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ARTS+EVENTS
10-11 A TASTE OF TEXAS 12-14 IMA HOGG: A MOVIE IN THE MAKING 15
THE BUZZ
20-21 UST: LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD 22-24 24 HOURS OF THE INDY 500 26-27 THE BUSINESS OF BASEBALL: REID RYAN INTERVIEW
16-17 LIVING SOUTH OF THE BORDER
28-29 HOW TO BE GENEROUS TO YOUR FAMILY & YOURSELF
18-19 TOP REMODELING IDEAS FOR SUMMER
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THE BUZZ
21106 Glen Willow | Northwest Houston List Price $650,000 | MLS# 2054364 Captivating Home Site / Spacious Living: Find your way to this lovely property that's nestled on a 3 acre lot near 99. You'll wonder how you missed this charming home that's located close-in. î ˘ere's an open flow to the floor plan and plenty of space to call your own. A private road to the home makes this even more special and private. Lots of opportunity to make this your own. HAR online features Matterport tour of the home. Visit www.21106glenwillow.com for more information.
Val Arbona | RE/MAX Vintage | Phone: 713-562-4903
David Michael Young BROKER, CNE, CLHMS, GREEN Young Realty Group (713) 320-6453 www.youngrealtyhouston.com
Val Arbona REALTOR, CLHMS, CRS RE/MAX Vintage (713) 562-4903 valarbona.com
4709 Bellview | Bellaire List Price $1,125,000 | MLS# 18859848 Open first floor living with hardwoods throughout, high ceilings, formal living, dining & study (could be BR down). Gourmet island kitchen with granite counters, Dacor appliances - gas stove, 2 ovens, meal warmer & built-in refrigerator. Wetbar with wine fridge. 4 bedrooms, den & laundry on 2nd floor. 3rd floor gameroom (or BR 5) with full bath. Large covered patio. Heart of Bellaire with easy access to 610, shopping, top schools. Per Seller - roof 2016 & 2 HVACs 2-3 yrs, high point on street never flooded.
David Michael Young | Young Realty Group | Phone: 713-320-6453
Paula Hagerman ABR, Realtor, GHLHC, ILHM RE/MAX Vintage (713) 306-3557 www.har.com/paulahagerman
Mariana Saldana Broker, CIPS Uptown Real Estate Group, Inc. (713) 629-7771 www.uptownhouston.com
2617 Newman | Houston List Price $850,000 | MLS# 25404409 Modern living on premier non-thru street in Upper Kirby. First floor open concept living w high ceilings, stained concrete, sound system. Master on 2nd floor w sitting area, balcony, luxurious bath & huge custom closet. BR 4 & gameroom on 3rd floor plus balcony with fireplace & speakers. Elevator, Home Automation System, whole house water filtration, mosquito system, 2 tankless water heaters. Refrigerators included kitchen, wine tower, coolers in master/gameroom. Garage has cabinets & organizers.
David Michael Young | Young Realty Group | Phone: 713-320-6453
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Real Estate Professionals Serving the Greater Houston Luxury Home Community
Wendy Cline CLHMS, SRES, ABR, CPRES Wendy Cline Properties Keller Williams Memorial (281) 858-3451 www.WendyClineProperties.com
Tiffany Palacios CNE Keller Williams Memorial (713) 289-9898 www.TiffanyPalacios.com
1018 Towering Oaks | High Meadow Ranch Text 4192718 to 67299 Unique 5 acre estate nestled on private cul-de-sac in High Meadow Ranch with substantial custom upgrades indoors & out. Renowned designer built arena, barn w/3 stalls & A/C tack room, 2 Pastures w/cross fencing, private stocked pond, heated POOL & SPA. Brian McNeil designed dressage arena along with the extensive upgrades, 6 beds w/gameroom, custom library area, media room, formal living & dining rooms, recently updated hardwoods. Pristine kitchen w/Kenmore appliances & handcraed cabinets. Double crown molding throughout. 3 Staircases. www.WendyClineSellsTexas.com/1018ToweringOaks
Wendy Cline | Keller Williams Memorial | Phone: 281-815-0854
Marilyn Arendt Broker - Owner Marilyn Arendt Properties (281) 433-9113 mma@castle2sell.com
Weldon Rigby CRS, ABR Founding Member KW Luxury Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan (713) 621-2555 www.weldonrigby.com
806 Misty Downs | Granite Shoals Text 4006469 to 67299 Fully renovated lakeside gem, nestled on a private cove in Granite Shoals on Lake LBJ in the hill country. Four bedrooms and 3.5 baths has a private lakefront master suite, 150 year old oaks, and spectacular views of sunset on the lake. Open plan with two stone fireplaces, jet ski ramps & more. Near Lake LBJ, one of the largest constant level lakes in the US. Perfect getaways from city life. Gathering places for generations to come. www.WendyClineSellsTexas.com/806MistyDowns
Wendy Cline | Keller Williams Memorial | Phone: 281-815-0854
James Brodnax CLHMS, ABR GRI CPA Realty One Group (713) 822-3423 www.westandloop.com
Lane Mabray CLHMS, CRS, GRI RE/MAX Westside (713) 857-6990 www.lane2houston.com
322 E. Lakeshore Drive | Sunrise Beach Village Text 4006314 to 67299 On the shores of Lake LBJ, one of the largest constant level lakes in the US, is the perfect family getaway. 6,899 sf executive home with boat house on private canal, lakeside pool and extensive terraces. Nearly 1 acre with second lot across street. Near Lake LBJ, one of the largest constant level lakes in the US. Perfect getaways from city life. Gathering places for generations to come. www.WendyClineSellsTexas.com/322ELakeshoreDr
Wendy Cline | Keller Williams Memorial | Phone: 281-815-0854
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Real Estate Professionals Serving the Greater Houston Luxury Home Community
Morad H. Fiki MBA Keller Williams Luxury International (832) 610-4290 www.moradfiki.com
Sima Dalvandi Realtor Keller Williams Southwest (832) 630-7605 www.ezhomerealestate.com
6104 San Felipe | Westhaven Estates List Price $1,490,000 | MLS# 62859329 Completely unique and “One of a Kind” luxury home in Westhaven Estates! Incredible European Dressing Room, 12’ ceilings, 10’ solid wood doors and large open spaces throughout the home. 3rd floor additional 2906 square feet has been framed to accommodate 2 additional bedroom suites and gameroom. Subfloor, plumbing, electrical and elevator sha in place to receive your finish, Marble and oak flooring, attention to detail in every corner of this home is immaculate!
Morad H. Fiki | Keller Williams Luxury Homes Int’l | Phone: 832-610-4290
Ken Jacobson CMPS NMLS# 215044 Vice President/Sr. Mortgage Planner Hometrust Mortgage Company (713) 369-4040 www.kenjacobson.com
Debbie Donahue Broker Associate RE/MAX Vintage (832) 656-0971 www.HousesinNWHouston.com
265 Promenade | Bentwater List Price $2,999,500 | MLS# 99910604 is magnificent one of a kind waterfront home was designed by Jane Page Crump and has won 4 design awards. Kitchen features state-of-the art stainless appliances by Viking. Sophisticated interiors & finishes as if out of Veranda Magazine. Spacious living & dining room, media & game room, 2 Master bedrooms, Elevator goes to all 3 floors, outdoor living w/summer kitchen; vanishing edge pool/spa, covered boat dock w/li & 3 jet ski lis. Open water views promise elegant lakefront living.
NMLS# 149932
Beverly Smith | Coldwell Banker United Realtors | Phone: 713-569-2113
Beverly Smith CLHMS, Lake Conroe Specialist Coldwell Banker United, Realtors (713) 569-2113 www.har.com/bevsmith
Debra Osborn Camino Realtor, ABR, AHSS, ALC, ALHS, CNE, WCR Keller Williams NE (713) 397-3867 www.LiveNEHouston.com
11414 Holidan Way | Hedwig Village List Price $2,500,000 | MLS# 5623716 Magnificent custom-built brick home on a private cul-de-sac in desirable area.First floor wings feature master retreat w/luxurious bath and 2nd bedrm w/private bath.Formal living w/wall of glass, formal dining,den,gourmet kitchen&wine cellar.Separate staircase to second floor w/3 bedrms,each private bath,GameRM(media),exercise RM & computer area.raised beamed library situated at mid-landing off the staircase w/Built-in book cases.Outdoor kitchen w/fireplace,huge lot w/pool,spa and vegetable garden.
Sima Dalvandi | Keller Williams Southwest | Phone: 832-630-7605
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ARTS + EVENTS MUSIC & DANCE
STAGES REPERTORY THEATRE LUNA GALE
THEATER
Opens May 10 through May 25, 2017
HOUSTON BALLET
A.D. PLAYERS
THE MAN WHO SHOT LIBERTY VALANCE
THE TEMPEST
YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU
Opens May 24 through June 25, 2017
May 25 - June 4, 2017
Opens May 5 through May 28, 2017
HOUSTON SYMPHONY
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
ANDRES CONDUCTS SHOSTAKOVICH 5 5/11,13 BRONFMAN PLUS &14 PETRUSHKA 5/15-16 IMA HOGG FINALS CONCERT: JURASSIC PARK 5/19-21 SHAHAM PLUS BRAHMS 6/7 HOUSTON SYMPHONY W/ THE SURFERS 6/23 SUMMER SYMPHONY NIGHTS 1 6/24 SUMMER SYMPHONY NIGHTS 2 6/30 SUMMER SYMPHONY NIGHTS 3 5/5-7
MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE ANDRES CONDUCTS SHOSTAKOVICH 5 5/11,13 BRONFMAN PLUS &14 PETRUSHKA 5/15-16 IMA HOGG FINALS 5/5-7
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ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE Opens June 28 through Aug. 20, 2017
Opens June 14 through July 1, 2017
ALLEY THEATER
CONCERTS & EVENTS
A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE
TOYOTA CENTER
Ongoing through May 21, 2017
MAY 4 CHRIS BROWN 6 THE WEEKND 20 NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK JUNE 18 ENRIQUE INGLESIAS & PITBULL 21 IRON MAIDEN
FREAKY FRIDAY Opens June 2 through July 3, 2017
AN ACT OF GOD Opens Mar. 17 through Apr 16, 2017
A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE Opens April 28 17 through May 21, 2017
THE CATASTROPHIC THEATRE
NRG STADIUM
SNOW WHITE
MAY 24 U2: THE JOSHUA TREE TOUR 6 THE WEEKND 20 NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK JUNE 11 METALLICA WORLDWIRED TOUR
Ongoing through May 6, 2017
THE ENSEMBLE THEATRE THE FRONT PORCH SOCIETY Opens May 11 through June 4, 2017
SIMPLY SIMONE Opens June 29 through July 30, 2017
The Ensemble Theatre Presents World Premiere of “The Front Porch Society” The Ensemble Theatre kicks off the world premiere of The Front Porch Society, by Melda Beaty, and directed by Eileen J. Morris with Opening Night and Media Reception, Thursday, May 11, 2017, 6:30 p.m. Show Runs: May 11 – June 4, 2017 Tickets Available Online: www.EnsembleHouston.com For Information Call: 713-520-0055
A Taste of Texas
[Food]
Iconic Memorial Eatery Celebrates 40 years of Service
HOUSTON’S AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT STILL SERVING PERFECTLY AGED CERTIFIED ANGUS BEEF
By Minnie Payne
Nina and Edd Hendee, owners of Houston’s award-winning Certified Angus Beef steak restaurant Taste of Texas, in the Memorial area have been so busy since opening in 1977, that they each haven’t had time to complete the one semester needed to graduate from college. “I grew up in Dallas, graduating from Bryan Adams High School and attending SMU,” says Nina. “Edd grew up in Houston, graduating from Bellaire High School, attending the University of Houston.” Nina was a broadcast major, and Edd was a business major. Nina, 62, and Edd, 65, were working for Norman Brinker’s Steak and Ale in Richardson, Texas and were transferred from Dallas to Houston in 1976. They met while working at Steak and Ale. Because neither finished college, they place great emphasis on their young Taste of Texas employees’ education, offering four annual fully-paid tuition scholarships, plus bonuses for A and B grades. “We encourage them [employees] in their education. Thus far, we’ve had about 17,000 young people work at the restaurant, many of whom graduated,” 10
Nina shares. At age 13, Edd began working at Dugan’s Drugstore soda fountain in Bellaire, Texas; Nina began working at age 13 at the Rexall Drugstore soda fountain in Dallas. Forty years, three children, and eight grandchildren ago, Taste of Texas opened its doors on the back side of Houston’s Town and Country Village where for about 13 years, they served a varied menu with their specialty being country fried steak. In 1984, Taste of Texas became the first restaurant in Texas to serve Certified Angus Beef, and in 1985, eight years after opening, country fried steak was buried and they streamlined the menu in an effort to please all people. “We decided to focus on top grade beef with excellence in one area,” Nina explains. “We have been in our present location 26 years.” Taste of Texas got its name because Nina loves Texas history and once you visit, you’ll know that she truly does.
“I love Texas history, and the name “Taste of Texas” was a great fit for our Texas restaurant,” she says. “We started collecting Texas history documents, artifacts, and guns to start our museum.” For over 32 years, Nina has conducted history tours almost every day for fourth graders. Parents are welcome and no one under eight years of age can attend
Nina & Edd Hendee, Owners
– no toddlers or infants. There is no charge for the tour and the chicken tenders, french fries, and Sprite lunch. The public is invited for Saturday morning history talks. The restaurant’s ambience is western
and Christian music is played. To truly appreciate the quality and mouthwatering description of Taste of Texas’ steaks, it’s best to go to www.tasteoftexas.com/restaurant. All Certified Angus Beef is shipped fresh from the Midwestern United States. “Everything – beef, vegetables, and fruit – is always fresh, except when we ship and freeze to ensure quality,” Nina says. Many people make a meal off the daily prepared fresh salad bar. “We bake all our bread, even croutons, and have more than 30 fresh items on the salad bar. Salad dressings and all desserts are made in-house,” she says.
As an aside, for 15 years, Edd was a talk show host on KSEV (700 AM) from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. It has taken 40 years of hard/dedicated work to succeed, but things were not all rosy financially in the beginning. In a 2016 interview with CBN News, Nina told of borrowing $10,000 to open and at the end of eight years, they were a quarter of a million dollars in debt.
In the kitchen, Le Cordon-Bleu Culinarytrained daughter/executive chef Lisa Blackard oversees an about 85employee kitchen staff. Daughter Kristin Blackford and husband Corbin handle public relations and business administration, with Corbin focusing on management. Kristin holds a MBA degree in business administration from the University of Virginia.
Another blow came in 2010 when their 33-year-old son Edd K. Hendee died in a skiing accident in Vermont’s Stratton Mountain Resort. Nina and Edd’s minister, The Rev. Ed Young, senior pastor of Second Baptist Church told the Houston Chronicle at that time that he was spending much time with Nina and Edd because they were consumed with grief.
TripAdvisor gives a 2017 rating of No. 4 out of 7,151 Houston restaurants.
The cornerstone on the Taste of Texas building comes from Ephesians 3:20 –
“To him who is able to do immeasurably more than we can ever ask or imagine to God be the glory!” Nina adds that the Taste of Texas tagline is the Heart of Texas and that they have hosted countless celebrations in the 40 years since opening. “It’s really an honor to be in the hospitality industry for 40 years. We are writing our 40th anniversary cook book featuring the Taste of Texas for the last 40 years.”
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A Movie in The Making By Carole Keeney Harrington
(Center) Flyer/Log for the movie, “Empress of Texas.” (Clockwise from top right) Ima with her family. She is to the left. Her mother, Sally Stinson, to the right, died when Ima was 13 and she became her father's "first daughter" as James Hogg became Texas' first native-born governor. Telegram from her brothers to Miss Ima when she was in Philadelphia being treated for depression.
Example of Miss Ima's anti-war writings in her extensive journals in the archives of the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas. Ima Hogg as a teenager.
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A
movie in the making about Houston icon, Ima Hogg, is in its sixth year of development – not unusual in the annals of moviemaking. Brad Pitt, with his big-star persona and multi-millions took 10 years to complete “Moneyball,” a based-on-a-true-story movie. Four of the Best Picture winners in the last 10 years have been “true story” movies. In 2015, four out of seven nominees for Best Picture were based on true stories: “Selma,” “American Sniper,” “The Imitation Game” and “The Theory of Everything.” In Houston where the arts – ballet, symphony, opera and theater – plus the various museums like Museum of Fine Arts Houston – take in huge amounts of support from philanthropy - the art of filmmaking – and Ima Hogg’s fascinating cinematic story – are sorely neglected. One might ask why? In the case of “Empress of Texas,” the reasons filmmakers have heard about lack of support include: 1. From Hollywood, it’s a regional story, although at least 40% of the movie takes place in Germany. 2. It includes a bedroom scene with Miss Ima and her German soldier fiancé.
A stroke of the pen can change that objection. 3. There is no evidence Ima had a German bo y f r i e n d . F o r anyone interested in delving through the a rc h i ve s a t t h e D o l p h B r is co e Center for American History at the University of Texas where Miss Ima’s papers reside, a love letter from Germany belies otherwise: Dearest friend – There cannot be a life without a shadow. There is no love without sorrow. What are the bonds of the fatherland compared to those that tie you to and unite you with a like soul. The beauty of your mind and soul have simply attracted me. You cannot and must not blame me for loving you. I simply cannot help it.
4. The stigma of mental illness. Multiple books document Miss Ima’s struggle with depression and her establishment of the first center in the U.S. to treat children for mental illness, as well as the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health. A telegram in the archives to Ima from her brothers while she is in Philadelphia also speaks about her illness. The depression descended as World War I was winding down and
after Miss Ima’s fiancé was killed in the war. Other evidence gathered for the script: 1.
While cleaning out the attic at Bayou Bend, Miss Ima’s home that she donated to MFAH, David Warren, founding director emeritus of the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, told the writers of “Empress of Texas,” about a romantic-looking photo of Miss Ima and a young man. On the back, she had written “Fritz and me.”
2. In a letter upon leaving Germany where she had traveled to study music, with the goal to become a concert pianist, Miss Ima wrote in a letter, “I am very confused. The people who housed and fed me are now my enemy.” From these documented facts, the writers of “Empress of Texas” constructed a script “based on a true story.” As Joanne King Herring will testify, she hired a lawyer to dispute the depiction of herself in the movie “Charlie Wilson’s War” played by Julia Roberts as a foul-mouthed mistress. Herring was able to erase the bad language but had to compromise on the shaping of her characterization as a haughty socialite.
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Screenwriters and producers use various techniques such as “compression of events” and other devices to tell a compelling story. Based on a true story takes documented facts and constructs the essence of the story, to create a film that “moves.” The facts uncovered about Miss Ima’s life shaped the script for “Empress of Texas.” For purists who think they are protecting Miss Ima’s legacy, it may be anathema to see their icon depicted as possibly having a lover, being a patient in a mental institution and confronting war
mongers as a vehement anti-war supporter. Those facts create the depth of character that make up a complex human being, flawed as are we all, and a character who makes for a fascinating movie. The goal of completing “Empress of Texas” within 10 years is fast approaching in 2021. The average movie takes two years to complete and distribute from pre-production to the theaters and beyond to streaming and DVD/Blu-Ray. With only four more years to raise financing and distribute the film, we are back to the question: Why isn’t
filmmaking, the art, supported by philanthropists and government like the symphony, theater, ballet, opera and the various museums? As any moviemaker will attest, films financially are, for the most part, like the other arts. European governments know this and support film. Without governmental, philanthropic and nonprofit participation in the film industry in Texas, it will never become the mecca of filmmaking many have referred to hopefully as “The Third Coast.” In 2013, lawmakers approved $95 million for the following biennium as an incentive to reimburse filmmakers who shoot in Texas. Two years later, they slashed the appropriation by two-thirds, to only $32 million. For filmmakers lucky enough to win the incentive “lottery” against all the other competitors for funding, the Texas incentives range from 5-20% of the budget, which fall far short of those in New Mexico, Georgia, North Carolina, Louisiana, New York and Michigan where incentives average around 30% of the budget. Films shot in Canada earn 40% back. The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program estimates for every $1 spent on the program, $5 returns to communities in taxes, salaries, lodging, food, etc., where films are shot. Until Houston and Texas step up to support films and Miss Ima, despite the “based-on-a true-story” structure, making the fascinating story of Houston’s icon will languish only as a script unless, by some far-fetched a Hollywood visionary chance, recognizes a great story when she or he sees it. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner recently brought a group of California moviemakers to the city to encourage them to shoot productions here. If Texas legislators and Houston citizens fail to support the stories in their own back yards, it is unlikely Hollywood or any other filmmakers will come calling.
Carole Keeney Harrington is a writer/producer of “Empress of Texas” and completed documentary, “Pussy Riot the Movement” available for streaming and on cable TV. For a complete list go to: www.pussyriotthemovement.com.
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SOCIETY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS AT A VALENTINE’S NIGHT OF GIVING TO GASTON LENOTRE Amazing Event Raises Over $600,000 for SPA Outreach and Education Programs Marking the occasion of its Golden Anniversary, Society for the Performing Arts celebrated fifty years of bringing the world's best to Houston, with a look back at the iconic performances of SPA’s five-decade legacy as well as looking to the future of the performing arts. The gala honored Marc and Brenda Watts for their dedication to SPA and contributions to the arts community in Houston. Proceeds from the Gala will further SPA’s mission in presenting the world’s best artists and performances to Houston audiences and in expanding award-winning Education and Community Engagement programs which reach over 100,000 students and educators each year.
Janiece Longoria & Steve Lasher
Elizabeth & Tim Vail
Founded in 1966, Society for the Performing Arts is the largest independent non-profit presenting organization in the Southwest. Since its inception, SPA has sponsored more than 1,000 performances of the world’s finest music, dance and theater events, with the belief that the arts are fundamental to the overall enrichment and quality of life within the community. Nancy & Chuck Davidson
The SPA Gala is a major part of Society for the Performing Arts’ annual fundraising campaign.
June Christensen, Willie & Linda Chiang
Katherine & Paul Murphy
Richard & Ginni Mithoff Kathryn Smith, Elizabeth Vail, June Christensen, Ronel Golden
Theresa Einhorn, Don Yurewicz
Melanie Gray, Mark Wawro
Kris Hantak, John Hantak Stephany LeGrand Olsen, Curt Carges
Lynn Wyatt
Gerald & Anita Smith
LIVING SOUTH OF THE BORDER
by Mitch Creekmore CIPS
Vinexo San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
T
hroughout history, great personal wealth has been attained through real estate ownership, but for most of us, it has been limited to investment in a primary residence. While Mexico 2nd home real estate can be a viable investment venue, Americans have had a great deal more trepidation considering properties “south of the border” for many reasons in recent years. The residential market in Mexico has been slow to recover since the “gogo” days of 2000 through 2007. With the collapse of the U.S. banking, mortgage and financial markets in 2008, Americans were simply not in a position to make Mexico 2cd home purchases. Couple that with the fact ownership rights for foreign buyers vary with the location of the realty and the conveyance process not in any way 16
like that of U.S. transactions, Americans figured they had better purchasing opportunities in American real estate…, and in a recovering U.S. residential market. However, Mexico provides an alternative, attractive arena for potential investment and home acquisitions. Real estate in Mexico can have a similar appreciation “upside” as real estate in the United States – coupled with the advantage of use and enjoyment of the property as a vacation residence. The caveat though is that interested buyers must be savvy and educated because acquiring real estate in Mexico, a civil code jurisdiction country that utilizes Mexican public notaries in the establishment of real property rights, is not like buying property in the United States. Mexico has incredibly beautiful and
diverse developments in many different locales. One needs to ask, “what do I prefer, beach destinations or the interior of Mexico with its historically colonial ambiance”. From Cancun and the Riviera Maya to Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Nayarit and the Los Cabos markets to name a few, the diversity of property types, resort amenities, hotels and golf courses with residential properties for acquisition is simply staggering. Real estate prices for lots, condominiums, townhomes and single family detached residences vary from $250,000 to $10,000,000. It just depends on the development, its location, property type and amenities. In the interior of Mexico, there are many desirable options for home purchases. From Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara to Cuernavaca, Ajijic, Lake Chapala,
Delores Hidalgo and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico’s colonial landscape, history, mountains, mind weather and development types serve to attract many American and Canadian buyers. In particular, San Miguel has been a major destination for many expat retirees and 2cd home buyers. It is estimated that more than 10,000 American and Canadians are residing in this historic and richly Catholic municipality with a population of approximately 120,000. San Miguel is landlocked almost in the dead center of the nation at an altitude of about 6,000 feet. This provides a nice respite to the searing Houston summers. It is centuries old with European style cobblestone streets and nestled in a valley with hills on all sides with an average year round temperature of 75 degrees. All one has to see and visit is the El Jardin and the Parroquia, a spired, fancifully-gothic confection of a church located in the center of town and it is easy to understand why San Miguel de Allende is so popular with Mexican nationals and foreign visitors. A new, stunningly beautiful project is under construction just outside of San Miguel. Located 5 miles from city center on the highway to Celaya and Queretaro, Vinedo San Miguel is an innovative and exceedingly unique fractional residential development surrounded by 150 acres of vineyards. Vinedo San
Miguel is first and foremost an enterprising vineyard boasting 12 species of grapes for harvest and wine production under 3 labels for consumption and sale. Within the expansive stoned walls lining the “carretera” (highway) and the privately gated arches entrance to VSM are 22 residences and 7 villas being constructed that will offer deeded and recorded fractional interests for sale to foreign purchasers and Mexican nationals. Buyers will be able to acquire a 1/10th fractional interest, or a ¼ or ½ interest based on a 12 month period on any one of the 7,000 square foot elegantly appointed units including 4 bedrooms, a pool, decks overlooking the vineyards, large kitchen and living room complete with a wine room. The furniture and decorations included in each residence add to the allure of the residences. Each fraction conveyed will be consummated by a Mexican notario publico (public notary) that provides for a 50 year r e n e w a b l e beneficiary interest via a Mexican bank trust known as a fideicomiso. Each bank trust will be recorded in the public registry of property in San Miguel and will include a title insurance policy issued by Stewart Title Guaranty de
Mexico, an owned subsidiary of Stewart Title Guaranty Co. in Houston. Financing will also be available as provided by the development group. Vinedo San Miguel has exceptional amenities and is astonishingly beautiful in all phases of the development. In addition to the vineyards and grape production facilities, VSM will have a boutique hotel for guests and family, a wellness center, a large lake and gardens with a clubhouse and pool, horse stables, a riding arena with tennis and paddle courts as well. There is no development anywhere in the Republic of Mexico that exists or is like Vinedo San Miguel. And most importantly, it is affordable, well located and completely secure in the ownership interests that will be conveyed and title insured for all purchasers.
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TOP REMODELING IDEAS FOR SUMMER
[Design]
embraces the changing demands on the home environment Flexibility and distinctiveness are becoming increasingly important; the individual functional areas created by +STAGE dissociate to form separate elements.
Photo Credit: Aria Stone Gallery
ARABESCATO GRIS by Interiors by Sadi Sourced from Italy, this Italian marble is an intensely vivid mixture of dark gray, black, and white hues. Featuring bold, sweeping movements, this statement piece can elevate and provide a dramatic focal point to any space. The homeowner/designer wanted to create a dramatic focal wall behind the floating tub to provide a dramatic entrance immediately as you enter the bathroom. She creatively used this vivacious stone in a horizontal book match application to provide a tub backsplash while adding a beautiful piece of natural artwork to the wall. Where form meets function. This trendy idea is becoming more and more popular as people are looking to make their bathrooms uniquely theirs and the attraction of natural stone’s unique, “no two stones are the same” persona lends itself to achieving a one of a kind look!
In developing +STAGE, Poggenpohl very deliberately focuses on modern living, concentrating on all that is essential and valuable within home life. Activities formerly carried out in different areas are grouped together within a compact space 120 cm wide creating a stylish setting. The highly functional theme units are equipped with slide-in hinged doors, called pocket doors. They can be positioned and combined in both the kitchen and living area and blend harmoniously into a tall unit line or can be deliberately visually accentuated as a stand-alone unit. The functions of +STAGE can be individually defined and grouped together by means of specially developed equipment features. Poggenpohl offers the complete theme packages of “bar”, “office”, “breakfast”, "wardrobe", “kitchen” and “tea” as a design basis.
PATIO COVER & WATER FEATURE by Legal Eagle Contractors The best outdoor living spaces bring you these kind of features: lots of shaded space with ceiling fans, lighting so you can use it in the evening, comfortable seating, and outdoor
Patio covers can provide a shady oasis for family gatherings. We created a “cabana look” on this one by using treated narrow timbers for the ceiling. The floor has a 4 inch thick rubber floor that is not only cool on the feet, is not slippery when the kids come running up here from the pool. Here is a smaller patio cover fully integrated into the house providing an intimate, comfy space to just hang out. Who says you can’t add your own bubbling brook in the backyard? This water feature next to the patio cover has a waterfall creating a stream leading to the Koi pond. A lot packed into a small space!There is even a serenity bridge crossing over the middle. To add to the effect a beautiful stone fountain was added at right.
BREEZY BEACH BATHROOM One of our favorite designs taking shape in our new showroom at The Shoppes at Memorial
by Poggenpohl Houston
With this innovative concept, Poggenpohl offers the utmost in individuality and consistently 18
kitchen, large or small, an outdoor flat screen TV to enjoy the game, and even an outdoor fireplace so you can use it during our colder days.
by Cabinets & Designs
+STAGE A place that can be equipped solely to suit personal habits, preferences and interests, which has many flexible planning and integral solutions, designed from the highest quality materials with an unmistakable design – +STAGE does it all!
Photo Credit: Poggenpohl Houston
Photo Credits: Legal Eagle Contractors
Villages is what we call our “beach bathroom” display. We love the laid-back vacation vibe, which is a bit of a departure from the ultra-trendy ‘spa retreat’ bathroom but achieves many of the same ends—a relaxing space to retreat for privacy and pampering. Think “Weekend in Galveston” The color and design of our breezy beach bathroom call Galveston, or perhaps Key West to mind; in fact, the door style on display is the Key West with Louvered inserts in Aqua Shade. A Dekton from Cosentino in Makai gently picks up the blue from the cabinetry.
Photo Credit: Cabinets & Designs
HIDDEn TrEASurE Interior drawer lights that turn on automatically when you open a drawer; special routing for the wiring that snaps into place and for a plug-in-andgo installation, proprietary to Wood-Mode; almost wish we could leave it open so you could see how intricate the design and engineering are. Drawer-within-a-drawer interior organizers to keep cosmetics and personal care items separate and organized.
KOHLEr SInK + MIrrOr Another design choice that contributes to the beachy vibe of this bathroom is the wading pool sink by Kohler. not only does it resemble beach glass, the shallow organic shape feels ocean-inspired. The shape, and the way the bowl sits in the countertop, quietly suggests a wave lapping at the shore.
VErDErA MEDICInE CAbInET by KOHLEr Kohler is also giving us a beautiful lighted Verdera mirror, a new product with unique features: optimally bright lighting eliminates harsh shadows, optional dimmer switches offer control, an inset electrical outlet adds convenience, an adjustable pull-out mirror (with or without magnification) accommodates different heights, and adjustable glass shelves make the unit entirely customizable. Photo Credit: Cabinets & Designs
ARIA STONE GALLERY 281.941.7144 | ariastonegallery.com 5120 Woodway, Suite 1016, Houston, Texas 77056 POGGENPOHL HOUSTON 832.582.2620 | houston.poggenpohl.com 5002 Westheimer, Suite b, Houston, Texas 77056 LEGAL EAGLE CONTRACTORS, CO. 713.723.8850 | legaleaglecontractors.com 5008 Locust St. bellaire, Texas 77401 CABINETS & DESIGNS, INC. 713.627.8970 | cabinetsanddesigns.net 1022 Wirt road Suite 308, Houston, Texas 77027
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LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD
by M.A. Haines
University of St Thomas Celebrates 2017 With Their 70th Anniversary University of St. Thomas (UST) has long served as an institution of academic achievement for generations of young men and women – instilling its students with a comprehensive liberal arts foundation. The university’s storied history will continue far into the future as it celebrates two major milestones in 2017; the 70th anniversary of the founding of the university. and the 20th anniversary of one of the most recognizable buildings on the campus, the Chapel of St. Basil. “2017 will be a year to honor the incredible achievements and successes that the University of St. Thomas has achieved through the hard work of many individuals,” commented President Robert Ivany. He added, “Along with these milestones, we are undertaking exciting initiatives that will prepare the UST campus students and faculty for the future.” UST was founded in 1947 by the Basilian Fathers as an independent, Catholic, coeducational university in Houston, TX. Situated in the city’s Museum District, the University enrolls 3,312 total students with an undergraduate population of 1,602. Set against the backdrop of the Texas Medical Center, of which it is a member, UST has seen a 75% growth rate among students pursuing degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), and over half of the undergraduate student body pursues a degree in one of the STEM fields. In June of 1946, the university purchased the home of T.P. Lee, which at one point was the largest private home in Houston and a symbol of the immense wealth garnered during the oil boom of the early 1900s. The building marked the inception of the university’s campus and originally housed the registrar’s office, a student
reading room, a chapel, the offices of the President, a women’s lounge, the Dean of Women’s office, classrooms, and a ballroom for physical education and student dances. Today the historic site is home to the offices of the President and Provost and serves as a hallmark of the university’s interwoven relationship with the City of Houston. A decade later, legendary Houston arts patron John de Menil – at the behest of the university’s leadership – commissioned renowned architect Philip Johnson to design a master plan for the expansion of the University of St. Thomas. Johnson drew inspiration from the University of Virginia and its academic mall, and he executed a vision that utilized his particular minimalist style and emphasis on subdued functionality. The totality of Johnson’s academic mall at UST focuses on the core tenets of academics, community and faith. The legendary architect would later leave his indelible mark on the campus with the design of the Chapel of St. Basil, which opened in 1997 and now approaches its 20th anniversary. As the formal place of worship on campus, the Chapel marks the completion of the academic mall and rises above all other campus buildings. The Chapel of St. Basil anchors one end of the academic mall, and academic buildings line the pathway to the Doherty Library on the mall’s opposite end. The Chapel of St. Basil and the Doherty Library can thus be viewed in tandem in order to evoke the perpetual relationship between faith and reason. Given its unmatched standing in the annals of the City of Houston, the University of St. Thomas can be viewed as a gateway into a bygone era. History, however, is only part of the University of St. Thomas narrative. Currently, UST is in the midst of its most ambitious fundraising effort to date – Faith in our Future: The Campaign for the University of St. Thomas – and is constructing a new Center for Science and Health Professions with additional plans for a Performing and Fine Arts Center. University of St. Thomas. Launched in 2009, Faith in Our Future has already raised more
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than $143 million, $47 million of which is funding a new Center for Science and Health Professions. The 103,000-square-foot complex opened in April and will serve as the lynchpin in the university’s commitment to excellence in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) with first-class facilities and unbridled academic opportunity. The multifaceted, comprehensive campaign has three main objectives: to enhance the on campus STEM opportunities for UST’s students – 50% of whom are studying the fields that fall under the STEM umbrella; to augment UST’s arts and creative communities with a planned 70,000-square-foot Performing and Fine Arts Center; and to enhance student access and success by bolstering scholarships and program endowments. In 2015, UST became a member of the Texas Medical Center and began a commitment to meet the region’s demands for well-educated, skilled professionals in the science and health disciplines. Biology and Nursing are currently the top two majors pursued by undergraduate students at UST, and the new center will serve a major portion of the student body while helping to educate future leaders for the STEM workforce. The University of St. Thomas has also selected a new president, Dr. Richard Ludwick, who will become the ninth to take the position, following President Robert Ivany’s decision to retire after 13 years of service. Dr. Ludwick will be tasked with building upon the promising groundwork laid by Dr. Ivany while lending a new and unique perspective to UST’s ambitious path forward. The University of St. Thomas has roots that can be traced back generations. Its campus possesses historic buildings, a wealth of distinguished alumni, and a unique heritage set against the backdrop of the growth of the City of Houston. With its legacy firmly intact and major milestones on the horizon, UST is simultaneously ushering in a new era of progress, growth, and academic achievement. Above all else, the University of St. Thomas remains entrenched in its steadfast commitment to imbuing every student it enrolls with the core values of the founding Basilian fathers: goodness, discipline, and knowledge.
UST’S ICONIC CHAPEL OF ST. BASIL TURNS 20 IN 2017: LEGENDARY ARCHITECT PHILIP JOHNSON’S FINAL HOUSTON PROJECT BEING CELEBRATED FOR ITS INTREPID LEGACY DEDICATED IN 1997, THE CHAPEL HAS REACHED AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE. The Chapel of St. Basil, designed by architect Philip Johnson and named for St. Basil the Great, a fourth century bishop in what is today Turkey, celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2017 in conjunction with the University of St. Thomas’ 70th anniversary. Dating back to its inception and early years, the University of St. Thomas had an interest in a chapel to complete its Academic Mall, which was also designed by Philip Johnson in the 1950s at the behest of arts patrons John and Dominique de Menil. The de Menils, who had arrived in Houston in the early 1940s, were instrumental in establishing and cultivating the relationship between Johnson and UST. Johnson had included plans for a chapel in his original campus design, but the vision was not executed until much later. Johnson saw the chapel, his final Houston project, completed in 1997. He died in 2002. Under the leadership of former UST President Joseph McFadden, the first lay president in its history, the University embarked upon a capital campaign from 1993 to 1995 that helped make the Chapel of St. Basil a reality. The chapel’s cost, roughly $6 million, was financed through a capital campaign, which included a $250,000 donation from the Basilian Fathers, the congregation of priests who founded UST. Groundbreaking on the chapel was held on March 18, 1996, and the project was completed and dedicated by Bishop The Most Reverend Joseph A. Fiorenza, now Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston, on June 7, 1997, during the
University’s 50th anniversary year. From a design perspective, the Chapel of St. Basil consists of, as Philip Johnson himself put it, three basic geometric shapes: a cube for the body of the church, a sphere for the dome, and a granite plane connecting these shapes by intersecting both the dome and the cube. With its striking appearance and indomitable height, achieved through a cross culminating the building’s golden dome, the Chapel of St. Basil looms over the entire campus. The Chapel of St. Basil and the Doherty Library, which anchors the other end of the Academic Mall, stand on opposite sides of the campus in order to evoke the perpetual relationship between faith and reason. Inside the Chapel of St. Basil, light is one of the dominant characteristics. The building is effused exclusively with natural light, and the interplay of this light with the stark white walls from the dome, skylight over the altar and over the statue of Our Lady, and from the tilted glass cross in the west wall, makes an immediate impression upon any visitor to the chapel. Three artists contributed to the interior elements of the Chapel of St. Basil to enhance the heritage of Philip Johnson’s architectural marvel. David Cargill of Beaumont, TX designed the chapel’s altar, Stations of the Cross, statue of Our Lady, tabernacle, candlesticks, holy water fonts, stand for the paschal candle, processional cross, and incense burner. Houston native Michael Dobbins created the wooden furniture, and Michael Ploski of Poland painted the icon of St. Basil. As it celebrates twenty years, Johnson’s final project completed in Houston remains an inspirational landmark as it continues to serve as a beacon of Catholic faith.
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[Travel]
The author on track
Twenty Four Hours of the Indy 500 S
unday, May 28, 2017, will be the 101st running of the legendary Indianapolis 500. Full disclosure - I love this race! I started attending in 1967 by going to Time Trials. A life-time race enthusiast, and a mere 19 years old, I could not believe what I was witnessing. World driving and future world champions were there competing Jack Brabham, Jim Clark, Jochen Rindt, Jackie Stewart, Graham Hill, Mario Andretti. Also my personal favorite, AJ Foyt. Sitting in Pit Row, you were literally 30 feet from the cars and drivers. 1967 was also the year of the famed turbine car, the STP #40 owned by Andy Granatelli and driven by Parnelli Jones. The cars were trying to finally break 170 mph per lap. They did not. (In the 1950's, engineers 22
A tourist’s guide to watching
THE BIG RACE and the city beyond the
FINISH LINE by Philip Berquist, Honorary Consul of Croatia to Texas
concluded that the track "could not hold a car exceeding 150 mph." They said that the centrifugal force would have the car flying off the track in the corners. This is before ground effects the track record is now 237 mph!). The sound of the cars was phenomenal, the Coyote Fords, with dual exhausts, would rev high followed by what sounded like a sonic BOOM! Of course when Parnelli drove by in the STP turbine, one only heard "whish." I returned to Time Trials in 1968 and witnessed three turbines (they were subsequently outlawed) and started my actual 500 mile race experiences in 1969 seeing Mario Andretti winning his only 500. In the early years, being a college student and then as an army PFC, we watched the race from the
infield, turn four. Five bucks to get in. We partied the night before in the "North Forty," a huge parking lot just outside the track, between turns 3 and 4. The only bathroom was at a Waffle House, about two blocks away. It was not pretty. A cannon was fired at 5:00am of race day and we had a race of our own getting into the track proper and putting our blankets down. Our idea of fine food centered around buckets of fried chicken and bean salad, along with copious cans of cold beer. We were living the dream! Now, some 48 (ouch!) years later, I am preparing for my 45th Indy 500 (I missed some due to rain outs, I had to return to work). The $5 infield admission and sitting on a blanket has
been replaced by some 22 seats at $100 each, still in Pit Row in a section now called Pit Road Terrace. There is no perfect seat at the track. I prefer the pit section because one can see all of the pre race activities (it is a little boring to be in Turn 3 and waiting three hours for the race to begin) as well as the pit stops and a good view of the track. Our seats are at the south end of the pits, where most of the winning teams are. We have had the winning team pit in front of us several times. I have been using scanners for many years now. All of the teams are programmed and you can not only see what the crew chiefs are saying to the drivers, you can hear the conversations as well. The race starts at noon, and generally is over just under 3 hours later. So much for the race. Let me tell you about the other 21 hours. Upon arriving in Indianapolis, there are numerous traditions that must be followed for our group prior to the race itself the next day.
SECURE PARKING FOR RACE DAY. Over the years I have parked all over the place, the North Forty, a lodge hall, Conkle Funeral Home was a favorite for several races, but now we park at a home about a block from the track. The woman flagging in the cars wears an orange safety vest with "Parking B_tch" (photo withheld on request) printed on the back. For $50 a vehicle, we park our cars together, have access to the kitchen and rest rooms. They even have a "Police Line Do Not Cross" tape holding our spots until we arrive. More about this later. Once we have paid for the race day parking we...
MCGINLEY'S GOLDEN ACE INN The McGinley's of McGinley's Golden Ace Inn
same store, O'Malia's - you know, tradition. Now that parking and provisions have been taken care of, we drive up the block to...
THE RATHSKELLER (Rathskeller.com) at the 19th century Athenaeum Building, 401 E. Michigan. This is a perfect German beer hall. The outdoor patio and band area is where we head to about 4:00pm. We always meet up with a group from Pennsylvania. Lots of laughs, race trivia, great fun. The band is no longer "OOMPA" but light rock. Last year, the 1999 winner of the race, Kenny Brace, joined the band on guitar. After a couple of hours here, it is time for more tradition, and, wanting the best cheeseburgers in Indy, we proceed to.....
(Goldenaceinn.com) 2533 E. Washington.
"Same Irish Family, Same Irish Pub, Since 1934". A tradition of ours for overly 30 years, the Ace was introduced to me my Jim Foley, the former Houston Rocket pr man and radio announcer. He found the Ace during an NBA All-Star game weekend. It is the oldest Irish bar in Indianapolis, still family owned, still serving t r e m e n d o u s cheeseburgers. Sometimes some bagpipe players, sometimes not, always a wonderful experience. Having secured parking, provisions, seen our friends at the Rathskeller and the Golden Ace, it is time for bed since Race Day starts early. We always stay fairly close to the track, probably no more than five miles away. Always reserve rooms several months in advance. The town sells out quickly for race weekend.
RACE DAY! I like to get to "The Parking B_tch" no later than 7:00am. Everybody in the group always complains but the reason is simple - there is virtually no traffic at that hour and I would rather be parked than be in the huge traffic jam that is about to begin. 400,000 people are trying to get to the track. 7:00am - I rest my case. This is the time to nap, relax, enjoy a breakfast beverage, and check the all-important weather report
BUY PROVISIONS FOR THE RACE. This means sandwiches, beer, sodas, and water. Always at the Bucket Indy - Former winner, Kenny Brace, on the right, at the old German bar, the Ratskeller, we go the day before the race each year.
The McGinley's of McGinley's Golden Ace Inn
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The
What a 400,000 crowd looks like. My seats are bottom right.
(Indy cars pavement).
do
not
run
on
wet
About 10:00am or so we are packing our provisions and ready for the short walk to the track. Once settled into our seats, near the end of the front straightaway, it is time to buy souvenirs, programs, etc. There are plenty of prerace activities on the track including a parade of vintage former winning cars and past winners. Minutes before the race begins, it is time for "Taps" (it is Memorial Day weekend after all), the
singing of "God Bless America" and "Back Home Again in Indiana" and the National Anthem. A wonderful flyover precedes “Gentlemen and Ladies, start your engines!” The race begins. I always tell newcomers to pick a couple of drivers to root for. Makes 200 laps (800 left hand turns) much more interesting. There are usually about seven pit stops so our seats provide a lot of action.
POST RACE
time. Adding to the fact that we request Andrew as our waiter can lengthen the wait but it is worth it. An amazingly horseradishy (new word) shrimp cocktail, bean soup, and a perfect "black and blue filet" and the Twenty Four Hours of Indy comes to a magical close.
Bucket - taking your sons to the Indy 500
After the race, we walk back to the car and place our faith in the traffic gods. Our destination is probably as good a steak house as there is in the country, "St. Elmo's" downtown, 127 S. Illinois (Stelmos.com). There are no reservations taken and our group is usually ten or more so it can take some
2016 winner, Alex Rossi, who pitted directly in front of our seats
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The Business of Baseball
[the Game]
An interview with Houston Astros President Reid Ryan
by Sean Salisbury
Je Luhnow and Aj Hinch ďŹ ll out the management team that have the Astros in First Place.
Salisbury: How good can this Astros and Springer you start looking at our lineup be? lineup in many different ways one thru nine. Reid Ryan: First of all our GM Jeff Luhnow really made the moves early Salisbury: It has to be great for you and when, he went out this year, and a lot A.J. Hinch to see that this team doesn't of folks were waiting to see what will have to live or die by the long ball. happen with the CBA collective bargain Reid Ryan: We haven't had that agreement with the players association flexibility before, so you see our guys and he moved quickly bringing in switch around in the line-up. We have Carlos Beltran, Reddick and made the three shortstops Correa, Bregman, and trade for McCann. He got guys that can even Marwin Gonzalez can play juice up the offense and older guys to shortstop. We have three guys that can go with the young core that we had. play center, Marisnick, Beltran has Then, we picked up Aoki from the played center before, and Springer. A.J. Mariners that was on waivers, and comes to the park and decides what he suddenly you look up from where we wants to do and look what is the were a team couple of years ago that match-up against the team we are was kinda feast or famine when we playing that nite. What's great is the struck out a lot but we hit a lot of home group has been on some great teams runs and now we smoothed out the when they had a team first mentality, strikeouts can beat you a lot of not an I-I-me-me mentality and they different ways. We have guys that can want to win and guys are willing to do hit for average, and then you throw in anything which really makes it fun for Bregman in there with Correa, Altuve, the club.
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Salisbury: How good is the back end of the bullpen? Reid Ryan: We potentially have three or four closers. Devenski is leading the league in strikeout percentage. He is striking out over fifty percent of the guys he is facing, but between him and Giles who a great fastball and wipeout slider, and Harris who was an All-Star last year, and Gregerson has been the closer before,so we really have three or four guys who can close ballgames. Also, we are not even talking about the guys we have in the minor leagues that are hard throwers and have a ton of flexibility and like I said earlier it becomes fun to see how it plays out at the ballpark. Salisbury: Would you be willing to part with some of those great assets if you needed before the trade deadline ended around all star time or willing to part with those guys if you needed that run in the second half of the season?
Reid Ryan: Well I think no matter who you talk to whether it's AJ, or it's Jeff or Jim Crane and some of the guys that work in the organization like my Dad or myself, I think everybody has a little of a different perspective, but when your windows in front of you then you really owe it to yourself and your fan base to try to do all you can do to maximize that window. So does that mean going out and getting that piece in years where eighty-seven wins will get you in the playoffs? Other years you have to have ninety-five wins to get in the playoffs, so I think it comes down to who are the teams, what are the matchups looking like and where do we think we are when it comes to the trade deadline. One thing we have done with this organization is being very disciplined, and it starts with Jim Crane. Salisbury: Where are we on some of these possible rule changes? Reid Ryan: Yeah so first I have to say since Rob Manfred has been our commissioner he has not been afraid to try new things and so hats off to him. I like that baseball is a game that is rooted in tradition, but sometimes we are just afraid to change. The second wild card that has been a great addition to baseball or even the instant replay has been a great addition to the game. The bottom line is we need to engage younger people and that is why you’re seeing so much emphasis on time of game and the pitch clocks we have in the Minor Leagues. When they come to a baseball game and it needs to be under three hours, I’m in favor of trying everything and it does not mean we have to live with it forever. Salisbury: How do we get more African Americans to play baseball? Reid Ryan: Things have already been done we were one of the first teams to launch an Urban Youth Academy which we have here in the Houston area and we have one in Compton now we have them all over also two years we had our first college players coming out of there and this year we feel like we are going to have a player drafted out of there and so baseball has put more emphasis on it and that means money because you have to put money behind it because this select baseball is expensive and these bats are three or four hundred dollars, and kids are traveling and playing tournaments and so the commissioner has made this a priority and you see this play ball initiative including a lot of commercials and we are getting back out there and the opportunity is there so if you’re an athlete and you want a college scholarship or want to play a sport for a long time or make some money baseball is one that you want to do that.
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How to Be Generous to Family and Yourself by Patricia B. Green, CFP® Financial Advisor Senior Vice President - Investments Wells Fargo
[financial focus]
Graduations, holidays, birthdays, and weddings are just some of the life events that can make us think about large gifts to children and grandchildren. “Often, we want the next and future generations to have a better and easier life than we've had," explains Deborah Lauer, a Vice President in Wells Fargo Advisors' Life Event Services team. "This can take the form of bequests to heirs. But periods of unemployment, volatile incomes, and other economic circumstances among younger generations are inspiring many people to give assets during their lifetimes, when there is a need and while the giver can see it being enjoyed," says Lauer. It's important to make sure your generosity doesn't jeopardize your own financial security. After all, you've planned carefully for your own retirement. Financial gifts you make now can reduce the assets you have to rely on later in life. How can you manage these competing priorities? With open communication and an awareness of tax implications, you may be able to provide the help you want to give in a way that works for the recipient and you.
Assess Your Situation "Secure your own oxygen mask first before assisting other passengers" is an instruction every frequent flier knows by heart. It also applies to your finances. 28
Have you also reviewed your estate plans recently? Are you seeing the opportunity for assets you had earmarked for transfer later to instead be given today? Your Financial Advisor can help you explore how parting with certain assets now might affect your future financial independence. Together, you can discuss options for minimizing the impact of removing those assets from your nest egg now. "It's critical for individuals to prioritize their own financial security before making gifts to family members," Lauer says. "Nobody wants to become a burden to their family, which can happen if you give away the assets you’ve acquired to support yourself."
Keep Talking Communication about money is critical within families. Once you've established limits for yourself on your ability to give, share with your family members the help you'd like to offer. Invite them to also talk with you about their needs. Maybe you already know your grandson and his fiancée are saving for a first home. Find out what their shortfall is. Is what you're being asked to support in line with your priorities? If you value education and are committed to
developing your granddaughter's academic talent, you may want to offer to pay tuition directly to her school rather than giving a lump sum of cash to her parents. If the conversation hasn't come up yet, but you've seen a need or simply want to share wealth during your lifetime, prepare for a longer discussion. It may take a few conversations with family to figure out exactly how they are comfortable being assisted and how you can appropriately supply that assistance. Pride and a sense of independence can play an important role here – on both sides. Before you start the conversation, recognize you may have differing values and consider how those might influence your decisions about giving.
can be invaluable. These don't cost money but can buy your family real peace of mind. Talk With Your Financial Advisor About: • Reviewing your current and long-term financial picture and estate plans, focusing on assets
members about the wealth you'd like to share • Working with a tax professional to make sure financial gifts don't trigger additional taxes *Wells Fargo Advisors 2017 Tax Planning Tables
• Communicating effectively with family Our firm does not render tax or legal advice. This article is sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided to you by Patricia B Green, CFP®, Sr. Financial Advisor. Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2017 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.
Consider the Tax Implications As tax rules change, it's important to work closely with both your Financial Advisor and tax professional to make sure any gifts you make don’t trigger an unexpected tax bill. For 2017, you can give individuals up to $14,000 and married couples can make gifts of up to $28,000 to individuals, according to the IRS.* These gifts are called annual exclusion gifts. In addition to the annual exclusion gift, an individual may gift all or a portion of his or her $5.49 million* gift tax exclusion without triggering a federal gift tax (although this may require additional tax reporting). Noncash gifts such as securities or real estate could also be given instead of cash. Medical expenses and tuition bills paid directly to the institution or service provider are tax-free and don’t count toward your annual or gift tax exclusions, according to IRS rules. With the right planning, you and your team of professionals can develop a gifting strategy that is likely to achieve your desired goals without putting your finances in jeopardy. Don't forget that your gifts don't need to be monetary. After talking with your family, you may discover offering your time is what’s really needed. Regular child care to working parents or lending your time and expertise to helping a grandchild apply for college scholarships 29
Dr. Aashish Shah, Nikhil Shah & Roseann Rogers
PRATHAM GALA Celebrating 22 years of Pratham's transformative work at the Hilton Americas where more than 900 guests attended the annual event and remarkably raised more than $1.4 million. The SOLD-OUT event included Consul General The Honorable Mr. Anupam Ray, Pratham USA President Deepak Raj, Pratham Houston President Ash Shah, Vice President Asha Dhume and the CEO of Pratham India, Dr. Rukmini Banerji.
Pratham Houston President Ash Shah and Pratham Houston Vice President Asha Dhume
Former Miss Universe and Bollywood Star Sushmita Sen and Pratham graduate Sanjana Das
Dressed in a beautiful Indian Sari, KTRK Channel 13 Meteorologist Casey Curry served as the evening's Mistress of Ceremonies. Special guest Former Miss Universe and Bollywood Star Sushmita Sen told the audience about her rise to fame and led the highly emotional pledge for the night and reinforced the message that it only costs $25 to educate a child for an entire year.
Vijay Goradia, Dr. Marie Goradia and Consul General to India The Honorable Dr. Anupan Ray
Pratham Houston is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children, youth and women in India through education and vocational training programs.
Photo Credit: Daniel Ortiz & Roseann Rogers
Dr. Madaiah Revana
KTRK Channel 13’s Meteorologist Casey Curry and her husband Dr. Carl Hahn
Laura & Jerry Kent
THE BLUE BIRD CIRCLE REPORTED $400,000 RAISED FROM THEIR RECENT GALA,
AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER Maureen & Dr. Gary Clark Laure & Joe Masters
Mark Wallace, Barbara & Corby Robertson
Jan Rhodes, Bob Rasmus
Jane & Jim Brann
Co-Chairs Laura Kent and Terry Agris, along with The Blue Bird Circle, hosted a sold out event with entertainer Lyle Lovett received a standing ovation after a 90 minute concert. All proceeds from the evening will support Texas Children’s Neurology Department. In 1923, in Houston, Texas, a unique organization of women volunteers was created to promote the well-being of humanity through the betterment of the community. The charitable and benevolent activities of The Blue Bird Circle are pledged to the support of The Blue Bird Circle Clinic for Pediatric Neurology, The Blue Bird Circle Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory at Baylor College of Medicine and The Blue Bird Circle Rett Center. The Circle’s newest endeavor, the Blue Bird Circle Clinical Research Center at Texas Children’s Hospital, capitalizes on the remarkable scientific discoveries being made in the treatment of childhood neurologic diseases and serves as the clinical research arm of the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children’s Hospital.
Pam & Bill Sengelmann
Mr. and Mrs. Doug Hilton, Karen & Trey Litel, Kevin & Jennifer Savoie
Bob and Janice McNair, Lyle Lovett, Hannah & Cal McNair