Bay Area Houston Magazine March 2017

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March 2017 BayAreaHoustonMag.com

Expecting little miracles July 2017

U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame’s new inductee New trucks for 2017 Spring golf tournaments www.MyBayAreaBaby.com

Local events and entertainment calendar

MARCH 2017

features

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ON THE COVER Bay Area Regional’s new Women’s Center will provide a new birthing option for Bay Area women this July.

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President & Chairman Rick Clapp Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry Executive Vice President Patty Kane Vice President & Creative Director Brandon Rowan Graphic Designer Kelly Groce Sales & Marketing Debbie Salisbury

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Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Rod Evans Michael Gos Capt. Joe Kent Betha Merit Photography Mary Alys Cherry Brian Stewart

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The $487 million bond election on May 6

CCISD Trustees Call for Bond Election

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Dentistry goes virtual

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By Pastor Brad Heintz

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Bay Area Regional’s Women’s Center

Dental Health Making Room on Your Plate Expecting Little Miracles

26 Aerospace

U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame | Super Bowl space attractions 29

NASA/Clear Creek/Friendswood Subcommittee’s banner year

Houston Metro Go Texan Committee

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Community invited to join the fun on April 1

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Photography from local city events and luncheons

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Upcoming Bay Area tournaments

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Local pageant keeps getting better and better

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Calendar of upcoming festival events

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Houston Symphony League Bay Area tour on April 1-2

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Hospital wins top honor at Epicurean Evening

Assistance League’s Ball of the Wild The Passing Scene Spring Golf Tournaments Miss Kemah Pageant 2017 Lunar Rendezvous Festival Events Home Tour Coming in April Houston Methodist St. John Wins Epicurean Honor

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Nichols new College of the Mainland president 38

Seabrook businesses begin relocating, closing

Business Buzz

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Bay Area Regional receives bariatric accreditation

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Short Bay Area news stories

Losing Weight with Bariatric Surgery News Nuggets

columns 14

Galveston mayor Jim Yarbrough

Administration Lillian Harmon Tammy Lipsey

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BAHEP honors Sen. Larry Taylor with Quasar Award

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.

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A sense of wonder

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Truck scene 2017

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Commodore’s Ball

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Bay Area Houston calendar of events

Distribution Shinkle Distribution

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Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com r.clapp@baygroupmedia.com

281.474.5875

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Movers & Shakers Clear Lake Chatter Texas Meditations In Wheel Time Lakewood Yacht Club News & Events Main Events

CCISD trustees call for bond election

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he Clear Creek Independent School District Board of Trustees has called for a $487 million bond election on Saturday, May 6 to address growth, safety, aging facilities and program expansions.

If approved by voters, the bond program would allow the district to build new schools or permanently increase the capacity of existing schools due to overcrowding, rebuild or renovate schools between 40 and 50 years old, repair or replace elementary playgrounds, purchase new school buses, and expand the district’s science magnet for intermediate students to a second location.

The proposed bond would equate to a $0.035 tax rate increase or a $5.47 per month increase for a homeowner of a median home valued at $223,635.

“Thank you to everyone who served on the committee and gave much of their time and effort to bring this proposal forward to the community,” said Dr. Laura DuPont, board president. “The committee incorporated public input and presented a plan to accommodate enrollment growth and maintain schools for the next five years as we asked them to.”

The unanimous vote on Monday capped a community-driven effort to analyze and prioritize the school district’s $1.2 billion in facility and capital needs. Prior to taking action, the school board further reduced the CCISD Facility Advisory Committee’s $494 million recommendation to $487 million.

“Clear Creek ISD is a destination for families in search of a quality education,” said Dr. Greg Smith, Superintendent of Schools. “I thank those who have been actively involved in this process.”

Contents of the school bond package were prioritized by a 30-member facility committee consisting of parents, local citizens, business leaders and educators.

Over the course of several months, the Citizens Facility Advisory Committee studied a district-wide facility assessment, enrollment projections, and district financial information as well as toured schools.

The committee used this information and input from the public to finalize its recommendation.

The proposed bond will touch the majority of CCISD facilities in some capacity. It will address:

Enrollment growth: $72.9 million Clear Creek ISD’s student enrollment was at nearly 42,000 students in 2016.

Third-party projections have the district growing an additional 2,100 students by 2021. Currently, ten elementary schools and four intermediate schools are at, or over, instructional capacity.

• Build the district’s 27th elementary school along Highway 96 in League City • Remove portables and replace them with permanent additions at Stewart Elementary, Creekside Intermediate and Clear Lake Intermediate

Aging Schools: $333.4 Million Six schools in the district are more than 50 years old and two are more than 40 years old. This bond proposal would allow for two school rebuilds and significant renovations and technology upgrades to six.

Forty schools and CCISD facilities would receive priority repairs.

• Rebuild of League City Elementary (‘60) and Clear View High School (‘39) • Major renovations and site improvements to elementary schools -- Clear Lake City (’65), Ed White (’65), Ross (‘65), Whitcomb (‘67), Hall (’79), and Landolt (’79) • Major renovations and site improvements at Main Bus Transportation Center (’69) • Thirty-nine CCISD schools and facilities would receive priority repairs

Safety upgrades: $20.8 Million The bond proposal would address playground safety, upgrade security cameras and replace school buses that are between 15-25 years old.

• Replace 75 school buses with more than 200,000 miles • Fund an elementary playground replacement and repair program • Replace analog with digital surveillance cameras and intrusion detection equipment • Reconfigure areas of Armand Bayou Elementary

Student Programs: $23.1 Million Every year, 200 intermediate school students are turned away from the district’s science magnet program at Seabrook Intermediate due to space limitations. This bond would allow the district to open a second site. The bond proposal would also include additions and equipment replacements for certain programs.

• Science labs and classrooms at Brookside Intermediate for a second science magnet • Fine Arts expansions and renovations at Clear Creek High, and at Clear Creek, League City and Space Center Intermediate campuses.

• Music instrument replacement and equipment for fine arts and athletics

Technology: $31.8 Million The following improvements are proposed to maintain the district’s technology systems: • Upgrade network and server equipment • Replace teacher computers and student computer labs • Purchase and install ceiling mounted projectors for classrooms • Replace district telephone system • The $487 million referendum includes 1 percent for project management and bond issuance costs, CCISD said. Visit www.ccisd.net/bond2017 for more information.

Fellow Americans – can we handle the truth?

If you are like myself, you grew up in a family that taught you good manners and to tell the truth. Be kind, good, generous, listen, speak softly, do not hurt anyone and love thy neighbor. You know the story about President George Washington and the cherry tree. “Son did you cut down my cherry tree? Yes father, I did.” Blunt, direct to the fact. The son did not give his father a politically correct answer like, “Oh father, you know the tree looked under the weather and was not shading our house very well, so I cut it down. I felt it may be appropriate to trim the cherry tree. I am sorry.

When I had cancer the good doctors were not politically correct because they told me, like it is. No sugar coating! To the point and it forced me to make decisions. Well I think we all need to stop worrying about being politically correct. It causes anxiety, stomach aches, worthless thoughts and confusion to you and to the people you are trying to communicate with.

It seems to me since the Vietnam War era our political leaders went to school, hired consultants and agencies on how to circumvent the truth.

In other words, they realized as a whole, people do not want to hear or are afraid of the truth. My parents and family are Europeans and came from the Greatest Generation Era. My father was of English and Irish descent, my mother of French heritage. They spoke English very direct and to the fact. As children, and today, we know how they feel, what they expect and what they want.

There was not much political correctness at home.

The people from Europe such as England, the Netherlands and Germany are some times considered by Americans as being direct, blunt, rude, crude and a matter of fact. They are not very good at the politically correct thing. Whether they are right or wrong, they speak how they see things and

how they feel. They will tell you whether you ask them or not. Many now think to criticize people like this, be displeased and hurt by their truths, or remarks, opinions or beliefs. Bottom line – political correctness does not help our foreign relations and communication.

My actual experiences of doing business around the world is very different from America today. For example, the Germans, Austrians, French, Africans and the Middle East people tell you like they see things, as it is.

We tend to color the picture of the situation. We paint our situations like the great impressionist Van Gough.

You cannot make out the art until you get closer to the picture and then figure it out.

I am extremely fortunate to work with a very bright mature group that guides me each day bluntly and concisely what our status is and what we need to do to navigate the good ship Bay Area Houston Magazine.

Like our VP Patty Kane says, “If you don’t want the answer, do not ask me the question.” Integrity is meaning what you say and what you mean and do.

Finally, when working in the corporate world as an airline executive, much of my time was worthlessly spent trying to be politically correct to keep my high paying job.

It caused heartburn, anxiety, high blood pressure and other internal maladies. Would I have been better off to just be matter of fact or color the pictures. Perhaps, including our leaders, we should all be less politically correct and be more direct and quit coloring the picture.

Let’s wake up. We do not live in Disney World. Yes, American we can handle the truth.

Rick Clapp, President Bay Group Media

MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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DENTAL HEALTH

Dentistry Goes Virtual

accurate 3D imaging technology.

CBCT combines classic x-ray technology with a computer system that processes the information obtained.

A significant difference between cone beam CT and classic CT is that the patient is subjected to lower doses of radiation. This is because in cone beam CT scanners the x-rays do not disburse in a fan shape - as in classic CT, but in a narrower conical bundle of rays. The object can therefore be depicted during a single circulation. The bundle of rays is captured on a sensor similar to that used with a classic CT device. Algorithms are then used to convert individual levels into a three-dimensional image.

Overall, the new cone beam CT scan technology needs only

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ew technologies have consistently improved the quality of dental care that patients receive.

Once upon a time, dental care comprised of little more than a bottle of whiskey, a strong burly man holding a pair of pliers, and many nightmares that followed. Today, thanks to modern pharmaceuticals and equipment, we enjoy a more effective (and far less painful) dental experience.

Historically, many committed dental surgeons have been frustrated with limitations that traditional two dimensional radiographs presented. We live in a three dimensional world and treat three dimensional people. Information obtained from radiographs plays a very crucial role in reaching proper diagnoses. We have always relied on radiographs to diagnose dental problems and develop appropriate treatment plans. Radiographs also help verify the quality and accuracy of dental procedures performed.

The interpretation of threedimensional anatomical structures from standard two-dimensional x-rays on film, however, requires a certain degree of imagination, a good deal of experience, and sometimes, even luck. There is also a danger of an imprecise or incorrect diagnosis. The older 2D technology limited

“Once upon a time, dental care comprised of little more than a bottle of whiskey, a strong burly man holding a pair of pliers, and many nightmares that followed.” the possibilities of detecting detailed anatomical information because they lacked depth. CT scans unlocked the vital third dimension. Thanks to such precise 3D imaging, diagnosis and treatment planning is more precise, faster, and less dependent on the experience of the dentist. Above all, it enables a doctor to obtain accurate measurements in real spatial contexts, which is extremely important for oral surgery and more complex cases. The images are not produced on x-ray film as is the case with standard x-ray imaging but instead mathematically calculated and depicted in the finest detail.

Today there is a new generation of CT scans called Cone Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT). This technological marvel provides doctors with even a more

a fraction of radiation that old 2D technology and medical CT scanners need. Additionally, a cone beam slice can be as little as 76 microns versus 1000 microns (one millimeter) for traditional CT scans. That means the resolution is enhanced more than twelvefold.

Virtual Surgical Procedures The entire process of assessment, treatment planning, selection of implant devices and final restoration products is achieved “virtually” before treatment even begins. Patients benefit from being able to fully visualize the current state of need and final outcome possibilities, based on their choice of restoration components (types of crowns, abutments, shape, color shading, size, etc).

This technology also has allowed experienced dental professionals to perform implant dentistry, root canal therapy, or complex reconstructive dentistry with stunning accuracy. As most dentists and dental specialists have learned in recent years, dentistry is not entirely about filling cavities anymore. Advent of dental implants has revolutionized the dental field and changed the accepted standard of care and quality of life for dental patients.

Digital 2D X-rays were a significant technological advance and they are now being used by the majority of dentists in practice today. The introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology is rapidly changing the diagnostic landscape, allowing dentists to diagnose in three dimensions. In my opinion, 3D CBCT technology, in addition to magnification (Loups) and illumination (high powered head lights) have given doctors superhuman capabilities and have made what was once considered impossible a reality.

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.

MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Movers &Shakers Name: Jim Yarbrough Occupation: Mayor of Galveston Hometown: Galveston Current home: Galveston Family: Wife of 38 years, Carol; daughter, Ashley, and son-in-law, Dustin, grandsons, Luke and Blake; son, Beau, and daughterin-law, Erin My favorite writer is: Stuart Wood

Making room on your plate

By Pastor Brad Heintz

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he other day I was craving some comfort food and asked my daughter, a hostess at T-Bone Tom’s Restaurant in Kemah, what their lunch special of the day was or like I call it, “blue-plate special.” After enjoying my lunch, as an extra treat I was able to bring half of it home and then used it as a topping on a delicious chef’s salad that night.

When my wife recently received difficult health news, first we prayed together and then I asked her what she wanted to do? She said, “I’m hungry and I want to go to Classic Café for some comfort food!” The lunch special, a.k.a. “blue-plate special” sounded good, but the Chicken Fried Steak sounded better, so we shared it!

All this talk about food makes me

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ravenous for more … information that is!

How did blue-plate specials get their name? According to Wikipedia, blue-plate special is a term used in the United States by restaurants, especially diners and cafes. It refers to a low-priced meal that usually changes daily. The term was very common from the 1920s through the 1950s. One can still find a few restaurants and diners that call their daily special a blue-plate special, and as an extra bonus at times, it’s even served on a blue plate. Sadly, this is a vanishing tradition.

Another vanishing tradition is what I would nick name a purpleplate special or Lent! Lent is a Christian season of 40 days before Easter (minus Sundays) where Christians traditionally take on the spiritual discipline of self-sacrifice in order to connect with the sacrifice

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Someone I’d like to meet: Rosa Parks and Gen. George Patton If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: No one My favorite performers are: John Wayne and George Jones I like to spend my leisure time: Working in my garden at my ranch If I could travel any place, I’d go to: Mount Rushmore, Normandy, France

that Jesus Christ made on the cross.

It started in the Early Church as the timeframe when new believers would make room in their schedules to learn about the faith and then be baptized on Easter Weekend. Over the years this time developed into 40 days of self-sacrifice, spiritual discipline and preparation for many Christians. Some people give up meat, sweets or meals as a spiritual discipline. I’ve even seen others give up Facebook, video games or TV as a self-sacrifice.

The number 40 is a special number in the Bible. Noah experienced 40 days and nights of rain. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years. Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days in the wilderness after His baptism. The disciples spent 40 days with Jesus after his resurrection.

“They both nodded in understanding since they both have used the spiritual discipline of fasting or, as Rush would say, ‘Making room on your plate for God.’” My adopted dad, Rush Warren described Lent as, “Making room on your plate for God.” One morning while eating breakfast at The Pelican Grill, he shared a story about when he went out to lunch with some coworkers. Around the table were a Muslim, a Hindu and a Christian. (I know some of you are expecting a joke or punch line right about now.)

The Muslim and the Hindu coworkers all ordered their lunch and

My favorite meal is: Fried chicken As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: A banker or an attorney You’ll never catch me: Eating tofu The thing that bugs me the most is: Hypocrisy My favorite movie is: Lincoln Few people know: I’ve been on Air Force One

the Christian ordered water. They asked him why he didn’t order lunch and Rush shared that he was fasting.

They both nodded in understanding since they both have used the spiritual discipline of fasting or, as Rush would say, “Making room on your plate for God.” What if for the 40 days before we observe the death and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on Easter, we make room on our proverbial plate for God. This may mean giving something up like a meal, TV show or even sleep.

Maybe you have gotten out of the habit of worship on Sundays? Now would be a great time to make room on Sundays for God. Maybe you could set the alarm 30 minutes earlier during the week and make room for God daily through prayer and reading of His Word?

What if you spent the next 40 days making room in your life for God? Do you think He could wipe away all that was bad in your life like Noah, prepare you for what He has promised, like the Israelites, empower you for ministry like Jesus or pour out the Holy Spirit like the Disciples? I think He will because he has moved heaven and earth to make space for you on His plate. Give it a try and let me know how God filled the space you made for Him! I’m so sorry if this article made you hungry or if I left out your favorite restaurant. After Easter, invite me to lunch and let me know how God filled your plate! Just let me know.

Having been freed from a lot of tradition myself, I find keeping the spirit of this season more helpful than the letter of it. Lent, or my purpleplate experience starts March 1 and concludes Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017. How about you?

MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Quasar Award winner, State Sen. Larry Taylor, with his wife, Kerri, enjoy the Feb. 3 BAHEP banquet at South Shore Harbour Resort.

Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa and her husband, attorney Coe Miles, right, are happy to see Boeing Vice President John Elbon and Brenda McElroy as they arrive at the Quasar Banquet.

Shari Wilkins joins her husband, John, after singing the National Anthem at the BAHEP Quasar Banquet at South Shore Harbour Resort.

BAHEP honors sen. Larry Taylor with Quasar award FEW PEOPLE have made a more lasting mark on the Bay Area than State Sen. Larry Taylor, who chairs the Texas Senate’s Education Committee and has for many years pushed the local community’s agenda in Austin.

They got an opportunity to say thank you when the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership honored him with its 2017 Quasar Award before a standing room only black-tie crowd of more than 600 that included his smiling wife Kerri, his mother Arlene, and son and daughter-in-law, Jake and Katie.

Noting that it was a tremendous

Attorney Dick Gregg III and Stacey Froeschner arrive at South Shore Harbour Resort for BAHEP’s 2017 Quasar Banquet.

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MARY ALYS CHERRY

privilege to represent the Bay Area, he told BAHEP President Bob Mitchell and the crowd, “this is, without a doubt, one of the highest honors of my public service career, and I’m humbled to be named a recipient.”

And, he was no doubt even prouder when he looked around and

saw many of his Austin legislative pals in the cheering crowd, including Sen. Sylvia Garcia and Reps. Dennis Paul, Dr. Greg Bonnen, Wayne Faircloth, Alma Allen and Mary Ann Perez – and their spouses.

They were among a number of elected officials on hand, including Galveston County Judge Mark Henry, Commissioner Ken Clark and Tax Assessor Cheryl Johnson; Constable Phil Sandlin, Harris County Clerk Stan Stanart, Judge Holly Williamson, and Mayors Julie Masters of Dickinson, Carl Joiner of Kemah, Louis Rigby of La Porte, Pat Hallisey of League City, Michel

State Sen. Larry Taylor, second from left, is presented the 2017 Quasar Award by Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Chairman John Elbon during the annual banquet at South Shore Harbour Resort. Also taking part in the presentation are BAHEP President Bob Mitchell, right, and 2017 Chairman Greg Smith, left. Photo by Bill Stafford.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Bechtel of Morgan’s Point, Mark Denman of Nassau Bay, Johnny Isbell of Pasadena, Glenn Royal of Seabrook and Donna Rogers of Webster.

City Managers in the mix included John Baumgartner of League City, Jason Reynolds of Nassau Bay, Gayle Cooke of Seabrook and Wayne Sabo of Webster plus City Councilors Jennifer Heidt, Andrea Wilson, Beverly Gaines, Edward Lapeyre and Martin Graves of Webster, Todd Kinsey, Greg Gripon and Larry Millican of League City, Mike Knox of Houston, Theresa Vasquez Evans and Robin Collins of Kemah, Jay

Webster Economic Development Specialist Karen Coglianese and her husband, Bill, visit with Patty Kane of Bay Area Houston Magazine at the Quasar Banquet.

Amoco Federal Credit Union President Shawn Bailey gives his wife, Susan, a hug during BAHEP’s Quasar Banquet.

Constable Phil Sandlin and his wife, Nerissa, enjoy the reception preceding the Quasar Banquet.

Martin and Chuck Engelken of La Porte, Cary Bass of Pasadena, Jennifer Heidt, Andrea Wilson, Beverly Gaines, Edward Lapeyre and Martin Graves of Webster, and Jonathan Amdur, John Mahon and Bob Warters of Nassau Bay – many with their wives and/or husbands.

Glancing around, you might also have spotted Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith with his wife, Kathy; Friendswood ISD Superintendent Trish Hanks and her husband, Bruce; UHCL President Dr. Bill Staples and Business Dean Dr. Ted Cummings and wives, Darlene and Leslie; San Jac Vice Chancellor Terri Fowler and husband, Kevin; Texas A&M Galveston VP Mike Fossum; and attorneys Joe Barlow

BAHEP Chairman Dr. Greg Smith, from left, visits with League City Fire Marshal Tommy Cones and League City Mayor Pat Hallisey as the Quasar Banquet comes to an end.

and wife, Jeannette, Craig Saunders and wife, Denise; Dick Gregg Jr. with Kay Winters, Dick Gregg III with Stacey Froeschner and Chris Gregg and wife, Mitzi.

Aerospace biggies in the crowd included Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa and her husband, attorney Coe Miles; JSC Deputy Director Mark Geyer with wife, Jackie; Boeing Vice President John Elbon with Brenda McElroy; Jacobs GM Lon Miller and wife, Michelle; Barrios Technology President Robert McAfoos and wife, Victoria Edgington; GB Tech owners Gale and Jean Burkett; Space Center Houston President William Harris; MEI Technologies CEO David Cazes and wife, Denise; Leidos execs Art

UH-Clear Lake President Dr. Bill Staples and his wife, Darlene, look over the massive crowd at the Quasar Banquet.

Ibers and Rich Jackson; Oceaneering President Mike Bloomfield and wife, Lori; MRI Technologies execs Tim and Debbie Kropp; and Cimarron President Darren Crowell and wife, Jeannie.

Lots of well known faces in the mix including Houston Methodist St. John Hospital President Dan Newman, with his wife, Shannon; Clear Lake Regional Medical Center CEO Todd Caliva, Norman Frede Chevrolet GM Joan McKinney, Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy DeWease and husband, Jeff; League City Chamber President Steve Patterson and wife, Debbie; former Seabrook Mayors Bob Robinson and Jack Fryday with wives, Carol and Marcy; former Nassau Bay Mayor Don Matter and

Space Center Films CEO Marc Havican, right, and Alex D’Eath stop for a photo after a busy night producing the videos for the BAHEP Quasar Banquet.

BAHEP President Bob Mitchell with Norman Frede Chevrolet General Manager Joan McKinney at Quasar Banquet.

his wife, Sherry; and retire Lockheed Martin VP John Wilkins and his wife, Shari, who delighted the crowd with the National Anthem.

Plus Allegiance Bank President Frank Laws and wife, Judy; Texan Bank CEO Kenny Koncaba with wife, Kristi; BB&T Bank Senior VP Brent Cockerham; Capital Bank Pasadena CEO Linden Goehlring, Executive VP Paul Angell and retired President Paul Maaz and their wives, Donna, Jennifer and Sharon; Amoco Credit Union President Shawn Bailey and his wife, Susan; Communities in Schools Executive Director Dr. Peter Wuenschel and wife, Debbie; and CPA partners Rob Brezina, Stan Langston and Mark Rush and their wives, Donna, Lisa and Michelle.

Rich Jackson, left, Leidos program manager, is happy to see fellow Rotarian, NASA’s Rodolfo Gonzalez, at the Quasar Banquet.

MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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A Sense of Wonder

By Michael W. Gos

Weimer, Texas

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ou have probably heard

that the most common final words spoken by Texans are “Hold my beer and watch this.” I don’t know if that is true or

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not; maybe it’s just an urban (rural?) legend. But every once in a while something happens that makes me at least consider the possibility that this saying might have some truth behind it.

I often have to spend a couple of days in Austin on business. Next to Dallas, Austin is my least favorite

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

place in Texas. I am convinced the highway system must have been designed by a maniac. You can move north and south through town in a relatively reasonable manner. But just try going east to west. On a good day, the drive from the airport to the Oak Hill Y will take well over an hour. And of course, if you’re in Austin, what else are you going to do but head west into Hill Country?

After being subjected to days of traffic nightmares, noise and car fumes, I am always ready to head home. My usual first stop on the way is Weimer.

There is a little bar in town cleverly named The Tavern. It is a friendly place where locals welcome strangers and people congregate at tables, the bar, and even sometimes outside when the weather is fine. It takes about an hour to get there from the Austin airport area, and the second half of the drive, heading south out of La Grange, is on an absolutely magnificent two lane road through the rolling, wooded hills. It is the perfect anecdote to doing time in a city. By the time I reach Weimer, I have nearly washed Austin out of my soul.

I was sitting at the bar nursing a Corona and talking to a couple of

guys who ranched in the area when another man stuck his head in the door and yelled, “Come out here everybody. You gotta see this!”

Young boys learn a lot of lesson from their fathers—lessons about honesty, hard work and surviving in the world. For me, one of the most memorable lessons came on my 21st birthday when I was told how important it was to never let a good beer go to waste. “Think of all those poor, sober kids in Africa,” my father said. And we both had a good laugh.

So I downed the remnants of that bottle, ordered another one and then moved outside with the rest of the crowd, about 12 of us total. I saw people forming a circle around two guys busy at work, each stacking charcoal into a mound. Our “host” filled us in on what was going on.

The two combatants had been sitting at the picnic table having a bragfest about what great barbeque masters they were. In the course of the argument one apparently said that the other could not even touch his brisket for quality. In fact, he couldn’t even match him at starting a simple charcoal fire. The contest was on.

The two stacks of charcoal, when finished, were pretty much

identical—36 coals in a pyramid. The rules were then laid out. Our host would be the official timer. One at a time, each contestant would light his fire. The one who got all his coals covered with white ash in the shortest time was the winner. With everyone agreed on the rules, they flipped a coin to see who would go first.

The first guy went to his truck and pulled out a cutting torch attached to an acetylene tank. He turned it on, fired it up and said to the timer, “Ready?” On go, the man set the flame to the charcoal. In less than a minute, he had a bed of coals I would have slapped a steak on. He looked at his adversary triumphantly only to receive the comment, “That’s all you got? My old lady can do better than that.”

The second man walked over to his van and came back with a pitcher full of smoking liquid. He said, “Stand back everybody, if you want to keep your eyebrows. He struck a wooden match on his beard and threw it next to the charcoal pile. Then he tossed the liquid in.

One second after the explosion, the entire pile of charcoal was white and ready to go.

“LOX,” he said. Everyone laughed and several slapped him on the back

“Staying away from things we don’t know...may give us a sense of control—maybe even of power. “ in congratulations. Gradually, we made our way back into the bar. I could tell both from the looks on faces and the hushed conversations I could overhear, that many in the crowd were experiencing a sense of wonder.

I sat down and resumed my afternoon but couldn’t help notice that I wasn’t sharing that feeling of wonderment. I’ve learned long ago to never underestimate the intelligence and versatility of “good old boys.” But while everyone else talked about how amazing the explosion was, I just saw it as normal.

That happens to me quite a bit these days—and I think I miss a lot of fun because of it.

I don’t see much that I don’t understand. To feel a sense of wonder, we have to recognize our ignorance of a subject. Had I not understood what liquid oxygen could do to a fire, I might have been in absolute awe about the explosion

and how he did it. But I know how that works, so it was just another witnessed event, and one I had seen before.

As children, the entire world is a place of wonder to us, and as a result, we find everything exciting and new.

But somewhere along the line, we start to feel that wonder is not such a good thing. Perhaps it makes us feel ignorant. Most certainly it makes us feel we are not in control of things.

When we understand how and why things happen, we feel on top of the situation.

One issue we face when studying any subject that is entirely new to us is that we don’t yet know what it is we don’t know. That problem really unsettles some of my students.

It is easy to learn about something when we already have enough of a background in the subject to formulate a good set of questions— questions that, when answered, can fill in the holes in our knowledge.

We need only go to the library or online to find the answers. That is how professionals do it. But I

teach research skills to freshmen college students and I assign topics I think they will know nothing about. As a result of their lack of basic knowledge, they can’t yet formulate those good questions and they are doomed to read anything they can find on the subject—a time-consuming process that some of them find boring. But I always hope they will take a different view, that they will recognize there is a whole chunk of the world out there they never knew existed—and then get excited about it and feel that sense of wonderment. When that happens, it makes teaching worthwhile.

Staying away from things we don’t know, sticking only to what we already understand, may give us a sense of control—maybe even of power. But it comes with a tremendous price. It deprives us of our sense of wonder.

Note: To see videos of the LOX charcoal lighting process, visit either of the sites below: www.reddit.com/r/charcoal/ comments/3lkwgu/lighting_a_ charcoal_grill_with_liquid_oxygen_ the/ www.instructables.com/id/HowTo-Light-A-Grill-In-30-Seconds/

MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Truck Scene 2017

By Don Armstrong

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rucks and SUV’s are now outselling cars and manufacturers are doubling down variety. This month we focus on a car-based, light duty hauler and a gutsy bruiser that could be your new catamaran tug.

Nissan Titan XD single cab diesel The Titan XD could be classified as a “tweener,” with price and capability that fits between a standard ½ ton and a heavy duty ¾ ton pickup.

The base version XD gets a 5.6-liter V-8 but the optional, purpose-built 5.0-liter Cummins V-8 diesel delivers 555 lb-ft of torque to pull up to 12,300 pounds. The engine’s grunt is delivered to all-four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

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Two-wheel drive is standard.

The XD offers similar interior option packages as the regular Titan.

A crew cab edition arrives at dealers later this year. So, for now anyway, only a single cab model is available.

I don’t know about you, but what was once the only cab size available, today looks out of place among the popular 4-door versions.

Our Titan XD single cab came with the long bed that was equipped with Nissan’s Utili-track system that offers a variety of cleats and tiedowns. Handy, under-bed rail and tailgate lighting is a terrific option and one that every trucker will appreciate.

Nissan Titan XD pricing starts at $34,780

Honda Ridgeline Car-based, truck-like utility vehicles have been

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

around since the 1930s. You may be familiar with the Ford Ranchero and Chevrolet El Camino. Chevy ended its foray into this design in the late 80s, Ford in the 70s. Fast forward to this century when Honda decided it was time to pick up the baton and build the Ridgeline.

The second generation, 2017 Honda Ridgeline continues the tradition of

the first but with more truck swagger and all the sought-after features that make this crossover so appealing.

Crossover? Yes. It’s built on the same platform as the Honda Pilot CUV. With a sealed and lockable in-bed trunk, a dual-function tailgate, rear seat and 4-doors, this Ridgeline is like the Swiss Army knife of pickups. However, hauling and towing capacity is limited to about 1,500 lbs.

The ride quality and interior is that of the Pilot, nice, but depending on option choices, you could be pushing the price into the full-size truck category.

The 2017 Honda Ridgeline starts at $29,475. A Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew cab starts at $31,610.

Photos by Erin Crowley

Lakewood members honor Commodore Jim Winton

L Rob and Susan Hefner stop for a photo as they arrive at Lakewood.

Larry Rogers and his wife, Jimmy, were among the many attending the 2017 Commodore’s Ball at Lakewood Yacht Club.

Darlene and Richard Fawcett at the 2017 Lakewood Yacht Club Commodore’s Ball.

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akewood Yacht Club members celebrated another grand night in their history as they honored 2017 Commodore Lakewood Yacht Club’s 2017 flag officers get together for a portrait. They are, from left, Fleet Capt. Rex Bettis and his wife, Kim; Rear Commodore Jim Winton and his wife, Cindy, at the Tom Frankum and wife, Bonnie; Commodore Jim Winton and First Lady annual Commodore’s Ball.

Cindy Winton; and Vice Commodore Ashley Walker and his wife, Stephanie.

Other flag officers stepping into the limelight Photo by J. Pamela Photography before the black-tie crowd that Jan. 28 evening included Vice Commodore Ashley Walker and his wife, Stephanie; Rear Commodore Tom Frankum and his wife, Bonnie; and Fleet Capt. Rex Bettis and his wife, Kim. Immediate Past Commodore Don Mitchell welcomed the crowd and presented the Commodore’s Flag to the new commodore, who promptly thanked him for all his work. “You have set a wonderful example for all of us.” Afterwards, the Yachtsman of the Year Award was presented to Chris and Karen Lewis.

Past commodores and their wives attending included George and Patt Pappas, Jack and Alice Thomas, Gary Anderson, Bob and Judy Fuller, Glenn and Martha Robinson, Drew and Sandy Lewis, Brian and Lynne Irvine, Tom and Marsha Yachtsmen of the Year Award winners, Chris and Karen Lewis, right, receive Taylor, A.J. and Gayle Ross, Carl and Sandy congratulations from Past Commodore Tom Collier and his wife Sue. Drechsel and Tom and Sue Collier, plus several widows of past or honorary commodores – Kendra Assistant Treasurer Gary Romer, Assistant Secretary Broderick, Rita Matthews, Trina Cameron and Duane Guidry and Protocol Officer Tom Collier and their Rubye Garrett. wives.

Others introduced to the standing-room-only crowd Houston Yacht Club flag officers attending were included LYC Directors and their wives – Thomas and Commodore Steve Gillette and wife, Martha; Vice Jay McAndrew, Mike and Jane Downs, John Barnett, Commodore Jack Yoes and wife Cissy; Rear Commodore Phil and Linda Elting, Al and Lisa Poindexter and Paul John Cardenas and wife, Debbie; and Fleet Capt. June and Amy Dunphey, plus Secretary Dwight Bengtson, Shaw, who came with Pete Cooper.

Fleet Surgeon Bruce Ehni, Judge Advocate Pat Cooney,

Julie Harman Howell, left, Lakewood director of member services and events, and LYC accountant Noi Siriphant help guests check in for the Commodore’s Ball.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Margie Clark, left, and Former First Lady Gayle Ross make a lovely picture as they chat during the ball.

No doubt about it, Kim and Todd Payton are enjoying the Commodore’s Ball.

Expecting little miracles Expectant moms in the Houston Bay Area will have a new birthing center option in July 2017.

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he goal at Bay Area Regional’s Women’s Center is to provide exceptional care for moms and babies with a family-centered approach and compassionate, experienced clinical staff.

Private, luxurious labor and delivery suites feature some of the most advanced clinical equipment and comfort options available where women can welcome their

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

new babies in a safe, state-of-theart, individualized environment.

The Women’s Center will also house a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with experienced nurses and physicians to care for babies who need a little help along the way.

Bay Area Regional is located at the corner of Hwy 3 and Blossom in Webster.

“Our goal is to welcome new babies into the world in the safest and most comfortable experience possible.” mothers and families welcome new miracles into the world.”

What to Expect?

“Our goal is to welcome new babies into the world in the safest and most comfortable experience possible,” said Imogene Reed, director of Women Services. “Our team of experienced and skilled staff will bring a caring touch, with a hands-on approach to help

Like the other floors of Bay Area Regional, The Women’s Center will incorporate an inviting, luxurious environment with oversized labor, delivery and recovery (LDR) suites equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and an enhanced infant safety and security system. The Women’s Center will be located on the 5th floor with the warmth touches of feeling like home and added amenities such as free valet parking to enhance the experience.

“Our goal is to be a ‘Texas Ten Step Facility’ and one that promotes

an environment where new families can bond and connect in a meaningful way,” said Reed.

Caring and Experienced Staff Clinical staff will have specialized training in caring for mother and baby from routine deliveries to high risk births.

Trained and caring nurses will coach and explain what is occurring step-by-step along the way, and offer alternative labor positioning techniques.

Several local OB/GYNs, Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians, Neonatologists and Pediatricians will provide services at Bay Area Regional, and expecting moms can use their own OB/GYN as long as the physician is credentialed at Bay Area Regional.

anesthesiologists. Moms can benefit from lactation support services with a certified lactation consultant to assist with breastfeeding needs.

New and expanding families will also have the option for newborn photography to have a keepsake.

After welcoming the new baby into the world, a celebration madeto-order dinner is in order and can even be accompanied with birthday cake for siblings.

Education and Classes

Personalized Touch Expecting moms can develop their birth plan and develop a personalized birthing experience with access to birthing balls, portable fetal monitoring, coaching through natural childbirth and pain management with board-certified

While the hospital holds multiple free information seminars, Maternal Child Health classes will be offered for a minimal fee.

Classes will include prepared childbirth/Lamaze, sibling class, breastfeeding, daddy boot camp, and infant CPR and first aid.

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JSC Director Ellen Ochoa inducted into U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame

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eteran NASA astronaut Ellen Ochoa, Ph.D., the first Hispanic woman to go to space and 11th director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, will be inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

Ochoa joined NASA in 1988 as a research engineer at Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, Calif. and moved to JSC in 1990 when she was selected as an astronaut candidate.

She has flown in space four times, including STS-66, STS-96 and STS-110, logging nearly 1,000 hours in orbit.

“I’m honored to be recognized among generations of astronauts who were at the forefront of exploring our universe for the benefit of humankind,” Ochoa said. “I hope to continue to inspire our nation’s youth to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math so they, too, may reach for the stars.”

Born in California, Dr. Ochoa earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from San Diego State University and a master’s degree and doctorate in electrical engineering

This replica of the little Mars Rover we know as Curiosity is not so little.

from Stanford University, Palo Alto, Calif.

As a research engineer at Sandia National Laboratories and Ames, Ochoa investigated optical systems for use in information processing. She is a co-inventor on three patents and author of several technical papers.

Ochoa is JSC’s first Hispanic director, and its second female director. Her previous management roles include JSC deputy director and JSC director of Flight Crew Operations.

Ochoa has been recognized with NASA’s highest award, the Distinguished Service Medal, and the Presidential Distinguished Rank Award for senior executives in the federal government. Five schools have been named for her, and she has received many other awards. She is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, serves on several boards, and chairs the Nomination Evaluation Committee for the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.

She is married to Coe Miles, an intellectual property attorney. They have two sons.

Johnson Space Center Director Ellen Ochoa and Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana.

Aeroject Rocketdyne RL 10 engine.

Space attraction a real eye opener

By Mary Alys Cherry

S The biggest draw.

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pace City visitors for Super Bowl week who arrived with visions of cowboys and horses wandering Houston’s streets no doubt were surprised as they wandered about Super Bowl Live in Discovery Green the week of the big event.

Just a visit to NASA’s exhibits at

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Future Flight were enough to leave them shaking their heads.

On arrival, they might have bumped into the directors of the Johnson Space Center and Kennedy Space Center – Dr. Ellen Ochoa and Robert Cabana. Walking on in, they would have passed the Mars Rover, the Orion spacecraft and the Rocketdyne Aerojet RL 10 engine before arriving at Lockheed Martin’s signature attraction.

There they were given virtual reality goggles and taken some 90 feet up into the sky on a “trip to Mars” before they were dropped quickly back to Earth.

Nearby, visitors could also ride a bus “through the Mars mountains” and see what they could expect if they made the real journey some day.

Most left smiling and shaking their heads at their quick journey to the red planet.

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Our local subcommittee promotes the HLS&R in the Bay Area. The rodeo in turn supports the education of youth in our area by providing four-year $20,000 scholarships to students in the Clear Creek or Friendswood Independent School Districts area high schools. Last year scholarships were awarded to 12 deserving local students. Furthermore since 1999, this subcommittee has been responsible for raising over $1.5 million towards scholarships to our Bay Area high schools, and special thanks goes to the support of our local community.

The Johnson Space Center and the rodeo have worked together on the Longhorn Project, as well as the High School Aerospace Scholars program. They have given $182.5k annually.

Finally at the Heart of Houston Livestock Show and rodeo are the 33,000 volunteers serving on 107 committees.

The 2017 Show runs March 7th – 26th. For ticket information to www.rodeohouston. com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and more, or download the free rodeohouston app for Android and iPhone The goal of the HLSR is to support educational programs. Since its beginning in 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has committed more than $430 million to scholarships, research, endowments, calf scramble participants, junior show exhibitors, school art participants and other educational youth programs. As a result each year, more than 750 scholarships are awarded to Texas students, and most are four-year, $20,000 scholarships. For more information, go to www.rodeohouston.com.

The Houston Metro Go Texan Committee is responsible for increasing awareness of the Show through special Go Texan events such as dances, style shows, cook-offs and golf tournaments.

Representatives from Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller counties promote the Show throughout the year, raising funds for some of the four-year Metropolitan scholarships awarded by the Show.

The HLSR Go Texan Committee has a rich history. For example, in 1959, a new pre-Show event called the Go Texorama Spectacular was held in the rodeo arena of the Sam Houston Coliseum. It was a

special Go Texan Fashion and Style Show.

Furthermore by 1964, many Houston businesses were holding Go Texan Day and employees wore boots and western wear to work. The 2017 Go Texan Day is the 3rd of March.

Our local Go Texan Committee won the Horizon Award for greatest revenues and the Sweepstakes Award for highest growth.

A final note – Save a Horse and Take a Charter! Come join our local trip to this year’s rodeo on March 15th with entertainer Thomas Rhett.

This year’s 2016/17 Trail Bosses and Ranch Hand Sponsors include the following: • • • • • • •

AMOCO Federal Credit Union Bay Area Houston Magazine Grazia Italian Kitchen Magnolia Bay Custom Bar Services Metro Linen Service Miller Lite Norman Frede Chevrolet

• • • • • • • • • • •

Ange Mertens “The A List” ATA Assdociates Bayway Lincoln Chelsea Marie Photography City of League City City of Nassau Bay Coastal Eye Associates Emmeline Dodd and Gene Hollier Enos Law Firm Firestone & Robertson distilling Gold Financial Services/Anna Babineaux Kendra Scott at Baybrook Mall Krieger & Ongert Malone Convention Decorating Medsafe Space Center Automotive Texas Wealth Management, Inc. The Sign Shop The Rogers Group Wild Kingdom Pet Supplies

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Awards of Distinction Egret Bay Storage Janet Sher, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate – Gary Greene MARCH 2017 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Community invited to join the fun at Ball of the Wild

costume, Jennie says, adding that you can dress like a jungle animal, if you wish. Just follow your animal instincts. Many have in the past, arriving as bunny rabbits, yellow jackets, etc. For sure, this party’s going to be wild!

Tickets, which are $125 each, may be purchased at the Assistance League resale shop, 100 E. NASA Parkway, Suite 80, in Webster or online at http://alba2017auctionbid.org/micro2.php or email ballofthewild2017@gmail.com Event underwriter and sponsorship packages are available ranging from $250 to $5,000 and may include tickets, as well as invitation, event, program or website recognition. For information, contact Yvonne Perrin at ballofthewild2017@gmail.com Meanwhile, Auction Chairman Gail Ashby and her committee are already

By Mary Alys Cherry One of the area’s most popular events is coming up Saturday, April 1 – the Assistance League of the Bay Area’s always fun Ball of the Wild.

And, as they work to make it another smash hit, they’re inviting the community to join in the fun and help them raise big bucks to support their philanthropic endeavors such as Operation School Bell which helps provide clothes for needy students in our area and Operation Cinderella, which outfits young men and women in prom appropriate attire for their senior prom – those who might otherwise not be able to attend.

The ball in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom includes dinner and dancing to the music of local band favorite, The Navigators, plus live and silent auctions – even face painting -- with ABC 13 Traffic Anchor Rebecca Spera as mistress of ceremonies. Jennie Hampton is

Assistance League President Dee Cover, right, looks over the list of projects necessary for a successful gala with, from left, Arlis Miles of the Marketing Committee and President-elect Anne Marie Doolin.

serving as chairman of the gala with Pam Bungo as vice chairman. Dress is safari chic (whatever that means), dressy casual, animal prints or a

Getting ready to start work on the 2017 Assistance League Ball of the Wild are, from left, Belinda Scheurich, Dee Wolfe, Carol Latimer and Yvonne Perrin.

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Peggy Clause, an Assistance League past president, right, talks with Mavis Irvan, who is working on the Wine Pull.

soliciting for sought-after items, entertainment packages and hotel getaways.

The Bay Area Houston community

This foursome arrived at the gala planning session, ready to exchange ideas. They are, from left, Elaine Rister, bow chairman; Kathleen Courville, decorations captain; Jill Williams, invitations chairman; and Lisa Holbrook, treasurer.

is blessed with a number of nonprofit organizations that work in many ways to enrich our lives.

But few devote as many long hours to helping those in need as the Assistance League. Its members not only lend a helping hand. They go the extra mile in all they do. Just this past fall, the 2014-2015 school year, their Operation School Bell project spent hundreds of hours clothing more than 2,477 needy students. A similar number are being clothed this year.

“A donation of only $50 provides one child three shirts, two pairs of pants, socks, undergarments, a shoe voucher and a hygiene kit,” Jennie explained.

Besides helping students with clothing, ALBA also assists some students with dental care donated by Drs. Cindy Castille and Mitch Foster plus orthodontic care donated by Dr. Joe Dusek. Some students who need eye exams and cannot afford them receive them through Assistance League’s partnership with Dr. Melissa Sommers and Communities In Schools – Bay Area. Assistance League reimburses Dr. Sommers $30 per screening and she generously donates the remaining fees.

“Please help us continue these philanthropic programs…by joining us for a night of celebration and good will at this year’s gala, becoming a sponsor or by simply requesting a donation form and helping the Assistance League provide these valuable services to the children of the Bay Area,” Jennie Hampton says, adding, “You can make a difference.”

Some of the others assisting her with arrangements include Ann Hammond, Lori Ray, Dee Wolfe, Carol Base, Nancy Sanders, Mavis Irvan, Sandy Vail, Valerie Staples, Marcia Turner, Misty Killebrew, Belinda Scheurich, Arlis Miles, Katie Jones, Elaine Rister and Brunella Altemus.

Gala Chairman Jennie Hampton, center, stops to talk with Vice Chairman Pam Bungo, right, and Silent Auction Chairman Gail Ashby, as Assistance League members meet to plan the Ball of the Wild.

The Passing Scene Webster City Councilors Jennifer Heidt, Marty Graves, Larry Tosto, Andrea Wilson and Beverly Gaines, from left, arrive at the Civic Center for the Webster Business Alliance luncheon featuring the “Voice of the Houston Texans,” Marc Vandermeer.

Capt. Wendell Wilson of Seabrook, retired Delta Airlines international pilot, was recognized for his “extraordinary contributions, both during the Vietnam War and in the Clear Lake community,” by the DAR’s Am Houston Chapter Regent Susan Adams at a recent chapter meeting. Wilson spoke about his project at UH-Clear Lake – the establishment of a Veterans Office, named in his honor, to help returning veterans establish themselves in higher education. The chapter also celebrated the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.

Houston Yacht Club flag officers stop for a photo together on the stairs. They are, front to back, Commodore Steve Gillett and his wife, Martha; Vice Commodore Jack Yoes and his wife, Cissy; and Rear Commodore John Cardenas and his wife, Debra.

Dr. Betsy Giusto, Webster’s economic development director, welcomes Marc Vandermeer, the “Voice of the Houston Texans,” to the Webster Business Alliance luncheon.

Carlos Villagomez and his wife, Rachel, join the crowd at the Civic Center for the Webster Business Alliance luncheon.

Firefighter Alan Tristan with the Houston Fire Department, second from right, was named 2016 Space Center Rotary Firefighter of the Year by Rotary’s Excellence in Public Service Committee, which is headed by Constable Phil Sandlin, third from right. Others honored with the Distinguished Service Award in Firefighting were, from left, Mike Torina and Joseph Dunne, Pasadena Volunteer Fire Department; Blaine Manry, Houston Fire Department; and, at far right, Todd Weidman, Webster Fire Department.

Boeing Space Exploration and the Boeing Employees Community Fund were recipients of the 2016 YMCA Caring Community Partner award, presented to an individual, business, and or organization which has over time, demonstrated by its volunteerism, philanthropy and leadership a commitment to our greater community.

Taking part in the ceremony were YMCA of Greater Houston CEO & President Paul McEntire, who presented the award to Boeing Vice President and General Manager John Elbon; Perry Family YMCA Executive Director Mike Ace, E.A. Smith Family YMCA Executive Director Janice Albro, Dayni Alba and a number of Boeing employees.

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the Miss Teen USA title. Karlie, 19, and a graduate of Tomball High, plans to attend Texas A&M University to study business once her national reign is over.

Because of her busy schedule of appearance and traveling back and forth to New York, she is currently taking online courses.

With the amazing support of the City of Kemah, Kemah Boardwalk and a long list of sponsors, the title holders receive prize packages of close to $12,000 while representing Kemah at many local events around the state.

This summer’s pageant will be held the weekend of June 9-11 and is now accepting contestants’ applications. Anyone who would like to compete should contact Pageant Directors Kelly Williams or Denise O’Brian at Nancy Gonzalez, Miss Kemah the email Kellyjw518@gmail.com 2016, enjoys What others are saying about the her crowning pageant: moment as she is named 2017 Miss Texas USA,

by Danielle Rodriguez, left, the 2016 Miss Texas USA, with assistance from Karlie Hay, right, the 2015 Miss Kemah Teen and the 2016 Miss Teen USA.

Clear Lake Area Chamber Spring Fever Golf Classic Monday, March 27 Magnolia Creek Golf Club, League City 11:30 a.m. shotgun start Teams of four $650 Individual player $175 For information, call 281-488-7676

Innovative Alternatives Legacy Of Leadership Golf Classic

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– Carl Joiner, mayor, City of Kemah “As a former Mrs. Galveston County and first runnerup to Mrs. Texas, I am extremely proud of the Miss Kemah Pageant. Unique from any other local pageant, we not only strive to help young women from all walks of life follow their dreams, we promote our community all year long.”

Friday, April 7 at 7 p.m.

TopGolf in Webster Anyone can play or be a spectator

he Miss Kemah Pageant just keeps getting better and better – celebrating unheard of success in just five years with two state title holders and a national title holder as the city makes plans for another pageant in June.

Since the first pageant in 2012, Miss Kemah and Miss Kemah Teen have placed either in the Top 15 or Top 5 at state pageants or won the state title.

Twice in the past two years Miss Kemah has gone on to win the Miss Texas USA title.

The 2016 Miss Kemah, Nancy Gonzalez, also won the 2017 Miss Texas USA title and will compete for the title of 2017 Miss USA this summer. Nancy, 25, is a graduate of the University of Houston and works for Marathon Oil in Houston.

The 2015 Miss Kemah Teen, Karlie Hay, became the 2016 Miss Texas Teen USA and went on to win

St. Clare of Assisi’s 7th Annual Golf Scramble

Meet Miss Kemah Teen USA Skylar Bantz

Monday, March 27 Registration 9:30 a.m.

10 a.m. Shotgun start Bay Oaks Country Club, Clear Lake For information call Matthew Hindt, 713-222-2525

Lunar Rendezvous Festival Shooting Star Golf Tournament

Saturday, April 8 Battleground Golf Club, Deer Park Entry fee $110 with discount if Register by March 17 For information, email Rand Pombier at rpombier@sbcglobal.net

Space Center Rotary Folds of Honor Golf Tournament Monday, May 1 Bay Oaks Country Club, Clear Lake 1 p.m. shotgun start (tentative) Early registration - teams of four $500 After March 20 price is $600

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Miss Kemah Pageant marks unheard of string of success

“The Miss Kemah Pageant has been one of the best produced and most exciting events we have ever seen in Kemah or the surrounding cities. We are so thrilled to have such wonderful young women represent the City of Kemah as Miss Texas USA 2017 and Miss Teen USA 2016! We are so proud of all of the amazing contestants, and we are looking forward to being a part of this wonderful event each year.”

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rising star in the pageantry arena, 17 year old Skylar Bantz was crowned Miss Kemah Teen USA last June at the University of Houston- Clear Lake. On Nov. 27, Skylar competed for the title of Miss Texas Teen USA in hopes of bringing the state crown back to Kemah. Skylar placed in the top 15 at Miss Texas Texas Teen USA and was a finalist in the swimmer division with over 100 plus young ladies.

Beautiful and brainy, Skylar is also an accomplished scholar. She is a senior at Westside High School and concurrently enrolled at Houston Community College Futures Academy Program where she will be graduating in May with her Associate of Science in

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

– Kelly Williams, co-owner and associate director, Miss Kemah Pageant, Kemah city councilwoman 2001 – 2012 and 1st runnerup – Mrs. Texas United States “As a former Miss Texas USA and 2nd runnerup at Miss USA, I want to say that the Miss Kemah Pageant was the best local pageant I’ve ever attended.”

– Nicole O’Brian Lassiter, Miss Teen USA 2000, Miss Texas USA 2003, Miss USA 2003 – 2nd runnerup and Co-host Miss Kemah Pageant.

Biology degree, along with her high school diploma. Skylar was awarded a two-year academic college scholarship worth $22,000 from UT MD Anderson and hopes to continue her education in Texas in a pharmaceutical program.

Skylar is also active in T-Pro theater, a leader in Young Life, a member of Student Council, a member of the National Honor Society, and an active volunteer in the organization, Without Borders.

Skylar is passionate about women’s education so, her platform while being Miss Kemah Teen USA has been focused on women’s education.

She enjoyed volunteering with the literacy program such as Friends of Houston Public Library and Literacy in the Bag.

2017 Lunar Rendezvous Festival Events

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unar Rendezvous will kick off its 52nd annual festival Sunday, March 26 at 2:30 p.m. at the University of Houston–Clear Lake when the 2017 royal court is presented and the new king introduced. This year’s festival, Swingin’ on A Star, includes events for every age and interest, as well as plenty of volunteer opportunities at each of the events that span the months of April through July and culminates in the Coronation Ball in late July commemorating the anniversary of our nation’s rich space Festival history.

Chairman Dinah Matthews, from left, works with Lunar Rendezvous Golf Tournament CoChairmen Amy Lardie and Lisa Matus and Advisory Board Liaison Peggy Clause on the Friday, April 7 Lunar Rendezvous Golf Tournament at TopGolf in Webster.

Orientation/Kickoff Sunday, March 26, 2:30 p.m.

University of Houston – Clear Lake “Shooting Star” Golf Tournament Friday, April 7, 7 p.m.

TopGolf Webster

Silver Tea Sunday, May 7, 3-5 p.m.

Bay Area Museum “Peace, Love, Lunar” Splashdown Party Saturday, July 1, 7 p.m.

Mercedes Benz of Clear Lake “Space Race” Fun Run Saturday, July 15, 7:30 a.m.

Space Center Houston “Glory In The Heavens” Sunset Service Sunday, July 23, 6 p.m.

Clear Creek Community Church “Fly Me to the Moon” Fashion Show Tuesday, July 25,10:30 a.m.

San Luis Convention Center “Out Of This World” Coronation Ball Saturday, July 29, 5 p.m.

San Luis Convention Center Visit www.lunarrendezvous.org to purchase tickets

of Walter Hall, it was bought by the city of League City and opened to the public in 2009. In the early 20th century, Texas Longhorns were on the verge of extinction. Through the efforts of Milby Butler and five other breeders, the breed was saved and is thriving today. The museum tells this story and shows the history of League City.

Home Tour on tap weekend of April 1-2

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ouston Symphony League Bay Area will host its 16th annual Home Tour April 1 and 2, from noon to 5 p.m., kicking off the weekend fundraiser with a pre-tour party Friday, March 31 at a home in Nassau Bay that has an interesting history after surviving Hurricane Ike. Five homes are on this year’s tour: KEMAH – A 10,000 square-foot East Coast-style home overlooking Galveston Bay that has been featured twice in Southern Living magazine and was built by an architect and interior designer couple who enjoy zipping around in their golf cart.

BAY OAKS: This stately Georgian/colonial home built in Bay Oaks in 1989 has been totally updated inside and out. The brand new gray stone walkway coordinates beautifully with the slate gray shutters against white painted brick and is a beautiful showcase for the homeowner’s art collection.

SEABROOK: Lush oleander and tropical landscaping line the

driveway of this house. Spectacular views of Clear Lake abound from every floor of this 3 story home built in 1984 by its current owner.

The views of nature compliment beautifully chosen art pieces inside the house, chosen from the owners’ travels and in support of local artists.

of the wife’s great grandfather was going to be demolished, they undertook the herculean task of moving this home to the current location. The home was built with wood reclaimed from at least 20 different houses destroyed in the 1900 Galveston Hurricane.

LEAGUE CITY: This charming 1905 Victorian home in the historic district is a true labor of love! When the owners heard that the home

LEAGUE CITY: Butler Longhorn Museum highlights the story of Texas Longhorn Cattle and has western art and artifacts. The previous home

NASSAU BAY: The story of this home, site of the Pre-Tour Party, is the story of Nassau Bay – perseverance and vision in the rebuilding after Hurricane Ike in 2008. This home, built in 1965, took on 36 inches of water that destroyed the first floor in Hurricane Ike. Through a partial FEMA grant, this house has been raised ten feet, as have more than 30 homes in Nassau Bay. An elevator in the rear helps visitors who can’t negotiate the stately stairs to the new front door.

Tickets for a tour of all five properties are $20 each. Tickets to the Friday night Pre-Tour Party are $75 and includes the weekend tour. They are available online at www.HSLBA. org or at a number of area locations including Arlan’s Market and Casanova’s Downfall in Seabrook; The Clothes Horse and League City Chamber in League City and Adelaide’s Boutique in Clear Lake.

(A complete list is available online at www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com)

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Houston Methodist St. John Hospital wins top honor at Epicurean Evening

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hris Vega, Chuck Whitley, “Head Waiter” Danielle Lawson, and the Houston Methodist St. John Hospital Food & Nutrition team took overall first prize at this year’s Epicurean Evening.

The annual Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce event was held recently at Space Center Houston.

It was the hospital’s first time to participate in the fun event. Entrants were judged on presentation of food, creativity of booth and overall showmanship. Bacon-wrapped quail, risotto and frappuccino shots were their featured samplings.

“We were excited to participate and thrilled to win,” said Chuck Whitley, director of Food and Nutrition Services. “Our team works

hard every day preparing healthy, delicious meals for patients, visitors and staff, and the Epicurean Evening gave us a chance to show off a little.”

Everyone is invited to dine at Houston Methodist St. John Hospital’s Three Sisters Café to sample the tasty menu and dispel old myths about “hospital food.”

Bay Oaks Women plan 25th anniversary

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he Bay Oaks Country Club Women’s Association plans to celebrate its 25th anniversary at a luncheon in the club ballroom Thursday, April 6.

BOWA President Jodi Schnabel said the event will be somewhat similar to a High Tea with those attending invited to wear hats to carry out the “Hats Off to Our Past Presidents” theme.

A champagne reception will kick off the festivities, which will include the introduction of all past presidents

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

attending and historical memorabilia around the ballroom. The menu will include soup, finger foods and savories, such as one would expect at a tea, Schabel said.

The event also will be a salute to the late Barbra Mouton, who led the campaign to start the Bay Oaks Women’s Association back when the country club was a newbie in town.

Other founding officers were Vice Presidents Barbara Phillips and Jan Benz and Secretary-Treasurer Gloria Oliphant.

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Nichols new COM president

vice chancellor of community colleges for the Tennessee Board of Regents, which leads the 13 community colleges in Tennessee.

Partnering with the community, staff and students will be a priority, Nichols said. “I’m a big proponent of getting the community to view the college as a meeting place and resource,” said Nichols, who has worked with establishing innovative programs for students.

As president of Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tenn., he collaborated with local bankers to create a short-term bankteller program that was highlighted in the Wall Street Journal. In an effort to improve college preparedness among high school students, he expanded the college’s dual enrollment offerings to serve more than 1,200 students in 12 counties.

He launched international and diversity initiatives, which resulted in an increase in graduation rates

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r. Warren Nichols has been named president of the College of the Mainland by the college board of trustees and started at COM Feb. 13.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Nichols on board because he brings a vast amount of experience to COM. He’s been the president of a community college and supervised presidents of community colleges in Tennessee.

He has a great deal of political acumen and he’s worked with a state legislature in establishing programs.

He’s the right guy at the right time,” said Wayne Miles, COM board of trustees chairman after the board’s unanimous vote Jan. 30.

Nichols previously served as the

for African-American and Hispanic students.

“Nichols grew Volunteer State Community College to a record student enrollment of nearly 9,000 students. He also led the college through an $8 million rebuilding and renovation project of 13 buildings damaged by a tornado in 2006.

A native of Fort Worth, Nichols holds a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Houston after earning his master’s and bachelor’s degrees at the University of Texas at Arlington.

He began college at Tarrant County Junior College in Hurst, Texas and started his career a police officer in Arlington, before later transitioning to the field of higher education.

Nichols is listed in the International Who’s Who of Professionals. He serves on the board of directors for the Gallatin Economic Development Agency. He is a Rotarian and a twotime Paul Harris Fellow.

DAR honors CCISD students

T DAR Regemt Susan Adams, from left, congratulates Vanessa Eaton of Clear Creek High and Monique Villanueva of Clear Horizons High as they were recognized with Good Citizen Awards at the DAR meeting. Looking on at right is Kati Hill, awards chairman.

High school art students advance to state competition

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he Visual and Performing Arts Department in Clear Creek ISD announced that 31 students have received “superior” rating awards at both the regional and area Visual Art Scholastic Event for their artwork, and will be advancing to the State VASE Competition.

Two students from Clear Falls High School, Jessie Chen and Kari Langford, each have two pieces of art advancing.

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VASE is the only art event of its kind for academically eligible high school students in grades 9-12 throughout Texas. Students have the opportunity to bring artwork created at school to their regional event where they are interviewed by a certified juror who evaluates their work and tests their understanding of the art processes involved.

“VASE is a unique experience for our students because it is the only competition offered that

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

he 2017 DAR Good Citizen Award scholarship winner for Clear Creek ISD and area high schools is Vanessa Eaton from Clear Creek High. The award celebrates outstanding students from area high schools with their documented work and their essays that focus on being an outstanding American citizen.

Other students presented the Good Citizen Award included Monique Villanueva from Clear Horizons Early College High School, Roberto Struthers from

allows the students direct interaction with the judges and immediate feedback,” says Nina Makepeace, an art teacher at Clear Falls High School. “The students have to not only create a quality work of art, but also justify their artistic decisions in an interview.

This is an extremely valuable experience for a young artist.”

Jurors assess each work of art for originality of concept, technical expertise, understanding of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for visual art, and the interpretation of the student’s stated intent. Artists who receive a “superior” rating

at region are juried again at the area competition. Area medalists advance to the state competition.

CCISD’s area medalists will compete at the State VASE Competition on April 28-29 in San Antonio. The complete list of qualifying students is below: • • • • • • • • • • •

Nathan Peterson Anzulie Sosa Elena Michnovicz Azam Syed Gabriela Sanchez Gianna Scillieri Angelina Yoon Jasmine Christensen Dominic Nguyen Kristal L. Dillehay Timothy Brazzel

Clear Lake High, Madison Forrest from Clear Falls High and Hailey Haynes from Bay Area Christian High School.

The Sam Houston Chapter of National Society of Daughters of American Revolution recognized the award-winning students at its Feb. 4 meeting. Scholarship winner Vanessa Eaton, a Clear Creek High senior, plans to major in biology at the University of Chicago this fall.

Information about DAR chapters in Texas is available at the website www.texasdar.org

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Jake Gonzales Ieva Paslavska Jessie Chen Kelly Putnam Nallely Garza Kari Langford Kyra Morphis Caroline Upchurch Matthew Roberts Ellie W. Salim Jessica Levy Eriane Austria Shayla Bowen Juliana Bozeman Summer Elliott Morgan Grice Sanjida Lura Han Vu Emily Albritton Alyssa Fontanilla

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Proposed new medical office building in Webster.

Business Medical office building planned for Webster Bay Area Regional Medical Center and Medistar Corp. plan to build a new 60,000 square foot medical office building near the intersection of East Medical Center Boulvard and Highway 3 in Webster. The project is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2017.

The building will support the

Buzz

continued growth and active expansion of Bay Area Regional, which recently became the first and only hospital in Houston and only the fifth in Texas to achieve Chest Pain Center Accreditation with PCI and Resuscitation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care.

It also will complement the services provided for the community

by PAM Bay Area Rehabilitation Hospital, which is operated by Post

Acute Medical, LLC. Featuring 45 private rooms, this modern inpatient rehabilitation facility was developed in 2015 by Medistar.

Monzer Hourani, founder and CEO of Medistar, said, “This new medical office building will provide exceptional convenience and further enhance Bay Area Regional’s position as a medical destination of choice for patients and providers.”

Also in the Webster area, Medistar is developing a new 70-bed skilled nursing facility to further complement the rapid growth of Bay Area Regional, which Medistar is currently expanding from 104 to 191 total beds.

Roberts attend financial event Staying current on the everchanging economy and government regulations while refining industry skills and knowledge can prove difficult for financial professionals, especially those who are independent, like Summer Roberts and Paul Roberts.

But rather than go it alone, they flew to San Diego, Calif., to be informed and inspired by over 400 of their peers, hosted by a renowned financial marketing organization.

Designed to bring together some of the top financial professionals in the country, the annual event aims to share ideas and strategies with producers to help them improve their businesses, and, ultimately, better serve their clients.

“I’m excited about this event because it brings together hundreds of the most brilliant and successful financial minds all under the same roof to share ideas and experiences first-hand!” It’s invaluable education,” Summer says.

Barrios honors nine employees Barrios Technology recently presented employees with Silver BEAR (Barrios Employee Award and Recognition) awards. Each recipient was commended for their high level of expertise and outstanding performance supporting NASA’s International Space Station Mission and Program Integration contract.

Employees recognized included Karen Bratton, Erik Marsh, Erin Thornton, and the six-member ISS Conference Facility Team (Mary Kerber, Jessica Henderson, Ann Herring, Richard Morphis, Todd O’Neal and Mark Zuteck).

Seabrook businesses begin relocating, closing

S

eabrook began to see

the first impact of the State Highway 146 Expansion Project with the closing of its Taco Bell/KFC franchise.

Taco Bell/KFC, like many businesses along Highway 146, have been or are being acquired by TxDOT for the highway expansion.

As these businesses are acquired, their storefronts will be closed and eventually demolished to make way for the utility relocation phase of the project prior to construction of the highway, which is slated to begin either late summer or early fall 2018.

TxDOT property acquisition for the project began in January 2016.

In addition to Taco Bell/KFC, the Seabrook House of Flowers was to close at the end of February; however, they will be relocating to the Pelican Plaza off NASA Parkway across from Endeavor Marina. As the year progresses, residents can expect additional dining and retail stores

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along the highway corridor to either close or relocate.

The city’s Economic Development Corporation has been working with the businesses along the corridor offering incentives and relocation options within the city.

The city anticipates there will be high demands on remaining commercial corners along the corridor as several parcels will be divided along the east side of the highway. Current land owners are researching and working with developers on ways to bring in new businesses.

The Seabrook Town Center will be a prime location for both businesses that plan to relocate and for new businesses. Construction on the median and driveway cuts along Repsdorph have already started and the City of Seabrook is currently in the process of relocating the Public Works and Animal Control facility to Red Bluff Road.

The new facility is planned to open

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

Seabrook took the first steps toward its Highway 146 expansion with the closing of the Kentucky Fried Chicken/Taco Bell businesses.

later this spring. Once these facilities and structures have been relocated, the city will begin demolition on the property to make way for the Seabrook Town Center.

Recently, the city added a new layer to its GIS mapping system that shows residents and businesses the exact schematic of the new highway design. Users can zoom in to see how current businesses will be affected and how existing

parcels will be divided. This new tool is useful to landowners who are scouting perspective businesses. The new highway frontage is expected to be extremely appealing to both local businesses and up and coming franchises.

To view these maps, go to www. seabrooktx.gov/gis and click the City Map – Public option. Once in the system, turn on the layer option Highway 146 Expansion Schematic.

Bay Area Regional Achieves National Accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program

To earn the MBSAQIP designation, Bay Area Regional met essential criteria for staffing, training and facility infrastructure and protocols for care, ensuring its ability to support patients with severe obesity.

The center also participates in a national data registry that yields semiannual reports on the quality of its processes and outcomes, identifying opportunities for continuous quality improvement.

“We are proud to be leading the way in bariatric surgery with Dr. Chaudhry as the only fellowshiptrained bariatric surgeon in the Houston Bay Area,” said Tim Schmidt, CEO of Bay Area Regional.

“Achieving the national accreditation Cathy as a Comprehensive Minder Center for bariatric has lost 111 surgery shows our pounds since her gastric commitment to sleeve providing exceptional surgery with care and making a Dr. Rizwan difference in people’s Chaudhry at Bay Area lives.”

Regional After submitting an Medical application, centers Center. seeking MBSAQIP Accreditation undergo an extensive site visit by an experienced bariatric surgeon, who reviews the center’s structure, process, and clinical outcomes data.

Centers are awarded a specific designation depending on how many patients it serves annually, the type of

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atients seeking surgical treatment for severe obesity and its related conditions have a highquality choice for receiving treatment at a nationally accredited program that meets the highest standards for patient safety and quality of care in the Houston Bay Area.

Rizwan Chaudhry, M.D., Medical Director of the Metabolic and Weight Loss Institute at Bay Area Regional Medical Center, today announced its bariatric surgical center has been accredited as a Comprehensive Center under the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP®), a joint program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).

The MBSAQIP Standards ensure that bariatric surgical patients receive a multidisciplinary program, not just a surgical procedure, which improves patient outcomes and long-term success. The accredited center offers preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for their severely obese patients.

to be effective in the reduction of comorbid conditions related to severe obesity.* Working with ASMBS, the ACS expanded this quality program for bariatric surgery centers so that it can assist bariatric patients in identifying those centers that provide optimal surgical care.

About Bay Area Regional Medical Center Bay Area Regional Medical Center is committed to providing the highest quality medical care while making a difference in people’s lives.

Designed with a beautiful, soothing environment, Bay Area Regional offers some of the latest technology for physicians to provide advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques.

With a focus on excellence, Bay Area Regional is the first hospital in the Houston area to achieve the highest level Chest Pain Center Accreditation, the first hospital in Texas to be named a Center of Excellence for Hidden Scar, and the first hospital to perform the non-surgical gastric balloon procedure in the Houston Bay Area.

Since opening in July 2014, Bay Area Regional has received accreditation from the Joint Commission and is in active pursuit of Level III Trauma Designation with services such as heart and vascular services, general surgery, orthopedics, emergency services, surgical weight-loss, outpatient imaging, including 3D Mammography and much more. For more information about Bay Area Regional Medical Center or to find a physician, visit www.BARMC.us.

About the American College of Surgeons

“This accreditation places Bay Area Regional and the multidisciplinary team at an elite status for bariatric surgery and I’m excited to be a part of a team that focuses on patients individually with their long-term success as the goal,” stated Rizwan Chaudhry, M.D. Bay Area Regional’s commitment to quality care begins with appropriately trained staff and the leadership surgeons who participate in meetings throughout the year to review its outcomes. They seek continuous improvement to enhance the structure, process and outcomes of the center.

procedures it provides, and whether it provides care for patients under age 18.

In the United States, around 15.5 million people suffer from severe obesity, according to the National Institutes of Health, and the numbers continue to increase. Obesity increases the risks of morbidity and mortality because of the diseases and conditions that are commonly associated with it, such as type II diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, among other health risks. Metabolic and bariatric surgical procedures have proven

The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical education and practice and to improve the quality of care for the surgical patient. Its achievements have placed it at the forefront of American surgery and have made the College an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 80,000 members and is the largest organization of surgeons in the world.

About the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, founded in 1983, was formed to advance the art and science of metabolic and bariatric surgery by continually improving the quality and safety of care and treatment of people with obesity and related diseases through educational and support programs for surgeons and integrated health professionals.

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NEWS NUGGETS

League City home goes up in flames

Public comment gets council OK League City’s boards and commissions meetings will now include a public comment section on agendas after a recent ordinance change by a unanimous City Council vote.

“I think good government is accessible to the people and if a citizen comes in and wants to speak at any one of our meetings and functions they should have the ability to do so,” said Councilman Hank Dugie.

“Some of our boards and commissions have already implemented something like this and have seen success in having a comments section for citizens similar to City Council meetings - on their agendas.”

“This change will provide us with another avenue for us to connect with and receive direct feedback from the public,” City Manager John Baumgartner said. “We look forward to working with our citizens, boards and commissions to implement this immediately.”

Woman burned in League City fire A woman was hospitalized with burns when the home at 205 W. Saunders St. in League City caught fire early Friday morning, Jan. 27.

League City Volunteer Fire Department crews responded shortly before 7 a.m., arriving on-scene to find the house engulfed in flames.

The fire was under control within 30 minutes; however, the house was a total loss.

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

“Firefighters were on-scene within a matter of moments and their actions helped minimize the impact to surrounding houses,” League City Fire Marshal Tommy Cones said.

The victim, who reportedly was burned while trying to save her dogs, was transported to UTMB – Galveston for treatment of injuries sustained in the fire. Three of her dogs survived.

Hospital is designated Level II Trauma Center Clear Lake Regional Medical Center in Webster has been designated a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons.

It is one of two hospitals in the Houston area to be given the designation. The other is the Conroe Regional Medical Center.

To attain the Level II designation, hospital emergency rooms must be staffed 24 hours a day by in-house trauma surgeons and especially trained trauma nurses.

Surgeons must participate in major therapeutic decisions, be present at operative procedures and be actively involved in the critical care of all seriously injured patients.

League city recognizes its recreation specialist The City of League City recognized Katrina Beecher for receiving the 2017 Recreation Professional of the Year for the Texas Recreation & Park Society East Region Award during City Council meeting on Jan. 26.

The award was originally presented to Beecher, who is a recreation specialist for the city, during the East Region TRAP’s annual conference Jan. 12.

“Katrina is a model public servant who tirelessly serves our community,” said Interim City Manager John Baumgartner. “Our goal is to provide outstanding customer service while enhancing the lives of our residents and its programs and initiatives like this that enables us to meet those goals. We are very fortunate to have Katrina on our team and appreciate everything she does for our community.”

CCISD spelling bee champion crowned Clear Creek ISD has a named the 2017 District Spelling Bee champion. Fourth grader Amelia Young of Goforth Elementary won the first place trophy on Feb. 4 during the District Spelling Bee at Mossman Elementary School with participants representing all 36 elementary and intermediate schools in CCISD in attendance.

She was crowned in the 15th round of the competition. The runner-up, fourth grader Fadhil Mohammed of Weber Elementary, was then named in the 16th and final round.

The next competition is the Houston Public Media Spelling Bee, which will be televised live on April 1. The Houston event is the second largest in the country, with more than 1,000 schools from 42 Texas counties competing to be one of the top two spellers to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, and win an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

Recycle event slated March 25 Houston Councilman Dave Martin and the City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department are holding their spring Batteries, Oil, Paint (latex only) and Antifreeze (B.O.P.A.) recycling collection event Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at the Ellington Airport Neighborhood Recycling Center, Highway 3 at Brantly Avenue for City of Houston residents. A valid Texas driver’s license or other proof of residency, such as a water bill, will be required.

Residents may drop off scrap metal and large appliances – stoves, refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners.

Items not accepted include: Alkaline batteries, electronic waste, oil-based paint, paint without labels, household hazardous waste/

chemicals, business waste, medical waste, radioactive waste, PCB’s, Dioxins, ammunition, explosives, compressed gas cylinders, smoke detectors, household trash or tires.

Empty latex paint cans or those that have hardened can be discarded with household garbage.

Kemah OKs plans for new development Kemah’s City Council took steps in recent days that will bring in a new retail development that is expected to revitalize its downtown.

More than a year of work and preparation led to the substantial decisions made by the City Council at its Feb. 15 meeting, when members voted to acquire more than one mile of right of way for future road development while also agreeing to terms with Nashville-based GBT Realty for the construction of a new retail center to be located just west of the Kemah Walmart on FM 518.

The council also took action to move forward with construction projects to enhance the downtown area and open it up for greater access and development.

Estimated value of the donated Right of Way, which spans three different commercially valuable private properties and connects FM 518 to SH 96, can be estimated at approximately $2.5 million in land value, Mayor Carl Joiner said.

“If we had to go out and purchase that, it would have taken years,” he explained. “It is fantastic for our city. It opens our city up and allows growth to happen. Our TEAM Kemah approach has been instrumental in making good things happen for our citizens and community.”

One of the properties involved in this project is under contract to GBT Realty for the construction of a new retail center, he said. Construction on this approximately 80,000 square foot facility is slated to begin in May and be open for business sometime in early 2018. Negotiations for other projects on the adjacent properties are on-going and progress on those is expected to be announced in the coming months.

Council also approved a design contract with Houston-based SWA Design Group to remodel the city’s existing downtown parking lot at the Visitor Center creating a new park area, pedestrian promenade and flex space for parking. Another is a pedestrian walkway and 6th Street plaza/event area. The completed plan for all phases of the project will be presented in a community meeting at a future date.

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[ LET US ENTERTAIN YOU! ]

[ LET US ENTERTAIN YOU! ]

Clear Lake Gardeners meet March 1. Gardeners By the Bay will meet Wednesday, March 1 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. to hear, Master Gardener Gene Speller, a vegetable expert, discuss “Red Hot Chile Peppers - and Some Cool Ones Too.” Meeting at Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 16635 El Camino Real, Building 3. For questions, call 281-474-5051.

Shakespeare at UHCL. Actors From The London Stage, one of the world’s oldest touring Shakespeare theater companies, will perform “Romeo and Juliet” at the University of HoustonClear Lake at 7:30 p.m. March 9-11 in the university’s Bayou Theater, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston. Advance tickets are $20 or $10 for UHCL students. Tickets at the door are $25 or $12 for UHCL students.

Ballet presents Pasion. Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre will present Pasion, a mixed repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary dance, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 24 and 2 p.m.

Sunday, March 26 at the University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Bayou Theatre, BAHBT’s performance home. Tickets can be purchased online at www. bahbt.org or by calling the office at 281-480-1617.

Festival Kickoff March 26. Lunar Rendezvous volunteers will introduce the 2017 festival king and launch the 52nd annual Lunar Rendezvous Festival with their annual Kickoff Party at Space Center Houston at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26.

Recycling event March 25.

Councilman Dave Martin and the City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department are holding their spring Batteries, Oil, Paint (latex only) and Antifreeze (B.O.P.A.) recycling collection event Saturday, March 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at the Ellington Airport Neighborhood Recycling Center, Highway 3 at Brantlesy Avenue for City of Houston residents. A valid Texas driver’s license or other proof of residency, such as a water bill, will be required.

What’s in your family tree? Bay Area Genealogical Society will meet at 6:30

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p.m. Friday, March 31 at University Baptist Church Chapel,16106 Middlebrook Drive, for a program

by Nancy Royce of the Friendswood Public Library on researching early Kentucky records. For information, call Kim Zrubek at 281-992-2636 or visit www.TxBayAreaGen.org The public is invited.

Plant sale April 5. Gardeners By The Bay will hold their annual plant sale Wednesday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to noon in Building 3 behind Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 16635 El Camino Real. For information, call 281-474-5051 or visit http://gbtb.org 25th Anniversary April 6. Bay Oaks Country Club Women’s Association members will celebrate their 25th anniversary at a luncheon Thursday, April 6, at the country club.

Dickinson Comedy on tap March 17. The comedy I Hate Hamlet opens Friday, March 17 in Bay Area Harbour Playhouse’s Topside Theatre and continues weekends through Sunday, April 9, with curtains at 8 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. Sundays. For tickets, which are $17 for adults and $12 for seniors and students, call 281-337-7469 or email bareahp@comcast.net

Friendswood Texas Music Fest March 4.

Friendswood is the place for fun, food and live music at the second annual Texas Music Fest Saturday, March 4 from 2-9 p.m. at the Captain’s Corner Shopping Center, FM 2351 and FM 518, in celebration of Texas Independence Day. Food, vendors, exhibits and live entertainment from country artists Cory Morrow (headliner), Josh Ward, Two Tons of Steel and The Junior Gordon Band. Tickets are $10 with VIP tickets also available for $125.

For more information, go to www. friendsofdowntownfriendswood.org

League City State of City March 10. League City Mayor Pat Hallisey and City Manager John Baumgardner will deliver the State of the City Address at the League City Regional Chamber Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Friday, March

Bay Area Houston Magazine | MARCH 2017

10 in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Marina Plaza Ballroom. Cost is $25 for members and $35 for non members.

CCEF style show April. The Clear Creek Education Foundation Fashion Show, with high school juniors modeling fashions from Dillard’s Baybrook and Lenny Matuszewski as the producer, will be held Sunday, April 2 at 4:30 p.m. at the Mercedes Benz Dealership. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased online @ clearcreekeducationfoundation.org

Nassau Bay Comedy on Tap. Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers is now playing at the Clear Creek Community Theatre through Sunday, March 12 with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and matinees at 2:30 p.m.

Sundays. Tickets are $14 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 281-335-5228.

Winners here March 24. The winners of the Concerto Competition will perform with the Clear Lake Symphony during the concert Friday, March 24, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road.

Tickets will be available at the door or at Eye Trends, 515 Bay Area Blvd., Suite 300.

Pre-Tour Party March 31. Houston Symphony League Bay Area will host its Pre-Tour Party Friday, March 31, kicking off its annual Home Tour.

Pasadena Mystery at the Little Theatre.

Pasadena Little Theatre, 4318 Allen-Genoa Road, will present the mystery, Guilty Conscience, starting March 10 and continuing weekends through Sunday, March 26, with curtains at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. For reservations, call 713941-1758 or reserve on line at www. pasadenalittletheatre.org

Seabrook Blessing of Fleet March 19. Keeping with six decades of tradition, Lakewood Yacht Club is preparing to formally celebrate the 2017 Blessing of the Fleet Sunday, March 19, at 2

p.m. An award-winning marching band will entertain and live cannon fire will accompany the display.

Picnic at Museum March 21. Bay Area Museum Guild will host its annual Picnic at the Museum at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 21.

Whiskers, Wags & Wine March 30. Second Chance Pets will host its annual fundraiser, Whiskers, Wags & Wine Thursday, March 30 at Lakewood Yacht Club from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and will include dinner, live and silent auctions, a wine pull and special entertainment. Tickets are $60 each.

Home Tour April 1-2. Houston Symphony League Bay Area members are inviting the community to join them the weekend of April 1-2, from noon to 5 p.m., for the league’s annual Day By the Bay Home Tour which includes five homes -- in Seabrook, Kemah, Clear Lake’s Bay Oaks and two in historic League City.

Tickets, which are $15 in advance, are on sale at Arlan’s and Casanova’s Downfall in Taylor Lake, Adelaide’s in Clear Lake City, The Clotheshorse in League City and Nassau Postal, 957 E. NASA Parkway or call 713-7244961. Pre-tour party is in Nassau Bay March 31.

Webster Free tax help. Experienced AAPR tax-aide volunteers are at the Webster Recreation Center, 311 Pennsylvania Ave., to offer free tax aid, answer questions and help residents file their 2016 income taxes electronically now through Monday, April 17. Hours of Operation are Mondays, 9-5; Tuesdays, 10-2; Wednesdays, noon to 7 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 – 1.

5K Walk/Run March 4. The 5K On the Road for a Reason Walk/Run over the NASA Bypass starts at Clear View High, 400 S. Walnut in Webster, followed by free family-friendly after party from 8 to 10 a.m. in the Clear View Gym. Packet Pick up Friday, March 3 during the On the Road for a Reason Car Show from 6 to 9 p.m. at CCISD Challenger Columbia Stadium, 1955 W. NASA Parkway in Webster or Saturday, March 4, before the run at 6:30 a.m. at Clear View. For additional information, call 281-2840730.