2020 July/Aug. Connection

CONNECTIONS BRYAN / COLLEGE STATION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JULY - AUGUST 2020

RECOVERY READY LOCAL BUSINESS TAKE THEIR MARK AND GET BACK UP TO SPEED

C H A M B E R E V E N TS Founders Night 2020

CHAMBER PROGRAMS Operation Restart

C O M M U N I T Y I N S I G H TS

Brazos Valley Feed it Forward

Dream Loans for Dream Homes Mortgage | Construction | Investment Property | Barndominium Home Equity | Bridge | Home Improvement

Melissa Keeling

Melanie Motley

Sierra Cunningham

NMLS# 1671843 979-260-0434 | mkeeling@ffin.com Apply online at: ffin.com/Melissa-keeling

NMLS# 510014 979-260-2153 | mmotley@ffin.com Apply online at: ffin.com/melanie-motley

NMLS# 1824464 979-260-2176 | scunningham@ffin.com Apply online at: Ffin.com/sierra-cunningham

YOU FIRST | FFIN.com

Features

Calendar

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P R ES I D E N T I A L P E R S P E C T I V ES

JULY

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NEW MEMBERS

L E A D E R S H I P LU N C H E O N Phillips Event Center *Virtual Available

A Message from Glen Brewer

Welcoming New Businesses to Bryan/College Station

AUGUST

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0 7. 1 6 . 2 0

D E LU X E R I B B O N C U T T I N G S Celebrate the Start of Something New in B/CS

0 8 . 0 7. 2 0 L E A D E R S H I P B R A ZO S A P P L I C AT I O N S D U E

08.20.20

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SURVIVE & THRIVE IN U N C E RTA I N T I M ES

B U S I N ESS A F T E R H O U R S The Stella Hotel

Celebrity Spa & Salon

08.21.20

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FOUNDERS NIGHT C H A M B E R E V E N TS

Phillips Event Center

Founders Night 2020

08.26.20 E C O N O M I C O U T LO O K B R I E F I N G C O M M U N I T Y I N S I G H TS

The Hilton College Station

Brazos Valley Feed it Forward

CHAMBER PROGRAMS Operation Restart

C H A M B E R S P OT L I G H T The Floor is Yours...

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Presidential Perspectives

H

GLEN BREWER P R ES I D E N T & C E O

owdy, As our local businesses attempt to recover from the damage that COVID-19 has created, we are still struggling with constantly changing outcomes. Our community is fighting to regain our economic footing while ensuring the health of our citizens.

We want and need to open commerce as quickly and as safely as possible to limit the damage to our economy. Otherwise this damage could become so impactful that it cannot be repaired, and we could lose businesses and jobs that may not be replaced for years.

Led by local elected officials and business leaders, Operation Restart is our best effort to sensibly and safely open businesses while protecting employees and customers. If your business has not yet signed on for Operation Restart I would urge you to read about the program in this issue of Connections Magazine.

Joining these other companies in following the Operation Restart guidelines will help us to slow down the spread of COVID-19, continue to open our businesses and save jobs as well as lives.

There is also some good news. Your Chamber of Commerce Founders Night has always been an event to enjoy the fellowship of Chamber members while we honor our previous leaders whose efforts and achievements made possible the community we enjoy today. As we all strive to slow the spread of COVID-19, our scaled-down event this year will be held outdoors at Phillips Events Center, and will follow Gov. Greg Abbott’s restrictions and Operation Restart guidelines. Masks will be worn anywhere social distancing is not possible, and all food and beverages will be served according to health department guidelines. Safe and prudent social interaction is important these days, and we feel comfortable inviting Chamber members to this event.

As our Chamber members continue to work on their safety and recovery efforts along with consumer confidence and employment issues, we can help each other by continuing to buy local and patronizing other Chamber members. A strong local economy helps all of our businesses. By keeping our dollars in the Brazos Valley, we are helping stabilize our cities and county tax base, as well as strengthening the financial fitness of fellow Chamber members.

Shop local – shop Chamber!

B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S P H I L S H AC K E L F O R D Board Chair

G R E G Z W E I AC K E R Chair-Elect

VICKI REIM

Immediate Past Chairman

J AS O N C O R N E L I U S

Vice Chair of Leadership

J A M ES L A R K I N

Vice Chair of Finance & Physical Resources

S U SA N G I P S O N

Vice Chair of Business Development

WA D E B E C K M A N

Vice Chair of Communications

WA LT E R H I N K L E

Vice Chair of Community Enhancement

BA R B I E PAT T E R S O N

Vice Chair of Membership Enhancement

RICARDO DIAZ Board Secretary

M O N I C A B R OW N AU S T I N B RYA N JOHN BUSH J O H N C . “J AC K ” C U L P E P P E R I I I Z AC H E T H E R I D G E DOUG FRENCH J I L L G A L L AG H E R J O R DA N J A N U S E H E AT H P O O L E M A R I E P O RTA L ES R O D R I G U E Z A M Y R ES T I VO KO R I R I C H T R AV I S R O L L I N S PAT S H I E L D S

S TA F F GLEN BREWER President/CEO

R OYC E H I C K M A N

Community Liaison

CARRIE ARCHER

Manager of Membership

TO M T I LTO N

Manager of Finance

J O R DA N P R I H O DA

Manager of Business Programs

TAY LO R S M I T H

Membership Investment Representative

TAY LO R C L A R K

Communications Coordinator

A L L I S O N BAT T E

Special Projects Coordinator

R AC H E L N AV E

Executive Assistant

L I N DA ES P I R I Q U E TA Receptionist

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 Clark by email at taylor@bcschamber.org.

B RYA N C R E AT I V E G R O U P Publication Design

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CONNECTIONS

NEWMAN PRINTING Printing

New Chamber Members

BRAZOS VALLEY SMALL ENGINE + REPAIRS

FARRELL GJESDAL STRATEGY GROUP

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE - BRYAN

GEORGE’S AUTO GL ASS, LLC

2906 Cain Road College Station, TX 77845 (979) 485-1009 bvsmallengine.com

2401 Boonville Road Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 977-7766 CBAC.com/Bryan

ASCEND BEHAVIOR PARTNERS

4040 Highway 6, Suite 200 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 599-5804 farrellgjesdal.com

200 East 32nd Street, Suite A Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 977-6150 georgesauto.glass

L A MACARON FRENCH PASTRIES COLLEGE STATION

TAP THAT AXE

2616 Texas Avenue South Bryan, TX 77860

3700 South Texas Avenue, Suite 300 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 255-7557

AFL AC

MAS FAJITAS

TEXAS MARKET GUIDE

BOXDROP BCS MAT TRESS AND FURNITURE

MICHAEL V. MILLER KELLER WILLIAMS REAL ESTATE

TRADITIONS MORTGAGE GROUP

2700 Wildflower Dr Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 475-7020

5200 Bloomsbury Way Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 229-2280

2001 Timberloch Place, Suite 500 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (979) 218-8043

BRAZOS COUNT Y REGIONAL MOBILIT Y AUTHORIT Y

OISHI SUSHI ASIAN FUSION

VETRIMAX VETERINARY PRODUCTS

11667 FM 2154, Suite 100 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 680-0888

415 Graham Road College Station, TX 77845 (817) 559-7878

PREMIER PAINTING

WHAT ’S THA DEAL BARBECUE

1716 Briarcrest Drive, Suite 300 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 429-3785 2040 N.Loop West, Suite 012 Houston, TX 77018 (832) 785-9591

309 North Washington Avenue, Ste 14 Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 260-5299 CANGELOSE ROOFING AND RESTORATION, LLC

707 Texas Avenue, Suite 112 E College Station, TX 77840 (979) 450-4783

FIRETRON, INC.

11400 State Highway 30, Suite 803 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 807-4968

2297 Earl Rudder Freeway College Station, TX 77845 (979) 985-3445

2244 Carlisle Ct College Station, TX 77845 (979) 575-3501

(888) 225-3427

1223 North Texas Ave Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 229-0895

STEELBUILD, LLC

6750 Victoria Ave, Suite 5 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 492-1610 JULY - AUGUST 2020

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Deluxe Ribbon Cuttings Are you celebrating an important milestone? Anniversary? Opened a new location? Re-branding? Let us help you! Call (979) 260-5200 or email Rachel@bcschamber.org to schedule your B/CS Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting today!

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 p.m. and wrap up around 7 pm. See you at the next event!

AUGUST 20, 2020 Hosted By:

THE STELLA HOTEL

BOULDER DESIGNS BORDER MAGIC

By Innovative Landmark Designs

5969 Jones Road, Units E & F, Bryan, TX 77807 (979) 324-4940 boulderdesigns.net

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 Hosted By:

TBD

LASER ANSWERING SERVICE *Virtual Ribbon Cutting

2405 Texas Avenue South, Suite 306 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 775-4800 laseranswering.com 4

CONNECTIONS

Chamber Photos

BRYAN COLLEGE STATION TOYOTA IS RECOVERY READY!

YOU MAY SEE SOME OF OUR B/CS CHAMBER AMBASSADORS AROUND DELIVERING OPERATION RESTART KITS! DO YOU HAVE YOURS? THE GEORGE IS RECOVERY READY!

CHAMBER AMBASSADOR MEETING – SOCIAL DISTANCE STYLE! HAVE YOU SEEN SOME OF THESE AMBASSADORS OUT AND ABOUT DELIVERING OPERATION RESTART KITS?

B/CS CHAMBER STAFF MEMBERS SPORTING THEIR #ATHOMEINBCS T-SHIRTS!

HUGE THANK YOU TO BPL PLASMA FOR THEIR INCREDIBLY GENEROUS DONATION OF PPE SUPPLIES TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY!

THANK YOU WALK-ON’S SPORTS BISTREAUX FOR HOSTING OUR JUNE AMBASSADOR LUNCH MEETING! PICTURED IS WALK-ON’S FRANCHISEE, CORY DAVIS, AND B/CS CHAMBER AMBASSADOR CHAIRMAN, BEN CALDWELL.

REPRESENTATIVE JOHN RANEY, CONGRESSMAN BILL FLORES, AND CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO, GLEN BREWER, AT BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT THE RANCH HARLEY-DAVIDSON.

THE CHAMBER STAFF ENJOYED A DELICIOUS LUNCH AT COTTON PATCH COLLEGE STATION! THEY ARE OPEN AND READY TO SERVE YOU!

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Survive and Thrive in Uncertain Times

WANT TO SEE YOUR BUSINESS FEATURED? Gain exposure and promote your business with a paid advertorial in the B/CS Chamber of Commerce Connections magazine.

Email Taylor Clark, Communications Coordinator for the Chamber of Commerce at taylor@bcschamber. org or by phone at 979260-5200.

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CONNECTIONS

The B/CS Chamber of Commerce had the opportunity to sit and chat with Laura Atkinson Wagner and Leah Lucas, co-owners of award-winning Celebrity Spa and Salon located in College Station, Texas. Here’s what Celebrity Spa and Salon is doing to survive and thrive in today’s local economy.”

What are some highlights or moments that Celebrity Spa & Salon has experienced over the years?

Laura: The awards that we have won over these last 14 years! Bryan Broadcasting’s Best of the Brazos, The Newman 10, The Eagle’s Readers Choice Awards, Top 200 Salons of America, Redken Elite Salon, Pureology Platinum Salon, Kerastase Top 100! They have all been a great honor to win thanks to our incredible clients and our dedicated staff! Another great achievement is when our first student became a teacher within our salon company! In 2008, we took on the role of not only being Service Providers for our clients, but educators within our salon company for fu-

ture generations within our industry!

Personally one my greatest achievements is when my first student that I mentored, became an educator and mentor herself! It all came full circle in that moment!

How is Celebrity Spa & Salon going above and beyond to keep your clients safe while still getting the full salon and spa experience?

Laura: “Our clients are our livelihood, so of course we want to make sure their safety is first and foremost!

A majority of the time, our clients are people who we have built relationships with over time. They are not strangers who come through our door or use our services one time and we never see again as many other businesses incur. We are invested in our clients and they are invested in us! Our relationship is built on a firm foundation of trust, much like friends and family. We care for their wellbeing and their safety just as we do our families waiting for us at home. Just as with many other professions, our clients are our livelihood and they en-

trust their safety in our expert hands.

For years, we have followed sanitation and safety practices to earn their trust and their business. We have used harsh chemicals properly, hot tools and razor sharp tools on them safely, we have followed sanitation and disinfection protocols. We continue to educate ourselves not only with the minimum requirements by the state, but above and beyond so that we may bring our best selves forward to our clients! We love to hear on a daily basis from our clients “we felt safe prior to COVID coming into the salon/spa, but we honestly feel safer here than anywhere else!” It is rewarding to know that our clients recognize we are doing all we can to keep them safe!

What changes can clients expect when they come in for services and what additional safety measures are you taking as Texas continues to reopen?

Leah: “During the COVID closure, our management team has worked tirelessly on strategies and heightened processes for the safety of our

PAID ADVERTISEMENT receiving services will be allowed to enter. We ask all clients to please call or text upon arrival and we will give you further instructions on how to proceed when entering the building! The list goes on and on about changes to our operation to show our commitment to keeping our community and staff as safe as possible during this pandemic.”

How have you been able to overcome new challenges during COVID and stay thriving during these times?

clientele. We have extreme and strict protocols that will take place before and after each guest that far exceed TDLR guidelines. We have listened to the CDC, medical professionals and government on their requirements. We are READY and PREPARED to put ourselves out there while keeping our clients as well as ourselves safe. We have prepped the salon with sanitation stations at each point of contact. We have created self-checkout stations to minimize contact throughout the salon, thanks to funds rewarded from The Center for Woman’s Entrepreneurs at Texas Woman’s University! Our salon company was one of the woman owned businesses recipient of the COVID-10 AssistHer Grant which allowed us to purchase technology related items due to COVID-19. All staff and clients are required to wear masks.

If a client does not come prepared with a mask, we provide one for them. Also, the Governor has stated that only one client per Service Provider, therefore only the client

Leah: “There are not enough complimentary words to explain how our staff stepped up to the plate during this time of change! Their renewed appreciation for being at work and recommitment of passion for their careers has brought each of them back in full force! We made longer operating hours and extended shifts for the staff so that they could accommodate each of their guests while still following all of the Governor’s guidelines. The limitations that were put on our

CHECK OUT CELEBRITY SPA AND SALON ONLINE!

@celebrityspa

@celebrityspasalon

celebrityspa.net

industry limited our normal operations and reservation times, but with extra hours and an “all hands on deck” attitude, we are able to keep up at our normal pace! The pride and the ownership that each member of this team has in our salon company is obvious in their everyday actions at work. We are in awe daily of their teamwork mentality and the respect they have for one another as co-workers! So if there is anything that has been able to keep us thriving during this time of transition, it is the Team at Celebrity Spa & Salon!

If you have never been into our salon company, I would recommend you come see for yourself!

The other major contributing factor to our success during this time, was the constant support from our loyal clients! They not only continued to support us during our closure, but the loyalty that has remained constant over these last 14 years! We are blessed to be part of such an amazing community where the people see the value of supporting local!”

Co-Owners, Laura Atkinson Wagner and Leah Lucas JULY - AUGUST 2020

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CHAMBER EVENTS

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CONNECTIONS

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n Thursday, August 21st the Chamber will host its 6th Annual Founders Night sponsored by the City of Bryan at Phillips Event Center.

This annual event celebrates the establishment of our twin cities, and the role the Chamber has played in their development. This evening offers a unique opportunity to interact with our past, present, and future leaders, and to celebrate the growth and accomplishments of the Chamber and our community over the years.

In the early 1900s, the Brazos Valley experienced an extended period of rapid economic growth. The construction of two major railway lines through Downtown Bryan and the increasing enrollment at Texas A&M made the area a hotspot for new business opportunities. Eventually, several of the city’s businessmen recognized the need for a businessfocused organization, and in 1900, they formed the Bryan Business League. The organization held many titles over the years (Bryan & Brazos Commercial Association, Civic League, Merchant’s Association), but their primary objective remained constant—to promote business and work to improve the quality of life for its citizens. In 1918, the Bryan Commercial Club officially changed its name to the Bryan and Brazos Chamber of Commerce.

Over 100 years later, the Bryan/College Station area is still rapidly developing, and the Chamber continues to play a vital role within our business community.

Our members recognize the value of a strong Chamber and the benefits of businesses working collectively for the well-being of our local economy, especially during these challenging times. The success of our community has not come without its share of adversity, but we have always come out stronger on the other side. We are living in unprecedented times, but the strength and resilience of our twin cities ensures that we will weather the storm. Founders Night allows the opportunity for us to celebrate our past as we continue to embrace the future. This event supports the Chamber’s leadership programs, Leadership Brazos and Junior Leadership Brazos. These programs encourage professional development and emphasize the value of community involvement. They also help to cultivate future leaders who can continue our community’s proud tradition of economic excellence. Join us at Founders Night for an evening of great food, drinks, gaming, music, and prizes, and celebrate the resilience of our Bryan/ College Station community!

For sponsorship or ticket information, contact Jordan Prihoda at jordan@bcschamber.org or call (979) 2605200.

ALLISON BATTE SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR BCS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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ARE YOU A CHAMBER MEMBER?

“

Business After Hours are a great way to promote your services and meet potential clients in a more relaxed environment.

Interacting with other members of the local business community has allowed me to discover companies that now provide services for my business as well.

”

RODERICK MCFADDIN FIRST SECURIT Y JANITORIAL

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VISIT BCSCHAMBER .ORG OR CALL 979.260.5200

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CONNECTIONS

YOUR HEALTH

IS A LOT OF THINGS. THE ONE THING IT ISN’T,

IS ON HOLD.

No virus can weaken our mission.

At St. Joseph Health, we’re resuming the scheduling of appointments and procedures.

And we’re doing it safely. Our thorough approach determines which procedures can safely be performed, where, and when.

These are the steps we’re taking to make it happen:

• • • • • •

Staying on top of your health has never been more important, whether it’s an ongoing health concern, a routine checkup, or a procedure. Don’t let social distancing stop you and don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Talk with your doctor about scheduling an appointment. For more information, visit us online at CHIStJoseph.org/here-always.

Here, always.

COMMUNITY INSIGHTS

THE SPIRIT OF GIVING Local Independent Restaurants Rise to the Occasion 12

CONNECTIONS

When faced with great adversity, you will find very few that rise to the occasion faster and stronger than restaurateurs. Our lives revolve around constant challenges and obstacles that we hope few of our guests will ever notice.

A typical day in the life of an independent restaurateur brings both recurring and new difficulties and challenges, and it is in our DNA to constantly problem-solve with creativity, determination and drive. As with the rest of the world, COVID-19 has represented a greater challenge than anything we have ever seen, but we were built for the test!

As the Coronavirus made its way into our country, our state and our community, we realized the challenges would be greater than any one of us and that there is always strength in numbers. On March 14th , twenty-three local independent restaurant owners came together and met as a group at Amico Nave Ristorante to discuss the obstacles that we would soon all have to face and the ways we could band together to help both ourselves and our community. Each restaurateur shared valuable information and creative ideas, and we agreed to establish a communication and support structure for us all.

As we moved forward, many other local restaurateurs and bar owners joined our cause. We quickly orga-

nized with administrative help provided by the City of Bryan with both Carmen Mulvaney and Megan Hancock helping to contribute to our mission. We have become loosely-known as BCS Local Flavor (www. bcslocalflavor.com) and have grown to 57 restaurant and bar concepts within the group. Our most valuable assets have been the ability to share information and ideas as well as the large voice we created together to navigate through the many obstacles.

Together we have hosted conference calls with the leadership of the TABC, Brazos County Health Department, Congressman Bill Flores, Representative John Raney, Mayor Karl Mooney and Mayor Andrew Nelson- just to name a few. In the heat of the battle, we literally communicated on an hour-by-hour basis, sharing information on employment and layoffs, grants and loans, and supply-chain challenges.

As we all creatively morphed our businesses into something we had never seen and operations we had never attempted before, we shared information on what was working and what obstacles could be avoided.

Nothing has been more impressive to each of us than to see the creativeness in each other to fight through the ever-changing world and enormous amount of challenges. Some restaurants added grocery stores to their dining areas, others quickly established on-line ordering systems and even subscription meal services, and many establishing makeshift drive-thrus as dining areas and bars were closed. Although revenues could not possibly cover costs, we refused to label ourselves as victims and have thrived on the amazing community support of our unique local businesses.

In the spirit of always wanting to give back and support our local community, we realized the strength and depth we had as a group in providing large numbers of meals at one time. Prior to the mandatory quarantine, we were able to meet with the leaders of the United Way, Meals on Wheels and The Brazos Valley Council of Government about the possibility of our local restaurants providing meals at a reduced cost to the many we knew would soon be in need. The idea was based on helping our independent restaurants, our employees, our local economy, and those in need all at the same time. Several of our restaurants were utilized through both Meals on Wheels and “Meal Drives” hosted by the City of Bryan. There was no doubt that there was more we could do.

Not long after our initial meeting, organizer Kristy Petty from the Village Café, met with a fellow local business owner Hugh Stearns of Stearn’s Design Build.

Hugh had followed a movement from Denver with similar ideas and had already started Brazos Feed It Forward with the intention of helping local restaurants and helping to protect the culinary sense of place in BCS that we create. The idea was to raise funds to allow locally owned restaurants to provide meals to both frontline workers and first responders. His GoFundMe account had already raised close to $6,000 and his plan was the perfect match for the restaurants within BCS Local Flavor. As organizers, we teamed up to step up the effort.

Restaurateurs willingly choose a life of both service and challenge and they creatively thrive in the face of adversity.

One of the first items needed was the ability to team up with an established local charity to help with our efforts. We found the perfect match with The Bubba Moore Foundation and President Danielle Fifer.

The Bubba Moore Foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization that raises funds for local organizations and people in need of assistance primarily due to health-related issues. Formed in 2004 in honor of William Fowler “Bubba” Moore Jr., the organization has become the legacy of a local Good Samaritan. The spirit of the organization and their mission has been the perfect match for Brazos Feed It Forward. The organization, led by Danielle, was quick to act and welcome to our cause.

In addition to providing a needed 501(c) (3) status, Danielle and her team worked quickly to help merge BFIF into their organization and helped set up fundraising efforts. In addition, they made a $2000 contribution and provided t-shirts to the restaurants and staff delivering meals.

As we were establishing the mechanics of the organization, we put the call out to BCS Local Flavor to allow the restaurants that were interested to become a part of BFIF. We quickly began our mission of feeding those on the front line while reaching out to The City of Bryan and The City of College Station for support. Each city contributed a very generous $40,000 to the cause. In a short time, we delivered meals to Baylor, Scott & White Hospital and CHI St. Joseph’ Health, The Brazos County

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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COMMUNITY INSIGHTS

BRAZOS VALLEY FEED IT FORWARD

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS 3RD ON MAIN KITCHEN ALL THE KING’S MEN Health Department, The College Station Police Department, The Bryan Police Department, The Sheriff ’s Department including the jailers, both local Fire Departments, the County Constables Officers, and the leadership of the Salvation Army, Bryan Food Bank, Health for All and The United Way. Utilizing multiple restaurants from the group, we have delivered as many as 1000 meals at the same time.

As we completed our mission of supporting our amazing front line workers and first responders and as our economy quickly spiraled out of control, we turned our attention to those in need. We have worked with SOS Ministries, The Salvation Army, BVCASA, Health for All, The Boys and Girls Club and Project Unity to provide meals for their clients and members.

To date, we have been blessed to serve over 8,000 meals to those in our community and are still going strong.

We continue our fundraising efforts searching for grants and creative marketing ideas like our “Give us a High $5” campaign. We offer a very special thanks to our local media for their overwhelming support of our efforts. To date we have raised over $100,000 from the extremely generous and giving community we all love. We realize the unfortunate reality that COVID-19 is going to be around longer than any of us would like and that the number of people in need is going to continue to rise. It is our hope to continue to move forward with our organization with a special emphasis on the upcoming holiday season. We are currently providing up to 1000 meals per month and hope to continue to do so well into the future.

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CONNECTIONS

It is a privilege and a blessing to own a business in such an amazing community.

There are not enough words of thanks we can give to a community that has been so supportive of our restaurants and our mission. We are all very proud to help make Bryan-College Station a unique place through our establishments. We realize there are more and more options of places to dine in our area and we hope that folks will continue to realize the importance of helping to maintain diversity and creativeness in dining we continue to work hard to provide. We know we are all in this together and it is amazing to work with so many fellow restaurant and bar owners that share the same values and have a willingness to support each other, as well as the community, regardless of what it takes.

Many thanks to our amazing Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce for the support of our businesses, Brazos Feed It Forward, and for allowing us to tell our story.

If you would like to offer support, you can do so at https://brazosfeeditforward.org/ or through Venmo by searching Brazos Feed it Forward.

AMICO NAVE RISTORANTE BLUE BAKER C&J BARBEQUE CASA RODRIGUEZ FARGO’S PIT BBQ HULLABALOO DINER KOLACHE CAPITAL BAKERY & CAFÉ MADDEN’S CASUAL GOURMET NAM CAFÉ NORTHGATE JUICE JOINT RONIN FARM AND RESTAURANT RX PIZZA SHIPWRECK GRILL SMITTY K’S THE PROUDEST MONKEY THE VILLAGE CAFÉ URBAN TABLE VERITAS WINE AND BISTRO

WADE BECKMAN OWNER SHIPWRECK GRILL, AMICO NAVE RESTORANTE, 3RD ON MAIN KITCHEN

CHAMBER PROGRAMS

OPERATION RESTART Set the course...

Local businesses navigate uncharted waters with new practices to meet guidelines brought on by the pandemic.

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CONNECTIONS

W

hat can unite Brazos County, the City of Bryan, the City of College Station, the Brazos County Health District, and the private sector? The challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic have presented government and the private sector created the impetus to unite and establish Operation Restart as the answer. The program has provided businesses with recommendations, best practices, as well as an incremental return of consumer confidence as we navigate the effects of the pandemic on our local economy.

Operation Restart immediately formed a community-wide Task Force of local leaders in business and industry to assist in reviewing Governor Abbott’s Open Texas Initiative. Upon review of these guidelines, the Task Force was asked to provide additional best practices beneficial to building consumer and employee confidence, while also preventing the spread of COVID-19 in their businesses and our community. Business and Industry working groups included Agribusiness, Automotive Service and Sales, Banking, Construction, Entertainment, Food and Beverage, Gyms and Fitness, Hospitality, Instructional Services, Manufacturing, Non-Emergency Healthcare, Personal Services, Private Clubs, Public Accessible Office and Non Accessible Offices, Real Estate, Retail, and Supermarkets. With over 250 individuals participating in crafting recommended best practices over the course of two weeks, Operation Restart set the scene to truly be a grass root, community driven movement providing resources to businesses and confidence to consumers.

Operation Restart ultimately compiled Governor Abbott’s Open Texas Guidelines and identified best practices of our Task Force to form one complete list of guidelines that can be used as a resource to open and continue to engage in business as safely as possible. This resource asks employers, employees, and consumers to pledge to work together in a concerted effort so that businesses and communities can resume and transact business as safely as possible.

Upon accepting the pledge, businesses are provided the opportunity to display a placard, yard sign, or window decal affirming “Recovery Ready” status.

BCS Chamber Ambassadors recently provided fuel to the effort by delivering “Recovery Ready” Kits to participating businesses while also increasing social media presence of the program.

Operation Restart will continue to house this set of guidelines and best practices on BrazosHealth.org and it will be ever-evolving as new information and updates are provided to us by federal, state, and local officials.

We will continue to review ways to effectively communicate these standards to employers, employees, and consumers through checklists, signage, social media, and public service announcements.

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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CHAMBER PROGRAMS

Operation Restart will continue to remain relevant as long as we must confront the challenge of COVID-19 as a community. Beyond restarting our local economy it is essential that we continue to be able to transact business as safely as possible.

PHIL SHACKELFORD BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PLEDGE

”

Through my voluntary participation in Operation Restart, I pledge to meet health and safety guidelines and recommendations while encouraging the continual examination of best practices in my business, industry, or vocation. I strive to go above and beyond by continuing to adjust and provide a safe and healthy atmosphere providing confidence to consumers, employees, and our greater community.

”

18

CONNECTIONS

WHAT LOCAL LEADERS ARE SAYING: MAYOR ANDREW NELSON CIT Y OF BRYAN “Operation Restart is a great partnership between the City of Bryan, the City of College Station and the Brazos County Health District to encourage our businesses to take the extra steps to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community,” said Bryan Mayor Andrew Nelson. “With the help of the Chamber of Commerce, we’ve been successful in touting the importance of reopening businesses in BryanCollege Station safely.”

JUDGE DUANE PETERS BRAZOS COUNT Y “In these uncertain times, it’s nice for people to be able to know who they can trust and where they can feel safe.

Operation Restart allows local patrons the comfort of knowing which businesses are committed to the safety of their guests. It’s a win for the business, and a win for the entire community.”

GREG STAFFORD TEXAS A&M HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER “As we moved through the early phases of The COVID-19 health and economic crisis, it quickly became clear that we were in a condition that was going to create hardship beyond anything we have seen in our lifetime. Fortunately, leaders from local government, our Chamber, every aspect of our local business environment, and Texas A&M came together to reopen and rebuild our community safely. Our mission was model a path forward for the State of Texas by seeking the best ideas from from local leaders and citizens, rather than trying to minimally follow the guidance of Governor Abbott’s reopening orders and the CDC guidelines. As I begin to travel around the state and the country, I’m proud be part of a community that Got It Right! And so, we look forward to welcoming home students, families, sports fans, conference attendees, and all who want to experience Aggie Howdy Hospitality safely. We’re ready for you!”

CHARLOTTE GARDNER GREEN CHROME; A SALON EXPERIENCE “It was a complete honor to be asked to lead the subcommittee for personal services and beauty industry. Connecting and visiting with other leaders in the industry is truly the best part, knowing we are not in this alone and being able to support each other by sharing new ideas and practices that have never been done before. Being a part of Operation Restart is like wearing a badge of honor, having the signage visible for all to see lets the community know we are very serious about their health and safety by going above and beyond CDC requirements. “

KENNY LAWSON C.C. CREATIONS “Consumers are looking at how businesses are operating.

They want to feel safe every time they step into that business.

Taking the Operation Restart Pledge acknowledges that the business owner or manager has taken responsibility for that safety initiative. The sticker on the door or the sign in the front of the business gives consumers confidence that an initiative has been taken – to keep them safe while they visit that business. I would encourage all businesses to take advantage of the resources provided by The City of Bryan, The City of College Station, The Brazos County, and The Brazos County Health District to clearly communicate they are committed to the safety of their consumers.”

DOUG FRENCH ST YLECRAFT “I continue to be impressed with the crucial role the Chamber of Commerce has played in helping the Brazos Valley reopen for business amongst the COVID 19 pandemic. As a trusted resource within the community, the Chamber created a subcommittee to help formulate suggested policy as part of Operation Restart. In doing so, they were able to efficiently share suggested policy with businesses all across the Brazos Valley. The timeline was tight but the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors worked together to deliver a cohesive plan. Most remarkably, the willingness of so many different stakeholders to drop what they were doing and thoughtfully share their best practices enabled us to accomplish our goal. We hear it all the time, how giving this community is, and this was just another example of that giving spirit.”

MAYOR KARL MOONEY CIT Y OF COLLEGE STATION “Shortly after Mayor Nelson, Judge Peters and I declared a health disaster, Mayor Nelson and I discussed the potential impact of COVID-19 on businesses in the B/CS area. We were concerned about how businesses might regain a healthy and prosperous climate. We realized, too, the public trust in the safe operation of those businesses was going to be a paramount condition to expediently achieve that goal.

Fortunately, we also realized the enormity of the challenge and the unique requirements that the various business types would need to address. By tapping into our leaders in business, some of the organized business associations, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local elected officials at the municipal and county level, we were able to quickly move forward. The Brazos County Health District provided the guidance needed to make certain that hygienic practices were identified and could be followed in each business type.

With funding from the cities the next step was to ensure that public trust could be achieved. Operation Restart’s publicized guidelines, businesses’ commitment and signage now appears throughout the Brazos Valley where businesses have direct contact with customers.”

JULY - AUGUST 2020

19

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Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2020 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-BCS-146061-InsiteBrazosValleyAdJUN20 SOM

Ways we're committed to safety

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CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

The Floor is Yours...

Centennial Arts

The Chamber Spotlight shares company news with the community.

New leadership, major changes, anniversaries, employee achievements - celebrate milestones with a message!

22

CONNECTIONS

We have helped many businesses transition to caServices during this pandemic. It has helped people work from home without interrupting the progress in their company. This inexpensive solution hosts your Windows network with Centennial Arts. Our servers gives your business increased reliability and protects all of your information. caServices will also enable you to work remotely, File Share documents with your entire office, and has the option to scale for faster expansion. This also includes data backups, along with protecting against hackers, cyber-criminals, and viruses. Hosting your network through us protects your information on a safe, dependable server. Make sure you are never without your information. To learn more, contact one of our representatives at 979-209-0774 or send us an email at sales@centennialarts.com.

The Sexual Assault Resource Center of the Brazos Valley

is beginning a series called “Women Who Lead,” and organizers want you to nominate the female leaders in your life. “The world needs more women stepping into their power and lead[ing] the change they want to see.” To nominate someone you know, email your nomination and a photo of the nominee to reachingout@sarcbv.org. For more information, visit the SARC Facebook page.

Congratulations!

The following Chamber members were honored with the 2020 The Eagle Readers’ Choice Award: 1st Alliance Mortgage 7F Lodge ACME Glass Aggieland Adventure Zoo & Safari Park Aggieland Credit Union Aggieland Humane Society Allen Honda Auto Service Center AllSafe Storage Amico Nave Ristorante Arrow S Pest Control Ashley HomeStore AT&T Audio Video Bird’s Nest Gifts and Antiques Brazos Christian School Brazos County Expo Complex Brazos Valley Foot Care Brazos Valley Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center Britt Rice Electric, L.P. Brown’s Shoe Fit Co Bryan Fire Department Bryan Texas Utilities Buddy’s Appliance Service Buppy’s Catering C&J Barbeque Callaway-Jones Funeral Home and Crematory Camp Allen Cangelose Financial CapRock Health Casa do Brasil Celebrity Spa & Salon Chem-Dry of Brazos County Chick-fil-a Chris Kirk, Brazos County Sheriff’s Office Chuys

Climate Doctors Cocktails 4 U Copy Corner Crestview Skilled Nursing and Rehab D&D Moving and Storage, Inc. David Gardner’s Jewelers David Smith - Edward Jones Drew’s Car Wash Farm Patch Produce Market First Financial Bank Fish Daddy’s Grill House Galleria Spa, Salon and Boutique George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum George’s Paint & Body Grand Station Entertainment H-E-B H-E-B Texas Avenue Holladay & Associates Hospice Brazos Valley Howdy’s Texas Grill’d Pizza Jason James, Bryan Police Department Keller Williams Brazos Valley Learning Express Toys of College Station Light Pediatric Dentistry Listen Hear Audiology Center Longhorn Tavern Steakhouse Lowe’s Home Improvement Mad Taco Marr Eye Center M-Beaux’s McAlister’s Deli Merry Maids Messina Hof Winery Mo’s Irish Pub Office Depot Ozona Grill and Bar Palmisano’s Martial Arts Parc at Traditions

2020 Patterson Architects Pet Supplies Plus Pie in the Sky Co. BCS Polaris Fun Center Porter’s Dining and Butcher Producers Cooperative Association Public & Main (formerly Café Eccell) Readfield Meats & Deli Red Carpet Nail Spa Reece and Jouett Exceptional Dentistry Rusty Surrette, KBTX Media Sabi Boutique Southwest Homes Spoons Yogurt St. Joseph Catholic Church Star Cinema Grill College Station Sterling Auto Group Systek Computing Texas A&M University Texas ENT & Allergy Texas Farm Bureau The Benn Law Group The Ranch Harley-Davidson The Republic Steakhouse The Sleep Station The Stella Hotel Thompson Derrig & Craig Tiff’s Treats Cookie Delivery Traditions Club Traditions Health U Paint-It University Title Company Uptown Cheapskate Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park Urban Optics Water to Wine Productions Wings ‘N More Restaurant Bar & Grill Zwernemann Flooring JULY - AUGUST 2020

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Congratulations Class of 2020!

Ian Andersen Sidney Backstrom Sara Bakalian Allison Batte Chance Bloodworth Scott Bray Katelyn Brown Karla Castillo Stumpf Abb Cauthorn Geoffrey Christian Carol Cotter Pamela da Graça Joe Foster Randy Gibbs Desiree Gonzales Lindsay Hackett Andrew Harper Karen Harris Story Jill Jones Natalie Kidd

The Physicians Centre Hospital G-Con Manufacturing, Inc. Oak Forest Management, LLC B/CS Chamber of Commerce Dailey Company, Inc. Bruchez & Goss Downtown Bryan Association KBTX Media ANCO Investment Services Baylor Scott & White Health City of College Station The Arkitex Studio, Inc. Titan Security Solutions The Physicians Centre Hospital Wells Fargo Bank City of Bryan Evolve Impact Group Unlimited Potential (UP) Mentoring RE/MAX 20|20 First Financial Bank

Greg Lanting Brett Lawler Gail Lazarine Everett Lowe Baylor Lyon Justin Manning Chase McClain Risa Meyer Demond Oliver Alex Pfefferkorn Baili Rhodes C. Tyler Smith Zac Stevenson Robin Taylor Amy Thompson Brandi Trujillo Celina Vasquez Sylvianne Velasquez-Mitszal Jo Beth Wolfe Kelly Wood

Binkley and Barfield Inc. C.C. Creations CHI St. Joseph Health Producers Cooperative Association Commerce National Bank C&J Barbeque Prosperity Bank Caring Transitions New York Life Insurance Company Jones | Carter West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry, P.C. Higginbotham Insurance Cleary ZImmermann Engineers Guaranty Bank & Trust Corps of Cadets/Texas A&M University Express Employment Professionals Brazos County Justice of the Peace Integ Experience Bryan College Station CHI St. Joseph Health

And thank you to our LB Sponsors!

JULY - AUGUST 2020

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C O N N EC T I O N S B RYA N / C O L L E G E S TAT I O N CHAMBER OF COMMERCE P. O. B OX 3 5 7 9 B RYA N , T X 7 7 8 0 5 -3 5 7 9

PRESS ON At Newman Printing Company, we have faced many challenges over the past seven decades. During these difficult times, and now more than ever, we are proud to have been continuously operational and supporting the community. Our doors are open, our spirits are encouraged and we are ready to meet this challenge.

Together, we will... Press On!

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