Connections
FLAVORS OF WELLNESS LB Rejuven8 GIVE BACK AND IMPROVE COMMUNITY WELLNESS
A WORD FROM GLEN BREWER
Howdy,
With spring in full swing, 2025 is off to a fantastic start at the Chamber! I hope you had the opportunity to attend our 2025 Economic Outlook Conference. This year’s event was another big success and we are already planning for 2026—exploring ways to enhance the conference and expand access to the valuable economic insights shared with attendees. The conference provided a wealth of data and fresh ideas, setting the stage for a successful year ahead.
A big congratulations to this year’s Community Impact Award winners: Rolando Gonzalez with Taco Bar, Roderick & Nadia McFaddin with First Security Janitorial, and Ray Jr. and Dr. Donna Druery with Druery’s Flat Fixing & Road Services. We are proud to recognize these outstanding minority-owned businesses for their contributions to the B/CS economy— creating jobs, supporting local nonprofits, and providing essential goods and services. This recognition is made possible through the Chamber’s Community Outreach Committee, which champions diversity and inclusion. By fostering a Chamber that represents all businesses and the people behind them, we continue to build a stronger, more unified business community.
I’m also excited to share that nearly 200 volunteers participated in Chamber Day 2025, visiting over to 1,000 local businesses to show appreciation and support. Their enthusiasm helped reinforce the importance of our local businesses—the jobs they create, the taxes they contribute, and the services they provide. We’re looking forward to growing this initiative next year and celebrating the businesses that make the Brazos Valley thrive.
We also recognize that strong businesses are built on healthy employees. That’s why this issue of Connections Magazine highlights our healthcare-related Chamber members and their contributions to the well-being of our community. We also invite you to join us on April 26th for the Chamber 5K Run & Walk in Downtown Bryan—a great way to promote health and wellness while connecting with fellow community members. Register now at bcschamber.org or call 979.260.5200.
The Chamber is grateful for our members’ dedication to building a vibrant, prosperous business community. Thank you for your continued support in making the Brazos Valley the best place to live, work, and thrive!
Glen Brewer
President/CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KARLA CASTILLO Board Chair
ZACH ETHERIDGE Chair-Elect Vice Chair Administration
DOUG FRENCH Immediate Past Chairman
KIMBERLY SHAW
Vice Chair Business Enhancement
AMELIA MCCRACKEN Vice Chair Communications
MANNY MARTINEZ Vice Chair Membership Enhancement
GEORGE MCCOY Vice Chair Financial & Physical Resources
JAY RUDINGER Vice Chair Community Enhancement
GENERAL JOE RAMIREZ Vice Chair Leadership Division
HANS HAMMOND
JOHN ALLEN
TYLER SMITH
IRMA CAULEY
RHONDA WATSON
JOHN SEIGLER
KANDIS MARTINEZ
LINDA CLARK
CODY JONES
DOUG LYLES
JOSH KRUPA
JAIME CAVAZOS
JOEL BRYAN
JUSTIN MANNING
KIMBERLY SHAW
PRENTISS MADISON SUZANNE NUEBERGER
STAFF
GLEN BREWER President/CEO
ROYCE HICKMAN Community Liaison
CARRIE ARCHER Manager of Membership
HAYLEY BISACRE Manager of Business Development
JENNY BAKER Manager of Finance
VICTORIA MARTINEZ Marketing & Communications Coordinator
JAMIE HILL Communications & Events Assistant
KELLI SANFORD Executive Assistant
LINDA ESPIRIQUETA Receptionist
Connections
1876 ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION
Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 969-9111 1876roofing.com
AFFORDABLE DENTURES AND IMPLANTS
2305 Longmire Drive
Suite 700 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 314-2241 affordabledentures.com
RESTORATIVE PHYSICAL THERAPY
2714 Osler Road
Bryan, TX 77845 (979) 776-225 rptbcs.com
SOIREE SHOP
Bryan & College Station, TX (979) 985-0771 soireeshoptx.com
A-MAX INSURANCE
409 North Texas Avenue Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 274-0840 amaxinsurance.com
RAINBOW RESTORATION OF MAGNOLIA TX Magnolia, TX 77355 (281) 810-8373 rainbowrestores.com
HILAND DAIRY FOODS 1819 Cimino Drive Suite 111 Bryan, TX 77808 (979) 676-4606 hilanddairy.com
ALLIED PROPERTY TAX ADVISORS
7273 John Sharp Parkway Suite 5104 Bryan, TX 77807 (979) 777-6561 alliedpropertytax.com
HARTT’S BARBECUE
Bryan & College Station, TX instagram.com/harttsbarbecue/
BRYAN/NORTH COLLEGE STATION KOA 12942 State Highway 6 South Bryan, TX 77807 (888) 562-9208 koa.com
SIGNARAMA - BCS
3900 State Highway 6 South Suite 109 College Station, TX 77385 (979) 321-3703 signarama-collegestation.com
SOUTHERN SMILES FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY 1132 Midtown Drive College Station, TX 77845 (979) 589-7816 southernsmilesbcs.com
PURPLE TURTLE ART STUDIO
800 South Bryan Avenue Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 777-6535 purpleturtleartstudio.com
BENCOR
4629 Highway 290 West Brenham, TX 77833 (979) 830-5252 bencor-llc.com
LAP OF LUXURY SCRUBS LLC
315 South Main Street Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 406-5599 lapofluxuryscrubs.com
HALL HOMES, LLC
4438 State Highway South Unit 401, Suite 4 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 229-5552 hallhomestx.com
HONEY BEAR BOARDS, LLC Bryan & College Station, TX (510) 366-4597 honeybearboards.com
FARMHOUSE FROZEN YOGURT 943 William D Fitch Suite 101 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 595-4449 farmhousebcs.com
BUBBLELLOON
South College Station, TX (979) 450-2482 bubblelloon.com
SATTERFIELD GROUP
105 North Main Street Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 485-2484 satterfieldgroup.com
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
SERGIO PAZ
College Station, TX 77845
PETERS PASTURE TO PLATE
Bryan, TX 77808 (979) 204-0662
t.ly/X4_8S
KORRINA RUSSELL
Bryan & College Station, TX (361) 354-0177
krussell.cbapex.com
MY MOBILE OIL CHANGES LLC
Bryan & College Station, TX mymobileoilchanges.com
DIRT ROAD HOME - CUSTOM HOME FURNISHINGS
311 North Tabor Avenue Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 704-6393 dirtroadrustics.com
BRAZOS VALLEY HOBBY & GAMES 3601 South Texas Avenue Bryan, TX 77802 brazosvalleyhobbyandgames.com
APOLONIA-ON-MAIN
175 South Main Street Anderson, TX 77830 (805) 610-1538
t.ly/BegDT
MAROON CITY VALET
Bryan & College Station, TX (832) 799-9831
marooncityvalet.com
O3 STRUCTURAL STUDIO
426 Tarrow Street Suite 101 College Station, TX 77840 (713) 909-0458 o3structural.com
BUNNY BITES
2501 Texas Avenue South Suite C100
College Station, TX 77840 (979) 450-7219 bunnybites.pro/
CONCHO HEARTS HOSPICE, LLC
2103 Tabor Road Bryan, TX 77803 (325) 482-0129 conchoheartshospice.com
LAYNE’S CHICKEN FINGERS 106 Walton Drive College Station, TX 77840 (979) 696-7633 layneschickenfingers.com
CANGELOSE ROOFING AND RESTORATION, LLC College Station, TX 77845
STINSON AND STINSON ROOFING, LLC 12745 State Highway 30 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 329-8743 stinsonroofs.com
H. BOND CONSTRUCTION INC. 6220 Raymond Stotzer Parkway College Station, TX 77845 (979) 778-1996 hbondconstruction.com
G-COUR EXCAVATION College Station, TX 77845 (979) 450-8826
ALL HEART INC. Bryan, TX 77802 allheartinc.org
MOCHINUT COLLEGE STATION 1411 Wellborn Road Suite 200 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 609-1006 mochinut.com
TWO MAIDS OF COLLEGE STATION 3206 Longmire Drive Suite D College Station, TX 77845 (979) 333-8519 twomaidscleaning.com/college-station/
Now Selling In Bryan!
Discover Reveille Estates
Modern single- and two-story floor plans from the upper $200s
Ask about special financing, USDA loan options, and our Hometown Hero program.
Available through affiliate lender, Inspire Home Loans®
To qualify for the Hometown Heroes incentive, please provide proof of current or former employment as a law enforcement officer, first responder, teacher, healthcare worker or active/ retired military. Prices, plans, and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Map is not to scale. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. *Closing costs are additional and not included in the USDA 30 year fixed rate 100% financing. Terms and availability of this loan program, and the sales price, are examples only and are subject to change without notice. Loans are subject to credit approval. Restrictions and conditions may apply. USDA loans are subject to income and geographic eligibility criteria. Loan program is available through Inspire Home Loans® Inc. NMLS# 1564276 , www.inspirehomeloans.com ©12/2024 Century Communities, Inc.
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
APRIL 17TH
The Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce offers monthly networking opportunities hosted by different businesses each month to connect Chamber members to each other. Socialize, engage and network with the business community from across the Brazos Valley. Our Business After Hours events begin at 5:30 pm and wrap up around 7 pm. See you at the next event!
Hosted By: THE RANCH HARLEY DAVIDSON & RV
MAY 22ND
Hosted By: GRAND STATION ENTERTAINMENT
JUNE 12TH
Hosted By: VERABANK
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
IF YOUR BUSINESS IS INTERESTED IN HOSTING A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS, CONTACT CARRIE ARCHER AT CARRIE@BCSCHAMBER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION!
WAYS TO GIVE BACK AND IMPROVE COMMUNITY WELLNESS IN BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION
At the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce, we believe that a strong community is built on giving back. Volunteering and supporting local organizations not only enhance individual well-being but also contribute to the overall health and success of our city. Whether you have time, resources, or expertise to offer, there are many ways to make a difference. Here are ten impactful ways to give back to Bryan-College Station.
1
2
DONATE CLOTHES AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
Give gently used clothing and household items to local organizations that support those in need. Your donations help individuals and families rebuild their lives by providing access to essential goods.
VISIT THE ELDERY
A friendly visit can bring joy and combat loneliness among seniors. Spend time at assisted living facilities or nursing homes, offering companionship through conversation, games, or reading to residents.
PHOTO CREDIT: CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
PHOTO CREDIT: CITY OF BRYAN
4
KEEP BRAZOS BEAUTIFUL
Join efforts to keep Bryan-College Station beautiful by taking part in community cleanup initiatives. Keeping public spaces clean not only enhances the environment but also fosters pride and responsibility within the community.
VOLUNTEER WITH YOUTH PROGRAMS AND NONPROFITS
Make a lasting impact on the next generation by volunteering with youth programs and getting involved with local nonprofits in the Brazos Valley. Providing mentorship, support, and guidance can inspire young people and help create a brighter future for our community.
8
5
6
DONATE OR VOLUNTEER AT THE BRAZOS VALLEY FOOD BANK
Food insecurity affects many families in our community. You can make a difference by donating non-perishable food items or volunteering to help distribute meals to those in need.
SUPPORT ANIMAL SHELTERS AND PET ADOPTION
Donate pet supplies, volunteer at the shelter, or consider fostering an animal in need to provide temporary care and love. Aggieland Humane Society offers opportunities such as “Dog Day Out,” where volunteers can take shelter dogs on outings, giving them much-needed exercise, socialization, and a break from the shelter environment. Not only does this improve the well-being of the animals, but it also benefits volunteers by providing a refreshing change of routine, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of fulfillment through compassionate service.
GIVE BLOOD
7
Blood donations are always in demand. By giving blood though local blood drives, you can help ensure hospitals have a steady supply for patients in need, from accident victims to those undergoing surgeries or cancer treatments.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ATTRACTIONS
Supporting local businesses and attractions is essential to keeping our community thriving. By exploring the unique shops, restaurants, and events showcased by Destination Bryan and Visit College Station, you not only boost the local economy but also strengthen community connections. Engaging with these experiences fosters a deeper appreciation for our city’s culture, creates lasting memories, and ensures continued growth for businesses that make BryanCollege Station a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
GIVE BACK TO VETERANS
9
Show appreciation for those who have served by volunteering with veteran support organizations or by donating to charities that provide resources and services to veterans and their families.
10
JOIN US FOR THE CHAMBER 5K!
Another great way to support community wellness is by participating in the Chamber 5K Run & Walk on April 26th in Downtown Bryan. This event promotes health and fitness while bringing the community together in a fun and engaging way. Register now at bcschamber.org or call 979.260.5200!
By giving back in these ways, we can all contribute to a healthier, stronger, and more connected Bryan-College Station. The Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to find opportunities to serve and make a lasting impact!
SCAN FOR DESTINATION BRYAN’S WEBPAGE SCAN
CHAMBER PHOTOS
FLAVORS OF WELLNESS
Can Food REALLY Change Your Health?
What is Flavors of Wellness?
Flavors of Wellness is more than just a cooking class—it’s a movement transforming how our community approaches food and health.
Founded by Culinary Medicine and Obesity Specialist Yarickza Lopez MSN, NP-C,FOMA, it blends medical expertise with cooking to make healthy eating simple and flavorful. Through hands-on cooking, workshops, and community events, we empower individuals to make nutritious, delicious meals while understanding the science behind their choices.
What is Flavors of Wellness?
Our community is growing, and so is the need for practical wellness education. Chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes are on the rise, and diet plays a major role in prevention and management.
Simple & Healthy
Recipe: Mediterranean
Chickpea Salad
Ingredients:
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ¼ red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and feta in a bowl.
2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
3. Pour dressing over salad andtoss to coat.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Flavors of Wellness invites Bryan/ College Station to take control of their health through food. Whether improving nutrition, managing a health condition, or learning to cook, our teaching kitchen is here for you.
Join us and explore the flavors that fuel a healthier, happier life!
Why Nutrition Matters?
Food is more than fuel—it’s medicine for the body and mind. A well-balanced diet supports immunity, boosts energy, improves mental clarity, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Poor nutrition can lead to fatigue, inflammation, and long-term health complications. By making intentional food choices, we can enhance our well-being, prevent illness, and create a healthier future for ourselves and our families.
Our Goal: A Healthier Community
Our mission is simple: inspire and educate people to adopt lasting, healthy eating habits. We want wellness to be an enjoyable, everyday experience.
Through our Teaching Kitchen series, we:
1. Teach people how to prepare balanced, delicious meals.
2. Bust common nutrition myths.
3. Encourage a positive relationship with food.
4. Support community engagement and cultural food traditions.
ACTIVITIES FOR THE SUMMER Bryan - College Station
Summer in Bryan-College Station is all about sunshine, good vibes, and making the most of what our vibrant community has to offer. Whether you’re staying in town for the break, visiting for the first time, or just looking for something new to do, here are six must-try activities in BCS to make your summer unforgettable!
BRYAN : LOCAL FLAVORS AND FUN
FIRST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN BRYAN
There’s no better way to kick off your summer weekends than with First Friday. Held monthly in Downtown Bryan, this event brings together live music, art, food trucks, and late-night shopping. It’s also a great chance to support local restaurants and shops—whether you’re grabbing dinner at RX Pizza or finding a unique gift at one of the charming boutiques
PHOTO CREDIT: CITY OF BRYAN
WINERIES & BREWERIES
Spend a relaxing afternoon sampling local wines at Messina Hof Winery, known for its welcoming atmosphere and award-winning selections. Prefer a cold beer? Blackwater Draw Brewing Co. offers refreshing local brews perfect for sipping on a summer day. Many spots host live music, trivia nights, and food trucks—making it more than just a tasting, it’s an experience.
ENTERTAINMENT
Bryan offers no shortage of summer entertainment options for every kind of adventurer. Lake Bryan is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water with a picnic. For a touch of nostalgia, step back in time with a movie night at the historic Queen Theatre, where classic films are shown in a beautifully restored space right in the heart of Downtown Bryan. If you’re looking for outdoor performances, The Palace Theater hosts concerts, theater productions, and community events under the stars, offering an unforgettable summer experience. For something truly unique, visit Aggieland Safari, a drive-thru wildlife park where you can see exotic animals up close—perfect for families or anyone with a love for animals.
COLLEGE STATION: RELAX AND PLAY
CENTURY SQUARE
Eat, shop, and unwind at Century Square, one of the hottest destinations in College Station. From enjoying dinner at Hopdoddy or Coco Shrimp, to grabbing a sweet treat from Lick Honest Ice Creams, there’s something for every craving. Throughout the summer, Century Square often hosts live music, outdoor movie nights, fitness classes, and seasonal events in their central plaza, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for all ages. Their concert series and special summer events are a major highlight, making it a go-to hangout spot when the weather’s warm. Be sure to follow them on social media and check their website regularly for event updates, schedules, and announcements—you won’t want to miss what’s coming up!
Community Spotlight
TEXAS TREASURE BUSINESS AWARD: BUDDY’S APPLIANCE
The Community Spotlight shares company news with the community. New leadership, major changes, anniversaries, employee achievements - celebrate milestones with a message!
If you would like to feature a Community Spotlight contactvictoria@bcschamber.org
Bryan has been abuzz with excitement as Buddy’s Appliance, a cherished familyowned business, celebrated 50 incredible years of service. Since opening in 1960, this local staple has been a trusted name in home appliances, earning the admiration of generations of customers. In recognition of its enduring impact, Buddy’s Appliance was honored with the prestigious Texas Treasure Business Award on February 18, 2025. The award, presented by Vicki Smith-Dicky, vice chair of the Brazos County Historical Commission, highlights businesses that have reached the 50-year milestone, demonstrating a lasting commitment to the community. Congratulations to Buddy’s Appliance on this well-deserved achievement!
TEXAS COMPTROLLER GLENN HEGAR NAMED THE SOLE FINALIST FOR TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM CHANCELLOR ROLE
The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has unanimously selected Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar as the sole finalist for the position of chancellor. Hegar, an alumnus of Texas A&M University, has served as the state’s comptroller since 2014 and previously held positions in both the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate. He is set to succeed Chancellor John Sharp, who will retire on June 30 after a 14-year tenure marked by significant growth in student enrollment and research initiatives. Following a mandatory 21day waiting period, Hegar is expected to officially assume the role, bringing his extensive financial and legislative experience to the leadership of the Texas A&M University System.
2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Congratulations to our 2025 Community Impact Award Recipients!
• Rolando Gonzalez with Taco Bar
• Roderick & Nadia McFaddin with First Security Janitorial
• Ray Jr. and Dr. Donna Druery with Druery’s Flat Fixing & Road Services
The Community Impact Award program was established in 2003 to recognize Hispanic, African American, Asian American, Native American, women, and servicedisabled veteran business owners who have demonstrated a significant impact on the Brazos Valley community. We are proud to celebrate our recipients’ dedication to giving back and look forward to seeing more businesses grow and serve the B/CS community!
ARKITEX STUDIO: 30 YEARS OF IMPROVING LIVES & BUILDING COMMUNITY
2025 marks a major milestone for Arkitex Studio—30 years of dedicated architectural design that enhances communities across Texas. Founded in 1995 by Charlie Burris, AIA, and Elton Abbott, AIA, we’ve stayed true to our mission of creating impactful spaces for higher education, municipal, commercial, and faith-based communities. We’re proud to be a boutique firm by design—we don’t work everywhere, we work here, in Texas, where we live, work, and play. Under the current leadership of Eva Read-Warden, AIA, Mike Record, AIA, and Paul Martinez, AIA, our team brings diverse perspectives and expertise to every project, always with
a vested interest in the communities we serve. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to sharing stories, insights, and special moments from our 30-year journey on our website and social media.
50 YEARS OF ALLEN HONDA
Allen Honda has been proudly serving and contributing to the Bryan-College Station community for Half of Century! We had an amazing time celebrating this milestone with the Allen Honda team and John Allen at Business After Hours on March 27th! A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support, network, and be part of this incredible celebration! From the B/CS Chamber of Commerce, we wish you many more years of success.
RUN & WALK
