Bay Area Houston Magazine November 2014 by Bay Group Media

LEADING AND INFORMING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1999

November 2014 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com

HAVE A

7 tips on decorating for the holidays Your gift guide for 2014 Port of Houston celebrates its centennial 2015 Cadillac Escalade

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A

‘PARTY AT THE PUB’

features

ON THE COVER The Cock & Bull British Pub is now a visual Seabrook landmark located at 3659 NASA Parkway. Photography by Brian Stewart

President & Chairman Rick Clapp Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry Executive Vice President Patty Kane Vice President & Creative Director Brandon Rowan Graphic Designer Kelly Groce Sales & Marketing Shannon Alexander Debbie Salisbury Lisa Waxman

Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Rod Evans Michael Gos Capt. Joe Kent Betha Merit Cathy Osoria Pat Patton Dr. Edward Reitman

Distribution Tim Shinkle Company 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

Assistance League Clothes Over 1,600 Students

Many Area Schools Getting Major Surgery

Dental Health

Clear Lake Area Chamber Chairman’s Gala

Senior Health Fair

Seabrook Saltwater Derby Results

Harvest Moon Regatta

Pink Week at Creek

It’s Holiday Party Time at the Pub!

The Twelve Gifts of Christmas

Houston’s Continually Improving Air Quality

Deep Water Centennial

Port of Houston Celebrates 100 Years

Baytown Industrial Expansion Symposium

News Nuggets

Astronaut Corps Loses More Faces in 2014

Ben Meador: Chairman of the Boards

Business Buzz

Rotarians Celebrate 50 Years With 50 Kind Acts

Bay Area students get a positive start to school year Major CCISD bond projects underway Use it or lose it! A royal highland celebration 1st annual Webster AARP event Heaviest trout, redfish and flounder winners 28th annual Lakewood Yacht Club event MD Anderson and Clear Creek High form partnership Cock & Bull British Pub in Seabrook Your 2014 holiday gift guide Air quality and economic improvement go hand-in-hand New documentary tells amazing story of the Houston Ship Channel Impossible dream turned into reality The impact of growth on area stakeholders NASA honors James Hilhoan Five retire, four pass on 2014 McDonald’s Texas Invitational Mayor also wants to save the Dome Present gift to Clear Lake City Elementary

columns

Digital Strategy Consultant Pierr Castillo Photography Mary Alys Cherry Brian Stewart

Movers & Shakers

Clear Lake Chatter

In Wheel Time

The Admiral’s Log

Texas Meditations

Home Sweet Home

State Senator Larry Taylor Rocket scientists aren’t the only ones with talent 2015 Cadillac Escalade Tides: How they work and their effect on fishing Responsibility Deck the halls: 7 tips for holiday decorating

32 CLICK! Monster bash for the Sunshine Kids

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Main Events Calendar of events for Bay Area Houston

Assistance League clothes over 1,600 needy students

2 0 1 4

ome 1,600 needy Bay Area students got

their school year off to a positive start, thanks to the work of the Assistance League of the Bay Area, which provided them with new school outfits, hygiene kits and vouchers for new shoes. This was accomplished through the League’s national signature program called Operation School Bell during the month of August and the beginning of September. Assistance League serves children from the Clear Creek, Dickinson, Friendswood and La Porte school districts and Bay Area Charter Schools, working closely with school administrators, nurses and counselors to ensure children with the greatest need receive assistance. “We took our show on the road to La Porte and to Dickinson,” said Operation School Bell Chairman Cindy Senger Lewis. “We clothed almost 400 children at each location.” All other children were clothed at the Assistance League’s Resale Shop in Webster. Children from pre-kindergarten through high school received 2 pair of jeans, 4 shirts, underwear, socks, a hygiene kit and a gift card to Payless Shoes for a new pair of shoes appropriate to the child’s age and school requirements. Senger-Lewis credits the Assistance League’s loyal volunteers, as well as the following outside partners for making the La Porte and Dickinson off-site dressing days a success: DuPont, Frost Bank, HK Transit, Ineos, La Porte Rotary, Lighthouse Christian Ministries, M.I. Lewis, Morgan Stanley, Sun Chemical and Target.

League President Brunella Altemus tells members that almost 800 children were clothed this year at off-site dressing locations in Dickinson and La Porte.

Don’t forget to vote!

A young Operation School Bell recipient shows off one of her new t-shirts and a hygiene kit. Each child received 4 shirts, 2 pairs of jeans, socks, underwear, hygiene kit, and gift certificate to Payless Shoes for new school shoes.

“This philanthropic program touches more families than any other program we have,” League President Brunella Altemus said. “We are so thrilled to see our inventory fly off the shelves and into a child’s life! It has been shown that children who don’t have to worry about their clothes or hygiene feel confident about their appearance and can concentrate on learning – not just fitting in,” Altemus added. “Once a student can focus on learning, enthusiasm builds, success in the classroom improves, and students are more apt to stay in school.” Assistance League budgeted well over $100,000 this year to clothe children in need. The program will continue throughout the majority of the school year as funds allow. Assistance League relies solely upon referrals from its partner schools to identify children for the program. Families looking for assistance are advised to contact their child’s school. Operation School Bell funding is primarily raised through the League’s award-winning Resale Shop (100 E. NASA Parkway, Suite 80) and its annual fundraiser, a gala event in April. Other generous funding has come from grants such as those received from Boeing Employees Community Fund, Target and Lunar Rendezvous, as well as private and community donations. Interested individuals or civic groups may find more information on the Assistance League website at www.bayarea.assistanceleague.org

As WE CLOSE OUT THIS GREAT YEAR, let us reflect on all the good that we saw in 2014. Give your favorite bar, business, restaurant, doctor, or establishment their well deserved kudos and vote for them in the 2014 Bay Area Houston Magazine Best of the Bay Awards. Every year we lift up the people’s voice, tally up every vote and announce the winners of these coveted awards at a fantastic celebration in 2015. Voting ends Jan. 31, so go cast your ballot now! Visit our website www.bayareahoustonmag.com to vote today. Best Asian Best Auto Repair Best Bank Best Bartender Best BBQ Best Breakfast Best Brunch Best Burger Best Cafe Best Cajun Best Car Dealer-domestic Best Car Dealer- foreign Best City To Live Best Contractor/Remodeler Best Credit Union Best Dentist Best Entertainment Spot Best Family Restaurant Best Furniture Store Best Gift Shop Best Hair Salon Best Hair Stylist Best Health Club Best Home Builder Best Hospital

Best Italian Best Ladies Boutique Best Local Entertainer Best Margarita Best Marina Best Massage Therapist Best Mexican Best Mortgage Best Oysters Best Physician Best Pizza Best Private School Best Pub/Bar Best Realtor/Agent Best Resale Shop Most Romantic Restaurant Best Seafood Best Spa Best Steak Best Sushi Best Vision Center Best Web Design Agency Best Wine Bar or Winery Best Womens Apparel Best Yacht Club

Vote Now at www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Market Update QUOTE OF THE WEEK: ”The universe is under no obligation to make sense to you.” --Neil deGrasse Tyson, American astrophysicist and author. INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE Much of the media’s housing market coverage must also be under no obligation to make sense. While we hear all kinds of negative reporting on housing, the data continues to be encouraging. September Housing Starts were up 6.3%, to a higher than expected 1.017 million annual rate. The naysayers pointed to the greater rise in multi-family starts, but single family starts were still ahead for the month and up 11.0% for the year. The 12-month moving average is at its highest level since September 2008, while total homes under construction are up 19.5% over a year ago. Even single-family Building Permits, barely off for the month, remain ahead for the year. Other media reports jumped all over the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) confidence index for new singlefamily homes, which slipped a tad in October. But, hey, this followed four straight months of gains. Plus, the index stayed well above 50, solidly in positive territory. The NAHB’s chief economist pointed out that after hitting “a nine-year high in September, it’s not surprising to see the number drop in October.” He argued that “builders are still positive about the housing market,”

explaining that historically low mortgage interest rates, steady job gains, and significant pent up demand all point to continued growth of the housing market.” The week ended of October 20 ended with the Dow down 1.0%, to 16380; the S&P 500 down 1.0%, to 1887; and the NASDAQ down 0.4%, to 4258. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit its lowest level since June 2013. Remember, mortgage rates can be extremely volatile, so check with your mortgage professional for up to the minute information. DID YOU KNOW? Based on population growth and the scrap page of old structures, experts expect housing starts to rise to about 1.5 million units per year over the next couple of years. EXISTING HOME SALES UP, NEW HOME SALES OFF, INFLATION HOLDS Reports this week are expected to show the U.S. economy putting on its usual mixed performance. Existing Home Sales for September should be up a bit more above the 5 million unit annual rate. But September New Home Sales are forecast to dip from their August level. Inflation, however, is predicted to remain benign, measured by September’s Consumer Price Index (CPI). This of course will allow the Fed to keep rates low if the economy continues to sputter forward.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Many area schools getting major surgery By Mary Alys Cherry

on’t stand still for long at one of the dozen or so Clear Creek ISD schools where construction is under way. They might build over you – especially at the site where the new Challenger Columbia Stadium is going up. Two campuses (Clear Lake High and McWhirter Elementary) or getting complete makeovers while several others are being readied for or undergoing major surgery. The stadium site at 1955 W. NASA Blvd. in League City has been cleared, site utilities installed, the main loop road has been lime stabilized and the paving has been poured, Assistant Communications Director Janice Scott said. “The slab has also been poured for the field house and steel beams are going up,” she added. The three projects are all part of the 2013 CCISD Bond, as are those at Clear Brook High and Seabrook Intermediate. Not far away, Clear Brook High between Clear Lake and Friendswood is getting a $20.7 million renovation that includes a correcting a major foundation failure that Facility Services Director Paul Miller says caused a section of the building to separate. The new school entryway will have an enclosed courtyard and offer an upgrade in security. Plans are to add additional classrooms and lab space, administrative space, a new auditorium and renovations in the library. Plus upgrades for athletes – more restrooms, additional parking and a traffic loop, new practice fields, new lockers and storage for football and renovations in the weight room. “Portable buildings will be removed at Greene Elementary, Seabrook Intermediate, Creekside Intermediate and Clear Brook High School and replaced with permanent and secure classroom additions,” Scott continued. ”Security fencing will be placed around the temporary classrooms at Clear Lake Intermediate and the temporary classrooms would be removed at Brookside Intermediate.” The work includes the demolition of McWhirter Elementary School in Webster and construction of a new campus. A rebuild of Clear Lake

High School, as well as a new gym for Clear Springs High and more science classrooms at Creekside Intermediate. Preliminary schematic layouts of athletics, dance, fine arts, ROTC and CTE spaces have been reviewed and approved by District staff for Clear Creek High School. At Seabrook Intermediate portable buildings have been installed to accommodate the need for additional classrooms during construction. The bond is also funding maintenance priority repair and replacement projects at almost every campus in CCISD. Scott said. “Over the summer eight elementary campuses underwent major repairs that included installing new HVAC equipment, installing new carpet, replacing and/or repairing roofs as well as the installation of new Stage Curtains and Cafeteria/Gym Sound Systems.” Renovation at Seabrook Intermediate, which was built in 1966, will include the addition of seven classrooms, an art room, three science classrooms, a food lab, plus track and tennis court facilities.

Use it or Lose it Only a generation ago, gradually losing teeth and replacing them with either a fixed bridge, a removable partial or full denture was a fact of life for most Americans.

nfortunately each option led to either grinding healthy teeth down or exerting too much force on the remaining teeth. Ultimately both options led to early loss of remaining healthy teeth. As a result, a large segment of our population entered their golden age with false teeth, long span bridges, or no teeth at all. The most damaging effect of tooth loss was not even being discussed much those days. Few people knew about the localized osteoporosis that developed due to loss of the tooth. People noticed that their gums shrunk gradually once the tooth was lost, even when they replaced the gap with a conventional method. But they assumed that it was normal. That perception has changed substantially during the last two decades. The likelihood of our generation going through the same oral degradation is steadily decreasing. There are several reasons for this change: availability of more information, better access to dental care, and last but not least, the introduction of titanium dental implants. When teeth are lost, the underlying jaw bone shrinks due to lack of stimulation. Aside from the cosmetic effects on our smile and facial appearance, people with missing teeth develop other equally significant complications. Here are a few examples: 1. People with missing teeth are unable to chew their food as efficiently. One of the most important phases in digestion is called “The Cephalic phase.” This phase of gastric secretion occurs while the food is being eaten. It results from the pleasure associated with sight, smell, thought, or taste of food. Inability to chew the food with comfort and ease makes eating a chore as opposed to a pleasant experience. People with missing teeth also have a tendency to swallow their food prematurely. Nutritionists agree that the more we chew - the less

we eat - and the better we digest our food. People with lost back teeth are also more likely to avoid harder food. Soft foods are also usually high in carbohydrates and fat but often very low in protein, raw vegetable, vitamins, and minerals. Consequently, people who eat mainly soft foods may become undernourished and eat a larger volume of food. That often leads to weight gain and obesity which over time leads to numerous disorders, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. 2. The traditional replacement methods only address replacement of missing teeth not their roots. The most significant effect of tooth loss is the loss of localized jaw bone that is no longer needed to hold the root of the tooth in place. The science of biophysics has proven that the concept of “use it or lose it” applies to the human body as well. Through chewing we apply modest pressure on the jawbone. That pressure stimulates the bone (similar to exercise) and keeps it dense and strong. Many people who have lost one or more teeth believe the personal impact is strictly cosmetic. They don’t realize that missing teeth can lead to significant bone loss over time that can alter the jaw structure, cause other teeth to shift, and change the shape of your face while weakening your jaw bone. 3. Although partial or full dentures are a less expensive alternative to dental implants they require a lot of care. They must be kept clean with cleaning tablets. They should be removed every night before going to sleep, cleaned carefully, and kept in a moist place (usually in a glass of water on the bed stand). As the jawbone shrinks over time due to bone loss, the dentures that fit fine not too long ago get loose. They have to be either glued in with denture cream or remade every few years. Dentures can also cause discomfort and interfere

with tasting and feeling our food. Some people find dentures embarrassing. If dentures do not fit well, they can interfere with chewing and swallowing. They may also cause burning sensations and sores in the mouth. Fortunately, America’s tooth loss and jaw bone loss crisis can be eliminated with advent of dental implants, now considered the best option for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants have been highly successful, according to a recent research published in the Journal of Oral Implantology. There is a growing body of compelling clinical evidence supporting dental implants as the most successful method for replacing missing or compromised teeth. If you are suffering from or embarrassed by loss of one, several, or all of your teeth, dental implants may be the answer you are looking for. I have been placing dental implants

(while patients are comfortably asleep under IV sedation) in our community for over a decade with a success ratio of over 99 percent. If you are considering getting a dental implant, feel free to contact my office at 281-332-4700 for a complimentary consultation.

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 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Clear Lake Area Chamber

Chairman’s Gala By Mary Alys Cherry Pat and Wendell Wilson were among the many attending the Clear Lake Area Chamber Chairman’s Gala at South Shore Harbour Resort in League City.

Honoree Jamieson Mackey, a native of Scotland, and his wife, from left, Past Chamber Chairman Michael Divine and Chamber Chairman-elect Roy Green, add a Scottish flair to the Clear Lake Chamber Chairman’s Gala, “A Royal Highland Celebration,” with their Scottish kilts and scarves.

Martha Turner, second from left, and a number of her real estate associates were among the guests at the Clear Lake Area Chamber Chairman’s Gala at South Shore Harbour Resort. With her are, from left, Debbie Youens, new Chamber board member Jonathan Cottrell and Robin Suter.

A Royal Highland Celebration Friday, October 3rd, 2014 South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center

Former Kemah Mayor Bill King, now a Houston Chronicle columnist, is happy to see Space Center Houston President Richard Allen at the Clear Lake Chamber Gala reception.

BB&T’s Amanda Evans, Dallas Hall, Hedy Holland and new Clear Lake Chamber Board member Brent Cockerham and his wife, Amy, from right, share a light moment as the gala winds down.

New Clear Lake Chamber Chairman Sharon Proulx and her husband, Roger, make their way through the crowd at the 2014 Chairman’s Gala.

Dr. Greg Smith and his wife, Cathy, join the crowd at the Clear Lake Area Chamber Chairman’s Gala, stopping to visit with attorney Dick Gregg Jr.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Clear Lake Area Chamber President Cindy Harreld and Vice President Shari Sweeney, from left, congratulate Gala Co-Chairmen Mike Furin and Kat Sanford for the great evening they orchestrated.

Movers &Shakers Name: State Sen. Larry Taylor

Occupation: Legislator and Insurance Agency owner

If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: Neil Armstrong on July 2, 1969

Hometown: Friendswood

My favorite performers are: The Eagles and Boston

Current home: Friendswood

I like to spend my leisure time: On the water

Family: Wife Kerri, three adult children with one grandchild on the way.

If I could travel any place, I’d go to: Australia

Someone I’d like to meet: Ronald Reagan. I know, I’ll have to wait …

My favorite meal is: Anything seafood As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: An Air Force pilot

You’ll never catch me: Listening to rap The thing that bugs me the most is: Americans not appreciating how blessed we are My favorite movie is: It’s a Wonderful Life. We watch it every Christmas with our family and I tear up every time when the town comes to the rescue of George Bailey. Few people know: I was born tongue-tied. It was surgically corrected and I haven’t stopped talking since.

Methodist St. John Hospital adds sculpture ‘Jesus of Nazareth’

College leaders convene for partnership luncheon

rea community college leaders are welcomed by

University of Houston-Clear Lake President William A. Staples, standing, center, as they arrived for a partnership luncheon. Those attending included, from left, standing, San Jacinto Community College Chancellor Brenda Hellyer, Alvin Community College President Christal Albrecht; seated, Lone Star College Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Keri Rogers, Lee College President Dennis Brown and College of the Mainland President Beth Lewis. UH-Clear Lake maintains 2+2 and transfer agreements with area colleges, making it easy for community college students to transition and complete their degrees at the university.

The magnificent sculpture, Jesus of Nazareth, by the renown Houston artist and sculptor, Willy Wang, is now on display in the main lobby of Methodist St. John Hospital in Nassau Bay.

Judge Ewing Werlein, Jr., Houston Methodist Chairman of the Board, welcomes guests to the unveiling of the Statue of Jesus now on display in the Mehodist St. John Hospital main lobby.

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

1st Annual Webster AARP

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR September 30, 2014 Bay Area Community Center

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Robyn Weigelt, left, and Era Lee Caldwell are “Dreaming of a White Christmas” at Just a Pretty Table Luncheon.

These pretty ladies line up to represent the theme, “If the Crown Fits,” at the Bay Area Museum Guild’s 9th annual Just a Pretty Table Luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club. They are, from left, Lisa Roberts, Kate Foyt, Marie Sharp, Jill Reason, Terri Dodd and Lisa Barnard.

Kimberly Weathers, left, gives her best Marie Antoinette impersonation for the “Let Them Eat Cake” table as Tia Nyman smiles in agreement at the Just A Pretty Table Luncheon.

Rocket scientists aren’t the only ones with talent TALK ABOUT TALENT! We really have an abundance of it in the Bay Area. Not only rocket scientists, but talented housewives and business men and women as well. This is so evident each year when the Bay Area Museum Guild hosts its Just a Pretty Table Luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club. Each year you think this may be the year when they run out of ideas, and each year they surprise you with all new ideas and more beautiful table decor. And each year Chairman Angie Weinman is there to greet the arriving crowd, along with Anita Fogtman, Ava Galt and Mary Ann Baxter – all

MARY ALYS CHERRY

wearing big smiles and eager to see everyone’s reaction on entry. “Dreaming of a White Christmas” by Robyn Weigelt and Era Lee Caldwell caught everyone’s eyes as they walked into the ballroom, followed by dozens more, including

Joy and Jill Smitherman, from left, and Donna James catch up on the news during the Bay Area Museum Guild’s 9th annual Just a Pretty Table Luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

one topped by the Rubber Ducky floating on blue bubbles, plus ladies dressed in gowns and crowns, to carry out “If the Crown Fits” and “Let Them Eat Cake” themes. Other table decorators were Ava Galt and Melinda Lacy; Julie Howell and Michelle Kellett; Kimberley Weathers and Peggy Green; Tia Neyman; Kathleen Courville, Julie Johnson and Sabine Stromeyer; Lori Ray and Belinda Scheurich; Cathy Osoria and Barbie Clariday; Nancy and Raven Sanders; Dr. Cindy Castille; Carole Murphy and Steve Roberts; And, Jill Reason, Lisa Barnard,

Tisa Foster, left, and Melinda Emmons turned many a head as they strolled through the crowd at the Museum Guild’s Just a Pretty Table Luncheon.

Terri Dodd, Stephany Roush and Stashia Hardman; Janice Gornto and Lynn Smith; Rene Johnson; Jill Williams and Peggy Heinrich; Jason Holquin; Missy Rorrer and Jana Miller; Joy and Jill Smitherman; Carol Bergman; Tracey Webb, Peggy Clause; and Kelli Byrd and Karen and Jenny McCorkle. Need we tell you how many, many compliments they received? Among those you might have spotted wearing big smiles as they mingled with the crowd of more than 200 were Judie Ferguson, Linda Goerland, Diane Vest, Brandie Corrao, Kristy Tankersley, Stacy Fisher, Kay

Pretty Tables Committee members Anita Fogtman, Mary Ann Baxter, Chairman Angie Weinman and Ava Galt, from left, await the crowd as the Bay Area Museum Guild luncheon gets under way at Bay Oaks Country Club.

Several mayors were in the large crowd as former Webster Mayor Floyd Myers was honored for his 50 years of service to both his city and the Bay Area community at a reception held at the Webster Community Center, including, from left, Louis Rigby of La Porte, Donna Rogers of Webster and Mark Denman of Nassau Bay.

Smith, Roz Clayton, Tricia Gunn, Sally Jordan, Sharon Dillard, JoNell Hunter, Karen Keesler, Laura Godwin, Tricia Totten, Barbara Straty, Kathy and Mike Reeves and Ann Wismer Landolt. Some of the others in the happy crowd were Cheryl Maultsby, Ateya Abouleish, Alice Marinos, Jan Bailey, Diane Shuman, Joy Edwards, Judy Raiford, Pam Culpepper, Ann and Ondi Lyon, Sue Broughton, Mary McMullen, Diane Konick, Pat Biddle, Mary Ann Shallberg, Becky Reitz, Annette Dwyer, Cathy Whitworth, Terri Dieste, Nancy Poffenberger, Barbara Dickey, Ellen Mosher, Ginger and Carla Pampolina, Stacy Bush Davis and Mary Williams.

Suzie Rogers, left, and Sheree Frede join the crowd as the Bay Oaks Women’s Association luncheon gets under way.

Hospitality Committee members Tencha Heimlich and Amy Schweers, from left, welcome Bobbie Moutz to Bay Oaks Women’s Association October luncheon.

BOWA plans Nov. 8 gala THEIR NOV. 8 gala was on everyone’s mind as the Bay Oaks Women’s Association gathered at the country club for their monthly luncheon with Gala Chairman Lea Bodie reminding them of their duties. And, while It was still the Halloween season, there was the Dec. 8 Holiday Market to plan, President Annette Dwyer pointed out as Ann Brady, Sue Ellen Jennings, Barbara Miller, Suzie Rogers, Georgia Piwonka, Jennie Brayley, Marilyn Lunney, Melissa McKinnie, Carlene Langford, Rita Johnson, Emmeline Dodd, Priscilla Ennis, Gloria Cruz and Jackie Daley joined the crowd. Wasn’t long before they found themselves in the company of Badiha Nassar, Sheree Frede, Danele Buehler, Jan Duffy, Karen Reed,

Sue Ellen Jennings, right, is happy to see Dana Brown, who’s just back from the North Carolina mountains, at the BOWA luncheon.

Ebby Creden, Ruth Beecher, Chris Howland, Joan Burt, Jodi Schnabel, Fran Gentry, Sharon Phelps, Norma Ogletree, Janet Greenwood, Angela Swint, Courtney Atchley, Courtney Teague, Kay Lee Benoit, Rebecca Hensley, Diane Overman and Carole Kloesel. Bobbie Moutz was also in the crowd, as were Nan Kimball, Carol Base, Nancy Sanders, Allyson Jackson, Sharon Christman, Amy Schweers, Angela Bivens, Mary Colombo, Carol Short, Sue Broughton, Danette Spriggs, Lisa Chaney, Terri Steinkamp, Kathy and Linda Costanza, Kimberly Walker, Dana Brown, Barbara Visser, Theresa Brogan, Molly Gorrell, Tencha Heimlich Liz Clark, and new member, Liz Clark.

Kathy Costanza, left, and Teresa Albuerne visit as they await the start of the Bay Oaks Women’s Association October luncheon.

Webster honors former mayor FORMER MAYOR Floyd Myers was honored for his 50 years of service to the Bay Area community as city councilman, mayor and Clear Creek School Board trustee and president at a big reception at the Webster Civic Center Sept. 25, with many he has served with in attendance. State Sen. Larry Taylor presented him with a legislative proclamation citing his long years of service. Mayors Donna Rogers of Webster, Mark Denman of Nassau Bay and Louis Rigby of La Porte, Webster City Manager Wayne Sabo, many current and former Webster council members, Webster and Nassau Bay City Secretaries Pauline Small and Paula Jones, to name a few.

Former Webster Mayor Floyd Myers, third from left, is presented a proclamation honoring his long years of service to his city and the Bay Area community by State Sen. Larry Taylor during reception at the Webster Community Center. Joining them are, City Attorney Dick Gregg Jr. at left, and former Mayor Dennis Waggett at right.

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

[IN WHEEL TIME]

By Don Armstrong

ut a lid on it! That’s pretty much what General Motors did when they created the Suburban – dubbed “Carryall” in 1935. General Motors simply replaced the bed with a lengthened cab and put in on the same half-ton truck chassis. A GMC version quickly followed, and in 1999 Cadillac badged its own iteration called Escalade. Now comes the 12th version of the iconic “Carryall” for 2015. The Cadillac Escalade is at the top of the food chain when it comes to full-size heavy weights; and we do mean heavy, as in poundage. Rolling out of its birthing ship in Arlington, Texas, the Escalade, branded four wheel drive Suburban, tips the scales at three tons. Moving all that weight is a 6.2-liter

V-8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of grunt; more than enough juice to also tow another 8,000 pounds. That’s why we thought this would be the ultimate luxury hauler, not only for people and their stuff but a nice sized bass boat or camper. The new sheet metal is fitting for a modern do-all with plenty of edgy Cadillac styling cues including LED lighting all around. This big beauty makes heads turn no matter what neighborhood you’re cruising. Ride quality has always been part of the Cadillac success equation, and the Escalade is no different. To achieve its comfortable level, without sacrificing control, the Caddy engineers installed GM’s Magnetic Ride Control system; first developed for the Corvette. Wind and road noise used to be a given in most vehicles. Not in the Escalade. Triple door seals and

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

lightweight, yet very effective sound deadening materials, bring a new meaning to a quiet interior. Speaking of interiors, this is where the Escalade really shines. When we used to speak of fit and finish, our minds went to most financially unreachable rides. Say hello to a new era. Cadillac suits said, “We can do that too, but in volume,” and they did. With layered materials, cut-and-sewn craftsmanship and real wood accents,

you are officially dared to compare. Remember that heavy, old third row seat that most owners removed and stored on their dirty garage floors? No more, ‘cause there’s no need to remove it. Both the third and second row seats fold flat with the touch of a power button. Finally. Pricing starts at $71,695, but with 72-month notes available…well, you know you want it.

1ST QUARTER Neap Tides. Lower high tides and higher low tides.

FULL MOON

NEW MOON

Higher high tides and lower low tides.

3RD QUARTER Neap Tides. Lower high tides and higher low tides.

TIDES How they work on their effect on fishing By Capt. Joe Kent

f you live on the waterfront or fish the bays or surf often you have experienced the ebb and flow of tides. For many they remain a mystery as they know little about them. While most everyone knows that tides consist of movement of water and that there are high and low tides, many people feel that they are horizontal movements of water. Likely this comes from observing the incoming and outgoing tides along the beach. Actually tides are vertical movements of water and are

controlled by gravity and highly influenced by the sun and the position and size of the moon. Tides are the result of small differences in the combined gravitational pull of the moon and sun at different places on the earth due to differences in distance from a particular spot on the earth. Both the sun and moon cause tides. The moon is the major force behind tides; however, the sun has an effect that is about one-half that of the moon. Another misconception about tides involves the term spring tides. Anglers often refer to spring tides as high tides generated around the Spring Equinox. The season has nothing to do with the term spring tide. When the moon is on the same side of the earth as the sun it is called a New Moon and on the opposite side it creates a Full Moon. In both cases their tidal effects combine and we experience higher high tides and lower low tides. The term spring as used here means “to rise up”. On the other hand when the moon is 90 degrees from the sun (Half-Moon) the tidal effects tend to

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

cancel and we get lower high tides and higher low tides. This is called a Neap Tide. There is so much more that is written about tides, it is difficult to condense the facts in an article like this. For purposes of this article I will limit the effects to the Galveston Bay Complex.

“Around New England and farther north, a tidal difference of 25 feet is common.”

The Texas Gulf Coast experiences relatively small changes in tide heights as compared to points much farther from the Equator. Around New England and farther north, a tidal difference of 25 feet is common. In our area, we rarely experience much more than a four foot difference between the high and low tide. Using Galveston as an example, it is a barrier island with relatively small openings into the bays. This restricts the flow of water into the bays and as a result points along Galveston Bay never reach a full high or low tide and are about half the height of those along the beach front. Now, what about the effects on fishing? Tidal movement is a key factor in catching fish. Tides flush out crustaceans and small fin fish from the marshes and back bays and fish know that and are in a feeding mode when the tide starts moving. Along the beachfront an incoming tide is best for fishing as the rising water covers new territory where small crabs and other marine life have been hiding and allows larger predator fish access to the area. This is also true for the Gulf side of both the Galveston and Bolivar Jetties. While both incoming and outgoing tides are good for bay fishing, most anglers find the outgoing tide to be the preferred one for fishing. Along the upper Texas Coast there are other factors that influence tides from reaching their normal highs and lows. A strong southwest wind impairs the flow of water to and from the bays and generally results in lower than normal tide levels. A strong north wind and the accompanying high pressure following a cold front will push water out of the bays and keep tide levels much lower than normal. On the other hand, an easterly wind pushes Gulf waters into the bays and creates higher than normal tide levels. Both scenarios generally are not favorable for fishing. During periods of extreme low tides, boaters need to be extra cautious as a drop of two to three feet in bay water can expose the shafts of motors to dangerous obstacles normally far enough below the surface to not cause problems.

Seabrook Saltwater Derby Results Heaviest Stringer Redfish Team: Saldana Bros with Gerardo Saldana and Ovidio Saldana

Heaviest Stringer Trout Team: Scandy Candy with Chris Gonzales, Jason Nolan, James Plaag and David Schmidt

Heaviest Individual Redfish Team: Young Guns with Ron Dixon

Heaviest Individual Trout Team: Remax Galveston with John Sincox and Ryan Moody

Flounder Pot Team: CCS Fishing with Jason Otto, Jeff Koester, Austin Owens and Tyson Schindler (Photos by Rebecca Collins) NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

28th Annual Lakewood Yacht Club

HARVEST MOON REGATTA Bacardi Superior: Sport boat winner Don Lemke and crew on Aloha with LYC Commodore Tom Collier.

Mayor’s Trophy: First multihull finisher Bo Kersey and crew on Abandoned Asset along with Harvest Moon Regatta Chairman Jack Seitzinger, on far left.

Bacardi OakHeart: Heavy displacement winner John Mastroianni of Houston Yacht Club and crew along with LYC Commodore Tom Collier.

Founder’s Trophy: Best Multihull time winner John Williams, far right, and crew on Gimme Samoa along with Harvest Moon Regatta co-founder John Broderick, center, and LYC Commodore Tom Collier.

Bill Hall Memorial Trophy: First monohull to finish winner Steve Hastings and crew on Passion with LYC Commodore Tom Collier

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Bacardi Cup: PHRF Spinnaker winner O.J. Young, center, and Harvest Moon Co-Founder John Broderick, on mic, and the crew on Happy Ending. LYC Commodore Tom Collier is second from left and third from left is Richard Ancy, Regional Manager for Bacardi USA, the race’s founding sponsor.

Commodore’s Trophy: Cruising with Spinnaker winner Jim Demarest and wife Jan, center, right holding child, and crew on Sodalis along with LYC Commodore Tom Collier.

Cameron Canon Trophy: Cruising without Spinnaker winner Doug Byerly, family and crew on Jonre, along with past honorary Commodores John Cameron’s wife Trina, center, and LYC Commodore Tom Collier.

A race from Galveston to Port Aransas Friday, October 9-11, 2014 www.HarvestMoonRegatta.com

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

TEXAS MEDITATIONS

By Michael Gos

Responsibility Alpine, Texas

fter a long day at the

ranch, we were sitting outside at Harry’s Tinaja in downtown Alpine. Harry’s

is a bar with a small, rustic outdoor courtyard under the trees and since it was a truly magnificent west Texas autumn day, I wasn’t ready to be indoors. This was the perfect spot.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

I was visiting a friend who is an outstanding cowboy poet and a real 21st century philosopher. Like most artsy types, he needs a day job to pay the bills. For him, that means ranching. He owns a section of land north and west of town and he and his ranch hands had been working cattle all day. They spent the better part of it on horseback doing a variety of jobs as the need arose. I followed along watching, trying to get some sense of what ranch life was like. I was particularly fascinated by one of his cowboys who seemed to be the very best at everything he did, and yet, on this beautiful October day, in this The shady seating magnificent place, at Harry’s Tinaja in he was just plain downtown Alpine. grouchy. He seemed to really hate every aspect of his job. As we nursed our beers, I asked my friend about the cowhand and why he seemed so unhappy. The answer sent me off on a whirlwind of soulsearching that still haunts me today. My friend told me that this man was born and raised right there in Alpine. He had spent more than 20 years, all of his adult life, as a ranch hand. He was well paid, had

a nice house on a mountaintop and a beautiful wife and two kids—and he hated his life. My friend said he had once overheard the man telling the other ranch hands that he was sick of the life he led. He claimed one leg was shorter than the other from 40 years of first playing—then working—the mountainside. All he wanted was to go somewhere where the ground was flat and where he’d never have to look at another cow or horse again. Of course, being a city boy by birth and a resident of college towns and suburbs since turning 18, I didn’t understand how anyone could tire of a place this beautiful, and I said so. My friend, ever the philosopher, had an answer. “Some are born to the mountains but will never be mountain men. And then there are lots of city people who are doing the mountains a grave injustice by not being here. That’s you.” My immediate response to his explanation was to take it as a compliment—like he was saying I was a natural. I said, “Thank you.” He answered, “Really? Why?” I thought about it for a second,

considered elaborating, but quickly suspected I was missing something. In an attempt to avoid embarrassing myself further, I said nothing, and the subject was never brought up again. That was almost a year ago and since then, my thoughts have been all over the board on that conversation. I thought for a while that maybe it was a reprimand, an accusation that I was somehow letting someone, or something, down because I chose to live somewhere based on how much money I could make there. But then I decided that couldn’t be right. This man is one of the sweetest souls I have ever met. I can’t imagine him attacking someone, even in such an understated way. And yet, his response clearly indicated he didn’t intend it as a compliment. What did it mean? In trying to understand it, I went back and looked at many of the things I have said and written over the years

“Maybe our responsibility extends beyond taking care of loved ones— perhaps far beyond.” on the topic of choosing the right place to live. In the last five years I’ve talked about picking a place where the spirit can be free to function at its highest level. I’ve also argued that we should choose a place where our creativity is unleashed—and again, where we can do great things with minimal effort. In re-reading those old essays, I noticed that all these ideas about choosing a home had one common thread: they were self-centered. I was arguing that we should pick our spot on the planet based on what is best for us as individuals. But here, staring me in

the face was a very different perspective. Maybe I have responsibilities beyond myself. Of course, we all understand that idea on one level. We have responsibilities to our families to provide a good, safe environment, an adequate income and an opportunity for happiness. Clearly we understand it is not always all about us. But in my friend’s words, there was something different. Maybe that responsibility extends beyond taking care of our loved ones— perhaps far beyond. I have always been aware of the comfort I feel when I’m in the Big Bend area. Sure, every Texan loves the national park, but my comfort extends to Marathon, Study Butte, and especially, to Terlingua. I go there as often as I can, and it is never often enough. I make every one of those

trips for me—because it feels good. Now, months later, I’m starting to think my cowboy friend might have been saying that in return for all I’ve gained, I have a responsibility to those mountains, to the Big Bend area, and that up to this point in my life, I have been shirking that obligation. Is that possible? Can we have an obligation to a place where we don’t even live? It may be arrogant, but I have always thought I did my part in supporting all the communities I have lived in over the years. I volunteered for civic projects, served on various city boards, and even chaired a few committees. But now I was hearing that I might have an unfulfilled obligation to another place. I struggle with this. It seems very conceited to think that the mountains suffer because they lack my presence. They’ll be just fine many centuries after I am gone. And surely, we have to go where we can make a living, don’t we? But philosophers and poets are strange birds. Maybe in their view there are things more important than a job or a career. Sometimes, I wonder if we just think too much!

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

DESIGN By Cathy Osoria Photos: Macy Osoria

inside or outside when entering the home. Guests will enjoy their beauty during the party and be able to choose an ornament to take with them as a party favor when they leave. Bigger is better -- Group collections and display in one area using different levels create more visual interest than spreading the collection around. Instead of hanging individual ornaments on the tree, save time decorating by wiring the ornaments together and using them in a cluster on the tree or wreath. Instead of a traditional bow, ornaments can be hung with varying lengths of ribbon from the top of a wreath to create an unexpected modern look. Big oversized ornaments can be placed closer to the tree trunk to make the tree appear to have more depth and create more sparkle.

Home Sweet Home Deck the Halls...and every other room in the house As winter holidays unfold,

here are some ideas to simplify, beautify and bring cheer to one’s holiday home.

Keep the color palette simple -Sticking to two or three colors makes decorating easy, and the end result looks thought out and put together. Traditional colors such as red, gold and green are Christmas decorating staples, or Christmas can be more whimsical by decorating with teal, pink and silver accents instead. Adding lime green instead of holly green to the red and gold Christmas colors also adds whimsy. Holiday lighting -- LED pre-lit trees are a popular choice because they last thousands of hours longer than traditional lights and use almost 80 percent less electricity. LED lights are usually brighter than traditional bulbs so less strands can be used when decorating to get the same visual impact. A Christmas tree should be lit from the top down working in sections rather than wrapping around the tree. Work the

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

lights in towards the trunk of the tree, and then back out to the tip of the next branch. Spotlights can be placed on top of cabinets and aimed toward focal objects that should be highlighted more than the surrounding decor. A spotlight can draw focus onto a wreath hanging on a fireplace or door or a Santa’s face in a table centerpiece. Using good sense -- Scents of pine, eucalyptus, apple cider and freshly baked cookies can all be purchased in scented holiday candles. Place candles near your entry and throughout your home to create an inviting holiday sensation. Boiling cinnamon sticks, cloves and oranges will get guests in the holiday spirit. It’s always good to decorate using lots of candles. Nothing makes a room feel warmer and more inviting than candlelight. Mix styles -- Try juxtaposing natural elements with sparkle. Don’t be afraid to spray paint an old object with metallic paint and possibly add glitter to create a metallic makeover. Natural elements like branches, leaves, feathers, pinecones and berries make good additions to mix with the metallics so they play off each other. Decor with double duty -- Buy ornaments like glass snowflakes and hang them from tree branches either

“Try juxtaposing natural elements with sparkle.” Time savers -- Tree enhancers are simple to make and easy to install and make a Christmas tree look larger and more plump and professional. Enhancers combine a long piece of artificial greenery, branches, ribbon, ornaments and maybe a sparkly accent piece. The greenery is layered with a branch, and these pieces are wired together at the top. Then ribbon is tied around the wire and a bow is tied with the tails of the bow hanging to the bottom of the greenery. The ribbon tail is then attached with wire at the bottom and an ornament added, dropping off the end of the enhancer. Sparkly accents can be added and placed in the arrangement. Enhancers made in varying lengths can now be tucked into the Christmas tree. Pre-making enhancers saves time from hanging each of those items individually onto the tree. It’s faster to take the tree down, and they pack really well in a storage tub.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

MD Anderson and Clear Creek High form partnership during ‘Pink Week at Creek’

The Clear Creek High School Wildcats make a move to fight both breast cancer and their football rivals during Clear Creek High School’s game against Brazoswood on Oct. 9. MD Anderson in the Bay Area formed a partnership with the school to raise visibility throughout the community as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and during the school’s “Pink Week at Creek” campaign. MD Anderson physicians were on hand that night to share material and answer questions.

From left, MD Anderson physicians Sausan Abouharb and Valerie Reed joined with Ann Hammond, Clear Creek ISD board president and breast cancer survivor, to address the crowd with a message about breast cancer awareness during Clear Creek High School’s football game against Brazoswood on Oct. 9.

Dana Tegeler, athletic trainer at Clear Creek High School, was among the first to sign the “Strike Through Cancer Wall” during Clear Creek High School’s football game against Brazoswood on Oct. 9.

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

The Cock & Bull’s main dining room.

ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON IN THE BRITISH TRADITION

Craft beer, carefully selected wines and a full bar will satisfy any holiday thirst.

elebrate the holidays

in true Brit style! Whether it’s a corporate party, an intimate special holiday celebration for a few, a family gathering, or a holiday dinner or lunch with friends, The Cock & Bull British Pub is at your service with delectable dishes and service that is fit for royalty. Relaxing and having fun is what the holidays are all about and The Cock & Bull makes that possible. There is no room charge and your friends, family and employees can order from the menu so everyone can have what they want. The main dining room with white table cloths

and chandeliers can accommodate up to 100 or if you need a smaller celebration the dining room is available for that also. If you want a more casual event, the booths in the bar area are the way to go. The Pub also has “The Queen’s Library,” a room filled with comfortable chairs, couches and a cozy fireplace for relaxed and intimate gatherings. For those who are into games for your parties, you can reserve the Dart and Shuffle Board Room. The Cock & Bull can customize a party to fit any kind of holiday celebration you require.

FAMILY FRIENDLY 34

CATERING

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

How about a holiday Sunday Brunch party? Every Sunday you can experience a British brunch in the English tradition. The brunch menu features everything from English Roast Beef with Yorkshire Puddings to waffles made from scratch. And don’t forget the Bloody Marys! The British gave us so many of our traditions that we still celebrate today, so why not give your holiday that same lovely feeling Pub as in the day of Dickens, owner caroling, and feasting David worthy of Scrooge and Walker.

LIVE MUSIC

MONTHLY EVENTS

The Queen’s Library and cozy booths in the bar area.

Mockingbird. The name is a take on the famous novel, To Kill a Mockingbird and this cocktail might become a classic just like the book. The expansive Cock & Bull menu features “Starters & Tidbits;” “Sandwiches, Soups and Salads;” a “True Brit” selection of entrees that will make you think you are dining across the pond; “Chef’s Entrees,” suitable for the taste of the colonies; and of course desserts to tantalize everyone’s taste buds. There is an extensive wine menu and a vast selection of British, craft and domestic beers that will satisfy the most distinguished connoisseur. Martinis and every mixed drink imaginable are of course available. Savor the Brit Holiday Spirit at The Cock & Bull’s New Year’s Party. It’s the best way to welcome in 2015. Reservations are a must for this popular occasion, so call now. Not having a party? Then stop by anytime during the holidays for lunch, dinner, or just a cocktail to relax after a day at work or a holiday shopping excursion. The Pub is open 7 days a week. The Cock & Bull has something for everyone, and owners David and Jeanette Walker always make sure a good time is had by all. The personality of a restaurant owner is so important to making an evening out or event memorable. David and Jeanette’s hospitality, attention to detail and hands on dedication are all reasons The Cock & Bull has become such a tremendous success. The Cock & Bull is located at 3659 NASA Parkway in Seabrook. Call 832-282-8202 and Jeanette will be glad to take your reservation and assist you with plans to make your holiday celebrations very merry!

the Ghost of Christmas Present! One of the key ingredients for a successful party is the food. The Cock & Bull has a new Executive Chef and a new Sous Chef. They both are educated in food preparation and creating new dishes that will wow your taste buds! Executive Chef Arnold Valdez is a foodie extraordinaire and has some wonderful new items planned for the menu. He embraces the joy of cooking and loves providing The Cock & Bull diners with a fantastic culinary experience. Sous Chef Trace Ramsey is equally dedicated to his profession and very creative as well. Next time you visit the pub, ask for his original drink, a Tequila

WINE & BEER TASTINGS

LUNCH & DINNER

SUNDAY BRUNCH

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Photo: Stan White, City of Pasadena

The Economic Alliance Welcomes New Members

he Economic Alliance

Houston Port Region is a member-based organization with a mission to grow a vibrant regional economy. The Economic Alliance is proud to welcome the following companies to its membership roster since the end of the first quarter.

•

Bureau Veritas North America, Inc.

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Bowen Contractors & Engineers

•

Alpha Technical Services

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Air Valve Inc.

•

Capital Bank

•

Chick-Fil-A

•

Cintas

•

Corporate Memory Solutions

•

Denbury Resources

•

Dimension Energy Services

•

Ecosystem Renewal, LLC

•

Excel Modular Scaffold & Leasing Corporation

•

Freese and Nichols

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Frost Bank

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Greater Houston Natural Gas Vehicle Alliance

•

Gulf Coast Limestone, Inc.

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Hale-Mills Construction, Ltd.

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Marco A. Arredondo, Inc. (Energy Consultants)

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Metropolitan Commercial Finance

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Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr P.C.

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Nassau Bay Agency

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Parkway Chevrolet

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Port Terminal Railroad Association

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Southwest Shipyard, L.P.

•

Stockstill & Associates

•

RUS Industrial

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Teadit North America

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Tech Trans International

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Texas Industrial Medical LLC

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Tower Tech, Inc.

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Wayne Wicks & Associates

•

Wilhelmsen Ship Service

Houston’s Air Quality and Economic Improvements Go Hand-in-Hand

etween 2010 and 2013,

the Houston region gained 392,702 new residents – the largest increase in population of any U.S. metro area during that time. Houston is now the fifth most populous metro area in the nation. Contributing to the attraction of the greater Houston area to new residents is the strength of the economy. Since 2000, the region’s gross domestic product grew at twice the rate of the rest of the nation. The greater Houston area enjoys a diverse economy with a strong energy sector where 13.2% of the nation’s crude oil is refined, and 40.6% of the nation’s base petrochemicals are manufactured. Concurrent with this population and economic growth is an ever improving air quality. Advances in technology, along with offsets allow industry to expand capacity while making great strides in air quality. Houston is proud to report: Houston’s ozone levels are down 18% since 2000, while the rest of the nation is down by an average of 12%. Houston meets five of the six national health-based air standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Many other

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

areas still don’t meet two, three, or even four, of these standards. Houston’s fine particle levels continue to decrease and now meet EPA’s new, stricter standard. In 2013, Houston experienced the fewest number of ozone days ever recorded. In addition to the improvements in technology, these improvements are also a result of cooperation between the public and private

sectors. For example: With the support of the energy industry, Houston is now the most densely monitored region in the nation for a variety of air pollutants, with an especially dense network near industrial communities. Industry has embraced the use of infrared cameras to ensure early detection of leaks from industrial facilities, gas stations, pipelines and other sources (a program first piloted by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in 2005). The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and University of Texas conducted an intensive study between 2009 and 2011 designed to examine how well flares work to destroy industrial waste gas. Industry representatives accompanied scientists to the testing facility to observe the results of the tests. The tests showed that by adjusting key operating parameters, the flare’s ability to destroy emissions could be increased. Industrial facilities across the region began to adjust their flare operations to be more effective almost immediately. To learn more about Houston’s air quality successes, challenges, and what’s on the horizon, visit On Air: Houston at www.houstonairquality. com. Bookmark it as your go-to reference for news and updates about Houston’s air quality.

Photo: Texas Foundation for the Arts

Documenting the Ship Channel New documentary tells the amazing story of the channel’s creation By Rod Evans

he story of the creation

of the Houston Ship Channel reads like something out of the fertile mind of a Hollywood screenwriter. A murky, unruly bayou is transformed into a 52-mile commercial channel and serves as the launching point of what would become one of the world’s largest cities and a hub of international commerce. But the real story behind the development of the channel is no piece of fiction; it is a living testament to engineering ingenuity, political creativity and human determination, and while the story long ago found its way into the history books, a film history had been lacking—until now. As part of the celebration recognizing the Houston Ship Channel’s centennial this year, the Texas Foundation for the Arts debuts its documentary titled “Houston Channel: Deep Water Centennial” on Nov. 10 on Houston’s PBS affiliate, Houston Public Media TV 8. The 60-minute film tells the story of the genesis of the channel and details its ongoing position as one of the world’s busiest channels. “We had done a number of historical and cultural documentaries for PBS stations over the years, so the Port Committee came to us about a year ago to talk about doing a documentary on the history of the channel,” said the

film’s co-producer, Jim Bailey. “It’s such a deep, rich story that affects all of us in this area and the more we got into it, the more interested we got about documenting how it all came about and the history of some of the people who worked there.” Bailey says he and co-producer Kim Lykins and their crew began doing pre-production for the project about a year ago and filming began in the spring of this year. Bailey and Lykins interviewed over 30 people, ranging from channel executives, eye witnesses, historians, authors and people who have family connections to the channel. Archival photographs of the area were obtained from the Houston Metropolitan Research Center, the Library of Congress, the Port of Houston and University of Houston archives, and private entities who loaned their photographs. The documentary also makes use of film footage shot in the 1970s and helicopters to obtain aerial views of the channel as it looks today. “The staff we encountered at the channel wanted the story to be told and were very helpful in opening doors to allow us to get to places for vantage points where we could film,” Lykins said. “The interesting thing about the channel is that people know it’s here, but since

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

it’s not downtown like other ports, people are unaware of the massive effort that went into dredging Buffalo Bayou to turn that sleepy little river into a 52-mile channel 100 years ago.” While the documentary is a contemporary film, it traces the roots of the channel all the way back to the early 1800s, when legendary Gulf Coast pirate Jean Laffitte took his boats as far inland as possible, likely all the Producer Jim way to Allen’s Bailey on set Landing in interviewing downtown author and Houston. It historian David also examines Falloure at the what was called Port of Houston. the “Houston Plan,” in which Houston citizens voted to put up $1.25 million for the project that was then matched by the federal government in an arrangement that had never before been done in the U.S. “The documentary is 60 minutes long, but could have easily been three hours long because we had so much information,” Lykins says. “There are topics, like Jean Laffitte and the fact that the Panama Canal is also celebrating its centennial this year, that could be made into 60-minute documentaries of their own. But we had to keep the story flowing as best we could and painted in broad strokes so we wouldn’t get caught up in the minutiae of things.” One of the more fascinating conversations in the film is with Andrea Gardner who, in the 1980s, became one of the first women to work as a longshoreman at the channel. Gardner, who still works with the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) recalls that there were very few women anywhere to be found along the channel largely because of the widely held belief that women would be a distraction to the men loading and unloading vessels. She also recounts how there were virtually no restroom facilities available for women. “We also interviewed (long time ILA executive) Clyde Fitzgerald, who started working in the channel as a teenager and whose father and uncles also worked there. He tells great stories about the days before containerized shipping when everything had to be loaded on pallets or hand carts,” Bailey said. The advent of containerized shipping in the 1950s and ‘60s is featured prominently in the film due its huge impact on

global shipping and the Houston Ship Channel’s leading role in the development of that type of shipping. “We wanted to show how the development of containerized shipping made a big difference globally, not only with the people who worked on the docks, but also those who worked on the ships,” Lykins said. “We talk to pilots who sail the ships to the mouth of Galveston Bay and are then met by ship channel pilots who navigate the ships up the channel and to the Port of Houston.” Lykins said she came to realize that much of the work on the docks is similar to what happens on a music or theater stage in many ways. “It’s a very intricate choreography that takes place, not unlike a symphony, where everybody is doing their job and everyone is crucial to the outcome,” Lykins said. “We talk to longshoremen who said they get a sense of accomplishment after getting all the cargo off of one ship and then move on to the next one.” The producers of the film conducted extensive research on the topic before filming began, but they were frequently surprised by little known facts uncovered during the production. For example, Bailey says that after the channel was opened, many ship owners were hesitant to allow their vessels to traverse the waterway out of fear that they would become stuck. As a result, channel officials devised a system to ensure the ship’s owners that they would get through, providing a vivid example of the kind of aggressive leadership that was required at the time. “As a native Houstonian, it was interesting to see how the channel began the day Houston began,” Bailey said. “The Allen brothers established a dock because they wanted to bring goods up Buffalo Bayou so they could start a town so, really, the channel is our whole reason for being.” Shot entirely in high definition, it took about two months of editing to complete the film. After it airs on TV 8, Bailey says it will be distributed to other PBS stations around the state and will be made available to schools. Lykins says the debut date of November 10th has historical significance because the channel was officially opened by President Woodrow Wilson on Nov. 10, 1914. For more information on the documentary, visit Texasarts. org.

Photo: POHA

“The Houston Ship Channel opened on a Tuesday morning, Nov. 10, 1914, with a 21-gun salute.” worst disasters in history. Ball’s colleagues began to listen to his argument for a protected inland port. Then, with the discovery of oil at Spindletop and the growth of crops such as cotton and rice, it became clear that Houston’s ship channel needed the capacity to handle larger vessels. Through Tom Ball’s persistence, Houston and the federal government shared the cost of dredging the ship channel that would link Houston to the world. Work began in 1912 and the Houston Ship Channel opened on a Tuesday morning, Nov. 10, 1914, with a 21-gun salute and thousands of people on hand to celebrate as President Woodrow Wilson fired a cannon via remote control to officially open the channel. Today, the Port of Houston, a 25-mile-long complex of diversified public and private facilities along the ship channel, is home to the Houston Ship Channel at the foot of Main Street in 1914.

Port of Houston: Impossible dream turned into a reality By Mary Alys Cherry

he Port of Houston will celebrate its 100th birthday Monday, Nov. 10 – an anniversary that seemed an impossible dream and almost laughable a century ago. Build a port 52 miles inland? At first, almost no one thought it would happen, but through a combination of Mother Nature’s fury, the discovery of oil and a young congressman’s dedication, the Houston Ship Channel paved

the way for Houston to become the nation’s fourth largest city and the Port of Houston to become the nation’s leading port in foreign tonnage and second in overall tonnage. According to the Port’s history, in the 1890s Congressman Tom Ball – for whom the town of Tomball is named – worked hard to get support for a deep water port for Houston. In September 1900, a devastating hurricane nearly wiped Galveston off the map, killing some 8,000 people in one of the nation’s

Area officials get look at Netherland’s dikes

42-member delegation

from southeast Texas embarked on a second fact-finding trip to The Netherlands in late September, in order to gain a better understanding of how a coastal barrier system such as the Netherlands’ Delta Works project could protect the Galveston Bay area from horrendous hurricanes . The delegation included two state senators, four state representatives, four mayors and two members of Houston City Council. Two members of the delegation, Sen. Larry Taylor and Rep. Joe Deshotel, co-chair Texas’ Joint Interim Committee on Coastal Barrier Systems.

The Southeast Texas delegation learns how The Netherlands’ coastal barrier system has saved that area from storms during recent tour. Among the crowd are, from left, District 22 State Rep. Joe Deshotel and State Sen. Larry Taylor, co-chairmen of Texas’ Joint Interim Committee on Coastal Barrier Systems; Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman, Elizabeth Seal, retired Lockheed Martin Vice President John Wilkins, James Earthman III, State Sen. Sylvia Garcia, Dist. 144 State Rep. Mary Ann Perez, Houston City Councilmen Dave Martin and David Robinson, District 132 State Rep. Bill Callegari and Seabrook Mayor Glenn Royal.

largest petrochemical complex in the nation. It has giant container terminals at Barbours Cut, Texas’ first cargo container terminal which opened in 1977 at Morgan’s Point, and its $1.4 billion Bayport complex, which opened Feb. 7, 2007 just north of Seabrook. A computerized inventory control system tracks the status and location of individual containers at each terminal. With the widening of the Panama Canal, which is also celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Port Authority is preparing for the larger generation of vessels (9,000plus TEU in capacity) that soon will need to call at Bayport and Barbours Cut with an $80 million dredging project to deepen the channels from 40 feet to 45 feet to match the depth of the Houston Ship Channel. “This has been a tremendous effort by all parties involved to make sure we are ready to handle the larger ships needing to call our facilities,” Port Executive Director Roger Guenther said, adding that dredging already is under way at Barbours Cut, and when completed later this year, work will begin at Bayport. Quite a change from those days long ago when the Port was located near the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou at Allen’s Landing, now a park known as the birthplace of Houston.

The Delta Works project in the Netherlands is a massive chain of flood protection structures constructed after the North Sea flood in February 1953 that drowned 1,835 people. It is the largest storm barrier system in the world. The project was completed in 1997, and the risk of flooding was reduced to one in 4,000 years. The barrier system has worked on numerous occasions to protect the delta, which is especially prone to flooding during the spring tide. Bob Mitchell, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, was a member of the delegation. He said, “Everything that we learned while on the trip just further strengthened our belief that a system like the Ike Dike concept would safeguard our families and industries well into the future.”

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

major petrochemical company on the Gulf Coast.” Enterprise is building a 1,230-mile ethane pipeline and expanding facilities at its Morgan’s Point location to export natural gas to customers overseas. In August, ExxonMobil Chemical announced its largest ever investment in the United Van Long, plant manager States, an for Chevron Phillips Chemical Cedar Bayou ethane cracker and 2014 chairman at its Baytown of the Baytown/West Olefins Plant Chambers County Economic Development and two Foundation, facilitates a polyethylene “panel of expects” from units at its industry and the public Mont Belvieu sector at the recent Industrial Expansion plant. Symposium. Tim Covington, construction and project manager for ExxonMobil’s North American Growth Project, said, “Texas will be our largest polyethylene supply point in the world.” Completion, expected in 2017, will provide 10,000 construction jobs and 4,140 permanent jobs, and will account for $870 million per year in increased economic activity and $90 million per year in local tax revenues. Plant managers told how their companies are Hector Rivero, Texas helping local cities with Chemical Council infrastructure needs. Chevron Phillips Chemical Cedar Bayou, for instance, has a $6.9 million TIRZ agreement with the City of Baytown and Harris County to improve and expand Sjolander Road; a Van Long, plant manager, $1.8 million amended Chevron Phillips Chemical Industrial District Cedar Bayou Agreement with the City of Baytown to fund the hiring of six new police officers and three police vehicles; as well as a $23 million Chapter 313 School Value Limitation Agreement with Goose Tim Covington, project Creek Consolidated manager, ExxonMobil North School District. American Growth Project ExxonMobil is making road improvements along Decker Drive near the entrance to its Olefin’s plant, and is discussing improvements to Spur 330 and I-10. ExxonMobil funds are being used to help make roadway Bob Moss, vice president of Houston Region Operations improvements at FM 1942

and Hatcherville Road, and a park and ride facility on SH-146. City and county governments are challenged to keep pace with population growth and demands for services. For example, with the population in Chambers County at 36,812, up 5% since 2010, and housing starts averaging 1,000 annually over the past five years, Chambers County Judge Jimmy Silva cited traffic congestion at SH-146 and I-10, and on FM-3180, FM-2354 and FM-565 S. Within five years, he said, Chambers County will spend more than $25 million on road expansions and improvements. Companies are working with school districts and Lee College

Baytown Industrial Expansion Symposium discusses impact of growth on area stakeholders

ore than 200 leaders

from business, industry, education and government gathered inside the newly renovated Rundell Hall Conference Center at Lee College recently to discuss the impact of the city’s largest news story in a generation: the impact of shale gas technology on the area’s economy, roads, schools and infrastructure. The event was the first-ever Baytown/West Chambers County Industrial Expansion Symposium, co-sponsored by the Baytown/ West Chambers County Economic Development Foundation and Lee College. Baytown is considered “ground zero”—the epicenter—of petrochemical expansions along the Texas Gulf Coast. Hector Rivero, president and CEO of the Texas Chemical Council, said that a 25 percent increase in ethane resulting from shale fractionation technology would generate 17,000 new high-paying jobs in the U.S. chemical industry and 395,000 additional jobs outside the chemical industry. That type of increase, he reported, would provide a $132.4 billion boost to the U.S. economy. Already, three local petrochemical companies have announced expansion projects that will cost more than $35 billion in capital investment and add more than 30,000 jobs. Chevron Phillips Chemical is

adding an ethane cracker at its Cedar Bayou operations and an ethylene production expansion in Sweeny. Van Long, plant manager at Chevron Phillips Chemical Cedar Bayou, told local leaders that his company’s world scale ethane cracker in Baytown would bring capacity to 3.3 billion pounds per year. The expansion would add roughly 5,000 construction and engineering jobs and 200 long-term jobs. Bob Moss, vice president of Houston Region Operations for Enterprise Products, said that prior to shale fractionation technology, Enterprise was transporting 220 million barrels per day (mbpd). Since 2010, the company has added five units and increased capacity to 670 mbpd. “Enterprise Product’s Mont Belvieu storage complex is the largest natural gas liquids storage complex in the world,” Moss said. “Our pipeline is connected to every

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

for Enterprise Products.

Newly rennovated Rundell Hall on the campus of Lee College where the Symposium was held.

to attract and train as many as 50,000 skilled workers over the next decade. Dr. Dennis Brown, Lee College president, said the college was using bond revenues to renovate facilities and expand classroom space. A $2.7 million “First in the World” Department of Education grant will help add a weekend college, and the college will provide other options for students needing to training and find jobs quickly. Dr. Brown said Lee College’s enrollment in petrochemical-related programs increased 25 percent in a single year, a strong indication that people are responding to the call of well-paying careers. Most urgently needed are process operators, instrumentation technicians, welders, electricians, pipefitters and millwrights. “We are in the mecca of the petrochemical industry,” Rivero told the crowd, “but it wasn’t always the case. Nobody foresaw where we would be today.” Taken together, it means opportunity for an entire generation, with Baytown in the middle of it all.

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Space Center Houston Is Houston’s First Smithsonian Affiliate

t’s another first for Houston and Space

Center Houston as the nonprofit museum becomes the first Smithsonian Affiliate in the city. The new status grants access to the national archive of more than 138 million artifacts, specimens and works of art, as well as entree to more than 50 traveling exhibitions developed by the Smithsonian Institution. Meanwhile, the center celebrated a “month of firsts” by opening a new exhibition about the first voyages into deep space. “We are delighted to launch our first Houston affiliate partnership with Space Center Houston, an organization that has done so much to honor and preserve the history of space flight,” said Harold A. Closter, Smithsonian Affiliations director. “This new partnership builds on a solid foundation of prior collaboration, artifact loans and scholarly exchange and will address ways that we can work together to inspire a new generation to dream, explore, and further the boundaries of knowledge.” The national recognition and exposure for Space Center Houston is expected to increase annual visits, boosting the center’s current $45 million annual impact on the greater Houston area. In addition, Houstonians can look forward to Smithsonian exhibitions and programs. “Space Center Houston is proud to be the first Smithsonian affiliate in Houston,” said Richard E. Allen Jr., president and CEO of Space Center Houston. “This is a result of our continuous dedication to preserving the unique history of space exploration and sharing NASA’s bold vision to expand humanity’s presence into deep space. This affiliation will help us to inspire all generations through the wonders of space exploration.” The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex, with 19 museums and galleries and the National Zoological Park. Learn more at www. spacecenter.org. The “month of firsts” launches with The Next Giant Leap: Beyond Planet Earth, presented by the City of Webster. Now open, this all new exhibition explores how humanity will take its first steps towards living and working in deep space, independent of the Earth. This is the first exhibition of the center’s “Next Giant Leap” 2014-15 season of educational programs and exhibits aligned with NASA’s deep-space exploration initiatives. October is the month of many historic firsts in space. During past Octobers, both NASA (1958) and Space Center Houston (1992) began operations and launches occurred of the first satellite Sputnik I (1957), the first NASA satellite Pioneer 1 (1958) and NASA’s first crewed Apollo mission (Apollo 7, 1968).

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa, right, and Deputy Director Kirk Shireman, left, present James Milhoan the Exceptional Public Service Medal at a public event held in September. Pictured with the honoree is his wife, Ione Marie Milhoan.

Pot offenders to get a break NASA honors James Milhoan Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa presented Barrios Technology’s James Milhoan with NASA’s prestigious Exceptional Public Service Medal during a public ceremony – recognizing him for his 45 years of dedication and service supporting NASA and its important missions such as Apollo, Space Shuttle, X-38 and Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle. Milhoan, recognized as a national expert on reentry materials and systems, has supported thousands of tests performed in NASA’s experimental test facilities, including the Arc-jet and Radiant Heat Test Facility. “We are extremely proud to have James as part of the Barrios team. He represents the very core value of what Barrios provides to its customers. I congratulate him for his excellent career solving NASA’s technical challenges

associated with the re-entry of all human spaceflight vehicles and thank him for his dedication to NASA’s programs,” Barrios President and CEO Sandy Johnson said.

Greg Collins back on Kemah Council Kemah City Council has appointed former Kemah Mayor Greg Collins to fill a vacancy on the City Council. He replaces Councilman Steve Mewborn, who resigned his Position 5 seat during the meeting. Mewborn resigned to become a deacon at his church. Collins served two terms as Kemah’s mayor after being elected in May 2005. Prior to that he served on City Council.

Non-violent first-time offenders caught with up to two ounces of marijuana will be offered a chance to avoid jail and being charged under a program announced Oct. 1 by the Harris County district attorney. District Attorney Devon Anderson said her office, in cooperation with the Sheriff’s Office and the Houston Police Department, will give nonviolent first-time offenders a chance to avoid a criminal conviction through the office’s new program called “First Chance Intervention Program.” Instead, they will be offered a chance to successfully complete eight hours of community service or complete an eight-hour class. Otherwise, they could face the maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine. The program took effect Oct. 6. In 2013, the office processed more than 43,000 Class B misdemeanor cases -- the majority of which were for possession of marijuana.

Photos: NASA

Astronaut Corps loses more faces in 2014 By Mary Alys Cherry

ASA’s Astronaut Corps

continued to dwindle in 2014, as Johnson Space Center bid farewell to five shuttle astronauts who retired and/ or moved on to other pursuits after a combined century of service of the space agency. They are Leland Melvin, Mike Massimino, David Leestma, Andrew Thomas and Dottie Metcalf Lindenburger. Four others, Dale Gardner, Hank Hartsfield , Steven Nagel and Bill Pogue, who had retired previously, died. Melvin, NASA associate administrator for education, who was a NFL wide receiver for both the Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions and a research scientist before becoming a mission specialist on two space shuttle flights, was the first to retire back in January.

Then, as the year wore on, two more veteran astronauts, David Leestma and Andrew Thomas, retired and educator astronaut Dottie Metcalf Lindenburger, departed for other pursuits. The three leave after a combined 76 years of federal service. Leestma, a former Navy pilot and retired Navy captain, retired after more than 44 years of government service. A veteran of three spaceflights, he served as a space shuttle mission specialist on STS-41G in 1984, STS-28 in 1989 and STS-45 in 1992. Thomas, who has a doctorate in mechanical engineering, served more than 22 years of service with the space agency. Before joining NASA, he worked in private industry as a research scientist responsible for designing vehicle aerodynamics, flight controls and propulsion systems. The former deputy chief of the

Astronaut Office spent 177 days in space over four missions, and was the last American to live aboard the Russian Mir space station. Lindenburger joined NASA in 2004 in the first class of educator astronauts and flew on STS-131, accumulating 15 days in space and was instrumental in making the space station a better living environment for crew members. In 2012, the Vancouver, Wash., teacher commanded the NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operation 16. Massimino, the first astronaut to tweet from space, left this past summer to join his alma mater, Colombia University in New York, after nearly two decades with NASA and two shuttle missions that involved 570 hours in space, and five spacewalks, totaling 30 hours upgrading the Hubble telescope. Dale Gardner, 65, who helped haul a stranded satellite into the space shuttle during a 1984 spacewalk, died Feb. 19 in Colorado Springs, after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke at his home in Divide, Colo. Gardner flew two shuttle missions, in 1983 and 1984 and left NASA to return to active duty as a commander in the Navy, from which he retired in 1990 and worked for TRW Inc., Northrup Grumman and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo -- retiring in January 2013. Henry W. (Hank) Hartsfield Jr., who served as commander of Space Shuttle Discovery’s maiden mission and flew on three shuttle flights,

died on July 17 after an illness. He was 80. After his final shuttle flight, Hartsfield served in a number of NASA administrative posts before retiring from NASA and joining Raytheon Corp. in Houston as managing director. He retired from Raytheon in April 2005 and was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2006. Steven R. Nagel, who served as a mission specialist on his first space shuttle flight, pilot on his second and commander of his final two, died Aug. 21, after a long battle with melanoma. He was 67. After his last shuttle flight, he served as a research pilot and in a number of administrative posts,including chief of aviation safety, at Johnson Space Center before retiring in May 2011 and joining the University of Missouri College of Engineering as an instructor. William “Bill” Pogue, an Air Force Thunderbirds pilot and NASA astronaut who served on the nation’s first space station, died March 3 in Cocoa Beach, Fla., from natural causes. He was 84. Pogue made his first and only spaceflight as a member of the final crew to man the Skylab space station. Serving 84 days as the command module pilot of Skylab 3 from November 1973 to February 1974, Pogue and his two crewmates set numerous records for the distance they traveled and duration they spent in orbit. At the time, it was the longest human spaceflight in history.

For their complete biographies, visit www.nasa. gov/astronaut biographies

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

BAHM: What did you envision this tournament would grow to become?

BAHM: Can you identify a “defining moment” that helped the tournament achieve a greater significance?

operate on a strict budget, and costs tend to increase each year. Major costs include lodging and travel for out-of-town teams that amounts to about $45,000 annually. Other challenges are expanding our sponsor base, adding and training new volunteers, and exploring improved methods of marketing and promoting the event. Most of the revenue comes from sponsors. Other revenue is derived from ticket and t-shirt sales. Three years ago, Jack Bailey, PISD Board of Trustees president, started the Texas Invitational Golf Tournament that raised $30,000. Total revenue this year will exceed $300,000, and we are confident we will establish another record for the donations we are able

Meador: If I could name just one defining moment, it probably would be when we decided to donate all the profits back to education. In 11 years, this tournament has donated more than $1 million dollars to education. In 2012, it gave $165,000 to the PISD and $82,000 to the Deer Park ISD foundations. We like to say that the Invitational highlights athletics and benefits academics.

to give the foundations. We have never failed to break the previous year’s record.

BAHM: What is the financial impact of the tournament on the area?

BAHM: Does one particular team or game standout as a personal favorite?

Meador: In 2012, Chad Burke, head of the Houston Port Region Economic Alliance, said the economic impact was $2.4 million. During the tournament weekend, many of our hotels and motels are full, eating establishments are humming with activity, and our retail businesses are seeing increased business.

Meador: The best game we have had in this tournament thus far is the Gold Division One championship between Duncanville and San Antonio Madison in 2006. Duncanville came into the tournament year as the No. 1 ranked team in the nation. It had three players who had committed to Division One colleges. San Antonio-Madison took them into two overtimes and beat them. It was a tremendous game.

Meador: I knew that, if we could attract the best basketball programs in the state, the event would grow. It has evolved along the way to become one of the largest tournaments in the nation, and also one of the most competitive. In 2005 we asked McDonald’s to be the naming sponsor and make a major commitment. Since MacDonald’s sponsors the high school All-American game each year, it has national credibility.

Ben Meador Chairman of the Boards The 2014 McDonald’s Texas Invitational kicks off Nov. 20, and one Pasadena businessman and civic leader couldn’t be happier. BAHM: What prompted you to create a tournament like this? Meador: The idea for this tournament came about when my wife and I attended a 16-team tournament put on by Pasadena Independent School District (PISD). We attended the final game at Phillips Field House where there were two great teams on the floor, but only a hundred people in the stands. I told my wife I thought our community needed to be more supportive, that we could

do better than this. Her comment was, “Why don’t you do it?” I thought about it for several weeks, then decided to ask our Chamber of Commerce, the school district and City of Pasadena to get behind something that would benefit the kids in our district and showcase good things about our schools and city. The Pasadena Chamber gave me 20 minutes on its agenda to describe the idea, and voted to sponsor the tournament.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

BAHM: Likewise, what was the greatest challenge or difficulty you have faced since the start? Meador: The greatest challenge has been keeping up with the growth of the tournament. We

To learn more about the 2014 McDonald’s Texas Invitation, including locations for each game, visit www.texasinvitational.com.

B U S I N E S S

B U Z Z

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Mayor also wants to save the Dome Houston Mayor Annise Parker thinks the Astrodome can be repurposed. “It would be a great place for an indoor amusement park . . . but it’s going to take dollars from the private sector to do it,” she said, speaking at the Clear Lake Area Chamber’s monthly luncheon at the Nassau Bay Hilton. It’s clear, she added, that Harris County is not interested in putting large amounts of money into the Dome without a major donor from the private sector. That was one of about a dozen subjects she updated the crowd on, including the need for a change in term limits to two four-year terms.

NASA extends its Barrios JSC contract NASA has exercised an option to extend a contract with Barrios Technology Ltd. of Houston to provide support to International Space Station activities at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. The cost-plus-award-fee and incentive-fee contract modification increases the overall value of the contract by $83 million to almost $154.5 million. With the extension, the contract now ends Sept. 30, 2016. Products and services provided under the current contract support mission and program integration and necessary infrastructure operations functions for the space station. It includes the potential of supporting other NASA programs or projects via

Houston Mayor Annise Parker, third from left, stops for a photo with Clear Lake Area Chamber officials including, from left, Chairman Jamieson Mackey, Good Shepherd Church Pastor Dr. Jan Sattem, Business Division Chairman Janette Alford, President and CEO Cindy Harreld, Program Chairman Charity Ellis and Stuart Cayer of luncheon sponsor Kelsey-Seybold Clear Lake.

LyondellBasell management board in the interim to ensure an orderly transition pending the selection of his replacement. The LyondellBasell supervisory board of directors has formed a committee to choose Gallogly’s successor.

SJC given grant to train mariners

“ San Jacinto College will expand its maritime training program with the opening of a 45,000-square-foot Maritime Training Center.” task orders. Barrios will perform work under the contract at Johnson. Subcontractors include Ares Technical Services Corporation of Burlingame, California; Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. of McLean, Virginia; Summit Technologies and Solutions Inc. of Alexandria, Virginia; and VeriCon Technical Services LLC of Houston.

expand its 90,000-square-foot Cruise Terminal No. 2 by 60,000 square feet to allow for more and larger sailing vessels and for more seating for cruise passengers. Webber Inc. of Houston was awarded the $11 million contract.

Galveston port plans expansion

LyondellBasell has announced that Chief Executive Officer James L. Gallogly will retire from the company in early 2015. Gallogly will continue to serve as CEO and chairman of the

The Port of Galveston has gotten the OK from its governing board to

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

LyondellBasell CEO to retire

Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Andres Alcantar recently visited the San Jacinto College maritime training center to present a $368,173 Skills Development Fund grant for maritime job training. The grant will fund training for 195 mariners from Buffalo Marine Services, G&H Towing Co., Higman Barge Lines Inc., and J.A.M. Distributing. Since the start of the San Jacinto College maritime program in 2010, approximately 2,500 U.S. Coast Guard certificates have been awarded to mariners. Having a local maritime training center saves companies travel expenses. In the past, mariners were sent out of state for similar training. In the near future, San Jacinto College will expand its maritime training program with the opening of a 45,000-square-foot Maritime Training Center along the Port of Houston.

Clear Lake Shores was well represented at the Clear Lake Area Chamber luncheon at the Nassau Bay Hilton featuring Houston Mayor Annise Parker as the keynote speaker by, from left, Councilwoman Amanda Booren, City Administrator George Jones, Mayor Vern Johnson and Police Chief Kenneth Cook.

Unique retailer coming to area League City and Pinnacle Development Group have partnered to bring a very unique retailer to League City. Cabela’s Incorporated, the World’s Foremost Outfitter® of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, announced its plan to build a 72,000 square-foot store in the Pinnacle Park Development at I-45 near Big League Dreams Parkway in League City.

League City has new engineering director Earl Smith is League City’s new director of engineering. Earl Smith, who has over 27 years of public sector engineering experience and most recently worked as public works director and city engineer for the City of Decatur, Texas, began

work Sept. 22. “I look forward to working with the city staff, elected officials and residents to continue the projects and initiatives that are already established and to discover new opportunities to enhance service to League City’s residents,” he said. As engineering director, he oversees municipal engineering, the city’s capital improvement program, project management, traffic engineering and operations and land development related activities. “We are pleased to add another talented individual to the city’s staff of professional and experienced employees. We believe Earl has the skills to work with our team to continue addressing some of the city’s most important needs, more specifically those needs related to infrastructure,” said City Manager Mark Rohr.

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Rotarians celebrate 50 anniversary with gift to Clear Lake City Elementary th

tudents at Clear Lake City Elementary have been

enjoying their Dell computer tablets as a result of Clear Creek Independent School District’s 1:1 Initiative. And now, thanks to a generous donation from Space Center Rotary, the students’ virtual learning environment will be enhanced. Clear Lake City Elementary Principal Jepsey Kimble, fifth from left, thanks Space Center Rotary members John Wren, Marilyn Musial, Jerrold DeWease, President Scott Rainey, Jerry Smith and Jeffrey Klima, from left, for the club’s gift to his students.

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Space Center Rotarians have committed to 50 acts of kindness for their community, and they chose Clear Lake City Elementary as the recipient of one of these acts. When Rotarians met with the school staff to discuss the best use for their $1,000 donation, the answer was clear.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

“I knew that when our fourth and fifth graders piloted the Latitudes [Dell computer tablets] last year, teachers found a need for external keyboards, mice and headphones to allow our students to use their tablets much more productively,” said Kari Euker, Clear Lake City Elementary counselor. That was all Space Center Rotary needed to hear. The club promptly purchased 40 sets of keyboards and mice and more than 200 headphones, enough for every fourth and fifth grader, and hand delivered the items to very excited students. This golden anniversary partnership seems a perfect fit. Like Space Center Rotary, Clear Lake City Elementary is also marking its 50th anniversary this year. Euker agrees. “I think it’s wonderful that we are celebrating the history of two great entities by a donation that helps our students be 21st century learners.”

NOVEMBER 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Three CCISD Schools among America’s most prestigious

hree Clear Creek ISD

campuses came in for national honors in recent days. Bay Elementary School in Seabrook and Stewart Elementary in Kemah have been selected as National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. The announcement was made by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. That was followed shortly by U.S. News & World Report announcing that Clear Horizons Early College High School, which is made up of students from all five CCISD high schools, was listed among the top 500 high schools in the country. Clear Horizons, where students can earn an associate’s degree at San Jacinto College South and their high school diploma at the same time, was ranked the 32nd best high school in Texas and No. 378 in the nation. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public elementary, middle and high schools based on their overall academic excellence or academic progress that demonstrates dramatic gains in student achievement. “Only 25 schools were nominated in Texas and CCISD is home to two of them,” explained CCISD Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Holly Hughes. “The students, staff and families at both Bay and Stewart have worked extremely hard and should be extremely proud of what they’ve accomplished.” James F. Bay Elementary is led by Principal Erin Tite. Lavace Stewart Elementary is led by Principal Britani Moses. CCISD has had three previous National Blue Ribbon schools, including Stewart Elementary, which earned the designation in 2007. Clear Lake High School and Clear Lake Intermediate School were named National Blue Ribbon Schools during the 1986-1987 school year. Since its inception in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has recognized more than 7,000 Great American Schools. Representatives from each of the 332 schools selected as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2014 will gather for a ceremony in Washington, D.C., where their achievement will be officially honored by the U.S. Department of Education. All schools that have been nominated for the 2014 honor were selected as exemplary high performing schools, as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. Each school has an economically disadvantaged population of 40 percent or greater.

Clear Lake

Dickinson

Houston

Gardeners to meet Nov. 5. Gardeners By The Bay will meet at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, for a special program on Pumpkins, Squash & Gourds and to learn their history, culture, horticulture, decorative and culinary uses at University Baptist Church’s 2nd floor Great Room, 16106 Middlebrook Drive, For questions, contact Marjorie 281-474-5051.

DAR meeting set for Nov. 1. The Sam Houston Chapter of the DAR meets at 10 a.m. on the first Friday of each month at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Wolston Hall, 4613 Highway 3.

Regional premier Nov.1. San Jacinto College South students, along with the Horse Head Theatre Co., will present The Metal children in the South campus’ Black Box Theatre Nov. 1 and Nov. 6-8.

Benefits and Job Fair Nov. 7. United Way Bay Area Service Center will host a Benefits and Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at its offices at 1300-A Bay Area Blvd., in the parking lot at the corner of Bay Area and Saturn Lane. Free give-a-ways and door prizes. Registration starts at 9:45 a.m. Free food will be provided to the first 100 registrations. E-Waste Collection Nov. 8. The City of Houston will hold its monthly collection of electronic waste for Clear Lake City residents from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ellington Field. Items accepted include computers, servers, keyboards, mice, laptops. game consoles, monitors, printers, copiers, scanners, fax machines, car batteries, telephones, cell phones, cords cables, cameras, etc. Gala on tap Nov. 8. The Bay Oaks Country Club Women’s Association Gala starts at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov.8, at the club with a Prom Night theme. BayTran to hear Robert Eckels. Former Harris County Judge Robert Eckels will discuss High Speed Rail at the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership’s monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at Cullen’s American Grille, 11500 Space Center Blvd. For reservations, call Stevie Jones at 281-474-4124 or contact her at Stevie.Jones@gcli.com Democrats meet Nov.13. The Bay Area New Democrats will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Bay Area Courthouse Annex.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | NOVEMBER 2014

Theatre fare Nov. 1. Murdered to Death is now playing at the Bay Area Harbour Playhouse,3803 Highway 3, with curtains at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 23. Tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for students and seniors and $6 for children 12 and under. For tickets, call 381-337-7469.

Kemah Christmas Market Nov.6-8. Deck the Halls will hold its 31st annual Christmas Market Nov. 6-8 at the Kemah Community Center, at the corner of Highways 146 and 518. Housrs are 5-9 p.m.Thursday, 1-7 Friday and 10-4 Saturday.

League City Blues Brothers Tribute Nov. 6. Butler Longhorn Museum will present a Blues Brothers Tribute by Steve Boado and Mike Powell Wednesday, Nov.6. $25 per person. RSVPs a must. Call 281-332-1393. Garden Club meets Nov. 13. The League City Garden Club will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, at the clubhouse at The Village at Tuscan Lakes on the north side of Highway 96/ League City Parkway—in the clubhouse at the end of Tuscan Village Drive (1610 Tuscan Village Drive). Little kids gala Nov. 22. The Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre will host the 24th annual Breakfast With the Sugar Plum Fairy Gala for the younger set and their parents at South Shore Harbour Resort Saturday, Nov. 22. The morning will be filled with memorable festivities, shopping, and highlighted by a vignette from The Nutcracker. Tickets are $60 each. For reservations: 281-480-1617 or office@bahbt.org. Visit www. bahbt.org/specialevents for details.

Nassau Bay Choral concert Nov. 7. The Houston Camerata and Ad Deum Dance Company will present a concert at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road, Friday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person for adults and $10 for seniors or students (with valid ID) and may be purchased in advance on www.houstoncamerata.com or at the door the evening of the performance. All tickets are for general admission seating. Good music on tap Nov. 12. If you love good music and a good time, the Houston Symphony League Bay Area invites you to attend its Wednesday, Nov. 12, meeting at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Rd. at 10 a.m. The Note-Ables will be performing.

Pasadena Taste of the Town Nov. 6. Pasadena Chamber will host its 25th annual Taste of the Town featuring entrees from the area’s finest restaurants Thursday, Nov. 6, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Pasadena Convention Center. Tickets, which are $25 for adults and $15 for children and those under 5 free, may be purchased on line at pasadenachamber.org or by calling 281-487-7871.

Texas City Classic comedy starts Nov. 6. The classic comedy thriller, Arsenic and Old Lace, plays at the College of the Mainland’s Community Theatre Nov.6-23 with performances at 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. Sundays through Nov.23. Tickets, which range in price from $11 to $23 – with discounts for seniors and students -- may be reserved by calling 1-888-2588859, ext. 8345.