Bay Area Houston Magazine November 2020 by Bay Group Media

MADE

AMERIC A

GOD

TRUST

BAYAREAHOUSTONMAG.COM

November 2020

A higher level of care

N OVE M B ER 2 0 2 0

features 15

Dental Health

Fall Beauty Items

Resident Publishes Novel Spies Like Us

Exploration Green Receives Grant

HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake

Coronavirus: How Did We Get Here?

Gulf Coast Mariner Fishing

The Best Bites of the Bay

President Amber Sample

Marais On The Bayou

Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry

Texas BBQ and benefits, too

Bay Brew

Totally Bayish

Rick at Nite

ON THE COVER HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake Hospital is located at 500 W. Medical Center Blvd, Webster, TX 77598 Chairman Rick Clapp

Editor Alisa Star Vice President & Creative Director Brandon Rowan Sales & Marketing Jason Allcorn Amber Sample Bill Sloan Alisa Star Robyn Weigelt

By League City’s L. Russell Records $750,000 for continued creation of amenities A higher level of community care Also a word on the vaccine, page 27 Fall fishing: no more storms! Restaurant and entertainment guide Conquering the storms Bryan and Tina Marie Bobb Americano Cafe and Art of Coffee The Bay Patio Bar By Rick Clapp

44 Education CCISD breaks ground on groundbreaking school 46

Food & Wine Chicken Cordon Bleu and Seafood Gumbo

columns

Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586 Earth, The Solar System www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com r.clapp@baygroupmedia.com

281.474.5875

46 12

Blaine’s favorites

41 Dogish Bay Area Houston dog owners

Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Michael Gos Heather Smith Alisa Star Xander Thomas Photography Mary Alys Cherry MoonBridge Media NASA

Bringing bright smiles even in dark times

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

Movers and Shakers

Rhythms on the Bay

Clear Lake Chatter

In Wheel Time

Texas Meditations

Dewan Clayborn Following live music around the Bay Lunar Rendezvous Festival plans dining night Holiday road The man code

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

DENTAL HEALTH

Bringing Bright smiles even in dark times generosity and his artistry and his brilliance at what he does,” Preston said. He says that he is happy to have Dr. Noie as part of his life, and that he will now be a life-long patient because of everything he has done to help. He will be getting his implants in very soon, and says he feels like he is in very capable hands. “I feel comfortable knowing I’ll not be awake, and that he’s the one performing this,” Preston said, “I have no anxiety about that.” Preston remains optimistic about his circumstances, and despite the attack, doesn’t hold any animosity; he was a victim of someone’s delusions as much as D was. His passion in what he does is very clear, and is even clear to his Dentist. “He [Dr. Noie] keeps telling me I’m his hero, but I keep telling him that he is definitely my hero.”

By Xander Thomas

ost people don’t really think too much about going to work. We do it almost every day; you go in and do what you need to in order to pay your bills. It’s unlikely, for most of us, that anything extremely traumatic will affect us in the work place, especially not a violent attack, military professions excluded. Unfortunately for Preston Witt, this is exactly what he had to endure just a few months back in December. “He seemed a little agitated so I kept asking what was wrong and he kept saying ‘nothing, nothing, I just want to speak with you,’” Preston said, recalling the moment of the attack. Preston is the chief services officer for Harmony House in Houston, which focuses on helping homeless people get off of the street and live a better life. One particular young man that he was helping, which will be called D, was suffering a much more severe mental condition than what he had been diagnosed. One Monday morning, D had been eager to speak with Preston but this took an unfortunate turn for Preston. “He does suffer from schizophrenia and putting him in his apartment had escalated that,” Preston said. “He began hearing voices, so basically his voices said that they needed to address the issue with me.” Preston, knowing something

Preston was severely injured during the attack.

Preston Witt, actual patient of Dr. Noie.

was wrong from the beginning, convinced D to let him get a mediator and had called 911. “The cop asked if I was in immediate danger and I said possibly, because I didn’t know at that point.” Preston says that as soon as he set the phone down, D was in his face. He tried to run back into his office, but D had already begun to attack him. “He had hit me in the bridge of my nose,” Preston said. “He knocked me to the ground and started beating my face with his fists.” Preston’s jaw was broken in seven places, all of the bottom teeth were fractured, and some were just lying loose in the bottom of his mouth. “I was fortunate in that I had a plate in the top of my mouth at the time, which I was told by the

physician was paramount in him not crushing my face,” he said. His lower mandible was so severely damaged that he had to have exterior surgery to correct it, along with having fragments that couldn’t heal being removed. Preston’s story has gained recognition through coverage on channel 13 News and afterwards, multiple oral surgeons stepped up to offer help to get his once beautiful smile back up to snuff. “I interviewed with all of them, and Dr. Noie was just the right person,” he said. He is still currently fighting through his oral stresses, but has high hopes that by the end of the year, he will be brandishing his new smile. “He really designed my teeth, redesigned my mouth, and I’m just so gracious because of his

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.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Movers &Shakers Name: Dewan Clayborn

Occupation: President and CEO of The League City Regional Chamber of Commerce and Brand Ambassador for Overflow Season Hometown: Little Rock, Ark. Current home: Houston Family: The Clayborn family My favorite kind of books: Anything motivational or about business and chamber of commerce matters

Someone I’d like to meet: God. I am a Christian and very much a man of God

If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: Bob Harvey, CEO and president of the Greater Houston Partnership

My favorite meal is: Chitterlings As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: Michael Jordan You’ll never catch me: Being unproductive

My favorite performers are: Michael Jackson and Beyonce

The thing that bugs me the most is: Inconsistent people

I like to spend my leisure time: Playing basketball and other sports, and in general working out

My favorite movie is: Love & Basketball

If I could travel any place, I’d go to: Africa, it is the motherland after all

Few people know: I was an All American basketball player growing up and I thought I would go to the NBA until I stopped growing in sixth grade

Lakewood hosts the 2020 DF95 Texas Championship

L Camille will Steal your Heart! Coquettish Camille has a heartstopping smile accented by her wonderful floppy ears. Like any self-respecting southern belle, she knows how to reel you in. She will also use her wiles on her yard mates, with lots of easy going play moves. All the male dogs are drooling for the chance to share her yard! While she loves her yard time, she told us she really wants a comfortable couch or bed on which to curl up. It would be perfect if she could share it with a forever family. She will gladly watch television with you and is a sucker for any romance. Camille believes in happily ever after and hopes you will be her Prince Charming and family. Bay Area Pet Adoptions is closed except by appointment due to Covid 19, but you can fill out an application on our website www. bayareapetadoptions.org. Once approved, you will receive a phone call to set up an appointment so that you can meet and get to know each other. If you have any questions you can call us any day except Wednesday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 281-339-2086.

akewood Yacht Club

hosted its second DF95 Texas Championship Oct 3-4. “The weather was ideal for the two-day event that had participants from across Texas racing their radio-controlled sailboats in the club’s Inner Harbor,” said Regatta Chairman and LYC member Kevin Hayes. Local competitor Chris Macaluso took the top spot in this year’s event against more than 30 racers, nine of which were LYC members. Principal Race Officer Fred Rocha was on-hand to lend his extensive experience, and LYC and the race management team did a fantastic job adhering to the CDC, state, local, and U.S. Sailing COVID-19 guidelines. The club hosted racers, members and guests to

Congrats to Texas Artisan on their first anniversary! The League City shop at 2800 Marina Bay Dr. is full of practical indulgent offerings, including custom jewelry, and unique treasures you won’t find elsewhere.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

live entertainment and a poolside meal and cocktails on Saturday night. LYC’s youth sailing program benefited from the $3,340 given to them as a result of raffling off a DF95 sailboat this past weekend. This year’s DF95 Texas Championship was organized by Bay Access Sailing Foundation and sponsored by Black River Racing and Pelican Insurance. DragonFlite 95 is the fastest-growing RC onedesign class internationally; strict rules are enforced that all boats are identical. Last year the Galveston Bay area grew by more than 30 members, and it continues to grow at a swift pace. If you’re considering getting into the great sport of radio-controlled sailboat racing, visit the Dragon Flite website at radiosailing.net.

Bay Area Houston Magazine president Rick Clapp offers congratulations to Emmeline Dodd on her brand new Chevy Corvette from Norman Frede Chevrolet. Since 1968, Norman Frede has been serving Houston and Bay Area customers with exceptional customer service. Visit them online at fredechevrolet.com or in person at 16801 Feather Craft Ln.

[ BAY ALIVE ]

Photography bY: GH ANDREW

Wake Zone live at T-Bone Tom’s

By Patty & GH Andrew

t’s November and the warm

nights can still grace Galveston Bay. As we enjoy the cool evening breeze or an afternoon wind, there is live music in the air. And who is rocking the waves? No other but the dynamic and energetic Wake Zone!

WAKE ZONE – Wake Zone has been

electrifying local venues with their vibrant sound and spot-on tunes for over three years. Chris Hess, guitar wizard and group founder, has brought together some of the best local talent to create sizzling covers that weave infectious pleasure throughout their set. He pulled in Chris Easley to play a booming bass just as he does for the church

band they play in together. Chris Kidwell, another guitar aficionado, is a second-generation musician from this area with roots in church and school music. George Swann, student at the U of H Moore School of Music, pulls out a saxophone, keyboard, and percussion, each with ample ease, to form new layers of sound. His dad, Kirk Swann, keeps them all together with the compelling pulse and bounce of his powerful drums. And then, there’s Jenni Hess. This lead singer, with a smile as wide as Texas, brings a vibrant and sassy edge to these masters of rock-androll. She matches the charisma of the other members of Wake Zone and raises it to new heights of glory. Jenni draws you in with her voice and keeps you there with the sparkle

in her eyes and the sexy flair of her presence. What really grabs the audience about Wake Zone is that they are genuinely having fun! They have a great time making great music, and it shows. They burn up three guitars in Christopher Cross’ “Ride Like The Wind.” They roll in like the morning fog and then burn it off quick in “Born on a Bayou” by Creedence Clearwater. Wake Zone dips into the genius of Ray Wiley Hubbard and Stevie Ray Vaughn before shooting you into the pop world anthem, “She’s Still the One,” each with its own touch of their magic. Another musician in the audience remarked, “They don’t know how good they really are.”

Wake Zone sees themselves as a live juke box. They like playing things that people haven’t heard in a while, having a little something for everyone. They will admit that they start rehearsing one song that quickly morphs into something else. Wake Zone keeps it fresh by adding two to three new songs per show, a big ask with big results. They aren’t afraid to venture into new takes on standards to catch listeners off guard and have them begging for more. Run, Run, Run to see Wake Zone the next chance you get. Follow them on Facebook or at www. wakezoneband.com. They are ready to light up your night at private functions or live venues. Wake Zone invites you to join in the fun!

Dance with Wake Zone at their next gig! www.wakezoneband.com

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

two bottles of premium wine, swag bags, table bar service and a custom centerpiece. Centers for Disease Control social distancing restrictions will be observed. Cocktail attire is suggested. Tickets may be purchased at www. lunarrendezvous.org/tickets.php

BAHEP cancels Holiday Party

Lunar Rendezvous Festival plans Dining Night on Dec. 7

MARY ALYS CHERRY

Mandie McMillan, Lunar Rendezvous Festival Dining Night chairman

THE LUNAR Rendezvous Festival may have been postponed until next year due to COVID-19, but not all of it. After much thought, festival officials excitedly announced they will hold their annual Dining

Night this year – on Monday, Dec. 7 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Marais at 2015 FM 517 Road E in Dickinson. Dining Night Chairman Mandie McMillan invites the community to join the fun. Aside from a surf and turf dinner, activities will include a live and silent auction, raffle, and live art painting by local artist Debi Starr. Funds raised at Dining Night and other festival events help provide community-based support including scholarships for higher education, youth development and education programs, and funding for the arts and historical preservation in the Bay Area Houston/NASA area. Tickets for general admission are $100 and include open seating, dinner and two drink tickets for house beer or wine. $1,500 will reserve a VIP table (three available) for 10, which will include reserved seating, dinner,

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

BAY AREA HOUSTON Economic Partnership Executive Committee members have decided to cancel this year’s Holiday Party, usually held in December, and reschedule BAHEP’s 2021 Quasar Banquet, moving it from January until sometime in August. Both events draw several hundred members and guests. Membership Director Harriet Pilgrim promised to let us know as soon as a new date is established. “Given the circumstances, we believe this is the best decision for all of us,” she said.

Dennis Paul adds fun to campaign RUNNING FOR OFFICE is a tough job, as any candidate will tell you. But State Rep. Dennis Paul has found a way to add a little enjoyment -- he holds a barbecue each year and invites many of his friends and supporters. At first he was a little hesitant this year with the COVID-19 virus rampant but decided on the Landoldt Pavilion over at Clear Lake Park where there is enough room for folks to keep the required social distance and still enjoy themselves. The 5th annual barbecue Oct. 11 turned out to draw the biggest turnout ever and even included a silent auction. Campaign Manager Adrienne Sun and her husband Dr Vissett

Sun joined Dennis and his wife Eliza in welcoming the crowd that included State Sen. Larry Taylor, Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman, League City Mayor Pat Hallisey, Friendswood Mayor Mike Foreman, and Webster Councilwoman Andrea Wilson, plus the man who held the legislative post before Dennis – the Hon. John Davis. They had hardly had time to say hello when in walked Carl Joiner, Scott Rainey and his wife, Martha Bowles, Tom Diegelman, Randall Ashby, Garth and Jean Walker, Daniel J.C. Copps III, Joe and Peggy Schrodi, Danny and Judge Holly Williamson, Mark Hesse, Rick Clapp, William and Lily Ling, Dale and Elizabeth Painter, Skeeter Braun and Roger Nylin. Quickly followed by Jim and Shirley Dannenbaum, Brian Freedman, Pat and Wendell Wilson, Chris Burke, Barry Goodman, David Eastwood, Andrew and Kathy Ching, Linda and Maria Chong, Dr. Charles Zarinkelk, Damon Brotherton, the Richard Tomlinsons, Gil Zarinkelk, Walt Sass, Todd Thurber, Mary Corbin, Marc Schneider, Mark Rush and several dozen more who Dennis thanked profusely for all the love and support he has received.

Bay Area Houston Magazine Chairman Rick Clapp, center, has a hug for State Sen. Larry Taylor, right, and State Rep. Dennis Paul, as he arrives at Rep. Paul’s 5th annual barbecue Oct. 11 in Clear Lake Park.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Blaine’s Favorite Fall Beauty Items when the weather is a little more harsh on the skin. This incredible cream is perfect if you have dry skin that need restoring. It is super hydrating and moisturizing and also softens and soothes dehydrated skin. It consists of beneficial ingredients such as, avocado, sunflower, sesame, hazelnut, and jojoba oils. www.luckycatbeauty.com Blaine Beauty - Queen Faux Lashes $25

“Our best seller, the ‘Queen’ faux lashes are Korean silk and are light weight, reusable, cruelty-free, and customizable.” By Blaine Ochoa

s the Texas weather

cools down and we start preparing for the holidays, don’t forget to keep your skin-care and makeup routine in check. You want to make sure you continue to have healthy, glowing skin this season and stay extra hydrated and moisturized due to the colder weather. Also, it’s fun to incorporate new colors and makeup trends into your beauty routine. This fall season highlights rich bronze shadows and deep berry colors sure to spice up your look. These are my favorite beauty items for the fall, meant to help you stay hydrated, glowing, and sparkling all season long.

Misty Rockwell Cosmetics Blush Compact in Polly $22.50

Misty Rockwell is the official Miss Texas USA makeup sponsor and is the owner of Misty Rockwell Cosmetics. I am obsessed with Misty’s sophisticated and timeless makeup line. Her products are designed to enhance the natural beauty of each client. Her Blush Compact in Polly is a perfect shade to wear this fall season. The blush is a striking, rich pink berry color that gives a beautiful soft finish on the cheeks and lasts all day long. www.mistyrockwellcosmetics.com

makeup brand that specializes in human colors and bringing to light the uniqueness that is inside each one of us. The color palettes that are created by Ellis Faas are like non other. I love the Ellis Lights eye highlighters. They create an illusion of metallic eyes, and the texture appears moist while being perfectly dry with a smooth finish. The colors are also full of sparkle but do not contain glitter. I highly recommend wearing one of their eye popping shadows, perfect for special occasions and holiday parties. www.ellisfaas.com “I see makeup as a way to express how you want to feel or want to portray yourself that day, and if that is in sync with your personality, then I think it’s beauty.” - Ellis Faas

Marc Harvey Beauty

MySkincAir Organics Mask Relief Oxygen Mist $10

Lucky Cat Beauty

Hydrating Cream Extreme $42 Based in Houston, Texas, celebrity makeup artist and owner of Lucky Cat Beauty, Aubrie Layne is an expert in the beauty industry. This is one of Aubrie’s favorite products and is perfect for the fall and winter season,

Ellis Faas Cosmetics Ellis Lights E303 $37.65

Based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Ellis Faas is a cruelty-free, luxury

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

Celebrity and professional makeup artist, Marc Harvey is the king of beauty in Houston, Texas. He owns Marc Harvey Beauty Cosmetics and also created his own organic and botanical based airbrush cosmetics line. His Mask Relief Oxygen Mist is a game changer, especially during this time of COVID-19. The mist features natural antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredients. It is great for all skin types and will give your skin healing, relief, hydration, and a sense of well being while wearing your daily protective mask. www.marcharveybeauty.com

Blaine Beauty

Queen Faux Lashes $25 I am thrilled to announce I launched my own cosmetics line called, Blaine Beauty, LLC in 2020. Being the reigning Miss Houston USA and having been submerged in the beauty industry for over a decade, I have developed a love and passion for, and have become knowledgable, of the beauty and wellness industry. I wanted to create a brand that consists of luxury products, is inclusive, and helps women and men to feel their most confident and look their most beautiful. Our best seller, the ‘Queen’ faux lashes are Korean silk and are light weight, reusable, cruelty-free, and customizable. They have large volume and create a beautiful glam effect. The ‘Queen’ lashes are perfect for a night out, photo shoots, or holiday parties to come. Also, %10 of Blaine Beauty sales goes back to international child relief efforts. www.blainebeauty.com

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

League City’s L. Russell Records publishes novel SPIES LIKE US Bay Area Houston resident L. Russell Records has just published the first in a series of spy-thriller novels.

his League City resident of over

20 years is a former Air Force officer, a former business owner, and a long-time business consultant. He is a graduate of the US Air Force Academy and MIT. He is a Past Commodore of the Waterford Yacht Club. He wrote this book from the standpoint of having worked extensively in China in the early 1980’s, and coordinating with the CIA on Chinese capabilities and intentions. This first book, titled “SPIES LIKE US” deals with the issue of global human-sex trafficking and how a Texas businessman, an ex-Naval Intelligence officer, Kirby Calloway, and the father of two boys, uncovers the global ring while working for the President of Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria. When he is discovered, the ringleaders, a cabal of globalist criminal bosses, try to take out his family now living in Pocasset, MA. and his team in Abuja. He and his friend Katanga, a loyal CIA agent, and his French-American lover Claire must escape Nigeria through Zurich and Rotterdam to bring the evidence back after two of his assigned CIA analysts are killed. They fight their way home through several vicious attacks and return to American soil after a daring mid-night sea rescue

planned and executed by the sons. The book is now available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble in hard- and paperback. A Kindle version is on the way. Book signings are now being planned, with the first one to be held at the newly-reopened Railean

“SPIES LIKE US deals with the issue of global human-sex trafficking and how a Texas businessman, an ex-Naval Intelligence officer, Kirby Calloway, and the father of two boys, uncovers the global ring while working for the President of Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria.” Distillery in San Leon on Thursday, Nov. 5th, from 6-8 p.m., the next one at Sundance Grill in Kemah on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 6-8 p.m., and Pomodoro’s in League City on Dec. 10th from 6-8 p.m. Bring your book to be signed, or a limited

number of paperback books will be available for sale at $20 and hardback books at $28. Snacks will be available at each signing. Come and meet the author and hear his vision for this and upcoming books. Check out his Facebook page.

League City celebrating completion of $50 Million in improvement projects

eague City is celebrating the completion of an important milestone—the investment of over $50 million in Capital Improvement Projects across the city during Fiscal Year 2020. Included in the $50 million investment is over 26 completed projects including the new Fire Station No.6 and the Animal Care and Adoption Center. “This achievement reflects on the dedication of various departments working together to invest in League City’s infrastructure by maintaining streets, improving mobility, drainage, and the City’s water and sewer system, as well as the enhancement and addition of city services and facilities,” League City Manager John Baumgartner said.

League City motorist shot near FM 646

male victim is hospitalized after being shot while driving his vehicle in the 2400 block of FM 646 in League City. On Thursday, Oct. 16, at approximately 1:16 a.m., the League City Police Department responded to a call of gunshots heard in the Bay Colony area of League City. Officers responded and found an 18-year-old man in the 2800 block of Bay Creek Drive with an apparent gunshot wound to the head. The victim was alert and conscious, explaining to officers that he had been shot by an unknown suspect while driving his car on FM 646. The victim was transported to the hospital as League City Police detectives began on-scene investigating. Anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact League City Police at 281-332-2566.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

Exploration Green receives additional $750,000 Grant

he Texas Parks and Wildlife

Department has selected Exploration Green to receive an additional grant of $750,000 for continued creation of amenities such as hike and bike trails and nature area signage. This is the fourth TPWD grant awarded to Exploration Green as additional phases are brought online. The former Clear Lake City golf course area of nearly 200 acres was purchased by the CLCWA for flood control purposes, but they had a vision for it to be much more. Town hall meetings to determine what residents would like to see resulted in a Master Plan that included hike and bike trails for health improvement, sport practice fields for recreation, water quality improvement from wetland grasses, trash collection design to control debris, bird habitat islands, and use of native trees/grasses/wildflowers to bring it back to a natural setting was the outcome of the community involvement. Due to a large number of citizens who wanted to take an active part in development

and implantation of the master plan, a 401-c-3 non-profit called Exploration Green Conservancy was created and Exploration Green became a joint government/citizen project. John Branch, president of the Clear Lake City Water Authority Board of Directors, said “the volunteers of the Conservancy have been an integral part of the success we have seen.” According to Branch, the Conservancy has taken the lead role in fundraising through grant applications for the recreation and environmental amenities, coordination of all the volunteer efforts such as tree and wetland grass nurseries and planting, and special event planning. Frank Weary, chairman of the Conservancy, and all the other volunteers have done a fantastic job enhancing the quality of life in the community, Branch said. Over 9,500 volunteer hours have been recorded by the Conservancy, and the need will continue over the next three years as the final phases are completed. Branch and Weary are quick to acknowledge the power of local government and citizens working together to solve problems. Exploration Green has been recognized for its innovative thinking by not only area and state entities, but has also been recognized by FEMA as a national model for local flood control resilience and received the first ever National Award for Disaster Resilience in 2018 from the National Wildlife Federation and Allied World Assurance.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

CORONAVIRUS: HOW DID WE GET HERE?

APOCALYPSE

By Victor Kumar-Misir, M.D. imeddrs.vm@gmail.com FAMILY, CONTACTS, CO-WORKERS

You decide! Level failures? We the people?

n 1948 Winston Churchill

reminded the British House of Commons: “Those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.” Mutant microbe spillover from animals to humans has intermittently devastated humanity and altered geopolitical history. Recently, in 2002, a DARS virus spillover from a civet cat to a single guest in a Hong Kong hotel, led to a global pandemic. Similarly, the 2013 MERS virus originated from camels in the Middle East. In 2014, a mutant Ebola virus spillover from bats in a hollow tree infecting a playful toddler, led to worldwide panic, and illustrated the lack of preparedness.

WORKING TOGETHER WE CAN SURVIVE THE PANDEMIC regardless of literacy, language, Fortunately, their low infectivity location or level of income, by spared mankind. But not so for the utilizing available informationdreaded and inevitable, highlyinfectious, killer H1N1 flu virus, gathering, and dispensing technology. which killed 10 million people in This varies, from on-site protected personnel to contact-free interactive 1918. Coronavirus? computer telephony, websites, mobile The only quick, cost-efficient and and video conferencing. clinicallyGraphics effective way to combat, by Brandon Rowan - applications rowangraphics@gmail.com contain and control the spread Database development must be of a mutant spillover is by vector proactive, including surveillance of control via Microbial Early Detection “cured” cases and close contacts, surveys of contaminated communities and Assisted Medical Isolation (MEDAMI). and screening of the general population in at-risk locations, e.g., To be successful, Vanguard levels must match the Victim, Vector and borders. Vulnerable levels, and be equipped Collected, digitized, real-time, location and clinical presentation with co-operative, coordinated datadata, distributed among the vanguard driven responses. levels then enables mentoring and Data collection must be all-inclusive,

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

standardized database-driven decisionmaking: Case-specific clinical meducation, medication and medical isolation. Community-specific strategic deployment of scarce physician, physical and fiscal resources. Country-specific personal and public preventive and curative health policies, protocols and procedures, as well as research to ensure best practices in therapy, protection, decontamination, waste management and cross-cultural communication. There is no doubt that modern medicine integrated with today’s telecommunication technology, can be innovatively organized at every level to: “stop the viral spiral.”

The next steps ahead for COVID-19: antibodies, herd-immunity and vaccines

s time has progressed,

we’ve learned more about COVID-19. And not all of the developments have been encouraging. “But there’s hope, thanks to great work, hustle and collaboration of scientists on a global scale,” says Dr. Annamaria Macaluso Davidson, associate vice president of medical operations at Memorial Hermann Medical Group. For those without a medical degree, she explains terms and expectations for antibodies, vaccines and herd immunity—and how scientists are fighting COVID-19. Q. What are antibodies? Antibodies are proteins produced by our body to fight infection. These warriors surround and neutralize the coronavirus that threatens to infect our cells. Should the virus slip through and you fall ill, some of these soldiers will guard you post-recovery. They can call in reinforcements, giving us immunity. “For the most part, if you’ve had COVID-19, you have protection in the short term,” Dr. Davidson

says. According to Dr. Davidson, studies suggest immunity lingers at lease three months—but antibodies don’t serve as a get-out-of-jail-free card. “Researchers don’t know yet whether it will last months or years longer,” she says. Q. How are vaccines made? Many vaccines isolate and deactivate genetic pieces of the virus. Others deliver a low dose of a live virus. According to Dr. Davidson, either approach will awaken your body’s warriors, or immune response, to slay the assailing virus. “There are more than 160 vaccines in development for the coronavirus” she says. Q. What are the steps to make a vaccine? Creating a safe, effective vaccine involves four stages. Scientists start with preclinical testing, in which vaccines are tried on mice, rats or other animals. Only then do scientists move to phase one, in which a small number of volunteers —as few as 30—receive the vaccine to determine safety and dosage levels. Phase two expands that to

hundreds of men, women, children and the elderly to reveal immune response and side effects in a broad population. The final Dr. Annamaria Macaluso Davidson, associate VP phase looks of medical operations at efficacy in at Memorial Hermann a large scale, Medical Group. double-blind, placebo-controlled study, in which some participants get the vaccine and others don’t. To avoid biases, neither participants nor researchers know who’s getting the vaccine and who isn’t—till afterward. “Researchers see whether the vaccine produces enough of an immune response to control the disease,” she says. If a vaccine is found to be safe and effective in half of recipients, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approves it, and then it goes to market—and to battle. To speed the process, some studies are combining phases one and two, or phases two and three, Dr. Davidson explains. “The timeline is much faster than usual,” she says. At least one entrant in the viral sweepstakes, Moderna, reached

phase three in late July, with people across the nation, including Houston, participating. That vaccine is delivered in two doses, taken four weeks apart. Q. What is a realistic timeline for having a vaccine? Usually vaccines take at least a year and a half to reach the marketplace, but Dr. Davidson believes worldwide efforts will lead to approved vaccines by early 2021, and possibly as soon as this December. Q. What is herd immunity, and can it be achieved? When enough people in a population are resistant to or have immunity to a virus, that’s called herd immunity. At that threshold, even those without individual immunity have a level of protection because the virus can’t be spread as easily. That may be due to a vaccine. Q. What should people do while awaiting a vaccine? “Stay as healthy as you can,” Dr. Davidson says. Exercise, eat a healthy diet, sleep well, continue to practice social distancing and wear masks.” The information in this article was accurate as of August 25, 2020.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Fall Fishing: No More Storms! By Capt. David C. Dillman galvestonbaycharterfishing.com 832-228-8012

hy do

bad things happen to good people? This is a question that is asked often. The answer is there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t one. People will endure all types of difficulties through life. God gives us Faith and Hope during these times. Galveston was spared and just grazed by hurricane Delta. Not so much for our neighbors to the East. Louisiana took a direct hit from another hurricane. Winds in Galveston and the bay system blew anywhere from 35-55 mph. Luckily, the storm surge was minimal with little impact, so was the rainfall totals. I pray that this will be the last storm for the Gulf Coast and we can move on with fall weather.

Gerry Monzingoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with a tough Galveston bay redfish.

Fishing for trout just started to pick up prior to the hurricane. Redfish have been dominating the catches. Like I have always said, trout follow the food and the shrimpers finally started catching good numbers of live shrimp. This pattern in the middle of Galveston bay should continue until we get some cooler weather. What to expect going into November? In past years, November can produce great catches of

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

The boys get a triple hook up on reds with Capt. Dillman.

trout, redfish and flounder. Water temperatures have been cooling along with the air the past month. Fish have been caught lately at a variety of depths, anywhere from 3-10 feet. Live shrimp fished under a popping cork shallow, or freelining just off the bottom in deeper water produces the best results. I look for this fish to begin their move from deep water once we can get a few more substantial cold fronts. When will

that be? Hopefully soon so we can say goodbye to the 2020 hurricane season! One last note, one picture with this article, Gerry, is a man that has fished with me twice this year. He is a double transplant survivor that God gave a second chance. Get out and enjoy all of what God giving all Glory to Him. God Bless everyone and keep those to our East in your prayers.

Holiday Road By Don Armstrong

h e a n n ua l h o l i day

pilgrimage to Aunt Mary’s is upon us, albeit COVID modified this year, and you’re not sure if a sedan or SUV is in your future. We recently had a chance to drive a couple of contenders that should be on your shopping list.

Toyota Highlander

The Highlander name has been around almost 20-years and the completely redesigned 2020 model gets high marks for comfort, styling, and purpose. From the attractive grille to the highly sculpted sides and curvaceous rear-end, this Highlander can easily compete with some of the more upscale brands. Wheel choices are numerous and may even help determine which of the 5 trim levels you ultimately choose to park in your garage. The interior is well thought out. Control panels are all in the right places, the infotainment system is easy to learn and use, and soft-touch materials are designed for longevity and eye-appeal. Power is generated by a 295-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 and delivered to the front or all-wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Behind the wheel, power is smooth and predictable and the ride is almost luxurious. There is a sense of security

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

in this crossover that will have you rethinking prior purchases. Years of refinement have perfected what has become one of the most popular SUV’s in America. Starts at $34,600.

Hyundai Sonata

Like so many of today’s SUV’s, sedans tend to all look the same. And then comes the completely redesigned Hyundai Sonata. Our first impression of the exterior is “sharklike,” a striking departure from the run-of-the-mill, bland sedans being produced in the last 10-years. The big, open-mouth grille, aerodynamic, chrome-framed hood and smooth headlight detail create a sight for sore eyes. The rear valence panel has a striking resemblance to one of Buicks past Riviera designs. We think this Sonata is one for the new-car show-circuit. The interior is just as cutting edge with an oversized infotainment screen atop the dash. Well-placed controls and an informative instrument cluster give the driver a sense of aeronautics. Seating is spot-on, comfortable, and supportive with attention to detail throughout the cabin. Hightech is what this sedan is all about; lane keeping assist, forward collision and auto emergency braking are all standard features. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine, good for 191-horses. It’s connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Hold on to your seat – pricing starts at $23,600.

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Sokols Greek

Sawa

Americano Cafe c

OG Express Masa Sushi

Pappa’s Delta Blues BB’s El Tiempo Preamble

Boondoggles

Mediterraneo

Franca’s Noon & Mirch

r l e a

Opus

l a k e

Scotty’s

Cabo

Sundance

MichiRu

Floyd’s

Crazy Alan’s Bakkhus

g a l v e s t o n

b ay

Skallywag’s

Schafer’s

Ocean Sushi Jackie’s Brickhouse South Shore Grille Red River Cantina

Nobi Las Haciendas

A GUIDE TO THE BEST BITES AND BREWS IN THE BAY

Tookie’s Seafood

Hubcap Grill

888 Chinese Angelo’s Escalante’s

Habanero’s

Chelsea Wine Bar

T-Bone Tom’s Kemah Cafe

Red River BBQ

Gilhooley’s

AMERICAN ASIAN BBQ CAJUN ITALIAN MEDITERR. MEXICAN PUB/FUSION SEAFOOD

Red Oak Cafe

Topwater Grill

Marais

Dickinson BBQ

Gio’s

AMERICAN 1. Jackie’s Brickhouse 1053 Marina Bay Dr, Kemah, TX (832) 864-2459 jackiesbrickhouse.com 2. Red Oak Cafe 6011 W Main St a106, League City, TX (832) 905-3150 redoakcafe.com 3. South Shore Grille 2800 Marina Bay Dr, League City, TX (281) 334-7700 soshoregrille.com 4. T-Bone Tom’s 707 TX-146, Kemah, TX (281) 334-2133 tbonetoms.com 5. Cabo Bar & Grill 2513 NASA Rd. 1, Seabrook, TX (281) 532-2691 caboclearlake.com 6. Hubcap Grill 1918 E NASA Pkwy, Seabrook, TX (281) 339-7116 hubcapgrill.com 7. Opus Bistro & Steakhouse South Shore Blvd, League City, TX (281) 334-5225 opusbistro.net 8. Americano Cafe 2900 E NASA Pkwy Suite 310, Seabrook, TX (281) 957-7830 americanocafe.us ASIAN 1. 888 Chinese 16744 El Camino Real, Houston, TX (281) 990-8888 888chinesetx.com

2. Masa Sushi 977 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (281) 486-9888 masasushitexas.com 3. Michiru Sushi 20911 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 338-9988 michirusushi.com 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 6. Kemah Cafe 1201 TX-146, Kemah, TX (281) 535-9405 kemahcafe.com 7. Oriental Gourmet Express 1354 NASA Road 1, Houston, TX (281) 335-4567 orientalgourmetexpresstogo.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

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

(281) 334-5000 crazyalanswampshack.com

(281) 333-3180 mediterraneomarket.com

2. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood 20760 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 332-7474 floydswebster.com

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

3. BB’s Tex-Orleans 1039 Bay Area Blvd, Webster, TX (281) 767-9644 bbstexorleans.com

4. Sokols Greek Deli & Cafe 2410 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX (281) 286-2989 sokolsgreekcafe.com

4. Marais 2015 FM 517 Rd E, Dickinson, TX (281) 534-1986 I TA L I A N 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. Franca’s Real Italian 1101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX (281) 488-2207 francasrealitalian.com 4. Dan’s Pizza 15148 TX-3, Webster, TX (281) 480-9700 danspizzaco.com MEDITERRANEAN 1. Bakkhus Taverna 605 6th St, Kemah, TX (281) 538-1800 bakkhustaverna.com 2. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe 18033 Upper Bay Rd, Houston, TX

MEXICAN/TEX MEX 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

2. Scotty’s Pub 3202 Marina Bay Dr, League City, TX (281) 339-7474 m o s e s l a www.scottyspubhouston.com 3. Skallywag’s 600 6th St, Kemah, TX (281) 538-8877 4. Boondoggles Pub 4106 E NASA Pkwy, El Lago, TX (281) 326-2739 boondogglespub.com 5. Chelsea Wine Bar 4106 E NASA Pkwy f, El Lago, TX (281) 326-5282 chelseawinebartexas.com

6. Preamble Lounge & Craft House 20801 Gulf Fwy #12, Webster, TX (832) 905-2927 preamblelounge.com S E A F OO D

3. Las Haciendas 1020 W. Nasa Rd 1, Webster, TX 77598 281-557-3500 lashaciendasgrill.com

1. Gilhooley’s Oyster Bar 222 9th St, San Leon, TX 77539 (281) 339-3813

4. Red River Cantina 1911 E Main St Suite A, League City, TX 77573 281-557-8156 redrivercantina.com

2. Tookie’s Seafood 1106 Bayport Blvd, Seabrook, TX (281) 942-9445 tookiesseafood.com

5. Escalante’s Fine Tex-Mex & Tequila 1043 W. Bay Area Blvd, Webster, TX 77598 281-316-6980 escalantes.net

3. Topwater Grill 815 Avenue O, San Leon, TX (281) 339-1232

PUB/BAR/FUSION 1. Nobi Public House 241 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (832) 932-5111 nobipub.com

k e

4. Sundance Grill II 800 Mariners Dr, Kemah, TX (281) 535-5350 sundance-grill.com 5. Schafer’s Coastal Bar & Grille 1002 Aspen Rd, Clear Lake Shores, TX (281) 532-6860 schaferscoastalbarandgrille.com

[BRICK & MORTAR]

Photography bY: GH ANDREW

Marais Conquering

style, he described this change as a good business decision and simply moved on to figure out what to do next. With all his years of restaurant experience at many levels, Keith decided it was time for him to open a restaurant, Dickinson Bar-B-Que. His friends thought he was crazy for him to make such a lifestyle change, but he wanted the challenge of opening his own place. Holly quit her job and came to help while they struggled with this new venture, hoping just to make ends meet. They were working daily, creating a new catering line, and serving some of the best barbeque in the area. That’s how they were discovered by the

chandeliers gracefully sweeping the ceiling. Guests are greeted in the entry way with floor-to-ceiling glass wine lockers. The big doors and glass walls resemble the walk-through windows of Galveston and New Orleans. There are touches of Texas amid the Cajun homage. The Emmite Room, a private, glass walled dining room is named for a prominent Dickinson Family. The lovely Benson’s Bar overlooks the Bayou, Benson’s Gully to be exact, a tribute to the city’s founder. Benson’s also has barstool swings and a saddle chair. Marais opened in April, 2017 on the Thursday before Easter. There was scarce parking available at the

ABC television show, Extreme Home Makeover – Kemah, who used them to cater a function for 1500. Dickinson Bar-B-Que was now on the map. In 2015, rumors were swirling that the owner of the Mexican food restaurant next door to them decided to retire and sell the building. So, they bought it. The Lilley’s weren’t sure what they were going to do with it, but they wanted it to complement their barbecue restaurant. It was time to reinvent again. Marais (pronounced mah-ray) was born out of their love of New Orleans. It was built to look like a very old building with all the charm and character of the French Quarter: custom Bevolo gas lamps in the NOLA Bayou Brick walls. There are fourteen hand-assembled

time and a nervous staff wondered if anyone would come. On Friday night, they served 400 people. Folks continued to come all weekend long. Marais took off. With its upscale menu of Cajun inspired cuisine and excellent wine list, it became a restaurant of destination. The word was spreading and diners were eager to try out this elegant waterfront restaurant, even if they had to park on the street. The Lilley’s negotiated with the Dickinson School District to use their parking lot in off hours for staff and valet parking. Then came August 26th, and the night of Hurricane Harvey. Within days, Keith, Holly, and the staff of both restaurants were all back cleaning, clearing, and planning. Marais reopened Labor Day Weekend, just days after the storm. Marais combined the two restaurants into one building. On allday Mondays and weekday lunches, it hosted Dickinson Bar-B-Que. On nights and weekends, Marais was back. The two staff worked together in the beer and chandelier atmosphere for five months until they could reopen next door in the newly redesigned barbecue restaurant. They also purchased flood-destroyed houses right behind them for demolition and new parking lot. There were doubts. There were setbacks. There were struggles. However, they didn’t lose any employees. Everything was up

The Storms By Patty Andrew

n August 26, 2017, Keith Lilley, owner of the waterfront restaurant Marais on the Bayou in Dickinson, carefully guided his boat toward the second-floor balcony of his barely four-month-old restaurant. Hurricane Harvey dumped 50 inches of rain the night before causing the normally docile Dickinson Bayou to surge feet upwards from its banks, forcing water in all directions through this Galveston County city. From his boat view, Keith could tell that The Plank, the first floor Pirate Bar, was now underwater and totally destroyed. His neighboring restaurant, Dickinson Bar-B-Que & Steakhouse, was immersed in almost five feet of murky liquid mess. As he gingerly stepped into Marais, which ironically means “Bayou,” he noticed the lights were on and the floors were dry. The elegant second floor restaurant had escaped the deluge. His sigh of relief was interrupted by his phone. The Galveston Sherriff’s Department calling to see if Marais could provide food for hungry first responders that

were conducting rescues throughout the area. Without hesitation, Keith put thoughts about his losses aside and began rounding up helpers to prepare meals for others. Once again, it was time to go to work. Keith Lilley started working in restaurants during college as a bartender. His journey shot him quickly to management as he developed multiple restaurants in local and regional areas. Keith, along with wife, Holly, and their two sons, moved across the country several times until he decided it was time to relocate closer to home where he became Vice-President of Operations for Houston’s Café Express in 2003. He remained in the executive suite through several buy-outs until 2009, when as president, a company reorganization forced him out. In true matter-of-fact Keith Lilley

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

and running with more growth, more customers, and more ideas like Sunday Brunch, Live Music, and a New Year’s Eve Party. 2020 was poised to be the big year for Marais. They were on-fire with big dinner crowds, special events, and even all-you-can-eat crawfish at the Plank on Sunday afternoons. Things were looking up for the Lilley’s until they noticed something odd happening around the country. A virus, Coronavirus Disease 2019, was impacting people in China, Europe, and the Northeastern United States. Large cities were closing down. People were sent home to work. Businesses were in jeopardy. And, it was all heading to Texas. Governor Abbott announced a statewide shutdown effective March 19, 2020. All restaurants and bars were closed. Businesses, churches, and schools shuttered their buildings and became virtual entities. Store employees masked up and protection shields sprouted up around the cashiers. It was as if the bayou had risen again to take away everything they had done to survive and conquer the deluge. But, Keith and Holly Lilley knew it wasn’t time to quit. It was time to re-invent who they were and who they needed to be to respond to this latest crisis. The Marais Staff started a delivery service and curbside pick-up using everyone’s help, including the chefs, bartenders, and waiters. They rearranged some dishes so they would travel easier and used their own people to deliver so that things would arrive in good order. What can be done to feed families needing something fast at the end of the day? They created seafood pot pies made in assembly line fashion which sold by the dozens. How can the crawfish boils be continued? They produced Bayou Boils with crab, crawfish, shrimp, potatoes and corn for $35 a box, selling 150 to 200 per day. Plus, when the governor allowed drinks to be delivered or sold curbside, they went by the gallon. So with the help of the government loan program and a little ingenuity, Marais could hold on to staff and their business. Marais has made it through the summer with their socially distanced tables, staff in masks, and employee health screening without closing again. In the Fall 2020, things are coming back again. Guests have adapted. Live music is once again available at The Plank. Plans are moving forward for the adding swings to the Terrace and putting a roof over the Dickinbach Beer Garden. People are coming up the Bayou on jet skis and kayaks to eat dinner. At Marais, their motto is, “Love All – Serve All.” Despite all, Marais triumphs. Like Keith says, “This wouldn’t have been the chosen path, but it’s always better afterwards.” Marais is located at 2015 FM 517 E, Dickinson, Texas.

Tina and Bryan Bobb

Barbecue: it’s a thing of beauty!

Texas BBQ and benefits, too By Rick Clapp

hen you think of

Barbecue and Benefits in the Clear Lake Area, Bryan and Tina Marie Bobb come to the forefront. This dynamic service couple has been raising money for many people and organizations that have come on hard times over the past 15 years. Mr. BBQ is not to be confused with Mr. GQ. Mr. BBQ has been perfecting his cooking craft for over 20 years. Bobb was introduced to cooking and preparing good food when he was a young boy working in the kitchen with his mother, owner of three restaurants. Bryan Bobb followed his passion of BBQing and serving people, raising money for those in need. Recently, Bobb took his skills and noteworthy team to Louisiana to help hurricane survivors. Bobb’s Team includes (but is not limited to): Camyll Pope, Shelby Franks, Jocelyn Robinson, Stephen Mathisen, Gavin Barron, Ricky Aquina, Joel Lorenz, Karen LaRoux, Clint Stewts, Blakely Fagan, Jean Lester, Susan Thornton, Teri Fausto, Mike Moseley, John Barrera, and Bryan Stephens. Special thanks to Guy Rodgers of Jackie’s Brickhouse. The Traveling BBQ Team show mission is to serve the people in need headed to Carlyss, Louisiana to help the unfortunate Hurricane Laura victims. The entire team was totally overwhelmed by what they say in Lake Charles where the surge destroyed the city. The wind and water damage were incredible in the surrounding small towns as well, but they got very little recognition and needed help badly. Bryan Bobb’s Team cooked over 74 pork butts and 80 briskets at

Jackie’s Brickhouse last month to help out those Hurricane Laura survivors. Along with water, condiments, and supplies, Bryan and company delivered all this delicious food to folks in Carlyss, Louisiana, just outside of Lake

Charles. A wonderful woman who owns a catering business arranged to set up camp and served over 2,900 people in one day! The locals were so thankful for the food, help, supplies, waters, and goods that Bryan Bobb’s team brought to Calcasieu County. This BBQ Team has served mouth-watering goodness and raised lots of cash for many in these parts for 15 years and are always eager to help out. The recent event that stands out the most was a fundraiser for Krystal Sheevea, a young waitress who was diagnosed with hip cancer along with being pregnant. Bryan pulled his team together and fed over 400 people at Jackie’s Brickhouse that day. The outcome for Krystal was a blessed one: she beat cancer, had a healthy baby, and put the funds to good use to pay medical bills and expenses. Bryan and Tina Marie Bobb BBQ have follow up missions to Louisiana to deliver clothing, children’s furniture and bedding, hygiene products, and other goods. Other plans include a furniture drive to benefit Hurricane Laura and Delta victims. Let’s all give Bryan Bobb and his BBQ team with all his merry men and women a Five Star Salute for their efforts. God Bless!

HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS EVENT/FUNDRAISER SATURDAY NOV. 21, 2020 • 11 AM - 3PM JACKIE’S BRICKHOUSE, KEMAH, TX BREAKTHECHAINStx@Gmail.com for more information

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

AMERICANO CAFE & ART OF COFFEE

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

By Rick Clapp

The entire crew and friends at Bakkhus Taverna.

Rick Clapp with Jacqueline Stilwell and Wendy Shaw.

Tara Calvert with daughters Sarah Davis and Savannah Calvert.

V O T E D T H E B E S T : C E L E B R AT I N G T H E B E S T OF T H E B AY

Abe’s Cajun

BB’s Tex Orleans

Pappas Delta Blues

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

Dr. Noie - Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

Lakewood Yacht Club

Red River Cantina

Frenchie’s

FALL FROLICKING CONTINUES!

Cindy White, April Quinones of Fairway Mortgage, Phil Newton of Waters Edge and Rick Clapp of Bay Area Houston Magazine enjoy The Bay Patio Bar.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

discussions that really struck me. Guys who might ordinarily be reserved were not only talking, but laughing and having fun. I decided when I got back to Houston, I wanted to be a part of that kind of a group every morning. I’d name it the “Old Codger’s Club” in honor of an ancient organization in Britain. The problem is, those kinds of things just don’t seem to happen in suburbia. That is our loss.

By Michael W. Gos

Uvalde, Texas

few years ago, I spent most of a

summer in Uvalde. It is a small town on the south end of Hill Country, and from my perspective, it is perfectly located. It is about 5 hours from Big Bend and less than an hour to Bandera, Garner State Park, and my favorite restaurant, The Laurel Tree in Utopia. But what I like best about Uvalde is the atmosphere and lifestyle the people living there have created for themselves. One example is a business that really tickles my funny bone—

something I’ve never seen anywhere else. The Bottle ‘n Bag boasts “liquor and guns.” If they had bait and tackle, it would be a country boy’s dream. Their cigar collection is pretty good too! But by far, the thing I was most impressed with about the town was what I call “The Breakfast Club.” During my time in Uvalde, I regularly frequented a restaurant for breakfast. Every morning I would see a group of 10-12 men who gathered for coffee, breakfast, or both. The “meeting” usually lasted about three hours with members coming and going as their work day dictated. The retirees generally stayed the whole time. I loved the comradery, but it was the

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

My wife is not only one of the smartest people I’ve ever met but she is always looking to learn something new about anything and everything. One thing she is fascinated by is the way men talk to each other. She says it is so different from the ways of women that it is hard for her to fathom. Through study and perseverance, she has started to make inroads into our rules of communication, what topics are allowed and which ones we never speak of. She has figured out that guys almost never talk about “feelings.” And we will absolutely never ask another guy, “Do you want to talk about it?” If he wanted to do that, it would already be happening. She has a long way to go in deciphering the code, but with diligence, she’s making great progress. I think an understanding of men’s discussion, however, requires more than just an understanding of the unwritten, but strict, codes of conduct. While the rules remain intact throughout our lives, our conversation topics and venues change as

we age and sometimes these changes are hard to understand. In our teens and twenties, let’s face it, we are pretty silly. We talk about things like girls and what pick-up lines work best. (Mine was “Your butt’s too small.” The most common response I got: “I love you!”). During this period, our gatherings tend to happen after work, sometimes till late into the night, in college dorm rooms, and in bars. Needless to say, that latter is a situation ripe for trouble, and trouble often ensues. In our 30s, conversation switches to our newly acquired houses and families and how we need to handle the chores, inside and out. The venue is no longer regular. There are still a few after-work bar meetings, but for the most part, we are so busy with life that we either talk at work or at occasional parties. By our 40s, bars are mostly a thing of the past and the topics are mostly financial—how to improve our monied positions. But of course, women could still be on the table, especially as the first round of divorces progresses. In our 50s, we start to settle down. We talk about work, how pleased or disappointed we are with the kids, and what we are doing to make our way to retirement. Frankly, we get a bit . . . boring. When retirement finally comes, the venue has changed to breakfast and when we get together, we are truly a bunch of old codgers who sit around talking about the weather and telling lies about horses and war. My mother and her siblings used to tell a story that I absolutely loved—a story that I think demonstrates several important aspects of male

interaction. My grandfather (who I never had the honor of meeting) was in his early 30s when his fourth child was born. It was his first son and he was so proud, he wanted to tell everybody. He was just a poor steelworker with very limited English ability, but he saved his pennies, bought cigars and decided to get together with the guys the first chance he got. My grandmother (who I also never met) was in the hospital with the baby. She sent my

Then he left for the clerk’s office. That is how we got my uncle Geno. Needless to say, Grandma was furious, but it was too late. There was nothing she could do about it. Because few women understand the communication code for men, they often think men are cold, unemotional and callous, that we speak in grunts . . . if at all. But turnabout is fair play. Women’s codes and the content of their conversations cause us men to see them as sometimes silly and often rude. (Why do you keep interrupting each other with interjected comments?) I suspect the fact is that neither of those evaluations is even close to reality. It is more a matter of style than substance. What is the trick to deciphering the communication code for men? It affects our conversation in three ways: Strict rules govern what we do, and don’t, talk about and how we approach that dicey ground in between. While the rules remain the same forever, content and venue tend to change as we progress through life. In spite of the rules and limitations that govern our communication, there are still a myriad of ways for us to get into trouble, something we are very good at. Sitting in that restaurant in Uvalde every morning, I got to bask in the reflected warmth of the meetings, but always left extremely jealous I wasn’t a part of it.. I sure wish we had an Old Codgers Breakfast Club here in Clear Lake.

“What is the trick to deciphering the communication code for men?” grandfather on an errand. He was to go to the county clerk in town to file the birth certificate. He took the paper and started off. But on the way, he just “happened” to run into his band of friends at a local bar. Well, the inevitable happened. He passed out cigars, the magic elixir flowed and he told everyone about how he and Grandma had decided to name the boy John, after him, his father and several generations of grandfathers. And the beer kept flowing. A couple of hours later, when the gathering had reached the “I love you, man!” stage, it was getting close to closing time at the clerk’s office, and my grandfather knew he still had an errand to run. He said goodbye to all and then hugged his best friend and told him that he was so important in his life that he was going to name his boy after him.

NOVEMBER 2020 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

[EDUCATION]

Clear Creek ISD breaks ground on a groundbreaking school

lear Creek ISD hosted a

community groundbreaking on Oct. 13, officially commemorating the major rebuild of Clear View High School. New facility groundbreakings are historically held at the very first phase of construction. However, when construction first began in May of this year, the pandemic was at its peak which prevented the District from officially kicking off the project with community guests present. “I think seeing the steel frame of our new school rising behind us makes for an even more exciting moment for everyone who had a hand in this important project,” said CCISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Greg Smith. Smith took time to recognize the CCISD Facility Advisory Committee that was charged with identifying and weighing potential bond projects, like the Clear View High School rebuild, which would ultimately be put to a community

vote, and approved, during the Bond 2017 referendum. He also thanked the CCISD Board of Trustees for supporting the vision for Clear View High and finally, the voters who “agreed that bringing Clear View High School up to 21st Century standards was a need, not a want.” GROUNDBREAKING “I believe that the rebuild of Clear View High School is especially groundbreaking,” he said. “Not just because the original building itself dates back to 1938, and not just because it holds the storied history of our school district as the former Webster High School. It is groundbreaking because starting in about 15 months, the new and beautiful outer, visible layers of this campus will match the heart and soul of this unique high school. Its rebirth will be enjoyed by many students in the years to come.” Clear View High is a school of choice designed to serve the

C o m i n g CCEF to honor Dr. Greg Smith Clear Creek Education Foundation plans to host a new, fun and exciting virtual event from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5 to pay tribute to CCISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, who is retiring. Because of the pandemic, the annual awards presentation and gala, originally scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7, has cancelled. The virtual event will include a silent auction that will run from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4 to noon on Friday, Nov. 6. Chamber slates awards luncheon In lieu of the Annual Chairman’s Ball this year, the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting

academic needs of the secondary at-risk student population in CCISD by a team of dedicated teachers and staff members. Through smaller class sizes, strong support systems, innovative instruction and unique Career and Technical Education programs which lead to job certifications, Clear View High is widely known as a game changer, and to its students, “a place to begin, belong and become.” “I stand here amazed at the tangible, significant and beautiful investment that our Clear Creek ISD citizens have made for current and future generations,” Clear View High Principal Monica Speaks said. “I know with certainty that this display of commitment to each child does not occur everywhere. We understand that this is special and for this we are truly grateful and excited.” KEY FEATURES The Clear View High School rebuild project cost is $45,162,961. Key features include: New facilities, including classrooms and labs, for Career and Technical Education Programs Audio/Video Production Certified Nursing Assistant Cosmetology Welding, a new District-wide program offering in CCISD New multi-purpose commons area with space for performances, presentations and cafeteria service New stage to serve as a black box performance area, classroom space or presentation station to commons New art courtyard New centrally located media center New collaboration spaces and modern classrooms “I’ve come to know just how beloved Clear View High School is

LEADER IN ME Clear View High School is also one of the newest campuses in CCISD to welcome The Leader In Me, a whole-school transformation program. Representatives of program underwriter Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital were also present and recognized at the ceremony. “We can’t wait to see where this program takes our student leaders in their new home,” Smith said. Several students were on hand at the celebration representing their peers and signature Clear View programs and clubs: Emily Hopshire represented The Leader In Me, Aisha Lopez-Mendez represented the Peer Assistance Leadership (PALs), Samantha Hollman represented Interact Club, Yazmine Perez represented the Cosmetology Program, and Blake Seeberger represented the Certified Nursing Assistant Program. The District also thanked PBK Architects, Drymalla Construction Co. and the City of Webster for their collaborative work and support of the major rebuild project. It was announced that the original art deco Clear View High School main entrance will be preserved. A new exterior wall will be added to protect the historic structure until a future purpose is determined. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2021, welcoming students through its new doors in January 2022.

E v e n t s

Higher education a Leadership Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 11 a.m. at is chamber topic South Shore Harbour Resort to honor League City Chamber will 2019-2020 leadership, welcome focus on the State of Higher new leaders and celebrate its Education Monday, Nov. 16 from members. Sponsorships and limited 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Arolfo Civic tickets available. Contact Shari@ Center, 400 W. Walnut St. in League clearlakearea.com for details. City with UHCL President Dr. Ira Blake, San Jac Chancellor Dr. Brenda English themed Hellyer, College of the Mainland festival on tap President Dr. Warren Nichols and St. Paul’s Anglican Church, at Texas A&M at Galveston College 11456 Space Center Blvd. in Clear COO and Vice President Col. Michael Lake, will host Canterbury at the E. Fossum USAFR (Ret.) as speakers. Crossing, an English-themed fall festival, Saturday, Nov. 14, from 11 BAWNC to resume a.m. to 3 p.m., offering tea and luncheon meetings scones, bangers and mash, sausage Bay Area Welcome Neighbor Club and ale (and hamburgers and beans will resume its meetings when to boot), English folk songs and members gather at 10 a.m. at activities with a UK flavor. Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

within our community,” she said. Speaks recognized several special guests in the audience including the parent booster club, the Bay Area Alliance for Youth and Families, Space Center and Seabrook Rotary Clubs and Difference Makers.

Lake Thursday, Nov. 19 to welcome back the talented vocalist, Brenda Guy. Masks and social distancing will be required. For luncheon reservations call Bonnie Rimmel at 281-380-9277. Symphony plans Pops Concert The Clear Lake Symphony Chamber Orchestra will present its Christmas “Pops” Concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 online and at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Nassau Bay. Free admission for a delightful evening of beautiful Christmas music with guests, the Gloria Dei Chorale. Visit www. clearlakesymphony.org for additional information.

thought of this combination together, thank you! For this dish I would recommend a good Chardonnay. Errazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay is bright and acidic but not overpowering and goes well with the richness of the swiss cheese and chicken. Enjoy!! INGREDIENTS FOR THE CHICKEN

Chicken Cordon Bleu By Alisa Star

othing says fall

time like comfort foods. There is something about getting cooler weather in the

air that makes you want all those great foods that come with fall. Chicken Cordon Bleu is one of them, It’s creamy delicious filling wrapped in ham and chicken filled with cheese are a wonder in itself. Whoever

• • • • • • • • • •

4 chicken breasts 8 slices Swiss cheese 8 slices deli ham 1 c. all-purpose flour 2 large eggs, beaten 2 c. panko bread crumbs Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 4 tbsp. melted butter 1 tsp. dried oregano

FOR THE SAUCE • • • • •

4 tbsp. butter 1/4 c. all-purpose flour 2 c. milk 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan

Directions Preheat the oven to 400° and line a large baking sheet with parchment

• • • • • • • • •

Coastal Groove By Alisa Star It’s time to embrace fall with open arms and decorate your porch, mantle, kitchen table or your living room can be easy and fun. It’s all about using textures, colors and patterns. Play around with mixing bright oranges to burgandys or softer colors like peaches and white. Lay orange and yellow leaves across your mantle top with pumpkins and soft candlelight. Layer your front steps with gourds and pumpkins. White tablecloths with mini pumpkins and touches of oranges and yellows are always a hit, you can even go with soft blues and white pumpkins and add a coastal flair! Fall is in the air, it is time to brighten up your home and celebrate.

paper. Place a chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap on a cutting board and flatten to a ¼” thickness with a meat mallet or rolling pin. Top chicken with 2 slices of cheese, then 2 slices of ham. Starting at the top of the breast, roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts. Place flour, eggs, and panko in three shallow bowls. Season flour with salt and pepper. Add melted butter and oregano to panko and mix until incorporated. Working with one at a time, roll chicken first in flour, then eggs, then panko mixture, pressing to coat. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden and cooked through, 30 minutes. Meanwhile make sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and stir until golden, 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk, then add mustard. Let simmer until thickened, 5 minutes. Add Parmesan and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove toothpicks from chicken and serve with sauce.

Delicious Seafood Gumbo By Alisa Star

he key to making a

delicious gumbo is the roux. If the roux is not right then your gumbo will not be right. A roux is made with two simple ingredients, flour and oil. This is the secret to any good gumbo recipe. The flour and oil are cooked and stirred together until it becomes to look like chocolate and has a consistency of dough. This could take 40 minutes or longer (labor of love), it’s what adds the deep rich flavor of the gumbo that you want.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2020

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 cup peanut oil 1/2 cup bacon fat 2 cups flour 1 white onion chopped 1 bell pepper chopped 3 celery stalks chopped 3 jalapenos chopped 2-3 cloves garlic chopped 1 tbsp garlic powder 2 tsp paprika 2 tsp chili powder 2 tsp oregano 1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp celery seeds, or powder Salt & pepper 9 cups chicken or seafood broth 2 pounds peeled shrimp 2 pounds fish (optional) 1 pound crab meat 1 pound oysters (optional) 1 tbsp file gumbo powder Chopped green onions for topping

Directions First you are going to make the roux. Start to cook the oil, bacon fat and flour. You are going to stir constantly for 40 minutes, until it becomes dark brown, and has a texture of dough. When the roux has reached the color of chocolate then you add the onions, bell pepper, garlic, jalapenos and celery. Stir in the roux and cook for about 10 minutes. Then add garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, oregano, cayenne pepper and celery powder. Pour in 3 cups of broth and mix well for about 5 minutes, then add the rest of the broth until your mixture this out. Simmer over medium heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add seafood and file gumbo powder, simmer for another 30 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste and top it off with green onions. Pour over cooked white rice (optional).