Bay Area Houston Magazine March 2015 by Bay Group Media

LEADING AND INFORMING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1999

March 2015 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com

TOP TEN DECORATING MISTAKES SPRING BEAUTY & FASHION BAY AREA BUSINESS NEWS

features

CCISD’s New Stadium

Dear Honey

Dental Health

Letters to the Publisher

CCISD Campuses Undergo Renovations

CCISD Student Artworks

Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party

Challenger Columbia Stadium on the rise Have a crisis? Honey provides sage advice Use it or lose it Local news and more as well Many area schools to see change Moving on to state competition Photography from our popular monthly event

34 Excu-Fit Scientifically proven, executive style training 37

Health & Happiness

Arthritis Doesn’t Play Favorites

So You have Diabetes

Houston Methodist St. John Hospital

Maritime & Petrochemical

News Nuggets and Business Buzz

Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership

Totally Texas Festival

21st Annual Men Who Cook

Graphic Designer Kelly Groce

Restaurant Reviews

Sales & Marketing Shannon Alexander Debbie Salisbury Lisa Waxman

Lunar Rendezvous Festival

Salute to Heroes Patriot Dinner & Concert

Avoiding Danger at Dog Parks

28,177 Texas Seniors May Not Graduate

ON THE COVER James Robinson (Owner), Cody Beeman (PT), Jasia Wajtkowski (PT), Dustin Bauer (PT) and Jay Cooper (PT Director) of Excu-Fit. Photo 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

Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Rod Evans Michael Gos Akshaya Iyer Capt. Joe Kent Betha Merit Cathy Osoria Pat Patton Logan Timmins Digital Strategy Consultant Pierr Castillo Photography Mary Alys Cherry Brian Stewart

Condition strikes both young and old Now what? Hospital marks first anniversary Port joins elite network and preparing students Local and economic Bay Area Houston news Banker Vic Pierson to head board Deer Park Celebrates Photography from this Lakewood Yacht Club Favorite Blue Palms Bar & Grill. Luigi’s Pizza & Pasta Celebrating Golden Jubilee in 2015 Moe Bandy and Janie Fricke to entertain Crucial information to know before taking out your pup STAAR results and one student’s response

columns

Movers & Shakers

Clear Lake Chatter

Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman Mardi Gras, Rodeo keep Bay Area in party mode

18 CLICK! Kemah Mardi Gras kickoff party 20

Texas Meditations

Distribution Shinkle Distribution

In Wheel Time

Logan’s Love List

Home Sweet Home

Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586

Lakewood Yacht Club News & Events

www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com R.Clapp@Baygroupmedia.com

281.474.5875

Create change through education

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Border Crossings 2015 Jeep Renegade Fashion and beauty trends Spring 2015 Top Ten Decorating Mistakes A lady takes the helm

36 Light@Work Breanna’s New Home 66

Main Events Calendar of events for Bay Area Houston

MARCH 2015

CCISD’s new Challenger Columbia Stadium on the rise Dollars raised through advertising help fill public school funding gaps and support district needs, ranging from gasoline for school bus tanks to technology in the classroom. “We truly value our supporting businesses who recognize that CCISD advertising opportunities enable them to reach residents of 13 cities through unique mediums,” said Eva deCardenas, CCISD assistant director of marketing. “And choosing to advertise through your local school district also sets your company apart by demonstrating to customers that your business is community conscious, since your advertising dollars go to benefit education.”

Stadium Founding Partner Clear Creek ISD is also currently seeking a Stadium Founding Partner to partially support the purchase of the stadium video board through a five-year underwriter, or donor, commitment. The Stadium Founding Partner donation will be recognized through exclusive rights to the only

Businesses and Fans Alike Invited to Join the Team

f you wind your way

down West NASA Parkway, something new and exciting will catch your eye -- the rise of Clear Creek ISD’s new Challenger Columbia Stadium. Crews are hard at work constructing the district’s longawaited 10,000-seat second stadium and surrounding complex for one of the fastest growing school districts in the state. Taxpayers supported the project, along with several other facility rebuilds and repairs needed throughout the district, by voting in favor of the 2013 Bond referendum. Advertising revenue from the second stadium will directly support the purchase and operation of the stadium’s video board. The cost of the video scoreboard was not part of the 2013 Bond referendum as CCISD did not want taxpayers to bear the added expense. The stadium complex features facilities that provide a venue for events, including athletic games and tournaments, graduation ceremonies, track and field competitions, visual and performing arts exhibitions and more. The stadium will have a centralized field house

including locker rooms, athletic offices, and a community meeting area, as well as a press box and a student-operated media control room. The district is offering several unique ways a business, organization or individual can be a part of, and visible in, Clear Creek ISD Challenger Columbia Stadium, the newest landmark in the Bay Area Houston region:

Ad Opportunities Under CCISD’s CommUNITY Education Partner advertising program, the district officially released a select number of marketing and advertising opportunities available in the stadium. Over the past three years, nearly a million dollars in added revenue has been raised through the popular CommUNITY program, thanks to the hundreds of participating businesses.

permanent, non-digital signage on the video board.

Legacy Brick Project

The Clear Creek ISD Challenger Columbia Legacy Brick Project offers the opportunity for community members to honor a loved one, thank a coach or mentor, or recognize an organization or business, in a lasting way. Legacy Bricks purchased for donation in someone’s name will be permanently and prominently visible in both the home and visitor concourse areas of the stadium. Construction of the new stadium is scheduled for completion in Fall 2015. For more information on Clear Creek ISD Challenger Columbia Stadium advertising, Stadium Founding Partner opportunities, or the Legacy Brick Project, contact Eva deCardenas at 281-284-0020. MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

5 Steps to Build Up Your Savings for a Home Down Payment

f you’re a first-time home buyer, the big challenge is saving up enough money for the down payment. Financial experts tell us you need to take aggressive steps to cut spending, add income, or do both. Here’s how to proceed. 1. Set a goal and timeline. Find out the price range of the type of home you want in the area you like. Then talk to mortgage professionals like us to get an idea of the down payment you’ll need, which could be up to 20% of the purchase price. Then set a timeline and figure your monthly savings goal. For example, if you need to save $20,000 in two years, you’ll have to put away $833 each month. 2. Open a separate down payment savings account. This keeps the money separate and makes it easy to track progress. When saving for a short-term goal, put the money in a low-risk investment such as a savings account or CD. Shop around for the best interest rate, and make sure the money will be available when you need it. 3. Small steps to big savings. Put together a budget based on you’re spending, and then look at the following to make cuts: • New clothes and impulse purchases; costs like a specialty coffee; monthly subscriptions; car costs you can reduce by

• •

carpooling. Always ask before spending, “Do I really need this, or do I just want it?” Shop in stores, not online, and use cash, not credit cards. Make cuts in gym memberships, vacations, and entertainment.

4. Big steps to bigger savings. If you can handle some lifestyle changes, consider these options: • Move in with family for a specified period of time. • Take in a roommate. • Move to a smaller apartment: the rent can be substantially lower. • Add income by working overtime if possible, or take on another job (a part-time job at a home improvement store can even help you learn more about maintaining the home you’ll buy). • Sell your car and trade down to a lower-cost vehicle. 5. Look at retirement accounts. If you have a 401(k) and contribute more than your employer will match, think about putting that extra money into your down payment savings account. If you have an IRA, you may be able withdraw funds without penalty to buy a first home, although you might have to pay income taxes. As with all tax matters, check first with a tax professional.

Dear Honey Dear Honey, I am moving across the country with my fiancé and he doesn’t have a job there… but I do. How do we enjoy the new city and also give him space to find that dream job? Sincerely, Cross Country and Confused Dear Cross Country and Confused, First, congratulations on the big move! It takes a heck of a lot of courage to migrate across the country and a whole lot more when another person is involved. I applaud your daring. From your question, I can formulate that your fiancé has willingly acquiesced to accompanying you to a new city without a concrete plan for himself. Half the battle is won, love. He’s thrown in his cards. He’s shown you that he’s all in. Now it’s your turn. Support him. Love him. This move doesn’t expressly benefit him, yet. He’s going to be a little lost, and maybe a tiny bit woeful. You will be his wall. He will be reminded, by your presence, by your tenacious care, of the reason he chose to make this move, the reason he chose his relationship with you over his relationship with his job. At this vulnerable point in his life, he will

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

need you more than ever. But don’t ever throw his vulnerability in his face. There will be days, awful, tiring, long days, where you’ll want to. When he says no to picking up those organic grapefruits from the local supermarket, don’t get irritated and tell him that he has nothing better to do. When he snaps at you when you painstakingly describe the grisly details of your spanking brand new co-workers, understand where he is coming from. When a week becomes a month and he begins to lose hope, lift his spirits. You are his champion. He is yours. Don’t ever forget it. But know this, love. He is not your responsibility. He is your treasure and gift, but never your burden. He will find his way. Never doubt that. In the meantime, however, the city is yours for the taking! There is a new playground waiting to be explored. Explore it! Discover what you adore about the nooks and crannies and pockets of the city and allow them to ease you into the transition. Make wonderful, wild memories. They will give you reason to love your new home. They will give your partner reason to smile. -Honey Have a question for Honey? Contact her at dearhoney@baygroupmedia.com!

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. MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

LETTERS TO THE CHAIRMAN Dear Mr. Clapp, I appreciate the opportunity to write an article in Bay Area Houston Magazine and Best Practices. Your encouragement and inspiration is what led me to contribute a service to the members of my community that I cherish very deeply. Please know that I do it as a service to my fellow man, for the improvement of their health and lifestyle. I hope to continue to help and serve this wonderful community any way my abilities allow me to. I want to thank you for trusting me in spreading a message from which hopefully we all can benefit. Sincerely, Nadir Ali.

Dear Bay Area Houston Magazine, Thank you so much for being part of our FROZEN Winter Wonderland event held on Jan. 31 here at Asbury United Methodist Church. Because of your generous donation, we were able to provide an amazing community experience for our friends and neighbors. This church-wide undertaking included games, food, a special visit from the Snow Queen, face painting, hair styling, a moonwalk and 50,000 pounds of real snow, complete with hills for sledding! Together our approximately 120 volunteers hosted over 1,700 visitors at this event. We are grateful for your participation in making our FROZEN Winter Wonderland such a huge success. Sincerely, Pam Sweny

Dear Mr. Clapp, Thank you very much for being my sponsor for the Lunar Rendezvous! As asked, when the activities for Lunar Rendezvous begin I will glady take pictures and send a write up on my experience. I am very excited to be sponsored by Bay Area Houston Magazine Sincerely, Meaghan Bryan

Two lovely Assisteens model dresses from Operation Cinderella’s robust collection of formal evening dresses. Assisteens are an auxiliary to Assistance League made up of over 200 local high school students.

Operation Cinderella now underway For some local high school students, the high cost of attending prom keeps this rite of passage out of reach. But, thanks to Assistance League of the Bay Area, many young men and women will be referred through their schools to participate in Operation Cinderella this year. Students identified by their high school officials as in-need in Clear Creek, Dickinson and La Porte School Districts will receive head to toe prom-appropriate attire. Last year Assistance League members were pleased to outfit over 100 young women and men for Prom 2014. Assistance League is now accepting donations of new and gently-used formal dresses, shoes, jewelry and purses at their resale shop located at 100 E. NASA Parkway in Webster. Dresses may be dropped off during store hours Wednesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information email Operation Cinderella Chairman Ann Hammond at annhammond@earthlink.net. Donations toward tuxedo rentals may also be made at the resale shop. All donations are welcome and each time these total $85, one more grateful young man will receive a tuxedo rental!

Bay Area Pet Adoptions Nina, a 4-year-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix, was rescued by this area’s only no-kill shelter two years ago and is still waiting to be adopted. She has mastered basic commands and walks beautifully on a leash. She loves a good run in the field and would make an excellent jogging partner and companion. Check out all adoptable pets at www. BayAreaPetAdoptions.org or visit the facility at 3000 Ave. R, San Leon every day except Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many adoptable cats can be seen at the League City PetSmart, 1921 Gulf Freeway, Dickinson, every day, while dogs are shown Saturdays and Sundays. Call 281-339-2086 or email info@bayareapetadoptions.org for more information

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Education Foundation to present its annual fashion show April 19 The 9th annual Clear Creek Education Foundation fashion show, “I Love CCISD…Building a Brighter Future,” will be held Sunday, April 19, at 4:30 p.m. at Mercedes Benz of Clear Lake, in League City. Proceeds will benefit programs that enhance student learning in the Clear Creek School District. CCISD high school juniors who are in good academic standing and who demonstrate all that is positive about CCISD will be selected to serve as student models showcasing newly inspired fashions from Dillard’s - Baybrook Mall. Featuring runway seating, hors d’oeuvre stations from 12 local restaurants, and a variety of vignettes straight from the talented halls of CCISD, the fashion show will again be produced by the acclaimed Lenny Matuszewski Jr., nationally known fashion event producer. Tickets are $75. In anticipation of this event, all kindergarteners in CCISD will participate in an “I Love CCISD” t-shirt art contest. The special winner’s artwork will be featured on t-shirts to be sold throughout the district and at other participating locations. “Additionally, the evening will host an array of student entertainment, career and technology program demonstrations, and much more. Save the date! You won’t want to miss this wonderful show!” CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson said. “Through the fashion show,” she added, “we’re able to do amazing things that positively affect the lives of CCISD students every day. We are truly grateful for the many volunteers and countless businesses and individuals who financially support this one of a kind event. We invite our parents and community friends to come out and join us for this exciting afternoon Supporting Educational Excellence in CCISD!” Visit www.ClearCreekEducationFoundation.org for tickets, T-shirt order forms and sponsorship opportunities or call Co-Chairmen Jill Reason at 281-734-2838 and Dinah Matthews. 281-796-5090 for additional information.

Movers &Shakers Name: Mark Denman Occupation: COO of RiceSelect and mayor of Nassau Bay Hometown: Stuttgart, Ark. (Rice and Duck Capital of the World) Current home: Nassau Bay Family: Wife, Diana ,and daughter, Allison, a sophomore at Clear Creek High My favorite writer is: No one in particular but prefer non-fiction

Someone I’d like to meet: George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton together

As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: Playing in the NBA

If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: JJ Watt

You’ll never catch me: Not being honest, direct and to the point

My favorite performers are: Nickelback, Beatles, Foo Fighters

The thing that bugs me the most is: Hypocrites

I like to spend my leisure time: With family

My favorite movie is: My Cousin Vinny

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

Few people know: I work for a real Prince

My favorite meal is: Wild duck and Texmati Rice (the one meal I can prepare myself )

Many CCISD campuses undergoing renovations

SUMMER WORK

By Mary Alys Cherry

he new entry to Clear Brook High is up and welcoming students, teachers and visitors to the campus as construction crews work at a rapid pace on the $20.8 million major renovation. Major portions of the work will be completed by December 2015, after the permitting process slowed the start of the renovation; the remainder is expected to be finished by Drymalla Construction by the spring of 2016. Construction activities over summer will necessitate that the campus be shut down in an effort to make up time lost during the permitting process, Clear Creek ISD said. Besides the new entry and enclosed front courtyard, plans developed by PBK Architects include several new classrooms, sewing, food and computer labs, a career technical education addition and a greenhouse, as well as a new auditorium and administrative space. Athletic additions include football coaches’ offices, freshman/junior varsity football lockers, renovation of the weight room and construction of an additional restroom near the pool and gymnasium.

MANY GETTING UPDATES

The Clear Brook renovation is one of many Clear Creek ISD campuses getting an update after passage of the $367 million bond in May 2013. Among them are 10 schools more than 40 years old, including:  Clear Lake High, which is undergoing a $98.6 million rebuild;  McWhirter Elementary in Webster, undergoing a $30.8 rebuild;  Seabrook Intermediate, where CCISD is spending $11.8 million to replace portables with a permanent addition, expand the cafeteria and library;  Clear Creek High in League City, which is getting a renovation of areas not included in the 2004 rebuild. Construction work is expected to expand as the summer break offers a window of opportunity for work crews to swarm onto several campuses.

CCISD said the summer work planned includes:  Armand Bayou Elementary School, where proposed repairs include foundation work, replacement of the AC/heating system, water pipes, and the fire alarm system as well as the cafeteria sound system. The parking lot, driveway and sidewalks will also be repaired to improve student and traffic safety.  Clear Lake City Elementary repairs also includes foundation work, replacement of the AC/ heating system, intercom system, and fire alarm system as well as the cafeteria sound system.  Whitcomb Elementary projects include foundation work, replacement of major components of the AC/heating system, replacement of water pipes, and replacement of major components of the fire alarm system.  Greene Elementary School plans an eightclassroom addition and a music room. The cafeteria will also be expanded to accommodate enrollment growth and an additional parking lot and parent drive to accommodate growth and improve traffic safety is planned, as well as the replacement of the AC/heating system, fire alarm, roof and campus sound system. All work, including carpet replacement should be completed during the summer.  Clear Lake Intermediate is also on the summer project list with proposed plans to convert classrooms to accommodate Career Technical Education programs, add security fencing around portable classrooms, replace major components of the AC/heating system, improve site drainage, improve athletic facilities for student safety and replace exterior walkway canopies, CCISD said.  Clear Creek Intermediate will also have maintenance and repair work done. The project list includes replacing major components of AC/ heating system, water pipes to improve water quality, major components of the fire alarm system and major components of sound system in gyms, as well as improve athletic facilities for student safety.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Tamra Gann Curry, left, and Kathleen Courville arrive at NASA’s Gilruth Center for the Go Texan Rodeo Style Show.

Sisters forever Carol Bergman, left, and Sally Wigginton share a light moment as they join the crowd at the Rodeo Style Show at NASA’s Gilruth Center.

Sandy Mossman, Jill Reason, Debby Reichert and Michelle Richardson, from left, look for their seats as they arrive at the Gilruth Center for the Rodeo Style Show.

Pam Ploss stops to pet the Rodeo Style Show’s canine star with Lenny Matuszewski Jr.

Mardi Gras, Rodeo keep Bay Area in party mode TIME TO RODEO. The call went out all over the Bay Area, and before long NASA’s Gilruth Center was overflowing with cowboys and cowgirls ready to party down and enjoy the Clear Lake Go Texan Rodeo Style Show – now in its 49th year! Ange Mertens was chairman of this year’s extravaganza with fashion guru Lenny Matuszewski assisting the models backstage and Phil Pampolino serving as emcee. Early arrivals for the always-fun event included Angie Weinman, Joy Smitherman, Emmeline Dodd and Gene Hollier, Jill Reason, Pam Culpepper, Judy Raiford, Pam Ploss and Mike Hesse. Before long, the fast-stepping models were coming down the runway, showing off the latest in fashion from area boutiques – much to the delight of sisters Carol Bergman and Sally Wigginton, Rocky Mauldin, Jeff DeWease, Steven Kirk, Kathleen Courville, Tamra Gann

MARY ALYS CHERRY

Curry, Joan McKinney, and Cindy Harreld. Celebrity models included League City Mayor Tim Paulissen, Judge Holly Williamson, League City Councilman Keith Gross and his wife, Kellie, Nassau Bay City Manager Chris Reed, Miss Kemah USA Associate Pageant Director Kelly Williams, former Texans cheerleader Lauren Leal, Mrs. Texas-USA Summer Williams, Texas Star Realtor Candace Sheffield, NASA Engineer Jessica Curry, and Clear Lake Area Chamber VP Shari Sweeny. Plus, Kendal O’Sullivan, Garza

Jeri Knapp, Jan Bailey, Claudia McCollom, Krista Williamson, Angie Weinman and Wendy Shaw can hardly wait for the 49th annual Rodeo Style Show to begin.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

West Isle Urgent Care; Rachel Henson, Bayway Group; Jeremiah Corbin, Texas Wealth Management; Josh Leal , actor; Karen Jordan, ATA; Gloria Jaramillo, Heather Burchfield, Barrios; Ellen Hickl; Leslie Rauscher Sawyer, Jill Rauscher School of Dance; Jeff Moore, Top Gun; Todd McIntosh, Space City Automotive; Shane Martin, Santa Fe Realty and fireman , and Arlette Baudat, Oceaneering Space Systems who has modeled in the show for over 20 years. Others in the crowd included Wendy Shaw, Jeri Knapp, Claudia McCollom, Jan Bailey, Olive Murphy Riker, Dedra Flynn, Ginger Gibson, Sandy Mossman, Jill Reason, Debby Reichert and Michelle Richardson.

Kemah Mardi Gras keeps on growing KEMAH is building quite a reputation as a Mardi Gras destination with the Kreme du Lac

Rocky Mauldin, Steve Kirk and Jeff DeWease, from left, talk over old times at the Rodeo Style Show.

inviting one and all to its “Krewes into Kemah” month-long celebration. Included is a Kickoff Party at Bakkhus Taverna, a King Cake Party, the Royal Ball at Landry’s on the Boardwalk, the Galloway Gallop fun run, the Mardi Parti at T-Bone Tom’s, parade and the annual Yachty Gras Boat Parade down the Kemah/ Seabrook Channel. This year’s theme was “Pirates in Paradise.” Larry and Betty Hays reigned as king and queen over this year’s Royal Gala with Princesses Marilyn Cole, Connie Mack, Karen Mignola and Sherri Short as Kelly McGuire’s Band kept the ballroom rocking. Now, after they’ve rested up from all the fun, they’ll start planning for next year’s Mardi Gras in Kemah, hoping you’ll join them.

HSLBA Home Tour dates announced THE HOUSTON Symphony League Bay Area’s annual home tour will be

Dedra Flynn, Ginger Gibson and Olive Riker, from left, can hardly wait for the Go Texan Rodeo Style Show to begin.

Krewe du Lac 2015 King and Queen Larry and Betty Hays, left, join Princess Connie Mack for a photo at the Royal Ball at Landry’s in Kemah.

April 11-12 this year, and getting it on our calendars now will make it helpful to remember. Last year, with the West Mansion on the tour, there was a huge turnout, and this year will be just as exciting with two historical properties (Windemere and Bay Area Museum); three Brook Forest renovations; and two waterfront properties. They invited the community to join them for a fabulous day finding and adapting new ideas to use in our own homes. Keep watching for more information the next few weeks.

Festival awards break records THE 2014 Lunar Rendezvous Festival distributed a record-breaking $180,000 to charitable organizations and for college scholarships when it returned its proceeds back to the community at its annual distribution of funds. Under the direction of General Chairman Lea Bodie, the 49th festival was the most successful festival since it began back in 1965. Part of the $180,000 was given

Some came in elegant masks for the annual Krewe du Lac’s Royal Ball such as those worn by Rick Clapp and Shannon Alexander.

to Clear Creek ISD for 25 two-year $4,000 scholarships for 2015-2017 -- to be presented at each high school’s award ceremony in April. Bodie and Advisory Board President Mike Reeves distributed the funds to 20 other local non-profits and cultural arts organizations. The amounts of the donations were between $900 and $26,975. This includes sending students from Clear Brook, Clear Creek, Clear Falls and Clear Lake High School to Girls and Boys State and HOBY Youth Conference. It also includes a donation to UHCL for an Art Gallery, Nights in a shelter for Bay Area Turning Point, Assistance League of Bay Area for Operation School Bell, the Bay Area Museum Guild, Bay Area Youth Symphony, Clear Creek Education Foundation, Friends of Evelyn Meador Library, Houston Bay Area Young Life, Armand Bayou Nature Center, Right at Home Moms, Ashlyn Would Go Foundation, Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theater, Communities in Schools-Bay Area, Jill Rauscher School of Dance and the Bay Area Museum Operating Fund. Mardi Gras revelers, Mark Lovfald, Bobbie Coan, Shannon Alexander and Debbie Salisbury, from left, were among the arriving crowd at the Kemah Krewe du Lac’s Royal Ball.

Frank and Jennifer Brown enjoy the Kemah Krewe du Lac’s Royal Ball at Landry’s during Mardi Gras festivities.

Any Bay Are charity or non-profit group can request funds from next year’s festival. Applications can be found at www.lunarrendezvous.org

CCISD seniors win scholarships FIVE CLEAR CREEK ISD students have been awarded scholarships from the Space Center Rotary Club. Four seniors from Clear Brook High and one from Clear Lake High each received a $1,500 scholarship during the luncheon held at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake. Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith was on hand to congratulate the students for their selection as Rotary Scholarship honorees. Several plan careers in the medical field. Clear Lake High senior Rachel Lopez hopes to study psychology at Baylor University. Brook’s Jared Arend, will study Electrical Engineering at Texas A&M University, while Christine Tang, will study biomed or bioengineering at a yet undecided university. Lauren Gregurek, said she will study biology and Manna Flores plans to study

nursing and become a Registered Nurse.

Coasting Around . . . . DENNIS GAGE, host of Velocity’s “My Classic Car,” will serve as the 2015 Grand Marshal of the 20th Annual Keels & Wheels Concours d’Elegance May 2-3. “My Classic Car” will be filming an episode throughout the weekend with Gage meeting participants and visitors, signing autographs, as well as partaking in the awards programs . . . . Dr. Emily Smitherman, daughter of Charles and Joy Smitherman of Clear Lake and a former Lunar Rendezvous queen, has accepted a fellowship in Pediatric Rheumotology at the University of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, one of the top programs and her No. 1 choice . . . . NASA astronaut and Harvard graduate Stephanie Wilson visited her alma mater Feb. 18 to take part in discussions focused on inspiring girls to pursue technology careers. . . .

Recherche members get together for a luncheon at Frenchy’s in Clear Lake. They are, from left, front, Barbara Phillips, Alice Marinos, Ann O’Malley, Charlene Miller; back row, Mary Alys Cherry, Dollie McAlpin, Peggy Morrow, Mary Ann Shallberg, Kippy Caraway, Marcelle Lovfald Ho and Audrey Lovfald.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

TEXAS MEDITATIONS

Langtry, Texas

he history of Texas is full of “colorful”

characters, many of whom had less-thancommendable lifestyles, particularly early in life. One of my favorites is Judge Roy Bean.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Known as the “Law West of the Pecos,” a title he created for himself, Bean became the justice of the peace in Pecos County in 1882. A new railroad was being built along what today is Highway 90. Since the nearest court was in Fort Stockton, 200 miles away, the Texas Rangers needed somewhere closer to bring local suspects to trial.

Bean happened to own a tent-saloon in Vinegaroon, a spot within 20 miles of 8,000 railroad workers, so the Rangers decided he was their man. As judge, Bean used only a single law book. Some say it was a book of Ohio statutes; others claim it was the Revised Statutes of Texas, 1879 edition. It doesn’t really matter who is correct because it is unlikely the book was consulted often. Bean made decisions based on his notion of what the law should be, rather than what a book said. When the railroad moved further west, so did Bean’s saloon/courtroom. Eventually it found its permanent home in Eagle’s Nest. Here he built an impressive—at least for its time—wooden structure that would be his base of operations for the rest of his life. Bean had a long time unrequited love for actress Lillie Langtry and named his new saloon the Jersey Lilly in her honor (Okay, so he wasn’t a great speller), and shortly after, changed the name of the town from Eagle’s Nest to Langtry. Certainly Bean’s style of justice has been the object of much derision over the years. The bulk of defendants were found guilty on the spot and fined the amount of money they had in their pockets at the moment. Lesser offenses might draw a sentence of buying a round of drinks for everyone at the bar. He refused to forward those collected fines to Austin and though some in the state government objected, they soon learned to live with it. But he was also well known for a very different reason. He regularly took the profits from both his

bar, and from court fines, to buy food and medicine for the area’s poor on both sides of the Rio Grande. Lesser known, though, is the fact that Bean was a border crosser of another type. That is, he started out as an habitual criminal. Prior to taking the position of justice of the peace, he had committed a murder in Chihuahua, escaped a long prison sentence for assault with intent to kill when he made a successful jailbreak in San Diego, killed a Mexican official in northern California in a fight over a girl and was run out of San Antonio for criminal business practices when he was caught selling rustled cattle, watering down milk and selling timber from a neighbor’s land. Even though as judge his decisions were occasionally suspect, it is undeniable that he made a successful crossing from a life of crime to that of a crime fighter. Whether we recognize it or not, we are all born with boundaries that come as a result of a variety of things beyond our control: things like who our parents are, where we live, our physical abilities and inabilities, and of course, our social class. Much of my academic research has been in the area of working class students and their experiences with college and ultimately with moving into the managerial/professional classes. We know a lot about the kinds of things these students have to deal with in their quest to become border crossers. As children, they are trained in a set of class codes and etiquette rules that, while encouraging good

behavior, make college performance difficult (e.g. never question authority, contentions are valid because of who states them, etc.). Beyond that, they often lack many of the prior experiences their more fortunate classmates have (books in the home, learning-based vacations and family outings, etc.) And all these problems are exacerbated by the fact that working class students are completely unaware these differences exist. In fact, most cannot even hear the differences between their own speech patterns and those of their professors and fellow students. In spite of all that, some are successful. They finish college, sometimes even go on to grad school. They take jobs that are managerial/professional in nature and live a very different life from that of their parents and siblings. I am living proof of that. But this success does not come without a cost. Almost universal among successful border crossers is an estrangement from family and lifelong friends. Because they now live in a different world, the border crossers cannot discuss their lives with people from the old neighborhood. They no longer have anything in common. I will forever remember the day I first brought my elderly father to see the house I had recently purchased and moved into. As we pulled into the driveway, he looked at it strangely. I parked the car and got out. I couldn’t wait for him to walk in and see the magnificent view of the lake he didn’t yet know was there.

He just sat there. I went around to his side and opened his door. “Come on Dad. Let’s go inside and get a beer.” He looked up at me and asked, “How many people live here?” At that moment I fully realized how great the distance between us had become. I had crossed a border; he stayed behind. One day in 1903, Judge Roy Bean went on a world-class drinking binge in Del Rio. He returned to Langtry early in the morning and was dead that night. Some historians, taking a romantic view, claim the cause of death was that he had lost the will to live. It seemed that with the turn of the century West Texas was moving forward, and that was more than he could handle. The locals swore that the ground breaking for a new power plant on the Pecos River sent him over the edge. He is quoted as saying that the world was changing and he was being left behind. Apparently, the new world provided one too many borders for Judge Roy Bean to cross. I’m convinced that we all need to move beyond the boundaries that we are born into and that surround us. More important, we need to overcome the ones we construct ourselves. That is part of the human drive—to break out of the restrictions we face—to cross borders. I’m also convinced it is really not all that hard to do. Millions of people have crossed borders in their lives. Many have crossed several. But I am also convinced it is not without a price. The question is…is it worth it?

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Cute and Capable

All-new Jeep Renegade doesn’t disappoint brand faithful By Don Armstrong

recent four hour plane trip

to northern California to drive the all-new Jeep Renegade proved to be worth every second. To loyal Jeep followers, the only real Jeep is the Wrangler, but in today’s cut throat automotive business, the only way to survive is to build vehicles for the masses. There is no question that the Wrangler is the ultimate, but what about those of us that want off-road capability and on-road civility? The Renegade is offered in Jeep’s offroad version called the Trailhawk, and here is where it really shines, giving the part time enthusiast all of the tools needed to keep up with its Wrangler brother. With its fully independent suspension, capable of up to 8-inches of wheel articulation and over 8 ½-inches of ground clearance, the Trailhawk Renegade knocks on Wrangler’s door. Model-specific front and rear bumpers allow for increased approach and departure angles too. The Renegade comes with one of two 4-cylinder engines, a turbocharged 1.4-liter version with 160 horsepower, matched exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission, or a 2.4-liter, 180-horsepower

version, connected to a 9-speed automatic. Both get more than 30-mpg-highway. Two, full-time all-wheel drive systems are offered including one with a 20:1 crawl ratio. Two-wheel drive is also available. The interior is a delight for the eyes with anodized design accents and colors derived from extreme sports equipment. The Renegade is designed with an efficient and flexible interior package that includes a fold-forward front-passenger seat and removable, reversible and height-adjustable cargo floor panel. Outdoorsy-types will like the removable roof panels and cloth and leather seating are offered in color combinations you’ve not seen in a vehicle before. Chrysler’s Uconnect infotainment system is part of the Renegade’s soul and is the best on 4-wheels. With the optional 6.5-inch color touch screen, it becomes the cat’s “meow.” Most of us will be completely delighted with the two-wheel drive model, but offroad, the Renegade earns the Jeep name. After several hours traversing northern California, including tough mountain terrain, and city and highway driving, we can honestly say it has every piece of Jeep DNA. Whether you are in the market for a runabout-size SUV or not, we encourage you to go and take a test drive. The Renegade arrives at Jeep dealers this month. With a starting price of $17,995, we think you’ll be impressed.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

[Logan’s Love List]

By Logan Timmins

Fashion and Beauty Trends Spring 2015 slimming ensembles we’ve seen in season’s past, I am excited to flip the script and step way outside of my comfort zone to participate in this white-out movement. Eye-catching and completely confident, it takes a gutsy gal to rock an all-white get-up. This season, we applaud her.

WEAR YELLOW

Before you bolt from the bold suggestion, understand that wearing yellow can actually be fun and flattering. From pastel, amber, neon, mustard, marigold, canary, and “Sunny D,” there is definitely a shade of yellow suited for you. The trick is in knowing your skin tone and what compliments it best.

GINGHAM

A cousin of plaid but more befitting of springtime, this picnic table print has found its way into our spring wardrobes and we love the fresh, fun feeling it adds. Appearing in a multitude of fabrics and silhouettes, you can incorporate this gingham trend into just about any ensemble for almost any occasion.

ON BEAUTY

Beauty and makeup is, perhaps, my most favorite conversation topic… ever. Everyone wants to look their best, and I believe that understanding how to best enhance your natural features is one of the keys to achieving that. This spring, I am so excited about some new beauty trends that are absolutely doable and will be lovely on anyone!

ALL WHITE

Rejoice! The sun is shining bright, the air is clean and crisp, and now, our wardrobes should be too. This whitefrom-head-to-toe look took runways by storm at New York Fashion week, and we’re following suit. Personally partial to the totally black, sleek and

Bright lip

We’ve seen it before, yes. But are we tired of it? Of course not! A bright red, pink, orange, coral or even purple lip can complete a beauty look in one fell swoop. Mauve-y, brownish, natural lip colors were all the rage for fall and winter, but now it’s in with the

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

bold, out with the nude. A fresh face with neutral and natural eyes paired with a daring lip color can be quite a confident statement this spring. Go for it! Here are a few of my favorite lippies to try this season: Nars Audacious Lipstick - This line of lipsticks is, hands down, the closest to perfection that I have ever found. Complete with 30 different colors for any and every occasion, the non-drying, long-lasting, and superhighly-pigmented formula will have you wanting every single one. Try “Annabella” to start. Described as a “poppy red,” this magnificent shade looks fabulous on any skin tone. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick. Lightweight and luscious, this lipstick should have a place in any woman’s collection. With vivid colors, hydrating texture, and glossy shine, this line is perfect for spring in every way. “Color 5” is my current fascination; a fun, fuchsia flush I can’t seem to put down. Maybelline Color Sensational Rebel Bloom - I have come to expect to be delighted each time I try a new Maybelline lipstick, and their winning streak with me continues this season with the new Color Sensational Rebel Bloom collection. If you want beauty on the budget, make a B-line for the Maybelline at your local drug store because these lippies are a brilliant buy! My personal favorite for this season is “Orchid Ecstasy” for a fun and fearless purple.

NATURAL (LOOKING) SKIN

My favorite new development in the beauty world: natural looking skin. Say goodbye to thick, opaque

foundations that camouflage like a mask. This season is all about a freshfaced, your-skin-but-better look that doesn’t scream “I took two hours to do my makeup this morning.” With the sun starting to shine and the weather beginning to warm up, the beauty world is beginning to veer away from the more matte finishes in foundations and towards the more dewy, radiant and luminous makeup. You’re lucky if your skin is flawless naturally, but for those of us who need some extra oomph, here are a few products that have my personal stamp of approval: Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation SerumFormulated for more oily skin types, this product acts as a skin-treatment while providing very natural looking coverage as well. Gorgeous! Perricone MD No Foundation FoundationThe Serum’s sister, this is the formulation for more dry skin types. This performs equally as well as the other formulation and is also a combination of skintreatment and luminous coverage. Guerlain Meteorites Baby Glow-Okay, this new product has my heart and I truly believe that you will love it, too. Infused with magic (or something), your complexion will look refreshed, luminous, and “smooth as a baby’s skin.” Highly recommend! Guerlain Meteorites Powder for the Face-Designed to minimize flaws and bring brightness to the skin, this illuminating powder made of light-diffusing pearls proves positively brilliant. Use this to set your foundation, and you can thank me later.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

DESIGN rectangular rug can replace the rug that is cut to surround the toilet base.

Too formal

A comfortable inviting space is the desired effect in a home. The solution is to use fabrics that are easily cleaned. Also furniture should be arranged in a grouping so that conversation is easier.

a flow leaving a minimum of 24 inches between most pieces (the sofa and coffee table) . A simple test is to determine whether vacuuming can be performed easily between the pieces of furniture.

Fake flowers

Fake flowers just collect dust. The solution is add real flowers and plants that add beauty and life to a space.

Too many pillows

Home Sweet Home Top ten decorating mistakes By Cathy Osoria

Ignoring windows

A room can become warmer with fabric used to soften the harsh edges of the typical square windows. Window treatments are so important. They are like art and need to be framed. The solution is to treat the windows with shutters, shades or curtains for warmth and privacy.

Improper lighting

A room that is over-lit can be blinding and unwelcoming, and a space that is too dark makes it non functional. The solution is to add proper lighting which can help a room function properly ( as in the kitchen prep area) , showcase art, and provide ambiance lighting to set the mood for family and guests.

If you are constantly moving pillows to use the furniture, then you have too many. The solution is to add accent pillows but not enough to get in the way of the function of the furniture. Rugs that are too small: A small rug can make a room appear uncomfortable and the space more cramped. The solution is a larger rug where the furniture can be placed on the rug or at least the front legs. This makes the room appear larger and seem more cozy for conversations with guests.

Out of place theme rooms

Everyone loves a beach resort, but your home in the city does not need to look like it belongs in a coastal magazine. Themes like coastal, western, Tuscan, lodge are good in small doses and accents. The solution is to keep a flow going throughout the home that is minimalistic and neutral so that accents can be added when wanted.

Uncomfortable dining chairs

Guests and family should be able to enjoy every phase of the meal from the food to comfortable seating. The solution is to select dining chairs that have padded seats of some sort.

Frames mounted too high

Ignoring the entranceway

The entrance to a home sets the stage for how guests will feel in the rest of the home. One solution is adding wallpaper or art or an interesting piece of furniture with a lamp on top for extra light.

Toilet rugs

Never use a rug that is cut to fit around the bottom of the toilet or a rug for the top of the toilet. The solution is to keep the toilet top rug- free so that it is no longer a dust collector. Besides there is no need to draw more attention to the top of a toilet. A small square or

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Art should be enjoyed at eye level so that one’s neck does not have to be strained. The solution is to center the picture at eye level (66 inches is standard).

Lack of traffic flow

One should be able to walk comfortably between and around furniture. The solution is to place furniture in a formation that creates

Keeping something you hate

Whether it is old green carpet one has never really liked , a gift that never really “fit,”or a hand me down that would cause guilty feelings if it were passed down to the next “lucky” family member ...the solution would be to just get rid of it rather than keeping it when it does not make one happy in one’s own home.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

22 CCISD students’ artworks move on to state competition

he floor of the Commons at Education Village was covered with paintings, drawings and sketches as jurors decided which artwork was worthy of moving on to the State VASE Competition. Afterwards, the Visual and Performing Arts Department announced that 22 Clear Creek ISD students received a superior rating at the Visual Art Scholastic Event regional and area competitions Feb. 7, and will be advancing to the State VASE competition. The Texas Art Education Association has sponsored the Visual Art Scholastic Event -- the only art event of its kind in the nation -- since 1994. Students are provided the opportunity to bring artworks created in their art classes to their regional event, where they are interviewed by a certified juror who evaluates their work based on a standard-based rubric and their understanding of the art processes involved in the development of their artwork. Only academically eligible high school students in grades 9-12 from throughout Texas can participate in VASE. Jurors assess each work of art for originality of concept, technical expertise, understanding of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for visual art, and the interpretation of the student’s stated intent. Works that receive a superior rating at region are juried again at the area competition. Area medalists advance to the state competition. Region 4 South had 2,210 total entries, with only 106 works of art advancing to state. CCISD’s 22 area medalists, listed below, will compete at the State VASE competition on April 24-25, 2015 in Dallas: Clear Brook High-- Akhila Janapati, Lauren Leduc, Vicky Nguyen and Daniela Paniagua, whose teacher was Alicia Moore; and Kelly Luong and Ana Rodriguez, whose teacher was Jeffrey Samp. Clear Creek High -- Trenton Allison (2 entries), Kirsten Bolender, Hannah Burwell, Kaitlyn Gothreaux, Monica Jackson, Samantha Pringle, Sabrina Shepherd and Sarah Wilson, whose teacher was Terri Foltz Fox; plus Jenan Taha, taught by Suzanne Lienhart. Clear Falls High -- Kari Langford, Faith Leskowitz and Stone Shulsky, students of Nina Makepeace; Clear Lake High -- Joann Chung, student of Candice Matthies; Clear Springs High -- Shayla Bowen and Kayeon Lee, students of Lisette McClung.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

New Commodore Joyce Maxwell, right, the first woman to be chosen commodore in Lakewood’s 60-year history, joins the other flag officers for a photo at the 2015 Commodore’s Ball. With her are, from left, Fleet Capt. Ashley Walker and his wife, Stephanie; Rear Commodore Jim Winton and wife, Cindy; and Vice Commodore Don Mitchell with his wife, Marilyn.

Gary and Joyce Wagner head to the dance floor at the Commodore’s Ball.

Charles and Becca Scoville, left, stop to talk with Kathy and Al Goethe as they mingle with the crowd.

A lady takes the helm at LYC By Mary Alys Cherry

his year Lakewood Yacht Club is celebrating its Diamond

Past Commodore Bob Fuller, right, chats with Army Lt. Col. (Ret.) Rob Hefner at the ball. Photos by Marcy Fryday.

Lakewood Yacht Club›s Yachtsman of the Year award winner Andrea Todaro and her husband, Jim Crate, enjoy the annual ball.

Neal and Leona Pleasant, left, visit with Past Commodore Don Kugle and his wife, Trish.

Brian and Bonnie Sawyer arrive at Lakewood for the Commodore’s Ball.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Anniversary as it turns 60 years old and for the first time in its history, Lakewood has a lady commodore at the helm – attorney Joyce Maxwell. She was honored at the 2015 Commodore’s Ball, along with Vice Commodore Don Mitchell, Rear Commodore Jim Winton and Fleet Capt. Ash Walker. On hand for the special occasion were 19 former commodores and their wives and escorts – Pat and George Pappas, Eloise and Bunny Pearl, Jill and Don Rauscher, Kendra and John Broderick, Alice and Jack Thomas, Cheri and Andrew Smith, Viki and Gary Anderson, Judy and Bob Fuller, Mary Ainslie and Steve Leth, Martha and Glenn Robinson, Nancy and Randy Bellard, Sandy and Drew Lewis, Jill and Harvey Denman, Lynne and Brian Irvine, Trish and Don Kugle, Marsha and Tom Taylor, Gayle and A.J. Ross, Sandy and Carl Drechsel and Sue and Tom Collier. Houston Yacht Club Commodore Robert Williams and Texas Corinthian Yacht Club Commodore Dr. Eric Ellis and their wives, Judie and Debbie, were special guests at the ball. “It is an honor to serve as Lakewood’s first woman commodore, and I look forward to a rewarding year filled with exciting activities and challenges for our members, including the remodeling of our clubhouse dining room,” Maxwell told the black-tie crowd as she looked out over the elegantly decorated ballroom. She is a graduate of Northwestern University and earned her law degree at South Texas College of Law in Houston.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

BAY AREA HOUSTON MAGAZINE

COVER PARTY Jan. 28, 2015 Claudio’s Restaurant & Piano Bar Photography by Hal Bushnell

Realtor Rick Wade, from left, Sherri Showalter, Roxy Puente, Mark Lovfald, Neva and Jeff Wortham are ready to party down as they join the crowd at the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party honoring Roberts Wealth Management.

Artist Kelly Halbach, far right, enjoys the Bay Area Houston Magazine Cover Party at Claudio’s honoring Roberts Wealth Management with, from left, Jane McFaddin of the League City Regional Chamber, Butler Longhorn Museum President Bette Specion and museum volunteers Annette Conwell and Jeannie Kissinger.

Paul and Summer Roberts, of Roberts Wealth Management, address the crowd.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Bay Area Houston Magazine writer Logan Timmins announces that evening’s lucky door prizes winners.

Shannon Alexander, from left, Lisa Waxman and Debbie Salisbury of Bay Group Media enjoy the party.

Xecu-Fit Scientifically Proven, Executive Style Training at Affordable Prices By Logan Timmins

ust as a business person

or executive should not accept an unclear, incomplete, or unproven business proposal, founder of Xecu-Fit, James Robinson, believes that no one should accept an untested or unproven fitness training regimen either. It makes sense. If you have a particular fitness goal, shouldn’t you know and trust the plan before you invest your time, energy and money? As a lifetime fitness devotee and a successful businessman, Mr. Robinson recognized the need for a proven, trusted, and scientific approach to health and wellness in an industry full of hype and misinformation. He is passionate about helping people to get fit and bringing the community a guaranteed method to achieve their fitness goals. It is in that spirit that he designed a gym that would deliver proven, top-of-the-line, executive style service and fitness training at affordable prices…and hence, Xecu-Fit was born. Many people have the desire to be fit and lead healthy, active lives. The trouble that they run into, though, is the inability to find a health and

wellness program that works for them. They try many methods, but often can’t seem to get where they are trying to go. It can be quite a disheartening experience for their hard efforts, endless hours, and financial investment to go to waste. Xecu-Fit is now here to put an end to that. Mr. Robinson has created something that he believes “doesn’t exist under one roof anywhere else.” That’s a bold statement, but a tour of his facility and an explanation of his operations confirm it. With the help of fitness director, Jay Cooper, Xecu-Fit provides the community with a revolutionary approach to fitness. Using methods that are quantifiable and scientifically proven, they have certainly put their money where their mouth is.

Xecu-Fit, his aim was to provide the most scientifically proven & quantified methods towards achieving a desired physical result.” He’s done it. The personal training and custom-made meal plans that Xecu-Fit can provide

“Because we have this incredible resource, we are able to make measurable progress in reasonable time…every time.” In an industry that is often driven by “pseudoscience, generalizations, and fads,” as Mr. Cooper puts it, it’s no wonder that so many people are confused about how to best nourish and train their bodies. Xecu-Fit is the answer. If you want results, you are willing to work toward them, but all you’re missing is a surefire strategy, then Xecu-Fit was created for you. Mr. Robinson says that in creating

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

are backed by science and will deliver the results you are after. Unlike other gyms and health clubs, Xecu-Fit utilizes a method of training that Cooper describes as “projected, formulated, forecasted, and periodically assessed” to assure progression occurs, as it should. “There’s no guesswork, ambiguity, or blind-faith,” Cooper said. “Every thread woven from every segment of what we do is research-driven

and calculated to elicit specific adaptations. What’s uniquely different about my training is that it is deeply rooted in peer-reviewed, solid, sports and exercise science.” Another distinctive factor in Xecu-Fit’s success is the commitment to the staff. Working with a welleducated trainer is imperative to a person achieving their fitness goals. Knowing this, Mr. Robinson only employs college-degreed, current nationally certified personal trainers and trains them all extensively in the unique methodology under which Xecu-Fit operates. He also understands that in order to have the best staff, he has to create the best work environment. The employees at Xecu-Fit are well compensated for their outstanding work and service. But more importantly, Robinson has greatly emphasized his commitment to helping the staff members to meet their own goals as professionals. “One of the first things I did was sit down

A LETTER FROM THE FOUNDER

with my employees to learn their professional dreams in the fitness industry,” he said. “It became my personal objective to create a model that gave each individual a chance to attain those goals.” Mr. Robinson has integrated his employee’s motivations as “part of his business model,” and in turn, they are fulfilled in helping their clients to progress. “From my fitness director to my front desk staff, my focus is in helping my employees grow and pursue their passions,” says Mr. Robinson. Genuinely invested in the success of his employees, Mr. Robinson promises that “Xecu-Fit is an incredible organization to work with and will empower you toward your unique ambitions.” Xecu-Fit is well armed to take fitness to the next level. State-of-theart equipment makes it the ultimate environment to strength train. Additionally, the ultramodern, state of the art medical equipment and technology at Xecu-Fit is capable of tracking important quantifiable data as you progress through your personalized program. Mr. Cooper explained that unlike a weight scale, this technology can accurately assesses the physical changes taking

place in your body. In turn, they can determine exactly what adjustments should be made to your training or your diet in order to reach your specific goal. “Body re-composition and body remodeling is so clientspecific. You really can’t paint with a broad brush or say, ‘one size fits all,” said Cooper. “This tool gives us the ability to assess your program and if it’s working, or whether your dietary intake is what it should be. Because we have this incredible resource, we are able to make measurable progress in reasonable time…every time.” A personalized and wellformulated training regimen produces progress that is calculated and predicted with astounding accurateness. Many of Cooper’s clients have beheld results that they never thought possible because the guesswork has been eliminated. Instead, clients have a clear understanding of the next steps toward their goals at all times, and with this comes a sense of empowerment to continue. Empowering people is precisely what Robinson set out to do when he created Xecu-Fit, and he is passionately committed to that mission. “Your mission statement

should come from your heart and your soul as a business owner,” Robinson said. “It should be part of who you are and something that you are consistently following with no deviation from it whatsoever. This is my vision, my personal goal, and my life.” Xecu-Fit’s chief aim is educate the community about fitness and give them the tools they need to succeed. It does not matter where you start. Anyone, no matter what level of fitness or athletic background can realize results at Xecu-Fit. Robinson’s philosophy: “Fitness is the fairest and most honest thing. No matter your age, gender, ethnicity, or athleticism, if you know what to do, and you put in the work, you will have results.” If what you want is true physical change, backed by science and quantified results, then Xecu-Fit is the place for you. Delivering scientifically proven, executive-style service at affordable prices, Xecu-Fit is here to help you. Stop by the open house on grand opening day, March 7th from 11am-2pm for more information! Xecu-Fit is located at 17300 Saturn Ln. Suite 108, Houston TX 77058 and can be contacted by phone at (832) 2244016, by email at results@xecu-fit.com or visited online at xecu-fit.com

Xecu-Fit began as a concept derived from my 25 years in the fitness industry where I studied fitness protocols, business management practices and community outreach programs. I felt that these studies were viable and beneficial not just to me, but also to my staff, our members and the communities we proudly serve. What inspired me to create Xecu-Fit the most though, was not all of the effective fitness/business/outreach programs I’d experienced. It was actually the astounding number of internal and external protocols that were NOT beneficial for the members, employees, or communities at all. Typically, they only benefitted the owner or a particular investment group. I was tired of witnessing members wasting time, energy and money on unproven methods and inexperienced staff. I was also dismayed at how little these companies involve themselves in their communities. It seemed as if their only care was to maintain paying customers, with little regard for the wellness of the community as a whole. Once clients had written the check, they were on their own, and I was appalled at the injustice. Aside from that, it was disturbing to me just how many underpaid, overworked and burned out “true” fitness professionals there were, many with masters degrees but barely making 12-14 dollars an hour, working 7 full days a week with no medical benefits. With all that I have witnessed in my 25 years, it became my personal mission to be the change I wanted to see in an industry that I am so passionate about. I wanted to deliver the most scientifically proven and quantified methods towards achieving a desired physical result. I also wanted our clients to be a part of a facility that is not just unique in methodology and structure but also very private, personal and not over crowded. Xecu-Fit will only take on a minimal amount of clients, which insures that each and every member gets the personal attention that they deserve. In addition, for all of our non-members: Xecu-Fit chooses to be proactive through local media groups and forums so that we can help and educate the masses in making a vital decision: how to better their overall health and wellness. We take this responsibility very seriously. From the employees I hire and the service we provide, to the manner in which we conduct business and the way the employees are compensated, to devotedly serving our community and delivering an invaluable education, we have differentiated ourselves in the industry I love. We invite you to come and experience our vision and passion. Xecu-Fit will help you change your life, and you will never look back! Welcome home! Sincerely, James Robinson

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

LIGHT@WORK

SUBARU OF CLEAR LAKE By Akshaya Iyer

eliable and safe; Subaru carries these titles with pride, and the recently opened Subaru of Clear Lake brings the same legacy to Houston. Subaru, which is currently extremely popular in the more mountainous and snowy regions, such as the Pacific Northwest and the Midwest and Northeast, has been rapidly spreading its branches throughout the United States. With 103 dealerships spanning 12 states, Subaru is well on its way to fulfilling its goal. It’s no wonder, either; Subaru boasts the first BOXER engine, now a requisite in every car on the road, and also takes pride in its All-around Protection Cage, All-Wheel Drive system, and an extremely eco-friendly attitude, which, despite their state-of-the-art, highly digitalized and modern dealership, Subaru manages to maintain. Community relations and finance manager, Maria Longnecker, stresses the importance of “buying into the Bay Area and keeping it local.” She is confident that the brand will soon share the popularity that other flourishing companies, such as Toyota and Honda, currently hold in the Bay Area. Longnecker states that 95 percent of all Subarus are still on the road today. They maintain a loyal and diverse consumer base, many of which are engineers and experts in technical fields; Subaru’s top safety reputation attracts the most aware of audiences. Subaru of Clear Lake currently hosts nine models within their dealership, including a host of SUVs and Sedans. Longnecker also discloses that Subaru upholds a safe and happy work environment, which is synonymous with the relationship Subaru cultivates with its customers. “We hand-pick our employees,” Longnecker says. She reveals the sense of equality and camaraderie that the Subaru employees share. “Every single person plays an important role within Subaru.” This translates to the importance Subaru place on customer service. The service facility assists with maintenance and repairs, while the representatives are trained to guide customers in their journey to finding the perfect utility vehicle and with their questions and informational needs. “We help them through the complete process, from A to Z.” When asked to sum up Subaru’s new dealership, she laughs. “It’s a great place to do business and it’s a great place to work,” Longnecker states with a cheerful grin. A grand opening is tentatively set for April 11. Subaru of Clear Lake is located at 15121 Gulf Freeway.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

A victim of sex trafficking lays claim to a bright future By Steve Lestarjette

reanna never uses her full name

when writing or speaking. With her background, it’s best to stay below the radar. She was born 24 years ago, the fourth child of a cocaine-addicted teenage prostitute, and juggled between home and Child Protective Services until she was three. The cycle ended only when a drug dealer broke into her home demanding to be paid. While daughter watched, the man, beat and abused her mother. Instead of killing her, he took Breanna as payment, and quickly sold her into the sex trade. “I like to think I saved my mom’s life that night,” she says. For the next three years, Breanna was both slave and victim in a world she did not understand. Her memories are vague, but she knew she was far from home. The days blended together in a long string of violence and pain. It took the relentless efforts of a persistent grandfather to track Breanna down and, through a long legal process, bring her back. But though she was home, she was not free from abuse. At six, she stayed with her mother, fresh out of drug rehab. At seven, family members and friends re-victimized her while her mother seemed not to notice. She was older, fearful of her abusers and deeply wounded by her mother’s betrayal. Not all was darkness and despair, however. In high school, Breanna made her first “best friend,” a schoolmate named Justin.

One day she visited a church, and found Justin there. There, too, her lost, wandering soul first felt the love and compassion of God. “God spoke to me that day. I knew He was saying He was going to use me, that I would serve Him the rest of my life. I had such joy!” Breanna’s new faith led her to make decisions no longer based in fear, but for the highest good of the people in her life. At 17, an abusive older brother returned to the house. For the safety of a niece, she told her mother and stepfather about him. They called Breanna a liar, threw her down a flight of stairs, and locked her in a closet. “I prayed, ‘God, you have to do something or I will die.’ The next day, my younger brother snuck in and let me out. We took off running as fast as we could. I went to school looking beat-up and wearing dirty clothes. I was called into the counselor’s office and for the first time, I spilled my guts.” CPS caseworkers told her mother and stepfather that for Breanna to return to the house, the abusive brother had to go. Instead, her parents chose the brother, and told Breanna she was no longer wanted. She left for good. She lived with a friend until she was college ready, then left for San Houston State University in Huntsville. She majored in victim studies and got involved with a campus Christian organization where she found “family” and soaked long and deep in biblical teaching and worship. A year later, Justin followed. During one service, a campus pastor spoke about forgiveness. Breanna knew it was time to let go of her anger and bitterness. It was time to forgive her abusers—and her mother. “I went through a lot of healing in college,” Breanna says. “What I had been through no longer defined me. I was no longer a victim.” When she graduated, she found ways to help organizations that minister to victims of sexual abuse. One is Home of Home in Spring, Texas. “Home of Hope is so important to me,” she explains. “Had I had the kind of help as a child that the home provides, I’m sure I would not have been re-victimized.” The boy from church who followed her to Sam Houston State University never gave up on his best friend from high school. “He pursued me for years,” Breanna says with a huge smile on her face. “We got married after I graduated.” Today, Justin and Breanna have a bright, blueeyed daughter named Remmy Nichole, the first child of a “new generation,” born into a loving Christian home. “I see so much promise in my daughter,” Breanna says softly. “I have seen a cycle of hurt that is generational. I realize it’s one of the biggest factors that lead girls into trafficking. The cycle will continue until it’s broken. “So, I won’t continue it,” she says with firm resolve. “Over my dead body will this cycle continue in my family.” “God wants to do more than bring partial restoration,” proclaims this mother and advocate. “It doesn’t matter what’s broken in our lives, God can fix it.”

Health & Happiness By James Robinson

t’s a new year and on your list of resolutions is the always popular “get in better shape.” Where do you start? Well, the good thing about facing any issue is first recognizing that it IS an issue. The next step, however, is to realize that there are no quick fixes. The human body is the most complex piece of machinery known to man. As with any other area of our life where we seek professional help, the body, the biggest mystery of all, needs to be handled with care. Over the counter fat burners and workout tapes won’t cut it. You may make some physical change by simply burning more calories than before, but what happens once your body adapts to this new caloric output? So, again, where to start? The most economical way to create physical change is to get educated. Fortunately, in today’s day and age, most information is simply a mouse click away. Keep your eyes open for science-based, peer-reviewed methods; credibility is key. Don’t allow yourself to fall into advertising traps! For many of us out there who despise the thought of strenuous, and often times, unrewarding research, it is much easier to pay a professional to help in this process. Here lies our next problem. How do I pick a professional to help me when there are so many to choose from? There are professional trainers in every organization that are bursting with potential. The key is to find them. Keep in mind that your gym

membership does not necessarily have to dictate your search for professional assistance, though it might be the first place you look. You might find that specialized training facilities meet your needs; never fall for the first option. Remember to ask questions during your search; you are trying to find the most compatible and experienced trainer that will be able to meet your needs. Always remember that, as the consumer, you are the one in control. Ask for a trainer who has a bachelor’s degree in a fitness-related field, or at least a minimum of 10 years of practical experience. This guarantees a trainer who has the basic background requirements for the post. Make sure to ask for their current national certification, current CPR/AED, and a list of references. Always be thorough. Lastly, ask to interview the trainer. You need to make sure your personalities can mesh and, combined, create the best results! DO NOT sign any agreement until all of this is completed. If you follow this simple questioning protocol, I feel you will have great success. Remember, getting truly educated about the fitness field not only lasts a lifetime but it’s something you can pass on to loved ones for generations.

“The most economical way to create physical change is to get educated.”

James Robinson is the president/ CEO of Xecu-fit. He has been a fitness professional for the last 25 years. He has been able to view the industry he loves from many different eyes and writes this column with the intention of creating a happier and healthier community.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

For osteoarthritis, treatment generally begins with overthe-counter anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and protecting the joints. Dr. Harrington feels weight loss is the most important thing in treating arthritis. “For every pound you see on the scale, your knee carries three or four times that weight. Every little bit of weight loss helps, especially for arthritis in the lower extremities,” he points out, adding that new research has shown that excess body fat can produce chemicals that can cause more pain and joint damage.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Arthritis doesn’t play favorites; it strikes both young and old By Mary Alys Cherry

rthritis. Most everyone gets

it at one time or another in one form or another. It’s not choosy. It isn’t just an old folks’ malady; it attacks both young and old. And there is no cure. Just discomfort that generally can be managed with the right medicine. It may come as a surprise to some, but there is more than one kind of arthritis. And, an estimated 27 million Americans have the most common form of the disease. Actually, arthritis primarily comes in three main forms.  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which there is inflammation in the joints that destroys the joints. About 75 percent of the victims are women.  Juvenile arthritis affects children and is typically an autoimmune, inflammatory arthritis.  The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects about 80 percent of people over the age of 50. Still another form of the disease is gout. Whatever form it takes, it sometimes comes with pain and stiffness that can be so severe it

Rheumatoid arthritis usually begins between ages 25 and 50 when the immune system attacks parts of the body – primarily joint linings which are supposed to protect and lubricate joints. When it attacks these membranes, they become inflamed, causing joints to become painful and swollen or stiff. Over time, the joint may be destroyed. The disease may come on suddenly or over time, often starting with the small joints in the wrist, hands or feet, causing a general feeling of fatigue and aching muscles.

makes it difficult to walk, sleep, climb stairs or perform many daily tasks. Common risk factors include advancing age, previous joint injury, obesity, overuse of a joint, weak thigh muscles and genetics.

OSTEOARTHRITIS

Although the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known, there are several factors that are known to put someone at risk of getting it. “We know that genetics plays a role, so it tends to run in families. We know that obesity is a factor for worsening the arthritis, particularly in the lower extremities. We know that if you injure the joint, such as torn cartilage or a fracture to the joint, that can predispose arthritis,” said Dr. Melvyn Harrington, associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Common symptoms, which may develop gradually, include:  Sore or stiff joints – particularly the knees, hips and lower back – after inactivity or overuse.  Stiffness after resting that goes away after movement.  Pain that is worse after activity or near the end of the day. While it’s not a reversible condition, it is manageable with medications.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

“For every pound you see on the scale, your knee carries three or four times that weight.” JUVENILE ARTHRITIS

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, also known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis in children under the age of 17. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis causes persistent joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Some children may experience symptoms for only a few months, while others have symptoms for the rest of their lives. Some types of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis can cause serious complications, such as growth problems and eye inflammation. Treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis focuses on controlling pain,

improving function and preventing joint damage.

TREATMENT

While doctors can successfully transplant hearts, separate Siamese twins and restore hearing to the deaf, they have no cure for osteoarthritis. They do, however, have medications to help relieve pain, when needed. Physical therapy may be recommended for improvement of strength and function. “Exercise can improve range of motion and also strengthen the muscles surrounding joints,” the Mayo Clinic points out in a special report, adding that “in some cases, splints or braces may be warranted.” Surgery may even be considered if the pain is severe and daily activities and mobility become difficult. Doctors may suggest that a damaged joint, such as the hips or knees, be replaced with an artificial one. In sum, one may need to try several different treatments or combinations of treatments, the Mayo Clinic doctors suggest.

MEDICATIONS

A variety of medications are generally used by physicians to treat arthritis, depending on the type of arthritis. A list prepared by the Mayo Clinic includes: Analgesics. These are commonly used to help reduce pain but have no effect on the inflammation and include acetaminophen (Tylenol), tramadol (Ultram), plus narcotics such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs reduce both pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter drugs in this class include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Others are only available by prescription. Some may cause stomach irritation and some may increase one’s risk for stroke or heart attack. NSAIDs also come in creams or gels, which can be rubbed on joints. Counterirritants. There are ointments that contain menthol or capsaicin, the ingredient found in hot peppers. Rubbing these on an aching joint may interfere with pain signals from the joint. Antirheumatic drugs. Often used for rheumatoid arthritis, DiseaseModifying Antirheumatic Drugs or DMARDs, slow or stop one’s immune system from attacking the joints, the Mayo Clinic explains. Corticosteroids. This includes both prednisone and cortisone, which reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.

So you have diabetes, now what? By Dr. Sonya Khan

very visit,

patients get a quick finger stick and hold their breath to find out what their Hemoglobin A1C is. This magic number defines whether or not they were on track the last three months. Why is this number so important? A Hemoglobin A1C measures what percentage of hemoglobin — a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen — is coated with sugar (glycated). The higher the Hemoglobin A1C level, the poorer the blood sugar control - which means an increased risk for diabetic complications. This number basically tells the doctor how good or bad you’ve been since your last visit. Based on age and other medical conditions, the target Hemoglobin A1C is usually 6.5 to 7.0 percent. This comes out to an average fasting (before breakfast) blood sugar less than 110 mg/dl and daytime blood sugar less than 140 mg/dl. However, is it all about the sugars? Though much of diabetes care is centered around the blood sugars, it is also important to look at other factors and measure other goals. Diabetes is a disease that is not only a dysregulation of carbohydrates, but also a leading cause of heart attacks, blindness, kidney failure, and amputations. On a microvascular and macrovascular scale, the whole body is affected by diabetes so it is important not to concentrate on only the numbers. The most effective way to protect against a heart attack and kidney failure as a complication of diabetes is to control blood pressure. Many times doctors will prescribe a blood pressure medication to keep your numbers at a goal—less than 140/90 (per American Diabetes Association guidelines). Ask your doctor if this medication will also help with kidney protection, because certain blood pressure medications are also kidney protective. The most effective way to maintain proper blood pressure control is to avoid excess salt in your food. Canned foods and restaurant/fast foods are very high in salt. Items such as instant noodles are also very high in salt or sodium. Monitor blood pressure daily with an arm cuff that

can be purchased at a local drug store. A combination of controlling your blood pressure and limiting fried or fatty foods is the key to a healthy heart. To avoid the complications leading to blindness, prevention is the key. Retinopathy or damage to the blood vessels in the eye is a severe complication of uncontrolled diabetes. According to the American Diabetic Association, every diabetic should have a dilated eye exam yearly. There is no way to predict which diabetics will have eye disease, so everyone should be vigilant and have their eyes examined regularly. There are little to no symptoms for retinopathy so it is important to be monitored even before developing any signs. Another complication that can be prevented is amputations. Though most people claim to have good foot care, many of us rarely actually look at the bottom of our feet. It is important to have a complete foot exam regularly with your doctor. Diabetics have an increased risk of amputations due to uncontrolled sugars. The nerves in the feet get damaged which leads to numbness, and this numbness allows cuts, scrapes, and bruises to go unnoticed. The way to avoid this complication is to have good foot hygiene. Check your feet daily and report any abnormalities to your doctor right away. Many of my patients, who are diagnosed with diabetes, live long and healthy lives. Establish a good relationship with your doctor and find a regimen that fits your lifestyle and brings you to your glycemic goals. Make sure you keep up with your blood pressure goals, cholesterol goals, and your eye and foot care. Your weight is the last important metric. Discuss with your doctor your proper weight because the proper weight for your body type will make all the things discussed above easier to maintain. Diabetes is an all-encompassing disease, but when you are well informed and regular with your follow up appointments, it is not difficult to prevent complications. Make sure you discuss these goals with your doctor on your next visit and start the conversation to a healthier you. MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Houston Methodist St. John Chief Executive Officer Dan Newman, from left, joins Father Rueben Nwankwor, director of spiritual care and values integration; Sherry Tumbleson, vice president and chief nursing officer; and Susan Garcia, vice president, operations at a prayer service and celebration for St. John employees and guests on Feb. 2 as they observe their oneyear anniversary as a Houston Methodist hospital.

Houston Methodist St. John Hospital growing as it marks first anniversary

o better serve Bay Area residents, Houston Methodist St. John

Hospital continues to add new physicians, staff and programs to care for patients as it celebrates its first anniversary as a part of the Houston Methodist System. These, plus other significant milestones, are part of the leadership team’s foundation for growth that began one year ago when Houston Methodist acquired majority ownership from Christus Health. “We are extremely proud to be a part of Houston Methodist, which is consistently recognized as one of the finest healthcare institutions in the country,” said Dan Newman, CEO of Houston Methodist St. John. “As part of Houston Methodist, our goal is to ensure that we are providing the highest quality care and best service to the communities of the greater Bay Area. To

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

achieve this, we are following in the path of the other Houston Methodist hospitals by enhancing services, adding skilled, experienced physicians to our medical staff and growing our capabilities to bring the most sophisticated procedures and treatments here, close to home.” As the team at St. John celebrates the milestone as a Houston Methodist hospital, they recount a number of goals already accomplished:  The Houston Methodist St. John Hospital Board of Directors approved implementation of a master facility plan. Houston Methodist has engaged the consulting firm Kurt Salmon and the global design firm HKS Architects to assess the hospital’s existing infrastructure, utilities and associated market needs that will be necessary to support future growth.  Five new physicians were recruited to join the medical staff: Drs. Niloufar Ghadiri; Carmen Hernandez Zhang; Jeffrey Jaglowski; Kyle Stephens and Melissa Hu. Three longstanding St. John physicians joined the Houston Methodist Physician Group: Drs. Kenneth R. First; Larry Watson and R. Sam Lingamfelter. When asked why he left private practice to join the Houston Methodist Specialty Physician Group, Dr. First replied, “Joining Houston Methodist provides the opportunity to work closely with other orthopedic and sports medicine specialists across Houston. I’ll have the ability to collaborate on the innovative technology and new surgical techniques being developed at Houston Methodist and use those to the benefit of patients here in the Bay Area.” Last July, St. John achieved Cycle IV Chest Pain Center status granted by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care. This accreditation recognizes hospitals for rapid diagnosis and treatment of heart attack patients, including effective integration of EMS, Emergency department and community outreach efforts. More recently, St. John received designation as a Stroke Ready hospital by DNV Healthcare, the nationally recognized provider of hospital accreditation. The hospital’s first year of growth and development sets the stage for future expansion and improvement of numerous service lines including women’s services, neurology and cardiology; as well as the continued enhancement of orthopedics, primary care, general surgery and other programs. “We’ve achieved a great deal in a short time, but we are really just beginning,” Newman adds. “With the support of Houston Methodist, we will continue to work toward further integration with our sister hospitals, growing our facilities and services and adding to our excellent staff of physicians, nurses and other health care professionals.” For more information on Houston Methodist St. John Hospital, call 281-5232000 or visit www.houstonmethodist.org/st-john-clear-lake. To find a HMSTJ physician, call 713-790-3333.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Record Setting Year

Upper Echelon Port of Houston Joins Elite Network By Rod Evans

partnership between the

Port of Houston Authority, the Greater Houston Partnership and the city of Houston has resulted in Houston’s inclusion in the prestigious Global Cities Initiative economic development network. The GCI is a five-year joint project of the Brookings Institution and JPMorgan Chase and was launched in 2012 to help business and civic leaders grow their metropolitan economies by strengthening international connections and competitiveness. The Port of Houston Authority joined with city of Houston leaders and the Greater Houston Partnership to submit the application for entry into the GCI Exchange last year. Houston becomes one of eight metro areas accepted into the Exchange’s 2015 group, the final piece in the network’s 28-metro area group. “For the Exchange, we selected metro areas that are committed to expanding their global economic reach by working together to identify regional competitive strengths and increase exports,” said Marek Gootman, director of Strategic Partnerships and Global Initiatives at Brookings. The goal of the network is to assist metropolitan areas as they develop plans to achieve sustainable growth,

and addresses exports and foreign direct investment. Houston will start its involvement in the GCI Exchange by developing a metropolitan export plan later this year. The Brookings Institution, a non-profit public policy organization based in Washington, D.C., selected metro areas through a competitive process based upon their readiness and commitment to pursue the Exchange’s global competitiveness principles. As the fourth largest city in the nation, Houston is expected benefit from the program through data production and research that will help to guide decisions and foster practice and policy innovations, as well as facilitating a peer learning network. In addition to Houston, the 2015 GCI Exchange members include: Baltimore, Fresno, Calif., Kansas City, Mo., Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, Seattle and St. Louis. The cities join other metro areas, including Atlanta, Charleston, S.C., Chicago, Columbus, Ohio, Des Moines, Iowa, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Fla. and Los Angeles in the Exchange. “The Global Cities Exchange provides another level of depth for our efforts to secure Houston’s long-term economic success,” said Gina Luna, chairman of JPMorgan Chase in Houston and chair of the Partnership’s Board of Directors. “This innovative public-private initiative will produce trade and investment strategies that create jobs and grow our economy through greater global engagement.”

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

According to a recent report, the PHA posted a banner year in 2014, with records set for both steel and container cargo. PHA Executive Director Roger Guenther announced that the PHA’s terminals handled more than 37 million tons of cargo last year, representing an increase of five percent compared to the previous year and setting a record for tonnage. “The unified and collective effort of all of our stakeholders is the key to what continues to make the Port of Houston a great economic engine for not only our region, but for the state of Texas and the nation,” Guenther said. “Cargo volumes continue to be strong as we begin a new year and new century for the Houston Ship Channel.” A total of 6.6 million tons of steel crossed the Port Authority’s docks in 2014, breaking the previous record of 6.3 million tons. Container tonnage topped 19.4 million tons last year. Guenther said 2014 was also a tremendous year for grain and bulk exports at the port. The strong showing in 2014 resulted in solid financial results for the Port Authority, with $261 million in operating

to serve as the site for constructing a new museum facility.

Calling All Interns

The PHA is now accepting applications for its summer intern program through the month of April. The Port Authority’s Summer Internship Program offers graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to work side by side with knowledgeable and experienced experts in their field. Interns can expect to be challenged by hands-on work assignments related to their major, and develop skills that will help them in almost any career. During the 10- to 12-week summer experience, interns will have a variety of opportunities to interact with senior management, as well as with other interns, to broaden their understanding of agency operations. Interns receive an hourly compensation that is reviewed and adjusted annually, to ensure that it remains competitive and continues to attract and retain quality candidates. The program provides an outstanding educational and work experience for a select group of candidates in a wide range of disciplines, including communications and community

“The Global Cities Exchange provides another level of depth for our efforts to secure Houston’s long-term economic success.” revenue, $39 million in net operating income and $116 million in cash flow. Plans call for a significant capital investment program over the next five years that will include new and redevelopment projects totaling in excess of $1 billion. Additionally, the PHA is accommodating new alliances with container carriers, including one between the world’s two largest container lines, Maersk and MSC, which will allow for their future growth through PHA facilities. A key Port Authority priority this year, according to Guenther, is to explore and develop an even more diverse range of cargo, including opportunities for the shipment of refrigerated goods through the port. PHA also is preparing to handle an increase in plastic resin exports that is expected during the next several years. The Port Commission has also approved a 30-year lease agreement with the Houston Maritime Museum for property on the southwest side of the M/V Sam Houston Pavilion

relations, construction management, engineering, government affairs, human resources, trade development, maritime transportation and many more. The intern program welcomes applications from current graduate and undergraduate students in a variety of majors, such as accounting, architecture, business administration, computer science, construction management, economics and engineering. To qualify, candidates must be currently enrolled in a twoor four-year college or university or a recent graduate of a four-year college with plans to earn a master’s or higher degree in the work area of the internship. A resume and a letter of recommendation from an advisor or professor/teacher is required for all applicants, and all applications must be submitted via the online application system. Visit Portofhouston.com for program details.

Preparing students for well-paying careers By Tamara Nicholl-Smith

ver the past few years,

workforce needs have reflected a need for change in the educational system. For example, in our region alone, the petrochemical, manufacturing, construction, and logistics industries were struggling to find a qualified workforce; even though many of the jobs they were unable to fill did not even require a four-year degree. Because of this need, a coalition of 22 trade associations representing 300,000 businesses and six million jobs came together, signed, and presented a petition to the Texas legislature in 2013, requiring career-readiness to be incorporated into secondary school curriculum. Supporting this request was a recent Houston Endowment study identifying that only 20 percent of Houston-area eighth graders receive any type of certificate, associates, or bachelor’s degree within six years of graduating from high school. Many students who graduate high school without any career-specific training or certifications find themselves trapped in low paying jobs with few prospects for advancement. This is not only an issue for the students themselves, but the economic health of the region as a whole. When companies consider investing in a new area, one of their basic considerations is the availability of a trained workforce. Lack of career readiness for non-college bound students makes our region noncompetitive in the state and national market. Historically, the educational system was focused on sending Texas students on to college. In response to these workforce needs, in 2013, state legislation was enacted to modify high school curriculum to remedy a lack of options available to students. This legislation identified five endorsements or “majors” for secondary school students to select from. 1. Arts and Humanities 2. Business and Industry 3. Public Services 4. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) 5. Multidisciplinary Studies Within each of these endorsements are several pathways to graduation.

The pathway options vary by school district. For example, the La Porte Independent School District, responding to the specific needs of our region, selected the following pathways within each of the five endorsements.

LA PORTE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SAMPLE ENDORSEMENTS & PATHWAYS ARTS & HUMANITIES • • •

Fine Arts Foreign Languages & Cultural Studies Political Science & History

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Agricultural Science Audio Video Auto Collision Auto Technology Business Management Construction Management Culinary Arts Finance Graphic Design HVAC Information Technology Journalism & Communications Maritime Marketing Process Technology Web Design Welding

PUBLIC SERVICES • • • • • •

Child Development Cosmetology Education Health Sciences Law Enforcement & Public Safety ROTC

STEM • • •

Advanced Math Advanced Sciences Engineering

MULTIDISCIPLINARY

Students select courses from each endorsement area and earn credits in a variety of advanced courses from multiple content sufficient to complete distinguished level under the Foundation High School Program.

Beginning in the fall of 2014, students have more options. The creation of these endorsements has significantly improved the opportunities for a large percentage of

“Many students who graduate high school without any careerspecific training or certifications find themselves trapped in low paying jobs with few prospects for advancement.” school students to achieve career and/or college readiness. Now, students are exposed to career options at early ages which gives them the chance to think about their career pathway earlier in life. No one is asking eighth graders to determine what they want to do for the rest of their lives. Indeed, the program is flexible and allows students to change their endorsement along the way. However, now, the future for these students is much brighter. For example, the median salary for a process tech with a two-year associate’s degree in the petrochemical industry is $86,000. Interested in more information? There are many resources available for additional information on the endorsements as well as the careers available in our region. For more information on endorsements, visit Region 4 website at: www.esc4.net/default. aspx?name=hb5.home

For more information on careers visit the Economic Alliance website at: www.allianceportregion.com/ resources/parent-student-resources/

The Economic Alliance Welcomes New Members The 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 their membership roster so far this year. •

Munro’s

•

Star Fleet

•

J.P. Morgan Chase

•

Texas Southern University

•

IProcess Data Systems LLC

•

Solvay

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Space Center Rotary had some special guests in February – Rotary International President Gary Huang and his wife, Corenna. Here they were on hand when Space Center President Scott Rainey, from left, presented one of the club’s 50 Random Acts of Kindness to Shanna as the Huangs and Rotary District Governor Lisa Marie Massey look on. Shanna was a homeless Nigerian immigrant, a domestic violence survivor and the mother of two who was presented money to furnish a rental home for her family and to help her with her goal to become a registered nurse.

at Webster Presbyterian Church -- moving to the Bay Area from Greensboro, N.C., where he served as a pastor for almost 20 years and his wife, Mary Helen, taught and coached young athletes. A graduate of Louisiana State University, he earned his Doctor of Ministry from Union Theological Seminary where he was awarded a Thompson Scholarship. He also attended Duke Divinity School and LSU Law School. The Dean of Union Presbytery Seminary describes Pastor Keith as “...one of the most gifted, imaginative, and energetic pastors I have ever known.”

Kemah gets new city secretary

Patty Kloves, is Kemah’s new city secretary, replacing Marisela Garcia, who left to become city secretary in Nassau Bay. Previously, she spent eight years working for NASA contractor Wyle Integrated Science and Engineering and also held financial and administrative posts at the University of Texas Branch in Galveston and at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. A graduate of Texas A&M University, she also has a master’s degree from the University of Houston. The Kemah City Council set her salary at $65,000 annually.

CCISD bus program gets $100,000 grant Members of the Texas PTA recently presented a ceremonial check to Clear Creek ISD, representing a $100,000 grant from the Texas PTA Clean School Bus Program. The grant money will be used to help purchase two clean-air school buses. CCISD has 71 clean air buses, 55 buses powered by CNG, 16 fueled by propane and 213 diesel school buses. “Currently clear air buses comprise 25 percent of the CCISD bus fleet,” said Transportation Director Dean Lewis. “We have another 12 propane buses set for delivery in March as we strive to provide the safest environment possible as we transport thousands of students each school day.” The Texas PTA has partnered for several years with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to improve air quality for Texas youth.

Taylor to head education panel Sen. Larry Taylor of Friendswood, who represents District 11, has been appointed as the new chairman of the Senate Public Education Committee by Lt.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

Gov. Dan Patrick. Taylor, who also was reappointed to the Senate Business and Commerce Committee that has been working to reform the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, said he was “honored by the appointment and I look forward to continuing to bring education into the 21st century.” He was equally pleased, he added, to continue on the business panel.

Goose Creek picks superintendent The Goose Creek CISD has selected Randal O’Brien as its new superintendent. O’Brien has been heading the district as acting superintendent since the beginning of this school year. “It is an honor to be the lone finalist for the position of superintendent for Goose Creek CISD. I want to thank the members of the Board of Trustees for their vote of confidence in me,” he said after his selection as the lone finalist for the post.

Webster church gets new pastor The Rev. Dr. Keith Alan Uffman is the new pastor

Cruz to chair NASA panel Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) has been named chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee’s subcommittee, which oversees NASA. He was the top Republican on the subcommittee last year but did not play a prominent public role concerning space agency matters in the last Congress. He is known mostly for advocating reduced government spending and a campaign to kill Obamacare.

Pearland OKs road funding Pearland City Council has approved an agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation that will mean its Smith Road Project can go forward, agreeing to pay 20 percent or $996,899 of the $5.1 million cost for improvements from Hughes Ranch Road to FM 518. The state will pay the remaining 80 percent.

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

B U S I N E S S

B U Z Z

Seabrook Mayor Glenn Royal, right, and City Manager Gayle Cooke visit with Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell as they arrive at Cullen’s Upscale Grille for the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership’s February luncheon.

Union Pacific Railroad Public Affairs Vice President Brenda Mainwaring arrives at Cullen’s Upscale Grille to address the BayTran luncheon. With her are attorney Hugh McCulley, left, and Harris County Transit Services Director Ken Fickes, who is also a BayTran board member.

Chamber votes to change name

After much debate, the League City Chamber has decided to change its name to the League City Regional Chamber of Commerce. The decision was announced by Chamber Board Chairman Bonnie Lem. “After lengthy discussions about the importance the city of League City has played in the tradition and success of our chamber, yet also recognizing that new opportunities for continued success and to expand our business footprint; the new name was determined to be very timely and appropriate,” Lem said. Back in January, a chamber committee changed the name to the Bay Area Houston Regional Chamber of Commerce, a name that upset most members because it did not include League City in

Moody Bank was well represented at the BayTran February luncheon by President Vic Pierson, third from left, Executive Vice President Mike Cooper and Senior Vice President Keith Marshall. At left, Seabrook Economic Development Director Paul Chavez stops to talk with them.

the name. The chamber then gave members an opportunity to choose between three suggested names – League City Regional Chamber of Commerce, League City/ Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and League City/ Bay Area Regional Chamber of Commerce. Most liked the first suggestion. Next step will be to select a new logo, Chamber President Laurie Baldwin said.

RadioShack set To close stores

RadioShack has announced that it is filing for bankruptcy and is closing about 1,700 of its stores nationwide, including some in the Houston area. Among those expected to close are stores near Baybrook Mall in Webster, 142 Southmore in

$18.5 billion NASA budget unveiled By Mary Alys Cherry

ASA and the Johnson Space Center got good news as President Obama unveiled the space agency’s 2016 budget with a halfbillion dollar increase over the 2015 enacted

budget. “It’s a clear vote of confidence,” NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said during a visit to Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The $519 million increase in new funding over last year’s budget, Bolden added, will provide the necessary resources to continue advancing America’s space exploration plans and fund the space race between Boeing and SpaceX to eventually carry astronauts to and from the International Space Station. “Today, President Obama is proposing an additional $18.5 billion for NASA, building on the significant investments the administration has made in America’s space program over the past six years,” Bolden said. “NASA is firmly on a journey to Mars. Make no mistake, this journey will help

Dr. Ellen Ochoa, far left, welcomes the news media to the Johnson Space Center for a press conference where Boeing and SpaceX announced their objectives as they work to achieve certification for the two American space transport systems. Other participants in the panel were, from left, NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, Commercial Crew Program Manager Kathy Lueders, Boeing Vice President and General Manager John Elbon, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell and astronaut Mike Fincke.

guide and define our generation.” The 2016 budget year begins Oct. 1, 2015. However, it is not known what the Republican Congress will do with the proposal. The proposed budget, Bolden said, allows the space agency to continue development of the Orion crew vehicle, Space Launch System and Exploration

Pasadena, 2600 FM 1764 in La Marque and San Jacinto Mall in Baytown.

BayTran plans State of Counties

Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership President Barbara Koslov has announced plans for the 16th annual State of the Counties Address on Wednesday, April 15. The luncheon at the Hobby Marriott at 9100 Gulf Freeway, will feature addresses by Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, Galveston County Judge Mark Henry and Brazoria County Judge Matt Sebesta. Individual tickets are $75 each with various sponsorship levels for tables for 10 available by contacting Mrs. Koslov at bkoslov@baytran.org

Ground Systems that are expected to one day send astronauts beyond low-Earth orbit. The Space Launch System, NASA explained, is a new heavy-lift rocket, more powerful than any previously built. SLS will be capable of sending humans aboard Orion to deep-space destinations such as an asteroid and Mars. During the past year, several highly successful missions were accomplished, along with the maiden flight of the spacecraft Orion, which traveled farther in space than any spacecraft designed for astronauts in more than 40 years. Meanwhile both Boeing and SpaceX – the two companies NASA selected to build space vehicles under the Commercial Crew Program -- have already completed some tests and expect to be able to fly astronauts to the ISS by 2017. At a Jan. 26 press conference at Johnson Space Center, the two companies both said they were on track to fly U.S. astronauts to the ISS within two years. Boeing and SpaceX have already completed some of the preliminary testing necessary to get vessels in orbit. “I don’t ever want to write another check to Roscosmos (the Russian space agency) after 2017,” Bolden said at the JSC press conference to announce its progress. Currently, the U.S. pays Russia $71 million per seat to take American astronauts to the ISS. MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

BAY AREA HOUSTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

Vic Pierson

Jennifer Bowers

Rich Jackson

John Elbon

Banker Vic Pierson to head BAHEP’s Board for 2015

ic Pierson, president of Moody National Bank, will serve as chairman of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership for 2015. Joining him in heading BAHEP for the coming year are:  Vice Chairman John Elbon, vice president and general manager of space exploration for Boeing;  Secretary Rich Jackson, who is director of NASA Programs for Lockheed Martin;  Treasurer Jennifer Bowers, Bowers & Sandler partner

Pierson, a former mayor of Jamaica Beach, is a past chairman of the Texas Bankers Association and a director of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas, Moody National Bank and the Gal-Tex Hostel Corporation. He is a past chairman of the United Way of Galveston and the Galveston Chamber of Commerce and is vice chairman of the Galveston Central Appraisal District. He is also a member of the Texas A&M University at Galveston Board of Visitors and previously taught accounting at Galveston College for 16 years.

BAHEP BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS

Chair: Victor Pierson, President, Moody National Bank

NEW BAHEP MEMBERS IN 2014 •

AEXA Aerospace, LLC

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All Points Logistics, LLC

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Allegiance Bank Texas

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Bay Area Houston Magazine

•

City of Morgan’s Point

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Del Papa Distributing Company

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Faust Distributing Company, Inc.

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Gage Roofing & Constructors

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HomeTown Bank, N. A.

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Johnson Traffic Design

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Lubrizol

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LYC Concours Corporation

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Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC

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McCormick Stevenson Corporation

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Mori Associates

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Nestle Waters N.A.

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Pennington Chen Interests, LLC

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RTH Insurance

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S&K Global Solutions

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Smarter HR Solutions, LLC

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Steele Media Services

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Texan Bank

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Thrivent Financial

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YMCA

•

Your Printing Now

Vice Chair: John Elbon, Vice President/General Manager, Space Exploration, The Boeing Company Secretary: Richard (Rich) Jackson, Director, NASA Programs, Lockheed Martin IS&GS Civil Treasurer: Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Richard E. Allen Jr., President/ CEO, Space Center Houston

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HONORARY CHAIRMAN Frans Gillebaard (1939 - 2013)

Gale E. Burkett, President/CEO, GB Tech, Inc.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EX OFFICIO MEMBERS

John Elbon, Vice President/General Manager, Space Exploration, The Boeing Company Dick H. Gregg Jr., Attorney-atLaw/President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C.

Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP Scott Hartwig, President/CEO, United Space Alliance Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., Chancellor, San Jacinto College District

Fred B. Griffin, Owner and Chairman, Griffin Partners, Inc.

Lon F. Miller, Senior Vice President/General Manager, Jacobs

Richard (Rich) Jackson, Director, NASA Programs, Lockheed Martin IS&GS Civil

Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas

Stephen K. Jones Jr., CEO, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center

Ellen Ochoa, Ph.D., Director, NASA Johnson Space Center

Ron W. Masters, President, MaximGroup

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Richard E. Allen Jr., President/ CEO, Space Center Houston

Dennis W. Petersen, President, Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, Inc.

Mike Bloomfield, Vice President & General Manager, Oceaneering Space Systems, Inc.

Victor Pierson, President, Moody National Bank

Genie Bopp, Vice President, Human Performance & Engineering Division, Wyle STE Group

Jayant Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., COO, Bastion Technologies, Inc. William A. Staples, Ph.D., President, University of HoustonClear Lake John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties

Gale E. Burkett, President/CEO, GB Tech, Inc. Don Burrows Jr., Senior Vice President, Burrows, Auttonberry & Agol Investment Group of Southwest Securities, Inc.

Brent Cockerham, Market President, Branch Banking & Trust Company (BB&T) Michael L. Cornett, President, Texas Citizens Bank, NA Darren Crowell, President, Cimarron

Tim Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies Katrina Lambrecht, Vice President and Chief of Staff, UTMB Health Beth Lewis, Ed.D., President, College of the Mainland

Brian Duffy, Vice President and JSC Program Manager for Exploration Systems, ATK Launch Systems— Houston

John Martinec, President, AeroSys, LLC

John Elbon, Vice President/ General Manager, Space Exploration, The Boeing Company

Robert McAfoos, Director/ Program Manager, Barrios Technology

Ron W. Masters, President, MaximGroup

Michael Flanagan, Director, External Affairs, AT&T

Joan McKinney, General Manager, Norman Frede Chevrolet

Marcy Fryday, Marketing Director, Lakewood Yacht Club

Lon F. Miller, Senior Vice President/General Manager, Jacobs

Mike Furin, Vice President, My FlooringAmerica

Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas

Lloyd Graham, Superintendent of Schools, La Porte Independent School District Dick H. Gregg Jr., Attorneyat-Law/President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C. Fred B. Griffin, Owner & Chairman, Griffin Partners, Inc. Gwen D. Griffin, President/CEO, Griffin Communications Group Richard (Rich) Jackson, Director, NASA Programs, Lockheed Martin IS&GS Civil Bobbie Jessie, President/ CEO, JES Tech Stephen K. Jones Jr., CEO, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center Don Kelly, Ph.D., President, Encore Business Consulting John Kennedy, Commissioner, Port of Houston Authority

Sergio (Checo) Muniz, President, CYFOR Technologies, LLC Stephanie Murphy, Deputy CEO, MEI Technologies, Inc. Dennis W. Petersen, President, Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, Inc. Victor Pierson, President, Moody National Bank Jayant Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., COO, Bastion Technologies, Inc. John Russo, Director, Program Operations and Integration, UTC Aerospace Systems Steven Skarke, Vice President, Kaneka North America, LLC Darryl E. Smith, ERC Program Manager, ERC, Inc. Greg Smith, Ph.D., Superintendent, Clear Creek Independent School District

RADM Robert Smith, III, USN (Ret.), CEO, Texas A&M University at Galveston William A. Staples, Ph.D., President, University of Houston-Clear Lake Charlie Stegemoeller, Vice President, Program Management, SAIC Hajime “Sam” Suzuki, Vice President, Administration, Kuraray America, Inc. Jim Sweeney, Owner, Minuteman Press—Bay Area Gwen Wagner, CEcD, CCD, Manager, National Sales ED, CenterPoint Energy John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties

BOARD OF DIRECTORS EX OFFICIO MEMBERS Chad Burke, President/ CEO, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region

Mary Alys Cherry, Editor and Publisher, Bay Area Houston Magazine Ruby Cubley, Individual Member Cindy Harreld, President/ CEO, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Bix Rathburn, President, Galveston County Economic Alliance Mike Shields, Executive Director, Baytown/West Chambers County Economic Development Foundation Jeff Sjostrom, President, Galveston Economic Development Partnership Michael Sullivan, Harris County Tax AssessorCollector

Nassau Bay city manager nominated for key award

assau Bay City Manager Chris Reed, along with four others, has been nominated for the Houston Metropolitan Area Public Official of the Year award. Other finalists for this year’s award are HD Chambers, superintendent for Alief School District; William Frazier, managing attorney for the Office of Child Protective Services for Harris County; Francisco Sanchez, liason/ public information officer for Harris County; and Bruce Tough, chairman for The Woodlands Township. “We started this award to honor the type of leadership and professionalism that exists in the field of public administration but goes largely unseen and unrecognized. It’s the exact type of leadership and professionalism that we want to instill in our students. Anyone can submit a nomination and make the case for a public servant tackling a particular challenge in a courageous, creative and collaborative way. Each nomination is judged and ranked by a committee of current students and alumni of the University of Houston Master of Public Administration Program. We take the top five finalists and award the honoree at the luncheon,” said Dr. James Thurmond, director of University of Houston MPA Program. The 4th Annual Public Official of the Year Ceremony will be held March 6 at 11:30 a.m. at the University of Houston Hilton - Waldorf Astoria Ballroom. “There are many great leaders in the Houston area, it is an honor just to be mentioned among this group,” Chris Reed said. Reed has been city manager for the City of Nassau Bay since August 2009. He has 27 years of experience in municipal government; as part of that tenure he served as the city administrator for League City and is a retired assistant police chief. Greater Houston Partnership President Bob Harvey will present the keynote address at the awards luncheon, which is being underwritten by Peter H. Brown, Senior Fellow for Urban Design at Houston Tomorrow. For more information about this award, contact MPA Public Official of the Year Project Manager Tiffany Hogue, at UHMPA@mail.com or 832-5247045.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

The City of Deer Park’s TOTALLY TEXAS FESTIVAL By Logan Timmins

he Totally Texas Festival

on Sunday, April 12th will be a day of family fun at the Jimmy Burke Activity Center and Theatre/Courts building in Deer Park. It’s a celebration of an event Texans are most proud of; the pivotal day our Lone Star state earned its independence from Mexico. On April 1, 1836, the remarkable Battle of San Jacinto decided the fate of Texas territory. Despite being considerably outnumbered, Sam Houston and his band of pioneer soldiers ambushed Santa Ana’s forces, sweeping through the Mexican camp and suffering just nine casualties. The battle was won in less than 20 minutes. Meeting in George Moffitt Patrick’s cabin home in what would later become Deer Park, General Houston and Santa Ana drafted the initial treaty, which outlined Mexico’s surrender. That day changed the map of North America forever and served as a preamble for our state pride and freedom-lovin’ culture nearly two centuries later. The Totally Texas Festival embodies that spirit and will be an event you and your family won’t want to miss. Coinciding with the annual reenactment of the Battle of San Jacinto and combined with numerous other exciting events, Tim Culp, president and CEO of Deer Park Chamber of Commerce says, “there’s a little bit of something for everyone. That’s no overstatement. The festival will be complete with food and drinks from several different vendors, games for the kids, arts and crafts, contests and competitions, and live music and entertainment for all. “ Teaming up with the festival, Shell Strides for Schools invites you to participate in the annual Strides for Schools Fun Run, kicking off at 8:15 on the morning of the event. Join in some outdoor fun and exercise on this USA Track & Field certified 5K tour through the streets of Deer Park, ending in time for partakers to attend and enjoy the rest of the festival’s activities. Runners, walkers, families and children alike are encouraged to participate and show support for Deer Park teachers and students. Shell Deer Park has proudly sponsored the Strides for Schools Fun Run for 6 years now, and remains committed to Deer Park’s hard-working teachers, students, and community.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

The highly anticipated George Watt Commemorative Chili Cook Off is again on the agenda this year, with high stakes and friendly competition for the best beans, chili, and people’s choice winnings. Proceeds go toward helping the Senior Citizens Commission of Deer Park. Additionally, the 2nd Annual Totally Texas Traffic Jam Car Show will be a guaranteed-good time and a fundraiser for the Deer Park Chamber Ambassadors program; $20 preregistration entry fee, $25 fee on the day of the show, and free to spectate. Another of this year’s main events is the Totally Country Talent Contest, where local talents will compete, free of charge, for people’s choice, providing live music and entertaining performances. An art show hosted by the Deer Park Art League and art classes for kids at the Theatre/Courts Building is yet another focal event of the festival. Choir groups from different schools will be on sight singing as well. The parade starts at 11 a.m. and certainly won’t disappoint. Plus, local non-profit organizations will be in attendance with food booths, arts and crafts booths, and other activities to raise money for their respected causes. Culp welcomes anyone and everyone to come and experience the Totally Texas Festival this year. “It really is just a great day of family fun,” he says. “Get the kids, get outside, and go and enjoy yourself. It’s a free event that you and your children can enjoy while contributing to the community.” With so many attractions and festivities, the Jimmy Burke Activity Center and the Theatre/Courts Building will likely be packed with thousands of festival attendees and participants. Parking will be scarce on site, so arrive early to park close by or take advantage of the provided shuttle services, which will run from the Former Houston Area Safety Council building, Clyde Abshire Stadium, and the Dollar General store parking lot. There will be drop-off points at the Jimmy Burke Activity Center as well as the Theatre Courts Building for convenience. For more information about the Totally Texas Festival including a complete schedule of the day’s events, a map of the parade route, applications for the competitions, and shuttle location addresses visit the Deer Park Chamber of Commerce website, www.deerpark.org.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

THE 21ST ANNUAL

MEN WHO COOK Feb. 10, 2015 Lakewood Yacht Club By Mary Alys Cherry

Men Who Cook Chairman Chip Botler confers with Prize Drawing Chairman Pam Arnold as the crowd begins arriving for the annual Men Who Cook benefit at Lakewood Yacht.

Former Seabrook Mayors Gary Renola, left, and Jack Fryday were among the cooks at the Seabrook Men Who Cook. Fryday has been a celebrity chef for 19 years and Renola for 10 years.

Patriot Bank Senior Vice President Mike Huss and his wife, Mimi, look over the recipe book at the Men Who Cook.

Charlie Clemmons, left, a former Rotary district governor and a 17-year Men Who Cook participant, shares a light moment with John Collins, an 11-year celebrity chef, as they await the arriving crowd.

Ed White Elementary Principal Matt Paulson, left, and realtor Rick Wade enjoy serving the Men Who Cook crowd.

Bob Fuller, left, and Kim Morrell await the results of the drawing for the $10,000 prize at the Men Who Cook event.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

A crowd of several hundred jammed the Lakewood Yacht Club for the 21st Annual Men Who Cook, benefitting Seabrook Rotary and the Seabrook Police Officers’ Association Charities. They arrived to find more than 40 “Celebrity Chefs” serving up a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts such as Prime Rib, Goza, Tuscan Chicken, BBQ Brisket, Arroz con Pollo, BBQ Ribs, King Ranch Chicken, Central Texas Smoked Brisket, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Quesadilla Casserole, Mexican Lasagna, Fiesta Shrimp, even Jambalaya. Getting quite a few “yums” from the hungry crowd. They also arrived with high hopes they might win the Reverse Draw -- $10,000 in gold coins with $1,000 in silver coins going to the runnerup, which was won by a group that included Mike Fried, Gary and Lissa Johnson, Pat Carr, Dr. Dustin Young, Jeff Martin, Marianne Tucker and Bob Martin. The Consolation Prize of $1,000 worth of silver was won by was Annette Causey. Chip Boteler was chairman of the event with Pam Arnold in charge of the Reverse Draw, which sold out early as the 300 tickets that sold for $100 each were snatched up early. Several of the chefs – including three former Seabrook mayors – are getting to be old hands at this. Jack Fryday, Hans Mair and Rick Clapp have been Men Who Cook for 19 years while Charlie Clemmons and Tom Davies have been chefs for 17 years. Others with quite a bit of experience under their belts include Mike DeHart, 16; David Imbrie, 14; Trey Hafely, 12; Chip Boteler, John Collins and Robin Riley, 11; and Chris Kurzadowski and Gary Renola, 10.

Rick Clapp, Bay Area Houston magazine CEO and a celebrity chef for 19 years, and NASA’s Tom Diegelman await the arriving crowd.

Blue Palms Bar & Grill By Logan Timmins

aving been open now for just a couple of months, Blue Palms Bar & Grill is already impressing locals with its exclusive menu selections, quality ingredients, and outstanding service. They are quickly making a name for themselves as an excellent eatery addition to the community, sure to succeed. David and Cindy Burington, owners of the new dine-in restaurant and cocktail bar, opened

their business on Jan. 9. David Burington has an extensive background working in Italian food restaurants, mainly. “I worked as a line cook, a prep cook, became a supervisor, then a general manager, then a kitchen manager, and also as a chef,” Burington says. “I even had some training in Italy.” Despite his brother’s encouragement to open an Italian food place of his own, Burington other plans. “I didn’t want to do that,” says Burington. “I wanted to do something different—I wanted to have a place with a great menu and lots of variety; always creating new items and specials.” Serving instead cuisine coined “modern American,” Blue Palms Bar and Grill is exactly what Burington had envisioned. “We didn’t want to get stuck as just a steak house or a seafood restaurant or an Italian place. We have such a great variety here.” The Buringtons are excited to serve a selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, many of which done in ways that this area has never seen before. Moreover, Burington guarantees 100 percent fresh ingredients with “nothing frozen, and always very high quality.” Unlike many other restaurants, Burington says that (Top left) everything on the menu is made Frutti de in house. “Everything is home Mare. (Left) made,” Burington says. “If we can Greek salad physically make it, we’re making it.” with lamb. As for the seafood and the meats, Burington says he has only a select list of approved suppliers that he will work with to ensure quality. “Unlike a lot of restaurants, we get deliveries 6 days a week,” says Burington. He explains that because everything is fresh, they know where it’s coming from, and they are certain of the high quality, they never have to worry about buying extra to make sure its good. They don’t worry about waste because they do everything in house. “We’ll get a delivery in, sell it, and then have the next delivery to replace it,” says Burington. “We don’t have to worry about food sitting in the freezer going bad or getting freezer burn.” Though Burington acknowledges that there seems to be a “pretty good mix” of dishes that are ordered most often, he highlights a few favorites that receive a plethora of positive feedback. Some of the appetizers: The Southern Ceviche, one of Burington’s recipes made with citrus cured gulf seafood and served with lavosh crackers, as well as the Short Rib Raviolis, made with homemade pasta

and stuffed with Shiner Bock braised beef, wild mushrooms, spring onions and black pepper cream, and the Crab Cakes which are likely to become the new people’s choice in the area. Entrees that Burlington says “everyone always loves,” include a proprietary coulotte steak exclusive to Blue Palms, and a divine chicken roulade creation that Burlington says is a “simple dish, done very well.” Home made desserts like the house cheesecake with a European style, the Texas pecan Cobbler, and a delicious bread pudding topped with bits of candied bacon are hard to resist. The Buringtons understand the importance of providing quality food and service, but it’s even better to be able to do that and keep prices affordable for most diners. Burington says,

Scallops and kale with risotto.

“Amazingly, even with the quality ingredients, preparation and care put into our menu, the prices are very reasonable. For what you’re getting, you won’t find better bang for your buck.” Onward and upward, Blue Palms Bar and Grill is demonstrating a commendable distinction in dining here in the Bay Area. Proud of the success thus far and looking forward to continued growth, Burington’s outlook is deservedly optimistic: “We are in a great area, and I think if we keep doing a great job, more and more people will love coming here to dine. I am very happy.”

Luigi’s offers Bay Area link to Italian countryside By Akshaya Iyer

riendly faced and bursting with the magic that

a good chef always seems to possess, Antonio Marco embodies old world charm. Luigi’s Pizza and Pasta is the inanimate recreation of those traits; quiet, pleasant, small enough to be cozy, with classic Italian music crooning in the background. This restaurant is his love child with Italy and America and it shows. Marco was born in Calabria, Italy along with his six brothers and three sisters. Marco’s family’s love for food was apparent in every aspect of their life, the groundwork of their familial ties. This passion translated easily to cooking. “I grew up in the

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

(Continued on page 55)

(Continued from page 52)

kitchens of Italy,” Marco says fondly of his upbringing. His family was larger than life, as were their dreams. His grandfather, Luigi, moved to the States in 1977 with the dream of starting a restaurant, and more than two decades later, Marco followed in his footsteps, arriving in America, with his wife, Elca, in 2001 with a dream and an idea. Marco began working under his uncle, at first. It took a few years before he approached aforementioned uncle, Luigi Jr., with the idea of starting his own place. Luigi Jr. agreed, under one condition. “He didn’t trust me yet to give me the Luigi name,” Marco explains with a laugh; and so Verona Pizza and Italian restaurant came into existence, in Decatur, Texas. The business flourished, the food and wine flowed effortlessly, and soon, Marco was allowed the Luigi name. “We own locations in Alvin, Conroe, and Angleton to name a few,” Marco reveals about he and his business partner and brother, Nick. Their current League City location has been open for a brief amount of time and they’ve already drawn in a loyal crowd of regulars. His lunch specials are revered by his customers; 15 options for just under $6, and the meal comes with the option of a salad or soup. Marco discloses that he misses the creative freedom that a restaurant in Italy allows. “There is no menu in Italy,” he describes. “Every day there is something different. About four to five choices. It’s like a family meal.” But Marco allows his Italian upbringing and ideology to translate into Luigi’s Pizza and Pasta. Appearing horrified at the idea of frozen ingredients and pre-made sauces, he confirms

“Marco was born in Calabria, Italy along with his six brothers and three sisters.” that all his recipes are homemade and straight from the kitchens of Calabria. Freshly rolled out pasta, original, tangy sauce, and a hearty homemade dough are a few of his specialties. He takes pride in his Italian sausage, carefully marinated in vodka sauce and cooked with olive oil and Antonio Marco turns up the heat in Luigi’s kitchen. chicken, his special alla panna sauce, which is a delightful replies with a smile, “I just want to cook.” combination of alfredo and marinara, and his veal Luigi’s Pizza and Pasta is open from Monday to marsala, playfully simmered with mushrooms Thursday from 11 to 9 and Friday and Saturday and wine sauce. The Tiramisu, a delectable Italian from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and is located at 210 S. coffee-flavored treat, is homemade and one bite Highway 3, Suite C, in League City. Reservations takes you straight to the Italian countryside. are not necessary. When questioned about his inspiration behind his delicious food and fantastic service, he pauses and

Lunar Rendezvous Festival to celebrate ‘Golden Jubilee’

ach year, hundreds of volunteers

Lunar Rendezvous General Chairman Jana Jacobs Miller, left, swaps ideas with Advisory Board Secretary Terri Dieste Festival Board of Directors and Chairman Michael Landolt as they plan for the 50th anniversary

bring their talents to the table to create a festival that fosters community spirit and raises substantial funds of help our Bay Area Houston community thrive and grow. The Lunar Rendezvous Festival began in 1965 as a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization formed to preserve the rich history and many accomplishments in the space sciences made in the Bay Area. The first festival, which took place over two weekends in June of 1966 and included more than two dozen events, was a salute to the space program’s historic 1965 rendezvous of Gemini VI and Gemini VII in space. Since its inception, Lunar Rendezvous has hosted fun and entertaining festivals each year that have been enjoyable for the entire family. So it is with great pride that we all join together this year to celebrate the 50th anniversary, the “Golden Jubilee.” The annual Festival Kickoff Party gets underway

at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, in the Admiral Ballroom of the Nassau Bay Hilton Hotel on NASA Parkway to introduce its royal court and festival king and announce plans for its 50th annual festival. The public is invited. The Lunar Rendezvous Festival is dedicated to providing community based support, including scholarships for higher education, youth development and educational programs, funding for the arts and historical preservation in the Bay Area Houston/ NASA area. As earlier announced, the Lunar Rendezvous Festival Advisory Board selected Jana Jacobs Miller as chairman of the 2015 festival -- its 50th anniversary celebration. As she prepared for the upcoming festival, she invited the community to join her “in celebrating the 50th anniversary of what has become so much a part of our lives.” Visit www.lunarrendezvous.org for more information, a calendar of events, and sponsorship opportunities. MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Moe Bandy and Janie Fricke to entertain at Salute to Heroes II Event

he second Salute to Heroes

fund raiser will be held Saturday evening, April 11, at the South Shore Harbor Resort in League City. This year promises to be even more successful than last year’s event that raised $75,000 in conjunction with Operation Finally Home. The money provided Cpl. Jonathan Dowdell and his family with a new home. This year features performances by country legends Moe Bandy and Janie Fricke. Moe Bandy has had 10 No. 1 hits, 40 Top Ten Hits and 5 Gold Albums. Janie Fricke has won Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year, is in the Country Music Hall of Fame, released 23 albums and has recorded over 36 hit singles. South Shore Harbor Chef Roland Kyburz is planning a delicious four course dinner. There will be an open bar and wonderful live auction items with State Sen. Larry Taylor as auctioneer. Dress is Texas Chic, so boots, jeans and rodeo type attire is encouraged. This year’s beneficiaries are two organizations that provide much needed services to injured soldiers and veterans in our area. Sentinels of Freedom Gulf Coast, is a scholarship foundation for severely injured soldiers returning home from combat. “We are so excited about

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

being included this year with the Salute to Heroes II evening. The funds raised will be used to truly impact the lives of some of the most severely injured soldiers that return to our area,” said Gail Payne, Executive Director for Sentinels of Freedom Gulf Coast. The other organization is BAHEP Cares. Under the umbrella of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, this is a mentoring program for transitioning veterans and their spouses toward rewarding careers and advancement services. According to John Martinec, board chair of the BAHEP Cares organization and President/CEO of AeroSys, LLC, “This program has already served over 80 veterans and partnered soldiers with 20 plus local executives and companies in the area.” Roy Green, general manager of the South Shore Harbor Resort says, “The goal this year is to raise another $75,000 for these programs. We all know the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make for our country, and this is a way to give back and support those with the greatest need. I am so proud of our Clear Lake/Bay Area business community for stepping up and responding to the call. We are more than half way to our goal of attendees but still have tables, tickets and sponsorship opportunities available.” Even if you are unable to attend, you can be listed in the Salute to Heroes II program for a donation of $100 or more. Checks can be made to the Sentinels of Freedom, a 501C3 charity. Mail donations to the South Shore Harbor Resort, 2500 South Shore Blvd, League City, Texas 77573. For more information and to get involved, call 281-334-1000 ext. 2025.

In the midst of media uproar, rumors flying, and many community members outraged by what they view as a complete injustice, Diesel’s owner spoke out about the emotional time that he and his family are enduring. He told KPRC Houston, “I don’t like the situation. I think it was a horrible outcome and could have been handled a lot differently but at the end of the day nothing is going to bring my dog back.” We can’t bring Diesel back, or undo what has been done, but we can work to restore confidence in the community so that dogs and their owners can enjoy public parks without fear of similar situations. BARK9, a non-profit organization

toward other dogs, then a public dog park is not the place to let him enjoy the outdoors. If your dog is shy or nervous around other dogs, it is a good idea to introduce him to a dog park during non-busy times only, and often enough that he can acclimate to the surroundings there and feel less anxious. While public dog parks can be a lot of fun for many dogs and their owners, some dogs simply never get used to the experience and are better off avoiding them. No matter how much you want to bring your dog to the park, understand what can happen by ignoring your dog’s potential to not mesh well in social interactions with other dogs.

“If a fight is not over quickly, and you feel urged to intervene, pull the dogs apart by their hind legs only.”

By Logan Timmins

ake careful consideration

the next time you want to bring your four-legged-friends out to play at a public dog park. Unfortunately, a terrible tragedy at Bay Area Dog Park in late January has dog owners hesitant to visit the park with their pooches for fear that it could be dangerous. A two-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier died at VCA Animal Emergency Hospital after being shot three times at close range while playing at Bay Area Dog Park on Sunday, Jan. 25. The shooter, a man who claimed that his life was threatened by Diesel’s aggressiveness has not been charged with any crime, as the investigation is still underway to determine whether the man was within his rights. Licensed to carry a concealed weapon and based on his account of what happened, the man did not immediately appear to have broken

any laws in this shocking event. “I acted in self-defense,” were the magic words that kept the shooter from being immediately charged for what he did. His claim has prompted a thorough investigation by detectives to learn whether his statement was indeed valid and his act was justified, or if no one was truly endangered and thus, he had no right to unleash his firearm. Surely, no one expected a shooting on that sunny day at the park, where many people and their pets had come to enjoy the fresh air, but many people feel strongly that it didn’t have to end the way it did. Perhaps Diesel was feeling antagonistic toward the other dogs that day and self-protection was necessary. Or perhaps, the shooter acted unreasonably and should bear the consequences. Either way, the day ended badly and now Diesel’s owner is missing his beloved dog. Without all of the facts, speculation on the matter does no one any good.

committed to keeping Bay Area Dog Park up and running, offers their condolences to Diesel’s owners but makes a point to direct other dogowners to significant information regarding the park’s use, rules, and recommendations in an effort to prevent incidents like this one. BARK9 has provided pertinent material to dog-owners in our community that, if understood and followed, should ensure nothing but positive experiences for dogs and dog-owners alike at public parks in the future. Before bringing your dog to a public dog park, it is imperative to know:

Your Park

Dog owners should familiarize themselves with the park itself. Know the rules of the park, posted just outside the park gates, and follow them. Speaking with others who are already accustomed with the park is helpful as well in knowing what to expect.

Your Dog

Dog owners need to know and understand their dog’s personality and temperament. If you know your dog to be very dominant or aggressive

How to Be Considerate

If you notice your dog incessantly bothering another dog, remove your dog from the situation by bringing him to another area of the park. Take action before another dog owner has to ask you to.

How to Handle Problems

If there is any concern that someone might not be following park rules, or he or his dog is causing harm, call for help from the park constables or the park rangers. It is not wise to confront a situation in a combative manner or to argue with another dog owner. Call authorities to handle issues.

About Dog Fights

Dog fights can and sometimes do happen at public dog parks, so it is crucial to understand how to react. If a fight is not over quickly, and you feel urged to intervene, pull the dogs apart by their hind legs only. Please visit www.bark9.com for more specific information before visiting a dog park with your dog. This type of information is important to know and understand so that dog-owners can feel confident about bringing their dog out to play, and so that tragedies like Diesel’s can be avoided.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

28,177 Texas seniors may not graduate By Mary Alys Cherry

total of 262,885 or 90.3

percent of Texas high school seniors in the Class of 2015 passed the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exams required for graduation. But 28,177 seniors or nearly 10 percent failed one or more Endof-Course Exams and were unable to graduate. The largest number – 13,490 – only failed one exam but still are unable to graduate unless they take it again and pass this spring. Here in the Bay Area, Clear Creek ISD reports that it had only 26 students -- less than 1 percent of some 2,800 expected to graduate -- who failed one or more of the Endof-Course Exams. Students are required, under House Bill 5 passed by the Texas Legislature in 2013, to pass End-ofCourse exams in Algebra I, English 1, English II, Biology and U.S. History, along with their courses to receive a high school diploma. This year’s Class of 2015 is the first class required to pass the five exams in order to graduate. When the school year began in August, 83.5 percent of the members of the Class of 2015 had already passed all five assessments and faced no more state-mandated tests during their senior year. “Over the first part of this school year, the hard work of Texas educators to help students who still need to show proficiency in these fundamental core subjects is truly paying off,” Commissioner of

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

STUDENTS STATE TOTALS Passed all exams 262,885 or 90.3% One exam needed 13,490 or 4.6% Two exams needed 7,154 or 2.5% Three or more needed 7,533 or 2.6% Education Michael Williams said. Among those students who haven’t passed all required tests, English II is the most common test that students are still trying to pass, Williams said, adding that the remaining subjects (in descending order of the tests student still need to pass) include U.S. History; English I; Algebra I; and Biology. The number of times an individual student has taken an end-of-course exam varies, depending on when the student first took the course associated with the test. “As a point of comparison, 90.2 percent of students in the Class of 2005 – the first required to take four Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills exams for high school graduation – passed all tests at the time of graduation. In contrast, 90.3 percent of the Class of 2015 has passed all STAAR exams required for graduation, with one more opportunity to take the STAAR EOC assessments before graduation this spring,” Williams added.

Student: ‘Life is not a multiple choice test’

he 2015 Texas legislative

session is upon us, and education will be at the forefront of many policy decisions, Clear Creek School District Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith points out as House and Senate representatives begin taking up measures that will affect our lives and many students’ futures. “We are fortunate to have local legislators who have taken the time to understand the issues facing teachers, students and parents,” Dr. Smith says. “Recently, our school district along with nine area school districts met with seven of our legislators as part of the Bay Area Schools Consortium’s education forum, held in Texas City Dec. 18.” The discussions, he explained, “focused on topics such as how to minimize standardized testing and maintain high accountability standards for schools, support a full-day pre-kindergarten program in Texas, allow school districts to keep local property revenue to pay for windstorm insurance instead of sending a check to Austin, and create a pipeline of workforce ready graduates in the region through an infusion of relevant career and technical programs. “I am especially proud of Kushal Kadakia, a senior at Clear Lake High School, who spoke passionately about a caveat in the law that may keep more than 28,000 seniors from receiving a well-earned high school diploma this spring. The following is his testimony to our lawmakers and the entire auditorium took note.” e I want to commend our representatives on their work in the last legislative session – thanks to them, the number of tests required for graduation has been reduced from 15 to 5. However, our battle against End-of-Course exams is far from over. So tonight, I want to begin by asking each of you a very important question. What does it mean to have an education? Is it the capacity to crunch numbers like Einstein or write sonnets like Shakespeare? Is it the critical thinking

skills that students hone in the classroom in order to solve problems in the real world? Is it the leadership and maturity that students exhibit on a daily basis, from the football field to student government? Or is it a single number on a piece of paper? Because right now, that’s how the State of Texas defines education. Because right now, we judge students not by their diligence in the classroom nor their talents in the arts, but rather, by a single test score. Because right now, we are telling students that all of the effort they put into studying, reading, and learning over the past 13 years was for nothing – because of one standardized exam. Because right now, we are going to strip thousands of students – my peers, your children, our state’s future – of the right to walk across the stage at graduation; a moment students spend their entire lives dreaming about. It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers – but students are not statistics. My classmates and I are not numbers on paper. So tonight, I want to tell you about the faces behind these fancy charts and graphs. There’s a girl in our district. She’s 17, just like me, and hopes to graduate in June. But right now she can’t – because of a writing test she

There’s a boy in our district. He’s the star player on his school basketball team; good enough to be recruited to play in the NCAA, good enough to earn a scholarship for all four years of college. Yet in eyes of the law, he’s not good enough to graduate. The hundreds of hours he spent on the court, perfecting his skills, the late nights he spent studying for his classes to maintain his eligibility – all of that is for nothing.

“Because right now, we judge students not by their diligence in the classroom nor their talents in the arts, but rather, by a single test score.” failed four years ago. She’s intelligent – she passed English II STAAR, she averages A’s and B’s in school, and she’s demonstrated mastery in literature in her classes. She’s a good citizen – she has an excellent attendance record, and no discipline issues. She’s dedicated – taking an extra practical writing class, attending afterschool remediation seminars, and devoting her summers in ELA academies. She’s everything we want in a student – and yet, because of a single test, her teachers are going to have to tell her that she can’t graduate.

Because of a single test. And that one exam is going to cost him his ticket to college, it’s going to cost him thousands of dollars in scholarships, it’s going to cost him the chance to follow his dreams. There’s a boy in our district. Despite English not being his native language, he has worked ever since he entered this country to build a future. He’s studied hard, he’s taken English as a Second Language, and he’s overcome incredible challenges. But he can’t graduate – because he failed a test his sophomore year written in a language that he’s spoken

for barely a quarter of his life. For him, the American Dream is quickly fading; because we’ve stopped defining education by the students, focusing instead on the numbers. These are stories about three kids in my district. But they represent more than 20,000 students across the state who are in danger of not graduating. When students spend hours with their teachers after school, on weekends, and during the summer and continue to fail – that’s when we know that there’s a problem with the system. We shouldn’t allow one number to define a student’s entire educational career. I urge you to support Senate Bill 149 for emergency end of course legislation – for the teachers who have watched their kids grow and overcome adversity only to be denied the opportunity to graduate, for the parents who have dreamed of their children’s graduation for the last 17 years, for the students who hope to go to college, get a job, and change the world. We have to change the way we are approaching education, and voting for this bill is the first step, because life is not a multiple choice test – it is a series of challenges that requires creativity, compassion, and resilience, skills that no STAAR test can ever measure.

MARCH 2015 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

CLEAR LAKE

Town Hall March 3. Houston City Councilman Dave Martin will host a Town Hall for his Clear Lake residents at Space Center Houston on NASA Parkway Tuesday, March 3, at 6:30 p.m. Heirloom plants March 4 topic. Gardeners By the Bay will meet at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, at University Baptist Church, 16106 Middlebrook Drive, to hear Leah Gunter discuss heirloom tomato and vegetable plants, which will be available for purchase. For questions, call Marjorie 281-474-5051. New at Space Center Houston. Visitors can discover the science behind the legendary Robert Ripley collection in Space Center Houston’s new exhibit, “Amazing Universe: The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” which is open through April 26. Visit spacecenter.org/visitor for tickets, which range from $18.95 for children to $23.95 for adults with discounts for seniors and active military. Welcome Neighbors March 19. The Bay Area Welcome Neighbors Club’s monthly luncheon is Thursday, March 19, at Bay Oaks Country Club, where Lorraine Bosse Smith will speak about a fitness program, “Totally Fit.” For more information about the social organization or to make reservations for the luncheon, contact Nancy Guthrie at membership@gmail.com or 281-333-3055. BayTran to hear Port director March 26. Roger Guenther, executive director of the Port of Houston Authority, will be the keynote speaker for the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership’s monthly luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 26, at Cullen’s Upscale American Grille, 11500 Space Center Blvd. Cost is $35 for members, $40 for non-members. For reservations, email Diane.Thornton@gcli.com or call her at 281-474-4124, ext. 121. Genealogy is March 27 topic. Bay Area Genealogical Society will meet at 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 27, to hear Jeannette Piecznski present “A Harvest of Land Is a Bounty of Records” at the University Baptist Church, 16106 Middlebrook Drive, 2nd floor in the Great Room. For information, visit www.TxBayAreaGen.org

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2015

or call Kim Zrubek at 281-992-2636. The public is invited. A bus trip to the Clayton Library on Tuesday, March 10 is also planned. Those interested should call 281-332-2435 or e-mail lmartin497@aol.com

Friendswood Public Library, 416 Friendswood Drive. Nick Cimino and Bob Wegner will discuss how to identify Germany roots of American German ancestors. These sessions are free and open to the public. Wifi also is available.

Sorority life March 29 topic. Clear Lake Area Panhellenic Association will have an informational meeting on sorority recruitment Sunday, March 29, from 2-4 p.m. at Bay Oaks Country Club, 14545 Bay Oaks Blvd. This event is for senior girls and their parents/ guardians interested in learning about sorority life on the college campus. Sorority recruitment information packets will be available. For questions, contact Becky Hensley at 713-8420047 or beckyhensley197@gmail.com or visit the Panhellenic website: www.clearlakepanhel.org

NASSAU BAY

DICKINSON

Drama opens March 20. The Cat and the Canary, which has been serving up some high drama in the Bay Area Harbour Playhouse’s Top Side Theatre is nearing the end of its run with final performances the weekend of March 6-8. Next to take the stage March 20-April 12 is Not Now, Darling with curtains for both productions at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. For tickets, which are $17 for adults and $12 for seniors and students, call 281-337-7469 or email bareahp@comcast.net Women’s Spiritual Retreat April 17-19. Seabrook U.M.W.’s 18th annual retreat, Rhythms of Hope, will take place at the Christian Renewal Center in Dickinson. It will be a weekend of strengthening relationships and spirituality with keynote speaker Reverend Karen Kurtz. For more information and registry, contact Retreat Director, Tina Price, at 713-805-7388.

FRIENDSWOOD

Chamber luncheon March 5. Friendswood Chamber members will gather at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5, for their monthly luncheon at the Green Event Center, 2000 W. Parkwood, Suite 200. Registration is $20 for members and $25 for non members. For reservations, call the chamber, 281-482-3329. Genealogy meeting March 21. The Bay Area Genealogical Society Special Interest Group will meet Saturday, March 21, at 1 p.m. at the

Comedy opens March 13. The Clear Creek Community Theatre will present a hilarious comedy, Dixie Swim Club, about five southern women Friday, March 13, through Sunday, March 29, at the theatre, 18091 Upper Bay Road, with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and matinees at 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $14 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 281-335-5228. Festival kickoff March 28. The Lunar Rendezvous Festival will host its annual Kickoff Party at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 28, in the Admiral Ballroom of the Nassau Bay Hilton Hotel on NASA Parkway to introduce its royal court and festival king and announce plans for its 50th annual festival. The public is invited.

PASADENA

State of County March 12. The Pasadena Chamber will host the annual State of the County Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 12. For reservations, call 281-487-7871. Laughs ahead at theatre. Next up at the Pasadena Little Theatre is the Neil Simon comedy, The Odd Couple, which opens Friday, March 13, and continues through March 29 with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 713-941-1758 or reserve on line at www.pasadenalittletheatre.org Carnival 2015 March 21. Pasadena Libraries will be hosting its inaugural Carnival complete with games, prizes, music, food and fun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Central Library, 1201 Jeff Ginn Memorial Drive.

SEABROOK

Season opens March 22. Lakewood Yacht Club members will gather at the club at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 22, for the annual Blessing of the Fleet and opening of the boating season.