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March 2015

ROUND TOP HERBAL FORUM

MONEY MATTERS LEMONADE DAY HOME SPRING 2015

HOME & GARDEN WOMAN’S CLUB ANNUAL TOUR CITY FARMER HOMESTEADING

INSIDE INSITE

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Shop For a Cause Monarch Butter ies Symphony Premiere Market Renewing Populations Compiled by Carolina Keating Compiled by Insite Sta Page 6 Page 32

Hole In One Aggiecon 46 Twin City Mission Golf Classic Fantasy Comes to Aggieland By Carolina Keating By Cassidy Tyrone Page 8 Page 34

4 Herbal Forum 1 Home & Garden Savory Cooking & Cures Annual Woman’s Club Tour Preview By Cassidy Tyrone By Joan Moore Page 36 Page 10

Marburger Farms 2 Money Matters Antiques Galore Lemonade Day Teaches Success Compiled by Carolina Keating By Carolina Keating Page 38 Page 22

Eats & Treats 3 Live Sustainably Brazos Valley Food & Fun Homesteading in the City Page 39 By Carolina Keating Page 28 Error & Omissions Th e February Bridal issue included incorrect photos and articles aff ecting the coverage of Karina & Geronimo Longoria and Kylee & Rey Quintanilla. Insite regrets the error.

Insite Printing & Graphic Services Managing Partners: Kyle INSITE Magazine is published monthly by Insite Printing & DeWitt, Angelique Gammon, Greg Gammon. General Manager: Carl Graphic Services, 123 E. Wm. J. Bryan Pkwy., Bryan, 77803. Dixon; Pre-Press Manager: Mari Brown; Offi ce Manager: Wendy (979) 823-5567 www.insitebrazosvalley.com Volume 31, Number Seward; Sales & Customer Service: Molly Barton; Candi Burling; 3. Publisher/Editor: Angelique Gammon; Managing Editor: Sarah Manda Jackson; Marie Lindley; Kimberly Martinez; Barbara Wyss; Kinzbach Williams; Account Executive: Dave Marsh; Editorial Chris Zamora; Production: Stephen Beatty; Norris Carnes; Marilyn Interns: Carolina Keating, Cassidy Tyrone. INSITE Magazine is a Carey; Don Coburn; Jaimie Colwell; Alvin Estuaria; Arnel Estuaria; division of The Insite Group, LP. Reproduction of any part without Byron Lee; Dennis Leach; Carlos Martinez; Richard Pearce; Brandon written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Prouse; Frank Ramirez; Mike Seward; Stephen Woodru .

4 INSITE March 2015 click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 5 p.m. In addition, attendees can also SHOP-A-THON SYMPHONY participate in the silent auction. PREMIERE MARKET Admission is $25 per person and reservations are required no later Compiled by Carolina Keating than March 27, via the BVSO Offi ce at (979) 696-6100 or online at bvso. org. he Brazos Valley Symphony On April 10-11, shopping is TSociety is bringing high-end open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on merchants and shoppers together Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on again for the 3rd Annual Premiere Saturday. Delicious “tea room” Market Fundraiser at the Brazos menu selections will be available County Expo Complex, April 9-11. to shoppers in need of a snack or Th e Premiere Market will feature meal throughout the shopping specialty gift items, unique home days. Individual tickets ($5 per accessories, designer fashions person) for the public shopping for adults and children, custom days will be on sale at the door designed and heirloom jewelry, and the price includes entry to the gourmet foods, and much more. Premiere Market on both Friday Proceeds from the Premiere and Saturday. Market will benefi t the cultural and New this year will be educational programs of the Brazos ‘Muffi ns, Mimosas & Valley Symphony Orchestra. More,’ a special VIP “We are thrilled that many of Shopping Event. our customers’ favorite merchants will be back again with stellar Th e morning of Friday, April 10, selections,” says Lou Ellen Ruesink, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. will off er a Brazos Valley Symphony member guests the VIP treatment with a and merchant coordinator for the complimentary mimosa, gourmet event. “Some of the new merchants muffi ns and other breakfast will bring petite to plus-sized goodies, a coff ee bar, and private clothing, even more delicious shopping for VIPs only from 9 a.m. gourmet foods and candies, gift s for to 10 a.m. before the crowds arrive. the kitchen, and great stuff for kids Admission will be $15 at the door. too,” adds Ruesink. On Saturday, April 11, the Th e event will kick off with Market will feature “Photos with an exclusive Sneak Peek Party on .” Aggies and children of all Th ursday, April 9. Th is special ages will have the opportunity for a preview event will give eager keepsake photo to be taken with the shoppers “fi rst pick” at the selections Aggie mascot. Th is event will only while enjoying delicious selections take place from 11 a.m. to 11:45 catered by Napa Flats, champagne, a.m. so as not to tire out the beloved and musical entertainment during “First Lady of Aggieland.” the evening from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 For more information, visit bvso.org. i

6 INSITE March 2015 ACMEProducts & Services- Glass Since1946 www.acmeglass.com 979.822.5871 810 S. Washington Avenue Architect Scarmardo C W rtesyof:

Bryan, Texas 77803 Design-Install Photo Cou Photo TWIN CITY MISSION Th e golf tournament serves a dual purpose for the organization, says GOLF CLASSIC Ron Crozier, director of public relations for Twin City Mission. By Carolina Keating “We use the tournament on two diff erent fronts,” he says. “One or 15 years, the Twin City of which is a fundraiser and the Mission Golf Classic has been second way is as a public awareness Fbringing both awareness and fun tool.” to the Brazos Valley. Th is year, Despite the obvious benefi ts the 15th annual Twin City Mission of the fundraiser, Crozier believes Golf Classic will take place Monday, the second purpose is much more March 23, at the Phillips Event important. “For two months prior Center at Briarcrest Country Club. to the tournament we have people Th e annual event is a major talking about Twin City Mission. fundraising opportunity for Twin We are getting our name out there City Mission, a local non-profi t and we are doing it in a positive organization founded in 1963 to way,” he says. meet the needs of the homeless in ‘If we only raise fi ve dollars the Bryan/College Station area. In but we had 100 people the more than 50 years since then, come out and have a Twin City Mission has grown good time and talk about tremendously and now off ers four the Mission, then that is a diff erent programs to provide help successful tournament.’ for those in need in the Brazos Valley. Th e Twin City Mission Golf Th e homeless and housing Tournament also off ers a positive services provides emergency shelter spin on an oft en negative topic. “So for the homeless in the B/CS area much of what we do is considered and assists with transitional housing in a negative light – homelessness, needs. Th e service also provides violence, child abuse – but on that basic necessities such as clothing, day we’ve got a positive attitude and furniture, and nutritious meals to everything has a bright light instead those in need. Th e donation and of a grey dim association.” resale program has four retail stores Additionally, Crozier and the stocked by donations from the rest of the committee in charge of community that off er clothing and the golf tournament want to make other items for very little cost. Th e sure that the golfers have a great domestic violence services program time. “When they come out to the provides an emergency shelter for golf tournament that day we want victims of domestic violence as well to let them know how much we as non-residential services, case appreciate them and their support management, and counseling. Th e for Twin City Mission. We want to youth and family services program show them a good time so that when provides free services to at-risk they leave they are already talking youth and works to keep the family about coming back next year.” together. For more information, visit twincitymission.org. i

8 INSITE March 2015

onoring Our Past H mbracing Our Future The 2015 Woman’s Club House and Garden Tour E By Joan Moore of The Woman’s Club

PHOTOS OF THE CONLEE HOME BY JAMES MORRISON & GRANT CONLEE

he Bryan/College Station Woman’s Club’s 47th Annual House and Garden Tour and Luncheon will be Wednesday, April 15, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. In honor of The Woman’s Club’s 120th year, the theme Tfor this year’s tour is “Honoring Our Past – Embracing Our Future.” his year’s theme, “Honoring Our Past— The home was built in 1933 by Dr. Henry and Mrs. Embracing Our Future,” is reflected in three Merle Harrison. Several families have lived in the Tuniquely beautiful homes, all located in historic home since then. Sitting on four city blocks of Bryan neighborhoods. The residents of the homes nearly an acre of land, the home has 3,988 square have decorated in keeping with the original styles feet of living space, along with an additional of the homes, while adding personal touches that 1,200 square feet of porches and carport. The make the homes perfectly “at home” in 2015. traditional, primarily brick home, with a natural The Conlee Home wood shingle roof, has four bedrooms, three and Originally ‘The Harrison Home’ a half baths, formal and informal living spaces, 601 E. 32nd Street, Bryan along with dining and kitchen. Grant and Mandy Conlee’s home at 601 E. 32nd Grant and Mandy, the parents of two active Street in Bryan perfectly captures the Tour’s boys, Davis, age 10, and Jess, age 6, embraced the theme, “Honoring Our Past—Embracing Our home because it seemed to have been built for Future.” Grant, a fifth generation Bryan native, entertaining, which the Conlees love to do. The and his wife Mandy wanted to raise their large rooms and open spaces flow beautifully children in a home that was as deeply rooted as from one area to the next. Their lives revolve their family had been in this community. around family, and this home does as well. With Grant and his mother, Kay Conlee, own their hectic lives, they felt it was important to Old Bryan Marketplace in Downtown Bryan. have a relaxing home where they could make the Throughout the shop, you can see Grant’s most of their moments with the boys. creativity and talent on display, and you will see As you enter the front door, the warmth of the that in the Conlees’ home as well. entry sets the tone for the home and continues In fact, Grant’s interest in design goes way throughout the living spaces. The French server back, as his mother says he was the only 6-year- is especially meaningful as it belonged to Grant’s old who liked to choose things for his bedroom grandmother, Kathryn Conlee, and it brings back from Cashion-Cain, an old home interior shop in so many wonderful memories of the lessons she College Station. taught them about family. He remembers her

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 11 telling of how she stood in the sleet Th e courtyard is a true outside an auction to buy this piece. continuation of the family room. Th e painting above the server and With its lined boxwoods and the clock were also hers. Th e antique sculpted topiaries, this area is a solid gilded bronze and crystal favorite place to relax with a cup of chandelier was a housewarming gift coff ee in the morning or to unwind from Grant’s mother, Kay Conlee. and visit as a family aft er a long day. Th e family room is a gathering It doesn’t take long to appreciate place for friends and family. Th e the importance of family to the family room’s foundation is a Conlees. Th ey wanted their home large handmade Oushak rug from to be a place for entertaining as Pakistan, which took two years to a family and being together as a make. family.

PHOTOS OF THE BRYAN HOME BY SHERYL START OF THE WOMAN’S CLUB

The Bryan Home his ancestor. As you tour the home, Originally ‘The Madeley Home’ you’ll get a defi nite feel for the past, 763 S. Rosemary Drive, Bryan but you’ll also see a home that is A history buff like Tim Bryan perfect for life in today’s world knows exactly what is meant by while also looking to the future. “Honoring Our Past – Embracing Th e approximately 3,000-square- Our Future.” foot home at 763 S. Rosemary in When you visit his home, you’ll Bryan was built in the 1930’s by Ed see evidence of all kinds of history: and Billie Madeley who lived there family history, world history, and even Texas history. with Mrs. Madeley’s mother. Tim And of course, you’ll also fi nd bought the house in 1999. history of the city where he was Tim and his brother Travis, III raised and which was named for have spent most of their lives here.

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The Texans Who Know Real Estate To inquire regarding these properties or to list your property contact: Max Brand, Broker/Owner 301 E. Washington Ave. • Navasota, TX 77868 Cell: 936-668-1528 • Office: 936-825-9468 [email protected] • Fax: 936-825-9469 He grew up surrounded by family history, as the room, you’ll begin to see some of the many items is the bust of Winston Churchill, which is like the namesake of the city, William Joel Bryan, was his in the home with historical signifi cance. On the one President George H. W. Bush gave to Prime great-great grandfather, and Stephen F. Austin living room wall, there is a crest from the early Minister Margaret Th atcher at the G8 Summit in was William Joel’s uncle. Houston. Th ere were originally 13 copies of the William Joel Bryan gave the right of way to TOUR TICKETS CAN bust made, and the bust in Tim’s home is actually the Houston & Texas Central Railroad, which the original artist’s proof. allowed for the extension of the railroad from BE PURCHASED ON Tim calls his home “House on the Hill” Millican to what is now Downtown Bryan. THE DAY OF THE because it is located on what his dad told him was Tim is the son of the late Travis Bryan, Jr. and the highest point in the city when he was a young Norma Bryan. Norma, a lover of antiques, did EVENT AT ANY OF boy and hunted there in the early 1930s. most of the decorating in the home. Tim says that Early last century, all of the timber was mined, the home’s artwork and furniture have meaning THE HOMES and because of that, one “could see Downtown to him. Bryan from that hill.” As Tim says, “Th e house As you enter the home, you’ll immediately 1700’s from the era of Frederick I, King of Prussia. has a very comfortable homey feel to it, not too feel welcome in the lovely foyer. A more recent piece of history in the dining room big or small…comfortable.” You’ll also notice the beautiful red oak fl oors, which are original to the home. In the living

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14 INSITE March 2015

HOME

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our full line of Chalk Paint® PHOTOS OF THE CAFFEY HOME BY SHERYL START OF THE WOMAN’S CLUB by Annie Sloan. The Caffey Home now repeating itself as the current Originally ‘The Searcy Home’ residents of these three homes, 4081 State Hwy 6 South, Suite 101 609 E. 32nd Street, Bryan the Caff eys, the Conlees, and the College Station, TX 77845 Stacie and Kevin Caff ey’s home at Myers, are also very close. Th e kids 979-690-2100 609 E. 32nd Street in Bryan was play together, and the families oft en originally owned by Dr. R. M. end up at one of the homes just Searcy, a local medical doctor, and to visit and relax together. Stacie www.wonderfauxhome.com his wife Lois. Th e home was built feels the original owners would be in 1935. Th e Caff eys purchased the extremely pleased to see how the 3,000-square-foot home in 2013. neighborhood’s family traditions Behind the home is a garage are still a big part of life in the area. apartment, an old garage, and As you enter the home, you’ll a 5,000-square-foot warehouse, notice the beautiful hardwood which is currently being used as a fl oors, which are original to the workshop, offi ce space, and storage. home. Th ere are many examples Metal Roofing & Building Supply Th e neighborhood has long of the 1930’s Art Deco period Steel been a family neighborhood. Th ree throughout the home, and Stacie very close families, the Searcys, and Kevin have tried to leave some Pipe the Harrisons, and the Halsells, of those touches. Th e original front once lived in this area. Th ey raised door is an example of the Art Deco their children together, got together style. All of the trunks in the home, Carports oft en, and cooked out and spent including the one in the living time in one another’s homes. room, were found, along with many Metal Stacie says she feels like history is other treasures, in the old garage Roofing Metal Buildings

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16 INSITE March 2015 click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 17 behind the home. Th e utility room, off the kitchen, was once WHAT “Honoring Our Past- part of the dining room. Th e dining room ran Embracing Our Future” Woman’s the entire length of the house, and there was no Club Home & Garden Tour indoor utility. Stacie and Kevin designed this WHEN April 15 room, with locker space for each member of the TICKETS to tour all three homes family and a chalkboard sliding door. are $15, and luncheon tickets, sold Th e Caff eys have recently redone the kitchen. separately, are also $15. Tour tickets Th e original layout with a small island, pantry can be purchased on the day of with folding doors and a return air closet was the event at any of the homes. reconfi gured with a new, larger island, cabinets, Tickets may also be purchased in pantry space, and a coff ee-wine bar. Quint Foster did all of the glasswork here and throughout the advance from any Club member, home. Th ere is also a sitting area in the room, by calling the Club Director at which is one of Kevin and Stacie’s favorite parts (979) 822-5019, or by e-mailing of the house. and 6-year old Slaton. Th e bunk beds were found [email protected]. Th e “rumpus” room was added to the home in the warehouse. Th e Caff eys redid one entire Luncheon tickets may be obtained in 1959. Th e old radio was found in the garage wall to make a built-in desk, cabinets, and a closet by contacting Sandra Petty at (979) and has a record player inside. Th e china cabinet for each boy. Th e boys are very close, and this 775-2449 or e-mailing spetty@ belonged to Stacie’s paternal great-grandmother. room is perfect for them. suddenlink.net. Stacie loves space and color and loves mixing Th ere are two window seats, one overlooking the April 8 is the last day to make the old and the new. She knows the home was pool, and one overlooking the backyard. luncheon reservations. The One-year old Vivian’s room defi nitely built for a family 80 years ago, but she feels that luncheon, to be held at The belongs to a “girly-girl.” Th e built-in cabinets it was meant for her family today. Kevin and and drawers are original. Th e Caff eys added the Stacie have defi nitely honored the past here, but Woman’s Club, is open to members marble countertops. Th e hardware in this room they also obviously live life to the fullest today and non-members and will be is also original. Th e old frame with the banner of and embrace the future as well. Th ey pray that served continuously from 11:00 Vivian’s name was bought at a Rockdale antique everyone who enters their home is as truly blessed a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The theme for this store, Queen’s. as they have been. Stacie says, “It is exciting and year’s luncheon is “Picnic on Carter Th e paneled “Boy Cave” was added during the encouraging to see families with children living Creek.” 1959 remodel and is shared by 8-year old Jackson in this older neighborhood, keeping it active and alive!” i

18 INSITE March 2015

D i d Y o u K n o w

MONEY MATTERS

MAKING LEMONADE TEACHING KIDS BETTER BUSINESS By Carolina Keating

CLAYTON’S WILD WEST LEMONADE STAND IN 2011.

t would not be summer in Texas without an ice- education level,” she says. Scroggins worked with of the ground, Scroggins says she realized how cold glass of lemonade to keep you cool in the the original founder, Micheal Holthouse, as much a program like this was needed. “Most Isweltering heat. Thanks to the annual Lemonade well as local business owners to make the first kids don’t really learn this stuff at home and they Day program, there will be plenty of lemonade Lemonade Day happen. Dave Fox, owner of Blue don’t learn it at school either, so there is this big stands from which to purchase that glass gap of learning. We are trying to fill that of lemonade on May 4. gap with Lemonade Day,” says Scroggins. Lemonade Day is a national program MOST KIDS DON’T REALLY “It teaches very, very valuable lessons. It founded in Houston in 2007. The is about setting a goal, making a plan, program’s main focus is to inspire kids LEARN THIS STUFF AT working the plan, and achieving the goal.” to learn about building a small business HOME AND THEY DON’T Vanessa Sikorski, a parent who has and accomplishing goals by helping them helped her son, Clayton, participate in start, own, and operate their own business LEARN IT AT SCHOOL Lemonade Day for the past four years, – a lemonade stand. agrees with Scroggins. “We like doing it Kids who participate in Lemonade EITHER, SO THERE IS THIS because it teaches him how to plan, from Day are in complete control of their BIG GAP OF LEARNING. WE start to finish, an idea and how to save his stand and learn about entrepreneurship money,” Sikorski says. by creating a budget, setting profit goals, ARE TRYING TO FILL THAT Clayton, who changes the theme of serving customers, giving back to the his stand every year and has won several community, and much more. GAP WITH LEMONADE DAY awards including “Best Imagination Four years after its inception in – LENAE SCROGGINS Stand,” “Best Stand,” and “Entrepreneur Houston, Lemonade Day debuted in the of the Year,” enjoys the whole process but Bryan/College Station area in 2011. particularly loves seeing all his hard work “It seemed like something that would be ideal Baker, was one of those entrepreneurs. pay off. for the B/CS area,” says Lenae Scroggins, founder “In general, we get involved mostly with “I like that there are a bunch of people that are of the B/CS chapter of Lemonade Day. At the time, groups and events that have to do with kids and friendly and nice that come by and get lemonade,” Scroggins was running the Entrepreneurship what I thought was unique is that there is no other says Clayton. When asked if it is difficult to make Center at Texas A&M Univeresity and she event that is really trying to teach entrepreneurs,” his lemonade stand happen, there is a pause thought Lemonade Day was an excellent way says Fox. before he responds. “It takes a little thinking,” he for the center to get involved in working with Fox was sold on the idea and Blue Baker has says. younger kids. been a sponsor of Lemonade Day since the B/CS Lemonade Day also focuses on showing kids “We were much more focused on students at chapter was founded. what they can do with the money they earn from A&M and not so much involved on the secondary While working on getting Lemonade Day off their lemonade sales.

22 INSITE March 2015 #82 Keep your eye on what matters most.

Together let’s plan for the future so you can continue all the good you do in your life.

D. Wade VanDerBoom Agent New York Life Insurance Company Bryan, College Station Houston 3200 Southwest Frwy, Suite 1900 Houston, TX 77027 (979) 219-9560 [email protected] www.wadevanderboom.nylagents.com

Registered Representative off ering investments through NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/ SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. SMRU1614160(Exp.08/07/2016) © 2013 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 23 giving back to the community and Scroggins says a surprising amount of kids end up giving a large portion of their earnings to charities. Although Lemonade Day is not until May 4, anyone interested in having his or her child participate can sign up online now at bcs. lemonadeday.org. Aft er registering, backpacks with all the information needed to guide parents and children through the Lemonade Day process will be available for pick up at local businesses sponsoring Lemonade Day. Th ose locations include Blue Baker, American Momentum Bank, Copy Corner, and Village Foods. Blue Baker will also be hosting a “Best Tasting Lemonade” contest at their store on University Drive on Saturday, April 25, to help raise awareness of Lemonade Day. “A lot of people don’t know about Lemonade Day until Lemonade Day and they always say they wish they had known about it sooner,” says Fox. “We are just trying to get people aware of the event.” Scroggins wants to assure parents that anyone is capable of creating a lemonade stand. JACE P.’S LITTLE MAN’S STAND WON MOST UNIQUE STAND. “One of the biggest challenges is helping JONATHAN & MADISON: ENTREPRENUER OF THE YEAR parent’s understand that this is not a monumental “It’s a spend-a-little, save-a-little, share-a- things kids learn at Lemonade Day is a template task to take on and that it brings the family little motto with Lemonade Day,” says Scroggins. for teaching fi nancial responsibility for the rest of together and is fun to work on together,” she says. Aft er paying back their investors, participants their lives,” says Scroggins. She believes the eff ort more than pays off for the can use the rest of the money they earn in any And as for Clayton’s theme this year? “It’s a kids involved. way they wish. surprise,” he says. “You’ll just have to come out “Th e lemonade stand is the vehicle but the However, Lemonade Day does encourage and see it for yourself!”i

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 25 26 INSITE March 2015 Aggieland’s new est sen ior livin g fac ility.

Opening Spring 2015 Administrator Mary Culpepper, LNFA Class ’88

Medical Director Richard Herron, MD Class of ’83

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 27 LIVE SUSTAINABLY, BE HAPPY HOMESTEADING IN THE CITY

Story and Photos by Carolina Keating

n an unseasonably warm Saturday afternoon, Lavell and Andrea Merritt are toiling in their expansive garden. Lines of neat dirt rows crisscross with a few red and green lettuce sprouts joining tiny carrot tops in peeking through the soil. ONearby, chickens cluck in their homey coop.

Passersby could be forgiven for thinking dwellers. “Within the last 10 or 15 years, it they have stumbled off the sidewalk and seems like people have really embraced this onto a country farm. The Merritts are city idea of gardening,” says Lavell. “It’s been homesteaders, part of a movement that has neat to see the way the community groups brought the farming mentality home to have adopted homesteading.” backyards inside city limits. The Merritts’ Anthony agrees. Her work with the College Station home is minutes from Kyle Brazos County Master Gardeners program Field but miles from traditional backyards. spreads information about gardening Homesteaders are more likely to tend fruit in the B/CS area while encouraging the trees and vegetable plants than topiary; the community to get involved. “We are more intrepid also raise chickens and even teaching people how to do all the processes bees. that we always did,” says Anthony. “The For some, the idea is daunting. For dynamics of the population are much more others, like the Merritts and Brazos County urban and much less experienced with Horticulturist Charla Anthony, farm scenes homesteading – and all that entails – than but the importance of gardening did not. “Our are a natural part of life, even in the city. “I grew in previous generations.“ first date was actually in a garden,” recalls Andrea, up in agriculture,” explains Anthony. Lavell and Despite her agri-aware background, Andrea, laughing. When the pair moved to Texas from Andrea Merritt share similar experiences and who teaches yoga in College Station, insists Lanham, Maryland, to pursue Lavell’s doctoral memories. anyone is capable of gardening. “People in my degree at Texas A&M University, establishing a “My grandfather was a gardener and a farmer class know I garden, and they come up to me fertile yard was the first priority. in the D.C. Metropolitan area,” says Lavell. “I sometimes asking about gardening. I always tell “Before we even painted the walls, we dug up remember chasing grandpa and picking potatoes, them to start small. A lot of times people get too the garden,” says Lavell. When the couple had apricots, peaches…all that kind of stuff.” ambitious and get overwhelmed,” she says. “But children, the importance of fresh produce only Raised in northern Michigan, Andrea fondly people are doing it when they see that it is easy to increased. “It was a high priority to us to feed our recalls growing up surrounded by orchards. “It do, and more and more, it is catching on.” children this way,” explains Andrea. was a constant influence,” she says. Fortunately, B/CS can be a fertile gardening The Merritts have recognized a healthy trend For the Merritts, childhood may have waned, environment. “We have a unique climate here,” line marking a growing interest among city

28 INSITE March 2015 click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 29 notes Lavell. “The dead season here is actually at the end of the summer.” Mild winters and bushels of sunshine mean crops can be grown year-round. In the winter, greens and spices flourish; produce like kale, collards, arugula, cilantro, rosemary, and sage abound. Summertime yields bountiful squashes, zucchinis, pumpkins, tomatoes, peppers, basil, and sunflowers. While the Merritts admit homesteading is occasionally a tough row to hoe, they both say it is well worth the effort. IT IS A LOVELY, LABORIOUS ACTIVITY THAT IS VALUED BY OTHER HUMAN BEINGS. -LAVELL MERRITT

“The quality of the food – you just cannot compare; you can taste it,” adds Andrea. Homegrown crops yield other benefits. “The self-sustainability factor of growing food becomes really empowering,” says Lavell. Both agree it is the bond of planting seeds then nurturing seedlings that keeps the couple close to the earth. “There is real value in the process, says Andrea. “It allows our kids to see the process of growth when we grow something small and insignificant, and it grows into something huge and powerful.” i

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 31 Monarch Butterflies Renewing Population Compiled by Insite Staff

ome slightly good news on the Monarch butterfly front: after years of decline, their numbers have improved – up almost S70 percent from last year – says a Texas A&M University researcher. Craig Wilson, a senior research associate in the decade. There are new programs to establish generational migration heads north.” Center for Mathematics and Science Education milkweed planting, and the public is urged very The prevalence of herbicide resistant crops, and a longtime butterfly enthusiast, says early much to do so. The Monarch’s survival depends very dry conditions over much of Texas and figures from the Monarch’s breeding ground in on it.” numerous wildfires have hampered their 2,000- Mexico show that it is making somewhat of a The number of Monarchs once could be mile journey to Canada. A recent study from the comeback from recent disastrous decades and counted in the hundreds of billions just 20 years U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says that nearly one has rebounded from 33 million to an billion Monarchs have vanished estimated 56.5 million. since 1990. In 1996-97, there were an IN 1996-97, THERE WERE AN The agency has partnered estimated one billion Monarchs in 15 with two other groups – the over-wintering sites in Mexico, and ESTIMATED 1 BILLION MONARCHS National Wildlife Federation and those numbers tumbled to only 33 IN 15 WINTERING SITES IN the National Fish and Wildlife million in only two sites in 2013-14, Foundation – to plant milkweed the lowest ever recorded. MEXICO. THOSE NUMBERS along thousands of acres of Because more Monarchs actually Interstate Highway 35 from Texas managed to migrate successfully this TUMBLED TO 33 MILLION IN to Minnesota, a route where at past fall, there are believed to be more ONLY TWO SITES IN 2013-14, THE least 50 percent of all Monarchs than 50 million Monarchs in nine migrate. sites, a slight rebound, Wilson says. LOWEST EVER RECORDED Wilson adds, “It takes four “The winters the last few years generations of the insects to make have been rough on them,” Wilson says, “and ago, Wilson notes. it all of the way up to Canada, and because of there is still a lingering drought in and around They breed in Mexico and then have three lack of milkweed along the way, a lot of them just their breeding grounds. But this has been a fairly more generations as they travel north to Canada, don’t make it. But if people want to help, they mild winter and their numbers are moving in the “and Texas is a critical place for them – they have should purchase and plant milkweeds, preferably right direction. to pass through the state on their way north and milkweeds native to their state.” “There are still plenty of reasons to be lay eggs,” Wilson points out. Wilson is currently adding a variety of concerned, mainly because the number of “So it’s critical for them that they get milkweed plants to the existing Cynthia Woods milkweed plants – the one plant that is vital to milkweed here. It is the only type of plant that Mitchell Garden on the Texas A&M campus. i their existence – has been decreasing in the past Monarch caterpillars will digest as the multiple

32 INSITE March 2015 Celebrating 26 years in the Brazos Valley!

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click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 33 AGGIECON XII “WIPE OR WASTE” CIRCA 1981 BRINGING FANTASY TO WHAT Aggiecon 46 WHERE College Station Hilton AGGIELAND SINCE 1969 WHEN March 27-29 Hotel Friday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. AGGIECON 46 Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information visit Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. cephvar.tamu.edu By Cassidy Tyrone

e define ourselves as the nerds of campus,” Each new development expanded the Aggiecon The gaming room will feature the best in says Aggiecon director and Cepheid program and drew in a new fandom which has tabletop gaming as well as games just breaking WVariable Officer Andrew Evans. led to Aggiecon’s wide following today. into the market. “It will not just be Candyland Cepheid Variable, founded in 1969 by a As one of the few remaining student-run and Monopoly,” Evans says. “It will definitely group of astronomy enthusiasts, is a Texas A&M conventions, Aggiecon strives to stay true to be something you haven’t played before. It can University social club fostering a deeply rooted its roots. “Aggiecon is a nerdy con. We don’t range from two-minute card games to eight-hour appreciation of science fiction. The group hosts try to fight it,” Evans says with pride. There tabletop games.” the annual Aggiecon, a multi- Cosplayers are welcome to imitate genre entertainment and comic all of the pop culture favorites. convention. Aggiecon 46 will be held ‘THERE WILL BE SOMETHING FOR “Cosplay, in the most holistic sense, at the College Station Hilton Hotel is dressing and acting like a character & Conference Center on March 27 EVERYONE AS LONG AS YOU that you like,” Evans says. “People from 12 noon to 7 p.m., March 28 HAVE THAT NERD BONE IN YOUR dress like the character regardless of from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and March 29 race or gender and we endorse that at from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. BODY,’ EVANS SAYS. ‘AND IF YOU Aggiecon.” The founders, affectionately Guest speakers will discuss a referred to as the Elder Gods, created DON’T THINK YOU DO, TRUST variety of topics about sci-fi, fantasy, the first version of Aggiecon as a ME, WE WILL FIND IT.’ and comics. Convention events will science fiction week. The small, yet include a video game tournament, popular, gathering featured nights “Rocky Horror Picture Show” of science fiction films and tabletop gaming, is a unique personality that owes itself to screenings, and an art show with live and silent including the ever popular Dungeons and Aggiecon’s comparatively small size to that of auctions. Dragons. the popular San Diego Comic-Con. “Higher level Volunteers are needed. “Last year we had 80 As pop culture evolved, so did Aggiecon, [conventions] have bigger guests but a decrease general workers and that was just enough to get which was quick to adopt anime culture when in interaction,” Evans says. “Smaller cons add a by,” says Evans. All volunteers get a free badge to it appeared on the scene in the late 1970s and sense of community you don’t really see in larger attend the convention. early 1980s. As the horror genre melded with conventions.” “There will be something for everyone as long science fiction, it too was added to the Aggiecon Aggiecon 46 will have a full dealers room as you have that nerd bone in your body,” Evans program. Gaming systems like Super Nintendo, with products ranging from books and comics says. “And if you don’t think you do, trust me, we Nintendo 64, and Sega also became an early to weapons and wearables. Cepheid Variable will will find it.”i driving force in the community, Evans says. also be selling t-shirts.

34 INSITE March 2015

Why in the World?

March 16 - 20, 2015

AGGIECON XII “WIPE OR WASTE” CIRCA 1981

ar’s Re our New Ye solution Keep Y s 1. Eat More Fish 2. Eat More Fish 3. Eat More Fish They say you are what you eat. Be healthy and EAT FISH! Enjoy over 50 options of fresh and frozen fish and seafood, raw or prepared ready to cook. Visit us from Monday-Saturday 10AM-6PM.

click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 35 WHERE HEALTH & FLOWERS REIGN 20TH ANNUAL HERBAL FORUM By Cassidy Tyrone

ith savory cooking, cures, and craft s, the 20th Annual Herbal Forum at Round Top explores new ways to Wutilize ancient plants. Th e forum will be held March 20 – 21, with registration required by March 13 for the event at the Round Top Festival Institute. “It’s a great opportunity to learn from experts and members of the herb society,” says Henry Flowers, Herbal Forum director. “You can ask all kinds of questions about how to grow and use herbs.” Flowers says there is a mix of people who attend the forum, some who come year aft er year and some fi rst-timers just beginning their herbal hobby. “We get attendees from all across the state, as well as locals,” says Flowers. “I know many people that have attended every year since it started [in 1996].” Friday, March 20, workshops will be held at 1 p.m. and again at 3:30 p.m. Registered participants may choose among three diff erent topics: “Cultivatin’ and Cooking with Herbs,” which includes a tasting and an educational session of using savory and other herbs in the kitchen; “Spa Herbs,” tried-and-true techniques for using herbs in everyday living; and “Creative Herbal Mustards,” a course to show you how to use an array LUCIA BETTLER AT GARDEN BLESSING

36 INSITE March 2015 of herbs to make homemade mustards. Saturday, March 21, everyone can enjoy the Blessing of the Garden, the Garden Buff et Lunch, and a variety of presentations. Presenters include Susan Belsinger, Lucia Bettler, Chris Crowder, Henry Flowers, Billi Parus, Ann Wheeler, and Tina Marie Wilcox. Shopping opportunities will be off ered Friday and Saturday. Th e annual Plant Sale, “Th yme Well Spent” Gift Shop, and the Herbal Forum Book Store will off er an array of garden goodies. Books and magazines will also be sold

HERB CHEESE CANAPES The Dr. Robert E. Basye to support the Herbal Society of America. Overnight accommodations are available for herbal enthusiasts who would like to attend both GARDEN PARTY days. Located on the Festival Institute Campus, most rooms are within walking distance of the Show, Tell and Sell Garden Art, Plants and Herbs Herbal Forum activities. Featured Speakers Deadline to register is March 13. Donations of 8-ounce jam jars to the “Th yme Well Spent” Vendors Welcome to contact [email protected] gift shop and donations of books and magazines to the Herb Society of America National Herb 9-5 Saturday, May 2, 2015 - Free Admission Garden Internship will be accepted. Forum proceeds benefi t the Gardens of Rosewood Manor Round Top Festival Institute and Th e HSA- 3120 County Road 225 Pioneer Unit Educational Activities. For more information call (979) 249-3129 or Caldwell, Texas contact Henry Flowers at henryf@festivalhill. org. Th e forum itinerary, complete with times (979)272-8580 and program descriptions, is available at www. www.rosewoodofnewtabor.com festivalhill.org. i [email protected]

What: 20th Annual Herbal Forum at Round Top When: March 20, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; March 21, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Festival Hill, Round Top Registration: $75 registration fee; additional $35 fee for optional workshops For more information, visit www.festivalhill.org.

FAIRY GARDEN WORKSHOP

click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 37 MARBURGER FARMS for designers. “When it comes to the quality that a good designer ANTIQUE SHOW wants, they can buy much more quality, dollar for dollar, with an Compiled by Carolina Keating antique than with high-quality new items. The really good new items are extremely expensive. An antique re- ou can tell who they are. The purposed, re-covered, re-imagined ones with tape measures, the will always beat the new on quality Ynotepads, the paint chips and the and price.” stylish, comfortable shoes. At the Alan Hoops of Findlay, Ohio, Marburger Farm Antique Show in who offers white ironstone and Round Top, Texas, interior design transfer ware, says designers are professionals will fill the tents and drawn to Marburger Farm. buildings at the Marburger Farm ‘Marburger is the biggest Antique show on March 31-April 4. selection of the best Here we grow again. Dallas interior designer Kim dealers in one location Turner of KT Designs has shopped anywhere – and most With the opening of our new Longmire location, Aerofit for clients at Marburger Farm since are professional dealers, now has five locations to better serve you. Find out how the very first show in 1997. “The not part-time. They are Aerofit can help you achieve your fitness goals. thing about designers is time,” says accustomed to dealing with Turner. “A good designer does not designers and know what have time to shop the world or every designers are looking for.’ market nearby. Marburger dealers Marburger Farm offers a long are professionals at what they do list of amenities: free parking too—they spend the time scouring and parking shuttle, full-service the planet for the best antiques and breakfast and lunch cafe, show- they have the contacts all over the wide WIFI, golf carts available for world.” rent, and the Blacksmith Shop bar. Many Marburger Farm A new benefit will be the VIP exhibitors buy with interior design program with Marburger’s on-site customers in mind, as well as their shipper, Distinguished Transport, retail customers. offering VIP breakfast, swag bags, Dealer Frederica Anderson as well as shipping and storage of Amarillo, says, “The designers assistance, all coordinated from the know how to spot the best piece Marburger Farm Gulf Warehouse. in the booth.” For the spring 2015 The Marburger Farm Antique show, Anderson will offer French Show opens Tuesday, March 31 and Italian furniture pieces. with early buying from 10 a.m. “Right now, designers want through 2 p.m.; cost to attend is 1900 West Villa Maria • 823-0971 simple but old,” Anderson says. $25 for adults, free for children 15 4455 Carter Creek • 846-8724 Dealer Stanley Hildreth from and under. Regular $10 admission Staples, Minnesota, will offer 18th- 1411 Wellborn Rd. • 693-5380 begins March 31 at 2 p.m. 19th c. furniture and decorative 3100 Wildflower • 774-5364 For more information, visit arts. Hildreth says cost is a factor www.aerofitclubs.com 3526 Longmire Drive • 485-9999 www.roundtop-marburger.com.

38 INSITE March 2015 Your Source For Food & Fun | INSITE

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION LUIGI’S PATIO RISTORANTE wild caught seafood flown in directly from the source, as www.luigispatiorstorante.com, 3975 SH-6 S, CS (979) well as poultry and meat raised naturally. Highly-trained DINING / CATERING / VENUES 693-2742. Luigi’s Patio Ristorante offers genuine Italian associates and wine stewards can guide you through cuisine in a cozy atmosphere that transports you straight an award-winning wine list, which has garnered Wine CAFÉ ECCELL & LA BODEGA CATERING Spectator’s Award of Excellence (2007-2010). Lunch M-Sa www.cafeeccellbryantx.com,,www.labodegacatering.com, 4401 to the heart of Italy. You can choose to dine in the villa- style home interior or “outside” in the piazza town center, 11am-2pm; Dinner Sun-Th 5:30pm-9:30pm, F-Sa 5:30pm- S. Texas Avenue (979) 599-7929, (979) 599-7919, info@ 10pm laboega catering.com. For private parties, weddings or an indoor patio outfitted to embody all the excitement any event off premise from buffets and mixers to fine of a traditional Italian market square. Live music, check ENTERTAINMENT & ATTRACTIONS dining for 25-1,000 people. Café Eccell plus La Bodega website for schedule. Open for lunch Tu-Fri 11:30am-2pm. plus your imagination adds up to Eccell Group Catering Open for dinner Tu-Su 5:30pm, call for closing times. BRAZOS BINGO and anything you want! Brunch Su 11:30am-2pm www.BraosBingo.com, 1805 Briarcrest Dr across from CAFFE CAPRI ITALIAN RESTAURANT MR. G’S PIZZERIA Bryan High, Bryan (979) 776-0999. For charity bingo at its www.gotomrgs.com, 201 W 26th St., Bryan (979) 822- best, Brazos Bingo has family night, Aggie nights, and an www.theplaceforitalian.com, 222 N Main St, Bryan enclosed non-smoking section. Enjoy great food at great (979)822-2675. This award winning downtown restaurant 6747; 404 E University Dr., College Station (979) 693- 6747. At Mr. G’s, every slice is served with family pride, the prices at the Brazos City Grill or call about the party room has been serving creative and reasonably priced Italian – great for business events. Brazos Bingo supports the dishes for 20 years. Enjoy their art deco interior, local art freshest ingredients, original recipes and only the finest imported Italian cheeses. Now serving Gluten Free pizza. following charities: St. Joseph School, St. Joseph Church, display and upbeat atmosphere. Lunch M-F 11am-2pm; Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, Dinner M-Th 6pm-9pm; F-Sa 5pm-9pm Bryan location: M-F 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm, Sa 5pm-9pm. College Station location: M-Th 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm, F Bubba Moore Memorial Group, Inc., College Station CASA RODRIGUEZ 11am-2pm & 5pm-10pm. Sa 5pm-10pm. Professional Firefighters Assoc., & Scotty’s House Brazos www.casarod.com, 300 N. Bryan Ave., Bryan (979) 779- Valley Advocacy Inc. Open 7 days a week. 0916. Casa Rodriguez has been serving Bryan and College MUST BE HEAVEN www.mustbeheaven.com, 100 S. Main St., Bryan (979) REVOLUTION CAFE & BAR Station for more than 30 years. Their menu consists of 211 Main St, Bryan, (979) 823-4044. An eclectic coffee traditional Mexican food recipes that have kept the locals 822-7722; 1136 East Villa Maria, Bryan (979) 731-8891; 1700 Rock Prairie Rd., College Station (979) 764-9222. shop with a laid back, cool atmosphere, live music and and visitors coming back for more. M 11am-2pm; Tu-Th great drink specials. Full bar, premium coffees, gourmet 8am-9pm; F-Sa 8am-9:30pm; Su 8am-8pm Reminisce the good ole’ days of Ice Cream Shoppes and hand-crafted sandwiches at Must Be Heaven. Bryan Panini and a large patio. Poetry open mic every Sunday, CENARE RESTAURANT locations’ hours: M-F 8am-6pm, Sa 8am-3pm. College pub quiz trivia night every Monday, open mic every www.gotocenare.com, 404 University Dr E, CS (979)696- Station hours: M-F 8am-8pm, Sa 8am-3pm Wednesday. 7311. Cenare offers a variety of authentic Italian cuisine PERRINE WINERY SCHLITTERBAHN WATER PARK and beautifully presented dishes. Whether you are looking www.schlitterbahn.com, New Braunfels Waterpark for an intimate evening, a nice place for the entire family www.perrinewinery.com, 900 Harvey Rd., Ste. 6, College Station (979) 703-1843. Perrine Winery is a custom micro- (830) 625-2351; New Braunfels Lodging (855) 246-0273; or a place to host your next event, Cenare is a great choice. Galveston Waterpark (409) 770-9283. Bring the whole M-F 11am-2pm; M-Th 5-9:30pm; F-Sa 5-10pm winery featuring award-winning wines, tastings, parties, pairings, and custom labels. Tu-Th 4pm-8pm, F 2pm- family to experience why Schlitterbahn has been voted CHEF TAI’S MOBILE BISTRO 11pm, Sa 12pm-10p the best waterpark anywhere. Enjoy thrilling water slides www.cheftai.com, check website for daily locations or relax in the Lagoon for a day of fun in the sun. You and hours (979) 268-3251. Chef Tai’s Mobile Bistro is THE REPUBLIC can bring your own picnic into the park or enjoy the fun America’s Favorite Food Truck serving a blend of globally www.therepublic1836.com, 701 University Dr E, CS food available and resort lodging is available at the New inspired cuisine. (979)260-4120. Recently receiving the designation of AAA Braunfels location. Park hours vary by season. four diamond steak house, The Republic offers a variety of CHOCOLATE GALLERY gourmet steak options, seafood, wine, and whiskey. Their BURLESON COUNTY www.bcschocolategallery.com, 211 N. Main St., Bryan focus is on the use of fine, locally grown foods and simple (979) 779-2804. The Chocolate Gallery provides premium Texas cooking in an elegant setting. M-Sa 5-10pm DINING / SHOPPING pastries and chocolate as well as showcase the art of pastry and confections through education and experience. RONIN COOKING MAD HATTER’S TEA ROOM Tu-Th 10am-8pm, F-Sa 10am-9pm ronincooking.com, (979) 574-8745, Ronin cooking offers www.madhatterstearoom.com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell special full moon dinners and provides high quality food (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hatter’s cozy eatery provides THE CLARY HOUSE and catering for your next event, at your place or on the tantalizing treats and generous portions bursting with www.theclaryhouse.com, 601 East 30th St., Bryan, farm. flavor, a unique selection of gift items, gourmet coffees, (979)703-7916. Southern hospitality since 1902. Choose THE TAP and specialty teas. Open for breakfast and lunch and from four distinct suites to make you feel relaxed and www.tapbcs.com, 815 Harvey Rd, CS, (979)696-5570. special events by appointment. W-Sa 8am-5pm pampered. Personal coffee bar and business center. The Tap is a former train depot transformed into a sports Just one mile from Bryan’s historic downtown and five bar and restaurant. This local favorite has more than WASHINGTON COUNTY miles from the Texas A&M campus. Perfect for special 30 TVs, darts, pool tables, NTN trivia, dominoes, two occasions. Promising to make your visit memorable with huge porches, occasional live music specials, burgers, DINING / CATERING a leisurely stay. sandwiches, and free peanuts. M-Sa 11am-2pm FUNKY ART CAFÉ & COFFEE BAR J.CODY’S STEAKS AND BBQ TRUMAN CHOCOLATES 202 W Commerce St, Brenham (979)836-5220. Delicious 3610 S. College Ave., Bryan (979) 846-CODY. J.Cody’s www.trumanchocolates.com, 4407 S Texas Ave, Bryan and different, Funky Art Café in Brenham offers enticing serves both tender and juicy steaks and mouth watering (979)260-4519. Choose from signature series boxes or entrees to please the palate. Or choose a sandwich or BBQ. Let J.Cody’s cater your next event. M-Th 11am-9pm, customize your own. Numerous flavors to choose from. savory soup before shopping in its companion retail shop, F-Sa 11am-9:30pm, Su 11am-3pm Made on site by well-trained staff. Perfect to leave a The Pomegranate, to find trinkets, gift ideas and kitchen lasting impression for any event! Open M-F 10am-6pm; gadgets. M-Fr 11am-2pm; Sa 11am-3pm LASALLE HOTEL Sa 10am-3pm; Closed on Sunday www.lasalle-hotel.com, 120 S. Main St., Bryan (979) 822- 2000, Located in the heart of historic downtown Bryan, VERITAS Listings provided as a service. Insite is not responsible LaSalle Hotel, Café and Bar has corporate and group rates, www.veritaswineandbistro.com, 830 University Dr E, for errors or omissions. conference and meeting rooms, and an executive chef on Ste 400, CS (979) 268-3251. Classically trained chefs For menus, maps and directions, visit InsiteBrazosValley. staff. offer creative cuisine in a casual, contemporary setting. com/eats-and-treats Veritas embraces usage of organic and local produce,

click www.insitebrazosvalley.com 39 Sign Up for the Wednesday Wake Up to the Weekend Possibilities e-newsletter for Events, Live Music & More! It’s FREE! InsiteBrazosValley.com