Bay Area Houston Magazine June 2014

LEADING AND INFORMING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1999

June 2014 www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com

Same Day Digital Dentistry by DR. FARID NOIE, DDS, DICOI, FAGD

features

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City honors Don Matter

Nassau Bay’s New City Hall

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Mayor Julie Masters

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League City Physician John C. Jennings

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Opens in Nassau Bay

Movers & Shakers Business Buzz Allegiance Bank

18 Petrochemical

TSU’s Maritime Program

ON THE COVER Dr. Farid Noie, DDS, DICOI, FAGD and the lovely staff at the Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry.

Photo by Brian Stewart

20 President & Chairman Rick Clapp

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Graphic Designer Kelly Groce

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Editorial Don Armstrong Mary Alys Cherry Rod Evans Michael Gos Capt. Joe Kent Betha Merit Cathy Osoria Pat Patton Dr. Edward Reitman

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Distribution Tim Shinkle Company Bay Area Houston Magazine is produced monthly. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written permission. Advertising rates are available upon request.

Please address all correspondence to: Bay Area Houston Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586

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Lakewood Yacht Club Events Same Day Digital Dentistry Dr. Farid Noie of the Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

Lunar Rendezvous Rolls out plans for another big festival

Chasing a Dream

Ellington airport to spaceport transformation gets boost

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Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack

A Cajun Mecca

columns

Digital Strategy Consultant Pierr Castillo

281.474.5875

LYC to Host 4th Annual Hatteras Rendezvous

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Vice President & Creative Director Brandon Rowan

www.BayAreaHoustonMag.com R.Clapp@Baygroupmedia.com

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2014 Petrochemical & Maritime Outlook Conference

28 Education

CCISD honors community partners

Executive Vice President Patty Kane

Photography Mary Alys Cherry Brian Stewart

Economic Alliance conference’s 5th Anniversary

Publisher & Editor in Chief Mary Alys Cherry

Sales & Marketing Shannon Alexander Debbie Salisbury

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Gala brings in $100,000

Clear Lake Chatter

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Surf fishing techniques

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A reflection of god

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Timeless Tips

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Action Ministries Houston feeds the hungry

The Admiral’s Log Texas Meditations Home Sweet Home Light @ Work

42 CLICK

Legends of Clear Lake

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

New Nassau Bay City Hall named for former Mayor Don Matter is dedicated.

Nassau Bay honors former mayor who led town’s transformation

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

were there with their families to share the occasion with him.

He also thanked former Mayor Don Johnson for getting him involved in city government back in 1994, along with George Dempsey and John Haugan; City Secretary Pat Jones and City Managers John Kennedy and Reed for their work; and Will Dean, “who was instrumental in getting the Saudi Arabian owners of this property to sell the land and open our first real chance at redevelopment.

“Next is Fred Griffin, the person with the vision of this development” and “once the land deal was completed, the work really began for John Kennedy, Roscoe Lee, the planning commission, Dick Gregg Jr., Sue Darcy and Trey Larry.” They made it the reality it is today, he said, adding that “BAHEP President Bob

Former Mayor Don Matter with his wife, Sherry.

By Mary Alys Cherry “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

That was Nassau Bay City Manager Chris Reed quoting Margaret Mead and referring to the leadership of the former mayor, Don Matter, as the city prepared to name its new city hall for the man who has led the transformation of the city from one with dusty old buildings lining NASA Parkway to one with a vibrant and beautiful town square. Centered around a new hotel.

Hundreds gathered outside the shiny new Don Matter Municipal Building, which houses the 12,573-square-foot city hall on the second floor and the 10,463-squarefoot offices of Barrios Technology on the first floor.

The building – next door to the new Courtyard by Marriott -- replaces the city hall that developer Fred Griffin built to replace the one that was torn down to make way for Nassau Bay Town Square. City Council voted to add to the building, at a cost to the city of $1.6 million, in case extra space was needed in the future. Meanwhile, it will be home to Barrios for the next few years.

“If you talked to the people who played a role in bringing this building to life, you would hear thousands of different stories…but I believe here is a building that firmly stands for the capacity of its own people – the people of Nassau Bay who by their

support for this project, by their patience for its completion and their steadfast determination to have a new building, have produced perhaps one of the finest city halls in the State of Texas,” Reed said.

“Don believes in the power of volunteers,” he continued, pointing out that Matter was a volunteer fireman, served as a councilman for two years and as mayor for 15 years – “a selfless leader who always put the city and residents’ needs before his own” and “guided the city through Hurricane Ike and the aftermath, even though he was faced with his own damaged home.”

When it was Matter’s time to speak, he said he was not only grateful to be honored but humbled, going on to thank his wife, Sherry, and children Chad, Kimberly and Ashleigh, who

Mitchell was instrumental in helping us land the Marriott hotel, as key anchor, as you see today.

“I have received some significant awards and recognitions in my professional career, but nothing can top this,” he said in concluding his remarks.

Others on the program were Mayor Mark Denman, who also welcomed the crowd, former City Manager John Kennedy, the Clear Creek ROTC and members of the Clear Creek Chamber Singers.

The ceremonies ended with the Masonry Cornerstone Leveling Ceremony by the Grand Lodge of Texas, after which guests were invited to tour the new city hall and enjoy refreshments provided by Amoco Federal Credit Union.

City Manager Chris Reed and City Secretary Pat Jones toast the city’s future at reception following dedication of new city hall.

Police Chief Joe Cashiola stops to talk with Nassau Bay residents and volunteers Tuie and Roscoe Lee at dedication.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Movers &Shakers Name: Julie Masters

hour. I also love poetry, especially the classics by the old masters, Shakespeare, Dickinson, Poe, Cummings, etc.

Occupation: Mayor of Dickinson Hometown: Dickinson Current home: Dickinson Family: Husband, Ron Masters, CEO & owner, Maxim Group; Daughter: Jill Masters, Marketing and Sales, TriStar Productions, Houston; Daughter and Son-in-Law: Laura and Brian Doherty; Laura is a DISD art teacher in DISD, Brian is VP and lead counsel for Maxim Group My favorite writer is: No one favorite. I read a lot of Fiction and most of what I read is entertaining enough to keep me on the stationery bike at least an

Meet Carla Wade I n May of 2007, at age 47, Carla went in to see her OBGYN for a yearly well women’s exam where a very tiny lump was felt in her breast. Her doctor didn’t think it was anything to be overly concerned about, but he went ahead and scheduled Carla to have a mammogram and ultrasound. The mammogram revealed nothing, but the ultrasound did show a small mass. That same day, Carla received a needle biopsy for further testing.

She was not worried or stressed, as she thought it would come back as nothing at all…but she was wrong.

The next week (June 5) Carla was diagnosed with breast cancer— lobular cell carcinoma, which is a very difficult type of breast cancer to detect that when not discovered grows out like a spiderweb. “It’s a miracle they even found it,” she says.

Later in June, Carla underwent a mastectomy, followed by

chemo from August 2007-January 2008 and then six weeks of daily radiation from February to March 2008, ringing the treatment graduation bell on the same day as her wedding anniversary.

Through it all Carla remained resilient and was determined not to let cancer slow her down. As a successful realtor and consistently one of RE/MAX Space Center’s top producers, she continued to show houses, negotiate contracts, and go to her closings withouther clients and fellow realtors ever knowing she was going through cancer treatment. “I didn’t want to tell anyone as far as other realtors and clients,” she said.

“I didn’t want my potential clients to think that they were bothering me or that they should let me rest during my treatment. I didn’t want people to look at me and feel sorry for me. This was just a bump in the road that I needed to get through.”

When chemo treatments caused

Someone I’d like to meet: I’d like to meet my family members again that have passed on; I still miss them terribly If I could switch places with someone for just one day, I’d choose: An impoverished mother My favorite performers are: Elvis Presley, Michael Bublé, Katherine Hepburn I like to spend my leisure time: Volunteering, playing tennis, golf and reading

her to lose her hair Carla wore a wig that looked very similar in color, length and style to her own hair, that way no one could tell. It wasn’t important for her to share this personal information with colleagues or clients; her support system was her husband, her kids, her parents, her faith in God and her church.

She didn’t let cancer get in the way of her family life either—with three kids (one in elementary, one in junior high and one in college at the time) there were activities she wasn’t willing to miss. She continued to be an active president of her daughter’s choir booster club and went to all her sons football games, even the one he had the very next day after her first chemo treatment. “My attitude toward cancer was that it’s not going to get me. It was something I was going to go through for a little while, but it would all be fine.”

Today, Carla remains cancer free and believes “the reason this all happened is so I can could help others going through breast cancer, tell them what to expect and give them hope.” She also makes sure they are getting the best treatment.

A client and friend of hers was diagnosed with breast cancer while Carla was helping her find a home.

After hearing what her client’s doctors were telling her, Carla

If I could travel any place, I’d go: Back to Italy My favorite meal is: Blackened Salmon, Green Beans, and Squash at Dickinson BBQ & Steakhouse

As a youngster, I wanted to grow up to be: A professional volleyball player You’ll never catch me: Smoking The thing that bugs me the most is: Laziness My favorite movie is: Musicals!

Few people know: That I am afraid of large animals, like horses and cows

said, “No, you need to go to MD Anderson.” That client received treatment at MD Anderson in the Bay Area—where Carla was treated as one of the center’s first patients— and is doing great today. “I love the Bay Area center,” Carla said.

“It’s so close to my house, which made it easy for me to schedule my treatments and then go about my day as planned.”

Carla is in good spirits and good health. Some of her later medications caused her to gain 30 pounds, but once she was off them she made diet changes and started going to the gym on a regular basis.

So far she has lost 20 of those 30 pounds. She also started her own Relay for Life team—Carla’s Cancer Kickers—when she hit her five year survivorship mark.

To others who have just been diagnosed or who are undergoing treatment, Carla says, “Attitude is everything. You can expect to be sick, take sick leave and you probably will be sick with your treatment. Or you can push through it and trust God knowing that He is in control. Refuse to let it slow you down. Even difficult experiences can work for good, and you can be used as a light that can guide another person through a dark and frightening unknown.”

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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15 Things Homeowners Can Do to Reduce Energy and Maintenance Costs 1. Turn down the hot water heater to 120°F. It’s a waste of energy to heat water hotter than most people can stand.

2. Get a water heater blanket.

Many older water heaters and even fairly new ones aren’t well insulated. A water heater blanket saves money by keeping the heat in.

3. Wrap insulation around exposed hot water pipes. Good quality pipe insulation makes the water 2° to 4° warmer and delivers it quicker. The first three feet leaving the heater and the last few feet coming back are key.

4. Check for running toilets, leaky faucets and under sink plumbing. They cost you money and lead to mold.

5. Check attic insulation. If you have an unfinished attic, have at least 6” of insulation, (more in the northern U.S.).

6. Put in a programmable thermostat. This automatically adjusts temperature, so you only pay for heating or cooling the house when you’re actively using it.

7. Install ceiling fans. Their air circulation effect lets you put your thermostat 1° or 2° higher in summer and 1° or 2° lower in winter. Set to blow air down in summer and up in winter.

8. Replace the air handling filter. This is behind a slotted panel in

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the air handler. Note the size and stock up. A dirty filter makes the system work harder. Check every two months.

9. Clear all air vents. Make sure vents aren’t blocked and look in to see they’re dust bunny free.

10. Air-dry some laundry. Put up a rack in the laundry room or a clothesline outside. Air-dry a third of your laundry and you’re running the dryer a third less of the time.

11. Choose reliable, energy efficient appliances. Paying a little extra for quality and reliability will save you lots over the long haul.

12. Seal out air. Air leaks are money leaks. Look for them around windows and doors, and then seal them up.

13. Monitor foundation cracks.

If you have cracks in basement walls, cover the ends with masking tape with the date. If the cracks grow, call in a specialist. Foundation problems are way cheaper to fix sooner than later.

14. Plant shade trees near your home. They cool the house in summer, saving money on air conditioning, and add value to the property.

15. Write down a home maintenance checklist. Include tasks you should do monthly, quarterly, and annually. Review each month.You’ll save tons of money over time.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

RON CARTER CLEAR LAKE CADILLAC HYUNDAI’S JUNE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT Ryan Ruffaner’s quest to unravel the universe through mathematics has led him to pursue a college degree in electric engineering with a minor in business. His goal is to merge his passion with mathematics and improve school security nationwide.

Ruffaner’s other interests include writing, self publishing his own novel and continuing to tutor local students in the community.

Unfortunately, the pursuit of a college education was not an option due to his family’s financial misfortune.

According to Ruffaner, “Today’s cost of an undergraduate degree is almost impossible without financial aid.”

A special thanks goes to Ron Carter Clear Lake Cadillac and Hyundai for making a lifelong dream come true with their scholarship gift.

“We are proud to present Ryan Ruffaner, a Clear Horizons High School graduate, one of our scholarships which will allow him to achieve his dreams and continuation of giving back to his family and community,” stated Chris Premont, E-Commerce and Business Development Manager of Ron Carter Clear Lake Cadillac and Hyundai.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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BUSINESS BUZZ

National medical group names League City physician president

By Mary Alys Cherry

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r. John C. Jennings of League City, the new president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, was sworn in during the group’s Presidential Inauguration and Convocation in early May in Chicago’s Skyline Ballroom.

The ACOG’s 65th president, a Tennessee native and 40year Texas resident, is professor of ob-gyn at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at the Permian Basin.

“It is truly an honor to be able to serve as president of ACOG and to represent the 58,000 obstetrician and gynecologist

members who are practicing in the United States and other countries. We are the only exclusive specialists for women, and in that respect, we have an obligation to provide the very best in women’s health care.”

A graduate of Union University in Jackson, Tenn., Dr. Jennings completed his medical degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, his internship at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, and his residency the University of Tennessee in Memphis.

Dr. Jennings was in private practice in San Angelo for 12 years before entering academic medicine. He has previously served as head of gynecology and program director of ob-gyn at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C.; professor and program director of ob-gyn at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston; and chair and program director of ob-gyn at Texas Tech Health Science Center at Amarillo.

Dr. Jennings is a former chair of District XI and former president of the Texas Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

He and his wife, Sue Ellen, who first moved to League City in 1993, have three daughters and six grandchildren. Two of their daughters and their families also live in League City.

Bay Area cities get new mayors

By Mary Alys Cherry

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he votes have been tallied, and three Bay Area cities have new mayors – Webster, Shoreacres and Galveston – while Pearland Mayor Tom Reid was re-elected for the umpteenth time, snaring almost 70 percent of the vote.

Reid, who has been mayor of the Brazoria County’s largest city for 30 years, won over 12-year city council veteran Woody Owens with 2,273 votes (69.4 percent) to Owens’ 1,000 votes (30.5 percent).

Another familiar face is Jim Yarbrough, who was elected mayor of Galveston with 3,251 votes and 59 percent of the vote. The former longtime Galveston county judge won out over Elizabeth Beeton, who had 1,358 votes (24 percent); Don Mafringe’s 882 votes (16 percent); and Raymond Guzman’s 66 votes (1 percent).

Donna Rogers, a former mayor of Webster, is the new mayor of that city, defeating Tracy Bush 172-17. Besides being mayor, she also served on the city council. She will replace long-

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time Mayor Floyd Myers, who is term limited.

In Shoreacres, the voters picked Mayor Pro-tem Rick Moses to be their new mayor. He had 168 votes to Ron Hoskins’ 52.

Several cities did not hold elections as candidates had no competition.

Among them were Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, Friendswood, Nassau Bay, Seabrook and Taylor Lake Village.

Baytown, League City and Pasadena elections are in the fall.

School district elections

Clear Creek ISD District 2 voters re-elected School Board Vice President Win Weber over Nick Long 407-336 with the Nassau Bay attorney and municipal judge getting 54.78 percent of the vote to Long’s 45.22 percent.

Pearland ISD voters cast 1,324 ballots or 54 percent for Rusty DeBorde in the Position 2 race with Suzanne Johnson, who got 1,111 or 46 percent. In the Position 1 race, Charles Gooden Jr., got 54 percent of the vote to Jeff Jeffress’ 37 percent and Trevor Hale’s 8 percent.

Meanwhile, Dickinson ISD voters

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

passed a $56 million bond proposal to build an elementary and an intermediate school and elected Veanna Veasey (140 votes) over Leo Rudd (10 votes) in the District 2 trustee race while La Porte voters OK’d a $260 million bond proposal for a laundry list of school improvements.

In the Clear Lake City Water Authority election, residents turned out to cast nearly 3,500 votes and elect Gordon Johnson (1,298 votes), and Thomas Morrow, (1,299 votes), to the CLCWA Board. Other candidates’ vote totals were Steve Baxter, 416; Tim Daggett, 337; and M.G. Spaniel, 127.

City council races

The Webster city council race for the Position 6 seat held by Bill Jones is headed for a June 17 runoff between Martin Graves (60 votes) and a former councilman, Steve Waltz (56 votes).

Kaz Hamidian got 53 votes and Bill Jones, 38.

All three Kemah incumbents were re-elected as Rhonda Trevino with 156 votes beat Teresa Vasquez Evans’ 138 votes to take 53.1 percent of the Position 1 vote while Carl Joiner beat

Mikal Williams 167-116 to take 59.6 percent of the vote in the Position 3 race. Steve Mewborn retained his Position 5 seat by getting 177 votes or 61 percent to Michelle Cochran’s 113.

El Lago Councilman Jeff Tave was re-elected to Position 5 by defeating Clyde Mayhew 93-69.

Deer Park Position 4 Councilman Bill Patterson was re-elected over John Janatasch 635-212, and in the Position 5 race, Ron Martin had 540 votes to Shelley Stokes’ 337.

Shoreacres residents elected Mike Wheeler (97 votes) and Richard Adams (139 ballots) as aldermen.

Candidates Neil Moyer had 81 votes while Paul Croas had 66.

In the Texas City District 1 race, Thelma Bowie (304 votes) won with 90.1 percent of the vote as Johnny Howell received 33 votes.

Six Galveston council seats were up for grabs in the May 10 election with some incumbents winning and some not so lucky.

In District 1 incumbent Cornelia Banks with 37.3 percent of the vote was forced into a runoff with Tarris Woods, who had 47 percent while Ronald Dean had 16 percent. Craig Brown was the winner of the District 2 race with 58 percent of the vote to Susan Fennewald’s 17 percent and Richard Batie’s 25 percent.

The District 3 winner was Ralph McMorris, who got 52 percent to Kate Marx’s 48 percent. Incumbent Norman Pappous emerged the victor in the District 4 race with 59 percent of the vote while his opponent, David Hoover, had 41 percent.

Incumbent Terrilyn Tarlton walked off with 71 percent of the vote in the District 5 council race with opponents William Quiroga getting 5 percent and Diana Gonzalez Bertini receiving 24 percent.

In Galveston’s District 6 race, the incumbent, Marie Robb, received 31 percent of the vote, while Carolyn Sunseri won the seat with 69 percent of the vote.

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Allegiance Bank Chairman Steve Retzloff, right, shares a light moment with Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman, left, and Bank President Frank Law during the grand opening in Nassau Bay.

BAHEP President Bob Mitchell, right, and BAHEP Bay Tech Director Kim Morris, left, talk with Dr. Alan Lunsford during Allegiance Bank’s grand opening in Nassau Bay.

Allegiance Bank opens in Nassau Bay

By Mary Alys Cherry

T

here’s a new bank in town and it’s certainly one of the prettiest you’ll find anywhere.

It’s Allegiance Bank, which moved into what formerly was the Bank of America at the corner of St. John’s Drive and NASA Parkway in Nassau Bay and hosted its grand opening May 1, after a grand remodeling.

Allegiance Bank Chairman Steve Retzloff and CEO George Martinez joined President Frank Law in welcoming the crowd and showing everyone around the elegant new offices, designed by Karen Burgos of Design Resources International, with

a little help from Law. Nassau Bay Mayor Mark Denman and Mayor Pro-tem David Braun headed up a crowd of community leaders that included Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell and Clear Lake Area Chamber President Cindy Harreld – all ready to welcome the new bank to the Bay Area Houston community, one of Allegiance’s 11 Houston area banking facilities.

Old timers in the area remember when the landmark bank was called Nassau Bay National Bank. All are no doubt pleased to see it is living to see another day and not turned into a service station.

Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy Harreld and attorney Randy Ashby like the new Allegiance Bank design.

President Frank Law, center, CEO George Martinez, left, and Chairman Steve Retzloff prepare to welcome the crowd to the new Allegiance Bank in Nassau Bay.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Long-time members of the Houston Symphony League Bay Area Norma Brady, left, and Pat Brackett talk over old times at the group’s May meeting at Lakewood Yacht Club.

Assistance League members Lisa Holbrook,Vicki Tallman and Kathleen Courville, from left, wear big smiles after being presented A.B.C.D. Awards at their May luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake for their hard work.

Houston Symphony League Bay Area President Jim Moore goes over plans for the May luncheon program at Lakewood Yacht Club with President-elect Mary Voigt.

Gala brings in $100,000

Sandra Sellers won the Sue Holstein Award and Lisa Holbrook was the recipient of the Sue Brady Award.

YOU CAN BET Assistance League Gala Chairman Kathleen Courville and Co-Chaiman Dee Cover exchanged some high fives when they totaled up the take from their 2014 fundraiser – more than $100,000!

However, they will be quick to tell you that they had lots and lots of help from the entire membership and look forward to seeing their efforts help clothe needy Bay Area school children.

The news was a highlight of the league’s annual installation luncheon May 19 at Bay Oaks Country Club in Clear Lake when Brunella Altemus was installed as president and Peggy Clause as president-elect. Other new officers installed were Vice Presidents Ann Marie Doolin, Sarah Foulds, Courtney Atchley and Gail

Pat Biddle honored at 2014 Silver Tea

MARY ALYS CHERRY

Ashby; Secretary Ginger Darnell and Treasurer Marie Keener.

Rikie Bowker will serve as Assisteens coordinator with Barbara Weitenhagen as education chairman, Ronda Wegman as marketing chairman and Dee Cover, as strategic planning chairman.

Kathleen Courville, Vicki Tallman and Lisa Holbrook were named winners of the A.B.C.D. Award while

THIS YEAR’S HONOREE at the Bay Area Museum Guild’s Silver Tea was the community’s non-stop volunteer Pat Biddle, who is always there to lend a hand to various organizations, including the Guild, which she serves as first vice president and hospitality committee chairman this year.

Chairman Jill Reason and CoChairman Jana Miller were on hand to greet Pat when she arrived with her husband, Ron Karl, and the hundreds of others who dropped by that afternoon, including members of the Lunar Rendezvous royal court and their parents.

A special guest was former resident and popular volunteer Sara Stewart, who came down from Houston with

Tea honoree Pat Biddle, center, visits with Sara Stewart, right, and her daughter, Shari, during the Bay Silver Tea Chairman Jill Reason, left, and Co-Chairman Jana Area Museum Guild’s 2014 Silver Tea, held at the museum in Clear Lake Park. Biddle was honored for Miller welcome guests to the tea. her dedication to the museum.

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

her daughter, Shari. Later that week, Sara fell and broke her hip, but is now doing well and should be up and about soon.

Symphony League taps Jim Moore FOR THE FIRST time in its 38year history, a man has been elected president of the Houston Symphony League Bay Area.

He is Jim Moore, who served as president-elect this past year, and is one of several men who have joined the league in recent years. He was installed May 14 at the league’s annual installation luncheon at Lakewood Yacht Club along with President-elect Mary Voigt.

Other officers are Vice Presidents Mary McCormick, Pat Biddle, Nina McGlashan and Patience Myers; Recording Secretary Frances Nussbaum and Historian Bill Powell.

Lisa Holbrook, left, was a double winner at the Assistance League’s May luncheon. She not only won an A.B.C.D. Award, she was the winner of the Sue Brady Award. Jenny Verghese, last year’s winner of the award, congratulates her.

PETROCHEMICAL

The Next Wave TSU maritime program trains the next generation of port professionals

By Rod Evans

I

t’s as much a rite of summer as spending days at the beach or hanging with the guys until the wee hours around the Xbox console. For high school graduates, this is time of year when decisions are made that could have a far reaching impact on their life, which is why many recent grads recoil at the simple question posited by everyone from Aunt Edna to their best friend: what are you going to major in?

Deciding which career path to take is daunting thanks to the myriad factors that go into deciding a future occupation. Earning potential, the number of jobs available, the type of degree required and assessing the demands of a possible career choice, both physical and emotional, are some of the more vital factors to consider.

For students living in southeast Texas, the proximity of the Houston Ship Channel and the Port of Houston creates a fertile ground for career paths thanks to the enormous impact the industrial complex has on the region’s economy. In order

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to help train students to fill the abundance of jobs either directly or indirectly affiliated with the port, Texas Southern University partnered with the Port of Houston Authority four years ago to launch the school’s ground breaking Maritime Transportation Management and Security program.

“The Port of Houston Authority called and asked us for a proposal for a four-year program that focuses on land side jobs,” said program coordinator Ursula Williams. “The program officially started with a gift from the Port of Houston for $2 million and we launched it in 2010.”

Graduates of the program receive a bachelor’s of science degree in maritime transportation management and security, which Williams says makes them qualified to hold positions such as freight logistics specialist, shipping manager, port manager and operator, port security officer, maritime policy maker and environmental compliance manager.

She adds that 20 students have graduated from the program since its inception and about 60 students are

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

currently enrolled in the program.

“The courses offered include a basic introduction to maritime transportation, maritime law, American maritime history, maritime security, port and terminal operations management, cargo operations, risk assessment, environmental law and international business and shipping,” Williams said.

According to Williams, it’s the first degree program focusing on maritime security and management to be offered at a Houston area university and is the first such program offered by a Historically Black College or University in the nation.

She says the program’s graduates are working at employers that include the Port of Houston, the U.S. Coast Guard, FedEx, Gulf Stream Marine, Walmart Distribution and Kirby Inland Marine.

The 121-hour program also allows for hands-on experience and internship opportunities that allow students to build relationships with potential employers and get a feel for what jobs in their specific area of interest are like in the real world.

Anthony Slenoy II was part of the initial class of 33 students enrolled in the program and is now working as an assistant facility security officer with the Port of Houston Authority.

The 24-year old Houston native has been on the job for a little over a year after graduating from the program in 2012.

“My original major was going to be criminal justice, but I got word about the maritime program from my father and after I looked into it on the Internet, it looked like it was a great opportunity for job growth,” Slenoy said. “To be totally honest, there was a huge learning curve to get over when I first began classes. I knew of the ship channel, but didn’t grasp how big a role it played in the economy, so it was all brand new to me at the time.”

After successfully completing the program’s initial introductory course, where students learn the basics of the shipping industry and port management and security, Slenoy went on to complete upper level courses and received an internship opportunity, which proved essential in propelling his career.

“The internship jump started my career and was the key to me getting employed by the Port of Houston,” Slenoy recalls. “I got to come out and work with the security team and get a grasp of what they do on a day-today basis, plus I got the chance to build relationships and get hands-on experience.”

In his current position, Slenoy works with the port’s security team to keep the facility in compliance with federal security regulations, many of which were implemented in the aftermath of 911. The security

department implements procedures to keep the facility in compliance with regulations set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency (under the Department of Homeland Security) and the Transportation Security Administration.

“We did a lot of classroom study, obviously, but we also toured the port on the (M/V) Sam Houston (tour boat), which gave us a chance to see the vessels, the cargo operations and the various companies that do work along the ship channel. We also toured private facilities, including a Valero production facility and several terminals. It’s good to get the school side of it along with the real world.

You can read all you want, but until you see it, it’s hard to grasp it,” Slenoy said.

Williams said the three full time instructors (in addition to one part time instructor) hired to teach the program’s courses have extensive maritime industry experience, including serving as ship’s captains and in various levels of port management. The program has also begun offering nine Coast Guard certification courses to workers who need additional training and certifications in order to advance in their career.

“Estimates show that trade is expected to triple by the year 2020, with 90 percent of that coming via ocean shipments. The expansion of the Panama Canal (scheduled to be completed in 2015) will help facilitate much of that growth in freight traffic, which means there’s a great need for skilled people,” Williams said.

While the Port of Houston Authority’s initial $2 million gift was essential in getting the program off the ground, Williams says the port remains engaged in the effort to produce graduates who can hit the ground running in their chosen field as soon as they graduate.

“The port is a very active partner in the program,” she said. “They serve on the Maritime Advisory Board and many of their people do guest lectures and take students on field trips, in addition to providing the allimportant internships.”

For Slenoy, who makes around $50,000 annually in his position with the port, the program has put him right in the middle of an industry and career that he hopes will grow and flourish in the years to come.

“There’s lots of potential for growth in the security field,” Slenoy said.

“The next promotion for me would be to a security manager’s position.

I enjoy working on the security side because it’s fascinating and always changing. There are always rules and policies that we have to stay up to date with.”

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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About Face: Five Years of the Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference Four Years of Great Speakers • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

American Chemistry Council Buffalo Marine Services, Inc. Chevron Phillips Chemical CMA-CGM (America) LLC Coutinho & Ferrostaal Inc. Dupont ExxonMobil Chemical Company Greater Houston Port Bureau Gulf Winds International, Inc. Hanjin Shipping America, LLC LyondellBasell Panama Canal Authority Port of Houston Authority Shell Oil Company Shell Deer Park Shell Chemical L.P. Texas Chemical Council The Dow Chemical Company

accurate,” says Burke. Presentations included an introduction to the lock expansion projects at the Panama Canal, a unique view of the national economy by economist Dr. Loren C. Scott, economic projections by panelists from The Dow Chemical Company, Shell Chemical LP, ExxonMobil Chemical Company, and a keynote presentation from Robert Moore, Director of the American Institute for International Steel.

The prospects for the region in 2010 looked very different. For example, in his talk, Dr. Scott painted a rather bleak picture for the future of expansion and attraction of new business to the region, citing the high cost of resources, an inadequate workforce, and unfavorable taxing and regulatory regimes. This sentiment was echoed throughout the conference that day. Attending company representatives stated they had no plans to expand their local operations and were considering

I

n late 2009, Chad Burke, President and CEO of Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, was approached by Dennis Winkler of Winkler Public Relations and Chris Hext of Lubrizol, with the idea to start a new conference that would provide a forum for businesses in the region to hear future economic projections from key industry leaders while serving as a venue for important business-tobusiness networking. The idea gained quick traction in a region where the petrochemical industry employs over 33,000 workers and supports an additional 300,000 jobs in related industries.

In 2010, the Economic Alliance launched the first Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference at the Pasadena Convention Center, where over 400 people were in attendance.

“A conference like this is the perfect place for companies to gain a topdown perspective that will help make their business forecasting more

“Companies responding to a recent survey estimated they will spend no less than $35 billion in capital investment by 2015 in this region.”

Silvia de Marucci of the Panama Canal Authority presenting on the lock expansion projects at the first Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference in 2010.

redirecting their resources to locations outside the region, outside Texas, and even outside the U.S., where more favorable business conditions existed.

During the 2012 conference, guests were made aware of a massive shift occurring in the business environment: hydraulic fracturing opportunities were quickly being realized, and shale gas became available at a dramatic and historical low cost. Thus, between 2010 and 2012 prospects for the future had made a dramatic about face. No longer were presenters talking about moving operations out of the region.

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

Many companies began sharing plans of local expansion, while others sought to establish a foothold in the region.

Since 2012, the growth in this region can only be described as a tidal wave of capital investment, featuring growth this region has not seen since World War II and the days of Spindletop, which signaled the onset of the oil and gas age.

Companies responding to a recent survey estimated they will spend no less than $35 billion in capital investment by 2015 in this region. In addition, an estimated $60 billion will be spent along the Texas Gulf Coast over the next three to five years.

The value of the Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference is evident in the steady growth of the event over the past four years. Each year, available booth space sells out, registration continues to rise (over 600 people attended in 2013), and the program garners greater cross-

industry participation. Over the last four years, conference speakers have addressed topics such as: environmental regulations, Panama Canal expansion and opportunities, transportation infrastructure needs, and the economic outlook for the steel, maritime, petrochemical, and logistics industries.

The conference, traditionally held on the Thursday following Labor Day, comes at a great time of the year when many companies are preparing their budgets for the next calendar year and have already identified the following year’s projects.

The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region would like to share a note of thanks to the Port of Houston Authority for their support over the past four years as the presenting sponsor.

This year, the 5th annual Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference will be held on Sept. 4, 2014, at the Pasadena Convention Center. Doors open at 7 a.m., and the conference will conclude at 3 p.m.

For more information, please visit www.allianceportregion.com/pmoc, or call Marisela Cantu at 281-476-9176 ext. 4.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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News & Events This year’s Harvest Moon Regatta Chairman for Lakewood Yacht Club is racer Jack Seitzinger. He is pictured with wife Pat helping with trophies in the City Pavilion of Port Aransas for last year’s race.

28TH ANNUAL HARVEST MOON REGATTA SLATED FOR OCT. 9 – 12

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akewood Yacht Club’s Harvest Moon Regatta Committee Chairman Jack Seitzinger has announced that the 28th Annual Harvest Moon Regatta this year will be held from Thursday, Oct. 9 through Sunday, Oct. 12.

“We wanted to get the word out early this year so that racers can plan their schedules,” related Seitzinger who has raced in the Harvest Moon Regatta for numerous years.

This is an offshore race from Galveston to Port Aransas and is deemed by racers to be the largest port to port race in the country.

Usually, over 200 boats participate, plus their crews, which results in around 2,000 folks descending on the sleepy fishing village of Port Aransas.

The race begins off the Pleasure Pier in Galveston on Thursday afternoon and most racers, depending upon the weather, arrive in Port Aransas late Friday afternoon.

Activities begin for the racers on Saturday afternoon with a “Welcome Sailors Rum Party” sponsored by the original race sponsor, Bacardi Rum. Following are a barbecue buffet dinner and the awards ceremony where over 150 trophies are presented to the winners.

Sunday morning there is a coffee and doughnut gathering in the City Pavilion before heading home.

For further information about the 2014 Harvest Moon Regatta, visit the club’s website www.lakewoodyachtclub.com For further information, contact Marcy Fryday at 281-474-2511

Lakewood to Host 4th Annual Hatteras Yacht Rendezvous

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akewood Yacht Club Fleet Captain Jim Winton has announced that the club will host the fourth Hatteras Rendezvous Thursday, June 26 – Sunday, June 29. “We are very pleased to once again host this fun event for all Hatteras owners around the Gulf Coast. One does not need to be a Lakewood member in order to participate,” Winton said. “The Hatteras Rendezvous Committee consisting of Lesley Hurley and Asa Lockhart has been diligently working for the last few months on a variety of activities for the weekend.”

The evening of June 26 will begin with an informal gathering for early arrivals in the Inner Harbor. On Friday, June 27 there will be a buffet and band with dancing by the swimming pool.

The next day, Saturday, June 28, will feature a full array of informative seminars on topics of interest to Hatteras owners followed by a Hatteras Rendezvous Fashion Show sponsored by West Marine’s flagship store in League City. All club members and their guests are invited to join the group in the lounge for this show.

That night the Rendezvous Committee has

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

arranged for a New Orleans style buffet with music

by Bourbon Street, again, for everyone whether or not they are participating in the Rendezvous.

Rounding out the weekend will be Lakewood’s Sunday Champagne Brunch in the ballroom and music by the pool.

For non-Lakewood members participating in the Rendezvous with their Hatteras, a weekend

wristband can be purchased for $100 which covers Friday night, Saturday Continental breakfast and light lunch along with the Saturday night dinner party. For those wishing only to attend the Saturday night festivities, the cost is $30 plus tax and gratuity per person.

For registration information, please contact Lesley Hurley at lesleymlhurley@yahoo.com

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By Capt. Joe Kent

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Hopefully we can shed some light on this and contribute to a successful surf fishing trip for you this summer.

Fish are found in the surf year round and the species vary in size and numbers with each season that passes. June through November and often well into December is the most active time.

During the summer months, speckled trout will roam the surf and experienced anglers know when and where to target this popular game fish. Wind and water clarity are two of the key components to a successful trip, with tidal flow being of equal prominence.

My experience has shown that July and August are the best months for

Bait: Live shrimp under popping corks or freelined. Live Croaker and fingerling mullet also good. Don’t use dead bait.

Lures: Silver spoons, MirrOlures, soft plastics, twitchbaits (Yo-Zuri or Rapalas) and topwaters early or late.

Bait: Live shrimp, fingerling mullet and other finfish.

Lures: Just about anything flashy and fast will draw strikes. Got-Cha plugs, silver spoons, MirrOlures, twitchbaits (Yo-Zuri or Rapalas) or Rat-L-Traps.

June is the beginning of active surf fishing along the upper Texas Coast. he beachfront from High Island to Surfside is filled on days when conditions are right with anglers with lines in the water. Many wade-fish the first through third sand bars while others use their kayaks and most recently bait launchers to go after that big fish.

Anglers, especially newcomers to the Galveston Bay complex, often ask for tips on how and when to surf fish and what equipment to use.

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

catching specks in the surf. Days where light winds prevail and good tidal movement and water clarity all come together are almost a given for catching a nice stringer of specks.

The best time to hit the surf is just before daybreak or at dusk. An incoming tide is the best, and when the specks are running, other fish will be as well.

Live shrimp fished under a popping cork likely is the most popular bait; however, small finfish like croaker work equally well if not better at times. Artificial baits tossed by experienced fishermen catch their share of fish too.

Choosing your days is a big part of having success. If there is a strong wind from a southerly direction, the surf is usually choppy and the water off color for fishing. When the wind velocities drop to less than 10 knots, it is time to hit the surf.

So, what else besides specks can be expected during the summer?

The answer is lots of other fish.

Spanish mackerel and reds like the same terrain, and during the peak of summer, just about any of the offshore species might come visiting. Sharks are prevalent in the surf during warm weather. Tarpon often are hooked by trout fishermen who have a live finfish dangling from a popping cork along one of the deep guts.

After Labor Day, specks are usually headed back into the bays for their fall transition. Another transition hits the surf at the same time and that is the arrival of spawning reds, especially bull reds. September through early December is a time when reds are just about a given along the beachfront.

The bull red run, as it is often called, takes place from late September through November and along with the big bulls are good numbers of sizable sharks like bull shark, blacktips and others. Jack crevalle love the same stretch of beach and along with sharks, bull reds, tarpon and others can be found from one to 12 miles out.

Tarpon Alley is a mythical term coined by Capt. Mike Williams

of Tarpon Express Guide Service.

Williams designated the area from just off of the beachfront to approximately 12 miles out as Tarpon Alley, as that is where he has found countless tarpon, sharks and other pelagic fish roaming for many years.

The alley extends from near High Island to the middle Texas Coast.

With live shrimp and small fin fish being the bait of choice for trout, what about the bigger fish?

Large fresh ribbon fish and shad along with live bait such as mullet are excellent for going after the big ones.

Hunks of bonito are one of the best shark baits.

Keep in mind that conditions need to be good to enhance your chances at catching fish. Green, clear water along with light to calm winds are

Bait: Live shrimp, fingerling mullet, piggy perch and croaker. Dead baits like shrimp, squid and cut mullet will also work.

Lures: MirrOlures, soft plastics, gold spoons, Rat-L-Traps and twitchbaits.

Bait: Live and dead finfish like shad, mullet and pinfish.

Lures: Coon pops, 65M and 77M MirrOlures, storm swimbaits, soft plastics and fly gear.

“When the wind velocities drop to less than 10 knots, it is time to hit the surf.” the best. Water clarity is probably the most important of the group.

One thing to keep in mind, if you wade fish the surf, be sure to have an extra-long fish stringer as sharks often mutilate stringers of fish and in the past have taken a swat at an unprotected leg. Stingrays also pose a problem during warm weather and that necessitates careful movement or ray guards over your ankles and calves.

While the first part of the year tends to be slow in the surf, during times of calm conditions in January through March, whiting provide a lot of entertainment and good table fare.

Whiting are easy to catch and one of the best baits is fresh dead shrimp with the cartilage peeled.

Dr. Farid Noie, DDS, DICOI, FAGD Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Offers Same Day Digital Dentistry

By Betha Merit

Dr. Farid Noie has a history of always searching

the horizon to find a new, better way to treat dental and oral maxillofacial challenges.

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e also is known for having the patience to wait until that treatment is proven safe and effective.

Well, Dr. Noie and Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry now offers Digital Dentistry. “At last, the age of Digital Dentistry is here, and it’s more

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exciting than anything I could have dreamed of. That was the last piece of the puzzle. We can now completely regenerate a missing tooth or protect and repair damaged teeth from start to finish,” says Dr. Noie.

Q: Can you give us some background on CAD/CAM technology and Same Day Dentistry?

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

Noie: Everything you need for Same Day Dentistry is now under one roof. With the help of digital technology we can envision, capture, and create your perfect smile in just one visit with an astonishing accuracy not possible before. This technology was first introduced in the 1980’s. As with any new technology, there were a few bugs that had to be worked out. The 3D images, using red scanning laser were not accurate, and required use of aluminum silicate powder. The ceramic blocks utilized also were susceptible to fracture. The new generation systems use blue laser rays to scan which is far more accurate. The new ceramic blocks are

also re-engineered to be completely monolithic, very similar to cultured pearl. They are so strong and durable that the manufacturers guarantee them to last more than 10 years. The result is a better experience for the patient and an amazingly strong and life-like all ceramic restoration which feels and looks like perfect natural teeth and can last a lifetime.

We have come a long way from old style crowns that were temperature sensitive and caused the gum to recede and led to the dreaded visible black line around the crown. A recent comprehensive study at NYU concluded that results seen with new crystal diamond restorations are

“The marginal fit, the contours and the occlusion of these digitally designed and computerized fabricated crowns are just amazing.” comparable to the “gold standard.”

The study further concluded that performance of these new products has exceeded that of traditional porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations as well as many other all-ceramic restorations.

Q: You seem to really enjoy what you do. What are some of the highlights of your very successful and accomplished career?

Noie: I consider myself very fortunate to have found my passion and be able to practice it every day. I like to think every patient that I have the pleasure of serving and helping is a highlight, but the happiest moment of my professional life was when I first learned about dental implants (around 22 years ago). Giving my patients sub-standard replacement for their lost teeth never sat well with me. Growing up, I had seen firsthand the profound effect of teeth loss and removable and fixed bridges on my own father. I can honestly say that his oral issues and flawed replacement options available at the time significantly affected the quality of his life. I knew what I had to do and I did it. It took me over six years of post doctoral training in oral & maxillofacial surgery, advanced restorative and cosmetic dentistry to finally be able to help patients with their teeth loss. I had to learn how to regenerate lost bone (guided bone regeneration) and soft tissue that gradually melted away after loss of teeth. It was also very important to me to not only provide my patients with strong teeth, but to make them look beautiful as well. I feel very blessed to witness and be a part of the evolution of restorative dentistry.

The dawn of digital dentistry that was just a dream several years ago marked the second most exciting moment in my professional life. My patients now enjoy perfectly fitted chair-side CAD/CAM crowns. I have to admit that early CAD/ CAM restorations left a lot to be desired, and I have seen a number of cases that were far from ideal.

But, like so many technological advances, reaching perfection took time and experimentation. From my experience, I can conclude that the technology has finally matured. The marginal fit, the contours and the occlusion of these digitally designed and computerized fabricated crowns are just amazing.

Q: What is the leading cause of tooth decay and tooth loss?

Noie: In my opinion and experience, dental issues are primarily hereditary. Some lucky people are just born with strong resilient teeth while others are genetically predisposed for a lifetime of dental related problems (including my father and myself).

Today, dental implants, 3D imaging (CT scan), and digital dentistry have helped even the genetics odds for thousands of my patients. Accidental damage also plays a role. Athletes and people with high-risk professions such as construction workers are obviously more prone to oral damage.

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 Associate Fellow of American

Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of Cosmetic dentistry. He has completed his surgical training at New York University center for Oral & Maxillofacial excellence 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 the

Texas Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Noie and the Unicare Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry offers Dental Implants, Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Invisalign, Bone and Tissue Grafts, High Quality Lumineers, IV Sleep Sedation, and Free CAT scan. They are located at 20814 Gulf Freeway, Suite 40, Webster TX 75598; 281.332.4700; www.drnoie. com.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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EDUCATION

CCISD honors community partners

By Mary Alys Cherry

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ttorneys are rarely surprised. In fact, they pride themselves on never being surprised by their clients or the opposition.

But Joe Barlow was surprised at the Clear Creek ISD Community Partnership Breakfast at Space Center Houston, when he was named recipient of the Secondary Volunteer of the Year Award for all his work over the years in making CCISD a better school district, in always lending a hand where needed and, in particular, at Clear Horizons Early College High School.

“I wondered why my wife was getting up so early,” he quipped, as Jeanette Barlow joined him on stage as he thanked the district for the honor.

He called it the greatest honor he had ever received.

The yearly event honors the many volunteers who work tirelessly to make Clear Creek ISD one of the best large school districts in the State of Texas.

It was a morning of many honors:  The Clear Lake Area Chamber was named 2014 Community Partner of the Year for its long years of work with the school district and its many years of hosting the New Teacher Luncheon each summer. “We are so pleased to honor and call special attention to this true champion of education,” CCISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith told the crowd of 300.

“The Clear Lake Chamber has an acute awareness of the critical role education plays in a community’s

Clear Lake Area Chamber Executive Board members accepting the Community Partner of the Year Award are, from left, Dr. Peter Weunschel, Lisa Holbrook, Sharon Proulx, Cindy Harreld, Bryan Vogle, Mike Furin, Jonathan Cottrell, Jamieson Mackay, Shari Sweeney and Dr. Greg Smith.

State Rep. John Davis holds up the plaque CCISD Construction Technology students made for him to thank him for his work on House Bill 5. They are, from left, Tristan Kimball, Aron Solis, Gonzalo Gonzalez, Ryan Woodworth, Amanda Wheeldon, Duane Sheets, Davis, Ian Cucco, Steven Corcorran, Dylan Threadgill and Noel Guzman.

quality of life – and all that they do reflects that belief.”  State Rep. John Davis was presented a hand-crafted plaque by CCISD Construction Technology Students for his role in the Legislative fight to pass House Bill 5, which cuts back on the number of tests given students each year and also loosens the graduation requirements so students interested in a technology path – and desperately needed to help solve the skilled worker shortage -can take courses more fitting to their

Hyde Elementary’s Laura Varley and husband, Brad Varley, at right, stop for photos after she is named CCISD Elementary Volunteer of the Year. On hand to congratulate her are, from left, CCISD Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Scott Bockart and Hyde Principal Kelly Chapman.

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Attorney Joe Barlow walks off stage with his wife, Jeanette, after being named Clear Creek ISD Secondary Volunteer of the Year for his work with Clear Horizons Early College High School and its principal, Dr. Brett Lemley.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

interests than the courses that were required to graduate.  Laura Varley, who’s always glad to help out at Hyde Elementary School, was honored as the Elementary Volunteer of the Year.  Weber Elementary School was crowned the Volunteer Champion Campus as it logged the most volunteer hours in CCISD this school year. Principal Teresa Snider and Weber’s volunteer of the year Jennifer Sorsby accepted the trophy.  The Clear Creek High Chamber

Gary and Sandy Mossman join the crowd at Space Center Houston for the annual Community Partnership Breakfast.

Weber Elementary’s Jennifer Sorsby, left, is all smiles as she receives the Volunteer Champion Campus Award. With her are, Principal Teresa Snider, center, and CCISD Coordinator, Marketing & Business Partnerships, Eva deCardenas.

Singers, who were cited for their talents and entertained the breakfast crowd before a district update by CCISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith.

Bay Elementary Volunteer of the Year Jenny Arunyon, left, joins Bay Principal Erin Tite at CCISD breakfast at Space Center Houston.

CCISD Assistant Communication Director Janice Scott welcomes retired developer Tom Brooker to Community Partnership Breakfast.

Photos by Mary Alys Cherry

Clear Creek, Friendswood ISDs top districts in Houston region

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lear Creek ISD has been ranked No. 1 among large school districts in the Greater Houston Area in the 2014 Children at Risk rankings with Clear Horizons Early College High School ranked No. 5 in the listing of the Best Houston Area Clear Lake High student Patrick Pan, second from left, is recognized by the Clear Creek High Schools.

School Board trustees for making a perfect score of 2400 on his SAT exam. With him are Meanwhile, Friendswood ISD was Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, Board President Ann Hammond, and No. 1 and Pearland No. 3 among Trustees Laura DuPont and Ken Ballard. smaller districts.

School districts ranked just behind Houston ISD and Kerr High in Alief ISD. CCISD in the Top 10 are Conroe, Katy, Meanwhile, Clear Creek ISD’s Clear Brook High, Fort Bend, Humble, Cypress-Fairbanks, Klein, Clear Horizons High, Clear Lake High and Clear Spring Branch, Alief and at No. 10, Pasadena ISD. Springs have been named as four of the best high Only schools ranked ahead of Clear Horizons in the schools in the country by U.S. News & World Top 10 High Schools are DeBakey High for Health Report.

Professionals, the High School for the Performing The U.S. News rankings are based on the key and Visual Arts, Carnegie Vanguard High in

New Festival King Jerry Foyt, left, is introduced to the crowd by the 2013 King Greg Smith.

By Mary Alys Cherry

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Friendswood High ranked 97th in Texas and 922nd nationally, while Dawson High in Pearland ISD was 120th in Texas and ranked 1165 nationally.

In the rankings of Houston area schools by Children at Risk, all CCISD, Friendswood and Pearland high schools received A’s or B’s.

More information on the U.S. News rankings at www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools

Princesses Adrianna Henson, Lyndsey Reynolds and Erin Baker, from left, ham it up as the Kickoff Party comes to an end.

Lunar Rendezvous rolls out plans for another big festival unar Rendezvous kicked off its 49th annual festival with Kick-Off Chairman Tricia Totten and Co-Chairman Susan Huston introducing the theme, “Odysseys in Orbit” in the University of Houston-Clear Lake Bayou Building’s Atrium I. Board of Directors Chairman Michael Landolt, Festival General

principles that a great high school must serve all of its students well, not just those who are college bound, and that it must be able to produce measurable academic outcomes to show the school is successfully educating its student body across a range of performance indicators.

“We are very proud that our campuses are included among the best in the state and nation,” said CCISD Assistant Superintendent Scott Bockart. “This is one more indicator that we are effectively preparing students to be college and career ready upon graduation within CCISD.” Below are the state-wide and national rankings of CCISD high schools: State National Campus 31 214 Clear Horizons ECHS 87 831 Clear Lake HS 149 1546 Clear Springs HS 154 1579 Clear Brook HS

Tennis Tournament Co-Chairmen Kevin and Ruth Rendon Duke.

Chairman Lea S. Bodie and Advisory Board Chairman Mike Reeves welcomed the crowd and offered a brief history of the festival before introducing the 2014 Lunar

Rendezvous Queen Sydney Schroder, Queen Alternate Ashton Reason and Festival Captain Grant McGough.

One of the highlights of the program was the official introduction and presentation of the little ladiesin-waiting and pages, followed by the official presentation of the 58 Lunar Rendezvous princesses and 14 lieutenants.

Dr. Greg Smith, the 2013 Lunar Rendezvous King, provided another highlight when he introduced Jerry Foyt, general manager of Lexus of Clear Lake, as the 2014 Lunar Rendezvous King.

Those attending also were offered a chance to sign up as a volunteer for any of the various festival

Golf Chairman Traci Dvorak and Co-Chairman Jason Demers look for volunteers for the May 12 tournament at Bay Oaks Country Club.

events, which were showcased at the gathering.

Included were the Tennis Tournament at South Shore Harbour Fitness Center, April 25-27; Spa Night at Bay Oaks Country Club, May 8; Golf Tournament at Bay Oaks Country Club, May 12; Family Fun Night at Putt-Putt Funhouse, June 12; Dining Event at Di Amici, June 19; Sponsor Appreciation Night at Lewis Jewelers, June 25; Honeywell Fun Run at Space Center Houston, July 19; Sunset Service at University Baptist Church, July 20; Fashion Show at the San Luis Convention Center Ballroom, July 22; and the Coronation Ball at the San Luis Convention Center Ballroom, July 26.

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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TEXAS MEDITATIONS

By Michael Gos

A Reflection of God Camp Wood, Texas

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e were driving down 337 between Leakey and Camp Wood shortly after sunset. With my sweetheart Maggie May (a white Labrador Retriever) in the passenger seat, we were taking in the beauty of Nueces Canyon at the prettiest time of the day. As is usual in the early evening, the road was lined with deer grazing on the shorter grass at the edge of the woods and Maggie was fascinated. Her head swiveled left to right as she watched them go by. The deer, in return, watched her intently.

As we slowed and entered town, the deer disappeared and now she started to see other dogs—dogs in yards or out for walks with their people. She watched them as we drove past, sometimes even beating me with her massive tail and letting out a little whimper to let me know she wanted to stop and play. I turned onto Nueces Street to head toward the Boots and Buckles Club, the little

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bar I had come into town to visit.

But as I turned, we passed a woman out walking two Chihuahuas. My previously mild-mannered Maggie went absolutely bonkers, barking wildly, jumping around and sliming the car window with dog snot. It was not a pretty sight. But I understood.

I stroked her chest until she calmed down and by the time we reached the bar, she was her old self again.

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

Real County is semi-dry. My first encounter with the place was when I was Rita-running in 2008. The county had just rescinded its total ban on alcohol sales and you could buy packaged beer in convenience stores and gas stations only. But even today, beer and liquor by the drink is only available in “private clubs.”

Boots and Buckles is just one such “club.” To drink, you must purchase a membership and sign the members’ book. The cost is one dollar and that is refunded on your first drink.

Maggie seems to enjoy it there; the bartender gives her slices of cheese so it is one of her favorite places to go. Best of all, dogs don’t have to buy memberships—she drinks free.

The management understands the importance of our canine friends.

When a restaurant or bar welcomes dogs, they welcome me.

For most of my life, my best friends have been dogs. I’m guessing it is because we think alike and truly understand each other. Probably most important, I have a tremendous amount of respect for them as individuals, and they seem to return the compliment. I learned long ago

that my dogs understand English but I don’t understand Dog. It’s not hard to figure out who is the smart one here.

I also learned that once you and your dog get to be close friends, all you have to do is sit down and have a talk. If you let a dog know what you want, he will go out of his way to please you.

But sometimes you have to be willing to compromise just a bit. A number of years ago I was teaching Koty, another Lab, hand signs I wanted to use in our communications.

We already had a good verbal communication, but I wanted to be able to talk privately, without others understanding what was going on between us, and hand signals seemed to be the perfect answer. It was going well. He followed all the signs I suggested but one. I tried to teach him that when I tapped my chest, it meant to come. Instead, he insisted that sign would mean he stands up, puts his front paws on my shoulders and we hug. I tried for weeks to change that, but he’d have nothing of it. He was adamant—that sign means, “let’s hug” and I just needed to learn to deal with it. A short time later, he taught me that pointing a

finger to the ground in front of me would be our sign for “come.” With mutual respect, we successfully negotiated what would become our non-verbal communication system for the next 12 years.

I’m not sure if dogs can read our minds, but at times they certainly seem to know what we are thinking.

If I think for even a second about hiking the trails in the woods, Maggie gets all excited and starts hopping, rocking horse style, all the way to the Jeep. I’ve learned to be careful what I think when she is around.

Probably the thing I am most impressed with about dogs, though, is that they have very refined senses of morality and etiquette. There are rules they set, and that are followed almost universally by dogs around the world. Emily Poodle could have written a large volume on Dog Etiquette. It appears they learn these rules from other dogs. For example, if they are lying on the floor and have a toy or bone in front of them, it is theirs. For another dog to try to take it is an inexcusable breech of etiquette.

It just doesn’t happen.

If a dog places a paw, or worse, his whole body, on top of another dog, that is a terribly rude show of

with growls. If that doesn’t stop the behavior, a snap of the teeth greets the little guy until he learns that you just don’t do those kinds of things in polite dog society.

But no matter how polite most dogs are, I guess it goes without saying that, like most species, there are a few individuals that chose to ignore the rules. Chihuahuas are famously ill mannered; small man syndrome, I think. As a result, most other dogs hate Chihuahuas and freely display their contempt. As we drove down Nueces Street, my sweet, mildmannered Maggie made her opinion of those two little dogs quite clear.

“Maggie was fascinated...the deer, in return, watched her intently.” arrogance and the dog underneath never appreciates it. And no polite dog would ever stick his nose into another dog’s food dish while he is trying to eat. I’m sure we all have noticed that a puppy is most easily housebroken when he lives with an

adult dog who can show him the acceptable places to do his business.

Puppies are allowed some leeway on all of the etiquette rules of course, but only for so long. Once they reach a certain age, expectations are raised and breeches of etiquette are met

I think we are a lot like dogs in many ways. In many more ways, we have a lot to learn from them. They are loyal, loving, forgiving, accepting and possess all of the other traits that we are told we should strive for in becoming better people. They show us what we are all supposed to be. In essence, they are our best role models.

After all, there is a reason we call this amazing creature “Dog.” He is the reflection of God on earth.

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DESIGN By Cathy Osoria

“Paint is an inexpensive way to alter any decor and solve many issues.”

Home Sweet Home Timeless Tips Less is more. If an item in the home is not useful or beautiful, then it’s best to give it to someone who can use or appreciate it.

sophistication to a room. Black in accessories, trims, lighting, paint or a bold piece of furniture will help sharpen any decorating scheme.

D

on’t feel guilty about keeping inherited items that are just cluttering space. A few styledefining quality pieces speak louder than lots of knick-knacks.

Displaying collections at different levels in smaller clusters will spotlight them creating more interest and a clean simple look. Larger “chunkier” accessories can replace lots of small scale clutter.

Everything doesn’t need to be “matchy matchy.”(Mix, don’t match.)

Don’t be afraid to combine different design styles to create more interest.

Yes, there should be something that holds it all together whether it is a theme, color or a style. Try mismatching furniture like end tables or nightstands, mixing metals, mixing old with new and combining floral and graphic prints. Use abstract art to offset classic furniture. If traditional decor is looking stuffy, then pop a modern classic unexpected piece into the room.

Move furniture from walls.

Furniture pushed against the walls usually leaves an awkward large space in the middle of the room that can be unattractive and uninviting.

Create cozy conversation groupings by mixing chairs and sofa and placing

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Paint is an inexpensive way to alter any decor and solve many issues. Paint can be used to refurbish furniture, thereby tying a room of mismatched and random pieces together. The last decision should be the choice of paint color. There are unlimited paint choices available and far fewer choices for fabrics, finishes, etc. Let other items be the inspiring factors, and match your paint later. accent tables (possibly with lighting) within reasonable reach.

Rooms should flow together.

Creating unity throughout the home helps to avoid a confusing “choppy” look and can make a home appear larger. This can be achieved with color, like materials, overall theme or style and flooring.

A good color relationship can be achieved in adjoining rooms by using complimentary or coordinating colors of paint. Flooring like hardwoods running throughout the home will prevent rooms from looking disconnected.

Every room can use a touch of black.This may seem strange in a room of neutrals and pastels. Using the color black adds a focal point that can ground, anchor and add

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

Speaking of inspiration, start with an inspiration piece.

Build the room and color scheme around a cherished piece. Rather than seeking to pull a whole room together all at once, invest in one interesting piece and let it set the room’s tone.

Larger pieces should be neutral and classic. The couch, rug,wallpaper or window treatments set the tone for the entire space. Choosing solid, calm colors for those larger purchases gives a good foundation.

This allows personality to be added with shapes, color and texture later.

Decorate for functional beauty.

Decorate for how life is being lived now. If the household includes three large dogs and three children under the age of 7, vinyl furniture and plastic accessories might be a consideration. The adjustment doesn’t have to be that extreme, but the concept of who will be using the room and the function of the room needs to be kept in mind.

Washable slip covered furniture might be a good solution with interesting accessories that are “child friendly” or already “distressed.” Knowing one’s needs, budget and lifestyle will assure smart decorating decisions.

Cathy Osoria brings a professional perspective to the table with her 23 years of experience. She also brings a great deal more—including the ability to truly listen to her clients, to establish trusting relationships with them, and to transform the clients’ wishes into an environment that is distinctly their own. Creating timeless, functional, yet beautiful surroundings that the client enjoys coming home to everyday is her idea of design success. As a decorator, Cathy’s personal challenge is to turn an ordinary space into a room with an incredible “wow factor” while still keeping the client’s budget in mind. That creativity might be achieved by her “hands on “ approach using custom finishes or art work and unique accessories. Ambiance in residential spaces might be achieved by using lighting, furniture, flooring, window treatments, color, fabrics and/or accessories. Cathy also takes on limited commercial projects in addition to residential design work and finds it rewarding to combine the clients’ ideas with her own vision to provide attractive functional spaces. Her personal style can be seen in several Showcase homes that were completed for the public to tour. Many charitable causes (especially those involving children with challenging illnesses) have touched Cathy’s heart. She has created and designed hospital rooms and personal rooms for these children. Donating her time and talent to create tablescapes and painting backdrops and displays for multiple charities is another way Cathy gives back to her community. Email cathyodesign@yahoo.com with any questions or comments.

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JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Chasing a Dream Proposal to transform Ellington Airport into a spaceport gets huge boost

By Rod Evans

S

pace travel requires enormous amounts of money, technological savvy and cooperation among countless entities, including rocket engine developers, space craft manufacturers and component builders, which explains why any space mission demands that all of the people,

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companies and government agencies involved work together with one goal in mind: to send humans into space and bring them back home safely.

April’s signing of an agreement between the Houston Airport System (HAS) and the Sierra Nevada Corp.

(SNC) to partner to explore the possibilities of developing a spaceport at Ellington Airport marks the beginning of a new era in the long

Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

history of Houston’s involvement in space exploration.

“The Sierra Nevada Corporation believes, as we believe, in the potential of the spaceport and the future of aerospace aviation,” HAS Aviation Director Mario Diaz said during the press conference held at Rice University’s Bioscience Research Collaborative building to announce the signing.

The agreement calls for exploring a master plan for designing a spaceport at Ellington to accommodate the return from low Earth orbit of Sierra Nevada’s groundbreaking spacecraft called the Dream Chaser. While the agreement doesn’t include a schedule for flights or even discuss financial considerations, it does put into motion the process that could someday result in Ellington, which opened in 1917, serving as the nation’s ninth spaceport.

SNC’s Space Systems division designs and manufactures manned and unmanned spacecrafts, satellite subsystems and components and propulsion technologies. The company has supported more than 450 missions and has partnered with NASA on over 70 science missions and 12 trips to Mars.

Headquartered in Sparks, Nev. and founded in 1963, SNC is one of

a small cadre of private companies engaged in advancing the modern model of space exploration, which includes private companies working with NASA to send passengers into space. SNC’s Space Systems division developed the Dream Chaser spacecraft, a seven-crewed craft capable of landing at the spaceport directly from low-Earth orbit. It has been under development for the past nine years and successfully completed its first autonomous flight last fall at California’s Edwards Air Force Base and is scheduled to make its first orbital flight in 2016.

“We think of ourselves as the next generation transportation system. It’s more like an efficient SUV for space,” said Mark Sirangelo, Sierra Nevada’s vice president of space systems. “The Dream Chaser is not fictional; it’s on the horizon. It can land virtually anywhere because all it needs is the same (length) runway needed to land a 737.”

The spaceport project has been discussed for several years now, and last year the HAS commissioned a feasibility study to determine what it would take to transform a large portion of Ellington Airport into a spaceport. Houston City Council members approved the concept last summer and Diaz says the official

application to secure the spaceport designation from the Federal Aviation Administration should be ready to be submitted this summer. The port could play a role in supporting vehicles used to service the International Space Station or could be a base for potential space tourism companies.

“The Dream Chaser spacecraft provides the catalyst for taking the concept from the idea phase to reality.”

Diaz, who joined the HAS in 2010 after serving as the deputy general manager for Atlanta’s HartsfieldJackson International Airport, says the agreement between the HAS and SNC takes the idea out of the realm of science fiction and closer to reality.

“When I arrived here, I immediately discussed the spaceport concept and at first I was timid about bringing

the idea forward. My staff probably thought, ‘The heat has gotten to him.’ But the idea has taken root and proven itself and people are starting to believe,” Diaz said. “Houston has unique advantages over other emerging spaceport locations with significant access to an existing, robust aerospace community. This letter of intent will allow us to effectively assess and define the new markets and applications that could emerge from having a Houstonbased portal to space, which will drive enterprise, economic growth and create jobs and prosperity in this area.”

The agreement also includes involvement by Rice University’s Space Institute, which will provide a broad, big picture look at the logistics involved in developing the spaceport.

“The Space Institute has been working with the spaceport since the inception of the idea trying to work on a master plan to determine what’s feasible,” said David Alexander, a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and director of the Space Institute. “Our job is to look at the industries and needs of the commercial space industry and how best to utilize those needs for Houston and the rest of the country. We’ll bring enthusiasm and ideas from the

university system to bear on the best use of the spaceport.”

Bringing the spaceport to Ellington could provide a massive shot in the arm for an aerospace industry stung by recent workforce reductions triggered by the shuttering of the Space Shuttle program. Diaz says the prospect of bringing high paying jobs to the area is one of the practical reasons why the concept is so important.

“The spaceport is as much about economic development as space travel,” Diaz said. “It will attract companies who want to participate in the project, and that means more jobs. The master plan includes nearly half a billion dollars in construction at Ellington and we’re not interested in building all of that. We’re interested in creating the critical mass of companies that would bring us to the tipping point where the private sector would come in and see potential here and invest their capital and join forces with us.”

The Dream Chaser spacecraft provides the catalyst for taking the concept from the idea phase to reality.

Considerably smaller than the now retired Space Shuttle, the craft was initially developed by NASA in the late 1980s as a vehicle that could be used as a rescue vehicle for the

International Space Station. When that project was scrapped by NASA, SNC took it over and began developing the Dream Chaser. The craft, which would be launched via rocket from another location, would be able to land at Ellington, a feat that would, according to SNC’s Sirangelo, give the Houston area something it’s never had despite its long history as a hub for the space program: the ability for area residents to actually witness a spacecraft returning to Earth.

“We thought, ‘What can we do to spark interest in Houston after some dark times in the space program?’

For all the work done in Houston in the aerospace industry, the one thing that hasn’t happened is the space program hasn’t returned here. We have the right vehicle at the right time and in the right way to do that. Why not bring the vehicle home and land it in Houston? It would also help us reach out to young people to come see America’s space program in real life,” Sirangelo said. “We can create inspiration for students to say, ‘I want to take a chance. I want to build something.’ We’re proud to sign this agreement to work together and share information to see what’s possible and what we can do to bring the concept along further.”

JUNE 2014 | Bay Area Houston Magazine

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Light @ work

By Steve Lestarjette

Feeding the hungry at the heart of Action Ministries Houston ction Ministries Houston has been helping low income families with food and essentials for 24 years — without fanfare, and without the support of government.

Working solely with volunteers -- none, including the director, take a salary -- the ministry picks up “expiring” food and other donated products from 40-to-50 grocery stores and several produce companies daily.

The products are taken to batteredwomen shelters, women’s safe houses, drug and alcohol abuse centers, and church pantries in the greater Houston area. The ministry even has limited supply of groceries at its South Houston warehouse to give to individuals on an “as-needed” basis.

AMH is the “life-work” of directors Gordon and Pat Berg — a “calling,” as Pat describes it.

“We began in December 1990,” she says. “Gordon had been ill for several months and was told by a doctor he could not return to his job. Gordon felt a call from God and accepted. The next day, he notified the company he was working for that he was leaving to start the ministry.”

Working alone in the early days, Gordon and Pat began calling on

Yes, Pat will quickly tell you.

“Once Gordon received a call from one of our volunteers, telling about an elderly neighbor that was eating cat food because the woman could not afford groceries and medication.

AMH supplied her with canned foods, vegetables, fruit and meat until she was able to get food stamps and assistance with her prescriptions.”

During the ministry’s first shoe drive, a school nurse called Pat with a story.

“The nurse told me that when she put a pair of shoes on a little girl and told the girl the shoes were hers to keep, the girl said, ‘Forever?’ The nurse said, ‘Yes, forever, until you

“Often God says, ‘Go!’ and we go!” grocery store managers, asking if the stores had anything they could donate. “It was through store managers that we began our pickups,” Pat explains. Other stores were added by referral.

Today, AMH operates a 5,500-sq. ft. warehouse in South Houston, with other rental units throughout the region, as needed. Through hard work, the ministry distributed more than 30 million pounds of food last year.

The “muscle” comes from more than 200 volunteers who contribute time during the week. The average age is 55, and includes children with parents as well as senior citizens.

No one receives a salary, but the ministry does require financial support. Funds for expenses are contributed by individuals, churches and organizations, and several grants. In-kind donations of clothing, furniture, vehicles, office furniture, and other items also come in through individuals and companies.

Is the effort making a difference?

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Bay Area Houston Magazine | JUNE 2014

outgrow them.’ The little girl said, ‘Oh, my mommy is going to be so happy! She has been praying to Jesus for me to have a new pair of shoes.’

We knew then that we were going to continue the shoe drive.”

There are needs, to be sure. AMH needs a larger, newer fork lift, and volunteers are always welcomed.

But there are no plans to slow down anytime soon.

“In May, we will begin packaging a nutritional food product with enough vitamins and minerals to feed a child a balanced diet each day. We need volunteers and sponsors. The cost is $66 a box, which contains 216 children’s meals or 108 adult meals.”

Action Ministries dispels the myth that people live in silos and are indifferent to those in need around them.

“Other forms of ministry, such as Operation Christmas Blessing, have been brought to us by teachers, nurses, volunteers and others who see a need.

Often God says, ‘Go!’ and we go!”

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A CAJUN MECCA Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack

By Rick Clapp

I

f you are looking for an authentic Cajun cooking shack right out of the swamp, on this side of the Texas/ Louisiana line, then venture no further than to Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack in Kemah. This laid back and fun eatery was the brain child of good friends and business partners, the dynamic night club maven Paul Latour and the always fun and high spirited Alan Franks.

The Swamp Shack celebrates its 4th anniversary this month, thanks to all of their loyal customers and employees.

Owner Alan Franks always boasts about his employees and co-workers who have been with him for many years --Lori Holze, 1996; Jennifer Bowman,1997; Guillermo Aranda, 1999; Christina Jorgensen, 1998; and Bob Derring, 2005. Experience, quality food and good customer service is the key to any successful establishment.

“We are always training and striving for perfection,” Franks said.

Owner Alan Franks is single, an avid golfer, skier and loves to work out and travel. He began his career in 1992 at Cotton-Eyed Joe’s, Jason Brown’s Saloon, the Turtle Club and operated the famous Seabrook Beach Club. His sons Blake, 19, and Jacob, 15, are a big part of his life.

It is all about Cajun seafood at Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack. Without a doubt they are known for the earliest arrival of crawfish in the market, as well as the last place to get them at the end of the season. Diners can enjoy spicy crawfish starting mid-November, all the way until the end of August.

Furthermore quality, not just quantity, of these delicious mud bugs comes first.

There is “nothin’ betta” than a warm afternoon, about five pounds of seasoned bugs and your favorite ice-cold beverage.

As the famous Cajun Chef Justin Wilson would say “I guarantee cher, it’s good!”

Another popular seafood delicacy are the five versions of smoked oysters on the half shell; parmesan, pontchartrain, mango/salsa, mexican and pico. For those who just like it raw, try a fresh dozen on the half shell. Served on a bed of ice with a spicy cocktail sauce, it will set you free. And don’t forget to try the award winning Gumbo.

The Shack is filled with delectable appetizers such as stuffed mushrooms, stuffed jalapenos and the delish

Crabvocado. The vast menu is filled with Cajun seafood delights from fried or BBQ gator bites, shrimp and oysters diablo, red beans and rice, swamp chili, crab corn bisque, sliders, juicy burgers, crab pots, boudin, andouille sausage, fried seafood, Cajun stuffed steaks, pork chops, creole style etouffee, surf and turf and lobster on occasion.

Signature dishes and favorites include blackened chicken pontchartrain, blackened trout medallions wrapped with stuffing, topped with blackened shrimp and served with a pontchartrain sauce. C’est tres Bon! Desserts galore! Try the mud pie, crown royal bread pudding, lily pad key lime pie and more, and the bar is fully loaded with well and top shelf liquor, good wines and ice cold beer.

The dynamic duo of Alan Franks and Paul Latour made their dream come true by successfully creating and operating a fun, quality family restaurant that both locals and tourists call home.

The original Alan’s Crazy Swamp Shack is located near the Kemah Boardwalk and overlooks the picturesque, sailboat and yacht filled Kemah Marina. Live music plays every day and twice on the weekends.

Franks and Latour both thank the Kemah city officials, police, Mark Kane and Jim Whitecotton of Landry’s and the Kemah Boardwalk for keeping the area a safe, clean and well-run family destination.

Congratulations to these two wild and crazy “In-Spirit Cajuns” on their 4th year of operation and the opening of the new Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack located in Houston.

In summary; the prices are moderate, the restaurant is clean, staff is attentive and polite, the food is very good and served hot. Reservations are not needed. They offer both catering services and take out. For more information call 281-334-5000 or go to www.theswampshack.com.