Area, state and federal posts up for election
By Mary Alys Cherry
SEEMS LIKE ONLY
yesterday we were heading to the polls, but it’s been almost a year, which means a number of mayoral and council posts soon will be up for election, with most Bay Area municipalities holding elections Saturday, May 5.
If you would like to run for a position in your city, you have until Feb. 16 to file for a place on your city’s ballot. Applications may be picked up any working day at your town’s city hall in the office of your city secretary Fill it out and return it by the 16th Early voting starts April 23 and continues through May 3 for the municipal elections.
But that’s not all. We have lots of decisions ahead. State and federal primary elections are coming up Tuesday, March 6, with both Democrats and Republicans vying for your vote to select primary candidates for the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, governor, lieutenant governor, controller, attorney general, agriculture commissioner, etc. for the November election. Early voting runs from Tuesday, Feb. 20 to Friday, March 2. Last day to register to vote in the primaries is Feb. 5.
The Texas March primaries are the earliest in the country. Then, all winning candidates, regardless of party, run on Nov. 6 and the top two — if neither breaks 50 percent in the first round — compete in a runoff on Dec. 8.
Here’s the list of seats and who’s currently holding them that are up for election May 5.
NASA chief named Space Trophy recipient
By Mary Alys Cherry
THE ROTARY NATIONAL AWARD for Space Achievement Foundation has selected acting NASA Administrator Robert Lightfoot as the recipient of the 2018 National Space Trophy. The presentation will be made Friday, April 27 during the annual RNASA Space Gala, which starts at 6 p.m. at the Downtown Houston Hyatt Regency in Houston. President of the RNASA Foundation President Rodolfo Gonzalez said, “We are excited about the Board of Advisors pick for the 2018 National Space Trophy and the Foundation looks forward to recognizing Mr. Lightfoot as the guest of honor at the RNASA Space Award Gala.”
In making the announcement, he
UP FOR ELECTION ON MAY 5
Clear Lake Shores Councilmember Amanda Fenwick, Councilmember Bryan Hoerner
Solomonson
4
Wally Deats
Position 6
William King III
Friendswood
Mayor Kevin Holland Position 1
Steve Rockey Position 3
Jim Hill
Kemah
Position 1
Teresa Vazquez Evans Position 3
Kyle Burks Position 5
John Skelton Position 6 Ann Vernon Dickinson Position 2
Bruce Henderson
Position 4
Matthew Wiggins Nassau Bay Mayor
Mark A. Denman
Position 2
Sandra Mossman
Position 4
Bryce Klug
invited the public and the aerospace community to attend the black-tie event -- RNASA’s 32nd annual National Space Trophy Banquet. Lightfoot was nominated for the award by Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa, Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana and Marshall Space Flight Center Director Todd May. The nominators selected Lightfoot for his, “continued extraordinary accomplishments towards achieving NASA’s vision and mission, sustaining America’s leadership in space, and pushing the frontiers of science, discovery, and exploration.
The honoree earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Alabama in 1986. His career with NASA began
Position 6
Bob Warters Pearland
Mayor pro-tem Derrick Reed
Position 4
Keith Ordeneaux
Taylor Lake Village Position 1
Doug Shows Position 3
Tony Galt Position 5
Bob Davee
Seabrook
Position 1
Robert Llorente
Position 3
Gary Johnson
Position 5
Glenna Adovasio
Webster
Position 1
Jennifer Heidt
Position 2
Andrea Wilson
in 1989 at the Marshall Space Flight Center, where he started as a test engineer and program manager.
In 2005, he became deputy director at Marshall and then center director in 2009 -- managing a $2.6 billion budget, over 30,000 civil service and contractors and nearly 7 million square feet of facilities, including the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. Michoud is one of the world’s largest manufacturing sites and is the critical assembly center for NASA’s exploration vehicles.
In 2012, Lightfoot accepted the position as NASA’s associate administrator and became the space agency’s acting administrator in January of 2017. He is now the longest serving acting administrator in NASA’s history.
For tickets to the banquet, visit www.rnasa.org/tables.html To reserve a room at the Hyatt, call 713-654-1234 and request the RNASA group rate.
The RNASA Foundation was founded by Space Center Rotary Club of Clear Lake in 1985.
Doctors Peggy Taylor, Patricia Choy, Shree Visaria, Elizabeth Cloninger and Sri Gottimukkal of Houston Methodist St. John’s Childbirth Center.
3 Ways Oral Health Influences Your Body: Heart Disease, Diabetes, Pregnancy
HAPPY 2018!
New Year’s resolutions are not as popular as they once were, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make changes to your everyday life. Now is always the right time! Did you know oral health affects your overall health? It’s important to brush and floss daily along with dental check-ups every 6 months. Poor oral habits can lead to gum disease because your mouth is swarming with bacteria. And gum disease is linked to heart diseases, diabetes, and pregnancy. Oral health is connected to your total health.
Heart Disease
Are you wondering how your oral health relates to your heart? Everyday brushing and flossing manages the bacteria levels in your
“Oral health is connected to your total health.”
level constantly increase. Meaning your body has a harder time fighting the bacteria attacking your gums. People receiving gum disease treatment along with antibiotics showed improvements with their blood sugar levels. Be sure to keep us updated on your health history and medication lists.
Source: American Diabetes Association
mouth. Without daily cleaning, bacteria is free to flow into your blood stream and can travel to your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that distribute oxygen from your heart to your body. This can lead to atherosclerosis where plaque builds up on the inner layers of your arteries. This can cause clots that can block blood flow through your body. Increasing the likelihood of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Source: American Heart Association
Diabetes
Did you know you are 3 to 4 times more likely to have gum disease after being diagnosed with diabetes?
Diabetes affects how your body processes sugar and leaving you at a higher risk for gum disease. It can also make your blood sugar
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is no excuse to slack on your oral care. Hormone levels are uncontrollable it can cause your gums to bleed, swell, and absorb food. This leads to pregnancy gingivitis. Another thing to look out for is pregnancy tumors. While harmless, they start to appear during your second trimester between your teeth. If you begin to feel pain or irritation your dentist can have them
removed. Most of the time they disappear after your child is born. A common side effect of pregnancy is morning sickness which can be alarming for your teeth. The acid from your stomach can lead to tooth decay. We recommended gargling with baking soda and water after an episode of morning sickness before brushing your teeth. Dental appointments and procedures are encouraged during pregnancy to help prevent gum disease. It is optimal to have dental work done during your second trimester because the developments of your fetal organs are complete and the risks of side effects are lower. Once you are in the third trimester it may be harder for you to lay on your back for a long period of time.
Source: American Pregnancy Association
Living a healthy lifestyle can seem overwhelming but remember to make small strides daily. Here are five healthy habits for a happy life.
• Brush your teeth twice
• Floss once daily
• Preventive healthcare screening, at least once every six months
• Smile and Laugh
• Physical Activity
• Adequate sleep
If you have a history of diabetes or high blood pressure (Hypertension) or are pregnant, please contact our office to schedule a complimentary visit with Dr. Noie at 281-332-4700 to further discuss these risk factors and how to avoid complications resulting from them.
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.
Kemah names Chris Reed its police chief
By Mary Alys Cherry
WELL KNOWN
community activist
Chris Reed has been named
Kemah’s police chief. Kemah Mayor Carl Joiner made the announcement after the Kemah City Council gave its approval, noting that “Under Chris’s leadership as interim police administrator for the past 14 months, the Kemah Police Department made significant progress.
“The Council and I are impressed with the evolution in our police department over the past several months,” he added.
“Chris has certainly demonstrated his experience and leadership skills. Exciting things are on the horizon for our city. We are proud to have a police chief of Chris’s caliber leading our hard-working police team into the future.”
Reed said he is “very proud of the team’s hard work and dedication over the past several months as we laid a strong foundation for the future,” going on to express a desire
Movers &Shakers
My favorite meal is: Filet Mignon at Killen’s Steakhouse, with cream corn, sautéed mushrooms, and bread pudding.
As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: A musician
You’ll never catch me: Breaking 90 in a round of golf (unless you are only counting the front nine)
The thing that bugs me the most is: Inconsiderate people
DIY projects and playing my bass guitar
If could travel any place, I’d go to: New Zealand
to be a long-term contributor to the continued success and development of the Kemah Police Department.
Reed serves on the Clear Creek ISD Board of Trustees and is a former city manager of both Nassau Bay and League City. He also served as assistant chief of the League City Police Department some years ago.
The department, Joiner said, will proceed with a planned study of the police department’s overall staffing requirements and shift allocations to equip them to meet the current and long-term needs of our citizens and visitors.
Strategic Government Resources, Inc. was chosen to conduct this study via a recent request for proposal process.
My favorite movie is: couldn’t single out one, but three favorite movies I will always watch if they are on (in no particular order) are That Thing You Do, Shawshank Redemption and Dances with Wolves
Few people know: learned how to “eat fire” as part of my role in the musical “Forever Plaid” at College of the Mainland.
Bay Area Houston Idol contest returns to Jackie’s Brickhouse
BAY AREA HOUSTON IDOL returns to Jackie’s Brickhouse for its fourth season this month.
The League City Regional Chamber of Commerce event (previously produced by YourTownTV) is scheduled to launch in February 2018 at Jackie’s Brickhouse in Kemah/Clear Lake Shores.
This event follows three successful Bay Area Houston Idol events that spotlighted the talents of Josie Arias, Ashley Hennessy and Heather Miller.
“We invite you to join us for this well-attended event,” Chamber’s Communications Director Erin Webb said in making the announcement.
“Bay Area Houston Idol has a total of 90 contestants, and well over 300 people in attendance each night of the competition. At this time, we have opened registration for interested parties ages 18 and up. Registration is $25 and will secure you a spot in one of the three preliminaries.”
PRELIMINARY ROUNDS of Bay Area Houston Idol are scheduled on Wednesdays -- Feb. 7, 14 and 21 with
the semi-finals Feb. 28 and the finals also on a Wednesday, March 7.
Bay Area Houston Idol is the Bay Area’s only premier singing competition. Each year, 90 contestants are accepted to compete on one of three preliminary dates. (30 contestants at each preliminary). Of those 30, 10 contestants are chosen by a group of celebrity judges to move on to the semifinals.
At the semi-finals, the top 10 contestants from each preliminary date (30 total) will compete for a spot in the finals. Only 10 contestants will be chosen to move on to the finals, where a panel of celebrity judges will choose the winner of the 2018 Bay Area Houston Idol.
PRIZES INCLUDE:
1st Place - $1,000, trophy AND concert at the 2018 League City Music Festival
2nd Place - $500, Trophy AND concert at the 2018 League City Music Festival
3rd Place - $250, Trophy AND concert at the 2018 League City Music Festival
For additional information, or to register to compete, visit www.leaguecitychamber.com/bayarea-houston-idol
For any questions, contact Erin@ LeagueCityChamber.com or call her at 281-338-7339.
MORE HELP FOR HARVEY FLOOD VICTIMS
LEAGUE CITY Chamber members
got an update by Galveston County Judge Mark Henry at their State of the County Luncheon – learning about the status of several county projects in addition to offering advice for Hurricane Harvey flood victims. Knowing that Harvey was foremost on everyone’s minds, he agreed with their thinking: “I’m aggravated (over the lack of action). Things are going way too slow,” he said of the delays many of the county’s 20,000 flood victims have been facing.
But he had some good news about a state program run by the General Land Office that has been a big help to some victims. It’s called Partial Repair and Essential Power
MARY ALYS CHERRY
for Sheltering Program or PREPS. It provides basic repairs up to $20,000 and allows homemakers to remain in their homes while the work is done – usually in about two days. Already PREPS has finished repairs to 20 homes in Galveston County with another 6,820 eligible for the program the GLO is attempting to reach. The GLO has made more than
60,000 phone calls and 30,000 phone calls to victims registered with FEMA about the program. Judge Henry said he had learned that many recipients think it’s a hoax and don’t respond.
He also suggested that victims visit www.TexasRebuilds.com and www. galvestoncountyrecovers.com for information.
Among the projects discussed were the Pelican Island Bridge, which, he said, “is 50 years old and not in good shape.” Of the options received is one from the Houston Engineering firm HDR Inc., which could range in price from $63 million to $121 million to replace. “We need to replace that bridge and doing so will result in lots of good paying jobs.”
Another was the 64-acre Bayside Regional Park in Bacliff and community center for seniors. But while many were glad to get some good Harvey tips, they all were happy to see Mayor Pat Hallisey arrive after nearly losing his life to a heart attack several weeks back and having to have his lower leg amputated. He and his wife, Janice, were all smiles as Chamber President Steve Paterson, Congressman Randy Weber and his wife, Brenda, Galveston County District Attorney Jack Roady former County Commissioner Ryan Dennard and a number of city officials welcomed him to the Civic Center.
Rodeo Style Show the ‘best one yet’
“BEST ONE YET!” That was the reply of a Clear Lake cowboy when asked his opinion of the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Style Show, which seems to get better and better as the years roll by.
And, and it also was a comment Capt. Dianna Jones and Asst. Capt. Anita White heard over and over Friday, Jan. 19 after they welcomed the lively crowd of cowboys and cowgirls to NASA’s Gilruth Center and invited them to come right in and join the fun.
Walking in, you probably would have bumped into Rocky Mauldin, Gene Hollier, Emmeline Dodd, Nancy Buffaloe, Anita Fogtman, Irene Pavig, Annette Snow Falks,
David Robertson or Don Billings before you went very far. They never miss it.
Emcee Phil Pampolina got the crowd rocking after introducing the dignitaries and donors and giving everyone a chance to bid in the live auction. Then came the style show, which had a “Fire and Ice” theme highlighted by a great performance by the Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre dancers and directed by fashion guru Lenny Matuszewski.
Models included Miss Texas USA Nancy Gonzalez, Webster Fire Chief Patrick Shipp, Nassau Bay City Manager Jason Reynolds and former Mrs. Galveston County, Kelly Williams of Kemah.
Joining them in showing off a variety of fashions from Adelaide’s Boutique, Casanova’s Downfall, Cavender’s Boot City, Dillard’s
Baybrook, Jill’s Fashion and Bridal, Kendra Scott-Baybrook Mall and The Clotheshorse were Bobby Osoria, Shari Sweeney, Karen Jordan, Lily Hentz, Jimmy Molina, Anna Babineaux, Moni Trevathan, Molly Culbreth and John Bartee. Others coming down the runway included Kellie Gross, Bo Rogers, Amy Bowlin, Dafne Sanchez, Ashley Reed, Jeremiah Corbin, Leah Galindo, Kelly Gurgos, Sarah Elliott, Jamie Sausser, TL Sellers, Karen Beaty, Karla Boddie, Jamie Sausser, Misty Hajecate, Ashley Reed, Nancy Buffaloe and Liz Cantu.
And, after a delish luncheon provided by Grazia Italian Kitchen, many stopped to thank the hardworking committee, who had put together another winner for all to enjoy.
Committee members include Deane Beck, Darla Billings, Amber Blake, Sunnie Byerly, who was named Committee Person of the Year, Ronda Cook, Renee Daigle, Robert Engler, Lesa Martin Gaffey, David Gambino, William Greer, Angela Guidry, Lisa Gurgos, Deborah Gutierrez, Tory Jenkins, Sandra Kay Kelly, Heather Kirk, Becki Leal and Alice Lyons.
Plus, Ange Mertens, Marish Morgan, Sabana Nathoo, Alan Rice, Elena Richards, Shelley Rogers, Donna Rone, Keith Satterwhite, Melis Sausser, Debra Stokes, Elizabeth Taylor West, Chiquita Taylor, Irene Taylor, Robert Mike Taylor, Marisa Vannoort, Michelle Walker, Sharon Werner, Darice Whatley and Janice Williams.
Chamber President Steve Paterson, right, welcomes Galveston County Judge Mark Henry, the keynote speaker, to the State of the County Luncheon at the League City Civic Center.
League City Mayor Pat Hallisey, seated, shares a humorous story with, from left, Galveston County District Attorney, attorney Ryan Dennard and banker Marc Elliott, as they arrive at the League City Civic Center for the League City Regional Chamber luncheon.
Donna Bentley, Becky Day and Jewell Hernandez, from left, visit as they await the start of the League City Regional Chamber’s State of the County Luncheon at the Civic Center.
Realtors Penny Brockway, left, and Michelle Hatmaker join the crowd at the League City Chamber State of the County Luncheon.
There were smiles aplenty when League City Mayor Pat Hallisey and his wife, Janice, center, arrived at the Johnnie Aroflo Civic Center for the League City Chamber luncheon. Among those greeting them were, from left, realtor Kimberly Harding, Kevin Murphy and Congressman Randy Weber and his wife, Brenda.
Boeing’s Brian Freedman, from left, and his dad, Glenn Freedman, stop to talk with florist Teresa Vencil at the League City Chamber State of the County Luncheon.
Tom Linklater, League City Economic Development Committee chairman, says hello of Ashlea Quinonez, center, and Diana Harris at the League City Chamber luncheon.
Sunnie Byerly proudly holds up the plaque naming her the NASA Clear Creek Friendswood Go Texan Committeeperson of the Year. On hand to congratulate her are, from left, Assistant Capt. Anita White and Bay Area Go Texan Capt. Dianna Jones.
Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy DeWease, right, compliments Chamber Vice President Shari Sweeney on her outfit as she prepares to model in the Rodeo Style Show.
Donald O’Connor, Kimberly Fleming and Kathy and Angelo Viscariello were among the many who turned out for the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Style Show.
Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre dancers Meaghan Abel, Jenna Westall, Rachel Stonestreet, and Hannah Young entertain the crowd at the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Style Show.
Models Lily Heintz, left, and Miss Texas USA Nancy Gonzalez, show off evening gowns during the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Style Show.
Darryl and Robin Weigelt join the fun as the NASA Clear Creek Go Texan Rodeo Style Show gets underway at the Gilruth Center.
Photos by Amber Sample
BARGAIN HATCHBACK VS HIP CROSSOVER
By Don Armstrong
WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING for basic transportation with the latest safety features, necessities and functionality or you want to stand out from the crowd with something completely different, we have a couple ideas you’ll want to know about.
traditional Toyota buyers who are looking for reliable, affordable transportation in a conservative package with modern styling. Starting under $14,000, the Kia Rio delivers on the key elements that made the Corolla so successful.
The Rio is available in two forms, the sedan and hatchback and both are competitively attractive in their two segments. Each vehicle’s front fascia is identical, with Kia’s pinched-in-the-middle grille and large, open-mouth lower air intake. The hatch features a single rear door that, when open and the rear seats are folded down, will gobble up more cargo than you think.
An attractive, functional dash layout, center console and plenty of storage address the needs of the masses. An easy-to-use 5-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard. Seating is comfortable and coverings attractive but, as you would expect at this price point, there are a lot of hard plastic surfaces.
from the side - sporting a slightly taller stance in a mini-crossover package. An optional white roof gives the runabout a sporty, look-at-me swagger. The interior isn’t quite as flamboyant as the exterior but still has plenty of thoughtful character.
A swoopy, well designed dash, contrasting textures and quality materials will make your commute or road trip more enjoyable.
The ride is state of the art and worthy of a twisty jaunt through the hill country.
The C-HR’s motivation comes from a 144-horsepower, 4-cylinder engine that is married to a continuously variable transmission. For a few, this combination delivers a blah response, for others, it’s the perfect matchup.
Lakewood Ladies install new officers at luncheon
ARY MOOREHEAD, the new president of the Lakewood Ladies Association, was installed at the annual Ladies Association Installation Luncheon at the club Jan. 12, as a large number of past presidents and board members looked on when outgoing President Amy Dunphey passed her the gavel.
LYC to host two race
management seminars
LAKEWOOD YACHT CLUB will host two U.S. Sailing Association Race Management Seminars in February. These seminars are open to members of U.S. Sailing. Non-U.S. Sailing members may join U.S. Sailing prior to enrolling in these courses and receive a one time $10 discount on their membership fee.
The principal instructor for the seminar is Hank Stuart, a U.S. Sailing National Race officer and chairman of its Race Administration Committee.
The one-day Basic Race Management Seminar will be Saturday, Feb. 10 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at LYC.
Cost for each seminar is $70 for U.S. Sailing members ($115 for nonmembers), and includes lunch and course materials.
This seminar is for people who have some Race Committee experience, but newcomers are also welcome. Topics include RC objectives and responsibilities, regatta safety, writing sailing instructions, RC jobs, equipment, setting the course, starting system, starting penalties, before the start, during the race, finishing and scoring.
The two-day Advanced Race Management Seminar will be held Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 17-18 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at LYC. This
seminar is for experienced race officers to refresh and increase their knowledge of such topics as organizing an event, regatta safety, writing the notice of race and sailing instructions, RC equipment, race committee preparations, setting the starting line, setting the course, starting, finishing and scoring.
To register for this course, visit the Regattas section of the LYC website at www. lakewoodyachtclub.com. The link is on the right.
Once you click the registration link, search for the seminar at LYC. Advance registration is strongly encouraged, and the number of participants may be limited. For further information, contact the LYC Race Committee chairman, Bob Hunkins atrdhunkins@verizon.net or 281-216-4082.
Ladies Association Board members get together for a photo during the 2018 Installation Luncheon. They are, from left, back row: Louise Toole, Elizabeth Morrell, Ann Marie Doolin, Sue Collier, Beth Ann Maxwell, Katy Peeples, Mattie Hamilton, Evey Leavens, Linda Elting, Linda Weidmann, Karen Daigle, Elaine Keith, Andrea Todaro, Stacie Covington, Rita Matthews; front row, Immediate Past President Amy Dunphey, Vice President Sheri Romer, President Mary Moorehead, Fleet Capt. Tammy Severance and Parliamentarian Judith Shaw.
Commodore Ash Walker talks with President Mary Moorehead as everyone assembles for photos at the installation luncheon.
Past presidents of the Lakewood Ladies Association line up for their annual photo during the installation luncheon. They are, from left, back row, Laney Koster, Alice Marinos, Alice Thomas, Sandy Lewis, Jan Smith, Ros Clayton, Evey Leavens, Joyce Lindsay, Amy Dunphey; front, Sue Clements, Judith Shaw, Sue Warters, Rosemary Bettis, Marsha Taylor, Nancy Bellard and Rubye Garrett.
St. John earns ‘Primary Stroke Center’ certification
HOUSTON METHODIST
St. John Hospital has earned designation as a “Primary Stroke Center” by the global health care consulting firm DNV-GL.
Free
colorectal cancer information session set
COLORECTAL CANCER has many known risk factors — some are lifestyle related and within your control, such as diet and weight. Others, such as family history and age, are beyond your control.
Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that a diagnosis of colorectal cancer is inevitable. However, colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms initially, so it’s important to understand the warning signs of this disease.
“Because colorectal cancer symptoms often do not present themselves until the disease has progressed beyond the initial stage, it’s important to be informed of your risk factors and know when you should be having regular screenings,” said Dr. Jitesh Joshi, a board-certified hematologist oncologist with Houston Methodist Cancer Center at St. John. “Detecting colon cancer early is paramount for access to treatment options that may result in a successful outcome.”
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 140,000 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year.
Join Dr. Jitesh Joshi, board-certified hematologist oncologist, to learn more about colorectal cancer — the third leading cause of cancer death for men and women in the United States. The free event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 28 in the main lobby at Houston Methodist St. John Hospital in Nassau Bay. Register for this event at houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.333.8899.
DNV-GL’s stroke certification program is a comprehensive overview of stroke treatment quality that incorporates recommendations and guidelines from the American Stroke Association, the Brain Attack Coalition and the National Integrated Accreditation for Hospitals Organization. The certification team looks for disciplined management systems and relevant clinical best practices, and reviews patient outcomes, patient care settings, clinical and staff records and more. The certification survey included an onsite visit by DNV-GL in December.
“We have a strong commitment to neurological care at Houston Methodist St. John,” said CEO Dan Newman. “This designation
is recognition that we have the necessary staffing, infrastructure and programs to provide a high standard of stroke care, and it is a testament to the efforts and dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff.”
The hospital’s medical director of inpatient neurology and stroke, Dr. Akhila Vijayakumar, said that processes and teamwork play a critical role in treating stroke patients.
“The majority of strokes occur when a vessel in the brain is blocked by a blood clot, known as ischemic strokes,” she said. “Rapid treatment is critical; if we can dissolve the clot and improve blood flow to the brain within three to four-and-a-half hours from the time the patient was last seen well, the patient has a much better outlook for recovery.
“That means when a patient arrives, we have to work quickly and in a coordinated fashion to identify the stroke and begin the proper course of treatment. Every
First Baby in 2018!
minute counts. The certification as a Primary Stroke Center demonstrates that our team has proven its ability to respond to acute strokes, and that our follow-up care meets or exceeds recognized standards.”
The hospital, located in Nassau Bay, brings the expertise and compassionate care of Houston Methodist Hospital in The Texas Medical Center - a national Honor Roll hospital - to Bay Area communities. The hospital provides a broad spectrum of adult medical and surgical care, is an accredited chest pain center, and is designated a Primary Stroke Center by DNVGL. St. John offers many inpatient and outpatient services, including state-of-the-art imaging, labor and delivery with a level II neonatal ICU, minimally invasive surgery, and comprehensive orthopedics and sports medicine.
To find a Houston Methodist St. John physician visit houstonmethodist.org/ appointments or call 281.333.8899.
In Remission from Leukemia
By Sophia Sereni
ON APRIL 7TH, OF 2015 I was diagnosed with T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. I was 12 years old and had no clue as to what was going to happen, but I put all my faith in God. God has been with me and my family every step of the way and I’ve gotten closer to him throughout this ride. I am forever thankful for this community as they have given me their support and prayers since this all started.
Today I am 6 months out from treatment and in remission. I’m happy and healthy and attending Clear Creek High School as a sophomore and a member of the Chamber Singers.
Through this experience I’ve been given many opportunities. One of which, is representing the Sunshine Kids Foundation as I sing The National Anthem for the Astro’s game at Minute Maid Park on Monday, September 17, 2018. I would love to see you there! Thanks again for your love and support!
New Treatment System for Relieving Psoriasis Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation
NUVOTHERA ANNOUNCED in January that the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) has awarded Prosoria its prestigious Seal of Recognition. Prosoria is a new treatment system for relieving symptoms of psoriasis, the world’s largest autoimmune disease affecting more than eight million people in the U.S. and 125 million worldwide.
“Prosoria is the first once daily, three-step psoriasis treatment system proven to effectively relieve the symptoms of psoriasis and help prevent recurrences,” said Art Clapp, CEO of Nuvothera, the product manufacturer. “We are thrilled that Prosoria is already helping many people control this chronic condition.
Their self-esteem and confidence are often affected. That’s why we were so motivated to come up with what we consider the best over-the-counter treatment for psoriasis available today.”
Prosoria is a combination of clinical strength and natural pro-botanical ingredients that help relieve psoriasis symptoms
“Prosoria is a combination of clinical strength and natural pro-botanical ingredients that help relieve psoriasis symptoms while softening and restoring the appearance of skin.”
We are very proud Prosoria has been recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation.”
The NPF states on its website that the Seal of Recognition “highlights over-the-counter products that are proven to safely and effectively manage the symptoms of psoriasis. Independently reviewed by a panel of dermatology medical experts and people with psoriasis, the Seal of Recognition identifies tested and trusted products that help people with psoriasis ease their symptoms of dry, itchy, flaky skin.”
“In addition to the medical challenges, psoriasis can also have a significant psychosocial impact on the lives of people living with the condition,” said Clapp. “We have heard personal stories from people who were afraid to wear shorts or expose their skin or were rejected for jobs and relationships.
while softening and restoring the appearance of skin, Clapp explained. “The products were formulated to feel light and silky. They are steroid free, fragrance free and paraben free, and they are safe and gentle to use every day.”
Clapp cited a survey published last year in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology that stated, “Overall, most survey respondents (87.8 percent of patients, 98.0 percent of dermatologists, and 98.0 percent of rheumatologists) felt there was a strong or moderate need for better psoriasis therapies. Among patients, 51.5 percent indicated that current therapies can be worse than the condition itself, compared with 30.7 percent of dermatologists and 12.0 percent of rheumatologists. In addition, 48.5 percent of dermatologists and 31.0 percent of rheumatologists reported that an important
issue is patients leaving their practice because of frustration or dissatisfaction with currently available therapies.”
Over-the-counter self-treatment is also a growing trend as insurance copayments and high deductibles are ever increasing, he noted. As an over-thecounter product, Prosoria will be available mid-January without a prescription on amazon.com and the company’s website www. prosoria.com.
About Nuvothera Founded in 2014 and based in Ft. Worth, TX, Nuvothera was formed with the mission to develop novel OTC products for difficult-to-treat skin diseases such as psoriasis and incorporating natural botanical ingredients using the latest in scientific knowledge and evidence-based research. The company’s primary focus is psoriasis. The management team consists of seasoned dermatology pharmaceutical executives who focus on the needs of the individual having psoriasis and partnering with the psoriasis community. “Our passion for how our products can impact people’s lives is what drives us,” said Bev Hope, Director of Marketing. “Nothing makes us happier than hearing from our Prosoria users and seeing their amazing results.” Incorporating the scientific standards of the pharmaceutical industry, Prosoria products are dermatology and clinically tested. To learn more about the new Prosoria Daily Psoriasis Treatment System, visit www.prosoria.com.
MMischer Neuroscience Associates has announced the addition of board-certified interventional pain management specialist Hiral Patel, M.D.
Dr. Patel will serve as a chronic pain management specialist at Mischer Neuroscience AssociatesSoutheast and Mischer Neuroscience Associates-Pearland affiliated with Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. Her areas of expertise include management of both cancer and non-cancer pain and all aspects of interventional pain management, including Botox and trigger point injections, spinal cord stimulation trials and implants and epidural steroid injections
“Dr. Patel is a wonderful addition to the team at Memorial Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Associates,” said Dr. Dong Kim M., director of the Mischer Neuroscience Institute at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and professor and chairman of the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth. “Her compassion and experience for treating chronic pain will be greatly beneficial to the Southeast Houston community and beyond.”
Prior to joining Mischer Neuroscience Associates, Dr. Patel completed an accredited fellowship in chronic pain management at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She also completed her residency training in anesthesiology at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, where she was Clinic Resident of the Year.
A native Houstonian, Dr. Patel earned her bachelor’s degree in molecular and cell biology with emphasis in biochemistry at the University of California, Berkeley and her medical degree at Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine.
EMORIAL HERMANN
LITTLE OLIVIA HEIL greeted her family – mom Amber, dad Michael and big sister Katelynn – on New Year’s Day at 4:06 a.m. and was the first baby born at Houston Methodist St. John Hospital in 2018. Now, she’s ready for some sleep!
Join Dr. Jitesh Joshi, a hematologist oncologist at Houston Methodist Cancer Center at St. John on Feb. 28 for a free and informative colorectal cancer presentation and Q&A.
Memorial Hermann welcomes pain management
Dr. Hiral Patel
FLU GUIDE: Providing Practical Public/Physician Partnerships
INFLUENZA, an airborne, highly contagious, often lethal viral infection, has the potential for extensive dissemination, local epidemics, even a global pandemic, that can result in widespread death, disability and socio-economic disruption
The virus is spread airborne via sneezing, coughing, spitting, or finger-to-face contact with contaminated objects, e.g., doorknobs.
The germ initially causes toxic symptoms, including fatigue and malaise, fever and chills, aches and pains, headaches and nausea. It targets the upper respiratory tract, causing nasal congestion, blockage and discharge and can be easily confused with the common cold or allergic rhinitis. In the event of a local epidemic, assume that the patient has influenza until otherwise proven.
Complications arise from the spread of the viral agent itself, or from other invading, opportunistic microorganisms, and include:
1. Pharyngitis – sore throat, with or without tender, swollen neck glands.
2. Sinusitis – frontal headaches, sinus congestion and postnasal drip with irritant coughing and phlegm.
3. Otitis media – earache decreased hearing, and sensation of ear fullness and crackling.
4. Laryngitis – hoarse voice and having to clear the throat often.
5. Bronchitis – cough with mid-chest soreness and colored sputum.
6. Croup – barking cough, stridor (noisy breathing) and difficulty breathing in
7. Epiglottitis – excessive drooling of saliva stridor (noisy breathing) and difficulty breathing in
8. Bronchiolitis – coughing with wheezing and difficulty breathing out
9. Pneumonia – spitting up blood, breathlessness, and one-sided chest pain when breathing in
10. Septicemia – high fever, rigors, extreme weakness, prostration, faintness, shortness-of-breath, cyanosis.
Personal Assessment and Response
Ask the individual: “In the past 10 days, have you been in an area with diagnosed cases of influenza?”
FLU-SPECIFIC TRIAGE
GUIDELINES
Influenza and flu related complications
As time passes, flu-related symptoms may appear and disappear as the infection progresses or recedes. Moreover, preexisting problems may worsen, and co-existing conditions in other body systems may develop. Periodic evaluation is essential to determine the urgency of professional consultation (triage), and management (treatment) options.
The MIGS™ Flu Triage Chart is designed to help you review your medical condition periodically, and to make more informed, timely, triage and treatment decisions. Monitor your illness periodically with this chart, to determine CLASS level (1-4), and hence, your response.
This Chart is compliments of Bay Area Houston Magazine and Victor Kumar-Misir, MD. Download and share the FREE Flu App from Google Play or the iPhone app store. Search for iMedDrs for best care.
If the answer is “Yes”, advise: “Follow local health advisories, protect yourself, and check periodically for infection.”
Follow local health advisories: Consult media, public health departments, health care providers, special phone hotlines, text messaging or web sites, regularly.
Protect yourself at all times:
1. Avoid public congregation and unnecessary contact with others, especially in emergency rooms and doctors’ offices.
2. Stay at home as much as possible, stock up with food and supplies, and avoid unnecessary socialization.
3. Tele-commute – conduct occupational affairs online, or by phone, as much as possible, from your home or private office.
4. Wear a mask when in areas where infected people may be present, and avoid individuals with nasal congestion or coughing.
If the answer is “No”, advise: “Keep abreast of the news for flu outbreaks and official advisories in the home and work areas.”
5. Avoid touching contaminated objects and keep your fingers away from your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth.
6. Wash hands frequently, but avoid public restrooms. Carry and use convenient alcohol-based hand lotions when not at home.
7. Provide antiseptic hand lotions at all entrances to your home, offices and cars, and insist everyone entering use it.
8. Isolate infected individuals. Have them wear surgical masks, use disposable tissues, and limit touching shared objects.
9. Use disinfectants and disposables in treatment facilities If you enter an area with infected individuals, wear disposable caps, NIOSH N95 masks, gowns and overshoes before entering, and dispose of these in special containers when leaving.
10. Shed possibly contaminated clothing when you enter your front door, bag and launder them, then shower and shampoo.
The extent to which the client should follow the above ‘ten commandments’ should be dictated by the infectivity, morbidity and mortality associated with the local influenza epidemic, as well as by the individual’s susceptibility and current state of health.
Check periodically for infection: The human defense mechanisms and immune systems will actively combat microbial infections, but may fail if the virus is particularly virulent, if there are pre-existing chronic conditions, e.g., asthma, emphysema, diabetes, leukemia, immune suppressive therapy, or if there are co-existing acute illnesses, e.g., vomiting and diarrhea.
Use the ‘Specific Triage Guidelines’ to detect influenza syndrome and flu-related complications. Then review the findings, triage suggestions, as well as the diagnostic possibilities above, to determine the urgency of professional consultation, and to describe the illness confidently, in order to get more informed medical responses. For minor symptoms, one can use over-the-counter medications, and consider preventive vaccines and antivirals, if recommended. Medical attention, including investigations, prescription drugs, even hospital admission, may become necessary, depending on the extent of illness, complications and co-morbidity.
Referring to the numbered ‘complications list’ above, the greater the number, the more urgently one should consider consulting a healthcare provider, preferably by phone, fax or e-mail. Always remember: At any level of expertise, medical decisions are only as good as the amount of information given to the health care provider.
This publication enables anyone to detect complications quickly, determine urgency confidently, and describe illness competently to health care providers, in order to get more accurate professional medical responses – directly in person, or remotely, by telephone, fax, e-mail or text messaging.
Legendary astronaut John Young dies
LEGENDARY ASTRONAUT and space pioneer John Young, who twice ventured into space in pioneering twoman Gemini capsules, orbited the moon and then walked on its cratered surface before commanding two
space shuttle missions, including the program’s maiden flight, died Jan. 5 from complications with pneumonia.
NASA first confirmed his death in a posting on Twitter: “We’re saddened by the loss of astronaut John Young, who was 87. Young flew twice to
the Moon, walked on its surface and before commanding the first Space Shuttle mission. He went to space six times in the Gemini, Apollo & Space Shuttle programs.”
A veteran Navy test pilot and Georgia Tech graduate who brought an engineer’s keen eye to three generations of spacecraft — and NASA management — Young was the first man to fly in space six times and the only astronaut to fly aboard Gemini and Apollo capsules and the space shuttle. He served as chief of NASA’s astronaut corps from 1974 to 1987, overseeing 25 shuttle flights during the program’s formative years.
Across a 42-year career at NASA, Young, who lived in El Lago, was a relentless advocate for flight safety, firing off countless memos that occasionally made him a thorn in the side of NASA management, especially in the wake of the 1986 Challenger disaster. Throughout it all, he brought a dry wit and ready smile that belied a near photographic memory and encyclopedic knowledge of complex space systems. He also brought a legendary cool nerve to an inherently dangerous job that amazed his compatriots. “I found out from the flight surgeon later on that my heartbeat was 144 at liftoff,” Charlie Duke, one of Young’s crewmates on the Apollo 16 moon landing mission, said of his reaction to launch atop a Saturn 5 rocket.
“John’s (heartbeat) was 70.”
“NASA and the world have lost a pioneer,” acting NASA Administrator
Robert Lightfoot said in announcing his death. “Astronaut John Young’s storied career spanned three generations of spaceflight; we will stand on his shoulders as we look toward the next human frontier.
Young began his impressive career at NASA in 1962, when he was selected from among hundreds of young pilots to join NASA’s second astronaut class, known as the “New Nine.” Born in San Francisco, Young grew up in Georgia and Florida.
He graduated from Orlando High School and then earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from Georgia Tech, where he graduated with highest honors in 1952.
In the Navy, he flew fighter planes for four years, then completed test pilot training and served three years at the Navy’s Air Test Center, where he heeded the President Kennedy’s call to go to the Moon.
In March 1965, Young made his first flight as an astronaut, joining Gus Grissom on Gemini 3, the first manned flight of that program. In May 1969, he served as command module pilot on Apollo 10 and flew all the way to the Moon with crewmates Tom Stafford and Gene Cernan The crew scouted landing sites from lunar orbit and rendezvoused the lunar module and command module in a full dress rehearsal for the Apollo 11 landing two months later.
Young made a return trip to the Moon as commander of Apollo 16 in April 1972.
Astronaut Bruce McCandless II passes away
FORMER NASA ASTRONAUT
Bruce McCandless II, mission specialist on the STS-41B and STS-31 missions, died Dec. 21, 2017, at the age of 80.
McCandless is perhaps best remembered as the subject of a famous NASA photograph flying alongside the space shuttle in the Manned Maneuvering Unit– the first astronaut to fly untethered from his spacecraft. His time as an astronaut encompassed much more than that mission, including serving as the mission-control communicator for Neil Armstrong’s and Buzz Aldrin’s moonwalk on the Apollo 11 mission.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Bruce’s family,” said Robert Lightfoot, NASA’s acting administrator. “He will always be known for his iconic photo flying the MMU.”
McCandless, a retired U. S. Navy captain, was one of the 19 astronauts selected by NASA in April 1966. He flew as a mission specialist on two
space shuttle missions. On STS-41B in 1984, he performed the famous spacewalk and on STS-31 in 1990 he helped deploy the Hubble Space Telescope.
Of his famous spacewalk, he wrote in 2015: “My wife [Bernice] was at mission control, and there was quite a bit of apprehension. I wanted to say something similar to Neil [Armstrong] when he landed on the moon, so I said, ‘It may have been a small step for Neil, but it’s a heck of a big leap for me.’ That loosened the
tension a bit.”
Born June 8, 1937, in Boston, McCandless graduated from Woodrow Wilson Senior High School, Long Beach, Calif. He received his bachelor of science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958, a master of science degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University
in 1965, and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Houston at Clear Lake City in 1987. He logged more than 312 hours in space, including four hours of flight time using the MMU. Captain McCandless was the son of the late Rear Admiral (USN) and Mrs. Bruce McCandless. Admiral McCandless received the Congressional Medal of Honor for the naval battle of Guadalcanal, Dec. 12-13, 1942. He passed away in 1968. His paternal grandfather, Commodore (later Rear Admiral) Byron McCandless, USN, received the Navy Cross for World War I, and his maternal grandfather, Capt. Willis Winter Bradley, USN, was the first recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor in World War I. Capt. McCandless is survived by his wife, Ellen Shields McCandless of Conifer, Colo.; his son, Bruce McCandless III of Austin, and his wife, Patricia; his daughter, Tracy McCandless, of Islamorada, Fla., and two granddaughters, Emma Rose and Carson Clare McCandless of Austin. He is also survived by a brother, Douglas M. McCandless of Washington, D.C.; and two sisters, Sue M. Woodridge of Texas, and Rosemary V. McCandless of Dallas.
By Mary Alys Cherry
JOHNSON SPACE CENTER
Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa surprised the space community Jan. 19 by announcing that she was ending her 30-year career with NASA by retiring at the end of May. Along the way, she became only the second woman to head the Johnson Space Center and the first Hispanic woman to go in space. She flew on four space shuttle missions, recording almost 1,000 hours in space before serving as JSC’s deputy director and then center director. Last year she was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame.
“It’s a really tough decision to determine when to make that transition (to private citizen). For me, it comes down to my personal situation. I reach 30 years at NASA, and my younger son turns 18, so this summer is a natural point for our family in which to move on to the next phase.
“We’ll be moving to Boise, Idaho, and I intend to be involved with a number of activities that interest me (including getting back to playing flute, which I once considered for a career!). Of course, I’ll continue –always -- to be a strong proponent of NASA and STEM activities in general.”
Her space career began in 1988 when she joined Ames Research Center in California as a research engineer. Two years later she moved to Clear Lake when she was selected as an astronaut. She was named JSC’s deputy director in 2007 and became director in 2012 when Mike Coats retired.
Dr. Ochoa was born in 1958 in Los Angeles and grew up in La Mesa, Calif. She earned her B.S. in Physics at San Diego State University in 1980 and her Master of Science and Doctorate degrees in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in 1981 and 1985 and has five schools named for her. She and her husband, attorney Coe Miles from Molalla, Ore., have two children.
As for her replacement overseeing International Space Station operations, the astronaut corps and the Orion program, she said JSC is fortunate to have a team of excellent leaders, “so I will be leaving JSC in good hands.
“You’ll hear more about JSC leadership plans from (acting NASA Administrator) Robert Lightfoot later in the spring. In the meantime, I have several months to go as center director, and you can count on me to continue to be fully committed to our mission and our people here.”
Dr. Brenda Hellyer to head BAHEP Board
DR. BRENDA HELLYER has been elected chairman of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Board of Directors for 2018. She follows another educator, Dr. Greg Smith, the Clear Creek ISD superintendent who was the 2017 chairman.
Dr. Hellyer is chancellor of the San Jacinto College District and a former BAHEP Board chairman.
Bastion Technologies Chief Operating Officer Dr. Jayant Ramakrishnan was elected vice chairman of the board, with Clear Lake Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Todd Caliva named secretary and Bowers & Sadler Partner Jennifer Bowers treasurer.
Others board members are:
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
• Todd Caliva, CEO, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center
• John Elbon, Vice President / General Manager, Space Exploration, The Boeing Company
• Dick H. Gregg, Jr., Attorney-atLaw / President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C.
• Fred B. Griffin, Founder & Chairman, Griffin Partners, Inc.
• Marc Havican, President, Space City Films, Inc.
• W. Michael Hawes, D.Sc., Vice President Human Space Exploration and Orion Program Manager, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company
• Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., Chancellor, San Jacinto College District
• Tim Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies
• Ron W. Masters, President, MaximGroup
• Robert McAfoos, President, Barrios Technology
• Victor Pierson, President / CEO, Moody National Bank
• Jayant Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., COO, Bastion Technologies, Inc.
• Charlie Stegemoeller, Vice
President, Program Management, SAIC
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
HONORARY CHAIRMAN Frans Gillebaard (1939 - 2013)
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
• Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP
• Gale E. Burkett, President / CEO, GB Tech, Inc.
• Lon F. Miller, Senior Vice President / General Manager, Jacobs
• Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas
• Ellen Ochoa, Ph.D., Director, NASA’s Johnson Space Center
• Dennis W. Petersen, P.E., President, Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, Inc.
• Greg Smith, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, Clear Creek Independent School District
• John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
• Genie Bopp, Vice President, Human Performance & Engineering Division, KBRwyle
• Jennifer Bowers, Partner, Bowers & Sadler, LLP
• Gale E. Burkett, President / CEO, GB Tech, Inc.
• Todd Caliva, CEO, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center
• David L. Callender, M.D., President, UTMB Health
• Jeffrey E. Carr, Vice President, Aerospace Communications, Griffin Communications Group
• Mark Conrad, Owner, Express Employment Professionals
• Darren Crowell, President, Cimarron
• Fernando De La Peña, President / CEO, AEXA Aerospace, LLC
• Brian Duffy, Executive Director, Space Exploration Coalition,
MaximGroup
• Robert McAfoos, President, Barrios Technology
• Lon F. Miller, Senior Vice President / General Manager, Jacobs
• Sergio (Checo) Muniz, President, CYFOR Technologies, LLC
• Stephanie Murphy, Deputy CEO, MEI Technologies, Inc.
• Denise Navarro, President, Logical Innovations, Inc.
• Dan Newman, CEO, Houston Methodist St. John Hospital
• Dennis W. Petersen, P.E., President, Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, Inc.
• Victor Pierson, President / CEO, Moody National Bank
Orbital ATK
• John Elbon, Vice President / General Manager, Space Exploration, The Boeing Company
• Michael Flanagan, Director, External Affairs, AT&T
• Marcy Fryday, Marketing Director, Lakewood Yacht Club
• Mike Furin, Vice President, My FlooringAMERICA
• Mark Gittleman, P.E., Executive Vice President, Intuitive Machines, LLC
• Dick H. Gregg, Jr., Attorney-atLaw / President, Gregg & Gregg, P.C.
• Fred B. Griffin, Founder & Chairman, Griffin Partners, Inc.
• Phil Griffis, President, The Law Office of Phil Griffis
• Trey Hall, III, Vice President / Chief Operating Officer, The Rothe Companies: Houston Operations
• Marc Havican, President, Space City Films, Inc.
• W. Michael Hawes, D.Sc., Vice President Human Space Exploration and Orion Program Manager, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company
• Brenda Hellyer, Ed.D., Chancellor, San Jacinto College District
• Bobbie Jessie, President / CEO, JES Tech
• Stephen Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Bay Area Regional Medical Center
• John Kennedy, Commissioner, Port Houston
• Kenny Koncaba, CEO, Texan Bank
• Tim Kropp, Executive Vice President, MRI Technologies
• Frank Law, President, Allegiance Bank Texas
• Arturo Machuca, General Manager, Ellington Airport & Houston Spaceport, City of Houston, Houston Airport System
• John Martinec, President, AeroSys, LLC
• Ron W. Masters, President,
• Ashlea Quinonez, Director of Government Relations, Memorial Hermann Health System
• Jayant Ramakrishnan, Ph.D., COO, Bastion Technologies, Inc.
• John Russo, General Manager— Houston Site, UTC Aerospace Systems
• Greg Smith, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, Clear Creek Independent School District
• Charlie Stegemoeller, Vice President, Program Management, SAIC
• Jim Sweeney, Owner, Minuteman Press—Bay Area
• Gwen Wagner, CEcD, CCD, Manager, National Sales ED, CenterPoint Energy
BOARD EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
• Chad Burke, President / CEO, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region
• Mary Alys Cherry, Editor and Publisher, Bay Area Houston Magazine
• Ruby Cubley, Individual Member
• Cindy Harreld DeWease, President / CEO, Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
• Don Kelly, Ph.D., President, AgileTech
• Bernard A. Milstein, M.D., President, The Eye Clinic of Texas
• Ellen Ochoa, Ph.D., Director, NASA Johnson Space Center
• Mike Shields, Executive Director, Baytown/West Chambers County Economic Development Foundation
• Jeff Sjostrom, President, Galveston Economic Development Partnership
• Steven Skarke, Vice President, Kaneka North America, LLC
• Mike Sullivan, Director of Governmental and Public Affairs, Group 1 Automotive, Inc.
• Hajime “Sam” Suzuki, Vice President, Administration, Kuraray America, Inc.
• John Wilkins, CEO, CLC Properties
3. Masa Sushi 977 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (281) 486-9888 masasushitexas.com
4. Michiru Sushi 20911 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 338-9988 michirusushi.com
5. Noon & Mirch: Cuisine of India 505 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX 77598
6. Ocean Sushi 3020 Marina Bay Dr Suite A2, League City, TX (281) 957-9122 oceansushigrill.com
1. Dickinson BBQ 2111 FM 517 Rd E, Dickinson, TX (281) 534-2500 dickinsonbbq.com
2. Pappas Delta Blues 19901 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 332-0024 www.pappasdeltablues.com
3. Red River BBQ
1911 E Main St Suite B, League City, TX (281) 332-8086
1. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack 310 Texas Ave, Kemah, TX (281) 334-5000 crazyalanswampshack.com
2. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood 20760 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (281) 332-7474 floydswebster.com
3. Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar 1615 FM 646, League City, TX (281) 524-8626 littledaddysgumbobar.com
4. Marais 2015 FM 517 Rd E, Dickinson, TX (281) 534-1986
1. Angelo’s Pizza & Pasta 400 Bay Area Blvd A, Webster, TX (281) 332-2404 angelospizza-pasta.com
2. Amadeus 700 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX (281) 334-3311
3. Gio’s Flying Pizza & Pasta
650 FM 517 W. Dickinson, TX (281) 337-0107 giosflyingpizza.com
4. Grazia Italian Kitchen 1001 Pineloch Dr #1100, Houston, TX (281) 486-2083 graziaitalian.com
5. Pomodoro’s NASA 1303 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX (281) 480-0700 pomodorosnasa.com
6. Villa Capri 3713 NASA Rd. 1, Seabrook frenchiesvillacapri.com (281) 326-2373
MEDITERRANEAN
1. Bakkhus Taverna 605 6th St, Kemah, TX 77565 (281) 538-1800 bakkhustaverna.com
2. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe 18033 Upper Bay Rd, Houston, TX (281) 333-3180 mediterraneomarket.com
3. Sawa Mediterranean 16608 El Camino Real, Houston, TX (281) 990-0817 sawarestaurantgrill.com
MEXICAN
1. El Tiempo Cantina 20237 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX (713) 802-1580 eltiempocantina.com
2. Habanero’s Tacos
1908 Hialeah Dr #2, Seabrook, TX (281) 474-4400 habanerostacos.com
3. Playa Maya Tacos 1415 TX-146, Kemah, TX Phone: (281) 532-6986 playamayakemah.com
1. Nobi Public House 241 E NASA Pkwy, Webster, TX (832) 932-5111 nobipub.com
2. Scotty’s Pub 3202 Marina Bay Dr, League City, TX (281) 339-7474 www.scottyspubhouston.com
3. Skallywag’s 600 6th St, Kemah, TX (281) 538-8877
4. Tilted Kilt 2481 Gulf Fwy, League City, TX (281) 309-0471
The legendary Gilhooley’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar
By Rick Clapp
GILHOOLEY’S IS A NAME that is as synonymous with the Galveston Bay Area as Joe’s Stone Crab is in Miami, Fla.
These two landmark restaurants are polar opposites -- one being known as a world famous seaside dive located in San Leon, Texas that serves the freshest succulent oysters from Galveston Bay while the other is Joe’s, one of the top first class restaurants in the universe, serving the best indescribably delicious Stone Crab Claws, slaw and tangy Key Lime Pie!
No reason to head to Miami.
Just take a short jaunt to San Leon to one of the Top 10 Dives in America. Gilhooley’s was recently rated No. 1 by GQ Magazine as well as No. 1 in other periodicals such as Trip Advisor and many others around the world. Gilhooley’s is also popular with the Hollywood movie crowd. A recent filming of the Bay House, starring Leslie Ann Warren and Barry Corbin, was shot on site at the eatery this past November.
Gilhooley’s serves, without a doubt, the freshest oysters, as well as a variety of seafood dishes such as large fried shrimp, fried oysters, oyster stew, mouth-watering gumbo, burgers, salads and much more. Its daily specials are not only freshly made but tasty and extremely affordable. Some of the daily specials include a whole stuffed flounder with two sides, beef vegetable soup (owner Misho’s favorite), delicious chicken fried steak, soups, salads, sandwiches and raw oysters. They
also offer Boudin and Sausage, poor boys that are more than a mouthful and a full menu that is to die for!
The atmosphere at this seafood restaurant and oyster bar is very rustic with 70s style furniture, pictures, a bar and a comfortable outdoor patio with bar area. This is reminiscent of the old Florida seafood houses like Capps near Boca Raton and Alabama Jacks, Jimmy Buffet’s former hangout in the Florida Keys.
“Gilhooley’s serves, without a doubt, the freshest oysters.”
Come casual, enjoy the food, drinks and the uniqueness of Gilhooley’s. Most of the diners are locals who want to keep it a secret which it is not any longer!
The legendary Oysters Gilhooley’s will melt in your mouth, and Oysters Picante is served hot and roasted to perfection. Try one of these delectable oyster platters with your favorite cold beverage. You will crave this euphoric experience each month!
Finally, the service is very good, starting with the manager, Cassie, cheerful servers such as Sherry, and their knowledgeable bartenders. Gilhooley’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar has a national ranking of four out of five stars. It is now family friendly. Open 7 days a week, 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. It is located at 222 Ninth St., San Leon, Texas 77539. Telephone number is 281 339-3813.
Gilhooley’s grills oysters to perfection.
Is Your Love Missing The Mark?
By Pastor Brad Heintz
WHEN I WAS A FRESHMAN
at Lutheran High School West in Detroit, Mich., we were all required to take physical education. Coach Tuomi made us try every sport imaginable. I think it was his way of scouting undiscovered talent for the sports program. But he also exposed us to a few co-ed “sports” such as ballroom dancing and archery. Ballroom dancing was hilarious with my two left feet, but shooting a bow and arrow was a knack I didn’t know I had. Archery is all about hitting the mark or target. It takes some skill, technique and lots of practice to hit a bull’s eye consistently. The same is true with love.
What if the way you love doesn’t connect with the person you are trying to love? It doesn’t mean that you don’t love someone; it could simply mean you are missing the mark. Could it be that your kind of love doesn’t resonate with the person you are trying to love?
How can we miss the mark when we strive to show love? Maybe we do not love in the way the person receiving the love needs or wants. That’s what I learned when
I first studied Gary Chapman’s book, The Five Love Languages. In this revealing work, Dr. Chapman shares that everyone he counseled had a “love language,” a primary way of expressing and interpreting love. Of the countless ways we can show love to one another, five key categories proved to be universal and comprehensive:
• Words of Affirmation
• Quality Time
• Receiving Gifts
• Acts of Service
• Physical Touch
If someone’s primary love language is Words of Affirmation, and I shower them with physical gifts
but never compliment them, then I haven’t hit the bullseye. Therefore, I can try to show love to someone and just because I am not loving them in their love language, I could miss the mark and they won’t feel the love I am trying to give.
As I was writing this article, one of my dear friends posted this on Facebook:
“Revisiting 5 Love Languages for my kids this year!” I’m not great about it, as I was reminded of at Christmas. I want to give gifts that are meaningful to them, not just things I want them to have (or to withhold things that I don’t want them to have. Obviously, I’m the parent and know some things aren’t going to happen). But, if I want to gift them time and they really want a guitar or help getting organizing, I need to do that.
I saw many well-meaning posts and gifts of things that were (or weren’t) given because of the giver’s attitude and without much thought to the receiver. This got me thinking that I need my kids to go back over their love languages, since they are growing up! Always a work in progress.
God’s Word says: Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
(Ephesians 5:1-3)
God truly knows how to love us in the way we need to be loved. His proof of this is in dealing with our biggest problem of missing the mark called sin. He sent Jesus who lived, died and rose again for us. All we need to do is receive His love through faith in Him. Then we can show that love to others.
Let’s hit the target this February by showing love in ways that resonate with our loved ones. That’s what God has done! That’s what we can do!
Governor presents funds for storm debris removal
GOV. GREG ABBOTT visited League City during the holidays to meet with local officials from hurricane-impacted areas of Texas and receive an update on the ongoing recovery.
During his visit, the governor presented League City Mayor Pat Hallisey and other local leaders with funds for debris removal in their communities. The governor also thanked local officials for their hard work and dedication to helping Texans recover, and he reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to doing everything possible to help the victims of the storm.
“As I continue to travel across the region, there is no doubt that the impacts of the storm are still very prevalent, but so is the resiliency of the Texas spirit,” Governor Abbott said. “The funds presented today represent a small part of the state’s commitment to make sure local communities receive the help they need. I thank all local, state and federal officials involved in
the ongoing recovery for their commitment to helping those in need, and I want all the victims of this storm to know that we will be here for as long as it takes.”
The League City visit was part of a two-day, three-city trip to hurricaneimpacted areas of Texas. In attendance at the meeting were officials from League City, Dickinson, Friendswood, La Marque, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County and Baytown.
Harvey a challenge for Exploration Green
By Mary Alys Cherry
LIKE MANY BAY AREA
families and businesses, Hurricane Harvey was the biggest challenge Exploration Green faced in 2017.
That is the assessment of Exploration Green Conservancy Chairman Frank Weary, who explains that 2017 saw both significant progress and some challenges for Exploration Green – the nearly 200 acres of green space available for recreation and much-needed flood control.
Led by the Clear Lake City Water Authority and supported by numerous partners, the conservancy is creating a world-class flood detention system based on the analyses of experts in the field and a new green space in the heart of the Clear Lake, designed by conservancy professionals to shine like other beautiful new parks.
500 trees planted
“The excavation has essentially been completed for Section 1, and
“When the storm hit, the final excavation for the first section was 80% complete. Even with the limited capacity, the detention worked as designed. It delayed 100 million gallons of storm water, helping to lower the level of Horsepen Bayou during the critical days of the storm.
Many homes spared “About 100-200 homes were spared by just this first incomplete detention area. Our hearts go out to those whose homes were flooded, and the storm has strengthened our resolve to move forward as quickly as possible with the remaining sections. From a construction standpoint, the dryout of the area delayed construction about one month.
Weary says they feel “blessed by the many volunteers who spend time helping with the care and planting of our trees and wetlands plants.”
installation of the Hike and Bike Trail is nearing completion,” he said in his annual report, adding that “Over 500 trees have been planted, including over 150 trees on the habitat island.
We still have over 600 additional trees, the remaining wetlands plants, and many shrubs left to plant -activities that will extend into early 2018.”
The biggest challenge for 2017, however, was Hurricane Harvey, he says.
Volunteers also served on several committees assisting with communications, financial management, amenities planning and fund raising¸ he said. “Without these volunteers, our progress in providing amenities would be impossible. We hope to draw on these volunteers in early 2018 to help with the remaining plantings in Section 1 and to assist with the planning and execution for the next phase of construction. Individual contributions in
2017 helped assure continued progress, and grants from Trees for Houston ($300,000), Texas Coastal Management Program ($100,000), and Texas Parks and Wildlife ($200,000) provided funds for completion of Section 1 and initiation of Section 2, he said.
Donations needed
“We also expect assistance from both the City of Houston and Harris County. Our grant application writing and corporate donation solicitations are proceeding well, and we hope to have announcements soon on both of these programs. Individual contributions are still needed for more trees, plants, irrigation and trails.”
Weary also said that recently launched programs will allow direct funding for the planting of trees and installation of park benches in memorial or tributes. These programs, he explained, provide for appropriate recognition plaques as desired by the donors. Those wishing to participate in these programs should go to www.ExplorationGreen.org and click the Donate Now button for information on how to help. Additionally contributions are needed in other areas to move the project forward, Weary added.
Gov. Greg Abbott presents a check for $153,000 to League City Mayor Pat Hallisey for hurricane debris removal as Sen. Larry Taylor, State Reps. Greg Bonnen, John Zerwas and Dennis Paul and League City Mayor Pro-tem Todd Kinsey, from left, look on.
Clear Creek schools now home to 42,266 students
By Mary Alys Cherry
CLEAR CREEK ISD’S
enrollment continues to grow, but not at the pace it once did back around the turn of the century when Bay Area schools added about a thousand new students each year.
As of what the Texas Education Agency considers the 2017-18 snapshot date, 42,266 students were enrolled at one of CCISD’s 44 campuses. That’s an increase of 12,307 since 2000 but only 370 since last year – possibly because some families may have moved away after Hurricane Harvey.
“This is true,” CCISD
Communications Director Elaina Polsen said. “We had 261 students who attended school on Aug. 21 but did not return after Harvey, as they were displaced.”
Largest school? That would be Clear Springs High in League City, which is home to 2,725 students.
Clear Brook, Clear Creek, Clear Falls and Clear Lake High Schools are all close behind, while Clear Horrizons Early College High School, Clear View High and Clear Path Alternative School are much smaller.
Westbrook is the largest intermediate campus while Clear Creek is the smallest, and Mossman and Robinson are the largest and smallest elementary schools.
High schools
Clear Brook 2,206
Clear Creek 2,351
Clear Falls 2,672
Clear Horizons 442
Ron Carter Cadillac Hyundai Genesis Community Achievers Scholarship
EACH YEAR, Ron Carter Cadillac Hyundai Genesis recognizes the hard work and dedication of college bound Greater Clear Lake Area High School seniors. Since 2012, Ron Carter Cadillac Hyundai Genesis has been proud to offer the Ron Carter Clear Lake Community Achievers Scholarships. Scholarship winners will be chosen based on academic achievement, character, leadership, service, and adult recommendations. Applications are accepted January through June
Clear Lake 2,326
Clear Path 88
Clear Springs 2,725
Clear View 214
Intermediate
Bayside 820
Brookside 811
Clear Lake 927
Clear Creek 808
Creekside 942
League City 1,071
Seabrook 1,019
Space Center 973
Victory Lakes 1,091
Westbrook 1,205
Elementary
Armand Bayou 547
Bauerschlag 945
Bay 737
Brookwood 753
Clear Lake City 590
Falcon Pass 616
Ferguson 761
Gilmore 892
Greene 729
Goforth 888
Hall 870
Hyde 653
Landolt 868
League City 637
McWhirter 884
Mossman 968
North Pointe 754
Parr 846
Ross 622
Robinson 487
Stewart 870
Ward 586
Weber 930
Wedgewood 732
Whitcomb 703
White 610
and beginning in March, Ron Carter Clear Lake will be awarding five (5) college scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to deserving applicants.
One outstanding recipient will be selected each month starting in March and ending in July. This scholarship is open to high school seniors in the Greater Clear Lake Area and surrounding areas that reside in Clear Creek ISD, Alvin ISD, Deer Park ISD, Pasadena ISD, Dickinson ISD, LaPorte ISD, Pearland ISD, and Friendswood ISD. Applicants may be students of public, parochial, or home schools. For more information about Ron Carter’s community involvement and scholarship applications, visit their website at roncarterclearlake.com
Lunar Rendezvous distributes $126,000
ATOTAL OF $126,000 in funds raised during the 2017 Lunar Rendezvous Festival were distributed to area Bay Area 501(c)(3) organizations and need based scholarship recipients during the annual Distribution of Funds Coffee held at Bay Area Museum.
Nine $8,000 college scholarships were awarded to need-based college bound Clear Creek ISD students.
Funds also were distributed to Bay Area Turning Point, Assistance League of the Bay Area, Communities in Schools-Bay Area, Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theater, Bay Area Youth Symphony, Clear Creek
Education Foundation, University of Houston-Clear Lake, and Houston Symphony League Bay Area.
The distribution comes as Lunar Rendezvous begins preparations for its 2018 festival this spring with its annual kickoff party scheduled Sunday, March 25 at UH-Clear Lake.
Now in its 53rd year, the Lunar
Rendezvous Festival is dedicated to providing community based support including scholarships for higher education, youth development, and educational programs, and funding for the arts and historical preservation in the Bay Area Houston/NASA area, Festival Chairman Dinah Matthews pointed out.
The Lunar Rendezvous Festival began in 1965 as a 501 (c) (3), nonprofit organization formed to preserve the rich history and many accomplishments in the space sciences made in the Bay Area. The first festival, which took place over two weekends in June of 1966 and included more than two dozen events, was a salute to the space program’s historic 1965 rendezvous of Gemini VI and Gemini VII in space. Since its inception, Lunar Rendezvous has hosted fun and entertaining festivals enjoyable for the entire family. Each year hundreds of volunteers join together to promote charity, and to celebrate, and honor our community. For additional information, contact 281.796.5090 or go to www. lunarrendezvous.org
Interfaith Caring Ministries event raises nearly $50,000
IN THE AFTERMATH of Hurricane Harvey, Interfaith Caring Ministries’ still ended 2017 on a high note as its 24th annual Festival of Trees raised nearly $50,000 – funds that will be used to strengthen our community one family at a time by helping local families, individuals and seniors in need.
In 2017, for example, ICM provided rent and utilities assistance to 1,000 households.
Lakewood Yacht Club made a picturesque backdrop for ICM’s popular holiday event. Opening remarks by Executive Director Suzy Domingo and a performance by the Salvation Army Harbor Light Choir kicked off the night’s festivities, followed by a salute it its corporate sponsors. They include TechTrans International, Albemarle Foundation,
Norman Frede Chevrolet, and Universal Plant Services. Underwriters included AccuZIP, LLC; Bay Area Printing; Houston Mechatronics; JSC Federal Credit Union; Moody National Bank and Texan Bank. The evening’s proceeds will benefit ICM’s services to local families in economic crisis.
ICM’s annual Toy Store took place Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, where 160 households were registered. Parents received a household gift and 328 children received toys and gift cards, just in time for Christmas!
To make a monetary year end gift to Interfaith Caring Ministries, visit the Interfaith Caring Ministries office at 151 Park Avenue, League City or make a secure donation online at www.icmtx.org
The 2018 Lunar Rendezvous Advisory Board members wear big smiles as they gather for their annual Distribution of Funds Coffee at Bay Area Museum. They are, from left, front row, Dinah Matthews, Jill Reason, Peggy Clause, Annette Dwyer, Michael Landolt; back row, Mary Ann Shallberg, Kathie Reeves, Kim Barker, Jana Miller and Ann Wismer Landolt.
CLEAR LAKE
UHCL open house Feb. 10. Discover what UHCL has to offer at its open house Saturday, Feb. 10 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open to all students, prospective students and their guests. Meet faculty and staff who can answer questions about degree programs, university services and student life.
Welcome Neighbors Feb.
15 Bay Area Welcome Neighbors Club will meet Thursday, Feb. 15 at Bay Oaks Country Club for a luncheon and program on heart health. For luncheon reservations, contact Nancy Guthrie at membership.bawnc@gmail. com or call 281.333.3055.
Duo on tap Feb. 21 The Blue Grass outfit, Dailey and Vincent of the Grand Ole Opry, will appear at the UHCL Bayou Theatre in the Bayou Building at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21.
Youth Singers Feb. 25. The Bay Area Youth Singers will present a concert, Let Freedom Ring Sunday, Feb. 25, at 4 p.m. in Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, 1511 El Dorado Blvd.
Epicurean Evening April
3. The Clear Lake Area Chamber’s annual Epicurean Evening, “A Taste of Space,” will be held Tuesday, April
3, from 6:30 - 9 p.m. at Space Center Houston, where the crowd will enjoy tantalizing food samples from over 40 area food establishments, a silent auction and be entertained by a variety of
musical treats like mariachi bands and vocalists. Free parking. For information and to purchase tickets, visit the website, www. clearlakearea.com/events/ epicureanevening
DEER PARK
Chamber banquet Feb. 15. The Deer Park Chamber will host its annual “Denim and Diamonds Banquet” saluting the Citizen of the Year Thursday, Feb. 15 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Sylvan Beach Pavilion in La Porte. For tickets, which are $75, call 281-479-1559.
DICKINSON
At the Playhouse. The comedy Hotbed Hotel is now playing in the Bay Area Harbour Playhouse’s Maindeck Theatre, 3803 Highway 3, and continues through Sunday, March 25, with curtains at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. For tickets, which are $17 for adults and $12 for seniors and students, call 281-3377469 or email bareahp@ comcast.net
GALVESTON
Mardi Gras underway. The Island’s 107th Mardi Gras celebration Feb. 2-13 and, is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees for its many concerts, 34 parades, balcony parties and elegant masked balls. For information, visit www. mardigrasgalveston.com
KEMAH
Yachty Gras ends Feb. 3
The 19th Annual Krewe du
Lac Yachty Gras celebration concludes with the Grand Night Boat Parade down the Clear Creek Channel and pass the Kemah Boardwalk at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3.
LEAGUE CITY
Go Red luncheon Feb. 23. The annual Go Red for Women Luncheon, benefitting the American Heart Association, will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 23, in the South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom, 2500 South Shore Blvd. For sponsorship or ticket information, call the American Heart Association, 713-610-5061, or visit Ashley. Adair@heart.org
NASSAU BAY
Symphony concert Feb. 9
The Clear Lake Symphony will appear in concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on Upper Bay Road, presenting music by the Hungarian masters -- Liszt, Bartok and Dohnanyi. Tickets, which are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for students, are available at Eye Trends, 515 Bay Area Blvd., Suite 300, and at the church.
HSLBA meeting Feb. 14. Houston Symphony League Bay Area will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road, to hear Cindy Qin on the harp. Guests are welcome and membership is open to those who want to support Houston Symphony music.
Comedy on tap Feb. 23. The
Clear Creek Community Theatre, 18091 Upper Bay Road, will bring smiles to the area Friday, Feb. 23, through Sunday, March 11, with the Neil Simon comedy, Laughter on the 23rrd Floor with curtains at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and matinees on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. For tickets, which are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors and students, visit clearcreekcommunitytheatre. com
Free cancer advice Feb. 28
The public is invited to a free and informative colorectal cancer presentation and Q&A by Dr. Jitesh Joshi at Houston Methodist Cancer Center at St. John Hospital Wednesday, Feb. 28 in the hospital’s main lobby. To register, visit houstonmethodist.org/ events of call 281-333-8899.
PASADENA
State of the City Feb. 15. Pasadena Chamber will host its annual State of the City Membership Luncheon featuring an address by Mayor Jeff Wagner at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, at Pasadena Convention Center, 7902 Fairmont Parkway. The Business of the Year also will be recognized. Tickets are $50 each for members and $60 for non-members.. For reservations, visit www. pasadenachamber.org or call 281-487-7871.
Comedy at Little Theatre. Pasadena Little Theatre, 4318 Allen-Genoa Road, is currently presenting the dramatic comedy, The Cemetery Club, through Sunday, Feb. 7, with curtains
at 8 p.m. and Thursday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 713-9411758.
PEARLAND
State of the City Feb. 11
Pearland Mayor Tom Reid will deliver his annual State of the City Address and outline plans for the coming year at the Thursday, Feb. 8 Pearland Chamber membership luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the First Church of Pearland, 1850 Broadway. Tickets are $30 for members and may be reserved by emailing cheryl.kepp@ pearlandtexaschamber.us
SEABROOK
Men Who Cook Feb. 13. The 24th annual Men Who Cook event benefitting the Seabrook Rotary Foundation and Seabrook Police charities will be held Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Lakewood Yacht Club, featuring a raffle and music by Al Casey and the BBs. Tickets are $50. For information, visit their website, www. seabrookmenwhocook.org
TEXAS CITY
Musical mystery at COM Lucky Stiff, an hilarious musical murder mystery, is now playing at the College of the Mainland Community Theatre through Sunday, Feb. 11 with performances at 8 p.m. Thursday – Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets range in price from $11 to $23. For reservations, call 1-888-258-8859, ext. 8345.
