Best of Brown County 2017

Reader’s Choice Awards

Where the Stars are Big and Bright

Celebration

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

Inaugural Best of Brown County celebration draws hundreds to Brownwood Coliseum

By Derrick Stuckly dstuckly@brownwoodbulletin.com

Brown County residents spoke — digitally — and their favorites were rewarded during the Brownwood Bulletin’s “Where the Stars are Big and Bright Celebration” the evening of July 15 at the Brownwood Coliseum.

A first-year initiative for the Bulletin, online voting determined the Best of Brown County — a people’s choice contest to determine favorite businesses, among other categories. Nominees were made by the public in April and voting took place from late May through midJune.

More than 167,000 votes were cast in over 130 separate categories covering topics such as Beauty & Health, Eat & Drink, Finance & Real Estate, Services, Shopping, Travel & Entertainment.

Vehicle Dealers & Services, and Work & Lifestyle.

ou y k Than

PHOTO BY GRAHAM DUDLEY

Waldrop Construction

SEE CELEBRATION, 37

for voting us

BEST

CUSTOMER SERVICE

BEST

BAKERY

BEST

GROCERY STORE

BEST

SALADS

BEST

MEAT MARKET

BEST

PRODUCE

BEST

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Best of Brown County

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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HARRIETTE GRAVES PERSON OF THE YEAR

Bulletin Editor Emeritus Gene Deason reflects on Graves, receiving award named in her honor Brownwood Bulletin Editor Emeritus Gene Deason shares his thoughts on the first Best of Brown County celebration, including receiving the Harriette Graves Person of the Year honor:

PHOTO BY STEVE NASH

Bulletin Editor Emeritus Gene Deason is pictured with, daughters of Harriette Graves.

Countless awards were handed out July 15 during the inaugural Brownwood Bulletin Best of Brown County gala, and among them was the first Harriette Graves Person of the Year Award.

The headline should not be that I was the one chosen to receive it. While I am profoundly appreciative of the recognition, the headline should instead read that the Bulletin has established an annual award in the name of

Harriette Graves.

Like some 500 people at the Brownwood Coliseum, I didn’t know what to expect. Most knew they were finalists in online voting for multiple categories, so it was a festive occasion.

I didn’t plan to go due to a prior commitment, but former Bulletin co-workers insisted I would enjoy the elegant dinner and Coffey Anderson concert. It was truly a first-class experience.

Harriette, who passed away in 2002, became a Bulletin reporter in 1966, joining the staff after submitting freelance stories for several years. When I joined the staff SEE DEASON, 38

AARON CONE AIR CONDITIONING and HEATING would like to THANK BROWN COUNTY for voting us into the top 3 for Heating and AC Service

FOR ALL THAT

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VOTED US #1 FOR BEST EMPLOYMENT AGENCY!

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Thank you

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

Best of Brown County Awards Beauty and Health • Best Chiropractor First place — Dr. Daniel Zondag Runner-up — Dr. Amanda Campbell Finalist — Dr. James Gafken • Best Cosmetic or Plastic Surgeon First place — Dr. James Fowler Runner-up — Dr. Gary Butka Finalist — Dr. Martin McGonagle • Best Dentist First place — Dr. Kyle Kirkland Runner-up — Dr. Robert Goodwin Finalist — Dr. Wesley Hutchins • Best Drug Store/Pharmacy First place — Doc’s Drug Store Runner-up — Jacobs Family Pharmacy Finalist — Brownwood Walmart Supercenter • Best Fitness Center/Gym First place — Brownwood Fitness Runner-up — Anytime Fitness Finalist — Inspire Fitness

BEST DENTIST Dr. Kyle Kirkland

WE WOULD LIKE TO

THANK EVERYONE FOR VOTING US

Thanks Many

BR-00075566

for the recognition.

It is very humbling Kyle Kirkland, DDS 2600 Coggin Avenue

Dentistry

(325) 643-4622

Best Drugstore/ Pharmacy and Best Medical Supply it was a great honor, we also appreciate our recognition as 3rd in ice cream. We appreciate your loyalty and we will continue to strive to be your best pharmacy and give you the service you all deserve and expect.

Sincerely, Doc’s of Early, Doc’s of Brownwood

BR-00077180

AS THE BEST OF BROWN COUNTY IN TWO CATEGORIES,

Best of Brown County

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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• Best Hair Dresser/Barber First place — Tina Henry, Cutting Edge Barber Shop and Salon Runner-up — Travis G. Curry, Just Teasin’ Hair Salon Finalist — Alisha Newton, Shearly Southern Salon • Best Hair Salon First place — The Rage Salon and Day Spa Runner-up — Nathana’s Tanning and Hair Salon Finalist — Cutting Edge Barber Shop and Salon • Best Hearing Aid Center First place — Heart of Texas Hearing Centers, Brownwood Runner-up — Lone Star Hearing Finalist — Livingston Hearing Aids Center • Best Health Food Store First place — Honey Bee Natural Foods Runner-up — United Supermarket Finalist — GNC • Best Home Health First place — CMS Health Care

BEST HAIR DRESSER/BARBER Tina Henry, Cutting Edge Barber Shop and Salon

SEE AWARDS, 17

Thank You!

For voting Heart of Texas Hearing Centers as Brown County’s #1 Hearing Aid Center in 2017!

To show our appreciation, during the month of August we are offering the following complimentary services: 1. Complimentary hearing screening and consultation 2. FREE hearing aid cleaning and check-up 3. FREE demonstration of the NEW Muse™ & Halo 2™ Hearing Aids.

Come see how far technology has come!

We welcome you to visit Heart of Texas Hearing Centers, Central Texas’ premier Hearing and Balance medical practice.

We have 2 convenient locations 2510 Crockett Drive BROWNWOOD, TX 76801

195 River North Blvd STEPHENVILLE, TX 76401

(325) 646-5633 (254) 965-5858 www.heartoftexashearing.com

© 2017 Starkey. All Rights Reserved. 165056399-7/17

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

BEST NON-PROFIT

Good Samaritan Ministries A charity by and for Brown County

By Graham Dudley gdudley@brownwoodbulletin.com

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There are dozens of nonprofit organizations in Brown County, serving all ages and addressing a wide variety of problems. From hunger to homelessness to abuse and neglect, Brown County has consistently proven its generosity by supporting the groups that support the vulnerable among us.

When it came time to vote for the Best of Brown County awards, local voters were forced to choose just one of the many deserving nonprofits for the grand prize. Edging out outstanding organizations like The Ark and the Corinne T. Smith Animal Center, Brownwood’s Good Samaritan Ministries took home top honors during the July ceremony at the Coliseum.

PHOTO BY GRAHAM DUDLEY

Pictured from left are GSM Board member Don Neill, Board Vice Chair Roger Geise, Board Chair David Williams, Executive Director Leesa Stephens, and Associate Director Heather Thomas with Bulletin publisher Clarice Touhey, who presented a portion of the proceeds from Best of Brown County to GSM.

Good Samaritan executive director Leesa Stephens said she feels as though her orga-

nization’s victory is a victory for Brown County itself.

“We look at that as a vote

THANK YOU

BROWN COUNTY FOR VOTING US IN THE TOP 3 FOR FLOWER SHOP.

for the people of Brown County,” Stephens said, “because we are totally, 100 percent funded through grants, individuals, churches and businesses in Brown County.

“We do not get any federal dollars whatsoever, so to be selected for that award, for us, is like the people of Brown County saying they recognize that we’re part of who they are,” she said.

Stephens said Good Samaritan has a very small paid staff to oversee its seven hunger ministries and resale store.

Most of the work at Good Samaritan — from sorting donations to interviewing clients to passing out food — is performed by local volunteers.

“Those folks who went online and voted for us were actually, we feel like, voting

Best of Brown County

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

for Brown County,” Stephens said.

According to a GSM history pamphlet, Good Samaritan was born in 1993 after a group of local church leaders set about forming a Christian social ministry to address hunger and poverty in the county.

Opening in October of that year, Good Samaritan was initially housed at the Sunset Terrace Mission and focused only on food and clothing at that time.

Good Samaritan grew and purchased a location in downtown Brownwood in late 1994, moving in that December. Adding more ministries and gradually expanding its property over the years, GSM has become one of county’s largest nonprofits, serving hundreds of clients each year.

Today, GSM operates seven distinct programs to address hunger in the county. In its food pantry, Good Samaritan provides perishable and non-perishable grocery staples to residents who may come once a month. Food for Thought is an effort to provide kid-friendly, nutritious foods to hungry Brown County students on Fridays, helping them through the weekend.

In the Homeless Food Boxes program, GSM provides boxes of food to homeless and transitional living clients. The organization also delivers boxes of easy-

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PHOTOS BY GRAHAM DUDLEY

Karie Woods (left) and Frank Hilton (right) sort through donations at Good Samaritan Ministries.

to-prepare food for homebound clients twice a month through its Homebound Program.

The Deer Project and Pig Project allow hunters to donate legally tagged and harvested deer, or show pigs, to the GSM food pantry to provide protein for pantry meals. Finally, Good Samaritan’s newest ministry is called the Mobile Food Pantry, which partners with area churches in

SEE GSM, 38

Thanks, Brown County!

11801 US-84, Zephyr TX

325-739-2068

Thank you for voting HPU the best local college and one of the best places to work!

HPU is proud to be a part of this area, partnering with Brown County since 1889.

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Thank you to all our customers for your support!

Diamond R was voted Best Burger, Best Caterer and Best Country Cooking. We would like to also give a big shout out to our employees and say Thank You! Without you this wouldn’t be possible.

Voted #1 Best Burgers, Country Cooking and Catering Runner-up for Place to Dine.

remote regions of the county to provide food for local homebound and elderly residents.

Stephens said Good Samaritan’s many food ministries are only made possible by locals’ generous donations of food and money to the organization. And the Good Samaritan resale store, she said, runs

1000 Fisk Street, Brownwood, Texas 76801 325-649-8020 • 800-880-4HPU www.hputx.edu • enroll@hputx.edu

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

BEST TEACHER

Kristi Owen

Lifelong student wins ‘Best Teacher’ at Best of Brown County

By Graham Dudley gdudley@brownwoodbulletin.com

For Brownwood High School biology teacher Kristi Owen, students are like popcorn.

“Here’s my good philosophy,” Owen explained. “A popcorn bag: if I stopped it at one minute when it started popping, what would I have? I’d have some kids that have popped and got it, and the rest wouldn’t. So if I just stopped with them, I’d have all these old maids.

“But if I put it back in and the microwave could pop it right, I’d get a few more, right? And eventually I’d get a few more. But ultimately, even if I let it pop the full three minutes, I would open it up … and I’d still have some old maids. And that’s how my students are,” she said.

To Owen, who’s preparing to enter her 20th year at BHS, teaching is about keeping the microwave on as long as possible — working with students until most of them understand, or “pop.” And it’s this philosophy that recently earned Owen the first Best Teacher Award at July’s

KRISTI OWEN

Best of Brown County banquet at the Brownwood Coliseum.

Owen was born in San Angelo to a teacher and a Texas Parks & Wildlife employee, moving around Texas before

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settling in Brownwood as a high school sophomore. She ran track and played volleyball and Howard Payne University, where she graduated with a biology degree and a teacher certification in 1994.

“My mom said not to become a teacher,” she said, “and my dad told me not to study science. I obviously listened very well,” she joked. Owen said she came to love teaching while helping her mother collate and staple papers together for school as a little girl, and finally realized she would become a teacher while in college.

After a brief stint in Michigan, where her husband was pursuing his Master’s degree, Owen returned to Texas and got her first science teaching job in Amarillo. She then spent two years in Mineral Wells and arrived back in Brownwood in 1998.

Owen said the key to her longevity has been a constant desire to improve and learn more. “To me, my job is neverending,” she said. “Even though it’s summer, I’m not one of those that takes

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Best of Brown County

the three months off.” Just this summer, Owen has attended workshops in Washington, D.C., San Angelo and San Antonio.

“I went back and got my Master’s degree,” she said. “I think [students] can see I’m a constant student just like they are.”

Owen said evolving technology has been one of the biggest changes of her teaching career since it began. “I remember kids having pagers,” she said of the ‘90s. “That drove us nuts, because if a parent wanted their kid they would page them, so we had to ban the pagers.”

Cell phones, of course, have come a long way since then. Owen said she has attempted to create a classroom where phones can be teaching tools and not distractions.

“We don’t always need a calculator, because you have a phone. Or if you want to video what we’re doing in the lab, it’s great,” she said. On certain instructional days, though, she keeps them in a numbered shoe rack on the classroom front door.

“I try to treat them like they’re my own two [kids],” Owen said. “How would I want them to be treated?

How would I want to be treated?”

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Owen said it’s still surreal to have been voted the county’s best teacher. She said it’s likely her longevity that earned her the honor. “I’m now seeing some of my former students’ kids come through,” she said. “I’m from here, I’ve been here and I’m invested in the community.”

In the future, Owen said she eventually hopes to become an administrator and help teachers learn instructional techniques. “Our kids are such multiple learners,” she said.

“I would like to be a resource that teachers can come to and impact, say, 12 teachers that impact 100 students each instead of me impacting just 100. That’s my ultimate goal.”

For now, Owen said she’s excited for another school year at BHS. In her free time, Owen enjoys fishing, cooking and volunteering at Bangs First United Methodist Church.

She’s even helping build a house for her two sons, who are both attending Howard Payne University as she did.

But it’s her passion for teaching — and for learning — that has earned her high marks from the citizens of Brown County. Brownwood returns to the classroom later this month.

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Walking the red carpet

PHOTO BY STEVE NASH

Ray Tipton, Executive Director of the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce, and wife Lisa attended the Best of Brown County celebration July 15 at the Brownwood Coliseum.

We would like to personally Thank the Community for supporting us and voting Davis Morris the Best Funeral Home in Brown County.

Not pictured Gail Croft

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Davis Morris Funeral Home

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

BEST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Vance Hill

Sheriff a hometown boy who ‘absolutely loves Brown County’

By Steve Nash steve.nash@brownwoodbulletin.com

Vance Hill has had numerous accomplishments throughout his 30-year law enforcement career, and getting elected Brown County sheriff last year was, for the 51-year-old Hill, “the icing the cake.”

Seven months into his first term, Hill won another big honor as Brown County residents named him the top law enforcement officer of the year in the Best of Brown County people’s choice awards.

“No one was more surprised than I,” Hill said afterward in his office, a few days after the winners of numerous awards were announced the night of July 15 at the Brownwood Coliseum.

“It’s exciting. There are some excellent officers in the county.”

Hill won the Brown County Republican Party Primary election in March, finishing first among three candidates. In the November general election, Hill was unopposed.

Hill’s predecessor, George Caldwell, served as sheriff for 14 months. County

VANCE HILL

commissioners appointed Caldwell in September 2015 to fill the unexpired term of Bobby Grubbs, who died Sept. 3, 2015 in the midst of his third term.

Hill graduated from Brownwood High School in 1984 and began his law en-

forcement career with the Gatesville Police Department in 1986. In June 1990, he began working for the Brownwood Police Department and was promoted to detective.

Hill joined the Brown County Sheriff’s Office in 1994 and went to work as a detective. He was also assigned to the West Central Texas Interlocal Crime Task Force as a special agent and worked undercover in the task force’s 15-county area.

In 1997, then-District Attorney Lee Haney hired Hill as an investigator. Hill specialized in white collar crimes and prepared cases for court. Hill was later assigned to office intake, which consisted of preparation of indictments for grand jury, complaints for the issuance of arrest warrants, and the preparation of search warrants.

Under current District Attorney Micheal Murray, Hill had the same job duties, with the added responsibility as the office administrator. Hill also assisted law enforcement agencies at major crime

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Best of Brown County

scenes for guidance, evidence collection, and technical issues.

Hill rejoined the sheriff’s office in 2010 and worked as a patrol deputy before being promoted to detective. Hill was sergeant in charge of the Criminal Investigation Division, then later became captain of operations and chief deputy before being elected sheriff.

Hill acknowledged being sheriff is a stressful job, as he has to be concerned with public safety, officer safety and community relations — but it’s a job he loves.

“I’m a hometown boy, born and raised here and I absolutely love Brown County,” Hill said.

“I’m working for the employees of the sheriff’s department to keep them in good equipment. I’m working with commissioners to improve their pay, and I truly care about each of the 78 employees I have here.

“I think my success in law enforcement has been treating people with respect and dignity — treating people the way I would want someone to treat my mother. I’m just proud to serve the citizens of Brown County.”

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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LEFT: Sheriff Vance Hill was sergeant over the sheriff’s office’s criminal investigation division when he was pictured speaking with the media at the Law Enforcement Center.

PHOTO BY STEVE NASH

RIGHT: Vance Hill held the rank of captain of operations when he was pictured walking out of a home in Brownwood after deputies served a search and arrest warrant for drugs.

PHOTO BY STEVE NASH

100 C.C. Woodson Rd, Brownwood, TX

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Thank you Brown County for voting us Best Appliance, Mattress and Furniture Store!!

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Brown County and our Customers BR-00076857

for voting us into the Top 3 for

Best Boutique

Recliners and Lift Chairs

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in Brown County!

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

BEST FIREFIGHTER

Buddy Preston

Fire marshal serves the public, protecting lives, property

By Steve Nash steve.nash@brownwoodbulletin.com

Brownwood Fire Marshal Buddy Preston has a good excuse for missing the Best of Brown County celebration July 15 at the Brownwood Coliseum.

He was working.

Preston was with other members of the Brownwood Fire Department and nearly every other local fire department at a house fire on U.S. Highway 183 South.

So Preston was not able to be present to hear his name called: He was the people’s choice winner of the Best Firefighter award.

“I was very shocked and surprised,” Preston said later by phone from College Station, where he was teaching at a fire school.

Preston, 57, is a Waco native who was raised in Austin. He moved with his parents to Brownwood in 1977 after his father, a salesman, was transferred here.

His parents also owned the Hickory Stick barbecue restaurant, where Preston worked.

BUDDY PRESTON

In 1981, Preston was living in Zephyr when his phone rang around 3 one morning. There was a house fire, Preston was told, and he needed to come help.

Preston wasn’t a firefighter at the time, but a Zephyr volunteer firefighter had

given Preston’s name and number to a dispatcher.

Preston went to the fire, where he pulled hose and helped in other ways.

Preston was invited to attend the next meeting of the Zephyr Volunteer Fire Department. Preston attended, and joined the fire department.

In 1993, Preston joined the Brownwood Fire Department after attending a fire academy and was named fire marshal in 2002. He also had to become a fire inspector and peace officer to hold the fire marshal’s job.

In 2011, Preston teamed up with a fourlegged partner — Nika, a black labrador arson dog trained to smell accelerants.

Preston isn’t sure when he’ll retire, and in the meantime he has much to like about his job. “I’m serving the public, trying to protect lives and property and trying to keep fires from starting,” Preston said.

Preston estimated he’s investigated 500 to 600 fires. “I’ve got a lot of memories,” Preston said.

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

ABOVE: Brownwood Fire Marshal Buddy Preston is pictured with his arson dog, Nika, in the aftermath of a fire that gutted a rural Brown County home.

PHOTO BY STEVE NASH

RIGHT: Buddy Preston walks toward other firefighters at the scene of a Brownwood structure fire.

Thank you

100 Ross Drive, Early, TX 76802 (325) 643-1785 | www.solarisoilfield.com

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Brown County for voting us into the top 3 for Welding and Fabrication

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

BEST LOCAL MUSICIAN

Best of Brown County

Coffey Anderson returns home to perform live at Best of Brown County

Best Local Musician Coffey Anderson, a Bangs native, performed for those in attendance at the Best of Brown County celebration, and also signed a few autographs.

PHOTOS BY STEVE NASH

Videos of the performance at BrownwoodTX.com

Best of Brown County

PHOTOS BY STEVE NASH

Coffey Anderson also posed for a few photographs and caught up with old friends prior to taking the stage at the Brownwood Coliseum.

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

The Hideout Golf Club & Resort

GOLF

18 hole golf course with driving range and practice green.

DINING

Full service restaurant and bar with outdoor seating.

LODGING

Guest suites and cabins with all the comforts of home.

EVENTS

Hosting weddings, meetings, reunions and special events.

ACTIVITIES

Resort-style pool and hot tub, with grill and bar service on weekends.

#1 Golf Course in Brown County OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

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Book Your Tee Time Today! 325.784.4653 thehideoutgolfclub.com

Best of Brown County

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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AWARDS

CONTINUED FROM 5

Runner-up — Kindred at Home Finalist — Brady Health Care Services • Best Nail Salon First place — ‘Nspired Nail Bar Runner-up — Hawaiian Nail Bar Finalist — Deluxe Nails and Spa • Best Optometrist First place — Dr. Stanley Cavett Runner-up — Dr. Randy Ethridge Finalist — Dr. Bryan Kramer • Best Physical Therapist First place — Scott King, Action Sports Medicine Runner-up — Sara Young, Bangs Physical Therapy Finalist — Angie Cox • Best Physician First place — Dr. Mark Martin Runner-up — Dr. Daniel Stewart Finalist — Dr. Amy Tindol • Best Spa/Medical Spa

BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST Scott King, Action Sports Medicine

for all that voted us

The Best Place to Dine!

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Thank you

We are also very honored to be voted in the top 3 for Best Pizza and Best Steak House

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

First place — Fancy’s Day Spa Runner-up — The Rage Salon and Day Spa Finalist — ‘Nspired Nail Bar • Best Therapeutic Massage First place — Fancy’s Day Spa Runner-up — The Rage Salon and Day Spa Finalist — Heartland Chiropractic • Best Medical Supply First place — Doc’s Drugstore Runner-up — Choice Medical Supply Finalist — Travis Medical Supply Eat and Drink • Best Appetizer First place — Runaway Train Cafe Runner-up — Chili’s Finalist — Humphrey Pete’s

BEST MEDICAL SUPPLY Doc’s Drugstore

• Best Asian Food First place — SAWA Japanese Steakhouse Runner-up — China Cafe Finalist — East Palace • Best Bakery

FINALIST IN THE BEST OF BROWN COUNTY

I am proud to serve Brown County as a part in the BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY MOSELEY REAL ESTATE FAMILY

Beverly Hohertz

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My thanks to everyone who voted for me!

Best of Brown County

BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

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First place — Flour Power Bakery Runner-up — United Supermarket Finalist — Brownwood Walmart Supercenter • Best BBQ First place — Chipster’s BBQ Grill Runner-up — Underwood’s Finalist — The Sticks BBQ • Best Breakfast First place — Red Wagon Restaurant Runner-up — Taquito Millonario Finalist — Skillet’s • Best Burger First place — Diamond R Store and Cafe Runner-up — Runaway Train Cafe Finalist — Heff’s Burgers • Best Caterer First place — Diamond R Store and Cafe Runner-up — Chick-fil-A Finalist — Chipster’s BBQ Grill • Best Chicken First place — Chick-fil-A Runner-up — Chicken Express Finalist — Golden Chick

BEST APPETIZER Runaway Train Cafe

BROWNWOOD GLASS AND ALIGNMENT WOULD LIKE TO

Thank

BROWN COUNTY FOR VOTING US INTOTHETOP 3 FOR TIRE CENTER

THANK YOU Brown County for VOTING US #1 IN BEST SERVICE AND CHICKEN RUNNER UP IN FRIES AND CATERING

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Best of Brown County

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• Best Coffee Shop First place — Common Grounds Runner-up — Starbucks Finalist — Red Wagon Restaurant • Best Country Cooking First place — Diamond R Store and Cafe Runner-up — Cotton Patch Cafe Finalist — Studebaker’s Cafe and Grill • Best Dessert First place — Chili’s Runner-up — Underwood’s Finalist — The Turtle • Best Doughnuts First place — Donut Palace, Brady Highway Runner-up — Donut Palace, West Commerce Finalist — Donut Cafe • Best Food Truck First place — Jack-A-Don’s Runner-up — Flour Power Bakery Finalist — Taco Rico BEST BURGER, BEST CATERER, BEST COUNTRY COOKING Diamond R Store and Cafe

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• Best French Fries First place — McDonald’s Runner-up — Chick-fil-A

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

Runner-up — Diamond R Store and Cafe Finalist — Steves’ Market and Deli • Best Place to Have A Cold Beer First place — Humphrey Pete’s Runner-up — Buffalo Wild Wings Finalist — Chili’s • Best Salads First place — McAlister’s Deli Runner-up — United Supermarket Finalist — Studebaker’s Cafe and Grill • Best Sandwich Shop First place — McAlister’s Deli Runner-up — Steves’ Market and Deli Finalist — Schlotzsky’s • Best Service First place — Chick-fil-A Runner-up — Runaway Train Cafe Finalist — Steves’ Market and Deli

BEST SERVICE Chick-fil-A Finalist — Whataburger

• Best Steak House First place — Section Hand Restaurant Runner-up — Humphrey Pete’s Finalist — Prima Pasta • Best Wings First place — Buffalo Wild Wings Runner-up — Chicken Express

• Best Happy Hour First place — Sonic Runner-up — La Botana Mexican Grill Finalist — Humphrey Pete’s

Everyone at the Depot Liquor Store

• Best Ice Cream First place — Dairy Queen Runner-up — The Turtle Gelateria Finalist — Doc’s Drugstore

for voting us the BEST in Brown County!

• Best Liquor Store First place — Depot Liquor Runner-up — Classic Liquor Finalist — Eagle Liquor • Best Margarita First place — La Botana Mexican Grill Runner-up — Chili’s Finalist — Humphrey Pete’s

• Best Pizza First place — Domino’s Runner-up — Pizza Hut Finalist — Prima Pasta • Best Place to Dine First place — Prima Pasta

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• Best Mexican Food First place — La Botana Mexican Grill Runner-up — Gomez’s Restaurant Finalist — Taquito Millonario

We are always here to serve you!

Best of Brown County

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Thank You Brown County

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ANNIVERSARY

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BROWNWOOD BULLETIN

Best of Brown County

Finalist — Studebaker’s Cafe and Grill Finance and Real Estate • Best Accountant First place — Jane West Runner-up — Weldon Stark Finalist — Julia Taylor • Best Bank First place — TexasBank Runner-up — Citizens National Bank Finalist — Mills County State Bank • Best Credit Union First place — First Central Credit Union Runner-up — Mid Tex Federal Credit Union Finalist — Cen Tex Manufacturing Credit Union • Best Insurance Agent First place — Carter Sharpe Runner-up — David Robnett Finalist — Larry Holder, State Farm • Best Investment Firm First place — Edward Jones Financial Advisor: Mike Seidenberger Runner-up — Painter and Johnson Financial Finalist — Smith and Sharp Agency • Best Mortgage Lender

BEST BANK TexasBank First place — Citizens National Bank Runner-up — TexasBank Finalist — First Central Credit Union

• Best Real Estate Agent First place — Sheri Wells Runner-up — Marc Followwell Finalist — Beverly Hohertz • Best Real Estate Company First place — Keller Williams Realty, The Wells Team Runner-up — Coldwell Banker Finalist — McCluskey and Associates Services • Best Car Wash/Auto Detailing First place — Baird Brothers Express Car Wash Runner-up — Main Street Car Wash Finalist — Draco’s Janitorial and Auto Detailing • Best Carpet Cleaning First place — Service Master Runner-up — Chris’ Carpet Cleaning Finalist — Draco’s Janitorial and Auto Detailing

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY Keller Williams Realty, The Wells Team

• Best Charity/Non-Profit First place — Good Samaritan Ministries Runner-up — Corinne T. Smith Animal Center Finalist — The ARK Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Shelter

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• Best Cleaning/Janitorial First place — Draco Janitorial and Auto Detailing Runner-up — Brownwood Janitorial Finalist — Service Master • Best Construction First place — Waldrop Construction Runner-up — Tunnell Construction Finalist — Duckhorn Developers • Best Convenience Store/Gas Station First place — Stripes Runner-up — United Express Finalist — Hunters • Best Customer Service First place — United Supermarkets Runner-up — Citizens National Bank Finalist — Kroger • Best Dance School First place — FEAT Studio Runner-up — Lyric Dance Studio Finalist — Matrix Cheer and Dance

BEST CONSTRUCTION Waldrop Construction

• Best Day Care First place — Little Dude Ranch Runner-up — Kinder Kare Play Land Finalist — Kid Tracks

Finalist — Brownwood 1-Hour Dry Cleaning

• Best Dry Cleaner First place — Wilson Cleaners Runner-up — Comet Cleaners

• Best Electrician First place — Diggers Diamond Electric Runner-up — Weldon Wilson Electric

Finalist — Grimsley Electric • Best Employment Agency First place — Demand Staff Runner-up — Personnel Services Finalist — Experience Works • Best Funeral Home First place — Davis-Morris Funeral Home Runner-up — Blaylock Funeral Home Finalist — Heartland Funeral Home • Best Heating and Air Conditioning Service First place — Air Temp Runner-up — Roberts and Petty Inc. Finalist — Aaron Cone Air Conditioning and Heating • Best Industrial First place — 3M Runner-up — Kohler Finalist — Diamond P Enterprise • Best Industrial Transport First place — Texas Rock Crusher Railway Runner-up — BNSF Railway Finalist — W.T. Harris Co.

BEST FUNERAL HOME Davis-Morris Funeral Home

• Best Karate/Martial Arts School First place — Nobility Martial Arts Runner-up — Central Texas Kenpo Karate Finalist — RLS Hapkido

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Best of Brown County

Finalist — Prince Prints • Best Plumber First place — Roberts and Petty Runner-up — Ed McMillan Plumbing Finalist — Black Plumbing • Best Printing First place — Willie’s T’s Runner-up — Moore Printing Finalist — University Copy and Cuts • Best Roofing First place — Lydick-Hooks Roofing Company Runner-up — Delapaz Roofing Finalist — Watson Roofing • Best Safety Supply First place — Texas America Safety Company (TASCO) Runner-up — Fastenal Finalist — The Home Depot • Best Satellite/Cable Provider First place — DirecTV Runner-up — Harris Broadband Finalist — Dish Network

BEST PEST CONTROL Andy’s Pest Troopers • Best Internet Service Provider First place — Harris Broadband Runner-up — West Central Texas Wireless Finalist — Echo Wireless Broadband

Finalist — Ag-Mart • Best Photographer First place — Heather Nix Photography Runner-up — Mak Images Photography

• Best Self Storage Company First place — Brownwood Climate Control Runner-up — A&M Mini Storages Finalist — Bangs Hi-Way Storage

• Best Law Firm First place — Todd Steele, Attorney at Law Runner-up — Jennifer W. Broughton, Attorney at Law Finalist — Haynes Law Firm • Best Lawn Care First place — Top Cut Lawn Care Runner-up — Brasher and Co. Finalist — Proscape • Best Manufacturing Plant First place — 3M Runner-up — Kohler Finalist — Superior Essex • Best Paving/Concrete/Rock First place — Waldrop Construction Runner-up — Vulcan Materials Company Finalist — Ingrams • Best Pest Control First place — Andy’s Pest Troopers Runner-up — Crysler’s Pest Control Finalist — Jackie’s Pest Control • Best Pet Groomer First place — Lill’s Poodle Boutique Runner-up — Shelia King

BEST SELF STORAGE COMPANY Brownwood Climate Control

Best of Brown County

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• Best Tattoo Parlor First place — Insane Ink Runner-up — Sharpshooters Tattoo Finalist — Lucky Sparrow Tattoo • Best Taxidermy First place — Lone Star Taxidermy Runner-up — On Target Taxidermy Finalist — Austin Avenue Pet Clinic • Best Veterinarian First place — Small Animal Medical Center Runner-up — Brown County Animal Clinic Finalist — Full Draw Legends Taxidermy • Best Welding/Fabrication First place — Barr Fabrication Runner-up — Solaris Oilfield Finalist — Ledsome Machine Shop Shopping • Best Antique Store First place — Ricochet Oldies and Antiques Runner-up — This Ole House Finalist — Texas Things • Best Appliance Store First place — Southwest Appliance and Furniture

BEST BOUTIQUE Dazzling Diva’s Runner-up — The Home Depot Finalist — Tedford Appliances and Electronics

Runner-up — The Home Depot Finalist — Tedford Appliances and Electronics

• Best Boutique First place — Dazzling Diva’s

• Best Consignment Store First place — Second Chance Consignment Runner-up — Closet Consignment Finalist — Bringing Hope Thrift Store • Best Feed & Ranch Supply First place — Tractor Supply Co. Runner-up — Ag-Mart Finalist — Finch Ag Supply • Best Floor Covering Store First place — Jones Carpet Runner-up — The Home Depot Finalist — Brownwood Decorating Center • Best Florist First place — Early Blooms and Things Runner-up — K LeShae’s Florist and Gift Boutique Finalist — Bangs Flower Shop • Best Furniture First place — Southwest Appliance and Furniture Runner-up — K Leshae’s Florist and Gift Boutique Finalist — Bangs Flower Shop

BEST GARDEN STORE/NURSERY, BEST PRODUCE Cullen’s Hometown Market

• Best Garden Store/Nursery First place — Cullen’s Hometown Market Runner-up — The Home Depot

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Best of Brown County

Finalist — Trees Forever Nursery • Best Gift Store First place — Brownwood Walmart Supercenter Runner-up — Early Blooms and Things Finalist — Jacobs Family Pharmacy • Best Grocery First place — United Supermarket Runner-up — Kroger Finalist — Brownwood Walmart Supercenter • Best Hardware Store First place — Weakley-Watson Hardware Runner-up — The Home Depot Finalist — McCoy’s • Best Home Improvement Store First place — The Home Depot Runner-up — Weakley-Watson Hardware Finalist — McCoy’s • Best Jewelry Store First place — Nathan’s Jewelers Runner-up — Hamilton’s Finalist — Brownwood Walmart Supercenter • Best Lawn Equipment First place —The Home Depot Runner-up — Tractor Supply Co. Finalist — Weakley-Watson Hardware • Best Mattress Store First place — Southwest Appliance and

BEST SPORTING GOODS/GUN STORE Weakley-Watson Sporting Goods Furniture Runner-up — Gallery Furniture Finalist — Big Lots

First place — King’s Meat Market Runner-up — United Supermarket Finalist — Kroger

• Best Meat Market

• Best Pawn Shop First place — Wild Bill’s Pawn Shop Runner-up — E-Z Pawn Finalist — Cash Texas Pawn Shop • Best Produce First place — Cullen’s Hometown Market Runner-up — United Supermarket Finalist — Kroger • Best Sporting Goods/Gun Store First place — Weakley-Watson Sporting Goods Runner-up — Johnson’s Gun Works Finalist — Hibbett Sports • Best Western Wear First place — Scott’s Western Wear Runner-up — Leon River Mercantile Finalist — Tractor Supply Co. Travel and Entertainment

BEST WESTERN WEAR Scott’s Western Wear

• Best Local Musician First place — Coffey Anderson Runner-up — Kelly Spinks and Miles of Texas Finalist — Donnie Evetts

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• Best Event Venue First place — The Lyric Theatre Runner-up — Sparkles and Spurs Wedding Venue Finalist — The Hideout Golf Club and Resort • Best Family Entertainment First place — Regal Heartland Stadium 8 Runner-up — The Lyric Theatre Finalist — U.S. Dock’s Wild Duck Marina • Best Golf Course First place — The Hideout Golf Club and Resort Runner-up — Brownwood Country Club Finalist — The Creek Golf Course • Best Hotel First place — Star of Texas Bed and Breakfast Runner-up — The Hideout Golf Club and Resort Finalist — La Quinta Vehicle Dealers and Services

BEST NEW CAR DEALER, BEST AUTO DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT Bruner Auto Group

• Best Auto Body/Glass Repair: First place — Cen-Tex Body and Paint Runner-up — Blevins Body Shop Finalist — Brownwood Glass and Alignment

• Best Tint First place — Auto Glass Magic Runner-up — Taylor’s Mini Mall Finalist — Car Toyz Auto Sport

• Best Auto Dealer Service Department First place — Bruner Auto Group Runner-up — Big Country Ford Finalist — Stanley Dodge

• Best Tire Center First place — Trans Texas Tire Runner-up — Discount Tire Store Finalist — Brownwood Glass and Alignment

• Best Auto Repair – Independent First place — Trans Texas Tire Runner-up — Cen-Texas Body and Paint Finalist — Royce Miller • Best Car Salesman First place — Rick Newton, Bruner Auto Group Runner-up — Kurt Newton, Big Country Ford Finalist — Harold Hogan, Bostick’s • Best New Car Dealer First place — Bruner Auto Group Runner-up — Big Country Ford Finalist — Stanley Dodge • Best Oil Change First place — Kwik Kar Oil and Lube Runner-up — Bruner Auto Group Finalist — Trans Texas Tire • Best RV Dealer First place — Big Country RV Runner-up — Longhorn Campers Finalist — Shaffer Motor Co.

• Best Used Car Dealer First place — Big Country Ford Runner-up — Bruner Auto Group Finalist — Longhorn Auto Sales Work and Lifestyle • Best Apartment Complex First place — Rainforest Apartments Runner-up — Camelot Apartments Finalist — Riverside Park Apartments

Runner-up — Dallas Huston Finalist — Leland Acker • Best Local College First place — Howard Payne University Runner-up — Ranger College Finalist — TSTC • Best Place to Work First place — 3M Runner-up — Landmark Life Finalist — Howard Payne University • Best Place to Worship First place — Coggin Avenue Baptist Church Runner-up — High Mesa Cowboy Church Finalist — Victory Life Church • Best Firefighter First place — Buddy Preston Runner-up — Jody Horton Finalist — Bryan Harvey

• Best Senior Living Facility First place — The Chatfield Runner-up — Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Finalist — Songbird Lodge

• Best Law Enforcement Officer First place — Vance Hill Runner-up — David Mercer Finalist — Scotty Burke

• Best Radio Station First place — KOXE 101.3 FM Runner-up — 96.9 FM The Breeze Finalist — 97.9 Sunny FM

• Best Teacher First place — Kristi Owen, Brownwood Runner-up — Teresa Cooley, Early Finalist — Lisa Hunter, Early

• Best DJ/Radio Personality First place — Carl Wayne

• Harriette Graves Person of the Year Gene Deason

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Best of Brown County

THANK YOU BROWN COUNTY FOR NOMINATING 3 OF OUR STATIONS IN THE TOP 7 FOR BEST OF BROWN COUNTY

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Jim Alvardo “The Voice of Sunny FM” Ron Oswalt Business Development Specialist

For Advertising Call 325-430-0338 or 512-409-5277

Best of Brown County

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More Best of Brown County Award Winners

BEST FOOD TRUCK Jack-A-Don’s

BEST DRUG STORE/PHARMACY Doc’s Drugstore

BEST HAIR SALON The Rage Salon and Day Spa

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE Honey Bee Natural Foods

BEST HEARING AID CENTER Hearing of Texas Hearing Center

BEST HOME HEALTH CMS Health Care

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Best of Brown County

BEST NAIL SALON ‘Nspired Nail Bar

BEST OPTOMETRIST Dr. Stanley Cavett

BEST PHYSICIAN Dr. Mark Martin

BEST CHICKEN Chick-fil-A

BEST COFFEE CHOP Common Grounds Coffeehouse

BEST LIQUOR STORE Depot Liquor

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BEST CREDIT UNION First Central Credit Union

BEST MORTGAGE LENDER Citizens National Bank

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Sheri Wells

BEST NONPROFIT Good Samaritan Ministries

BEST CLEANING/JANITORIAL Draco’s Janitorial and Auto Detailing

BEST MANUFACTURING PLANT 3M

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Best of Brown County

BEST DAY CARE Little Dude Ranch

BEST EMPLOYMENT AGENCY Demand Staff

BEST INDUSTRIAL 3M

BEST INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORT Texas Rock Crusher Railway

BEST LAW FIRM Todd Steele, Attorney at Law

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE United Supermarkets

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BEST PAVING/CONCRETE/ROCK Waldrop Construction

BEST PET GROOMER Lill’s Poodle Boutique

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Heather Nix Photography

BEST GROCERY United Supermarkets

BEST WELDING/FABRICATION Barr Fabrication

BEST SAFETY SUPPLY Texas America Safety Company

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Best of Brown County

BEST MEAT MARKET King’s Meat Market

BEST GOLF COURSE The Hideout Golf Club and Resort

BEST APARTMENT COMPLEX Rainforest Apartments

BEST LOCAL COLLEGE Howard Payne University

BEST RADIO STATION KOXE 101.3 FM

BEST DJ/RADIO PERSONALITY Carl Wayne

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BEST CAR SALESMAN Rick Newton - Bruner Auto Group

BEST PLACE TO WORK 3M

BEST LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER First place — Vance Hill (represented by Scotty Burke); Runner-up —David Mercer; Finalist - Scotty Burke

BEST FIREFIGHTER First place — Buddy Preston (represented by Dobie Preston); Runner-up — Jody Horton; Finalist - Bryan Harvey

CELEBRATION CONTINUED FROM 2

The nearly 500 residents who attended the red carpet event were greeted at the door by the musical offerings of “Relentless” — a three-piece jazz band comprised of Laci Wright, Viviana Sanchez and Wayne Snell.

Dinner, provided by Catering by Casey, followed ahead of the presentation the Best of Brown County awards. Among the most notable awards, Buddy Preston was voted Best Firefighter, Vance Hill was selected Best Law Enforcement Officer, Kristi Owen received the most votes for Best Teacher and Good Samaritan Ministries was chosen at the Best Non-Profit.

The Bulletin also introduced the Harriette Graves Person of the Year, which was presented to Bulletin Editor Emeritus Gene Deason. The award pays tribute to Graves,

a former Bulletin reporter of 33 years who passed away in 2002. Graves’ passion was the local community, especially the creative arts, education of youth, care of pets, public health and safety — medicine, hospitals, fire and law enforcement — and public service — elected or volunteer. Harriette also held a deep appreciation for veterans and American patriotism, which stems from her service in World War II in the U.S. Navy, and her work at the old Medical Arts Hospital before joining the Bulletin.

This yearly honoree will embody many of the characteristics that made Harriette a treasure whose intent was to spotlight the best that Brown County had to offer. The Bulletin selected Deason this year due to his decades of service to both the community as well as the newspaper. Next year, Brown County residents will be able to submit their nominees.

The evening concluded with a concert

by Brown County’s own Coffey Anderson.

A Bangs High Schoo and Howard Payne University graduate, Anderson has released in the neighborhood of a dozen albums.

“Southern Man” and “Me and You” were both released in 2008 followed by “Coffee Anderson” in 2010 “Boots & Jeans” in 2012 and most recently “This Is Me” in 2016 in the country genre. Christian albums release

by Anderson include “Inspiration Vol. 1,” and “Worship Unplugged Vols. 1 and 2” in 2008, “Worship Unplugged Vol. 3” in 2011, “Redemption” in 2013 and “God is Enough” in 2015. Anderson also released “Kids Songs” in 2015.

“It was such an exciting evening,” said Brownwood Bulletin Publisher Clarice Tourhey. “It was wonderful to see everyone come together to celebrate the community.

I cannot say enough about my staff at the Bulletin and all of their hard work putting together the event. And thank you to Coffey Anderson and his band for making the trip home for us. It was truly a magical night.”

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Best of Brown County

GSM

CONTINUED FROM 7

PHOTO BY GRAHAM DUDLEY

Good Samaritan Ministries is supported by volunteers like Allan Bass, pictured here doing IT assistance.

DEASON

CONTINUED FROM 3

in 1969, Harriette helped show me the ropes. She must have regarded this Howard Payne sophomore like one of the abandoned dogs and cats for which she helped find homes through the years.

Words can’t adequately describe what Harriette meant to me — personally and professionally — so I’ll simply say we were family.

Words also cannot adequately describe her memorable persona. You had to know her. Harriette is one of the few true “Brownwood characters” in the mold of her contemporaries Groner Pitts, Cecil Holman and Rodger Sweeney.

That dates me, I know.

This dates me even more: Several times, I was tempted to submit an article about her for “My Most Memorable Character” in Reader’s Digest magazine.

Her writing style was distinctive; her interviewing process, unconventional.

Instead of taking notes and writing her story later, Harriette would plop a person down in the infamous chair next to her desk, begin talking energetically, and type the story as she went — frequently rephrasing the person’s quotations and asking if that sounded OK for print. When the interview ended, her story was almost ready to turn in.

Harriette’s conversational technique extracted compel-

on donations of new and gently used clothing and household items. The resale store offers affordable clothes to all Brown County residents, she said, with proceeds going back to the GSM hunger ministries. “It’s just such a community effort,” Stephens said.

Stephens encouraged student groups to volunteer during the summer months at Good Samaritan, and said the upcoming fall months are the organization’s busiest time of the year. “Food for Thought will kick off in September,” she said, “and in that program, the bags of food are packed by volunteers and taken to schools by volunteers. Then October is Hunger Awareness Month, and in November we’ll see Giving Tuesday on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.”

Stephens thanked Brown County for supporting Good Samaritan through the years.

“I think it’s very important for people to know that we only want to be a Brown County ministry, and we only serve people who live in Brown County,” Stephens said.

“We’re very honored that the people of Brown County would recognize what we’re doing in partnership with them.”

Fore more information about donating to, receiving services from or volunteering at Good Samaritan Ministries, visit www. goodsambwd.org. Stephens also encouraged locals to follow the Good Samaritan Facebook page for the very latest information and events.

The GSM volunteer coordinator Phil Miller can be reached at 325-643-2273.

ling tales from local people living ordinary lives, so they came across as celebrities when viewed through Harriette’s trademark bejeweled eyeglasses. Likewise, the “Harriette treatment” made distinguished Congressmen, business moguls, and even a future U.S. president seem like your unassuming nextdoor neighbor.

Not having a driver’s license would handcuff most reporters, but Harriette knew how to work the telephone — and how to bum a ride when needed.

Harriette understood a newspaper’s job is to hold up a mirror so readers can see a reflection of their community — blemishes and all. She also knew a newspaper must cel-

ebrate the best things viewed in that mirror, and join efforts to fix the things that are not.

If the honor bestowed means I’ve followed in her path, I’m content.

The award’s description says its winners will possess some of the attributes associated with Harriette — things like passion for community, creative arts, education, love of pets, public health and safety, and patriotism. I know others living here who would be more fitting recipients, so it’s humbling to be the first.

I will be forever thankful, and especially grateful that it happened now. The honoree will be chosen by popular vote going forward, and media people don’t win many of those.

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Relentless sets on the tone for the evening PHOTOS BY DERRICK STUCKLY

The nearly 500 residents who attended the red carpet event were greeted at the door by the musical offerings of “Relentless” — a three-piece band comprised of Brown County residents Laci Wright, Viviana Sanchez and Wayne Snell.

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Best of Brown County

Seen on scene at the Best of Brown County

Best of Brown County

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Seen on scene at the Best of Brown County

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Best of Brown County

Walking the red carpet

Dawn and Jim Alvarado

Jason and Jessica Morgan

Pat and Clarice Touhey and family

Jodi Armstrong and family

Kevin and Anna Lovell

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Walking the red carpet

Cato Platt and Danielle Jordan

Andy and Magan Scheriger

Barbie and Keith Hall

Peggy Wright, Dianne Goodgion, Mary Goodgion

Tim and Dena Pinkston

Kenneth, Barbara and Elizabeth Horton

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Best of Brown County

Walking the red carpet

Joshua and Brittany Snow

Jay Smith and Melody Simmons-Smith

Toby and Melissa Horton, Grace Ringler

John and Lisa Hunter and family

Ronald and Marisha Stidom

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Walking the red carpet

Staci Woods, Trease Burke, Michelle Burleson, Dana Alvarado

Justin and Sheila King

Dottie Layman and Billy Worthy

Deluxe Nail Salon

Colt and Amanda Scott

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Best of Brown County

Walking the red carpet

Travis Curry and Tammy Curry

Aubrey, Machel, Hayden and Ron Oswalt

Mickey and Heather Scheriger

David Robnett

Jimmy, Shannon and Charley Simmons

Dr. Robert Mangrum

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BEST OF BROWN COUNTY

Publisher’s Note

WHERE THE STARS ARE BIG AND BRIGHT CELEBRATION

The Brownwood Bulletin’s inaugural “Where the Stars are Big and Bright Celebration,” shone the spotlight on the best Brown County has to offer.

The event is all about bringing the community together — all the businesses and all the leaders in the community that work so hard every day to make Brown County a great place to live.

Being an inaugural event, there was a risk to do this to be honest. We didn’t know how the community would receive this. What was really exciting is the community itself and how they’ve got involved. To receive more than 167,000 votes from a county of just over 20,000 people is a huge accomplishment. They nominated and voted for the businesses and leaders. This speaks to the greatness of your businesses and the passion of your customers who have unwavering support.

Clarice Touhey Brownwood Bulletin Publisher For me personally, July 15th of last year I had just arrived in Brownwood. Since becoming a resident, I have grown to appreciate just how much Brown County has to offer. From Lake Brownwood to

the involvement from the communities, the chambers of commerce, all the events that are held here, all the opportunities for businesses to open and be successful, the longevity of some of the local businesses here, there’s a history of a deeply passionate community. And tonight is our opportunity to shine and showcase everything that Brown County has to offer.

There were first-place nods and winners in each category. All the businesses here are winners and make Brown County a better place to live.

The Brownwood Bulletin also presented a portion of the proceeds from tonight’s event to the non-profit of the year.

This was a night of celebration for our community. I am proud and honored to have this opportunity to celebrate alongside Brown County’s best.

FIRST ANNUAL

Harriette Graves

In a night of firsts at the inaugural Brownwood Bulletin “Where the Stars are Big and Bright Celebration,” the Harriette Graves Person of the Year was also being introduced.

The award is in honor of former Brownwood Bulletin reporter Harriette Graves, 33-year career as a reporter and feature writer for the Brownwood Bulletin. She passed away in 2002. Harriette’s stories on elected officials were legendary, prompting some of them to remark that they didn’t feel like they had totally been sworn in until after Harriette did a story about them.

Harriette won numerous awards for both writing and photography, including several from the Associated Press

HARRIETTE GRAVES The former Brownwood Bulletin reporter pictured with then Gov. George W. Bush

and the Mark Francis Award of the state veterinary society. She was instrumental

PERSON OF THE YEAR

in establishing the annual Memorial Day Service in Brown County, and supported it throughout her career.

Harriette’s passion was the local community, especially the creative arts, education of youth, care of pets, public health and safety — medicine, hospitals, fire and law enforcement — and public service — elected or volunteer. Harriette also held a deep appreciation for veterans and American patriotism, which stems from her service in World War II in the U.S. Navy, and her work at the old Medical Arts Hospital before joining the Bulletin.

This yearly honoree will embody many of the characteristics that made Harriette a treasure whose intent was to spotlight the best that Brown County had to offer.

Thank you for voting us the Best Industrial Transport of Brown County

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