2023 July-August CONNECTIONS

Connections BRYAN / COLLEGE STATION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

10 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER IN B-CS

J U LY-A U G U S T 2 0 2 3

SCHOOL YEAR SHOWCASE

GROWING WITH THE BRAZOS VALLEY! Visit at any of our local offices: College Station 2445 Harvey Mitchell S. | 2305 Texas Ave., S. | 4450 Highway 6 Bryan 3400 Highway 21 | 2900 Texas Ave. Franklin 100 W. Decherd Str., Suite C.

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Austin Bryan

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B. J. Mendez

Treasury Management

Melanie Motley Sr. Vice President NMLS# 510014

Nora Thompson President & CEO NMLS# 510467

Claire Harris

Asst. Vice President NMLS# 2483589

Cal McNeill

Exec. Vice President NMLS# 510054

Justin Kleiber Sr. Vice President NMLS# 1081538

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A NOT E FR OM GLEN BR EWER

B/CS Chamber of Commerce President & CEO

Calendar JULY

LEADERSHIP LUN CHEON Pebble Creek Country Club

7. 20 . 23 BU SINESS AF TER HOU RS

NEW MEMBER S

Parc at Traditions

Welcoming New Businesses to Bryan/College Station

AUGUST

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7.13. 23

C HAMBER P R OGR AMS

Business After Hours

8 .17. 23 BU SINESS AF TER HOU RS Anco Insurance

8 . 23. 23 ECONOMIC OUTLOOK BRIEFING The Hilton College Station

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20 23 FEDER AL LEGI SLAT I V E AC TI O N PLA N

Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce

SEPTEMBER 9 .11. 23 GO LF CL ASSIC

Pebble Creek Country Club

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A LETTER FR OM YOUR C ONGR ESSMAN Congressman Michael McCaul

9 .15 . 23 LOBSTERFEST The Brazos Center

DELUX E R I BBON C UT TI NGS Celebrating the Start of Something New in B/CS

9 . 21. 23 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Frost Bank

C OMMUNI T Y SP OTLI GHTS

Bryan & College Station Spotlights

To reg ister for Chamber eve nt s , s ca n the Q R cod e above or cal l t he C ha m be r office at 97 9.260.5 2 0 0

A WORD FROM

GLEN BREWER

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS JASON CORNELIUS Board Chair

DOUG FRENCH

Chair-Elect Vice Chair Administration

WA D E B E C K M A N

Immediate Past Chairman

KARLA CASTILLO

Vice Chair Business Enhancement

K AT Y L E E

Howdy,

Vice Chair Communications

K AT E R I N A H A L L

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. Please take some time and look over this issue of our Chamber Connections magazine. Our staff and content providers work hard to provide valuable information to our members, as well as highlighting recent and upcoming local events. Also check out our newest Chamber members listed in every issue, as well as our Community Spotlight.

It may be hot outside, but we are not slowing down this summer at your Chamber of Commerce. I am excited to inform you about the resounding success of our recent Washington DC Trip Fly-In. The trip, which took place in May, was an incredible opportunity for our chamber members to engage with federal lawmakers and key decision-makers in our nation’s capital. Through productive meetings and meaningful discussions, we were able to effectively convey the interests and concerns of our local business community. The participants were enthusiastic and expressed their appreciation for the unique chance to advocate for issues that directly impact our region. We are confident that this advocacy will yield positive results for our members and the overall economic development of Bryan/College Station.

Furthermore, I am pleased to report that our recent Founders Night event was an overwhelming success. Sponsored by The City of Bryan, this event served as a celebration of our chamber’s rich history and founders of both Bryan and College Station. With an attendance that exceeded our expectations, Founders Night provided a remarkable platform for networking among our members, and fostering new relationships while strengthening existing ones.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to you and your organization for your unwavering support and partnership with the Chamber. The success of our initiatives relies on the collective efforts and collaborative spirit of our members, and your participation has been invaluable. Together, we will continue to foster economic growth, drive innovation, and cultivate a thriving business environment in Bryan/College Station.

Vice Chair Membership Enhancement

A J TAY L O R , C PA

Vice Chair Financial & Physical Resources

JOHN BUSH

Vice Chair Community Enhancement

B AY L O R LY O N

Vice Chair Leadership Division

ZACH ETHERIDGE Secretary

AGUSTIN TREVIÑO A L D AV I S ASHLEY SANDERS BELINDA DOBSON BRANDON SEARS DEMOND OLIVER GEOFFREY CHRISTIAN HANS HAMMOND IRMA CAULEY J AY R U D I N G E R J E N N Y D AV I S MANNY MARTINEZ NICOLE MORTEN ROBY SOMERFORD SID BACKSTROM TYLER SMITH

STAFF GLEN BREWER President/CEO

ROYCE HICKMAN Community Liaison

CARRIE ARCHER Manager of Membership

T O M T I LT O N

Manager of Finance

H AY L E Y B I S A C R E

Manager of Business Development

TAY L O R H U G H E S

Manager of Marketing + Communications

KEELIE WENDT

G LEN B REWER PRESIDENT & C EO

Communications Coordinator

KIMMIE BENNETT

Special Projects Coordinator

L I N D A E S P I R I Q U E TA Receptionist

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Chamber Connections is a publication of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce and a public service to Chamber members. Editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Taylor Hughes by email at taylor@bcschamber.org.

ALPHAGRAPHICS Publication Printing

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4519 Mills Park Circle Suite 400 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 690-7357 4242 Koppe Bridge Road Suite 580 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 260-2044 madpiez.com

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G AT X R A I L

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L AU R A L EON L AW, P L LC 1716 Briarcrest Drive Suite 860 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 810-8880

F R I T T E L L A I TAL IA N CA FE 3901 S. Texas Avenue Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 260-6666

T R U E TEX A N PRSS URE CL EA N IN G 3705 Elliot Street Unit B Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 248-3869

PA I G E P OI T E V EN T REA LTOR®B ER KS H I R E H ATH AWAY H OM E SER VI C ES CA LIBER REA LT Y 700 University Drive E. Suite 108 College Station, TX 77840 (952) 820-5397

4649 Potter Lane College Station, TX 77845 (979) 291-2199 mcdermottconstructiongroup.com 1275 Arrington Road Suite 102 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 575-5979 hyperbolebookstore.com

1295 Arrington Road Suite 300 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 213-5218 apexhealthclinic.com

F L A NAG AN D I STR I BU TI O N, LLC 10568 Acacia Lane Hearne, TX 77859 (817) 682-6392

COLD WELL BANK ER , APEX 3435 Mahogany Drive Bryan, TX 77807 (281) 467-1909

P RO FESSI O NAL CHO I CE CL EANI NG AND SU PPLY

2300 W Briargate Dr. Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 324-7611 americanplumbingcompany.net 910 William D. Fitch Pkwy Suite 100 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 703-2071 harvestbcs.com

3206 Longmire Dr. A52 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 324-4210

TR O PI CAL SMO OTHI E CAF E TOWER PO I NT 1255 Arrington Road, Suite 600 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 485-1875 tropicalsmoothiecafe.com

CAMPI O N CHI R O PR ACT IC CL INIC 3120 Texas Avenue South College Station, TX 77845 (979) 693-6500

TAR LETO N STATE U NI V E RSIT Y 1400 College Drive MAC 101 Waco, TX 76708 (254) 299-8316

3416 Parkway Terrace Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 450-3860

M EDI WEI G HTLO SS

3851 Corporate Center Drive Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 393-0369

S IGNAL SECU R I T Y O F CO LLEG E STAT I O N 3130 E. Villa Maria Road #608 Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 402-3890

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JULY/AUGUST 2023

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

CHAMBER PROGRAMS

JULY 20TH Hosted By:

Parc at Traditions

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!

AUGUST 17TH Hosted By:

ANCO INSURANCE

HOW TO GET IN VOLVED IF YOUR BUSINESS IS INTERESTED IN HOSTING A BUSINESS AFTER HOURS, CONTACT CARRIE ARCHER AT CARRIE@BCSCHAMBER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION!

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JULY/AUGUST 2023

2023 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE

ACTION PLAN Presented to the 118th Congress by the 2023 Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce Delegation

Economic Development & Fiscal Responsibility ● Healthcare Transportation, Mobility & Infrastructure ● Higher Education & Workforce Training

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

We encourage lawmakers to increase economic success and quality of life by allowing more localized decision making. Federal policies to support economic development are critical. Our membership continues to be concerned about the rate of spending, as well as regulatory and tax burdens on businesses, which stifle innovation and negatively affect growth and jobs.

We support: 1. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND TAX AND FINANCIAL REFORM - Creating and enforcing policies to reduce waste, fraud, and duplication of federal programs. Continuing comprehensive tax reforms to help U.S. companies better compete in the global market.

2. ENERGY - Emphasizing policies to secure energy independence, encourage energy exports, and enable innovation in diverse and emerging energy sources, including nuclear energy.

3. WORKFORCE - Building and supporting a qualified workforce by investing funds at the state, regional and local service area levels, meeting local employers’ needs, including cybersecurity related areas, to upskill or reskill employees. Addressing the national supply chain issues to end the shortage of critical supplies resulting in employee layoffs.

4. FEDERAL PROGRAMS - Maintaining current authorities and increasing federal investment in economic development programs that support local communities. Facilitating the effectiveness of tools that encourage leveraging funds, creating job opportunities, and stimulating private investment.

5. INTERNATIONAL TRADE - Facilitating fair and equitable international trade agreements, thus creating jobs and wealth. Rectifying supply chain problems is essential.

6. IMMIGRATION REFORM - Protecting our borders and eliminating loopholes that encourage illegal entry.

Enacting comprehensive immigration reform, including guest worker programs that reward legal immigration and foster economic growth. A nation has the right and responsibility to protect and defend its borders.

7. DEFENSE - Rebuilding national defense to increase U.S. credibility and influence globally while keeping the promises made to our military, veterans and allies. Ensuring that sea lanes remain open, which is critical to defense and commerce.

8. COMMUNITY PROJECT FUNDING - Allowing community project funding (CPF) for local development, provided the overall total of CPF’s occur after the federal budget is established, and the total is limited to no more than 1% of discretionary spending.

TRANSPORTATION, MOBILITY, & INFRASTRUCTURE

Transportation and mobility impact every aspect of daily life. The priority is not only the maintenance of transportation infrastructure, it must also allow for multi-modal innovation and expansion in areas of high growth and in times of rapid economic development. As the Bryan/College Station/Brazos County area continues its rapid growth, it is essential that planning and funding for transportation improvements including new or improved corridors remain a high priority to mitigate future mobility impacts. We applaud our Congressional Delegation for recognizing our priorities by including I-14 and I-214 language in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. We support: 1. INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE: Exercising oversight to ensure that the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is fully funded as authorized and is implemented expeditiously, fairly and efficiently in a manner that enables communities to leverage infrastructure improvements that stimulate economic growth and/or mitigate mobility impacts.

2. 1-14 AND 1-214 FUNDING: Currently TxDOT is performing the route study and feasibility of the portion of l-14 which connects I-35 to I-45, which are two of the most traveled interstate highways in Texas. Specific federal appropriations for funding this section of l-14 are needed to continue the development efforts which are already in progress.

3. ENHANCED REVENUE STREAMS FOR THE HIGHWAY TRUST FUND: As automakers produce higher mileage vehicles and with the growth of electric vehicles, fuel tax revenue is decreasing relative to vehicle miles traveled.

Developing equitable funding mechanisms such as vehicle registration fees and/or vehicle miles traveled tax and increasing the fuel tax to stabilize and restore the Highway Trust Fund allows for investments in infrastructure maintenance and new transportation networks. We oppose legislative efforts to pause collection of gasoline taxes or reduce any revenue to the Highway Trust Fund.

4. IMPROVED PASSENGER RAIL AND COMMERCIAL AIR SERVICE: Bryan/College Station’s location within the Texas Triangle necessitates access to multiple modes for intercity travel. Ensure the Federal Railroad Administration and the USDOT support safe, and sustainable passenger rail service. We support Amtrak service linking Houston and Dallas to Bryan/College Station as specified in Amtrak’s Corridor Vision. We also support Federal Aviation Administration funding for local and regional airports to enhance operational efficiency, safety and passenger convenience.

5. BRAZOS TRANSIT DISTRICT BUS FLEET (BTD): BTD is committed to achieving significant greenhouse gas reduction goals. This commitment includes developing a plan to achieve a complete transition to a zero-emission fleet no later than December 2040. Grant funding from the Federal Transit Administration is needed to modernize existing fleets and allow for the purchase of electric buses and other charging and support facilities to reduce air pollution and diversify their fleet.

6. EFFORTS BY TEXAS A&M TRANSPORTATION INSTITUTE (TTI) TO ESTABLISH THE 21ST CENTURY MOBILITY TEST BED: The proposed project will help ensure that automated, connected, and autonomous vehicles and transformational services are introduced and operated safely, efficiently, and equitably in coordination with state and local transportation agencies. The project will enhance workforce development to meet the growing and evolving needs of industry and government agencies.

HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING

An educated workforce is vital to the economic growth and vitality of American families and every community.

The educational partnerships of Blinn College, Texas A&M University, the Bryan/College Station business community, local governments, K-12 education, and nonprofits are working to share the responsibility of developing a dynamic as well as diverse economy to embrace productive citizens and new technology advancements.

The collaboration among these partners is resulting in a more streamlined approach to identify and provide for our region’s educational and workforce needs.

Enhancing federal funding for research, innovation and workforce training not only develops new technologies but it also supports local businesses and creates new jobs. These investments ensure future success of the Brazos Valley.

We support: 1. FEDERALLY FUNDED RESEARCH: Increasing annual budgets for competitive grants to institutions of higher education conducting top-tier research initiatives that will maintain American competitiveness in the world.

2. FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID: Strengthening the commitment to post-secondary education through continued prioritization by Congress, specifically via programmatic funding dedicated to supporting and expanding innovative measures, at community colleges and tier-one research universities as well as training for veterans and student financial aid.

3. ADVANCED TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION: Developing broader commitments from mission agencies for apprenticeship programs, such as Research Security Operations (RSO), and increasing funding for the Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program at the National Science Foundation are imperative to bolster national competitiveness in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

HEALTHCARE

congressman mccaul letter

Americans continue to expect a healthcare system that provides choice for coverage options and providers, focuses on improving the experience of care, improves the health of the population, reduces the per capita cost of healthcare, and ensures financial stability for individuals and businesses.

The COVID – 19 pandemic has underscored the importance of ensuring access to healthcare as well as the financial viability of healthcare entities that provide care for the most vulnerable patients.

We support: 1. PROTECTING MEDICARE, MEDICAID AND OTHER FEDERALLY SPONSORED HEALTHCARE PROGRAMS: Healthcare systems and providers are struggling under growing workforce costs, staffing shortages, increased supply costs and increased patient acuity and cannot continually be subjected to cuts. Reductions in direct reimbursement or supplemental program funding will lead to decreased access to care for patients as hospitals close facilities and eliminate services that are not financially viable.

2. ADDRESSING HEALTHCARE WORKER SHORTAGE: Increasing funding of education for nursing school programs focused on acute and critical care, allowing them additional enrollment of healthcare providers who will pursue careers in these areas. This is critical for the nurses, physicians, advanced practitioners and other clinicians to manage the patient load experienced by hospitals.

3. MEDICAID EXPANSION: Continue to work with federal and Texas legislative leaders to find ways to improve access by providing health insurance to lower-income Texans, providing healthcare coverage for more than 750,000 of Texas’ 4+ million uninsured residents – a group hit hardest by the Covid-19 pandemic.

MIKE CONNER, FLAP CHAIRMAN 8

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The FLAP is an excellent tool for the B/CS Chamber to engage with not only our Congressman and Senators, but with other key leaders who recognize the value of a unified message when it comes to business issues. But most important, it gives the over 1,600 B/CS Chamber members a voice in our nation’s capital.

CHAMBER DC TRIP PHOTOS

JULY/AUGUST 2023

GET INVOLVED W I T H your L O C A L C H A M B E R !

No matter your passion, there is something for everyone.

Get involved with one of our Chamber committees!

AGRIBUSINESS Heavily rooted in agriculture, the Agribusiness Committee is responsible for coordinating and executing the Annual Crawfish Boil and Ag Breakfast. The two events support both youths in agriculture and recognize the hard work and support efforts that the ag businesses contribute to our local community.

CHAMBER DAY The Chamber Day Committee is responsible for coordinating and executing all Chamber Day activities. They organize over 100 volunteers and send them out into the community for a one-day meet and greet of many of the businesses in the area.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH The B/CS Chamber of Commerce’s Community Outreach Committee seeks to CELEBRATE and GROW our Chamber's Diversity by recruiting and supporting traditionally underrepresented groups.

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK CONFERENCE This committee helps plan and set up the Economic Outlook Conference. Through this conference, the Chamber showcases industry experts and shares up-to-date information about our local and national economy.

EDUCATION The Education Committee exists to bring together the Bryan/College Station community workforce and our youth. The committee assists with planning the Youth to Career Fair each year, which allows the opportunity for 8th graders from local schools to visit various businesses to explore their interests and be inspired by potential future opportunities.

GOLF CLASSIC & LOBSTERFEST The Golf Classic Committee is responsible for planning and executing the Annual Golf Classic Tournament. The tournament typically hosts over 40 foursomes at one of the B/CS area golf courses.

HEALTH & WELLNESS The Health & Wellness Committee works to make the Brazos Valley a happier, healthier place to live, work and raise our families. They coordinate Health & Wellness related luncheons and events throughout the year.

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS Forms subcommittees focusing on local, state, and national issues; plans Chamber legislative trips to Austin and Washington DC; ensures Chamber presence at local council meetings to provide opportunities to be proactive on business-related issues; provides forums for candidate views on business issues; coordinates programs with area legislators.

MEDIA The Media Committee works with the Chamber to coordinate marketing programs, and advertising opportunities and help the Chamber stay up to date with the latest social media techniques.

TASTE OF AGGIELAND The Taste of Aggieland Committee is responsible for coordinating and executing the annual Taste of Aggieland event. Taste of Aggieland hosts the samplings of over 30 area restaurants, a food-eating contest, a culinary competition between the area high schools, and many other events.

TRANSPORTATION The Transportation Committee works in conjunction with the Legislative Affairs Committee to make sure that our area's infrastructure is represented. They work to make sure that our area roads, railroads, airways, and other modes of transportation are represented in local, state, and federal government arenas.

NONPROFIT The Chamber Nonprofit Committee serves to increase collaboration among the 85 member nonprofits in the Brazos Valley.

This committee will work toward increasing available resources, identifying gaps and duplication of services, and coordinating nonprofit event schedules.

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2023 FOUNDERS NIGHT

Meet Michael McCaul AN OPEN LETTER FROM U.S. REPRESENTATIVE MICHAEL T. MCCAUL

Rep. McCaul at his College Station office’s ribbon-cutting 12

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I’ll never forget seeing my late father-in-law Lowry Mays beam with pride when I told him I would be representing Bryan-College Station in Congress. Just as he worked to build a legacy in Aggieland through his charitable work and time on the Texas A&M Board of Regents, I’ve now been blessed with the chance to serve this truly unique community. With my family’s deep ties to the area — and three children currently attending A&M — representing you is a dream come true.

This March, my wife Linda and I were thrilled to officially open my new district office in College Station — a flagship office for the people of Texas-10. Last year alone, my district offices completed 1,436 cases and helped Texans get $2.4 million back from the IRS. And we’re ready to do even more with the addition of Brazos County.

It’s no coincidence that my office is located in Century Square, right across the street from Texas A&M. As the first Texan to chair the Foreign Affairs Committee, I’m committed to supporting the Bush School and Rellis Campus as they lead the charge to produce U.S. leaders and protect national security. I look forward to the fantastic partnership my office will forge with A&M and the surrounding business community.

JULY/AUGUST 2023

MCCAUL TOURS A SEMICONDUCTOR FACILITY IN TEXAS

As our state leads the way in chip development, I’m pushing to make Bryan-College Station the hub of this innovation. In my bill, we included $2 billion to start a National Semiconductor Technology Center, which will play a central role in America’s semiconductor research and development. And I’m urging the Department of Commerce to locate that center near Texas A&M. With new investments and economic growth on the horizon, I believe the future is brighter than ever for BCS. And I look forward to continuing to partner with the Chamber of Commerce to help businesses thrive in the Brazos Valley.

My father-in-law had many passions, but few were as near and dear to his heart as Texas A&M University and this town. He knew that Bryan-College Station is one-ofa-kind. From the value system to the friendliness and loyalty of the people, there’s simply no place like it.

Thank you for allowing me to represent you in Congress as we work together to uphold the values and opportunities that make Bryan-College Station a great place to call home.

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REP. MCCAUL WITH HIS FAMILY AND FATHER-IN-LAW, LOWRY MAYS

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DELUXE RIBBON CUTTINGS

CAPITAL TITLE OF TEXAS - B/CS

3375 University Drive East Suite 311 Bryan, TX 77802

(979) 383-2200 ctot.com

FIRST FINANCIAL BANK 2445 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy S College Station, TX 77840

(979) 260-2100 ffin.com

SEXUAL ASSAULT RESOURCE CENTER 404 Jane Street #100 College Station, TX 77840

(979) 731-1000 sarcbv.org JULY/AUGUST 2023

11:30AM - 1:00PM

THE HILTON

Join the B/CS Chamber of Commerce at our Economic Outlook Briefing Luncheon featuring

GOLF CLASSIC

LOBSTERFEST

Monday September 11 8AM & 1PM Tee Time

Friday September 15 7PM - 10PM

Pebble Creek Country Club 4500 Pebble Creek Pkwy, College Station, TX 77845

Brazos Center 3232 Briarcrest Dr, Bryan, TX 77802

Join the B/CS Chamber of Commerce at our annual Lobsterfest & Golf Classic!

JULY/AUGUST 2023

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Community

Spotlight HONOR, COURAGE, COMMITMENT: MARINE CORPS ART

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 contact taylor@bcschamber.org

at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. This exhibit showcases works of art by combat artists, focusing on Marine Corps service immediately following the Vietnam War through recent years. Visitors can visit the exhibit in the Fidelity Gallery, and the pieces include works on canvas and sculptures. Honor, Courage and Commitment gives its audience a glimpse into the realities of combat as experienced by artists. This exhibition explores three themes: Every Clime and Place, which illustrates the Corps’ ability to respond rapidly to any location; No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy which portrays Marines capable of fighting the enemy but also delivering aid to those in need; and The Price, which provides a glimpse into the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform and their families. Join us through September 4, 2023, to view aspects of combat through the eyes of the artists who experienced it first hand.

NEW CORPS OF UNITED WAY OF THE BRAZOS VALLEY - RIDE 2 HEALTH

United Way of the Brazos Valley is seeking volunteers to assist with the Ride 2 Health program. Ride 2 Health volunteers assist patients on getting to their doctor’s appointments at no cost to the passenger. The number one reason for missed medical appointments in our community is lack of transportation. Ride 2 Health ensures a patient has the transportation needed to receive their necessary medical care. To register as a volunteer or learn more, contact United Way’s Emma Wright at ewright@uwbv.org.

VOLUNTEER WITH ALLUMINE HEALTH

Help brighten someone’s world! Allumine Home Health & Hospice is looking for community volunteers to spend time with local Hospice patients. Volunteers are an important part of the mission of Allumine Hospice. They help light the way and make the most for each patient and their family! For more information, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Candice Lyon at volunteer@alluminehealth.com.

CENTURY SQUARE - SUMMER MOVIE SERIES

Century Square will be hosting movie events throughout the summer. These family-friendly events are free to the public, and parking is available at the Century Square garage near Star Cinema Grill. Chairs and blankets are allowed, but outside food and drinks will not be permitted on The Green, where the movies will be shown. The next two movies will be on July 20 – “Confessions of a Shopaholic” and August 17 – “SpiderMan: No Way Home” with special guest, Spider-Man, from 6:30pm-8:00pm.

NEW GENERAL MANAGER OF BRAZOS COUNTY EXPO

There is a new leader of the Brazos County Expo Complex and Brazos Valley Fair! Brazos County commissioners approved Jacqueline Foster as the new general manager. She has served as the interim general manager since November 2022 and has worked in several roles since she started at the complex in 2013, including event coordinator and marketing and sales manager. “I am confident she will continue to lead the hard-working staff with excellence,” Judge Peters said in a press release.

WORDS ON WHEELS MOBILE LIBRARY

The Bryan ISD Words on Wheels Mobile Library is on the road this summer. Rudder High School construction and welding students and teachers remodeled the interior and exterior of a school bus with support from Bryan ISD Transportation and Maintenance teams. The inhouse project had been a longtime dream of Bryan ISD’s Library Services team. The WOW Bus has been rolling through Bryan neighborhoods and parked outside Bryan ISD schools so students can have access to books and technology this summer.

COUNTY JUDGE INDUCTED AS FELLOW

Brazos County Judge Duane Peters has been honored by the Texas Association of Counties’ (TAC) Texas Judicial Academy for going the extra mile. The academy recognizes county judges who attain significant judicial education beyond state requirements as Fellows.

The academy inducted a number of county judges as Fellows during its 2023 Spring Judicial Education Session, March 8-10, in Lubbock.

The Texas Judicial Academy is a partnership with TAC and the Texas Tech University School of Law. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals oversees the educational program, which includes instruction by higher court judges, law school faculty and representatives of the Texas Probate College and the National Judicial College.

TAC unites, supports and provides services to Texas counties so they can more effectively serve their local communities.

B/CS CHAMBER FORMER PRESIDENT WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD AT TEXAS CHAMBER CONFERENCE The B/CS Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that Royce Hickman, a seasoned leader and visionary in our community, has been honored with the highly acclaimed Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE) Marvin Hurley Award. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Mr. Hickman’s outstanding contributions to the chamber industry and his unwavering commitment to driving economic growth in the region. The Marvin Hurley Award, named after the late Marvin Hurley, a renowned chamber professional, is presented annually to an exceptional individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to their community and the chamber profession.

C ON NECT I O NS B RYA N / CO L L EG E S TAT I O N CHA M B E R O F C OM M E R CE P.O. B OX 3 57 9 B RYA N, T X 7 7 80 5 -3 57 9

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