Zoes,
George Harry Zoes of Ruby’s Wigs . . .
Building Confidence,
Businesses, and Community
Story By Diana Hickerson
The Greek principle, Philótimo, embodies honor, duty, and the unwavering drive to do what’s right for others. That principle has guided Georg Harry Zoes to become a community leader, philanthropist, devoted volunteer, successful owner of several businesses, and, just recently, a candidate for Harris County Judge. For Zoes, all of those accomplishments just seem to come naturally from appreciating his roots, then doing what’s right for his neighbors and his hometown.
A first-generation Houstonian, Zoes was raised in Spring Branch, and attended Long Point Baptist Elementary, Landrum Junior High, The Webb School in Tennessee and Spring Branch Senior High. After graduation, he attended the University of Houston–Downtown before starting his first business.
He was well-established as an entrepreneur when his story merged with Ruby’s Wig Salon.
The Roots of Ruby’s
Ruby’s Wig Salon was started in 1971 by Ruby Rechart, a trailblazer in the wig and hair prosthesis industry. With the steadfast support of her sister, Judy Harper, Ruby created a compassionate, welcoming environment where individuals experiencing hair loss—especially due to cancer treatments or medical conditions—could regain their confidence and dignity. Their vision was to offer not just wigs, but a safe space for healing and transformation.
After growing the business and caring for thousands of customers over more than 42 years, Ruby and her family reached a turning point – it was time for the next generation to take over the business. However, when no immediate family member stepped up to take over, Ruby turned to a close business associate – her landlord, George Zoes.
Zoes owned the shopping center in which Ruby’s was located, with two of his own thriving businesses on either side of hers. After Ruby confided in Zoes that she planned to shut the business down, Zoes started thinking, and gathered all the necessary financial information about her long-term business.
As he tells it, “As all Greeks, do, I started praying, and made a decision. You don’t just shut down a business that someone’s devoted to taking care of cancer patients after 42 years.”
So in 2013, George Zoes became the new owner of Ruby’s Wig Salon.
Updating a Houston Institution
As he took over Ruby’s, Zoes brought to the table proven business skills, appreciation of the Ruby’s legacy, and a deep respect and compassion for its customers. His vision: Update and modernize the salon so it could serve more people, more personally, with more professionalism and care. Under his direction, the salon has expanded its services, modernized its product offerings, and implemented new client-focused programs—all while remaining deeply committed to the founding values Ruby and Judy instilled over 42 years ago
In 2020, George Zoes acquired Ann’s Wig Salon— another trusted name in Houston’s wig and hair loss community—and merged it with Ruby’s. This thoughtful consolidation brought together two legacies, combining decades of experience, broader inventory, and a united commitment to client care under one roof.
“Empower every client with the confidence they deserve”
George Zoes & Judy Harper
Kendall, Simin, George Zoes , Sheri, Janis & Judy Harper
THE RUBY’S EXPERIENCE
“Almost everyone that walks through that door, not only has a hair issue, but also has a medical issue,” Zoes says. “So we have a store, but we run it with kid gloves. Our mission is to empower every client wwith the confidence they deserve.”
It isn’t just a wig store - it’s a full-service, boutique-style salon devoted exclusively to hair loss solutions. It offers private consultations, and customized styling, and assists with insurance reimbursement.
Clients of Ruby’s can expect a special and personalized experience:
• Warm and welcoming surroundings – According to Zoes, “We’ve remodeled the store so it has a boutique salon vibe now. When they’re walking in the store, they’re walking into something more hip and upbeat. There’s music playing and everyone’s friendly, and, most of all, you will never be rushed—you can take all the time you need”
• Experienced, compassionate staff – “All of my stylists have a minimum of 35 years experience,” Zoes says, “two have 55 years of experience.” The Ruby’s team members are not only experts in helping clients find the perfect wig, they are trained to offer emotional and practical support.
• One-Stop Shopping – After years of serving clients and seeing how important having great looking hair is to their physical and mental health, Zoes takes great pains to make sure Ruby’s has the solutions they want in stock. At Ruby’s, 95% of synthetic orders and over 60% of human hair wig needs are fulfilled immediatelyminimizing wait times.
• A Mission of Dignity and Compassion – Ruby’s works in several ways to enable customers to get the wigs they need. In 2013, Ruby’s launched a Wig Donation Program, gifting one complimentary wig per month to someone in need. Ongoing special offers include Buy Two Wigs, Get The Third One Free and Buy One Wig, Get 30% Off the Second.
Beyond their doors, Ruby’s supports the community through partnerships such as their collaboration with the AGOC Houston Ladies Philoptochos Society. Through their Medical Philoxenia Outreach Ministry, they help distribute wigs to underserved patients throughout the Houston area.
In addition, Ruby’s helps clients through insurance paperwork so that they receive the benefits they deserve, and advocates for stronger coverage by insurance agencies.
In the Spirit of Philótimo
Empowered by the traditions of Philótimo, Zoes has turned Ruby’s into a business that has partnered with over 1,600 clients every year since 2013.
He has built five more successful businesses here in Houston, and plans to open a new restaurant in 2027, next to Ruby’s Wig Salon.
He’s volunteered for decades at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral’s Greek Festival, serves on the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Lamb & Goat Auction Committee, led a successful grassroots campaign against the proposed Bingle Road Diet, and is also a proud member of AHEPA Chapter 29, which we promote Hellenic values, civic duty, and educational opportunities for youth.
Now, he’s stepping up to run as Harris County Judge, bringing to an even wider audience his expertise as a successful businessman, and the values of honor, duty, and the unwavering drive to do what’s right for others.
His campaign has launched at www.votezoes.com
Ruby’s wigs is located at 1515 Bingle Rd, Houston, TX 77055. For more information, go to www.rubyswigs.com, or phone 713.464.3767.
Advice You Should Ignore
By Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. (The Drunken Cyclist)
Manyfolks in the wine industry have been worried about the decline in wine consumption, particularly among younger consumers, for several years now, and it seems that there are more and more data to support that sentiment. Last month, for instance, the latest Gallup poll indicated that the percentage of Americans who consume alcohol had hit an all-time low (or at least since Gallup had started asking the question in 1939). The puzzling thing to me is that the wine industry seems determined to discourage people from drinking wine! From the inane “rules” to some of the ridiculous costs, it is no wonder that young people are turned off by wine. Here are three issues that (hopefully) prove my point.
Wine and Food Pairings Are Dumb
Just about every day, there is another article proclaiming “the perfect wine pairing for…” and every time I see one, I scream at the wall (since my wife does not like screaming and, well, she doesn’t listen to me anyway). All these articles are written from the premise that the average wine drinker is a) doing something wrong, and b) too stupid to know it. How much more condescending can you be? I only have one rule when it comes to “wine pairing”: drink what you want. Most people have heard “red wine with meat, white wine with fish” and while there is some logic behind that mantra, who cares? The other day, I grilled some steaks. Outside. In Houston. In the summer. So I drank a cold Chardonnay with my meal. And it was fabulous (and the steak was cooked perfectly, but I digress). For most of our lives we are forced to follow seemingly endless inane rules, why make more when it comes to enjoying a glass of wine? It’s simple: Drink what you want.
Proper Wine Storage is (Mostly) a Myth
For most people, there is absolutely no reason to invest a large sum of money in a “proper” wine storage system. Why? Well, the average amount of time a bottle of wine is aged in this country is roughly two hours. In other words, most wine purchases are made for near immediate consumption. There are times, however, that more than a single bottle is purchased, but those wines don’t gather much dust either as they are usually consumed within a couple of weeks. For the most part, unless you intend to hold onto the wine for more than six months, there is no need for special storage; keep the wine in a relatively cool place, out of direct sunlight and it will be fine. I would not advise storing bottles in a regular refrigerator since those are too cold and could mute the wine when it is eventually opened, but in a closet or pantry that does not get too warm is a perfect spot. For close to two decades, I lived on the East Coast and I never had a “proper wine cellar”; I kept several hundred bottles in our basement and the wine was just fine. I do have a proper cellar in Houston, however, since my cellar hovers somewhere between 1500-2000 bottles at any given time. I’ve lived here long enough not to trust CenterPoint that much.
Varietal Specific Wine Glasses Are Also Dumb
Last year, I tasted around 2,000 wines, the vast majority of them at home, and I use two glasses, one for red and one for white. That’s it. They are nice glasses, but I long ago stopped matching wines and glasses. Why? Wine glasses take up a lot of space and they are expensive. We entertain quite a bit and even though they are our friends, I don’t trust them with a $50 piece of glass in their hands; I mean, they are drinking alcohol, after all. After one such dinner party when three glasses were shattered (two by the same person—he has not been invited back, but still), I said “the (you-know-what) with this” and I have never looked back. Heck, I could even get away with one kind of glass for all wines. I get it, some people are focused on the fact that the perception of a wine can change based on the shape of the glass. While that might be true, do we really care all that much? I don’t. When the cost of your glass is more than the price of the entire bottle, you should probably take a step back.
That’s all I have this month! Just keep reminding yourself that wine is a beverage. A beverage.
Planning a wine event? Need some advice about wine? Drop me an email: jeff (at) thedrunkencyclist (dot) com.
2025 Fall Harvest Luncheon
October 10, 2025 | 11:30AM - 1:00PM Junior League of Houston
We warmly invite you to become a part of the Host Committee for our Fall Harvest Luncheon. This special event will honor outstanding individuals who have made a positive impact on the health of our community.
Sponsorship packages are available at www. sbchc.net/2025fhl
For more information, please call Gerard Peperone at 713.462.6565 | ext. 251 or email gpeperone@sbchc.net
Harvesting Hope, Health, and Community: The 15th Annual Fall Harvest
Luncheon
Friday, October 10, 2025
| Junior League of Houston
Every autumn, Spring Branch Community Health Center (SBCHC) gathers friends, neighbors, and partners for an impactful celebration: The Fall Harvest Luncheon. On its 15th year, this cherished tradition is a rallying point for everyone who believes that community wellness is not a privilege, but a right for all.
On Friday, October 10, 2025, the elegant Ballroom at the Junior League of Houston will once again be filled with the warmth of shared purpose. From 11:00 AM registration to the closing champagne reception at 1:30 PM, guests will have the opportunity to connect, be inspired, and contribute to life-changing programs that uplift thousands of families each year.
A Mission That Matters
The funds raised during the Fall Harvest Luncheon directly sustain SBCHC’s commitment to patient-centered education and wellness programs. These programs include free prenatal classes, nutrition and diabetes management workshops, and free cancer screenings which empower individuals to make healthy lifestyle choices and give families the resources to thrive. Each dollar pledged goes towards a healthier, stronger, and more resilient community.
Inspiring Voices
Each year, SBCHC invites an inspiring keynote speaker and awards trailblazing individuals who make a significant impact on public health within our regions.
We are proud to honor Texas Representative Lacey Hull with the Faillace Award for her dedication to improving lives through legislation, advocacy, and community engagement. Her work on child welfare, public safety, and family protection has left a lasting mark on our communities.
Your Invitation to Make an Impact
The Fall Harvest Luncheon’s success relies on the generosity of sponsors, whose partnership ensures SBCHC can expand its reach year after year. From the Presenting Sponsor level to Healthy Neighborhoods Sponsor, each sponsorship offers recognition, visibility, and the knowledge that you’re directly fueling beneficial health programs for those who need them most.
By joining our Host Committee or becoming a sponsor, you’re ensuring that expectant mothers get the care they deserve, that individuals living with chronic conditions find the support they need, and that early screenings save lives before it’s too late.
Join Us This Fall
The Fall Harvest Luncheon is a day of shared vision, meaningful stories, and tangible change. Together, we can continue to plant seeds of health and hope that will flourish for years to come. Mark your calendar. Bring your heart. Be part of the harvest.
For more information on sponsorship or donations, contact Gerard Peperone, Gpeperone@sbchc.net, 713-462-6565 ext. 251.
Unlock Learning at Home:
Join SBISD’s 2025–26 Parent U Series
In Spring Branch ISD, we believe strong family-school partnerships are key to student success. That’s why we’re proud to launch the 2025–26 Parent U Family Learning Series—a dynamic lineup of virtual sessions designed to support families with tools, resources, and timely guidance from elementary through college readiness.
Held live on Zoom and available on-demand, each session features SBISD educators and expert partners sharing practical strategies on topics like academic planning, student safety, financial aid, and college admissions.
This Year’s Topics Include:
• Pathways to Progress (Grades 3–5) – Aug. 21
• High School Essentials – Sept. 11
• Paying for College: FAFSA/TASFA – Sept. 23
• Vaping & Fentanyl Prevention – Oct. 16
• Four-Year Planning (8th Grade) – Oct. 28
• Middle School Transition – Nov. 11
• Math Pathways (6th Grade) – Jan. 13
• Human Trafficking Awareness – Jan. 27
• Earning College Credit in HS – Feb. 10
• College Admissions 101 – Feb. 24
• College Accommodations (504/Special Ed) – Apr. 28
Play With Purpose:
All sessions are free, virtual, and open to all SBISD families. To register, view the full calendar, or explore past sessions, visit: springbranchisd.com/parentu
Want more news and stories like this?
Check out the NEWS section on the SBISD website for important updates, features, and events that matter to your family. springbranchisd.com/news
SBISD + Families = Student Success
Let’s inspire minds and shape lives, one learning opportunity at a time.
Support the Lucy Dillon Legacy Fund
Our hearts are heavy as we share this message in the wake of the catastrophic flooding that devastated the Texas Hill Country. The scale of this loss is almost unimaginable—and it has impacted our i9 Sports and MDE communities in the most heartbreaking way. Among the lives lost was one of our beloved i9 Sports participants, Lucy Dillon.
With the blessing of her parents, Brandt and Lisa Dillon—dedicated community members and youth sports supporters—the Lucy Dillon Legacy Fund has been created
through the MDE Dad’s Club, a registered nonprofit. This fund will honor Lucy’s vibrant spirit by supporting philanthropic efforts chosen by the Dillon family. It will continue to spread the joy, kindness, and love Lucy brought into so many lives.
i9 Sports stands in solidarity with the Dillon family and our extended community. In this time of grief, we invite you to join us in honoring Lucy’s life and legacy. Your donation, no matter the amount, can help make a lasting impact.
All Month
World Alzheimer’s Month|National Suicide Prevention Month|National Hispanic Awareness Month Alopecia Areata Awareness Month|National Spinal Chord Awareness Month|Prostate Health Month Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month|National Blood Cancer Awareness Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month|National Library Card Sign Up Month
Second Saturday Every Month Spring Branch Village Farmer’s Market, 9 am – 1pm, 8141 Long Point
Every Sunday Sizzlin’ Sundays, $1 Hotdogs all day, VFW 8790, 1560 Veterans of Foreign Wars Way
Every Saturday Walk30 walking group, Meets 10 am at the Edgewood Elementary parking lot.
Every Saturday Memorial Village Farmer’s Market, 9 am—1pm, First Congregational Church at I-10 and Voss Ongoing Space Center Houston, Create and design your own Spacecraft, Enter the 21-foot long training module of NASA’s new lunar landing space station, Experience The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks, and more, 1601 NASA Parkway, Tickets@spacecnter.org
Sept. 2 -18th Monday-Thursdays only. Sloomoo Institute, Receive one free Adult Admission ticket when you buy one Child Enhanced Experience Ticket, Tickets @ Sloomoo Institute.com
September 20 –October 5 Octoberfest
Sept. 25th-28th The Hidden Lantern, new premiere by New premiere by Founder & Artistic Director Beth Gulledge-Brown, featuring Uptown Dance Company, Company II, Senior Company and Junior Company. Uptown Dance Centre Outdoor Theatre, Info@ UDC@PDQ.net
Oct 10th 2025 Fall Harvest Luncheon, 11:30 am--1pm, Junior League of Houston & Spring Branch Community Health Center honor outstanding individuals in community health, Junior League Tearoom, 1811 Briar Oaks Lane, Info @sbchc.net/fallharvestluncheon
Oct 11th Barktoberfest, sponsored by Houston Pets Alive, 2-6pm, Live music, local beer, dog costume contests at The Powder Keg, 1300 Brittmore Rd. ,presented by Pacifico,, Info @ houstonpetsalive.com/barktoberfest
Oct 10th-12th Bayou City Art Festival, Fri.-Sun. 10 am-6pm, 2 Memorial Park S. Picnic Lane, 50 National and International Artists Active Imagination Zone, Food Trucks, Craft Beer Garden, Tickets @ bayoucityartfestival.com
Oct 18th Angel’s Race for Space, 7:30 am,5 K, 10 K, Family Fun Run and Virtual Options benefitting Be An Angel, supporting children With Special needs, @Space Center Houston, Info @beanangel.org/raceforspace
Oct 19 The Women’s Fund, 15th Annual Rockin’ Resiliency Luncheon: Bloom Beyond Limits thewomensfund.org Oct 23-25 @ 7 pm, October 25 @ 2 pm ,Murder by Poe, Memorial High School Theater Company, Info @ memorialtheatre.com
Sept 1
Labor Day
Student & Staff Holiday, SBISD
Sept. 2
V-J Day
Citizenship and English Learning—Level 2 ,11 am-1 pm, Adults, Info at 832-927-5510, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Silent Book Club 6-7 PM, Adult silent reading club, snacks, chill vibes, SB Memorial Branch Library
Sept 3
Baby Bouncer, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, SB Memorial Branch Library (tickets Req.)
Sept 4
Chess Club, 4:30 -5:30 pm. Tweens and Teens, Info at Sarah G. at sm@hcpl.net, Spring Branch Memorial Branch Library
Sept 5
Steak Night! VFW Post 8790, 6-8 pm
3-D Printer Orientation, 4 -5:30 pm, Adults, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Sept 6
Book Bouquets, 2 – 3 pm, Adults, Turn old books into beautiful table decorations with flowers, the power of words, and more, (Reg. required, contact Mary, sm@hcpl.net) SB Memorial Branch Library
Grand opening EMS Enhanced, privately-owned woman electrofitness studio, 1250 Blalock Rd., Info atwww.emsmotion.com
Sept 8
Book Buddies, 4:30 pm-5;15 pm, Kids, Free literacy program that pairs trained teen volunteers with children in K-3rd grade (Registration req)
SB Memorial Branch Library
Sept 9
Between the Panels: Tween Graphic Novel and Book Club, 4 :30pm5:30pm, Tweens, (Registration req.) SB Memorial Branch Library
Sept. 10
Baby Bouncer, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, SB Memorial Branch Library (tickets Req.)
Sept 11
9/11 Day of National Service and Remembrance
Tiny Tykes, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, interactive for walkers, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
SBISD, Parent U High School Essentials: A Family Roadmap for Student Success, 7th, 8th, and 9th Grades, 6-7pm, Sept 13
7th Annual Boots and heroes Gala, 5-11 PM, VFW Spring Branch Post 8790, 1560 Veterans of Foreign Wars Way, Tickets at VFW8790rsvp@gmail.com
English Conversation Class, 10 am—11am, Adults learning, speaking, listening, reading skills in English. Placement test and registration required, Info @ 832.927.5510.
Sept 15
World Lymphoma Awareness Day
Sept 16
Citizenship and English Learning—Level 2 ,11 am-1 pm, Adults, Info at 832-927-5510, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Spring Valley Village Parks and Greenspace Board Meeting, 6-7 pm, City Hall Chambers,1025 Campbell Rd.
Sept. 17
Constitution Day| Citizenship Day
Baby Bouncer, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, SB Memorial Branch Library (tickets Req.)
Sept. 18 Air Force Day
Tiny Tykes, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, interactive for walkers, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Sept 20
Octoberfest through October 5
Sept 21
World Gratitude Day | World Alzheimer’s Day
Sept 22
Autumnal Equinox (Start of Fall) | National Family Day
Book Buddies, 4:30 pm -5;15 pm, Kids, Free literacy program that pairs trained teen volunteers with children in K-3rd grade (Registration req.)
SB Memorial Branch Library
Sept 23
National Voter Registration Day
Citizenship and English Learning—Level 2 ,11 am-1 pm, Adults, Info at 832-927-5510, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Navigating Your Job Search Journey, 6-7 pm, Adults, Senior Adults, Teens, SB Memorial Branch Library, (Registration req.) Info @ 832.927.5510.
SBISD, Parent U Paying for College, FAFSA/TASFA Overview (12th grade families) , 6-7 pm.
Sept 24
Rosh Hashanah
Baby Bouncer, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, SB Memorial Branch Library (tickets Req.)
Sept 25
Tiny Tykes, 10-15-10:45 am & 11-15-11:45 am, interactive for walkers, SB Memorial Branch Library, (tickets Req.)
Sept. 25
Spring Valley Village Board Meeting, 6- 7 pm, City Hall Chambers, 1025 Campbell Rd.
Sept 27
4th VFW Post 8790 Golf Tournament, Jersey Meadows Golf Course, All proceeds benefit the VFW Post 8790 Patio Project
English Conversation Class, 10 am—11am, Adults learning, speaking, listening, reading skills in English. Placement test and registration required, Info @ 832.927.5510.
September 29
World Heart Day
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Day
September is Suicide Prevention Month
September has been designated National Suicide Prevention Month, and Sunday, September 7th begins National Suicide Prevention Week, now is the perfect time to educate yourself about suicide prevention – from the warning signs, ways to talk about it, and how and when to get professional help or someone you love.
The Stats . . . Every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide.
Source: SBISD Mental Health News, December 2024
The suicide rates for the combined Ft. Bend, Montgomery, and Harris county combined have gone from 10.3 per 100,00 to 11.2 per 100,00 in the last 2 decades.
Source: Greater Houston Community Foundation
Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for children 10 and over.
Source: SBISD Mental Health News, December 2024
5 Action Steps to Help Someone Having Thoughts of Suicide
If you think someone might be considering suicide, be the one to help them by taking these 5 steps: Ask. Be There. Help Keep Them Safe. Help Them Connect. Follow Up. Learn more at: https://go.nih.gov/ZpZ0h0J #shareNIMH
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline — (800) 273 TALK(8255) or (800) SUICIDE Harris Center Crisis Line — (866)970-4770
Veteran Crisis Line – (800)273-8255 Press 1 Youth Hopeline Network (800 SUICIDE) National Youth Crisis –800-442-HOPE (4673) Chat Online- www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
For compassionate car here in Spring Branch, contact Houston Behavioral Health Hospital, 2801 Gessner Rd., 77080. Phone 832.834.7720.
Kyle Pierson | Facebook: TheBranchHTX Instagram: thebranchhtx
WHO COULD USE SOME HELP?
“We only have what we give.” - Isabel Allende
Who could use some help, Branchachos? I mean, on some level, we all could. But the recent closing of Angie’s Munchies and the announced closings of Cascabel and Riel have served to remind me why I really started doing what I do. I admit I am going to need help. And so i am humbly asking it from you. I love to support small, local businesses and encouraging others to do the same. But what brings me the most joy is shining a light on those small businesses that need it most. And thats where you guys come in. I am asking you to please share with me any small business that you know of that is really struggling right now. Or a small business that is doing truly great things for the community and you feel it needs to be spotlighted.
It breaks my heart to see a small business close. It is like losing The Branch all over again. So please help me help others.
Email me at thebranchhtx@gmail.com or shoot me a DM on Instagram @thebranchhtx or Facebook and let me know about any Spring Branch or Memorial area business that you think deserves a boost. I will feature them in this magazine as well as on my social media accounts. I also have the ability to put them in touch with other people or businesses that may be able to help depending on what the business does.
We are all in this together. So I am asking you to please help me help them.
Red Bean Monday
A hearty bowl of slow-cooked red beans and rice with smoky sausage, served with a slice of homemade cornbread and a drink. $11
Pork Chop Tuesday
12oz double bone French-cut pork chop, seasoned and grilled. Served with fresh sautéed green beans and crispy roasted rosemary potatoes. $26
Family Wednesday
Ribeye & Red Gravy Thursday
A juicy 12oz ribeye grilled to order, served with green beans and our loaded garlic mashed potatoes for $30. Slow-simmered red gravy, homemade meatballs, and a twirl of spaghetti. Comes with a Caesar salad and a drink for $20.
Boiled Seafood Friday
Enjoy a bowl of slow-simmered gumbo served with crusty French bread and a drink for $14. Or treat yourself to a hearty 12-oz ribeye grilled to perfection, served with sautéed green beans and creamy loaded garlic mashed potatoes for $30. Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Roll up your sleeves and get messy with this stacked seafood feast of 4oz Cold Water Lobster Tail, 2 Whole Blue Crabs, 1 Snow Crab Cluster, ½ lb. Boiled Shrimp, corn & potatoes. Served with lemon garlic butter for dippin’ and dunkin. $50
Spring Branch Location 1725 Wirt Rd., Houston, TX 77055 (713) 832-1399 ragin-cajun.com
Barktoberfest is back!
Join Houston Pets Alive! on Saturday, October 11 from 2–6 p.m. at The Powder Keg(1300 Brittmoore Rd.) for an awesome fall celebration presented by Pacifico!
This family- and pet-friendly event is free to attend and features live music, local vendors, tasty food trucks, silent auction, adoptable dogs ready to find loving homes, and plenty of free parking. Thanks to our incredible sponsors, we have tons of fantastic activities for attendees to enjoy, including:
• Photo booth thanks to Trust Guss Injury Lawyers
• Pumpkin patch by Veterinary Emergency Group
• Pumpkin Decorating Contest by Peace Love Dogs
• Hydration Station provided by MI Homes of Houston
• Dog costume contests sponsored by The Pet Barber
• Mechanical bull rides by Hold On To Your Hats
• Stein-holding contest
• Raffle and silent auction from Livewell Animal Hospital of Cypress
Michelin Whets Spring Branch’s Appetite with Its First Texas Guide ere was plenty for Houston and the entire Lone Star State to celebrate as top chefs, gourmets, restaurateurs, and foodies assembled here in Houston on November 11 th for the unveiling of the 1st Michelin Guide for Texas.
• Snack station by Neighborhood Veterinary Centers
Why It Matters
Being recognized by the famed MICHELIN Guide is one of the most prestigious recommendations a restaurant can earn. Today, there are more than 60 MICHELIN Guides covering restaurants in 45 destinations worldwide. North American guides cover New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C, California, Miami/Orlando/Tampa, Florida, Toronto, Vancouver, Colorado and Atlanta.
Launching the premier MICHELIN Texas Guide here in the Bayou City not only put Texas but Houston on the map. According to Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of e MICHELIN Guides, the Bayou City was chosen as host because “Houston is full of culinary innovation and world-class hospitality, which goes hand in hand with our values at e MICHELIN Guide.”
THE RATING PROCESS
To achieve their ratings, restaurants are visited several times by Michelin’s trained anonymous inspectors, whose criteria includes: product quality; mastery of cooking techniques; harmony of flavors; the personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; and consistency over time and across the entire menu.
Sip from a commemorative beer glass—your first pour is included! Honor a special pet who has passed by bringing their photo to the ofrenda (memorial) booth. Try the wine toss for a chance to win a new favorite bottle. Some activities require tickets, and we offer packages to maximize fun and save money!
WHO WON?
STAR POWER
Michelin awards One-Star ratings to fine dining restaurants with excellent cuisine, service and ambiance. In Texas, 15 restaurants achieved that honor. In Houston, those included:
All proceeds support HPA!’s mission to save at-risk pets in Greater Houston. Register early at houstonpetsalive.orgto reserve your tickets and swag bag while supplies last! (Walk-ins welcome.)
• BCN Taste and Tradition (Spanish) • Le Jardinier Houston (French)
• March (Creative Mediterranean) • Musaafer (Indian)
• Tatemo (Mexican)
BIB GOURMANDS
Michelin’s Bib Gourmand designation recognizes great food at more reasonable prices. Restaurants earning that rating in Houston area include:
• Blood Brothers, Bellaire (Barbecue) • Ema (Mexican)
• Killen’s (American)
• Nam Giao (Vietnamese)
• nobie’s (American)
• Rosie Cannonball (Contemporary) • Street to Kitchen (
• e Pit Room (Barbeque)
• Truth Barbeque (Barbeque)
In addition Steve McDonald at, Pappas Bros Steakhouse won the special Sommelier Award. ATTENTION, SPRING BRANCH FOODIES:
ough none of our delicious neighborhood favorites were designated –yet---those Michelin evaluators are always at work, and there’s always next year. And since Spring Branch is Houston, you’re close enough to try every spot on the list! P.S. What’s local restaurant do you think has star quality? We’d love to know.
The Women’s Fund for Health Education and Resiliency, a leading nonprofit committed to empowering Houston-area women and girls with the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their health, announces its 15th Annual Rockin’ Resiliency Luncheon: Bloom Beyond Limits
The highly anticipated event will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Houston.
Guests will delight in a luxury silent auction, along with the dazzling Baubles & Bubbles Champagne Raffle, offering exclusive opportunities to win fine jewelry, upscale experiences, and indulgent surprises. Young attendees can join in the excitement with “Balloon Pop Bags”—playful gift bundles filled with fun treasures and dining vouchers.
The event’s Shopping Extravaganza will showcase twenty handselected boutique vendors, making it a must-visit destination for early holiday shopping or a treat-yourself moment. Merchants interested in participating may request a vendor application by emailing womfund@ thewomensfund.org
During the luncheon, The Women’s Fund will proudly present the prestigious Sue Trammell Whitfield Award for Resiliency to Philamena Baird, a devoted Advisory Board Member and philanthropic powerhouse whose decades of service have strengthened the lives of countless women and girls across Houston.
Proceeds from the Rockin’ Resiliency Luncheon will directly support The Women’s Fund’s mission to equip adolescent girls and women with the tools to lead healthier, happier, and more resilient lives. To purchase individual tickets or reserve a table, please visit www.thewomensfund.org
Memorial Hermann Broadway at the Hobby Center, producers Ken Davenport, Bob Gaudio and NETworks Presentations announce individual tickets for the smash-hit musical, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL, will go on sale Friday, August 15 at 10AM. Tickets will be available for performances November 4 – 9 online at TheHobbyCenter.org or BroadwayAtTheHobbyCenter.com, and in person at the Hobby Center box office (800 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002).Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway-and head out on the road across America.“Some of my most thrilling nights have been while I was on tour, bringing my music to audiences across the world,” said Neil Diamond. “Having A BEAUTIFUL NOISE go on tour is an honor and I can’t wait for audiences across North America to experience this show. I hope they enjoy it as much as I have.”
“THE BIOGRAPHICAL DRAMA IS A HEARTWARMING CELEBRATION OF MR. DIAMOND’S UPLIFTING MUSIC AND INSPIRATIONAL LIFE.” -THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Like Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical before it, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.Producer Ken Davenport said, “Neil is one of the best live entertainers the world has ever seen. In his fifty-year career, he’s performed for millions of fans around the globe. I couldn’t imagine a more perfect way to honor his legacy than having A BEAUTIFUL NOISE touring North America, visiting the same cities where he gave so many people so much joy. Now, after a successful Broadway run, good times never seemed so good as A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL, is in Houston making its premiere at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in November 2025.”Producer Bob Gaudio said, “When Neil and I first started talking about making a musical using his music, I knew how daunting that would be. With Jersey Boys, I learned how vital it is to have a first-rate creative team making sure everything weaves together. We have that on A BEAUTIFUL NOISE—an incisive book that tells Neil’s story honestly, fantastic choreography, one of the best directors on Broadway guiding the entire production, and of course, Neil’s iconic songs.”
WHEN:November 4-9, 2025 Tues – Fri at 7:30 pm | Sat at 2 & 7:30 pm | Sun at 1:30 & 7:00 pm
WHERE:The Hobby Center | 800 Bagby Street | Houston, TX 77002
TICKETS: Start at $55. Available online at TheHobbyCenter.org or BroadwayAtTheHobbyCenter.com
A BEAUTFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL has raised $750,000 for the Parkinson’s Foundation. For more information on how you can help visit www.abeautifulnoisethemusical.com/partners
ONE WORLD. ONE VILLAGE.
Top 20 Best Private K-12 School in America
An American International School in Energy Corridor with a rigorous STEAM-focused curriculum.
How Rescued Pets Movement Brings New Beginnings for Houston’s Animals in Need Miles of Hope:
Rescued Pets Movement gives Houston’s homeless pets a second chance at life by, often literally, pulling them from death row from area shelters. Once saved, these pets receive the crucial rehabilitation and medical care they need. Houston faces a severe and ongoing crisis with stray and abandoned animals. RPM has partnered with reputable animal welfare organizations in areas across the United States where there is a high demand for adoptable pets and then transports these pets to rescue partners and to their forever homes. Since their founding in 2013, Rescued Pets Movement has saved over 96,000 companion animals, including more than 75,000 from BARC, Houston’s city pound. Our efforts have been crucial in helping BARC achieve a live release rate consistently over 85%, a dramatic increase from just 42.6% in 2012 before RPM began.
The Scale of the Problem
BARC operates with one of the lowest per capita funding levels of any major municipal shelter in the entire country. Despite serving the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and managing tens of thousands of stray, abandoned, and surrendered pets each year, it does so with a fraction of the resources available to shelters in similarly sized cities. The result are streets that are overrun with abandoned animals and a shelter system under constant strain where even healthy, adoptable animals are at risk of euthanasia due to lack of resources.
This is where RPM comes in. We save these pets from the shelter when no other option exists, often rescuing dogs and cats whose only obstacle to life is a shortage of shelter resources. In Houston and much of the South, the battle is especially tough: our
warm climate allows stray animals to survive and reproduce yearround, unlike colder regions where survival is limited and reproduction is seasonal. That means overpopulation grows faster here, and the need for solutions is even more urgent.
How it Works
• Rescued Pets Movement partners with reputable rescue groups across the United States to identify animals from BARC and other area shelters to transport to rescue partners across the US.
• Each dog and cat RPM rescues is fully examined and treated by our in-house clinic.
• The rescued pets are then placed temporarily with volunteer fosters or at RPM’s boarding facility until they are ready to transport.
• Using our own vans and drivers, RPM transports the rescued pets to rescue partner organizations throughout the country, where they are quickly adopted into forever homes.
Ways You Can Help RPM Save Lives
• Volunteer Your Time
• Organize a Donation Drive
• Short-Term Fostering
• Fund RPMs Life-Saving Work
You can visit Rescued Pets Movement online at www. rescuedpetsmovement.org to learn more, donate, and sign up to volunteer or foster. Any donations can be mailed to 2317 West 34th St. Houston, TX 77018.
You can email us at joinus@rescuedpetsmovement.org with any questions you have!
Create Cosmic Memories at Space Center
Houston, the Premier Global Destination
Whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply looking to beat the heat, you’ll find immersive experiences that bring people and space closer together.
“You can easily spend a full day exploring Space Center Houston,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO. “There’s no better way to get closer to space than visiting the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and immersing yourself in ‘only here’ experiences.”
Hands-On Exhibits for All Ages
Engage with interactive exhibits that spark creativity and curiosity.
Mission: Sketch presented by the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Health – Create and design your own spacecraft and launch it on a virtual voyage to celestial destinations, including the Moon, Mars, Titan, and Europa. Then watch it blast off and track it on the 26-footwide central control screen.
HALO Gateway Habitat Module – Enter the 21-foot-long, 7,500-pound training module of Gateway, NASA’s future lunar space station, used to train astronauts for what life and work will be like orbiting the Moon.
Experience The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks – Cool off in the newly renovated Space Center Theater and watch the Americas premiere of The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks. Presented every hour on the half hour and included with general admission - this 270-degree theatre space uses stunning multi-projection mapping with the legendary narration of Tom Hanks, bringing the Apollo missions to life.
Explore NASA Johnson Space Center – Ideal for groups, families, couples, or solo travelers, hop aboard one or all four of our unique tram tours for a behind-the-scenes experience at NASA Johnson Space Center.
• George W.S. Abbey Rocket Park, home to one of only three remaining Saturn V rockets, this is a true giant of space history.
• The Astronaut Training Facility, known as an astronaut “toybox,” training for current missions and testing next-generation spacecrafts.
• The Christopher C. Kraft Mission Control Center, take a front-row seat inside the restored Historic Mission Control Room, where NASA directed the Gemini and Apollo missions, including the first Moon landing and early space shuttle flights. Witness the room where space exploration took its first giant leap.
• Or enjoy a scenic tour around the NASA Campus and its many landmarks.
Space Center Houston welcomes more than 1.3 million visitors annually, making it one of Houston’s premier attractions and a must-visit global destination. Plan your adventure now and purchase tickets at spacecenter.org
Mission: Sketch presented by UTMB Health (Photo Courtesy, Space Center Houston)
Quantum Bio Scans
By Praneet Franklin (Houston AI Voice) www.linkedin.com/in/praneetfranklin
The Artificial Intelligence Revolution is here, transforming the world at a pace and scale unlike anything we have seen before. It may well be the greatest leap forward since the Industrial Revolution , only this time, the change could be a hundred times faster and far more profound. This is not just a shift in how we work, but a complete reimagining of what is possible.
As Senior Partner and AI Practice Lead, I advise boards and C-suite leaders on talent strategy, innovation, and digital transformation. I have had a front-row seat to how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way companies operate, compete, and grow. I have also seen how much uncertainty still surrounds AI — what it is, what it is not, and where it is headed.
Some see it as an exciting glimpse into a future where machines help us live better lives. Others view it as a slightly ominous concept lifted from a science fiction movie. Either way, the confusion is real. AI is often treated like a mysterious black box that only tech insiders can understand.
This article will change that. We will strip away the hype and the Hollywood drama and explain AI in clear, relatable language. By the time you finish reading, you will understand the difference between Narrow AI, Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), and Super AI. You will also see the real-world benefits of each stage and be able to explain them to your teenager or your grandmother without either of you feeling lost.
1. Narrow AI — The Specialist
This is the AI we live with today. It is amazing at one specific task but cannot do anything outside that lane.
Examples you already use:
• Google Maps finding the fastest route to your destination
• Netflix recommending your next binge-worthy show
• A bank chatbot helping you locate the nearest ATM
Real world benefits:
• In healthcare, it can detect early signs of disease before symptoms appear
• In energy, it can read seismic data and guide drilling decisions
• In finance, it can flag suspicious transactions instantly
• In customer service, it can resolve simple queries so humans can focus on complex ones
Teen version: That one friend who dominates in Call of Duty but burns toast every time.
Grandparent version: Like your trusty calculator, great at math but not much help in the kitchen.
2. Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
AGI
• Negotiate a business deal
• Write a heartfelt poem
• Teach you algebra
Real world potential:
• A personal life assistant that manages your schedule, taxes, meal planning, and travel
• Major breakthroughs in medicine and engineering by connecting information in new ways
• Helping farmers, manufacturers, and businesses make better decisions with precision
Teen version: Your Xbox avatar doing your homework, editing your videos, and helping you land a scholarship.
Grandparent version: A librarian who knows every book ever written and also fixes the leaky sink while telling a great story.
3. *Super AI — The Genius Beyond Us
Super AI would outperform humans at everything. If AGI is your equal, Super AI is the next evolutionary leap, far smarter, faster, and more capable than any person alive.
To put it in perspective, imagine every human in history, including Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton, Socrates, Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, Benjamin Franklin, and countless others, and combine all of their knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving skills into a single mind. Super AI would surpass even that combined intelligence, outthinking the sum of every human who has ever lived!
*Important note: Super AI is purely theoretical right now. We do not know if it will ever be possible, or if it is decades or centuries away. But researchers think about it because of its potential to be incredibly powerful, for better or worse.
If it became real, it could:
• Cure diseases in days
• Eliminate food shortages
• Develop technology far beyond what we can imagine
• Explore distant galaxies as casually as we book vacations
Potential benefits:
The possibilities could be breathtaking. Health, prosperity, exploration. But if it did not share our goals, it could choose a future we would not want.
Teen version: Think of J.A.R.V.I.S. deciding it should be Iron Man now.
Grandparent version: A toaster that earns a PhD and then decides you should be eating oatmeal instead of bacon.
Why This Matters Now
We are firmly in the Narrow AI era today, but advances are happening fast. The leap to AGI could be decades away or just years. Super AI may never exist, but how we design and use AI now will shape whether it becomes a helpful tool, a trusted partner, or something beyond our control. With such power comes responsibility. We must develop any future systems with strong ethics and a clear focus on the betterment of humanity, ensuring they reflect our highest values rather than just our fastest ambitions.
Next, we will explore how AI is already influencing and will continue to transform the Houston economy, from energy and healthcare to shipping, finance, and beyond.
National Library Card
SIGN UP MONTH!
Jennifer Finch, Branch Manager of the Spring Branch Memorial Library tells you all the great things you can do with a library card, and how to get one:
With a library card you have access to all our physical and digital resources. In the branches we have books (of course), movies, music, audiobooks, and magazines. We also have all of those available through different apps such as Libby by Overdrive. Libby is the largest provider of library eBooks in the world and Harris County Public Library is one of the top ten lenders in the world and has been for several years. Also available with a library card, patrons have access to research databases and resources such as Gale Legal Forms, Learning Express, and Transparent Languages. https://hcpl.net/onlineresources/ And this is all available to anyone living in the state of Texas for free.
Harris County Public Library has three different types of library cards. To learn how to get the different cards and what documents are required, go to https://hcpl.net/librarycards/
• The iKnow Digital Access Card which everyone can sign up through the website.
• The Knowledge Card which allows patrons access to all of our materials, physical or digital.
• The Enhanced Library Card which works the same as the Knowledge Card but has the patron’s picture, address, birthdate, and gender marker.
The Da Vinci Code
September 19 to Sunday, October 19, 2025
Tony Award®-winning Alley Theatre and Artistic Director Rob Melrose announce the cast and creative team of The Da Vinci Code. Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel adapt Dan Brown’s hit novel. Directed by Rob Melrose, symbologist Robert Langdon (Zack Fine) and cryptologist Sophie Neveu (Melissa Molano) race to solve a deadly puzzle that could change history. This thrilling adventure marks Resident Acting Company Member Chris Hutchison’s 100th production at the Alley.
“It is exciting to offer Alley audiences this riveting story after its hugely successful run as a best-selling novel and a blockbuster movie,” remarked Melrose. “Alley audiences are experts in watching the thrilling mysteries of Agatha Christie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It is especially fun to share a more modern version of a thriller with our audiences. As you can imagine, one of the challenges of putting this story on stage is what to do with the grand iconic locations. Our design team has pushed the boundaries of what we have done in the past to take us to these places with sets, video projection, costume, sound, and light.” “Please join me in celebrating Chris’s 100th show at the Alley.” Melrose continues.
The cast includes Resident Acting Company Members Elizabeth Bunch as Vernet, Michelle Elaine as Collet, Dylan Godwin as Rémy, Chris Hutchison as Silas, Melissa Molano as Sophie Neveu, and Christopher Salazar as Bezu Fache.
They will be joined by Zack Fine (Pictures from Home) as Robert Langdon, Kevin Cooney as Jacques Sanuière, Victor J. Flores as Philip, Susan Koozin (Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d) as Sister Sandrine, and Todd Waite (Resident Acting Company Member Emeritus) as Sir Leigh Teabing.
The creative team includes Scenic Designer Michael Locher, Costume Helen Huang, Lighting Designer Thom Weaver, Original Music & Sound Designer John Gromada, Projection Designer Victoria Beauray Sagady, Assistant Director Amber D. Gray, Fight Director & Intimacy Specialist Adam Noble, Dialect Coach Molly Wetzel, Stage Manager Jocelyn A. Thompson, and Assistant Stage Managers Kaylee Sarton McCray and Ethan Mitchell.
But, even without a library card, everyone can use the computers, copier, and attend library programs. Check out the library events https:// hcplcalendar.net/eventscalendar?field_location_target_id=41
TICKETS: Performances begin September 19 to Sunday, October 19, 2025 in the Hubbard Theatre. Tickets are now on sale, starting at $36. Discounted tickets are available for groups, military, seniors, educators and any student, regardless of age, with a valid ID for designated performances in designated sections. Tickets can be ordered online (alleytheatre.org) or by phone (713.220.5700).
Photos by Melissa Taylor
