Ultra Magazine

PEARLAND

CELEBRATING & DISCOVERING LIFE’S FINEST

Local Happenings Bowling Fun Toxic Plants for Pets UltraMagTexas.com

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PUBLISHER Juliet Hubbell

EDITOR Tamara Abel

ASSISTANT EDITOR Nancy Moreland September 2017

ART DIRECTOR Adra Stafford

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Ann Greer

CONTRIBUTORS Byron Barclay Karen Bunch Newt Harlan Stephanie Brown Howaniec Ahmad Khan Bobby McCallitt Anice Shelton Susan Scott Watts Reader correspondence, editorial submissions and advertising inquiries are welcome.

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@UltraMagTexas.com

CONTENTS CALENDAR

FOOD

PEOPLE

HUMOR

PETS

SPORTS

Let Us Hear From You! editor@UltraMagTexas.com

Local Happenings

6

Bon Appetit

8

Scene in Pearland

10

Cool Things to do in September

Anice Shelton shares Tex Mex Cuisine

Pearland High School Wins!

Honest Lies and Other Misguided Thoughts

11

Toxic Plants May Harm Pets

12

Let’s Go Bowling

14

Home Improvements for Independence

17

Make Lunchtime Fun

20

A Football Tale

Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University

The Perfect Air-Conditioned Activity for September

BABY BOOMERS Modifications for Aging in Your Home

FAMILY

Tips for Creating Back-to-School Lunches

Have an event that you would like to let ULTRA readers know about? To be considered for publication, the information must be received two months prior to the issue date. Please email the 100-word write up to editor@ UltraMagTexas.com. Be sure to include the event name, date, time, venue, cost and website information. Please send high-resolution jpeg photos in a separate email.

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ULTRA Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written permission from the publisher.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. The magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented. Advertisers and their agencies assume all liability for advertising content.

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LEGAL

4

Divorce (and Other Bumps in the Road) Preparing for the Legal Aspects of Divorce

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21

Knee pain is something you could live without.

Beat knee pain and live life on your own terms with our advanced procedure.

Dr. Burke Orthopedics uses Navio®, a robotics-assisted partial knee replacement system that delivers accurate and precise results tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Patients who undergo partial knee replacement have been shown to experience less pain1, lower risk of complications2 and quicker rehabilitation2,3 than those who have a total knee replacement.

Ready to address your knee pain?

See how this high-precision technology makes these results possible.

Call 713-436-3488 or visit DrBurkeOrtho.com to learn more.

DR. ROBERT L. BURKE 713-436-3488 TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS DR. BURKE ORTHOPEDICS

10223 W Broadway St A, Pearland, TX 77584 12835 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77034

1

Repicci, JA, et al., “Minimally invasive surgical technique for unicondylar knee arthroplasty,” J South Orthopedic Association, 1999 Spring; 8(1): 20 -7.

Brown, NM, et al., “Total Knee Arthroplasty Has Higher Postoperative Morbidity Than Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Multicenter Analysis,” The Journal of Arthroplasty, 2012.

3 Hall et al., “Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (Alias Uni-Knee): An Overview With Nursing Implications,” Orthopaedic Nursing, 2004; 23(3): 163 -171.

2

Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure including Navio-enabled partial knee replacement. Navio is not for everyone. Children, pregnant women, patients who have mental or neuromuscular disorders that do not allow control of the knee joint, and morbidly obese patients should not undergo a Navio procedure. Consult your physician for details and to help determine if Navio surgery is right for you.

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5

H

ULTRA CALENDAR

appenings

By Tamara Abel Greer

DESIGNER PURSE BINGO LEGO® DAY September 14th 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

2512 Woodhead 281-219-3313

September 2nd Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz, Houston, TX 77004 cmhouston.org LEGO® your worries and bring out your inner builder as the Children’s Museum of Houston presents the wonderful world of LEGO®. These blocks transcend generations, and we invite you to participate in different LEGO®-themed activities, including building a LEGO® zip line, producing LEGO® stop motion animation, and tackling a Mindstorms® obstacle course.

Jankic and his producer reached out to 40 women and their children across the United States who were willing to participate in this project. Eleven (11) were women and their children from Santa Maria Hostel. Jankic’s goal is to raise awareness for addiction as an illness not a weakness, inspiring women and mothers to seek help.

Designer Purse Bingo benefits the Be An Angel organization. Established in 1986, the mission of Be An Angel is to improve the quality of life for children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness by providing needed adaptive equipment and select services.

The evening includes 20 different bingo games, drinks, hors d’oeuvres and raffle prizes. Each game winner will win a high dollar designer purse. Ten games will be played for purses valued between $250 to $1,000 and 5 games for very high-end purses valued at $1500 and up. Professional bingo caller Marty Drake who also has a special needs child will call the games. Seating is limited to 200 and individual tickets are $100 including 2 Bingo Cards.

Some of the purses lined up and ready for the games include Furla Bags, Trina Turk, Michael Kors, Elaine Turner, Kate Spade and Louis Vuitton.

6

the lives of mothers suffering from addiction.

Jankic’s mother was a prescription drug and alcohol addict. He had experienced his own struggles with addiction throughout his teenage years. To reassess and reconcile his relationship with his mother he brought to the forefront a narrative that is often left hidden to produce a dialogue about motherhood and addiction.

The film will be followed with an audience participation panel discussion and a book signing.

LETTER TO MY MOTHER DOCUMENTARY September 7th 6:30 p.m.

Midtown Arts and Theater 3400 Main Street Houston, TX 77002 Author Branislav Jankic and co-film director Monika Jagaciak will present their award winning short documentary based on the book, Letter to My Mother.

Branislav Jankic reveals an impactful look into

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HOME SCHOOL DAY September 18th Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz, Houston, TX 77004 cmhouston.org The Children’s Museum of Houston is inspiring future makers for Home School Day. The Museum will be open exclusively for home school families to have unlimited access to all 14-galleries of non-stop, action-packed fun, explore our STEM-based educational programming and delve into an exhilarating celebration! Pre-registration is required.

PEARLAND OPRY ON THE SQUARE

place finalist, Moses Rangel, Nashville Star competitor from Rosenberg, TX, Freddie Pate, vocalist and former lead guitar player for Wayne Toups, Missy Brown, amazing country music singer from NASA / Kemah area, Tori Vourganas, 2016 Rock Star Rodeo winner and fiddle player and Aly Miller, Pearland native and incredible vocalist plus other appearances.

PAINT THE REVOLUTION: MEXICAN MODERNISM, 1910–1950

PEARLAND FARMER’S MARKET September 9th, 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Pearland Town Square www.pearlandtowncenter.com Shop for fresh, locally sourced items at the Pearland Farmer’s Market in its new location.

Hosted monthly, the Pearland Farmer’s Market includes an assortment of vendors selling items such as fresh vegetables, handmade soaps, baked goods, honey and plants.

Through October 1st, 2017 The Museum of Fine Arts Houston Caroline Wiess Law Building 1001 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77005

September 23rd 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Pearland Town Center 11200 Broadway Free

WAUGH DRIVE BAT COLONY September 1st and 15th Waugh Drive Bridge between Memorial Drive and Allen Parkway www.Houstontx.gov/parks/batpage

Pearland Opry on the Square features a great line-up of entertainers co-headlined

by Mary Sarah of The Voice, Moses Rangel, and incomparable Brian Black, brother of Superstar Clint Black.

Appreciative audiences who enjoy great music performed live in a family friendly and open environment can two- step and line dance during the show and in the intermission. It is a two set format, with up to 6 different varied performers singing traditional country, Texas country and contemporary country songs in a 2-hour time frame.

“We’re very excited about our collaboration with Pearland Opry on the Square. The opportunity to showcase talent and welcome visitors to enjoy the concert in Pearland aligns with our mission,” according to Kim Sinistore, executive director of the Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Pearland Opry on the Square will feature Mary Sarah of The Voice’s 10th Season fifth

Paint the Revolution: Mexican Modernism, 1910–1950 charts the development of modern art in Mexico and the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped it over the course of nearly half a century.

Featuring some 175 works—including prints, photographs, books, newspapers, easel paintings, large-scale portable murals, and mural fragments—Paint the Revolution is unprecedented for its breadth and variety.

The most comprehensive exhibition of modern Mexican art displayed in the United States in more than seven decades, Paint the Revolution presents masterpieces by well-known figures such as Frida Kahlo, José Clemente Orozco, Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo. Also on display are works by many of their important contemporaries, including Manuel and Lola Álvarez Bravo, Miguel Covarrubias, Alfredo Ramos Martínez, Carlos Mérida, Roberto Montenegro, and Dr. Atl (Gerardo Murillo).

Three historical murals by los tres grandes (“the three great ones”)—Orozco, Rivera, and Siqueiros—are digitally re-created and projected in the galleries. The exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to see the emergence of Mexico as a center of modern art.

The Houston Area Bat Team offers free, educational “Bat Chats” at the Waugh Street Bridge Observation Deck the first and third Fridays of every month.

The Waugh Bridge Bat Colony lives in Houston year round. Every evening at sunset, 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from underneath the bridge as a group to feed on area insects creating an impressive sight. The cloud of bats is so immense that when they emerge, the Waugh Drive Bat Colony can often be seen on weather radar. Located in Buffalo Bayou Park, the bat colony can be seen by crowds from a variety of good vantage points. The bats prefer to emerge from the east side of the bridge, often in a whirling vortex to gain height, speed, and as a group to deter predators. The bats tend to emerge after sunset but as a natural event, it isn’t always predictable. Temperatures below 50° or rain sometimes delay or prevent the emergence. continued on page 16

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ULTRA FOOD

Bon Appetit TEX MEX CUISINE

by Anice Shelton

I love living in the great state of Texas and one of the greatest benefits is TEX-MEX food!

Please note I did not say “Mexican food” because what we eat at most restaurants is far from the beautiful and complex cuisine found in Mexico.

REAL Mexican food is regional (just like here in the U.S.) and so much more than tacos and enchiladas. The tacos are nothing like the greasy ground meat filled things Taco Bell calls a “taco” (that being said I am the mom of a teenage boy and I know Taco Bell has its place in this world).

SPICY BLACKBERRY MARGARITA (serves two) 2-3 thin slices of fresh jalapeno (see note) 8-10 blackberries 1 oz Agave nectar (or to taste) 4-6 ounces Tequila (depending on how strong you like it) 1 cup fresh squeezed lime juice (about 7 limes) 2 ounces fresh squeezed orange juice (1 large)

I grew up deep in South Texas. I love the yellow cheese enchiladas popular in the area that are covered in rich brown gravy fragrant with ground chile and spices. Breakfast tacos are flour tortillas filled with eggs and chorizo (ground pork sausage seasoned with chile and vinegar) or papas con huevos (eggs and potatoes). I love carne guisada (meat in rich brown gravy fragrant with cumin) and red rice.

NOTE: if you don’t care for spicy things either leave the jalapeno out or just remove the seeds and ribs. For a typical two-inch jalapeno, I use about 1/3 of the jalapeno, sliced into a few rounds.

I want to share a few of my “new school” recipes for Tex-Mex food and my favorite margarita. You can find the ingredients at your usual grocery store but I urge you to break out of the mold a bit and take a trip to La Michoacana (my favorite) or Fiesta. There are locations all over town and I prefer the quality of the produce and ingredients

Blender method: add blackberries, jalapeno slices, agave nectar, lime and orange juices to blender. Blend well. Add in tequila and a cup of ice cubes. Blend well. Add more ice if desired.

when I am cooking Mexican or Tex-Mex.

Let’s start with the cocktail, shall we?

A tasty margarita makes everything

The beauty of this margarita is that you can make it in the blender and add ice for a frozen margarita or you can do it in a cocktail shaker to serve over crushed ice.

Shaker method: muddle berries and jalapeno slices with ½ of the tequila in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Let it sit 5-10 minutes. Add in agave nectar, fresh juices, and the rest of the tequila. Shake well. Strain into glasses filled with crushed ice.

(To salt the rim, use pink salt with some grated lime zest)

more fun!

8

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I always keep two salsas in my fridge. Both are green but they are completely different. One is a creamy cilantro sauce that is like a kicked up ranch dressing. The other is a traditional green salsa made with tomatillos but I like to put it in the blender and make it smooth. I use them on eggs, sandwiches, as a dip, as a dressing, over chicken, or with tacos.

CREAMY CILANTRO GREEN SAUCE 1 “handful” of cilantro 1-2 jalapenos (depending on how spicy you want) 2 medium tomatillos, husks removed, quartered 1 envelope Ranch dressing mix ½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream (do not use fat free) ½ cup light mayonnaise (or regular... just NOT fat free) Put all ingredients in a blender and blend well. I usually start with one jalapeno and taste it before adding the second. Sometimes I add in a bit more cilantro if the flavor is not strong enough. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Shake or stir well before serving.

GREEN TOMATILLO SALSA 10 tomatillos (more if they are small) 6-8 jalapenos left whole, stems removed Olive oil Salt Wash and remove husks from the tomatillos. Place in a heavy saucepan with the jalapenos and cover with water. Boil until the jalapenos begin to soften. Remove from heat and cover and let cool but do NOT drain. Once cool, put the tomatillos and about 4 of the jalapenos in the blender. Add in 2 TBS of olive oil and blend well. Taste and add more jalapeno if you desire more heat. Season to taste with salt. Store in fridge up to 10 days.

Another “new school” Tex-Mex meal we enjoy in our home is Red Beans and Chorizo with Jalapeno Sausage. Think of it as a Mexican version of the Cajun classic Red Beans and Rice. This is what my son calls “pork overload” and it makes a hearty meal. You can cut back on the fat and calories by leaving out the bacon and the sausage...or just skip the sausage.

RED BEANS WITH CHORIZO AND JALAPENO SAUSAGE 1 lb dried small red beans (or red kidney beans) Cilantro Cumin Pepper 1 jalapeno, seeded, deveined & diced 1 small onion diced 1 TBS bacon fat or 2 slices of jalapeno or regular smoked bacon cut into small pieces or lardons 1 lb Mexican style chorizo (see note) ½ lb pork sausage (jalapeno or regular) Note: chorizo can be bought in bulk at La Michoacana or Fiesta or found in the sausage section of H-E-B, Kroger, or Randalls. If the chorizo is in links, be sure to remove the meat from the casings before cooking.

Rinse the beans and soak them overnight. The beans will need 4 hours on high and a few more hours on low to fully cook. If you have to be gone all day, cooking 8-10 hours on low will also get them soft. Make sure you have the beans covered in one inch of water. Add the diced onion and jalapeno (you can skip the jalapeno), ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 tsp. cumin, the bacon or bacon fat and 8-10 stalks of the cilantro (it’s easier to fish out if they are left whole). One hour before serving, sauté the chorizo until fully cooked, drain, and then add to the beans. If you want to add sausage, you can either leave it in large chunks and add in 2 hours before serving (be sure it is a fully cooked sausage) or slice thinly and add to the beans when you add the chorizo. Taste to adjust seasonings. Serve with rice and a sprinkling of more fresh cilantro and a dollop of crema or a little grated cheese.

AVOCADO GREEN SALSA ½ recipe of Green Tomatillo Salsa (cooled, not hot) 1 ripe avocado ⅓ cup cilantro leaves 2 TBS sour cream or Mexican crema Juice of one small lime Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Refrigerate for about an hour and serve the same day. This is a use-it-in-a-day salsa because of the avocado. This resembles the famous creamy green salsa served at a popular Mexican restaurant. continued on page 19

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S

ULTRA PEOPLE

cene in Pearland

By Nancy Moreland

Pearland High School Wins! g Pearland High School student, Pierce Simms won a gold medal in bowling at the Special Olympics of Texas State Games.

g Medal winners at the 2017 Special Olympics of Texas State Games held in Austin, TX.

Submit your good news and photos to Editor@UltraMagTexas.com and it may appear in the next issue of ULTRA Pearland!

Creating Beautiful...

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Blind Luck ULTRA HUMOR

Honest Lies and Other Misguided Thoughts

By Newt Harlan This story occurred back in the 50’s when I was playing football. (The dinosaur age to most of you.) We had an ol’ boy on our team by the name of Homer Crain. Homer pretty much matched his namesake. He stood about 6’3” and weighed in at about 140 lbs. on a good day. That boy was so skinny he could stand in the shade of a telephone pole, but I’m here to tell you that he could run. He probably wasn’t as fast as the movie hero Forrest Gump, but he was plenty quick. There were folks who swore he could flat outrun a cottontail and run a dead-heat with a jackrabbit.

Homer would probably have been a super-star player had it not been for two little problems.

He wasn’t what you’d call real smart. Truth be told, there were several stumps and probably 3 or 4 rocks smarter than Homer. Second,

once he had the football in his hands, Homer apparently liked to watch his feet move. He’d put his head down and would see absolutely nothing else and wouldn’t stop running until something got in his way and stopped him.

Now this would’ve been pretty good had Homer been a 250 lb. fullback, but at his size it didn’t take too much to put a stop to what coulda, shoulda, woulda been a touchdown.

Homer’s position was offensive end. Back in those days we didn’t have split ends and wide outs and all those high-tech types, just ends who lined up at each end of the line and ran out for passes along with the backs. That way we got Homer out to where all he had to do was catch the ball and run with it.

I played offensive guard and it was my job, after UltraMagTexas.com

the quarterback called the play, to run from the huddle alongside Homer on the way up to the line of scrimmage and explain to him exactly where to go and what to do on each play.

It was the second game of the season and we were playing Cleveland. Shortly before the half we were ahead by 13-7 and had the ball around our own 40-yard line. It was third down and about 7 yards for a first down. The quarterback called the play and on the way to the line I gave Homer his instructions: “Okay the snap is on two. You run down about five steps and then break straight for the goalpost and look for the ball as soon as you make your cut, you got it?”

Homer said he understood and we lined up.

continued on page 18 11

Toxic Plants Could Harm Pets ULTRA PETS College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University

aving plants in your home may make H your space more decorative, or even calming.

However, certain plants also can be toxic to pets. Dr. Christine Rutter, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, described some of the potentially dangerous plants in our homes.

“The plants in our homes that are toxic to pets are often colorful and showy,” Rutter said. “The plants that are the most deadly (especially to cats) are true lilies of the family Liliaceae. All portions of the plant, including pollen, are considerably toxic.”

In addition, Rutter said oleander and sago palms, a favorite decorative palm, also are dangerous to pets if consumed.“All parts of sago palms are toxic, especially the seeds,” Rutter continued. “Dogs commonly eat the seeds, which can cause both immediate and delayed life-limiting effects.”

Though we try our best to keep our pets safe, we never know when a pet may accidentally ingest something toxic. Symptoms of toxic 12

plant ingestion include salivating, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, altered mentation, and agitation. It is also possible that an animal may act normal for one to two days after ingestion before the signs of illness are apparent.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

If you think your pet has ingested a poisonous plant, Rutter recommended contacting the ASPCA animal poison control (APC). In addition, she said to take your pet to see a veterinarian immediately. “There is a small fee for contacting the ASPCA APC, but it provides great information on many levels,” Rutter said. “It not only helps owners decide whether or not treatment is necessary, but it is also an ongoing resource for veterinarians because it provides the most up-to-date toxin database and treatment recommendations.”

While plants may look beautiful in our homes, it is important to make sure they will not harm our pets. To be sure a plant is safe, Rutter recommended referring to the ASPCA’s online list of toxic and non-toxic plants. Be sure to research any plant before bringing it home.

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If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435.

A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.

Disasters are unpredictable and can affect anyone. Though we can’t control the weather, we can control how we react to disasters via our preparedness. If disaster is ever near your area, be sure to take caution and prepare your family and pet.

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13

Let’s Go Bowling!

ULTRA SPORTS

By Bobby McCallitt

Does summertime in Houston ever really end? While September may signal the beginning of fall in much of the country, around here it’s still pretty hot. Sure, the baseball season is coming down the back stretch, and football season is just getting started, but outdoor activities are still somewhat limited this time of year as it’s still just too darned hot! Maybe it’s time to do as your mother always advised when the weather was less than ideal – play indoors.

When was the last time you went bowling? Bowling has been around for literally hundreds of years, and today it is enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. You certainly don’t have to be an expert to enjoy bowling – in fact, I speak from experience when I say you really don’t have to be any good at all.

Bowling can be fun for the entire family. For the little ones, “bumpers” can be affixed to the lanes to keep the ball from going into the gutter, ensuring every roll knocks down some pins.

Kids like knocking things down. It’s enjoyable for teens, young adults, full grown adults, and it’s even possible to continue bowling well into your golden years. (In fact, grown-ups who enjoy adult beverages while bowling can often benefit from those kid “bumpers” as well.)

Bowling provides physical exercise similar to walking as it helps burn calories, provides upper body flexibility, and it works muscle groups not usually used. Kind of like playing golf without all the sweating…

The rules are simple and most bowling centers today have automated scoring tabulated on an overhead screen. Just type in the names of those playing and the system does the rest. (Everyone likes to see their name up in lights!) All the equipment you need – a bowling ball and shoes – is available on site, and most all bowling alleys have a snack bar providing food and drink. It couldn’t be easier – and it’s cheap. Literally all you have to do is show up. And did I mention it’s air conditioned?

While bowling is a recognized Texas UIL sport, most local high schools don’t have bowling teams. However, that has not diminished the sport’s popularity with young adults. Pierce Simms, a Pearland HS student, enjoys bowling as does Macy Helpenstill, another Pearland HS student. “Bowling is really fun” she says, “plus it’s always nice to beat up on my little brothers!” Cason Reeder, a University of Houston student and recent graduate of Dawson HS says, “I go bowling as often as I can because it’s a great activity that allows everyone to get involved. It’s fun to reunite with old friends at the bowling alley, plus bowling is always a good date idea.”

Even though Pearland no longer has a bowling alley inside the city limits, there are a few options close by. Armadilla Lanes II, conveniently located at 10055 Fuqua Street, is open every day. Manager Debbie Hartman sees many young bowlers, especially during 14

UltraMagTexas.com

the summer and on the weekends. “Our $2 Mondays are very popular in the summer. Every Monday, shoe rental, games, hot dogs, and soda are all just $2,” Debbie says. “Another popular event is our Musicn-Bowl on Saturday nights. We have a live DJ, turn down the lights, and you can bowl all you want from 11pm to 2am for $15 per person.” Sounds like fun.

The bowling alley is also a great place to host parties for kids of all ages. Another option not far away is the Alvin Bowling Company, located at 300 E. Motel Drive, just off Hwy 6 in Alvin. Manager JoAnn Pacheco says they recently hosted birthday parties for opposite ends of the age scale. “We had a 4-year old birthday, followed by another party for a man who turned 99 years old. We are looking forward to his 100th next year.”

In addition to recreational bowling, you can always find league play for players of all abilities. Adult leagues, youth leagues (ages 6-18), and senior leagues (55+) are all available. Armadilla Lanes II even offers a “Generation Gap” league, teaming youths and adults. Teams are comprised of 4 or 5 members and you can put together a full team, any portion of a team, or register as an individual. Regardless, they will take care of you.

A handicap system is used in bowling so theoretically everyone is on an equal scale. But if you don’t have a handicap, don’t worry – they will take your average score and establish a handicap for you.

While they want it to be competitive, the real idea is to have fun.

Maybe the best part of joining a bowling league is that you get to make up a catchy team name – and who doesn’t like a good team name? You could be the “Lucky Strikes,” the “Alley Gators,” or maybe the “Pin Pushers.” Don’t rule out “Irritable Bowl Syndrome” or “Split Happens.” You might even go so far as to get matching shirts, or jerseys, with your nickname above the pocket and maybe a number on the back. And don’t forget about some kind of cheesy slogan. You know, “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Gutter,” or “That’s How We Roll.” How about “We’ve Got Talent to Spare” or “My Drinking Team has a Bowling Problem.” I personally like “These Ain’t My Shoes.” The possibilities are endless.

Bowling is a lifetime sport that can be enjoyed by all. From birthday parties to family night out, the bowling alley is always a fun time. It can provide a nice exercise option and the social aspect can improve your mental outlook. Recreational bowling is a great group activity and one of the few sports where everyone can compete, young, old, male, female – it doesn’t matter. If you want something more organized, league play gets the competitive juices flowing and creates that feel-good bond among teammates. You’re on an athletic team, which by default makes you an athlete, by golly. Go team!

So, if your ideal sport is one that involves socializing that is occasionally interrupted by 6 seconds of exercise, then bowling is for you! Bowling requires no special equipment and no real talent. It doesn’t take all day, or cost a bunch of money. And best of all, bowling doesn’t require sunscreen. So come on in – the weather’s fine. Let the good times roll! (I couldn’t help it.)

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15

HAPPENings

BIG HORN BBQ

continued from page 7

at 2300 Smith Ranch Road is a locally owned Pearland restaurant with a fun western vibe, smoked-to-perfection meats and a variety of genres playing live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

LIVE MUSIC IN PEARLAND Wondering where you can go to catch some live music in Pearland? Here are 3 good options:

KING’S BIERGARTEN at 1329 Broadway offers authentic German/ Austrian cuisine in a casual, inviting setting.

The relaxed atmosphere is family friendly and includes live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

FLOYD’S CAJUN SEAFOOD at 1300 Broadway is a local favorite that offers a great selection of Cajun inspired dishes with a touch of Texas. A variety of genres are featured with live bands performing weekly on the patio every Friday and Saturday night.

HOSTING AN EVENT in October or November? Let our readers know about it! To be considered for publication, the information must be received two months prior to the issue date. Please email a 100-wordmaximium synopsis to editor@UltraMagTexas. com. Be sure to include the event name, date, time, venue, cost and website. Please send highresolution jpeg photos in a separate email. „

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713.266.0920 | alexandersmith.com

Improvements for Independence Modifications to make your home more accessible ULTRA BABY BOOMERS Being safe and comfortable at home is a large part of living well. Home modifications and repairs can help everyone, especially older adults and people with disabilities, maintain an independent lifestyle and prevent accidents.

Many older adults prefer to stay at home for as long as possible, but too often don’t think about whether their homes will meet their needs as they age. Making improvements for independence before they are needed is a good way to ensure that a home is ready for aging in place. Forwardthinking improvements may also help prevent falls, which often cause the need for long-term care.

ULTRA BABY BOOMERS Many changes, such as adding grab bars in bathrooms, can be done without a major redesign or full-blown renovation. Depending on your circumstance, it may also make sense to consider things like widening doorways and lowering countertop heights for someone who uses a wheelchair.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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Can bathroom and kitchen cabinets be easily reached?

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Is there a step-free shower entrance?

HOME ASSESSMENT

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Are grab bars available in or near the shower and toilet?

Before making any changes, assess the entire home. This checklist can

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Do showers have non-slip mats or adhesive strips?

help identify areas that might need improvement. Everyone has different

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Will smoke detectors provide visual as well as audio alerts?

needs, but in general, a “no” answer may be cause for action.

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Are telephones and emergency supplies easily accessible on all floors?

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Are exterior walkways and entrances well lit?

COST AND CONTRACTORS

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Is there a step-free entrance to the home?

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Are entrance doors easy to lock, unlock, open and close?

Minor improvements can cost between $150-$2,000 and major

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Does the main floor include a kitchen, bedroom and full bathroom?

renovation costs vary depending on the job. However, many contractors

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Are doorways wide enough for someone using a wheelchair, walker

offer reduced rates or sliding-scale fees based on income and ability to pay.

or service animal?

Public and private financing options may also be available. Be sure to get

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Are hallways, staircases, bathrooms and the kitchen well-lit?

a written agreement with specific tasks, a completion timeline and cost

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Is wall-to-wall carpeting secure and in good condition?

estimate. Make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured for the

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Are area rugs secured to the floor with grips?

specific type of work.

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Are walkways free from obstructions and hazards like cords

HERE’S HOW YOU CAN GET STARTED:

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and furniture?

More information about home modifications, including financial

Do stairways have sturdy handrails on both sides?

assistance, can be found at eldercare.gov. (Family Features) UltraMagTexas.com

17

Blind Luck

Honest Lies and Other Misguided Thoughts continued from page 11 The quarterback barked the signals and the ball was snapped. Homer ran his route as instructed and here came the ball. Homer never broke stride and just reached up and gathered in the football, tucked it away where it was supposed to be, locked his eyes on his feet and set sail straight for the goalpost exactly like he was supposed to do. The crowd went wild as he kicked into high gear toward the goal at least five yards ahead of the defenders. Twenty, fifteen, ten…straight at the goalpost… five, touchdown…WHAM! Right into the goalpost and the lights went out.

Not only ol’ Homer’s lights went out, but everyone’s lights. Some sort of power failure had put the entire stadium into total darkness. I mean it was so dark that if you had turned on a flashlight you would have to strike a match to see if it was burning.

When the lights went out all the crowd noise went away with them.

There was an eerie silence and then we heard Homer. “Oh my God, I’m blind, I cain’t see nothin’, oh Lord I won’t never be able to see Billie Ruth again, I’m blind, I’m blind.” All this said over and over in a voice so loud and pitiful that there was no doubt of Homer’s distress. As our eyes grew accustomed to the dark we made our way down the field toward Homer’s plaintive calls. Coach had seen the collision with the goalpost and somehow had made his way out to Homer through the darkness ahead of everyone. There was Homer lying prone, facedown continuing his litany as Coach and the water boys knelt beside him, trying to examine and comfort him. Coach told Homer, “heck boy, we’re all blind; the stadium lights are out.” But Homer wouldn’t be swayed, “No Coach, I’m really blind, I cain’t see nothin’, oh lordy I’m blind as a bat.”

Coach sent one of the water boys up to the announcer’s booth to see if they could fetch a doctor. Homer continued, “Lord I’m blind, I cain’t 18

see nothin’, I’ll never see Billie Ruth again,” over and over. This went on for five or ten minutes until suddenly power was restored and the lights began to come back on. Coach said to Homer, “See Homer, the lights are on and we can all see again.” But Homer continued to wail that he was blind, etc., etc. We all continued to stand and look at Homer, feeling helpless, while he continued to wail. The public address announcer gave his “is there a doctor in the house” call and we could see flashing red lights and hear sirens as Kelsey Isenberg’s ambulance made its way to the stadium.

We noticed the crowd parting and here came the cheerleaders, led

by Billie Ruth Jackson. Now Billie Ruth was a sight to see. She stood about 5’2” and was built like every man thinks a cheerleader ought to be. She wasn’t beautiful, but when they passed out pretty and cute she got a lot more than her share. She had her choice of damn near any of us ol’ boys on that football team for a beau, but currently she and Homer were she-in’ and he-in’.

She walked right next to where ol’ Homer was laying and looked down at him. Then she knelt beside him and leaned over and whispered in his ear for a few minutes. Then she straightened up and stood, and as tears streamed through her mascara and down her cheeks, she looked down at Homer. Suddenly, Homer rose to one knee and then stood up fully and exclaimed, looking skyward and holding both hands aloft, “I can see! I can see! I ain’t blind no more, I can see! Hallelujah I can see.”

It was a near religious experience, as the crowd cheered and the band played the fight song and Homer and Billie Ruth held hands.

Well, we went on to win the football game and later on at the sock hop I danced with Billie Ruth and asked her what the magic words were that she’d whispered to Homer to restore his sight. She pulled back slightly, moved her cheek away from mine, and tilting her head to look me square in the eye said, “I told him, open up your damned eyes, you big dummy.”

UltraMagTexas.com

BON APPETIT continued from page 15

There are a few tricks to making these delicious tacos. Read these hints before proceeding: 1. These tacos are made with steak and not ground beef. I like to buy the pre-cut “carne para tacos” at La Michoacana which is steak pre-cut into thin, long, pieces.

2. If you don’t want to buy pre-cut meat, just use a couple of pounds of cheap sirloin, rib eye, or strip steak. Don’t buy the prime cuts, just the simple “choice” will do. Slice into ¼ inch slices against the grain and then cut into smaller strips.

BEEF STREET TACOS 2-2.5 lbs. beef “carne para tacos” or sliced steak (see note) 12-14 corn tortillas Salt Pepper 1 large onion, finely chopped Creamy cilantro sauce, green or red salsa or both Mexican crema or sour cream Cilantro (roughly chopped or just the picked leaves)

3. The tortillas for these tacos are not fried but are dipped into the meat juices as the meat cooks and then placed onto a hot “plancha” or griddle to brown up a bit. I can’t stress enough how much of a difference this makes in how the tortillas taste and for the overall deliciousness of the tacos. Trust me on this...don’t skip this step!

4. Mexican crema can be found at La Michoacana (I like their store brand which is usually in the butcher section) or at HEB and Kroger. Usually I find the crema near the pimiento cheese and not near the sour cream for some reason. I can usually find LaLa or Cacique brands. Ask if you can’t find it...Mexican crema is like sour cream but a bit thinner and saltier.

Cook the onion in a bit of olive oil until soft and golden but not necessarily caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside, covered.

In a large cast iron skillet (or non-stick), put in about 1.5 ounces of olive oil and heat pan until the oil shimmers. Add in the sliced meat and liberally season with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, have a griddle or tortilla “plancha” heating up on high so that it is hot enough that a drop of water dropped on it will quickly “dance” about and evaporate...in others words you want it really hot! When the meat begins to release its juices, start “dipping” the tortilla into the meat mixture to get the tortilla a bit “wet” (but not soaked) on both sides. Get a little of that fat and juice onto the tortilla to give it flavor and help it be malleable. Cook the tortilla until a little browned on both sides (it helps to have a sous chef for this task if you aren’t good at multitasking!) Continue to cook the meat and the tortillas until the meat is fully cooked and almost crispy and you have enough tortillas to serve.

Serve the tacos with the onions, meat, crema, salsas and sauce and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro. I set it all out in bowls and everyone makes tacos to their liking.

La Michoacana also has pre-cut and seasoned pork for Tacos al pastor (delicious with a little bit of grilled pineapple or a simple pineapple salsa of pineapple, red onion, jalapeno and cilantro) and chicken for chicken street tacos. Both are delicious and all you need to do is cook them thoroughly. Don’t forget to make the tortillas just as you do for the beef version.

I hope you will enjoy these easy Tex-Mex dishes...branch out a bit from the norm and discover how a fresh take on the usual will make your Taco Tuesday a lot tastier (and a little bit healthier).

Please share your photos of Ultra Recipes you have cooked by tagging in my Instagram pages @ultracookingwithanice @cookingwithultra and let me know how you liked the recipe and if I can repost to share!

UltraMagTexas.com

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Make Lunchtime Fun Time TIPS FOR CREATING BACK-TO-SCHOOL LUNCHES ULTRA FAMILY With school back in session, many families are beginning to focus on smarter eating habits.

Packing your little learner’s lunch is an easy way to help ensure his or her diet contains enough protein and calcium. carrots and ranch dressing. Another fun theme could be Breakfast for Lunch with eggs, mini-pancakes and yogurt.

“I love to make lunchtime more entertaining for my kids by serving them in themed bento boxes,” Bellgardt said.

MIX IT UP For winning flavor combinations, pack small amounts of many kid-friendly items from different food groups like crackers, carrot sticks and grapes in colorful bento box-style containers. An option such as Mini Babybel cheese, a 100 percent real cheese with a rich and creamy taste, can be paired with colorful fruits and vegetables – as well as lunchtime staples like sandwiches – to create a balanced and

With school back in session, many families are beginning to focus on smarter eating habits.

tasty meal. A parent-pleasing choice, each serving of the snack cheese delivers at least

Packing your little learner’s lunch is an easy way to help ensure his or her diet contains enough

4 grams of protein and 15 percent of daily

protein and calcium.

calcium needs in 70 calories or less, all in colorful red-wax-wrapped packaging with a

By letting your kids play a role in planning and packing their lunches, while tossing in a variety of

signature pull tab.

appealing, fun options, you can make sure your students are set up for success.

LET KIDS HELP “For lunches, I like to include mini-foods, like blueberries, strawberries and Mini Babybel cheese,

Involving children in planning and packing

because there is no prep time needed and they are fun to eat with fingers,” said Amy Bellgardt,

their own lunches can be empowering.

mother of two and founder of the lifestyle blog Mom Spark. “When lunchtime is easy and

Place a note on the fridge to remind your

enjoyable, my kids are more likely to eat what we’ve prepared together.”

kids what should go in their lunchboxes and lend a hand with the more difficult

Bellgardt recommends these tips for creating tasty and fun back-to-school lunches.

parts, such as slicing fruit and veggies or sandwich prep. Creating a routine with

PICK A THEME

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your little ones every night before bed

Coming up with daily or even weekly themes based on types of foods can be a great way to tap

can save you time in the morning, foster

into your child’s creative side. For example, try Taco Tuesday with walking tacos, or send along

smart eating habits and create a sense of

several foods that are dip-able, like chicken strips and honey mustard, apple slices and honey, or

responsibility. (Family Features)

UltraMagTexas.com

DIVORCE

BYRON K. BARCLAY

And Other Bumps in the Road

BKBarclay@lawyer.com www.BarclayLawFirm.com 713.224.2334

ULTRA LEGAL Courtesy of Byron K. Barclay BIOGRAPHY & DISCLAIMER

Byron K. Barclay is a Houston, Texas attorney and Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law. In addition, Mr. Barclay handles estate planning matters and is regularly appointed to serve various courts in Harris County as an Attorney Ad Litem for the estates of persons who have died without a will. Mr. Barclay also handles commercial litigation, divorces, family law and child custody issues.

The foregoing article is offered only as a public service to this community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site and column should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction.

You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author. Nothing in this column or on any website where it may be published is intended to create an attorney-client relationship and nothing posted by Mr. Barclay constitutes legal advice.

Should you have questions, you may forward them via email to Mr. Barclay at BKBarclay@lawyer.com. Questions may be edited for length or clarity.

Mr. Barclay will choose questions submitted for brief answers and possible publication. Mr. Barclay reserves the right to choose which questions to answer, and submission of a question does not guarantee that he will provide an answer.

Around Houston, among signs posted at some intersections for garage sales and lost dogs are also signs that offer “Divorce – No Kids - $500.”

Like many things in life however, you get what you pay for, and a five hundred dollar divorce can be worth – about five hundred dollars (but often much less). The complications (and sometimes heartbreak) of file for divorce in a specific county in Texas, (such as Harris County), divorce, child custody and property settlements should not be taken you must have resided in that county for at least ninety days. This lightly, and like other areas of life, can be navigated much easier with residency requirement varies from state to state however, so if you an experienced attorney. have recently moved from another state to Texas, and want to file for divorce, you should look at not only the Texas requirements, but also We know that statistically, nearly one of every two marriages will fail. the residency requirements for the state where you last lived, as they For first marriages, the odds are a little better (41%), while nearly twothirds (60-67%) of second marriages fail, and for third marriages, nearly may be shorter, allowing you to be divorced sooner than in Texas. three-fourths (70-73%) of marriages fail. The most interesting statistic Alimony, or spousal maintenance as it is called in Texas, may be available however for marriage is the most basic: while it takes two people to get to one spouse if you have been married long enough. In Texas, these married, it only takes one person to get a divorce. If you or your spouse payments are temporary, and the length of time you have been married is unhappy in your marriage, what you want to do about improving will affect the length of time that you can receive temporary spousal or saving your marriage may be irrelevant. So, if you find yourself in a support. This is a fairly recent (September 2011) development in Texas marriage that has failed, (whether that is your choice or your spouse’s law, but spouses have always been able to negotiate a contract between choice), what things can you do to improve your situation? themselves for divorce that provides for alimony. It is only since late 2011 however that Texas judges have been able to order one spouse to pay Since there is a lot of misinformation and speculation that is often shared spousal maintenance as part of the final divorce. by the public about divorce, it is important to be able to discern which information is relevant to your situation. Do you have children under the Child support in Texas is ordered in nearly every divorce case where there age of eighteen? If so, child custody and child support can be a significant are children under the age of eighteen. While there are standard orders issue. Do you own real estate, vacation homes, boats, cars, etc.? Because and amounts that most judges follow, child support payments can also be Texas is a “community property” state, these things will need to be divided, negotiated between divorcing spouses in any manner that meets (or exceeds) though a court is not required to split property equally between spouses. those minimums. The judge who must approve these payments though will Do you or your spouse have investments, pensions or retirement accounts? always be focused on “in the best interests of the child,” which means your These can be particularly tricky, and if you are entitled to a portion of your child’s or children’s needs will always be a primary concern for the judge. spouse’s retirement or pension accounts, you should not ignore or neglect this portion of your divorce. Navigating the division of retirement benefits There are many, many legal issues to consider when divorcing, however without the benefit of a lawyer is guaranteed to cost you money. hiring an experienced lawyer is almost always the first (and best) decision you should make. The anxiety and misfortune that you could suffer after a One of the most basic decisions that should be made about your “five hundred dollar divorce” could cost you ten times that amount after divorce concerns where to file your case. To file for divorce in Texas, you must be a resident of the state for the previous six months, and to you are divorced.

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