EATS & TREATS:

February 2011

A GuidE To Food & Fun

NO FEAR HERE

Also Inside Touchdown in Bryan A Modern Former NFL PLayer’s New Career iN FiNaNCe Ghost Story home updaTes ARE tHiNgs tHAt gO bump iN A Get a JumP oN sPriNG dOwNtOwN buildiNg busiNEss As with home ProduCts usuAl OR sOmEtHiNg spOOkiER? & imProvemeNts

a daughTer’s cREEpiNg AlONg As I was TriBuTe iN tHE dARk, dRAFty ‘she’s here to teaCh FORmER bOARdiNg us a diFFereNt kiNd HOusE, a vice-like grip on oF Love’ whichever of my coworkers maKe The was unfortunate enough to be daTes standing next to me, straining to • the CoLor PurPLe • souPer BowL hear something gO bump iN tHE oF CariNG NigHt, I kept thinking, “wHy ON • BaLLPark BeerFest EARtH Am i HERE? by Caitlin Shields • do the armadiLLo dash February 2011 INSITE 1 2 INSITE February 2011 24 CoNTENTS

MAKEPLANS 5 Ballpark Beerfest Suds Up Free festival at the BV Bombers Ballpark

7 The Color of Love is Purple OPAS brings smash Broadway musical to B/CS

9 Do the Dash 5th annual Armadillo Dash steps out 10 YoURSOURCE “PURE HEART! Get a Jump on Spring! ” Products and improvements A BROADWAYUSA Today HIT! for your home & yard Special Advertising Section INSITE Magazine is published monthly by insite Printing & “A bright odyssey of triumph.” Graphic services, 123 e. wm. The New York Times 14 UPCLOSE J. Bryan Pkwy., Bryan, texas NFL Touchdown 77803. (979) 823-5567 www. insitegroup.com volume 27, “ & ” Former player launches second career in finance SOARINGTIME JOYFUL! Number 11. Publisher/Editor: by Caitlin Shields angelique Gammon. Account Executive: Lauren williams. Graphic designers: alida Bedard; 18 CoMMUNITYOUtREACh karen Green. Editorial interns: Souper Bowl is Back Caitlin shields; Clarissa orth. Before the kick-off is a super time Marketing interns: Courtney to help the hungry Lovelace. inSiTE Magazine is a division of The insite Group, LP. reproduction of any part 20 MEDICALMILEStONE without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. insite A Daughter’s Legacy Printing & Graphic Services How one woman became the Managing Partners: kyle dewitt, PETER SYLVADA Y B face of Rhett syndrome angelique Gammon, Greg N Gammon. General Manager: Carl

by Caitlin Shields LU STRATIO dixon. Pre-Press Manager: mari IL Brown. office Manager: wendy 24 BELIEVE oRNOt seward. Sales & Customer Tuesday & Wednesday, Things That Go Bump Service: molly Barton; Candi February 8 & 9 • 7:30 PM The Insite Printing building Burling; Janice hellman; manda gets the full spook treatment Jackson; marie Lindley; Barbara Rudder Auditorium wyss. Production: stephen by Caitlin Shields Beatty; troy Cahill, Norris Carnes; Strong language, mature subject matter and adult situations. marilyn Carey; don Coburn; Jaimie Colwell; ricky Conchola; Byron Lee; margie Lowry; doug Departments madison; arthur maldonado; GET TICKETS! Brandon Prouse; Frank ramirez; MSC Box Office • 979-845-1234 Jimmy welch. MSCOPAS.org PUBLIShER’SDESk Shrieks and geeks page 4 Sponsored by WhAT’ShAPPENINg February events page 6 BUSINESSbRIEFS Notable business news page 30 EATS & tREAtS Food & fun guide page 31 February 2011 INSITE 3 PUBLIShER’SDESk

Over the years, I’ve heard stories from employees about having CreePy feelings after spending time on the second floor of our building looking through old storage files. No surprises there: it’s a creepy place. that part of the building remains largely unchanged since the Moehlman family stopped operating it as a BOarDING hOUse above a dry goods store in the late 1960s. I’m the resident sKePtIC, having spent plenty of late nights working at the Insite building when some otherworldly help would have been appreciated but to date, none has been offered. It may change after this ghost story runs, but after 27 years publishing INSItE Magazine, the most frequently asked question is, “how do you decide what to WrIte aBOUt in INSItE?” the vast majority of stories come from OUr reaDers and often highlight the work of the many vital NON-PrOFIts around the brazos Valley. this issue offers a double handful of such stories including the upcoming Souper bowl of Caring and Armadillo Dash. there is also a very moving story about Ashley Fry, who suffers from Rhett syndrome. Many years ago, INSItE ran a feature about the Aggie chapter of the national non-profit Project Sunshine that connects vOLUNteers to children with long-term illnesses, disabilities or special needs. From that story, the Fry family connected with a generation of Aggie volunteers who have enriched Ashley’s life greatly. More recently, Ashely’s father wrote to ask if I would be interested in sharing Ashley’s story, including about the neuroscientist who credits meeting and caring for Ashley with her BreaKthrOUGh DIsCOvery of the defective gene that causes Rhett. Why the ghost story? Resident skeptic or not, it’s a FUN reaD. Why the rest of the stories? because they are stories about local people, local places and local organizations that deserve to be told. And because sOMeBODy told us about them so we could teLL yOU. – Angelique Gammon

Get in Touch Angelique Gammon, Publisher [email protected] www.insitegroup.com • (979) 823-5567 insite Magazine March Real Estate & The Spring Entertainment Guide distribution date: February 28 ad space & what’s happening deadline: February 4, 2011

4 INSITE February 2011 MAKEPLANS compiled by the insite staff

try something new and if you don’t like it, 4th Annual Ballpark Beerfest you’ve invested in only four ounces. The law of averages says that if you keep trying new les, lagers, craft beers – Raspberry the Brazos Valley. The 1947 Bombers were things, you’ll discover some really good stuff. beer, anyone? – from around Texas part of the new Lone Star League, a Class-C Beerfest is sponsored by O’Bannon’s Taphouse and Village Foods. Aand around the world will be on tap circuit that boasted eight teams in locales like The cook-off will feature restaurants from to taste at the 4th Annual Ballpark Beerfest Henderson, Jacksonville, Lufkin, and Tyler. the Bryan/College Station area looking to coming March 5 to the Brazos Valley Bombers The team played at brand new Bomber Field, showcase their tasty spin on fajitas for the ballpark in Bryan. Admission to the event renamed Travis Field, the same ballpark the chance to go home with a cash prize and the is free with tickets available for purchase Bombers now call home. coveted first place trophy. “We are expecting to taste fajitas, beer and wine. Daylong Although the Brazos Valley Bombers a big crowd this year as the festival generated entertainment will include music by Journey baseball season is four months away, team a ton of interest last year. You won’t want to Tribute band “The Frontiers,” games and partner Uri Geva has said the idea for the miss the Journey Tribute Band, these guys are entertainment for kids in the KidZone and spring Beerfest came from a minor-league the real deal,” says Bombers General Manager even a designated driver section. team in Charleston, S.C., that sponsors a beer Chris Clark. The Bombers are a summer-league, festival each year. Crowds at the Bryan festival More information about special VIP wooden-bat team for collegiate players and have grown since its inception in 2008 with Passes and food and drink tickets is available have called the Bryan ballpark home since more than 3,400 attendees at last year’s event. at www.ballparkbeerfest.com along with a 2006. Sixty years before, the original Bryan Brew fans will appreciate the opportunity complete list of beers, wines, activities and Bombers brought professional baseball to to taste more than 200 beers and 50 wines: driving directions. i

WHAT: 4th annual Ballpark Beerfest WHEn: march 5, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. WHERE: Brazos valley Bomber Ballpark, Carson st., Bryan HoW: admission is free. Food, beer and wine tasting tickets may be purchased at the event or in advance at www.ballparkbeerfest. com. For more information, call the Bombers at (979) 779-PLay or email [email protected].

February 2011 INSITE 5 WhAT’ShAPPENINg compiled by the insite staff upcOmiNg EVENt plANNER Through March 26, MSC include tasting all the food the deadline for applying is Benefit 2011 will be held at W. 26th, Downtown bryan. Forsyth Center galleries in prepared by the 50 men as well February 4 at 5 p.m. For more the brazos County Expo. table conjunction with the texas A&M as a silent auction. For tickets, information, contact Officer sponsorships are available from February 21 from 5:30 p.m. hillel Foundation is hosting email ken Fogel at Atmos Energy Dennis bain, Community $500 to $10,000 and include to 7:30 p.m., the American a traveling exhibit from the at [email protected] Services Division, College 10 tickets and an invitation to Business Women’s Holocaust Museum houston. or call (979) 676-1018. Station Police Department, (979) meet this year’s speaker, Rick Association – Women of the exhibit, “When They 764-3573 or [email protected]. Santorum, prior to the event. Excellence will hold its Came to Take My Father,” February 5, celebrate with Visit brazosCountyExpo.com for monthly meeting at LaRiviera features photographs by Mark your friends in support of February 12 from 8 a.m. to 12 more information. Restaurant & Bakery in Seliger and is free and open national Catholic Schools noon, join the Brazos Valley’s bryan. Cost is $20 per person to the public. An internationally Week and St. Joseph Farmer’s Market Valentine’s February 19 from 7 a.m. to 10 and meetings include a known photographer, Seliger Catholic School at the Celebration in the brazos a.m., the Women of Excellence professional speaker, dinner and is widely recognized for his Annual Spring Fling – A County health Department Chapter along with the texas networking opportunities. the portraits of such celebrities as night at the Races. Activities Parking lot (corner of Wm A&M Student Chapter of the group meets the third Monday britney Spears, Paul McCartney include dinner by Christopher’s J. bryan and texas Ave.). American Business Women’s of every month and visitors are and Lenny kravitz. Seliger is an World grille, Chocolate truffles Activities include live music, a Association in bryan/College welcome. Reservations are editorial photographer who was by Cocoamoda, jewelry from chef demonstration, raffle and Station is hosting a breakfast due by 12 noon the thursday born in Amarillo and currently Fifth ‘C’ and a chance to win treats and activities for kids. social and fundraiser at before the meeting by emailing lives and works in New York an iPad, a one-year student the Farmer’s Market is a great Applebee’s Neighborhood grill [email protected]. For City where he is under contract tuition and more. Dancing by place to find Valentine gifts & bar in College Station. Cost more information, contact teri to Conde Nast Publications. the texas twisters and horse including sweet treats, locally is $10 per person and includes Adamson at (979) 280-0907 or MSC Forsyth gallery has free racing with ‘Funny’ money roasted coffees, and bath and breakfast and a drawing for a [email protected] or visit admission, open to the public will also add to the fun plus body products. complimentary two-night stay at www.abwawe.org. and is temporarily located in jewelry from David gardner’s the Embassy Suites – Austin/ bryan’s Downtown District will be featured at the live February 12 at 10 a.m., gather Downtown town Lake. tickets February 24-26 from 9 a.m. to at 110 N Main St. For more auction. Order tickets online a group of friends in the parking must be purchased by February 6 p.m. daily, the Fortnightly information about the Forsyth, at http://stjosephspringfling. lot of Post Oak Mall near JC 9. For more information on the Club of brenham presents call (979) 845-9251 or visit charityhappenings.org/. For Penny and join Walk Across Women of Excellence Chapter, the annual used Book Sale http://forsyth.tamu.edu. more information, call St. Texas!, an eight-week fitness visit http://www.abwawe.org; at the Washington County Joseph Catholic School at program created by the texas for the texas A&M Student Fairgrounds. More than 20,000 February 4-5, the Children’s (979) 822-6641 or email AgriLife Extension Service in Chapter, visit http://www.abwa. books including a wide variety Museum of the Brazos [email protected]. 1996 to help texans establish tamu.edu. of new and used books, a large Valley hosts its annual daddy the habit of regular physical selection of novels and some daughter dance. the night February 5 at the brazos County activity. the eight-week period February 19 from 6 p.m. to collector’s editions, plus many will be full of dancing, eating Expo, the outlaw Monster begins February 12 and runs 11 p.m., join Hospice Brazos hardback books, videos, DVDs and making crafts. there will be Truck Show returns with through April 9. there will be Valley for this year’s Hospice and CDs will be available during a professional photographer and tough trucks, monster trucks, two motivational celebrations Happening 2011: Under The this three-day spectacular. this DJ along with a custom pendent quad racing and motorcycles along the way: Recharge Event, Sea. the adventure will take year features a larger than ever designed by Montelongo’s to hosted by Outlaw Motor March 5; and the Last Mile place at the brazos County Expo children’s corner staffed with be raffled off along with many Sports Spectacular. Visit Celebration Event, April 16. For in bryan and features a delicious sitters/readers to entertain other prizes. the students of brazosCountyExpo.com for times, more information, visit www. surf n’ turf buffet, auctions, the children while book lovers Carpool will donate free valet tickets and more information. brazoswat.com, call the texas gaming and entertainment browse. Also, Funky Art Café parking. the dance will be held AgriLife Extension Service Office by the texas twisters. will sell coffee-based drinks, at the Children’s Museum from 6 February 8, the College at (979) 823-0129 or email Sponsorships are available muffins and cookies. Admission p.m. to 9 p.m. on February 4 for Station Police department [email protected] from $250 and individual tickets on thursday is $10; admission daughters age 6 and under and will launch the 43rd session of are $60 per ticket. hospice on Friday and Saturday is $1 on February 5 for daughters age the Citizen Police Academy. February 16 from 11:30 a.m. happening is a time to celebrate and children are admitted free. 7 and older. tickets are $80 for this free, 10-week program is until 1 p.m., Exploring History the lives of the patients and All proceeds from the sale dad and daughter; $20 for each designed to provide citizens lunch lecture series presents families hospice has served benefit the Nancy Carol Roberts additional daughter. with information on how the “images of America: College while raising funds to continue Memorial Library in brenham. criminal justice system and Station, by Glenn d. davis.” caring for others in the future. Parking for the event is free. For February 4 at 6:30 p.m., the police department operate, Lectures are presented the third detailed information, visit www. College Station Education and how police and community Wednesday of the month at February 20 at 2:30 p.m., St. visitbrenhamtexas.com or call Foundation is hosting their residents can work together the College Station Conference Andrew’s Episcopal Church (979) 836-3696. 4th annual “50 Men Who to reduce crime. Applications Center, 1300 george bush Drive. will host Reflections on the Can Cook” fundraising event are available at the College Cost is $5; reserve your place by Windows of St. Andrew’s February 26-27, nearly 1,000 where community leaders Station Police Department, the Monday before the lecture organ recital featuring dr. historical re-enactors and showcase their culinary skills 2611 texas Avenue or by calling by calling (979) 754.3491 or Alan Strong, organist. the descendants of the original to raise money for teacher (979) 764-3573 to request an email [email protected]. event is free and open to the signers of the texas Declaration grants and scholarships. application by mail, email or community with a reception of Independence, including tickets are $40 each, must fax. go to www.cstx.gov/police February 17 from 7 p.m. to 9 following the recital. Visit special guest u.S. Sen. be purchased in advance and to download an application. p.m., the Coalition for Life www.standrewsbcs.org, or 217 Kay Bailey Hutchison, are

6 INSITE February 2011 MAKEPLANS expected to gather on the banks of the brazos River to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the birth of the Republic of Texas at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site located between brenham and Navasota Left: taprena augustine off State hwy. 105 and FM 1155. For directions or more (shug avery). information, call (936) 878-2214. Photo by scott suchman.

February 26 at 6:30 p.m., Below: From left to right: the Brazos Valley Chorale dayna Jarae dantzler (Celie) presents the Annual Pops and traci allen (Nettie). Concert Cabaret at the hilton hotel in College Photo by scott suchman. Station. For tickets or information on this dinner and choral concert, call (979) 776- 1776, [email protected] or visit www.bvchorale.org.

February 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Brazos Valley Bridal Association will hold the Spring Bridal Show at the brazos County Expo. Stroll through aisles and aisles of the brazos Valley’s best wedding and party vendors. Visit brazosCountyExpo.com for more information. PLAn AHEAd March 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church will hold its spring festival “Growing Hope for A Musical About Love the Community,” a family event with an environmentally friendly focus including free only fitting that a week before and it remained on my mind for weeks.” “green” crafts, raffle items, It’s Valentine’s Day, MSC OPAS is THE CoLoR PuRPLE is based on the food, music and games. teaming with sponsor Wells Fargo to present Proceeds go to community THE classic, Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice agencies. Visit www. CoLoR PuRPLE, The Musical About Love. Walker. It tells the story of Celie, a young woman standrewsbcs.org or 217 W. This February, you have two chances to see the who finds the strength to triumph over adversity 26th, Downtown bryan, for event that the Associated Press calls, “a roof-raising more information. and discover her unique voice in the world. The story of triumph” and March 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., USA Today says, “Pure the Texas A&M HSC College heart! A Broadway hit!” Performances are February 8-9 at of Medicine Magnolia Tea benefiting women’s health OPAS Executive 7:30 p.m. in Rudder Auditorium research will be hosted by Mrs. Director Anne Black saw Lou Ann McKinney at the the Broadway production Reed house. Carmen Ramirez, Md, MSc, assistant professor in 2006, which scored 11 Tony nominations and Grammy®-nominated score features gospel, jazz, of Internal Medicine, will reports, “Few Broadway musicals have touched pop and the blues. discuss the incidence of stroke Performances are February 8-9 at 7:30 p.m. in in women. tickets are $50. me like this one. The story is every bit as powerful Call (979) 845-8526 or email Rudder Auditorium. Tickets are available at MSC in this triumphant musical as Steven Speilberg’s [email protected] Box Office, (979) 845-1234, or may be purchased for more information. i breathtaking film. I left the theater feeling joyful online at www.MSCOPAS.org. i February 2011 INSITE 7 8 INSITE February 2011 MAKEPLANS Do the Dash WHAT: armadillo dash 5k for a Good Cause and half marathon Armadillo Dash takes off March 6 WHY: race proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations that serve local children.

WHEn: sunday, march 6, 7 a.m. half marathon start time; 7:05 a.m. 5k start time

HoW: For race fees and registration information, visit www.armadillodash.com; email [email protected].

WHERE: races begin and end at veteran’s Park in College station and post-race activities will be held at the park.

WHo: volunteers, as well as race participants, are needed for this event that attracts runners from around the state. For volunteer or sponsorship information, contact Jennifer Friedman, race director, at [email protected].

Nicole kuppersmith, winning the overall female division of the 2010 armadillo dash.

or walk quickly to sign years past, you are familiar with the organizers’ Still Creek Ranch has been providing a up for the 5th Annual dedication to providing a well-organized, loving, structured Christian group home Run Armadillo Dash Half high-energy and safe run. HEB has returned for boys and girls for the past 18 years and Marathon and 5K where you can run both for as the major sponsor from 2010 when 1,570 is operated strictly by donations. The Brazos your health and the wellbeing of local non- folks did the dash, the largest to date. In 2009, Valley Food Bank Backpack Program provides profit organizations. On Sunday, March 6, 1,192 participants helped raise $25,000 that food for children over the weekend in a both the 5K and half marathon will start and was divided between Scotty’s House and Still backpack discreetly distributed every Friday finish at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex Creek Ranch, a considerable increase from the throughout the school year. Schools are in College Station where fun, post-race 1,098 runners who made it possible to present provided 30 backpacks to distribute to children activities also will take place. When you cross Scotty’s House with a check for $18,000 from at risk of going hungry over the weekend. the finish line, you will not only have helped the first dash in 2007. The mission of the Boys and Girls Club of improve your personal health, you will have Scotty’s House opened in 1995 to provide Brazos Valley is to enable all young people to contributed to the health of Scotty’s House, a place where a team approach may be used reach their full potential as productive, caring, Still Creek Boys and Girls Ranch, Boys & Girls in the prevention, intervention, prosecution responsible citizens by providing a safe place Club of Brazos Valley and Brazos Valley Food Bank Backpacks Program, the non-profit Fun, family friendly activities will take place in College Station’s recipients of money raised by this year’s Dash. Veteran’s Park after the Armadillo dash. Since its inception, the Dash has raised $93,000, and that money has been returned and treatment of child abuse. Scotty’s House to learn and grow and to develop ongoing to different local charities that provide provides a safe, neutral environment in which relationships with caring, adult professionals. services to enrich the lives of children of child victims of abuse take part in forensic The Brazos Valley Club opened in 1959 and Bryan/College Station. interviews with specially trained staff, has been in its current location on William J The half marathon racecourse involves undergo medical examinations, which include Bryan Parkway in Bryan since 1964. scenic country roads, neighborhoods and testing for sexually transmitted diseases and For more information about the charities short distances of city terrain. The 5K course pregnancy and receive counseling, support supported by this year’s Dash, visit www. is fast, flat and fun. If you “Did the Dash” in and case management services. armadillodash.com. i February 2011 INSITE 9 HOME SECTION

is the perfect time to tackle home

improvement projects. With busy

schedules, however, it’s often helpful

to recruit the help of local experts. The

following are a handful of home product

and relocation companies that can help you get started and finish the things that you have put off. Also

be sure to visit the annual Home Products Show held by the Bryan-College Station Home

Builders Association on February 26-27 at the Brazos County Expo Center for the latest

home and garden products. Visit www.BrazosCountyExpo.com for more information.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 10 INSITE February 2011 HOME SECTION Gessner Engineering Gessner Engineering is a multi-disciplined consulting engineering firm established to provide civil, geotechnical, structural engineering and construction materials testing services. We have been offering these services to clients throughout Texas since November 2003. Gessner Engineering is a State of Texas HUB certified firm. In order to meet the needs of our clients, Gessner Engineering employs a staff of thirty- two employees, including six licensed professional ng elopment, Civil Engineering and site dev arily to land ial g refers prim t of resident il engineerin ts, the layou v s parking lo ally, ineer design es. Addition engineers, four graduate engineers, our technicians and At Gessner Engineering, civilA engineeringcivil eng refers primarily to landthe andse f siteacil development,iti es that serve hydraulics and hydrology. A civil engineernd the designsutiliti parking lots, the layoutnd ofs a residentialnd the ents a as parks, po uildings such and commercial developmentst ands ar theoun utilitiesd b that serve these facilities.roperti Additionally,es. men wnstream p acent and do civil engineers design elementsflood arounding adj buildings such as parks, ponds and the support staff. Gessner Engineering can provide quality t properties, infrastructure to prevent flooding adjacent and downstream properties.t the adjacen stically affec vil erty can dra is reason, ci one roperty pprop can drastically affect thewat adjacenter. For th properties, er and storm vernment. The civil engineering on on y sewer, wat d federal go nitar the state an nicipalities, rols and designs and services for the various stages of a project. as well as systems for sanitaryla sewer,ted by watermu and storm water. For thismen reason,tal con civilt gu ing, environ ng, landscap engineering is heavily regulatedpecific p byar municipalities,ki the state and federalStructural government. Engineering These entities require specific parking, landscaping, environmental controls and t, with drainage limitations. developmen This simplifies the process for our clients and minimizes site and land Structural engineeringina isti primarilyon the analysis and design of structural elements to t focuses on l 3D, in comb epartmen A uiviltoc 3D,ad inCi combinationvi esign. Using support and resist loads.nflicts Structuraland integrity affects the performance, serviceability Our civil engineering departmentast focusesructure ond site and land development,mini withmize co and infr engineeandrs to safety of the constructede product. Most commonly, structural engineers are enables our to ensure th supporting hydrology and infrastructuren software, design. Using Autocad Cg authorities desig ith governinvolvedin in the design of buildings, bridges and other structures. conflicts between the phases of construction. Gessner e also work w . with our engineering designe de software,sign. W enables our engineersl o tord minimizeinances conflicts and t and the loca provide an efficient site design. Weof alsothe workclien witht governing authorities to ensure the the needs Gessner Engineering provides structural design for a large variety of commercial, development meets the needs of the client and the local ordinances. industrial and residential projects. Engineering is staffed and equipped with the software roof. Our structural design is equipped toesignsOur address d extend all aspects from the of structural foundation engineering. to the With an intimate knowledge of soil characteristics and performance, our engineers provide insight and use specific foundation design procedures to meet the clients’ and tools required to meet the design needs of almost any needs. Based on the project scope and scale, we select the tools necessary to provide an efficient and constructible design. We regularly design structures built from timbeood,r, w steel, concrete and masonry. project. We look forward to our client’s challenges and are confident in our ability to always meet or exceed their expectations. Call Gessner Engineering at (979) 680-8840 or visit their website at www.GessnerEngineering.com.

Zwernemann Flooring Located in Bryan between Briarcrest and Boonville, Zwernemann Flooring is a full- service flooring company that carries many major brands of tile, wood, carpet, laminate, vinyl and commercial flooring products. Whether customers are looking for interior or exterior options, the professional staff has choices available that will complement any style. The company is able to offer the latest flooring trends on the market because of constantly updating products and knowledge. With new home product innovations being developed at such a rapid pace, flooring options are almost limitless. Customers are finding that flooring choices can really, now more than ever, reflect their own personal style. (979) 776-2800 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION February 2011 INSITE 11 HOME SECTION Dealers Lighting Offering excellent lighting and accessories for over 50 years, Dealers Lighting is definitely the area’s premier lighting showroom. Customer service is a top priority, and their staff is trained to help with all of your lighting needs. Dealers Lighting is your local source for Crafmade ceiling fans, Kichler Lighting and Lightolier track and recessed lighting. Many other brands are represented both for the budget-minded or the customer who wants a custom-built chandelier. (979) 775-1697

FedStar Credit Union Ready to take that next step and start that kitchen remodel you’ve been wanting for years? How about finally owning the home of your dreams? FedStar Credit Union, a non-profit organization that has been serving the Brazos Valley for 50 years, offers the best financial advice, products, and services available to its members, including mortgages, personal credit cards, and debt consolidation. FedStar strives to provide members with the best customer service possible,

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 12 INSITE February 2011 HOME SECTION because they believe that once you join their team you’re part owner, not just another customer. At FedStar no matter where you work or where your life may take you, you and your immediate family remain members for life. Don’t wait any longer to take the next steps to make your financial future a sure success. Call FedStar Credit Union at (979) 846-7456 or visit their website at www.fedstarcu.com.

AccuPlan Design & Drafting AccuPlan Design & Drafting has been the number one choice when it comes to custom home plans and designs for remodel of businesses in the Brazos Valley. Owner, Lori Pfeffer, a creative Architect and Interior Designer, has over 15 years of experience working in major Dallas design firms and 10 years locally. Lori enjoys sharing her knowledge of construction and attention to detail for each project. To find out what creative solutions she has for your project, home or business build-out, call (979) 778-8406.

Two Rivers Custom Homes Since 2004, Two Rivers has been bringing individuals’ visions in the Brazos Valley to life with custom homes and remodeling projects. With a focus on home design and remodeling, their beautiful Mediterranean styles and kitchen layouts in new and remodeled homes prove to be the highest quality at the best price. With seven years of expertise in luxurious custom homes, Two Rivers makes your vision a reality by making your dream their personal project. For more information on Two Rivers Custom Homes, call Ben at (979) 220-5347 or visit www.TwoRiversCustomHomes.com. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION February 2011 INSITE 13 UPCLOSE by Caitlin shields high-profile lives of NFL The players are like shooting stars: one brilliant flare, but before you blink, the star has gone on to another place leaving only a pale trail in the sky. So it begs the question, what do NFL players do once their bodies give out from years of high-impact hurt? After eight years as an offensive lineman in the NFL, Aggie Seth McKinney, Class of 2001, has joined an investment banking firm in Bryan bringing some interesting insights from his time in the game to his new career. In giving advice to aspiring Touchdown players, McKinney offers the sage wisdom of studying hard, planning for the future and accepting that it’s in Bryan a hard road and many won’t make it. “Realize that the NFL is a very rare place to be,” says McKinney. “It’s a dream. You need to take the role Former of being a student-athlete seriously because it’s such a rare thing to go to the NFL; a lot of the guys need NFL PLayer to fall back on their degree. One of the reasons I made it was because I LauNChes knew what I was doing. I wasn’t the biggest or strongest guy out there, New Career but I knew what I was doing and that goes a long way. “We were preparing for a bowl iN FiNaNCe game and Greg Hill, one of the great A&M running backs of his time, came and spoke to us. He said, ‘The smartest man has two plans.’ For some reason I remembered that and I took that to heart. If the NFL didn’t work out I was prepared to enter the workforce and to start right away. That would be my advice to any student athlete is to have a back-up plan. Realize that the NFL for most people is a pipe dream. Although you worked for it, you’re still lucky and fortunate.” Some lessons learned from the game are useful in everyday life, McKinney says. “You’re a group on offensive line. You have to work together and what you do is 14 INSITE February 2011 so intertwined. If one guy misses his assignment the whole group looks bad. I learned a lot about accountability. That’s the biggest thing. Accountability is a trait that a lot of people don’t have these days. I think if more people had it you would see better things in this world. That’s what life’s all about, I think, you being accountable for what you do.” After tearing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee in 2009, effectually ending his NFL career, McKinney sought rehabilitation at Texas A&M University. During that process, he was offered a position at Crews & Associates in Bryan. “At the end of last year I tore up my knee,” McKinney says. “It was a pretty bad injury and I had surgery on it. I wanted to do my rehab at A&M. It didn’t end up going very well. I wasn’t getting any better and I knew that pretty much it was over. Then this opportunity at Crews & Associates came up. I thought the opportunity was great. I thought a lot of good could be done within the company.” A Centerville native, McKinney always wanted to end up in Bryan/

You need to take the role of being a student- athlete seriously because it’s such a rare thing to go to the nFL; a lot of the guys need to fall back on their degree. – Seth McKinney

College Station. “I grew up coming to Aggie games. I love the area. You can’t beat it for children. I’ve got three beautiful girls. They’re having a lot of fun here, too. It’s a great area to be in. I’m glad I’m here.” A four-year starter while offensive lineman at Texas A&M, McKinney says having his Aggie ring helped him along his road of playing for the Miami Dolphins, the Cleveland February 2011 INSITE 15 Browns, and the Buffalo Bills. “The Aggie Network is strong. Other Aggies love to help other Aggies out. So long as you do the job you’re supposed to be doing, helping an Aggie out is just a given.” McKinney is younger brother to Stephen McKinney, Aggie Class of 1997, and former offensive lineman for Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins and the Seattle Seahawks. “Once I was in high school my brother went through the recruiting process and it sunk in that, ‘Wow, we can play college football.’ No one in our family had ever done it so it was almost like a dream. Once it became a reality, and letters started coming in for my brother, it lit a fire under me.” Both having played for the Aggies and the Miami Dolphins, McKinney says any rivalry between the two brothers was all in good fun.

Football is fun. i love the Come take a tour of Allen Academy and see why our students have faith that they will be heard, sport. i love the physical that they will be respected, and that they will have nature of the game. if you an opportunity to learn. were to do that anywhere Allen Academy is now enrolling. else it would be illegal. 979-776-0731 www.allenacademy.org/admissions

McKinney is now adjusting to civilian life. “I didn’t really know how big of a fan I would be (watching NFL games instead of playing.) That first Sunday I was sitting there flipping through every game that I could. I loved it. It was fun. I felt like a kid watching football.” Crews & Associates presented McKinney the opportunity to support the community as well as his family. “(We have) the opportunity to provide a service to communities and to provide financing in a time where credit is so tight. We can provide financing so that municipalities can function, hospitals, power plants, sewer, water, anything like that. I didn’t build that school but I helped provide financing for it. You get a good feeling about that. It’s a job where I’m able to provide for my family and I’m able to get a good feeling that I’m actually doing something for the communities in Texas.” After everything, McKinney says he’s still a football addict at heart. “Football is fun. I love the sport. I love the physical nature of the game. If you were to do that anywhere else it would be illegal.” The high profile lives of NFL players are like shooting stars: one brilliant flare of light, but before you’ve blinked away the spots in front of your eyes, the star is gone, on to another place, leaving a pale trail in the sky. In the story of a shooting star, your glimpse of it is but a moment in time. The exciting part is what comes next, where the star will go, the new places it will see. i 16 INSITE February 2011 February 2011 INSITE 17 CoMMUNITYOUtREACh by theresa mangapora, executive directory Brazos valley Food Bank by karen yancey

Before your super BowL Party, you Can do a souper JoB of Caring

the fifth consecutive year, Throughout the three-week food drive, any and all donations. Arrowmoon District H-E-B and Kroger have each participating store will host in-store Scouting for Food hopes to collect more than For teamed up to help feed food drives where customers can purchase 30,000 lbs. of food to add to Souper Bowl of Brazos Valley’s hungry with the Souper Bowl pre-packaged bags filled with non-perishable Caring efforts this year. of Caring (SBOC) Food Drive that kicked off food items to place in store bins, or make a More than 50,000 residents in the in January and will continue through Super monetary donation at the check-out registers Brazos Valley receive food from the Brazos Bowl Weekend, Sunday, February 6. H-E-B utilizing tear pad slips designating $1, $3, or Valley Food Bank through its more than 40 and Kroger have partnered with non-profit $5 donations. partnering agencies each year, with almost half organization Souper Bowl of Caring to host The success of previous years’ efforts led of those in need being children. The Souper the food drive with proceeds benefiting the Souper Bowl of Caring, Kroger and H-E-B Bowl of Caring is a nationwide, grassroots Brazos Valley Food Bank and other local food to join forces with the Boy Scouts, adding the movement of caring utilizing Super Bowl pantries supported by the Food Bank. Boy Scouts’ annual Scouting for Food food weekend to mobilize youth to fight hunger The Souper Bowl of Caring is a drive to Souper Bowl of Caring this year. and poverty in their local communities. In nationwide, grassroots effort that uses Super Just like Scouting for Food in past years, cub addition to store food drives, local churches, Bowl weekend to mobilize communities to and boy scouts from Arrowmoon District of area schools and youth groups and clubs are fight hunger. Kicking off in mid-January the Sam Houston Area Council of the Boy encouraged to conduct their own food and and continuing through Super Bowl Sunday, Scouts of America will come door-to-door to donation drives for the Brazos Valley Food February 6, the food drive encourages area pick up food donations. If you live in a scout Bank. For more information on how to residents to purchase bags of food or to district, scouts went door to door on January conduct a food drive, visit http://www.bvfb. donate or make a cash donation at one of the 29, leaving plastic bags to be filled with non- org/don-drive.html. eight participating H-E-B and Kroger grocery perishable food items. Scouts will come back For more information on the Souper Bowl of stores and Albertsons in College Station. to homes on Saturday, February 5, to pick up Caring Food Drive, visit www.souperbowl.org. i

18 INSITE February 2011 WHAT: souper Bowl of Caring, benefiting the Brazos valley Food Bank

WHEn: Continuing through sunday, February 6

HoW: donations of $1, $3 or $5 may be made at the register of participating grocery Before your stores, or prepackaged bags of non-perishable food for donation to the Food Bank super BowL may be purchased at participating grocery stores. WHERE: h-e-B – old hearne road, Bryan (979) 778-4230 Party, h-e-B – texas avenue, College station (979) 693-3275 h-e-B – villa maria, Bryan (979) 822-1850 you Can h-e-B – south day street, Brenham (979) 277-9858 h-e-B – 949 william d. Fitch Pkwy, College station (979) 690-4940 do a kroger – Boonville road, Bryan (979) 774-8360 kroger – texas avenue, College station (979) 693-9974 souper JoB kroger – Longmire, College station (979) 485-8773 albertsons – university drive, College station, (979) 260-4200 of Caring For more iNFormatioN: For information on how to conduct a food drive, visit http://www.bvfb.org/don-drive.html. For more information on the souper Bowl of Caring Food drive, visit www.souperbowl.org.

February 2011 INSITE 19 MEDICALMILEStONE by Caitlin shields

A Daughter’s Legacy: ‘She’s here to teach you a different kind of love’

“imagine a disorder that is autism, the floor and stared ahead and sort of made all Rett patients engage in. Rett syndrome Parkinson’s, anxiety disorders, cerebral palsy, a noise and was obviously contending with affects about 1 in 10,000 babies and occurs epilepsy, rolled into one disorder, and that’s something that was happening to her.” Judy sporadically 99 percent of the time, which Rett syndrome,” says Judy Fry. says, “She lost eye contact. She started banging means it is not inherited. Judy’s daughter, Ashley, a long-time on her high chair. Grinding her teeth.” Rett is caused by a defective MECP2 gene resident of College Station, is credited as the first person diagnosed in Texas and one rett syndrome manifests in girls at of the first in the United States, with Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder. approximately 18 months. the normal Judy and Clifford Fry, Aggie Class of ’67, say their daughter was developmentally developmental progression starts to reverse. normal until she started to exhibit frightening and characteristically Rett-like symptoms at Rett syndrome manifests in girls at (pronounced meck-p-two). This gene, which approximately 18-months-old. “You can get approximately 18 months. The normal is a part of the X chromosome, encodes a these milestone books,” Clifford says. “What developmental progression starts to reverse. protein that signals other genes to turn off you’re supposed to do at this age. She was This period of regression is marked by loss of at specific times. Without this gene to signal following them and all of a sudden BANG, acquired speech and motor skills, irregular proper function, the other genes will fire at none. She got a pasty look. She quit using breathing, development of seizures, and the the wrong times, causing the development her hands. She started rocking. She sat on characteristic hand wringing that almost deficiencies and symptoms associated

20 INSITE February 2011 1966 dr. andreas rett first described the previously unstudied neurodevelopmental disorder that shares his name today. 1980 ashley Fry is born healthy and displaying normal cognitive levels. 1981 ashley starts exhibiting autism-like behaviors. 1983 ashley is diagnosed with rett syndrome by dr. merlene mcalevey and dr. alan Percy. 1983 dr. huda Zoghbi first meets 3-year- old ashley on a chance encounter diagnosis of “Severely Mentally Retarded: when Zoghbi was still a medical Cause Unknown” when Dr. Merlene McAlevy, resident. Ashley’s pediatrician, called Texas Children’s Hospital about Ashley upon reading an article about Rett Syndrome in the Annals of 1999 Neurology. It was an account of the research Zoghbi discovers a defective done by Austrian pediatrician Andreas Rett who had identified the disorder 17 years gene, meCP2, on the X earlier. Although Rhett described the disorder chromosome as the cause of rett and how it differs from autism in 1966, word syndrome. ashley is her honored of this newly discovered disease didn’t reach guest at the announcement of the the United States until 1983 because none of finding of the gene. the journals that featured his research were in English. In a time before Google Translation, with Rett. This disorder almost solely it is understandable that it took almost two 2007 affects females, as most male fetuses do not decades for word on this disorder to travel the dr. adrian Bird, rett syndrome survive to birth. Since males lack a second 5,600 miles that separate Austria and Texas. research trust trustee, X chromosome, the presence of a defective Ashley was diagnosed at 3 years of age dramatically reversed rett MECP2 gene is fatal. As females have two X with Rett syndrome by Dr. Alan Percy of symptoms in mice. chromosomes, instead of the male XY, they Texas Children’s Hospital. Shortly thereafter, are able to survive with one defective and one the Frys met in a chance encounter with Dr. operating MECP2 gene. Huda Zoghbi, Baylor College of Medicine, After Ashley first began exhibiting Houston. The Frys happened across Zoghbi 2011 symptoms, the Frys spent the next year when she was still a medical resident. Zoghbi ashley Fry is living as a happy, and a half seeing every specialist available. saw Ashley at Texas Children’s Hospital in loved 31-year-old woman. They finally received some hope of an late 1983, soon after the appearance of the answer beyond what had become the typical article in Annals of Neurology. February 2011 INSITE 21    

 

 

Because of Ashley, Dr. Zoghbi’s interest focused on research in pediatric neurology. She credits meeting Ashley with her interest in Rett syndrome and the inspiration for her eventual discovery of its cause, the MECP2 gene. After studying Rett syndrome in Ashley and other patients, in 1999 Zoghbi was able to identify for the first time that Rett syndrome was a result of a genetic malfunction. Zoghbi still engages in Rett-related research and is pursuing both treatments and ultimately a cure. Ashley’s framed picture even today occupies a prominent place in Zogbhi’s office. When the Frys learned what their daughter had, they began a rigorous therapy program to maintain Ashley’s level of neurological development. Even after intense therapy Ashley is unable to care for herself without assistance. “She can’t do anything for herself,” Judy says. “Nothing. She has no use of her hands. She has no language. She has epilepsy. She has scoliosis with a rod in her back. She can’t get in and out of bed. She can’t go to the bathroom by herself. She can’t do anything

22 INSITE February 2011 by herself.” There are some triumphs. Ashley females with Rett Syndrome die each year It truly takes a village. Ashley lives at has maintained her ability to walk, with in the U.S. The Frys are very open about home and the Frys have two assistants who assistance, and still functions as an inspiring Ashley’s mortality and cherish the time they help care for Ashley during the day in shifts. part of the Rett story and the Fry family. In have with her. The Frys are associated with Besides Judy and Cliff, Ashley’s sister Kristin, medical circles, Ashley is almost synonymous the International Rett Syndrome Foundation her children, as well as Judy’s mother who with Rett as she has worked with most every and use their experience to help other families lives nearby, stay with Ashley and aid in her Rett specialist. who are living with Rett Syndrome. care. Ashley is involved with the Texas A&M “Caring for Ashley has been richly More information on this disorder including how it affects patients, how to [ashley] loves for her aggie buddies to come over identify it, how to connect with other Rett families, how to get involved with the and spend time with her … we’ve had some really International Rett Syndrome Foundation, wonderful Project sunshine buddies. and how to contribute to finding a cure can be found at www.RettSyndrome.org. Chapter of Project Sunshine, a nonprofit rewarding,” says Dr. Daniel Glaze, Baylor “(Being around Ashley) makes you count organization that offers recreational and College of Medicine, Houston, and long-time your blessings and not take anything for social programs to families facing long-term physician to Ashley. “Few physicians have the granted,” Judy says. “It does make you more diseases and disabilities. Ashley is able to knowledge and expertise to provide care for spiritual. You’re more accepting, more aware fellowship with normal peers. “She loves for these girls and women with Rett syndrome. that everyone’s not perfect, but they have her Aggie buddies to come over and spend Helping Ashley and her family means I can something to offer.” time with her,” Judy says. “We’ve been lucky. make a difference.” “She’s here to teach you a different kind of We’ve had some really wonderful Project The estimated lifespan of a female with love,” Cliff says. Sunshine buddies.” Rett Syndrome is 40 years. At least 100 “She has done that,” Judy says. i February 2011 INSITE 23 BELEIVE oR NOt by Caitlin shields As I was creeping along in the dark, drafty former boarding house, a vice-like grip on whichever of my coworkers was unfortunate enough to be standing next to me, straining to hear something go bump in the night, I kept thinking, “Why on Earth am I here? Why are I and about 10 other people looking for ghosts in a creepy, 100-year-old building in the middle of the night? And why can’t anyone wipe these manic, excited grins off our faces?”

A Modern Ghost Story ARE tHiNgs tHAt gO bump iN A dOwNtOwN buildiNg busiNEss As usuAl OR sOmEtHiNg spOOkiER?

24 INSITE February 2011 As I was creeping along in the dark, drafty former boarding house, a vice-like grip on whichever of my coworkers was unfortunate enough to be standing next to me, straining to hear something go bump in the night, I kept thinking, “Why on Earth am I here? Why are I and about 10 other people looking for ghosts in a creepy, 100-year-old building in the middle of the night? And why can’t anyone wipe these manic, excited grins off our faces?”

he building I work in and that houses and seeing people from the corner of their the printing presses that produce this eyes, always on the periphery. Always alert t publication has a reputation among to a good story, I invited a local paranormal some employees for strange noises and investigative team, The Final Crossing (TFC) flickers of motion where there should be no to visit our work haunt – no pun intended noise or motion. The repurposed historic – to try to dig up some ghostly dirt while

the common area on the second floor of the insite Printing building is used for storage and remains largely unchanged from when it was operated as a boarding house until the late 1960s.

building in Downtown Bryan, the Moehlman providing fodder for an article. Building, was at one time a dry goods store Cue me walking through dusty stacks of and boarding house complete with creaking calendars from the 1980s in pitch black on wooden floors. The upstairs former boarding a Saturday night. Seven INSITE employees house is now used as storage; it also may be trailed in a line behind the three TFC home to more than old pamphlets. members as they asked questions to any Co-workers have reported hearing voices less-than-solid being who might have been

February 2011 INSITE 25 26 INSITE February 2011 insite employees watch as Casey unger of the Final Crossing paranormal investigative team sets up audio and video recording equipment during a nighttime attempt to record voices or other paranormal activity. present in the open, common space of the why were they here? Why were they giving up cultural activity is real. old boarding house. their Saturday night to hunt for ghoulies they “When I lecture on urban legends in my The TFC members all carried electronic weren’t sure existed? folklore courses,” Green says, “I point out that devices with blinking lights, hoping to pick I spoke with Thomas Green, an these narratives deal with the anxieties of up some evidence of paranormal presence. I anthropology professor at Texas A&M contemporary urban society by manipulating had invited my coworkers to participate and University who lectures on folklore and cultural symbols (e.g. automobiles, computers, was surprised with the substantial turnout. superstition, about why people will shopping malls) and stereotypes (e.g., Most of those who came had never had any participate in cultural activities, like ghost conservative images of women, foreigners, unexplainable experience in the building. So hunts, when they’re not sure they believe that and young people). Pop culture also reflects

February 2011 INSITE 27 room and bathroom suites line the perimeter of the old boarding house common area. one room in particular has prompted employees working upstairs to hear a voice and catch a glimpse of someone out of the corner of their eye. according to office legend, the voice said, “Get out of my closet.”

the hopes and anxieties of the times. We the more we can absorb that experience of TFC, offers a different perspective. “Nine are drawn to the fictional worlds set up in our neighbors or family suddenly being times out of 10 you start probing people who legends, films and novels because they give us transformed by something ‘alien’ (microbes are so adamantly against it and don’t believe it, safe environments to examine and play out that spread disease) into something menacing they’ve had an experience themselves. They’re our fears and hopes,” he says. (a carrier of the disease). I don’t know if we in denial. Some people think that if you even “Why do we focus on the paranormal even can prove conclusively that the zombie craze entertain any kind of belief in the paranormal if we say we aren’t believers?” Green explains: is linked to recent flu and other epidemics, it’s letting in the devil or Satan. I guess a lot of “I suggest this is because a mass zombie attack, but the timing seems right.” people are just paranoid.” for example, can symbolically represent This rather academic view of the issue Are people, as a majority, simply denying epidemic disease, which is something we paints a sober picture of why people are the spooky experiences? Explaining away real all believe in. So we look at that fear, not interested in the paranormal; it’s an outlet to encounters as drafts and swamp gas? head-on, but in a relatively non-threatening deal with the uncertainties of life. Casey Unger, Our foray into paranormal investigating fictional form. The less we believe in zombies, Aggie Class of ’92 and founder and leader of only lasted a few heart-palpitating hours. We

28 INSITE February 2011 The Final Crossing

Who: the Final Crossing Paranormal research team

Where: Bryan/College station, Paige

What: tFC investigates possible paranormal, local sites of interest usually once a week. they will also travel wherever resrouces permit and have done investigations out of state. membership is open to anyone interested.

TFC credo: “we don’t necessarily try to convince someone there are ghosts. all came, we crept, we video-taped, we talked to that area where your employees had their we’re saying is here’s what we got, and the air, and we left. No doors shut by themselves experiences and it seemd to each time be in we can’t explain it. we’re just fascinated or disembodied voices commanded us to response to my questions of ‘Are you here,’ to see what we can get or collect.” leave. We did hear children’s voices coming in ‘What is your name?’ etc.” – TFC founder Casey Unger over the walkie-talkies, seemingly distressed It was a tense couple of hours, and I freely calls. Unger and her team could not account admit that I slept with the hall light on that Find out more about tFC and their for the voices as outside radio frequencies night. But was all of this an invention of should not have been heard over their hand- our minds? investigations at www.freakuency.org. held devices. Comments Unger about the I think the entire experience can be night noises: “At one point it sounded like summed up in an offhand comment one of they do house calls! a woman whimpering in severe distress my co-workers made while we were looking and then a baby crying. What made this for something we couldn’t explain. interesting is that each time it was right in “It’s fun to be scared.” i

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Seafood entrees are (979) 846-5735 or (979) 694-8844 or Some 80% of patients earn less from scratch, pastries, sandwiches, soup, fresh tossed sal- quet room. Fabulous food, reasonable prices in a relaxed Dr. E., Ste. 400, CS (979) 268-3251. Classically-trained chefs also available for a taste tempting combination of flavors. visit our website at www.bcrbcs.com than $1,500/month. the clinic has ads and brick-oven pizzas. Try some cookies for the perfect country atmosphere await you. Th-F 11am-9pm, Sa 8am- keep brazos beautiful received offer creative cuisine in a casual, contemporary setting. Call Masfajitas for your next party or event. Su-M 7 am- served patients from over 20 texas finish! M-F 7am-10pm, Sa-Su 8am-10pm 9pm, Sunday Buffet 11am-2pm. the Keep America Beautiful Veritas embraces usage of organic and local produce, wild 9pm counties, but 90% of patients President’s Circle Award at the C&J BBQ, www.cjbbq.com, 105 Southwest Pkwy, CS (979) diXie ChiCken, www.dixiechicken.com, 307 University caught seafood flown in directly from the source, as well as live in the brazos Valley. For more President’s Circle Award Luncheon 696-7900; 1010 South Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 822-6033; Dr., CS (979) 846-2322. Thirsty beer drinkers regularly flock poultry and meat raised naturally. Highly-trained associ- SHOPPING information about health For All, call 4304 Harvey Rd., CS (979) 776-8969. Voted Best BBQ in the in Orlando, FL. the President’s to the Dixie Chicken to play bones, shoot pool, listen to their ates and wine stewards can guide you through an award- mad hatter’s tea room, www.madhatterstearoom. Derek Dictson at (979) 575-4496 or Brazos Valley, C&J offers all your favorite Texas barbeque Circle Award recognizes exemplary favorite Texas music and be with good friends. Choose from winning wine list, which has garnered Wine Spectator’s com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hat- e-mail at [email protected]. such as sliced beef, jalapeno sausage, pork loin, turkey, performance made by certified a variety of menu options including made to order burg- Award of Excellence (2007-2010). Lunch M-Sa 11am-2pm; ter’s offers a unique selection of gift items, gourmet coffees, chicken, or ribs. Catering and banquet rooms are available. affiliates of the national nonprofit ers, hang down sausage, and cheddar cheese on the wheel. Dinner Su-Th 5:30-9:30pm; F-Sa 2-11pm and specialty teas. Ladies’ apparel, jewelry and accessories to reduce litter, minimize waste, 2011 begins M-Th 10:30am-8:30pm; F-Sa 10:30am-9pm; Su 11am-3pm, The Beaumont Foundation of M-Su 10am-2am make for a pleasant shopping excursion. W-Sa 8am-5pm and beautify and improve their a new era for Hours may vary among locations. SWEET TREATS America recently gave a $30,000 douBle dave’s, www.doubledaves.com. Your neighbor- slovaCek’s, www.slovacek.com, 9423 Highway 60 W., local communities. In qualifying for university Café eCCell, www.cafeeccell.com, 101 Church Ave., CS truman ChoColates, www.trumanchocolates.com, grant for the 5th year in support of hood pizza works with 3 area locations: Boonville Rd., B; Snook (979) 272-3333. In 1957, Uncle John Slovacek, a a President’s Circle Award, keep Title Company. (979) 846-7908. Café Eccell really is a true grill and fresh 4407 South Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 260-4519. Truman the brazos Valley Food bank Senior Texas Ave., CS; Longmire, CS, Try original items from Double friendly guy from Snook, dropped his amateur status and brazos beautiful has met keep Karen seafood bistro. Located in College Station’s Old City Hall, Chocolates is your source for exquisitely handcrafted gour- Outreach Program (SOP). SOP provides Dave’s legendary menu including Peproni rolls, stromboli, turned professional sausage maker. Today, Slovacek’s offers America beautiful’s standards McCarroll, the café offers fresh seafood daily and a kitchen that fires met chocolates. Each chocolate is made of only the finest 300 supplemental sacks of food for stuffers and handmade specialty pizzas. Su-Th 11am-10pm, of excellence by conducting an longtime tenured their great sausage in retail locations around the Brazos the weekends for homebound seniors up with food that excites the senses. Lunch M-Th 11am- ingredients and carefully designed to maximize your sen- annual Litter Index, calculating the employee of F-S 11am-11pm, Buffet available at select times: 11am- Valley, including their retail store in Snook. You’ll find it that are part of the local Meals on 2pm; F & Su 11am-5pm; Sa 12pm-5pm; Dinner M-Su 5pm- sory experience. M-F 9am-6pm; Sa 10am-3pm affiliate’s cost/benefit ratio, and UtC, is now a minority stock holder 2pm daily, M & W 5:30pm-9pm alongside fresh meats and gourmet gift ideas. M-F 6-8; Sa Wheels Program. Pictured are (l-r): 10pm engaging volunteers to take greater of the company. Although she has epiCures Catering, www.epicurescatering.net, 2319 ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS 7-8; Su 10-8 Rhonda Behrens (bVFb), Lesley Caffe’ Capri italian restaurant, www.theplace- responsibility for their community handled many of the operational Texas Ave. S., CS (979) 695-0985. As a full service cater- B-Cs ChamBer of CommerCe, www.bcschamber.org, Becker (bVFb board Member), Jason foritalian.com, 222 N. Main St., Bryan (979) 822-2675. This ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS environment. In addition, award duties of UtC since 2006, she will ing company, Epicures specializes in weddings, receptions, 4001 E. 29th St., Ste. 175, Bryan (979) 260-5200. “We Galindo (bVFb), Rob Craft (beaumont award winning downtown restaurant has been serving recipients must conduct activities now take on the title of President business functions, conventions, reunions, celebrations, can accomplish collectively what no one business can do art C’s, www.artcgals.com, 17442 Hwy 36 S, Downtown Foundation of America), Theresa creative and reasonably priced Italian dishes for 15 years. in keep America beautiful’s three and Chief Operational Officer. Joe bridal showers, company luncheons and more. Epicures also alone.” Spring and summer events include Epicurean Ex- Somerville (979) 596-ARTC (2782). Art C’s is an upscale Mangapora (bVFb), Shannon Avila Enjoy their art deco interior, local art display and upbeat core focus areas of litter prevention, Poteet, who came to UtC in 1982 to offers private dining facilities for parties from 20 to 200. travaganza, Chamber Day, Job Fair, Celebrity Softball Clas- art gallery and teaching studio that is also available for (bVFb), Linda Porterfield (bVFb), atmosphere. Lunch M-F 11am-2pm; Dinner M-Th 6pm-9pm; waste reduction, and beautification/ become the company’s first fulltime Epicures is also equipped to handle last minute plans with sic and Ladies Nite. Call for more event details or to request event rentals including meetings, parties or as studio space. Virginia Hernandez (bVFb) and Amy F-Sa 5pm-9pm title examiner/abstractor, will Customers are able to view and purchase incredible, ever- community improvement. keep Clough (bVFb board President). our new line of Epicurean Packs, a complete meal featuring membership information. Casa rodriguez, www.casarod.com, 300 N. Bryan Ave., changing art or to work on their own artistic endeavor in brazos beautiful’s Executive Director become Senior Vice President. he favorite dishes prepackaged and ready-to-go. Brazos Bingo, www.BrazosBingo.com, 1805 Briarcrest and McCarroll will join the board of Bryan (979) 779-0916. Casa Rodriguez has been serving the creative workspace Art C’s provides. T-F 11am-5pm Amy Reed is presented with the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Jose’s restaurant, www.joses-zaraperestaurants.com, Drive across from Bryan High, Bryan (979) 776-0999. For directors for University title. Celia Bryan and College Station for more than 30 years. Their award by keep America beautiful’s the largest health insurer in texas, 3824 S. Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 268-0036; 308 North Main, Charity Bingo at its best, Brazos Bingo has Family Nights, goode-haddock, who previously menu consists of traditional Mexican food recipes that have WASHINGTON COUNTY President Matt McKenna. has awarded a major grant to Health Bryan (979) 779-8702. Discover the taste of Old Mexico at Aggie Nights and an enclosed, non-smoking section. Enjoy served as the Company’s President/ kept the locals and visitors coming back for more. Serving For All, a 23-year-old charity care Jose’s Restaurant. Choose from traditional dishes such as great food at great prices at the Brazos City Grill or call DINING / CATERING CEO, lauds, “I am blessed to be able breakfast on weekends. M 11am-2pm; T-Th 11am-9pm; F clinic based in bryan. the $104,150 enchiladas and quesadillas, or savor specialties like pollo a about the Party Room – great for private business events. funky art Café, 202 W. Commerce St., Brenham (979) to work side-by-side with friends 11am-9:30pm; Sa 8am-9:30pm; Su 8am-8pm grant will allow the clinic to make la parrilla, steak ranchero, or carne asada a la tampiquena. Brazos Bingo supports the following charities: Elks Lodge 836-5220. Delicious and different, Funky Art Café in Bren- and trusted advisors who know ChiCken oil Co., www.dixiechicken.com/chickenoil, major strides in its mission to provide Mixed drinks are also available. T-Su 11am-9:45pm #859, Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance ham offers enticing entrees to please the palate. Or choose high quality primary and preventive my desires and will continue to 3600 S. College Ave., Bryan (979) 846-3306. Chicken Oil Co. la Bodega, www.bodegatacos.com, 102 Church Ave., CS Abuse, St. Joseph Church, and Bubba Moore Memorial a sandwich or savory soup before shopping in its compan- health care for low income, medically direct the company whether I am opened in Bryan, Texas as a gas station and burger shop in (979) 691-8226. La Bodega is a Baja taco bar located on Group, Inc. Open 7 days a week. ion retail shop The Pomegranate to find trinkets, gift ideas uninsured individuals and improve on site or not. My parents created a 1977. Since then it has become one of the most unique res- Northgate. Choose from their wide selection of tacos made u paint-it, www.upaintit.com, 900 Harvey Road, Ste. 5A, and kitchen gadgets. M-Fr 11am-2pm; Sa 11am-3pm Tricap Realty recently joined overall community health by providing company based on the foundation of taurants in the world. It is most recognized for its delicious from the freshest ingredients alongside specialty drinks and CS (979) 695-1500. U Paint-It is a contemporary paint-it Brazosland Classic Realty a medical home and alternative to treating employees and customers hamburgers, one uniquely called the Death Burger. Su-Th southern flyer, www.brenhammunicipalairport.com, other great menu options. Live music can be heard W-Su yourself pottery studio. They provide the materials for you (BCR). “I’m excited about this the emergency room for uninsured with respect. throughout the years 11am-9pm; F-Sa 11am-10pm 3001 Aviation Way, Brenham (979) 836-5462. Whether fly- nights. M-Su 11am-10pm to design and paint your chosen ceramic piece. Then they new venture and think it will be a patients. health For All relies on we have continued this principle Christopher’s World grille, www.christopher- ing in or driving up, Southern Flyer is a great place to land glaze and fire your piece and in 5-7 days you’ll have a per- positive thing for both tricap and private donations and local volunteers through hard work, exceptional sworldgrille.com, 5001 Boonville Rd., Bryan (979) 776- luigi’s patio ristorante, www.luigispatioristorante. with great eats! The 50s-style diner is a blast from the past sonal masterpiece and keepsake! T 11am-8pm; W 10am- bCR; both groups bring a lot of value to deliver its services. Virtually all of quality and honest dealings. there 2181. A trip to Christopher’s World Grille, in the historic com, Rock Prairie Rd. and Hwy. 6, CS (979) 693-2742. Lu- with waitresses who serve up your food in poodle skirts. 10pm Th-Sa 11am-8pm; Su 2pm-6pm to the table!” says Manager brenton the clinic’s funding comes from local is no doubt in my mind that karen Andrews House in Bryan, is a fine dining experience that igi’s is an Italian patio restaurant experience that transports Bringing together fun and food at a relaxing and enjoyable Riethmayer. “We were searching donors who live and/or do business will lead us well into the next can best be described as food with Mediterranean, Italian, you to Italy. You may choose to dine in a beautiful, cozy Ital- destination! Su-Th 11am-3pm, F-Sa 11am-9pm for a real estate company with a decade and beyond.” goode- BURLESON COUNTY in the brazos Valley, and no state or coastal French, and South Pacific influences with a touch of ian villa-style home interior or eat “outside” on the patio ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS wealth of knowledge when it comes federal funding is received. the need haddock will take on the position Louisiana thrown in. Lunch M-Su 11am-2pm; Dinner Su-Th where all the piazza town center activity happens— but it’s DINING / CATERING to construction, development, and Washington County ChamBer of CommerCe, for health For All’s services has grown of chairman of the board and chief 5pm-9pm; F-Sa 5pm-10pm all indoors! Tu-F 11:30am-2pm; Tu-Su open nightly at 5:30 Jp’s taCo eXpress, 410 SH 36 S, Caldwell (979) 567- investing along with great staff rapidly during the economic downturn, executive officer. University title www.brenhamtexas.com (979)836-3695. Take a deep Cenare restaurant, www.gotocenare.com, 404 pm; Brunch Su 11:30am-2pm 0611. Homestyle Mexican food at its best! Enjoy delicious support; we were very pleased to find so volunteers (especially medical Company began as an aid to the breath...and picture yourself driving winding country roads University Dr E, CS (979) 696-7311. Cenare offers a vari- the repuBliC, www.therepublic1836.com, 701 Univer- breakfast tacos made to order, mouth-watering fajitas ta- all of that and more at bCR,” says professionals) and financial support law practice of Phillip b. goode in and visiting quiet villages – all in Washington County, locat- ety of authentic Italian cuisine and beautifully presented sity Dr. E., CS (979) 260-4120. Recently receiving the des- cos, gorditas and chalupas. JP’s uses homemade tortillas brandon Schielack, team leader for are still greatly needed. by providing 1973. his daughter, Celia goode- ed between Houston and Austin on Hwy. 290. Brenham, the dishes. Whether you are looking for an intimate evening, ignation of AAA four diamond steak house, The Republic and offers service with a smile in Burleson County. Try the tricap Realty. tricap Realty focuses an alternative to the emergency room, haddock, was the manager of the county seat and home of Blue Bell ice cream, is a bustling a nice place for the entire family or a place to host your offers a variety of gourmet steak options, seafood, wine, M-F 6am-3pm, Sa 6am-2pm on investors with a unique product the clinic saves area hospitals and company and in 1984 she and her small town of about 14,000 friendly folks with an historic next event, Cenare is a great choice. M-F 11am-2pm, M-Th and whiskey. Their focus is on the use of fine, locally grown for in the brazos Valley marketplace. taxpayers over $150,000 per week partners purchased the agency from mad hatter’s tea room, www.madhatterstearoom. 5-9:30pm, F-Sa 5-10pm foods and simple Texas cooking in an elegant setting. M-Sa downtown filled with shops and dining options. Many at- (l-r) tricap consists Brandon (almost $8 million per year) on an her father. As the longest tenured com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hat- 5pm-10pm tractions for the entire family—come play with us! Schielack, Keri West, Alex annual budget of about $550,000. employee, Celia goode-haddock CzeCh-teX restaurant, www.czech-tex.com, 111 CR ter’s cozy eatery provides tantalizing treats and generous Schielack and Cassie Hahn. All health For All serves over 5,000 low will remain the face of University 269 West, Snook. If you have a passion for home-cooked the tap, www.tapbcs.com, 815 Harvey Rd., CS (979) 696- portions bursting with flavor, a unique selection of gift Listings provided as a service. Insite is not responsible for errors have been active for several years income, medically uninsured patients title Company. i food, bring your appetite and come to Czech-Tex in Snook 5570. The Tap is a former train depot transformed into a items, gourmet coffees, and specialty teas. Open for break- or omissions. 30 INSITE February 2011 InsIteeats&treats your source for food & fun

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION for great steaks and other comfort food including fried sports bar and restaurant. This local favorite has more than fast and lunch and special events by appointment. W-Sa DINING / CATERING chicken, chicken fried steak and their famous sauerkraut. 30 TVs, darts, pool tables, NTN trivia, dominoes, two huge 8am-5pm Kolaches, yeast rolls baked daily, homemade chocolate porches, occasional live music, and a piano bar. Their menu masfaJitas, www.masfajitas.com, 305 Highway 36 S., Blue Baker, www.bluebaker.com, 800 University Dr, CS meringue pie, coconut meringue pie or buttermilk pie are consists of lunch specials, burgers, sandwiches, and free Caldwell (979) 567-4007. Masfajitas’ Tex-Mex menu con- (979) 268-3096; 201 Dominik, CS (979) 696-5055, Blue reasons to make the short trip to Snook for great food in a peanuts. M-Sa 11am-2pm Baker is an artisan bakery and café featuring breads baked sists of all your favorites including a variety of fajita op- home-like atmosphere. Call for information about our ban- VERITAS, www.veritaswineandbistro.com, 830 University tions, enchiladas, tacos, and nachos. Seafood entrees are from scratch, pastries, sandwiches, soup, fresh tossed sal- quet room. Fabulous food, reasonable prices in a relaxed Dr. E., Ste. 400, CS (979) 268-3251. Classically-trained chefs also available for a taste tempting combination of flavors. ads and brick-oven pizzas. Try some cookies for the perfect country atmosphere await you. Th-F 11am-9pm, Sa 8am- offer creative cuisine in a casual, contemporary setting. Call Masfajitas for your next party or event. Su-M 7 am- finish! M-F 7am-10pm, Sa-Su 8am-10pm 9pm, Sunday Buffet 11am-2pm. Veritas embraces usage of organic and local produce, wild 9pm C&J BBQ, www.cjbbq.com, 105 Southwest Pkwy, CS (979) diXie ChiCken, www.dixiechicken.com, 307 University caught seafood flown in directly from the source, as well as 696-7900; 1010 South Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 822-6033; Dr., CS (979) 846-2322. Thirsty beer drinkers regularly flock poultry and meat raised naturally. Highly-trained associ- SHOPPING 4304 Harvey Rd., CS (979) 776-8969. Voted Best BBQ in the to the Dixie Chicken to play bones, shoot pool, listen to their ates and wine stewards can guide you through an award- mad hatter’s tea room, www.madhatterstearoom. Brazos Valley, C&J offers all your favorite Texas barbeque favorite Texas music and be with good friends. Choose from winning wine list, which has garnered Wine Spectator’s com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hat- such as sliced beef, jalapeno sausage, pork loin, turkey, a variety of menu options including made to order burg- Award of Excellence (2007-2010). Lunch M-Sa 11am-2pm; ter’s offers a unique selection of gift items, gourmet coffees, chicken, or ribs. Catering and banquet rooms are available. ers, hang down sausage, and cheddar cheese on the wheel. Dinner Su-Th 5:30-9:30pm; F-Sa 2-11pm and specialty teas. Ladies’ apparel, jewelry and accessories M-Th 10:30am-8:30pm; F-Sa 10:30am-9pm; Su 11am-3pm, M-Su 10am-2am make for a pleasant shopping excursion. W-Sa 8am-5pm Hours may vary among locations. SWEET TREATS douBle dave’s, www.doubledaves.com. Your neighbor- slovaCek’s, www.slovacek.com, 9423 Highway 60 W., Café eCCell, www.cafeeccell.com, 101 Church Ave., CS truman ChoColates, www.trumanchocolates.com, hood pizza works with 3 area locations: Boonville Rd., B; Snook (979) 272-3333. In 1957, Uncle John Slovacek, a (979) 846-7908. Café Eccell really is a true grill and fresh 4407 South Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 260-4519. Truman Texas Ave., CS; Longmire, CS, Try original items from Double friendly guy from Snook, dropped his amateur status and seafood bistro. Located in College Station’s Old City Hall, Chocolates is your source for exquisitely handcrafted gour- Dave’s legendary menu including Peproni rolls, stromboli, turned professional sausage maker. Today, Slovacek’s offers the café offers fresh seafood daily and a kitchen that fires met chocolates. Each chocolate is made of only the finest stuffers and handmade specialty pizzas. Su-Th 11am-10pm, their great sausage in retail locations around the Brazos up with food that excites the senses. Lunch M-Th 11am- ingredients and carefully designed to maximize your sen- F-S 11am-11pm, Buffet available at select times: 11am- Valley, including their retail store in Snook. You’ll find it 2pm; F & Su 11am-5pm; Sa 12pm-5pm; Dinner M-Su 5pm- sory experience. M-F 9am-6pm; Sa 10am-3pm 2pm daily, M & W 5:30pm-9pm 10pm alongside fresh meats and gourmet gift ideas. M-F 6-8; Sa epiCures Catering, www.epicurescatering.net, 2319 ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS 7-8; Su 10-8 Caffe’ Capri italian restaurant, www.theplace- Texas Ave. S., CS (979) 695-0985. As a full service cater- B-Cs ChamBer of CommerCe, www.bcschamber.org, foritalian.com, 222 N. Main St., Bryan (979) 822-2675. This ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS ing company, Epicures specializes in weddings, receptions, 4001 E. 29th St., Ste. 175, Bryan (979) 260-5200. “We award winning downtown restaurant has been serving business functions, conventions, reunions, celebrations, can accomplish collectively what no one business can do art C’s, www.artcgals.com, 17442 Hwy 36 S, Downtown creative and reasonably priced Italian dishes for 15 years. bridal showers, company luncheons and more. Epicures also alone.” Spring and summer events include Epicurean Ex- Somerville (979) 596-ARTC (2782). Art C’s is an upscale Enjoy their art deco interior, local art display and upbeat offers private dining facilities for parties from 20 to 200. travaganza, Chamber Day, Job Fair, Celebrity Softball Clas- art gallery and teaching studio that is also available for atmosphere. Lunch M-F 11am-2pm; Dinner M-Th 6pm-9pm; Epicures is also equipped to handle last minute plans with sic and Ladies Nite. Call for more event details or to request event rentals including meetings, parties or as studio space. F-Sa 5pm-9pm our new line of Epicurean Packs, a complete meal featuring membership information. Customers are able to view and purchase incredible, ever- Casa rodriguez, www.casarod.com, 300 N. Bryan Ave., changing art or to work on their own artistic endeavor in favorite dishes prepackaged and ready-to-go. Brazos Bingo, www.BrazosBingo.com, 1805 Briarcrest Bryan (979) 779-0916. Casa Rodriguez has been serving the creative workspace Art C’s provides. T-F 11am-5pm Drive across from Bryan High, Bryan (979) 776-0999. For Bryan and College Station for more than 30 years. Their Jose’s restaurant, www.joses-zaraperestaurants.com, Charity Bingo at its best, Brazos Bingo has Family Nights, menu consists of traditional Mexican food recipes that have 3824 S. Texas Ave., Bryan (979) 268-0036; 308 North Main, WASHINGTON COUNTY Bryan (979) 779-8702. Discover the taste of Old Mexico at Aggie Nights and an enclosed, non-smoking section. Enjoy kept the locals and visitors coming back for more. Serving DINING / CATERING breakfast on weekends. M 11am-2pm; T-Th 11am-9pm; F Jose’s Restaurant. Choose from traditional dishes such as great food at great prices at the Brazos City Grill or call 11am-9:30pm; Sa 8am-9:30pm; Su 8am-8pm enchiladas and quesadillas, or savor specialties like pollo a about the Party Room – great for private business events. funky art Café, 202 W. Commerce St., Brenham (979) la parrilla, steak ranchero, or carne asada a la tampiquena. Brazos Bingo supports the following charities: Elks Lodge 836-5220. Delicious and different, Funky Art Café in Bren- ChiCken oil Co., www.dixiechicken.com/chickenoil, Mixed drinks are also available. T-Su 11am-9:45pm #859, Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance ham offers enticing entrees to please the palate. Or choose 3600 S. College Ave., Bryan (979) 846-3306. Chicken Oil Co. Abuse, St. Joseph Church, and Bubba Moore Memorial a sandwich or savory soup before shopping in its compan- opened in Bryan, Texas as a gas station and burger shop in la Bodega, www.bodegatacos.com, 102 Church Ave., CS Group, Inc. Open 7 days a week. 1977. Since then it has become one of the most unique res- (979) 691-8226. La Bodega is a Baja taco bar located on ion retail shop The Pomegranate to find trinkets, gift ideas taurants in the world. It is most recognized for its delicious Northgate. Choose from their wide selection of tacos made u paint-it, www.upaintit.com, 900 Harvey Road, Ste. 5A, and kitchen gadgets. M-Fr 11am-2pm; Sa 11am-3pm hamburgers, one uniquely called the Death Burger. Su-Th from the freshest ingredients alongside specialty drinks and CS (979) 695-1500. U Paint-It is a contemporary paint-it southern flyer, www.brenhammunicipalairport.com, 11am-9pm; F-Sa 11am-10pm other great menu options. Live music can be heard W-Su yourself pottery studio. They provide the materials for you 3001 Aviation Way, Brenham (979) 836-5462. Whether fly- nights. M-Su 11am-10pm to design and paint your chosen ceramic piece. Then they Christopher’s World grille, www.christopher- ing in or driving up, Southern Flyer is a great place to land glaze and fire your piece and in 5-7 days you’ll have a per- sworldgrille.com, 5001 Boonville Rd., Bryan (979) 776- luigi’s patio ristorante, www.luigispatioristorante. with great eats! The 50s-style diner is a blast from the past sonal masterpiece and keepsake! T 11am-8pm; W 10am- 2181. A trip to Christopher’s World Grille, in the historic com, Rock Prairie Rd. and Hwy. 6, CS (979) 693-2742. Lu- with waitresses who serve up your food in poodle skirts. 10pm Th-Sa 11am-8pm; Su 2pm-6pm Andrews House in Bryan, is a fine dining experience that igi’s is an Italian patio restaurant experience that transports Bringing together fun and food at a relaxing and enjoyable you to Italy. You may choose to dine in a beautiful, cozy Ital- destination! Su-Th 11am-3pm, F-Sa 11am-9pm can best be described as food with Mediterranean, Italian, BURLESON COUNTY coastal French, and South Pacific influences with a touch of ian villa-style home interior or eat “outside” on the patio ENTERTAINMENT AND ATTRACTIONS Louisiana thrown in. Lunch M-Su 11am-2pm; Dinner Su-Th where all the piazza town center activity happens— but it’s DINING / CATERING Washington County ChamBer of CommerCe, 5pm-9pm; F-Sa 5pm-10pm all indoors! Tu-F 11:30am-2pm; Tu-Su open nightly at 5:30 Jp’s taCo eXpress, 410 SH 36 S, Caldwell (979) 567- www.brenhamtexas.com (979)836-3695. Take a deep Cenare restaurant, www.gotocenare.com, 404 pm; Brunch Su 11:30am-2pm 0611. Homestyle Mexican food at its best! Enjoy delicious breath...and picture yourself driving winding country roads University Dr E, CS (979) 696-7311. Cenare offers a vari- the repuBliC, www.therepublic1836.com, 701 Univer- breakfast tacos made to order, mouth-watering fajitas ta- and visiting quiet villages – all in Washington County, locat- ety of authentic Italian cuisine and beautifully presented sity Dr. E., CS (979) 260-4120. Recently receiving the des- cos, gorditas and chalupas. JP’s uses homemade tortillas ed between Houston and Austin on Hwy. 290. Brenham, the dishes. Whether you are looking for an intimate evening, ignation of AAA four diamond steak house, The Republic and offers service with a smile in Burleson County. Try the county seat and home of Blue Bell ice cream, is a bustling a nice place for the entire family or a place to host your offers a variety of gourmet steak options, seafood, wine, M-F 6am-3pm, Sa 6am-2pm small town of about 14,000 friendly folks with an historic next event, Cenare is a great choice. M-F 11am-2pm, M-Th and whiskey. Their focus is on the use of fine, locally grown mad hatter’s tea room, www.madhatterstearoom. downtown filled with shops and dining options. Many at- 5-9:30pm, F-Sa 5-10pm foods and simple Texas cooking in an elegant setting. M-Sa com, 210 S. Echols, Caldwell (979) 567-3504. The Mad Hat- tractions for the entire family—come play with us! CzeCh-teX restaurant, www.czech-tex.com, 111 CR 5pm-10pm ter’s cozy eatery provides tantalizing treats and generous 269 West, Snook. If you have a passion for home-cooked the tap, www.tapbcs.com, 815 Harvey Rd., CS (979) 696- portions bursting with flavor, a unique selection of gift Listings provided as a service. Insite is not responsible for errors food, bring your appetite and come to Czech-Tex in Snook 5570. The Tap is a former train depot transformed into a items, gourmet coffees, and specialty teas. Open for break- or omissions.

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