Texas A&M University has become the first university in the state to surpass $1 billion spending on research within a year. College officials announced Wednesday that the university spent $1.13 billion on research during the 2020 fiscal year -- an increase of 18.8 percent from 2019, during which the university spent $952 million. States the Houston Chronicle. 

 

 

Read the full story at: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Texas-A-amp-M-first-in-state-to-spend-more-than-15938275.php

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There is high buyer activity and a historically low number of houses for sale right now. The perfect time for homeowners to sell their house is when the demand for homes is higher than what’s available for sale. Here are a few ways that low inventory can help you get a great deal if you’ve been on the fence about selling your current home.

Better Seller Terms

When there is a seller’s market like there is today, it is much more like being in he driver’s seat when you choose to sell your home. The ball is in your court and you have the power to sell on your own terms because low inventory means less choices for buyers. Buyers are more likely to work with you if it means they can purchase a home in a market where…

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Who doesn’t love a snow day? Cuddling on the couch with a mug of hot cocoa while watching movies can make anyone not want to venture out into the cold. Especially if you're a Texan. Many of us were not expecting the Winter Wonderland, we received this past week end. Next time you find yourself in this spot, it will be a good idea to head out for half an hour to protect your home, especially if you want to sell in the future. Check out these tips on protecting your home that you may not have considered.

Clear Your Vents: Make sure your furnace vents are clear of snow. Carbon monoxide could build up if your furnace vent is blocked.  A blocked vent may also cause a hot water heater to quit functioning. Use…

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25 Budget Friendly Ways To Upgrade Your Home

It's a new year, and we have all most likely set our goals. As a homeowner, our goals often include upgrading finishes or making our home feel new or personalized to our style or current trends. I have put together a list of 25 ways that are budget friendly and doable without having to hire professionals. Please note, some of these DIY's may not improve your homes value, but can give it more of a facelift, if you're not in a position to do the full upgrade.  

1. Add some character and add texture to your walls with peel-and-stick wall panels.

2. Create a charming accent wall with peel-and-stick paper.

3. Upgrade your countertops to faux granite with a DIY…

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Happy New Year! 2021 is here and I think many of us are wanting to start with our best foot forward. For me, that means getting healthier. Have you heard of the quarantine 15? If not, it’s a nod to the weight gain many people experienced during the lockdowns. No shame in it and how you coped with the very difficult year. Luckily, many gyms and fitness places have adapted to all that is going on. I’ve collected virtual workout options as well as in-person options in BCS. Here is the list:

Virtual:

Caitlyn Maculso- She offers Turbokick and Piyo classes. Turbokick is cardio kickboxing with a dance vibe. Piyo is pilates/yoga fusion which is an athletic class that is good for all fitness levels.

Contact: https://www.youtube.com/user/CoachCmac

…

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I cannot believe Christmas is just a few weeks away! That means it’s time to buy gifts for friends and add things to your wish list. I’ve done the hard work for you and collected my favorite items. Think like Oprah’s favorite things, but on a local scale. Here is my list:

  1. The Book Girl Gone Ghost- This book is by local author Dawn Husted. It is a thriller loosely based in Brenham. It is intense from the beginning up until the last page! This book is available on many platforms. I purchased on Amazon Prime. www.dawnhusted.com.
  2. Smoothing Peptide Recovery- Kendra Renee Holistic Skin Nutrition & Expert Waxing is owned by Kendra Renee Villarreal. This product helps with wrinkles and fine lines. She has many holiday bundles, other products, and…

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As the leaves fall off the trees, Thanksgiving is almost here! Thanksgiving this year might look a little different as years past, but hopefully we can all find things to be thankful for even during this tough year. Whether you’re enjoying your Thanksgiving virtually with friends or in person with family, you can still have the traditional meal. Make it easy on yourself and save the cooking to the local restaurants. Support local and eat a delicious meal- it’s a win win! Here are a few options for meals or even just grabbing a couple of Thanksgiving staples:  

Little’s Lunches- 2651 Boonville Rd. Ste 125 Bryan, TX 77808, 979-324-4143, https://www.littleslunches.com/

Mallet Brothers Barbeque- 9339 State Highway 6 Navasota, TX 77868, 936-825-9440,…

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Happy fall, y’all! October is here and with it came cooler temperatures. Mostly in the morning, but I can’t complain as this is Texas. October means Halloween is right around the corner. One tradition I love doing every year is getting a pumpkin for our front porch. Here are my top places to get a pumpkin:

The Farm Patch- 3519 S College Ave Bryan, TX 77801, Open Monday- Friday 9:00 am- 7:00 pm and Sunday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm. *Featured picture is from here.

Habitat for Humanity Pumpkin Patch- 2301 E 29th St, Bryan, TX 77802, Open Sunday- Friday 12:00 pm- 8:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am- 8:00 pm.

P-6 Farms- 9963 Pooles Rd Montgomery, TX 77356, Open Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm.

Edge General Store- 7250 Edge Cut Off Road Hearne, TX 77859,…

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School has just started, but it’s already time for a holiday! Labor Day is just around the corner which means a long weekend for most. Looking for fun things to do? You’ve come to the right place. Here are a few ideas:

Trivia Night on the Green- September 3rd from 7:00 pm- 9:00 pm at 144 Century Court Suite 103 College Station, TX 77845. https://www.century-square.com/events/detail/trivia-on-the-green10251822171221

Staycation at The Stella- My husband and I just did this. I highly recommend it! The pool is open, they have complimentary paddle boards, complimentary bikes, yoga on Saturday morning, and great dining options. https://www.thestellahotel.com/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=business_listing

First Friday in Downtown…

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This weekend the Greater Brazos Valley Builders Association is putting on one of my favorite events: The Parade of Homes™! This two weekend event is a great opportunity for everyone to see all the beautiful new builder homes all at one time! The best part about this event is that it is FREE and open to everyone! You do not need to be actively looking to purchase a home, or have a pre-approval letter, so this is a great stress-free, weekend activity for the whole family! Social distancing will be in practice & face coverings required to enter the homes.  Dates: August 28th, 29th & 30th and September 4th, 5th & 6th. Fridays 1-7pm, Saturdays 10-6pm & Sundays 12-6pm   New Builder Homes are growing in popularity with buyers for a…

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