CLASSICAL TO CLASSIC ROCK Meet, Mingle, Dine, Dance … Enjoy!

March 2011 INSITE 1 2 INSITE March 2011 8 Contents 5 MAKEPLANS The Boys & Girls Club Fun With a Future by Clarissa Orth

8 LOCALSCENE LIVE is BETTER Meet, mingle, dine, dance … and enjoy yourself! by Clarissa Orth

LiveMUSIC 8 LiveTHEATRE 15 LiveDANCE 16 LiveFESTIVALS 17 INSITE Magazine is published monthly by Insite Inside theMusic 21 Printing & Graphic Services, 123 E. Wm. J. Bryan Pkwy., Bryan, Texas 77803. (979) 23 GET 823-5567 www.insitegroup. INVOLVED com Volume 27, Number 12. Operation Renovation Publisher/Editor: Angelique A five-day miracle helps very special kids Gammon; Account Executive: by Liana Lowey Lauren Williams; Graphic Designers: Alida Bedard; Karen Green. Editorial 24 UPCLOSE Intern: Clarissa Orth; Broadcaster of the Year Marketing Intern: Courtney These days, they call him ‘Mister’ Downs Lovelace; INSITE Magazine is a division of The Insite Group, by Caitlin Shields LP. Reproduction of any part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. 28 COMMUNITYOUTREACH Insite Printing & Graphic Will Paint For Food Services Managing Partners: Artist creates ‘Faces that Shape Iola’ Kyle DeWitt, Angelique by Caitlin Shields Gammon, Greg Gammon. General Manager: Carl Dixon; COVER CREDIT: Special thanks to Michael Gaskins on sax Pre-Press Manager: Mari and David Alden (D.A.) McDowell on piano at the Casablanca Brown; Office Manager: Piano Bar inside Christopher’s World Grille, Bryan. Shoes: Wendy Seward; Sales & Joan and David Collection, courtesy of Charli, College Station. Customer Service: Molly Barton; Candi Burling; Janice Leg model, Clarissa Orth. Photo by Kelvin Morrison, Specialties Hellman; Manda Jackson; Photography. Marie Lindley; Barbara Wyss; Production: Stephen Beatty; Troy Cahill, Norris Carnes; Marilyn Carey; Don Departments Coburn; Jaimie Colwell; Ricky Conchola; Byron Lee; Margie Lowry; Doug Madison; Arthur Publisher’sDesk What next? page 4 Maldonado; Brandon Prouse; Frank Ramirez; Jimmy Welch. What’sHappening March events page 7 Businessbriefs Notable business news page 30 Eats & Treats Food & fun guide page 31 March 2011 INSITE 3 Publisher’sdesk

Last month’s GHOST STORY (www. insitegroup.com/archives/February2011) kicked up a storm of ghoulish interest. Whether you called, emailed or dropped by to tell me you were in the skeptic corner with me or lined up behind the Wanna Believers, no, there haven’t been any new VISITATIONS since we outed the spooks at our building, and no, we aren’t giving tours. Of course, for favored printing clients we might make an exception. If you want to know what sells, well, the answer is stuff that goes bump in the nights. MOVING ON … last September’s incredibly popular DATE NIGHT feature (www.insitegroup.com/ archives/September2010) inspired this month’s compendium on live entertainment around Bryan/College Station. What started as a goal to gather around 1,000 words on the variety of local live ENTERTAINMENT VENUES catering to the post-college crowd grew to 2,000, then 3,000 words and kept expanding until it CONSUMED the March magazine logging in at an astounding 5,000 words spread over 12 pages. To keep up with the most recent listings, find Insite Magazine on Facebook. To anyone who has ever whined that there’s NOTHING TO DO around these parts, all I can say is, ‘READ MY LISTS.’ – Angelique Gammon

4 INSITE March 2011 makeplans compiled by the Insite staff

Steak & Shake Dinner & Auction Celebrity Golf Tournament

On March 20 at 6:30 p.m., the Steak & Shake Dinner and Auction will be held at Hurricane Harry’s. It is open to the public and is a great way to support the Club. Tickets are $25 and include a steak dinner and the opportunity to meet some of the celebrities from the golf tournament. The golf tournament follows on March 21 at Miramont Country Club. Cost is $550 for a single tournament player and includes two dinner tickets. Cost to register a team of four for golf and receive eight tickets to the dinner is $2,000. To register for the golf tournament, print and fax the forms at www.celebritygolfevent.com or call Tami at (979) 778-2903. To become a Boys & Girls Club volunteer, call (979) 822-7516. To volunteer with special events or the upcoming golf tournament, call Tami at (979) 778-2903.

Lincoln Recreation Center: 1000 Eleanor, College Station, 77840 (979) 764-3779 Bryan Boys & Girls Club location: 900 William J. Bryan Pkwy, Bryan, 77803 (979) 822-7516 www.bgcbv.org

The Boys & Girls Club: Fun With a Future

ot everyone wakes up to the morning tutors from Texas A&M help children finish in who they are and to realize what they are alarm eager to get to work. Tami their homework before their parents pick capable of achieving in life by helping members N Swigert says she is glad to go to them up. In the career program, they learn set and reach short- and long-term goals. work every day knowing that she is one of about different career types, what they need to Not only do children learn much more the people who are helping more than 2,000 do to prepare for those careers, and the classes at a Boys & Girls Club than at a daycare, but youth in Bryan/College Station have a safe they need to take. For physical activities and it is also much more affordable. Dues are as and fun place to come after school where they outdoor fun, the sports program includes Jr. low as $10 per year. Each year, every chapter also learn ways to be successful in the future. NBA, Jr. WNBA and flag football. does something different for National Boys & As vice president of community relations, Swigert says that one of the greatest Girls Club Week to promote the organization Swigert explains that the Club focuses on five programs offered is Money Matters, a program to the community. core program areas: character and leadership; that teaches financial literacy and money With more than 2,000 children, the nine education and career; the arts; health and life management: how to balance a checkbook; staff members are very grateful for the help skills; and sports and recreation. why money is taken out of a paycheck every they receive from their 1,500 volunteers, Beginning March 20, The Boys & Girls month; and how to pay for college. including students and organizations from Clubs of the Brazos Valley will offer a free For teenagers approaching graduation, trial week as an opportunity for even more the Teen Center at the College Station Texas A&M University and Blinn College, children to see how much they will like being location offers programs geared to planning says Swigert. The work the club does is in the Club. work and education in their future. The made possible by donations and fundraisers, On a typical school day, the children start Teen Initiative is a leadership program that including the Celebrity Golf Classic, where coming about 3 p.m. and can stay as late as teaches the importance of volunteering in the each individual golfer and team is paired to 8 p.m. During the summer, the Club is open community, fundraising, and how even the play with a celebrity in the tournament. Some all day from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In the very young can give back. of the special guests include various NFL computer lab, the children think they are Aside from these very specific programs, players, the only Heisman winner from Texas playing games when in reality they are working the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Brazos Valley also A&M John David Crow, and former Texas on educational pieces. During the power hour, strives to teach children to have confidence A&M golf coach Bob Ellis.

March 2011 INSITE 5 Come take a tour of Allen Academy and see why our students have faith that they will be heard, that they will be respected, and that they will have an opportunity to learn. Allen Academy is now enrolling. 979-776-0731 www.allenacademy.org/admissions

6 INSITE March 2011 what’shappening compiled by the Insite staff UPCOMING EVENT PLANNER

performances by the Brazos suddenlink.net for reservations Dance Exhibition, 9:30 a.m.; profit agency, will hostDr. Valley Symphony at 6:30 p.m. or more information. Texas A&M Chemistry Road Richard DeVaul, professor in and 7:30 p.m. and tours of Show, 10:30 a.m.; Senior lunch the department of Psychiatry the stained glass windows March 21 beginning at gathering, 12 noon; groups of and Behavioral Sciences at throughout the evening. 10 a.m., the Texas A&M 10 or more discount, 12 noon the Texas A&M HSC College Visit www.standrewsbcs.org Diamond Darlings will host to 2 p.m. Cost is $6 per adult, of Medicine, presenting or call (979) 822-5176 for the 16th Annual “Diamond in $3 per child age 3-12; children “Understanding Sexual more information. the Rough” golf tournament under 2 are free. Abuse.” The event will be March 5 from 11 a.m. to at the Traditions Golf Course in held at the Saint Michael’s 3 p.m., join St. Andrew’s March 14 from 5:30 p.m. Bryan. The 4-person scramble March 26 through April 4 Episcopal School gymnasium, Spring Festival, “Growing until 7:30 p.m., the American includes 18 holes of golf along beginning at 8 a.m. daily, the 2500 South College, Bryan. Hope for the Community.” Business Women’s with closest to the pin and LaBahia Antique Show will Activities include informational Association – Women of longest drive competitions. be held with more than 70 April 9 at the Mance Lipscomb Park in Navasota, March 8 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Brazos County Expo, the B/CS Chamber of Commerce presents David Geralk and others are the largest one-day restaurant event in the Brazos Valley, the 16th annual Epicurean Extravaganza. scheduled to perform during Featuring more than 30 restaurants, this is a great way to sample cuisine from many different local “Blues, Bluebonnets & restaurants in one evening. Tickets are $25 for general admission or $40 “Premium” tickets get you BBQ,” in honor of Blues singer early entrance, one plate, two drink tickets, two entries into the door prize bucket and a guaranteed Mance Lipscomb’s birthday. seat in a reserved section. For more information, visit bcschamber.org or call (979) 260-5200 For more information, visit wwwNavasotaTx.gov. booths by local outreach Excellence will hold their Cost to participate is $125 for dealers at the LaBahia Hall groups, games, eco-friendly monthly meeting at LaRiviera adults and $100 for students, in Burton during the Round April 9 in Brenham, join in for crafts for children, “green” Restaurant & Bakery, 3700 S. with a meal following play Top Antique festival. For the 33rd Annual Blue Bell giveaways, a children’s book Texas Ave., in Bryan. Cost is included in the entry fees. more information, visit www. Fun Run. This fun-filled family exchange and live music. Plus, $20 per person and includes Donations and sponsorships are labahiaantiques.com. event offers something for gourmet food may be purchased a professional speaker, also available. Proceeds from everyone: Kids One Mile; 5k; from Chef Tai’s Mobile Gourmet dinner and great networking the golf tournament will benefit March 26 from 10 a.m. until 10k; 5k Team; 10k Team; and and Peter Madden’s new Street opportunities. Reservations are the Diamond Darlings and their 2 p.m., Bryan ISD hosts the 10k relay. Best of all, Blue Bell Cuisine food truck. The event due by 12 noon on continuous support annual Artfest in the Bryan pulls their trucks in the parking High School Silver Campus is open to the community and the Thursday before the of Texas A&M baseball. lot and hands out all of the Cafeteria. More than 1,000 admission is free. St. Andrew’s meeting by emailing For entry forms or more free ice cream that you can original creations by students is located at 217 W. 26th in [email protected]. information, email tamu. eat. So whether you are a in kindergarten through high Downtown Bryan. Visit www. For more information visit [email protected]. walker or a runner, come school will be on display. This standrewsbcs.org for more www.abwawe.org. on out and enjoy yourself in March 26 beginning at 9 a.m., free event is open to the public information. and will also feature hands- scenic Brenham. Visit www. Friends of the Library will March 15 beginning at on workshops that the entire bluebellfunrun.com and also on host its annual Book Sale March 4 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 11:45 a.m., the Christian family will enjoy. Facebook for registration and p.m., celebrate the First Friday Women’s Connection for Young Readers at the Larry more information. Downtown Art Step at St. luncheon will be held at J. Ringer Library in College Station. Friends of the Library Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Pebble Creek Country Club. Plan Ahead April 30 and May 1, Friends members enter at 9 a.m.; featuring art displays from Tickets are $16 and the of the Library will host its nonmembers enter at 10 a.m. local artist groups including reservation deadline is April 1-2 at 7 p.m. in Brenham, annual Spring Book Sale at For more information, visit Blinn College art professors March 10. Call Cheryl at (979) the Brenham Broadway Kids the Clara B. Mounce Public www.bcslibrary.org or call (979) and students. Enjoy music 690-3836 or email bcs-cwc@ and the Brenham Children’s Library, 201 E. 26th St., Bryan. 764-3416. Chorus will be presenting On Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 March 10 from 11:30 a.m. until 1 “Disney’s 101 Dalmatians p.m., one bag of books costs March 26 from 8 a.m. until p.m., the Community Foundation Kids” and choral music from $20. On Sunday from 1:30 p.m. 2 p.m., the Kiwanis Club of of the Brazos Valley will host popular at the W.W. O’Donnell to 3:30 p.m., two bags of books the 2011 Tribute Luncheon College Station is holding the Center on the Blinn College cost $10. If you are a 2011 honoring Stephanie Sale and 59th Annual Pancake Day at campus. Advance tickets are $8 Friends of the Library member, Jim Singleton for their support the Brazos Center. In addition for adults and $5 for children you may enter the sale at 9 of community organizations to all-you-can-eat pancakes, and are available through a.m. Saturday; nonmembers through the years. The event the menu includes sausage, the Chorus office at (979) will be held at the Hilton College juice, milk and coffee. There 277-3897 or by email at info@ enter at 10 a/m. Memberships Station & Conference Center. For will also be a wide assortment brenhamchildrenschorus.org. may be bought at the door information and sponsorship, at 9 a.m. Visit http://www. please contact Derek Dictson at of free children’s booths bcslibrary.org or call (979) 209- (979) 575-4496 or [email protected]. throughout the day. Other April 7 at 7 p.m., Room for activities will include: MCM Us All Ministries, a non- 5600 for more information. i March 2011 INSITE 7 localscene Clarissa Orth

Meet, mingle, dine, dance, enjoy … Netflix … dinner and movie … boring. No worries. Liven up Music any night of the week because with a variety of live entertainment venues right here in Bryan/ College Station. A surprising number of restaurants have added LIVE live music to their ambiance and there are a is BETTER! variety of dance options where you won’t have to fight college students for a place on the floor. From community theatre to Broadway cum OPAS, there are performances to suit any taste and budget. If you want to escape for an entire weekend packed with live performances plan to attend one of Texas’ many spring music festivals. Whether you like blues, jazz, soul, traditional or Texas country, classical musical or theatre, it’s all here and it’s all live!

8 INSITE March 2011 MLIVEusic Sit back, relax and enjoy

or over a year now the New Orleans Style F Jazz Jam has kicked off the first Sunday Jackson Taylor performing at Church Street Texas Blues and Barbecue in College Station: of every month at Downtown Uncorked with www.churchstreetbbq.com: Wednesday through Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons. musicians and fans gathering to join in the jam session from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Some of the regular performers include Greg Tivis, The March 3 – Phil Pritchett Live music all day for Downtown Street and Dixieland Jazz Band, John Wick and The Full March 12 – Rock-A-Fellas Art Fair House Blues Band, and The Occasional String March 25 – Leannasaurus Rex Band. Part of the fun is never knowing who March 26 – Texas Twisters Village Cafe could be coming in from Houston, Austin April 1 – Midnight Express 210 West 26th Street, Bryan, 77803 April 9 – Cody Hodges or even from out of state and as many as 20 (979) 703-8514 musicians have jammed onstage at once. As April 15 – Gary P. Nunn www.thevillagedowntown.com the music moves the audience, it’s not unusual April 16 – Rock-A-Fellas to see folks in the audience standing to dance. April 30 – Texas Twisters The night always concludes with a conga line forming behind the band as they parade in Lakeside Icehouse and out of the wine bar to “When the Saints 8200 Sandy Point Rd, Bryan, 77807 Go Marching In.” You don’t have to wait for (979) 361-0861 hristopher’s World Grille offers jazz the Jazz Jam because Downtown Uncorked www.lakebryan.com C every Friday and Saturday nights with has live performances every weekend. a pianist and an occasional saxophone player from about 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Downtown Uncorked in the Casablanca Piano Bar, just one of 206 West 26th Street, Bryan, 77803 (979) 823-4837 illage Café offers singer/songwriter Find Downtown Uncorked on Facebook V open mic night every Thursday starting at 9 p.m. where you can enjoy anyone who braves the stage. On the weekends, bands play anything from 60’s and 70’s classic rock to jazz to psychedelic country. Live music is also played evel in the beautiful view of the sun every Saturday during lunch from 12 noon to 2 R setting just behind the stage that p.m. Nice weather moves the music to the alley overhangs Lake Bryan at Lakeside Icehouse. where there is plenty of room to dance. Every Wednesday through Sunday night there are live performances by cover bands and March 4 (First Friday) acoustic artists. Live blues music is played Cube, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Karan Chavis, 8 p.m. every Thursday night by John Wick and to 11 p.m. The Full House Blues Band and other local March 11 blues performers, and country artist Clayton John Wick, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Gardner plays every Sunday night. While April 1 (First Friday) listening to the live performers you can play Texas Beach Band, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the washer tournaments on Wednesdays April 8 and eat crawfish on Fridays. Performances Sam Baker, 7 p.m., KEOS Fundraiser Michael Gaskins on sax and David Alden (D.A.) begin at 8 p.m. and are free of charge. April 16 McDowell on piano at Christopher’s World Grille in Bryan: jazz every FridayMarch and 2011 Saturday INSITE nights9 in the Casablanca Piano Bar. 10 INSITE March 2011 the beautifully restored rooms of the 1913 Andrews House that is home to this award- winning restaurant. Appetizers and drinks are served in the Casablanca Bar, which is open to the public during regular restaurant hours. Pianist D.A. McDowell plays soft favorites and requests. Christopher’s World Grille 5001 Boonville Road, Bryan, 77802 (979) 776-2181 www.christophersworldgrille.com

hether it’s in the Italian villa-style indoors or on the patio, live music can Jazz pianist Greg Tivis at Veritas Wine & Bistro in College Station: Live music nightly from 8 p.m. W to 10 p.m.; on the patio when the weather is nice. be enjoyed during a meal any day of the week at Luigi’s Patio Ristorante. The atmosphere will make you feel as if you’re in a typical, have the chance to listen to them live before Veritas Wine & Bistro Italian market square. A pianist or guitarist they will be heard over the radio. Not only 830 University Drive E. does Cooper have a band with phenomenal plays Tuesday through Thursday from 7 College Station, 77840 p.m. to 9 p.m.; a jazz combo plays Friday vocalist, keyboard, guitar, bongos, drums and (979) 268-3251 and Saturday night from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.; the occasional trombone, but he is also an and a singer/pianist performs during Sunday Aggie working towards his masters degree. www.veritaswineandbistro.com brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Joshua Ray plays a similar show on Friday nights from 9 p.m. to midnight. He has Luigi’s different people sit in with him as a drummer, 3975 SH-6 South #100 bassist, or trombonist. he Tap is a sports bar, restaurant and live College Station, 77845 music venue all in one. Join in Karaoke on (979) 693-2742 The Republic T 701 University E. Suite 406 Monday nights from 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. and www.luigispatioristorante.com College Station, 77845 gather ‘round the Piano Bar on Wednesday nights from 10:45 p.m. to 2 a.m. Play darts, (979) 260-4120 pool or dominos or watch the game on one of www.therepublic1836.com the plasma TV’s while enjoying the live music.

he Republic has live musical acts all The Tap T rooted in jazz and blues Wednesday 815 Harvey Road through Saturday. More than 150 bottles of the rarest whiskeys in the world serve as a eritas Wine & Bistro combines elegant College Station, 77840 unique backdrop to the stage. V décor, French-American-Asian food, a (979) 696-5570 On Wednesday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., wine selection of 1,800 bottles and live music www.tapbcs.com exceptional vocalist Cynthia Williams and to create an extraordinary culinary experience. guitarist Francisco Farias join for a tribute Jazz pianist Greg Tivis plays every Friday to classic diva jazz and blues singers. On night and is frequently accompanied by the Saturdays from 9 p.m. to midnight, they play beautiful voice of Kelsey Taylor. Saturday’s an upbeat show with more covers. entertainment varies from blues to jazz with pening just last summer, Church Street The Brad Cooper Band plays every occasional appearances by folk musician Joey O Texas Blues & Barbecue has successfully Thursday night from 9 p.m. to midnight. McGee. When the weather is nice, the music combined two Texas traditions offering The band just returned from Nashville where moves to the outdoor patio. The music is live blues-inspired music every Wednesday they have been recording an album, so you played from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly. through Saturday nights and Sunday March 2011 INSITE 11 Elizabeth Russell and Francisco Farias at The Republic: The Republic showcases original singers/ songwriters Wednesday through Saturday nights.

Stafford Main Street 106 S. Main St., Downtown Bryan www.staffordmainstreet.com

Big Texas Thursdays Acoustic Series at Church Street BBQ March 24 - Walt Wilkins March 31 - Stephanie Briggs Mike Hayes, Francisco Farias and Seth Templeton at The Republic in College Station: live music every Wednesday through Saturday in the bar. April 7 - Drew Kennedy April 14 - Mark Jungers April 21 - Matt Harlan afternoons along with heaping portions of January. Join in every Sunday night at 7 p.m. April 28 - Johnny Falstaff and Hank Schyma barbecue. Featuring a variety of acts from at Stafford Main Street. Bachmeyer is proud (Honky Tonk Blood Soundtrack Release Austin, blues sensation JT Coldfire plays on of his line-up, targeting bands and artists that Party) the first Friday of every month and Andy are “under the radar” and can’t be found on May 5 - To Be Announced McIntyre will be playing on March 26. the radio to give them a place for their music Other performers include Shane Temple, to be heard by new fans. With rock, roots, Big Red Drum Seth Candan and Jackson Taylor and the Americana, country, bluegrass, rockabilly Entertainment Sinners. The music, food, outdoor stage, and and alternative/pop/jazz on the calendar, Bucky Bachmeyer large patio space for dancing provides the Bachmeyer says you can expect good, solid, (512) 922-8759 full entertainment experience. Performances music no matter what week you step into www.bigreddrum.com begin at 8:30 p.m. and last until midnight and Stafford. Beginning March 24, an acoustic Saturday performances are from 10:30 p.m. showcase series kicks off on Thursday night to 1:30 a.m. Often, the crowd is having such a from 9 p.m. to midnight at Church Street great time they persuade the band to continue Barbeque. All shows are free of charge. playing until 3:30 in the morning! he Lemon Wedge has live music every Big Texas Nights at Stafford Main Street Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. offering a March 6 - Sideshow Tramps with Chad Petty T Church Street variety of music including Americana, folk, and Magic Girl Texas Blues & Barbecue rock, and blues. There is never a cover charge March 13 - The Trishas with Mike Ethan 100 Church Avenue and always food or drink specials. Messick and Matt Harlan College Station, 77840 March 20 - Javi Garcia and the Cold Cold (979) 268-0227 March 4 – Ray Prim Ground with Josh Langston and Shy March 25 – John Wick www.churchstreetbbq.com Blakeman April 1 – Paul Renna March 27 - Beau Hinze and the Backporch Shufflers with Gabe Wootton and Britt Lloyd The Lemon Wedge April 3 - Chubby Knuckle Choir with Luke 308 N Main St, Bryan, 77803 Adair and the Big Bills (979) 703-4052 ucky Bachmeyer’s dream to start a live April 10 - Texas Renegade with The Neckties www.reverbnation.com/venue/ B music showcase in Bryan/College Station April 17- Hunter McKithan and the Offenders has recently become a reality with the kickoff with James Pardo and Matt Harlan thelemonwedge of the Big Texas Nights Showcase Series in April 24 - Easter Sunday – No Showcase

12 INSITE March 2011 Keep it Classical University campus. Tickets for the Backstage has two other performances remaining in the Dinner at La Riviera are $40. 2010-11 season. On April 3 at 6 p.m., tenor Chris Hoffman and pianist Gale Worthy will Brazos Valley collaborate on Franz Schubert’s mesmerizing he Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra Symphony Orchestra song cycle about the beauty of young love, Die schöne Müllerin. On July 3 at 7:30 p.m., La presents “Classical Masters” on March (979) 696-6100 T Follia Austin Baroque sails across the ocean to 6 featuring music from Bach, Beethoven www.bvso.org and Brahms. Sahun Hong, the young piano explore the music of Colonial America played sensation and grand prizewinner of the 2009 on period instruments. Juanita Miller Concerto Competition, will be All Concerts on Carter Creek performances the guest soloist. are free and open to the public. Two composers who began their careers n 1991, the Marian Anderson String in the Brazos Valley are returning for the Concerts on Carter Creek symphony’s season finale on April 10 with I Quartet won the International Cleveland First Presbyterian Church Bryan “Rhapsody in Blue,” a symphony by George Quartet Competition becoming the first 1100 Carter Creek Parkway Halsell and a piano concerto by Trent Hanna. African American ensemble in history to win Bryan 77802 On Wednesday, April 6, a “Backstage Dinner” a classical music competition. The quartet is (979) 823-8073 based in Bryan and has been playing together will be held at La Riviera Restaurant in www.fpcbryan.org conjunction with the April concert. This since 1989. Most Brazos Valley residents behind-the-scenes event allows patrons to won’t be able to travel to hear them play as Marian Anderson enjoy dinner with guest artists and Musical part of the Keiser Concert Series in Concord, String Quartet Director Marcelo Bussiki. New Hampshire, in April. Fortunately, they Chamber Music Institute Concert tickets are $32 for adults and $12 will be performing March 27 at 6 p.m. with 3450 Campus Drive, Bryan for students and are available through the pianist Robert Leslie as part of the Concerts MSC box office, (979) 845-1234, or online on Carter Creek series at First Presbyterian (979) 574-6999 at www.bvso.org. Both performances are at Church in Bryan. www.marianandersonstringquartet.com 5 p.m. in Rudder Theater on the Texas A&M The Concerts on Carter Creek music series

Brazos Valley Symphony Musical Director Marcelo Bussiki: The Marian Anderson String Quartet: March 27 with pianistMarch 2011 Robert INSITE Leslie 13 as performances March 6 and April 10. part of the Concerts on Carter Creek series at First Presbyterian Church, Bryan. Theatre

14 INSITE March 2011 TLIVEheatre PAS at Texas A&M brings professional O theatre, music and dance programs featuring world-class performances home to the Brazos Valley. The 2010-11 Season 36 wraps up with the classic American play “BUS STOP” on Tuesday, March 22, at 7:30 p.m. in Rudder Theater. Set in the 1950s, it shows how all of our lives are intertwined and will certainly make you laugh. On April 6-9, Joe Bourne and The Gary Moran Trio pay homage to the jazz legend with “Nat King Cole Remembered.” You’ll feel as if you were listening to the king himself as they perform favorites like “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” “Make Believe,” and “Unforgettable.” The performances will be at 7:30 p.m. in the ballroom of the Miramont Joe Bourne and The Gary Moran Trio: MSC OPAS presents “Nat King Cole Remembered,” Country Club in Bryan. April 6-9 at Miramont Country Club in Bryan. Tickets for the final two offerings of the OPAS season may be purchased at the MSC Choice production of “Fresh Brewed” will 9 and 10 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Fall shows can Box Office, (979) 845-1234, or online at www. cap the season on July 15-16 and 22-23, with be found online. mscopas.org. Ticket prices vary. a group of 10 mini plays that all take place in Tickets may be purchased in advance a coffee bar. at www.navasotatheatre.com or at the MSC OPAS Tickets for all shows are $10 for adults, $8 door: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 65 or Box Office (979) 845-1234 for Seniors and students, and $6 on Thursdays older and students, $5 for children, and $9 www.mscopas.org and are available in advance from the Arts each for groups of 20 or more. If you are Council of Brazos Valley or at the door. Visit waiting to purchase your tickets at the door, the website for audition dates for each show. reservations are encouraged and can be made at (936) 825-3195. StageCenter ryan/College Station’s oldest 201-B W. 26th St, Bryan, 77803 Navasota Theatre Alliance community theatre group, StageCenter, B (979) 823-4297 Sunny Furman Theater has five shows remaining in the 2010-11 www.stagecenter.net 104 West Washington, Navasota, season. Mauritius is a gripping tale of two 77868 sisters who must agree what to do with an (936) 825-3195 inherited book of rare stamps that may be www.navasotatheatre.com worth far more than just the memories it holds. Performances are March 31, April 1-2, 7-9, 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. avasota Theatre Alliance is bringing On May 5-7 and 12-14, a Director’s Choice N the comedy “Barefoot in the Park” to patrons March 31 through April 2, April 7-9, production of “Grace & Glorie” will recreate n a small town that values community, the Broadway classic that originally starred and April 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. and April 3, 10, I The Theatre Company prides itself Estelle Parsons and Lucie Arnaz. Next up is and 17 at 2 p.m. on showcasing local talent. All musicals “Southern Hospitality” on June 9-11, 16- “Kilroy Was Here,” a patriotic musical, have open auditions of casting for all roles 18, and 23-25, a comedy about the ways the will be performed June 30 through July 2, and anyone who has an itch to perform is Futrelle sisters pull their tiny town together July 7-9 and July 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. and July welcomed. Whether you want to sing, dance to save it from extinction. Finally, a Director’s 3, 10, and 17 at 2 p.m. Auditions are on May or act, you can audition for a role where you March 2011 INSITE 15 utilize your strengths. There are also volunteer positions for backstage crew and hair and makeup. The musicians are local as well with occasional orchestras from Sam Houston State University. LIVE “We have a lot of great talent that can rival Dance anybody!” says Mark Taylor, president of the board of directors. It’s an intimate setting that places the audience close to the stage and actors; you can even shake their hands in the Dancing the Night Away receiving line after the show. “The sets are amazing, costumes are great, and the acting is hat with work, kids and cooking professional!” says Taylor. W dinner, it’s hard to find time to To celebrate the 80th birthday of the workout. It’s even harder to find the energy composer Stephen Sondheim, the Theatre and motivation to do so, but take heart: a Company is presenting “Follies” on February night of dancing can double as a fun outing 25-27 and March 4-6. and a workout. Depending on the intensity Auditions for “Annie” are on April 3 at 7 level, just one hour of dancing can burn p.m. with performances on May 6-8, 13-15 hundreds of calories. and 20-23. There will be two summer shows: Before the weekend even arrives, you can “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the spice up your Wednesday nights with salsa Forum” on July 8-10 and 15-17; and “Chess” lessons from Mambos Entertainment at on August 26-28 and September 2-4. Village Café. For $8 at 8 p.m. you receive an Friday and Saturday night shows are at hour and half lesson, followed by dancing 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday afternoon until midnight. A quick 30-minute lesson is shows are at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased Upcoming performances include: offered again on Saturday nights at 10 p.m. at the Arts Council of Brazos Valley or at March 4 – Stoney LaRue for only $5. Apply what you learned and www.thetheatrecompany.com: $12 for adults March 5 – FM2865 dance for the rest of the night until 2 a.m. and $5 for children. March 12 – Crossroads March 25 – Granger Smith The Theatre Company Village Cafe March 26 – Shawn Jennings 725 E. Villa Maria Rd., Bryan, 77802 210 West 26th Street, Bryan, 77803 April 1 – Kyle Park (979) 779-1302 (979) 703-8514 April 8 – Jake Hooker JB and the www.thetheatrecompany.com www.thevillagedowntown.com April 15 – Moonshine Band Texas Hall of Fame 649 N. Harvey Mitchell Pkwy Bryan, 77803 ince 1978, country music lovers have (979) 822-2222 S gone to The Texas Hall of Fame to two- www.texashalloffame.net step, waltz, and line dance in their cowboy boots. The vast dance floor offers plenty of room to sway, spin, and shake to new and known country singers and bands. Each weekend presents three nights of dancing from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. with the original college night on Thursday, Texas Country on Fridays, and traditional country on Saturdays. Here’s an insider tip: even though Thursday is college night, if you get there when the doors open, you’ll find a group of decidedly post-college, The Theatre Company of B/CS presents Follies: The story of chorus girls all grown up; March serious dancers who come for the great dance 4-6. Photo by BobMorrisPhotograpy.net. floor for an hour or so before the college kids arrive in droves.

16 INSITE March 2011 ELIVEvents

Let’s Fest!

s the temperatures finally start rising, A April kicks off with many outdoor music festivals all over the great state. If you’re a music lover (and who isn’t?), you don’t want to miss out on spending one of your weekends this spring feeling the warm sun on your skin, sipping on a cool drink, and listening to countless live musical performances while surrounded by hundreds of people smiling, singing and dancing. (Above) Shimmy!: Coming to the Palace Theatre in Downtown Bryan on April 30. (Below) Shimmy! Organizer Victoria Teel.

Messina Hof Wine & Roses Festival Shimmy! r. Love with his full band will be playing D“oldies and goodies” at the Messina Hof Randomly attending a belly dancing class with her older sister, Victoria Teel never Winery & Resort’s Annual Wine & Roses Festival expected to find herself a nationally recognized, multi-award-winning belly dancer on Saturday, April 23, from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and producer of a dancing showcase. But now four years later, that’s exactly what The festival is free and open to the public. she is. A smaller version of Shimmy! began in 2008 as a charity canned food drive. Messina Hof Also an instructor at the Dance Centre and the Texas A&M Recreation Center, Winery & Resort Teel created the show to educate the community about these thrilling art forms 4545 Old Reliance Road, Bryan 77808 while giving back to the community. Shimmy! has showcased ballet, salsa, Indian (979) 778-9463 dancing and hip-hop. This year’s show also includes Bollywood (an upbeat style www.messinahof.com of Indian dancing) and free-style hip-hop dancers. The more than 70 performers consist of students of belly dance classes and professional belly dancers. Some of the students have been dancing for just 12 weeks, while others have been dancing for more than five years. This year’s guest performers include Drakon, Stacey Lizette, Rania, Wreckin’ Raas, and FUSD. Chilifest Most of the dancers are females but there are three males, two students and one ach spring, Chilifest transforms 15 professional. A local belly dance troupe, Brazos Rags Ensemble, is a compilation E acres of pastureland into the Starlight of professional belly dancers and instructors who perform at Shimmy! each year Ballroom where country artists perform in and includes Teal. front of 45,000 people. Celebrating its 20th Now in its third year, Shimmy will be held on April 30 at the Palace Theatre in anniversary on April 8-9, six headliners will Downtown Bryan. Pre-sale tickets are $5 through Teel at mail@victoriabellydance. take the stage: Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers, com. They can also be purchased online for $7 at www.victoriabellydance.com on Stoney LaRue, Jason Boland, Bart Crow the Shimmy! page where there is a paypal option. Tickets will be $10 at the door. Band, and Dierks Bentley. What began as a fundraiser by a Texas A&M University Here’s an insider tip: “Shimmy” is a dance move in belly dance, but the joke is fraternity has turned into an event that has there are 1001 types of shimmies since everyone does it a little bit differently. donated more than $2 million to Brazos

March 2011 INSITE 17 18 INSITE March 2011 Valley non-profits including the Boys & Catalena Hatters, CC Creations, Inspirations, 14-17. Four stages, more than 30 acts, and Girls Club of the Brazos Valley, the Burleson Raising Canes and Aggieland Outfitters. You a singular Texas Hill Country campground County Go-Texan Association, Brazos Valley can also purchase tickets at the gate for $35. have brought audiences for 24 years. While Children’s Museum, and CARPOOL. Starlight Ballroom is located four miles having a blast, you will also be giving back To support this great cause and enjoy the from Snook. Head west on University Drive, because a portion of the proceeds will go to entertainment, you can be on a team or go pass through Snook, turn right on FM 3058 Health Alliance for Austin Musicians and on your own but know that Friday night is and Chilifest is on the right. Campfire USA-Balcones Council. for chili team members only and is not open The crowd-pleasing and energetic to the general public. The benefits of being Chilifest performers include: The Avett Brothers, on a team include saving money, being able www.chilifest.org to bring in your own food and drinks, and mandolin icon Sam Bush, Tim O’Brien enjoying performances by Charlie Robison, (two-time International Bluegrass Music Sean McConnell, Emory Quinn, Max Stalling, Association Male Vocalist of Year nominee), Cody Johnson and Rob Baird. ukelele wizard Jake Shimabukuro, Green Registration for teams is on March 4 at the Mountain Grass (a local favorite and festival Callaway Villas from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Teams Old Settler’s Music Festival mainstay), Elliott Brood (the self-billed “death may consist of 15-35 people and require a $40 country” indie folk-rock trio from Toronto), entry fee. n outstanding lineup of award-winning Emmitt-Nerhsi Band and many more. To attend on Saturday only, $30 tickets A roots music, bluegrass and Americana may be purchased in advance at Chilifest. artists will be performing at the annual Old Austin, Texas org, Callaway Villas, Loupot’s Bookstores, Settler’s Music Festival in Austin on April www.oldsettlersmusicfest.org March 2011 INSITE 19 20 INSITE March 2011 LIVEUp Close & Personal

“Blues You Can Use” Full House Blues Band

’ll get you excited,” says John Wick, “Ifront man of the Full House Blues Band. His onstage energy and crowd participation creates a fun performance that Find Clayton Gardner at Lakeside Icehouse on Lake Bryan every Sunday night at 7 p.m. keeps his crowd smiling. The band consists of lead guitar player Renn Carson, bass guitarist Jeff Munson, Peggy Cernuch on the His most recent song, “Table For Two,” was drums and John Wick singing and playing written in his hotel room the night before he the harmonica. recorded his album. Wick struggles to classify the exact genre Country Boy Clayton Gardner He believes music is an art made to reach their music falls in, but finally calls the out to people and make them feel something, group a classic R&B and soul band. They ased in College Station with his second so he strives for his songs to be relatable. are “certainly a dance band.” He loves to see album just released, Clayton Gardner is “In Time,” a song from his first album, is people happy, having fun, and clapping along B an up-and-coming country artist that you Gardner’s favorite thus far because it was the while he’s on stage shaking and moving. definitely want to know. He picked up the guitar first time he really put his feelings on paper. They play “all the good ol’ hits” from the top for the first time in 2005 because he thought it There’s more to Gardner than just his 50 of Motown, blues, and soul music. Crowd was the “coolest thing ever” to make his own music and lyrics: he is known for creating favorites include “My Girl,” “Let’s Get It On,” music and emulate other artists. He taught laughter throughout a venue with his witty and anything by Elvis Presley. They also play himself how to play and was soon writing his and quirky charm. For the last two and half some originals by Wick himself – songs that own songs. His passion for expressing himself years he’s been playing acoustic shows all were inspired by things that occurred in his through music and entertaining others has over Texas so he’s had the freedom to jump life or just how the blues make him feel. been growing ever since. on things as they happen and even crack Wick says that the coolest place to play “I start a lot of songs,” says Gardner. jokes mid-song. Ready to take the next step in town is the Lakeside Icehouse of Lake Crumbled papers littering his room serve in his career, Gardner plans to have a full Bryan, where the water serves as a beautiful as evidence of his meticulousness for lyrics. band together again by late summer/early backdrop behind the stage. He will be Actually completing a song can take from spring. You can wind down any weekend playing there for a regular blues night every a single night to a couple of weeks, and with his show at Lakeside Icehouse where he Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with not only inspiration can come when it’s least expected. plays every Sunday night at 7 p.m. his band, but also other featured performers from the area. Not only will you enjoy the music, but you can even enjoy your company. Wick’s attention to staying on top of volume control allows his audience to converse without yelling over the music, just an additional quality that makes his band unique from others. You can find his other scheduled Find the Full House Blues Band at Lakeside Icehouse every Thursday 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. performances on Wick’s Facebook page.

March 2011 INSITE 21 Greg Tivis: The Art of Music

rom steamboats to touring the world, F Greg Tivis has had an extraordinary musical career. While some struggle to figure out what they want to do with their life, Tivis knew his passion at a young age. He studied music in his adolescence and has been playing professionally for more than 25 years producing four albums that showcase his talent on the piano and trumpet. Among all of the amazing places Tivis had the opportunity to perform, he says playing New Orleans style music on the Mississippi Queen River Boat on the Mississippi River was the most fun with Las Vegas a close second. What has he enjoyed most about playing all these years? The energy from his audience, says Tivis. He loves the thrill of performing and says building many relationships along the way has been a rare pleasure. After spending the 80’s playing in the Oklahoma City area and the 90’s travelling abroad with big bands and cruise lines, Tivis settled down with his wife in College Station. Five nights a week for five years at the Hilton Hotel he played solo piano and with his trio. Presently, you can see him live at Veritas Wine and Bistro every Friday night from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., where he’s been performing with vocalist Kelsey Taylor and bassist Steve Carr for the past three years. He covers jazz and big band icons like Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra. He also runs the popular Find Greg Tivis at Veritas Wine & Bistro every Friday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and the first Sunday monthly jazz jam session at Downtown of every month at Downtown Uncorked from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Uncorked on the first Sunday of every month. i

22 INSITE March 2011 GETINVOLVED by Liana Lowey

Operation Renovation: A 5-Day Miracle

Voices for Children office space were on-site nearly 24-hours a day. Dailey The needed change: new advocate Electric was another constant presence fine training had to be moved off site several tuning electrical and lighting, and Bob Kraus times to accommodate larger groups; and and Keystone Millwork added the finishing continuing education sessions of current touches to counters and built-in desks. J-Tel CASA volunteers often left people sitting Telephone Services and Agnitek worked to in the hallways craning their necks to hear the speaker. Board member Jon Bergeron get our telephone and internet cables run suggested a renovation project patterned and connected so that the office could be after popular television home make- operational on Monday. By Sunday night, over shows that would not only unite the ladies from the Texas A&M soccer team and community to help create economical office others were helping us move boxes back in space for our advocates and staff, but would to begin the unpacking process the following also bring attention to the needs of abused day. It was a five-day miracle. and neglected children. The end result is a beautiful, efficient and open From there, Operation Renovation was off. Keys and Walsh Construction enthusiastically floor plan that welcomes the community to join agreed to be general contractor. KBTX and the mission of ensuring that every abused and Mike Wright also jumped on board offering neglected child removed from his or her home has a coverage of the event throughout. And then CASA volunteer advocating for their individual something happened that we didn’t expect: we needs. Without donors like the Peters Family started receiving calls from businesses offering services, materials or labor. Borski Homes Foundation and Junior League of Bryan/ called offering to donate carpet mistakenly College Station (among many individuals), ordered for another job that was sitting idle. and everyone who supported the renovations Viking Floors made a similar call and offered in various ways, this dream could not have us unused flooring. Kenn Walsh and Ronnie become a reality. We invite you to join us in Keys worked with Matt Faulkner, who created finding a home for every child. the floor plans, to finalize the construction Liana W. Lowey is executive director of schedule to accomplish the large-scale Voices For Children, Inc., Court Appointed renovations in a five-day timeframe. Special Advocates (CASA) of Brazos Valley, On Wednesday, January 12, at 4 p.m., which served 183 abused or neglected foster football players from Bryan High School were children in Brazos, Burleson and Grimes helping us move the remainder of our boxes Counties last year. VFC recruits, trains, and and furniture out the front of the office while demolition started in the back. It was a feeling supports volunteers from the community to of pure chaos, pure excitement and pure joy. advocate for abused and neglected children The next several days saw a complete in the foster care system. For information gutting of the bottom floor of our Downtown about training of new advocates call (979) Bryan building. Ronnie Keys and Kenn Walsh 822-9700 or visit www.vfcbrazos.org. i

March 2011 INSITE 23 upclose by Caitlin Shields

Broadcaster of the Year . . . These days, they call him ‘Mister’ Downs ilgrims journey to sit at the feet of “I found the perfect job for me early and mythic leaders hoping to learn the it’s never changed,” Downs says. “Every day Pmeaning of life, and so it seems as that I’ve been at work, it’s been at a radio I prepare to interview Ben Downs, a local station. It’s just what I always wanted to do.” broadcasting icon. As my college graduation The roots of Downs’ career can be found looms ever nearer and I hunt for my first ‘real’ in after school and weekend shifts at his job in media, like, with dental and everything, hometown radio station in Hope, Arkansas, I am acutely aware that job candidates have to where he shared weekend duties with former be very good, even excellent, before anyone Presidential candidate, Mike Huckabee. will offer you a position. Seeing the breadth He continued on-air work for the former of Ben Downs’ broadcasting career, it’s no WTAW-FM while receiving his degree from wonder the bar is set so high for those of us Texas A&M University, but he also managed still struggling to the summit. to experience every other aspect of radio From his high school part-time radio broadcasting, too. announcing to chairing national broadcasting “I’ve been an engineer. I’ve done news. I’ve boards and lobbying in front of the FCC, been a manager. I’ve sold ads. I’ve certainly Downs, vice-president of Bryan Broadcasting been on the air. I’ve even played gospel music and Aggie Class of ‘76, has seen every corner and read the livestock futures,” notes Downs. of the radio broadcasting business, mostly After college, he began work at local from our own Brazos Valley backyard. station KTAM/KORA where he would soon

24 INSITE March 2011 (FCC). Downs has campaigned against the FCC enacting stringent regulations on radio public service broadcasting requirements. “We did have some impact,” Downs says. “I pointed out to them that while there may be some bad broadcasters that do not serve their communities the way that they should, if they put specific rules and lists and check boxes into place to force everyone to serve communities in a governmentally mandated way, they are going to rob us of our creativity and our ability to do unique things. “Program Director Frito down the hall, for Candy 95, raised $5,000 by shaving his head. I am absolutely certain there would never be any kind of government agency that would come up with a check box to say, ‘You’ve raised enough money for a child by shaving your head.’ “I tried to also propose to them that we (left) Ben Downs was featured in the October 1985 issue of INSITE. To read the full article, find Insite-Magazine on Facebook. (Above) Downs with hosts of the Morning each reach our target audiences in different Candy Show Frito (Tucker Young) and Alli (Allison Meserole). ways,” Downs continues. “The people for WATW, our news talk station, like their become its youngest station manager. “Back of people who are in our immediate area political information to be more in-depth. They’re willing to sit and listen for an hour a long time ago, INSITE did an article on me. to community needs. We have a way to tell and a half debate between political candidates. The late Spec Gammon wrote it. I had just them if someone needs help. We think that’s I’m not sure my Candy 95 audience is really become a manager. The name of the article important, which is why we do the Children’s all that interested in putting that time and was ‘Nobody calls me Mister.’ That was Miracle Network Radiothon, which is why because I was a young broadcasting manager, effort into it. So we reach them in different we do toy drives, which is why we do all of just starting out. I thought back on that since ways. We activate them in shorter bursts of the other fundraising things that the radio this will be my second appearance in INSITE information through our texts, or website magazine in the past 30 years. I’ve thought station does over the course of the year. I’ve or Facebook pages. We try to advance that now with the addition of the gray hair always felt that we’re in a unique position democracy with both stations but because and the fact that I have jeans that are older than a lot of my staff, I do get the ‘Mister’ a lot. It’s interesting to note that is has come with age, just as people told me it would.” There really needs to be something you can put on your Fast forward to today where Downs has wall that celebrates your personal life. I’ve been married not only garnered the title of ‘Mister’ but to Lillie for about 35 years now … She was my college also vice-president and operating manager of Bryan Broadcasting, board member sweetheart … I think I would like to have a plaque that for the Texas Association of Broadcasters, commemorates that. It’s something I’m proud of. the National Association of Broadcasters, Chairman-elect of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau, and the Community Foundation. in town. It would be too much to ask an of the differences in the audiences we do Somehow Downs still finds time to wash individual office to decide that they are going it in different ways. It’s important that we dishes at A&M United Methodist Church on to raise a quarter of a million dollars for a be allowed the flexibility to come up with Wednesday nights. neonatal unit. But we’re in a position to get different ways to serve our audiences in ways Through all of Downs’ time in radio the word to a lot of people who can help. that our audience will accept.” and as a community mover and shaker, he Since we can, I think we should.” It’s unsurprising that his work with the has always prioritized community service. Perhaps Downs’ highest profile service FCC and his board membership with the “The radio and TV stations are in a unique project has been his work lobbying with Texas Association of Broadcasters and the position in that we have a way to alert a lot the Federal Communication Commission National Association of Broadcasters has lead

March 2011 INSITE 25 26 INSITE March 2011 to Downs being named the Texas Broadcaster served the community for years, Downs’ of the Year. “I was honored to get Broadcaster office has many congratulatory certificates of the Year,” Downs says. “It’s nice to have. and commemoratives. “There really needs It’s a nice accomplishment when your peers to be something you can put on your wall recognize your work. “ that celebrates your personal life. I’ve been While Downs has a substantial profile on married to Lillie for about 35 years now. We the statewide radio scene, he seems to have met in engineering class at Texas A&M. She his hand in just about everything in B/CS, was my college sweetheart and we married as too. His character Big Daddy Downs shows soon as we graduated. I think I would like to up sporadically on Candy 95 with skits like have a plaque that commemorates that. It’s classically reading excerpts from Stephanie something I’m proud of.” Meyer’s Twilight Series. “You probably don’t Some might says Downs got into the understand how unbalanced the styles are business that is broadcasting in its heyday,

Downs’ long history of community service includes the fact that he has played Santa in the Bryan/College Station Christmas parade for the past 30 years, save 2010 for a short hiatus.

until you’ve heard a gentleman in his fifties before the digital revolution caused jobs to reading popular vampire literature as if it became scarce. Or maybe he was just a born were a classic piece of writing,” Downs says. radioman who has parlayed his position “It’s funny and a little awkward.” into helping his community as his career has Another factoid about Downs is that advanced. Either way, I’m sure I’m not alone he has played Santa in the local Christmas in thinking that I wouldn’t mind having a parade for the past 30 years, save 2010 for career like his when I grow up. As he’s always a short hiatus. Like most people who have said, “It beats working for a living.” i March 2011 INSITE 27 communityoutreach by Caitlin Shields

‘Portraits of Maquoketa.’ They ended up going to the Smithsonian about five years later. I was intrigued by that. I was thinking about it and I felt that was a direction to explore. Doing the portraits of the people of Iola to benefit something in Iola.” How it Works

ny Iola resident who wants to participate Acan sign up for a portrait sitting by visiting Grawl’s website or the local Padron’s Grocery. The session will last three hours in an open-air studio in the corner of Padron’s Grocery, the oldest family owned business in town. The subject sits looking at Grawl and a mirror so they can see themselves. Grawl

My whole idea behind portraiture is that God made us with beauty. – Artist Laurie Grawl (pictured below, right)

works in 20-minute sessions, after which she and the subject may take a breather. “(The) first three settings are the most critical,” Grawl says. “The eyes and mouth get tired the soonest. I tried to have them be the stillest the first three poses. I have a mirror behind me so they can see their portrait coming along and that usually keeps them pretty entertained. I try to ask them questions about themselves because some ‘Faces that Shape Iola’ of these people I don’t know very well, some I’ve never met.” ne woman has committed an entire been something I’m very interested in,” So far, Grawl has painted 20 portraits of year of her life to helping alleviate Grawl says. “I’ve been trying to support it in local residents and hopes to paint at least 50 O hunger in her small, out-of-the-way different ways. I wanted to help the people in by the project’s completion. Grawl started in community. Not with church bake sales or my own backyard. Nobody wants to be faced June of 2010 and plans to finish within her even posh fundraisers. How is she helping? with not being able to feed their family.” projected time frame of one year when she By painting. Yes, painting, as in, with paint. Grawl says the idea for the portrait project hopes to exhibit her collection. Iola artist Laurie Grawl is painting the came from a suggestion from a friend. “Ceci “My goal is to exhibit these either at our “Faces that shape Iola,” a portraiture project Lupenitz went to a portrait conference and she community center or possibly the church capturing the everyday citizens of her small was talking about an artist (Rose Frantzen) that has the food pantry. (Then) charge an community to benefit the local food pantry. who was featured who in her community admission fee and then give 100 percent back “The food bank in our community has painted the local residents. It’s called the to the food pantry. If the person wants, I can

28 INSITE March 2011 make a copy of their portrait and sell that and “Faces that shape Iola.” they’ll come away with some understanding give a percentage of that to the food pantry Grawl says she is able to use portraiture that beauty is more than what a magazine and use the (rest) to re-supply my studio.” as a ministry. “My whole idea behind model looks like. Everybody’s so different. The real spirit of this project is using portraiture is that God made us with beauty. Everybody’s so unique.” whatever skills you have to contribute to Sometimes we don’t see it or acknowledge For more information about Laurie Grawl society: “To encourage other people to it. I’m hoping that I can help people in and the “Faces that shape Iola, visit Grawl’s put away their fears and use their talents some way to understand that every wrinkle website www.FancyThat3g.com. Find more to do something to help other people (and) grey hair is part of who they are, their information about the Iola Food Pantry at or organizations,” says Cheryl Luce, Iola beauty. It reflects their life, what they’ve been Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and ways to community member and a participant in through, who they are in some way. Maybe help at oslciola.org/ministries/food-pantry. i

March 2011 INSITE 29 businessbriefs compiled by the Insite staff

forms of compensation create potential conflicts Joyce Nies; Friends of Children: Beverly of interest that may serve to undermine an and Alan Reese; and Advocate for Children: advisor’s objectivity and fiduciary responsibility. Kay Huff. The honorees will be recognized by In addition to tough standards on client- Voices For Children board, staff, volunteers and friendly compensation, NAPFA has some of the the community-at-large at the 8th Annual Art of industry’s most rigorous education and training Helping Children Auction and dinner on March 5. requirements. All candidates for membership are required to submit a complete comprehensive CAPSHER Technology, a College Station financial plan for a full-scale peer review. software-consulting firm, has been named one The Symphony Belles, wearing vintage aprons, NAPFA’s continuing education requirements of the Best Places to Work in Texas for the graced the FASO ‘Dressed to a Tea’ fundraiser exceed those of any other association of second year in a row. CAPSHER was founded in with their assistance. The Symphony Belles, financial advisors. For more information about 1994 by Kevin Sherry and K. Stefan Capps, comprised of junior and senior high school girls, is fee only financial planning and NAPFA, visit Aggie Class of ’82. Both have a long history of both an educational and a service program to the www.napfa.org or call (800) 366-2732. creating opportunities for employees to learn a Brazos Valley Symphony community. different take on software development. With R. Hal Moorman, a relaxed, enjoyable culture it is easy to see partner in the local why they earned the Best Places honor. The law firm ofMoorman, owners of CAPSHER show how much they value Tate, Urquhart, Haley, employees by having an open door policy and Upchurch & Yates, creating a family like environment. The complete LLP, served as the list of companies receiving the award is in the course director and February issue of Texas Monthly. This award one of the panelists in distinguishes companies who demonstrate the annual Building At the Friends of the Symphony Orchestra and are superior in workplace excellence. “We Blocks of Wills, Estates and Probate ‘Dressed to a Tea’ fundraiser, fashions are proud to make the list two years in a row; Course of the State Bar of Texas held in provided Charli, Little Red Schoolhouse, Morgan it shows an excellent climate for technology Austin in January. This seminar is the second Fitzgerald and Witt’s End were modeled by (l-r) business”, said Capps. CAPSHER received a largest annual seminar that the Texas Bar Elizabeth Ward, Randi Mays-napp, Rhonda #18 ranking out of small a business, which is a sponsors. This is Mr. Moorman’s eighth year to Raphael, Susan Stabile, Mary Baumann, move up from their previous ranking. CAPSHER serve as course director. Moorman is a Fellow Technology is a software consulting company Brittany Jackson, Jeannie Miller, Mary and the Texas State Chair of the American with a 17-year history of delivering practical Sullivan and Julia Gardner. Not pictured College of Trust and Estate Counsel; is listed solutions for the scientific and engineering is Erin Dracht. Proceeds support the Brazos in The Best Lawyers in America and in Texas industries. They design and develop custom Valley Symphony Goes to School program. Monthly Super Lawyers; is board certified in computer applications primarily in the scientific Civil Trial Law and Estate Planning and Probate and engineering fields. Project teams create Peggy S. Sherman Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization; software that ranges from complete packages of Briaud Financial and serves on the board of the Texas Board of to interdependent modules to web applications. Advisors in Bryan Legal Specialization. CAPSHER employs over 50 people from their has been accepted headquarters in the Crescent Pointe business for membership park in College Station. For more information, go in the National to www.capsher.com. Association of Personal Financial Comfort INN & SUITES-Navasota, 9345 Advisors (NAPFA). State Hwy. 6 Loop South, recently received a Full member in NAPFA entitles Sherman to use Gold Award. To recognize high-performing her designation of NAPFA-Registered Financial properties within each brand, the Choice Advisor. Membership in NAPFA and the NAPFA- Hotels Platinum and Gold Awards are granted Registered Financial Advisor designation are based on a hotel’s position within the Property available only to fee-only financial advisors Voices For Children recently announced its Ranking System: Properties in the top 10% who are paid directly by their clients. NAPFA 2011 Art of Helping Children honorees at a of their brand receive “Gold Award” status. members receive no commissions or other reception hosted by David Gardner’s Jewelers. The Ranking Report published each December rewards for selling financial products. Those (l-r) Champions for Children: Peter Witt and determines award winners. i

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