Bayou Buzz - May 2023

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF SWEETGRASS • MAY 2023

707 Del Webb blvD.

IMPORTANT INFO:

Lakehouse / HOA Office Phone: 281-239-4455

HOA After-Hours Emergency: 800-274-3165

Official Website: www.mysweetgrass.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dwsweetgrass

Email: SweetgrassTX@ccmcnet.com

Please bring your access card for entry.

WHO’S WHO

Association Team

Kelly Riley-Salyers Community Manager ksalyers@ccmcnet.com

Stephen Martinez Lifestyle Director smartinez@ccmcnet.com

Rick Breitigam

Community Standards Director rbreitigam@ccmcnet.com

Steve Messinger Maintenance Director smessinger@ccmcnet.com

Homeowners Association Board of Directors

Bruce Gilman, President brucegilman@mysweetgrass.net

THEOFFICIALMAGAZINEOFSWEETGRASS•MAY2023

Don Tomlinson, Vice President dontomlinson@mysweetgrass.net

Sue Muerdler, Secretary suemuerdler@mysweetgrass.net

Larry Girven, Treasurer larrygirven@mysweetgrass.net

Dan Noeth, Director dannoeth@mysweetgrass.net

Disclaimer: The information, including but not limited to: text, graphics, images, and other material contained in this magazine are for informational purposes only. No material in this magazine is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new health care regimen or fitness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this magazine.

Photo by Mary Kay Peters

Memorial Day Observance

by KEN BROCKWAY, SG Veterans Club

On Monday, May 29, 2023, The Sweetgrass Veterans Club will lead the Sweetgrass community in observing Memorial Day and join the rest of the Nation to remember and honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the US Armed Forces so that our country may continue to live in freedom. The Memorial Day Observance will begin at 10am at the Lakehouse Amphitheater. The Observance will include The Sweetgrass Singers providing the music program; a special Memorial Day Presentation, and the Remembrance Wall - a photo wall dedicated to family and friends - again to be placed in the Lakehouse. Sweetgrass residents may honor a deceased family member who has served in the military. Submission forms with instructions will be located in the Lakehouse Tower in the library/coffee area, under Veterans Club. Please join us for the Memorial Day Observance and visit our Remembrance Wall and Missing Man Table in the Lakehouse.

Dr. McCrea has been creating healthy, beautiful smiles in Richmond/Rosenberg since 1994. Dr. McCrea and Dr. George are both graduates of and current Professors at the Herman Hospital based General Practice Residency Program for UTDS Houston. Their goal is to work with each patient to produce the best possible outcome based on that patient’s individual needs and desires.

Dr.

and

HEARING LOSS DOESN'T HOLD ME BACK

by TERI WATHEN

Hearing loss is challenging to experience, but it doesn't have to hold you back from living your life to the fullest. My husband, Ray, and I are among the 35% of boomers with some degree of hearing loss, and another 62% of boomers are at risk of hearing loss (according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders).

Over the years, I have found technologies that help me live an active life like participating in our Sweetgrass Drama Club plays and keeping Ray and me safe from potential household dangers. Many of these solutions are incredibly simple to use. Let me share ways technology has helped me adapt to hearing loss and my tips for thriving regardless of your ability to hear.

5 Technologies to Help with Hearing Loss in Your Home and Everyday Life

You will likely notice the effects of hearing loss in subtle ways at first. For example, it can take more work to follow conversations. You may need to turn the TV volume higher than usual. The sound of your doorbell is merely a faint murmur if you're toward the back of your home. These challenges will only get worse if you do not seek help. Luckily, there are plenty of ways technology can address the essential home and life needs that typically rely on sound. Specifically, here are a few technologies I recommend you explore if hearing loss is becoming more apparent.

1. Flashing Light Doorbells: I've adapted our home with devices that use flashlights instead of a doorbell ring. I always have devices throughout my house to know if someone is at my door.

2. Bed Shakers (or Flashing Lights) for Smoke Detectors and/ or Alarm Clocks: Everyone needs to be alerted immediately if there is a potential fire in their home. I sleep safely, knowing our smoke detector will flash if it goes off. Likewise, a bed shaker connected to my alarm clock wakes me if I have an early morning appointment.

3. Hearing Aid Telecoils/T-coils: You may have heard of telecoils or t-coils, which come equipped with some hearing devices. These t-coils can connect your hearing device to your telephone, television, or other devices. When looking for hearing aids, I recommend you ask your audiologist to program the telecoil in your hearing aids.

4. Bluetooth Hearing Aids: Many audiologists today encourage consumers to get Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid devices. I recommend and use a combination of both Bluetooth and t-coils. Bluetooth is great because it is a more "modern" tech-

nology and directly brings my phone, YouTube, Ted Talk, etc., into my ears without disturbing anyone around me.

5. Smartphone Applications: You likely already have one of the best tools to battle hearing loss: your smartphone. There are so many apps on phones that can help you. My favorite is an app that shows the captions of what a caller says when I'm on the phone. I use this when calling my doctor, an 800 number, or any other calls when I am not sure I will be able to understand the caller. Another helpful app provides a voice-to-text translation of what the other person is saying while we are in the same room. I used this one a lot during the pandemic.

My Advice for Adapting to Hearing Loss

1. Get your hearing tested every year. This is the best way to catch any signs that your hearing is deteriorating.

2. Don't wait to get hearing aids if you've been told they could benefit you. Many people feel embarrassed to use hearing aids, but this is part of aging. Besides, who cares if you have thingamabobs in your ears?

3. Reprogram your hearing devices. It's common for people to get hearing aids, enter a noisy room, and immediately take their hearing aids off because of all the competing noises. Check with your audiologist to help reprogram your hearing aids and teach you how to adjust the settings best to match your situation.

4. Connect with other people with hearing loss. Check your Bayou Buzz for upcoming meetings. Also, go to hearingloss.org and read about the Hearing Loss of America. There is a lot of good information there.

By equipping my home with the right technology and keeping up with my audiologist visits, I am confident that I can enjoy all that life has to offer.

About the Author

Teri has lived with hearing loss since childhood and has never let it get in her way. She and Ray have two sons with hearing loss and two grandsons with hearing loss. She worked for over 30 years as a high school teacher in Fort Bend ISD and then for 14 years as a state-contracted Hearing Loss Resource Specialist. She is dedicated to helping and connecting her community to the resources available to live their best lives daily. She can be reached at teriwathen@sbcglobal.net

MAY CROSSWORD

Answers to Crossword on Page 34

How to avoid heat stroke on hot summer days

by METRO

Summer weather draws many people outside. Warm air and sunshine can be hard to resist, even when temperatures rise to potentially dangerous levels.

Sunburn may be the first thing that comes to mind when people think of spending too much time soaking up summer sun. But while sunburn is a significant health problem that can increase a person’s risk for skin cancer, it poses a less immediate threat than heat stroke, a well-known yet often misunderstood condition.

What is heat stroke?

Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency and the most severe form of heat illness that results from long, extreme exposure to the sun. During this exposure, a person’s built-in cooling system may fail to produce enough sweat to lower their body temperature, putting their life at risk. Heat stroke develops rapidly and requires immediate medical treatment. If not treated immediately, heat stroke can prove fatal.

Are some people more at risk for heat stroke than others?

The elderly, infants, people whose occupations require them to work outdoors, and the mentally ill are among the people with an especially high risk of heat stroke. Obesity and poor circulation also increase a person’s risk of suffering heat stroke. Alcohol and certain types of medications also can make people more at risk for heat stroke.

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

One person may experience heat stroke differently than another. In addition, because it develops so rapidly, heat stroke can be hard to identify before a person is in serious danger. But Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that some of the more common heat stroke symptoms include:

• headache,

• dizziness,

• disorientation, agitation, or confusion,

• sluggishness or fatigue,

• seizure,

• hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty,

• high body temperature,

• loss of consciousness,

• rapid heartbeat, and

• hallucinations.

Can heat stroke be prevented?

The simplest way to prevent heat stroke is to avoid spending time outdoors in the sun on hot days. If you must go outdoors, do so when temperatures are mild and the sun is low, such as in the early morning or evening.

In addition to being wise about when you spend time in the sun, you can do the following to prevent heat stroke.

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and sports drinks that can help your body maintain its electrolyte balance, when spending time outdoors. In addition, avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee, soda and tea as well as alcohol.

• Wear lightweight, tightly woven and loose-fitting clothing in light colors.

• Always wear a hat and sunglasses when going outdoors, and use an umbrella on especially hot days.

• Take frequent drinks during outdoor activities and mist yourself with a spray bottle to reduce the likelihood of becoming overheated.

Heat stroke is a serious threat on hot summer days. Because heat stroke can escalate rapidly, people must be especially cautious and mindful of their bodies when spending time outdoors in the summer.

May is Mental Health Month!

by SUE MUERDLER, Liaison to the Sweetgrass Health and Wellness Committee

Since 1949, Mental Health America, our affiliates, and countless others have observed May as Mental Health Month by reaching out to millions to spread the word that mental health is something everyone should care about. It’s a time to share information, stories, and resources, and we invite you to join us!

May is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues and help reduce the stigma many experience.

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Gratitude – or thankfulness- is a powerful tool that can reduce levels of depression and anxiety and improve sleep.

Hospitals and health systems play an essential role in providing behavioral health care and helping patients find resources available in their community. Hospitals create unique partnerships to address behavioral health issues in non-traditional ways. As a result, many of our medical communities are leading innovations in how behavioral health disorders are identified and treated—through integrating physical and behavioral health services, changes in their emergency departments and inpatient and outpatient settings, and community partnerships. These strategies improve the overall value of health care and can improve patient outcomes, quality of care, and total costs.

The AHA has a long-standing commitment to support these efforts and advocate on issues related to behavioral health. In addition, AHA endorses the integration of behavioral and physical health and helps hospitals play a key role in establishing partnerships to ensure access to a full continuum of behavioral health care.

In 2023 Mental Health Month asks us all to focus on how surroundings impact mental health, and we are calling for individuals to look around and look within:

• Safe and Stable Housing

• Healthy Home Environments

• Neighborhoods and Towns

• The Outdoors and Nature

Sometimes a simple walk in the park and enjoying nature can help our mood and improve our mental health.

We’ll help people understand how these topics impact mental health, provide tips for actions to change their surroundings in favor of their well-being, and provide suggestions for coping if the change isn’t realistic.

Essential summer skin care tips

by METRO

Protecting and caring for skin should be part of people’s year-round health care regimens. Such an approach can help people look their best and also uncover any minor issues before they escalate into something more significant.

National Geographic says adults can carry eight pounds and 22 square feet of skin on their bodies. Skin guards a person from harmful chemicals, protects the body against extremes in temperature and prevents internal organs and other components from evaporating. The skin also guards against harmful sunlight.

Skin care is not seasonal, though efforts to protect the skin may need to be stepped up during the summer. The American Academy of Dermatology says one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetimes. In the summer, ultraviolet radiation levels are elevated and people often wear less clothing that exposes more of their skin. According to Dr. Ron Shelton, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, the bulk of sun damage to the skin happens in the summer. These skin wellness tips can help protect the skin and keep it looking its best when the mercury rises.

LIGHTEN UP

Choose lightweight products for summer usage. This includes cleansers, makeup and oil cleansers. For instance, rather than an oil cleanser, choose a gentle, foaming option. Thicker products mixed with increased perspiration and humidity may lead to clogged pores and inflammation.

LATHER ON SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more is recommended to protect the skin from UV damage. But it’s easy to forget to apply sunscreen. However, using a lightweight moisturizer with SPF built in reduces product usage and time spent caring for skin.

UTILIZE VITAMIN C SERUMS

Hyperpigmentation can occur in summer. According to Omer Ibrahim, a board-certified dermatologist and codirector of clinical research at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, vitamin C serum can improve the appearance of fine lines, help with collagen production and also prevent hyperpigmentation.

DRINK MORE WATER

Higher temperatures and increased perspiration can lead to dehydration. That may cause headaches, dry skin and even lightheadedness. Drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water every day.

STAY IN THE SHADE

In addition to using sunscreen daily, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible when UV rays are at their strongest, which is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. In addition, wear clothing that offers sunscreen protection.

It’s important to care for the skin daily, but especially so during the summer.

Learn the meanings behind popular Mother’s Day flowers

by METRO

Mother’s Day is a time to express love and appreciation for mothers, sentiments that are often expressed with gifts. Flowers are a popular present to bestow on Mother’s Day, as they can brighten a room and bring a sweet aroma to any household.

While any flowers may ultimately suffice on Mother’s Day, gift givers may want to select flowers for Mom that convey specific messages. The language of flowers has been recognized for centuries. Though perhaps not as heralded as it once was, flower symbolism persists to this day. Here’s a look at some of the meanings behind certain types of flowers to help guide Mother’s Day gifting.

• Amaryllis: These plants start as bulbs and are naturally spring-blooming flowers. The name comes from the Greek word “amarysso,” which means “to sparkle,” and they symbolize pride.

• Aster: These daisy-like flowers are delicate-looking perennials. Asters make great gifts because they symbolize love and daintiness.

• Begonia: There are more than 2,000 types of begonias, and the flower symbolizes deep thoughts. Begonias were made famous by French horticulturist Michel Bégon, who thought the blooms looked like beautiful girls.

• Bleeding heart: These flowers are red and pink blossoms that look like the perfect heart shape with a teardrop at the bottom. They’re beautiful and symbolic of love and affection.

• Buttercup: These are associated with youthfulness and cheerfulness and can call to mind childhood days spent picking buttercups and holding them under chins to reveal that you like butter. The flower is known for its beauty and innocent charm.

• Camellia (white): White camellias stand for purity and innocence, but they also symbolize admiration and respect. Camellias make beautiful additions to any bouquet.

• Daisy: Daisies are happy-looking flowers, and according to Norse mythology they represent motherhood and children.

• Delphinium: Delphiniums come in pink, white and blue varieties and embody youth and renewal. They’re a good pick if you want to convey a continued or renewed affection for a person.

• Tulip: Tulips with an orange hue are thought to represent understanding and appreciation. They can express appreciation for Mom or another special person. Yellow tulips symbolize happiness, while pink tulips are symbolic of love. Red blooms should be reserved for sweethearts.

Various flowers symbolize feelings people want to express to their mothers, grandmothers and other special women on Mother’s Day.

How to ensure a relaxing day for Mom this Mother’s Day

by METRO

The unconditional love and undying patience moms exhibit as they raise their children is worthy of more than just a single day of appreciation in May. Moms do a lot for their families, and though that’s something to celebrate every day, Mother’s Day merits upping the ante in regard to showing Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated.

This year, families can work together to ensure this Mother’s Day is a day for Mom to relax and bask in all the extra attention she deserves.

• Serve breakfast in bed. Mom might be on breakfast detail on hectic weekday mornings, but Mother’s Day marks the perfect time for spouses and kids to take over those responsibilities. This year, keep the cereal in the pantry and go the extra mile by preparing a homemade breakfast and serving it to Mom in bed. Present the meal with a small bouquet of flowers and some reading material and then let Mom eat in peace and quiet if she so prefers.

• Turn the en suite into a spa. Nothing complements a relaxing breakfast in bed better than a subsequent dip in Mom’s own private spa. Transform the en suite or another bathroom into Mom’s personal soaking space. Clean the bathtub, light some candles around the tub and bathroom, turn on some relaxing music, dim the lights, and then invite Mom in to soak in a freshly drawn hot bubble bath.

• Keep Mom out of the kitchen. Keep the relaxing vibe going by making sure Mom doesn’t have to lift a finger in the kitchen. Make sure all the dishes are washed before Mom comes downstairs for the day and let her know you’ve already ordered lunch from a local restaurant. Even if Mom loves to cook, a day off from kitchen detail can make Mother’s Day that much more relaxing.

• Book some time in the great outdoors. If the weather allows, visit a nearby park as a family and go for a walk. Nature has its own way of helping people relax, so some time outdoors in the spring air can keep the peaceful vibe going into the afternoon. If the family includes young children, choose a park with a playground so Mom can relax and watch the kids play from a nearby bench.

• Book a dinner reservation. It might require some advance booking, as Mother’s Day reservations can be hard to come by, but a night at Mom’s favorite restaurant can be the perfect conclusion to a relaxing day. If Mom’s more of a homebody, whip up a homemade meal and let Mom relax with a glass of wine as you prepare a feast.

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a day of relaxation for mothers who do so much for their families throughout the year. Some simple planning can ensure Mom gets the R&R she deserves.

Del Webb Community Partner Perks

Includes but definitely not limited to:

• 100% absolute hassle-free, no-negotiation for any purchase

• Pre-set pricing that reflects an honest discount and aggressive pricing (in other words, pricing designed for Sweetgrass residents)

• 3-year maintenance package covering oil, filter, tire balance & rotation, and car washes (no additional cost)

• Additional savings on Pre-Owned and Certified Nissan Pre-Owned vehicles

• Free shuttle service to and from Sweetgrass for any purchase or service needed

• Complimentary demonstration of any vehicle at your residence, by a Nissan Certified and trained dealership representative

• Service Department discounts for 1st and subsequent visits

• New Car Owner clinics that offer in-depth information about the technology in your new vehicle, by Certified Professionals

Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Crushed Peanuts

Makes 4 servings

Asimple, flavorful salad to whip up in a snap. When preparing meals at home, cooks know that it helps to have a few simple, easily prepared dishes in their culinary repertoire. These are dishes that don’t require too much planning and utilize certain staples that are present in everyone’s pantry. Such is the case with this recipe for “Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Crushed Peanuts” from Ruta Kahate’s “5 Spices, 50 Dishes” (Chronicle Books). Most of the ingredients for this flavorful salad are likely already in your kitchen, and it won’t be long after you begin preparing the recipe that you’ll be sitting down and enjoying a meal with family and friends.

DIRECTIONS

1Place the diced cucumbers in a medium bowl along with the chile. Using a coffee grinder or food processor, pulse the peanuts until they are reduced to a coarse powder. (You don’t want big chunks of peanuts, nor do you want a fine powder; stop grinding somewhere in between!) Add the peanuts to the cucumbers along with the lemon juice, salt and sugar, and mix well. Taste and adjust the salt, sugar and lemon juice as needed. The salad

INGREDIENTS

•2 English or other unwaxed cucumbers, chopped into ¼-inch dice (about 3 cups)

•1 medium green serrano chile, minced (seed first if you prefer)

•½ cup peanuts, preferably raw, but toasted, unsalted ones will do

•2 tablespoons lemon juice, or more if needed

•1 teaspoon salt

•½ to ¾ teaspoon sugar

•⅛ teaspoon cayenne

•1 tablespoon canola oil

•¼ teaspoon mustard seeds

should be slightly tart.

2Make the tadka: Place the cayenne in a little pile on top of the salad. Do not stir it in yet. Heat the oil in a small skillet or butter warmer over high heat. When it begins to smoke, add the mustard seeds, covering the pan with a lid or spatter screen. As soon as the seeds stop sputtering, pour the oil over the cayenne. Stir the dressing in and serve at room temperature or cold.

Roasted Banana Coffee Cake

Makes 8 servings

Versatile coffee cake can be eaten any time of day.

Traditional coffee cake is a moist, tender pastry that might be topped with streusel or crumbs and is often served as the perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea at breakfast or in the afternoon. The British version of this cake is a sponge variety that actually is flavored with coffee and coffee butter icing.

Coffee cake is ideal to have on hand when entertaining. It fits well for breakfast, brunch or even as a late-afternoon snack.

This recipe for “Roasted Banana Coffee Cake” from “Simply Scratch” (Avery) by Laurie McNamara includes bananas, making it an ideal addition to the breakfast table. The author suggests roasting the bananas helps to perfect their texture without having to wait for the natural ripening process.

INGREDIENTS

•8 Tbs (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus 1 Tbs at room temp. for the pan

•2 Tbs granulated sugar

•2 bananas

•¾ cup chopped pecans

•3 Tbs dark brown sugar

•1 tsp ground cinnamon

•1½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour

•1 tsp baking soda

•1 tsp baking powder

•¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

•1 cup granulated sugar

•2 large eggs, lightly beaten

•¼ cup sour cream

•1 tsp pure vanilla extract

We Understand Commitment

DIRECTIONS

1Preheat the oven to 350 F. Butter a 9-inch round cake pan with the 1 tablespoon room temperature butter and dust with the granulated sugar and tip out any excess.

2Place the bananas on a small rimmed baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.

3In a small bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

4Sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and nutmeg through a fine-mesh strainer into a medium bowl.

5In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugar on low speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, then add the roasted bananas, sour cream and vanilla. Beat until incorporated.

6With the mixer running on low speed, spoon in the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

7Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle evenly with the pecan topping. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached.

8Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

Talkin’ Turpie May 2023 Take a “European Vacation” without ever leaving Texas

by JUDY TURPIE, Resident & Lakehouse Concierge

Texas is home to many cities named after the European home cities of many Texas settlers. You can drive to nine countries and 17 cities and never leave Texas.

Not all of these cities are architectural replicas of their namesakes. Many have less than a thousand residents or are ghost towns, as only the land remains. The drive “around Europe” is scenic, with a few iconic Texas cities.

Here are the Countries, Cities & Counties that you may visit on your European trip around Texas:

Athens in Henderson County is one of the small cities nominated as the best to visit for 2023. It is close to Dallas & Tyler and is “home of the hamburger” Athens was established in April 1946, 100 years before I was born, and four months after Texas became a US state.

Italy, Texas, is in Ellis County. The town motto is “Welcome to Italy, the biggest little town in Texas.” It was named after the country by a settler who had visited the European country.

Located not quite as far from Austin, Florence is situated near Georgetown in Williamson County. However, according to the “Handbook of Texas Online,” the origin of the town’s name is uncertain: it may have derived from Florence, Alabama, an early home of the first postmaster, or it may refer to Florence Brooks, the daughter of the town’s first merchant.

Naples, the third “Italian” city, is in Morris County and has a population of around 1,300. The town was founded in 1880 as Belden, then for the post office, Belden Station, and in 1895 residents submitted a list of names to the post office, and Naples was selected as the new town name.

Paris, Texas, is in Lamar County in far northeast Texas and has a 65’ replica of the Eiffel Tower in the town square. The replica has a red cowboy hat on top, of course.

Berlin, a German settlement, is located in Washington County. It was founded by Valentin Hoffman when he bought a plot of land in the 1840s. Hoffman’s sons served in the Confederate

Army. After the war, two of the sons opened a cotton gin/grist mill.

Fredericksburg, in Gillespie County, is styled more like a German Village than a Western town, named after Prince Frederick of Prussia in 1846. It is notable for the dialect of German spoken today in Texas German. Montabaur, Germany, is the sister city. Fredericksburg is listed officially on the National Register of Historic Places in Texas.

New Braunfels was established by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels in 1867. The seat of Comal County is well known throughout the state as it is home to Schlitterbahn, Gruene, the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, and Wurstfest, a German-style sausage festival held every November.

London, Texas, was established in the late 1870s or early 1880s by a horse trader and former Union Army officer. There’s also a town in Rusk County called New London. The 2015 historical novel “Out of Darkness” by Ashley Hope Pérez depicts New London in the 1930s.

Liverpool in Brazoria County is now primarily land with an excellent sign commemorating the town. It was, of course, named after the city of Liverpool in England.

Edinburg in Hidalgo County is located in the Rio Grande Valley region. The community changed its name to “Edinburg” to honor John Young, a prominent businessman born in Edinburgh, Scotland. Did anyone see the missing H running by?

Dublin, Texas Erath County is the official Irish Capital of Texas. The town is home to the world’s oldest Dr. Pepper bottling plant. The plant, for many years, was the only U.S. source for Dr. Pepper made with natural cane sugar. The Dublin Bottling Works no longer produces Dr. Pepper but continues making other sugar-sweetened soda products.

Located in Polk County, Moscow had approximately 170 residents as of 2000. The community was named for the city in Russia after postal authorities refused to accept the townspeople’s choice of Greensboro. However, there was already a post office in the state with a similar name.

65’ Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas topped with a big red cowboy hat!

Fredericksburg is a fun German style community with many shops & wine tastings

The gold counties, all in the eastern 2/3’s of Texas, are your gateways to “Europe in Texas”

The gold counties, all in the eastern 2/3’s of Texas, are your gateways to “Europe in Texas”

Sweetgrass Clubs and Groups

Dialogue & Learning

The May dialogue and learning meeting will happen on May 25 at 6:30 in the learning center. The subject is “what is this Chatgpt.? The discussion will center around trying to understand the new artificial intelligence and communications systems that are becoming available.

Quilters

The Sweetgrass Quilters Club meets in the Learning Center at the Lakehouse on the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 1 to 4 pm. Members may come as early as 12:30 to set up whatever they need for meetings. The third Tuesday meetings are Sew-in meetings at which members bring their machines and are free to work on individual projects as well as any group projects which may be provided. Quilters at all levels (from “I want to learn to quilt.” to “I’ve been quilting all of my life!”) are always welcome at Sweetgrass Quilters Club meetings. Our tagline is, “We don’t collect dues because we spend our money on fabric!”

Spring Fling Pickleball Tournament

On April 29th we had our Spring Fling Tournament. Our tournaments are always for fun with randomly picked partners and opponents. Tournaments are followed by pot luck lunches where lots of socializing takes place. On May 1st a clinic for “getting to the dink game” took

Start Now. Plan Ahead.

place.

Upcoming events:

Saturday, 5/06/23 - 2:00 pm Introduction to Pickleball

Wednesday, 05/24/23 - 5:30 pm - Pickleball Club Quarterly Meeting

Monday, 05/29/23- 7:00 am - Memorial Day Pickleball & Breakfast Treats

Veterans Club Honors Veterans of the Vietnam War

On March 29, 2023, the Sweetgrass community joined the rest of the Nation to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, i.e. those who served on active duty any time during the period November 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action. March 29,

Continued on page 35

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

From Crossword on Page 12

Sweetgrass Clubs and Groups

2023 marked the 50th Anniversary of the departure of the last American combat troops from Vietnam. The Sweetgrass Veterans Club in partnership with Alexander Hodge Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) led the Vietnam Veterans 50th Commemorative Ceremony at the Lakehouse. The Sweetgrass Singers provided an excellent and moving music program. Ray Wathen, Vietnam War Veteran and Past President of the Veterans Club, provided memorable Commemorative remarks, and the DAR presented our Veterans Club with a Commemorative flag. Thanks to the Sweetgrass Community for its attendance and support of our veterans and their families

Sweetgrass Charity Drive to Benefit the Fisher House

We cannot have a more worthy cause than supporting veterans and their families who have given so much for our country. The Veterans Club will sponsor a drive-through Charity event benefiting the Fisher House under the Lakehouse portico on Wednesday, 17 May 2023. The Fisher House provides housing at no cost for family members of veterans who are being treated at the DeBakey VA Medical Center and Texas Medical Center. We are collecting gift cards (Walmart, Target, HEB, Kroger, Subway, Burger King, What-A-Burger, etc.); checks; and cash. We will have volunteers available between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to allow residents to drive through and drop off donated items. For gift cards, suggest a $20 minimum amount. Please attach a gift receipt to donated gift cards. Checks are to be made out to “MEDVAMC” with “Fisher House” written on the “memo line” of the check.

Thank you for your help in supporting veterans and families!

Wildflower Neighborhood

The Wildflower neighborhood ushered in the season at its Spring Fling with Puppy Parade on Saturday, March 25. Neighbors enjoyed snacks and chatted in the shade of a neighbor’s tree while watching some of Wildflower’s precious playful pups. (Buddy, Dolly, Molly, Ruger, Tessie, and Toby)

Drama Club

The Sweetgrass Drama Club would like to thank all of our patrons who attended our spring plays of “The Last Day at W.O.R.K.” and “Cafe Murder”. It takes a lot of work, but we have a lot of fun putting on these shows. We appreciate your support.

If you would like to be a part the fun, come and join us. We meet monthly on the third Monday. Our next meeting is May 15, 6:30 pm, in the Learning Center. If you’d like to be a part of our fall show (Nov. 3 and 4) or of Reader’s Theater, where we perform at nearby elementary schools, please consider attending a meeting. For more information contact sweetgrassdrama@gmail.com.

Technology Group Help Desk

The Technology Group Help Desk will be held on the second and fourth THURSDAY of the month between 4:00 -5:00 p.m. in the Lakehouse Learning Center. Some of your Sweetgrass neigh-

Sweetgrass Clubs and Groups

bors will continue to volunteer their time in order to answer your questions regarding computers, tablets, cell phones, exercise trackers and other portable devices. We look forward to helping neighbors with their technical challenges throughout the year and beyond!

Power Walking

Did you know walking in the neighborhood or around the lake utilizes less than half of your muscles, even if you walk several miles quickly? The Power Walking class encourages you to use all 650 muscles because it varies the speed, direction, and movements. It engages the lower and upper body in every workout and occasionally utilizes optional weights and resistance bands.

You can walk one, two, or three miles, and the program targets all ages and fitness levels—high impact, low impact, or no impact. It challenges the fittest walker and can easily be adjusted to the beginner or returner. We use a variety of DVDs (backed by music) that are upbeat, fun, and easy to follow.

The class meets Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9:009:55 am in the aerobics room and is led by volunteers. No registration or membership is required – show up and start walking! The best part is -- it’s 100% FREE.

Mah Jongg

Open to all Residents!

Tuesday 1:00 – 4:00 PM in the Creativity Room with a $3.00 PIE (purse is empty) using the current National Mah Jongg League card. Please have basic knowledge of the game and some playing experience.

Wednesday 5:30 – 8:00 PM in the Activity Room is free play for all levels of experience. Please have your own National Mah Jongg League card or one can be purchased.

There are currently no dues. Just show up, sign in, and play. Mah Jongg provides a great opportunity to socialize and make friends. We welcome new members and will assist those who need a refresher or want to learn how to play.

Canasta

The Sweetgrass Social Canasta Club held its First Quarterly Meeting on March 16, 2023. The theme was celebrating National pi month. Gail Chapline, President, opened the meeting and talked about the increase in play day attendance. In the first 2 months of this year we have had over 400 participants each

month. It’s nice to see so many members enjoying Canasta. She also thanked the volunteer members who set-up and tear down every play day, Julie Craven, Lori Crawford, Debra Mishlan and David Reek. And volunteers Lillian Gray and Ann Frederick, who design and execute Dollar Daz. Debra Thompson, Vice President, talked about training and asked if any members are interested in teaching to please contact her. Gary Handwerk reported that the club has 168 paid members for 2023 and current budget is as expected for this quarter. Lee Anne Smith announced the rules for the 1st Quarterly tournament, and adjourned the meeting.

Dates for the upcoming Quarterly meetings are; June 22, 2023, September 21, 2023 and December 14, 2023.

Tournament winners were:

1st place – Gail Woolston and Dennis Metcalf

2nd place – Judy Burns and Larry Moore

3rd place – Charlene Ellis and Charlotte Overley

Door prize winners were DeeDee LeBoeuf, Susie Stern, Debbie Norman and Glenn Schneider. And numerous winners of more pie, too many to mention.

At the end of play and during winner announcements, pie and coffee were served. Thank you to our member Kathy Ellis, who made sugar free chocolate pie, for those who prefer sugar-free. Also thanks to volunteers, who helped clean-up!

Special Thank you to Lee Anne Smith, who made pi day a big success!

Social Canasta meets every Monday and Thursday at 12:00 noon in the Lakehouse Ballroom. Check-in time, when we help groups of four to form up, begins at 11:30am. We do ask our members to play Canasta the Sweetgrass Way.

We are looking for Canasta teachers. We have lots of interest from the community to join our group. Some have never played Canasta, and some have played elsewhere. It is important to the club that we all play the same way. If you are interested in helping teach new players, we would love to have your assistance.

Please contact the club vice-president, Debra Thompson, to let her know you would like to become a Canasta teacher. You may email her at debrakthompson@gmail.com or text her at 281-4518573. We will hold a training session so that the teachers all are on the same page with teaching Canasta--The Sweetgrass Way!

Day Trippers

The Day Trippers had a blast in NOLA. The music was great, the food was delicious and the company was even better. Our day trips for May, June and July were announced at the April 11th meetings. If you would like to join Day Trippers the cost is $10.00 PP and the check can be dropped off at 3410 Satin Leaf.

The Bayou Buzz is submitted several weeks before publication. Recent updates to CCGA’s & neighborhood reps may not be reflected, but will be updated on future publications. If you notice any errors, let us know.

Chartered Clubs

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support

Kenji Nishioka kenji@hal-pc.com

Art at Sweetgrass Mary Meier-Roche mamr2119@gmail.com

Book Club

Rich Siegel richkat723@att.net

Bowling Club Keith Taylor getkat82@att.net

CardCrafters

Joyce Teel dwsweetgrasscardcrafters@ gmail.com

CARE Group

Vanessa Winters van_winters@hotmail.com

Chat & Craft Rosemary Garlock rorog@yahoo.com

Day Trippers

Emerson Chester jech1957@gmail.com

Dialogue & Learning

Jim Sheridan sherim@fastmail.com

Drama Club

Bruce Peterson b117534209@yahoo.com

Financial Education Club

Randy Johnson eleegom@gmail.com

Garden Club Saundra Salter saundrakstx@gmail.com

Genealogy Club Marilyn Henlery marilyn@ahenley.com

SG Golf Assocation Buzz Roye buzzroye@gmail.com

Hear More Teri Wathen teriwathen@sbcglobal.net

Line Dance Debra Garner debragarner5202gmail.com

Men's Club Tom Jaros taj.jaros@gmail.com

Model Yacht Group

Bill Foster wmfoster@mail.com

Needlecrafters Kelly Crowe sgneedlecrafters@gmail.com

Photography Club

Chad De Cuir cm20decuir@gmail.com

Pickleball

Pat McNamara dwspickleball@gmail.com

Poker Club

Mike Covault covaultmichael@gmail.com

Power Walkers

Margie Poole margiepoole@att.net

Qi Gong

Almon Shiu ashiu47@gmail.com

Quilters

Bev Middleton bmiddletonweb@gmail.com

The Bayou Buzz is submitted several weeks before publication. Recent updates to CCGA’s & neighborhood reps may not be reflected, but will be updated on future publications. If you notice any errors, let us know.

Singers

Dean Jones deanjsingers@gmail.com

Singles

Connie Fletcher Powell cfletcherpowell@gmail.com

Bridge David Connan david.connan1948@gmail.com

Canasta

Gail Chapline gchapline@yahoo.com

Mah Jongg

Betty Moore bemore6322@yahoo.com

Stamp Club

Max Zollner maxzollner2014@comcast.net

Table Tennis Phil Kalz philip.kalz@gmail.com

That's Entertainment

Cyrus Bharucha bharuchacy@gmail.com

Veterans Club Ken Brockway brock12377@gmail.com

SG Golf Association Buzz Roye buzzroye@gmail.com

Women's Club

Linda Levey c4888d@gmail.com

Special Interest Group

Bible Study Group

David Stayshich dstayshich@sbcglobal.net

Cycling Group Frank Gonynor fdgonynor@gmail.com

Front Porch Democrats

Debra Garner debragarner5202gmail.com

Havurah Paul Shkedy pshkedy@gmail.com

LGBTQ+ Friends & Allies

Beverly Whetsel heinzen@yahoo.com

Neighborhood Watch Mary Jo Salvaggio maryjosalvaggio@gmail.com

Republicans

Greg Barnes gregbarnes55@yahoo.com

RV Group

Miche Broussard sweetgrassrvclub@gmail.com

Tennis

John Harrell johnharrell4@gmail.com

Technology Help Desk John Hunter texashanesens@yahoo.com

Travel Group

Carolyn Johnston carolynjohnston1@aol.com

Activity

Meet up and Dance Ching Chen cschen19@gmail.com

Meet up and Square Dance Martin Steed mesteed@comcast.net

Meet up for 42 Dominoes Ariana Beck arianabeck1@gmail.com

Meet up for Mexican Train Glenda Simmons glendaksimmons@gmail.com

Purple Martin Lovers Andrew Farnum andrew116@att.net

Big Cypress

Cindy Hess ckehess@gmail.com

Tom Queret tqueret@att.net

Joan Barrett joanbarrett928@gmail.com

Copper Leaf

Kathy Annondale kathymum24@comcast.net

Margi Simera mamasimera@hotmail.com

Susan Combrink s.elainec@yahoo.com

Echo Bay

Lois Vogelsang dvlv4344@gmail.com

Carol Butcher rr08cab@gmail.com

Donna Noonan dknoonan327@gmail.com

Escarpment Ridge

Rick Garlock rickgarlock@gmail.com

Andy Mishlan andrew@mishlan.com

Mike Martin nitrammike96@gmail.com

Grey Hawk Cove

Dennis McKinney dmckinney1081@gmail.com

Norman Gilbert normang5@yahoo.com

Heritage Park

Samantha “Sam” Martin imartin47@aol.com

Steve McCoy sbop15000@yahoo.com

Mary Jo Salvaggio maryjosalvaggio@gmail.com

Knotted Pines

Linda Broussard utexdz@aol.com

Chris Barlow tcbconnect.now@gmail.com

John Hunter JohnHunter687@hotmail.com

Lost Pines

Rick O’Hara marrickoh@gmail.com

Beverly Porche bcporche@gmail.com

Redbud

Jerry Woolston jerry.woolston@gmail.com

Gail Woolston gail.woolston@gmail.com

Margaret Dukes margaretanndukes@yahoo.com

River Pointe

Don Pearce dgpearce@comcast.net

Chip Swearngan chipswear@gmail.com

Paula Brown prbrown718@gmail.com

Rolling Ridge

Fae Knight faeknight4@hotmail.com

Frank Rodriguez flmbrod4@sbcglobal.net

Terry Stanley terry.stanley@sbcglobal.net

Sandpiper

Joe Akin akinjoe2019@gmail.com

Susan Allen allensic@yahoo.com

ElMatha Wilder elmatha@comcast.net

Shearwater

Betsy McNamara betsymcnam@gmail.com

Lucy Weeks GaryLucy73@gmail.com

Bob Morley rbmorley@aol.com

Valley Oaks

Margie Fougeron margiefougeron@hotmail.com

Tere Dowd teredowd@gmail.com

Lee Thiesfield Lee_Thiesfield@hotmail.com

Whisper Springs

Greg Gibson gl.gibson49@gmail.com

Sherry Theriot stheriot23@gmail.com

Doug Cave dougcave24@gmail.com

Wildflower

Kathy Ellis ekathy765@gmail.com

Jimmy Tatum jrtatumcpa@aol.com

Susan Wilson susansamwilson@yahoo.com

Windflower

Sharon Burns sharonannburns@earthlink.net

Jane Kuban kubans@comcast.net

Windmill Glen

Mark Tantillo mark6067@aol.com

Ernie Prochaska ernie.prochaska@nov.com

Paul LeBlanc gumbonchef@gmail.com

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