

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Down & Dirty

4th Annual Hog Splash Volleyball Tournament Compiled By Insite Staff

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ore than 70 corporate

and individual teams will battle it out on August 23 in the Hog Splash Volleyball Competition, where contestants will play volleyball knee-deep in three feet of mud to raise money for the patients of Hospice Brazos Valley.

Hospice Brazos Valley cares for individuals of any age affected by life-limiting illness, grief or loss.

The organization is a non-profit community owned

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agency that depends on community involvement to care for others.

The teams will consist of eight to ten members and can be sponsored by a business or the members themselves.

Contestants can come from anywhere in the Brazos Valley and the top three teams will be awarded prizes in addition to being named the 4th Annual Hog Splash Mudd Volleyball Champions.

All teams playing pay or are sponsored for eight to ten players.

Several options include lunch for the team in addition to team t-shirts. The organization is also taking open donations from those that don’t want to participate in the tournament.

Teams interested in registering must do so before noon on August 19. The tournament will be held behind the Slovacek Sausage Store off of Highway 60 in Snook.

For more information, contact Nichole Quick at (979) 821-2266. i

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Celebrate the Arts

A Night for Tributes

By Chris Scoggins

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Council will pay tribute to supporters of the arts and artists at “Celebrate the Arts “on September 9 held at the Brazos County Expo. The event serves as a fundraiser for the non-profit organization to fund art programs in the area.

“A lot of the funding goes to our general operating fund,” says Visitor Services Coordinator Rachel Hoekstra. “For a lot of our programs, we are very fortunate to receive grants for but when it comes to the basics and to the extras we have to raise money through events like this. It helps make sure we can keep our programs going.”

The Global Events catering company will be providing The Arts

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food for Celebrate the Arts. There will also be a live auction, music, dancing, and an awards ceremony to recognize several artists and promoters of the arts.

“In the past we’ve recognized the supporters and champions of the arts and we’ve never really recognized individual artists in our community until recently,” says Hoekstra “So we’ve been excited to establish the Artist of the Year Award.”

This year, the Artist of the Year Award will go to Marcelo Bussiki, a Brazilian native and current musical conductor of the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra.

Bussiki has been the conductor since 1996 and was recently named the Dean of Performing Arts at Blinn College. In addition to the Artist of the Year Award,

other awards will also be presented, including the Volunteer of the Year Award, Art Business Patron Award, Jane Wolfe Distinguished Leadership Award and the D.A. “Andy” Anderson Lifetime Achievement Award.

In keeping with the Artist of the Year selection, this year’s banquet will focus more on the symphonic arts.

“Our focus is going to be more performing arts and more focused on music this year,” says Arts Council C.E.O. Chris Dyer.

“Another thing we promote is that we don’t just support visual arts, but all styles of art.”

“The whole point of the event in general is just to celebrate all we have going on in the community in the arts and help our supporters realize there are very diverse groups of artists and art organizations in

our community,” says Dyer. “It reminds people how much we have going on. I don’t think a lot of people realize how much Bryan/College Station has going on in the arts.”

For those that wish to attend, tickets cost $100. Attendees can also help by becoming underwriters for a table sponsorship ranging from $1200 to $5000. With the support of the community and the fundraising from this event, Dyer hopes to continue the Art Council’s legacy as a champion of the arts in the Brazos Valley.

“Our whole goal here is to make the arts infrastructure in our community very strong,” says Dyer.

“Our role as the Arts Council is to provide the resources for those creating art in our community, in order to allow them to continue do what they are doing.” i

BLINN COLLEGE VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS THE

2014-15 THEATRE SEASON

BRENHAM CAMPUS

BRYAN CAMPUS

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COMING SOON

Paolo’s Italian Kitchen

By Angelique Gammon

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It’s a safe bet that

any restaurant a top chef returns to again and again is a good choice for a fine meal.

For Veritas owner and chef Tai Lee, one of his go-to eateries is Don Peppe, an 80-year-old family style Italian restaurant in New York. “With all the restaurants in New York City, you never have to eat anywhere twice, but we always eat two meals there when we visit,” says Lee. Come September, Lee won’t have to swoon long distance over the linguine in white clam sauce – it will be on the menu at Paolo’s Italian Kitchen, his collaboration with NYC restaurateur Paul Kahl.

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(clockwise from the top) Gluten free spaghetti with White Clam Sauce, Clams in Marinara, Branzino, a type of Mediterranean sea bass.

Located almost directly across Texas Avenue from Veritas, Paolo’s is the result of a 15-year ongoing conversation between Lee and Kahl as they have traded visits between College Station and NYC. Besides bringing a New York flair and 30-years of experience at Don Peppe’s, Kahl also managed to transplant to Texas two of his sous chefs at Don Peppe for the past 18 years. For anyone who ever visited past restaurants housed in the building next to the College Station Hilton, be prepared to do a double take when you walk in the completely renovated space. Lee and Kahl have created a bit of New York City flair with a glass wall, private wine cellar dining room, and

sleek bar area. They’ve combined it with some down-home touches including a unique family style dining opportunity and a special kid’s waiting area.

All the food will be cooked to order with no pre-cooked pasta, says Lee. Besides the white clam linguine, look for lots of creative seafood dishes as well as another NYC import, eggplant rollatini, says Kahl.

“We will only use the best pastas, and the freshest ingredients,” says Lee, adding that there will be gluten free pasta options on the menu as well.

Paolo’s Italian Kitchen is scheduled to open in late August. To see the most up-to-the-minute developments, visit Paolo’s Italian Kitchen on Facebook and on Twitter. i

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Hope Pregnancy Center

Planning for Growth

By Brittany Gordon

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or the past 29

Hope Pregnancy of Brazos Valley, in partnership with the Texas A&M College of Medicine’s chapter of the Christian Medical Association and Aggie Sisters for Christ, will present “Gifted Hands, Gifted Lives,” an evening with Dr. Benjamin Carson. The event will be held Tuesday, August 26, at 7 p.m., in the Rudder Auditorium of Texas A&M University. There are a limited number of sponsorship opportunities available which include a private reception with Dr. Carson prior to the event. All proceeds will benefit the Hope Pregnancy Center.

Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D., is an emeritus professor of neurosurgery, oncology, plastic surgery and pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he directed pediatric neurosurgery for 39 years. Dr. Carson is a highly regarded motivational speaker who has addressed various audiences from school systems and civic groups to corporations and has spoken twice during the President’s National Prayer Breakfast.

For more information about Dr. Carson, and for ticket and sponsorship information, visit www. partnerwithhope.org, or call the Hope center at (979) 695-9193.

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years Hope Pregnancy Center of Brazos Valley has existed to serve women and men facing unplanned pregnancies by offering free and confidential services. Since the summer of 2013, Hope has seen a significant increase in clients.

In response, the organization is working to expand programs to better assist each and every client.

Hope has launched a study session based on the book “Surrendering the Secret.” The new program utilizes an eight-session Bible study, specifically

written for postabortive women, and provides opportunities for healing, forgiveness and peace.

As the number of clients continues to rise, so does the need for volunteers.

Whether meeting with clients, serving in “Hannah’s Closet,” or helping as receptionist, Hope can use those willing to help and serve. The need isn’t isolated to women volunteers. As the number of male clients rises, male volunteers are also in great demand.

The services currently offered at Hope include: pregnancy testing, peer counsel on pregnancy options, a two

week supply of prenatal vitamins, limited obstetrical ultrasound exams, STD voucher with peer counsel and education, community and medical referrals, classes on parenting and childbirth preparation, and post-abortion peer counsel and education.

Along with the education from the parenting classes, clients are able to receive points for each class attended.

With those points, clients can shop in what is known as “Hannah’s Closet” for various baby items and equipment.

In addition, clients have an opportunity to

earn a diaper card in which they will receive two packages of diapers and a package of wipes every month until the baby’s first birthday, totaling 576 diapers.

For more about Hope Pregnancy Center, services or volunteering, call (979) 695-9193. For more information about the new Surrendering the Secret program, contact the Hope center and ask for Licia, or email licia@ hopepregnancy. org. Any questions about volunteering at Hope may also be directed to this email or by calling the Hope Pregnancy Center.

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Pink Alliance pinkalliance.org

Sisters In Support

Pink Alliance

By Elizabeth Crawford

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Breast cancer is the

second most common cancer among American women, and approximately one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society.

Pink Alliance, a non-profit organization in the Brazos Valley, has been helping local women and families affected by breast cancer for more than seven years.

Established during a coffee date between two breast cancer survivors in 2007, Pink Alliance has helped numerous women and families in the Brazos Valley affected by breast cancer. The organization was created to provide 14

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(BACK ROW) DORIS LIGHT, CHERYL PEDERSON, MARILYN BYRNE. (FRONT ROW) JANIE McDOUGAL, REBA RAGSDALE, PATRICIA GHERLING.

reliable, informative resources for women who are diagnosed and to inspire hope through individual and group support. Providing emotional and financial support, establishing partnerships with organizations and hospitals, and hosting fundraisers are just some of the things Pink Alliance does best.

Patricia Gerling, president of Pink Alliance, is a breast cancer survivor.

She became involved with the organization in 2011 by nature of association; she knew all the women on the board and wanted to help, she says. Since Gerling first got involved, Pink Alliance has grown a considerable amount. “We have over

85 years of breast cancer survivorship,” Gerling says of the board members.

All eight women are either retired or working professionals and serve the Pink Alliance as volunteers.

Pink Alliance has no office and provides no financial benefits to board members, says Gerling.

The organization works to build relationships within the medical community in the Brazos Valley to provide support, says Gerling. Working with the local American Cancer Society, the Pink Alliance supplies physicians, surgeons and oncologists with Personal Health Managers, a portfolio of breast cancer-related information that is available

to all newly diagnosed patients. The organization also hopes to soon have billboards advocating mammograms, Gerling says.

Pink Alliance hosts a bi-monthly support group to help breast cancer patients and families cope with the emotional pain associated with the disease.

Breast cancer survivors who attend the meetings as newly diagnosed patients come back every month to provide support for others, Gerling says. Family members of cancer patients who attend receive just as much support as the patient does. “It’s a wonderful place to be,” she says.

In addition to offering information and emotional

support to patients, Pink Alliance also provides financial help. The organization joins forces with local groups to host fundraisers to raise money for local breast cancer patients.

“We all work, live, and give in the Brazos Valley and we want to keep the funds local and support the community we live in,” Gerling says. In 2013, Pink Alliance provided almost $54,000 in financial support to 124 patients in the Brazos Valley.

The group’s largest fundraiser is the Pink Alliance Golf Classic at Pebble Creek, which will be held on October 24.

Pink Alliance has teamed up with the Brazos Valley

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

Bridal Association and is the beneficiary of the spring and fall bridal shows. Pink Alliance also works with Gary Blair, head coach of the Texas A&M University women’s basketball team, and benefits from the annual Pink Out game.

The organization is currently working with the Rudder High School football program for a fundraising event in October. “We are all committed and believe in this community,” Gerling says.

Gerling shares information on how to spread breast cancer awareness in your own circle of friends and loved ones: “Women need to know their body and take care of

themselves,” Gerling says. Monthly breast self-exams are very important, as well as advocating good breast health to others. “It’s something that we all owe ourselves and those we love,” she adds.

For Gerling, the hardest part of her job is listening to the fears and concerns of a newly diagnosed patient.

However, helping them by sharing her experiences is very rewarding. “There are lots of survivors out there,” Gerling says.

“We all serve as hope and inspiration for them.”

For more information on Pink Alliance and how to get involved, visit pinkalliance.org.. i

12th Annual Surviving & Thriving Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon Pink Alliance will host the 12th annual Surviving and Thriving Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon sponsored by the Texas A&M Health Science Center. The luncheon will take place on September 24 at 11:30 a.m. at the Hilton in College Station. Hollye Jacobs, breast cancer survivor and New York Times best-selling author of The Silver Lining, will be the featured guest speaker.

Jacobs is a registered nurse and social worker. She will share her experiences when her role changed from medical clinician to breast cancer patient at just 39 years of age.

For more information, visit survivingandthriving.org.

INSITE Magazine is published monthly by Insite Printing & Graphic Services, 123 E. Wm. J. Bryan Pkwy., Bryan, Texas 77803. (979) 823-5567 www. insitebrazosvalley.com Volume 30, Number 8. Publisher/Editor: Angelique Gammon; Account Executive: Dave Marsh; Graphic Designer: Karen Green.

Associate Editor & Web Content: Sarah Kinzbach. Editorial Interns: Elizabeth Crawford, Leigha Faulkner, Chris Scoggins; Marketing Intern: Austin Wyble

INSITE Magazine is a division of The Insite Group, LP. Reproduction of any part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Insite Printing & Graphic Services Managing Partners: Kyle DeWitt, Angelique Gammon, Greg Gammon. General Manager: Carl Dixon; Pre-Press Manager: Mari Brown; Office Manager: Wendy Seward; Sales & Customer Service: Molly Barton; Candi Burling; Manda Jackson; Marie Lindley; Kimberly Martinez;

Barbara Wyss; Chris Zamora; Production: Stephen Beatty; Norris Carnes; Marilyn Carey; Don Coburn; Jaimie Colwell; Alvin Estuaria; Arnel Estuaria; Byron Lee; Carlos Martinez; Richard Pearce; Brandon Prouse; Frank Ramirez; Mike Seward; Ruben Torres; Stephen Woodruff.

Cover Credits: Photo by Greg Gammon.

Hand models Joshua Garcia ‘13, Allison Edwards ‘16. Rings courtesy of The Association of Former Students Aggie Ring Program, which has the honor and responsibility of protecting the integrity of the Aggie Ring. They oversee the eligibility, order and delivery for more than 12,000 students each year.

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Saving Lives Men’s Hot with LowFlashes & Cost TB Test Hypnotic A new test for Relaxation tuberculosis (TB) could dramatically improve the speed and accuracy of diagnosis for one of the world’s deadliest diseases.

Jeffrey Cirillo, Ph.D., professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, in collaboration with GBDbio, a Texas A&M spinoff company, and investigators at Stanford University, have identified a new chemical compound to spot the bacteria that cause TB with a level of sensitivity that currently takes months to produce.

Although preventable, TB claims three lives every minute, making it the second leading cause of mortality from an infectious disease in the world.

Of the new test, Cirillo says, “It’s simple. Take a sputum sample, treat it with the solution and put it inside the reader. A camera inside looks for a reaction between the sample and solution that produces light. No light, no infection.”

Currently, there is no diagnostic tool comparable to this one-step test that will require little technical expertise, take less than 30 minutes, and is easily transportable making it ideal for field diagnosis in developing countries.

Source: Texas A&M Health Science Center, Office of Public Affairs

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Men who experience hot flashes are unlikely to talk much about it, but they may find relief from their silent suffering if willing to try an unusual treatment, according to findings from a Baylor University case study.

After seven weeks of hypnotic relaxation therapy, a 69-yearold man who had uncontrolled hot

Gary Elkins, Ph.D., director of Baylor’s Mind-Body Medicine Research Laboratory and a professor of psychology and neuroscience in Baylor’s College of Arts & Sciences, has done extensive research showing that hypnotic relaxation therapy greatly benefits postmenopausal women and breast cancer survivors who suffer from hot flashes.

Current treatments for men are varied, ranging from

No Easy Street in an Emergency

“Geocoding has become very precise in recent years,” Goldberg says. “In the past, just 15 or 20 years ago, there was not the level of confidence you have in it compared to today.

Today, the technology has improved so much that many times, a location using geocoding is precise down to just a few feet.

“Geocoding can play a key role in the health science pipeline, from data collection to interpreting the

critical role in people’s lives. Geocoding means converting a postal address into a precise geographic location resulting in latitude and longitude coordinates, information that can have a direct effect on access to emergency medical care, police and firefighter response time and other critical situations.

conclusions reached and affecting policy decisions that come as a result,” Goldberg adds. “It provides the precise data needed to make crucial decisions.”

You may not know it, but where you live – your actual street address – could affect how quickly medical care could come in a life-or-death situation, according to research by a Texas A&M University geographer.

Daniel Goldberg, assistant professor of geography, says that 21st century technology such as GPS locators and geocoding can play a

Health

In the News Compiled By INSITE STAFF

flashes following prostate cancer surgery showed a drastic decrease not only in hot flashes but also an impressive improvement in sleep quality, according to the study.

Men’s hot flashes are not related to estrogen, but occur in men with a history of prostate cancer or another disorder causing a testosterone deficiency.

hormone therapy to acupuncture, but outcomes have been mixed and safety of some treatments remains in question, Elkins says.

“There’s no ‘One size fits all,’ ‘’ Elkins says, “but hypnotic relaxation therapy has been shown to be the most effective drugfree option – as well as having few or no side effects.”

Source: Baylor University Media Communications

Source: Texas A&M University Newswire

De-stress With Dogs at Work

Studies have confirmed that having a pet in the workplace not only lowers stress

levels and encourages a productive work environment, but also helps to boost morale.

“There is a huge body of evidence that shows having pets around is a natural relaxant,” said Dr. Mark Stickney, clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

“There is definitely a benefit to having a less stressful work environment.”

However, the increased productivity and decreased stress levels are entirely dependent on the obedience and behavior of your dog.

“First of all, make sure you know what your office policy is on bringing your pet to work,” said Stickney. If you do have an obedient, well-behaved dog that won’t disrupt your workday, there are still some basic guidelines to follow. Prior to bringing Fido with you to work, it is vital that you doggy proof your office, make sure pet vaccinations are up-to-date, and properly notify coworkers of his visit.

“If you have a puppy or avid chewer, you will also need to make sure that all computer wires and other various cords are someplace where your dog can’t get to them,” said Stickney.

“You wouldn’t want your pet to be the reason for a systemwide shut down.”

Source: College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University i

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Congratulations to Gordon G. Mitchell, M.D., F.A.C.C.,F.C.C.P., F.S.C.A.I., for being named to Texas Monthly Super Doctors.

Dr. Gordon Mitchell has again been named by Texas Monthly Super Doctors as one of the top Cardiologists in Texas, the fourth consecutive year he has earned this honor. Each year, Key Professional Media undertakes a rigorous selection process that includes surveys of doctors, independent evaluation of candidates by the research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good standing disciplinary check. More than 50,000 Texas physicians also nominate doctors in some 20 specialty areas by answering the question: “If you needed medical care in one of the following practice areas, which doctor would you choose?”

Dr. Mitchell practices Cardiology at Central Texas Heart Center in Bryan, Texas, where he is the group’s founder and president. His practice includes Invasive Cardiology, Non Invasive Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Treatment of Cardiac Arrhythmia, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiology, and Anti Coagulation Management.

Dr. Mitchell sees patients at his Bryan office and also in satellite clinics in the surrounding area where he delivers the highest quality, most up-todate Cardiology services to a multigenerational patient base.

Dr. Mitchell earned his under­ 20

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graduate degree from Texas A&M University in 1977, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. He received his medical degree from University of Texas at Houston in 1981. His residency and fellowship were completed at University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City, Iowa. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine Interventional Cardiology.Dr. Mitchell is a Fellow of American College of Cardiology, the American College of Chest Physicians, and the Society for Coronary Angiography and Intervention.

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To learn more about Dr. Mitchell and his practice, visit www. centraltexasheart.com or call (979) 774-4008 or 1-866-629-5545. Central Texas Heart Center is located adjacent to St. Joseph Regional Health Center at 2700 E. 29th Street in Bryan. Dr. Mitchellperformed the first Cardiac Catheterization at St. Joseph where he has practiced since 1986. St. Joseph Regional Health Center is the first accredited Chest Pain Center in the Brazos Valley.

The Key Professional Media, Inc. Super Doctors honorees may be found at superdoctors.com.

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PRP Injection Therapy Certifiably Better A new therapy offered by a College Station medical practice has proven remarkably effective in accelerating healing for patients with nagging joint or muscle pain.

Arthritis & Osteoporosis Clinic of Brazos Valley (AOCBV) offers Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection Therapy uses the patient’s own blood to accelerate tissue repair and healing for tendons and ligaments. Better than cortisone shots and less aggressive than surgery, PRP heals with minimal or no scarring and alleviates further degeneration of the tissues.

AOCBV offers the only independent board-certified rheumatologists in the area and also provides the following services: Early Arthritis Clinic – to diagnosis and aggressively treat the disease in its early stages.

Inflammatory Back Pain Treatment Infusion Suite and On-site Lab Joint Injections Osteoporosis Care

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Dr. Ricardo Pocurull, MD, PA, CCD Board-certified in Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Rajpreet Singh, DO, PA, CCD Double Board-certified in Internal Medicine & Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call (979) 696-8000, or go to www.aocbv.com.

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The Cancer Clinic Home to Award Winning Doctors A winning team specializing in one kind of cancer – yours.

Doctors Kumud Tripathy, Terry Jenkins and Erin Fleener work side-by-side to bring the best possible cancer care to patients.

The doctors’ unique com­bi­na­tion of talents is widely recognized as the key ingredient making the Cancer Clinic so successful.

Compassionate and com­ petent are the words patients most use to describe these three skilled physicians.

Diverse in background, education, and individual specialization, the doctors

have come together to build the premier destination for advanced cancer treatment in the Brazos Valley.

The Cancer Clinic’s com­ mit­ ment to seeing new patients quickly is a vital and core value of the practice and a great source of comfort to those who have just learned they have cancer. Most importantly, patients no longer have to travel great distances knowing with full confidence that every aspect of cancer treatment is available in-depth locally.

Multidisciplinary care is supervised and seamlessly integrated utilizing advanced electronic medical records to ensure efficiency, accuracy and the best possible outcomes.

In the profession of cancer care, we are indeed fortunate to have these three individuals who have achieved this level of respect and recognition.

For more information call (979)7762000 or visit www.cancerclinic.com.

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The Trusted Leader in Orthodontic Care

Since 1991, Dr. Troy N. Elms has been creating beautiful lasting smiles for both children and adults in the Brazos Valley. A Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, he is one of only two board certified orthodontists in Bryan/College Station. For that reason, you can be certain that Dr. Elms and his team will provide you with the highest quality of orthodontic treatment available.

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Elms Orthodontics Continued from page 23

Elms Orthodontics utilizes the most advanced treatment techniques including heatactivated memory wires, selfligating (Smart-Clip) braces, clear braces and lingual braces. All of these enhance the

process of helping you achieve the smile that you have always wished for, in the shortest amount of time. Recognized as the ONLY Elite Premiere Provider for Invisalign in Bry-

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an/College Station, Dr. Elms is ranked in the top percent of all dental professionals in the United States for his experience with aligner therapy. Dr. Elms offers the newest in Invisalign technology, the Itero Digital Scanner.

A growing number of patients have discovered the advantages of using these removable and invisible plastic straighteners to accomplish the same goals as traditional braces. Many adults who would otherwise require extensive and expensive cosmetic dentistry have reaped tremendous benefits from aligners.

With no metal and no fuss, Invisalign can create beautiful results using your own natural teeth at a fraction of the cost of veneers or full mouth restorations.

Dr. Elms and his team would like to welcome you to

visit their office for a consultation. Located at 1501 Emerald Parkway in College Station, the facility is state of the art.

The office is conveniently located right on the Highway 6 Bypass and is equipped with the latest technology in digital dental radiography, photography and ortho­dontic diagnostics. Part of the fun includes a 14-seat movie theater, game room and chair-side iPads for patients. Dr. Elms also offers a free shuttle service to his patients in Bryan/College Station schools. The Orthomobile is available to patients and makes Elms Orthodontics a leader in quality patient care.

To schedule an appointment for your child or yourself, call (979) 693-6300 or 1-(866) 693-0656. For additional information, visit www.drelms. com.

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Texas Brain & Spine Institute Groundbreaking Research In Restoring Brain & Spine Function The Texas Brain and Spine Institute is excited to announce the opportunity to host another internationally renowned leader to discuss his advancements in the frontier of Brain Machine Interfaces at the 8th Annual Neuroscience Symposium. This groundbreaking work is focused on using computers and machines to restore brain and spinal function, and to explore the nervous system.

This research has led to promising advances such as robotic limbs controlled by brain activity for use in paralyzed patients or amputees.

Dr. Miguel Nicolelis, Professor and Director of Duke University Center for Neuroengineering, will be this year’s keynote speaker.His award-winning research has been published in Nature, Science, and Scientific Americanand has been reported in Continued on page 26

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Newsweek, Time, and Discover. Dr. Nicolelis is a dynamic speaker who has been featured on The Daily Show, Ted Talks, BBC, NPR, and in numerous other international media.

The symposium will be held on Tuesday, September 16, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Annenberg Conference Center located at the George Bush Presidential Library at Texas A&M University.

The symposium is intended for the general public, for

medical professionals, and for faculty, educators and students in all disciplines.

Continuing education credits for medical professionals will be provided. For more

information, or to register for this FREE event, please visit www.txbsi.com/symposium.Advance registration is recommended.

Hospice Brazos Valley Caring Life Care Hospice Brazos Valley (HBV) is the regional provider of choice and innovative leader in

palliative and end-of-life care. HBV specializes in treating disease-related symptoms, primarily in the homes of patients using holistic care. Care is provided by a physician, nurse, social worker, chap足 lain, home health aide, and a volunteer who provides sup足 port for patient and family. When curative treatment is no longer possible or desired HBV can help patients achieve a more meaningful and productive life regardless of race, age, faith, diagnosis, or ability to pay for services. For more information, call 800-824-2326 or visit www. hospicebrazosvalley. org.

Your non-profit hospice of choice

since 1989

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Campion Chiropractic Better Health, Better Life Through Chiropractic Campion Chiropractic has been serving the Brazos Valley for 25 years, bringing to the community a variety of chiropractic experience and techniques.

Dr. Karen Campion, Dr. April Holly, and Dr. Nathan Sehorn are continually evaluating and incorporating the very latest alternative holistic and medical therapies to help their patients live the highest quality of life at every age. Rather than masking symptoms with drugs or undergoing something as drastic as surgery, look to Campion Chiropractic to help reduce pain, relieve inflammation, increase overall mobility and get you back on track.

The Right Choice Can Change Everything Spinal decompression, MLS cutting-edge cold laser therapy, Graston technique, sports

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rehabilitation, acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, kinesiotaping, active release and massage therapy are among some of the techniques Campion Chiropractic uses to treat patients. To ensure that patients receive the most advanced level

NATHAN SEHORN, D.C. KAREN M. CAMPION, DC, CCSP, FIAMA, Certified in Acupuncture, Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner APRIL M. HOLLY, DC, CKTP, Certified Graston Technique

of care, Campion Chiropractic focuses on identifying the cause of pain or injury and matches the very best therapy available to restoring patients to a productive and painfree daily life.

Pati ent- Centere d, Results-Driven Campion Chiropractic welcomes medical referrals and will work hand-in-hand with other specialists in the Bryan/College Station area to co-manage a patient’s conditions. A thorough examination, x-rays, and MRI can be done to help determine the source of your problem. If you have been suffering from persistent aches and pains, your body may be sending you an early warning sign that you have a problem that needs to be evaluated.

With a promise of honesty, compassion, and the highest standards of care, the staff at Campion Chiropractic welcomes you to call to see if chiropractic treatment is right for you at (979) 693-6500 or visit www. campionchiropractic.com.

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TOP D OC S

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HealthPoint services cover the whole lifespan: from prenatal care and pediatric to adult primary health care, with additional services in women’s health, family planning, and dental services. Dr. Veena Anand, pediatrician at the HealthPoint Memorial in Bryan, has served patients at HealthPoint for 20 years. In addition, HealthPoint ABC in College Station is celebrating two new pediatricians in the practice: Dr. Laura Taplin, who is returning to the Bryan/College Station area, and Dr. Jennifer Variste. Dedicated Health-

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31

Riding for the Fallen

Brotherhood

By Chris Scoggins

T

he loss

of a loved is always difficult, especially when that loved one died protecting others. The Texas chapter of the Brotherhood Ride aims to provide emotional and financial support to the families of fallen firefighters and policemen by participating in an annual memorial bike ride and fundraiser. The ride brings warmth and comfort to the families of the fallen and strengthens the already strong bond among this band of brothers.

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“It’s really about coming together and feeling like we’re doing something for our fallen brothers and their families,” says Texas Chapter Board Member Eddie Havlice. “Firefighters instinctively want to do something to help; they are active type people.

Sometimes after a loss we don’t have something to put our hands on that we can do, so this is a great way to actively engage in remembering these guys.”

The members of the newly minted Texas chapter, which modeled itself after the original

Brotherhood Ride organization in Florida, just completed a ride in late May in honor of 19 Texas firefighters who died in the line of duty during 2013. The route was planned so that the riders traveled through the respective hometowns of the fallen near the one-year anniversary of their deaths, biking more than 750 miles in nine days.

Donations raised through the 2014 ride honored the deceased from Dallas, Bryan, West and Houston; the funds will go to the Florida chapter.

The Texas chapter is in the process of finalizing status as a 501C non-profit organization. Future fundraising rides by the Texas chapter will support solely families of the fallen in Texas.

“The brotherhood of the fire department is something you really can’t explain,” says Texas Chapter Board Member Jerry Turner. “When you get an opportunity to be able to give back to these guys and the way they sacrificed their lives, you feel good about what you did.”

All riders donate $500 upfront in addition to signing up individual or corporate sponsors to offset the logistical costs and maximize the amount of money that goes back to the families. For many of the riders, the physical struggle of biking more than 700 miles in a just over a week

means more than simply donating money. Each rider wears the name of one of the fallen on their jersey to motivate the rider behind them to overcome the long miles.

“It’s a brotherhood; you show the sacrifice you’re willing to make [through riding],” says Tim Dunn, president of the Texas Chapter.

Firefighters are already required to be in top physical conditioning as a part of the job, but the fitness required to ride hundreds of miles creates its own demands.

“There’s a lot of training involved,” Havlice says.

“It’s fitness all around but if you’re going to ride your bicycle 800 miles you’ve got to do some training in advance. It takes so much time to do those longer training rides that it’s harder to fit in advance, but we get together as a

team and ride as a group periodically.”

In addition to the rides, the organization also offers several fundraising events, dinners and t-shirt sales to support the annual ride. Those interested can make donations at BrotherhoodRide.com. The Texas chapter is currently operating out of the Houston Fire Department.

All riders are required to be either active duty or retired firefighters or police officers. Those who don’t

meet those qualifications can still participate in the rides by providing logistical support. Dunn was inspired to join the ride after supporting the Florida chapter in 2010 as they came through Houston.

“I got involved through a cooking team when they came through Houston,” Dunn says. “Just being a part of, and seeing that, inspired me to be a part of the organization.”

While the next step for the chapter is to continue

to fundraise, above all the riders put a premium on the emotional healing they help provide to the families in addition to the financial support.

“If you walk into a house where a wife lost a husband or the children lost a father, what it tells those people is that we are honoring them and what they did,” Turner says. “What we give them is a fraction of what is paid to the community.” i

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33

THE MAN BEHIND AGGIE SPORTS

W

Walking past the

hulking mass of what is soon to be the new and improved Kyle Field, visitors cross the construction zone under the blazing

By Chris Scoggins Texas sun to the Bright Football Complex, ground zero of where the boys of fall are trained, sharpened and conditioned to play Fightin’ Texas Aggie football. The open lobby is graced by the names of football legends come and gone. Only a handful of men have worked alongside more than a few of these legends. Alan Cannon is one of them.

Cannon is an approachable man with a firm handshake, 36

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candid and sincere.

Recently inducted into the College Sports Information Director’s Hall of Fame, Cannon has served the Texas A&M Athletic department for 35 years. He is the kind of

Cannon and only served to grow his love of sports. It was there he met Spec Gammon, the then sports information director for Texas A&M University, a relationship that

During his freshman year at Texas A&M, Cannon was a walk-on baseball player, but after reconnecting with Gammon, he was allowed to file clip articles and pictures

being around the players and coaches, you really felt like you were a part of the team,” recalls Cannon.

“That relationship I got to have with the coaches and the student athletes was

ALAN CANNON WAS RECENTLY INDUCTED INTO THE COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATION DIRECTOR’S HALL OF FAME man who bleeds more maroon than even the most die-hard Aggie fans.

Cannon got his start as a high school intern for the athletic department at Southern Methodist University. The job was a perfect fit for

would pay great dividends during Cannon’s young professional career.

“I really didn’t realize before then that there was a profession behind the scenes of all the media interviews,” recalls Cannon.

for the team. After his freshman year, Cannon became a student assistant to the baseball team and the official score reporter, a job he continued until his graduation in 1984.

“Working with Coach Chandler and

very unique.”

Cannon would continue to build on those relationships as he advanced in 1985 to an assistant SID after graduating with a marketing degree.

It was during this time that Cannon got to work with

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Mark Johnson, a distinguished Aggie baseball coach known for having the most wins in Texas A&M’s history.

In 1999, Cannon was promoted to assistant athletic director for media relations. In his long career, he has worked with every sport on campus and such Texas A&M sports greats as Hall of Fame football Coach R.C Slocum and basketball coach Shelby Metcalf. Metcalf is remembered not only for having the most basketball wins in Texas A&M’s history, but also the most wins in the entire Southwest Conference.

Looking back on his career and the relationships it has grown, Cannon says he views his recent acceptance into the CoSIDA Hall of Fame as more of an indicator of the university’s success than his own.

“I think it’s more of a reflection on Texas A&M and the success of the program,” says Cannon. “I’ve had a great staff throughout the years. We’ve been fortunate, even in my first couple of years.

We were used to the ESPN Awards shows, but so many of the coaches such as R. C Slocum and many others, all across the board, have been real special people.”

In his successful 35-year career, he has witnessed many changes to the world of sports – and sports reporting. The most significant has been 38

INSITE August 2014

technology.

“The technology has changed everything,” says Cannon. “Then, the lines of media were very clear cut, everything fit into its own category. Your news cycle stayed consistent so if you were working on a story, you knew you had time. These days everything is instantaneous. People want results as fast as you can get them.”

Having seen Texas A&M’s successes and failures, both in the Big 12 and the SEC, Cannon says that while conferences may change and new rivalries may grow, fans can expect to see the football program continue to advance.

“I think in the SEC you can see some rivalries from back in the day,” says Cannon. “In the Big 12 the local and state media were locked in on us with coverage, but with the SEC we are now truly a national brand.”

Despite his long career, Cannon’s not done yet, intent on seeing Texas A&M produce another Heisman finalist.

Through the years, the thing that remains the most important to Cannon is not the accolades, but the relationships between staff and student athletes.

“To me it’s all about relationships,” says Cannon. “I continue to be amazed of all the talented athletes to be recruited here at A&M. It makes coming to work a lot of fun.” i

Howdy!

Football

Thursday, August 28: vs. South Carolina @ South Carolina* Saturday, September 6: vs. Lamar @ Kyle Field Saturday, September 13: vs. Rice @ Kyle Field Saturday, September 20: vs. SMU @ Dallas Saturday, September 27: vs. Arkansas @ Arlington* Saturday, October 4: vs. Mississippi State @ Mississippi* Saturday, October 11: vs. Ole Miss @ Kyle Field* Saturday, October 18: vs. Alabama @ Alabama* Saturday, November 1: vs. Louisiana-Monroe @ Kyle Field Saturday, November 8: vs. Auburn @ Auburn* Saturday, November 15: vs. Missouri @ Kyle Field* Saturday, November 27: vs. LSU @ Kyle Field* * conference games

Soccer Only home games are listed. Games take

place at Ellis Field in College Station. For full schedule, visit www.12thman.com.

Friday, August 22: vs. Dayton Sunday, August 24: vs. SFA Friday, August 29: vs. UCF Sunday, August 31: vs. Illinois State Thursday, September 11: vs. FGCU Sunday, September 14: vs. Marquette Thursday, September 18: vs. Tennessee* Friday, October 3: vs. Florida* Sunday, October 5: vs. Kentucky* Friday, October 17: vs. Auburn* Sunday, October 26: vs. South Carolina* Thursday, October 30: vs. Georgia* *conference games

#59

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39

SEC NATION on the SEC Network

By Leigha Faulkner

F

ootball

season kicks off August 28 with Texas A&M University playing The University of South Carolina in Columbia, S.C. When the Aggies line up against the Gamecocks the only two ways fans will be able to watch the game is from inside WilliamsBrice Stadium or by watching on the SEC Network, says Justin Connolly, ESPN senior vice president, college networks.

The problem is many Aggies may not have access to the game if their cable or satellite provider has not inked a deal to carry the new SEC Network. At press time, Brazos Valley fans signed up with the cable company Suddenlink are, so far, among the left behind.

“We are in conversation with every provider, including Suddenlink, but we don’t have a deal with Suddenlink yet,” Connolly says.

“We have a lot to do in the next month.

Week to week and sport to sport there are

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winners and losers, and our network has to cover the conference in its totality and its success,” explains Connolly. “It will be a challenge to do this in a respectful and honest way.”

Keeping score on who has signed up to carry the SEC Network, so far Comcast, Dish Network, Cox Communications, AT&T U-verse and Google Fiber have signed on to carry SEC Network. Both the SEC Network and Aggie athletics websites have “Demand it Now” buttons that provide fans with contact links to encourage unsigned broadcasters to get on the ball.

As for Texas A&M, the university stands to reap great rewards from the SEC Network and all of the coverage it will provide of the campus. “The network was created as an opportunity to provide increased exposure to all 14 [SEC] schools including athletics and the campuses and feel of the schools,”

says Connolly. “It will bring passion and competition to the screen 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.”

Texas A&M made a huge splash coming into the SEC, Connolly says. “Texas A&M has a Heisman trophy winner and played an awesome game at the Cotton Bowl, which has brought incredible benefits along with the extension of the SEC into Texas when [Texas A&M] joined,” says Connolly.

The level of engagement across the student body at Texas A&M is unlike anything else, says Connolly. “The fans and having midnight yell and the entire atmosphere adds another dimension to the Southeastern Conference,” says Connolly. “I’m not sure anyone has a fan base as passionate as the Aggies.

The most upto-date availability of SEC Network providers is listed on getsecnetwork. com. i

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41

Howdy!

Aggies Give Back

A TRADITION OF GENEROSITY Cover Credits: Photo by Greg Gammon. Hand models Joshua Garcia ‘13, Allison Edwards ‘16. Rings courtesy of The Association of Former Students Aggie Ring Program, which has the honor and responsibility of protecting the integrity of the Aggie Ring. They oversee the eligibility, order and delivery for more than 12,000 students each year.

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William Steven Steele

By Chris Scoggins

PHOTO BY ELIZABETH CRAWFORD

Former officer, gentleman

and embodiment of the Aggie Spirit, William Steven Steele graduated from Texas A&M University in 1974. Since returning to Bryan as a lawyer for the Davis & Davis Law Firm, Steele has made it a priority to be involved in a number of

organizations that give back to the community.

Growing up an Aggie fan, Steele says he always knew he would attend Texas A&M. When he enrolled, Texas A&M did not offer a pre-law program so Steele decided to major in history. He was a member of Company F-2 in the Corps of Cadets.

“I knew when I was going to A&M, that I wanted to be a lawyer,” says Steele. “The whole Aggie experience trained me to be a decision maker and express myself, so when I went to law school it wasn’t that difficult because the Aggie experience had matured me quite a bit.”

Steele then attended law school at Baylor University and obtained a commission as an officer in the U.S. Army as a Judge Advocate General.

After retiring from the service, Steele

returned to Bryan/College Station as a civil attorney joining Davis & Davis in 1988.

“Ever since I was at A&M, and having been raised in the church, I always believed that God directs you to perform certain service for your fellow man,” says Steele. “Anytime the opportunity or the request has been made, I see that as God tapping me on the shoulder.”

Steele currently holds a position as the president of the board of directors for the Brazos Valley Center for Independent Living and is involved with Habitat for Humanity and the Bryan Rotary Club. Steele also has been active with the Arc of Bryan/ College Station, an organization that holds social activities for those with intellectual disabilities. Steele credits his time at Texas A&M with having a direct impact on his commitment to

community service.

“The Aggie community is very important in building that camaraderie, and the idea of giving service to your fellow Aggies and the university itself is paramount,” says Steele.

Steele is also a former board member of the Aggieland Humane Society and is a supporter of the Brazos Valley Booster Club, which helps those with intellectual disabilities compete in the Special Olympics. Steele also is an active and giving member of Covenant Presbyterian Church.

“There’s nothing special about me,” says Steele. “There are lots of wonderful giving people in this community. I am just privileged to know many in this community who are supporters of the community, and I admire their involvement.”

Angela Sturm

By Chris Scoggins

Changing lives is

not a routine part of everyone’s profession or volunteer commitment, but it is all in a day’s work for Dr. Angela Sturm, a facial plastic surgeon. Aggie Class of 2002, Sturm’s medical practice is with Facial Plastic Surgery Associates; she also uses her skills as a surgeon to help victims of abuse.

“I knew I wanted to go into the medical direction but wasn’t sure if I wanted to go more of the research or the clinical side,” recalls Sturm. “After volunteering at the ER while going to school

at Texas A&M, I liked the patient contact and being able to affect their lives, and that started my path.”

In her volunteer life, Sturm focuses on helping victims of domestic abuse and violence and is a supporter of Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse. She also provides free facial care through the Face Foundation.

“The Face Foundation is really my passion in helping victims of domestic violence,” says Sturm. “I feel like you practice medicine in the community,

because how you affect them most is helping them where they live. Whether it’s medication, surgery or community outreach, if they need help that’s what I’m here to do.”

Sturm also is involved with Leadership Houston, an organization that encourages individuals from different industries to seek leadership roles within the community.

Another of Sturm’s volunteer passions is for the D-tag program, which provides laser tattoo removal for young adults who are coming out of

gangs or re-entering the workforce. The program helps by providing removal of body art that employers might view negatively.

“The D-tag has really been rewarding,” says Sturm. “Seeing the kids through the whole process, it’s a different person than you see from the beginning.”

Sturm graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in molecular

and cellular biology and a minor in music. She then attended medical school at Baylor College of Medicine. As an undergrad, Sturm says she was immediately attracted to the selflessness typical of Aggies, recalling it as something she experienced as a student. Those experiences stuck with her and influenced her to give back to others.

“Aggies are so generous,” says Sturm.

“Even as an undergrad I had a scholarship because someone else decided to give back.

When you get to the point where you are able to give back, I feel more compelled and more inspired to do it because I see so much of what other Aggies do and how helpful they are.”

Sturm’s work to help the community has made an impact, but she suggests that anyone who is motivated can do the same.

“Find out what your passion is and what you really want to devote some time and yourself to,” says Sturm. “There are so many different causes, but you can really make a big impact in one area.”

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A G G IE S

G I V E

B A C K

Bonnie Boatwright PHOTO BY ELIZABETH CRAWFORD

By Chris Scoggins

Bonnie Boatwright

says her love of helping others grew from her childhood experiences of watching her grandfather always lend a helping hand to others in need. Over the years, Boatwright’s selfless acts have impacted the community, changed lives, and since 2012, helped fill hungry bellies as a volunteer for the Brazos Valley Food Bank.

“I grew up with my grandparents,” says Boatwright. “My grandfather was always helping other people and doing things for

others. I grew up around older people who always needed help, so I’ve just always done it.”

Boatwright has always been active in helping the community based on her grandfather’s example, but says she feels her greatest impact is the work she has done with the Food Bank.

“My initial perception was the food bank was for people who didn’t work,” says Boatwright. “But after I did some research, I realized the Food Bank was really more for middle income

families going through hard times, and they just needed some extra help. I realized that with all the charities I helped, this one was the most important because it gives back to all people who really need it. It helps everyone not just one particular type.

“Most people don’t know that one out of four families in the Brazos Valley use the Food Bank; The Food Bank distributes over 30,000 backpacks with food for the weekend to children in need every year and they distribute over 300 packages to senior citizens every week of the year. For every $1 you donate to the Food Bank, it will buy

five pounds of food, which is equivalent to three meals.”

Boatwright is currently volunteering with the Food Bank to put on a dinner, “Because Hunger Won’t Wait,” to raise money for their capital campaign. As a graduate of Texas A&M University, Boatwright says she feels she went somewhat against the grain in her choice of schooling.

“I grew up in Burnet and everyone who grew up there went to the University of Texas,” says Boatwright.

“There was no question on where I wanted to go to school; it was just a matter of when.” She chose to go back

to school at the age of 30 and after finishing her degree she says she was compelled to devote herself to serving others.

“I had already been out in the workforce and had already been doing volunteer work for years before I went to A&M, but A&M was for me an end product,” says Boatwright.

Despite her activism, Boatwright doesn’t feel her actions merit any praise.

“I don’t ever want recognition for anything I’ve ever done,” says Boatwright.

“I just think you should do things for the right reasons.”

Maria Lazo PHOTO BY ELIZABETH CRAWFORD

By Chris Scoggins

Maria Lazo’s

introduction to the Aggie spirit was watching her older brother become both an Aggie and the first college graduate in the family. It was while attending Texas A&M University that she first discovered her love of anthropology.

“At school I did Anthropology Society, but I did a lot more

44

involvement after I graduated,” says Lazo. “In one class we put together an exhibit, which got me into museums.”

Lazo graduated from Texas A&M in December of 2002 with a degree in anthropology, and now as the associate director at the Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History, she strives to share her love of the study of

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humanity with all who visit her exhibits.

“As a student I started off with a heavy science background,” says Lazo. “I always had those interests.”

In addition to her job at the museum, Lazo has been involved with Habitat for Humanity, the Rotary Club and has volunteered with the Rape

Crisis Center for four years. Lazo credits her Aggie experience as being an influence in her charitable work.

“For me, I can see [service] as a way you would behave in a family,” say Lazo. “I come from a big family so we always have to help each other out, and for me, A&M was a big extension of that.”

Although Lazo

has been involved in numerous charitable organizations, she feels her work at the Rape Crisis Center has had the greatest impact.

“I believe that supporting survivors of sex assault is an important part of helping out the community, and I loved every second I volunteered there,” says Lazo.

Lazo views her work as a volunteer as a part of the bigger picture of helping others. She supports non-

profits because of her belief that one person cannot do it alone, but that people must come together as a community to help others.

“It’s a group effort,” says Lazo.

“I just think it’s important for everyone to give back and if you have the ability [to] you have the responsibility to give back. If I have a skill I can share with other people, I try to.”

Lazo says she balances her work at the museum with

her community activities. She most enjoys working with women and children, but notes there are many opportunities to help others in the community.

“There are always opportunities to volunteer, but you need to find an organization that truly means something to [you].

That way [you] can feel like they are making a difference internally, not just seeing it happen.”

A G G IE S

G I V E

B A C K

Ashley Tesar & Jennifer Terry

By Elizabeth Crawford

Once upon a time, two Aggies

both had the dream of helping girls and women who were ensnared in the nightmare world of human trafficking and sexual slavery. Both had done research on the subject while in college and one of the young women even helped start FREE (Father Redeeming the Enslaved and Exploited) while a student at Texas A&M University hoping to educate and reach out to those at risk of being exploited in sex trades.

Today, Ashley Tesar, Texas A&M Class of 2011, and Jennifer Terry, Class of 2012, have seen those dreams become a reality through the Restore Her program at Still Creek Ranch in Bryan. Restore Her rescues and provides long-term care for girls at high risk or who have been enslaved in the sex trafficking business.

Tesar was involved in the organizations Breakaway and Sigma Phi Lambda, a Christian sorority, while at Texas A&M. During her senior year, she was in charge of planning an event at Still Creek for her sorority and she stayed in contact with Still Creek’s staff.

While at Texas A&M, Terry and five of her friends had learned about human trafficking and started FREE on the Texas A&M campus. Terry was in charge of the organization’s outreach program for girls at risk of being taken into sex slavery and had invited a woman rescued from human trafficking into her home one summer. Getting to see the aftercare and the womans journey of restoration stirred Terry’s heart to continue this type of work, she says.

After Terry was introduced to Still

Creek Ranch through a previous job, the two girls were asked to attend one of Still Creek’s staff meetings. The organization was close to launching a new program to rescue and restore girls from sex slavery. Both Tesar and Terry had been doing research on sex trafficking in Houston and shared the information at the meeting. Still Creek hired the girls on the spot.

Terry and Tesar immediately moved out to Still Creek Ranch and became house moms in one of Still Creek’s homes for girls. “We were just in shock that we could have a paid job doing what we loved,” Terry recalls.

As directors of Restore Her, Tesar and Terry live at Still Creek Ranch fulltime and do everything from administrative work to providing basic care for the girls in the program. “We wear a lot of hats,” Tesar says. They also coordinate the volunteers who help Restore Her and are involved with process of rescuing girls who are still enslaved, Terry says.

For Tesar, the best part about being involved with Restore Her has been seeing the girls in the program come from having no hope for a

future to being totally transformed, she says. Restore Her gives the girls a place to flourish and grow, she adds.

Living with the rescued girls fulltime comes with seeing both the good and the bad; the restoration process for them is real and lasting, Terry says.

Being a part of Texas A&M and the student organizations she was involved in has played a huge role in Tesar’s motivation to give back, she says. Much of her inspiration also comes from her faith, she adds. Terry loves Texas A&M and the values of character and selfless service that the university represents, she says, noting that being in leadership positions as an Aggie student prepared and inspired her to live a life of service.

“It’s so easy to find [volunteer] opportunities when you step out of just yourself,” Tesar says. Finding something and being faithful to it will allow you to see how effective it can be, she adds. “I don’t think anyone could regret giving of themselves to another,” Terry says.

“One of the most valuable things you can give to another person is your life and your love.”

Matthew Rush

By Elizabeth Crawford

Matthew Rush,

Texas A&M University Class of ‘96, has recently moved back to Aggieland to take his place as head of school at Allen Academy in Bryan. Rush says he believes in selfless service and hopes to instill the same concept in his students at Allen Academy.

“Part of being a human being is to subscribe to the theory of selfless service,” says Rush. Helping

other people, whether they are in a better or worse situation, is very important, he says. “The idea of selfless service is very much at the core of the Allen Academy, and it connects pretty easily to being an Aggie as well,” Rush says. “It’s what I would want from any student who graduates from our school.”

Rush and his family came back to Texas in June after following his

vocation in teaching and learning around the United States for almost 13 years. With a doctorate of education, Rush has been in education for 20 years.

As he settles into the role of head of school at Allen Academy, Rush will oversee everything from curriculum to teacher evaluations to student life, he says.

“It’s like being the president of a small college; everything is ultimately my

responsibility,” says Rush.

Both Rush and his wife are Aggies and native Texans, so when the opportunity to be back in Texas came up, it was hard to say no, Rush says.

“Everything lined up both professionally and personally,” he says. Rush and his wife have three children who will be students at Allen Academy in the upcoming school year. The Rush

family’s adjustment to Aggieland is going well, he says, adding, “The kids are sad to leave their friends and a place where they were known

and loved, but they are looking forward to a new adventure.”

click www.insitebrazosvalley.com

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A G G IE S

G I V E

B A C K

Tyler Luxion

By Elizabeth Crawford

TYLER LUXION (FAR LEFT) WITH CHILIFEST COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND HANK WILLIAMS, JR.

It’s one of the annual rites

of spring. Every April since 1994, thousands of fans of country music, chili, and good times transform 15 acres of pastureland around the Starlight Ballroom in Snook into one of the most successful local fundraisers in town.

Through Chilifest 2014, the organization has donated more than $2 million to dozens of local non-profits including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Brazos Valley Children’s Museum, Burleson County GoTexan Association, Brazos Valley Boys and Girls Club, Brazos Valley Children’s Museum, Down Syndrome Association of Brazos Valley, Still Creek Ranch, and Gary

Blair Charities.

The list goes on, and so does Chilifest, Inc. Chilifest was started in 1991 by the Texas A&M fraternity Sigma Alpha Epsilon and held in a WalMart parking lot. In 1999, the event incorporated becoming a separate entity from the fraternity. Since then, through ticket sales and sponsors Chilifest has grown into a successful small business that begins planning for the next Chilifest the same day it’s held.

Tyler Luxion is the current Chilifest president and Texas A&M University Class of 2015. He has been active in Chilifest since his freshman year and says Chilifest is a 365-day

operation with organizers always working to improve relationships with people in the community. He notes that Chilifest returns 100 percent of its proceeds back to area charities.

As a beginner volunteer, Luxion hammered in stakes, mapped out the grounds, and helped judge the chili contest. He was soon invited to join the board, and now as its president, Luxion and five other committee members are in charge of organizing a volunteer network of more than 700 people, all of whom are involved in the charities that receive Chilifest donations.

Those volunteers do everything from drawing out the parking lots and mapping out the site to manning the entrance and exit gates and cooking a meal for all the people who help run the event, say Luxion.

Chilifest staff then track the number of volunteers and hours dedicated from each organization and splits each year’s proceeds accordingly, he says. In 2014, Chilifest donated to $131,000 to 35 different Brazos Valley charities.

Luxion notes that EMS workers and firefighters in the county are also given support for their efforts to keep Chilifest fans safe during the event.

Luxion offers some advice for those looking for a way to give back.

“Identify what you are passionate about,” he says. “If you can’t find an existing cause that meets your expectations in regards to how you want to make your impact, and who you want to make it on, don’t be afraid to create your own.

“That’s what we did 23 years ago, and look where we are now,” he says.

Joe Nussbaum

By Elizabeth Crawford At this year’s Big

Event more than 20,000 Texas A&M University students volunteered to complete almost 2,000 jobs ranging from painting and yard work to cleaning around the Bryan/College Station community. Already the largest one-day, studentrun service project in the nation, The Big Event has expanded to 110 other schools across the nation and now to international schools in Spain, Australia, Germany, Pakistan and Italy.

Every success story starts somewhere. For the Big Event, that start traces back to Joe Nussbaum, Texas A&M University Class of 1984, who helped

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INSITE August 2014

create the first Big Event back in 1982. As Texas A&M’s student government vice president, Nussbaum was head of a committee charged with doing more service projects.

He envisioned a project that would bring all student organizations on campus together to

do a service project on the same day, he recalls.

His committee got to work, and the result was the Big Event.

“The original plan was to help a lot of people,” says Nussbaum. Though the Big Event has evolved through the years, the goal is the same.

After starting out as a service project for only student organizations at Texas A&M to help out organizations around Bryan/College Station, Big Event now includes individual students and helps out individual people around the area as well. “It has grown, and it’s just really neat to see,” says Nussbaum.

Nussbaum and his wife, who was also on

the original Big Event committee, try to be a supportive voice and give the students encouragement.

He describes their involvement with the Big Event nowadays as being “old Ag cheerleaders.” Although the Nussbaums run the manufacturing company ACP International in Arlington, they try to go back to the Big Event every year, he says, adding, “It’s the easiest thing in the world to stay involved with.”

Nussbaum says he took the Aggie spirit for granted as a student, but adds that being part of the Aggie family absolutely inspired him to want to give back to

the community. “The Aggie Spirit is about seeing something that needs to be done and going and doing it,” he says. No other Big Event surpasses Texas A&M’s because of the Aggie Spirit, he adds.

“When I look at the Big Event and see the way students pull it off, it is an incredible logistic accomplishment,” he says. These are students who do it as volunteers, and it would be incredible even for a professional organization, he adds.

“It absolutely blows me away to see what they accomplish.

“It’s just infectious,” he says. Seeing the leadership development

of the students involved is both humbling and gratifying, he adds. “I’m very grateful to have been a part of it in the beginning. We planted this seed and now this big tree has grown; but, it is because of all the collective efforts of everyone who has ever done anything for it,” he says.

“People could look at what we do with our time and money and say it’s a sacrifice,” Nussbaum says. “I could not think of a better thing to do with our time and money than to use it on The Big Event. It is inspiring and also gratifying to be able to do that.” i

Your Source For Food & Fun | INSITE BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION

DINING / CATERING / VENUES Café EccelL & LA BODEGA CATERING

www.eccellgroup.com, www.labodegacatering.com, (979) 846-0928, (979) 739-0010, info@laboega catering. com. For private parties, weddings or any event off premise from buffets and mixers to fine dining for 251,000 people. Café Eccell plus La Bodega plus your imagination adds up to Eccell Group Catering and anything you want!

Caffe Capri Italian Restaurant

www.theplaceforitalian.com, 222 N Main St, Bryan (979)822-2675. This award winning downtown restaurant has been serving creative and reasonably priced Italian dishes for 15 years. Enjoy their art deco interior, local art display and upbeat atmosphere. Lunch M-F 11am-2pm; Dinner M-Th 6pm-9pm; F-Sa 5pm-9pm

Casa Rodriguez

www.casarod.com, 300 N. Bryan Ave., Bryan (979) 779-0916. Casa Rodriguez has been serving Bryan and College Station for more than 30 years. Their menu consists of traditional Mexican food recipes that have kept the locals and visitors coming back for more. M 11am-2pm; Tu-Th 8am-9pm; F-Sa 8am-9:30pm; Su 8am-8pm

Cenare Restaurant

www.gotocenare.com, 404 University Dr E, CS (979)6967311. Cenare offers a variety of authentic Italian cuisine and beautifully presented dishes. Whether you are looking for an intimate evening, a nice place for the entire family or a place to host your next event, Cenare is a great choice. M-F 11am-2pm; M-Th 5-9:30pm; F-Sa 5-10pm

Chef Tai’s Mobile Bistro

www.cheftai.com, check website for daily locations and hours (979) 268-3251. Chef Tai’s Mobile Bistro is America’s Favorite Food Truck serving a blend of globally inspired cuisine.

Chocolate Gallery

www.bcschocolategallery.com, 211 N. Main St., Bryan (979) 779-2804. The Chocolate Gallery provides premium pastries and chocolate as well as showcase the art of pastry and confections through education and experience.

Tu-Th 10am-8pm, F-Sa 10am-9pm

The Clary House www.theclaryhouse.com, 601 East 30th St., Bryan, (979)703-7916. Southern hospitality since 1902. Choose from four distinct suites to make you feel relaxed and pampered. Personal coffee bar and business center.

Just one mile from Bryan’s historic downtown and five miles from the Texas A&M campus. Perfect for special occasions. Promising to make your visit memorable with a leisurely stay.

J.CODY’S STEAKS AND BBQ

3610 S. College Ave., Bryan (979) 846-CODY. J.Cody’s serves both tender and juicy steaks and mouth watering BBQ. Let J.Cody’s cater your next event. M-Th 11am-9pm, F-Sa 11am-9:30pm, Su 11am-3pm

LASALLE HOTEL

www.lasalle-hotel.com, 120 S. Main St., Bryan (979) 8222000, Located in the heart of historic downtown Bryan, LaSalle Hotel, Café and Bar has corporate and group rates, conference and meeting rooms, and an executive chef on staff.

Luigi’s Patio Ristorante

www.luigispatiorstorante.com, 3975 SH-6 S, CS (979) 693-2742. Luigi’s Patio Ristorante offers genuine Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. You can choose to dine in the villa-style home interior or “outside” in the piazza town center, an indoor patio outfitted to embody all the excitement of a traditional Italian market square. Live music, check website for schedule. Open for lunch TuFri 11:30am-2pm. Open for dinner Tu-Su 5:30pm, call for closing times. Brunch Su 11:30am-2pm

Mr. G’s Pizzeria

www.gotomrgs.com, 201 W 26th St., Bryan (979) 8226747; 404 E University Dr., College Station (979) 6936747. At Mr. G’s, every slice is served with family pride, the freshest ingredients, original recipes and only the finest imported Italian cheeses. Now serving Gluten Free pizza. Bryan location: M-F 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm, Sa 5pm-9pm. College Station location: M-Th 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm, F 11am-2pm & 5pm-10pm. Sa 5pm-10pm.

Must Be Heaven

www.mustbeheaven.com, 100 S. Main St., Bryan (979) 822-7722; 1136 East Villa Maria, Bryan (979) 731-8891; 1700 Rock Prairie Rd., College Station (979) 764-9222.

Reminisce the good ole’ days of Ice Cream Shoppes and hand-crafted sandwiches at Must Be Heaven. Bryan locations’ hours: M-F 8am-6pm, Sa 8am-3pm. College Station hours: M-F 8am-8pm, Sa 8am-3pm

PERRINE WINERY

www.perrinewinery.com, 900 Harvey Rd., Ste. 6, College Station (979) 703-1843. Perrine Winery is a custom micro-winery featuring award-winning wines, tastings, parties, pairings, and custom labels. Tu-Th 4pm-8pm, F 2pm-11pm, Sa 12pm-10p

The Republic

www.therepublic1836.com, 701 University Dr E, CS (979)260-4120. Recently receiving the designation of AAA four diamond steak house, The Republic offers a variety of gourmet steak options, seafood, wine, and whiskey. Their focus is on the use of fine, locally grown foods and simple Texas cooking in an elegant setting.

M-Sa 5-10pm

RONIN COOKING

ronincooking.com, (979) 574-8745, Ronin cooking offers special full moon dinners and provides high quality food and catering for your next event, at your place or on the farm.

The Tap

www.tapbcs.com, 815 Harvey Rd, CS, (979)696-5570.

The Tap is a former train depot transformed into a sports bar and restaurant. This local favorite has more than 30 TVs, darts, pool tables, NTN trivia, dominoes, two huge porches, occasional live music specials, burgers, sandwiches, and free peanuts. M-Sa 11am-2pm

Truman Chocolates

www.trumanchocolates.com, 4407 S Texas Ave, Bryan (979)260-4519. Choose from signature series boxes or customize your own. Numerous flavors to choose from.

Made on site by well-trained staff. Perfect to leave a lasting impression for any event! Open M-F 10am-6pm; Sa 10am-3pm; Closed on Sunday

Veritas

www.veritaswineandbistro.com, 830 University Dr E, Ste 400, CS (979) 268-3251. Classically trained chefs offer creative cuisine in a casual, contemporary setting.

Veritas embraces usage of organic and local produce, wild caught seafood flown in directly from the source, as well as poultry and meat raised naturally. Highly-trained associates and wine stewards can guide you through an award-winning wine list, which has garnered Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence (2007-2010). Lunch M-Sa 11am-2pm; Dinner Sun-Th 5:30pm-9:30pm, F-Sa 5:30pm10pm

ENTERTAINMENT & ATTRACTIONS Brazos Bingo

www.BraosBingo.com, 1805 Briarcrest Dr across from Bryan High, Bryan (979) 776-0999. For charity bingo at its best, Brazos Bingo has family night, Aggie nights, and an enclosed non-smoking section. Enjoy great food at great prices at the Brazos City Grill or call about the party room – great for business events. Brazos Bingo supports the following charities: St. Joseph School, St. Joseph Church, Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Bubba Moore Memorial Group, Inc., College Station Professional Firefighters Assoc., & Scotty’s House Brazos Valley Advocacy Inc. Open 7 days a week.

Revolution Cafe & Bar

211 Main St, Bryan, (979) 823-4044. An eclectic coffee shop with a laid back, cool atmosphere, live music and great drink specials. Full bar, premium coffees, gourmet Panini and a large patio. Poetry open mic every Sunday, pub quiz trivia night every Monday, open mic every Wednesday.

Schlitterbahn Water Park

www.schlitterbahn.com, New Braunfels Waterpark (830) 625-2351; New Braunfels Lodging (855) 246-0273; Galveston Waterpark (409) 770-9283. Bring the whole family to experience why Schlitterbahn has been voted the best waterpark anywhere. Enjoy thrilling water slides or relax in the Lagoon for a day of fun in the sun. You can bring your own picnic into the park or enjoy the fun food available and resort lodging is available at the New Braunfels location. Park hours vary by season.

BURLESON COUNTY

DINING / SHOPPING Mad Hatter’s Tea Room

www.madhatterstearoom.com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hatter’s cozy eatery provides tantalizing treats and generous portions bursting with flavor, a unique selection of gift items, gourmet coffees, and specialty teas. Open for breakfast and lunch and special events by appointment. W-Sa 8am-5pm Washington County

DINING / CATERING Funky Art Café & Coffee Bar

202 W Commerce St, Brenham (979)836-5220. Delicious and different, Funky Art Café in Brenham offers enticing entrees to please the palate. Or choose a sandwich or savory soup before shopping in its companion retail shop, The Pomegranate, to find trinkets, gift ideas and kitchen gadgets. M-Fr 11am-2pm; Sa 11am-3pm Listings provided as a service. Insite is not responsible for errors or omissions.

For menus, maps and directions, visit InsiteBrazosValley.com/eats-and-treats click www.insitebrazosvalley.com

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