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July 2013 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com
• Infiniti QX56 & Lexus LX570 • Bay Area Veterans Memorial • Aerospace and Education News
LEGEND PHYSICAL THERAPY CHRONIC PAIN MEETS ITS MATCH
features
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ON THE COVER
Eric Santiago, Rebecca Renegar and Codi Land of Legend Physical Therapy. Photo by Brian Stewart.
President & Chairman Rick Clapp Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry
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Executive Vice President Patty Kane Vice President & Art Director Brandon Rowan Director of Graphics Media Victoria Ugalde Sales & Marketing Shannon Alexander Patty Bederka Natalie Epperley Ashley Karlen Kathleen McNeil Debbie Salisbury Amber Sample
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Director of Social Media Pierr Castillo Photography Mary Alys Cherry Brian Stewart
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Community Affairs Director Lillian Harmon
Bay Area Houston Magazine is produced monthly. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written permission. Advertising rates are available upon request. Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586
281.474.5875
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Legend Physical Therapy
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Gina’s Italian Kitchen and Pizzeria
James Bond Ball 2013 Chronic pain meets its match Family friendly restaurant wins Urbanspoon.com award
40 Finance Your financial life after graduation 42
Business Buzz
44
The Future of Highway 146
45
CCISD Teachers Receive Grants
46
Good Stuff to Know
47
Lunar Rendezvous Festival
50
Bay Area Veterans Memorial
Scott Hartwig to head USA Expansion moving along at a crawl Educators win $157,000 in grants Dates to remember and local city news Four events in July Hundreds gather for dedication
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Clear Lake Chatter
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The Admiral’s Log
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In Wheel Time
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Texas Meditations
Volunteers end busy year on a happy note Take your good manners along when you go fishing Infiniti QX56 and Lexus LX 570 How quickly we forget
30 CLICK! Amadeus Italian Restaurant & Piano Bar cover party
in each issue
Public Relations Alison Sidoran
www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com R.Clapp@Baygroupmedia.com
What Women Want
columns
Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Michael Gos Capt. Joe Kent Betha Merit Pat Patton Dr. Edward Reitman
Distribution Chris Mirka Tim Shinkle
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
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Advertiser’s Index
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Lakewood Yacht Club News and Events
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Education News
JULY 2013
A Clear Lake nightmare revisited Quadruple murder was 10 years ago this month By Mary Alys Cherry
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t will be 10 years this month, but few Clear Lake residents will ever forget when a quiet summer day turned into a nightmare for four recent high school graduates just beginning their lives. It was July 18, 2003 when the four – Tiffany Nichole Rowell, 18; Rachael Ann Koloroutis, 18; Tiffany’s boyfriend, Marcus Ray Precella, 19; and his cousin Adelbert Nicholas Sanchez, 21 -- were brutally murdered in Clear Lake’s Brook Forest subdivision as they enjoyed a pizza party at Tiffany’s home on a quiet cul-de-sac while her father was out of town. A former Clear Lake High classmate of the two girls and Sanchez, Christine Marie Paolilla of Friendswood, is serving a life sentence after being found guilty of capital murder. She was 17 at the time of the murders and ineligible for the death penalty. The ghastly murders went unsolved for three years despite a $100,000 Crimestoppers reward – leaving the community to live with the fear the killer(s) might strike again. But it was a Crimestoppers tip that eventually led police to Paolilla and her former boyfriend, Christopher Lee
Snider, who had once lived in El Lago and attended Seabrook Intermediate before moving to Kentucky. Police said Paolilla told them she and Snider went to the house in the 3700 block of Millbridge that afternoon looking for drugs and money and how they killed them, and how Snider had forced her to participate. When Snider heard she had been arrested and there was a nationwide manhunt on for him, he committed suicide in Greenville, S.C., leaving Paolilla to face the charges alone. During those three years, the two killers parted company and Paolilla went back to Clear Lake High to complete her senior year and graduate – no one suspecting that Tiffany’s and Rachel’s best friend could do such a dastardly deed. Afterwards, she entered a drug rehab program in Kerrville, where she met her future husband. At first, life was good. She had a big trust fund she received from her father, who was killed when she was four, but soon the memory of that afternoon on Millbridge Drive began to gnaw on her. Before long, both she and her husband were dipping heavily into heroin. As they grew closer, she gradually confessed her role in the crime to him, he later testified. The heroin apparently made it easier to digest. Meanwhile, the Houston Police spent thousands of hours chasing every possible lead. Because the autopsies showed all four victims had cocaine in their systems, and there were reports that both young male victims were selling drugs, police felt the murders were drug related. But outside of neighbors reporting that they saw a young couple dressed in black going to the home that day, there were few leads. The man was described as blond, accompanying a woman with a nylon cap over her hair and carrying a big black bag. Snider, who spent his high school years in prison in Kentucky for robbery, came back to the Clear Lake area and had looked up his old friend, Christine. And, police testified, when he found out she was friends with both the girls and the two young men who were selling Prosecutor Rob Freyer, right, points to Christine Paolilla during her capital murder trial as drugs – though only on a small scale Defense Attorney Mike DeGeurin waits his turn. She received a life sentence for the Clear -- Snider assumed they would find an Lake murders.
Defense Attorney Mike DeGeurin shows the jury photos of Christopher Snider, who commited suicide in Greenville, S.C., as police searched the country to arrest him for the Clear Lake murders.
abundance of drugs and money at the home. Paolilla told officers that Snider had two guns, that he pointed one at the victims and demanded money and dope. He also made her take one of the guns and then he just started shooting. Then, he put his hand on hers “and the gun just started going off multiple times,” one officer testified she told police. We’d like to think these four teens didn’t die in vain. The story frightened both parents and teens all around the Bay Area. Most everyone felt their murders probably could be blamed on drugs. But it all happened a long time ago, and memories grow dim. This would be an excellent time for parents to bring the subject up in a casual way with their children, perhaps at a dinner table discussion -letting them know what can happen to those who flirt with drugs. These kids weren’t heavy users, but they all did drugs. That afternoon they were just having a pizza party, yet death came calling, invited or not. Any of us can become a crime victim, but we certainly help increase the chances by doing drugs. Let us hope our kids will be smart, and we will never experience such a nightmare again.
Mary Alys Cherry Publisher
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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Advertiser’s Index Alan’s Swampshack
Page 35
www.theswampshack.com
Amadeus Page 36 Battleground Golf Course
Page 21
Baubles and Beads
Page 41
www.deerparktx.gov/battleground
Bay Area Kitchens
Page 23
www.bayareakitchens.com
Bayway Homes
Page 22
www.baywayhomes.com
Big Splash Web Design
Page 37
www.bigsplashwebdesign.com
City of Dickinson
Page 39
www.redwhiteandbayou.com
Coastal Plastic Surgery
Page 3
www.tadammd.com
Cock & Bull British Pub
Page 34 & 35
www.thecockandbullbritishpub.com
Cullen’s Page 32 www.cullenshouston.com Dana Philibert
Page 16
www.danaphilibert.com
The Davenport
Page 34
www.thedavenportlounge.com
Dickinson BBQ
Page 36
www.dickinsonbbq.com
Don Julio’s
Page 34
www.donjulios.com
Dr. J. Derek Tieken
Page 48
www.tiekensmiles.com
Encore Resale Shop
Page 38
Floyd’s Cajun Seafood
Page 33
www.floydsseafood.com
Fondren Orthopedic
Page 2
www.fondren.com
Frazier’s Concrete
Page 43
www.fraziersconcrete.com
Gina’s Italian Kitchen
Page 29
www.ginasitaliankitchen.com
Glass Mermaids
Page 41
www.glassmermaids.com
Gulf Coast Palapas
Page 19
www.gulfcoastpalapas.com
Herb Cafe Page 28 www.herbcafeandmarket.com Houston Technology Center
Page 12
www.houstontech.org
Kemah Boardwalk
Page 4
www.kemahboardwalk.com
Las Haciendas
Page 36
www.lashaciendasgrill.com
Latitudes Page 34 www.latitudes29.com Lee College
Page 5
www.lee.edu
Mamacita’s Page 29 www.mamacitasmexicanrestaurant.com The Man Cave
Page 31
www.tmc-cigars.com
Mary Mlaker
Page 39
mary@texasbayproperties.com
Massage Envy
Page 39
www.massageenvy.com
Meador Staffing
Page 43
www.meador.com
Mediterraneo Market & Cafe
Page 38
Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy
Page 11
www.medicineshoppe.com/1984
Nora’s Professional Cleaning
Page 38
noragnewman@gmail.com
Norman Frede Chevrolet
Page 24
www.fredechevrolet.com
Oasis Salon and Medispa
Page 49
www.oasisclearlake.com
Opus Bistro
Page 34
www.opusbistro.net
Park Avenue Showplace
Page 41
Ron Carter Clear Lake
Page 13
www.roncartercadillac.com
Salon La Rouge
Page 39
www.salonlarouge.org
Schlitterbahn Page 13 www.schlitterbahn.com
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Shades Salon
Page 16
www.shadessalontx.com
Space Center Auto
Page 21
www.spacecenterautomotive.com
Star Toyota
Page 51
www.startoyota.com
Stylin’ With Linda
Page 38
Supreme Lending
Page 8
Texas Cheese Steak
Page 28
Texas First Bank
Page 40
The Hop
Page 34
Unicare Dental
Page 52
www.supremelending.com www.texasfirstbank.com www.drnoie.com
DENTAL HEALTH
‘Teeth in a Day’ By Farid Noie DDS, DICOI, FAGD, AFAAID
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inally, “Teeth is a day” is a predictable and affordable reality It is estimated that more than 35 million Americans, due to various reasons, have lost their teeth and are reluctant to wear a removable appliance in order to be able to eat. The story doesn’t end here. Unfortunately, it gets worse. These removable appliances do not exactly replace lost natural teeth. They do not feel natural and certainly have fallen far short of being able to replace natural teeth. However, due to lack of any other real option, they have been used for centuries. Dental implants revolutionized the field and, for the first time, allowed false teeth to remain anchored to the jaw bone. Aside from tremendous stability that rivaled natural teeth, the dentures. have traditionally been constructed bulky in order to keep them from sliding while chewing. Your dental Implantologist can now eliminate the bulk of these dentures and make them as small as natural teeth since there is no longer any need for saddling the denture over gum area. They also enable the patient to preserve his or her jaw bone volume by stimulating them while eating, similar to natural teeth. Over the past two decades, dental implantology continued its ground breaking advancement. The introduction of 3D CT imaging and virtual pre-surgical treatment planning has made dental implants highly predictable. Traditional implant techniques have rightfully leaned on the side of over-caution. Histological studies suggested an incubation period of several months between surgically placement of dental implants and exposing them to jaw forces will increase the success ratio. In the absence of adequate bone volume, the procedure could take as long as a year or more to complete.
In 1990 Dr. Paulo Malo of Portugal, offered a new technique called “Teeth in a day.” He aimed to simplify and shorten the process. While some mavericks adopted his technique early on, many dental surgeons (including myself) chose to wait and see the long term results. Twenty-two years later, this technique has been time tested and proven to be very reliable. Teeth in a day requires a personalized plan and is not for everyone. Every patient is unique and there is no “one treatment fits all” approach when it comes to permanentfixed-toot-replacement. If you are interested in leaving your teeth trouble in your rear view mirror, please contact UniCare Center for cosmetic and implant dentistry at 281332-4700 to schedule a personal complimentary consultation with Dr. Noie. You will receive a personal consultation, taking your unique situation under consideration.
“Twenty-two years later, this technique has been time tested and proven to be very reliable.” Dr. Noie has been in private practice in the Bay Area since 1996. He is a Diplomate of Int’l Congress of Oral Implantologists, Fellow of Academy of General Dentistry, and Assoc. Fellow of American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He has completed his surgical training at New York University as well as Medical University of South Carolina, Temple University, and Wright state University School of Medicine. He completed his oral Anesthesiology training at University of Alabama in Birmingham. He is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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Rotarians Bill Barmore, Jackie Barmore, Mark Fifield and Bill Stapelfeldt track the big reverse draw during the Pasadena Rotary Club Fish Fry, held at the Pasadena Rodeo Grounds.
Grand Prize Winner San Juanita Carillo receives congratulations from Pasadena Rotary President Dr. Paul Covell during the club’s fish fry held at the Pasadena Rodeo Grounds.
Pasadena Rotarians Ray Woodburn, Ken Brown, Lee Clark, Sherry Bufkin, Wayne Long, and Cari Brownlee serve up catfish for the crowd at the club’s big Fish Fry and Family Fun Day in Campbell Hall at the Pasadena Rodeo Grounds.
Rotarian Scott Loomis celebrates his winnings with Rotarians Gary Nickelson and Bill Barmoreat the Pasadena Rotary’s annual Fish Fry and Family Fun Day in Campbell Hall at the Pasadena Rodeo Grounds on Red Bluff.
Movie, concerts set in League City Kayla is a unique black-and-white Catahoula Leopard Dog/ Boxer mix mercifully rescued by Second Chance Pets when her owners left her behind after moving. Kayla is happy to be alive! In her short, 6-month-old life she was heartbreakingly neglected after a broken leg was not attended to. A specialist found that the puppy had aligned the bones well and they are already healing. He recommended rehab exercises and no cast. Her dedicated foster is working diligently with her. Kayla’s sweet spirit is still intact and she loves to give kisses! She is calm, submissive and will be a medium-sized dog. Kayla’s adoption fee is $200 which covers all vetting plus micro-chipping. SCP adoptions are held each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Clear Lake Petco on Bay Area Blvd. at Space Center Blvd. For more information on Kayla email pets2adopt@yahoo.com or go to www.secondchancepets.org. Currently both dog and cat intake is closed due to lack of foster families. Please contact SCP if you can help foster a homeless pet – you will save a life! SCP is a 501(c)(3) animal welfare organization. All donations are tax deductible. As always, please Spay and Neuter Your Pets!
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
League City has a treat in store for residents each Saturday in July at League Park, starting July 6 with a Movie in the Park, Madagascar 3, 8 p.m., League Park, 512 2nd St., and followed by a concert each Saturday evening. Ghost of a Rose will be featured in concert at 7 p.m. July 13; Brass, Rhythm & Reed at 7 p.m. on July 20; and the Jubilee Banjo Band at 7 p.m. July 27.
T-Ball Champions
The Huffman Little League T-ball All Stars are District 25 champions for the first time in 6 years after a 5-0 sweep. T-ball player number 5 is Bay Area Houston’s own Victoria Ugalde’s nephew, Braydon Callaway. Coaches are from left to right: Coach Karl Purswell, Coach Zach Scott, Manager Chris Bumpas and Coach Brett Alvey. Players are from left to right: Dylan Wilson, JohnDavid Alvey, Jackson Fleming, Kayden Purswell, Zackary Scott, Ethen Gerth, Braydon Callaway, Blake Morace, Noah Santiago, Jesse Ornelas, Ryder Miller, and Brady Peterson.
Deer Park Chamber Luncheon Shell of Deer Park presents a check for $113,070 to the Deer Park Education Foundation. The Deer Park Chamber of Commerce presents the Business of the Year award to Eclipse Massage and Spa at the Battleground Golf Club. JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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Badiha Nassar, left, Sarah Foulds, right, and Suzanne McMannis were the winners of ABCD Awards at the Assistance League luncheon. McMannis was unable to attend.
Bay Area Museum Guild officers are looking forward to a big year. Among those heading the organization for 2013-14 are, from left, President Kimberley Weathers, Corresponding Secretary Jan Larson, Treasurer Diana Dornak and Recording Secretary Nina McGlashan.
Other Museum Guild officers installed at the year-end luncheon at the home of outgoing President Carole Murphy were, from left, Parliamentarian Cindy Kuenneke and Vice Presidents Carole Murphy, Sandi Albritton and Pat Biddle.
Volunteers end busy year on a happy note TOMORROW is the beginning of a brand new journey for many Bay Area Houston community organizations. And, as many conclude another year, they also are looking forward to next year with new officers guiding them and helping them reach even greater goals. Bay Area Museum Guild members got quite a treat for their year-end luncheon when outgoing President Carole Murphy hosted the event at her Brook Forest home in Clear Lake, where they gathered by her beautiful pool for refreshments before watching the installation of Kimberley Weathers as their new president. Others who’ll serve with her are
Jenny Verghese, right, receives congratulations from last year’s recipient, Pam Bungo, on winning the Sue Brady Award at the Assistance League luncheon.
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serve as museum directors with Ava Galt overseeing the gardens and landscaping and Peggy Clause handling publicity.
MARY ALYS CHERRY
First Vice Presidents – Programs Pat Biddle and Carole Murphy, Second Vice President – Membership Sandi Allbritton, Corresponding Secretary Jan Larson, Treasurer Diana Dornak, Recording Secretary Nina McGlashan and Parliametarian Cindy Kuenneke. Diana and Mary Ann Baxter will
Kim Barker heads Assistance League THE ASSISTANCE LEAGUE closed out its year with a big luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club, where outgoing President Lisa Holbrook turned the gavel over to Kim Barker, who was installed as president, and Brunella Altemus became the president-elect. Other officers are Vice Presidents Gail Ashby, Lisa Delhomme, Courtney Atchley and Yvonne Perrin;
Assistance League officers and elected chairmen for the coming year get together for a photo at their installation luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club. They are, from left, seated, President Kim Barker, President-elect Brunella Altemus, Vice President Courtney Atchley; Strategic Planning Chairman Dee Cover; standing, Marketing Chairman Jennifer Maxwell, Secretary Mary Gibson, Vice President Lisa Delhomme, Parliamentarian Elizabeth Clemente Nelson, Treasurer Elaine Rister and Vice President Gail Ashby.
Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Secretary Mary Gibson, Treasurer Elaine Rister and Parliamentarian Elizabeth Clemente Nelson. Joining them in serving the organization this coming year are four elected chairmen – Assisteen Coordinator Rikie Bowker, Education Chairman Kim Steele, Strategic Planning Chairman Dee Cover and Marketing Chairman Jennifer Maxwell. The league also honored Sharon Dillard with the Sue Holstein Award, Jenny Verghese with its Sue Brady Award and Sarah Foulds, Suzanne McMannie and Badiha Nassar with the ABCD (Above and Beyond the Call of Duty) Award.
Sharon Dillard, right, is presented the Sue Holstein Award by last year’s winner, Dr. Cindy Castille, at the Assistance League Luncheon.
New Houston Symphony League Bay Area officers share a light moment as they line up for their installation at Bay Oaks Country Club. They are, from left, Vice President Joan Wade, Presidentelect James Moore, Vice President Pat Biddle, President Patience Myers, Corresponding Secretary Nina Spencer, Recording Secretary Frances Nussbaum, Vice Presidents Mary Voigt, Nina McGlashan and Carole Murphy and Fundraising Chairman Vicki Buxton.
Symphony League Installs officers PATIENCE MYERS is the new president of the Houston Symphony League Bay Area. She was installed at their year-end luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club, along with President-elect James Moore and the other officers. Serving with them will be Vice Presidents Pat Biddle, Joan Wade, Nina McGlashan, Carole Murphy and Mary Voigt, Recording Secretary Frances Nussbaum, Corresponding Secretary Nina Spencer, Fundraising Chairman Vicki Buxton and Parliamentarian Pat Bertelli. Already they are making plans for their prospective member party in August and their home tour in the spring.
Panhellenic taps Laurie Vaughn CLEAR LAKE PANHELLENIC members have a new slate of officers for the coming year with Laurie Vaughn as their new president – taking over for outgoing President Wendy Shaw. Other new officers are First Vice President Kim Barker, Second Vice President Holly Williamson, Third Vice President Kay Lee Benoit, Treasurer Michelle Richardson, Secretary Marjo Richmond and Corporation Barbara Dickey, with Wendy serving as parliamentarian.
Arts Alliance has new board THE ARTS ALLIANCE Center of Clear Lake has a new president – Myrna Baker, with
Carlene Langford, Janet Greenwood, Becky Richey and Cindy Woodall, from left, arrive at Bay Oaks Country Club for the Women’s Association luncheon, wearing big smiles. Both Richey and Greenwood are past presidents of the association.
Judith Blanchard as executive vice president, Mary Lou Johnson as secretary and Csilla Stiles as treasurer. Other board members are Susan Anne Braymer, Dr. Tina Farrell, Barbara Stubblefield, Rita Armstrong, Jim Sweeney, Jan Larson, Joyce Abbey, Jack Amuny, Heather Ann Amuny, Tim Dittman, Cheryl Evans, Dr. Marilyn Smith and Advisors Richard Williams, Pam Culpepper, Sue Garman and Dion McInnis. As it begins its 16th year, TAACL introduced new strategies to unite the arts, expand art education offerings and promote art activities – “Destination….Art” to promote the area as an arts destination and a spring juried art festival.
BOWA strikes up a happy tune BAY OAKS Women’s Association members got to enjoy some of their favorite Broadway tunes at their May luncheon – ending the season on a happy note before the summer break. Carlene Langford arrived early to be on hand to welcome her guests – Cindy Woodall, Amy Langford and former BOWA president Becky Richey – joining Mary Colombo, Sue Broughton, Emmeline Dodd, Pam Ploss, Eileen Hult, Jeannette Koerschner, Danele Buehler and Diane Konick, who were among the early arrivals who signed in with Sharon Dillard. Wasn’t long before they were joined by Jackie Daley, Marilyn Lunney, Joan Wade, Kathleen Parrish, Elinor Walters, Barbara Dickey, Lorraine Gibson, Diane
Kay Schmedding, left, and Alicia Muehlenbrock debate which one has the longest name as they await the start of the Bay Oaks Women’s Association luncheon.
Konick, Rebecca Hensley, Barbara Miller, Sandy Lantz, Terri Divine, Lea Bodie, Tia Neyman, Nancy Sanders and Martha Meas. Some of the others President Jennifer Simmons welcomed included Annette Dwyer, Bobbie Moutz, Kathy Costanza, Shiva Landry, Nilse Deterling, Sue Ellen Jennings, Fran Gentry, Angela Bivens, Kimberley Weathers and her mom, Peggy Green, and Cambrey Rogers.
32 win rodeo scholarships SEVERAL BAY AREA students have been awarded $18,000 Houston Rodeo Scholarships, no doubt making both them and their parents quite happy. The recipients and the high schools they attended are: Clear Brook High -- Hillary Mai, Jacob Arend, Michael Grant and Rohan Limaye; Clear Creek High – Alexandra Alldredge; Clear Falls High – Damilola Dada; Clear Horizons High – Bassant ElShazly; Clear Lake High – Kevin Christiansen; Clear Springs High – Raquel Jaeger and Ravena Jacob; Deer Park High -- Alexis Bolds and Evelin P. Guerrero; Dickinson High – Cao Truong, Gabrielle Bernal, Madison Gove and Veronia Hurtado; Galveston Ball – Heather Yang, Keziah Thomas and Maritza Villamil; Pasadena Dobie – Anna Ingalls, Claudia Gonzalez, Syeda Naqvi and Tiffany Mercado; Pasadena High – Eduardo Aleman Robledo and Gerardo Rivera; Pasadena Memorial – Ryan Summers; Pasadena Sam Rayburn – Ilse Molina; and South Houston – Carola Medina, Gabriela Dominguez, Jaime Buenrostro, Ramon Tamez and Yazmin Garza.
Emmeline Dodd right, is happy to see Pamela Ploss as they join the crowd at the Bay Oaks Country Club Women’s Association luncheon.
Bay Oaks Women’s Association President Jennifer Simmons, right, welcomes Becky Hensley to the luncheon at the country club in Clear Lake.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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News & Events Images from last year’s Bay Cup II on Galveston Bay.
Bay Cup II Racers Could Make a Weekend of Fun
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akewood Yacht Club Race Committee Chairman Gerhard Wittich has announced that the 2013 Bay Cup II Regatta will be held on Saturday, Aug. 3, on Galveston Bay. “Since it is still summer vacation, racers could bring their families for the weekend and spend either Friday or Saturday night in one of our fine hotels in Nassau Bay or other cities around Clear Lake,” Wittich said. While racers are on the bay, families could enjoy Space Center Houston, Armand Bayou, the Kemah Boardwalk, or one of the numerous nature trails in the city of Seabrook. Lakewood Yacht Club is offering a complimentary brunch on Sunday, Aug. 4, with receipt of an overnight stay in a Nassau Bay hotel. Bay Cup II is the second in a series with Bay Cup I having been raced in March. It is open to the public with a $75 registration fee. This includes the Skipper’s Meeting on Friday, Aug. 2, 7:30 p.m. in Lakewood’s ballroom, and one meal and drink ticket for the Saturday night party, which includes live music with Kelly McGuire. Racers can register online at www. lakewoodyachtclub.com under the racing button. “Bay Cup II will feature long distance racing in
Galveston and Trinity Bays,” Wittich explained, “with multiple legs for a total of about 5 – 25 nautical miles, depending upon wind conditions. This should be a navigational challenge for racers as well.” Classes include PHRF Spinnaker, PHRF NonSpinnaker, Cruising Spinnaker, Classic Canvas, Multihull, SOS and others. The Awards Ceremony will be held in Lakewood’s lounge on Saturday night, Aug. 3, following the dinner. Awards will be presented to Bay Cup II winners as well as over-all winners of the Bay Cup Series. Sponsors helping to make the Bay Cup II possible are Gold Sponsors Caliche Puerto Rican Rum and DonQ Rum, the city of Nassau Bay, and West Marine. Bronze Sponsors include Little Yacht Sales and Hayes Insurance. Proceeds from the Regatta benefit Bay Access, a not for profit charitable organization fostering amateur racing and sailing on Galveston Bay. For overnight accommodations, check the website www.visitbayareahouston.org. For questions regarding Bay Cup II, contact Lakewood Yacht Club’s office at 281-474-2511.
Hurricane Preparedness Seminar
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akewood Yacht Club Captain’s Round Table Chairman Gene Harris has announced that Lakewood will be hosting a Hurricane Preparedness Seminar on Saturday, July 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the club’s ballroom, 2425 NASA Parkway, Seabrook. Open to the public, this seminar is free of charge to all who attend. Topics and the presenting speakers are the following: Past LYC Commodore Tom Taylor will give a talk on “Hurricane Preparedness Timeline,” which is critical for folks living on the coast of Galveston Bay or Clear Lake. “Even though Houston has zoned the city by zip code for evacuation, there are many things that one must do before leaving in advance of the pending storm,” explained Taylor. The next topic is 2013 Long Range Prediction of Hurricanes by Charles Roeseler who is the senior meteorologist with National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, which is over the National Hurricane Center. Lakewood Yacht Club Harbor Administrator Lynda Hall will cover Marina and Boat Preparedness while Jeremy Hood with HSH Yacht Sales will talk about Securing Your Boat. Concluding the seminar will be Mardie Menke of the Harris County Emergency Evacuation Agency addressing the topic of Evacuation. “We feel all of these topics are critical and relevant to residents living on the Gulf Coast, especially to those who have recently moved to the area,” related Harris. “Taking two hours out of your weekend could save lives and property.”
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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By Capt. Joe Kent
g in sh Fi Go u Yo n he W g on Al rs ne an M od Go ur Yo ke Ta The summer fishing season is upon us and with it comes the crowds. This especially is true on weekends and holidays. Too often an outing is ruined by an exchange of pleasantries between anglers in both boats and on shore.
A
By Boat
lthough no one likes fishing in a crowd, having company on the water is just a fact of fishing life. However, there are steps every angler should take to make sure everyone has a safe, productive and enjoyable day on the water. Whether you’re fishing a lake, bay or river, basic angling etiquette is the best way to avoid problems and ensure a pleasant outing.
A boat angler tempts a hungry redfish with a Yo-Zuri 3d Crystal Shrimp.
Fishing from shore, pier or wading
Angling etiquette is especially important in walk-up locales. Whether it’s a fishing pier, rock jetty or beachfront wade-fishing, those who arrive on foot have limited mobility and are restricted by the physical size of the place where they are fishing. Therefore, following proper protocol is crucial for all anglers. Rule No. 1 for any walk-up location is to give other anglers plenty of room, at least enough space to be able to comfortably cast. Granted, at times this isn’t possible, especially on crowded piers and jetties. However, if there is space available, it’s best
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
to spread out and not crowd your fellow fishermen. Another key to maintaining the peace at walkup locations is to pay attention to wind and current and how others are fishing. For example, if everyone to either side of you is fishing a bottom rig, don’t try drifting with a float or bobber. Doing so will ensure tangled lines. Furthermore, before casting — whether fishing lures, float rigs or bottom rigs — look to see which way the current or wind is moving other anglers’ lines. Try to work in lockstep with those around you to avoid crossing lines. Although this sounds simple, following this basic rule can prevent massive line tangles and flaring tempers. Finally, don’t be afraid to share. This isn’t to say you need to provide a communal tackle box, but if a fellow fisherman runs out of something such as hooks or weights and you’re in a position to lend a few, do so. Saving an angler from having to walk back to the car or end a trip early will be much appreciated, and your kindness will usually be repaid.
Boaters have the ability to move freely through lakes, rivers and bays, but by no means should they forget about those who are less mobile. When running to a fishing spot, don’t pass close to waders or pier fishermen and ruin their fishing just to save a little time. Also, don’t crowd waders or kayakers or bank, jetty or pier fishermen. Remember, your ability to find other locations far exceeds theirs, and there’s plenty of room for everyone. When approaching other anglers or entering areas of shallow water, cut the big engine and drift or use a push pole or trolling motor to move the boat into position. And, when approaching other boats, pay attention to which way they are moving and whether they are using a trolling motor or drifting with the current or wind. Besides moving in too close to other fishermen, the worst breach of etiquette would be to position your boat in their path (downwind, in the case of a drifting boat). When fishing in a group of boats, always maintain a respectful distance. If you notice neighboring anglers catching more fish, resist the temptation to move in closer unless they invite you to do so. And when you’re ready to leave, do so quietly, either by idling with the big engine or using a trolling motor or push pole until you are well clear of the other boats. Finally, always stop to assist other boaters in distress. Whether they’re experiencing engine trouble or stuck on a sandbar, always at least inquire about what you can do to help. You never know when the situation may be reversed. Missing out on a little fishing time is a small price to pay to ensure the safety of fellow fishermen.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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i n wheel t i m e
By D o n A r m st ro n g
Big Bucks Beauties for the Bay
Infiniti QX56
If you thought “big” was on the way out, better think again. “Big” is back and there’s not much bigger than the Infiniti QX 56, a mammoth SUV with large amounts of opulence to match its size. The QX takes advantage of its large proportions like a houseboat does when compared to a bass boat - with more interior room. Seating for 7 or 8 now gets a little more comfortable during that long trip to Aunt Mary’s house this summer. Powering this almost 3-ton beast is a 5.6-liter V-8 that delivers 400 horsepower through a 7-speed automatic transmission. With that kind of heft, its 14 mpg-city and 20-highway rating is no surprise. Standard amenities abound, but packaged extras will really set you apart from the Jones’. There’s the Theatre package, Technology package and Deluxe Touring package, each bringing its own set of upgrades that can swell the base price of $61,350 by an extra $10,000 or so. If you’d rather spend your money on high-end quality and on-road luxury then get the 2-wheel drive version and take the QX56 for a romp, you’ll be impressed.
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Lexus LX 570
The Lexus LX is the conservatively styled luxury cousin of the Toyota Land Cruiser. The differences, however, are plenty with it’s elegantly appointed interior, Lexus-exclusive suspension and impeccable attention to detail. The 2013 LX model adopts the new corporate “spindle” grille, LED daytime running lights along with revised tail lamps.
The LX’s full-size SUV label provides interior designers more room to ply their trade and to say they have worked magic is almost a given. This year there is more chrome, mahogany wood trim and better cooling for your derriere. The LX 570 comes in a single trim level – grandiose – but you can get the Luxury Package that bumps up its grandiose-ness to crazy luxury. Also available is a self-parking system, adaptive cruise control, dual-screen rear entertainment and a 19-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. A full time all-wheel drive system keeps this Lexus firmly planted, whether you are traversing the Bay Area’s concrete jungle, towing the 35-footer or headed to your ranch in the hill country. Its 5.7-liter V-8 produces a stout 383-horsepower, but as you can imagine is thirsty, returning 12 mpgcity and 17-highway. Luxury comes at a price and that includes a little pain at the pump. MSRP begins at $81,530.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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texas m e di tat i o n s
By M i c ha el Gos
How Quickly We Forget Houston, Texas
Looking back now, it is really funny —a comedy of errors you might say. But it wasn’t funny at the time. It was the most terrifying week of my life. It was early March about ten years ago and I was really looking forward to spring break and a trip to Hill Country. But I had one more thing on my schedule that I had to do before the fun started— my annual physical. We went through all the tests and then just as we were finishing up, the doctor asked the usual question: “Any problems or complaints?” I told her I had been feeling a bit tired, but that was always the case this time of semester. Oh, and then, sometimes I would find myself breathing more heavily than normal after a relatively effortless activity. “Well, let’s run a quick EKG just to be safe. It will only take a few minutes.” I was sent to a room down the hall where a tech put grease and electrodes on my chest and ran the test. When it was over, she handed me the printout tape and told me to take it back to the doctor. I did, and then the doctor asked me the strangest question I’d ever heard in a medical office. “Can I see your car keys?” I gave them to her and then she told me the news. “There is a problem with your EKG. You’re going to the hospital now. You can
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
have someone come and drive you or I can send you in an ambulance. You are not driving yourself.” That was not the way I wanted to start my long awaited spring break. I got that ride, and with the EKG printout in hand, I checked into St. Luke’s in the Medical Center. It
wasn’t long before I met the doctor who was assigned to my case. He said he was an internist and he had talked to my doctor while I was getting checked in. He said they were going to do a couple of quick tests right now. He didn’t say what either was for. I didn’t see him again until the next morning when he gave me the bad news. “We think you have an infection in the pericardial sac, but we want to do one more test tomorrow to rule out any other possibilities.” I asked what that meant for me. He answered matter-of-factly, “a heart transplant.” As a teen growing up in a very rough neighborhood, I had a couple of occasions when I thought I was about to die, but I was never as scared as I was at that moment. Needless to say, I didn’t get a bit of sleep that night.The strange thing is, I felt just fine.
In fact, I stayed dressed in street clothes and spent the day sitting in a chair watching the early rounds of March Madness and walking the halls, heart monitor in hand. It drove the nurses crazy but I told them pajamas and beds are for sick people. I was just fine. The next morning I spent what felt like four hours, but was probably 15 minutes, in an MRI. Later that afternoon, the doctor came in to see me with the news. I didn’t have the infection they had expected. I asked if that ruled out the heart transplant. He answered, “Yes, of course.” By this point, I was less than impressed with his bedside manner. So on my third day in the hospital, still in my street clothes, we set out on the trail of a new theory, blockages and the prospect of a coronary bypass surgery. New blood work and a stress test gave the doctor new concerns. My heart rate came down too quickly after exercise and my cholesterol levels were surprisingly low. None of this fit the new theory. We had a long discussion about my lifestyle and he asked my age. He said the long walks I took daily, along with bike rides over the Kemah bridge and back, might account for some of what he was seeing. It finally occurred to me to ask what it was about my EKG that started all this concern in the first place. He said one of the waves was inverted. Of course, that meant nothing to me and he didn’t explain. On the fourth day there was another round of tests and later another discussion. He said he
wanted to try just one more test, a repeat of the EKG. So on the fifth day, they ran the EKG six times, the last two after repositioning two of the electrodes on my chest. Then they sent me back to my room. I had no sooner gotten there then a nurse walked in and told me to start getting my stuff gathered together; I was going home as soon as I talked to the doctor. As you might expect, it took him nearly four hours to get to me, but it was worth the wait. He had great news. It seemed the technician at my GP’s office who did the initial EKG had placed the electrodes improperly. My heart was fine. “In so-so shape for a thirty-year old” he put it. I was 53. He said he was guessing the tiredness and breathing issues I was experiencing were symptoms of sleep apnea and he ordered a sleep study (it turned out he was spot-on). Then he shook my hand and said, “Have a nice life.” As I was getting ready to leave, I took just a few minutes to really think about what I had been through in the last five days. Mostly I remembered the terror and the feeling that I had wasted so much of my life on trivia. But then I compared that to what I was feeling right then—not just relief, complete elation. For the first time in the whole ordeal, I started to see just how terrific everyone I had dealt with at the hospital had been, from the nurses who accepted my obstinacy when I refused to change out of my street clothes, to the orderly who sang all the time while wheeling me from
test to test. I had lost my spring break, but I came away a different man. I loved the world, I loved my life, and I knew that, from this moment on, things would never be the same for me. I knew that I would forever cherish every moment of life and every person I met. I would relish the beauty of the world around me—sight, smell and sound. It didn’t last long. Within a month, life was back to business as usual. I was in a hurry to get things done, I cursed the traffic that slowed me down, and I spent more time on work and less on seeing what was all around me. I stopped looking at the ducks and geese on the lake, I could no longer smell the honeysuckle and I quit getting up at dawn just to hear the birds doing their morning concert. I had lost it all. I have a friend who spent 13 months in Vietnam. He told me about how, just a few days before he was scheduled to come home, his unit came under attack. They were under fire for more than 30 hours. He told me of how he prayed non-stop and swore to dedicate his life to doing God’s work if he could just survive this. When the fighting finally subsided, he came home and began that new life he’d promised. He had the best of intentions. It lasted three months. I’m convinced this is probably a universal phenomenon. Intense emotions cannot last. They very quickly pass, and we move on to life as usual. That’s too bad. I think we are lesser for the loss.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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EDUCATION
CCISD kicks off 2013 bond program By Mary Alys Cherry
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lear Creek ISD officials wasted no time starting the 2013 bond projects authorized by the voters May 11. They hit the ground running and by the end of the school year had several big projects under way. Architectural contracts totaling $7.5 million were awarded to PBK Architects and VLK Architects for the rebuild of Clear Lake High and McWhirter Elementary, as well as renovations and repairs for Bay Elementary, Hyde Elementary, North Pointe Elementary, Brookwood Elementary, Ferguson Elementary, Ward Elementary, Wedgewood Elementary, League City Elementary, Ed White Elementary, Bay Professional Learning Center and the Main Transportation Center. Funds totaling $13.5 million were approved to start several projects, with more projects to be authorized in the upcoming months. “This is an exciting time in Clear Creek ISD. Through the community’s overwhelming support, we will build a better future for CCISD,” said Dr. Greg Smith, superintendent of schools. “We have laid out an aggressive and achievable five-year plan to complete all projects.” Two of the state’s largest architectural firms, PBK Architects of Houston and VFK Architects of Fort Worth, were picked from a total of 13 bidders to handle the design work -- with PBK winning the high school contracts and VFK the elementary schools. Firms submitted proposals March 12, McLarty said, explaining that bids had to be taken early “to be sure the firms had the resources to do the job,” if the bond was approved. But, he added, “we haven’t forgotten the local architects for the smaller projects they are more attuned to.” Trustees also authorized $2.8 million to upgrade the wireless infrastructure at all elementary schools. Earlier this year, trustees approved $3.2 million for the purchase of Dell Latitude 10 tablets for teachers and instructional staff as part of the District’s Latitude to Learn, Personalized Learning in CCISD initiative. “This first round of devices will allow for adequate professional development for staff and campus administration over the summer and into the fall. Deployment to students will be phased in over two years,” Chief Technology Officer Kevin Schwartz said. “With several campuses under major renovations, we also see the tablets as an added mobile solution for students and teachers.” PBK will earn almost $5 million for designing the rebuild of the 40-yearold Clear Lake High while VBK will receive $2.4 million for work this summer on McWhirter, Bay, Hyde and North Pointe elementary schools, the transportation warehouse and Bay Professional Learning Center, plus work later on other schools. Architects generally earn 6 percent of the project cost. Work on McWhirter is expected to be completed by August 2016 while the Clear Lake High project should be finished by January 2017.
ROBOTICS The Clear Creek ISD high school robotics team, the Robonauts, was honored at the May school board meeting after sweeping local, regional and state titles shortly after returning from the First Rototics Competition World Championships in St. Louis, where they ranked fourth after 99 qualifying matches. They then went on to win the Silicon Valley Regional, beating 58 teams from Texas, Florida, Mexico, Oregon and California. They brought their robot along to the meeting and gave a demonstration of its ability to throw Frisbees.
DUPONT SUCCEEDS DAVEE CCISD Trustee Robert Davee says goodbye as he ends his 12 years on the school board. With him is new Trustee Dr. Laura DuPont, who was the winner in the election to fill the vacancy when he chose not to seek re-election.
EDUCATION
Smartest of the smart step out into the world
Clear Brook High
By Mary Alys Cherry
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any hours of hard work paid off for 14 Clear Creek ISD graduating seniors, who were named valedictorians or salutatorians of their various 2013 graduating classes. Not only did they have the distinction of being at the top of their class, most had their pick of scholarships. Take Clear Springs valedictorian Omar Hassan Harirah, for example. He plans to study medicine and will start out his college career with a $126,000 scholarship to the University of Texas at Austin. The 17-year-old also received various other scholarship offers totaling $462,600. The Clear Springs salutatorian, Charles DiFalco, a National Merit Scholarship finalist, also plans to attend UT and embark on a career in medicine. Clear Falls valedictorian Emily Hansen, also earned multiple scholarships, including the $16,000 Jones Scholarship, which she will use at the University of Chicago as the launches a career in either biochemistry, genetics or molecular engineering. Salutatorian Katherine Lewis also has her eyes set on the sciences. She will be heading to UT in Austin to become an evolutionary biologist. They will have the distinction of heading Clear Falls High’s first graduating class. Clear Lake High valedictorian Joan Zhang, who is a Presidential Scholarship semi-finalist, will use her scholarships to study business
at Harvard and eventually earn a law degree. The Lake Salutatorian, Benjamin Chang will use his scholarships to attend UT in Austin and study medicine, which makes three top grads who plan to become physicians. Brook valedictorian Rishi Suresh will be going to Rice to major in chemical engineering, making good use of the eight scholarships he has been awarded. The Brook salutatorian, Blaine Warren Rogers, also will stay close to home, using his scholarships to study petroleum engineering at the University of Houston Main Campus. Creek’s top grads, valedictorian Stephanie Ding and salutatorian Laura Holzenkamp, will be back in school together next year – this time at UT in Austin, where Stephanie will start working toward a career as a pediatrician and Laura sets her sights on a career as a diplomat in the foreign service. Clear View valedictorian Ruben Mejla plans to study at Brigham Young University-Idaho while salutatorian Jordan Shamma will start out at San Jac South with her eyes on a possible career in veterinary medicine. But Clear Horizons Early College High valedictorian Marritta Joseph will be traveling the longest distance to continue her education. Next year will find her at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in India, studying to be a cardiologist while Salutatorian Hannah Szakacs will use her $28,800 in scholarships studying nursing at Texas Woman’s University.
Valedictorian Rishi Suresh
Salutatorian Blaine Warren Rogers Clear Creek High
Clear Horizons
Salutatorian Katherine Eileen Lewis Clear Lake High
Valedictorian Joan Zhang
Valedictorian Marritta Joseph
Salutatorian Hannah Gabrielle Szakacs Clear View High
Valedictorian Stephanie Ding
Salutatorian Laura Holzenkamp Clear Falls High
Salutatorian Benjamin Chang Clear Springs High
Valedictorian Ruben Mejia
Valedictorian Omar Hassan Harirah
Salutatorian Jordan Shamma
2013 TOTALS
Valedictorian Emily Kathleen Hansen
Salutatorian Charles Ryan DiFalco
2,891 CCISD grads Clear Creek 432 Clear Springs 605 Clear Horizons 64 Clear Falls 523 Clear View 99 Clear Brook 602
By Rod Evans
Chronic pain meets its match The pain is inescapable and unrelenting. It weakens and debilitates your body. It seeps into your subconscious mind, causing anxiety and despair. It robs you of the joy you used to derive from doing simple things like taking a walk or playing with your kids.
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hronic pain is an insidious affliction, one that, according to the American Chronic Pain Association, afflicts one out of every six Americans, making it the number one cause of adult disability. A recent study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association shows that U.S. businesses lose an estimated $61 billion dollars per year due to lost productivity by workers suffering from chronic pain, and that only covers those people hampered by arthritis, headache, back pain and other musculoskeletal pain, so the cost is probably much higher. In reality, the cost of chronic pain is incalculable, especially for those in the grip of pain that never takes a day off. While research into chronic pain treatment methods has shown great promise over the past 10 or 20 years, many of the options carry with them their own side effects and risks. Even taking an excess of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil or Aleve can pose a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, and taking narcotic pain relievers like
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Oxycontin and Vicodin can lead to addiction. Physical therapy is the preferred treatment route for many chronic pain sufferers looking to rise above the pain by utilizing exercises, such as walking, weight training, stretching and core strengthening movements. The physical therapists at Legend Physical Therapy in Clear Lake have been helping Bay Area Houston pain sufferers regain their freedom of movement and return to a productive life through the use of unique, cutting edge techniques and proprietary equipment for nearly two years. Located at 1117 Clear Lake City Blvd., Legend PT specializes in providing effective, long term solutions to chronic pain, with an added emphasis on relieving spine pain. “The majority of our patients are treated for chronic pain,” said Legend PT Business Development Director Rebecca Renegar. “It’s usually something that people have developed over time and have learned to live with, but has come to the point where the only option may be surgery and they’re trying to avoid that at all costs. Many patients come
Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
to us as a last resort and say, ‘Please help me.’ Our patients who have tried other forms of treatment, including traditional PT, have told us they have never experienced anything like the care they receive here.” While Legend PT specializes in treating chronic back pain, patients suffering from sports related injuries, the after effects of automobile or other accidents and post-surgical difficulties also seek to benefit from the expertise of Legend PT physical therapist Eric Santiago, who received a master’s of science in physical therapy from the University of Hartford in Connecticut. “Utilizing our technologies, Legend PT is able to facilitate recoveries for most orthopedic surgeries in half the time of traditional therapy methods
and help our patients recover faster from musculoskeletal injuries,” Santiago said. Santiago has several years experience in advanced manual therapy and exercise prescription and performance and injury prevention, and is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). He is certified in spinal manipulative therapy through the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy and says Legend PT’s proprietary PrimeTrac ® Recovery System uses innovative equipment and procedures to help get patients back to living healthy and productive lives.
“After performing an orthopedic evaluation and utilizing diagnostic tools such as X-ray and MRI when necessary, we are able to target the area of mechanical dysfunction in the spine and other areas of the body,” Santiago says. “When dealing with chronic back pain, you are fighting a continual time clock in trying to shut off the constant cycle of inflammation in the body. Each successive treatment aims to make gentle biomechanical and physiological changes in the spine in order to restore it to normal function and shut down the chronic pain cycle.” Renegar says the PrimeTrac® treatment regimen is patient driven and focuses on resolving the causes of pain, not simply treating the symptoms that drive patients to seek help. The key to the program’s success is that treatment options are not prescribed in a one-size-fits-all manner and are developed with the particular needs of each patient in mind. “For example, we had a gentleman, one of our first patients, who came to us with hip pain and orders from his doctor to give him exercises to perform, but when we looked at the X-rays we realized he had a problem with his lower back. By treating the lower back, the radiating pain going down his hip was relieved. If we had treated him through traditional physical therapy, he would have been prescribed exercises for the hip, including strengthening and conditioning movements, which would have relieved the pain temporarily, but because we didn’t treat the source of the pain, it never
would have gone away for good,” Renegar says. In addition to using the personalized diagnosis and treatment protocol, Legend PT also employs a range of innovative equipment and modalities that have proven to be extremely successful in treating not only chronic back pain, but other conditions such as arthritis, sports injuries and physical limitations that arise in post-surgical situations. Legend PT further separates itself from traditional physical training facilities through its use of the body weight support treadmill instead of aquatic therapy. Renegar says aquatic therapy can offer only up to 30 percent in weight reduction, but thanks to the precision of the treadmill, up to 100 percent weight reduction is achieved in one-pound increments. “Our new technologies include multi-planar traction tables with vibration for the spine to specifically target and eliminate the mechanical source of pain and to facilitate the healing process,” Santiago. “We use seated traction and mechanically assisted neuromuscular recruitment chairs to facilitate the proper utilization of the core muscles, which support the back, along with body weight support and traction treadmills, which allow for pain free walking and helps restore strength and endurance. With these technologies, we are able to tailor and direct each patient’s treatment at the source of the pain.” Renegar adds that the use of vibration treatment plays a large role in the PrimeTrac® program because it
helps to relax the muscles, making it easier to manipulate the areas of the body being treated. “The vibration therapy relaxes every muscle in the body and by doing that, the adjustments of the physical therapist can take hold because (the patient) is not fighting what the therapist is trying to do,” Renegar said. “Think about it. If your leg is hurt, you adjust to that by not putting all your weight on that leg. Vibration brings complete relaxation,
facial restrictions. “One of the biggest changes in the physical therapy field over the last decade is the increased educational requirements needed to become a therapist. You now need a doctorate in physical therapy from an accredited university. The added curriculum includes course work in differential diagnosis, which gives you the ability to assess when the patient’s symptoms are outside the musculoskeletal system. Legend
“U.S. businesses lose an estimated $61 billion dollars per year due to lost productivity by workers suffering from chronic pain.” so you’re not fighting the work of the therapist. Plus, vibration also stimulates blood flow, which reduces swelling and inflammation.” Because Legend PT, which opened its San Antonio facility in January of this year, utilizes the PrimeTrac® method, its physical therapists undergo extensive training in the program. That training includes instruction in bio-mechanical analysis to determine the root causes of pain and study of innovative new treatments such as the Graston Technique, a patented form of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables therapists to break down scar tissue and relieve
Physical Therapy fully embraces the American Physical Therapy Association’s ‘Vision 2020,’ which strives to create a system where all physical therapists practice in a doctoring profession by the year 2020,” Santiago says. “We treat our patients just like family,” Renegar says. “From our private treatment rooms to the oneon-one direct care they receive from their physical therapist, we take ownership of our patients’ health.” For more information about Legend Physical Therapy, the PrimeTrac® program or to see what Legend’s patients think of their results, visit Legendpt.com.
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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Let Us Entertain You Ladies nite every Tues & Thurs at The Hop! Drink specials all nite long!
The Davenport Lounge: home of the best martinis! Steak nite on Thursday.
Jeanette Walker, owner of Cock & Bull British Pub, with the fantastic selection of hors d’oeuvres she served at the June BAHM cover party.
The Herb Cafe has awesome lettuce wraps, pizza and lots more!
Floyd’s at Harborwalk is perfect for banquets, weddings and special occasions.
Texas Cheese Steak salutes our troops with 25% military discount.
The Man Cave cigar lounge NOW OPEN in South Shore Harbour.
Gina’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria of Clear Lake Wins Prestigious Award
By Patty Kane
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favorite is the complimentary fresh hat a thrill it was for Gina’s Focaccia bread served with flavored olive Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria oil for dipping. of Clear Lake owner Phil Gina’s Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria caters Raskin and Maria Vogel, the small gatherings to large parties of 400 restaurant’s community development plus. Maria is available to talk to you manager, to learn they were the only, yes about your event and can offer you the only restaurant in all of Houston to hands-on personal attention to every receive the Urbanspoon award for “Most detail. They cater and deliver Popular Family-Friendly to your home or office. Restaurant!!” Non-profits are a The award is determined specialty of the restaurant’s by positive reviews from catering. Bay Area Turning professional food critics Point and the American and online reviews from Cancer Society Relay for customers and bloggers. Life Walk of the Greater Once you dine at Gina’s Bay Area are just two of the Italian Kitchen & Pizzeria, organizations the restaurant you will understand why Voted Most Popular, supports. they received this honor. Family-Friendly The military is Maria, general manager Josh Restaurant in honored with 10% off food Cox and the staff go out of and 25% off beer and wine, their way to make everyone Houston by all day, every day. Gina’s who walks in the door feel Urbanspoon.com is also a proud sponsor welcome and at home. for many Bay Area youth The restaurant has sports groups. Another illustration of an inviting décor which adds to the their dedication is “Give Back Nights”. ambiance. The aroma of baking pizza On these evenings, 10% of everything you and the other delicious dishes stirs the spend goes to a designated non-profit, appetite and makes you feel you have walked into an authentic Italian restaurant, youth sports group etc. The restaurant was founded with the and you have! Not only is Gina’s a family idea of delivering great food, great service friendly restaurant, it’s also a great place and with a desire to become involved to relax and have a romantic evening. in the community. “Giving back to the Every dish uses fresh, authentic community that supports my business is a ingredients, and an extensive wine and great feeling and the most important thing beer menu is available. The food menu to me,” says Phil. features New York style pizza and all The restaurant is located at 1105 Clear the standard Italian dishes we all love. Lake City Blvd. For more information, There is also a selection of dishes you call 832-284-4767, visit will only find at Gina’s, such as Sophia www.ginasitaliankitchen.com or email Stuffed Shrimp, Ravioli Gina’s and Mike & Jen Romano Bow Tie Pasta. A customer ginascl@hotmail.com.
Herb Café & Market Celebrates One Year
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Herb Café & Market signature resh, fresh and fresh are three dishes include grilled chicken wraps, simple words that describe the pulled pork sandwich, the Cuban this eclectic Texas Roadside and the tender mouth watering café. Owner Adam Folden, Philly cheese steak, all served with a originally from Baytown, had 10 fresh salad. These are all more than years of fine dining experience at a mouthful. Other popular items Perry’s Steakhouse and now has include their BBQ Chicken pizza and successfully designed and created a the tantalizing Chicken Alfredo pizza. very quaint and unique eatery. This A must is Friday steak place features a large night where they serve variety of delicious food “Their award a succulent prime rib items for you to choose winning with delicious trimmings from and enjoy. which include fresh According to Folden, chef, A.J. garlic mashed “We have brought Robicheaux, a rosemary potatoes and sautéed something new to the once talented squash for only $14. Bay Area and that is a To accompany your select variety of fresh Navy chef, lunch or dinner, try one mouthwatering food.” has served up of their market wines or Their award winning chef, A.J. Robicheaux, good quality an ice cold Abita beer. Finally, to conclude a once talented Navy food for an your culinary experience chef, has served up admirals’ at the Herb Café & good quality food for Market, a must is their an admirals’ palate. He palate.” crafted made in house also worked in the oil desserts such as the and gas patch, feeding cheese cake, key lime pie, chocolate roughnecks and executives a like. brownie or house favorite pita bread Needless to say, monsieur pudding. Robicheaux’s strengths are in the They score top marks for a Cajun culinary arts but is schooled in restaurant with a nice atmosphere, other food cultures such as Pilipino, cleanliness, excellent service and the Mexican, Latin European, etc. fact that their food is top notch. Their new world cuisine is simple, The Herb Café & Market is open fresh and made from scratch. The Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 Herb Café & Market has its own garden, which grows herbs, tomatoes, p.m. and closed on Sunday. They are located at 5828 FM 517 East in squash, onions, strawberries and Dickinson. For reservations or more more. It’s not totally functional at this information call 281-337-4080. Tell time, but does serve it’s purpose. All Adam Folden and company we sent sauces and dressings are also made you. fresh daily.
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Key Lime Pie
Graham Cracker Crust
2 cups Graham Crackers 1.5 cup Sugar 1/3 cup Melted Butter Bake Crust 10 - 15 minutes
Pie Filling
1.5 cups of Lime Juice (Approx 12 limes) 4 cans Sweetened Condensed Milk 8 Egg Yolks 5 Drops Green Food Coloring
Pour Filling into Pie Crust. Bake for 30 Minutes Recipe graciously donated by the Herb Cafe in Dickinson
JULY 2013 | Bay Area Houston Magazine
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Your Financial Life After Graduation
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o the millions of college and high school seniors who recently graduated (and to their parents, who weathered the ups and downs of reaching that summit): congratulations on a job well done. After the celebration dies down, you’ll no doubt be eager to embark on life’s next chapter, whether it’s finding a job, preparing for college or enrolling in military or community service. Before you jump in feet first, however, let me share a few financial lessons I learned the hard way when I was just starting out. They might save you a lot of money in the long run and help you get closer to your life goals, whether it’s buying a house, starting a family or even retiring early – as far off as that may sound. First, pretend you’re still a starving student. After landing your first fulltime job, the urge to go on a spending spree for new clothes, a better apartment and a car from this decade will be irresistible after surviving on ramen noodles for four years. But unless you had generous scholarships or a rich aunt, you’re probably already saddled with thousands of dollars in student loan debt. (Note to entering freshmen: Tread carefully around student loan debt. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has a great guide for making informed decisions about paying for college at www. consumerfinance.gov/students.) After you’ve factored in rent, car payments, renter’s and car insurance, credit card charges, student loan balances and other monthly bills (not to mention payroll taxes such as Social Security tax, which went up 2 percent this year), your new salary probably won’t go as far as you’d like, especially if you’re trying to save for one of those life events. That’s where a budget can help. Numerous free budgeting tools, including interactive calculators, are available at such sites as the government-sponsored MyMoney. gov (www.mymoney.gov), the National Foundation for Credit
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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Counseling (www.nfcc.org), Mint. com (https://www.mint.com) and Practical Money Skills for Life (www. practicalmoneyskills.com), a free personal financial management program run by Visa Inc. Next, know the score, credit-wise. Many people don’t realize until it’s too late that a poor credit score can trash your financial future. After you’ve missed a few loan payments, bounced some checks or exceeded your credit limits, you’ll probably be charged higher loan and credit card interest rates and offered lower credit limits (if not denied credit altogether), unless and until you can raise your credit score. You may even have to pay higher insurance rates and harm your ability to rent an apartment or get a cell phone. To know where you stand, review your credit reports from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) to find out whether any negative actions have been reported and to look for errors or possible fraudulent activity on your accounts. You can order one free report per year from each bureau if you order them through www. AnnualCreditReport.com; otherwise you’ll pay a small fee. To learn more about credit reports and scores, visit the CFPB’s “Ask CFPB.” Another good resource is What’s My Score (www. whatsmyscore.org), a financial literacy program for young adults run by Visa, which features a free, downloadable workbook called, “Money 101: A Crash Course in Better Money Management,” and other free tools. You worked hard to graduate. Just make sure you don’t sabotage your efforts by starting out on the wrong financial footing. This article is brought to you by a partnership between Visa and Texas First Bank and was authored by Jason Alderman, who directs Visa’s financial education programs. For more information, follow Texas First Bank on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube or visit us at www.texasfirstbank.com.
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B U S I N E S S
B U Z Z Photos by Mary Alys Cherry
Lockheed Martin office building in Nassau Bay.
Scott Hartwig to head USA Scott Q. Hartwig has been named to succeed Virginia Barnes as president and CEO of United Space Alliance. Barnes is returning to the Boeing Co. as the firm’s Space Launch System vice president and program manager in Huntsville, Ala., after heading USA for the past three years. Most recently, Hartwig served as USA Vice president of aerospace services and mission operations and as the program manager for the Integrated Missions Operations Contract at the Johnson Space Center. He joined the space program in 1984 at Rockwell International’s Space Systems Division in Downey, Calif., and moved to Rockwell Houston in 1986. In 1997 he was named director of Space Flight Training and Facility Operations, where he was responsible for space shuttle flight controller and astronaut training until his selection as first deputy associate program manager and then associate program manager.
Orbital Sciences launch a success NASA commercial space partner Orbital Sciences Corp. successfully launched its Antares rocket from the new Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport at the space agency’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The test flight was the first launch from the pad at Wallops and was the first flight of Antares, which delivered the equivalent mass of a spacecraft, a so-called mass simulated payload, into Earth’s orbit. The completed flight paves the way for a demonstration mission by Orbital to resupply the space station later this year.
Menchie’s opens 300th store here Menchie’s, a global brand that has built its reputation on making each of its guests smile by providing an unparalleled frozen yogurt experience, has opened its 300th store at the corner of Space Center and Bay Area Boulevards -- in the same shopping center as Subway. “We opened for business and have really been embraced by the community,” said store owner,
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SAIC offices on NASA Parkway in Nassau Bay.
Jack Page. “In fact, we already had regular customers after just three days!” His wife, Kelly, adds, “We are really excited to join the wonderful Bay Area community. We are newlyweds who undertook this project at the same time as we started planning our wedding. I am a Clear Lake native and my husband is a native Houstonian. We both went to University of Houston, and we currently reside in Clear Lake.”
NASA extends Lockheed pact NASA has exercised a contract option with Lockheed Martin Corp. of Gaithersburg, Md., to provide continued mission control systems services, development, maintenance and operations support as part of the Facilities Development and Operations Contract. The extension has a total estimated value of $166.8 million and extends the period of performance through Sept. 30, 2014 – increasing the total contract value to $1 billion. Under the contract, Lockheed Martin will provide support for the hardware, software, data and displays systems used to train for and execute all human spaceflight missions supported by the Mission Operations Directorate at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. A significant subcontractor on this contract is Cimarron Software Services Inc. of Houston.
McKinnie earns CLTC designation Jon R McKinnie, Bankers Life & Casualty senior agent, has been awarded a professional degree in the field of long-term care, Certified in Long Term Care (CLTC). The program is independent of the insurance industry and focuses on providing financial service professionals the tools needed to meet their client’s long-term care needs. “The field of long-term care is complex. It intersects with other professions such as financial planning, tax law, home care, government funding and elder law. My ability to service the community depends on understanding what resources, such
as housing and services, clients will need as they age and how they will be paid for,” McKinnie explained. “I have had far too many families ask for my advice on what they can do after a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and some other chronic illness.”
MEI Technologies contract extended NASA has extended its interim contract with MEI Technologies Inc. of Houston for electrical systems engineering services -- from May 9 to Oct. 8. The maximum ordering value of this indefinitedelivery, indefinite-quantity contract has been increased by about $50 million to a total of about $287 million. Under this contract, MEI Inc. performs tasks that are necessary for the study, design, development, fabrication, integration, testing, verification, and operations of spaceflight, airborne, and ground system hardware and software.
SAIC awarded safety contract
NASA has selected Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC) of McLean, Va., to provide safety and mission assurance engineering support services for the agency’s Johnson Space Center. The contract, which has a value of $202.5 million, has a three-year base period beginning Oct. 1, and a pair of one-year options that would extend the contract through September 2018. SAIC will support the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate in providing programmatic support to the International Space Station, Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle, Extravehicular Activity Office, Advanced Exploration Systems Office, and any future programs and projects performed by Johnson. Additionally, work will be performed at GHG Corp. in Webster and JES Tech in Clear Lake.
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TxDOT manages and maintains:
Highway 146 expansion moving along at a crawl
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he expansion of Highway 146 is constantly on the minds of Seabrook and Kemah residents as they wonder if it will ever happen, when it will become a reality and how it will affect them. Neither city officials nor the Texas Department of Transportation have any quick answers. It depends on money being available, and so far that hasn’t happened. For months, legislators and Gov. Rick Perry called transportation a must-fix issue, yet the regular session of the Legislature ended without setting aside any funds for road, rail or port projects. However, Perry opened the special session to
BayTran Retreat Photos by Mary Alys Cherry
Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership Board member John Burget, left, visits with new board member Keith Neshyba, HDR Engineering senior project manager, as they await the start of the BayTran retreat.
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transportation, which TxDOT officials hope will result in some much-needed funding. Addressing the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership, TxDOT’s Chief Planning and Projects Officer Russell Zapalac updated the crowd on his agency’s work, explaining that the project is really three construction projects – Red Bluff to NASA Parkway, NASA Parkway to the Harris/Galveston county line and from there to FM 518. “Approximately 34 acres of right-of-way are needed,” he said, adding that this will affect 58 businesses, two single-family residences, one multi-family housing unit, two churches and one municipal facility. Recently, TxDOT received
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80,233 centerlane miles
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194,887 lane miles of pavement
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51,000 bridges
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Maintains 10,361 lane miles
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Houston District serves 5.7 million people
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1.2 million acres of Roadway ROW maintained
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Last year 3,403
approximately $30 lives lost on Texas roadways million from the Houston-Galveston Area Council to begin purchasing right-ofway. We are working with the City of Seabrook to prioritize these acquisitions.” The $221 million, three-mile expansion of the highway to a 6-to-12 lane project from Red Bluff to FM 518 is dependent upon funding availability, Zapalac said. TxDOT is currently completing two projects totaling about $54 million in the Port Road/Red Bluff area that will be completed in the spring of 2014. The transportation agency also is working with the City of Seabrook to prioritize ROW acquisitions. In connection with these acquisitions, Seabrook Economic Development Director Paul Chavez said the city is working to prepare businesses for the project. “There is still a lot of surveying and acquisition of right-of-way,” he said, adding that it may take several years.
Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership officers and board members turned their thoughts to the future June 14, when they spent the afternoon at a retreat at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook. Conducted by President Barbara Koslov and Chairman Karen Coglianese, the retreat focused on ways to improve the organization that works to enhance regional mobility in Harris, Galveston and Brazoria counties and how it could better advocate for reduction in traffic congestion.
BayTran President Barbara Koslov, right, offers a preview of the retreat program to, from left, Vice Chairman Bob Robinson, board member Marcy Fryday and Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell.
Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Chairman Karen Coglianese gets the attention of, from left, Port of Houston Government Relations Director Spencer Chambers, Kemah City Administrator Rick Beverlin and Pearland Assistant City Manager John Branson as she gets out her pen and paper at the BayTran retreat.
CCISD teachers win $157,000 in grants By Mary Alys Cherry
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ome 54 Clear Creek ISD teachers got quite a jolt when the Clear Creek Education Foundation Sur-Prize Patrol dropped by to distribute more than $157,000 in Teacher Innovative Grants. The patrol, made up of CCEF Board members and community partners, visited 32 campuses as the school year neared an end, bringing both big smiles and screams of joy as teachers learned their grant requests had been approved. The grants are expected to impact more than 30,000 students. The Foundation supplies teachers with grant money to implement innovative programs for the coming school year. Since the Foundation’s inception in 1992, more than $1 million in grants has been disbursed to Clear Creek ISD teachers, CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson said. “The impact of can be tremendous,” she said, using Whitcomb Elementary Teacher, Miriam Bailey, as an example. Bailey, a grant recipient last year, said “It not only changed my classroom, it changed my teaching. The introduction of iPads into our Literacy program gave my first graders a phenomenal opportunity to blend technology and learning, and it helped me grow as a teacher and facilitator of their learning.” The CCEF director also expressed the foundation’s gratitude to its sponsors – individuals and businesses – who have partnered to make the grants possible. “The foundation feels the Teacher Innovative Grant Program is a vital and necessary strategy in assisting teachers in maintaining the high level of achievement in CCISD.”
Armand Bayou Physical Education teacher Mary Caruth is delighted as the Clear Creek Education Foundation Sur-Prize Patrol stops by to bring a check for her grant. Among those crowded around are, from left, Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hansen, Janet Brown, Lisa Holbrook, Armand Bayou Elementary Principal Robin Williams, Dr. Steven Ebell, Walter Pinto, Santiago Mendoza, Joan McKinney, Dr. Gary Renola, attorney Joe Barlow, CCEF Chairman Scott Rainey and Jill Reason.
Teachers awarded grants were:
Armand Bayou Elementary – Mary Caruth Bauerschlag Elementary – Allicia Micheletti Bay Elementary – Margaret Derouen Bayside Intermediate – Julie Edward and Jamie Rogers Brookside Intermediate – Dana Zoch Clear Brook High – Camille Sullivan Clear Creek High – Ellen Akers and Tina Sanders Clear Creek Intermediate – Betty McCullouch Clear Falls High – Adithy Iyengar, Mark Ruckstuhl and Brenda Clift Clear Horizons – Maria Magampon Clear Lake High –Lillian Wilson, and Shelly McCormick Clear Lake Intermediate – Susan Doeling Clear Springs High – Roger Elder, Amber Rhoades, Stephanie Anderson, Martha Slepitza and Lisette McClung Clear View Center – Kristi Foret, Rebecca Garland and Timothy Green Creekside Intermediate – Christopher Rafalik and Debra Carr Falcon Pass Elementary – Deborah Adams and Monica Giuffre Gilmore Elementary – Maryanna Rudecki Goforth Elementary – Julie Brightwell Greene Elementary – Michelle Brown and Brandy Magdos Hall Elementary – Jill Krznar Hyde Elementary – Cheryl Birch League City Elementary – Cindy Crookston League City Intermediate – Alexses Fitzgerald McWhirter Elementary – Jennifer Ponce Mossman Elementary – Suzanne Hargrove, Bonnie Jeffcoat, Stephanie McBride and Crystal Starke Seabrook Intermediate – Samantha Youts Space Center Intermediate – Holly Kincaid Ward Elementary – Susan Blankenship Weber Elementary – Cynthia Weaver Westbrook Intermediate – Ruth Baxter Whitcomb Elementary – Miriam Bailey and Kristina Digman White Elementary – Erika Montgomery and Laura Mackay
Laura Mackay of Ed White Elementary, left, is overcome with emotion on learning from Norman Frede General Manager Joan McKinney that she is one of the CCEF grant recipients.
Architect Mike Porterfield, third from left, presents a check to Brookside Intermediate teacher Dana Zoch as members of the Clear Creek Education Foundation Sur-Prize Patrol smile their approval.
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Dates to remember Tuesday, July 2 Webster Business Alliance presents Gen. J.D. Howell, 11 a.m., Webster Civic Center, 300 Pennsylvania Ave. Saturday, July 13 Butler Longhorn Museum Boot Scootin’ Longhorn Social, South Shore Harbour Resort, League City. Tuesday, July 23 Lunar Rendezvous Fashion Show, 10:30 a.m., San Luis Convention Center Ballroom, Galveston. Saturday, July 27 Lunar Rendezvous Coronation Ball, 5 p.m., San Luis Convention Center Ballroom, Galveston. Friday, Aug. 2 North Galveston Chamber’s Politically Incorrect Dinner, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14 Clear Lake Area Chamber’s New Teacher’s Luncheon, 11 a.m., South Shore Harbour Resort, League City. Thursday, Aug. 29 Houston Symphony League Bay Area Wine and Cheese Party, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4 Bay Oaks Women’s Association fall fashion show luncheon, 10:30 a.m., Bay Oaks Country Club. Sunday, Sept. 8 Clear Lake Panhellenic’s Fall Friendship Tea, 2 to 4 p.m., home of Cathy Osoria, 3214 Oak Links. Thursday, Sept. 12 Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre Kickoff Reception, 7 p.m., Bay Oaks Country Club. Thursday, Sept. 19 Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership luncheon with Houston City Councilman Dave Martin, 11:30 a.m., Cullen’s Upscale Grille. Wednesday, Oct. 2 Bay Oaks Women’s Association’s Fall Friendship Coffee, 9:30 a.m., Bay Oaks Country Club, Clear Lake. Friday, Oct. 4 Clear Lake Chamber Chairman’s Ball, 6:30 p.m., Space Center Houston. Wednesday, Oct. 10 League City Rotary Wine & Dine, 6:30 p.m., South Shore Harbour Resort, League City. Wednesday, Oct. 23 Bay Area Museum Guild’s 8th Annual Just a Pretty Table Luncheon will be Wednesday, Oct. 23, at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake. Thursday, Oct. 24 NASA-Clear Creek Go Texan Cowboys and Cowgirls Who Cook, 6 p.m., NASA’s Gilruth Center at JSC. Saturday, Oct. 26 Space Center Rotary’s annual Shrimporee and Auction, 11 a.m., Landolt Pavilion, Clear Lake Park. Wednesday, Oct. 30 Krist Samaritan Center’s Samaritan Celebration, River Oaks Country Club, Houston. Friday, Nov. 1 Clear Lake Panhellenic Fall Fashion Show, “Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend,”10:30 a.m., South Shore Harbour Resort, League City.
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Saturday, Nov. 2 Clear Creek Education Foundation Gala, 7 p.m., South Shore Harbour Resort. Saturday, Nov. 9 Bay Oaks Women’s Association gala dinner, 7 p.m., Bay Oaks Country Club. Saturday, Nov. 23 Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre’s Breakfast With the Sugar Plum Fairy, 9 a.m., South Shore Harbour Resort, League City. Monday, Dec. 2 Bay Oaks Women’s Association’s Holiday Market, 10 a.m, Bay Oaks Country Club, Clear Lake. Friday, Dec. 6 Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre opens The Nutcracker for a three-day run, 7:30 p.m. UH-Clear Lake Bayou Theatre. Saturday, Dec. 7 Bay Area Museum Guild’s Toyland Fantasy breakfast, 9:30 a.m. to noon, Bay Oaks Country Club. League City Historical Society Home Tour. Sunday, Dec. 8 Bay Area Museum Guild’s Holiday Open House, 5 to 7 p.m., museum, Clear Lake Park. Tuesday, Dec. 10 Assistance League Holiday Open House, 11 a.m., home of Marie Keener. Thursday, Dec. 12 Clear Lake Panhellenic Holiday Tea, 11 a.m., home of Marjo Richmond, 14310 Ripling Creek Way, Clear Lake. Friday, Dec. 13 Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre begins the second three-day run of The Nutcracker, 7:30 p.m., UH-Clear Lake Bayou Theatre. Saturday, Dec. 14 Junior League of Galveston County Holiday Ball, San Luis Convention Center, Galveston. Friday, Jan. 17 Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Quasar Banquet, 6:30 p.m., South Shore Harbour Resort, League City. Friday, Jan. 24 Go Texan Rodeo Style Show Luncheon, 10:30 a.m., NASA’s Gilruth Center. Sunday, Feb. 2 Super Bowl Sunday Thursday, Feb. 8 Clear Lake Area Chamber’s Epicurean Evening, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Space Center Houston. Sunday, March 2 Academy Awards Tuesday, March 4 Houston Rodeo begins, running until Sunday, March 23. Saturday, April 5 Assistance League Gala, 7 p.m., Hobby Marriott Hotel, Gulf Freeway. Friday, April 11 Rotary Space Gala, 6 p.m., Downtown Houston Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
Good Stuff to Know League City officials engage in fisticuffs Two League City councilmen, Daniel Becker, 60, and Dennis Okeefe, 58, who got into a fist fight in the office of City Manager Mike Loftin Wednesday afternoon, June 19, were charged with disorderly conduct – fighting after other councilmembers and police broke up the fisticuffs. It is believed to be the first time councilmembers have publicly exchanged blows since a councilman decked Councilwoman Rusty Butler at a League City Council meeting back in the early 80s.
Key official decides to stay in League City John Baumgartner, who quit his job as League City’s assistant city manager for public works in late May, has decided to remain with the city and serve as deputy city manager. He accepted a new job with the City of Plano but after discussions with his city manager and council members, Baumgartner decided to stay in League City. “Public Works is one of our highest priorities and John Baumgartner is a valued employee with the experience and skill needed to successfully address our city’s infrastructure needs now and in the future,” City Manager Mike Loftin said. Baumgartner will receive a new salary of $165,000 annually and a one-time compensation advance of $18,000, which includes a clause for repayment if he resigns within the next three years.
Taylor Lake Village picks new mayor Taylor Lake Village City Council has appointed Jon Keeney, husband of former Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Lilian Norman Keeney, as mayor. Lilian Norman Keeney filed to run for mayor and was unopposed in the May 11 election. However, she passed away April 2. Jon Keeney will serve a one-year term, with a special election to be held in May 2014
Nassau Bay keeps tax exemptions Nassau Bay City Council voted unanimously in May to adopt an annual resolution to maintain a residential homestead exemption for the city’s ad valorem taxes. The city will continue to exempt $5,000 from the value of property declared as a homestead, and $20,000 for homeoveners over the age of 65 and for those who are disabled.
Webster to join ad campaign Webster will partner with Space Center Houston and Galveston’s Moody Gardens in an ad campaign in the Dallas area
suggesting that visitors stay in Webster’s 17 hotels while visiting the two popular Bay Area attractions this summer. The Houston area has about 33 million visitors annually with most coming from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, it was pointed out.
Speed limit now 45 mph on SH 96 The League City Council voted 5-3 in May to approve the final reading of an ordinance reducing the speed limit on State Highway 96 from Highway 3 to Tuscan Village Drive from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour. Todd Kinsey, Dennis OKeeffe and Joanna Sharp Dawson were opposed. The city also announced that:
n It had issued more than 100,000 traffic
citations under its now canceled red-light camera program and collected almost $5 million in fines.
n It will reimburse Magnolia Creek
homeowners in both Phase One and Two approximately $1.5 million for development costs paid the developer for improvements that the city says were over assessed and because of a long-ago accounting error.
Fall registration starting at UHCL Registration for fall classes at the University of Houston-Clear Lake has begun in the Students Services and Classroom Building and will continue until Aug. 23, with classes beginning Aug. 26. Late registration begins Aug. 24 and runs through Sept. 3. New students must apply by Aug. 12. Class schedules are available online at www.uhcl.edu/admissions or at the Office of Admissions. For more information, call 281-283-2500.
League City loses lawsuit The Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund has won a lawsuit it filed in federal district court challenging League City’s crackdown on day laborers as they gathered, seeking employment. The court ruled it was a violation of their First Amendment rights.
Scofflaws may face new fines The League City Municipal Court is beginning a new program to help collect outstanding fines and fees. Starting in July, League City will use a state system to flag vehicles belonging to those individuals who have outstanding warrants for failure to appear or have failed to pay fines associate with traffic violations. Vehicles belonging to those individuals will not be permitted to renew vehicle registration with the Galveston County Tax Office until payment arrangements have been made.
Lunar Rendezvous Festival readies four events in July
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or the past 48 summers, the Lunar Rendezvous Festival has offered the Bay Area many events to commemorate the Lunar Landing and our unique area. Festival chairmen are putting the final touches on a 5K competition, the area’s premier fashion show, an inspirational and nondenominational worship service and the spectacular coronation ball and they invite the public to take part in any or all events. This year’s festival has the theme, “To the Moon and Back.” Contact the chairman listed for each individual event for more information.
Honeywell 5K Run – The 35th Annual Honeywell 5K Run is Saturday, July 20, starting at 7:30 a.m., at Space Center Houston, 1601 NASA Pkwy, in Clear Lake. Awards will be presented to the top three male and female runners in pre-determined age groups. T-shirts and refreshments will be available for all participants. Early registration fee sent by July 13 is $18; after July 13 - $22; race day The 2013 festival royalty are, front to back, Queen Caitlin Huston, Captain John - $25. Online registration can be found Thomey, Queen Alternate Kristen Bush and King Greg Smith. at www.signmeup.com under Lunar Rendezvous Run and packet pick up at On the Run Running Store, 2427 Bay Area Coronation Ball – The festival’s grand finale is Blvd., Thursday, July 18, or Friday, July 19, from noon the always lovely Lunar Rendezvous Coronation to 6 p.m., and on race day near race start site before 7 Ball, scheduled at 5 p.m. Saturday, July 27, at the a.m. For more information, contact Event Chairman Galveston Convention Center Ballroom at the San Jay Lee at jay@ontheruntx.com. Luis Resort, 5600 Seawall Blvd, Galveston. The theme is “Constellation Dreams.” The young adults Sunset Service – “Moonlight Over the Bay” if the representing the festival throughout the summer will theme for the Lunar Rendezvous Sunset Service be presented during this black tie event, along with Sunday, July 21, at University Baptist Church, 16106 the Lunar Rendezvous Festival king, queen, queen Middlebrook Drive, in Clear Lake. This inspirational, alternate and captain and the 2014 royalty announced non-denominational worship service is for the during the evening. A seated dinner, live music and entire family and free to the public. Contact Event dancing will complete this elegant event. Tickets Chairman Kathy Arnold at kfa@swbell.net for more are $125 per person and will be available via email. information. Contact Reservation Chairman Brandie Corrao at bcorrao@comcast.net or Event Chairman Georgette Fashion Show – The Lunar Rendezvous Fashion Curran at gmcurran@att.net Show will have “I Love Lunar” as its theme at 10:30 The Lunar Rendezvous Festival is a 501 (c) (3) a.m. Tuesday, July 23, at the San Luis Convention non-profit organization benefiting Bay Area Museum, Center Ballroom, 5600 Seawall Blvd., Galveston. area libraries, cultural arts groups, Bay Area Turning A day of fashion, elegance and fun is what guests Point, Interfaith Caring Ministries and many other will experience during this fashion extravaganza. non-profit groups and providing college scholarships Tickets for runway seating are $150; premium tickets for high school students. For more information about are $100; and reserved seats are $75. For tickets, this year’s festival, contact 2013 Festival General contact Reservation Chairman Joni Verdina at joni@ Chairman Terri Dieste at tldieste@aol.com or Bay adimpressionsinc.com or call 832-409-5667. For more Area Museum, at 281-326-5950. For updates, visit the information, contact Event Chairman Cindy Lewis at festival’s website at www.lunarrendezvous.org. cindy@lewisusa.com
Some parents now have a knight in their family
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ood deeds do pay off, Whitcomb Elementary students learned on the last day of school as some went home with royal titles after participating in a program on character building. The EarlyAct FirstKnight program was started earlier in the year when Space Center Rotary of Clear Lake partnered with the Clear Creek ISD school in Clear Lake to bestow honors on students for their honesty, fairness and good deeds. “The program teaches these really fine character traits in the early ages so that it’s developed, and they can just enhance it in the higher grades,” said Space Center Rotary President Marilyn Musial. Harris County Precinct 8 Constable Phil Sandlin said “teaching them values from the earliest grades will keep them out of trouble.” Sandlin was in the audience, along with CCISD Superintendent Greg Smith, Deputy Superintendent Paul McLarty and CCISD Trustee Ann Hammond and a host of parents, students and Rotarians. A total of 35 students won titles for exhibiting good character over the past few months. Students in grades K-4 were named pages, while those in the fifth grade were knighted. All were terribly excited – as were their parents -when their names were called and their fellow students cheered. Knighted fifth grader Anshara Danish, cited for good citizenship, explained: “Me, I will just stay after school and clean up my teacher’s room.” Another student, Brenna Rinehart, knighted for courtesy, added: “Courtesy means to tell the truth and follow the rules and respect people, that they’re unique.” Students in the lower grades were cited for their honesty and fairness to others. The program was developed by Knights of the Guild and Rotary to teach chivalry and build champions while carrying out the Rotary tradition of “service above self.” The Knights of the Guild spearheaded development of the program because “experts agree survival of any culture depends upon the ethical strength and moral courage of its people. “Once part of the traditional family upbringing, studies now show healthy values are being taught less in the home today. Basic concepts like respect, personal responsibility, honesty, compassion, fairness, tolerance and service to others are becoming increasingly unfamiliar to young people.” The program has been such a success that CCISD wants to see it go forward, Musial said.
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Photos by Patty Kane
Wounded Warriors remembered here
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he Wounded Warrior Project was set up to raise awareness of the many injured service men and women and solicit the public’s help. And, it hasn’t been forgotten in the Seabrook area. In fact, the men of Taylor Lake Christian Church host a pancake breakfast and silent auction each year to show their appreciation of the men and women in uniform. This year, the breakfast was held in partnership with Cub Scout Pack 952 with Sonic Drive-In, Bay Area Meat Market, Robinette & Co. Caterers, Coffee Oasis, all of Seabrook, and Landry’s on the Kemah Boardwalk donating breakfast food and other items to feed the crowd of more than 120. Dozens of Seabrook businesses also donated gift cards and other items for the silent auction, and extra food was given to Bay Area Turning Point. The U.S. Army’s Wounded Warrior Program assists and advocates for severely wounded, ill or injured soldiers, veterans and their families, regardless of military status, supporting the injured throughout their recovery and transition, even into veteran status – striving to foster a soldier’s independence. Many suffer from the loss of limbs, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, paralysis, severe hearing loss and deafness, post-traumatic stress disorder, loss of vision and blindness and incurable diseases. To learn more about the Wounded Warriors Project go to www. woundedwarriorproject.org
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World War II veteran ‘Chick’ Havey receives an authentic carbine rifle as Jenny Arunyon looks on.
A Bells of Dumblane bagpiper with the Sons of the American Revolution and the Clear Lake JROTC.
Marine Corps officers take part in the dedication ceremony.
Emcee Rick Clapp with a choir of Bay Elementary students.
Hundreds gather for dedication of Bay Area Veterans Memorial By Mary Alys Cherry
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crowd of several hundred were on hand May 25 for the dedication of the Bay Area Veterans Memorial – city officials, veterans and community leaders who worked to see the project come to fruition. There was a Bells of Dumblane bagpiper, a drummer, a bugler, a choir composed of Bay Elementary fourth and fifth graders, the Clear Lake JROTC Color Guard, Girl Scout Troop 1844 and the Sons of the American Revolution to add to the festivities. The Southeast Texas Patriot Guard Riders lined the street, along with military vehicles from the Bluebonnet Military Motor Pool in Pearland, as residents from Seabrook and the surrounding community arrived at the stately structure on Second Street in Seabrook. Jenny and Bruce Arunyon, who spent endless hours over the past three years planning and designing the project to honor our veterans, opened the ceremony. Rick Clapp, owner of Bay Area Houston Magazine, served
Bay Area Houston Magazine | JULY 2013
as master of ceremonies, as the various organizations marched in to post the colors and raise the flag before band leader Pee Wee Bowen sang the National Anthem. Guest speakers included Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Jerry D. Icenhower, Fox 26 Morning News Anchor Natalie Bomke and World War II Army hero Birney “Chick’ Havey. Dr. Tony McCollum, pastor of Seabrook United Methodist Church, gave the invocation. A special guest was Lloyd Bornmann, a member of Navy Seal Team 5 and the Vietnam Pearl Harbor Survivor’s Association. Seabrook Mayor Glenn Royal assisted as the Arunyons presented the Veterans Memorial . They are now planning and raising funds for a third phase to the tribute to all who have served in the country’s military, they told the crowd. The ceremony came to an end with Sgt. Alfred Taylor playing Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, the benediction by Dr. McCollum, closing remarks by Emcee Clapp and Joe Machol playing Taps.
“Jenny and Bruce Arunyon, who spent endless hours over the past three years planning and designing the project to honor our veterans, opened the ceremony.”