Heights Magazine

nov + dec 2023

bestofheights.com

Discovering DC Hotspots An Immigrant’s Golden Touch Food Favorites Party Season Returns Jim Crane’s Best Decision

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 1

2 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

THERE’S A

BETTER APPROACH

TO CANCER CARE in the Texas Medical Center At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in the Texas Medical Center.

The Woodlands

Willowbrook

Katy-West Houston Baytown

Texas Medical Center

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

Sugar Land

Clear Lake

713.790.2700 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-tmc November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 3

THE ONLY SENIOR COMMUNITY IN THE HEART OF THE HEIGHTS

The Village of the Heights Located in the quaint, yet vibrant Historic Heights area of Houston, The Village of the Heights offers residents distinctive experiences enjoyable for all. Whether it’s browsing local art shops, strolling through beautiful parks, dining at highly sought-after restaurants, or having access to nearby, high-quality medical services, The Village of the Heights offers a variety of activities and experiences that are enriching, enjoyable, and create memories.

Because our community is based on the idea that life is inherently valuable, rich, and downright enjoyable, we are focused on living life to the fullest. That’s why we offer a rich calendar of monthly activities and events. Our talented chefs prepare fresh, delicious, healthy meals our residents can enjoy in a cozy restaurant-style dining room.

We also value health and wellbeing, which is why we offer residents a variety of popular fitness classes, such as Tai Chi or Sit Yoga, and Fit Aerobics, and a walking club centered around our gorgeous grounds.

At The Village of the Heights, we believe socializing is at the center of our residents’ lives. Our residents enjoy a lively, festive community that offers continuing education opportunities, including art, language, and cooking classes. Game nights are a hit featuring Scrabble, dominos, and mahjong, Sunday bingo, and more along with the always popular themed happy hours.

And, for those looking for a little R&R, residents can catch their favorite flick at our weekend movie nights.

Residents at The Village of the Heights can choose from a range of living options to provide as much, or as little assistance as needed. From independent living, assisted living, and memory care, residents get the right level of support from our team of expert care associates. The Village of the Heights is committed to serving residents in a way that provides comfort and fulfillment. A place to Live Life Well®.

Visit for monthly events or for lunch to experience the community and a taste of distinguished senior living at The Village Imagine days full of possibilities in your beautiful new home at The Village of of Heights. Visit www.villageoftheheights.com or call 346-800Heights Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. Enjoy deliciou 5426 to schedule a private tour and lunch. supportive living services, and innovative programs that will inspire you to be social & remain physically active. Combined with the added spectrum of care to your individual needs, you’ll have everything to Live Life Well®, no matter

Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care

4 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Schedule Your Visit Today!

Do you see senior living like we do?

It’s time to live like you are young.

START A CONVERSATION WITH US

An Aspenwood Community | Houston-based and owned with 25+ years experience November + December 2023 | HEIGHTS | 5 1407 Studewood | Houston, TX 77008 | www.villageoftheheights.com

november + december 2023 Send comments, thoughts or ideas to intownmagazine@gmail.com

8

16

ON THE COVER

20

24

8

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

10

ARTS & EVENTS

16-18 20-23

24-27

TRAVEL: WHAT TO DO IN D.C.

28-29

FINANCIAL FOCUS

BEST EATS OF 2023

30

BUZZ

TWO JEWELERS SIDE BY SIDE

PRODUCTION CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER

M. A. Haines EDITOR

Lisa June

bestofheights.com

Lindsay Mowad William Hanover Marene Gustin Evans Attwell Philip Berquist Minnie Payne Virginia Billeaud Anderson

Web Design CSS Art & Design Layout & Graphic Design CSS Art & Design

For advertising rates and information: 713.525.8607 intownmagazine@gmail.com Space reservation deadline is 15 days prior to publication.

Graphic Designer Cris Bell Photographer Wells Brown

Intown Magazine is published bi-monthly by SNS Media. Articles are welcome and will be given careful consideration for possible publication. Intown magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Materials submitted will be returned if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Box 980757 Houston, TX 77098. You can also e-mail intownmagazine@gmail.com or call 713.525.8607.

Copyright 2022 by Intown magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced without permission from Intown Magazine.

6 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 7

Publisher’s Letter Jim Crane’s Best Decision

N

o one knows for sure if Dusty would have been allowed to come back for another season. We only know he wanted to go out on his terms and did precisely that. “I am excited to see what God has planned for the rest of my life,” Baker stated in his usual calm and cool Cali voice, announcing his retirement as the Astros manager. That forward-looking and optimistic view has served him well in his four-year tenure as the Astros beloved skipper. He was the right man at the right time for the Astros and left a legacy that we may never see again.

We don’t and may never know the extent of what all happened in that infamous 2017 sign-stealing and trash-banging scheme. That resulted in the Astros being fined by MLB, losing draft picks, and suspensions to some managers and coaches, but no players. Who knew what would come next? Jim Crane knew he needed a veteran manager who could handle all the pressure of the job. It was the seasoned cool cat from California who was tough and smart enough to control a desperate situation. And he wanted a last shot at a Championship that had eluded him in his previous manager jobs.

Baker and his Astros were two wins away from four consecutive pennants and trips to the World Series, having lost a game seven in 2020 and 2023. He was the best man for taking over an organization reeling after the 2017 cheating scandal came to light in late 2019.

Baker left an indelible mark on his players and the city that respected him.

He never shied away from controversy when he felt he was right. An example was his standing by his embattled field general and catcher, Martin Maldonado.

Baker, drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1967, was convinced by Henry Aaron to play in the South despite his hesitancy due to the civil unrest and his father trying to keep him from playing. He later went to the LA Dodgers, where he was a star and won a World Series. Now, as a winemaker, there is a dedicated Hammerin’ Hank Cabernet from his Baker Family Wine. He gets credit for the “high five’ celebratory hand slap but, in his typically humble manner, deferred to the guy who high-fived him as the creator.

He thanked Houston for being ‘treated with truth and honesty’ since he arrived here. That Dusty is the least we could do.

8 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

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November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 9

Arts +

EVENTS

Artupdate houston published every two weeks by houstonintown. For updates and more go to houstonintown.com and sign up for free updates.

MUSEUMS Asia Society Texas Center

Ongoing TSHERIN SHERPA: SPIRITS Thru Jan 7 Opens RAFAEL DOMENECHAND Nov 11 TOMAS VU: HEAT SILHOUETTE

Museum Of Fine Arts Houston

Ongoing ROBERT FRANK AND TODD Thru Jan 7 WEBB: ACROSS AMERICA, 1955

Ongoing REMBRANDT TO VAN GOGH: Thru Jan 21 MASTERPIECES FROM THE

Heights Epicurean Farmers Market Every First Saturday of the Month 1245 Heights Blvd

ARMAND HAMMER COLLECTION

Nov 10May 27

KEHINDE WILEY: AN ARCHAEOLOGY OF SILENCE

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Ongoing JORDAN STAFER: TRILOGY Thru Nov 26 Ongoing SIX SCENES FROM OUR Thru Mar 17 FUTURE Dec 8THIS WAY: A HOUSTON Mar 24 GROUP SHOW Holocaust Museum Houston

Ongoing THE NEGRO MOTORIST Thru Nov 26 GREEN BOOK Ongoing HOPE: STORIES OF Thru Dec. 3 HOUSTON SURVIVORS HOLODOMOR: THE FAMINE-GENOCIDE OF UKRAINE 1932-1933

Menil Collection

Ongoing THE ICONIC PORTRAIT Thru Jan 21 STRAND BY NESTOR TOPCHY

Ongoing HANNEDARBOVENThru Feb. 11 WRITING TIME Ongoing CHRYSSA & NEW YORK Thru Mar 10 Houston Museum Of Natural Science

RESILIENCE, Drawing the Line, 2023, by Marc Bauer, at the Menil Collection through Summer, 2024 MILLER OUTDOOR THEATER

KING TUT’S TOMB DISCOVERY EXPERIENCE

Nov 4

MUSIC & DANCE

Nov 11

HOUSTON SYMPHONY

Nov 11

SEE THE CLASSICAL MUSIC COLUMN Houston Ballet

Nov 24Dec 27

THE NUTCRACKER

Houston Grand Opera

Ongoing Nov 10

FALSTAFF

THEATER

A.D. PLAYERS

Nov 22Dec 23

A TEXAS CAROL

THE ENSEMBLE THEATER

Nov 28Dec 24

PERMANENT EXHIBITS ALFRED C. GLASSELL, JR. HALL CULLEN HALL OF GEMS AND MINERALS EVERYDAY FABERGE 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 SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS SHARKS! THE MEG, THE MONSTERS, & THE MYTHS

CELEBRATE MILLER 100!

BELLA GAIA AND WILLIAM CLOSE & THE EARTH HARP COLLECTIVE

WONDERLAND

Broadway Across America The Hobby Center

Nov 14-19 MJ

100-YEAR CELEBRATION COMES TO A CLOSE

Oct 6SWITZERLAND Nov 12 Oct 6 through Nov 12 Ongoing ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE Thru Dec. 31 Dec 1-31 PANTO ALICIA ON

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Nov 17Dec 30

BEIJING DANCE THEATRE: THREE POEMS

STAGES REPERTORY THEATER

Nov 17Dec 24

ALLEY THEATRE

MOTOWN CHRISTMAS

Theatre Under the Stars

THE UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER MUSICAL

Shell Energy Field

Houston Dynamo host Salt Lake in First Round of MLS Playoffs

10 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Elanor’s Market Sat and Sun 9 am - 1 pm 2120 Ella Blvd.

SPORTS Houston Dynamo Playoffs

Nov 6 Nov 11

MATCH 2 SALT LAKE MATCH 3 SALT LAKE

(if necessary)

Shell Energy Field Houston Texans NRG Stadium

Nov 5 19 26 Dec 3 24 21

TAMPA BAY ARIZONA JACKSONVILLE DENVER CLEVELAND TENNESSEE

Beverly Smith

David Michael Young

CLHMS Lake Conroe Specialist

Broker Associate, CLHMS, CNE, GREEN

Compass RE Texas

(713) 320-6453 www.youngrealtyhouston.com

Coldwell Banker Realty

(713) 569-2113 www.lakeconroebeverlysmith.com

Wendy Cline Broker

Wendy Cline Properties Group

(281) 858-3451 www.WendyClineProperties.com

18 Shields Ln | Montgomery

2429 Southgate Blvd | Rice University Area

Spectacular custom built home in the prestigious Bentwater community on 1.07 acres with access to 3 golf courses. All living areas and bedrooms are downstairs with an exercise or game room up. The open living concept allows for classic entertaining with a spacious kitchen, bar area, and adjoining TV room.

Beverly Smith | Coldwell Banker Realty | 713-569-2113

A University area contemporary find, designed by prominent architect Christopher Robertson. Made of brick and wood; custom crafted with white oak hardwoods, porcelain block flooring and cantilevered walls. Includes elevator and summer kitchen.

David M Young | Compass | 713-320-6453

List Price $1,700,000 | MLS# 70381141

List Price $2,500,000 | MLS# 20619739

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 11

Real Estate Professionals Serving the Houston Luxury Home Community w w w. g r e a t e r h o u s t o n l u x u r y. c o m

Mariana Saldana Broker Associate

Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

(832) 338-4040 www.uptownrealestategroup.com

Genevieve Rowland

REALTOR, MCNE, CLHMS Multimillion Dollar Producer, ILHM

Keller Williams Memorial

(281) 904-7014 www.rowland-properties.com

Tara Anderson

Platinum Agent, CLHMS, CNE, MRP, SRS, SRES, CIPS

Keller Williams Memorial (713) 202-4101 www.har.com/tarakordula

27774 Muckelroy Rd | Hempstead

17408 Rachels Way | Tomball

MUST SELL! Discover this gorgeous 11.93+ acre UNRESTRICTED property. A Custom 5-bedroom home awaits, accompanied by a newer roof, 2022 AC units, and a chef-worthy remodeled kitchen with professional appliances.

Wendy Cline | Wendy Cline Properties | 281-858-3451

Breathtaking four bdrm estate home w/ almost 4600 SF of living space, an impressive home theater, a spacious primary suite w/ a luxurious spa-like bath & HUGE walk-in closet, oversized three car garage w/ epoxy floors & more all on a .6+ acre lot!

Wendy Cline | Wendy Cline Properties | 281-858-3451

List Price $1,250,000 | MLS# 8172118

| September 8 || Intown October 2021 ||March 12 ++ April 2021 12 |HEIGHTS HEIGHTS November + December 2023

List Price $ 1,750,000 | MLS# 52331210

Th e G r e at e r H o u s t o n L u x u ry H o m e C o n n e c t i o n w w w. g r e a t e r h o u s t o n l u x u r y. c o m

Sherry Campbell

Christopher Harman

Energy Realty

Harman Residential Realty Group

Broker, Founder, GRI, CHLMS (281) 797-7892 www.energy-realty.com

Debra Osborn Camino

Owner

(281) 704-1047 www.https://harmanrei.com.com

List Price $2,800,000 | MLS# 20619739

A truly unrivaled masterpiece built in 2006 and entirely modernized in 2023 with uncompromising quality and style. This amazing home boasts 6 spacious bedrooms, 5/2 baths, open living areas with soaring ceiling, an extraordinary island kitchen and amazing family gameroom with adjacent children’s playroom. The spacious backyard features a sparkling saltwater pool and spa and large covered patio.

David M Young | Compass | 713-320-6453

Herma Hayes

CLHMS, CIPS, ABR, CNE

GRI, CDPE, ABR, CSSN

(713) 397-3867 Debra@DebraSoldIt.com

(281) 217-5481 www.har/hermahayes.com

eXp Realty

4722 Waring St | Afton Oaks

RE/MAX Universal

17537 Seidel Cemetary Road | Tomball List Price $2,990,000 | MLS# 13855166

This Gorgeous Estate on 25 Acres is the Best of Both Worlds, Country Living with City Convenience! This Custom Home was Designed by Mark W. Todd Architects & Custom Built by Kerry Emmott Featuring 5 Spacious Bedrooms and 4 & a Half Bathrooms.

Wendy Cline | Wendy Cline Properties | 281-858-3451

Melonee Piperi

Broker Associate CRP, CLHMS, CNE

Keller Williams Memorial (713) 465-4646 www.movinghouston.com

Marilyn Arendt Broker - Owner

Marilyn Arendt Properties (281) 433-9113 mma@castle2sell.com

1802 Potomac Dr | Westhaven Estates List Price $540,000 | MLS# 66410589

Nestled in a highly sought-after neighborhood, this magnificent three story townhouse offers a blend of modern luxury and timeless elegance. Boasting 3 or 4 bedroom and three full baths, its a spacious and versatile home that caters to the most discerning of tastes.

Marilyn Arendt | Marilyn Arendt Properties | 281-433-9113

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 13

Intown’s Classical Music Editor and Critic,

the Hon. Philip Berquist,

Honorary Consul for the Republic of Croatia for Texas

E

UH’s Moores School of Music presents a Rachmaninoff Festival

very few years great composers are recognized around the world when certain important dates of their lives come around - anniversaries of birth and death readily come to mind. The great Russian pianist, composer, and conductor, Sergei Rachmanioff was born in 1873, with 2023 representing the sesquicentennial of his birth. His music is being performed everywhere and often this year, but the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston may be holding the biggest celebratory event in the world.

Primarily the brainchild of Moores Professor of Piano, Timothy Hester, along with Associate Professor of Piano, Tali Morgulis, the Rachmaninoff Festival will be held in late November and early December. Both pianists perform several times during the Festival.

Rachmaninoff was a brilliant piano prodigy.

He began learning the piano at age 4. A tall man, 6’6”, he had amazingly large hands with a span of 12 inches, meaning 12 piano white keys! Several unfortunate family financial incidents resulted in his moving several times, finally to St Petersburg. Along with his concertizing, he also began composing, both for the piano and for orchestra. His first symphony was considered extremely negatively by the critics and the response resulted in a four year bout with severe depression. He overcame this through the help of a noted psychiatrist and hypnosis which resulted in his famous Second Piano Concerto.

Following the revolution he and his family relocated to the United States. He would spend the remainder of his life in the US and in Switzerland.

He died in Beverly Hills in 1943 at the age of 69 from melanoma. His last wish to be buried in the famous Moscow cemetery, Novodevichy, was not allowed by the Soviet government so he was buried in Valhalla, New York.

One could write many pages about his life but space does not allow so let’s discuss the programming of the Festival.

November 19: Solo Piano Concert with selected student performances • Russian Cultural Center – 6:00 pm 2337 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 November 27: Piano Faculty Concert • Moores Opera House – 7:30 pm Timothy Hester, Tali Morgulis, Andrew Staupe, ​ Todd Van Kekerix November 28: Voice Faculty Concert/Cello Sonata • Moores Opera House – 7:30 pm ​Zachary Averyt, Cynthia Clayton, Timothy Jones, Melanie Sonnenberg, vocalists

14 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Eunghee Cho, cello, Brian Suits, piano November 29: Wind Ensemble Concert • Moores Opera House – 7:30 pm ​David Bertman, conductor, Andrew Staupe, pianist November 30: String/ Piano Chamber Music Concert • Moores Opera House – 7:30 pm ​Amber Archibald Sešek, viola, Eunghee Cho, cello, Mann-Wenn Lo, violin, Kirsten Yon, violin Timothy Hester, piano December 2: Student Pianists Concert • Dudley Recital Hall – 2:00 pm

Marathon

December 2: Orchestra/Choir Concert • Moores Opera House – 7:30 pm ​Franz Krager, conductor, Tali Morgulis, pianist, Betsy Cook Weber & Alexander Koppel, choral directors Yelena Dyachek, Viktor Antipenko, Sergei Leif​ erkus, guest vocalists Space restrictions do not allow for the complete program to be printed but I would like to mention two real standouts, in my opinion.

Moores School Wind Ensemble Concert • Moores Opera House – November 29 Moores School Wind Ensemble David Bertman, conductor Andrew Staupe, soloist Program Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Opus 43 (1934) (transcribed for Solo Piano and Symphonic Wind Ensemble by Merlin Patterson) Andrew Staupe, piano soloist Intermission Symphonic Dances, Opus 45 (1940) (transcribed for Large Symphonic Wind Ensemble

by Merlin Patterson*) ​Non allegro ​Andante con moto (Tempo di Valse) ​Lento assai — Allegro vivace — Lento assai. Come prima — Allegro Vivace *World Premiere Mr Patterson is a brilliant arranger and his ar-

rangement of Symphonic Dances is a world premiere!.

Both pieces are among my personal favorites. Music lovers are probably more familiar with the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Symphonic Dances was the last piece composed by Rachmaninoff before he died.

It is a melancholy piece, with intricate scoring by both Rachmaninoff and Patterson. As would be the case in many of the composer’s works, death and the famous Dies Irae are once again featured.

The Festival finale is one not to be missed. The Second Piano Concerto, referenced above as the piece that Rachmaninoff wrote as he broke out of his depression will be performed. The orchestral work, The Bells, is seldom played. I recall a Houston Symphony performance over 40 some years ago as the only time that I have heard the work in person. I am personally very pleased that the Russian bass-baritone, Sergei Leiferkus, is returning to the Moores School. In addition to their singing roles, each of the guest soloists will be holding master classes at the school.

Leiferkus and I go back some 25 years when I contracted him in 1998 to sing the two works that Shostakovich wrote to the words of Yevgeny Yevtushenko, The Execution of Stenka Razin and the 13th Symphony, “Babi Yar.” Two years later, in 2000, he participated in the Moores School’s Shostakovich Festival. It is going to be wonderful to have him back!

Here is the full, final program: The Moores School Symphony Orchestra Franz Anton Krager, conductor The Moores School Combined Choruses Betsy Cook Weber, chorus director Alex Koppel, chorus director Tali Morgulis, pianist Yelena Dyachek, guest soprano Viktor Antipenko, guest tenor Sergei Leiferkus, guest baritone Program Piano Concerto #2 in C minor, Opus 18 Moderato Adagio sostenuto Allegro Scherzando Tali Morgulis, piano soloist Intermission The Bells, Opus 35 Allegro ma non troppo: The Silver Sleigh Bells, with Mr. Antipenko, tenor Lento: The Mellow Wedding Bells, with Ms. Dyachek, soprano Presto: The Loud Alarm Bells, featuring the Combined Choruses Lento lugubre: The Mournful Iron Bells, with Mr. Leiferkus, baritone There you have it - a huge set of programs that feature examples of the wide extent of Rachmaninoff.

Tickets are available for all performances at www. uh.edu.

Sergei Leiferkus, guest vocalist

Rachmaninoff

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 15

FOOD

Best Eats

Squable dessert

of

3 2 20

Makiin main dish

Some Old Friends, Some New Places, and Some Must Eat At Survivors

T

by Marene Gustin

he Houston restaurant scene certainly appears to have recovered from the days of the COVID lockdown, supple chain delays, and spiraling inflation. While things may not be all wine and roses, a glut of new eateries opened this year and several more have survived the trying times to become musteat locales this year. Some fancy, some casual, some brand new, and some old favorites, here are a few of our recommendations. Enjoy.

16 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Rajin’ Cajun Po’ Boy

Squable

632 W. 19th 832.834.7362 squabletime.com

H

aving survived opening during COVID, Squable in The Heights has some serious street cred. Created by James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Yu and bar tsar Bobby Heugel, Squable serves up bites with a European flair made with local ingredients. A sleek yet comfy interior with bar brick walls and lots of wood and clean line and light, whether it’s a date night or a solitary bite at the bar, you can’t go wrong here. Known for the giant French cheeseburger —topped with no ordinary slices but a molten pile of raclette — this menu ranges from pate and caviar to a homey and succulent roast chicken. Of course, the cocktails are spot on, but so are the beer and cider offerings. A great addition to The Heights.

French cheeseburger

Ragin’ Cajun

1725 Wirt Rd. 713.832.1399 ragin-cajun.com/spring-branch/

Roast chicken

Rajin’ Cajun new location on Wirt Rd.

L

ongtime Mandola family mainstay of mudbugs and shrimp po’boys, Ragin’ Cajun, at one time, had almost a half dozen outposts, but over the years they all closed, except for the 1974 original on Richmond Ave. Which we hope, much like the giant crawfish on the rooftop, will never die.

But late this year a long-awaited Spring Branch location opened, thrilling fans of the low country boiled shellfish, red potatoes, and corn. After a lengthy remodeling, turning the former car dealership into a Cajun comfort eatery, the new Ragin’ Cajun arose and now serves up the goods for westside diners. Bring on the blacked catfish, boiled crawdads, and dirty rice, and let the good times roll!

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 17

Los Tios

5192 Buffalo Speedway 713.432.7131 lostiosrestaurant.com

H

omegrown Tex-Mex chain Los Tios opened its sixth spot in West University Place this past summer. Full of colorful tiles, tables topped with Mexican oilcloths, and greenery, stepping inside this Plaza in the Park shopping center dining option is like stepping into a Border town plaza. The margaritas are cold and the lunch specials are more than reasonable. Of course, there’s queso (get the Katie’s T-Sip Dip topped with taco meat and guacamole), tacos, and fajitas, but you can’t get the famous OG puffy queso, a puffed-up crispy shell smothered in Chile con Queso. Classic combo plates and some pretty good grilled plates round out the menu at this new edition to the venerable Adair family chain.

OG puffy queso Churros

MaKiin

2651 Kipling St., Suite 101 832.695.999 makiinthai.com

I

f you’re looking for upscale Thai, then this is what you have been waiting for. On the ground floor of the new Hanover River Oaks high rise, MaKiin builds itself as a place of traditional Thai plates with a modern twist.

Co-owner of Kin Dee, Lukkaew Srasrisuwan added this new concept to her restaurant portfolio which currently includes the over two years and a half old Kin Dee in the Heights. Guests at Makiin can expect an elevated, unique, and memorable experience that showcases artfully designed dishes as an ode to the cuisines of Thailand and the royal family. Yes, it’s fancy, but whether it’s a special occasion or just because you need some really good Thai, Makiin (which means “come to eat”) will impress with curries, squid, fried rice, and noodle dishes that come in vessels almost more ornate than the food.

“With Kin Dee, we showed Houstonians Thai food can be fun and vibrant,” says Srasrisuwan.” MaKiin will deliver a more elevated experience that will celebrate the artistry of my homeland’s authentic flavors, ingredients, and techniques.”

18 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Co-owner Srasrisuwan

November + December 2023 |

HEIGHTS | 19

The Evolution of A Family Jewelry Business

H

By Virginia Billeaud Anderson

umberto Quintanilla Jr. remembers counting diamonds in his dad’s jewelry business at the age of twelve. He didn’t want to be there, but at twelve didn’t have much say in the matter.

ed over all their work to my dad.” Senior moved his operations into their space, then ultimately brought their employees into his company.

Art Berg spoke no Spanish and Senior spoke no English when they met at Berg’s jewelry manufacturing company Berg & Co. in 1970. Senior was sixteen. A fourth generation jeweler from Poland, Berg hired Senior and taught him evAlthough lunch could be fun. “At the time my dad had about erything he knew about jewelry. With large retail accounts, 40 employees. Eating together felt like one big family. My the two worked side by side late into the night. A deep bond dad acted more like a friend than a boss. Fridays were always formed. Berg was a father figure. “My dad stayed with Mr. stressful because they met quotas. Everyone was on edge and Berg until 1982. Berg said there was nothing more he could avoided my dad. At the end of the day though he’d treat them teach him. It was time for dad to go on his own and spread to beer. My dad worked 16 to 18 hour shifts. Work never his wings.” After that Senior became shop foreman at Gold ended.” But when it did, some poor jeweler could lose his Imports. While there he worked after hours for the distribshirt in a poker game. Junior enrolled in summer school to utor Gemline. Gemline offered Senior use of their shop for get out of jewelry work. The jewelry business wasn’t for him. his own jobs if he handled all of their jewelry work. Just as He was going to college. he had at Stuckey Diamonds, Senior brought some Gemline “You haven’t visited in a while.” Humberto Quintanilla Sr. employees into his business. “Back then things were boomhollered at me from his pickup truck. I was on a walk. Later, ing. Quintanilla Jewelers was growing fast. My uncle came I did visit with jewelry needing repair, and while there saw to help.” something that intrigued me. A prominent Houston jeweler Junior remembers “big time” commissions. “One comwho had a high-overhead upscale River Oaks area retail estab- pany farmed out championship rings to my dad and uncle. lishment that specialized in Rolexes and glitzy diamond set- They made Dallas Cowboys rings in 1995. In 1994 and 1995 tings carried in his store’s jewelry work. I watched him stroll they made Houston Rockets rings. They also made Stanley past Quintanilla’s jewelry counter to the rear where Uncle Cup rings.”

Sergio Quintanilla was at his jewelry bench. Perhaps it was Humberto Quintanilla, Sr. was born in Monterrey Mexthen that I first entertained the notion of learning the story ico in 1954. When he was two, his father left the family and behind Senior and Junior and their jewelry business, Quint- went to America. Senior dropped out of school in the first anilla Jewelers, Inc. grade to help his mother. At eight years old he sold bubble Recently, over the course of several visits I did learn their gum and polished shoes. By ten, he raked in enough money story. It turns out the company didn’t always do jewelry work to help his mother pay bills and feed his younger siblings. In for retail jewelers and the public. Senior began his business her estimation, her son was out of control. He hung out with working for wholesale distributors who sold to retailers. Stuck- older boys and drank beer. So she packed him off to his father ey Diamonds was an example. Senior repeatedly hit them up in Houston. Once here, he discovered his father had anothHumberto Quintanilla Sr. and Humberto Quintanilla Jr. in jewelry workshop for work, until they slammed him with a 2,000 piece order er family. Senior was put to work in his father’s body shop, and an impossibly wet-sanding cars and fast turnaround. cleaning up. Not fun.

“Dad had charisExpenses were deductma. He charmed ed from his pay. One his guys into advantage of working working all weekin the body shop howend. After several ever was the availabiliyears of giving ty of cars. Senior liked him jobs, Stuckey to dance and drink.

Diamonds handOne needed wheels 20 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Humberto Quintanilla Sr. and Humberto Quintanilla Jr. in jewelry workshop November + December 2023 |

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to raise hell in Houston. Fed up with painting cars, Senior got a tree cutting gig. “Easy and fun.” Then he met jeweler Art Berg.

Ever been so afraid that you bargained with God? Junior had stuck to Quintanilla jewelers showroom his plan. At 18 years old he was into his first week of college. Then Senior got knocked flat with pancreatitis and couldn’t work. Junior quit school. “The company came first. My uncle and I ran the shop. It took a year for my dad to recover and return to the business. I stuck around until I was 21.” After a “huge fallout” with his uncle, Junior returned to school. Two weeks after classes began Senior had a heart attack. “Back to square one. I looked up and said please don’t take him from me and I’ll never leave his side. This time I pledged to Quintanilla Jewelry showcase: Above, a bracelet, a Tahitian pearl necklace and a marquise diamond ring. stick with my dad and the jewelry store Below, from left, a 7-carat maquise diamond ring, solitaire gemstone ring, engagement and wedding rings. 110%. Life is funny. Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve been blessed with the chance to work alongside two great men, who are my best friends. Both taught me this business.

Dad taught me bench work, customer service, paperwork, polishing, more. My uncle taught me technical and chemical processes like casting, plating, molds and enameling. Also enduring and overcoming obstacles.”

By 1989 wholesale jewelry distributors were taking it on the chin because of changes in the industry and a tank22 | |Intown | November + December 20232023 | November 22 HEIGHTS + December

the shop at 2111 Richmond Avenue is a full service jewelry business that specializes in custom jewelry.

Junior credits technology with enhancing their already excellent custom jewelry work. “We’ve always done good work, but with the new technology our custom pieces are more refined, in fact, on another level. Three years ago my dad completed treatment for stage three lung cancer that made him extremely weak and unable to spend much time

ing economy. Many moved overseas. In 1991, Senior returned to Berg’s shop to handle Berg’s work and his own accounts. He kept some of Berg’s best jewelers. “My dad welcomed the chance to hang out with Mr. Berg the last two years of his life. Mr. Berg passed away in 1993. By 2000, the distributors we worked for had gone overseas, forcing us to look elsewhere for new accounts.

So we began working for retail jewelry stores and jewelry designers and opened to the public.” As I listened to Junior’s story, it struck me I would never have known Quintanilla Jewelry if they hadn’t shifted their focus from wholesale distributors to retail stores, jewelry designers and the public. And they probably wouldn’t have made the gold bezel for the ancient Greek coin Donnie bought me.

Shift in direction landed them in new territory with a bunch of things to figure out. “We opened to the public, but didn’t have any clientele and truthfully didn’t know how to service them.” Junior made significant updates to the shop. He invested in a 3-D printer, laser engraver, laser welder, and a new platinum casting machine. He added employees, and created a website that lists services and describes steps in their custom design process, one being a three dimensional model for approval before the finished product. They steered through “rough patches.” Today

in the shop, but now he works everyday.

My uncle recently retired. Sort of. He spends one week every month helping us. Bottom line, a kid from Mexico with a first grade education, no English, and very little reading skills accomplished all this. Just as important, he taught us parenting. My dad has six kids. I have three kids. My dad Humberto G. Quintanilla is my hero. Thank you for wanting to know his story. quintanillajewelers.com

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For reservations go to: EugenesHouston.com/reservations or call 713.807.8883 Eugene’s Gulf Coast Cuisine 1985 Welch Street Houston,Texas 77019 November + December 23 | | Intown || 23 November + December 20232023

HEIGHTS

D.C.

TRAVEL

What to do in Washington, D.C., when your flight home is cancelled?

The author enjoying pint at Shelly’s

By the Honorable Philip Berquist

Honorary Consul for the Republic of Croatia for Texas 24 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

I

n September, I was in Washington, DC, and I had a Sunday evening flight on Southwest Airlines back to Houston. I was packing my things at the hotel to check out at noon when my wife, Lisa, called to inform me that my flight had been cancelled. Luckily, she secured my same hotel room for another night. My flight had been rescheduled for the next day, Monday, to Atlanta with a connection to Houston. Now, what to do on a Sunday afternoon in our nation’s capital?

One option was to see the Dodgers play the Nationals. It is always fun to see a ball park for the first time but the weather report was not very encouraging so I eliminated that.

Having already visited most of the government buildings, concert halls, museums, etc., I suddenly felt an urge to find some bars that I had not been to and immediately got on the Internet and came up with a plan. I figured that each of these places had stories to tell, perhaps even lies, as can often be the case, especially in old bars in old cities. It was a free afternoon so what the heck!

My first was going to be Martin’s Tavern in Georgetown. Written up as the “oldest bar in DC” it looked promising. Other places included The Dubliner on F Street, known for its immense selection of beers, a place named the Jack Rose on 18th Street, itself known for its considerable whiskey selections.

These three establishments would be new to me.

The last time I was in town I found an unusual place, Shelly’s Backroom, a smoking bar and restaurant near the White House. I decided to return. Another classic bar that I had been to some 40+ years ago was Clyde’s in Georgetown. This was to be for a cheeseburger dinner.

So, “drop the red bandana and let the games begin!”

It was just a little past noon as I entered Martin’s and had to go to the end of the extensive bar to find the only single seat available. There was a man on my right quietly drinking and two men on my left who were drinking but

far from quietly. The man immediately to my left was certainly in no condition to drive, much less keep his head above the bar (remember, it was just minutes past noon on a Sunday). Next to him was a man who I will simply refer to as Mr Brahms. Full head of grayish white hair and a huge white beard, the more gregarious of the two, actually not too difficult to accomplish since the man on my left was definitely in peril.

Then the stories began. Mr Brahms explained that he had been assaulted in Los Angeles a couple of years ago and had survived a stabbing. He had particularly nasty cuts on his upper and lower lips that were now covered by his moustache and beard. Now that is a good opener.

The man on my right asked for his check and proceeded to tell me in a somewhat hushed voice that Martin’s used to be a favorite drinking joint of both John F Kennedy and Richard Nixon in the 1950’s. He also, touching my arm and lowering his voice even more to a somewhat personal and, shall I say, reverent tone, said, “that booth over there was where JFK proposed to Jackie.” Now THAT was impressive. “Not necessarily so,” protested Mr Brahms.

“Urban legend!” he barked. Wow, this was getting interesting. Mr Brahms then went on to tell me that his father had received his draft notice in 1954 right there at the bar! The tales were now in full force. I tend to believe people so it sounded genuine to me but I was left pondering the JFK/Jackie booth story. Upon later looking up Martin’s on the indisputably historical Internet site of authenticity, Wikipedia, I found that every president from Truman to W had been in Martin’s. It probably needs an update. It also stated that on June 24, 1953, one US Representative John Fitzgerald Kennedy proposed to one Jacqueline Lee Bouvier. So there, Mr Brahms!

As to Martin’s Tavern being the oldest bar in DC, if you look at the small print, it is the oldest family-owned restaurant in DC, founded 90 years ago in 1933 by a former baseball player for the Boston Braves, William Gloyd Mar-

Booth #3 ‘The Proposal Booth’

“After the senator proposed and she accepted the news ran through the restaurant …In hindsight it was great fun to witness a part of history.”

— Ambassador Marion “Joe” Smoak, regarding Senator John F. Kennedy’s proposal to Miss Jacqueline Lee Bouvier on Wednesday, June 24, 1953 at Martin’s Tavern

Mr. Brahms November + December 2023 |

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Old Ebbitt Grill’s urban legend has it that the animal heads above the bar were all shot by Teddy Roosevelt

Shelly’s Backroom At Clyde’s, Tom and his son, Joey

26 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

tin, “Billy” Martin, but not the Billy Martin that we are familiar with. I also did some modest research on Billy and found that he played one game on October 6, 1914, when he was 20 years old and was 0 for 3. That was his entire career. His great grandson, yet another Billy Martin, owns the place.

Mr Brahms recommended that I should go next to The Old Ebbitt Grill. Lisa and I had been there several years ago and the place had not changed a bit. The bar napkins state “Since 1856” which naturally brings doubt in my mind as to any kind of historical accuracy in this town. There are several animal heads above the massive bar, deer, boars, elk, pheasants, exotic game from Africa, etc. Ebbitt’s own urban legend has it that they were all shot by Teddy Roosevelt - I wonder. The Uber driver who picked me up on my way to my next stop confided to me, again in that low, hushed, “I am telling you a secret” voice that ALL of the plans for the Iraq War were hatched right there at the Ebbitt. Hmmmm. It turns out that Oliver North had meetings there to discuss the Iran/Contra affair of the Reagan years in the 80’s. Who knows?

Next was the smoking bar, Shelly’s Backroom. It is still beautifully run by a lovely Vietnamese family. I went to the bar and ordered an IPA and got out an old corn cob pipe and lit it to see if I could get a reaction.

I asked the bartender, “I will bet that you don’t see too many corn cob pipes in here.” He blandly responded, “Actually, about twenty minutes ago!” As you can see in the photograph, it is adorned with American flag bunting. I just love such examples of successful immigration in our country.

Then it was back to the hotel for some relaxing before Clyde’s for dinner. The Dubliner and Jack Rose would have to wait until the next visit.

Arriving at Clyde’s I found a seat at the bar near the door. A couple of gents were next to me, Tom and his son, Joey. I will just say that Tom reminded me of the man next to Mr Brahms at Martin’s if you follow my drift. After sharing some jokes and lines unprintable here, I asked Tom about the oft-told rumor of Clyde’s being a hangout for Cold War and present-day intrigue, spies and, in general, serious espionage. He immediately appeared as sober as a judge, stood up and simply said, “I cannot talk about that!” Without hesitation, he asked for his check. As he and Joey were leaving, however, Tom turned back to me and said, “You should go to Martin’s Tavern - I don’t know if it is true or not, but I heard a rumor that that’s where JFK proposed to Jackie!”

A final observation of Washington, D.C. As I entered Reagan National for my flights home, I observed some very loud commotion. There were scores of yellow-shirted folks and probably more wheel-

chairs than I have ever seen. A volunteer group that I had never heard of, Honor Flight Network, was escorting veterans of the Second World War and the Korean War from Minnesota. They arrived after having been flown, free of charge, to take a bus tour of Washington, D.C. including being taken to their respective war memorial sites. Later that afternoon they would be flown back to Minnesota.

Honor Flight Network is represented in every state and does this all year long.

The next day might be Texas or Michigan or any other state. The crowds in the airport were giving the vets cheers, salutes, high fives. In a word, wonderful.

A final, final thought - there were no remarkable vodka martini’s in DC, alas. The search will continue. And to complete the final thought, some readers asked for specific information as to the hotel where I had the perfect vodka martini in Verona, Italy last summer.

Here it is -

Honor Flight Network volunteers escort World War II and Korean War veterans

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HEIGHTS | 27

Financial FOCUS

Gifting to Heirs: How to Strategically Pass Down Wealth

I

f you’re fortunate enough to have a sizable nest egg, you may be planning to pass down some of your wealth to your children or grandchildren. Gifting can benefit your family members today, while also reducing the impact of estate taxes when you pass away. But it’s not quite as simple as writing a big check. The IRS takes a keen interest in what you give away, how much you give and exactly when you do it. And know that an apathetic approach to gifting and estate planning could create a sizable tax bill.

Here are some important tips to consider as you gift to heirs.

1 Make it a team effort

By Jessica Leone Vice President Frost Bank

28 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

31. So, don’t wait until the last minute, as it can take time to meet with your Your CPA, estate planning attorney financial team and get the process unand wealth advisor can help you navigate derway. the tax code and create a strategic gifting plan based on your level of wealth, goals 3 Know your limits and lifestyle needs.

In 2023, you can gift up to $17,000 per person to as many people as you like 2 Plan ahead before you’re subject to filing a federal The deadline for gifts to count to- gift tax return and possibly paying fedward the current tax year is December

eral gift taxes. Any overages will also be deducted from your lifetime gift tax exemption of $12.92 million. Be aware these numbers can change from year to year, so it’s best to revisit your plan annually.

4 Mind the cost basis If you gift stock or real estate, the recipient will inherit your cost basis (the original purchase price), which could trigger a big income tax bill for them when they sell the appreciated assets. For that reason, you might consider letting these assets transfer to your heirs when you pass on, at which time the cost basis is “stepped up” to the date of death valuation. Additionally, more complex strategies include gifting part of the entity that owns the assets rather than gifting the assets outright.

5 Consider different forms of giving Unlike giving cash or investments, paying directly for a family member’s medical or educational expenses is not subject to gift tax limitations. And if you want to dictate how and when your financial gifts can be used, consider putting the assets in an irrevocable trust. This strategy is especially common when making large gifts to kids.

Not sure where to begin?

Contact Jessica Leone at 713.388.1058 or Jessica.Leone@ frostbank.com to find the right balance of gifting while preserving your estate for future generations investment Management services and trust services are offered through Frost Wealth Advisors of Frost Bank. Investment and insurance products are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value. Brokerage services offered through Frost Brokerage Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, and investment advisory services offered through Frost Investment Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Both companies are subsidiaries of Frost Bank. Additionally, insurance products are offered through Frost Insurance. Deposit and loan products are offered through Frost Bank, Member FDIC. Frost does not provide legal or tax advice. Please seek legal or tax advice from legal and/or tax professionals.

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Katie Morgan & Lily Schnitzer

Gala Chairs Scott & Katie Arnoldy

Alex & Bobby Stillwell

Gala Chairs Steve & Holly Radom

C

A Night at Studio 54 Gala

hildren’s Museum Houston (CMH) turned up the funk for this year’s “A Night at Studio 54” Gala presented by Phillips 66, exceeding the goal and raising a reported $1.1 million from underwriting and live auction.

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Jonathan & AshleySloan and Kelly & Trey Mattson Andrew & Mona Sarofim

Natalie & Rodolfo Cooper AshleySloan and Devorah Krieger

30 | HEIGHTS | November + December 2023

Allison Chavez, HollyRadom and Katie Arnoldy

Olga Zuiak and GlenBucher

Antoinette & Julian Duncan

November + December 2023 |

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