Connections
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES Shop Local & Eat Local Guide COMMUNITY EVENTS Give Back This Holiday Season
A WORD FROM KARLA CASTILLO
Dear Chamber friends,
A wise friend told me my year serving as Chamber board chair would go by quickly. He was right.
With just days left to serve in this capacity, I’d like to thank you all for the role you played in making this another incredible year of growth for the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce. From record attendance at our signature events, to the great ribbon cuttings and Business After Hours events, this is a memorable year because of you, the members, volunteers and overall supporters.
Thank you to the heart and reason for the Chamber – our members. Your dedication and passion for your craft, regardless of the challenges, is inspiring and encouraging. One of the most important things we do for our members is advocate community needs to our lawmakers. I was fortunate to help lead delegations to Austin and Washington, D.C. to present our Legislative Action Plans. Thank you to the volunteers who organized and presented those legislative priorities to our elected officials.
It’s been so much fun to watch the growth of the Young Professionals of Aggieland. This valuable arm of the Chamber is filled with young business leaders who are finding ways to connect and give back to our community. Please read up on this incredible group and encourage your younger employees/coworkers to get involved in this space.
Monthly board meetings have been such a pleasure because of fellow board members. Thank you for sharing your energy and expertise. I’m also grateful to our ex officio members who attended the meetings and shared updates from across the business community. Sincere thanks to the ambassadors for their incredible work year-round!
Glen, Carrie, Royce, Jenny, Victoria, Kelli, Linda, Jamie and Sana: thank you for answering all my questions and listening to my suggestions. You’re a mighty team and what helps make us the best darn Chamber in the nation.
There are more exciting days ahead for the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce. I encourage you to stay plugged in and be a part of its present and future.
Karla Castillo Past Board Chair
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ZACH ETHERIDGE Board Chair
JAY RUDINGER Chair-Elect Vice Chair Administration
KARLA CASTILLO Immediate Past Chairman
JOSH KRUPA Vice Chair Business Enhancement
RHONDA WATSON Vice Chair Community Enhancement
JOEL BRYAN Vice Chair Communications
AMELIA MCCRACKEN Vice Chair Membership Enhancement
GEORGE MCCOY Vice Chair Financial & Physical Resources
GENERAL JOE RAMIREZ Vice Chair Leadership Division
JOHN ALLEN LINDA CLARK CAMERON COMIRE
JOHN MAGRUDER
JUSTIN MANNING
KANDIS MARTINEZ
PRENTISS MADISON
KATHERINE MOORE SUZANNE NUEBERGER DELORES CRUM
ANNA DUDLEY
CODY JONES
DOUG LYLES
EVA READ-WARDEN
JOHN SEIGLER
JARED STEFFEN ALEX TRAN
JAIME CAVAZOS Secretary STAFF
GLEN BREWER President/CEO
ROYCE HICKMAN Community Liaison
CARRIE ARCHER Manager of Membership
JENNY BAKER Manager of Finance
VICTORIA MARTINEZ Manager of Marketing & Communications
JAMIE HILL Manager of Business Development
KELLI SANFORD Executive Assistant
LINDA ESPIRIQUETA Receptionist
SANA ASKARI Programs & Marketing Assistant
Chamber
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
FIDIUM
2116 S. 17th Street Mattoon, IL 61938 (281) 682-7063 consolidated.com
VERABANK
3000 Barron Road College Station, TX 77845 (979) 485-5582 verabank.com
COMPASS ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC
1625 Cottonwood School Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 (832)595-9064 compassenvsolutions.com
WINDOW HERO COLLEGE STATION
College Station, TX 77845 (979) 401-4332 windowhero.com
TIMONEY MEDIA
4406 Longthorpe Court College Station, TX 77845 (571) 236-1521 timoneymedia.com
LARAMIDE RESOURCES
1217 Windrift Cove College Station, TX 77845 (979) 220-9943 laramide.com
180 DEGREES CONSULTING
235 Koldus Student Services Building College Station, TX 77843 (980) 875-7051 180dctamu.com
WILLIE’S GRILL & ICEHOUSE
940 University Dr. E College Station, TX 77840 (979) 268-145 williesgrillandicehouse.com
COOKIE DOUGH BLISS 900 Harvey Road Suite 7 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 721-9779 cookiedoughbliss.com
ANY LAB TEST NOW!
3505 Longmire Drive Suite C College Station, TX 77845 (979) 485-9467 anylabtestnow.com/college-station
ARCPOINT LABS
3505 Longmire Drive Suite C College Station, TX 77845 (979) 485-2100 arcpointlabs.com/college-station/
ABA SERVICES, LLC
4346 Alexis Court College Station, TX 77845 (979) 704-3077 abas.build
SUMMIT TITLE GROUP
4438 HS-6 South Suite 101 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 595-8490 summittitlegroup.com
THIRD RIVER HEALTH
1512 Holleman Drive College Station, TX 77845 (979) 426-432 thirdriverhealth.com
BRAZOS VALLEY DETACHMENT #1391, MARINE CORPS LEAGUE, INC. PO Box 3745 Bryan, TX 77805 (979) 204-7702 brazosvalley1391.org
SIMMONS SERVICES 233 Marino Road Bryan, TX 77808 (936) 510-2890 simmonsservicetx.com
BLISS NAIL BAR 1731 University Dr East College Station, 77840 (512) 817-9427 blissnailbarcollegesttaion.com
STARNES, RICK
3708 East 29th Street Suite 149 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 219-1777
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES GROUP LLC
1528 Bennett Street Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 341-5500 intechgrouptx.com
MAI SHAN YUN
103 College Avenue College Station, TX 77840 (979) 583-9868 maishanyun.com
5TH AVENUE TRAVEL ADVENTURES
8415 Turtle Rock Loop College Station, TX 77845 (806) 223-6348 5thavenuetravel.com
ONYX DIAMOND, LLC
4030 SH-6 Suite 200 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 329-2828 stephaniecurtis.realtor
BRAZOS VALLEY YMCA
1812 North Mays St Round Rock, TX 78664 (512) 615-5545 ymcactx.org/locations/brazos-valley/
NORTHFIELD HAULING LLC
Bryan & College Station, TX (832) 529-7883 northfieldhaul.com
DOUGHERTY DENTAL GROUP
2709 Texas Avenue S. Suite 100 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 202-0561 doughertydentalgroup.com
EAGLE FIVE STARS PAINTING
Bryan & College Station, TX (979) 895-3693 eaglefivestarspainting.com/
PAM ROBERTSON 604 E 22nd Bryan, TX 77803 (713) 301-6426 brazoscountytx.gov
WHITE ROSE BUILDERS
1645 Greens Prairie Suite 201
College Station, TX 77845 (979) 575-8421 whiterosebuilders.com
BRAZOS EXECUTIVE TRANSPORTATION
1680 George Bush Dr W College Station, TX 77845 (512) 635-8250 brazosexecutivetransportation.com
LONE STAR EXCLUSIVES FURNITURE | MATTRESS
1301 S College Avenue Bryan, TX 77801 (800) 218-0623 lonestarexclusives.com
SUMMERS COOK AND COMPANY 1127 Judson Road Suite 146 Longview, TX 75601 (903) 757-8686 summerscook.com
NEXPATH COACHING, LLC
College Station, TX (979) 235-9573 nexpathcoaching.com
JLA REALTY
4343 Carter Creek Parkway Suite 100 Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 485-1579 jlarealty.com
LA BOTANA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
2210 East William J. Bryan Parkway Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 595-7340 labotanamexicanrestaurant.com
S.D.S. PLUMBING LLC
Bryan & College Station, TX (979) 255-3166 sds-plumbing.com
WG EVENT PRODUCTION 6290 Highway 30 Anderson, TX 77830 (979) 246-2826 wgeventproduction.com
LA CAZA SPIRITS
Bryan & College Station, TX (979) 320-7549 lacazaspirits.com
1874 CATTLE
P.O. Box 314 Wellborn, TX 77881 (979) 492-9094 1874cattle.com
THE ARIA 27041 Southfield Road Suite 200 Lathrup Village, MI 48076 (816) 679-9569 lrccommercial.com
GRASSROOTS LLC
11405 N Dowling Road College Station, TX 77845 (979) 703-8412 grassrootsbcs.com
DOGLEGG GOLF
2551 Texas Avenue S. Suite E1 College Station, TX 77840 (210) 859-0262 doglegg-golf.com
CASA MONARCA 206 W. 26th Street Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 810-0179
GOOSEHEAD INSURANCE 2321 Arrington Road College Station, TX 77845 (979) 571-0372 goosehead.com
979 NUTRITION 210 N Main Street Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 589-0224 979nutrition.com
ALL CREATIVE PROMOTIONAL PLUS LLC
923 S. Texas Avenue Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 823-6911 acpromoplus.com
HOWDY HANGOUT, LLC
2918 Camelot Bryan, TX 77802 (254) 300-1527 howdyhangout.com
INBETWEEN COFFEE COMPANY LLC
Bryan - College Station (832) 499-6858 inbetweencoffeeco.com
POSITIVE RECOVERY CENTERS
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION
3833 South Texas Avenue Suite 213 Bryan, TX 77802 (713) 904-4689 positiverecovery.com
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
OCTOBER
16TH
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
PALACE THEATER
NOVEMBER
20TH
Hosted By: ST. JOSEPH HEALTH
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!
CHAMBER PHOTOS
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: KOLL INTERIORS
AFTER HOURS: FROST BANK
FOUNDERS NIGHT | THANK YOU TO ALL WHO JOINED US FOR A WONDERFUL EVENING
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: PARC AT TRADITION
2025 ECONOMIC OUTLOOK BRIEFING
2025 LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON | BEN KEATING WITH KEATING AUTO GROUP
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LEADERSHIP BRAZOS CLASS OF 2025
PULLING UP A CHAIR
GET TO KNOW THE 2025-2026 B/CS CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
For the past 13 years, my family and I have been proud to call the Brazos Valley home. Bryan-College Station is where we’ve built our business, raised our family, and created lasting friendships that mean so much to us.
My wife Andrea and I, along with our son Staton, are grateful to live in a place that values faith, community and local business. Andrea and I together own Koll Interiors, a full service commercial furniture dealership located in Downtown Bryan serving higher education, corporate office, healthcare and hospitality markets across the great state of Texas.
Zach Etheridge, B/CS Chamber Board Chair
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AS THE INCOMING B/CS CHAMBER BOARD CHAIRMAN
Our Chamber is a tremendous platform for individuals and companies alike to find new and different ways to connect, serve and stay involved in our community. I have had the privilege of working with many of you directly and those experiences have deepened my appreciation for the grit and resilience of our local business community. I want to help expedite greater advocacy for local businesses and develop improved synergies with our partners in both state and local government and Texas A&M University. By working together, we can expand opportunities for businesses of all sizes and create long-term momentum for all of Bryan-College Station.
WHAT MAKES YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT TAKING ON THE ROLE AS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE B/CS CHAMBER
The opportunity to give back to a community that has given so much to me and my family. Our Chamber represents the very best of collaboration — people
from all industries and backgrounds coming together to create a stronger economic future. Being afforded the opportunity to help guide and influence that effort is both humbling and energizing.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CHAMBER EVENT AND WHY
Our Economic Outlook event in January is a great kick-start to the year. I enjoy seeing the community come out in force after the holidays and consuming the wealth of information provided; it’s time well spent. That said, I never miss an Ag Breakfast! I’m certain this is a favorite of others as well. Breaking bread together as we enter a season of gratitude and thanks is a powerful reminder of what makes Bryan-College Station a special place.
WHY DO YOU THINK THE CHAMBER IS SUCH AN ASSET TO OUR COMMUNITY
We are a hub for advocacy, collaboration, and progress. Our Chamber amplifies the voices of business leaders, supports economic growth, and provides a space for people to connect and share ideas. In many ways, it is the bridge between business and community, helping ensure that the Brazos Valley remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
The Etheridge Family
Inner Circle Meet & Greet with Mike Elko and Trev Alberts
Shop Local This Holiday Season
WAREHOUSE @ C.C. CREATIONS
Warehouse @ C.C. is a trendy shopping destination that brings together style, creativity, and unique finds all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for a complete wardrobe refresh or the perfect statement piece, Warehouse @ C.C. offers a wide variety of fashionable clothing and accessories that make it easy to stand out. With new arrivals and ever-changing selections, shoppers are sure to discover something fresh and exciting each visit.
TEXAS ROSE BOUTIQUE
Texas Rose Boutique captures the essence of Southern charm while offering modern fashion that appeals to women of all ages. The boutique is filled with carefully curated pieces that balance timeless elegance with current trends, making it easy to find outfits for both casual days and special occasions. With friendly service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Texas Rose Boutique makes shopping feel personal, fun, and inspiring.
FULL CHAMBER
MEMBER DIRECTORY
Scan the QR code above to access the B/CS Chamber of Commerce Online Directory. Discover new places to shop and enjoy with family and friends while supporting the local businesses that help our community thrive!
MURDOCH’S RANCH & HOME SUPPLY
Murdoch’s Ranch Home Supply is your one-stop destination for all things home. Offering a wide range of essentials, from tools and hardware to home decor and everyday supplies, this locally owned store takes pride in providing quality products paired with excellent customer service. Whether you’re tackling a home project, sprucing up your living space, or searching for practical household needs, Murdoch’s Ranch Home Supply has you covered.
KLENR
Nestled in College Station, KLENR is a purpose-driven brand offering premium, all-natural soaps, grooming products, and accessories designed for the modern individual. Founded in 2022 by veteran Chris “CT” Thompson, the company reflects his commitment to personal renewal, built on a foundation of authenticity, organic quality, and community support.
OLD BRYAN MARKETPLACE
A gem in the heart of Downtown Bryan, Old Bryan Marketplace is a shopping destination steeped in history and charm. This unique store is filled with antiques, gifts, furniture, and timeless treasures that tell stories while fitting beautifully into today’s homes. Visitors can enjoy exploring room after room of carefully curated pieces, making every trip to Old Bryan Marketplace a new adventure in discovery.
BIRD’S NEST GIFTS & ANTIQUES
Bird’s Nest Gifts & Antiques is a charming boutique offering a unique mix of vintage treasures, home decor, and thoughtful gifts. Located in the heart of Bryan, Texas, this shop specializes in carefully curated antiques, handcrafted items, and oneof-a-kind finds that make perfect keepsakes or additions to any home.
APRICOT LANE BOUTIQUE
Apricot Lane Boutique brings style to the local community with a selected collection of clothing, accessories, and gifts. Known for offering on-trend and fashion-forward pieces, the boutique is designed for those who want to look stylish while expressing their individuality. With a commitment to making every shopper feel welcome and confident, Apricot Lane Boutique is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers.
GIDDY UP GLAMOUR BOUTIQUE
Giddy Up Glamour is a shopping experience full of personality. Known for its bold and sassy styles, the store carries everything from chic outfits and sparkling accessories to fun gift items that add flair to everyday life. Perfect for shoppers who love to express themselves through fashion, Giddy Up Glamour is the go-to destination for women looking to blend confidence, comfort, and a touch of sparkle into their wardrobe.
Savor The Season By Supporting Local
TREAT YOURSELF TO HOLIDAY FLAVORS
RIGHT FROM YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!
MESSINA HOF WINERY
Messina Hof Winery in Bryan is more than a destination for award-winning Texas wines—it’s a place where every sip is thoughtfully paired with flavor. Guests can enjoy guided tastings or wines by the glass alongside a curated menu of light bites designed to elevate the experience. Whether you’re settling in for a relaxed afternoon with friends, enjoying a date night in the Wine Bar, or exploring new pairings during a tasting, Messina Hof offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where food and wine come together beautifully.
CASA MONARCA
Casa Monarca brings the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine to the Brazos Valley with dishes crafted from family recipes and fresh ingredients. From flavorful tacos to traditional specialties, every plate celebrates the warmth and culture of Mexico. With a lively atmosphere and friendly service, Casa Monarca is the perfect spot for family gatherings, date nights, or casual get-togethers with friends.
DE BACA STEAKHOUSE
De Baca Steakhouse offers an elevated dining experience centered around premium steaks and classic Texas hospitality. Each cut is carefully selected and expertly prepared to highlight bold flavors and quality. Pair your meal with fine wines or handcrafted cocktails and enjoy a dining atmosphere that is both upscale and inviting—perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying an unforgettable meal.
LUCKY GOAT COFFEE
Lucky Goat Coffee is dedicated to serving delicious brewed coffee, espresso drinks, and teas. Whether you need your morning pick-me-up, a quiet place to study, or a spot to connect with friends, Lucky Goat provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. With locally roasted beans and a menu full of specialty drinks, it is a must visit destination for coffee lovers.
SHIPWRECK GRILL
A Bryan favorite, Shipwreck Grill serves up fresh gulf seafood with a casual, coastal vibe. Known for their famous oysters, shrimp, and galley burgers, this locally owned restaurant has been a go-to for seafood lovers for years. With a relaxed atmosphere, great drinks, and a welcoming staff, Shipwreck Grill is the place to enjoy a taste of the coast right here at home.
MAI SHAN YUN
Mai Shan Yun brings authentic Asian cuisine to College Station with a menu full of flavorful dishes inspired by traditional recipes. Known for their fresh ingredients and bold flavors, the restaurant offers everything from noodles and stir-fry to specialty chef’s creations. With its inviting atmosphere and wide variety of dishes, Mai Shan Yun is a top choice for both casual dining and family meals.
POLITE COFFEE
BUBBA’S 33
Bubba’s 33 is where comfort food, sports, and family fun come together. The menu features everything from hand-tossed pizzas and burgers to hearty entrees and shareable appetizers, all made from scratch daily. With big screens, cold drinks, and a lively atmosphere, Bubba’s 33 is the go-to spot to catch the game, grab dinner with friends, or enjoy a family night out.
Polite Coffee is more than just a cafe—it’s a place where good coffee and good company come together. Serving ethically sourced and roasted coffee, their menu includes everything from smooth lattes to bold pour-overs. Housed in the historic Kyle House in Downtown Bryan, Polite Coffee offers a oneof-a-kind atmosphere that’s both charming and energizing, making it a staple for locals and visitors alike. FULL
Scan the QR code above to access the B/CS Chamber of Commerce Online Directory.
Discover new places to enjoy with family and friends while supporting local businesses that make our community thrive!
LEADERSHIP BRAZOS CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2026
Crystal Capps
Callie Cline
Jerry Behm C.C. Creations
Leadership Brazos Coordinators
Shalisa Roland
Diana Saucedo Lisam America
Kevin Valle Pink’s Windows B/CS
Alex Wilson Belfor Restoration
COLLEGE STATION
801 University Drive East College Station, TX 77840 (979) 693-7500 hiltoncs.com
BALLEM HARMONY CLINIC
4500 Carter Creek Pkwy, Suite 101B Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 316-1849 ballemharmonyclinic.com
WHITE ROSE BUILDERS
College Station, TX 77845 (979) 575-8421 whiterosebuilders.com
1301 S College Avenue Bryan, TX 77801 (800) 218-0623 lonestarexclusives.com DOUGHERTY DENTAL
2709 Texas Ave S, Suite 100 College Station, TX 77840 (979) 484-5894 doughertydentalgroup.com
245 Country Club Drive Caldwell, TX 77836 (281) 389-8061 circlecbarnvenue.com MAI SHAN YUN
103 College Avenue College Station, TX 77840 (979) 583-9868 maishanyun.com
1819 San Antonio Bryan, TX 77802 (979) 595-7340 labotanamexicanrestaurant.com
LA BOTANA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Holiday Happenings
OCTOBER 26, 3 - 6PM
HALLOWEENTOWN IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRYAN
Downtown Bryan will transform into a Halloween wonderland with trick-ortreating, costume contests, kids’ crafts, and themed photo ops for the whole family to enjoy. Presented by Bryan Broadcasting and Destination Bryan, this family-friendly event invites the community to enjoy trick-or-treating at downtown businesses, strike a pose at photo booths, and show off their best moves on the lively dance floor. Costumes are encouraged for all ages, making it a festive celebration everyone can join.
NOVEMBER 30, 10AM - 4PM HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY MARKET
Get ready to shop ‘til you drop at the annual holiday shopping event! Discover unique artisan, handmade, homegrown, vintage, and Aggie themed treasures crafted by local vendors. Whether you’re crossing off names on your list or treating yourself to something special, you’re bound to find the perfect gift. Plus, admission is FREE, so bring your friends and family for a festive shopping spree you won’t want to miss!
NOVEMBER 21, 5 - 10PM
LIGHTS ON! IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRYAN
Destination Bryan will kick off the holiday season in Bryan, Texas with the annual Lights On! Help us countdown to turn on thousands of lights along Main Street and Bryan Avenue to illuminate picturesque Historic Downtown Bryan.
This free, family-friendly event will include holiday photo backdrop stations, live music, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
NOVEMBER 27, 8AM
B/CS TURKEY TROT
Be a part of a unique family tradition and join us the Annual BCS Turkey Trot!
The race will start promptly at 8am on Thanksgiving morning. Post-race fun will include music, apple pie and pecan pie from our friends at HEB, beer from local breweries. All proceeds of the race will go directly to local non-profit organizations.
DECEMBER 6, 4PM COLLEGE STATION CHRISTMAS PARADE
Start the holiday season in style at the College Station Christmas Parade. Get ready to be dazzled by beautifully decorated floats, cheerful music, and the spirit of Christmas in Aggieland!
The parade will start at Post Oak Mall and travel west down Holleman, turns south on Dartmouth, turns east on Krenek Tap, and ends at Beachy Central Park.
DECEMBER 6, 6 - 10PM HOLIDAY NIGHT BAZAAR WITH THE LOCAL
Tis the season to shop local!
Join us at Lake Walk for a unique shopping experience with over 50 vendors, live music, and more to highlight the talented vendors in our community. Free and open to the public to attend. Follow The Local at Lake Walk for updates including the vendor lineup, parking, musical acts, and more!
For more holiday fun with family and friends, be sure to check out the Visit College Station and Destination Bryan!
DECEMBER 11, 5-9PM DOWNTOWN BRYAN HOLIDAY STROLL & LIGHTED PARADE
Experience the magic of holiday season in Downtown Bryan! Enjoy free, familyfriendly holiday fun in Bryan, Texas. Stroll around Historic Downtown Bryan for an evening of holiday cheer, merriment, and even mark off some of your holiday shopping list!
The Parade route will start at the intersection of 24th Street and Bryan Avenue heading south, turn on 28th, and head back north on Main Street.
Both sites are packed with updated event calendars, making it easy to plan your next festive adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Don’t miss out on all the seasonal magic happening right in your backyard!
Photo Courtesy: City of College Station
GIVING BACK
Grab your neighbor and join the community in the spirit of giving. Numerous Brazos Valley fundraising and donation opportunities are available. Check out just a few of these initiatives below.
We’ll see you there!
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA
Please join Wreaths Across America on Saturday, December 13th at College Station, Bryan, and Brazos Valley Cemeteries to remember and honor our veterans through the laying of remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud. To sponsor a live wreath for a veteran grave in the Brazos Valley ($17 each), please visit wreathsacrossamerica.org WAA is “more than wreaths in December,” WAA Brazos Valley remembers, honors and teaches about the service and sacrifice of veterans, military and their families. Visit wreathsacrossamerica.org for more information.
THE SALVATION ARMY ANGEL TREES
The Brazos Valley Salvation Army Angel Tree Program has been a cherished tradition since 1979, bringing holiday joy to local children and adults with special needs. Each year, families in need across the Brazos Valley share wish lists, which are then turned into Angel tags. These tags are displayed on Angel Trees at Post Oak Mall and participating businesses and organizations throughout Bryan-College Station. Community members can select an Angel, purchase the requested gifts, and return them by the deadline noted on each tag. Once collected, the gifts are distributed by the Brazos Valley Salvation Army to ensure every Angel family experiences the joy of Christmas. For details or to see how you can donate to an Angel, visit www.tsamm.org/angeltree.
RADIO M*A*S*H TOY DRIVE
Radio M*A*S*H is an annual toy drive to collect toys and funds for less-fortunate children in the Brazos Valley. For five days, the corner of Harvey Road and Earl Rudder Freeway in the Post Oak Mall parking lot in College Station resembles an Army camp with the singular mission of ensuring every child in need in the Brazos Valley has a gift under their tree. Brazos Valley Communications radio stations, 98.3 KORA, Radio Alegria 1240AM/100.1FM, 101.9 The Beat, and Classic Hits 102.3/107.3 man the effort and broadcast from the “camp” continuously throughout the event. This is always a favorite holiday event for the B/CS Chamber as our Board of Directors and Ambassadors come together to donate to the toy drive.
GIFTING JOY TO SENIORS IN THE BRAZOS VALLEY
Each holiday season, the Brazos Valley Council of Governments brings warmth and cheer to local seniors through its Senior Christmas program. Serving over 1,500 homebound and nursing home seniors each year, the program collects wish lists of needed items, such as pajamas, sweatpants, body wash, and more. Angel Tree tags are hosted by businesses throughout the Brazos Valley, volunteers sponsor a senior, shop for the requested items, assemble gift bags, and deliver them to the seniors. It’s a powerful, community-oriented effort that offers not only gifts but connection, dignity, and joy to those who may otherwise be forgotten during this special time of year.
KBTX FOOD FOR FAMILIES FOOD DRIVE
The holidays are a time when family and friends come together. As the family of KBTX prepares for the holidays, we invite you and your family to join us at the Brazos Center in Bryan for the 30th Annual Food for Families Food Drive.
During this event we will broadcast live throughout the day as we work to alleviate hunger in the Brazos Valley. Shop any of your local grocery stores using the list below as a guide to help you support this incredible effort that benefits the mobile pantry operated by the Brazos Valley Food Bank, your local non-profit organization “seeking to eliminate hunger by the distribution of food and grocery products through a network of nonprofit organization while providing education and community awareness on issues of hunger.” Together we can make a difference.
DONATION IDEAS:
Canned Meats (tuna, chicken, ham, etc)
Spaghetti Sauce/Tomato Products
Cereal (all sizes)
Vegetables (canned)
Chili Fruits (canned) Peanut
“BE THE LIGHT” : RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF CENTRAL TEXAS
This holiday season, join the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas in supporting families with hospitalized children through their “Be The Light” campaign. Launching in early November, this campaign is dedicated to provide comfort and care for families during some of their most challenging times. The Ronald McDonald Family Rooms offer a comforting “home-away-fromhome,” keeping families close to their children. For more information and ways to support, visit https://rmhc-ctx.org
CHAMBER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
For those interested in giving back to local non-profits this holiday season, we invite you to visit our webpage for a comprehensive list of Chamber member non-profits and details on how you can support their meaningful work. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your involvement can make a lasting impact in our community. This season of giving is the perfect time to show your support and help these organizations continue their vital missions.
Community Spotlight
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 - victoria@bcschamber.org
THE DIXIE CHICKEN CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
The Dixie Chicken, a true College Station landmark, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. For half a century, this iconic gathering spot has been a cherished part of the Aggie experience and a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and rich traditions, The Dixie Chicken’s milestone marks not just a celebration of its past but also a bright future serving the community for generations to come.
40 YEARS OF THE BRAZOS VALLEY SBDC
The Brazos Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) proudly celebrated 40 years of supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses. Over the past four decades, the SBDC has played a vital role in guiding business owners with expert resources, training, and mentorship. This anniversary highlights the SBDC’s longstanding commitment to empowering small businesses and fostering economic growth throughout the Brazos Valley.
CHICKEN OIL COMPANY REOPENS ITS DOORS
A College Station favorite is back! Chicken Oil Company has officially reopened, bringing its classic burgers, fries, and welcoming atmosphere back to the community. Known for its rustic charm and deep ties to Aggie tradition, the restaurant’s return is being celebrated by longtime fans and new visitors alike. The reopening of Chicken Oil Company is more than just a comeback, it’s the revival of a local institution.
DESTINATION BRYAN MARKS FIVE YEARS
Destination Bryan recently celebrated five years of promoting tourism and showcasing all that the city of Bryan has to offer. In just five years, the organization has played a key role in drawing visitors to the community through events, marketing efforts, and partnerships that highlight Bryan’s unique character. This milestone recognizes Destination Bryan’s success in supporting local businesses, enhancing the visitor experience, and contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a vibrant destination.
