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/ May + June 2019 Send comments, thoughts or ideas to intownmagazine@gmail.com
19
ON THE COVER Cover painting by feature artist Lauren Luna
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5-6 ARTS + EVENTS 12-13 FOOD: BRUNCH WITH PARENTS 14 HEALTH FOCUS: DR. KOH INTERVIEW 16-17 CLOSING THE GAP & OP-ED ON VACCINATION
18
CANCER PREVENTION
19 MEDICAL PERSON OF THE YEAR 20-23 HEIGHTS 20: SPOTS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS 24-25 ARTIST LAUREN LUNA: BEHIND THE CANVAS 26-27 TEXAS MUSIC FESTIVAL 28-29 FINANCIAL FOCUS
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THE BUZZ PRODUCTION
PUBLISHER
M. A. Haines EDITOR
Lisa June
bestofheights.com
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Lindsay Mowad William Hanover Marene Gustin Evans Attwell Philip Berquist Minnie Payne
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4 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
Arts + Events
Artupdate houston published every two weeks by houstonintown. Go to website and sign up for newsletter to receive free update.
Heights Epicurean Farmers Market
1245 Heights Blvd • Every First Saturday of the Month Urban Harvest Farmers Market
2752 Buffalo Speedway • Saturdays 8am - noon City Hall
Wednesdays • 11am - 1:30pm First Saturday Arts Market
530 W. 19th St • May 4
May 23 - Sept 15 WILLIAM FORSYTHE:
MUSEUMS
Asia Society Texas Center
Thru July 21
June 1
SUPER SARAP
CHOREOGRAPHIC OBJECTS
Museum Of Fine Arts Houston
Thru July 28 STONEWALL 50
Thru Aug 11
EYE ON HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY
Thru Dec 29 ARTS OF ISLAMIC LANDS:
SELECTIONS FROM THE AL-SABAH COLLECTION, KUWAIT
Thru May 27 SALLY MANN: A THOUSAND CROSSINGS
Thru May 27 ODYSSEY: JACK WHITTEN
SCULPTURE, 1963-2017
Thru June 27 VINCENT VAN GOGH:
HIS LIFE IN ART
Serving Houston & Surrounding Areas -Since 1985-
OF FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston
WORKING IN TEXAS
®
Our Expertise.
June 23 - Sept 22 ICONS OF STYLE: A CENTURY
Opens April 13 SITE LINES: ARTISTS August 18
Your home.
Thru June 16 SHAPESHIFTERS
Holocaust Museum Houston
Thru May 15 IN THE COUNTRY OF NUMBERS, WHERE THE MEN HAVE NO NAMES
Opens May 2 Thru May 30 COEXISTENCE Thru May 19 MENIL COLLECTION
RONI HORN: WHEN I BREATHE, I DRAW, PART L
Thru May 12
COLLECTION CLOSE-UP: JOHN CAGE
Thru May 19 CONTEMPORARY FOCUS:
TRENTON DOYLE HANCOCK
Houston Museum Of Natural Science
PERMANENT EXHIBITS
Alfred C. Glassell, Jr. Hall Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals Earth Forum Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife Frensley/Graham Hall of African Wildlife Hall Of Ancient Egypt Hamman Hall Of Texas Coastal Ecology Herzstein Foucault Pendulum John McGovern Hall of The Americas Lester & Sue Smith Gem Vault Morian Hall of Paleontology Starke Hall of Malacology Wiess Energy Hall Welch Hall of Chemistry
You know what you want.
We know Houston. Buying Selling
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Property Management 713.932.1032 BernsteinRealty.com May + June 2019
| HEIGHTS |5
SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS
Death by Natural Causes Trains Over Texas Curator’s Choice: Recent Acquisitions of the Houston Museum of Natural Science Life in Stone Microsculpture: The Insect Photography of Levon Biss Tourmaline Treasures Biophilia: A Dialogue of Nature, Art and Science
MUSIC & DANCE Da Camera
May 1
A LITTLE DAY MUSIC
May 10
WEINBERG AND MENDELSSOHN
HOUSTON SYMPHONY
May 3-5 May 9-11 May 16-17 May 24-26 May 30
A.D. PLAYERS
BEETHOVEN’S EROICA RACHMANINOFF’S THE BELLS BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE THE BEST OF BROADWAY HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON IN CONCERT
May 17 - June 2 THE GOD COMMITTEE
Previews June 26 & 27 June 28 - July 28 WEST SIDE STORY ALLEY THEATRE
Ongoing - May 5 CRIMES OF THE HEART May 3 - June 2 CONSTELLATIONS May 31 - June 30 KEN LUDWIG’S
THE THREE MUSKETEERS
MILLER OUTDOOR THEATER STAGES REPERTORY THEATER
Thru June 16 MURDER FOR TWO May 22 Thru June 9
SEX WITH STRANGERS
THE ENSEMBLE THEATER
May 9 Thru June 2
PIPELINE
Theatre Under the Stars
May 28 Thru June 9 SPORTS
JEROME ROBBINS’ BROADWAY
SPORTS Houston Astros Minute Maid Park
May 6-8 May 9-12 May 20-23 May 24-26 May 27-29
KANSAS CITY TEXAS CHICAGO WHITE SOX BOSTON CHICAGO CUBS
June 7-9 June 11-12 June 14-16 June 25-27 June 28-30
BALTIMORE MILWAUKEE TORONTO PITTSBURGH SEATTLE
Houston Dynamo BBVA Compass Stadium
10 Intown ||September - October 6 | |HEIGHTS May + June 2019 2018
May 4 May 15 May 18
FC DALLAS PORTLAND DC UNITED
June 1
KANSAS
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Come see why the Houston Chronicle says Bluejack National residents live where it “must feel like the vacation of a lifetime, every day.” tiger woods-designed golf course
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OBTAIN THE PROPERTY REPORT REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW AND READ IT BEFORE SIGNING ANYTHING. NO FEDERAL AGENCY HAS JUDGED THE MERITS OR VALUE, IF ANY, OF THIS PROPERTY. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of the U.S. Policy for achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.
Editor's Letter S IMPLE FIX y new mantra is a simple fix. While it may not apply to complex problems such as fixing our healthcare system it does apply more times than not. Fuses went out in the morning in my new place affecting my microwave and computer. No time to seek out the fuse box. Move both. Simple fix. For years engineers and city planners have worried about the flooding in saucer flat Houston. Developers have finally found a simple fix for even a 500-year flood. Build homes and subdivisions 3 feet higher. People selling dirt right now in Houston are making a killing. The more one starts to think about things they would like to change there is usually a simple fix. Much of our overall health as illustrated in this issue is about taking a common sense approach. Maintaining a healthy weight is consuming more healthy food overall and exercising more. Sounds simple but I know first hand how hard it is for someone cursed with a huge appetite. Sticking to an extended regimen of altered eating is difficult at best. One of my tricks is not to have the foods that I really like around the house. If I want ice cream or a donut, two of my absolute killers I make it where I must go out to have them. Our health and prevention of disease are mostly related to our lifestyle; however, it can also be affected by where we live according to Dr. Koh of Harvard, an expert on employee health. Disturbingly over the last three years, the average life expectancy in the US has gone down after rising every year previously. While moving is not a simple fix not living near the plants is a must for many asthma sufferers. I knew a family that their kid suffered terribly as a child and recently ran into him as a grown man who had moved away from his previous surroundings near the ship channel and he now has no problems. Not always are people able to move but where you live matters. Of all the 52 states Hawaii has the best life expectancy now at 81 and Mississippi the worst. Read more in Dr. Koh’s interview inside this issue. Our health tips on vaccinations and cancer prevention while not always foolproof can be taught at a young age and provide our children with much better long term outcomes. Little did most of us know as a child the dangers of massive sun exposure. A pretty simple fix for stifling one of the most deadly cancers. Same is true for most lung cancer and many other diseases caused by poor diet and immoderate alcohol consumption. Check out our vaccination/cancer prevention article “Closing The Gap on Knowing and Doing” from one of world’s leading cancer authorities, Ron DePinho and our newest contributor an op-ed by his daughter Alexis.
8 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
Val Arbona REALTOR, CLHMS, CRS RE/MAX Vintage (713) 562-4903 valarbona.com
David Michael Young BROKER, CNE, CLHMS, GREEN John Daugherty, Realtors (713) 320-6453 www.youngrealtyhouston.com
Carrie Ousley CIC, CISR Luxury Home Insurance (281) 224-0762 www.carrieousley.com
CHUBB • PURE • AIG • CINCINNATI
10902 Memorial Dr | Memorial Villages List Price $2,150,000 | MLS#22426798
In heart of Memorial, this Hacienda/Villa, is updated with Spanish style interiors and European architecture. 5,652 SF masonry BRICK stucco walls (1 ft. to 16 inches thick throughout the entire house!), Peaceful and Private. 5 wonderful bedrooms with a resort 3 car garage. Never flooded and convenient to all destinations
David M. Young | John Daugherty REALTORS | 713-320-6453
Luxury Home Insurance . . . Discover the Difference! LUXURY HOMES - VALUABLES - VEHICLES - UMBRELLA LIABILITY
CARRIE OUSLEY | 832.681.5020
www.greaterhoustonluxury.com
Mariana Saldana Broker, CIPS Uptown Real Estate Group, Inc. (832) 338-4040 Mariana@uptownhouston.com
Sima Dalvandi CLHMS, ABR, Realtor Keller Williams Southwest (832) 630-7605 www.ezhomerealestate.com
Paula Hagerman CRS, ABR, Realtor, GHLHC RE/MAX Vintage (713) 306-3557 www.har.com/paulahagerman
Weldon Rigby CRS, ABR Founding Member KW Luxury Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan (713) 621-2555 www.weldonrigby.com
Joanne Naponic Broker/Owner Naponic Properties (713) 515-3805 JoanneNaponicProperties.com
Genevieve Rowland REALTOR, MCNE, CLHMS Multimillion Dollar Producer, ILHM Keller Williams Memorial 281-904-7014 www.rowland-properties.com
Kasteena Parikh BROKER, CLHMS, LUXE Keller Williams Metropolitan (713) 581-0677 www.Kasteena.com
Wendy Cline Broker/Associate Wendy Cline Properties Group Keller Williams Memorial (281) 858-3451 www.WendyClineProperties.com
12427 Honeywood Trail | Ashford Forest Lake
4019 Driscoll St | Montrose
An oasis in the Energy Corridor boasts a King-Sized home with 4 bedrooms 2-1/2 baths plus a HUGE 1/1 Guest Suite. This lovely home has one of the largest lots in the neighborhood with a resort RESORT STYLE pool, BRAND NEW HARDWOOD floors and new paint. Plenty of space for older parents, kids, guests, or mancave or she-shack. Located in the prestigious Lake Section, you can feed the ducks, go fishing, or get on one of the many hike/bike trails down the street. LOCATION is King, and here you will be close to all points in Houston.
Impeccably finished mix of Creole townhouse and contemporary design in Montrose / Upper Kirby. Four bedrooms plus gameroom with wetbar and 3 balconies. Elevator installed. Hardwoods and tile throughout – no carpet. Open living areas with high ceiling. Island kitchen has bar seating, stainless steel Wolf appliances. Great space for city living and views. Radiant barrier, tankless water heater. Refrigerator, W/D included.
List Price $535,000 | MLS # 68088988
Genevieve Rowland | Keller Williams Memorial | 281-904-7014
8 | Intown | May + June 2019
List Price $849,500 | MLS# 41726749
David M. Young | John Daugherty REALTORS | 713-320-6453
www.greaterhoustonluxury.com
Leslie Sjurseth Realtor Boulevard Realty (281) 794-2177 Leslie.Sjurseth@gmail.com www.yourblvd.com
George Renfro Broker Associate Keller Williams Metropolitan (713) 898-9187 georgerenfro@kw.com
Ken Jacobson CMPS NMLS# 215044 Branch Manager Republic State Mortgage (281) 369-5535 www.kenjacobson.com
Dionelle (Don) Davis Designated Broker Don Davis Luxe Realty (832) 831-6137 www.ViewAllHoustonHomes.com
Sharon Harris Realtor Keller Williams (832) 527-5240 sahhomes@gmail.com
Marilyn Arendt Broker - Owner Marilyn Arendt Properties (281) 433-9113 mma@castle2sell.com
Barbara Kobza Realtor, CLHMS, Million Dollar Guild Keller Williams Premier Realty (832) 215-7533 barbarakobza.com
Angela White Agent, Circa Real Estate, LLC (713) 825-0231 www.angelawhitehomes.com angela@angelawhitehomes.com
9358 Shady Lane Circle / Piney Point Estates
16607 Churchhill Falls Ct. | Northwest Houston
This elegant traditional home has been meticulously maintained and features hardwood floors, stained cabinetry and island. Lots of room boasting 5 bedrooms and 3 and 1/2 bathrooms and 2 car garage. Very large master bedroom is located downstairs with a huge closet. Generous formal dining room. The large game room is up and perfect for a home theatre.
Lovely custom home located in a quiet, gated neighborhood. Luxury home features include fabulous finishes, Master and Guest suite on the 1st floor, Media and Game rooms and a spacious island Kitchen designed for the cook. The backyard is an oasis with a sparkling pool with water features, a covered Patio area that accommodates casual and dining furnishings and an outdoor Kitchen with stainless grill and refrigerator. Many recent improvements to the Roof, Pool & AC. Easy access to Vintage Park, Raveneaux CC and walking trails.
List Price $839,000 | MLS#5072217
Joanne Naponic | Joanne Naponic Properties | 713-515-3805
List Price $730,000 | MLS#55977454
Val Arbona | RE/MAX Vintage | 713-562-4903
May + June 2019 | Intown
|7
FOOD Honor thy Parents
! h c n u r B h t i W
by Marene Gustin
W
here would you be without your parents? Dear old Mom and Dad. Just think of all the sacrifices they made for you, all those late nights caring for you when you were sick as a child, or love sick as a teenager. Even as an adult, they probably are still always there if you need them. So why not treat them on their big days this year with a nice brunch out. Good food, no dishes to do, and time well spent with loved ones. Mother’s Day is May 12 and Father’s Day is June 16, so make reservations early. Here are a few spots you might enjoy
For Mom: Ouisie’s Table 3939 San Felipe St. ouisiestable.com Slow-turning ceiling fans, white tablecloths, and elegant service will dazzle Mom at this Southern classic restaurant. Start with some crispy fried oysters and then get a carafe of mimosas for Mom to pair with that Georgia country ham and spinach omelet. Or go really Southern and order the shrimp and spicy cheese grits. This is a very popular place so do make a reservation early, maybe you can get a table on the lovely porch. 12 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
Dish Society 1050 Yale St. dishsociety.com A more casual spot that is known for healthy, locally sourced food, they normally don’t take reservations for brunch so show up early. (They open at 8:00 a.m.) And if you’re thirsty that early they serve craft beers, cocktails and wine along with delicious egg scrambles, breakfast tacos, sausages and some yummy red velvet pancakes with cream cheese frosting. Dish Society breakfast skillet
B. B. Italia Kitchen & Bar 14795 Memorial Dr. bbitaliakitchen.com This restaurant wasn’t even open at press time, but we feel fine recommending it since it comes from Benjamin Berg of B&B Butchers and B.B. Lemon fame. And the spot is a Memorial area classic. Berg bought Carmelo’s, owned and operated for 37 years by Carmelo Mauro, last year and closed it for remodeling this January. The new restaurant will feature BB Italia roasted beet salad
Better Luck Tomorrow
an updated dining room, new outdoor patio and a horseshoe-shaped bar. The word is that they will be open for Mother’s Day with a pre-fix brunch and then will have a full brunch menu later in the month. Also, in the space will be a soon to open B. B. Pizza eatery.
For Dad: Better Luck Tomorrow 544 Yale St. betterlucktomorrowhou.com We bet Dad would love to be taken out for brunch to this bar in The
Heights. Regulars call it BLT and it’s just a neighborhood bar with a cool vibe, but on weekends they open early, at 11:00 a. m., and roll out some interesting morning-after food. Like a spaghetti sandwich or fried chicken with a spicy honey butter. And you know he’ll enjoy the freshly made glazed doughnuts and a bloody Mary.
State Fare Kitchen & Bar 947 Gessner, Ste. B190 statefaretx.com Oh, my! The burgers here will be Dad’s new favorite. A half-pound of Akaushi beef on a mustard sizzled potato bun with a ton of extras. The Big Brunch Burger comes with house-made sausage, spicy brown sugar bacon, American cheese, hash browns and a fried egg. There’s plenty more on the menu, everyGrace’s thing from chili Frito pies to fried chick3111 Kirby Dr. en, so we’re pretty sure Dad can find gracesonkirby.com Mom would also like the dining room something he’ll love. at this Johnny Carrabba-owned spot, but if you can snag a reservation in the bar Dad will love the dark wood paneling, cozy booths and big screen TVs tuned to the games. Food is delicious and hearty. Try the chicken fried chicken biscuit smothered in jalapeño cream gravy or the waffles and wings. And the big fajita steak with eggs, refried beans and breakfast potatoes is enough for any hungry State Fare pop on his day. burger
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TEXAS BLUE CRABS ARE BACK!
BBQ BLUE CRABS marinaTED in homemade creole bbq sauce & deep fried BOILED BLUE CRABS SeRVED WITH 2 NEW POTATOES, CORN & LEMON GARLIC BUTTER
WWW.RAGIN-CAJUN.COM May + June 2019
| HEIGHTS |13
HEALTH FOCUS Improving Employer and Employee Public Health
An Interview with Dr. Howard K. Koh Howard K. Koh M.D. is a leading authority on employer and employee health and was in Houston to speak at Hilton Americas to community and business leaders about their roles in improving the nation’s overall health who was in Houston on behalf of the American Heart Association. Dr. Koh is with the Harvey V. Fineberg, Professor of the Practice of Public Health Leadership and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Harvard Kennedy School. Intown caught up with him on the morning of his conference. Intown: You worked in the US Department of Health and Human Health and Human Services Department as a physician. What got you into this line of work? K: Early on in my career, I saw that treatment was critically important and was only part of the solution to keeping people healthy and we needed more attention on prevention because so many people are suffering preventable and quite frankly dying avoidable deaths. I started looking into other ways to contribute to health for society overall. That led me into policy and then into government service as commissioner for public health in Massachusetts for 5 and a half years and later the Assistant Secretary of Health at Department of Health and Human Services under President Obama. If you look at the leading cause of death from cancer is lung cancer for example, it’s almost all preventable because of tobacco. We like to point out that we have a sick cure system and not an actual health system. I have worked closely for several decades with the CDC, and I’m here today with the American Heart Association to talk about the culture of health and how that can involve business leaders. All businesses are in the health business whether they realize it or not. I: How do you get started on improving employees health? K: First and foremost it is making sure that the leaders of the companies uphold that value that our employees are essential to us and the complete well being of our employees are vital to our success both long term and short term. Asking employees about how they feel about their work environments and how it affects their physical and emotional well begin is essential. We have national polls that many employees feel that the workplace is not suitable for your health in terms of eating habits and stress levels and affecting the quality of sleep. I: What are some suggestions you’ve made 14 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
to companies to help improve their employee’s overall health? K: Too often in the health discussion in our country, people say that’s up to the health experts and or that’s up to the government. Private business has a significant role in impacting health populations. We’ve seen for example financial service organizations say that financial security and reducing feelings of financial stress are essential for our employees and having seminars and communication to advise on the financial health of employees by auto-enrolling them into 401 k and Roth accounts. You’ve heard of traditional ways such as smoke-free workplaces and having good nutritional options for employees but also extending into respect in the workplace and encouraging diversity in the workplace. I: We have recently had some dangerous incidents in Houston that adversely affected many Houstonians air and water quality. How meaningful is government oversight? Dr. Koh: People don’t realize how interconnected and interdependent we all are and often the view of people is I’m living my own life and don’t bother me but what we don’t realize is we all connect in ways we don’t understand until something like an incident you described. In times of crisis,
everyone looks to the government for coordination and prevention. Businesses need to think about not just doing business today but what about tomorrow and are we doing enough for the next generation to take over and make our society stronger than it was in the past. I: What role do health insurers play with employers to provide better long term health outcomes? K: Traditionally health insurers reimburse for services but in this day and age with health care costs so high and health outcomes not nearly what anyone would like it to be health insurers are becoming innovative leaders. There is more attention to care coordination and team-based approaches for care, not just individual clinicians but a greater emphasis on prevention and then very importantly a focus on paying for outcomes and value and not just for volume. I: Are there improvements to be made to the current Affordable Health Care System that may improve affordability and high deductibles? K: Okay Well (Big laugh) We could have many hours of discussion on that alone. I was in the Department (Health and Human Services) when the Affordable Care Act was born. I think the debate about where we are in this country with health has to advance. More than 20 million people now have health coverage through the ACA. I would like to see advancements and demonstration projects continued and explore innovations in a collaborative and bipartisan fashion. There are no easy answers, but everyone agrees that the status quo is not acceptable. So much of these costs can be avoided by keeping people healthy. In closing I would like to point out a critical study published by JAMA Journal of the American Medical Association on the global burden of disease on the United States and it showed among other things that life expectancy in our country varies by state being as high as age 81 in Hawaii and as low as 74 in Mississippi. Life expectancy in our country which everyone expects to go up year after year has been dropping for the last three years in a row. The study indicates a lot about where people live labor, learn, play and pray for all impacts health dramatically.
Connected for you. Connected to you. At Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, we have a forward thinking, interlinking approach to healthcare. Our medical staff works closely together on your behalf to deliver the most personalized treatment. Isn’t it nice to know you have connections?
kelsey-seybold.com/cares May + June 2019
| Intown |17
health focus
Closing the GAP
A
Dr. Ron DePinho and daughter Alexis
16 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
by Dr. Ronald A. DePinho
s the father of three children and a physician, educator and scientist, I always make sure to impart my health and wellness knowledge to my children (currently 15, 16 and 18 years old) – doing everything possible to mitigate risk for disease later in life. When it comes to cancer, it is notable that up to 50% of all cancers can be prevented worldwide simply by applying the knowledge in hand today into simple practices. Despite this amazing opportunity, there is a widening GAP between “knowing and doing” that places the future of our children in jeopardy. More importantly, most parents do not appreciate that many of these preventive actions must take place during childhood in order to avoid cancers decades later. Closing this GAP will dramatically protect the health of current and future generations and reduce the burden of disease. Comprehensive prevention policies, strategic coordination across an uncommon table of stakeholders, innovation, technology and engagement of our youth are key strategies to bridge the GAP ultimately saving millions of lives and trillions of dollars. This especially rings true when it comes to vaccinations. Alexis, my first born, is a senior at St John’s and will be headed off to Fordham University in New York this fall. I always enjoy my conversations with Alexis – she is bright, educated, curious, and a gifted writer. Recently, while watching the news together, our conversation turned to health (see tips below to stay strong and healthy and reduce your risk of getting cancer) and specifically the recent measles virus outbreaks. In the course of that conversation, she shared with me that she had written an article about vaccination for her US Government and Politics class. As a nation, we must address vaccination and protect our youth – it is a childcare responsibility. But don’t take it from me – take it from an 18 year old whose future is at stake.
health focus OP - ED
Measles Vaccination by Alexis DePinho
O
n January 25, Washington state officials declared a state of emergency due to an ongoing outbreak of measles spreading across Clark County, an anti-vaccination hotspot in Washington, one of the 18 states that allows parents to refuse school-mandated vaccines due to “philosophical exemptions”. As of April 16, more than 73 cases have been confirmed in the county alone. The measles virus was declared eliminated in the US in 2000, to the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, as well as the regulatory efforts of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But in recent years, CDC data suggests that measles is resurging: as of April 11, 555 individual cases have been reported across 20 states, including Texas. There is no legitimate empirical evidence of vaccines doing more physical harm than good. The original conspiracy, which linked vaccines with higher rates of autism, has long since been invalidated. Despite this, the belief in such myths still persists to the point where the World Health Organization (WHO) has listed vaccine hesitancy as one of the top 10 global health threats of 2019. Choosing not to vaccinate a child isn’t a choice with isolated consequences. Every single unvaccinated child admitted to a public school, despite a parent’s intentions, is a liability to themselves and others. Policies allowing unvaccinated children in public schools endanger immunocompromised individuals (such as chemotherapy patients, transplant patients, and those who suffer from HIV/AIDS), those allergic to vaccine ingredients, and vulnerable populations (such as infants too young for vaccination, pregnant women, and the elderly) Because of the different policies across states, unvaccinated individuals have clustered in states with lax regulations, forming so-called anti-vaccination hotspots, where vaccine-preventable diseases have the potential to devastate communities.
Opponents of compulsory vaccination for public schools raise varying objections. The most legitimate of those objections, however, often implicate infringements on the Fourteenth Amendment right to due process. Nonetheless, the Supreme Court has maintained that it is well within the police power of states to compel vaccination in the interest of the public health. For example, in Jacobson v. Massachusetts, the Supreme Court upheld that “upon the principle of self-defense, of paramount necessity, a community has the right to protect itself against an epidemic of disease which threatens the safety of its members.” In addition, the right to privacy, like all other freedoms granted by the Constitution, is subject to limitation. For example, as stated in Schenck v. United States, the right to freedom of speech “would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theatre.” Likewise, the right to privacy dictated in the Fourteenth Amendment does not protect actions which jeopardize the lives of others. Though opponents might disagree, regulations on religious exemptions are not in violation of the right to religious freedom guaranteed by the First Amendment, which, as stated in Prince v. Massachusetts, “does not include liberty to expose the community or the child to communicable disease or the latter to ill health or death.” It is true that states reserve a Constitutional right to determine policy regarding public education, safety, and health. However, the elastic clause dictates that the federal government holds power to oversee such policies so long as it is necessary and proper to maintaining the general welfare. The ability of parents to deny a child healthcare is dubious in itself, and the legal right of parents to make healthcare decisions has never been—and never should be—absolute. Generally, when a parent puts a child at risk of physical harm, we recognize it as abuse or neglect, regardless of whether the parent believes they have the right to do so. Depriving a child of proper healthcare shouldn’t be any different—especially if it interferes with the safety of others. May + June 2019
| HEIGHTS | 17
health focus by Dr. Ronald A. DePinho
Remember these best practices to stay strong and healthy and reduce your risk of getting cancer. Get Vaccinated
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) account for many cancers globally and collectively account for more than 1 million deaths worldwide. Safe and effective vaccines now exist for these viruses. Since nearly all adults will become infected by HPV, boys and girls should be vaccinated, optimally at age 11. HBV vaccination is also critically important, particularly in endemic areas such as Asia.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking and tobacco use are responsible for most lung cancer deaths and one-third of all cancer deaths and can shorten your life by a decade or more. Smoking also contributes to heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. The single most important prevention initiative would be to reduce tobacco use through youth prevention and adult cessation as 88% of adult smokers start before the age of 18 and 95% before age 21.
Take Daily Aspirin and Vitamin D
While studies are ongoing concerning the long-term health benefits of aspirin, a daily baby aspirin (81 mg) appears not only reduces the incidence of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and stroke but may also reduce a number of cancers including colon cancer. As with all medicines, you should consult your physician before adopting its use. In the case of supplements, one should check Vitamin D levels checked and consider Vitamin D supplementation (1000IU). Low Vitamin D levels have been associated with numerous diseases including neurological conditions, cardiac disease and some cancers Multivitamins and other supplements have not been shown to impact the risk of cancer and, in some cases, have been shown to increase cancer. So keep the focus on healthy balanced diet, not vitamins and supplements.
Remember Sun Safety
Eat Well
Chronic Stress
Stay Active
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. The primary cause is excessive ultraviolet radiation from the sun or from tanning beds. UVR protection is especially important for children because exposure at a young age can pave the way for cancers in adulthood, including melanoma. Avoid tanning beds, adopt sun safety habits (sun screen), and get an annual skin exam from a board-certified dermatologist.
Chronic unrelenting stress accelerates aging and increases incidence of age-related diseases including cancer. Proper sleeping habits, coupled with coping strategies such as mindfulness training, are effective in quelling stress.
Many diets come and go but certain core principles remain. First, limit overall calorie intake to maintain your BMI in the normal range. Weigh yourself daily with a scale that measures weight and percent body fat. Second, diets should be rich in whole grains fruits, fish and vegetables, minimize salt, red meat particularly charcoal-charred meats, and avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Just 15 minutes of daily moderate exercise (brisk walk) can increase your life-expectancy by 3 years and reduce cancer and other age-related diseases. 30 minutes is even better.
WORTHWHILE CONVERSATIONS RE-THINKING ROTH IRAS… Roth IRAs are not exactly new. What is there to “re-think?” More to the point: Some people should re-think the use of Roth IRAs. Start by remembering two key differences between Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs. First, money contributed to a Roth has already been taxed. BUT, if you conform to the rules, everything you ever withdraw, including earnings that might be many times what was contributed, is completely tax-free. Second, unlike traditional IRAs, there is NO requirement to withdraw minimum distributions from a Roth IRA after reaching age 70-1/2. You said “some people” might need a rethink. Who specifically? After 48 years of working with clients, we’ve now advised through the full cycle of IRA drawdowns for some of our longertenured families. Oftentimes, we encounter meaningful balances left in these IRA accounts when the estate passes to the next generation. Those clients were well enough positioned for retirement that they did not “need” all the funds in their IRA. That is the opportunity.
So, how does that connect to the Roth IRA? Phillip Hamman, CFP®, CFA, chairs our Wealth Planning Committee, a group of our professionals with multiple professional backgrounds, including attorneys and CPAs. He summarized the connection in this way: “Clients approaching or just starting retirement may forecast that IRA accounts will not be fully withdrawn during their lifetime, leaving a balance for heirs. Until seeing the numbers, it is difficult for them to imagine the potential wealth enhancement from a Roth conversion. The strategy of converting all or a portion of a traditional IRA and paying some tax now is counter-intuitive, but the savings accumulated over many years can be substantial.” Each person’s situation is unique, and running the numbers is critical What are the pitfalls? Make sure you have experienced and well-trained eyes preparing the analysis. This is an area where it is essential to rely upon an advisor who is 100% committed to the fiduciary business model, which puts the client’s interest first. Do not rely on “analysis” from anyone with a product selling
motivation. Our experienced team of financial professionals are ready to sit down at our office in the Houston Galleria area to visit about the potential. For more information, or a copy of our Form ADV, Part II, with all of our disclosures, call Grant Williams or J. Harold Williams at 713 840 1000, or visit www.linscomb-williams.com.
Linscomb & Williams is located at 1400 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 1000 in Houston, TX For more information call 713 840 1000 or visit www.linscomb-williams.com. Linscomb & Williams is not an accounting firm.
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health focus Intown’s Medical Person of the Year
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Dr. Huda Zoghbi
ur 2019 Medical Person of The Year is Dr. Huda Zoghbi. She is a Professor, Baylor College of Medicine and founding director of the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s Hospital. Her persistent and lengthy research has led to remarkable contributions to the study of the brain have earned her many awards, prizes accolades and research funds for her institution. She began her career at the place she is today an unusual feat in this day and age of highly coveted talent often leaving for a better deal. Some of her prestigious awards include: • Vilcek Prize in Biomedical Science, 2009 • March of Dimes Prize in Developmental Biology 2014 • The Shaw Prize Laureate in Life Science and Medicine • The Shaw Prize Foundation, Hong Kong, Dr. Hogbhi on left accepting her 2017 life sciences award 2016 This discovery provided a definitive genetic diagnosis for the • 2017 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences condition and also opened the door to a biological understand• Canada Gairdner International Award, 2017 ing and a search for treatment. Zoghbi demonstrated that Rett Born and raised in Beirut Lebanon she later enrolled in syndrome causes a deficiency in a protein called MeCP2 and that medical school at American University in Beirut. The Lebanese each patient with the Rett mutation has a different pattern of Civil War forced her parents to move her to Austin, Texas where healthy and mutant cells, explaining some of the variability of she later applied for med school at Vanderbilt. Her application Rett symptoms. turned down due to their policy of not accepting transfer stuIn 2016 her a team of scientists at Baylor College of Meddents. Ironically, in 2015 she was awarded the Vanderbilt Prize icine and Texas Children’s Hospital discovered the protein in Biomedical Science. Instead of Vanderbilt, she attended nearTRIM28 could promote the accumulation of two key proteins by Meharry Medical College also in Nashville. Upon graduating, that drive the development of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and relatshe went to Texas Children’s Hospital at the Baylor College of ed diseases. The discovery offered a new understanding of these Medicine where she still is today. Initially interested in becoming diseases. a pediatric cardiologist she was convinced by a department head “Our work shows that by reducing the activity of TRIM28 the brain was a more interesting study. As it turned out that we can reduce the accumulation of tau and alpha-synuclein in became a game changer in the field of neurology. fruit flies and mouse models of the disease,” said Zoghbi. “These Breakthroughs began after many years of research on her piresults encourage us to consider the possibility of developing oneering work on Rett syndrome, a genetic neurological disease drugs that could reduce the levels of TRIM28 to help prevent the that affects young girls (males with the condition usually die in development of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and related diseases.” infancy). The Breakthrough Prize Foundation awards Breakthrough “Dr. Zoghbi’s contributions to our understanding of several Prizes in Fundamental Physics, Life Sciences, and Mathematics. entirely different neurological disorders, including her finding Instituted in 2013 the winners receive a cash award of $3 of the genetic basis of Rett syndrome, have opened new areas of million, research,” says Dr. Joe Leigh Simpson, senior vice president for It is a scientific award, funded by internet entrepreneurs: Research and Global Programs at the March of Dimes, where Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan of Facebook; Sergey Brin she was awarded their top prize in biology development in 2014. of Google; entrepreneur and venture capitalist Yuri Milner; and “Her work influences the entire field of autism and other neuroAnne Wojcicki, one of the founders of the genetics company psychiatric disorders,” stated Simpson. 23andMe. Zoghbi was committed to searching for the genetic cause of The award is for research aimed at curing intractable diseases the syndrome, and after a 16-year search, in 1999 she succeeded and extending human life and was awarded to Dr. Zogbhi in in identifying the Rett gene. 2017. Moreover, the work continues. May + June 2019
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The Heights 20 W
hat makes The Heights so special? Well, it has a long and unique history and some places you simply must visit. Here, in no particular order, are our top 20, everything from restaurants to old buildings and a cool cemetery.
1
Harold’s 350 W. 19th St. haroldsheights.com The building is more than a century old, and once housed the iconic clothing store Harold’s in the Heights. Now it’s a restaurant and bar with a lovely terrace.
2
Bernie’s Burger Bus 2200 Yale St. berniesburgerbus.com Giant burgers, chili cheese fries and thick shakes, plus an actual school bus inside the burger joint will delight students and parents alike.
3
Milroy Park 1205 Yale St. houstontx.gov/parks After that burger, head over to the little park packed with fun. There’s a community center, a playground and lighted tennis courts. Great place for the kids.
4
Heights Boulevard Park 100 Heights Boulevard It’s a little linear park, just over 11 acres, with 1.8-mile trails but it’s worth Lambert Hall is now home to the non- by the Houston Heights Association, it is visiting to see the World War II memo- profit Opera in the Heights. Go for the a special events venue and even has a full catering kitchen inside. history, stay for an opera. rial there.
5
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Lambert Hall/ Doug’s Barber Shop Houston Heights Fire Station Opera in the Heights 219 E. 11th St. 107 W. 12th St. 1703 Heights Boulevard dougsbarbershop.com houstonheights.org/properties/fire-station/ operaintheheights.org This old building has housed a barber This 1914, two-story, red-brick buildCheck out this 1927 building with ing, was Houston Heights first city hall, shop since it was built in 1929. It’s filled beautiful art glass. Originally a church, then a jail and fire station. Now owned with old Americana and old-timey barber
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Twenty spots you won’t want to miss by Marene Gustin
Dinner Menu: May 7 & 8 Starters Ouisie’s Spud 8.
with garlic oil, fresh dill, sour cream, black caviar, green onion, with belly of the salmon.
Tomato Salad with Mozzarella 5.
with crispy crouton, fresh basil tossed with lemon vinaigrette and drizzled with house garlic mayonnaise.
Entrees Fruit Salad with Pork Tenderloin Paillard 12.
with spring mix , cantaloupe, blue berries, strawberries , gala apple, orange sections, pineapple, feta cheese tossed with spicy lemon vinaigrette.
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta 12.
with artichokes , capers, frerh basil, kalamata olives and parmesan cheese.
Dinner Menu: May 14 & 15 Starters Crispy Fried Oysters 6.
with jalapeño tartar and cocktail sauce.
Spinach Salad 4.
with bacon, spicy peanuts tossed with sesame dressing.
Entrees Atlantic Salmon with Romesco Sauce 9.
Served with rosemary new potatoes and green beans.
chairs … and, well … a lot of fascinating stuff. But the barbers are great, including owner Doug Dreher, and fans of the film Rushmore will instantly recognize the shop.
Chicken A La Juanita 8.
Grilled chicken with poblano pesto, Monterey cheese, topped with roasted corn, with sundried tomatoes and green onions, drizzled with sriracha sauce topped with pico de gallo and sour cream.
8
White Oak Music Hall 2915 N. Main St. whiteoakmusichall.com Wanna hear some music? White Oak Music Hall is a multi-venue live performance palace. There’s a huge outdoor section, called The Lawn, a smaller indoor performing space and a May + June 2019
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bar atop the Raven Tower. Even if you’re not in a concert frame of mind, the views of downtown are pretty fantastic.
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Coltivare Pizza & Garden 3320 White Oak Dr. agricolehospitality.com A casual Heights neighborhood spot, Coltivare is known for its wood-fired pizzas and its gorgeous garden that supplies all the seasonal veggies and herbs. Chef Ryan Pera also serves up pastas, small plates and some mains like the Texas striped bass with a Gulf Coast flare.
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Better Luck Tomorrow 544 Yale St. betterlucktomorrowhou.com BLT, as it’s known, is a popular bar from masters Bobby Heugel, Justin Yu and Steve Flippo. A fun place to hang with great cocktails and some tasty bar snacks. Saturdays and Sundays offer a full brunch menu including something called hangover hash browns, presumably paired with an Irish coffee.
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El Bolillo Bakery 2517 Airline Dr. elbolillo.com Best Mexican bakery in town and home to the unicorn pan dulce, El Bolillo Bakery made headlines nationwide when seven bakers were trapped inside for two days during Hurricane Harvey.
So, they did what they do best: they baked bread. Lots and lots of bread and once the streets were clear they boxed and bagged up thousands of loaves and took them to first responders, churches and shelters. It’s a bakery with a heart.
12
Spanish Flowers Restaurant 4701 N. Main St. spanishflowersrestaurants.com Since 1979, this 24-hour restaurant has been serving up platters of fajitas, enchiladas and nachos along with vats of queso and mole. Great late-night eatery for some Tex-Mex breakfast fare after a night of drinking.
13
Vinyl Edge Records 239 W. 19th St. vinaledge.com Since 1985, this music shop has been selling records and now CDs both current and oldies. If you can’t find what you want here, it probably doesn’t exist.
14
Casa Ramirez 214 W. 19th St. facebook.com/pg/CasaRamirez-FOLKART-Gallery Shopping for folk art, Mexican curios, Día de los Muertos merchandise or Oaxacan dresses? No need to go south of the border, just shop in The Heights where you can find all things Mexican and Tex-Mex, including Selena T-shirts. 22 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
15
Retropolis 321 W. 19th St. facebook.com/pg/Retropolis/ Two stories of vintage clothing and accessories along with jewelry and garments made by local artists, Retropolis is perfect for forties fashion fiends as well as those looking for costumes.
16
Boomtown Coffee 242 W. 19th St. boomtowncoffee.com Need as cup of caffeine or a bag pf beans to take home? Boomtown Coffee is the place to go. They are a small-batch specialty coffee roaster with an open-air storefront and even some breakfast items, tacos and sandwiches if you’re hungry.
17
Eight Row Flint 1039 Yale St. agricolehospitality.com This upscale ice house is a cool place to just chill out. Named for the 8-Row Flint corn, which makes sense because the place is known for its whiskey and tacos, the joint also serves up bar snacks, wings and a mean Sonora dog.
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Lola 1102 Yale St. eatlola.com A modern-day diner, Lola serves breakfast all day, and it’s pretty tasty food. But the star of the menu is The Day After Thanksgiving Sandwich. Don’t wait for November, you can have turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and a side of brown gravy on a bun any day you want.
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Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd. artcarmuseum.com A private museum with free admission, if you’re in The Heights you really must see this unique establishment dedicated to art cars and contemporary art. Also known as the Garage Mahal, there are actual art cars on display as well as political and social art.
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Glenwood Cemetery 2525 Washington Ave. glenwoodcemetery.org And, finally, one of the most breathtaking sites in The Heights, is the 1871 cemetery. Almost 84 acres, the lavish burial ground includes a small lake, winging paths, huge trees, fountains and amazing statuary. Headstones read like a list of Who’s Who in Houston history. Hobby’s, Cooley’s, Gene Tierney and Howard Hughes area all interned here. Strolling the grounds makes for a wonderful afternoon, and, yes, if you have the money, there are still plots available.
May + June 2019
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LAUREN LUNA Fine Art Painter
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n 2011, Lauren Luna relocated to Houston, Texas, from her native Ohio after the realization there was more opportunity for professional artists in Houston. One of her favorite haunts and subject of her art is the heights. Born in Columbus, Ohio and a graduate from Kent State School Of Fine Arts with a focus on painting she then moved to New York City where she developed her love for big city life. She began teaching Special Education for New York City schools and entered a Masters program at Manhattan College. Upon graduation, Luna was forced to put art on a back burner. It wasn’t until much later while participating in a local arts festival that her artistic flame was reignited, and she enrolled in the Academy of Art University where earned her second Master’s degree, this time in Fine Arts. Luna continues to work actively as an artist, showing her paintings nationwide, and spreading her knowledge while inspiring future generations as a junior high art teacher and adjunct art professor at Alvin Community College.
What is it about Houston that made you relocate here? Being from the North, I have had my fill of frigid temperatures and snow. It was the Columbus, Ohio snow storm of 2010 that was the figurative nail in the coffin in terms of living up in that climate. I also was preparing myself to not need a day job, and wanted to make sure that were I moved was more populated, and an affordable cost of living. I was also wanting to make sure that there was an active art scene. Houston offered all of that and more! Describe your style as an artist? I teeter between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. My work contains formal order and structure but also I try to use a realistic use of light and color isn’t necessarily for symbolism. Some famous artists within these styles would include Edgar Degas, Paul Cezanne, and Vincent Van Gogh. You also teach at a college and a middle school. How does teaching art compare with the actual creation of your works? Teaching art is a different challenge in itself. My job is to help people learn to see and then take what they see and render it on to a surface.
Behind the Canvas
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Midtown Spraycation Love, oil on canvas
When a person learns a language, whether it be their primary or beyond, words are taught as labels. Therefore, the brain goes into autopilot drawing what ever the label’s association, not the object in which the person is actually observing. This is the challenge that all of my students, and honestly, all artists face when trying to draw/paint/etc from observation. When it comes to creating my personal work, is like breathing. I have quite literally been making art my entire life, and it is second nature. Where are your favorite places to paint? I like to paint iconic places in Houston; the Heights Marquee, the Be Someone sign, as well as the hidden gems like Main Street Square. These examples, are why I’m “Your City Painter”. I also like to paint the scenes of New Orleans. I love the energy that comes from the city and I try to incorporate the same into my works. At what age did you begin creating art and when did you know this was your career path? I can remember my one of my first art classes at 5 at the local recreation center. I also can recall my mother gardening and digging up clay from the ground, that I would then use to sculpt. I believe it was after her death when I was nine, that I really honed into the desire to create constantly. I remember drawing a picture of what I believed was her in heaven, and how I cried when I accidentally split grape juice on it. By the 5th grade I knew that I wanted to be an artist, I started taking art classes at the local art college, and it just continued from there. I received a Bachelors of Fine Arts from Kent State University, and then a Masters of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University. I have been chasing the dream of being a professional artist since I moved to New York straight out of undergrad. What are your favorite places in Houston to get inspiration for your art? Be Someone bridge will always be my favorite. When I moved here almost eight years to pursue being a professional artist, seeing that sign meant so much to me. I felt as though that was exactly what I was trying to do.
May + June 2019
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TEXAS MUSIC By The Hon. Philip Berquist
Honorary Consul of the Republic of Croatia for Texas
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hilanthropy sometimes creates odd partners. Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite and horrific weaponry used in war, established the Nobel Prizes. What most people do not know is that when his older brother Ludwig died, a blistering obituary was printed, entitled, “The merchant of death is dead!” It mistakenly was about Alfred Nobel, who obviously had not died, his brother had. Not married, he was correctly concerned about his own reputation after his own death, some years later. Unknown to his colleagues and friends, the vast majority of his estate was dedicated to the Nobel Prizes. In Houston, Immanuel Olshan was known for demolition and foundation repairs. He and his wife, Helen, left a significant portion of their estate to set the foundation for what became the Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival (TMF) at the University of Houston. Oh, what a foundation the Olshan’s laid! The brain-child of the then Director of the University of Houston School of
General and Artistic Director Alan Austin
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Music, later renamed the Sara and John Moores School of Music, Dr. David Tomatz, was to establish a major annual summer music festival in Houston. The year was 1990, and the TMF was born. The Olshan Foundation provided full scholarships for orchestral students. It began, naturally, modestly, but it has now grown to be one of the major festivals in the United States. This June, the Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival will celebrate its 30th anniversary. I attended my first TMF in 1994, the festival’s fifth year. This was before the building of the Moores Opera House and all concerts were held at the Cullen Auditorium on campus. I recall, in all honesty, that the playing was spotty, but the stage was full of aspiring student musicians. Having attended all festivals since, I can attest that the growth has been steady and most impressive. David Tomatz retired as the Director of the Moores School of Music in 1999 but stayed on several years to oversee TMF. Dr Tomatz has since passed away.
FESTIVAL Pianist Kenny Broberg
Dr. David Tomatz
PHOTO: Courtesy of University of Houston
The TMF leadership has been successfully turned over to Alan Austin, who currently serves as General and Artistic Director of TMF. Here is the annual format for TMF - four June Saturday night orchestral performances, led by four different conductors. On Tuesday evenings, chamber music is featured with performances by professional musicians who participate in the festival with instruction for the students. The first concert of the festival is always in early June. This year it runs from June 7 through June 29. The leadoff conductor on June 8, 2019, is Franz Anton Krager, Professor of Conducting at the Moores School leading the orchestra. Usually Franz only has about five days with the new TMF musicians to prepare this important first orchestral performance. Also, to get the Festival off to a roaring start, the music performed is always a large spectacular piece, such as a Mahler or Tchaikovsky symphony, a Strauss tone poem, etc. This year the featured work is “Sheherazade” by Rimsky-Korsakov. The program will also feature the always popular, “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paginini” by Rachmaninoff. The other three orchestral Saturday night programs are conducted by various guest conductors. This year they are Rossen Milanov, director of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Carl St. Clair, director of the Pacific Symphony, and concluding with Josep Cabellé-Domenech, Music Director of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Bogata, Colombia. Recently, Hans Graf, former Music Director of the Houston Symphony has been appearing every other year. Past conductors of note have been Maxim Shostakovich, son of the great Russian composer, Dimitry Shostakovich, Horst Förster from Germany, Carlos Spierer, Germany, Leon Spierer, his father, former concertmaster with the Berlin Philharmonic un-
MUSIC
Conductor Franz Anton KragerMei-Ann Chen, Guest Conductor
der Herbert von Karajan, and Mei-Ann Chen, among others. The members of the Festival Orchestra are selected following an intense audition series with only 20% of applicants being accepted. Their tuition, living and food expenses are provided. What is particularly remarkable to me is that they perform four orchestral concerts with four different conductors with a very limited time to learn and rehearse very difficult pieces of the orchestral repertoire. Here is the link to the full orchestral schedule. http://www.uh.edu/kgmca//music/tmfIn addition to the orchestral part of the Festival, there is a “Perspectives” series of faculty chamber music each Tuesday evening at UH. “Perspectives can be found on the Internet at: http://www.uh.edu/kgmca//music/tmf/ season-schedule/perspectives-series/ There is a special opportunity during this 30th Anniversary TMF season to hear
a most special Moores School alumnus, pianist Kenny Broberg. Mr Broberg was a silver medal winner at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. He is currently preparing for the illustrious Tchaikovsky competition in Moscow. On the opening orchestral concert of TMF on June 8, Mr Broberg will be playing the Rachmaninoff “Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini,” with the orchestra conducted by Mr Krager. On Wednesday, June 12, he will be in recital as part of an extra “Perspective’s” event. He is a talent not to be missed. https://kennybroberg.com/ The entire program for TMF can be found online at http://www.uh.edu/ kgmca//music/tmf/season-schedule/perspectives-series/. The Olshan’s would be very proud to see that their philanthropy has provided the city of Houston. Please consider attending and supporting this great organization this June in its 30th anniversary year. May + June 2019
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Financial
FOCUS H OW T Y P I CA L A R E YO U R
T
RETIREMENT ATTITUDES?
hanks to syndicated television, regardless of your age, you may well remember what was once the most popular game show on American television: Family Feud. Two families competed to name the most popular responses to survey questions in order to win cash and prizes. After the competing guesses were recorded, the host introduced the correct response by saying, “Survey says…” A Senior Living Community provider recently released their survey1 of 2,000 Americans on the subject of how to define the “ideal retirement.” The answers from the national survey are interesting, and they might contrast significantly with your responses. What is the right age to retire? Survey says: age 60. The answers varied based on the age of those responding. Boomers answered with an average age of 64, while Millennials answered with an average age of 56. Maintaining lifestyle in a retirement starting at age 56 is a considerably great-
28 | HEIGHTS | May + June 2019
er financial challenge than starting at 64. The reason is simple: fewer years to save money and more retirement years to be funded. More than 1 in 5 Americans desire to retire and live abroad. What is their top choice for a country to live in? Survey says: Italy. Apparently, the draw of the Tuscan wine country is powerful. We have a few clients who have pursued this course and learned that the legal and paperwork requirements for Americans to live abroad can be challenging and certainly require advance planning. Name the top 5 cities Americans prefer as a retirement location. Survey says: (this might be surprising, but here they are, in order…) – Miami, San Diego, Denver, New York, and Orlando. We know from much experience with this question that these particular cities are not on the list for many of our Houston-based clients. Whatever your personal leanings, however, retirement location is an important variable in your financial plan. Miami is 24% more expensive than Houston, for example2. San Diego is 41% higher, Den-
ver 27%, and New York is double. Only Orlando is reasonably close, but is still about 7% more expensive. Clearly, when planning the ideal retirement, WHERE you intend to retire can have as much or more financial significance than WHEN you desire to retire. How much in savings would be ideal by the time you retire? And how much do you realistically expect to have? Survey says: To supplement Social Security and pensions, an ideal savings target would be $610,000. Unfortunately, the second half of the question on expected savings leaves a big gap: $276,000. This is less than half of what would be desirable. In an unrelated survey3 conducted for the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) by Heart + Mind Strategies of 1,000 voters on election day, 2018, there were a couple of important insights which bear upon this last question. • 60% of the respondents indicate they expect to work with an advisor for planning their retirement needs. • However, 23% intend to wait until just 3 to 5 years before retirement to engage a professional financial planner. • 82% want someone who can provide a comprehensive plan that takes their holistic financial situation into consideration. • 79% believe their financial advisor should always work in their best interest (the “fiduciary” business model). In our nearly 50 years of helping clients plan their own “ideal retirement,”
we think there are three key elements that transcend the various visions of what might be ideal: 1. If you don’t have a well-conceived plan for your ideal retirement, the best time to start working on it is today. Unless you are willing to do considerable homework on your own, seek the help of a qualified professional financial planner sooner rather than later. 2. Choose a planner that is well experienced and qualified. Credentials can be important indicators. Look for the key 4 credentials: CFP® certification, CPA, Chartered Financial Analyst, and JD (Juris Doctor). 3. Choose a planner that commits, in writing, to always interact with you as a fiduciary, with a legal obligation to work in your best interest. https://www.provisionliving.com/americas-ideal-retirement-lifestyle/ https://www.bestplaces.net/cost-of-living/ 3 https://www.cfp.net/news-events/latest-news/2018/11/15/new-electionnight-survey-even-with-booming-economy-consumers-are-not-on-track-to-retire-on-theirterms 1 2
by Phillip Hamman, CPA, CFP® President, Linscomb & Williams
May + June 2019
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Connie Connie Wallace, Wallace, Mary Mary Maxie Maxie and and Debby Debby Leighton Leighton
Cynthia Allshouse, Anne Duncan and Elise Joseph
Gina Saour President Major Melody Davies
THE SALVATION ARMY WOMEN’S AUXILIARY Hosted their annual Reflections on Style, Prancing with a Purpose, Luncheon, Fashion Show and Chic Boutique at River Oaks Country Club. Leading the helm of this year’s event was Chair Darlene Clark and the special Honoree was Judi McGee. The Luncheon, Runway Show, Silent Auction and Shopping in the Chic Boutique featured new and gently worn designer clothing and accessories from some of Houston’s finest closets. Co-Chairs Leigh Newton Alvarez and Lynn Clayton have spent an entire year collecting treasures from some of the best and most stylish philanthropists for the event. About The Salvation Army: In this community since 1889, a United Way of Greater Houston agency, The Salvation Army Greater Houston Area Command serves Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties through youth programs, shelter, disaster relief, counseling, senior programs and rehabilitation. The mission of The Salvation Army Greater Houston Area Command is to meet human needs without discrimination. For more visit SalvationArmyHouston.org.
Marla Hurley
Ginger Blanton and Penny Wright
By Lindsay Mowad Will and Caroline Shoppa
Rylie Schroeder, Jamie Randgaard and Christian Boehm
Whitney Sharman, Annie Daugherty and Nicole Fertitta
Shivam Thakkar and Vraj Shah
THE PR BOUTIQUE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS In festive style at Houston hotspot B.B. Lemon, located in the Washington Corridor. Karen Henry and Gretchen Brice founded The PR Boutique in 2004 following accomplished careers spanning other agencies and their own individual firms. The two seasoned PR pros had one thing in mind when creating this female owned firm: work-life balance. Combined, Henry and Brice have eight children. “After years spent working for others and ourselves, Gretchen and I realized that two were better than one and our work ethic aligned,” says founding partner Karen Henry. After working together to cultivate the Houston office’s success, the partners expanded their expertise to the Central Texas market and spearheaded the launch of offices in Austin and San Antonio. The firm’s forward-thinking team of women offer media relations, event management, community involvement, influencer programming and social media management.
Shelby Hodge and Karen Henry
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WE’RE IN THE PEOPLE BUSINESS. WE JUST HAPPEN TO B E A B A N K .
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