Doctors, diets, deadlifts and disease.
Four words that can bring instant fright to some, but in this issue of Insite Brazos Valley Magazine our staff has learned to embrace the topic and take our readers through various topics of health and wellness— and how the Brazos Valley has so much to offer when it comes to your overall well-being and fitness!
We talked to medical experts in a wide variety of fields with stories for both him and her including an inside look at men’s mental health with advice from therapist Marc Klekar of Brazos Valley Mental Health and Wellness (page 87) and postpartum tips for new or expecting mothers with some help from Dr. Katie Jo Light of Texas A&M Health Family Care (page 20).
And we can’t forget about the kiddos — Dr. Candace Culpepper Light of Light Pediatric Dentistry shares tips on how to make your children’s dentist appointments a fun experience that they will look forward to (page 82). We even take a look at how one Brazos Valley organization is helping senior citizens afford to stay in the community (page 78)!
Those looking for a fun way to stay healthy have come to the right place! Our staff has searched the area for new ways to make exercising fun — and wow, we found some amazing options! Did you know that Brazos Valley has a roller derby team? Neither did we, but we met an awesome group of skaters who are hosting a global competition in Bryan soon, turn to page 70 to learn more and see how you can get involved.
Those looking for something on the zen side can meet in the middle of Bryan-College Station at The Bridge Yoga offering a variety of classes including yoga and meditation options (page 14). And get your inner dance on with Jazzercise instructor Cathy Lyles, who shares more about the tried and true Jazzercise workouts that have been around for over 50 years (page 17).
Plus, the Brazos Valley pickleball scene is growing! No matter your age or skill level, pickleball truly is the sport for all and welcomes community members of all ages (page 8).
We also sat down with local fitness influencer, PowHer.fit founder and motivator Randa Carrabba, who shared her business journey and also provided more insight into what makes her online female fitness classes a success (page 24).
Of course, we can’t forget about two large fundraisers happening later this month and early in November! We once again share about Brazos Valley Gives, hosted annually by the Community Foundation. Turn to page 11 to read more about what’s new and exciting this year, plus how you can help contribute to help the5th anniversary team meet their goal of $1.25 million. We also take our readers on a trip to the 14th annual heARTfest, hosted by St Peter's Episcopal Church, showcasing local artists with work for sale (page 84).
This issue also features the Fall2023 Parade of Homes™ Guide, which is published as a part of Insite Magazine in partnership with the Greater Brazos Valley Builders Association, and shares information about the upcoming event showcasing homes in Bryan, College Station and Navasota on October14 and 15. Tickets are available now to the public for those looking to see local homes on the market; visitbcsparadeofhomes.org for more information.
We invite all our readers and our guests to the Fall 2023 Parade of Homes™ Guide Launch Party on Thursday, Oct. 12 from 5:30 to 7p.m., hosted by Mission Ranch at their brand new amenity center, The Ranch House (located at 1827 Feather Run Drive in College Station). The evening will be full of food and drinks, prizes, and Mission Ranch will even offer van tours of parade homes in the community!
Plus, it’s never too early to mark your calendars for our second annual Holiday Market & Launch Party at 7FLodge on Nov. 2! Be sure to check out our website for more information on vendors and activities available.
We hope to see you there!
— The Insite Team