MuSIcALHIGHNOTeS by Stefanie Lewis

Friends of Chamber Music 2010-2011 Community Chamber Concert series

September 30, 7:30 p.m., Philippe Bianconi, pianist Bush Conference Center October 21, 7:30 p.m., Carpe diem String Quartet, First Presbyterian Church November 29, 7:30 p.m., Indigo Trio, First Presbyterian Church February 15, 7:30 p.m., Red Priest, First Presbyterian Church

French pianist Philippe Bianconi, winner of the Silver Medal in the Seventh Van Cliburn March 10, 7:30 p.m., Italian Saxophone Quartet, International Competition, has enthralled audiences and critics throughout the world with First Presbyterian Church his brilliant performances in recital and with orchestra. He has been described as a pianist April 12, 7:30 p.m., Trio Con Brio Copenhagen, whose playing is “always close to the soul of the music, filling the space with poetry and First Presbyterian Church life” (The Washington Post). The photo (left) was taken during a master class given by Philippi Bianconi in 2006 at the Forsyth Gallery after he had performed the previous night before a standing-room-only crowd at the Annenberg Conference Center. Bianconi will open (979) 696-7410 the Friends of Chamber Music 2010–2011 season. www.communitychamberconcerts.org

the words “chamber music” conjure are from, says Parrish. There is usually one for concertgoers to meet the performers Chamber an image of a 17th century castle Texas-basedMusic performer, one Transcends from elsewhere afterwards, offering unusual Time insight into the with a tiny group of musicians playing for a in the United States, and others that are world of chamber music. king and his court, you’re actually not too far based internationally. The upcoming season The concerts are usually held on Tuesdays Ifoff. Though modern times have altered the includes performers from Denmark, England, or Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian details of how chamber music is performed, Italy and France. Church, 1100 Carter Creek Parkway, in Bryan. the Friends of Chamber Music organization Bringing in international performers is “It’s a wonderful place to perform musically,” strives to keep the essence and intimacy of not cheap by any means, but the Friends of Parrish says. The church has always expressed centuries of chamber music unchanged, albeit Chamber Music still manages to not only bring an interest in music and holds its own series in a thoroughly modern setting. in world-renowned artists, but to present the of musical events – Concerts on Carter Creek Historically, chamber music meant a concerts for free. – throughout the year. small group of performers playing for a small “We are one of the few organizations able The Friends of Chamber Music tries to audience. “We still retain something of that to bring the concerts free of charge, primarily have at least one concert per season at the definition, but a little more expansively,” because of the Gilbert and Thyra Plass Arts Annenberg Presidential Conference Center says Paul Parrish, publicity coordinator for Foundation,” Parrish says. They also receive in the George Bush Presidential Library the Friends of Chamber Music. Whereas the support from local donations, the Arts Council and Museum. At these concerts, the student performances of old might have an audience of Brazos Valley, and the Texas Commission population in the audience is a little higher of five or 10, Parrish says the Friends of of the Arts. “The fact that the concerts are free due to the location. Otherwise, Parrish says, Chamber Music concerts usually draw around is only a result of the fact that we get good the audience consists of a certain amount a 300-member crowd. financial support,” he says. of “regulars” who rarely miss a concert, The Friends of Chamber Music As if you still need another prompt to both college and high school students, and organization was created in 1996 by Thyra attend your first chamber music concert, just Plass and others “as a result of there being remember what Parrish suggests: “It would be families – especially on the occasional Friday no ongoing performances of this sort in this a very inexpensive date night because it costs concerts. community,” says Parrish. In its Community nothing to come to the concert itself.” No matter what your music style or your Chamber Concerts series, the group aims to The great (and free) date won’t end budget, whether you want to go with friends, bring in six performers throughout the fall when the music stops, though. The the family, or that special someone, there’s and spring, typically including a solo pianist, Friends of Chamber Music usually holds a a performance in the Friends of Chamber a vocal group, a string quartet, and other complimentary reception after each concert Music’s Community Chamber Concerts combinations of instruments. to give the audience members a chance to series waiting for you to take your seat and The Friends of Chamber Music also discuss the performance with each other over to imagine yourself part of the King’s Court, looks for variety in where the performers food and drinks. There is even the opportunity enjoying an intimate evening of fine music. i September 2010 INSITE 11 12 INSITE September 2010 NIGHTLIFe by Stefanie Lewis

Who: Karen Kraft When: Sunday, September 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Where: downtown uncorked (979) 823-4837 206 W 26th St, Bryan, Texas 77803 Call for other live music information.

Learning Your Kraft “The hardest thing about singing fantastic in their lyrics, melody and chord BRTX. Kraft is pleased to say that she was is hair and makeup,” confides Karen Kraft, changes simultaneously. “never pushed; only encouraged to explore a Bryan native who claims that she’s always Kraft’s song choices tend to include deeply my gifts” by her parents. more self-conscious about her appearance romantic numbers such as Ray Charles’ “Ruby” After a youth of studying music and a year than her singing before taking the stage. and “At Last” by Etta James. She also admits of college at the University of Texas in Austin, After hearing her magnificent voice, you to a fondness for songs of loneliness, such as Kraft packed her bags and headed to Los understand why Kraft is so worry-free when “Don’t Misunderstand” also by Etta Jones. Angeles in the late 1960s. Though her band, it comes to performing. It was destiny for Kraft to become a Head Over Heels, landed a record deal, the Though petite in stature, when Kraft walks singer, she says, being born with the perfect group broke up before an album was released, out at the start of a recent performance at vocal features that give her voice astounding and Kraft hit the road again. Luigi’s in College Station her wide smile immediately rouses the entire audience in anticipation. Her light-hearted appearance Locals can hear for themselves the voice that Randolph Bing, general belies a deep and moving sorrow embedded in the commanding voice that pours forth manager of the New York Metropolitan Opera, once described as one from this tiny vocal powerhouse. Her singing of the most resonant voices he has ever heard. captures you immediately and for a few moments all that exists is the woman on stage and the emotions she stirs within you. “I want resonance. Added to that, as far as she can It was while touring the U.S. in a van and to make people feel something,” she explains. remember she has constantly sung along to singing at nightclubs for two and half years The passion in her singing is fuelled by her the continuous music playing in her head. that she was able to truly hone her craft. The life experiences, says Kraft. She landed her “Every single human should sing all the time,” road trip ended in New York City where she first professional singing job around the age Kraft advises. “It does so much for the heart met and married her husband. Though she of 8, but only now, says Kraft, “I finally have and for the soul.” kept up nightclub singing, she also landed the confidence in what I do to just do it. Growing up in Bryan, Kraft’s parents, commercial jobs including singing jingles “A singer is defined by, yes, the sound of Allan and Ora L. Kraft, did nothing but for advertisements. It was these enduring their voice and musicality,” she says, “but also support her singing as a child. The couple advertisements that kept her financially stable their point of view and a love of beautiful owned Kraft Furniture, and Allan started enough to survive the Big Apple. songs.” Kraft only sings songs she feels are Bryan/College Station’s first radio station, She soon found herself working with Nick September 2010 INSITE 13 6300 Seawall•800.231.6363•www.hawthorn.com

14 INSITE September 2010 Mason, drummer for Pink Floyd, on his Live Music Hot Spots solo album, Nick Mason’s Fictitious Sports, eventually leading to a stint as one of the Christopher’s World Grille back-up singers on Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” (979) 776-2181 Tour. “It was quite a trip for a little girl from www.christophersworldgrille.com Bryan,” she says. 5001 Boonville Road, Bryan, Texas When a blizzard rocked New York in 1984, every Friday and Saturday night Christopher’s features a jazz pianist, at times Kraft and her husband headed south to Austin accompanied by a saxophone player. where Kraft appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman with Esther’s Follies, Luigi’s Patio Ristorante a comedy group. “Austin at that time was (979) 693-2742 packed with talent,” she says. Her act on the www.luigispatioristorante.com show was to gargle a song, earning her mixed 3975 SH-6 South #100, College Station, Texas 77845 reviews. The audience laughed, but much of enjoy light classic piano or acoustic guitar for Sunday brunch and on weekdays, with a the musical world of Austin chastised her for not taking her talent seriously. Her reply: “It’s jazz ensemble Friday and Saturday night from 9 p.m. to 12 midnight. The kitchen closes my talent to make light of.” at 10 p.m., but cocktails, desserts and coffee are available until 12 midnight. Check the When life took her back to Los Angeles, online calendar for special events like dance nights. she found herself as the only white soloist in the First African Methodist Episcopal Messina Hof Winery & Resort Church choir. “It’s hard to be the only (979) 778-9463 something,” Kraft says, admitting that her www.messinahof.com position resulted in “a lot of righteous anger” 4545 Old Reliance Road, Bryan, Texas 77808 from others, though many of the people also Call or check the website for current live music information. treated her wonderfully and even nicknamed her Songbird. Kraft eventually returned to Palace Theater Texas where she began working with Austin (979) 209-5527 pianist Glover Gill, whom she describes as 105 S Main St, Bryan, Texas 77803 one of the most talented musicians she knows. The Palace Theater presents live music every first and second Friday of the month free Kraft has been living in College Station for of charge. The venue is open to be rented by artists on other nights. Music genre and the past seven years – the longest stationary period in her adult life – while her son, Nick, cover charges vary. 21, studies nuclear engineering at Texas A&M University. Her brother, Dr. Michael A. Kraft, The Republic Steakhouse lives in Bryan. (979) 260-4120 Kraft’s singing has been compared to the www.therepublic1836.com legendary Edith Piaf, which she considers a 701 University drive east, College Station, TX 77845 high compliment. Looking back on all the her Live music begins at 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. The fall schedule includes experiences, the ups and downs, she says she The Brad Cooper Band on Thursdays; Joshua Ray on Fridays; and Francisco Farias cannot personally identify with Piaf’s famous and Cynthia Williams on Saturdays. Call or check the website for other special song, “No Regrets.” Kraft’s biggest regret? performances. “Not realizing how much fun I was having when I was having it.” Revolution Café & Bar Locals can hear for themselves the voice (979) 823-4044 that Rudolph Bing, general manager of the 211 B South Main St, Bryan, Texas 77806 New York Metropolitan Opera, described as The nightly music varies from swing to rock to country and everything in between. one of the most resonant voices he has ever heard. Kraft will perform on September 12 at Cover charges vary, and drink specials are available. Downtown Uncorked from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. With no plans to retire from performing The Tap any time soon and no knowledge of what the (979) 696-7396 future may hold, Kraft reminisces about her www.tapbcs.com life and happily admits, “It is a real adventure.” 815 Harvey Rd, College Station, Texas 77840 And she is living it all the way through.. i Join in karaoke every Monday night after Monday Football Bingo or gather around the Piano Bar Wednesdays after 10:45 p.m. Call or check the website for other live music information. getP ERSONAL by Stefanie Lewis

Make Sparks Fly SIMPLE SEXY dATE NIGHTS 7 To Spark Romance in Your As if trying to manage the hectic life of two Relationship busy careers isn’t enough, throw in kids and between soccer games and school, it’s no surprise that you need a night off every once in while. Not only do you need to get away from all the hassle, but you also need to remember who you’re married to and why. If you’re stuck in the same old routine or don’t even know where to begin, we’ve put together a few suggestions for every kind of date night – or day –for every kind of couple. 16 INSITE September 2010 1 An Outdoor Date BRINGING YOuR DATE OuTDOORS can provide the perfect relaxed Explore the outdoors backdrop for romance – just pick your grassy destination. Select from dozens of city parks or head out to Lake Bryan for a daytime stroll beneath Need help finding the right park for you and your loved one? the oaks or to enjoy a waterside sunset. Wherever your date takes you, just Visit these resources: be sure to bring along something delicious. Pack a simple picnic yourself, or have Epicures Catering do the packing (and cooking) for you. They College Station offer a $50 picnic for two that includes Cajun fried chicken, a gourmet www.cstx.gov/index.aspx sub sandwich, a grilled vegetable wrap, potato chips, fresh fruit, coleslaw, Under Resident, click Parks and Recreation, then Parks and a choice of either lemon bars or brownies for dessert. The picnic includes bottled water and all the disposable utensils you’ll need, with Bryan your choice of wine, beer or sodas as well. To reserve your picnic basket, www.bryantx.gov call Epicures at (979) 695-0985 a few days before your date. But the date Under City Government and departments, click Parks and Recreation doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Out at Lake Bryan, you can keep the romance flowing by heading to the Lakeside Icehouse for drinks and live Lake Bryan music while relaxing on their lakeside deck. Just because it’s not summer (979) 361-0861 anymore doesn’t mean you can’t play outdoors. www.lakebryan.com [email protected] 8200 Sandy Point Road, Bryan, Texas 77807

Why is going out so important? Lakeside icehouse and Grill dr. Bets McSpadden recommends having a date night once a week, (979) 361-0861 as well as getting together with friends, like a double or triple date, www.lakebryan.com once a month. Spending time alone with each other helps couples to 8200 Sandy Point Rd, Bryan, TX 77807 appreciate each other and feel important themselves, strengthening Features Texas country music Wednesday through Sunday night. Check the website for any cover charges. their relationship. It also provides a good model for children, sending the message that the parents like to be together and what a healthy Pick up a delicious picnic at Epicures – just make sure to call relationship should look like. and reserve it at least two days in advance: Epicures Catering Tips for a good date: (979) 695-0985 • It doesn’t have to be expensive www.epicurescatering.net • Alternate who chooses what the date will be 2319 Texas Avenue South, College Station, Texas 77840 • don’t talk about the kids — focus on each other to reestablish $50 picnic for two includes: Cajun fried chicken, a gourmet and strengthen bonds sub sandwich, a grilled vegetable wrap, potato chips, fresh • don’t have serious talks about the relationship — it’s a time for fun fruit, coleslaw, a choice of either lemon bars or brownies for dessert, bottled water, choice of beer, wine or sodas, and and simply enjoying each other’s company disposable utensils. September 2010 INSITE 17 2 Home-Away-From-Home Date WHOEVER DECIDED THAT “VACATION” had to include some faraway Vacation at Home destination was highly misguided. There is no reason not to make your own mini-vacation right here in the Brazos Valley. By browsing the Bed Bed and Breakfast Association of the Brazos Valley and Breakfast Association of Brazos Valley’s website, www.bbabv.com, find a romantic night in the pool or hot tub, or bring your own refreshments (979) 690-0442 to lounge on a private balcony. At some locations, you can even choose www.bbabv.com to spend your time enjoying a relaxing massage or spa day together. You Marie Young, Secretary: can stop by Truman Chocolates and design the perfect made-to-order box (979) 255-9435 of treats to leave on her pillow, or stop by Village Foods to bring along a midnight snack of gourmet cheese, crackers, wine and even a customized [email protected] six-pack of his favorite beers. Who said you could only pick one favorite? Village Foods also carries an assortment of individual pieces of your favorite pies and cakes, for those of you craving a little late-night dessert. With more Pick up sweets for your sweetheart at: than 30 destinations to choose from and rates as low as $70 a night, your Truman Chocolates stay will be just as spectacular as your imagination. (979) 260-4519 www.trumanchocolates.com need a Sitter? 4407 South Texas Avenue, Bryan, Texas 77802 Fit for Kids (979) 693-0757 206 Southwest Parkway, College Station TX 77840

Fit for kids is open all day until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, so you can have a good time without having to worry about them. They accept infants to kids of 12 years and offer activities like video games, movies, books, art, music, coloring and more. For infants up to 18 months, the price is $6.10 an hour, and for kids more than 18 months it is $4.85 an hour, with discounts for families with more than one child. You can send your kids with a packed dinner, a few dollars for the snack machine, or for an additional $2, Fit for kids will take care of dinner for you.

18 INSITE September 2010 3 A Sports Fanatic Date Score a Touchdown

12th Man Foundation 979-846-8892 www.12thmanfoundation.com To join the 12th Man Foundation, it is a minimum of $150 a year, with the total cost based on the location of members’ seats. Benefits can include: 12th Man Buffet invitation, donor plaque, football ticket, bowl activities, 12th Man Magazine, online members area, donor email, membership card, lapel pin, window decal, and a tax receipt.

Don’t miss a chance to watch the Aggies BTHO the Big 12 Conference here in College Station: September 4, Stephen F. Austin September 11, Louisiana Tech September 18, Florida International University

LIVING IN AGGIELAND is perfect for your beloved sports nut. So october 16, Missouri how can you add a little something special to attending a sports october 30, Texas Tech event? Since it’s fall, you’re most likely headed to a Texas A&M november 6, Oklahoma University football game, and only one thing comes before that: november 20, Nebraska tailgating. It’s a great way to spend time with your significant other, friends and family. For those of you who are already BCS Cowboys Semi-Professional Football members of the 12th Man Foundation, don’t forget that for only about $5 a ticket, you can watch the Aggies BTHO the Big 12 www.southtexasamateurfootball.com/bcscowboys.aspx Conference from comfy armchairs by the end zone. If you really Games at College Station Middle School: want to treat your sweetheart and go the season ticket route, keep 900 Rock Prairie, College Station, Texas 77845 in mind that there is a new program for the 2010-2011 season. Certain seats on the east side of the stadium will have access to Beat the heat and get into your winter frame of mind: the McFerrin Athletic Center prior to the game where there will be food and a cash bar. It’s an Aggie fan’s dream come true. Texas A&M university ice Hockey But don’t forget, the Aggies aren’t the only ones playing www.tamuicehockey.com football in Bryan/College Station. The BCS Cowboys, our own local semi-professional football team, provide the same great football spirit in a unique atmosphere. Their season is up and running, and you can catch a game at the College Station Middle School, located at 900 Rock Prairie, for $5 at the gate. For game schedules and more information, visit the BCS Cowboys website at www.southtexasamateurfootball.com/bcscowboys.aspx. Eventually, your sports fan might want a break from the football heat, so that’s when it’s time to cool down with the Texas A&M ice hockey team. Their season kicks off in October at the Arctic Wolf Ice Center, and you can find all the information you need if you visit their website at www.tamuicehockey.com. Tickets are $7.50 or $5 for students. With all these sporting events and more, your sports enthusiast has limitless options to enjoy. September 2010 INSITE 19 20 INSITE September 2010 For a Sophisticated Taste …

Veritas Wine & Bistro (979) 268-325 4 www.veritaswineandbistro.com 830 University drive east, College Station, Texas 77840 Greg Tivis performs live contemporary jazz music on Friday nights, and Saturdays feature various blues, jazz and contemporary jazz artists.

The Village Café (979) 703-8514 www.thevillagedowntown.com 210 W. 26th Street, Bryan Texas 77803 Live music, usually acoustic but with occasional jazz and blues, is featured on Thursdays and Fridays, as well as Sunday afternoon, with Thursdays being a special open mic singer/songwriter night. Saturday is a salsa night with free lessons and occasional live salsa bands, starting at 10 p.m. A Classic Date with a $5 cover starting at 10:30 p.m. THOuGH WE MAY BE IN A COLLEGE TOWN, there are endless opportunities Terrazzo Coffee & Wine Bar for you to enjoy a sophisticated and elegant date here in Bryan/College Station (979) 846-9463 without running into a single frat party. A great way to start the night would be 405 University dr e, College Station, Texas 77840 to head to Veritas Wine and Bistro to taste some of their extensive collection of Attached to the Benjamin knox Gallery delectable wines. If you’re in the mood for a bit of refined adventure, you can Live music varies from singer/songwriter nights to bands try their omakase, or “entrust your life to the chef.” Omakase is a tasting menu, playing Americana to pop rock. There is no cover and music where the chef will choose which six dishes to serve. The dinner is meant to be is featured every Friday night and most Saturday nights. an event, lasting two to three hours and priced at $75 a person, or $120 to include wine. For a smaller scale tasting, Veritas does have a selection of small dishes for To please the eyes… around $10, some of which can be shared between the two of you. To reserve your date night, call (979) 268-3251 or visit www.veritaswineandbistro.com for MSC Forsyth Gallery more information. Whichever tasting route you go, you’re bound to discover (979) 845-9251 something fresh and wonderful. forsyth.tamu.edu Such a unique experience can only be followed by something equally 110 N. Main St., Bryan, Texas 77803 distinguished. For the visual art lover, the MSC Forsyth Gallery in Downtown Through September 25, you can take pleasure in the staff Bryan offers exquisite works of art, and you can rent out the gallery for an even picks from the Runyon Collection. From October 1 to January more intimate setting by calling (979) 845-9251. The Benjamin Knox Gallery 3, enjoy the Victorian Spooners exhibit. is another art alternative, which you can also rent out for an intimate dinner To schedule a formal, guided tour, call Trudy Holladay, setting by calling (979) 696-5669. Visual art isn’t the only art, however. The program coordinator at (979) 458-5460 or email her at Friends of Chamber Music holds concerts throughout the fall and spring. With [email protected]. all the different artists and instruments, there is bound to be something for you and your sweetheart, especially since the concerts are free of charge. You Benjamin Knox Gallery could also combine the visual and musical arts by attending a show from OPAS (979) 696-5669 – the season opens on September 25 with The Manhattan Transfer. Schedule www.benjaminknox.com information and ticket purchasing can be found at opas.tamu.edu. Y o u 405 University drive east, College Station, Texas 77840 won’t want the curtain to close on your night, so grabbing a little dessert or coffee provides the perfect way to discuss the show together. On a warm night, one of To please the ears… the numerous ice cream shops in town might be just right, or if you’d like to stay out a little later, you can enjoy a late-night cappuccino or glass of wine at either MSC oPAS the Village Café in Downtown Bryan or Terrazzo Coffee & Wine Bar attached to (979) 845-1661 the Benjamin Knox Gallery, each with its own occasional live music. Whatever opas.tamu.edu your style, there is a magical night closer than you think. September 2010 INSITE 21 22 INSITE September 2010 5 A Delicious Date

Cook up Some Magic Sautéed Shrimp with Broccoli From the Chinese Students and Scholars Association 1/2 cup chicken broth 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp light brown sugar 1 1/2 tsp Cornstarch 1 tbsp peanut oil 1 piece fresh ginger root, pared & finely chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped WHO SAID YOu HAD TO ACTuALLY GO OuT to have a 1 small onion, chopped (1/4 cup) romantic date? Coordinate with a friend who has kids 2 cup broccoli florets of similar ages so that one couple gets all the kids once 1 pkg (10 oz) frozen peas or twice a month on Friday night (through Saturday 1 tbsp cooking wine morning, if you’re feeling adventurous) so you have a 1 lb medium size shrimp, shelled & de-veined chance to enjoy the comforts of your own home – and Stir together the broth, soy, brown sugar and cornstarch in a 1 cup glass measure; each other. reserve. Heat oil in wok or heavy skillet. Add ginger root and garlic and stir fry over low No matter what time of day you decide to have your heat, until lightly browned (about 3 to 4 minutes). Remove browned bits with slotted date, we have a delicious and easy recipe to make it extra spoon and discard. Add onion and stir fry over low heat until softened, about 3 minutes. special. Wake up your sleeping beauty with breakfast in Re-stir cornstarch mixture; add to onion. Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 4 minutes. Increase heat to medium high. Stir in broccoli and peas; cook for 1 to 2 bed using our featured true Czech kolache recipe. You minutes or until broccoli is crisp tender. Add cooking wine. Simmer, covered for 1 minute. can choose your sweetheart’s favorite fruit filling and Add shrimp, stirring constantly, sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, or just until shrimp are pink and start their day with a smile. For an exciting date night firm. Good with rice. dinner, you can add a little Chinese flair to your home- Portabella Pizza cooked meal with the Sautéed Shrimp with Broccoli Courtesy of Chef Eric Miller, Texas Mushroom Festival recipe. A twist on classic pizza that is sure to win your 1 portabella mushroom veggie-lover’s heart is the Portabella Pizza, or you both 2 ripe yellow tomatoes munch on an assortment of delicious appetizers, like 3 cloves fresh garlic the Smoked Salmon and Avocado Mousse Bruchetta or 1 oz fresh rosemary the Mediterranean Stuffed Mushrooms. 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 oz fresh mozzarella With any of these scrumptious recipes, you can 1/4 oz shredded asiago cheese either choose to surprise your loved one, or the two of 1/4 cup diced shallot you can cook together, a creative process that can bring 1/4 oz fresh basil you closer to each other. Even if neither of you are very 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar talented cooks, don’t be afraid to try something new. Preheat oven to 350°. Remove gills from portabella mushroom, keeping edges in tact. After all, take-out heals all kitchen-induced self-esteem Cover it with olive oil (about 14 oz depending on size). Add rosemary, garlic, 1oz salt, 1oz wounds. To round off whatever delicious dinner you black pepper and balsamic vinegar. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum choose, have your beloved’s favorite movie standing foil. Heat in the oven at 350° for 30 minutes or until garlic and mushroom are soft. In a by to watch while you enjoy a delicious Pink Salty Dog sauté pan, heat shallot until clear. Add diced and deseeded yellow tomatoes (retaining juice). Cook on low heat until tomatoes break down. Remove portabella from pan and cocktail. There’s no need to go big and fancy (not to pat dry. Purée remaining garlic from pan and add to tomato mixture. Cook with remaining mention expensive) to have a romantic, intimate time tomato juice until thick. Purée entire mixture until smooth. Top mushroom with tomato with your loved one. purée, mozzarella and asiago in order. Grill entire mushroom pizza in broiler until cheese melts. Top with julienne basil and salt and pepper to taste then cut in quarters. September 2010 INSITE 23 Homemade Kolache Recipe Courtesy of Jeanie Price, Mad Hatter Tea Room 6 1/3 cup sugar 1/3 butter or margarine 1 tsp. salt ½ cup boiling water 1 ½ packages dry years ½ cup warm water 1 egg 3 to 3 ½ cups flour melted butter or margarine Fruit filling of your choice

Cream together sugar, butter, and salt. Add boiling water and stir well. Let cool until lukewarm. Add yeast to warm water and let stand until dissolved, then add beaten egg. Let rise about 30 minutes or until doubled. Roll out dough to a thickness of about ½ inch and cut into An Adrenaline Junkie Date individual kolaches with biscuit cutter. Place kolaches on a greased pan so they are not quite touching. Brush tops with IT’S TIME TO BREAK FREE of the traditional date idea: melted butter, cover and let rise again until a date doesn’t have to be sitting in a restaurant or Get Your light. Make an indentation in the top of watching a movie. Some couples prefer a more active each and fill with the filling of your choice. and adventurous lifestyle, and we say go for it. Nothing Blood Pumping Bake at 350 degrees about 25 minutes or will get your adrenaline pumping like launching yourself until brown. Brush tops again with melted Skydive Aggieland butter. This recipe by dorothy kubena out of an airplane. Skydive Aggieland provides an (979) 778-JUMP (5867) of Caldwell was a runner up in the 1987 adrenaline-packed date the two of you will never forget. Burleson County kolache Festival. Skydive Aggieland is staffed by trained professionals, www.skydiveaggieland.com but for questions, concerns and more information, you 6104 SH 21 east, Smoked Salmon and Bryan, Texas 77808 Avocado Mousse Bruchetta can call them at (979) 778-JUMP (5867) or visit www. skydiveaggieland.com. Courtesy of Epicures Catering Champion Firearms For a different, yet still exciting thrill, check out the (979) 693-9948 5 avocados, skin and seeds removed indoor shooting range at Champions Firearms, located at www.championfirearms.com 6 ounces smoked salmon 1925 Texas Avenue South in College Station. There, you 1/2 cup olive oil 1925 Texas Avenue South, can rent a firearm and practice your aim where trained Juice of 2 limes College Station, Texas 77840 professionals can give you instruction. With the whole 1 1/2 teaspoons dijon mustard Champion Firearms also 1 baguette, cut into thin slices package being $38 for the two of you, it’s a great place for offers separate courses with Salt and pepper for seasoning the first-time or inexperienced shooter. dill springs for garnish professional instructors that For the skilled firearms couple, you haven’t been left cover safety, grip, stance, Heat oven to 350 degrees. In food out. Take your shooting practice to a new level and enjoy balance, sighting, trigger processor, combine avocados, 2 a unique experience at the same time. The Brazos Valley control, loading and unloading. tablespoons olive oil, and lime juice. Puree Desperadoes puts together a single-action, in-character Call for pricing information and until smooth. Transfer to a medium bowl shooting range where you can dress up in period clothes to book your course. and season to taste with salt and pepper. Using 1/4 cup olive oil, brush both sides and practice your single-action shooting in a Western Brazos Valley desperadoes of baguette slices with olive oil. Lay in a setting. These cowboy action shooting ranges exist all over single layer on a baking sheet and toast in Texas, but the Brazos Valley Desperadoes is conveniently cactusringo.tripod.com oven, turning once, until golden brown. Mix close to home while still transporting you back in [email protected] dijon mustard with 2 tablespoons olive time. With your curiosity aroused, visit their website at Your first shooting match is oil until smooth. Spread each baguette free, with membership fees cactusringo.tripod.com for more information. slice with avocado mixture. Top with a incurring after that. Feel free These adrenaline-packed dates are sure to not only small piece of salmon. drizzle olive oil and to participate in period dress mustard mixture over the top. Garnish with bring you excitement, but also to bring the two of you while you practice your single- a dill spring on top. Serve immediately. closer together through such a thrilling adventure. action shooting skills. 24 INSITE September 2010 7 A Relaxing Date

Mediterranean Stuffed Mushrooms Courtesy of Chef Shawn Cooley, Texas Mushroom Festival

6 oz feta Cheese 1 lb cream cheese 4 tbsp parmesan cheese 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 3 oz black olives, sliced 1/4 cup leek greens, finely diced 2 tbsp olive oil 1 lb Italian sausage 2 shallots, finely diced EVERYBODY NEEDS TO PuT ASIDE SOME TIME 1/4 cup brandy every so often to just simply relax, and what better Find Time to Relax 1/4 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped way to do that than spend a day at the spa? Contrary Elements Therapeutic Massage 2 garlic cloves, minced to what many guys believe, spas are not just for Cracked black pepper to taste Bryan women. In fact, going as a couple can enhance your (979) 774-4343 relationship and strengthen your bond together. Sautée shallots, garlic and leek in olive oil touchofelements.com/bryan Therapeutic massages can help your muscles until tender and clear. Add brandy and reduce 3001 Wildflower dr., Suite 611, Bryan, until dry. Remove shallot mixture from heat recover from an intense work out together or even Texas 77802 and allow to cool at room temperature. just from everyday use. Cook sausage in skillet until browned and completely cooked. Add cooked sausage to Both the Bryan and College Station locations College Station shallot mixture. Add tomatoes, bell peppers, of Elements Therapeutic Massage specialize in (979) 696-2000 feta cheese to shallot/sausage mixture. Purée restoring your muscles and revitalizing your body. touchofelements.com/collegestation mixture in food processor until slightly blended. For Bryan couples, the Galleria Day Spa can be the 3975 State Highway 6 S., Suite 700, Fold mixture into cream cheese, add cracked perfect relaxing getaway. This spa offers a unique black pepper. Spoon or pipe into the mushroom College Station, Texas 77845 caps and garnish with olives. Heat mushrooms Continuous Couple’s Massage package for $110 in caps in oven at 350° for about 10 to 15 minutes which you’ll not only receive a one-hour massage, Galleria day Spa or until filling is melted and mushrooms are but they’ll also give you both tips on how you can (979) 822-5756 cooked. give each other relaxing massages at home and a www.galleriadayspa.com complimentary bottle of massage lotion. To make 214 elm Avenue, Bryan, Texas 77801 Pink Salty dog Courtesy of Epicures Catering your appointment or ask about other services Available services include: massages, at the spa, call (979) 822-5756 or visit www. hydrating body wraps, manicures, Coarse salt, for rim of glass galleriadayspa.com. You can also visit the Riviera pedicures, facials, a Roman steam Grapefruit slice, for garnish Salon & Day Spa in College Station for a couple’s bath and more. 1/3 cup freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice 2 tablespoons vodka massage that includes strawberries, champagne 1 tablespoon Campari liqueur, or grenadine and access to a private Jacuzzi before a one hour Riviera Salon & day Spa 1 to 1 1/2 cups ice cubes massage. The Riviera Salon & Day Spa also offers (979) 693-0350 services like their unique saltwater lap pool, which www.rivieradayspa.net Place salt in saucer. Moisten rim of glass helps to moisturize skin without drying it out, that 2821 Rock Prairie Road, with a grapefruit slice. dip rim of glass into College Station, Texas 77845 you can reserve for private use. For appointments salt. Combine grapefruit juice and vodka with Available services include: Campari or grenadine in the jar of a blender. and information on other services, call (979) 693- massages, aqua stones, mud and Add ice and blend until slushy. Pour into salt- 0350 or visit www.rivieradayspa.net. herbal body wraps, facials, manicures, rimmed glass. Garnish with a grapefruit slice It’s never a bad time for a little relaxation, so on rim of glass. pedicures, steam room, salt water make your reservations today. i lap pool and more. September 2010 INSITE 25 cOMMuNITYOUTReACH by Stefanie Lewis yden and Karson Tran, ages A 9 and 7, are playing on the swings at Gabbard Park. As Ayden swings as high as he possibly can, I can hear Karson laughing, but he’s too afraid to match Ayden’s height. Then Karson says, “What if we went so high we saw Daddy?” The innocent question almost brings tears to my eyes because their father, Alex Tran, had left just the day before for a nine-month deployment to El Paso. His wife, Krystina Tran, betrays no sign of the emotions I’m sure are roiling inside her. I marvel at her strength and calm as she describes her husband’s three separate deployments and her day-to-day life as a working mother of three young children. Like most people, I’ve always believed those of us at home should support our troops risking their lives overseas, regardless of whether or not we support the politics behind what they are doing or who sent them into harm’s way. Also like most people, the reality of what it means to support someone far from home didn’t hit me until the imminent deployment was of someone close to me. As he prepares to head 7,834 miles away to Afghanistan, supporting our troops overseas has suddenly become more personal and pressing. That reality is with me as I begin interviewing three military families living in Bryan who agreed to share their stories so those of us at home can learn how best to The Military Family support the husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, friends and Stories from the Home Front neighbors who are serving our country far away.

26 INSITE September 2010 After being left to juggle a two-year-old, a newborn and a full-time job, not only was Krystina overwhelmed by life at home, but she could barely even talk to her husband. “During that time period, they had to sign up to use the phone,” she explains. “When you signed up, you were still waiting in line about two hours, and you had a time limit of about 15 minutes on the phone. Then it would just disconnect.” Since mail took about six weeks to arrive, when Krystina did send packages to her husband, she tried to make them extra special with things like recordings of her two sons’

daily routines, like reciting the alphabet. Those things mean a lot to Alex: “It helps me Krystina and Alex Tran stay involved with what’s going on in their lives,” he says. The weekly phone calls and emails left “It just sinks your heart when I answer the phone and plenty of time for Krystina to agonize over the first thing that’s told to me is, ‘Krystina, first of her husband’s safety. “Just firefighting alone is a dangerous job, but you put it into a warzone all let me tell you he’s okay.’” – Krystina and that exaggerates the problem,” she says. In Iraq, Alex’s firefighting unit would or Krystina Tran, all it takes is one first activated in 2003 and deployed to Iraq respond to fires that involved U.S. military Fphone call to turn her life completely as the commander of a firefighting unit. “Our deaths, such as an aircraft crash. Krystina upside down. That single phone call can life went to complete chaos within a matter explains that it’s so dangerous because, “you’re determine whether her husband gets to stay of six days,” says Krystina, 36 weeks pregnant going to an aircraft crash, but you don’t know with his family or pack his bags and head to with her second child when Alex left for his if that plane was shot down and if the enemy’s places unknown. first deployment only six days after receiving still there.” “People ask, ‘How do you do it?’ Well, you the order. Alex was still in Fort Hood when She admits that when Alex was deployed really don’t have a choice but to do it,” she says, their son, Karson, was born, and he was to Afghanistan in 2008 with the local 420th watching her kids chase ducks through the allowed leave for the day to witness his birth. Engineer Brigade, she tried to convince herself park. Their infectious happiness and laughter “I was afraid Karson would be scared of him that Afghanistan wasn’t as dangerous as Iraq. seem to bolster her strength and confidence because, really, he didn’t know him at all,” Within five days of being in the country, as she describes Alex’s deployments. Krystina says of Alex’s return home from a Alex’s unit was attacked. Alex, a Captain in the Army Reserves, was 15-month deployment in Iraq. “It just sinks your heart when I answer September 2010 INSITE 27 “Leaving family behind is the most stressful event married; he’s my best friend,” says Krystina with visible emotion, her eyes moist with tears that a Soldier faces.” – Alex for the first time during the conversation. For her, holidays without Alex are the the phone and the first thing that’s told to them don’t have shoes.” hardest. At the end of this deployment, Alex me is ‘Krystina, first of all let me tell you he’s For his current mission, Alex is again will have missed five of Ayden’s birthdays due okay,’” she says. Alex sustained no injuries in stationed at a military hospital, but this time to activations. “It tears at his heart having to the attack, but two of his Bravos Valley-native in El Paso. “A lot of people, even some adults, leave his kids,” Krystina says, but it’s something comrades suffered severe injuries, though have it in their mind that Soldiers just go out he feels like he has to do in order to provide both survived the attack. to shoot and kill,” says Krystina. “We’ve taught for his children. A sense of duty doesn’t make A Soldier in her own right, every day our kids that there’s so many other missions.” it easy, though. “Leaving family behind is Krystina was “battling the fear and worry a The 420th Engineer Brigade missions are the most stressful event that a Soldier faces,” loved one is faced with when their Soldier is frequently to build roads, bridges or schools. Alex says. “I have Army duties to prepare for in a warzone,” she says. Being constantly busy Despite how much time Alex has spent mobilization, but I also have husband and with three young children helped keep her away from the kids, “they’re still real close father commitments.” mind from straying too far, but “no matter to their father,” says Krystina. When Ayden When Alex finally does get to come home, how distracted or busy I was, deep inside found out that his father was leaving yet Krystina says, “You appreciate family time so every day I had that fear and worry,” she says. again, he started to panic. “He’s taken notice much more.” She also says she’s very relieved Improved technology for Alex’s more about the violence,” Krystina says, but that Alex has returned to her each time still deployment in Afghanistan allowed the Trans she has placated his fears by telling him that the same man she married in every way. “I’ve to maintain fairly regular contact through Alex is only going to El Paso this time. been very blessed that mentally he’s okay,” email. His mission as a medical operations As for Karson and 4-year-old Alyssa, she says, “because there’s so many Soldiers officer included visiting other hospitals “They’re sad, but it’s not like they’re walking that come back that have the PTSD,” or post- and keeping up with patient transfers. On around crying or waking up in the middle of traumatic stress disorder. the occasional humanitarian missions, the night crying for their father,” Krystina says. When it’s all said and done, though, “they would go out and they would provide “I hear those kinds of stories all the time, and Krystina says she feels immensely proud of medicine to the locals, whether it just be thank God I’ve never had to face any of that.” her husband. “Even though the deployments aspirin or bandaging up infections,” Krystina The kids aren’t the only ones who miss Alex, and separations have been trying and says. “They would give out toys and stuffed though. “No matter how much communication stressful times, I wouldn’t change anything,” animals, and shoes were a big thing; a lot of has improved within the years, we’re still she says.

“You’re kind of like a ball of emotions and you never really know what’s going to come out.” – Alison

ecember 28, 2004: that day will “Dforever be burned in my memory,” says Alison Perdue. That day signaled the beginning of two of the most significant events in her life: her fiancé James Perdue, a staff sergeant in the National Guard 36th Infantry Division, received orders to ship out to Iraq; and exactly a week later, the couple got married. Three days after the wedding ceremony, James left on his first deployment to Iraq. “The first deployment was actually really, Alison28 INSITE September and 2010 James Perdue stomach all over again, you get all nervous, family live in the Bryan/College Station area and it’s like we’re teenagers again.” A huge and are available to help her out when she smile spreads across her face as her excitement needs it. Alison says that her father, a retired about James’ upcoming return from his Soldier himself, said to her, “I always knew second deployment bubbles forth. you had it hard, but I never realized it was As happy as James’ homecoming was, it that hard.” still took both of them some time to adjust Now, Alison says having a military father after such a long absence. Alison says that it’s helps “because I have that extra person who’s almost like life at home freezes while he’s away, been through it, who knows what the Soldier’s so changes that actually happened months feeling, what it’s like to be the Soldier and to before are brand new to him. “Things haven’t be over there.” Seeking her father’s advice really changed for him, because he hasn’t seen helps her better understand her relationship all the changes, whereas for me it’s everyday with her husband while he’s overseas. life,” she says. Alison’s father isn’t the only other military For James’ second deployment, Alison says man in her family, with both her husband she made a stronger effort to keep him up to and her brother currently deployed. “It’s speed on all the little changes in life at home. hard, because I miss (my brother),” she says. With better technology, the couple can use “He’s my only sibling.” Ironically, Alison’s websites like Facebook to share pictures and husband and brother are even deployed to keep each other on the same page. “I don’t the same place, or at least within about 15 really hard on me,” says Alison. Though think this deployment has been as hard,” minutes of each other. “So they actually see she was in school, she says it didn’t provide she says, mainly “because I get to talk to him each other more than I see my brother,” says enough of a distraction to keep her from more often.” Alison, whose brother is stationed out of worrying. The infrequent phone calls and Still, she would rather be able to have those Fort Louis, Washington. emails only added to the stress. everyday conversations in person. “Being All the preparation and help in the world One way for her to cope was to learn her able to do those face-to-face is completely doesn’t make being a military wife easy. Alison “triggers,” or things that might upset her, and different than over the computer screen or describes how she has good days and bad days, simply avoid them. For the past year while over the phone,” says Alison. “You don’t lose and how quickly good days can become bad James has been deployed in Iraq a second the intimacy, but sometimes you feel like this days. “You’re kind of like a ball of emotions time, Alison has avoided watching or listening is a business transaction. and you never really know what’s going to to news programs, reading newspapers, and “The thing that was really hard for me come out,” she says laughing, thinking of watching movies centered on war or Soldiers. this time was it was our first Christmas we’d times when a song on the radio has brought She jokes about wanting to watch movies like ever spent apart,” says Alison. They have been her to tears. Brothers and Dear John, but having to wait together for 12 years. Above all she misses the “I’ve noticed the more that I have to do, until her husband is safe at home. “When he’s little things, like the way he kissed her forehead the less I think about him,” she says, which home, I’ll watch it,” she says, “but when he’s every morning before leaving for work. is why she volunteered to be the leader for gone, it just makes me think about him.” “I never realized how much he did until James’ unit’s Family Readiness Group, a Only four or five months into James’ first he was gone,” she says. A running joke with support group for both the Soldiers and deployment, tragedy nearly struck the Perdue many military wives is that as soon as the their families. family, but not where you would think: James’ husband leaves, everything breaks. For her At the end of the day, so much sacrifice is mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I husband’s first deployment, only Alison’s not without its rewards. “That’s one of the was afraid to tell him because I didn’t want it truck broke, soon followed by James’ truck. things that I honestly think made me and my to effect how he was doing over there,” Alison The jaw-dropping list of everything that has husband stronger, is getting through these says. After being so used to sharing everything broken during James’ current deployment: together,” says Alison. “I know in the end it’s with her husband, she says, “That was one of the washing machine, Alison’s computer, her what made us a better couple. We’re stronger, the hardest things for me, to realize what I computer again, her cell phone (while her we love each other more.” thought he could and couldn’t handle.” computer was broken), the garbage disposal, She smiles confidently, knowing that After a year away, James finally returned their headboard, and the garage door. Not to whatever hardships her and her husband home. One of Alison’s favorite things about mention the city mainline in their front yard must face, they will face them together, and his return is their “second first kiss,” she that burst while James was home on leave. they will come out stronger as individuals and says, “because you get the butterflies in your Luckily, both Alison’s family and James’ as a family.

September 2010 INSITE 29 he discovered that civilian life didn’t hold the same camaraderie that he had experienced in the Army, Todd joined the Army Reserves. “Sometimes the homecoming and getting back into their civilian lifestyles are harder than the deployment,” says Mary Ann, and she supports her son’s decision to join the Reserves. He should “follow his heart, because life is too short not to do what he wants to do,” she says. When he is deployed again, Mary Ann confidently says, “It will be hard and nerve racking, but I won’t be alone.” Mary Ann is the leader of Todd’s unit’s Family Readiness Group, or FRG, meaning she keeps in contact with the families of all the other Soldiers in his unit and is able to talk to other women in her situation. While he’s still enjoying his time off, Todd and Mary Ann spend time with their very close-knit extended family, one of the things she enjoys most when he’s at home. Todd was even able to be home when Mary Ann’s first grandchild was born. The technology improvements Mary Ann has seen over time have made her son going overseas infinitely easier to deal with, though the fear will never completely disappear. For Todd’s hardship tour in 1996 to Korea, Mary Mary Ann Russell and Ann could only communicate with him via traditional post office mail and a single, bi- son, Todd Russell monthly phone call. For Todd’s recent deployment to Afghanistan, she says, “It was a whole new “I know our son can be deployed at anytime to ballgame.” Todd was able to email his family anywhere in the world. More than likely, it will be almost daily and to talk on the phone two or three times a week. “New technology made the back to Afghanistan or some other dangerous hell separation a little easier,” she says, especially hole.” – Mary Ann for Soldiers with young kids at home, like Alex Tran, a former member of Todd’s unit. takes a certain kind of strength to being home from his last deployment to Since their loved ones served together, Mary It know that at any moment you could Afghanistan, but being in the Army Reserves Ann knows and admires Krystina Tran, who be forced to face a mother’s biggest fear for means that at any moment he can be uprooted she says is in one of the toughest positions she knows, being a Soldier’s wife and a mother. her child: having your own flesh and blood and transported into harm’s way within a Mary Ann looks forward to the day when her torn away from you only to be put in harm’s matter of days. son will eventually get married and start his way and to still sit calmly and even take pride “I know our son can be deployed at anytime own family, but for now she’s happy that he’s in those facts. to anywhere in the world,” she says. “More not leaving a new bride at home alone. That’s the strength that Mary Ann Russell, than likely, it will be back to Afghanistan or As a military mother, Mary Ann a military mom, has. some other dangerous hell hole.” understands the importance of family support Her son Todd, a Captain in the 420th Todd was in the active military for five to deployed Soldiers. Says Todd: “Nothing Engineer Brigade, has enjoyed the past year years before returning to a civilian life. When could be worse than feeling unimportant or

30 INSITE September 2010

What can you do to help?

here are a multitude of ways to T help support our Soldiers, and it’s easier than you think. Both the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) have a mission to support local Soldiers and their families. A quick phone call to either of those organizations will tell you which units are deployed and what things you can do to help. Care packages are one of the main things that these organizations put together to support Soldiers in the field. These can include everything from basic living and hygiene supplies to items of entertainment to keep up the Soldiers’ morale. To make care packages a reality, the American Legion and the VFW need help from local businesses and individuals in the form of specific items or monetary donations that go toward items and shipping costs. There are plenty of inexpensive ways to help. “Letters from home were a tremendous boost to the morale of my Soldiers and me,” says Todd Russell, even if they were from strangers. “It is especially flattering when a stranger takes time out of their day to remember Soldiers away from home “Nothing could be worse than feeling unimportant and express their support though a letter or care package,” says Alex or forgotten in an environment that already has so Tran. The Soldiers particularly enjoy much stress and fatigue.” – Todd getting cards or drawings from kids. “Little thoughtful things like that make

forgotten in an environment that already has American people owe so much to our Soldiers their day go so much better there,” so much stress and fatigue.” and their families,” she says. says Krystina Tran. As an FRG leader, Mary Ann understands Despite the fear and the hardships, “I am Even just shaking a Soldier’s hand, how much support the Soldiers’ families need proud of all our Soldiers, especially my son,” saying “thank you” to them and their and how hard it is for people like Krystina says Mary Ann. “I take great pride in being a families, and being there to welcome to make it without a little extra help. “The military mom.” them home make a difference. “It’s September 2010 INSITE 31 very emotional and very uplifting when Soldiers come to Easterwood and the community is there to welcome them,” says Krystina. By staying in touch with the American Legion and the VFW, you can learn when Soldiers will be returning home. As important as supporting our deployed and returned Soldiers is, it’s just as necessary to remember the hardships of their families while they’re away. “They too are deployed to maintain the home front, and their own sacrifices are too often forgotten,” says Alex. “Their What kinds of things go in a care package? sacrifices allow Soldiers to remain steadfast and ready when duty to the Hygiene: baby wipes, insect cream, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, combs, nation calls.” tissues, feminine sanitary products Local businesses that offer a Food: hard candy, nutrition bars, flavored water mix, chocolate, hot discount to military families can ease chocolate mix not only the financial burden, but also other: books, DVDs, phone cards, lotion, lip gloss or chap stick, smokeless the stress level in general. For working tobacco, magazines mothers like Krystina, being able to take the kids out to a discounted To find out exactly how you can help, contact dinner instead of cooking can make the following resources: her day a little easier, as well as let the family have a little fun. American Legion If you have a particular set of Earl Graham Post 159 skills, like plumbing, and are willing to (979) 778-1936 volunteer for things like fixing broken Select Family Support Group appliances – or are just willing to www.alegion159.org volunteer in any way, like lawn care 101 Waco Street, Bryan, Texas 77803 – you can let the American Legion or the VFW know. Then when someone Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) needs help, there will be local Brazos County Post 4692 resources available to them. (979) 823-0550 “The American Soldier can endure www.vfwwebcom.org/tx/post4692 the worst hardships, overcome the 1447 S Farm To Market Rd 2818, Bryan, Texas 77801 greatest obstacles, and defeat any John Velasquez, Post 4692 Commander enemy, but only with the support of (979) 776-1106 their loved ones and fellow Americans back home,” says Todd. Showing Alison Perdue your appreciation of Soldiers’ and FRG leader for National Guard 36th Infantry Division their families’ sacrifices doesn’t have (979) 255-9391 to be hard or complicated. All it takes [email protected] is a little “thanks.” i 32 INSITE September 2010 buSINESSBRIeFS and organizations who contribute continue through the afternoon with the brazosanimalshelter.org. There will also $1000 towards the cost of construction. “Wanna be a Wiener” race at 2 p.m. be live music, kids’ activities and vendors Members of the Circle and other women Only purebred dachshunds are allowed for all to enjoy. Admission is free and who want to be part of this Woman Build in the wiener races, but the “Wanna be a open to the public. For more information, House volunteer to construct the house. Wiener” race is for any dog less than 35 call Judy LeUnes at (979) 492-3438 or All skill levels are welcome. pounds that can fit into the dachshund- email her at [email protected]. A pre-construction workshop just sized start boxes. For those furry friends for women will be held on Saturday, that aren’t planning to race, they can dollar General awarded $2,715 to the (l-r) diane Jones Meier and Cynthia August 28, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the still come and enjoy the day. The animal Bryan/College Station Library summer Gay, members of the Steering Habitat education Center located at 119 shelter asks only that they be on a reading program to purchase a collection Committee; and Bunny Pratt and Carol Lake Street in Bryan. Women who are leash all day and have proof of a rabies of chapter book/Cd kits to help children McFaddin, participating in the Circle of interested in hands-on experience before vaccination. entry fees for the races, reading below grade level, those just Women Habitat House as members of participating in the construction of any Costume Contest and 5k Walk and Run learning to read and those learning english Rotary Women of Brazos County. Habitat house are invited to attend. go toward the Brazos Animal Shelter’s as a second language, officials announced Imagine women joining their time, For more information or to become a new building through their Capital Friday. The Barbara Bush Literacy talents, and treasure to assist a family part of the Circle of Women, contact expansion Fund. Costume Contest Corps awarded an additional $2,918 that lives in substandard housing. They Rebecca Christopher at development@ participants may choose to enter into to fund the Youth Services Teacher build a house that the family then habitatbcs.org or (979) 823-7200, ext. multiple categories from the following: outreach Program. Now several more purchases and makes a home. The 106. To volunteer, contact Jason davies Owner/dog Look Alike, Couples (dog classic picture books will be added to the family’s monthly, interest-free mortgage at [email protected] or (979) pairs), Most Creative, and Formal Wear. library’s collection to foster shared reading payments help other families realize 823-7200, ext. 114. The Costume Contest is open to all and early literacy. The grant money is their dreams of owning a safe, decent, breeds and is $10 for each dog in each in addition the annual $5,000 Library affordable house. Support the Brazos Valley Animal category. The shelter asks participants Summer Reading Program grant from Local women and Bryan/College Shelter on October 9 during the to remember that this is a family event the Friends of the Bryan/College Station Habitat for Humanity will Shelter’s 4th Annual Wiener Fest. and all costumes should be tasteful. All Station Library System. The Friends make this scenario happen. Construction The big day starts at 8 a.m. with the races have a $25 entry fee, and the 5k grant will go toward the purchase of of the 4th Circle of Women House will dog-friendly 5k Walk and Run, then Walk and Run is $25 for adults and $10 prize books and incentives to encourage begin on Saturday, September 11. The continues with the Costume Contest at for kids younger than 12 years old. All the children in our community to Circle of Women includes individuals 9:30 a.m. Races start at 11:30 a.m. and registration forms are available at www. continue reading during the summer.

September 2010 INSITE 33 of PeTsys Preclinical, Women’s 3d, Lenox engineering, and Therapyxis, and Research Scientist-Imaging director of Texas A&M University’s Institute for Preclinical Studies, dr. Mark W. Lenox received the Research Valley Commercialization Rising Star Award, which is Julia Gardner, co-owner of david presented to an individual who Gardner’s Jewelers, was recently demonstrates outstanding business invited to sit on an esteemed panel innovation and involvement in of jewelry industry experts at The Leading Women Express technology commercialization. Jewelers’ Circular Keystones network of Bryan/College Station, a jewelry show in Las Vegas. Gardner chapter of the American Business was joined on the panel by Jennifer Women’s Association, named Gandia of Greenwich Jewelers, Geanna Kincanon its 2011 express Peter Walsh of Manika Jewelers Network Top Ten Candidate. each and Kathy Rose, jeweler to the year LWeN recognizes a member stars and winner of Bravo’s hit that has made notable contributions television show, “Launch My Line.” to the American Business Women’s Voices For Children Executive The JCk Show in Las Vegas is one Association, her community and director Liana Lowey presents of the jewelry industry’s premier her career. Nominees for the award a Buddy Bag to College Station trade events, hosting thousands of were submitted to a three-member Lt. Mike Pavelka after a recent vendors and buyers each year from committee made up of Leading brief orientation session for around the world Business owners Women express Network members: CiSd officers. were invited to attend Gardner’s kathy Norwood, donna Patterson, panel, “How Jewelers Make Fashion and debbie Waskow and were then Voices For Children – Court a Part of the Their Store,” and gain submitted to an outside panel for Appointed Special Advocates insight from the country’s most final selection. The chosen candidate of Brazos Valley, Scotty’s fashion-forward jewelry stores. then competes on a national level House Child Advocacy Center with other candidates from all over and the College Station Police The corner of Highway 6 and the country. department have launched a FM 2818 in Bryan will be the pilot project entitled Buddy Bags. home of the next Generation The Bryan Rotary Club recently Voices for Children and Scotty’s industrial Park, a joint project presented its annual newman 10 House, local nonprofit organizations of Bryan and Brazos County. New Business Performance Awards that assist and advocate for abused jobs may be coming courtesy of to the top 10 companies that and neglected children in the Brazos a joint city-county effort. A $1.5 have demonstrated the highest Valley, have stuffed 50 Buddy Bags million grant from the economic percentage of growth and had with child friendly activity and development Administration will the greatest economic impact on safety books, games or sensory be used to build a rail spur for the Brazos County for the last three-year activities (i.e., playing cards, Play- 1,200-acre park. It would allow period. The recipients, from first to doh), small toys, sunglasses, books connection with the Port of Houston tenth, were: Brazos Technology, and bubbles. Officers on patrol will and other parts of the country. The The Ground Crew LLC, Brazos distribute the bags when they are park is close to being ready for Valley Hearing Services, dispatched to a call where a child or businesses to locate there, and Chrome: A Salon Experience, Ed children are present (i.e., domestic multiple businesses have already Slovacek CPA, JB Knowledge violence, burglary, fire, homicide). expressed interest in coming to Technologies, inc., Fifth ‘C’ Fine “Buddy Bags not only provide the new park. Of the 1,200 acres, Jewelry, Expressions dance and the children with fun activities 200 were purchased adjacent to Music, Ashford Square Realty and safety information in times Highway 6, with the other 1,000 LLC, and Venus Pest Company. of crisis, but also foster a positive to the west ready for expansion of C.C. Creations LTd was named relationship between children the park in the future. The Brazos the 2010 recipient of the Lifetime and law enforcement officers,” County economic Foundation was Business Achievement Award, said Voices For Children executive formed by the governing bodies last awarded to a company that has a director Liana Lowey, who year to manage the location. They sustained history of success and coordinated the project with also formed the City of Bryan-Brazos respect in its industry, as well as Scotty’s House executive director County economic development having contributed to the quality of Linda Patton and College Station Foundation to operate it. life in this community. Co-founder Police Lt. Mike Pavelka. i 34 INSITE September 2010 September 2010 INSITE 35 36 INSITE September 2010