Bay Area Houston Magazine January 2019 by Bay Group Media

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January 2019 BayAreaHoustonMag.com

Roberts

Wealth Management

Building a strong foundation for your retirement

JANUARY 2019

features 11 Education CCISD celebrating 70th anniversary 13 18

Bay Area Holiday Party Photos

Johnson Space Center, UHCL, BAHEP, League City, Clear Lake Chamber and League City Chamber

Building a strong foundation for your retirement

Expertise and equipment for all fitness goals

By Blaine Ochoa

By Sumer Dene

Roberts Wealth Management Stone’s Gym Getting Fit in 2019 The Decline of America’s Health and Nutrition

34 Healthcare Combating fatty liver disease

ON THE COVER

35 Masks Now is the time to throw away the mask

CEO of Roberts Wealth Management, Summer Roberts-Hager.

By Pastor Brad Heintz

Restaurant and entertainment guide

Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry

Record amounts raised

Vice President & Creative Director Brandon Rowan

Swamp Shack Baybrook location now open

Graphic Designer Kelly Groce

The hidden gem of Rice Village

Photography from The Nutcracker

Photos from around the Bay

By Sumer Dene

Space Center Rotary remembers fondly

George P. Bush has been named as recipient

Named the 54th chairman

By Sumer Dene

Short stories from around the Bay

President & Chairman Rick Clapp

Sales & Marketing Judy Gaines Joe Machol Dana McDonald Amber Sample Matthew Sweatt Robyn Weigelt

Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Sumer Dene Michael Gos Betha Merit Ange Mertens Xander Thomas Photography Mary Alys Cherry MoonBridge Media NASA Distribution Shinkle Distribution

Bay Area Houston Magazine is produced monthly. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written permission. Advertising rates are available upon request. Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com r.clapp@baygroupmedia.com

281.474.5875

Dental Health A simple smile

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Turn a Page The Best Bites of the Bay CCEF Dine Out to Donate Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack Simone on Sunset Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre Hanging With Rick The Art of Healing Through Space Exploration Remembering George H.W. Bush 2019 Quasar Award Michelle Holland to chair Lunar Rendezvous Festival Life is About What You Leave Behind News Nuggets

columns 14

Roy Green Jr.

Movers & Shakers

Parties keep Bay Area Houston in a happy mood

Lakewood Ladies Association Holiday Luncheon

Bay Area Houston Calendar of Events

Age-Adjusted Philosophy

Size Matters - Jeep Renegade, Buick Encore

Clear Lake Chatter Lakewood Yacht Club News & Events Main Events Texas Meditations In Wheel Time

Education series to continue this winter

CCISD celebrating 70th anniversary District calls on community to help honor CCISD’s past

s the Clear Creek Independent School District marks its 70th anniversary throughout this school year, there is a rich history of tradition and excellence to be celebrated. The District was initially named the Clear Creek Consolidated Independent School District. Board members voted to change the name to the Clear Creek Independent School District on Jan. 11, 1965. From initial consolidation in 1948 to the founding of the Johnson Space Center in 1961 and surpassing 40,000 students in 2014, the CCISD family has grown by leaps and boundaries throughout its history. The four independent school districts of Kemah School District, Webster School District, Seabrook School District and the League City School District joined together in 1948 to better serve the educational needs of 1,000 students. Back then, there were 119 employees, five schools and nine school buses. In 2018, Clear Creek ISD is leading the way with 5,191 staff members, a fleet of 400 buses and 42,082 students from the 13 cities of

Bacliff, Clear Lake Shores, El Lago, Friendswood, Kemah, League City, the Clear Lake City neighborhoods of Houston, Nassau Bay, Pasadena, Pearland, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village and Webster. The stories and history of the Clear Creek Independent School District lie within the memories of residents and stakeholders of these 13 cities. Three longtime residents, educators and legends of CCISD shared their recollections of the District’s history. Visit ccisd.net/70years for a listen into the abbreviated conversation with former CCISD teacher, principal and School Board member Ralph Parr, former CCISD educator Sylvia Barker Streater, and former CCISD educator, Gaylynne Robinson Wenzel. In conjunction with the anniversary, CCISD is looking for blasts from the past. Parents and great grandparents, former teachers and bus drivers, mayors and community members: All are invited to share their unique memories and perspectives on the history and growth of the Clear Creek Independent School District. Written stories, photos and photo essays may be featured in one of CCISD newsletters, social media sites or the District’s 70th Anniversary webpage at www.ccisd.net/70years. Send photos and memories from years past to photos@ccisd.net.

Whitcomb Elementary marks 50th anniversary

ore than 100 students, parents, staff and alumni of G. H. Whitcomb Elementary School gathered on Dec. 1, 2018 to celebrate the campus’ 50th Anniversary. Principal Dianna Kattner led the festivities with entertainment provided by the Whitcomb Elementary 4th Grade Choir. During the ceremony, students shared their progress on a special 50th anniversary tile mosaic that will hang in the hallways of the school. Guest speakers included former Whitcomb teachers Glen Bridges and Jeanne Goode, who took guests on a trip down memory lane with stories of the school’s beginnings in 1968. “The words that you hear people repeat year after year, whether they work here, visit here, or bring their children to school here are ‘there is such a warm feeling here’ or ‘it just feels like a family here,’” the principal explained. “The students of Whitcomb leave and return often to see the teachers that they loved and that they knew loved them in return. They become so much a fabric of the Whitcomb community that after they grow up and go away to college, they

return to the school that taught them to love learning, so they can teach the next generation.” Since opening its doors in 1968, Whitcomb has had a long history of helping its students grow as learners and leaders. In keeping with that tradition, the highlight of the ceremony was a special recognition to Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital for its support of the District’s expanded Leader In Me program. The program teaches 21st century leadership and life skills to students and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader. “Our District places great emphasis on talking – and walking – our core values,” said CCISD Superintendent, Dr. Greg Smith. “With the addition of The Leader In Me model and curriculum, each student understands and is prepared to assume his or her role as productive citizens. Thanks to Houston Methodist Clear Lake, in 2018, Whitcomb Elementary students have begun living out The Leader In Me not just on campus but everywhere they go.”

UHCL’s Friday Morning Continuing Education program will begin its Winter Series on Jan. 25 and continue weekly until March 1. Open to everyone, the program welcomes all area people who have a love of learning and wish to expand their understanding and knowledge of many topics during the one and a half hour lectures. This schedule will again include another wide range of interesting topics. Dr. Samuel Gladden will begin the series with a fascinating presentation of St. Mick: A Rolling Stone Over Time. Ruth Burke will be presenting The History of Clear Lake. Miracles in the Pacific During WWII: A Prisoner of War’s Survival Story brings us Dr. Tina Farrell, speaking on her book 686: The Sharecropper’s Son. In addition, Exploration Green: New Approach to Flood Control will be presented by John Branch of the Clear Lake City Water Authority. Among other topics on the calendar include Norway: The Land of the Fjords, the Midnight Sun and the Northern Light; What is OverDiagnosis? Is It Too Much of a Good Thing or an Epidemic of Fear for Profit?, and The Social Psychology of Supervillains. Classes are held on the UHCL campus with parking permits available. Registration can be done online at www. uhcl.edu/academics/extended. For more information contact Dr. Christine Paul at paul@uhcl.edu or 281-283-3033.

CCISD trustees OK design for Clear View High rebuild Clear View High School students are about to get a brand new home. That became certain when the Clear Creek Independent School District Board of Trustees approved the schematic design for the Clear View High rebuild project at their Nov. 26 meeting. The schematic design is the first phase of the large-scale project and is based upon site conditions, programming requirements, and phasing considerations. The Clear View High building opened in 1938 as Webster High School. About $45 million of 2017 Bond funds will be allocated for a complete rebuild of a new high school on vacant land beside the current building with a 350-student capacity. The District is also working with the City of Webster to salvage the art-deco entrance from the old building for a possible Visitor’s Center. Actual construction is scheduled to begin in February 2019 with an anticipated completion in August 2020. PBK is the architect for this project.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Voting for the Best of the Bay Awards begins in January As WE BEGIN THIS great new year, let us look back and focus on the good that we saw in 2018. Give your favorite bar, business, restaurant, doctor, or establishment their well deserved kudos and vote for them in the 2018 Bay Area Houston Magazine Best of the Bay Awards. Every year we lift up the people’s voice, tally every vote and announce the winners of these coveted awards at a fantastic celebration. Voting begins in January 2019 at BayAreaHoustonMag.com.

THIS YEAR’S CATEGORIES Best Asian Cuisine

Best Italian Restaurant

Best Auto Repair

Best Luxury Car

Best Bank

Best Margarita

Best Bartender

Best Marina

Best BBQ

Best Mexican Restaurant

Best Breakfast

Best Oysters

Best Brunch

Best Pizza

Best Burger

Best Pub

Best Cajun Restaurant

Best Realtor

Best Car Dealer - domestic

Best Resale Shop

Best Car Dealer - foreign

Most Romantic Restaurant

Best Credit Union

Best Seafood

Best Café

Best Steak

Best City to Live

Best Sushi

Best Contractor/Remodeler

Best Vegan Restaurant

Best Dentist

Best Vocalist – Male

Best Entertainment Spot

Best Vocalist – Female

Best Entertainment Venue

Best Web Design

Best Family Restaurant

Best Wine Bar

Best Gift Shop

Best Women’s Apparel

Best Hair Salon

Best Women’s Boutique

Best Hair Stylist

Best Yacht Club

Best Hospital

Best Urgent Care

Best Indian Restaurant

VOTE ONLINE AT BAYAREAHOUSTONMAG.COM 12

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

DENTAL HEALTH

A Simple Smile The best way to start the NEW YEAR By Dr. Farid Noie

id you know that there is a simple technique that has immediate positive health results for the body and the mind? It’s called a smile. Try it. First, stand up in front of a mirror and smile big. Form your smile first with your mouth, lifting the corners of your mouth way up. Then allow your face to soften and your temples to relax. Hold your smile for a few minutes. If it starts to fade, re-form it and keep holding. As you hold, examine first how your body reacts. You will find that the muscles begin to relax, the heart rate slows down, and the breathing slows as it deepens. Notice the change in your thoughts. Are you feeling more positive, calm, and joyous? Many studies have shown that this image of you smiling will remain with you throughout the day and initiates a series of bio-chemical events that consequently lead to dramatic changes within the body: •

It tells the body that everything is okay and to turn off the pumping of adrenaline into the body, immediately.

• • • •

•

It lowers your blood pressure, immediately. It boosts your immune system, immediately. It releases endorphins, natural painkillers and serotonin, immediately. It creates a positive mind, which lessens the stress of problems, increases the ability to solve problems and extends lifespan. It lessens the effects of negative information that we are constantly bombarded with, such as the daily news It lifts the moods of those around you causing people to treat you with joy and happiness.

One interesting study on the benefits of smiling found that smiling has a similar effect to eating roughly 2,000 chocolate bars. (Now, that’s got to get your attention!) Aside from the daily smile ritual, a meaningful smile also comes in handy when you are upset or very sad. It will feel unnatural and awkward at first. But it becomes easier and feels more natural as you practice. The more you apply this strategy, the easier it becomes to boost your spirit on demand in the future. Soon you will find that while you can’t keep bad things from happening, you can control the way they affect you. I know what you are thinking, “it seems

too simple to be true—just smile and have all these miraculous things happen inside of me?” But some of the most profound truths are quite simple and this is one of them. Not only does a smile encourage us to release negativity, but it also has a positive influence on those around us as well. Smiling, similar to laughter, is contagious. Your smile will bring smiles to others around you. This leads to a chain reaction of positivity all around you. It is a well-established scientific fact that positive energy heals. When we speak of feeling low we tend to describe sadness, loneliness, fear, anger, or confusion. Rarely do we use the word “comfort,” and yet comfort is what makes misery so difficult to get rid of. Although we do not like the situation we are in, sometimes allowing the misery to control our lives is easier than facing the challenge of rising against it. And so we find ourselves longing to curl up in bed or brood over our problems for hours on end. Yet with a simple smile you can break this cycle and take a major step towards healing. So, the next time you find yourself frowning, look at your image in the mirror and smile. Discover at the positive effect it has on your thoughts, mood, and body. As you keep practicing this technique, you will soon start to learn how to look for and focus on the silver lining instead of the negative aspects. So, make this holiday season a little more special for you and those around you by committing to start everyday with a big smile and no matter what life throws at you throughout the day, end it with a heart-felt smile as well. In my opinion, that will be the best gift of all to your loved ones.

Dr. Noie has been in private practice in the Bay Area since 1996. He is a Diplomate of Int’l Congress of Oral Implantologists, Fellow of Academy of General Dentistry, and Assoc. Fellow of American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He has completed his surgical training at New York University as well as Medical University of South Carolina, Temple University, and Wright state University School of Medicine. He completed his oral Anesthesiology training at University of Alabama in Birmingham. He is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Movers &Shakers Name: Roy Green Jr.

Occupation: General Manager – South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center Hometown: San Angelo Current home: League City Family: Husband Nick of 32 years

His generous philanthropy especially with the fight to end polio is inspiring. My favorite performers are: Michael Buble, Ellen Degeneres and the Fighting Texas Aggie Band. I like to spend my leisure time: Planning my next adventure and spending time with family.

My favorite actor is: Morgan Freeman

If I could travel any place, I’d go to: Beaches of Normandy with my father.

Someone I’d like to meet: Former President Barack Obama

My favorite meal is: Baked chicken and grilled asparagus.

If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: Bill Gates.

As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: National Park Ranger.

You’ll never catch me: At the gym. I know I should, but probably not going to happen. The thing that bugs me the most is: Rude and disrespecful people. Life is too short to be mean, cruel and ugly towards other people. My favorite movie is: Braveheart Few people know: At A&M I had the honor of being a student host to comedian Red Skeleton for five days prior to his campus performance. What a great week that was.

Clear Creek ISD enrollment 42,295 By Mary Alys Cherry

A Photo: Tipton Creative

ADOPT WOWZA

ey there! My name is Wowza. I got that name because of my beautiful eyes. I have one that’s brown and one that’s blue. Are you looking for a gal that will be totally devoted to you? That’s me! I’m a people kind of dog and would love a home where someone is around most of the day. I adore being inside and will be the best companion ever. I don’t want to brag, but I think I look darn good for a six year old. Come visit me and prepare to be WOWZA’D! Come visit all the cats and dogs at Bay Area Pet Adoptions, 3000 Avenue R, San Leon or see them online at www. bayareapetadoptions.org. (Phone: 281-339-2086)

ny Clear Creek ISD students or teachers who were at the opening of the school district back in 1948 are probably astounded at its growth. Back then they only had 1,000 students, 119 employees, 5 schools and 9 school buses. Fast forward 70 years. This school year CCISD has an enrollment of 42,295 students, 5,191 staff members, 40 campuses and a fleet for 400 buses. Largest school is the district is Clear Springs High with 2,815 students while Clear Falls High is not far behind with 2,774 students. Both are in fast-growing League City with Clear Falls also serving Seabrook, Kemah and Clear Lake Shores. Westbrook Intermediate between Clear Lake and Friendswood is the largest intermediate campus with an enrollment of 1,141 while the enrollment at Victory Lakes Intermediate in League City is 1,125. Clear Creek Intermediate had the smallest enrollment with 757 students. Most elementary campuses have slightly smaller enrollments than the higher grades with Mossman at 988 and Bauerschlag at 947 the two largest. Meanwhile, Robinson Elementary only has 482 students and League City Elementary 502 students. And, the ninth grade district wide has more students enrolled – 3,684 -- than any other class, while the first grade is the smallest with 2,876

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

youngsters. A total of 3,002 are seniors, and we all hope each one will be getting their diplomas at graduation. 2018-2019 enrollment • Clear Creek High: 2,391 • Clear Lake High: 2,327 • Clear Brook High: 2,258 • Clear View High: 210 • Clear Path Alternative: 87 • Clear Springs High: 2,815 • Clear Horizons Early College: 443 • Clear Falls High: 2,774 • Seabrook Intermediate: 958 • Clear Lake Intermediate: 930 • Space Center Intermediate: 1,031 • League City Intermediate: 1,067 • Creekside Intermediate: 915 • Brookside Intermediate: 893 • Victory Lakes Intermediate: 1,125 • Westbrook Intermediate: 1,141 • Bayside Intermediate: 875 • Clear Creek Intermediate: 757 ELEMENTARY • Clear Lake City El: 601

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Ed White El: 641 League City El: 502 James Ross El: 632 Bay El: 724 Stewart El: 811 McWhirter El: 901 Whitcomb El: 654 Greene El: 678 Armand Bayou El: 576 Landolt El: 853 Walter Hall El: 865 John Ward El: 561 Ferguson El: 699 Brookwood El: 757 Wedgewood El: 729 Hyde El: 653 North Pointe El: 803 Goforth El: 897 Bauerschlag El: 947 Falcon Pass El: 613 Weber El: 937 Robinson El: 482 Gilmore El: 874 Ralph Parr El: 837 Sandra Mossman El: 988

Photos by Pat Biddle and Lisa Holbrook

Co-Chairman Louise Russell, left, and Gayle Nelson relax as the Museum Guild crowd begins arriving.

Reception Chairman Katy Bastedo, center, receives kudos from Betty Suagee, left, and Valerie Piercy for a delightful event during the Assistance League Holiday Open House.

Carolyn O’Grady, left, and Barbara Spencer enjoy themselves at the Bay Area Museum Guild Holiday Party.

President Sarah Foulds, right, gets a warm welcome from hostess Mavis Irvan as she arrives for the Assistance League’s Holiday Open House at the Irvan home in League City.

PARTIES KEEP BAY AREA HOUSTON IN A HAPPY MOOD BAY AREA MUSEUM Guild members arrived in a somewhat subdued mood as their annual holiday reception got underway at the museum in Clear Lake Park where President Ava Galt and her husband, Tony, joined reception CoChairmen Louise Russell and Gayle Nelson in welcoming the crowd. The Guild had just lost its CoPresident Carole Murphy, who died only three weeks earlier, on Nov. 13, and was represented there by her daughter, Pam Vining. Members also learned of the recent loss of longtime Seabrook physician, Dr. Larry Chapman, who was the husband of another Guild president, Marilyn Chapman. But soon Jan Larson, Cindy Kuenneke, Nina McGlashan, Sandy Allbritton, Lois Costin, Rex Markle,

MARY ALYS CHERRY

Gail and Don Devens and Ron Karl and Pat Biddle were catching up on each other’s news, enjoying the hors d’oeuvres and learning how each other would spend the holidays. Some of the other faces in the crowd were Angie Weinman, Sarah Foulds, Diana Dornak, Danele Buehler, Rex Markle, Barry and Bessie Poor, Barb and Frank Spencer, John and Louise Russell, Elizabeth Quigley, Mary

Bessie Poor, Sandy Allbritton and Mandy Fontaine, from left, visit during the Bay Area Museum Guild Holiday Reception.

Ann Baxter, Sally Jordan, Mary Greenwell, Rex Markle and Steve Roberts. Plus, Gayle Nelson, Lois Costin, Judith Staliwe, Deborah Jozwiak, Laraine Eggers, Kandy Johnson, Kathy Herman, Janice Schwausch, and Lisa and Richard Golick.

Assistance League celebrates the season AFTER A YEAR of hard work, Assistance League members were ready to party down when the holidays arrived. And, party they did Tuesday, Dec. 11 at the lovely home of Mavis Irvan in League City, with President Sarah Foulds helping Chairman Katy Bastedo welcome the crowd. Before long, Mavis’ home was

Mary Ruth Greenwell, from left, stops to talk with Deborah Jozwiak and Nina McGlashan at the Museum Guild Holiday Reception Dec. 6.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

overflowing with laughter, music, and a fun-loving crowd that included Cindy Senger Lewis, Georgia Piwonka, Betty Suagee, Judy Raiford, Valerie Piercy and Linda McCormack. And, yes, Sharon Dillard was there, serving up her famous champagne punch with assistance from Badiha Nassar, Sandra Sellers and Suzanne Leatherman. Others you might have spotted celebrating the chapter’s 30th anniversary were President-elect Lisa Holbrook, Vice Presidents Karen Douglas, Brooks Cima, Kim Barker and Cathy Wolfe, Treasurer Sandra Kelver and Secretary Betty Stoub, who have helped lead the chapter as it provided clothing, shoes and hygiene supplies to 2,403 Bay Area students this fall and winter.

Badiha Nassar, Sandra Sellers and Suzanne Leatherman, from left, flank Sharon Dillard and her famous champagne punch at the Assistance League Holiday Open House.

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry and Jill Reason

Faces in the crowd at the Houston Symphony League Bay Area Dec. 12 Holiday Reception at Bay Area Museum included, from left, Jim Moore, Dave Kuenneke and Russell Herring.

Symphony League Holiday Reception Co-Chairmen Pat Biddle, right, and Yvonne Herring are all smiles as they prepare the punch for the party at Bay Area Museum.

Gillian Ford, Julia Guzman, Jean Raffetto, Peter Bowman, Roxy Cheathan, Betty Stacy and Mary Voigt. Louis and Glenna Toole also were in the crowd, as were Vicki Buxton, Betty Stoub, Nancy Hudson, Ann Morgan, Betty Sweeney, Sharon Graber, Louise Russell, Betty Gilfillan, Martha Digges, Kathleen Kearns, Ernie and Martha McWilliams, Arleta Keith and Myra Barber, to name a few of the dozens filling up the museum and enjoying the delish hors d’oeuvres.

Few missing HSLBA holiday celebration SANTA CLAUS was missing when Houston Symphony League Bay Area members gathered at Bay Area Museum Dec. 12 to celebrate the holiday season, but they were all having such a good time, no one missed him. Chairmen Mary Ruth Greenwell and Deborah Jozwiak joined President Nina McGlashan and her husband, Bob, in welcoming the arriving crowd, as did Co-Chairmen Pat Biddle and Yvonne Herring, and their husbands, Ron Karl and Russell Herring. And quite a crowd it was with Aggie and Jim Moore, Bill and Sherry Straight and Dave and Cindy Kuenneke mingling with the crowd that included Mary Ann Shallberg,

Panhellenic celebrates with Holiday Luncheon President Nina McGlashan, right, and Holiday Reception Co-Chairman Betty Stoub mingle with the crowd at the Houston Symphony League party.

For Sue Ellen Jennings, from left, the Clear Lake Panhellenic holiday party was a family affair. With her are her daughter Beth McDaniel, Beth’s daughter Brooke Fowler, and Sue Ellen’s daughter Brooke Fowler.

CLEAR LAKE Panhellenic members by the dozens came together Dec. 13 for their annual Holiday Luncheon – this time at the

Panhellenic President D’Lisa Johnston, from right, hostess Sheree Frede and Holiday Luncheon Chairman Sue Ellen Jennings prepare to welcome the arriving crowd at the Frede home in Clear Lake.

HSLBA Party Chairmen Mary Ruth Greenwell, left, and Deborah Jozwiak make a last-minute check as guests begin arriving for the annual Holiday Reception.

lovely Clear Lake home of Sheree Frede. Hosts for the event were President D’Lisa Johnson, Vice Presidents Sheryl Williams, Kathryn Vernau and Greta Mee, Secretary Darla McKitrick, Treasurer Kim Barker, Parliamentarian Michelle Richardson and Corporation Karen Douglas. After joining Chairman Sue Ellen Jennings in a last-minute check, they quickly began welcoming the arriving crowd. Some you might have spotted were Ondi Lyon, Barbara Dickey, Sue Broughton, and Lisa O’Brien, plus Sue Ellen’s daughters, Brooke Fowler and Beth McDaniel, both Panhellenic members like their mother, and Beth’s daughter, Brooke Fowler. Great holiday event, they’ll all tell you.

One glance and you can tell Lisa O’Brien, Sue Broughton, Barbara Dickey and Ondi Lyon, from left, are really enjoying the Clear Lake Panhellenic Holiday Luncheon.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Johnson Space Center

DIRECTOR’S Holiday Reception Johsnson Space Center Building 9 Photography by Mary Alys Cherry CCISD Trustee Arturo Sanchez and his wife, Jayme, enjoy the JSC Holiday Reception.

Gene Hollier and Emmeline Dodd, left, stop by to say hello to retired JSC Director Mike Coats, right, and his son, Paul Coats, and daughter, Laura Larkin, at the Director’s Holiday Reception at the Space Center.

JSC Director Mark Geyer, left, and his Space Station Program Manager Kirk Shireman, put smiles on everyone faces when they arrived in their eye-catching holiday outfits.

Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman and his wife, Diana, make their way through the crowd at the JSC Director’s Holiday Reception.

Robert White, former El Lago mayor who is now president of the Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department, and his wife, Julie, enjoy looking at all the space memorabilia at the JSC Holiday Reception.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

JSC Deputy Director Vanessa Wyche and her husband, George, were all smiles as they made their way through the crowd at the Director’s Holiday Reception.

Astronaut Rex Walheim and his wife, Marge, left, say hello to Sumer Dene as they mingle with the crowd at the JSC Director’s Holiday Reception.

Former astronaut and retired JSC Director Mike Coats joins Lorna Onizuka, front, and Estella Gillette for a photo.

State Rep. Dennis Paul, left, visits with Boeing’s Houston Site Director Mark Mulqueen during the Johnson Space Center Director’s Holiday Reception.

U H C L

HOLIDAY

Party Bay Oaks Country Club Photography by Mary Alys Cherry State Rep. Dennis Paul, from right, stops to say hello to Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy DeWease, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell and UHCL Executive Assistant to the President Berenice Webster. Marilyn and Charles Sims, left, stop to visit with Pat and Wendell Wilson during the University of HoustonClear Lake Holiday Reception at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake.

Gary and Sandy Mossman were among the many attending the University of Houston-Clear Lake Holiday Reception at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake.

There were smiles aplenty as all enjoyed the UHCL Holiday Reception at Bay Oaks Country Club Dec. 5 – among them, from left, Alumni Director Charity Ellis, Wyle Vice President Genie Bopp and retired UHCL Executive Assistant to the President Mary Ann Shallberg.

Texan Bank CEO Ken Koncaba, left, catches up on the legislative news from State Rep. Ed Thomas as they enjoy the UH-Clear Lake Holiday Reception at Bay Oaks Country Club. UHCL President Dr. Ira Blake, center, finds herself surrounded by photographers at the university’s annual Holiday Reception – UHCL Assistant Communications Director Karen Barbier, left, and long-time Clear Lake photographer Pam Culpepper.

Area cities were well represented at the UH-Clear Lake Holiday Reception at Bay Oaks Country Club Dec. 5 with Pearland City Manager Clay Pearson, left, and Mayor Tom Reid, right, plus Friendswood Mayor Mike Foreman in the crowd.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

B A H E P

HOLIDAY

Party Barrios Technology President Robert McAfoos, left, visits with JSC’s Charles Stegemoeller as the crowd begins arriving for the BAHEP Holiday Reception.

City Manager John Baumgartner of League City, left, visits with Daniel Henn of Zann while attending the BAHEP Holiday Reception.

Jack and Marcy Fryday were among the many attending the BAHEP Holiday Reception at Seabrook’s Lakewood Yacht Club.

The BAHEP staff gets together for a photo as their Holiday Reception gets underway. They are, from left, front, Barbara Cutsinger, Elaine Cantu, Jane Gayle, Kathryn Paradis; standing, Harriet Pilgrim, President Bob Mitchell, Dan Seal, Jimmy Spence, C.A. Shields and Bob Payne.

Several mayors were in the crowd at the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Holiday Reception Dec. 13 at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook. Among them were, from left, Carl Joiner of Kemah, Thom Kolupski of Seabrook, Michel Bechtel of Morgan’s Point and Mike McNamara of Clear Lake Shores.

Communities in Schools-Bay Area Executive Director Dr. Peter Wuenschel and Resource Director Hillary Gramm, center, exchange holiday greetings with League City Chamber President Steve Paterson, left, and Mark Conrad, owner of Express Employment.

Johnson Space Center General Consul Bernie Roan and his wife, Debbie, left, say hello to retired JSC Director of Human Resources Harv Hartman during the BAHEP Holiday Reception at Lakewood Yacht Club.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Lakewood Yacht Club Photography by Mary Alys Cherry

Pasadena City Councilman Thomas Schoenbein, from left, walks over to talk with State Sen. Larry Taylor and State Rep. Dennis Paul at the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Holiday Reception at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook.

LEAGUE CITY

HOLIDAY

BALL South Shore Harbour Resort Photography by Mary Alys Cherry

Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership Chairman David Hamilton and his wife, Tracey, stop for a photo as they enjoy the League City Holiday Ball.

League City Chamber President Steve Paterson and his wife, Debbie, join the crowd at South Shore Harbour Resort for the League City Holiday Ball.

City Councilman Larry Millican and his wife, Monica, arrive at South Shore Harbour Resort for the annual League City Holiday Ball.

The Holiday Ball was a family event for Ange Mertens, who took this photo of her mother-in-law and four daughters, from left, Kendal Garza, Brittany Churchill, their grandmother Joan Mertens, Amber Sheffield and Candace Sheffield. State Rep. Greg Bonnen and his wife, Kim, left, stop to visit with Kemah Mayor Carl Joiner and his wife, Colene, as they join the crowd in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom for the League City Holiday Ball, which raises funds for the city’s Holiday in the Park Celebration.

Busy volunteers Daniel and Donna Henn take time out from their community work to enjoy the Holiday Ball, which featured the music of the Mambo Kings.

Ball Co-Chairmen Janice Hallisey, center, wife of League City’s mayor, and League City Chamber Chairman Rebecca Lilley, right, smile while looking over the growing crowd at the Holiday Ball just as Memorial Hermann Director of Government Relations Ashlea Quinonez walks up to congratulate them. Ballet dancers Abrigail Gorham, left, and Tara McCally welcome Bay Area Houston Magazine CEO Rick Clapp to the League City Holiday Ball.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

CLEAR LAKE AREA CHAMBER

HOLIDAY

OPEN HOUSE Ginger and Phil Pampolino at the Clear Lake Chamber Holiday Open House.

Richard Allen, center, the former Space Center Houston executive director before he retired, and his family have moved back from Florida. On hand to welcome him back at the Clear Lake Area Chamber Holiday Open House were, from left, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell, State Sen. Larry Taylor, EduSafe Systems President Dr. Glenn Freedman and My Flooring America Branch President Mike Furin.

Faye Picard, left, and Tammie Nielsen at Clear Lake Chamber Holiday Open House.

Emmeline Dodd stops to say hello to attorney Richard Simmons, left, and Taylor Lake Village City Councilman Robert Davee at the Clear Lake Chamber Holiday Open House.

Kevin and Teri Crawford at the Clear Lake Chamber Holiday Open House.

Jim and Jane Sweeney arrive at Clear Lake Chamber Holiday Open House.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

CLACC Offices Photography by Mary Alys Cherry

Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy DeWease brought her husband, Jeff, along to join the fun at the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Open House.

Dr. Peter Wuenschel of Communities in Schools-Bay Area, left, and Dan Seal of BAHEP delight the crowd with some lively music.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

LEAGUE CITY REGIONAL CHAMBER

HOLIDAY

OPEN HOUSE League City Chamber Offices Photography by Summer Dene League City Regional Chamber President Steve Paterson, left, welcomes Galveston County Commissioner to the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Open House.

Dark Knight Motor Group CEO Nick Varuso, left, talks with State Sen. Larry Taylor during the League City Chamber Holiday Open House.

Nick Guillory, Lucas Wright and Rolando Villarreal, from left, were among the many attending the 2018 League City Chamber Holiday Open House.

Chamber Operations Director Jane McFaddin mingles with the crowd at the Holiday Open House, stopping to chat with Bay Area Houston Magazine CEO Rick Clapp, left, and Bob Rivesman, Rivesman Bookkeeping and Tax Service principal.

Cindy Harreld DeWease, the Clear Lake Area Chamber president, along with, from left, with Communities in Schools-Bay Area Executive Director Dr. Peter Wuenschel, retired Space Center Houston chief Richard Allen, who has moved his family back here from Florida, and Bay Area Houston Magazine CEO Rick Clapp arrive at the League City Chamber Holiday Open House Dec. 18 at the chamber offices.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Gloria Green, left, stops to say hello to Clear Creek ISD Trustee Ann Hammond at the League City Regional Chamber Holiday Open House.

EduSafe Systems President Dr. Glenn Freedman, from left, and Ron Carter Cadillac Marketing Director Chris Premont get to know Gabriel Cardenas while at the annual League City Chamber Holiday Open House.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

BAY AREA

HOUSTON MAGAZINE

COVER PARTY Sundance Grill II Photography by Mary Alys Cherry

Bob and Jackie Howie look for a table as they arrive at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party honoring Leidos.

Donna Rone of Leidos, right, welcomes busy Bay Area volunteers Emmeline Dodd and Gene Hollier to the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party at Sundance Grill II at Waterford Harbor in Kemah.

Leidos faces among the early arrivals at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party at Sundance Grill II in their company’s honor included, from left, those of Tyler Minish, Nan Hardin, Ernest Sanchez and Kimberly Johnson.

Sharyl Taylor, left, and Sutton Lindsey stop for a photo as they join the fun at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party honoring Leidos in Kemah’s Waterford Harbor.

BIC MEDIA CHRISTMAS PARTY

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Stewart Scoggin and Shelley Rogers were all smiles when they arrived at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party honoring Leidos. But that’s to be expected. It was only days before their Nov. 23 wedding.

Logan Goodson and Gayle Kinnie join the crowd at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party at Sundance Grill II in Kemah.

LYC LADIES ASSOC. HOLIDAY LUNCHEON 4

1. Sherri Romer, Alice Thomas, Marsha Taylor and Kathy Hall, from left, gather around to hear Bryan on the piano at the Lakewood Ladies Holiday Luncheon. 2. Roz Clayton, left, is happy to see Marsha Smith as she arrives at the Lakewood Ladies Association Holiday Luncheon at the club. 3. Janelle Leistad, left, and Anne Kemberling stop for a photo as they arrive at Lakewood for the annual Lakewood Ladies Association Holiday Luncheon. 4. Louise Toole has a holiday hug for Tammy Severance as they join Lakewood Ladies Association members for their annual Yule Luncheon. 5. Rita Matthews, right, joins the crowd as the Lakewood Ladies Holiday Luncheon gets under way.

Kelly Holst named new LYC general manager

elly Holst has been named general manager of Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook after almost two and a half years working under General Manager Terry Chapman’s tutelage as assistant general manager. He was officially selected for the post at the club’s annual membership meeting. “I’m excited about the opportunity to apply my work ethic, talents and 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry to the programs at Lakewood and be a part of the team that brings extraordinary experiences to members and guests at every opportunity.” Kelly is the first to take the post at the private, member-owned club since

Lakewood youth sailors had a busy holiday

M Terry Chapman took the reins in 1977. Before coming to Lakewood in July of 2016, Kelly was general manager of the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club in Oyster Bay, N.Y. Initially, Terry plans to stay on as a consultant.

any Lakewood youth spent their Thanksgiving holiday representing the club’s youth sailing program in several regattas, both locally and out of state. Four LYC youth raced in the annual Turkey Day Regatta, hosted by Houston Yacht Club, with Ewan Dossin and Cathinka Brechan winning their respective fleets. Alex Brechan took 4th, and Alexandra Brechan placed 8th. During the same weekend, two of the LYC high school teams also traveled to Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans to compete against 24 other schools in the

Great Oaks Regatta. Clear Lake and St. Thomas Episcopal were the two high schools representing Lakewood Yacht Club and Bay Access. Clear Lake placed 10th overall in Gold and St. Thomas Episcopal finished 9th overall in Silver. A few days later, 14 Lakewood youth Opti sailors traveled to Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans to participate in the USODA Midwinters, which served as this year’s Spring Qualifier for International Spring Team. Conditions were challenging for the racers, but James Pine led the team finishing 35th overall and 1st in White Fleet, followed closely by Lucas Tenrreiro who placed 37th overall. Nathan Pine took 46th overall and 2nd in White Fleet. Stephen Momeier finished 47th overall. Other sailors who represented LYC and continue to gain valuable experience at the national level included Matias Martin, Tony Slowik, Ava Anderson, Maddie Janzen, William Baker, Scott Mather, Blake Polsen, Tanner Ward, Mathieu Brown, and Zach Brown. Contact waterfrontdirector@ lakewoodyachtyachtclub.com to learn more about the LYC youth sailing program.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

THE Roberts Wealth Management Answer to your Retirement Plan markets trends and it is affected by people’s emotions, we cannot predict that.” A solid retirement plan is important to help protect the income you have worked hard for and earned over many years. Roberts Wealth Management’s goal is to offer you a comprehensive, thoughtful retirement plan. “Your plan should provide retirement income and growth.” Roberts concurred. For all of you retiring this year or in the future it’s never too early to begin a life savings plan. Roberts Wealth Management can be reached at 281-549-6515 or email at info@RobertsWealthTexas.com or online at RobertsWealthTexas.com

Roberts Wealth Management is well known and respected for providing clients with a personal, integrated retirement plan.

he Retirement Plan is based on three principlesTrust, Integrity, and Customer Service. Roberts Wealth Management has offices in the Houston- Bay Area, Houston- West Sugarland and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The Houston Bay Area team is led by financial professional Summer Roberts-Hager. They have experienced tremendous growth in new clients the past few years and continue to provide the quality personal care they are known for. “While the day-to--day business of a financial advisory firm may sound mundane, we can assure you, that’s not the case at RWM. We have a simple mission: To have a dramatic impact on the life of our clients. We are passionate about helping our clients grow and protect their life savings, and just as passionate about helping them improve their lives. When we go out of our way to help our clients, we have the opportunity to make a difference both in their life savings and in the quality of their lives. Helping to improve people’s lives is not a bad way to spend your time. Some companies have a mission statement that is just something they hang on the wall – it doesn’t have a lot to do with their day--to--day operations. That’s not the case here. We wear our mission like a suit of clothes, because living it every day is the only way we’re going to be successful,” stated Summer. This client-centric firm focuses on existing clients and also welcomes new customers. Summer Roberts confidently stated, “The goal of Roberts Wealth Management is to help each client on an individualized basis. We look at each family’s wants and needs to find a financial plan that is right for them. There is no cookie-cutter plan at our firm.” Roberts Wealth

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS Jan. 10 – Friendswood Feb. 5 – Pasadena

“We are passionate about helping our clients grow and protect their life savings.” Management believes first in helping to protect your assets and second is the opportunities to grow wealth. Their goal is to help protect your financial future. Roberts Wealth Management’s model is simple. “It’s like building a house.” The first thing you do when building a home is to lay your foundation. Your foundation must be strong, sturdy & there when you need it. Your retirement plan is no different. Your “foundation” money should be the protected, safe money that you cannot afford lose. The next phase in building a home is to frame it or put up your walls. When a big storm or hurricane comes through, your foundation is secure, your walls can take a lot of beating & pressure although they may crack, crumble a little or even flood, but it takes quite the storm to just knock them down. This is how

the investments in your portfolio “walls” should act, similar to low & moderate risk portfolios. Then, finally, you get to the top of your home, your roof. Your roof is typically the first thing damaged in a hurricane – similar to higher risk portfolios. “The important thing is to make sure that your retirement ‘house’ is structured appropriately,” says Summer, “meaning that you must lay your foundation first. Then you can build your home on top of it.” Roberts Wealth Management is very excited to see continued growth in its future. The economic indicators show that 2019 could be a positive upcoming year. However, political and government issues may come into play, somewhat but possibly at a minimum. Founder, Paul Roberts, states [1], “Consumer confidence determines some of the

“Give us a call at 281-549-6515 and reference the code BAM2019 to see if you qualify!”

Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM). AEWM and Roberts Wealth Management are not affiliated companies. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Any references to protection benefits, or safety generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investment products. Insurance and annuity product guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claimspaying ability of the issuing insurance company. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions. 697045 [1] “City National Rochdale”

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Stone’s Gym Providing expertise and equipment for all fitness goals

tone’s gym is an 18,000

square foot facility in Clear Lake that has been in business since 1974! Stone’s has cemented itself as the premiere fitness facility in the area. With 30+ group-ex classes a week, cardio equipment, endless dumbbells and weight machines and the support and guidance of fitness professionals it’s easy to see why Stone’s Gym is the place the Clear Lake community turns to to reach their fitness goals and improve their quality of life. Although Stone’s has been around for 40+ years, you would never notice it. With several renovations over the past 10 years and a recent one just this past summer of 2018 the facility looks as new and updated as ever. The most recent renovation features a new recovery room equipped with a HydroMassage lounger and an updated free weight area. The newly renovated free weight area includes a new adjustable cable crossover, power rack with platform and new sleek flooring. Stone’s members have

also benefited from the addition of an InBody body composition analyzer to help members better track their progress. The welcome area was also given a facelift including new floors and a cafe style seating area. Other features of the gym include a boxing room, ladies only workout area, locker room with saunas and an outdoor pool and basketball court. Perhaps the biggest addition to this gym is across the street where

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

the owners have expanded their business by adding a state of the art 7,000 square foot facility dedicated to specialty group fitness classes including Cycle, Yoga, Small Group Training, Reformer Pilates, and Barre. Iditarod Fitness, as it is named, opened its doors in 2015 and caters to the more focused fitness enthusiast. Aside from their cycle classes which allows up to 18 riders, most of their classes are capped off at 10 people or

less. This allows for their instructors to work more closely with their members on form and technique ensuring everyone stays injury free and on path with their fitness goals. The staff at Stone’s gym recognizes that beginning your fitness journey can seem daunting at first. That is why the staff prides themselves on providing unrivaled customer service to make you feel at home and as comfortable as possible.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Photographer: Larry Fagala. MUA: Alluring Complextions. Wardrobe: Divine Boutique

By Blaine Ochoa

elcome TO 2019! It is the beginning of a new year and the start of new goals. Let’s take a minute to reflect upon the previous year. Did you accomplish what you wanted to accomplish? Was it a great year? Did you step outside your comfort zone? Did you live and love more? Moving into the new year, I encourage you to start every day with a grateful heart and to step out in faith, believe in yourself, and live life boldly and courageously. You can achieve any goal and anything you set your mind to. Embrace change and embrace that every day is a fresh start.

A common goal most people have at this time of the year is getting in shape. I would love to share with you a few tips that have helped me and my fitness journey.

Blaine’s 5 Fitness Tips: Balance and discipline Balance exercising into your lifestyle. Find an appropriate time of the day that works best with you and your schedule and dedicate that time to working out. It can be in the

morning, evening or even during a lunch break. Set time aside and make it a priority. If you want change in your life you are going to have to do something you’ve never done and you will have to practice discipline. You will have to make certain sacrifices, but it will be worth it.

Workout Find fitness routines and workouts that you enjoy. Whether it’s walking 30 minutes a day, swimming, or joining a group fitness class Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Attitude It’s all about positivity, perception and how you look at your journey. Don’t think of working out as a burden or stressful situation. Look at it as a blessing and be thankful you can exercise, some people are less fortunate. Stay positive, and embrace the journey. It takes a

“Nothing is impossible and always remember to rejoice in your victories, even the small ones!”

Goal setting and planning Set goals that are attainable. Set a reachable goal for you and make weekly goals along with monthly goals. Get a calendar to plan out the days you work out. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. I would encourage exercising at least three times a week. This is a healthy amount of exercise for the average person.

there are many options that aren’t strenuous and are enjoyable to do. I personally love Pilates, Yoga, dancing, and walking.

strong minded individual to make a change and you will notice yourself becoming stronger daily, physically and mentally the longer you stay committed to your goal. Accountability partner Find someone who will push you and better you. Someone who will encourage you and uplift you. It is helpful to have a partner who will exercise with you or at least check in with you to make sure you are sticking to your workout schedule. I hope these 5 Tips will help you succeed at your fitness goals! Nothing is impossible and always remember to rejoice in your victories, even the small ones! You CAN do it. Happy New Year and have an exceptionally blessed 2019. If you have any fitness questions please contact me at www. beautywithblaine.com or follow me on Instagram @blainejanell

American Diet (SAD) promotes food that may make you ill, particularly to the young and the poor. The USDA supports the agricultural economy by partnering with large scale food corporations such as McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Dominos, to develop heavy meat and dairy menus. Dietary Guidelines affect school lunch programs, nutrition for the military, food subsidies, food labels, SNAP (food stamps), and job growth.

The Decline of America’s Health and Nutrition By Sumer Dene

received a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science at Rutgers University. Afterwards, I researched animal law at the Superior Courts in Washington, D.C. These fundamental experiences inspired me to examine how belief systems, laws, and science influence food production. We are inundated with fast food corporations and advertisements aimed to fix problems while creating them. A “happy meal” entices children to be brand loyal to a logo, while parents are lured by convenience and price. Nonetheless, kids are encouraged to eat addictive, unhealthy food in exchange for a gift and Americans suffer through relentless habit. Healthy food is inaccessible and unaffordable to many communities while chronic disease is the leading cause of death and disability in America. The most common, and costly preventable health problems include heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and arthritis. According to the United Nations, over 800 million people suffer from undernourishment around the world. For the Dietary Guidelines of 20202025, we urge policymakers to make critical decisions in securing the future of nutritious food supply. Unsustainable Agriculture Food is an important part of identity to maintain physical, emotional and mental health. It is a creative tool to best represent a

person’s heritage and to connect people, globally, culturally, and even spiritually. However, there is a widespread cognitive dissonance in our relationship with food and how it got to our plate. This is a result of mass marketing of ultra-processed foods that undermine traditional

“The need for sustainable, nutritious food has skyrocketed.” culture. The destructive power of large-scale animal agribusiness far exceeds any other technology on earth. The U.N. addresses meat as the “world’s most urgent problem.” Instead of carrying the past in front of us, we must look forward to improve food production, health, the environment, and a booming economy and ecosystem. The Guidelines Integrity is determined by individuals awareness of truth and the ability to innovate and lead with research-driven science. Branded labels guide consumers when making important nutritional choices. The USDA oversees Federal Dietary Guidelines as well as policy and promotion of meat and dairy products. They are also in charge of educational systems, nutritional programs and multi-billion dollar advertising campaigns. The Standard

Health Issues: Hunger and Disease According to the USDA, models are emerging that view hunger as a health issue. The need for sustainable, nutritious food has skyrocketed. Imagine if the agriculture department existed mainly for land grants to local farmers and funding for agricultural research and education. Many doctors and scientists have recommended to limit meat and dairy for the future of food supply. This would reduce the catastrophic effects of industrial farming, from its vast emissions, water pollution, and disease. A change in dietary guidelines would allow opportunities for new markets to grow, give support to local organic farmers, increase global collaboration, improve access and affordability to healthy foods, and advance sustainable technology for food production.

A Giant Leaf Forward A dedicated group of chefs, gardeners, researchers, culinary anthropologists, and nutritionists are developing an integrative plant-based menu for the 2030 Mars Mission. Space gardens will be essential to explore space beyond lower earth orbit. The veggie experiment at the International Space station grows plants in a lunar greenhouse with very little water and no soil. This could be used on earth as a largescale hydroponic source of food. Space exploration brings out the best in people, improves life on earth, and inspires youth to get involved to

make a difference in the world. The food choices we make directly affect the world around us. We are a part of a whole, interconnected system. For the upcoming Dietary Guidelines of 2020-2025, scientists, doctors, and policymakers will discuss the imminent changes needed to protect the health and welfare of our planet. The question is: “Where will the future take us?” The committee will conduct a review of evidence and conclude with a scientific report by early 2020.

The Facts, Effects of Agribusiness • 80% of antibiotics sold in the U.S. are for livestock. •

Less than 1% of U.S. farmland is organic. Livestock covers 45% of the earth’s total land and accounts for more worldwide greenhouse gas emissions than all of the transportation systems combined.

•

Animal agriculture is responsible to up to 91% of Amazon deforestation, 136 million rainforest acres have been cleared to grow feed and animals. Agribusiness is the leading cause of species extinction, deforestation, water pollution and habitat destruction.

•

Animal farms pollute waterways more than all other industrial sources and account for more than half of water used in the United States.

•

Over 95% of farm animals in the U.S. are raised in factory farms with minimal animal cruelty laws.

•

Livestock operations have created more than 500 nitrogen flooded dead zones in oceans around the world.

•

1/3 of the planet is desertified, with livestock as the leading driver.

•

This is known as the largest mass extinction on earth in the last 65 million years.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bayshore Medical Center unveils $5 million ‘Center for Neurosciences and Orthopedics’ From specialized staff to gourmet menus, new 20-bed unit designed to perfect postoperative experience

ayshore Medical Center, has opened the “Center for Neurosciences and Orthopedics.” designed to meet the unique needs of neuroscience and orthopedic postoperative patients in Pasadena and throughout Houston. The 20-bed unit, occupying 15,800 square feet of the hospital’s fifth floor, is a completely new buildout. Bayshore, a HCA Gulf Coast-affiliated hospital at 4000 Spencer Highway in Pasadena, hired nine registered nurses, specializing in postoperative care, to staff the $5 million facility. Proprietary physician-led protocols will empower each nurse to safely make medical decisions, such as when to discharge a patient, independently. Additionally, the unit will feature its own physical therapy gym and specialist to streamline rehabilitation. These measures are expected to reduce length of stay from an average of three to one day. “Neurosurgical and orthopedic surgery are highly unique, and inpatient recovery for these patients should reflect that,” said Jeanna Bamburg, CEO of Bayshore Medical Center. “This new unit is our gift to the Southeast Harris County community, who can receive specialized care and recovery in their own backyard, and I believe patients across Houston will now also consider Bayshore on their shortlist of surgery sites.” The hospital coordinated with an interior designer to give the rooms – each measuring 360 square feet, double the size of a standard room – a residential feel, including accommodations for guests to stay with patients overnight. The unit also features a “Bistro” where patients and families can dine together on their choice of two daily “Chef’s specials” or order from a menu of a la carte options for in-room dining. “There is increasing evidence that community support can impact patient experience and recovery” said Dr. Peyman Pakzaban, the neurological surgeon practicing at Bayshore Medical Center. “This unit gives patients the best of all worlds – specialized care and privacy in a setting that encourages them to connect with family, friends, and each other as part of their treatment plans.”

Fatty liver disease Could soon be the No. 1 reason for liver transplantation

ore than 100 million

Americans have potentially life threatening fatty liver disease and most do not even know it. Overeating and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol this holiday season could put someone already with the disease on the fast track to liver failure. “There are usually no symptoms associated with fatty liver disease and no pain, so it goes undiagnosed in many people. Overtime if not diagnosed the condition has the potential to cause end stage liver failure.” said Dr. Candice Dunn, an internal medicine primary care physician at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group. “In fact, the disease is so prevalent that it will soon overtake Hepatitis C as the No. 1 reason for liver transplantation in the United States.” Fatty liver disease is a group of disorders which all cause fat deposits in liver cells. This disrupts normal liver functioning and at a certain point can lead to liver failure and in some cases death. It is thought that insulin resistance could be the main factor initiating the disease, but genetics, environmental factors, weight, diet, exercise and many other factors can contribute. By definition the disease is not

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

caused by alcohol intake but once diagnosed alcohol intake of any amount can severely worsen the disease. Many people with this condition suffer from metabolic syndrome, a constellation of factors which includes a large waist circumference (men greater than 40 inches, women greater

than 35 inches), high blood pressure, high cholesterol and insulin resistance that heighten the risk of heart attack, stroke and type 2 diabetes. “Fatty liver disease, much like type 2 diabetes, is manageable with proper diet and exercise. If you lose seven to 10 percent of your current weight, you can eliminate some fat from your liver,” Dunn said. “I would encourage people this holiday season to use portion control but still enjoy the holidays.” Dunn says avoid supersizing food; use a smaller plate; don’t fill

up the entire plate; don’t go back for seconds; limit the amount of sweets and, of course, limit alcohol intake to one or two drinks per week.” Vigorous exercise, such as weight lifting, swimming, running or aerobics, between 75 and 150 minutes a week with a heart rate of 120 or above during the holiday season and beyond will help you tackle this problem. Dunn suggests eating fruits and vegetables before attending a family function or holiday party will help a person feel full and avoid foods high in fat. It has been found that up to 20 percent of people with fatty liver disease will develop cirrhosis, which can be life threatening or require liver transplant. Dunn says that number is likely to grow as the nation’s obesity epidemic continues to get worse. “If people are concerned about whether or not they have fatty liver disease, they can ask their physician to order liver function testing,” Dunn said. “The good thing is that with a few lifestyle changes this is a disease that is very manageable. Portion control and exercise are the keys to keeping it in check.” To learn more about Houston Methodist Primary Care Group, visit them at houstonmethodist. org/pcg or call 713-441-7265.

Now is the time to throw away the mask By Lilli Heintz

e are now in a new year; congratulations, you have made it out of 2018. You might have made it out in many pieces, but you did it. Now is the time that everyone starts their new year’s resolutions, and many will try and fake who they really want to be, to put on a different face, a different mask. How about you? The year 2018 was filled with many life lessons for me. Well, every year

is filled with life lessons. Looking back into last year, in particular, the one word that really stands out to me is mask. Now the technical term for mask is a covering for all or part of the face, worn as a disguise, or to amuse or terrify another person [Dictionary.com]. In this crazy life that we are living, we are constantly wearing different masks. I personally am an introvert in an extrovert’s body. Yes, that does sound a little strange, so let me explain. The life I am living and the person I need to be has to be this outgoing, carefree soul, and it is constantly sucking the energy from my introvert inner self. I love to be alone and to take my time with

Turn a page By Pastor Brad Heintz

o you have one of those family refrigerators where you use magnets to stick significant pictures, calendars, other items on it? What’s on your fridge? The other day I actually looked at what was on our refrigerator. We have a bunch of graduate pictures, a few cooking blue ribbons, tourist magnets from old vacations and a calendar from a dear realtor friend. I realized that our calendar was woefully behind and I tore off two pages. It triggered in me this desire to turn or even tear off a page and start the New Year fresh. Wordhippo.com states that the phrase, “turn the page” can have a literal meaning, “to proceed to the next page of a book” or an idiomatic meaning is to “move on to new involvements or activities; to make a fresh start.” Have you ever thought of your

life to be like a book? It begins the moment you are born and the last chapter is written when you pass from this life. No one knows how long their book will be just like we don’t know how long our lives will be. We write one chapter at a time. Therefore, each new year can be like a new chapter in our life book. When

activities that I enjoy doing. But living in New York and being a model, I am always on the go. I am constantly surrounded by people, talking to someone, hearing cars and horns, everything is always moving, and my brain just wants to slow down. I have to put on this mask to hide behind to show that I do not care that you are staring at me when I have glitter all over my face after a shoot; that I have to fake smiling when I wish I was in bed asleep; and that I have to be outgoing so that clients want me to work for them. Yes, I am this outgoing person because I have trained myself to be like that. So I push myself and to put on this mask and wear this as my identity. What about behind the mask? Almost all of us have heard the saying, “Walk a mile in my shoes and then you will understand.” We never know what is going on personally in somebody’s life. Many of us put on a mask to hide our emotions because we don’t want to show weakness and vulnerability. I know some people that when I show weakness in front of them they suck the rest of the joy out of me. So I am forced to put on a mask in front of them and pretend that everything is fine. Yet, behind that mask is someone who is insecure about what they look like or how they laugh. There is still a young girl trying to find herself and who she wants to be.

I don’t want that mask to define me. I want to be the person that all my friends and family know I am. I don’t want to have five different faces to where you have to know each and every one of them and be prepared for which one might show up. That doesn’t sound like a way of life that I want to live. Nor do you want to tear off each mask to find the real me. Think about the life you are living, how you portray yourself. Are you always this super happy smiling person but inside you are crying? Are you always this tough face with a tough heart but really are the nicest, kindest person? I have found who I really am during 2018. I know what mask is my real face and my true identity. I know who I want to be all the time, the person who I am really meant to be. I am this young child of God and I wear that proudly on my sleeve. I have a sarcastic humor that makes myself laugh. I am still trying to love my body and myself, but at least I know my identity. I know I try my hardest to show someone love and kindness, instead of hatred and anger. This year, 2019, is not the year for games, it’s not the year for tears, it’s not the year for self-doubt. This year is the year that you claim who you are and who you’ve always been. Throw away all those masks and show who you really are. We love you for you, and if people don’t, then they aren’t meant to be in your life.

we turn the page from December 31, 2018 to January 1, 2019 a new chapter begins. Will this new chapter in our life carry on the same old themes, issues, drama, and story line of the previous? It will unless we do something different. Isn’t it time to take on the idiomatic meaning and “move on to new involvements or activities; to make a fresh start.” A fresh start can’t happen unless we do something different or get involved in something new and helpful. Remember each new page is blank for a reason. It is there to remind us that all things can be new. Yes, we can start over. Revelation 21:5 says, “He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” These are the future words of Jesus at the end of the world. I want my last chapter of my life book to end this way. How can I have my book finish well? It all depends if I will turn the page today and get involved in and do that which will make me new. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:17,

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!” How does that happen? It happens through faith followed by action. That is why in 2018 I’m going to get actively involved in worship and study of God’s Word. That’s why I’m going to serve others and share God’s love because I want everyone to turn the page into a new future. How about you? Oh by the way, if you need a calendar magnet for your refrigerator, just call Living Word Church, 281389-9071, and we will get you one for 2019. Pastor Brad Heintz is the founding pastor of Living Word Church in Seabrook, Texas, a vibrant family-style nondenominational gathering of believers who take a pure, simple and real approach to faith and life.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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A GUIDE TO THE BEST BITES AND BREWS IN THE BAY

Crazy Alan’s Bakkhus

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Avenida Brazil

Pappa’s Delta Blues

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Gilhooley’s

AMERICAN ASIAN BBQ CAJUN ITALIAN MEDIT. MEXICAN PUB/FUSION SEAFOOD STEAK

AMERICAN 1. Jackie’s Brickhouse 1053 Marina Bay Dr, Kemah, TX (832) 864-2459 jackiesbrickhouse.com 2. Main St Bistro 615 E Main St, League City, TX (281) 332-8800 3. Red Oak Cafe 6011 W Main St a106, League City, TX (832) 905-3150 redoakcafe.com 4. Stomp’s Burger Joint 3107 TX-146, Bacliff, TX (281) 339-0785 stompsburgerjoint.com 5. South Shore Grille 2800 Marina Bay Dr, League City, TX (281) 334-7700 soshoregrille.com 6. T-Bone Tom’s 707 TX-146, Kemah, TX (281) 334-2133 tbonetoms.com 7. Cabo Bar & Grill 2513 NASA Rd. 1, Seabrook, TX (281) 532-2691 caboclearlake.com 8. Hubcap Grill 1918 E NASA Pkwy, Seabrook, TX (281) 339-7116 hubcapgrill.com ASIAN 1. 888 Chinese 16744 El Camino Real, Houston, TX (281) 990-8888 888chinesetx.com

Red Oak Cafe

Tight Ends

Topwater Grill

Gumbo Bar

Marais

Dickinson BBQ

Gio’s

2. Masa Sushi 977 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (281) 486-9888 masasushitexas.com

3. Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar 1615 FM 646, League City, TX (281) 524-8626 littledaddysgumbobar.com

3. Sawa Mediterranean 16608 El Camino Real, Houston, TX (281) 990-0817 sawarestaurantgrill.com

5. Chelsea Wine Bar 4106 E NASA Pkwy f, El Lago, TX (281) 326-5282 m o s e s chelseawinebartexas.com

3. Michiru Sushi 20911 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 338-9988 michirusushi.com

4. Marais 2015 FM 517 Rd E, Dickinson, TX (281) 534-1986

4. Olympia Grill 2535 I-45 S.League City, TX (832) 738-1877 www.olympiagrill.com

6. Tight Ends Sports Bar 2502 Gulf Fwy S, League City, TX (832) 769-4330 tightendssportsbar.net

4. Noon & Mirch: Cuisine of India 505 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX 5. Ocean Sushi 3020 Marina Bay Dr Suite A2, League City, TX (281) 957-9122 oceansushigrill.com BARBEQUE 1. Dickinson BBQ 2111 FM 517 Rd E, Dickinson, TX (281) 534-2500 dickinsonbbq.com 2. Pappas Delta Blues 19901 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 332-0024 www.pappasdeltablues.com 3. Red River BBQ 1911 E Main St Suite B, League City, TX (281) 332-8086 CAJUN 1. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack 310 Texas Ave, Kemah, TX (281) 334-5000 crazyalanswampshack.com 2. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood 20760 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 332-7474 floydswebster.com

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

I TA L I A N

MEXICAN 1. Angelo’s Pizza & Pasta 400 Bay Area Blvd A, Webster, TX (281) 332-2404 angelospizza-pasta.com 2. Gio’s Flying Pizza & Pasta 650 FM 517 W. Dickinson, TX (281) 337-0107 giosflyingpizza.com 3. Grazia Italian Kitchen 1001 Pineloch Dr #1100, Houston, TX (281) 486-2083 graziaitalian.com 4. Villa Capri 3713 NASA Rd. 1, Seabrook frenchiesvillacapri.com (281) 326-2373 5. Franca’s Real Italian 1101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX francasrealitalian.com (281) 488-2207 MEDITERRANEAN

1. El Tiempo Cantina 20237 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (713) 802-1580 eltiempocantina.com 2. Habanero’s Tacos 1908 Hialeah Dr #2, Seabrook, TX (281) 474-4400 habanerostacos.com 3. Playa Maya Tacos 1415 TX-146, Kemah, TX Phone: (281) 532-6986 playamayakemah.com PUB/BAR/FUSION 1. Nobi Public House 241 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (832) 932-5111 nobipub.com 2. Scotty’s Pub 3202 Marina Bay Dr, League City, TX (281) 339-7474 www.scottyspubhouston.com

1. Bakkhus Taverna 605 6th St, Kemah, TX (281) 538-1800 bakkhustaverna.com

3. Skallywag’s 600 6th St, Kemah, TX (281) 538-8877

2. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe 18033 Upper Bay Rd, Houston, TX (281) 333-3180 mediterraneomarket.com

4. Boondoggles Pub 4106 E NASA Pkwy, El Lago, TX (281) 326-2739 boondogglespub.com

l a k e

7. Preamble Lounge & Craft House 20801 Gulf Fwy #12, Webster, TX (832) 905-2927 preamblelounge.com SEAFOOD 1. Gilhooley’s Oyster Bar 222 9th St, San Leon, TX 77539 (281) 339-3813 2. Tookie’s Seafood 1106 Bayport Blvd, Seabrook, TX (281) 942-9445 tookiesseafood.com 3. Topwater Grill 815 Avenue O, San Leon, TX (281) 339-1232 4. Sundance Grill II 800 Mariners Dr, Kemah, TX (281) 535-5350 sundance-grill.com S O U P/S A L A D/ D E L I 1. Salata 1780 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX (281) 532-6988 salata.com STEAK 1. Avenida Brazil 201 Bay Area Blvd, Webster, TX (281) 557-9999

Clear Creek Education Foundation’s Dine Out to Donate raises a record amount

he Clear Creek Education

Foundation’s fifth annual “Dine Out to Donate” event was a resounding success with 63 local participating restaurants donating a combined total of almost $30,000 to the foundation -- a new record for this event! At each restaurant diners voted for CCISD school to receive up to $1,000 for school programs. CCEF awarded a total of $5,250 to first, second and third place. The winners were: • Elementary: Brookwood, Ed White and Bauerschlag • Secondary: Clear Creek, Seabrook and League City • High School: Clear Horizons

Early College, Clear View and Clear Springs The school with the highest participation overall was Brookwood Elementary, awarded the traveling “Golden Hot Dog” trophy. “It’s exciting to see our CCISD community continue to support the CCEF Dine Out to Donate Event. The continued growth of this event exemplifies the camaraderie we all share for the good of our children,” said, CCEF Executive Director Deborah Laine. “We so appreciate our parents, staff and participating restaurants for their partnership to provide innovative materials to our kids.”

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack opens Baybrook location By Rick Clapp

he legendary “King of Crawfish”

Alan Franks and business partner and friend, Paul Latour, have created another exciting Louisiana Cajun watering hole and

eatery. The original Crazy Alan Swamp Shack, which opened in 2010, is located near the Kemah Boardwalk. It has enjoyed steady growth and developed a good reputation of being a well respected restaurant with great drinks and fresh quality seafood at a fair price. The new Crazy Alan Swamp Chic Shack is located at the Baybrook Mall area on Bay Area Boulevard. This new Cajun mecca features a fun and festive environment. As you walk into the Swamp Shack you will feel like you are entering one of New Orleans unique restaurants. The atmosphere is very eclectic, well decorated, and has a nice relaxed ambience. The alligator bar, located at the center of the restaurant, is a great viewing area. It is fully stocked and loaded with call liquor, high quality spirits, and a variety of cold beer and wine. A most unique section is the restaurant’s Kids Zone. This area provides a place for children to play video games and state of the art computer games. In the meantime, parents can partake of a little adult time and relax while they enjoy their food and beverage. Alan’s Crazy Swamp Shack was the creation

of the indefatigable Alan Frank and Paul Latour. These two have different styles and have successfully created a winning restaurant concept. Both self-made men have worked hard. Franks started in 1982 as a barback at Cotton Eye Joes, bartender at Jason’s, and became owner of the renowned entertainment center Seabrook Beach Club. According to Alan Franks, the original Alan’s Crazy Swamp Shack created by the dynamic duo opened in 2010 in Kemah. The partnership works very well. Franks handles daily operations, marketing, promotions and le tour. Latour handles the construction and interior design and decoration of the restaurant. Alan Franks attributes his success to the extremely hard work, attention to detail,

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

and good employees and customer relations. He commends his long time staff -- Lori Holzle, Bob Deering, Christina Jonsenser, Guillermo Miranda and General Manager Otasch Kadu Pov and Assistant Manager Mike Saucada. Alan’s Crazy Swamp Chic Shack’s menu is the same as the Kemah location with food and beverages totally consistent at both locations. Their food offering is vast and has something for the seafood lover and the land lubber. Alan’s Crazy Swamp Shack is known for its tasty crawfish during season, but there’s much more to this quality restaurant. There select and popular menu items include the Crabvacado, Crab Corn Bisque, Crab Fingers, fried or sauteed is a must. Also try the Smoked Oysters and other fresh seafood entrees. These can be prepared either grilled or fried, whichever you prefer. They also have juicy Burgers, Creole, Cajun Etouffee, Fried Oysters, Shrimp and Catfish dishes. For a special evening, try their signature crab and lobster entrees, one of their seafood pots or the boiled seafood feast. Yes, they’ve got crawfish, which is the best of the bay. Finish your dining experience with one of their decadent desserts. Enjoy Crazy Alan’s Strawberry Cake or the Crown Royale Bread Pudding. Also, they have rooms for meetings, events and special occasions. As the illustrious Cajun chef Justin Wilson once said, “I ‘GAUR-en-tee’ you will like the Crazy Alan’s Swamp Chick Shack.” We wish Crazy Alan’s Swamp Chic Shack success. Let’s support one of the Bay Area’s best. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Chick Shack at Baybrook is located at 1330 W. Bay Area Blvd. Friendswood, TX.77546. PH. 832-284-4895

Sumer Dene and Vincent Rashid

Simone on Sunset

o o d co nne cts communities and brings people together, culturally and even spiritually. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a date night, or a casual gettogether with friends, Simone on Sunset is doted the hidden gem of Rice University village. The charming ambience, delectable appetizers and extensive wine and craft beer selection is what sets Simoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apart from others, and keeps locals coming back for more. Simone on Sunset is tucked between a friendly neighborhood and represents a cozy home transformed into a unique businesses. Enjoy complimentary parking for easy access to the candlelit courtyard, complete with decor and plants. Come inside to share food, and experience specialty cocktails in a relaxed, intimate setting. The eclectic

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

bar menu includes the very best variety of appetizers to share with friends. Favorites include truffle parmesan popcorn, handcrafted margherita pizza with house-made red sauce or truffle oil and the homemade artichoke dip. The comprehensive wine list is handpicked by Simone and unavailable at other stores or retail outlets. Happy hour specials include a $20 bottle of house wine, $5 glasses of wine and martinis, and $1 off select beers. The bestseller cocktail is the ice chilled spicy tequila with jalapeno vodka, cucumber, and lime. Happy hour is from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday- Friday, and Saturday and Sunday until 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. Simone on Sunset is family owned and operated by proprietor Vincent Rashid. Come to Simone on Sunset and let them know we sent you!

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Banquet at from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 25 in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

CLEAR LAKE BAWNC meets Jan. 17. Bay Area Welcome Neighbors Club will meet Thursday, Jan. 17, at Bay Oaks Country Club for a luncheon and program. Becky Roesel, assistant branch manager - Adult Services at Freeman Library in Clear Lake will present information about adult programs and other services the library offers “beyond books.” Social begins at 10 a.m. and the meeting and program begins at 10:30 a.m. Contact Nancy Guthrie at membership.bawnc@gmail. com or call 281.333.3055 for luncheon reservations. At UHCL’s Bayou Jan. 18. Kristen Hertzenberg of Phantom of the Opera singing your favorite show tunes at UHCL’s Bayou Theatre Friday, Jan. 18. Visit www.uhcl.edu/bayoutheater for ticket information. Quasar Banquet Jan. 25. Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership will honor Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush at its annual Quasar

Epicurean Evening Jan. 31. The Clear Lake Area Chamber will host its annual Epicurean Evening Thursday, Jan. 31, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Space Center Houston. For tickets, call the chamber, 281-488-7676. Rodeo Style Show Feb. 1. The NASA-Clear Lake-Friendswood Go Texan Committee will host its 53nd anniversary Rodeo Style Show and Luncheon with a fashion theme from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, at NASA’s Gilruth Center on Space Center Boulevard. Lunch catered by Grazia Italian Kitchen, live and silent auctions and music by the Mambo Jazz Kings. For tickets, which are $100 each and other information, call Lisa Gurgos, 281.450.0833.

DICKINSON Thriller starts Feb. 1. The Bay Area Harbour Playhouse will present the drama, Nightwatch, Friday, Feb. 1, through Sunday, Feb. 24,with curtains at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and matinees at 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for seniors and $6 for students 12 and under. For reservations, call 281-3377469 or email bareahp@comcast.net

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

GALVESTON At the Grand Jan. 19-20. The ever popular Oak Ridge Boys are coming back to Galveston’s 1894 Grand Opera House for two shows -Saturday/Sunday, Jan. 19-20. Tickets may be purchased at The Grand’s Box Office, 2020 Postoffice St., by calling 409.765.1894, 1.800.821.1894, or online at www.thegrand.com

SHOREACRES Commodore’s Ball Jan. 19. Houston Yacht Club members will honor their new commodore at the annual Commodore’s Ball at the club Saturday, Jan. 19. For reservations, members should call 281-471-1255.

LEAGUE CITY Quasar Banquet Jan. 25. Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership will honor Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush at its annual Quasar Banquet at from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 25 in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

NASSAU BAY Mystery on tap Jan. 11. The Clear Creek Community Theatre will present Agatha Christie’s Verdict, Friday, Jan. 11 through Sunday, Jan. 27 with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and matinees at 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $15

for adults and $13 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 281335-5228.

SEABROOK LYC Ladies lunch Jan. 11. The Lakewood Yacht Club Ladies Association members will install their 2019 officers at their 11:30 a.m. installation luncheon Friday, Jan. 11 at the club. Commodore’s Ball Jan. 26. Lakewood Yacht Club members will honor their new commodore at the annual gala, the Commodore’s Ball, at the club Saturday, Jan. 26, starting at 6 p.m. For reservations, call 281474-2511.

TEXAS CITY Classic musical at COM Jan. 24. The beloved comic strip, Peanuts, will come to life Thursday, Jan. 24 when the College of the Mainland Community Theatre presents the classic musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown through Sunday, Feb. 10, with performances at 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets range in price from $11 to $23. For reservations, call 1-888-258-8859, ext. 8345.

Photos by Sumer Dene

BAY AREA HOUSTON BALLET & THEATRE

Visit www.bahbt.org for the full schedule of 2019 performances

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Kennedy Ballard and Abigail Gorham

Amy Brown, Sarah Curtis, Molly Gomez and Taylor Brown

Jenna Metz, Sophia Kline, Tara McCally, Chloe Martin and Annelise Ware

Andrew Sackett, Laura Massague, Lauren Lowe and Maikel Hernandez

5 1. Christmas Cheer at BIC Mediaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Party. 2. Alan Franks, Paul Latour and I at the new Alanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Swamp Shack location at Baybrook. 3. Holiday cheer at the Senior Christmas Party at the Pasadena Convention Center. 4. Tux and I . 5. BAHM staffers Sumer Dene and Dana McDonald share a light hearted moment with me at the League City Holiday Ball. 6 & 7. Sumer and I with Lucinda Hawksley, the award-winning travel writer, British biographer, author, speaker and also great, great granddaughter of Charles Dickens. 8. Dora and I at the Senior Christmas Party at the Pasadena Convention Center.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

Age-Adjusted Philosophy By Michael W. Gos McKinney, Texas

e were in McKinney all weekend for a wedding and all the parties that go with it. In between the festivities, we had an afternoon to kill. As a married man, I knew what the agenda was going to be— shop till you drop. Fortunately, my sweetie and I have a system that works well for both of us. She drops me off at husband day care (the nearest bar) and she goes about her business while I read, talk with other oenophiles or just watch the world go by. McKinney is the perfect place to do this since the old courthouse square is surrounded by outdoor cafes and one very nice wine bar, the Landon Winery. It was a perfect autumn day, so I had no complaints. A glass of French wine in front of me, I was watching two police officers saunter by on horseback when a waiter brought a woman to the next table. She immediately ordered a Cotes du Rhone. The waiter laughed and pointed out that this wine was seldom ordered there. And now, here were two strangers, sitting at adjacent tables requesting the same thing. He said it was “too weird” and walked off. Of course, that started the conversation. She told me about her daughter, now in her early 30s, and the attitude she had that the future wasn’t worth devoting any of her time or energy to. She wanted to have fun, to do things, to live now while she was young and could enjoy it. As you might expect,

Mom was not pleased with that mindset. It is a universal human trait for each generation to complain about the younger one. I know I often find myself thinking things like that about my students. (I have solid evidence of the decline; student performance on college admissions tests has

especially for her generation. I think there is a lot of energy being put into indoctrinating us into that way of thinking, especially by pop culture and self-help gurus. You know the claims. The past is dead; the future doesn’t exist. All we have is today, so you’d better make the most of it. The problem is, I can’t really say this is such a bad way of looking at life. It seems to me, in the end, we will probably regret the things we didn’t do more than those we did, so why not use our time, and money, doing exciting, fun things? After all, we might not ever have a chance to do them again; we might not even be here tomorrow. But then there is the other side. When I was young, I thought about life in much the same way as that girl. I was well into my thirties before I started seeing this issue differently. The fact is, regardless of the catchy phrases and persuasive arguments to the contrary, the here-and-now is only one third of the whole picture. If we buy into the usual definitions of time and space, life is a long chain of events. To understand life, we have to see it all. The problem is most people never see the entire chain, only the closest link. First, there is the obvious problem, the one I think the Cotes du Rhone mom was most worried about—the future and the obvious issue of

“Most people never see the entire chain, only the closest link.” crashed and burned in the last 50 years.) But then, I also keep getting slammed by memories of my dad saying exactly the same things about my generation and how we were going to hell in a handbasket. (Okay, he might have been right.)

There is a lot of research that suggests the woman’s daughter may not be so far out of the norm,

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

finances. When do you start planning for buying that house, having that kid, or for retirement? I think the lack of attention to this matter is what most people see as the problem with living only in the now. In fact, most see it as being irresponsible. But there is a more important issue regarding the future than finances. Those who don’t look to—and plan for—the future, stagnate. You can’t move forward into a future you didn’t plan and expect good results. Life will always be a series of

“accidents” and you will never feel like you have any control over what happens to you. And then there is the other direction. Fewer people consider the downside of ignoring the past, but it may have even greater consequences for our lives than not thinking about, and planning for, the future. Looking back, I can see how dumb I was about life. Like many young people, I made a lot of stupid decisions. But I learned from them; they made me what I am today. However, this learning always happened long after the fact. Only by looking back later could I understand the events and why they were important. Mistakes are a necessary part of life, but if I had not spent some time looking at the past, they would have remained just mistakes. I would never have received their gifts. There is nothing wrong with making the most of today. But if we are going to excel in life, our world view should include learning from the past and planning for the future. For a happy future, we must look beyond the closest link and see the entire chain. It only makes sense. And yet, I can’t deny that there is that other issue; we never know what day will be the last, so obsessing over the past or working diligently for a future could turn out to be a total waste of life. If you are thinking I can’t make up my mind which approach is better, you are exactly right.

Winston Churchill once said, “Any man under 30 who is not a liberal has no heart, and any man over 30 who is not a conservative has no brains.” Perhaps we can apply Churchill’s logic to the question of how to live life; I wonder if the answer to this dilemma might be age-dependent. When young, it is certainly prudent to study past mistakes and plan for the future. But there comes a time when our futures are fairly secure, and we have life pretty well figured out (at least we hope we do). Usually by then we become aware of our mortality and recognize that we are indeed running out of sunsets. It seems to me that maybe this is the time when living for the now is appropriate. A friend of mine once referred to his retirement as “selfish bastard time.” Maybe he had this thing figured out and he was trying to show me the answer.

Size Matters By Don Armstrong

ull-size, body-on-frame

SUV’s were once all the rage. Even today, they sell well. But for many in the Bay Area, the frameless, car-like, unibody construction of a crossover, or CUV, offers what most are looking for, including better fuel mileage.

Jeep Renegade

When we think of Jeep, most tend to see themselves off-roading in the

Hill Country, or at least the sandy dunes down the coast. If you fall into that category, then the Renegade Trailhawk may be a perfect fit. There’s no mistaking its boxy shape and seven-slot grille for anything other than a Jeep. The Trailhawk edition is equipped with the larger 2.4-liter engine, that we prefer, delivering its 180-horsepower through a nine-speed automatic transmission. The interior is just plain fun, and the optional, larger 8.4-inch

infotainment screen connects you to the world of Jeeping with ease. Seating is rugged yet comfortable. Second-row legroom may be a little tight for those over six feet but expect plenty of space in the cargo area. Removable MySky sunroof panels are a must option. With the Renegade’s off-road suspension and bigger tires, the ride is a bit stiffer than the entry-level model. But isn’t this why you joined the posse? Starting price for the Jeep Renegade

is $18,445. The Trailhawk trim level, with a few options, is around $30,000.

Buick Encore

Playing on the near-luxury field puts the Buick Encore in a different class than the Renegade but is similar in size. This GM brand is known for a quiet cabin and Encore delivers, thanks to Buick’s QuietTuning technology. Specially laminated glass along with sound deadening materials are among many items acoustical engineers employ to keep outside noise, outside. The interior in our top-of-theline trim, Essence, is very nice and comfortable, not over-the-top, but true quality throughout the cabin. Its infotainment system is well thought out and easy to use. Powering our Encore is an optional 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that boasts a wee bit more horses than the base motor, 153 to be exact. We would like to see something closer to the Renegade’s output. The ride quality is reassuring without being jittery at highway speeds. And that says a lot, considering Encore’s short wheelbase. Pricing begins at $23,200. No one manufacturer has an edge over another these days, so select the price range and type of sport ute that fits your needs and start exploring.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Oncology Clinic, Cologne, Germany. Children use their imagination to paint patches of inspirational artwork, which is later stitched together by volunteers at spacesuit company ILC Dover to form a spacesuit. The art spacesuits - Hope, Courage, Unity and Victory; and the two suits currently in work, Exploration and Dreamer, tell the stories of pediatric patients around the world. The Spacesuit Art Project has partnerships with hospitals in over 30 countries and includes participation with all 5 ISS agencies; spacesuit companies in both the U.S. and Russia; creative artists such as Projekt Postcard founder Loli Lanas and Russian partner and founder of Unity Movement Foundation, Alena Kuzmenko; and more than 45 NASA and international astronauts. This support offers amazing opportunities for kids to reach their highest potential, even in the most dire of circumstances. The positive, interactive experience builds a community among patients, healthcare workers, creative artists, families, and offers children a sense of purpose, hope, and fulfillment. The Spacesuit Art Project wants to increase awareness of pediatric cancer, inspire space-theme art therapy programs around the

“Art gives kids a sense of purpose, wonder and accomplishment.”

The Art of Healing Through Space Exploration By Sumer Dene

he SpaceSuit Art PROJECT is a global collaboration of hospitals, volunteers, and the International Space Station aimed to help children battling cancer. The Spacesuit Art Project was founded by artist and writer Ian Cion, retired astronaut Nicole Stott, and the NASA ISS Program Communications team. Nicole Stott is deemed “The Artistic Astronaut,” as she is the first astronaut to watercolor in space. Stott has flown on two spaceflights and spent 104 days living and working in space on the ISS and Space Shuttle. Ian Cion was the founder and director of the Arts in Medicine program at the University of Texas MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital, where he created a series of large-scale public works in collaboration with patients, families, staff, and community partners. Cion is now the exhibition and program manager at Rice University, Moody Center for the Arts. He coordinates and develops program initiatives for the arts center and supports development and implementation of exhibits. Stott and Cion are co-founders of the Space for Art Foundation, and recently concluded their 2nd Space for Art World Tour, which traveled to pediatric oncology hospitals in four countries – The Moscow Institute for Pediatric Oncology in Moscow, Russia; Gustave Roussy in Paris, France; Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, Great Britain; and University Hospital Pediatric

world, and understand the profound connection between space exploration, technology, art, healing, unity, and the human spirit. The Spacesuit Art project is partners with many organizations that integrate art, science and technology through education, collaboration, and innovation. “We’d like to bring pediatric cancer research to the ISS and create more arts and medicine programs in hospitals around the world. We’d also like to start additional art projects to continue the positive relationships we’ve built along the way,” Stott explains. The Spacesuit Art Project inspires creative new ideas globally, such as The Space for Art Foundation in the U.S. and the Unity Movement Foundation in Russia, formed to develop space-inspired art therapy programs, exhibits, and research. It has also led to Postcards to Space, artistic messages created by children and sent via an electronic art compilation to astronauts

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

at the ISS, and Earthrise projects, a network of educational and research centers with a variety of space-related activities for all ages. Children at partnering hospitals were even able to visit mission control in Houston to ask questions to astronauts while in space. This encourages children to ask meaningful, imaginative questions and think beyond their circumstance to look forward to the future. The Spacesuit Art project wants to raise awareness of pediatric cancer. According to the National Pediatric Cancer Society, cancer is the No. 1 cause of death by disease among children, but only 4% of federal government research funding goes to study it. We still don’t really know why children get cancer, although much of what we have learned to treat adult cancers, such as combination chemotherapy, was discovered from childhood cancer research. Pediatric research has developed groundbreaking new therapies, interventions, vaccines, and diagnostic tests that have improved lives worldwide. Researchers are beginning to understand genetic mutations that might cause certain types of pediatric cancer. Immunotherapy and genomic medicine are inspirational fields of study dedicated to find individualized treatment methods for all cancer types. The Childhood Cancer Data Lab (CCDL) is accelerating the path to a cure by empowering health professionals to harness the power of large-scale collections of harmonized data. The mission is to find the cure for childhood cancer by allocating data and resources sufficiently. “We can shift the role an artist plays by building interdisciplinary teams to utilize art in the field of health and exploration. As an explorer, it’s not just one path. It only matters how we communicate and integrate information to get to the same destination. Art gives kids [and adults] a sense of purpose, wonder and accomplishment. There is a commonality between astronauts and children who are battling cancer, they both require incredible strength and courage to overcome isolation, risk, and medical procedures. These spacesuits are made as a prayer for the kids and a celebration of life.” Cion adds. The mission of the Spacesuit Art Project could not have been accomplished without the wonderful volunteers, such as the many space professionals like ILC Dover, NASA’s space suit engineers since the beginning of project Apollo, and Zvezda, the Russian space agencies spacesuit manufacturer. ILC Dover and Zvezda generously donated time and talent to build the Hope and Unity and Victory suits for the Spacesuit Art Project. David Graziosi and many other engineers volunteered time and effort to work with children at hospitals and put together a cutting-edge spacesuit with paintings from thousands of pediatric patients around the world. “Interacting with the children at the hospital was life-changing. It showed me what’s important in life and also how short life can be.” Graziosi explained. Many people are inspired to join the Spacesuit Art Project and the other work of the Space for Art Foundation because of its impact on youth and the opportunity it gives to children and their families. Children recognize the universe and humankind as a whole, interconnected system. They are curious about the mysteries of life and naturally innocent. There’s no borders, boundaries or limits when everyone works together, there’s only opportunities to overcome obstacles in search for a cure.

Bush remembered fondly by Space Center Rotarians By Mary Alys Cherry

sk any Space Center Rotary member what event in the club’s 54-year history sticks out in their mind, and most likely it will be the night they honored former President George H.W. Bush at Space Center Houston on March 6, 1998. He not only seemed delighted to be the recipient of the Rotary National Award for Space Achievement Foundation’s National Space Trophy, he appeared to thoroughly enjoy all the attention that came with being the honoree, then Rotary President Donnie Johnson remembers. Most everyone found him to be quite charming, getting many laughs as he and then NASA Administrator Dan Goldin joked about his jumping out of an airplane the year before and wondering if he might make a future

Norman Frede Chevrolet marks 50th anniversary

Norman Frede, with shovel at center right, prepares to break ground on what will become the Chevrolet dealership at Feathercraft and Bay Area Boulevard in Clear Lake. This year the dealership is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

By Mary Alys Cherry

ost e v e ryo n e on the north side of Clear Lake drives by the Norman Frede Chevrolet dealership at the corner of Feathercraft Lane and Bay Area Boulevard at least once a twice a month. But very, very few can remember back when it opened in 1968, because most of us had not moved here back then. This year the dealership has been celebrating its 50th anniversary with a number of events. One came the other day when the Friendswood Chamber selected it as the Business of the Month with Chamber President Carol Marcantel and Vice President Lucy Woltz presenting the award to Norman Frede General Manager Joan McKinney, who said they were “proud to work and live in your community, earning the right to say we’re one of the most successful independent Chevrolet dealerships in Texas.

“We believe the reason we grew and prospered comes down to two words -- loyalty and Integrity,” she continued. “Being family owned and operated gives us the freedom to make decisions to best serve the needs of our customers. In everything we do, we strive to prove how much we sincerely appreciate your business and deliver on our promises. “As a result, families return to us generation after generation to buy their cars and trucks. When you purchase a vehicle at Norman Frede Chevrolet, we treat you like family. We believe buying a car should be so much more than a financial exchange. You can feel confident knowing you are buying the right vehicle for your

needs.” The dealership has more than 115 employees -- many who have worked there for more than 15 years -- living in the local communities and active in our school districts, local chambers and non-profit organizations. An insightful business leader, Norman Frede, who started the business at a young age, will be quick to tell you he learned early in life the value of family and hard work. Born and raised in LaGrange, Texas, where he excelled in sports and calf roping, he graduated from the University of Texas with a BBA and a Business Psychology degree. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves for seven years,

astronaut. “You live in Houston and you’re younger than John Glenn,” Goldin told him as the audience roared. And what an audience it was – then Johnson Space Center Director George Abbey, the heads of practically ever aerospace company, Congressman Nick Lampson and State Sen. Buster Brown, dozens of local business officials, and about 150 Rotarians, including the two men who started the RNASA banquet, Owen Morris and Charles Hartman. Astronaut John Young, who commanded the first space shuttle mission and was one of 12 to walk on the moon, presented the space trophy to President Bush. Some of the other astronauts in the black-tie crowd included Dick Covey, Jim Wetherbee, Robert Crippen, Mike Foale, Gene Cernan, Ken Reightler, Brewster Shaw, Bonnie Dunbar, Mary Cleave, Frank Culberson, James Buchi, William Readdy and John Casper.

completing his service as a captain in the military police. Frede says he learned early the value of family and hard work. “It goes back to that rural upbringing like closing gates, taking care of the animals, upbringing in stuff from the weather, taking care of fences, closing the door, and picking up manure. Animals and other things on farms and ranches require constant attention, and you learn to take care of those things.” This care, consistency, and thoughtfulness became the fundamentals for his business success, he will be quick to tell you. He learned how to operate a dealership from the ground up, first as the son of an automobile dealer, then as a salesman before becoming a general manager. In 1968, he bought his first dealership in League City, and then, in 1970 he purchased the land for what would soon become Norman Frede Chevrolet in Clear Lake. Nearly 50 years later, the dealership is still family owned and operated -- and one of the most successful independent Chevrolet dealerships in Texas. Frede is married to Sheree. He has two daughters, Marijane and Suzanne, sons-in-law Barry and Trey, plus six grandchildren.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Texas official George P. Bush 2019 Quasar Award recipient

exas Land Commissioner

George P. Bush has been named recipient of the 2019 Quasar Award, which will be presented to him at the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s annual Quasar Banquet Friday, Jan. 25 in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

The prestigious award is presented annually to an outstanding elected official or business leader who has demonstrated a strong and continual effort to support the business foundations of the greater Bay Area Houston communities before a crowd of nearly 700 individuals. “Commissioner George P. Bush is that outstanding elected official who places the protection of Texas at the forefront of his agenda,” BAHEP President Bob Mitchell said in making the announcement. “Due to his forward vision grounded in basic economics, he has been named the 2019 recipient of Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s Quasar Award.” Commissioner Bush wrote a letter to the current administration urging the president to include in his national infrastructure plans a coastal barrier system for the Houston/Galveston area. He declared, “Building the proposed coastal barrier system is an historic opportunity to safeguard our nation’s economy, our national security, and millions of citizen’s lives and livelihood.” “Through written support and

Michelle Holland to chair Lunar Rendezvous Festival

ichelle Holland, who has long made volunteerism a part of her life, has been named chairman of the 54th annual Lunar Rendezvous Festival, long a feature of Clear Lake’s summers. The new chairman started volunteering with Lunar Rendezvous in 2014, when her daughter, Addison, was chosen a Little Lady in Waiting. Since then, the Lunar Rendezvous Festival has had a special place in her heart. Michelle served as Fashion Show co-chairman in 2014, Fashion Show chairman in 2015, and chairman of the Coronation Ball in 2018. When told she had been selected as the chairman of the 2019 Lunar Rendezvous Festival, Michelle was overjoyed. “It is an honor to be a part of such

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

numerous interviews, Commissioner Bush has become the noteworthy champion of the coastal barrier system whose undiminished advocacy has been instrumental in moving the project forward,” Mitchell said. “He is steadfast in his opinion that the expense of doing nothing far outweighs the investment to protect and enhance the Texas coast. “For his unique leadership and his willingness to promote what was once called an unrealistic plan to what is today considered a critical project for Texas and the nation, Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is highly deserving of the 2019 Quasar Award.” Previous recipients of the Quasar Award are: • • • • • • • • •

1994 Texas Gov. Ann Richards 1995 U.S. Rep. Tom DeLay 1996 U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison 1997 U.S. Rep. Nick Lampson 1998 Johnson Space Center Director George W. S. Abbey 1999 Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and Galveston County Judge Jim Yarbrough 2000 Robert L. Moody Sr. 2001 Houston Mayor Lee P. Brown 2002 Harris County Commissioner Jim Fonteno

an amazing organization – one that gives so much back to the Space City community,” she said. “The Lunar Rendezvous organization not only gives amazing scholarships to students for higher education, but also provides financial support to many other youth development, education, arts and historical preservation programs in the Bay Area.” Michelle has lived her entire life in the great State of Texas. Although born in Houston, Michelle spent most of her young life in the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex. It was in high school, at Arlington High, in Arlington, Texas, that Michelle met her husband, Doug. High school sweethearts, the two have been together ever since. The Holland family tree has deep roots in business, marketing and sales, and Michelle is no different. After graduating with a BBA in Marketing from the University of Texas at Tyler, Michelle moved with her husband to League City to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sales.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

•

• • •

2003 U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay 2004 Harris County Commissioner Sylvia R. Garcia 2005 President of UTMBGalveston Dr. John Stobo 2006 Houston Mayor Bill White 2007 NASA Administrator Dr. Michael Griffin 2008 UHCL President Dr. William A. Staples 2009 Johnson Space Center Director Michael L. Coats 2010 Texas State Rep. Craig Eiland 2011 U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison 2012 U.S. Sen. John Cornyn 2013 Griffin Partners, Inc. owner and Chairman Fred Griffin 2014 Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor, University of Houston System, President, University of Houston 2015 Dr. Bill Merrell, George P. Mitchell ‘40 Chair in Marine Sciences, Texas A&M University at Galveston 2016 Dr. Greg Smith, Superintendent, Clear Creek Independent School District 2017 Texas State Sen. Larry Taylor 2018 Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

Over the last 18 years of living in the Clear Lake area, Michelle has had a successful career not only in pharmaceuticals, but also in outside sales for several well known companies, and even as president of a small business. During this time, she also has found the time to have and raise two beautiful daughters, Braeden Rose, 17, and Addison Elizabeth, 11. Volunteerism and being an active part of the community has always been a part of Michelle’s DNA. She has been involved and had leadership roles in many worthwhile organizations. These include the Junior League of Galveston County, where she is currently a sustainer, several school PTAs, and the National Charity League. Michelle feels that a quote from Margaret Mead, 20th century anthropologist, sums up her desire to volunteer. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Life is about what you leave behind

By Sumer Dene’

i f e i s sho r t, bu t also long. If we’re all here for a reason, does that mean we leave when we have completed our mission on earth? Death makes you look at life differently, and question how you spend your allotted time here. Nothing is certain in life except death and what you do in between. Death is a natural process of life. There’s no explanation “why” it happens and no justification to “how” it happens. All that matters is “how” you live your life while you’re still alive and breathing. My grandfather recently passed away from brain cancer at the young age of 76. He passed away after surgery due to a blood clot. Sadly, his heart was strong enough to fight, but the lack of oxygen in his brain caused irreversible brain damage. My pop pop was a wise, charismatic, compassionate man. He was born in Cegled, Hungary and grew up in an orphanage there during World War II. He immigrated to America at 14 and made the best out of the opportunity. He worked 30 years as a research chemist and 15 years as an analytical scientist and served in the United States Army Reserves where he attained the rank of staff sergeant and the achievement of Master Marksman. My grandpop was a giver, he nurtured everything he touched and brought it to life. He immersed

himself in the beauty of life, creating art everywhere he went as a dancer, sculptor, cook, gardener, conservationist and gentleman. Among all of the titles, he was a father and grandfather to me. He dedicated his life to his family and was loved by many. I was put in foster care in Atlanta when I was 14. If it weren’t for my grandparents adopting me, I would not have had the opportunities I have today. He helped me get through high school, college and the many life struggles of adolescence. He was patient yet stern with me and went above and beyond to make sure I felt safe and secure. He would tell me, “I’m not going to be here forever, you need to learn how to do things on your own.” My grandfather was always caring and understanding. He wanted me to learn independence and how to genuinely be happy. He was the type of person that didn’t say much, but when he did speak he spoke volumes. Life is about what you leave behind, how you make others feel,

“My grandfather is the strongest man I know. I can only aspire to be the person he was.” and how kind, honest and humble you are. He taught me how to live by example, and through his values I base my life. Character is measured by the strength of your heart. I learned from him to live with integrity and grace, go out of your way to bring joy to others, work hard and play hard, be light-hearted and encourage people to be the best they can be. My grandfather saved my life, literally. He took responsibility for me when no one else would, and made me into the woman I am today. My grandfather is the strongest man I know. I can only aspire to be the person he was, and forever will be in my heart. All that I know to be concrete is that my Pop Pop is an angel. His work here on earth is complete. Rest in Peace Jozsef Orvos.

Remembering Cowden Ward Jr. By Bo Brinkman

s some of you may have heard, Cowden Ward Jr., executive producer of “Last Man Club” “The Bay House” and scheduled for next year, “Goat Hill Road” was killed in a plane crash in November while giving a ride to a Word War II Veteran in his beloved P-51 Mustang. He was 74. Cowden was a lover of life and tried to cram every breathing moment he had on earth into fun, adventure and learning something new everyday. I’m so happy to have known him and to call him my friend. When most people his age are ready to settle into a slower, more relaxed lifestyle, (retirement) Cowden jumped into story development, film making and film festivals. When most kids were just getting their drivers license, Cowden had his pilot license. His love for flying and his great appreciation for veterans led him to create the non-for-profit, Freedom Flyers Foundation that gave free rides to veterans in his World War II, P-51 Mustang. Over the years, he flew at air shows all over the country, giving rides to countless WWII and Korean War Veterans, many who were going up for their last time, in a plane that they had flown into battle as young men. I have witnessed the joy Cowden brought to so many old vets, priceless. I spent many hours in the cockpit of his twin engine Barron; hopping from city to city doing press for Last Man Club; location hunting in Colorado for The Bay House; vacationing in Vail, Colorado. We flew to the airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in the P-51 to screen

Last Man Club. We spent a lot of time together on the set of the last two films and during that time, I got to know the man. He always approached life with a smile and cheerful attitude. He was a problem solver and loved a good challenge. While filming part of The Bay House in Silverton, Colorado last February, Cowden rose to the occasion with unfettered support of the crew, working in 12 degree weather for 18 straight hours. He made sure everyone was okay, taking over for crew when they needed rest and to warm up. In the darkest hours of the shoot, (about 4 in the morning) Cowden was handing everyone hot coffee and cracking one liners, “Are we having fun yet, guys?!” Cowden loved his family, flying, film and fun. He was a student of life. He studied geography nature and was a history buff. He also did constant research on topics for the stories he wanted to tell through cinema. His stories were reflections of his beliefs and who he was as a person. His common theme was about people getting second chances, ordinary people rising to the occasion with heroic deeds that resulted in saving lives or changing someone’s life forever. I believe Cowden changed my life. His life serves as a reminder to me to live every minute and take on new challenges without fear, to be of service to others and to love and cherish my friends and family. Cowden was a true hero in my book and he will be greatly missed by the hundreds of friends that he has made over his lifetime. Cowden has earned his wings in life and for eternity. Safe home old friend.

JANUARY 2019 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Trio robs Walgreen’s In Clear Lake City Shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 15, deputies with Constable Phil Sandlin’s Precinct 8 Office were dispatched to a robbery at the Walgreens Drug store in the 16500 block of El Camino Real in Clear Lake City, where they learned three black males has demanded cash from the registers and also stole a large amount of cigarettes as well. It is the second time this fall the drug store has been hit by robbers. The first occurred in September. Upon arrival Nov. 15, deputies learned two customers, who were inside the store at the time, had their wallets stolen by the suspects before they fled on foot. A female customer was assaulted by one of the suspects who hit her in the face when she resisted handing over her wallet. All three males are thought to be in their 20s and were wearing hooded sweatshirts. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Deputy Investigator Andrew Stovich at 281488-4040. Information can be reported anonymously through the website at Constable 8.net, Chief Deputy Jason Finnen said. The Sept. 30 holdup occurred at 1:30 a.m. when a male and female – both Hispanic and in their early 20s -- approached the pharmacist demanding Oxycodone, Soma, Hydrocodone and Xanax. The man indicated that he had a pistol in his waistband. Both subjects left the store on foot with a large amount of the pills.

neighbor across the street back the SUV into the home and then take off. The victim, who was in an office inside the home at the time of the accident, was transported to an area hospital and was expected to be okay. Authorities said a 10-yearold child and a woman were also in the home, but they were unhurt. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.

CCISD to form special ed panel The Clear Creek School District is seeking parent participation in the newly formed Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. This committee will be comprised of one parent of a special education student from each of school, 44 CCISD parents. The group will meet quarterly with the CCISD superintendent of schools, Special Services executive director, and other pertinent staff members to discuss topics and services related to special education.

UHCL Pearland to offer master’s Targeting working professionals in the field of engineering and science, University of Houston-Clear Lake Pearland Campus will offer a Master of Science in Engineering Management degree beginning in spring 2019. The degree, says Ki-Young Jeong, program chairman and associate professor of engineering management, has one of the highest domestic student enrollments in UHCL’s College of Science and Engineering. It is being offered at both campuses because of its high demand, both by prospective employers and working professional engineers. “This degree plan is for working professionals who want to advance their careers in their current technical fields,” Jeong said. “There is a wide spectrum of jobs awaiting graduates who possess these skills.”

Learn to speak new language SUV crashes into Clear Lake home A Clear Lake man was hurt when hit by flying debris after his neighbor, who lived across the street, backed across the street and slammed his SUV into his home in the Camino South subdivision around 11 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27. The accident took place in the 900 block of Wavecrest Lane. A witness told police that he saw the

Learn a new language and get personal attention from expert teachers in University of HoustonClear Lake’s non-credit Foreign Language Program. Small classes and private tutoring are available for Spanish, Chinese, German, Japanese, Russian and more. Registration continues through Jan. 21 for classes that begin Jan. 22. To learn more or to register, visit www. uhcl.edu/academics/extended or call

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JANUARY 2019

the Foreign Language and English Enhancement Program, 281-283-3033.

Festival of Trees raises $50,000 Lakewood Yacht Club provided a picturesque backdrop for Interfaith Caring Ministries’ 25th Annual Festival of Trees on December 6th. Opening remarks by Executive Director Suzy Domingo and performance by Soundwaves kicked off the night. ICM Board Chair Sheryl Berg shared ICM’s mission, and Larry Wheeler was auctioneer. Proceeds will benefit ICM’s services to local families in economic crisis. In 2018, ICM provided rent & utilities assistance to nearly 1,000 households and toy donations to 236 children at the Annual Holiday Toy Store Drive, held at Clear Lake Presbyterian Church.

Students learn how to run city The Friendswood City Council Chambers were a little more crowded on Dec. 3 as 10 Wedgewood Elementary students shared the desk with councilmembers for a portion of the Friendswood City Council regular meeting. In an ongoing effort with the city, the meeting allows Wedgewood second graders to experience a firsthand simulation of civic engagement. During the meeting, students turned into mock councilmembers with Noah Regner as mayor, Eli Chambers as city secretary, Brody Mengarelli as city attorney, Logan Manning as city manager, Bianca Ganoza as councilmember Position 1, Hayden Scott for Position 2, Brooklyn Gordon as Position 3, Lojain Khandria for Position 4, Emily Rojas for Position 5 and Samuel Herring for Position 6. The students considered and voted on a resolution declaring Dec. 4, s Wedgewood Elementary School Day in Friendswood. Following the student vote, the resolution was officially approved by the Friendswood City Council. “These students are our future leaders,” said Friendswood Mayor Mike Foreman. “We are happy to support Clear Creek ISD’s character education program and want these students to understand that as public servants, we’re all in this to give something back to our great community.” The meeting, which serves as an opportunity for students to foster leadership development skills and learn more about the political process, culminated with a reception for students, parents and community members.

BATP volunteer wins $5,000 prize Lee Swindler, a volunteer with Bay Area Turning Point, Inc., has been named a finalist for the Community Quarterback Award presented by the Houston Texans and BHP Billiton in partnership with the United Way of Greater Houston. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding volunteers from local United Way agencies whose work exemplifies the spirit of giving back to the community. As a finalist, Bay Area Turning Point will receive a $5,000 contribution Lee’s service. A volunteer since 2012, Lee has donated countless hours to BATP, supporting the agency’s mission of providing recovery services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. In 2013, he was asked to join the Board of Directors and in 2015, Lee was elected to Board Chair, a position he held for two consecutive terms. Lee continues to serve on the Board of Directors and remains a dedicated volunteer and strong supporter of the agency as it strives to meet the unique needs of those it serves.

Space Center Houston adding a new official Space Center Houston is launching into a new year with Richard E. Glover Jr. as its new vice president of communications and marketing, a growing membership program and rocketing attendance. The science and space exploration learning center continues its work on advancing a new facilities master plan and is poised for an exceptional year celebrating the Apollo 11 mission’s 50th anniversary. Glover, who has more than 25 years of communications and marketing experience, will be responsible for the center’s overall communications strategy, public relations, marketing, marketing sponsorship and partnerships, website, social media and crisis communications. He comes from The Florida Azuarium, where he was vice president of communications and marketing. “Richard brings a wealth of strategic communications and crisis communications experience with proven results supporting major capital campaigns,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO of the nonprofit. “He will be a key part of realizing the center’s new facilities master plan and leading the communications strategy to support planning for a future capital campaign.”