2016-2017 Chamber Report

2016-2017

ANNUAL REPORT

2016 - 2017 Membership New Memberships: 173 • Total Membership: 1,457 Ribbon Cuttings & Ground Breakings Chamber of Commerce Board Members, Ambassadors, and staff participated in 66 ribbon cuttings, 4 ground breakings, and 22 Deluxe Ribbon Cuttings between October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2017.

Deluxe Ribbon Cutting Sponsors Casiano Electric, Element Retirement & Investment Consultants, Magruder Homes, United Country Real Estate, Chad Jones Law, PC, 100 Park, American Fire Protection, Square One Downtown Bryan Event Center & Loft, Angels Care Home Health, Signature Care ER, Baylor Scott & White Cancer Clinic, SafeWay Driving, 7D Ranch, The Tradition, CallawayJones Funeral Home & Crematory, Party Time Rentals, Baylor Scott & White Villa Maria Clinic, Guaranty Bank & Trust, Physicians Premiere ER, Ye Star Chinese Buffet, Fancy Nails, Holiday Inn & Suites, Dirt Road Rustics, Rheumatology of Brazos Valley, Scasta Family Eye Care & Dentistry, Aggieland Leasing, Hidden Creek RV Resort, Warrior Fleet Services, Jones Road Commercial Storage, Accel Transition Care & Rehab, The Bear Mountain

Capitol. Thanks to the efforts of Congressman Bill Flores and his staff, our delegation had an opportunity to have 30 minute sessions with key members of the leadership in Washington, D.C. While in D.C., members of our delegation visited the offices of all members of the House of Representatives from Texas and were able to visit with either the elected official or a member of their staff. Members of our Legislative Affairs Committee are already working hard on upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. We also continue to host our very popular Local Candidates Forums on a regular basis and it continues to be a source of great information and education for our local voters.

Financially, your Chamber finished the year with a bottom line that exceeded our budget for the seventeenth consecutive year and we continue to maintain a strong cash position. This success is the result of the efforts of so many. I want to thank the hundreds of volunteers who have, by their commitment, established this Chamber as one of the busiest and most outstanding Chambers in the State. I particularly appreciate the commitment and dedication of our Board of Directors, under the leadership of Board Chair, David O’Neil with Wells Fargo Bank, our Ambassadors, under the leadership of Scott Rolfsmeyer with Lamar Outdoor Advertising, our Leadership Brazos Alumni Association under the leadership of Hans Hammond with Branding Iron Management and our extremely dedicated and committed staff, who, in spite of being shorthanded at times this year, still accomplish so much.

The Chamber can look forward to another strong year of accomplishments under the leadership of our Board of Directors, chaired by Crystal Dupre with The Eagle and Chair-Elect Vicki Reim with Bryan Texas Utilities. If you are one of our many outstanding Chamber members, thank you for your commitment to our community and to your Chamber. If you are not a member, we invite you to call (979) 260-5200 and join us today as we continue our efforts to provide an environment that gives every business in our community the best chance for success!

A Word from Our President

Glen Brewer President/CEO

It is a pleasure to present the nineteenth consecutive Annual Report of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce. My first year as your President & CEO was a good year for your Chamber as it was filled with many accomplishments and much excitement. In this report you will be able to see that the year has been successful in terms of both our programs and our finances.

Our local economy has continued to fare well overall and therefore many of our businesses have experienced increased sales. The Chamber continues to focus on providing opportunities for our members to both promote their businesses and to network. The year began with a successful and informative Annual Banquet where Drayton McLane, Jr., Founder & Chairman of The McLane Group, praised our local business community and stressed the importance of a thriving economy on the success of a community. That was followed by two popular events that were very well attended: our Annual Ag Breakfast, with over 475 attendees (largest ever) and our Annual Economic Outlook Conference with 436 attendees.

Other successful events that remain popular include our Taste of Aggieland, an Epicurean Extravaganza, our annual Job Fairs, and our Annual Lobsterfest & Golf Classic. Our third ever Founder’s Night was held at The LaSalle Hotel in Downtown Bryan. The event attracted approximately 300 attendees and received outstanding comments with many looking forward to next year’s event. Our Community Softball Classic continued to focus on those who protect us each and every day, our first responders and for the fifth year in a row, part of the proceeds went to the 100 Club, an organization that supports the families of those impacted by tragic events. We also conducted several successful luncheons. Our membership luncheon was held on June 7th and featured an outstanding presentation by Ricky Dickson, President of Blue Bell Creameries on Leadership and attracted over 130 attendees. Our annual Community Impact Luncheon, honoring our Historically Underutilized Businesses, was held on February 28th. Our Economic Outlook Briefing Luncheon on August 30th attracted over 350 attendees and featured legislative updates from Senator Charles Schwertner, Representative John Raney and Representative Kyle Kacal.

During the year, we held four Ground Breakings and 88 Ribbon Cuttings, which included 22 Deluxe Ribbon Cuttings. Our Economic Development agreement with Brazos County was renewed and for the fourth year in a row they sponsored our annual “Chamber Day” in March. The event attracted over 200 volunteers who visited approximately 1,200 businesses. For the seventh year in a row, a short survey was part of the visit which provided Brazos County and your Chamber with very valuable information. We found that 57% of the almost 1,000 businesses who participated in the survey experienced a sales growth over last year, 81% expected our local economy to improve and 45% expected their number of employees to increase.

Did you know that we can coordinate your dental and eye exams to save you time?

Tracey Scasta, O.D. (979)695-2020 • www.scastaeyes.com J. Craig Scasta, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. (979)260-2626 • www.scastadds.com

1550 Copperfield Parkway College Station, TX 77845

We remain committed to having a major focus on legislative affairs at the national, state and local level. Our legislative trips to Austin in February and Washington D.C. in May were once again the highlight of the year for our Legislative Affairs committee. Senator Charles Schwertner, Representative John Raney and Representative Kyle Kacal and their staff were helpful in arranging visits with all of the elected officials in our State

2

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Executive Committee David O’Neil Chairman Wells Fargo

Crystal Dupre Chair-Elect The Eagle

Robert “Bobby” Bisor Immediate Past-Chair Texas A&M University

Vicki Reim Vice Chair of Leadership BTU

Tom Wallis Vice Chair of Finance & Physical Resources Ingram, Wallis & Company, P.C.

Melanie Motley Vice Chair of Business Enhancement The Bank and Trust of Bryan/College Station

Chace Murphy Vice Chair of Community Enhancement Atmos Energy Grant Graham Vice Chair of Membership Enhancement ANCO Insurance

Mary “Mike” Hatcher Vice Chair of Communications Bryan Broadcasting

Board of Directors Brad Beard Enercon, LLC Stephen Beck Beck Construction Neal Briers Prosperity Bank David Doss Brazos Valley Women’s Center Katie Fox Fox Marketing & Design Rudy Grimaldo RDM Audio, LP Bobby Gutierrez House of Tires Jason Jennings Baylor Scott & White Rayne Knight CR Systems, Inc.

Tracy Kyle Kyle Office Products Tai Lee Chef Tai Lee, Inc. Sylvia McMullen The Research Valley Partnership

Dr.Troy Elms Serving Smiles to College Station and surrounding areas Since 1991

Rick Napper CHI St. Joseph Health Shane Phelps The Law Offices of Shane Phelps, P.C. Jay Primavera Hilton College Station Claudia Smith Aggieland Carpet One Greg Zweiacker Zweiacher & Associates

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

3

Inner Circle

Chamber Staff

The Inner Circle was established in 1988 to provide special recognition and year-round benefits to those members who show extraordinary support for the Chamber and its activities. Membership in the Inner Circle offers an opportunity to attend private luncheons, receptions and events that feature top-level briefings by prominent political, business and community leaders.

The Chamber currently has 492 Inner Circle Members, 68 of which were added this year. Listed below are the Inner Circle events held last year: • Inner Circle Meet & Greet at the 2016 Annual Banquet - November 14, 2015. Sponsored by the City of College Station and Brenham National Bank.

• Craft Beer 101: The Business of Brewing - June 1, 2017. Sponsored by World of Beer.

Platinum Members ANCO Insurance Atmos Energy Baylor Scott & White BB&T Bryan Broadcasting Bryan Texas Utilities C.C. Creations CHI St. Joseph Health

Gold Members

4.0 Cuts Barber Salon Aggieland Credit Union Allen Honda Aloft College Station American Momentum Bank BBVA Compass Best Western Plus College Station Inn & Suites Best Western Premier Old Town Center Bryan College Station Zoigl Cafe Eccell Charlotte’s Web Boutique Chrome: A Salon Experience Church’s Chicken - College Station Code Red: A Chrome Experience Generations Center for Senior Living Hampton Inn & Suites

Silver Members 7 D Ranch 7F Lodge & Spa ABC Home & Commercial Services Accel Transition Care & Rehab Acme Glass Company, Inc. Admiral Catering Aggieland Business Park Aggieland Carpet One Aggieland Outfitters Aggieland Spectacles Aggieland Title Company AgniTEK Allen Academy Alltran American Overhead Door Co. Amico Nave Ristorante AT&T Mobility Audio Video Audio Video Security Avinext Axis Pipe and Tube, Inc. Backstage Bistro BCS Stop & Go Potties Berryhill Baja Grill BinarySpace BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Blinn College Blinn College Foundation, Inc. Blue Baker Boots Beverages BPL Plasma Brazos County Expo Brazos Janitorial Brazos Valley Affordable Housing Corp Brazos Valley Bombers Brazos Valley Cavalry FC Brazos Valley Floor and Design Brazos Valley Imports Brazos Valley Orthodontics Brazos Valley Recycling Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Brazos.Life Brenham National Bank Bright Star Ranch & Resort Britt Rice Electric L.P. Broken Arrow Ranch Brown & Company Insurance Services Bruchez, Goss, Thornton, Meronoff, P.C. Bryan Construction Company Bryan ISD Bryan Modern Dentistry Bryan Premiere Cinema + IMAX Buppy’s Catering Burger King Busy Bees, LLC BVSWMA, Inc - Compost Facility & Landfill C&J Bar-B-Que Caldwell Companies Caldwell Country Campus Homes Capital Construction Services Capital Farm Credit, ACA CapRock Emergency Capsher Technology, Inc. Carney’s Pub and Grill Casa do Brasil Casa Rodriguez Cavalry Court Hotel Century Square Chase Bank Chase Bank Cheddar’s College Station CHI St. Joseph Rehabilitation Hospital: A Partnership with HealthSouth Chicken Express Chicken Oil Co. Chick-fil-A Chili’s Restaurant Chuy’s Mexican Restaurant Citizens Bank City Bank Mortgage City Bank Texas

4

Children’s Miracle Network City of Bryan College Station Medical Center Commerce National Bank Hilton College Station LiquidPower Specialty Products Inc. McDonald’s Texas A&M University

Texas A&M System The Bank & Trust of Bryan/College Station The Eagle Travis B. Bryan Municipal Golf Course University Pediatrics Association Walmart Supercenter Wells Fargo Bank Whataburger

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham HEB Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Aggieland Hyatt Place College Station Lake Walk Mighty Slice Pizza Oldham Goodwin Group, LLC Principal Financial Group - David Watson Prosperity Bank RV Source Spoons Yogurt Square One Downtown Bryan Event Center & Loft Staybridge Suites Suddenlink Communications Texas 21 Saloon

Texas Commercial Waste The Backyard on Northgate The Institute of Modern Barbering The Law Office of Shane Phelps, P.C. The Stella Hotel Traditions Club Traditions Real Estate Co. TX Burger University Title Company Vaughn Construction Walmart Supercenter Rudder’s Landing We Rent It Winding Road Property Management WRI Outdoors

City of College Station City of Navasota Clean R Cans CMNT Enterprises Inc. dba Warrior Fleet Services Cognizant Technology Solutions College Station Ford Lincoln, LLC College Station ISD College Station Modern Dentistry Conlee-Garrett Moving & Storage Copy Corner Cornerstone Home Health Cotton Patch Cafe CR Systems, Inc. Crestview Retirement Community CrossFit Aggieland Dailey Electric, Inc David Gardner’s Jewelers DaVita Dialysis Dealers Electrical Supply Dealers Lighting Decker Financial Group Direct Audio Video Dixie Chicken Dolliver Enterprises DoubleDave’s Pizzaworks Drew’s Car Wash Drew’s Car Wash Texas Ave Dudley Construction, Ltd. Element Retirement & Investment Consultants Elwood Staffing Embassy Records Management and Storage Energy Access Solutions, LLC Experience Bryan College Station Extraco Banks EZ Travel Inn Fabulous Fur Pet Salon Fire and Ice First Convenience Bank First Security Building Maintenance Fish Daddy’s Grill House Fortress Health & Rehab of Rock Prairie Four Downs Sports Bar Four Points by Sheraton Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Fries Financial Services Frontier Communications FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Texas Galleria Village Office Building Leasing George Bush Presidential Library and Museum George Bush Presidential Library Foundation Gogh Gogh Coffee Gooseneck Trailer Manufacturing Grub Burger Bar Guaranty Bank & Trust Guardian Healthcare Hawthorne at Traditions HBi Office Solutions, Inc. Hillier Funeral, Cremation and Bereavement Specialists Homewood Suites by Hilton Honolulu Poke House Hopdoddy Burger Bar Hungry Howie’s Pizza Image Solutions Ingram, Wallis & Company, P.C. Inn At Quarry Ridge Integ Integrity Builders Supply Isle at Watercrest ISP Safety Services JBKnowledge, Inc. K9s4COPs Kasper Insurance Group KBTX-TV3 Keller Williams Realty Kelly Burt Dozer, Inc. Kent Moore Cabinets, Ltd.

Kiddie Castle Childrens Center, Inc Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc Knife River Knowledge Based Systems, Inc. Kristen Distributing Co., Inc. Kyle Office Products/XEROX Lakeside Icehouse at Lake Bryan Lampstand Health & Rehab of Bryan, LLC Lawyers Title Co. of Brazos County Liberty Dialysis Liere Insurance Lisam America Inc Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep of Bryan Livewire Event Group LJB Benefits - Colonial Life Lone Star Business Centers Lone Star Trust & Investment Services Lowe’s M&M Apparel MacResource Computers & Service Mad Taco Madden’s Casual Gourmet Magnified Health & Rehab of Anderson, LLC Malek Marketing Heroes Marr Eye Center maurices McLane Intelligent Solutions Meece & Associates Merrill Lynch Messina Hof Winery and Resort MHMR Authority Of Brazos Valley Mid South Baking Mid Towne Apartments MidSouth Bank Mid-South Synergy Midtown Towers Apartments Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial Morgan Stanley Morningstar Storage of Bryan/College Station Must Be Heaven Mustang CAT Mustang Rental Services Napa Flats Neutral Posture, Inc. New York Life Nutrabolt International O.I. Corp/XYLEM, Inc. Oakwood Custom Homes Group Outback Steakhouse P.O.E.T.S. Billiards and Sports Bar Paolo’s Italian Kitchen Parc At Traditions Park Hudson Place Park West Party Time Rentals Paychex Inc Pebble Creek Country Club Pegasus Optimization Managers, LLC Peterson Law Group Pitcock & Croix, Inc. Planet Fitness PlanNorth Architectural Co. Plygem Windows and Extrusion Post Oak Mall Primary Business Services Producers Cooperative Association Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Ramada Regency Properties Reliant, an NRG Company Rentsys Riverway Business Services Royce Financial Ryan’s Challenge Safeway Driving Sam’s Club Sanderson Farms, Inc. Scasta Family Eye Care & Dentistry SCI Medical Consulting

Glen Brewer President/CEO

Royce Hickman Community Liaison

Carrie Archer Manager of Member Services

Tom Tilton Manager of Finance

Jordan Prihoda Business Programs Coordinator

Kate Chapman Communications Coordinator

Brian Miller Membership Investment Representative

Bonnie Loehr Executive Assistant Linda Espirequeta Receptionist

Shipwreck Grill LP SignatureCare Emergency Center - College Station Skybreak Church Sleep Inn & Suites Southern Pointe Southwood Learning Center Specialties Photography, Inc. Spherion Spirit of Texas Bank Stafford Barrett Commercial Brokerage Standards Home Health StataCorp LLC Sterling Auto Group Sterling Kia Storage Depot Strattmont Group Subway Swearingen Law Firm Sylvan Learning Center Systek Computing Taco Cabana Take 5 Oil Change TAMU Athletic Department TAMU College of Architecture TAMU Office of the Vice President for Research Tanaka Enterprise LLC Taylor Made Gluten Free Bakery TechBundle Teen Survival Driving Academy, Inc Terrace Pines Apartments TexAgs.com Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service/TEEX Texas A&M Transportation Institute Texas Brain & Spine Institute Texas Central—The Texas Bullet Train Texas Mutual Insurance Co The Association of Former Students The Bear Mountain The Brazos Center The Caelun Group The Corner Bar & Grill The Deanna Room The George Hotel The Langford at College Station The Payne Law Group The Phillips Event Center at Briarcrest The Physicians Centre Hospital The Ranch Harley-Davidson The Research Valley Partnership The Reynolds and Reynolds Company The Sleep Station #1 and #2 The Tool Guys Thompson, Derrig & Craig, P.C. Top Line Homes LLC Tradition Oil and Lube Trevino-Smith Funeral Home Twin City Properties Mgmt, Inc. United Companies United Rentals United Rentals Trench Division United States Post Service Veritas Wine & Bistro Village Foods & Pharmacy W. E. Gibson Insurance Waldenbrooke Estates Walmart Supercenter - College Station Watercrest at Bryan Wayback Burgers Wayfair, LLC West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry P.C. Willis Custom Homes Wind Dancer Retreat Wings ‘n More Witt’s End World of Beer Worth Partners

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Exceptional Senior Living!

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

NOW OPEN! Visit Us TODAY! Learn more and connect with us at:

www.parcattraditions.com

Parc at Traditions

3095 Club Drive | Bryan, Texas 77807

979.213.4200 Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

5

Business After Hours

Chamber Photos

Throughout the year, the Chamber of Commerce and a hosting Chamber member welcome more than 300 attendees to Business After Hours. While there, Chamber members and prospective members enjoy an evening of fun, food and networking opportunities.

Hosting a Business After Hours is a wonderful opportunity for Chamber members to showcase their business and develop relationships with customers that may not otherwise have a chance to visit their establishments.

Thank you to our 2016-2017 Business After Hours Sponsors Phillips Event Center at Briarcrest Bridal Association of the Brazos Valley CHI St. Joseph Health The Physicians Centre Hospital Guaranty Bank & Trust Atkinson Toyota Sterling Auto Chrome: A Salon Experience C.C. Creations

Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum Business After Hours.

6

The Stella Hotel Easterwood Airport The Eagle Allen Honda The Ranch Harley-Davidson George Bush Presidential Library & Museum Four Points by Sheraton

Complete Nutrition employees attended Business After Hours at The Eagle on April 20, 2017.

2016 Ambassador of the Year Wade VanDerBoom, Citizen of the Year John Anderson and Volunteer of the Year Sheree Boegner.

Chairman David O’Neil, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar and Chamber President Glen Brewer at the 2017 Economic Outlook Conference.

City of Bryan Police & Fire Departments and City of College Station Police & Fire Departments at the 10th Annual Community Softball Classic.

Matt Prochaska, President/CEO of the Research Valley Partnership, and family attend Lobsterfest.

Community Liasion Royce Hickman and President Glen Brewer with Founders Night sponsors McLane Intelligent Solutions.

Agribusiness Committee Chairman Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz with Brazos County Judge Duane Peters and Commissioner Sammy Catalena.

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Ambassadors

Chamber Day

The Ambassador program is a group of 42 Chamber member volunteers that graciously give their time to support the Chamber in so many ways.

Goals of the Ambassador Program include strengthening the Chamber by recruiting new members, fostering healthy relationships with new members by attending ribbon cuttings and Chamber events, and supporting the Chamber by volunteering on committees and assisting with events.

It is estimated that over the past year, the Ambassador group donated over 4,000 volunteer hours to the Chamber of Commerce and their community.

March 30, 2017 • Sponsored by Brazos County

Survey Results:

2016 - 2017 Ambassadors:

Scott Rolfsmeyer (CHAIR), Barbie Springer (PAST CHAIR), Brian Miller (CAPTAIN), Brooke Mason (CAPTAIN), Peggi Goss (CAPTAIN), Jared Salvato (CAPTAIN), Kathy Savell, Hans Hammond, Agustin Trevino, Mitchell White, Travis Rollins, Stephanie Brister, Robert Gray, Gracy Harmon, Cameron Comire, Wade VanDerBoom, Dallas Shipp, Ginny Ford, Dave Ruesink, Chris Dawson, Gene Perez, Christina Hultquist, Patrick Linne, Lauren Fickey, Kerry Beck, Mike Connor, Caleb Russell, Madeline Zwicke, Candace Neal, Sheree Boegner, Bill McGuire, Renee Wiens, Brenda Ponzio, Maegan Mahoney, Debbie Holladay, Jessica Hinkle, Ben Caldwell, Chase Moore, Marca Ewers, Heath Groves, Jason Cornelius, Audrey Whitten

Ambassadors of the Month: October: Kerry Beck November: Brooke Mason January: Dave Ruesink February: Dave Ruesink March: Debbie Holladay April: Kerry Beck

Over 1,000 businesses were visited during the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Chamber Day, marking the most successful year to date for the program.

Approximately 200 volunteers hit the B/CS streets in small groups. During “Chamber Day” visits, the Chamber and its volunteers took the opportunity to thank local businesses for doing business in Bryan and College Station, as well as to inquire about how the economy has affected them and how their business is doing overall. They also gave the businesses the opportunity to discuss any problems or concerns they have and any other issues affecting them. A survey was conducted which polled local business owners’ attitudes about our local economy:

Four BCS locations to serve you!

How have sales changed over the past year? “Increase” - 57.3% Do you expect the number of your employees to increase?

“Increase” - 45.4% What do you expect our local economy to do?

“Increase” - 81.1% How would you rate the overall quality of life in the Brazos Valley?

“Excellent” or “Good” - 93%

May: Mike Connor June: Brenda Ponzio July: Audrey Whitten August: Candace Neal September: Ben Caldwell

BRYAN 1 • 1609 North Texas Ave.

979.778.1077

BRYAN 3 • 725 East Villa Maria

979.779.8905

COLLEGE STATION 1 • 1900 South Texas Ave.

979.693.0361

COLLEGE STATION 2 • 949 William D. Fitch Pkwy.

979.690.4940

Salesperson of the Quarter: 1st Quarter: Scott Rolfsmeyer

3rd Quarter: Brenda Ponzio

2nd Quarter: Debbie Holladay

4th Quarter: Candace Neal

Community Softball Classic A Tribute to Our First Responders • June 15, 2017 • Nutrabolt Stadium Sponsored by Allen Samuels Chevrolet Buick GMC The Chamber’s Community Softball Classic continues to be a flagship community building event that raises money and awareness for the 100 Club, which supports the families of fallen firefighters and police officers. Over 200 fans came through the gates of Nutrabolt Stadium to welcome and pay respect to our First Responders.

Chairman: Jason Cornelius and Brian Miller Additional Sponsors: The Ranch Harley-Davidson, Alpha Sports Chiropractic, Brazos Valley Police Services, Walmart, The Cities of Bryan, The City of College Station, Neighbors ER, Copy Corner, Awards and More, Bryan Broadcasting, Brazos Valley Communications, iHeart, KTEX 106.1, Lamar Advertising, The Eagle, KBTX-TV, KAGSTV, FOX 44, Suddenlink Media, Kimley-Horn and Associates, TownePlace Suites by Marriott, Brazos Valley Chapter of the Texas Society for CPAs, Campion Chiropractic, Lone-Star Roof Systems, Howdy Bryan/College Station, Ron Gay Financial Services, First Convenience Bank, and Curious Collections.

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

7

Lobsterfest & Golf Classic

Taste of Aggieland

LobsterFest: September 17, 2017 • Golf Classic: September 18, 2017 Sponsored by: The Bank & Trust of Bryan/College Station

February 21, 2017 • Brazos County Expo Sponsored by: H-E-B

The Chamber’s LobsterFest and Golf Classic serves as one of the largest annual fundraisers for the non-profit organization. The event begins on Sunday, September 17th with Lobsterfest and features a lobster and steak dinner as well as a live and silent auction. The event ends on September 18th with a golf tournament, held this year at Pebble Creek Country Club.

Hosted with the Brazos Valley Restaurant Association, Taste of Aggieland showcases restaurants from around Brazos County. This year’s event featured 35 restaurants and over 600 attendees. A portion of the proceeds goes toward scholarships for local schools’ culinary programs.

Committee Chairman: Clayton Rhoades Committee Members: Abbie Krolczyk, Clayton Rhoades, Cliff Wright, Dave Ruesink, Mark Torres, Kelleen Stine-Cheyne, Kim Fox, Kim Rank, and Tap Bentz Title Sponsor: H-E-B Gold Sponsor: Texas Mutual Insurance Company Silver Sponsors: Atmos Energy, Alpha-

Platinum Sponsors: C.C. Creations Gold Sponsors: D’vine Cuisine, Allen Samuels Chevro- Graphics, Admail, Copy Corner, KESCO and Boots Beverages Media Sponsors: Bryan Broadcasting, The Eagle, let and Prosperity Bank Silver Sponsors: Guaranty Bank & Trust, Caliber Collision, David KBTX, Brazos Valley Communications, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, iHeart Media Inc., KTEX 106.1, KAGS, SudWeekley Homes, CHI St. Joseph, Citizens Bank, Martin Marietta, Kristen Distributing, Col- denlink and Brazos Monthly Other Contributors: Kristen Distributing, Bryan Coca-Cola Bottling Co., and Downtown Event Services lege Station Ford, and Aloft Lobsterfest Sponsors: HEB, Redtail Rental, Stylecraft Builders, Texas A&M, 1st Alliance Mortgage, Four Points by Sheraton and Outback Steakhouse Beverage Sponsors: Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Chicken Express, Kristen Distributors, Messina Hof and PepsiCo Additional Sponsors: Avinext, Copy Corner, Insite Printing, Texas Commerical Waste, Admail, RDM Audio, Swico Auctions and Wells Fargo Media Spon- July 13, 2017 • The LaSalle Hotel • Sponsored by: McLane Intelligent Solutions sors: The Eagle, KBTX, Brazos Monthly, Lamar Advertising, KAGS, Bryan Broadcasting, Founders Night is a A fun, mix and mingle, social evening ebrating the establishment and development of our twin cities. Founders Night supports the Chamber’s leadership programs including Leadership Brazos, Junior KTEX 106.1, Brazos Valley Communications, iHeart Media, Suddenlink Leadership Brazos and the Leadership Brazos Alumni Association.

Founders Night

Golf Classic Co-Chairs: Scott Rolfsmeyer & Brooke Mason Golf & LobsterFest Committee: Ashley Burk, Barbie Springer, Brooke Mason, Dave Ruesink, Debbie Holladay, Jared Salvato, Mike Connor, Peggi Goss, Rob Byroad, Sheree Boegner, Scott Rolfsmeyer, Theresa Clark, Wade VanDerBoom Zach Etheridge, Ben Caldwell, Selina Colwell, Rachel Crane, Kelly Curtis, Kerry Beck, Andrea Kelly, Chris Dawson and Zack Morgan

Committee Co-chairs: Hans Hammond & Amy Simoneaux Committee Members: Dee Dee Leverett & Rhonda Corn-Kidd

Title Sponsor: McLane Intelligent Solutions Facility Sponsor: LaSalle Hotel Platinum Sponsors: Patterson Architects, Hawthorne at Traditions, Park Hudson Place, and Hawthorne Residential Gold Sponsors: Texas A&M University System, Silver Sponsors: Blinn College, David Weekley Homes, and Anco Insurance Game Sponsors: Cashion Dental, H-E-B, Trevino Smith Funeral Home, Bryan-College Station Regional Association of Realtors Contributing Sponsors: Texas Commercial Waste, Ashley & Co., Hotsy Carlson, Party Time Rentals Food Sponsors: Hilton College Station, The Village Café, Nothing Bundt Cakes, RX Pizza, Papa Perez, Maddens Cassual Gourmet, Waldenbrooke Estates, The Chocolate Gallery, Wayback Burgers, Taco Crave, LaSalle Hotel, Schlotsky’s, Caffe Capri, Independence Coffee Media Sponsors: Bryan Broadcasting, Brazos Valley Communications, iHeart Media Inc., The Eagle, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, KBTX, KTEX 106.1

MAKI NG L I F E GRE AT I N T H E B RAZOS VAL L E Y

COMMUNITY IS BUILT ON A SPIRIT OF

GIVING

8

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Legislative Affairs

Economic Outlook Conference

The Chamber is the only local organization that advocates for businesses at the local, state and federal levels.

The Chamber uses guiding principles in considering positions on business issues. At the heart of these principles is the certainty that the strength of a nation, a state and a community is a reflection of the strength of their economies.

Committee Co-Chairs: Mary Lynne Stratta and Jason Ogle

January 25, 2017 • Hilton College Station • Sponsored by Wells Fargo

Committee Members: Lisa Aldrich, Steve Aldrich, John Anderson, Kerry Beck, Stephen Beck, Nancy Berry, Bobby Bisor, Cathy Boeker, Sharon Brown, Jack Buckley, Debra Capps, Kim Casey, David Coleman, Mike Connor, Deborah Cowman, Glen Davis, Liz Dickey, Clark Ealy, James Edge, Tedi Ellison, Dena Gaskin, Ron Gay, Patricia Gerling, Jill Giroir, Jessica Gonzalez, Manuel Gonzalez, John Happ, Tracy Holland, Celia Hernandez, Daniel Hernandez, Chris Jarmon, Jim Jones, Sally Jurica, Lee Kavanagh, Roy Kirkpatrick, Judy LeUnes, Kristen Luera, Kenny Mallard, Sherry Mashburn, Sylvia McMullen, Jay Meador, Elizabeth Miller, Kathy Merrill, Joel Mitchell, Barry Moore, Chace Murphy, Barry Nelson, Jason Ogle, David O’Neil, Michael O’Quinn, Tim Ottinger, Michael Parks, Hayden Paul, Duane Peters, Randall Pitcock, Alison Prince, Scott Pool, Julie Porter, John Raney, Linda Ravey, Kean Register, Shawn Rhodes, Andrew Robison, Dave Ruesink, Michael Schaefer, Phil Shackelford, Ron Schmidt, Julie Schultz, Christina Shumaker, Scott Simpson, Ryan Skrobarczyk, Claudia Smith, Mary Lynne Stratta, Robert Swearingen, Kelly Templin, Doug Thornton, Martha Tyroch, Susan Vestal, David Werley, Terra Willett, Gentry Woodard, Mike Wright, Eric Wylie, Bob Yancy, April Pool, Mary Hensley, Mel Waxler

Washington, D.C. Legislative Trip The B/CS Chamber of Commerce has been recognized state-wide as one of the most active legislative driven Chambers. Various business, civic and community leaders traveled to Washington D.C. to speak with all the offices of the elected Texas Senators and Congressmen, as well as legislative members from other states that have major roles in business policy.

Dates: May 1 - 4, 2017 Federal Legislative Action Plan Chair: Mike Connor A special thanks to The Office of Congressman Bill Flores for helping to arrange and schedule all of the congressional visits and special presentations from leading government officials. A List of government officials the Chamber met with can be found at bcschamber.org.

2017 Washington, D.C. Delegation John Anderson, Trudy Bennett, Nancy Berry, Glen Brewer, Mike Connor, Kim Dyer, James Edge, Jessica Gonzalez, Mary Hensley, Sylvia McMullen, Karl Mooney, Andrew Nelson, Bentley Nettles, David O’Neil, Jeremy Osborne, Jerome Rektorik, Kori Rich, Michael Schaefer, Julie Schultz, Scott Simpson, Mary Lynne Stratta, Paul Turney, Kathleen Witte, Chad Wootton, and Mike Wright

What has evolved into the premier economic conference in the Brazos Valley, the Economic Outlook Conference has given attendees insight into topics that are or will be impacting the area. The conference has grown to welcoming attendees from other communities, including many elected officials from the seven county regions that comprise the Brazos Valley.

2017 Speakers: Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar, Dr. Jim Gaines, Kelly Templin, Joey Dunn, and Todd McDaniel Committee Co-Chairs: John Happ and Rayne Knight Committee Members: Mike Connor, John Bush, Al Scott, Angelique Gammon, Jim Pillans, Russell Dempsey, Chuck Martinez, Shannon Waddell, Kindra Fry and Mariana Schoeneman Title Sponsor: Wells Fargo Hospitality Sponsor: The City of College Station Session Sponsors: BTU, The Law Offices of Shane Phelps, and Texas A&M University, Notebook Sponsors: American Momentum Bank, Atmos Energy, Binkley & Barfield, Kyle Office Products, ExtraCo Bank, BBVA Compass and Copy Corner Break Sponsors: Texas Commercial Waste, Hilton College Station, Aggieland Carpet One and St. Joseph Health A/V Sponsors: Avinext and RDM Pros Pencil Sponsor: Brenham National Bank Speaker Gifts: Experience Bryan College Station Lunch Sponsor: Guaranty Bank & Trust Media Sponsors: Bryan Broadcasting, InSite Printing, and The Eagle

Economic Outlook Briefing August 30, 2017 • Hilton College Station • Sponsored by Caldwell Companies The B/CS Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Affairs Committee hosted the 2017 Economic Outlook Briefing Luncheon focused on an overview of the 85th Texas State Legislature. Speakers: State Senator Charles Schwertner, State Representative John Raney, and State Representative Kyle Kacal.

P k Hu s P c p m s p mis s m f h fi s m i i s v i b i his .

Our spacious, attractive apartment homes offer unparalleled personal touches, including laminate wood flooring, track lighting in the kitchen and dining area, over-sized garden tubs w sh s s i v h m . Wh h u ch s us u -si busi ss center or simply relax by the resort-style swimming pool with cabanas you are sure to isc v h k w v f uxu . C c us c m liv h diff c !

4050 Pendleton dr • Bryan • 979.776.0417

www.parkhudsonapts.com

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

PAYMENT AND PERFORMANCE BONDS for the smallest project to the largest development!

Service Insurance Group, Inc. INSURING THE BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT BCS SINCE 1987.

3 8 4 0 C o r p o r at e C e n t e r D r . • B rya n w w w. s i g B C s . C o m • 9 7 9 . 7 7 4 . 3 9 0 0 9

Membership Luncheons

Watercooler 5K

Membership luncheons are hosted by the Chamber throughout the year to perform a variety of functions, such as networking, education, or updates on community issues. The following were luncheons, or speakers, featured by the Chamber this past year:

April 6, 2017 • Wolf Pen Creek • Title Sponsor: Texas A&M University Our Health and Wellness committee continues to expand its efforts to provide an avenue for employers to create a healthy environment for their employees.

Health & Wellness Committee Chairman: Charlie Lima

October 4, 2016 Health & Wellness Fall Luncheon Sponsored by Texas A&M Health Science Center November 11, 2016 Legislative Luncheon with Senator John Cornyn Sponsored by the Brazos Valley Council of Governments May 30, 2017 Read by 3rd Luncheon Sponsored by Texas A&M University

June 7, 2017 Leadership Luncheon Sponsored by LBAA

Chamber Fitness Challenge

Lunch & Learns November 21, 2016 - VisionPoint Advisory Group January 23, 2017 - Principal Financial Group, David Watson

As a program of the Health & Wellness Committee, the Chamber Fitness Challenge is a twelve week-long initiative where teams of four individuals participated in private training sessions and unlimited access to the above gyms.

Community Impact Awards February 28, 2017 • Sponsored by Texas A&M University Office of Procurement Services The Community Impact Award program was started in 2003 to recognize Hispanic, African-American, Asian, American-Indian and women business owners who have demonstrated a significant impact on our community. The 2016 - 2017 recipients were Barbie Patterson with Patterson Architects, Katherine Kleemann with Spherion and Gabriel Garcia with Tradition Oil & Lube.

Annual Banquet

November 14, 2016 • Sponsored by the City of College Station The Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet is held every fall and is a time to reflect on the past year and recognize outstanding Chamber volunteers. Drayton McLane, Jr., Founder & Chairman of the McLane Group, was the keynote speaker. The 2016 award recipients were John Anderson for Citizen of the Year, Sheree Boegner for Volunteer of the Year and Wade VanDerBoom for Ambassador of the Year. Additional Sponsors: Brenham National Bank, Copy Corner, RDM Audio, Tricia Barksdale Designs, and The Farm Patch.

ELIMINATE PAIN AND ACCELERATE NATURAL HEALING

Wiring the valley (and beyond) since 1976.

3002 Longmire Dr. • CoLLege Station, tX

briceco.net • 979.693.4076

teCL# 18458

See our Catholic Charities mission in action and learn how we serve individuals, families, and veterans in our community.

YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR kNOw POVERTY HOUR By appointment and alternating Tuesdays in our Bryan office

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTA CONSULTATION 2705 OSLER BLVD BRYAN 10

Serving the Brazos Valley Since 1976

WWW.CCCTX.ORG

•e i inat Pain •r t m bi it •sp t nju P v nti n • p v Ba anc • p v mu c h a t

979.776.BACK(2225) • BVPhys CAlTherAPy.Com /sBPmC

August 21 - September 29, 2017 Participating Gyms: Boomfit Personal Training, Delta Life Fitness, Biosystem Fitness, Tone 360 Fitness Studio, D1 Sports Training, and AeroFit Health & Wellness

RSVP to Rachael Wells, 979.822.9340 ext. 114, or rachael-wells@ccctx.org www.ccctx.org

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Weldon’spractice centers on estate planning and probate matters, including wills, trusts, estate and tax planning, probate and heirship proceedings, business enti-ties, guardianships and similar matters. He has been Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 2006 and has been named a Texas Super Lawyer for Estate Planning and Probate.

Baili’s practice centers on civil litigation, primarily family law and employment/higher education law, and it involves litigation, administrative proceedings, settlement negotiations and appellate work. Baili is admitted to all Texas state courts and was admitted to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas in 2010. She currently serves as the president of the Texas Young Lawyers Association.

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

11

Committed to our Community.

At The Bank & Trust, we believe an exceptional community deserves an exceptional bank! As a locally owned community bank in the Brazos Valley, we will take the time to get to know you and your financial needs while offering superior customer care.

B/CS Eagle/Copyright Š 2017. All Rights Reserved. 12/17

Our bankers are members of the community, just like you. We are also proud members and volunteers of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce because, together, we support the businesses that serve our community.

Your continued patronage makes that possible. If you are already our customer, THANK YOU. If you are not, we invite you to become one today.

l c b k. l c b k s.

Corporate

1716 Br arcrest Dr, Ste 400 Bryan, Texas 77802 (979) 260-2100

Hwy 21

3400 Hwy 21 East Bryan, Texas 77808 (979) 260-2100

tx ave @ villa maria 2900 S. Texas Avenue Bryan, Texas 77802 (979) 260-2100

www.banktbt.com 12

College Station

2305 Texas Avenue South College Stat on, Texas 77840 (979) 260-2100

tower point

4450 State Hwy 6 South College Stat on, Texas 77845 (979) 260-2100

Member fDiC

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

"a� " c ­ f‚ p e � ke F … � i ‚u � fe' … ‚ ‚ … ke u e eve ­�e ˆe ‚ ‰  �k ‰ ‚u­‰ ‚u d‚‚ "a� " fee� � ke ‰e e ‰e ‰‚…e  f ‚… ‰‚…e, d ˆ ‚f ‚u f … � . we  ‚u ‚ ‰ ve exŽe��e , uˆ� f ­ exˆe e Že ˆ e ‚f ‰e d ffiŽu� Ž Žu… Že ‰ … ­‰ b ­ u ‚­e ‰e .

+ sUrgEry The Physicians Centre Hospital provides an extensive variety of surgical options. With our state-of-the-art surgical facilities, we offer the most up-to-date technology for both inpatient and outpatient surgery. Our highly skilled surgeons and staff are committed to providing our patients with the best personalized care in the Brazos Valley.

+ sports mEDicinE TPC is home to some of Central Texas’ premiere sports medicine practices. Our areas of expertise include total joint replacement, arthroscopic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, hand surgery and ligament reconstructions.

+ raDiology The medical specialty of radiology uses various types of highly technical equipment to safely emit radiation to help with the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Call 979.731.3900 for same day appointment availability.

3131 U ve D E • B • 979.731.3100 • www.thEphysicianscEntrE.com Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

13

Education & Workforce Development Youth to Career Fair October 19, 2016 • Brazos County Expo Title Sponsor: Sylvan Learning Center Facility Sponsor: Texas A&M University Media Sponsor: KTEX 106.1 Additional Sponsors: Blinn College, TDI-Brooks Internations, KTEX 106.1, Signature Care Emergency Center, Allen Academy, Anderson-Shirt CIST, Bryan ISD, Buffalo ISD, College Station ISD, Mumford ISD

For over 15 years, the Chamber of Commerce has hosted the Youth to Career Fair to share with eighth grade students from all over the Brazos Valley the various jobs and professions available to them upon graduation from high school.

Committee Chair: Anthonette Ruffino Committee Members: Elaine Abshire, Luann Argersinger, Vonda Morrision, Ken Dupre, Mariana, Lindsey LeBlanc, Shannon Williford, Linda Edwards, Martha Green and Karen Ferguson

Job Fair Every spring & fall, with the help of the Workforce Development Committee, the B/CS Chamber of Commerce hosts a job fair to help residents of the Brazos Valley find employment, and to help businesses in the Brazos Valley find employees.

This year’s Fall Job Fair was held on November 2, 2016 at the Brazos Center. The Spring Job Fair was held on April 27, 2017 at the Hilton College Station.

Committee Members: Hanna Jackson, Jennifer Cabeza, Vonda Morrison, Peggi Goss and Ken Dupre

Fall Job Fair 2016

Title Media Sponsor: Bryan Broadcasting Silver Media Sponsors: KBTX, KTEX 106.1, The Eagle, and Brazos Valley Communications

Spring Job Fair 2017

Title Sponsor: The Reynolds & Reynolds Company Hospitality Sponsor: Wayfair Title Media Sponsor: Bryan Broadcasting Silver Media Sponsors: KBTX, KTEX 106.1, The Eagle, and Brazos Valley Communications The next Job Fair will be held on Thursday, April 26, 2018 at the Hilton College Station.

www.elementconsultants.com

PROUD INNER CIRCLE MEMBERS, COMMITTED TO SERVING THE CHAMBER ERIC WYLIE - WEALTH MANAGER 1997 – Graduate, Leadership Brazos 2004 – Volunteer of the Year 2007 – Leadership Brazos Outstanding Alumni Award 2008-2011 – Board member/Executive Committee member 2004-2005 – Chairman, Leadership Brazos Alumni Association 1997-1998 – Chairman, Ambassador Program

JARROD HIX  WEALTH MANAGER

2005 – Graduate, Leadership Brazos 2007 – Volunteer of the Year 2009 – Leadership Brazos Outstanding Alumni Award 2009-2014 – Board member/Executive Committee member 2007-2008 – Chairman, Leadership Brazos Alumni Association 2008-2009 – Chairman, Ambassador Program

14

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

Agribusiness

Inside B/CS: A Briefing by Community Leaders

Committee Chair: Jim Mazurkiewicz Committee Members: Dave Ruesink, David Elbel, Elmer Schneider, Jesse Wright, Lonnie Cammack, Patricia Gerling, Jay Wilder, John Giesenschlag, John Cowan, WJ Hill, Pat Shields, Tom Quarles, Andy Vestal, Sheree Boegner, Debbie Holladay and Kelleen StineCheyne

June 28, 2017 • George Bush Presidential Library and Museum This one-day briefing is designed for individuals new to the community and for those seeking an update on current community topics. The briefing also provides information concerning the many resources or opportunities available in Brazos County. Any resident of Brazos County may register for this program.

Committee Chair: Tracy Paine Committee Members: Andrea Kelly, Candace Neal, Bill Thompson and Rhonda Seaton Title Sponsor: HBi Office Solutions and Texas Commercial Waste Additional Sponsors: KAGS-TV, The Dunlap Group, and What’s The Buzz Coffee

Ag Breakfast November 22, 2016 • Brazos County Expo Title Sponsors: Capital Farm Credit, Producers Cooperative Association, and Brazos County Farm Bureau Sponsor Level II: RV Source, We Rent It, and United Country Real Estate - Coleman & Patterson Media Sponsors: The Eagle/Land & Livestock Post and KBTX

Local Agribusiness Sponsors: Brazos Bottom Crop Care, Brazos Valley Livestock Commission, Feather Crest Farms, Inc., H-E-B, Monsanto, Readfield Meats, Sam’s Club, Scarmardo Distribution, The Farm Patch, Slovacek Sausage Co., West, Webb, Allbritton & Gentry P.C., What’s the Buzz Coffee Co., City Bank, TriCounty Extension Field Crops Committee, John Giesenschlag Farms, Citizens State Bank, J Cody’s, Copy Corner, and special thanks to all those who participated in preparing and serving the food!

2017 Speakers: Robert Holzweiss— Deputy Director, George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Mayor Andrew Nelson—City of Bryan, Mayor Karl Mooney-City of College Station, Roby Somerford— Station Manager, KAGS-TV, Dr. Clark Ealy—Superintendent, College Station ISD, Dr. Christie Whitbeck—Superintendent, Bryan ISD, Dr. Matt Rush—Head of School, Allen Academy, Commissioner Irma Cauley—Brazos County, Kevin RussellDevelopment Services & Economic Development Director, City of Bryan, Kelly Templin—City Manager, City of College Station, Chief Deputy Sheriff Jim Stewart—Brazos County, Chief of Police Eric Buske—City of Bryan, Assistant Chief of Police Brandy Norris—City of College Station, Chief of Police Mike Ragan—Texas A&M University Police Department, Senator Charles Schwertner-Texas Senate, District 5, Representative Kyle Kacal-Texas House of Representatives, District 12, Representative John Raney-Texas House of Representatives, Regional Director James Edge- The Office of Congressman Bill Flores, District 17, Geoffrey Christian—Vice President, Hospital Operations, Baylor Scott & White, Ricardo Diaz—COO, St. Joseph Health System, Kori Rich-CEO, Physicians Centre, Mike Wright—Vice President/General. Manager, KBTX and KWTX, Kelly Brown—Editor , The Eagle, Ben Downs—General Manager, Bryan Broadcasting, Dr. Mary Hensley—President, Blinn College, Brazos County Campuses, Jeff Atkinson—Campus Director, Vista College, Spencer Clements, Atlas Lakewalk, Jonathan Brinsden, CEO at Midway, Century Square, Dan Rudge—Executive Director, Metropolitan Planning Organization

Agribusiness Awards

Local Candidates Forum

The Agribusiness Award and the Agricultural Impact Award have been presented by the Agribusiness Council since 1982. Brazos County is proud to boast that it is a regional hub for Agriculture Business and Commerce with over 375 agribusinesses that employ over 8,000 local residents and contribute to an economic impact of over $1 billion.

October 17, 2016 • George Bush Presidential Library and Museum To help promote an educated voting community, the Chamber hosts annual candidate forums before elections are held. From Congressmen to Mayors to school board candidates, the Chamber provides an evening for the general public to ask questions and become more informed about the candidates. The event is typically moderated by a neutral individual, and audience questions are allowed. This event was broadcast live on WTAW and KBTX.com, as well as covered by The Eagle.

Contested races included: College Station City Council Place 3 & 4, Bryan City Council Single Member Districts 1 & 2, College Station City Mayor and Bryan City Mayor

Agricultural Business Award: H-E-B Agricultural Impact Award: Kelly & Sharon Burt

Crawfish Boil March 17, 2017 • Brazos County Expo Title Sponsor: College Station Utilities Crawfish Sponsor: Shipwreck Grill Facility Sponsor: Producers Cooperative Association Food Sponsors: Boots Beverages, Kristen Distributing, Brazos County Expo, Slovacek’s Sausage, Bryan Coca-Cola Bottling Co, John & Angela Cowan, AgniTEK, The Farm Patch, Light Pediatric Dentistry, H-E-B, Pepsi Co. Contributing Sponsors: The Eagle, Copy Corner, Sam’s Club, Insite Printing, Brazos Monthly, Hilton College Station, KBTX, Suddenlink, KESCO, RDM Pros

and KTEX 106.1 Y.E.S. Sponsors: College Station Medical Center, Anco Insurance, Law by ME, BBVA Compass, Citizens Bank, Feathercrest Farms, Ingram, Wallis & Co., Brown & Co. Insurance, Knife River, Allen Samuels Chevy, Southwest Agribusiness Consulting, Brazos County Farm Bureau, Collier Construction, Capital Farm Credit Crawfish Boil raised over $10,000 to support the Brazos County Youth Livestock Show and 4H Cake Auction. The next Crawfish Boil will be held on Friday, March 16, 2018.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

VINYL RECORDS & MORE

979.704.3059

curiouscollectionstx.com Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

15

Leadership Brazos In an effort to promote and foster the development of community leaders for Brazos County, the Chamber of Commerce hosts an annual leadership program called Leadership Brazos. During the nine month program, participants are shown the many different aspects of Brazos County, from government to agriculture to human services. Many past Leadership Brazos alumni have gone on to become actively involved in their community.

2016-2017 Class Coordinators: Steve Beck, Eric Walley, Jill Gallagher, Elisabeth Reyes Class of 2017: Prarthana Banerji, Daniel Bethapudi, Shelly Brenckman, James Bright, Meagan Brown, Jimmy Byrd, Maggie Cannon, Stacy Colvin, Bradley Diggins, Kim Dyer, Grant Hackethorn, William Hesterberg, Collin Hill, Jill Hughson, Greg Martin, Val Martinez, Chase Moore, Sydney Leadership Brazos Coordinators Steve Beck, Jill Gallagher, and Eric Walley.

Murrell, Shelley Nelson, Bentley Nettles, Dennis Norris, Carl Orozco, Brandi Plunkett, Vicky Recek, Braden Shaffer, Kristen Shumbera, Lee Speakmon, Colby Street, Amanda Suehs, Deborah Veley, Mary Joy Venuti, Oscee Wheatfall III, Stephanie White, Jennifer Wolf, J.D. Wood, Brian Yung, Jennifer Zimmerman

Leadership Brazos Alumni Association council members Katerina Hall, Hans Hammond, Vicki Reim, Steve Beck, Tracy Paine, and Jason Cornelius with Blue Bell Creameries President Ricky Dickson, center.

Leadership Brazos Class of 2017

Proudly serving our community for the last 128 years!

16

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

• Blinn’s academic transfer rate consistently ranks among the top ten in the nation.

• Blinn’s diverse selection of technical and career training programs put students on the fast track to high-demand, high-wage careers.

• Blinn students can save almost $3,500 in tuition and fees each year compared to the average Texas public university.

• Blinn graduates can earn an average of $9,000 more per year than employees with only a high school diploma

www.blinn.edu Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

17

Junior Leadership Brazos

Leadership Brazos Alumni Association

Co-Chairs: Hans Hammond and Kristiana Hamilton

Leadership Brazos Alumni Association, or LBAA, consists of a group of local business and community leaders who have all graduated from the Leadership Brazos program. The purpose of LBAA is to provide a platform for graduates to use the knowledge gained in Leadership Brazos to impact the community and local businesses in a positive way.

2015-2016 Graduates: Alayna Granger, Alexis Vazquez, Allison Page, Ariel O’Neil, Ava Tamborella, Banessa Arredondo, Braden Beall, Brendan McIntyre, Brittan Rhome, Caleb Claborn, Carsen Grom, Cy Smith, Ellie Conrad, Grace Corrier, Hailey Norris, Harrison Wellmann, Jacob Piper, Jada Moody, John Clendenin, Kaley Montelongo, Kalindi Desai, Kasi Wielenga, Katelyn Kocman, Kelsey Crawford, Lexi Lindemulder, Matthew Edge, Noah Miles, Randale Lowe, Riley McGehee, Robert “Greyson”Cashion, Sam Crockett, Sophie Bullard, Sydney Johnson, Sydney Christian, Taylor Johnson, Ty Watson, TyAsia

Are you a graduate of Leadership Brazos looking to become an active member of LBAA? Join LBAA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bcslbaa to see how you can get involved!

Officers Chairman: Hans Hammond

Hubbard, Wesley Overby, William Beavers

Chair-Elect: Hayden Paul

Sponsors: Aggieland Credit Union, American Momentum Bank, Atmos Energy, Awards and More, BB&T, Bryan Rotary Club, BTU, Brown & Company, C.R. Goodman Companies, Cal & Beth McNeill, Capital Farm Credit, City of Bryan, Chrome: A Salon Experience, C.C. Creations, Copy Corner, Doggett Auto Parts, Greater Brazos Valley Builders Association, InSite Group, Kelly Burt Dozer, Leadership Brazos Alumni Association, Producers Cooperative Association, Prosperity Bank, Representative Kyle Kacal, Royce & Mary Hickman, Schaefer Custom Homes, Spirit of Texas Bank, Texas Commercial Waste, The Bank & Trust, The Eagle, The Ellison Firm, The Law Office of Shane Phelps, Thompson, Derrig & Craig, Tom Light Chevrolet, University Title Company, Wells Fargo Bank, What’s The Buzz Coffee

Treasurer: Katerina Hall

Additional Sponsors: Chicken Express, Outback Steakhouse, Cotton Patch Cafe, Potato Shack, HEB, and Cheddar’s

18

Secretary: Carrie Archer

Committee Chairs Leadership Brazos: Steve Beck & Eric Walley Junior Leadership Brazos: Hans Hammond Inside B/CS: Tracy Paine Board Leadership Liaison: Vicki Reim

Contact Us Interested in learning more about any of the programs or events mentioned in this Annual Report? Visit www.bcschamber.org for more information or give us a call at (979) 260-5200.

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

For more than 145 years, BB&T has earned the trust of our clients with a local approach to banking. Understanding the fabric of our community. Being there when our neighbors need us. Encouraging what makes our community unique. That’s why we are proud to support the Bryan College Station Chamber of Commerce.

Proud to support the Bryan College Station Chamber of Commerce

B A N K I N G

.

I N S U R A N C E

.

I N V E S T M E N T S

Member FDIC. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. BBT.com Š 2017, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report

19

Shop Local. Choose Chamber. www.bcschamber.org 20

Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce: 2016-2017 Annual Report