READY? YOUR SOURCE HOME HELPERS THE GIFT GUIDE TO P C H E F P I C KS H O LI DAY E V E NT S
HAPPY
BIRTHDAY!
COLLEGE STATION’S 75TH ANNIVERSARY F E S T I V E
FEAST
R E C I P E S B R A Z O S VA L L E Y I S
VETERAN FRIENDLY
TS n EA Fu TRood & S &To F
HOLIDAY ARE YOU
T E EA uid AG
November - December 2013
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Voices for Children Benefit Concert featuring Del Castillo By Sarah Kinzbach Page 6
1 Veteran Friendly Brazos Valley’s Warriors By Lana Timbs Page 8
Seasonal Home Your holiday home resources
Special Advertising Section
Page 12
Holiday Gift Guide Buy local this holiday season
Special Advertising Section
Page 17
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2 Festive Feasts Healthy holiday meals By Lana Timbs Page 33
3 ‘Tis the Season
Local festivities for seasonal cheer Compiled by Lana Timbs Page 36 Scotty’s House Character Breakfast Fundraiser By Sarah Kinzbach Page 40
JUST A FEw SHORT YEARS
ago when our three children were all still at home, the most popular holiday tradition was an advent calendar that counted down the days to Christmas. Along with a slightly battered stuffed ornament to move from its pocket to a place on the tree, my kids would find a daily advent family activity. From counting our blessings over hot chocolate to watching home movies of Christmas past to baking for family and friends, the activities ensured our family
INSITE Magazine is published monthly by Insite Printing & Graphic Services, 123 E. Wm. J. Bryan Pkwy., Bryan, Texas 77803. (979) 8235567 www.insitebrazosvalley. com Volume 30, Number 6. Publisher/Editor: Angelique Gammon; Account Executive: Dave Marsh; Graphic designer: Karen Green. Associate Editor & Web Content: Sarah Kinzbach. Editorial interns:
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4 BCS Marathon
International in the B/CS By Sarah Kinzbach Page 42
5 Happy Birthday,
College Station Celebrating 75 Years By Sarah Kinzbach Page 43 Eats & Treats Page 47
DESK
PUBLISHER’S
honored the true gifts of the season by spending time together every day. A favorite memory is watching our teenage children take turns reading their favorite little kid holiday books aloud, everyone dog-piled on the floor by the fire.. So now our nest is empty. The list I’m making and checking twice this holiday season can’t
Lana Timbs. 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
be filled even from the excellent offerings in this issue’s Holiday Gift Guide. Quiet lunch with friends it’s been too long since we caught up. Check. Bake some cookies for an excuse to drop in on neighbors I too seldom see. Check. Make sure whatever stays on the “To Do” list doesn’t keep me from being able “To Enjoy” the moments when my nest will be briefly full again. Check. Wishing you joyous times during this holiday season. – Angelique Gammon
Burling; Jaimie Colwell; Manda Jackson; Marie Lindley; Barbara Wyss; Production: Stephen Beatty; Norris Carnes; Marilyn Carey; Don Coburn; Alvin Estuaria; Arnel Estuaria; Byron Lee; Carlos Martinez; Richard Pearce; Brandon Prouse; Frank Ramirez; Mike Seward; Ruben Torres; Stephen Woodruff, Chris Zamora.
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
bushlibrary.tamu.edu/cstx
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Voices for Children
Benefit Concert
By SaRaH KINzBacH
The smooth sounds of Latin rock band Del Castillo will headline at Grand Stafford Theater on the evening of November 15 benefiting Voices for Children, Inc. VOICES FOR CHILDREN,
or CASA of Brazos Valley, provides court appointed advocate volunteers to children in foster care. CASA volunteers provide a fresh perspective and knowledge outside the court system to a child’s case, allowing judges to safeguard the child’s best interests and ensuring they are placed in safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. “CASA volunteers get to know everyone in a child’s life, including teachers, doctors, counselors, parents and guardians,” says Liana Lowey, executive director at Voices for Children. The time devoted to a child and their case is key: on average, children with a CASA volunteer on their case spend seven fewer months in foster care.
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Opened in 2000, Voices for Children now provides volunteers to every child in state custody in Brazos County. Eighty percent of children in foster care in Grimes and Burleson counties have CASA volunteers, but Lowey says they have a goal to provide aid to 100 percent. “We want to be at the point to have volunteers prepared and ready to respond,” says Lowey. The ultimate goal: permanent placement for every child. CASA volunteers provide more than 7,500 direct service hours to cases annually. Despite a vast volunteer resource, program and operation expenses still rely on donations, grants, and fundraising. “Any dollar towards the
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program operation is helpful to carry out our mission,” says Lowey. In addition to the proceeds raised, the benefit concert will create awareness about Voices for Children and its mission. “It provides an opportunity to share and make an impact,” says Lowey. The concert is made possible by Fred Davis of Davis & Davis Lawyers with production support from Advent GX. Celebrating their 50th Anniversary, Davis & Davis Lawyers are donating $50,000 to local charitable organizations. Davis, understanding the importance of CASA volunteers representing neglected and abused children, chose Voices for Children as a recipient organization.
Del Castillo, an awardwinning, Austin-based band, has toured nationwide with the likes of Styx, Los Lonely Boys, and Willie Nelson. Blending genres of Flamenco, Rock, Latin, Blues and World music, Del Castillo’s unique sound has contributed to soundtracks of Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino films. Tickets for the concert on November 15 are available for purchase at www. grandstaffordtheater.com. General admission is $30. A limited number of reserved seating benefactor tables are available for $200. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with the band taking the stage at 8 p.m. The Grand Stafford Theater is located in Downtown Bryan. i
What Voices for Children Benefit Concert featuring Del Castillo
When November 15- doors open at 6:00 p.m., concert begins at 8:00 p.m.
Where Grand Stafford Theater, 106 Main Street, Downtown Bryan
hOW General admission is $30; Reserved benefactor tables are available for $200. Tickets can be purchased at www. grandstaffordtheater.com. For more information on Voices for Children, visit www.vfcbrazos.org
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Care for your business as you would your family.
Together let’s create a plan for your business and the future of those who help it grow. D. Wade VanDerBoom Agent, New York Life Insurance Company 3200 Southwest Freeway Suite 1900 Houston, TX 77027 (979) 219-9560 dwvanderboom@ft.newyorklife.com
SMRU496908(Exp.01/11/2015) Š 2013 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010
Life Insurance Solutions For Business.
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Veteran Friendly in the Brazos Valley
T THE BRAZOS VALLEY
community is a militaryfriendly place to live offering an abundance of services for veterans and their families. Typically, upon moving to town, the Texas Veterans Commission, part of the Texas Workforce Center, contacts a veteran. Steve Garcia, the local Veteran’s Employment Representative, works for the Texas Veterans Commission, which serves veterans and advocates for their best interests.
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Garcia helps veterans to get matched with employers that are seeking qualified employees with prior service and skill sets that veterans have. He also can provide veterans with lists of upcoming job fairs and help with issues that veterans might face when moving to a new place.
Health Resources Bryan/College Station also has a VA clinic to serve the medical needs of veterans. This Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), located on Rock Prairie Road, provides primary care services for veterans in the Brazos Valley area. They can refer special cases to the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System. This
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location has a laboratory where blood work can be done, as well as mental health services and female veterans services.
Veterans at Texas A&M Texas A&M University is currently home to approximately 2,500 veterans and their dependents. In September 2012, Colonel Jerry Smith USMC (Retired), director of the Veteran Resource and Support Center at Texas A&M, was asked to create a support center for veterans and their families on campus by Vice President for Student Affairs Lt. General Joe Weber, USMC (Retired). There are about 550
By LaNa TImBS
veterans and 1,626 military dependents enrolled and using education benefits, says Smith. “Approximately 20 percent of the veterans on campus are not using benefits,” says Smith. “This puts the number of veteran students around 700 to 750.” One of Smith’s goals is to create an accurate tracking system of veterans. Letting the Veteran’s Services Office (VSO) handle the financial aid part of veteran’s college careers, Smith focuses on outreach and connecting Aggie veterans with the appropriate sources for their needs. The Veteran Resource and Support Center has partnered with approximately 100 offices and agencies
to help streamline services. This partnership started on campus with academic advisors in each department. Having a veteran-savvy advisor in their respective field of study gives veteran students a contact to guide them through necessary guidelines for using the GI Bill and Hazelwood Act and making their degree plan adhere to the guidelines of each program. Karen Cabronero helps student vets to apply to receive course credit for their military experience. Before her move to the Veteran Resource and Support Center, Cabronero was making 30 to 50 prospective student contacts over a few months;
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in September she contacted 156 prospects in a single month.
Telling the Aggie Veteran Story Texas A&M has joined other universities across the nation to focus on student veterans telling their story. “Less than one percent of America has served in recent conflicts,” says Smith, adding “99% of Americans do not know what it means to put your
hOnOr a herO 2nd annual Field OF ValOr
The Bryan Rotary Club will create the second annual Field of Valor, a patriotic display of 1,000 American flags, in Veterans Park in College Station, honoring those who serve our country or community in the military or as a firefighter, police or EMS. The Field of Valor will be on display the week of Veteran’s Day, November 10-16. For more information, visit bryan-rotary.org.
Grand OpeninG What
Veteran’s Resource Center, Veterans Resource Fair and Veterans Social
Where
Blinn College Bryan Campus
hand in the air and take an oath to protect this country with your life on the line.” Smith describes the nation as almost polar-opposite of where we were at the end of WWII making it more difficult now for those who have never served to understand those who have served. StoryCorps project uniquely allows a student veteran’s spouse or family member to interview the vet while recording it. StoryCorps visited Texas
Veterans JOb Fair What
Red, White & You Job Fair
WhO
Veteran’s Job Fair
Where
Workforce Solutions Brazos Valley 3991 East 29th Street, Bryan
When
Thursday, November 14
What tO brinG
Bring a resume and come dressed for interviews. Current registration with www.WorkinTexas. com is required to attend the job fair. More information: Contact Vernell Walton, vernell. walton@bvcog.org or call (979) 585-2800
When
November 11-13 More information: Contact Richard Bray, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications, Richard.Bray@blinn. edu, (979) 209-7285
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A&M in September and collected recordings from Aggie veterans. The project’s success has lead to the creation of a new collaborative project called the Aggie Veteran Military History Project. The new project will take stories from all generations of Aggie veterans. Collaboration with the Veteran Resource and Support Center and the Department of History will create a library of Aggie veteran’s stories. “Military
Medal OF hOnOr unVeilinG What
Commemoration and Medal of Honor Unveiling Ceremony for Mr. Clarence Eugene Sasser
Where
Bethancourt Ballroom, Memorial Student Center, Texas A&M Open to the public. RSVP by November 1 @ http://tx.ag/ moh2013 or (979) 845-4641
When
Thursday November 7, 2 p.m.
tellinG aGGieland
If you are a veteran, Active Duty Military, Reserve/National Guard, or spouse/ child of a service member, this is the chance to tell your story and share your experiences with the community. Screenings begin in November. For more information, contact Debbie Pack, (979) 845-3161 or debbiep@tamu.edu.
service is part of our legacy at Texas A&M,” says Smith. “It’s time we start capturing some of these stories.” Pairing with the Texas A&M theater department, The Telling Project will create Telling Aggieland, a project that involves veterans telling their stories on stage. Approximately 20 Aggie veterans will receive theatrical training. The director of Telling Aggieland, Professor of Theater Dr. Michael Greenwald, will be
Veterans resOurces
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs VA Benefits 1-800-442-4551 www.va.gov American Legion Olivia Burnside Olivian.burnside@ gmail.com (979) 778-1936 www.legion.org Brazos Valley Veterans Heather Huhnke heather@ brazosvalleyveterans. com (979) 200-1715 Brazos Valley Marine Corps League Gunnery Sergeant Thorin Moser tchrismos@yahoo.com Brazos County Veteran Services Officer Johnny Yepez jyeppez@co.brazos. tx.us
coaching the veterans for stage and directing the performance. Presented by The Association of Former Students, the Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts, and the Veteran Resource Center, the performance will take place in Rudder Theater in late April 2014. To find out more about The Story Corps, visit storycorps.org. For The Telling Project, visit thetellingproject.org. i
health Bryan/College Station Community-Based Outpatient Clinic 1651 Rock Prairie Road, Ste. 100, College Station (979) 680-0361 www.centraltexas. va.gov Temple Medical Center Central Texas Health Care System 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive, Temple www.centraltexas. va.gov
Vet Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
business & eMplOyMent
Texas Veterans Leadership Program (TVLP) Veteran Resource Coordinator: Zachary Scalf Zachary.scalf@twc. state.tx.us (512) 597-7208 vets.texasworkforce. org
brazOs Valley
Houston VA Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center 2002 Holcombe Blvd, Houston www.houston.va.gov
Workforce Solutions Managing Director: Gaylen Lange 3991 East 29th Street, Bryan glange@bvcog.org
Equine Services for Heroes Program Nancy Krenek nancy@rockride.org
resOurce directOries
Texvet www.texvet.com
Restore Warriors Restorewarriors.org
National Resource Directory nationalresourcedirectory.gov
Give an Hour www.giveanhour.org
After Deployment Afterdeployment.org
Mental health
Grace After Fire 877-490-5797 www.graceafterfire. org
Eats, Treats & Getaways 4 FAL L 201
By Insite Magazine
for Brazos,
Washington & Burleson, Grimes,
Austin Counties
Courses | Get Aways | Golf Trips | Family Fun | Wineries | Day Spas | Day s Bar | Theatre Breakfast | Bistro | Restaurants | Sport Bakeries | Bed & | Outdoor Activities Clubs Night | Luxury Living
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H O L I D AY H O M E
Chairman’s Conference Premier Service Agency CLTC Certified Long Term Care LUTCF Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow Voss wants clients to remember: “An 800 number can’t look you in the eye and tell you it will be okay.” There’s no substitute for a local Allstate insurance agent. You want the option of being able to talk to someone face-to-face. And, if something bad were to happen, you want someone to be there beside you. Call Jackie Voss and her staff today at (979) 846-5758.
ALLSTATE – JACQUELINE VOSS
• • • •
Acme Glass Transform Your Home in Time for the Holidays Transform your home this Holiday Season with a home remodeling project that’s sure to shine. Acme Glass, locally owned and operated by the Morehead family, can take your shower from simple to spectacular with the beauty of glass and decorative shower doors. Or choose from a large selection of beveled glass and mirrors for your home. Acme Glass can replace existing bath enclosures; make tabletops for your home or purchase glass block. The company has been in business since 1946, offering quality products, unsurpassed customer service and competitive pricing. Their expert staff can help you with home projects from start to finish. Acme Glass has three convenient locations to serve Brazos Valley residents including a builder showroom in Bryan. They also offer auto glass and commercial glass services. Visit www.acmeglass. com, or call (979) 822-5871 for more information.
Clark Isenhour Experience and Professionalism at its Best
Jackie Voss Allstate Agency Local. Friendly. Experienced. Jackie Voss Allstate Agency is a local, family owned insurance agency with combined 35 years of experience. This experienced agency provides personal attention to for all clients, applying expertise to create customized insurance policies that meet individual needs. At the Voss Agency, everyone strives for exceptional service and delivers assurance that you – the client – is prepared for any unexpected 12
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circumstances. “We don’t just sell policies, we help you understand your insurance needs, explain coverage options, and help you make informed decisions on the best available coverage,” says Jackie Voss.
How it all started After purchasing the agency from her father, Gary Voss, Jackie opened the doors of the agency on January 1, 2002, in Bryan. The agency quickly grew and now employs four licensed sales producers.
Jackie Voss Allstate Agency Achievements • Honor Ring
Clark Isenhour Real Estate Services, LLC focuses on sales, leasing, and management of commercial properties and land sales throughout the Brazos Valley. With over 30 years combined experience, John R. Clark, Josh Isenhour and their associates continue to build on their variety of experiences and tradition of constant honesty, integrity and business innovation. With numerous areas of expertise, quality support staff and a convenient office located just north of Texas A&M University, Clark Isenhour stands ready to provide the best, most professional service in the Brazos Valley. For more information, call (979) 268-6840 or visit www.clarkisenhour. com.
Brazos Estate Sales At Brazos Estate Sales, we know that clearing out an entire home can seem overwhelming. Our
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ACME GLASS
ACME Glass Products & Services - Since 1946
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services allow you to walk away from the mystery boxes, dark attics, overflowing garages and packed cabinets and leave the work to us. We are not an auction company. We conduct household estate sales (all items are priced) and handle all phases of the process, including appraisal, cleaning, staging, marketing, and the sale itself. We will find a new home for everything in your house. Our extensive mailing list of dealers, designers and individuals, guarantees a great turnout at your sale. For more information, call (979) 587-1923 or email kyle@ brazosestatesales.com.
Dealers Lighting A Bright Spot for Service & Products A bright outlook and exceptional customer service are what you can expect when you visit Dealers Lighting. Whether stopping by to pick up a light bulb or are investing in a custom-made chandelier, the staff will help you with all your lighting needs. For more than 50 years Dealers Lighting has carried some of the best lighting and accessory options in the Brazos Valley. However, the store holds more than a quick fix for a burned-out bulb. Their friendly staff takes time to meet each customer’s individual lighting need, providing knowledgeable lighting information without high-pressure sales tactics or gimmicks. Their goal is to make you a lifelong customer. The showroom displays a wide array of lighting choices to coordinate with your lifestyle. The right lighting can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. Now is the perfect time to visit Dealers Lighting as they are clearing out last year’s models to make way for 2013’s New Styles. Lots of great fixtures are on sale now so hurry in and take advantage of the savings! For more information about Dealers Lighting, call (979) 775-1697 or visit www.dealerselectrical.com.
DEALERS LIGHTING
BRAZOS ESTATE SALES
CLARK ISENHOUR REAL ESTATE SERVICES, LLC
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CHAPPELL HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY
H O L I D AY H O M E
FREEDOM ROOF PROJECT
AMERICA’S CHOICE ROOFING
Chappell Hill Christmas Home Tour Visit Chappell Hill and make some warm Country Christmas memories for the holidays! Chappell Hill will play host to a heartwarming Country Christmas Home Tour on December 14 and 15. You will be enchanted as you visit the five beautiful homes, decorated in Christmas finery, and enjoy touring the beautiful town twinkling with holiday lights. The historical Chappell Hill United Methodist Church will be opened and decorated for all to enjoy. The Rock Store, host of the famous town history “wall hangings” will have chili and desserts for sale. The Myrtle Providence House, built in 1845, sits in the middle of Chappell Hill. Explore the one-acre garden and see the newly built bed and breakfast cottage, which hosts antique doors, windows and features a five foot leaded stain glass window imported from England. Travis and Linda Cook’s lovely home, the T&L Ranch has been turned into a “mini ranch,” located on a hill in the Lakes of Chappell Hill. This sprawling home, purchased in 2002, has black-angus cattle and their single, much loved longhorn steer named Merle. The home was built in 2000 and has been transformed to a welcoming household with Earth-tones and memories of past hunting trips. Summerhill, on Sandy Lane, epitomizes the gentle joys of country life. Sitting on a small rolling hillside, you see a replica of an early Texas farmhouse, a new home, and a small restored late 1800’s house. The homes are furnished with treasured vintage pieces, family heirlooms, and eclectic country French classics. Welcome and warmth, bring together old with new to make Summerhill a delightfully cozy country retreat. The Chappell Hill United Methodist Church, built in 1901, replaced the original structure that was destroyed from the 1900 Galveston Hurricane. The pews are all original from the 1851 Church and the walls are east Texas Pine, built by Henry Christen Brandt who treated the interior with boiled linseed oil. The Bible on the altar dates to 1856. Be sure to visit this great historical beauty Chappell Hill has to offer. For more information on the Chappell Hill Christmas Home Tour, call (979) 836-2554 or (979) 836-6033. Information can also be found online at www. ChappellHillHistoricalSociety.com.
America’s Choice Roofing Helping Homeowners in the Brazos Valley since 1995 America’s Choice Roofing, located at 4301 Alexis Court in College Station, is locally owned and operated by Gary & Frances Spivey. Serving residential and commercial customers, America’s Choice Roofing is a Certified Master Shingler and also certified in TPO, EPDM, Modified Bitumen, Standing Seam Metal, R-Panel and Clay Tile. Recent projects include Coach Sumlin’s Home, KORA Radio, Hidden Bridge Condos in Traditions, Texas A&M Hillell Foundation, First Bank and Trust and Boston’s. Their new location features a full metal fabrication shop to manufacture any kind of flashing, gutters or custom metal project. Roof Appraisers, Installation Crews and Employees participate in annual training, continuing education and certification from the manufacturers they represent. America’s Choice Roofing will inspect your roof and provide a written estimate at NO CHARGE. Licensed Insurance Adjusters are on staff to help you through the insurance claim process. You can trust America’s Choice Roofing to install your most important shield of protection. America’s Choice Roofing also proudly sponsors The Freedom Roof Project and recently awarded a free roof to the Gooden Family in College Station. Their newest project to kicked off in October 2013. For details, visit www. freedomroofproject.com. For more information about America’s Choice Roofing, call 855-5MY-ROOF or visit www.americaschoiceroofers.com. 16
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% 0 6 o t p U DAY R E V E F OF s e c i r P w Lo
The Jewelry
& Coin Exchange
RETIREMENT TOTAL LIQUIDATION SALE Diamond Jewelry 30% OFF Fashion Jewelry 50% OFF Loose Diamonds 30% OFF Sterling Silver Jewelry 40% OFF Previously Owned Rolex Watches 15% OFF
Best Prices on Gold & Silver Bullion Open extended hours: Monday – Friday 10am-7pm Saturday 10am-4pm 313 B South College Ave. • College Station (in the IHOP Center)
(979) 846-2400
Alexander Kalifano Globes 50% OFF Handcarved From 25 Different Jewelry Grade Gemstones
You know The Jewelry & Coin Exchange has the best everyday prices in town for fine and fashion jewelry, diamonds, sterling silver and more. Their everyday prices are lower than “sale” prices at other jewelry stores. Now The Jewelry & Coin Exchange is liquidating wall to wall with their entire inventory on sale! They have not hired a liquidation company for this sale. Everything they are selling is their own high quality inventory you know and expect.
BRING IN THIS COUPON AND RECEIVE OUR Holiday
Gift FOR YOU
Sterling Silver Pearl Earrings Free
WITH ANY PURCHASE (VALUED AT $19.95) LIMIT 1 PAIR PER CUSTOMER WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST GOLD & SILVER BUYERS
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H O L I D AY G I F T S
aerofit Health & Fitness center 1900 W Villa Maria, Bryan 4455 Carter Creek, Bryan 1411 Wellborn Rd, CS 3100 Wildflower, CS 3526 Longmire Drive, CS aerofitclubs.com
BcS Bicycles
309 S College Ave, CS (979) 268-8300 bcsbikes.com
Besco custom Jewelers (979) 764-8558 bescojewelers.com
Brazos Valley museum of Natural History Holiday Showcase Dec 10 3232 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan (979) 776-2195 brazosvalleymuseum.org
The chocolate Gallery
Gingerbread Event Nov 30 – Dec 21 (979) 779-2804 bcschocolategallery.com
christmas at the creek Wolf Pen Creek Park December 6-7 cstx.gov/Christmas
circle X Pecan Orchard 3131 Briacrest Drive, Bryan (979) 776-5760 or (979) 450-0819
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David Gardner’s Jewelers & Gemologists
Navasota Blues alley
911 University Drive East, CS (979) 268-0800 davidgardnersjewelers.com
129 E Washington Ave, Downtown Navasota (936) 870-3331 NavasotaBluesAlley.com
Downtown Bryan Events
Painting With a Twist
Sead Gallery – Grand Stafford Theatre – Urban Garden (979) 216-0548 downtownbryanevents.com
Haute couture Boutique 212 North Main Street, Bryan (979) 822-3694 hautecoutureboutique.com
Eat. Shop. Play.
Historic Downtown Bryan downtownbryan.com
The Farm Patch
1543 Texas Avenue S, CS (979) 485-9838 paintingwithatwist.com/college-station
Perrine Winery
900 Harvey Rd, CS perrinewinery.com Follow them on Twitter
Prana Yoga
Holiday Gift Certificates 202 S Bryan Ave, Bryan (979) 571-7996 pranayogabcs.com
3519 S College Ave, Bryan (979) 822-7209 Find them on FB
Readfield meats
The Jewelry & coin Exchange
Truman chocolates
LaSalle Hotel café & Bar
Whitty’s
313 B South College Ave, CS (979) 846-2400 jewelrycoinexchangebcs.com 120 S Main Street, Bryan (979) 822-2000
mSc OPaS
Holiday Gift Certificates (979) 845-1234 mscopas.org
2701 S Texas Ave, Bryan (979) 822-1594 4407 S Texas Ave, Bryan (979) 260-4518 trumanchocolates.com 200 W 26th St, Bryan (979) 822-2790 whittybryan@gmail.com
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Tips to Eat Healthy This Holiday Season By LaNa TImBS
With the holiday season looming, menu items are sure to be on the top of the planning list. Holiday meals really can be delicious and healthy at the same time. Local chefs share these tips and recipes.
CHEF TAI LEE OF VERITAS wINE & BISTRO
warns to not over-prepare foods. “There is ALWAYS too much food and leftovers will force you to eat more or toss them out to waste – Not good on your waistline nor the wallet,” says Lee. He also advises to cook lighter by grilling, roasting, or steaming to cut calories. Chef Tai shares this award-winning dish from a culinary competition. Well-marbled Berkshire pork has amazing flavor and a depth not commonly found from “the other white meat.” When paired with earthy flavors and ingredients, this meat really comes to life.
Chef Tai’s Pork Ribeye & Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Serves 4 Ingredients Pomme A Cru: 8 red potatoes, sliced into 1/8 inch thickness medallions, to yield at least 15 slices Mushroom Rosemary Demi: 1 cup crimini mushrooms, sliced 1 shallot, finely diced 1 sprig rosemary
2 cups of demi-glace 1 Tbsp. butter, unsalted ¾ cup chicken broth 4x 8 oz. pork rib eye Brussels Sprouts Florentine: 2 cups Brussels sprouts ¼ red bell pepper, finely diced ¼ green bell pepper, finely diced 1/8 white onion, finely diced 2 cups tightly packed wild arugula Salt and pepper, to taste Cooking oil (soy) Directions To make pomme a cru, toss the sliced potatoes with salt and pepper and some cooking oil, and bake in a 375 degree Fahrenheit oven until they are golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Once the potatoes are done, keep them warm. In hot sauté pan, drizzle some cooking oil and sweat the shallots and crimini mushrooms. Add the rosemary sprig and deglaze with the chicken broth. Once the liquid is starting to boil, add the demi-glace. Return to a boil and simmer until desired thickness is reached. Finally, stir in the
butter, season with salt and pepper, and remove the rosemary sprig. Season the pork ribeyes with salt and pepper and immediately sear one side in a very hot pan coated with a small amount of oil. Sear one side of the pork for 4 minutes with the lid on and the flip to the other side and continue to sear for 4 minutes with the lid on. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the residual heat from the covered pan to “carry over cook” the pork for another 8 minutes. Prepare the caramelized Brussels sprouts by peeling them into individual leaves. Quickly sauté them with some oil, resulting in a crisp and caramelized flavor, no more than 25 seconds. Set aside. Sauté the onion and bell pepper over high heat, add the caramelized Brussels sprouts, and arugula. Give a quick toss so the arugula is not completely wilted. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Place 6 pieces of pomme a cru on the bottom of the plate in an overlapping circular pattern. Place a small amount of the Brussels sprouts and arugula mixture over the potato. Last, add the pork rib eye, and drizzle the sauce over the entire plate. click www.insitebrazosvalley.com
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CHEF CHRISTOPHER LAMPO of CHRISTOPHER’S wORLD GRILLE says, “The best secret
that I have found for eating less during the holidays is to reach for the smallest plate. If using a 6- to 9-inch plate, you have less space to put food, and then save room for some dessert.” Lampo also suggests using olive oil in place of butter, including lots of nuts and grains, eliminating white flour and sugars where possible, and using fat-free dressings for salads or as a substitute for gravy on turkey. Lampo advises to roast the turkey and not eat the skin and to use fresh veggies instead of canned, like sweet potatoes. Chef Lampo shares a festive relish recipe.
Christopher’s Nutty Cranberry-Orange Relish Ingredients 2ea 12oz Packages Fresh Cranberries, rinsed and towel dried 4 ea Fresh Oranges, medium, unpeeled, cut in quarters, seeded 2 cups Sugar OR Splenda Granulated Sweetener OR 12 packets Splenda 1 cup Walnuts or Pecans, Toasted is preferred, fine chopped ½ tsp Allspice (optional) Directions Put Cranberries, quartered oranges, allspice and sugar in food processor. Pulse processor until
ingredients are well chopped into small pieces, not completely pulverized, just small pieces. Check for sweetness as the oranges will vary in sugar content. Remove from processor. Chill before serving. Stir in nuts right before serving. MARY AND wADE BECKMAN, owners of SHIPwRECK and AMICO NAVE restaurants in
Bryan, have similar suggestions to eating well and eating healthy during the holidays. “The most important thing in our minds is creating a balance of the right foods,” says Wade. “When it comes to health-conscience holiday meal planning there are the obvious healthy comparisons: baked or grilled versus fried; nonbreaded versus breaded; leaner proteins versus fatty meats; fewer carbs versus more carbs. Balancing the right carbs, proteins, and veggies gives us more energy, which we can all use over the holidays.” The Beckmans note that when planning holiday meals fresh meats and veggies are the way to go. They point out that the average serving of canned soup contains 1,000 milligrams of salt and preservatives, warning that if you must, consider low-sodium choices before pouring that can of cream of mushroom soup into the casserole or veggies. The Beckmans share a really simple recipe in which healthy whole vegetables are made into a wonderful veggie side for just about any holiday meal.
Amico Nave Italian Roasted Veggies
Serves 4
Ingredients 2 each Yellow Bell Peppers (Cut into 1-2” pieces) 2 each Red Bell Peppers (Cut into 1-2” pieces) 3 each Green Bell Peppers (Cut into 1-2” pieces) 6 each Zucchini (Cut into ¼ slices) 6 each Yellow Squash (Cut into ¼ slices) 1 bunch Green Onions (Cut into 3-4 inch pieces 1 pint Mushrooms (Quartered) 10-12 each Red New Potatoes (Cut into ¼ slices, leaving the skin on) 1 bunch Asparagus (Cut into 3-4 inch pieces) 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary 2 tablespoons Chopped Garlic (Not minced) 2 teaspoon Season Salt 1.5 Tablespoon Pepper
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Directions Wash and cut veggies. Place on cookie sheet and toss/coat lightly in olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper. Roast/Bake in oven for 45 min on 500 degrees. Check potatoes for doneness. BRAZOS NATURAL FOODS has
whole foods to help make holiday cooking a breeze. General Manager Kim Burns says, “We are seeing a lot more people with concerns about eliminating gluten from their diet. There are quite a few alternatives for baking such as coconut or tapioca flour in place of white or wheat flour. It is more environmentally friendly and healthier to use organic and nonGMO ingredients when possible.” Burns says that organic coconut sugar is a great alternative to refined sugar, noting it is less processed and has quite a few natural occurring nutrients such as magnesium and B vitamins. Raw blue agave nectar is another choice when baking; it is a low glycemic sweetener. She shares one of her favorite vegan holiday recipes from Delicious Living.
Pumpkin Ginger Pudding This recipe is a vegan dessert on the lighter side of pie. If you’d like, replace the ginger with pumpkin-pie spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg). Serves 6 Ingredients 1 cup unsweetened almond milk 1 cup coconut milk 4 teaspoons grated fresh ginger 2 tablespoons agar flakes 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 3/4 cups pumpkin purée Directions Combine almond milk, coconut milk, grated ginger, agar flakes and sea salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened and agar is mostly dissolved. Strain mixture into a large mixing bowl and add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin purée, whisking until smooth. Pour into 6 ramekins or custard cups and chill until firm, at least one hour. i
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HOLIDAY
2013 PLANNER Compiled by LaNa TImBS
Anderson
www.birthplaceoftexas. com
19th Century Superstitions and Old Wives’ Tales
Republic of Texas Militia Muster-A Living History Encampment
November 17 Bad luck, omens, weird coincidences, superstitions and old wives’ tales still add some November 16 and 17 color to our lives; a lot Join re-enactors and of them are laughed off interpreters as they as nonsense, but there recreate a typical are some that seem to militia muster as would be, at least in part, lehave been seen in the gitimate. In the 1800’s Republic on Saturday, superstitions and November 16 from old wives’ tales held 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and much more sway over Sunday, November 17 society. Presentations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be given at 11 a.m., Ticket prices are: Adult 1 and 3 p.m. Ticket $5, Student $3 and prices are: Adult $5, FREE to children 6 and Student $3 and FREE to under. children 6 and under.
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Christmas on the Brazos featuring Barrington’s Candlelight Christmas December 14 From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. modern and historic activities will be staggered throughout the park. Independence Hall will host 19th century readings from Christmas literature at from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 5 p.m., activities will begin to shift to Barrington Living History Farm for the evening event, Candlelight Christmas. Reservations are strongly recommended. Email barrington.farm@tpwd. texas.gov or call (936) 878-2214 ext. 246.
Brenham Holiday Home Tour and Trunk Show (979) 836-1690 November 23-24 The holiday season kicks off at the Giddings Stone Mansion for unique shopping and a docent-led tour of the mansion. Trunk Show: Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; tours: 1 to 4 p.m. $15 per person for tour and FREE for shopping fun.
Downtown Brenham’s Christmas Stroll and Lighted Parade
Unity Theatre Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical
downtownbrenham. com/jingle December 6 and 7 This family-fun event kicks off with the lighting of the Courthouse Square Christmas trees and is followed by the Downtown Parade of Lights. Activities will include ice skating, shopping, Santa Claus visits and more.
unitybrenham.org December 5-22 Christmas time is Nunsense time in this uproariously funny sequel and it’s the perfect way to ensure your holiday season is merry and bright! Tickets are $30. There will be 3 weeks of 12 shows: Thursdays 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m. and Sundays 4 p.m.
Caldwell Christmas on the Square www.burlesoncountytx.com December 5-7 Downtown Caldwell will have an old-fashioned Christmas on the Square with a parade, lighting ceremony, visit from Santa and other activities. Visit www. burlesoncountytx.com for times and event updates.
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Chappell Hill Christmas Fayre
Bryan/College Station
chappellhilltx.com December 7 The Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Christmas Fayre on Saturday, December 7 starting at noon. Activities will include a children’s train, live reindeer petting, teddy bear parade, shopping, wine tasting, live music, and the downtown lights “switched on.”
Brazos Valley Worldfest
2013 Chappell Hill Christmas Country Home Tour
Memphis
www.chappellhillmuseum.org December 14 and 15 This year’s home tour will have 6 locations-5 homes and the historical United Methodist Church. Tickets in advance are $15 and $18 the day of. For more information, call (979) 836-2554.
brazosvalleyworldfest. org November 15 and 16 This free event promotes and celebrates the international diversity and heritage of the Brazos Valley. There is a concert Friday night at 7 p.m. and the festival is Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
www.mscopas.org November 19 and 20 MSC OPAS presents the Broadway musical Memphis. Inspired by actual events, Memphis is about a radio DJ that wants to change the world and club singer that is ready for her big break. The performances begin at 7:30 p.m. at Rudder Auditorium on the Texas A&M campus.
The Christmas Mile and 5k Fun Run www.santas-wonderland.com November 23 Festive 1 mile or 5K Fun Run/Walk through Santa’s Wonderland, home to over 2 million LED Christmas lights and the largest Christmas attraction in the State of Texas. Race participants and their families will be the first to kickoff the holiday season at Santa’s Wonderland. Tickets for the Christmas Mile are $40 and the 5K Fun Run $50.
Children’s Museum Gobbler Gala www.cmbv.org November 26 and 27 The Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley will be hosting a Gobbler Gala featuring special activities for children. “Thanksgiving Galore”
will have crafts and activities that will allow children to learn about the history of the traditional holiday. All ages are welcome. Admission prices are $5 per person, $4 for senior citizens, and children one and under are free.
Turkey Trot bcsturkeytrot.com November 28 Burn off some calories to justify that extra piece of pumpkin pie at your Thanksgiving meal! Bring the family out for a Thanksgiving morning run and build a new Thanksgiving tradition. Each participant will receive a t-shirt, and Café Eccell will provide tasty treats following the race. Registration is $15 for students, $25 for adults and $75 per family or team up to five people.
Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas Concert
the fireplace pavilion, live entertainment and free hot chocolate and cookies donated by WalMart Super Center.
crafts coloring activities, entertainment and more. Ages 15 and under will receive a gift from Santa.
www.mscopas.org December 3, 7:30 p.m. Native Texan Michael Martin Murphy, a member of the Western Music Hall of Fame, is coming to MSC OPAS for the holidays. Multiple Grammy Award nominee Murphy will spread yuletide cheer in his family-friendly concert filled with cowboy songs and poetry at Rudder Auditorium on Texas A&M campus.
Christmas at the Creek
BCS Marathon
Holiday Magic www.bryantx.gov December 5, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Holiday Magic will take place at Sue Haswell Park. Activities include: Frosty’s Funland just for kids, Arctic Hill Snow for sledding down a hill of snow, pictures with Santa at
December 6 and 7 www.cstx.gov Activities include: a live nativity, concert, hayrides, dance performances, inflatables, petting zoo, live entertainment, photos with Santa at the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley and holiday vendor village. Stephen C. Beachy Central Park will have Christmas light displays November 28-January 1, 2014.
Breakfast with Santa
EAT S&
Annoumaicl
BCS Kids Marathon bcsmarathon.com December 7 The 1.2 mile race begins at 8:30 a.m. and is open to any child 12 and under. Each participant will be greeted at the finish line with a custom medal.
www.cstx.gov December 7, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This free event at the Lincoln Center will include hot breakfast, face painting, arts/
January 2014
bcsmarathon.com December 8 The half- and full- marathon will take place Sunday, December 8 at 7 a.m. There will be a post race party with a food and beer spread at Wolf Pen Creek Park. Remaining tickets are $100 until sold out and the community is invited to come cheer on runners. Race route is available online.
TRE ATS :A
Gu idE To Foo d&
Fun
Econ Outlook Edition
ICINE MONEY & MED
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INSITE November - December 2013
talented guys perform a one-of-a-kind concert experience at Rudder Theatre on Texas A&M campus.
A&M Consolidated High School Band Christmas Concert www.amcbands.com December 12 The A&M Consolidated High School Band concert will be on Thursday, December 12 from 6-8 p.m. at A&M Consolidated Auditorium.
Downtown Bryan Christmas Parade www.downtownbryan. com December 13, 6:30 p.m.
Bryan Viking Band Christmas Concert www.bryanvikingband. org December 19 The Bryan High Viking Band will have their Christmas concert at Margaret Rudder High School auditorium from 7 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, December 19.
Round Top Round Top Area Historical Society Christmas Party www.roundtop.org December 6, 6-9:30 p.m.
Jingle Bell Fun Run rectrac.cstx.gov December 8 Beginning at 2:15 pm, this two-mile run starts at the corner of University Drive and South College Avenue and ends at the corner of Texas Avenue and Villa Maria. Race shirts are provided for those
who register before November 15. The Bryan/College Station Christmas Parade will be held after the race.
Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells www.mscopas.org December 8, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
It’s holiday time and everyone’s favorite first grader is back to celebrate at Rudder Theatre on Texas A&M campus! This OPAS Jr. performance is about holiday fun with a lesson about giving and based on the Junie B. Jones children’s books.
Christmas in Round Top www.roundtop.org December 7 Festivities, Santa, cookies, parade and a Christmas concert by Texas Master Chorale. Tickets are $20. For more information visit festivalhill.org or call (979) 249-3129.
The Nutcracker “Danced by Children for Children of All Ages” (5th Anniversary) Festivalhill.org December 14 Performance begins at 4 p.m. and tickets are $25 and $10.
New Year’s Eve Dance Roundtoprifle.com December 31 The Round Top Rifle Association will host a community party to ring in the New Year. Visit the website for future updates.
New Year’s Eve Gala Festivalhill.org December 31 The Round Top Festival Institute will host the New Year’s Eve Gala starting at 7:30 p.m. Check the website for updates to this event.
Christmas with the Boston Brass www.mscopas.org December 10 As part of MSC OPAS Intimate Gatherings, Christmas with the Boston Brass will take place in Rudder Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Hear all of your holiday favorites when these five humorous and click www.insitebrazosvalley.com
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Scotty’s House
CHARACTER BREAKFAST By SaRaH KINzBacH
G
OOD THINGS HAPPEN
at breakfast: Lewis Carroll believed in six impossible things before his morning cup of coffee; Piglet wondered at the possibility of an exciting day; and, on November 23 Scotty’s House will bring together characters, kids, and advocacy. A new kind of fundraiser, Scotty’s House Character Breakfast aims to incorporate kids and to provide some magical moments with 18 characters from popular television shows and movies. The Character Breakfast will be hosted at Briarcrest Country Club in Bryan from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on November 23. Kids will receive their own autograph books and have the chance to shop in a boutique for crowns, fairy wings, swords, and more. Kids (and parents) are encouraged to dress up and enjoy the magical world of “Characters.” Chicken biscuit sandwiches and
hash browns will be served. Tickets are $25 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are available. “It’s something really different,” says Cary Haynes, Executive Director at Scotty’s House. “The idea
A NEw KIND OF FUNDRAISER: KIDS AND MAGICAL MOMENTS is to focus on the kids and have an event that’s child-friendly.” Providing a child-friendly atmosphere is the core of Scotty’s House mission as the child advocacy center for the Brazos Valley. A separate entity from law enforcement, Scotty’s House offers resources to help determine the best course of action in a case
coordination and counseling, always keeping the child’s best interest at the forefront. Scotty’s House also implements a multidisciplinary approach to maintain and increase communication among partner agencies, including law enforcement, Child Protective Services, and the District Attorneys’ offices, to help kids to move forward
What
Where
When
hOW
Scotty’s House Character Breakfast November 23, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
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of child abuse or neglect while minimizing further trauma to the child. Scotty’s House trained specialists conduct everything from forensic medical exams and interviews to family services
INSITE November - December 2013
to a healthy future. Volunteer opportunities are available and provide an integral part of Scotty’s House, which is a non-profit organization relying on fundraisers, grants, community support, and donations to keep their services free. Volunteer positions range from family care and medical to events, prevention, and education. Program and counseling internships are also available and provide interns with a valuable educational experience. “The Scotty’s House Character Breakfast will provide a great opportunity for children and their families to learn more about our services, while meeting the characters they know and love,” says Haynes. “There are families in the area that may not be able to afford to ever go to Disney World, but they can come to the Character breakfast and get a similar experience.” i
Briarcrest Country Club, 1929 Country Club Drive, Bryan $25 per person; Various sponsorships are available. For more information, visit www.scottyshouse.org
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BCS Marathon & Fitness Expo
By SaRaH KINzBacH
What
Scott & White BCS Marathon
What
When
2013 Scott & White Health and Fitness Expo
reGister
December 7 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
December 8 7 a.m.
When
www.bcsmarathon.com
Where
College Station High School, 4002 Victoria Avenue College Station
reGister
T THE PITTER-PATTER OF
thousands of feet will fill the streets of Bryan/College Station on December 8 for the third annual Scott & White BCS Marathon. Featuring full, half, kid’s, and relay marathons, the highest rated race in the state of Texas will attract approximately 4,000 runners from 35 states and three countries. “This is the first time we’ve gone international,” says Chris Field, race founder. The race is sporting a 20
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www.bcsmarathon.com
percent increase in participants from last year’s race, has sold out three hotels, and is estimated to bring a $1 million economic impact to the community. “I’m not sure people grasp how significant this is,” says Field. “Bryan/College Station has a world-class marathon.” The race boasts a mostly flat and fast course with routes exploring B/ CS neighborhoods, golf courses, and the Texas A&M University campus. A certified USAT&F race, the Scott & White BCS marathon is also a Boston Marathon qualifier. New this year, the marathon relays will offer registration to four- or eight-member teams completing the entire marathon course. A four-member relay will consist of 6.5-mile legs; the eight-member relay will have 3.3-mile segments.
INSITE November - December 2013
The full, half, and relay marathon races will begin at 7 a.m. The race will finish at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater with live music, food, and beer. The Scott & White Kid’s Marathon, a 1.2-mile race, will have age groups and start times beginning at 8:30 a.m. In partnership with both Bryan ISD and College Station ISD, the race promotes healthy living with a running program in every elementary school in B/CS. The program will help more than 13,000 children run 25 miles between the start of school and the race on December 8. The final 1.2 miles on race day will finish the marathon distance of 26.2 miles. In addition to the significant economic impact, the marathon will raise money for the Mercy Project, Twin City Mission Youth and
Family Services, and the joint Bryan and College Station ISDs’ Education Foundation. The Mercy Project, based in Bryan, puts on the marathon every year. “The race proceeds directly help the mission,” says Field. The organization rescues children from slavery in Ghana through economic development projects and provides schooling and rehabilitation. The success of the marathon has allowed the proceeds to be shared with other local charities. “It’s a first-class race that also raises money for charity,” says Field, adding that all proceeds go to charity. As this year’s chosen charities, Twin City Mission Youth and Family Services and the Bryan and College Station ISDs’ Education Foundation are both guaranteed $25,000
from the race proceeds. In its third year, the Scott & White BCS Marathon has experienced significant growth from its 2011 start. “It’s great for everything when we grow,” says Field, but also adds that they seek to keep the race growth manageable. “We don’t want to give up quality for quantity.” As the highest rated marathon in Texas, according to marathonguide.com, Field says there are little things that this marathon can still do that the bigger races can’t. Among organization and keeping racers informed, Field also has a race tradition: greeting every runner at the finish line. From charities and health promotion to tradition and community, the Scott & White BCS Marathon is a world apart – and in our own backyard. i
Celebrating History
COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS By SaRaH KINzBacH
October 19, 1938
, officially marked College Station as an incorporated city. Although that day will forever be associated as the birthday of the City of College Station, the birth of the community began long before with the rise of Texas A&M University and the people who made the young city a home. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the City of College Station, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum will be hosting an exhibit featuring local memorabilia, artifacts, stories, and photographs representing every facet of the city imaginable. The exhibit, “College Station: A Community History,” is a reflection of the people, says Linda Harvell, volunteer chair of the Historic Preservation Committee and the 75th Anniversary. With many of College Station’s original buildings being torn down to make room for new development, the exhibit’s compilation of artifacts will provide visitors the opportunity to see the city as it was in its infancy. The exhibit will open on Saturday, November 16, and run through January 4, 2014, at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. For more information on the exhibit, visit www.facebook.com/cstx75, www.cstx.gov or bushlibrary.tamu.edu.
COLLEGE STATION wAS
first recognized with a post office in 1877. The name “College Station” was dubbed from the train station established in 1876. The train stopped twice a day and ran through the Texas A&M University campus.
1939
{
The pride of Aggieland inevitably helped the surrounding city grow. Community development outside of the university began in the 1920s; in 1939 university professors were asked to move their households off campus. That same year welcomed the first College Station City Council, the first city utility lines, and a Texas A&M football national championship. The 1939 football season boasted Aggie legends such as John Kimbrough, Joe Boyd (pictured left), Herbie Smith, and Cotton Price.
St. Joseph Hospital, formerly known as Bryan Hospital, was located near Downtown Bryan and first opened in 1913. Its original capacity had 25 beds and six bassinets. The same building was used unmodified until 1954 when a new three-story addition was added to provide 60 new beds.
1940’s
{
}
1913-1954
“Campus kids” were children of university faculty and staff born, schooled, and raised on campus. Shown here as an adult in the late 1940s, former “campus kid” Peggy Campbell undoubtedly witnessed the growth, expansion, and changes that College Station and Texas A&M underwent. As of December 2012, College Station’s population was just shy of 100,000 and Texas A&M is now the largest university in Texas with a student population exceeding 58,000.
1948
{
Texas A&M’s first modern stadium was built in 1927 and seated a crowd of 33,000. Football in College Station has always been a major attraction. The current Kyle Field Stadium has a seating capacity of 82,589.
1950 1959
{
{
Texas A and M Consolidated School District arose out of the need to educate the children of the college’s faculty and staff. The Texas Legislature first created the charter school district in 1909. The district’s borders were the same as the college and professors provided the initial schooling as a tutoring service. A and M Consolidated School District integrated into the municipality in 1940 with the completion of an elementary and high school. This photo shows the cheerleaders of A&M Consolidated in 1959.
A&M Consolidated purchased the first Tiger Mascot uniform in 1964. The Band Boosters paid $150 for the uniform and Linda Harvell (class of ’65) was the first mascot. “I remember Mr. Riedel [the principal] coming in, looking at me, and laughingly told me, ‘Get your feet off of my desk,’” says Harvell. “It turns out I was somewhat of an ‘oddity’ as most mascots were boys and to have a girl be one was fairly unique.”
1969
The location of Texas A&M University was chosen partly because of the Houston & Texas Central Railway running through the area. The railroad connected Southeast Texas to the Brazos Valley and, although a depot did not exist at the time of the university’s opening in 1876, the train made regular stops for students and faculty. The conductor announced the stop as “College Station” and thus the namesake was born. The first depot was built in 1900. Passenger service continued to College Station until 1959, and the remaining depots were razed in 1966. The College Station Depot was restored and relocated to University Drive; it now houses the Benjamin Knox Wine Depot and Art Gallery.
}
{
1964
The original dedicated city hall, located in Northgate, gave way to a larger facility on Texas Avenue in 1969. The original building now houses Café Eccell. The picture shows the groundbreaking of the new city hall. Left to right: Bill Cooley, Dan R. Davis, Former Mayor Ernest Langford, Mayor D.A. “Andy” Anderson, and O.M. Holt. College Station’s first fire department building was constructed the following year next to the city hall.
1962
{ }
1940
Texas A&M continued to experience growth in the 1960s with the integration of women and AfricanAmerican students. The surrounding city also continued its boom with the rise of stores, restaurants, and movie theaters. Post Oak Mall opened in 1982 with 80 stores and four anchor departments. The mall nearly doubled the city’s sales tax revenues and generated additional traffic to the city as the largest mall in the Brazos Valley area.
1980
Campus Theater opened in 1940 and was located in Northgate. The first movie theater in College Station, it had a single screen with a balcony and cry room. With competing theaters opening in the mid 1980s, Campus Theater closed in 1985. Daisy Dukes now occupies the same location.
What
“College Station: A Community History” 75th Anniversary Exhibit
When
The exhibit opens on November 16, 2013 and will run until January 4, 2014
Where
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum
inFOrMatiOn
www.cstx.gov, bushlibrary.tamu. edu, and www.facebook.com/ cstx75
“College Station: A Community History” is made possible by these sponsors and underwriters George Bush Presidential Library and Museum The City of College Station Union Pacific - Title Sponsor
Copy Corner Virginia Gregory - in memory of Dorothy Gregory Jeter Anco Insurance Wells Fargo Messina Hof Winery
Train Master
Engineer
Rail Builder
University Title
Yard Master St. Joseph’s BTU
Conductor
Texas Trading Post Joe Orr, Inc. President’s Office - Texas A&M University Douglas Nissan Memorial Funeral Chapel TB&T First Victoria National Bank Scott & White
City Bank Henry P Mayo American Momentum Bank Spirit of Texas Bank Ruth Mueller College Station Medical Center
Brakeman
Mayor Ben and Mackie White Russ and Linda Harvell (AMCHS ‘65) in memory of Dutch, Marilyn and Cyndi Harvell - AMCHS ‘74 Russ and Linda Harvell (AMCHS ‘65) - in memory of Norma Miller and Mike Bloom - AMCHS ‘61
Russ and Linda Harvell (AMCHS ‘65) - in memory of Dick Pewthers AMCHS ‘65 Margaret Godfrey - AMCHS ‘65 Margaret McMurry Griffith - AMCHS ‘64 Susan Shaunfield Eusebio Benavdez - AMCHS ‘64 Eusebio Benavdiez - In memory of Randy Hall-AMCHS ‘64 Prosperity Bank Carolyn Allen - AMCHS ‘64 Robert Longley - AMCHS ‘68 Bill McGuire - AMCHS ‘69 FedStar Credit Union The Ellison Firm Tanya Hackney - AMCHS ‘69 Amy Restivo, CPA, LLC Jeff Zwolinski - AMCHS ‘64 Sarah Henz - AMCHS ‘66 Nancy Fessler - AMCHS ‘69 Jamie Bassett - AMCHS ‘69 J Cody’s Steak & BBQ Robert and Sharon Holt
Denise Bermudez - AMCHS ‘72 Sharon Gable - AMCHS ‘72 Janice Bright Attaway - AMCHS ‘72 Dennis and Donna Meier - AMCHS ‘72 Herbert Hooper - AMCHS ‘72 Richard Hedges - AMCHS ‘72 Sharon Covey Menn - AMCHS ‘64 Fred Paine - AMCHS ‘89 Brazos County Historical Commission Brenham National Bank Scott and Stephanie Simpson Karen Peterson - AMCHS ‘66 Claire Elkins - AMCHS ‘65 James Bradley - AMCHS ‘67 Pruitt’s Fabric Shop Park Cleaners Brazos Natural Foods Richard Owen - AMCHS ‘63 Russell Hannah - AMCHS ‘64 U Paint It Callaway Jones Funeral Home Allen Honda
INSITE | Eats & Treats BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION
dininG / CATERinG / VEnuES Amico NAvE RistoRANtE, www.amiconave.
com, 203 E. Villa Maria Rd., Bryan (979) 703-1953. Amico Nave is a family-owned restaurant offering a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes. M-F 11am-10pm, Sa 5-10pm
BuPPy’s cAtERiNg, www.Buppys.com, 506 Sulphur Springs, Bryan (979)779-6417. Any food. Anytime. Buppy’s feeds people - Dine at Buppy’s and let them cater your events. China, linen, table and chair rentals for on-site catering or use Buppy’s private Party Room. Lunch buffet Tu-F 10:30am-6pm, closed Monday. Dinner buffet, First Friday of each month, 5pm-8:30pm cAfé EccELL, www.cafeeccell.com, 101 Church Ave, CS, (979)846-7908. Café Eccell is a pizza and wine bistro located in College Station’s Old City Hall that offers wood fired pizza, fresh seafood and more! Lunch M-Th 11am-2pm; F&Su 11am-5pm; Sa 12noon-5pm; Dinner M-Su 5-10pm cAffE cAPRi itALiAN REstAuRANt, www.
theplaceforitalian.com, 222 N Main St, Bryan (979)8222675. 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
couNtRy Boy gRiLL, 201-B South Main, Bryan (979) 703-6520. Located across from the LaSalle Hotel in downtown Bryan. Country Boy Grill features countrystyle cooking. Daily lunch specials are available M-Sa from 11am-2 pm. Open M-F from 11am-9pm, Sa 8am10pm, Su 8am-3pm.
tRumAN chocoLAtEs, www.trumanchocolates.
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 11am9:30pm, Su 11am-3pm Main St., Bryan (979) 822-2000, 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.
vERitAs, www.veritaswineandbistro.com, 830 University Dr, Suite 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-F 11am-2pm; Dinner M-Th & Sun 5:30pm-9:30pm, Sat 5:30pm-10pm
thE LEmoN WEdgE, www.the-lemonwedge.com,
EnTERTAinMEnT & ATTRACTionS
LAsALLE hotEL, www.lasalle-hotel.com, 120 S.
308 N Main St, Bryan (979)703-4052. The Lemon Wedge is an elegant, upscale neighborhood restaurant located in the heart of downtown Bryan, serving fresh steak, seafood and spirits. Offering a wonderful selection of USDA prime steak and seafood dishes, as well as classical American favorites and great cocktails. The perfect place for couples, groups and families! Tu-Th 10:30am-9pm; F-Sa 10:30am-10pm; Su 9-11am omelet bar/ 11am2:30pm Brunch
cAsA RodRiguEz, www.casarod.com, 300 N
REAdfiELd mEAts & dELi, www. readfieldmeats.com, 2701 S. Texas Ave, Bryan (979) 822-1594. Readfield Meats& Deli is a gourmet meat and deli store carrying imported Italian goods, grocery items, frozen delights, and even paper goods. M-F 8am-6pm, Sa 8am-4pm
cENARE REstAuRANt, www.gotocenare.com,
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
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 7am-9pm; F 7am-9:30pm; Sa 8am-9:30pm; Su 8am-8pm
404 University Dr E, CS (979)696-7311. 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) 2683251. 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
chRistoPhER’s WoRLd gRiLLE, www.
christophersworldgrille.com, 5001 Boonville Rd, Bryan (979)776-2181. A trip to Christopher’s World Grille, in the historic Andrews House in Bryan, is a fine dining experience that can best be described as food with Mediterranean, Italian, coastal French, and South Pacific influences with a touch of Louisiana thrown in. Lunch M-Su 11am-2pm; Dinner Su-Th 5-9pm; F-Sa 5-10pm
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.
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.
shiPWREcK gRiLL, www.shipwreckbcs.com,
206 E. Villa Maria Drive, Bryan (979) 823-SHIP(7447). Shipwreck Grill offers live music, daily food and drink specials, and a relaxed atmosphere. M-Sa 11am-10pm, Su 11am-9pm
thE tEXAs RENAissANcE fEstivAL, www.
texrenfest.com, 21778 FM1774 Todd Mission, TX 77363 (800) 458-3435, The Texas Renaissance Festival is the nation’s largest, most acclaimed Renaissance theme park. Open to the public every Saturday, Sunday and Thanksgiving Friday, October 12-Dec 1 and to students for School Days, Tuesday and Wednesday November 5 and 6. Hours of operation are 9am-8pm
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
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
BRAzos BiNgo, www.BrazosBingo.com, 1805 Briarcrest Dr across from Bryan High, Bryan (979)7760999. For charity bingo at its best, Brazos Bingo has family nights, Aggie nights, and an enclosed, nonsmoking 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: Elks Lodge #859, Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, St. Joseph Church, and Bubba Moore Memorial Group, Inc. Open 7 days a week. REvoLutioN cAfE & BAR, 211 Main St, Bryan,
(979)823-4837. 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.
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 southERN fLyER diNER, www. brenhammunicipalairport.com, 3001 Aviation Way, Brenham (979) 836-5462. Southern Flyer is an American diner with everything made from scratch and winner of multiple “Best of the Best” awards. M-Su 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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INSITE November - December 2013