The West University Buzz - April 2022

2022 Summer Camp Directory Crawfish Traditions Visiting Texas’ Gardens Special Siblings Connect

Amy Anton

Pickleball: A Big Dill

by Jennifer Oakley

The Group-Text Conundrum Chef’s Corner: Craft Cocktails Travel Buzz: Aloha, Hawaii

Houston, TX

Cindy Gabriel: Telescopic Perspectives

Permit No. 2047 PAID US Postage PRSRT STD

Buzz Baby: Starting Solids

EDITOR’S NOTE I first heard about the pickleball craze a few years ago from a friend in Scottsdale.

She had turned 60 and raved about how it changed her life and how I should try it.

Well, fast-forward to today and I have yet to pick up a paddle, but I seem to be in the minority. Neighbors of all ages and skill levels are having a blast with the game. This month, Jennifer Oakley highlights Buzz residents who are passionate about pickleball.

Plus, find out where to play in Houston. Another trending topic we highlight this month is the revived popularity of the classic espresso martini. Dai Huynh’s Chef’s Corner features where to go for craft cocktails, plus some recipes from top bartenders. Now that’s my kind of trend. (Note to self: Cocktails and pickleball?) It seems with all that’s happening in our world, it is more important than ever to play outside, connect with friends, laugh out loud, and when all else fails, enjoy a trendy cocktail. Happy Spring! joni@thebuzzmagazines.com

THE BUZZ MAGAZINES BELLAIRE • WEST UNIVERSITY • MEMORIAL • TANGLEWOOD/RIVER OAKS Published by Hoffman Marketing & Media, LLC 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401 info@thebuzzmagazines.com • p: 713.668.4157 • f: 713.665.2940 Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter thebuzzmagazines.com

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Joni Hoffman Michael Hoffman Cheryl Laird Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld Caroline Siegfried John Duboise Tracy L. Barnett Sharon Albert Brier Cindy Burnett Andria Frankfort Angie Frederickson Todd Freed Cindy Gabriel Cathy Gordon Michelle Groogan Dai Huynh Annie Blaylock McQueen Jennifer Oakley Pooja Salhotra Cheryl Ursin Andrea Blitzer Leslie Little Jo Rogers

On our cover: Amy Anton is a fan of pickleball and likes to encourage others to try out the sport.

Cover photo by Nikky LaWell, lawellphoto.com The Buzz Magazines has made all reasonable attempts to verify the accuracy of all information contained within. Advertising claims are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Copyright © 2022 Hoffman Marketing & Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of this magazine by any means without written permission is strictly prohibited. Printed on recycled paper. Please remember to recycle.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 4

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Try something different! Classes for ages 6-77 Summer Camps Check with us for camp schedule/$275 per week

To reserve space call 832.338.9808 or email deycohen@aol.com 4997 West Bellfort Avenue, Houston, TX 77035 WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 5

MAILBAG

Your letters, thoughts, opinions Rodeo connections I have enjoyed The Buzz for several years now. I especially enjoyed your recent article [Rodeo in the Family: Bringing it home in Rodeo Houston’s new women’s roping event, by Andria Frankfort, March 2022] on the Waters and Outhier families. Wanda [Waters] and I went to Bellaire together and our kids grew up together. Reading about the family and all their successes was wonderful. I’m thrilled for Madison [Outhier] and all of her hard work and all of her achievements in the rodeo arena and beyond. Information on the new rodeo event was also so interesting. To inform the community and to support these women athletes is fantastic.

Thank you for all the wonderful stories you share with the Houston communities.

PS: I recently got a Havanese puppy because of your article on the breed in April 2021 [Louie, age 16, Neighborhood Tails, The Memorial Buzz].

She is pure joy!

Jamie Holt Carter Editor’s note: Jamie, thank you for your feedback on our Rodeo story. And we love that our Neighborhood Tails column inspired you to add to your family.

We think it’s your Havanese puppy’s turn to appear in Neighborhood Tails soon.

Travel tales Just wanted to thank you, Tracy, for all the help, efforts and time on the Travel Buzz column [A winter escape to paradise, by Tracy L. Barnett, Feb. 2022]. The pictures and the story are absolutely lovely. A couple of friends and neighbors have reached out and congratulated us. You may be getting a few extra travel stories from them. You truly are the best.

Thank you so much.

Supriya Sadare

Kudos to book column and book reviewer Cindy [Burnett], thank you for your monthly column [Buzz Reads]. I look forward to it and pursue each of the titles that interest me. I have several of your recommendations that I have read and would like to share with your other readers. Where is your Little Free Library in Southside Place? I will bring them by. Thank you.

Cathy Valentin Editor’s note: We asked Cindy to respond to Cathy with the address of her Little Free Library. Cathy reported back: “Cindy responded immediately and gave me the address of her library. I went by and, yes, it was fully stocked. She not only talks the talk - she walks the walk!” For book recommendations, plus a story about Cindy’s new Little Free Library, see Cindy’s weekly Page Turners column at thebuzzmagazines.com. And for more on those tiny libraries you may have spotted around the neighborhood, search “Little Free Libraries” by Cindy Burnett at thebuzzmagazines.com.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 6

Sweet memories from 2002 Karen Vine Fuller sent me the link highlighting my husband and I back in 2002 [Texans in Bellaire: Sports celebrities choose small-town feeling, by Heather Saucier, Sept. 2002]! Kris [Brown] and I are still so proud of that fun article! It was truly a milestone in our lives. We are now living in Omaha, with the kiddos now 13, 15, and 17. Our oldest, Kolby, is getting ready to graduate high school. He received a scholarship to Creighton University to play golf. We found out the freshman he is rooming with was born in Houston at the Med Center three weeks apart from Kolby! This Houston connection follows you through life!

I wanted to wish you a big congrats on 20 years! We still love Bellaire; it holds a very dear spot in our hearts!

Amy Brown Editor’s note: In honor of The Buzz Magazines’ 20th anniversary, we selected a past article to feature online every day in January, including this 2002 article.

See this column at thebuzzmagazines.com for the link.

Send letters to info@thebuzzmagazines.com. Please include your name, address, phone number and email address for verification purposes. Letters are subject to editing for clarity and space. Views expressed in letters do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Buzz Magazines, and The Buzz takes no responsibility for the content and opinions expressed in them.

What’s your story?

We are looking for residents for upcoming articles who: • Have a high school senior graduating in the Class of 2022 who would like to be part of our annual “Where are they headed?” feature. (Submission deadline: April 25) • Know a Buzzworthy neighbor to feature.

• Have an interesting travel story.

• Have a special multi-generational tale.

• Have a unique hobby.

If this sounds like you or someone you know, please contact us at info@thebuzzmagazines.com or 713.668.4157, ext 12.

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FOOD

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Crawfish Boils Bringing the party to Houston

L

aura and David Favaloro and Becky and Phil Eisenberg know how to have a good time. Every spring, the friends host their own versions of a crawfish boil, bringing a little bit of their home state of Louisiana to Houston.

Well, let’s back up. Laura, David, and Becky are all from Louisiana. Laura and David met when they were 10, living a block away from one another in New Orleans. “We dated in high school and broke up,” Laura says. “Then we dated in college and broke up. Then when I was in law school in San Antonio and he was getting his MBA at Tulane, we finally got together.”

Becky and Phil also met in New Orleans.

Becky, who grew up in LaPlace, Louisiana, had just graduated from LSU and Phil from LSU Law. Phil had moved to Baton Rouge, and then New Orleans, from Brooklyn. “My husband had never tasted a crawfish before he got to Louisiana,” Becky says.

In spite of being new on the scene, Phil acclimated quickly. “I thought they were great,” he says of crawfish, “like little lobsters.”

When Laura and David and Becky and Phil moved to Houston for jobs in the late ’90s and early 2000s, they brought some Cajun culture with them.

T

he Favaloros started hosting their Louisiana relatives for an Easter crawfish boil. “It’s funny they come here for crawfish,” Laura says, “but Easter is our holiday to host, and doing crawfish is such a fun springtime ritual.” Laura and David’s annual crawfish boil started when their daughter Courtney, now 25, was 3.

“Allison wasn’t even born yet,” Laura says of her younger daughter, who is 22.

“Our nephew Zack from New Orleans shared his expertise with David and his two brothers, and now they all cook together and it’s their thing.”

The Eisenbergs’ tradition started just after they moved to town. “My dad called,” Becky says of her father, who speaks with a thick Cajun accent. “He said, ‘I’ll pick up a sack of crawfish and drive it over.’ We hadn’t met that many people yet, so mostly it was New Orleans people who came. It was a small deal. Laura WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 8

showed up and I said, ‘Where are your kids?’”

Becky and Phil have children the same ages as Laura and David: Rachel is now 26, and Evan is 22. “Laura just said, ‘Oh no, we got a sitter. We’re here to FAMILY FUN The Favaloro family – (pictured, from left) Laura, Allison, Courtney, eat!’” and David – host annual crawfish parties in their backyard.

Now the Favaloros chokes, brussels sprouts, carrots, and corn. host around 40 family members in their back“People love the vegetables. And the mushyard every Easter, and the Eisenbergs have 70 rooms are great, too. But one year we did brocfriends in their backyard each spring. coli, which almost killed people because of all “It’s super fancy,” Laura jokes about her family the spice.” crawfish boil. “We put tables in the garage and “It was so porous it was literally like drinking plastic tablecloths from Party City over them.” hot sauce,” Becky adds, and she knows peppers.

She’ll have something like spaghetti or a casseBecky’s grandfather, George Rome, was from role for the people who don’t want crawfish, but Paulina, Louisiana, and was known to grow red mostly it’s about the crawfish. peppers, dry them, grind them to a powder, and Throughout the day, David and his crew will freeze the spice. “It was much, much stronger boil some 100 pounds of crawfish with spices, than what you buy in the store,” Becky says. potatoes, whole garlic, and corn. “The kids “Granddad put them in empty baby jars in his think it’s fun to put eggs in there because it boils freezer, and for years after he passed, we were them and makes them spicy,” Laura says. That using that. A little goes a long way!” much crawfish takes a little hunting to find. “HBesides bringing the fish, Becky’s dad has E-B has them, but they won’t guarantee that another job at their annual gathering. “One year volume,” Laura says. “So David and my nephew he was telling jokes off the cuff,” Becky says. and the brothers drive a little away from town “People were laughing, and then people started to get them. That’s part of the routine.” asking, ‘I missed it. Can he tell the jokes again?’

They cook the crawfish in batches, stretching That’s how he started his stand-up routine of the process into an all-day event for the group, Boudreaux-Thibodeaux jokes. They’re basically which ranges in age from 4 to 82. “They get about two old Cajun men and how dumb they spicier as the batches go on, so the people who can be. Like Aggie jokes – I’m sure my Aggie like it mild eat early,” Laura says. “We just spend friends would be very insulted – but they make all day Saturday hanging out, eating crawfish, fun of each other.” laughing, having a great time.”

An example: “Boudreaux and Thibodeaux were spending a Saturday night at the bar. After he Eisenbergs will boil up to 220 pounds of a few hours of drinking, Thibodeaux fell off his crawfish in their backyard. “We eventually barstool and landed on the floor, completely had to stop relying on my sweet dad to bring it,” passed out. Boudreaux looked at Thibodeaux, she says. Still, her 86-year-old dad, Donoo then up at the bartender and says, ‘Dat’s what I Brady, drives catfish across the border, and he like about Thibodeaux. He knows when he fries it alongside the crawfish, resulting in what done had enough to drink!’

Becky calls “a big outdoor feast.”

“The best part of this is that a friend of ours Phil has been toying with his crawfish recipe missed the part of it being my dad,” Becky says. since 1993. “I put all kinds of vegetables in it,” “She came over to me and (continued on page 10) he says, listing potatoes, frozen edamame, arti-

T

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 9

LOUISIANA ROOTS Clockwise from top left: Becky and Phil Eisenberg host about 70 friends each year at their springtime crawfish party; Boyd Favaloro, Carolyn Favaloro, and Guy Favaloro gather at the family's annual crawfish boil; Phil Eisenberg (pictured, at left, with a friend at the crawfish boil pot) had never seen a crawfish before his days at LSU Law, but 20-plus years later, he and his wife Becky are hosts of a much-anticipated annual crawfish boil; Laura and David Favaloro's nephew Zack Daigle-Nastasi (pictured, bottom left) has become an integral part of the crawfish cooking team. (continued from page 8) said, ‘I can’t believe you

hired that Cajun storyteller to come tell jokes.’

Well, now she and my dad know each other, and my dad says, ‘You paid me the best compliment!’

“It’s quite the throw-down,” Becky says.

“Super casual. The whole idea is to come in the shoes you don’t mind getting crawfish juice on.”

Leave it to the New Orleanians (and a transplant from Brooklyn) to bring the party to Houston.

David Favaloro’s Crawfish Boil Live crawfish 26 ounce box salt 4½ pound bags Louisiana Fish Fry Products Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil powder (the number of bags you use depends on the amount of crawfish you boil; see recipe below) 8 ounce jars Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp & Crab Boil liquid (the number of jars you use depends on the amount of crawfish you boil; see recipe below) WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 10

2 3-ounce bags Zatarain’s Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil in Bag Lemons Onions Whole heads of garlic Mushrooms (whole) Sausage Corn Potatoes Outdoor seafood boiler kit (including pot, burner, and stand) Before cooking the crawfish, purge them with salt to clean them. To do this, put the live crawfish in a large cooler with the drain shut. Add water to cover the crawfish, then stir in half of a 26 ounce box of salt. Let the crawfish sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then drain. Fill the cooler with water again, and add the remaining salt.

Remove any crawfish that float to the top (they are dead, and you do not want to boil and eat them). Drain the crawfish.

Fill a little more than half of the crawfish pot

with water. Add 1 bag of Louisiana Fish Fry Products Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil powder for the first 30 pounds of crawfish, then add ½ bag for each 30 pounds you boil after that. Add ½ jar of Zatarain's Concentrated Shrimp & Crab Boil liquid to every 30 pounds of crawfish you boil.

Add the two bags of Zatarain's Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil in Bag to the first batch only.

Bring the water and seasoning mixture to a boil. Once it is boiling, add the crawfish and other items you choose (lemons, onions, etc.) and bring it back to a boil. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off the burner and spray the outside of the crawfish pot with water to allow it to cool and stop the cooking process. Let the crawfish soak for 30 minutes. Pull the basket of crawfish out and serve, leaving the seasoned water in the pot for the next batch. Use the same water and seasoning for the remaining batches, adding more powder and liquid seasoning to each batch of 30 pounds as per the instructions above.

David boils 150-180 pounds of crawfish over the course of a day.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 11

lawellphoto.com

NEIGHBORS

by Michelle Groogan, staff writer

Our Brother Jake Siblings helping siblings

J

ake Hampton loved to laugh, and he did so often throughout his short life. Jake was born with a rare genetic disease called MPS II (Mucopolysaccharidosis type II), also known as Hunter syndrome, a debilitating disorder caused by a missing enzyme needed to break down sugar molecules in the body. The molecules build up in different parts of the body and cause serious health problems. As a kid he could run and walk. By the time Jake passed away in 2019, at the age of 17, he had not walked or talked for years.

It was a heart-rending fate and the manner in which twin sisters, Natalie and Nicole Hampton, introduce their brother in their new book By Siblings, For Siblings.

Put simply, it’s a collection of stories written by siblings of people with disabilities – intended to be a support system to help other siblings in similar situations deal with some uncomfortable emotions like embarrassment, anger, and even jealousy.

The Hampton sisters are now 17, Natalie a junior at the Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and Nicole a junior at The Emery/Weiner School. Losing their brother Jake at the end of their eighth-grade year has been difficult. The girls describe an aching sense of emptiness which still lingers in their West U home they shared with their brother their entire young lives and still share with their parents Monica and Wallis Hampton.

“I just miss having him in the house,” said Nicole. “I would always come home from school and check in on him in his room and he was always in there watching TV. I just miss his presence. The house seems quieter without him.”

The girls got the idea to create a nonprofit group called Special Siblings Connect and then subsequently decided to write the book during the pandemic when feelings of isolation were exacerbated for so many.

“There’s a unique spectrum of emotions that comes with having a sibling with a disability,” said Natalie. “It’s actually been a lot more difficult in the past year and I think it might have to do with quarantine and isolation. Having these hard emotions resurge I wanted an aweWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 12

LOSING A BROTHER Twins Natalie and Nicole Hampton have spent the last year collecting stories from siblings of people with disabilities for their new book due to come out this spring.

some outlet for it so we can help other people who are experiencing the same feelings.”

Having an older brother who required a lot of time, attention, and 24-hour care gave Natalie and Nicole a unique perspective. The girls can relate to the emotions, which they have labeled as chapters in the book: Different, Isolated, Embarrassed, Sorrow, and they share their own

stories. The last chapter in the book is called Grateful.

In the book, Nicole laments about missing out on exciting vacations to fun destinations that her classmates always seemed to have. As a matter of medical necessity her family always had to stay in close proximity to specialized care in Houston. The resulting (continued on page 14)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 13

HEALING TAKES TIME Top: Jake Hampton loved to look at books. He passed from a rare disease in 2019. Bottom: Natalie and Nicole with their parents Wallis and Monica Hampton and brother Jake in 2017. After Jake passed, the sisters created a nonprofit organization to support siblings of kids with disabilities and foster connections between them. (continued from page 12) compromise was an annu-

al pilgrimage to San Antonio in a minivan packed with more medical supplies than luggage. Nicole’s account of the recurring vacation draws on deeply-etched recollections – “Shrek on repeat” and “sitting in the resort lobby playing chess as snippets of my mother arguing with the front desk filtered in: ‘Yes, we requested a first-floor room’ and ‘his wheelchair can’t go up the stairs.’”

Natalie tells a darker story about their MakeA-Wish trip to Disney World in the second grade and describes their stay in “a little village of dying kids.” She describes the memory in agonizing detail: the group of teenage volunteers who painted their nails, but only spoke of the community service hours they were getting and their plans for college and trips to New York, borrowing money from their estranged parents.

“Maybe they didn’t consider most of the kids whose delicate nails they filed and painted with bedazzled jewels wouldn’t make it to college.”

The sisters have found healing in this project.

Their far-reaching goal is to raise awareness and make positive connections with the hope their approximately 100-page paperback will find its way into the hands of another sister, brother, or parent walking the same difficult path the sisters have already traveled.

B

evin Barrett has known the girls since they were toddlers and knows a thing or two about the struggles siblings face. She runs PM PALS, a free respite program at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church where children with disabilities, and their siblings, are invited to a WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 14

parent’s night out. The children are paired with one-on-one volunteers so the parents can have a worry-free, much-needed break.

“It’s easy to forget about the impact on the siblings,” said Bevin. “It’s important that they also get to be around and bond with siblings that are going through similar experiences as them and get a chance to normalize some of their feelings.”

Natalie and Nicole are still regulars at PM Pals, but now as volunteers.

Bevin, who is a licensed counselor, has reviewed the book and can’t wait to use it as a resource for families.

“I see books more focused on the child with special needs, but not as many for siblings,” said Bevin. “I thought it was wonderful. It's just a really heartfelt way to help other siblings know that they're not alone.”

It’s been three years since Jake died.

The passing months have no doubt fueled Natalie and Nicole’s growth and living, but not without a sprinkling of real hard days set in motion by thoughts of a brother whose presence they miss more than either could have ever realized.

The girls reveal their personal struggles and epiphanies throughout the book. Nicole shares this poignant thought.

“Now the ‘eventually’ has come. I can finally go on all the adventures that I so craved before, but all I want now is to go back to San Antonio with my

brother.”

See specialsiblingsconnect.org for information on Nicole and Natalie’s soon-to-be-released book and for a list of resources for siblings of special-needs individuals. By Siblings, For Siblings will be available through their website and Amazon this spring.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 15

NASA, ESA, the Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA), A. Nota (ESA/STScI), and the Westerlund 2 Science Team

NEIGHBORS

by Cindy Gabriel, staff writer

Taking the Long View When up close hurts too much

I

t’s April, the most celebrated month of spring. I see the determination of my fig ivy as it makes its glorious ascent and recaptures its place on my garden wall. It missed a spring, thanks to Snowmageddon. So did I, it feels. I want to take in the wildflowers and tiptoe through the tulips. But then I remember, the world has been dealt another sucker punch. It’s not spring for everyone.

While scanning the news, I heard a quote paraphrased here. “Some decades nothing happens, then some weeks, decades happen.”

Strangely, the person who said it was Vladimir Lenin around 1917 just before his revolutionary rise to power, imposing a one-party socialist state governed by the Soviet Communist Party.

This made me think of Krista Tippett, a Peabody, Webby, and National Humanities Medal winning podcaster and journalist. Tippett witnessed years in the ’80s leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall, first as a stringer for the New York Times then as Special Assistant to the U.S. ambassador, a nuclear arms negotiator. She recounted her experience in a 2019 article shared on her website (onbeing.org) titled What the Berlin Wall and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ Taught Me About Time.

“In those years, no one west or east could imagine that the Berlin Wall could disappear in our lifetime,” Tippett writes. But then, on Tippett’s 29th birthday, November 9, 1989, the checkpoints opened between East and West to the biggest street party in history. “…there is in any moment more to reality than we can see and more change possible than we can begin to imagine,” Tippett said of those times. Despite President Ronald Reagan’s famous challenge in 1987, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” Gorbachev’s changes seemed small and superficial at first, Tippett observed.

The port-wine birthmark on his forehead, typically airbrushed out in photographs, was no longer hidden. He was human.

I remember, too, his first visit to East Berlin, where he did the extraordinary thing of bringing his lovely wife Raisa on his obligatory tour of factories, the supposed heart of the Workers’ State. Rather than give stuffy speeches and remain removed, they WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 16

PERSPECTIVES Thoughts on springtime and war from deep inside the universe.

walked around and spoke with people. They shook hands. They asked questions and listened and smiled. The effect of this on the watching society was seismic. People cried, overcome. His humanity was unlocking theirs. It had nothing to do with politics and everything to do with politics.

Gorbachev had no intention of tearing down the wall. But before it started, some invisible power shift had occurred.

The borders in other East European countries began to loosen, and East Germans began to flock to these places with a desperate hope that they would find a way out there. Western embassies became places of refuge…overfull. There were people scaling fences to get in. People died. Still no one imagined that the Wall could come down….Gorbachev, for all his smiles and the new words he’d brought into the public sphere — glasnost (transparency) and perestroika (reconstruction) — were a path of reform…not its dismantling.

Even on the day the Wall fell — November 9, 1989 — nothing that morning as people woke up presaged what would happen that night. The president of West Germany was traveling abroad. In East Berlin, a bumbling bureaucrat misspoke at a late evening press conference, saying that his country men and women would now be allowed to apply for passports. But what people heard was possibility.

And what followed…was the final unraveling of fear. The Wall had never had a chance against this mass of humanity, but for 40 years, that mass of humanity had not felt its power.

S

ince 2003, Tippett has been interviewing poets, scientists, theologians, musicians, and authors, seeking a common way to discuss topics sidelined into religion, without religious jargon.

Back in 2010, Tippett interviewed Mario Livio, a now-retired senior astrophysicist at the Space Telescope Science Institute, the science nerve center for the Hubble Space Telescope.

Livio, who is Jewish, was born in Romania in the 1940s under Soviet Communism. He lived with his grandparents when his parents were forced to flee for political reasons. At the age of 5, he and his grandparents immigrated to Israel. Free to follow his own curiosity, he became an astrophysicist.

Although Livio doesn’t think of himself as religious, he authored a book called Is God a Mathematician? In it he uses words like omnipotence and omnipresence to describe what can come from a human-created math equation. Such equations lead to mind-blowing discoveries, beyond human comprehension, like dark energy, and the acceleration of an expanding universe, leading scientists to say, “Who ordered this?” I’m especially thankful now that minds like Livio’s have been freed up to explore the universe.

Sometimes remembering what small specks we are in the universe evens out the differences between the weak and the powerful here on Earth. The unblinking face of a Ukrainian mom throwing a homemade bomb at Putin’s Russian tank may be more powerful than we think.

Krista Tippett’s podcast can be found at onbeing.org.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 17

lawellphoto.com

SPORTS

by Jennifer Oakley, staff writer

A Big Dill Pickleball is on the rise

P

ickleball has become quite a big dill lately.

(Apologies for the pun.) Although this racket sport originated in the mid-1960s, the game is enjoying a surge in popularity. A hybrid of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton, pickleball is played with paddles and a plastic, wiffle-type ball – and it’s popping up everywhere, from Buzz-area streets to neighborhood parks and athletic clubs.

“Pickleball, for the Gissel family, was the direct result of Covid,” says Lewis Gissel, who picked up the game with wife Amy and children Henry and Lizzie. “We started in April 2020 when Amy, on a whim, bought a racket and I strung out a net on our street.” Lewis measured off a court with blue painter’s tape. At the time, Lizzie was a junior in high school and Henry was a student at A&M; Henry returned home when his classes went remote. The Memorial family went outside daily to play, for hours at a time. “Our neighbors pulled up lawn chairs to watch us.”

L

ewis laughs that his family pickleball bunch became the sport to watch. “There were no sports on TV,” he recalls. “They cancelled NCAA basketball and then the MLB cancelled.

The only thing on TV at the time was Australian rules football that my son said people were excited to see.” That – and live pickleball.

“The couple across the street would drink white wine and watch us play!” he says. “People were trying to figure out how to get outside and it was fun to see all the people’s courts that opened up on their streets.” With fewer drivers out, the Gissel family found it easy to keep their court in good shape – until the day they encountered a road hazard. “A UPS truck messed up our tape by driving over it,” says Lewis, executive vice president at Texas Regional Bank. “But it was very easy to tape it back up.”

At the same time, the Perrin family took to the streets in their Briargrove neighborhood.

Lizzy and Carter Perrin discovered pickleball at the start of the pandemic, playing with their daughters or their neighbors, Sarah and Chip Lane. They Googled court dimensions (a pickleball court is one-fourth the size of a tennis court) and then pressed down the tape accord-

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 18

A PAIR OF PICKLERS Mark and Mary Goodman (pictured here at the Bellaire Recreation Center) enjoy playing pickleball together. They meet friends weekly to play.

ingly for their homemade court. “We just moved the net when a car came, and one friend watched for cars while we played,” Lizzy says.

Lizzy has fond memories of playing during the pandemic. “That was my favorite time to play,” she recalls.

“It cracks me up how popular it is now,” she says. “Now it’s hard to even get a court or a spot on the street because everyone is playing.”

And although Googling basic rules of play was the way they started, Lizzy and Carter kicked their game up a notch when they were invited to join a group of friends to take pickleball lessons. Friend Amy Anton spearheaded the gameplay during the pandemic, much to the delight of the Perrins and Danielle and David Magdol. “We were outside, and it felt like it was a safe and friendly endeavor,” says Danielle. “It was a nice way to be outside with your spouse instead of camped out in front of the TV.” For her part, Amy was thrilled to help friends

learn to play a game she loves. Although she played tennis in high school, Amy was intrigued when Mike Alcott, the racquet sports head professional at The Briar Club, suggested she give pickleball a try. “He’s the pickleball guru and his excitement for the game bubbles over. I have gotten more and more hooked,” says Amy, the owner of web-based Kitchen Underground. “As I progress and get experience you see there is a strategy to the game.”

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ickleball can be played singles or doubles on a rectangle-shaped court. The game was created in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Wash. when some friends and their families looking for recreation improvised a game of badminton using ping-pong paddles. They named the new game after their dog, Pickles. The net is lower than a tennis net and because the court is smaller in size, there is less running and different rules than in tennis. “Pickleball is just supposed to be fun,” (continued on page 20)

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forsythefotography.com lawellphoto.com

lawellphoto.com forsythefotography.com

PICKING UP PICKLEBALL Clockwise from top left: Amy Anton serves up a smile at The Briar Club; Grier and Allison Martin and Lewis and Amy Gissel (pictured, at The Forest Club) congratulate each other on a good game; friends Lizzy Perrin and Danielle Magdol (pictured, at The Briar Club) think pickleball is a fun and social sport; Grier Martin returns a serve on the pickleball court. (continued from page 18) says Amy. “It’s easier than

tennis overall. It’s easier to make the shots and the games are quick and you can talk while you are playing; you can have a conversation.”

That social aspect is appealing to players across the board. Mary and Mark Goodman love playing pickleball so much they have a weekly standing game with friends at Mulberry Park in Bellaire. “Tennis was too much running after a ball,” says Mary. “For pickleball, you have to have quick reflexes and since the court is smaller you don’t have to run so much. You get good cardio. It’s a lot of quick moving and because it’s a very social sport, we always play as doubles.

You make stupid mistakes, and everybody laughs. Some people take it really serious. We have a blast playing with our friends. We also are all competitive and we all want to win.”

Husband Mark agrees. “The camaraderie is WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 20

there for sure with the friendships,” he says. "It is a very fast-paced game, and you get a lot of exercise. When you are at the pickleball line, and you are blasting the ball back and forth, you have to be on your toes.” Mark adds that age is not much of a factor when playing pickleball.

“Anybody can play,” says Mark, the owner of Specialty Maintenance Products. “That is the beauty of it. If you can play ping-pong, you can play pickleball. It’s kinda like standing on a ping-pong table. Lateral mobility is important.

Anybody can get out there and pick up a paddle and I guarantee they will have fun.”

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owever, it’s not all fun and games. Injuries can happen. Last fall, Dr. Barry Zietz was looking forward to a game of pickleball with longtime friend Tali Blumrosen at the Bellaire Recreation Center. Barry was not a novice to

the sport, but it had been a while since he’d last been on a court. They had decided to meet at 10 a.m. but Barry, eager to play, arrived early and joined some other players on a court. That’s when he took a tumble.

“My goals were, in this order: not to get hurt, not to embarrass myself, and to win,” says Barry, a recently retired pediatrician. “That was kind of my mindset, but I violated rule number one.

Someone hit a lob over me, and as I was running back to get it, I lost my balance. I put my arm down to break the fall.”

When Tali arrived, she was startled by the scene. “I show up at 10 and see the ambulance and fire truck at Bellaire Rec,” Tali recalls. “And there is Barry laying on the ground, bleeding. I was like, ‘Barry, what are you doing?!’” Barry jokingly proclaimed the accident was all Tali’s fault. The banter, they both say, helped the (continued on page 22)

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forsythefotography.com

forsythefotography.com forsythefotography.com

GAME ON Clockwise from top left: Amy Gissel starts the match by serving the pickleball; long-time friends Tali Blumrosen and Barry Zietz are all smiles at the Bellaire Recreation Center before a game; Lewis Gissel anticipates his next shot; Amy and Lewis Gissel high-five after a pickleball win at the Forest Club. (continued from page 20) gravity of the situation.

“We were bickering as such old friends, it was just comical because he was so calm,” adds Tali.

“I immediately got into motion to help him. I took his car back home and got his wife Hallie over there. I love him dearly and felt so bad because I had invited him.” The jarring spill onto his left hand required an ambulance ride to the hospital and major surgery to place an eight-inch plate and pins to reconstruct his wrist. Months of physical therapy followed.

Barry says, however, that is not a deterrent; he is already playing pickleball again – but he wants others to be mindful of injuries. “I think people can get hurt doing anything. You can break your wrist in any way,” he says. “Some people who are playing are older and are transitioning into a more active life. I think people need to realize in addition to minor things like WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 22

pulling a muscle, you might fall down on a hard surface. People need to expand their world of movement. I think pickleball is a lot of fun for people, but they need to ease into it over time rather than going all out every day or several times a week. Many of us have not used certain muscle groups in years.

“Along those lines is the need to work on stability and balance because those things haven’t been challenged as much and improving those skills will help not only on the pickleball court but also in everyday life as we get older.”

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anielle notes that one of the perks of playing is the span of new friends made on the court.

“Pickleball is universal with players being such a wide age range from the 20s to late 70s and beyond,” she says, noting that she gets on the court with both her high-school-aged sons.

“There is something about it that does not carry the same weight as a tennis game. It’s a little bit less intense and you feel like you are playing a game that is more relaxed and playful.”

When it comes to pickleball, “It’s hard not to laugh,” adds Amy Gissel. In fact, that’s one of the highlights of the game. Amy and friend Allison Martin have enjoyed playing together for years in their Wednesday tennis league, and now as part of the newly formed league at The Forest Club. Along with Lewis and Allison’s husband, Grier Martin, they’ve formed a group that meets weekly for fun matches and dinner and drinks afterward.

“Our new team is named the Heavy Dinkers, named for when you barely dink a ball over the net,” Amy says. “For the last club tournament, prizes were jars of pickles and pickle-flavored cotton candy.” (continued on page 24)

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Places to play pickleball

by Caroline Siegfried, staff writer There are a variety of places to try pickleball in Houston, including a homemade court on your own street. Here are some local spots that offer pickleball.

Some places offer paddles and balls to rent, while others ask players to bring their own equipment. No partner? Several locations offer “open play” at set times throughout the week. Contact each facility to ask about equipment and confirm details about hours and pricing.

Open to the public: Bellaire Recreation Center 7008 Fifth Ave., Bellaire, TX 77401, 713-662-8280 Outdoor pickleball available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the two tennis courts behind the Center. Reserve courts for $3/hour for Bellaire residents, or $5/hour for non-residents. Indoor pickleball courts open for public play on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 10 a.m.–1 p.m. $10 daily admission fee for non-members to use indoor courts.

Bumpy Pickle 554 Lockwood Dr., Houston, TX 77011, 713-409-5047 Bar/restaurant with nine pickleball courts. Book a court for $20/hour. Paddle rentals: $5.

Fonde Recreation Center 110 Sabine St., Houston, TX 77007, 713-226-4466 Free and open to the public. All-ages pickleball is offered Saturday 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and Tuesday 5–8 p.m. Adults/senior adults pickleball is offered Wednesday 10 a.m.–12 p.m., and Friday 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

The Zone Sportsplex 10371 Stella Link Rd., Houston, TX 77025, 281-317-7529 Youth sports complex and activities center. Rent a court for $25– 50 per hour (all ages can play). The Zone requests that guests bring their own equipment.

Members-only (or guest of a member): The Briar Club 2603 Timmons Ln., Houston, TX 77027, 713-622-3667 Pickleball courts available to members and guests of members.

Equipment available for rental.

Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, Merfish Teen Center 9000 S Rice Ave., Houston, TX 77096, 713-729-3200 New, covered facility including three covered courts and three open-air pickleball courts located on the tennis courts. Available to members and guests of members. See website to make a reservation.

The Forest Club 9950 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77024, 713-686-3728 Pickleball courts available to members and guests of members.

Paddles available, but balls must be brought with you.

The Houstonian Hotel, Club, and Spa 111 N Post Oak Ln., Houston, TX 77024, 713-680-2626 Ten pickleball courts, pickleball lessons, and pickleball open play on Saturdays, 9–11 a.m. Available to members and guests of members.

Memorial Forest Club 12122 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77024, 713-468-4581 Pickleball court available to members and guests of members.

Freed Park Community Center 6818 Shadyvilla Ln., Houston, TX 77055, 832-395-5055 Free and open to the public. Pickleball is offered Monday–Friday for seniors (55+) 11 a.m.–1 p.m., and Thursday for all ages 5:307:45 p.m.

River Oaks Country Club 1600 River Oaks Blvd., Houston, TX 77019, 713-529-4321 Pickleball offered to members and guests of members. Equipment available.

Houston Badminton Center 10550 W. Airport Blvd., Houston, TX 77477, 346-229-4921 Pickleball open-play at the center is weekdays 10 a.m.–5 p.m., with Friday being the most popular day. They host events such as monthly mixers and tournaments. If you don’t have a membership, drop-in passes are available for $5 for seniors/juniors and $7 for adults.

Royal Oaks Country Club 2910 Royal Oaks Club Dr., Houston, TX 77082, 281-899-3200 Open pickle play every Monday and Thursday. Guests of members must pay a $10 fee, $6 for extended family. Pickleball paddles and balls are available to check out. Tennis attire applies. Smoothsoled, non-marking tennis shoes are required to play (no running shoes are permitted).

Mulberry Park 700 Mulberry Ln., Bellaire, TX 77401, 713-662-8280 Free and open to the public. Pickleball lines marked on outdoor tennis court.

Quillian Memorial Center (First United Methodist Church) 10570 Westpark Dr., Houston, TX 77042, 713-781-9195 Pickleball is offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Tuesday evenings 6:30–9:30 p.m., and Saturday mornings 8:00–11:00 a.m. $4/person. Players must register ahead of time; email sgforhouses@yahoo.com.

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Trotter Family YMCA 1331 Augusta Dr., Houston, TX 77057, 713-781-1061 Pickleball nets, paddles, and balls available for use. Members only.

Weekley YMCA 7101 Stella Link Blvd., Houston, TX 77025, 713-664-9622 Pickleball is offered Monday–Friday from 11 a.m–1 p.m. and Sundays 12–2 p.m. Paddles and balls available for use. Members only.

Editor’s note: Visit places2play.org/ and enter your zip code to find places to play pickleball.

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NEIGHBORS

Photo courtesy of Dallas Arboretum

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Spring in Bloom Touring Texas’ public gardens

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y two favorite things in my life are my nieces and travel,” Mary Morrison says.

That’s why she’s journeyed all around the world with nieces Jessica Jacks, a bus monitor at Deer Park ISD Transportation, and Amy Jacks, chief resident of otolaryngology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Together, they’ve traveled to places like New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Italy. Jessica calls Mary “Favorite Aunt Mary.”

One of their most memorable recent excursions, Mary says, was the springtime trip she and Jessica took in search of spring blooms at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.

When asked what part of her trip she most enjoyed, Mary says, “I love the tulips – there are so many,” of the Dallas Arboretum’s seemingly endless springtime display of 500,000 blooming tulips. This year, through April 10, the Arboretum’s annual Dallas Blooms festival centers around birds with the theme “Birds in Paradise.” You’ll find enormous flowerensconced peacock topiaries amid thousands of azaleas and hundreds of blossoming, bright-pink Japanese cherry trees. Southern Living named Dallas Blooms, the largest annual floral festival in the southwest, one of “The Best Places to See Stunning Spring Blooms Across the South.”

“I enjoyed the Fort Worth part of the trip,” Mary says. “The Japanese Garden there is so peaceful. You respond not just to the garden, but to the overall design, the combination of plants and water and buildings that make it unique.”

The oldest major botanic garden in Texas, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden encompasses 25 specialty garden spaces, including a Rose Garden and a Begonia Species Bank greenhousing 1,800 species of begonias. It’s the largest begonia collection in North America.

From there, Mary and Jessica drove to Waco, just to visit, and then to College Station – “Because we’re Aggies,” she says – to see The Gardens at Texas A&M University. “It was a triangle tour of Texas,” she laughs. The Gardens is an on-campus green space used for botanical teaching, research, and community outreach.

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BIRDS IN PARADISE The annual Dallas Blooms festival at the Dallas Arboretum showcases giant floral topiaries surrounded by some 500,000 blooming tulips, thousands of azaleas, and hundreds of Japanese cherry trees. The festival runs through April 10.

At home in Houston, Mary enjoys visits to local gardens. “The Centennial Gardens [in Hermann Park] is a family favorite,” she says. “I did the light show at the new Botanic Garden for Christmas. And the Arboretum is almost like an exercise place for me, with the trails. You can take a good walk there. I don’t love exercise, but I enjoy being outside, and I can hike 10 miles a day there, no problem.

“Gardens are opposition to sitting in the office,” the employee benefits manager with UniversalPegasus International adds. “The colors, the shapes. Engaging with them gives joy.”

Jessica says she’s growing roses and pansies, inspired by the trip she shared with her aunt.

With her love of Texas’ gardens, we assumed Mary to be an avid gardener. Not so. “I couldn’t make a plant grow if I had to,” she says. “I just like to look.”

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden (dallasarboretum.org)

Ft. Worth Botanic Garden and Botanical Research Institute of Texas (fwbg.org) The Gardens at Texas A&M University (gardens.tamu.edu)

Houston gardens to check out this spring: Houston Arboretum and Nature Center (houstonarboretum.org) offers a multitude of classes on gardening, birds, art, and nature amid its 155-acre corner of Memorial Park. Gardens in the Arboretum are designed to grow native plants that stimulate the senses and attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

The Bayou Bend Gardens (mfah.org/visit/bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens/bayou-bend-gardens) surround Houston philanthropist and civic leader Ima Hogg’s home, now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. It is said that Ima Hogg introduced azaleas to Houston; Bayou Bend Gardens are a testament to that. (continued on page 28)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 27

Photo courtesy of Dallas Arboretum Houston Botanic Garden Photo courtesy of Dallas Arboretum

Rick Gardner, Courtesy of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

IN BLOOM (Clockwise, from top left) Mary Morrison and nieces Jessica Jacks and Amy Jacks have traveled around the world together and love to visit beautiful gardens. The Dallas Arboretum offers rest stops to take in the beauty of its gardens. Houston Botanic Garden hosts “Art in the Garden: Celebrating BioDiversity!”, produced in conjunction with Lawndale Art Center and featuring local artists' works throughout the gardens. Spring is a sea of blooms at the Dallas Arboretum. The formal gardens at Houston's Bayou Bend.

Houston Botanic Garden (hbg.org) is a “living museum” of flora and fauna. Currently, “Art in the Garden: Celebrating BioDiversity!”, produced in conjunction with Lawndale Art Center, commemorates the much-anticipated Botanic Garden’s first anniversary. Featuring multi-media art installations in sculpture, music, and more from local artists, the exhibit is one of many happenings on the Botanic Garden calendar.

The Japanese Garden in Hermann Park (hermannpark.org/plans-projects/japanese-garden) has attracted visitors seeking a calm, natural oasis in the middle of the city for 30 years. Situated in a quiet enclave of Hermann Park, the Japanese Garden features serene gravel paths, bridges, a pagoda, and Japanese flowers: Oga Lotus, Japanese wisteria, Heavenly Bamboo. Plants are pruned in the Japanese style set forth by landscape architect

(continued from page 26)

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Ken Nakajima.

The John Fairey Garden in Hempstead (jfgarden.org) is named for its founder John Fairey (who is now deceased), an A&M Regents Professor of Architecture and Regents Professor for International Research with an emphasis on plant exploration. The Garden is home to plants native to central and southeast Texas, as well as a unique collection of rare Mexican plants John discovered on his many trips to remote parts of Mexico in search of new seeds and cuttings.

John received numerous national awards for his contributions to horticulture. Note: Visitors must tour the John Fairey Garden accompanied by a docent; check the website for days and times.

The McGovern Centennial Gardens (hermannpark.org/visit/mcgovern-centennial-gardens) are the living tribute to 100 years of Hermann Park. The Gardens’ spacious lawn extends to sev-

eral themed garden “rooms” where thousands of shrubs, flowers, and trees grow to create spaces perfect for wandering, picnics, or reflection.

Post Skylawn (posthtx.com/skylawn) opened in 2021 atop the newly repurposed Barbara Jordan Post Office, now a hub of restaurants, shopping, and events. Native trees and plants as well as a one-acre organic farm grow amid sky-high views of the city in this urban rooftop garden.

Other gardens around the state: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin (wildflower.org) San Antonio Botanical Garden, San Antonio (sabot.org) South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, Corpus Christi (stxbot.org) Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin (zilkergarden.org)

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2022 Summer Camp Directory W

hen we think of camp, so many images pop into our minds. Crackling campfires and sticky s’mores. Silly songs and stories. Chilly lakes and The Blob. Hiking, biking, swimming, dancing, playing. And above all, learning new skills, discovering new interests, gaining sometimes-lifelong friendships and occasionally marriages.

Buzz-area residents are fortunate in that Houston is home to many types of camps, programs and classes to choose from, including specialized sports, arts and educational programs for all ages. Additionally, many overnight camps are located just a car or bus ride away. Choosing the right camp for your child depends on your child’s personality, interests, summer schedule and other factors.

This directory is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all camps. Instead, our goal is to provide readers with a snapshot of each camp and program, as a starting point in the research process. You can also view this directory online, where you will find links to camps’ websites.

Alliance Fencing Academy Summer Fencing Camp Est. 2004 Ages: 5-14 Co-ed • Day camp 1117 Upland Dr., Houston, Texas 77043; 1212 Cedar Post Lane, Houston, Texas 77055; 1544 Sawdust Road Suite 304, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 713-410-6655 • inform@alliance-fencing-academy.com • www.alliance-fencing-academy.com Camp Director: Andrey Geva, U.S. Olympic and National Coach Summer Fencing Camp at Alliance is an opportunity for your children to have fun exploring one of the original and foundational sports of the modern Olympic games while picking up technical and competitive skills that will last them a lifetime. Renowned instructor and Olympic team coach Andrey Geva and his highly trained coaching staff provide a fun, safe, and exciting setting for kids to learn the sport of competitive fencing. Houston summer camp dates: June 6-10, June 27-July 1, July 11-15, July 25-29, Aug. 1-5. The Woodlands summer camp dates: June 6-10, July 18-22, Aug. 1-5

Battle Bots and Drones Robotics Summer Camp Est. 2012 Ages: 4-16 Co-ed • Day camp 4007 Bellaire Blvd., Suite KK, Houston, Texas 77025 713-454-7004 • KidsRoboticAcademy@gmail.com • KidsRoboticAcademy.com Camp Director: Dee Memon Set the path of building robots and programming. We offer STEM-themed, hands-on activities. The week ends with a friendly battle-bots mini-competition.

We offer options of full-week and half-week day camp, with sessions running May 31 through Aug. 19. The option of select days is available. We have reduced our camp sizes to ensure we adhere to the CDC's proper precautions and protocols with respect to Covid-19. Register by May 1 to receive a 10 percent discount on a full-week, day-long camp.

Bayou City Fencing Academy Est. 1990 Ages: 6-15 camp (6-adults classes) Co-ed • Day camp 4997 West Bellfort Ave., Houston, Texas 77035 832-338-9808 • deycohen@aol.com • myfencingacademy.com Camp Director: Louise Lepie Strategy, tactics, athleticism, and the enrichment of the total fencer are the focus of our program. Engagement and decision making are at the core of our instruction. With an emphasis on building self-confidence, fencers work on three basic skills: footwork, blade work, and tactics. In addition, they learn about tournament protocol, refereeing, scorekeeping, and the rules of the bout. Our students experience the fun inherent in the sport as they participate in challenging fencing games.

BotaniCamp Est. 2021 Kindergarten-5th grade Co-ed • Day camp One Botanic Lane, Houston, Texas 77017 713-715-9675 • erin@hbg.org • hbg.org/learn/summercamp Camp Director: Erin Mills Enriching life through discovery, education, and the conservation of plants and the natural environment.

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Camp AOS Est. 1981 Ages: 3 years-eighth grade Co-ed • Day camp 3600 Yoakum Blvd., Houston, Texas 77006 713-470-5600 • extendedday@aoshouston.org • aoshouston.org/camp-aos Camp Director: Emily Benton Annunciation Orthodox School's Camp AOS provides an enriching program for students that maintains the fun and excitement of a traditional summer camp. Between our day camp program and our specialty camps, we ensure that students return to school sharp and vibrant with long-lasting memories of connection and friendship.

Camp Chapelwood Est. 1987 Ages: 5 years-5th grade Co-ed • Day camp 11140 Greenbay St., Houston, Texas 77024 713-465-3467, ext. 553 • sfinnell@chapelwood.org • chapelwood.org/camp Camp Director: Susan Finnell Located in the heart of Memorial, Camp Chapelwood is a longtime summer tradition for children ages five years old through fifth grade. Our enthusiastic and caring counselors ensure each camper has a great experience at each of our four one-week sessions in June. Campers will make new friends while participating in fun and challenging activities such as gymnastics, cooking, crafts, self-defense and games. Exciting and educational activities and shows are brought in daily, making each day a new adventure. We hope to see you this summer!

Camp Olympia Est. 1968 Ages: 6-16 Co-ed • Overnight camp 723 Olympia Drive, Trinity, Texas 75862 936-594-2541 • campinfo@campolympia.com • www.campolympia.com Camp Director: Debbie Stubblefield Meet Texas’ favorite summer camp! With one-, two-, and three-week sessions and over 45 activities, Camp Olympia is the ultimate overnight camp experience for boys and girls ages 6-16. Located 95 miles north of Houston, Camp Olympia provides the perfect setting for fun and adventure along Lake Livingston in the Pineywoods. Campers make friends and gain independence while building teamwork and leadership skills through a customized camp experience and counselor mentorship.

Camp Young Judaea-Texas Est. 1952 Ages: 6-15 Co-ed • Overnight camp 121 Camp Young Judaea Drive, Wimberley, Texas 78676 713-723-8354 • info@cyjtexas.org • www.cyjtexas.org Camp Director: Frank Silberlicht Since 1952, Camp Young Judaea Texas has provided life-changing summers to thousands of Jewish children. Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, CYJ offers a fun, supportive environment where campers can explore, challenge themselves, and develop their passions. Here, kids of all abilities, backgrounds, and denominations can strengthen their Jewish identities and build their love for Israel, all while surrounded by beautiful facilities and expert staff. CYJ is a place where kids can be kids, where lifelong friendships are born, and where campers can be themselves and know they belong.

The Dyslexia School of Houston Summer Literacy Camp 2022 Est. 2021 Ages: 4-12 Co-ed • Day camp 3642 University Blvd., Suite 101, Houston, Texas 77005 832-767-0915 • tammy@dyslexiahouston.org • dyslexiahouston.org Camp Director: Tammy Spencer Join Dyslexia School of Houston for our 2022 Summer School Program and get a head start for the 2022 school year. Our personalized teaching sessions (continued on page 32) include four, 45-minute rotations to help your child conquer reading, grammar, writing, and more!

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(continued from page 31)

Elite University Summer Camps Est. 2005 Ages: 4-12 Co-ed • Day camp Camp Midtown, Trinity Episcopal Church, 1015 Holman St., Houston, Texas 77004 Camp West University, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School, 6802 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, Texas 77025 832-350-6194 • contact@elitemusicfinearts.com • www.elitesummercamps.com Camp Director: Jeré Fernandez Elite University Summer Camps is proud to serve the Houston communities of the Medical Center, West University, Museum District, Midtown, and River Oaks with two convenient locations. EUSC provides the best in STEM, mixed media art, culinary arts, horseback riding, and outdoor sports. West U camp dates: June 13-July 22. Midtown camp dates: June 6-Aug. 12.

Foundations Early Childhood Literacy Camp Est. 2018 Ages: Entering kindergarten Co-ed • Day Camp Bellaire United Methodist Church, 4417 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, Texas 77401 713-392-2168 • sarah@foundationsforlearningsuccess.com • foundationsforlearningsuccess.com Camp Director: Sarah Baker Suminski, MA At Foundations, we believe in laying a strong foundation for literacy and social-emotional success, while also growing a love of learning. Learning in early childhood should be an adventure! Children learn through rich experiences, discovery and play. This educational camp will address all developmental domains through fun literature-based themes and hands-on learning experiences, with an emphasis on reading readiness skills and social-emotional awareness. Research-based early literacy instruction is unique to this program.

Houston Christian Summer Sports Camp Est. 1998 Ages: 5th-8th grade; one session K-4th Co-ed • Day camp 2700 W. Sam Houston Tollway N, Houston, Texas 77043 713-580-6000 • twheeler@houstonchristian.org • houstonchristian.org/camps Camp Director: Teddy Wheeler Calling all rising 5th-8th grade athletes! We invite you to spend your summer here at HC to explore your interests and sharpen your skills. With football, baseball, basketball, softball, volleyball, and lacrosse camps taught by several elite HC coaches and trainers, this is your opportunity to find your passion and join the HC family.

Houston Elite Cheer Summer Camp Est. 2013 Ages: 3-13 Co-ed • Day camp (all day or half day sessions) 1800 Sherwood Forest Street, Ste. B2, Houston, Texas 77043 713-464-1445 • houstonelitecheer@yahoo.com • houstonelitecheer.com Camp Director: Griffin Simpson Join HEC for a jam packed week of exciting and challenging activities. Summer camp will include gymnastics, cheerleading, tumbling, arts and crafts, water balloon wars, obstacle courses and more! Our goal is for campers to have loads of fun while promoting fitness.

Houston Yacht Club Summer Adventure Camp Est. 1957 Ages: 4-9 Co-ed • Day camp 3620 Miramar Drive, Shoreacres, Texas 77571 281-471-1255 • sailing@houstonyachtclub.com • houstonyachtclub.com Camp Director: Charles Barclay Each day of camp will be a new and exciting experience for our campers, as no two days are exactly alike! Our days begin with Hello Camp, a morning meeting where, through organized activities, campers and staff get to know each other, review the day’s schedule, and sing our special camp song. Similarly, we end our days with Goodbye Camp, a time for wrap-up activities, snacks, and “See you laters.” The bulk of camp will be spent participating in activities that may include swimming, arts and crafts, group games, Fun with Foods, STEM challenges, archery tag, paddleboarding, and sailing.

Houston Yacht Club Summer Sailing Camps Est. 1957 Ages: 6-18 Co-ed • Day camp WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 32

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3620 Miramar Drive, Shoreacres, Texas 77571 281-471-1255 • sailing@houstonyachtclub.com • houstonyachtclub.com Camp Director: Charles Barclay Sailing camps are an opportunity for youth to learn to sail (LTS). LTS sailors may use HYC boats. Racing sailors are encouraged to bring their own Opti, O’Pen Skiff, C420, or ILCA-Laser boat; some club boats will be available for season or weekly charter. Sailing camp classes use US Sailing’s Skill Up app with certified instructors. New sailors learn the basics of seamanship. More experienced sailors extend skills with weather, tides, currents, and spinnakers. Advanced classes include coastal navigation and racing. Learn to Sail and Racing classes available throughout the year. Private lessons by appointment.

J Camps Est. 1960 Ages: 3-16 Co-ed • Day camp 5601 S. Braeswood Blvd., Houston, Texas 77096 713-729-3200 • jcamps@erjcchouston.org • www.erjcchouston.org/camp Camp Director: Hollie Buza J Camps is your home for the summer! With a wide array of camp options, we have something for everyone ages 3-16. Traditional camps, as well as specialty, sports, art, dance, theater, tennis and gymnastics camps, are available throughout the summer. We have well-trained, experienced and caring staff working with the campers with a low camper-to-staff ratio. All the camps you love with all the health and safety protocols you need!

Kidventure Day Camp Est. 1994 Ages: 3-16 Co-ed • Day camp 2501 Central Parkway, Suite B2, Houston, Texas 77092 (camp office) 713-960-8989 • houston@kidventure.com • kidventure.com Camp Director: Roxxi Rivera Since 1994, Houston families have made Kidventure the summer day camp of choice for their children. Kidventure is more than just a summer of fun. It’s a summer of opportunity. That opportunity is one to grow in confidence, create friendships, and be a part of something special. And now, that’s needed more than ever. With 16 Houston locations to choose from, there simply is not a more memorable, rewarding, and convenient camp option anywhere.

Pick and choose your weekly schedule from June 6 through Aug. 5, 2022. We hope to see you this summer!

Kidventure Overnight Camp Est. 1994 Ages: 8-16 Co-ed • Overnight camp 515 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin, Texas 78746 (camp office) 512-263-8992 • overnight@kidventure.com • kidventure.com Camp Director: Peyton McDonell Once you’ve been a Kidventure camper, your life is never quite the same. You’ve had fun and adventure you may have never thought possible. You’ve tried new things and grown to know yourself better. You’ve built strong relationships with your counselors and fellow campers. From all that, you’ve gained skills and created memories that you carry with you for the rest of your life. But most of all, you just can’t wait to do it all again. For 27 years, Kidventure Overnight Camp has been an experience like none other. Now, more than ever, our kids need camp, the opportunity to rebuild relationships, gain confidence, and dream big. Join Kidventure for the summer of 2022.

Language Kids World Immersion Summer Camps Est. 2011 in Houston, 1995 in Mexico City Ages: 3-11 Co-ed • Day camp Multiple locations in the Houston area 281-565-1388 • info@languagekids.com • languagekids.com Camp Director: Vanessa Simpson Childhood is the best time to learn another language, and it has never been so much fun. Make the most of your child’s summer with our engaging immersion camps in Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, Sign Language, and English. With more than two decades of language teaching experience under our belt, we are masters at teaching languages to children in fun and innovative ways. Multiple locations and extended schedules. In-person and virtual options. Payment plans are available.

LEAH Schools North Academy (Lutheran High North) Summer Camps Est. 1980 Ages: 2nd-12th grade Co-ed • Day camp 1130 W. 34th St., Houston, Texas 77018 713-880-3131 • info@lhnlions.org • www.LutheranHighNorth.org

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Camp Director: Lindsey Warneke North Academy is your summer stop to grow your child’s interests and skills. With academics, ASL, band, basketball, cheer, dance, drama, softball, tech, and volleyball from all-star coaches and trainers, this is your child’s chance to find their passion and improve their skills.

Rice Athletics STEM Camp Est. 2016 3rd-5th grade Co-ed • Day camp 6100 Main St., MS548, Houston, Texas 77005 713-348-2328 • ksc7@rice.edu • RiceOwls.com/STEMLetics Camp Directors: Katie Coil and Matthew Cushing The Rice Office of STEM Engagement and Rice Athletics offer week-long day camps during the summer for current 3rd-, 4th-, and 5th-grade students.

These day camps are designed to keep students both mentally and physically active during the summer. Students explore different forms of energy, physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering through active exploration activities in the classroom and on the playing field.

Second Baptist School Summer Camps Est. 2021 Ages: K-8th grade Co-ed • Day camp 6410 Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77057 713.365.2310 • summercamps@secondbaptistschool.org • secondbaptistschool.org/summercamps Camp Director: N/A SBS is thrilled to offer a variety of academic, sports and arts summer camps for campers entering grades K-8. Weekly summer camps are offered May 31June 23, 2022, with morning (9-11:30 a.m.) and afternoon (12:30-3 p.m.) sessions available. Each camp will be led by our highly acclaimed teachers and coaches as they work alongside campers with excellence and expertise. We look forward to having your camper on campus!

SPX Summer Camps Est. 2010 Ages: 5-17 Co-ed • Day camp 811 W. Donovan St., Houston, Texas 77091 713-692-3581 • fellerj@stpiusx.org • stpiusx.org/spxsummer Camp Director: Jeff Feller Summer camps at St. Pius X High School offer a variety of athletic and fine art experiences during the summer months. Coordinated by expert SPX coaches and faculty, all participants are sure to grow in skills and knowledge and make new friendships in the process. From theater to baseball camp, there is something for everyone!

St. John the Divine Vacation Bible School Est. 1943 Ages: 4 years through 5th grade Co-ed • Day camp 2450 River Oaks Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77019 713-622-3600 • dlawson@sjd.org • sjd.org/vbs Camp Director: Deanna Lawson St. John the Divine Vacation Bible School is here to love kids, love families, and share the hope of Jesus. Join us this summer, July 25-28, 2022, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Summer Camps at The Houston Museum of Natural Science Est. 1987 Ages: 6-12 Co-ed • Day camp 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030 and 13016 University Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas 77479 713-639-4625 • summercamp@hmns.org • www.hmns.org Camp Director: Scott Stevenson Against the backdrop of real dinosaur fossils, chemistry in action, and a world class institution, kids can experience a summer of education and adventure.

Geared for kids ages 6-12, summer camps at HMNS use fun, hands-on learning and distinguished teachers to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. What will your child discover? The week-long day camps run May 31-Aug. 12 at HMNS Hermann Park and May 31-Aug. 5 at HMNS Sugar Land.

The camps cover a wide range of topics, from physics and coding to paleontology and forensic science. Both in-person and virtual camps are available.

Summer Camps at The Village School Est. 1990 Ages: Pre-K3-8th grade Co-ed • Day camp 13051 Whittington Drive, Houston, Texas 77077 281-496-7900 • vssummer@thevillageschool.com • thevillageschool.com/summer WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 34

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Camp Director: Jeff Bond The Village School's Summer Camp 2022 will feature 8 weeks of fun! Camp begins May 31 and runs through July 22, 2022. It is open to all students (Village and non-Village) and will include daily water activities, arts & crafts, sports, games, and awesome experiences! In addition, Summer Camp 2022 will feature weekly themes including Space, Rodeo, Cooking, Carnival, and much more.

Summer@STH Est. 2009 Ages: 6th -12th graders Co-ed • Day camp 4500 Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77007 281-864-6348 · summer@sths.org · summer.sths.org Camp Director: Deanna Woodlief Our extensive summer offerings provide an array of academic, enrichment, athletic, and credit recovery (high school only) camps for students. Our mission is to provide an experience which sparks curiosity and ignites passion while improving core skills through a wide range of fun yet challenging activities in the classroom, in the lab or on the field. Rethink your summer – Summer @ STH!

Uptown Dance Summer Camps Est. 1999 Ages: 21⁄2 and up Co-ed • Day camp 7417 Shadyvilla Lane, Houston, Texas 77055 713-686-0334 • udc@pdq.net • uptowndance.org Camp Director: Beth Gulledge-Brown Our school was established in order to bring the highest quality of dance training to all our students. We are interested in training dancers of all ages and levels in order to bring them to their full potential as dancers, foster a lifelong love and appreciation of dance, and provide a quality performance experience that will instill confidence and poise. This summer we offer a wide variety of programming: Dance Intensives for intermediate and advanced dancers June 6-25 and July 11-July 30 and Children’s Dance Camps for ages 2.5-8. Dates for Children's Dance Camps for ages 2.54 are June 13-17 and July 11-15. Dance Camps for ages 5-8 are June 6-10, June 20-24, July 18-July 22, and July 25-July 29. Please visit our website for details.

URJ Greene Family Camp Est. 1976 Ages: 7-17 Co-ed • Overnight camp 1192 Smith Lane, Bruceville, Texas 76630 254-859-5411 • gfc@urj.org • www.greene.org Camp Director: Rabbi Erin Mason Summer 2022 at URJ Greene Family Camp is going to be an exciting summer filled with incredible programs, activity offerings, and the same Jewish community that has transformed the lives of campers for 45 years. From swimming in Lake Jake to climbing the Alpine Tower, performing on stage to painting a mural, doing Israeli dances to swaying at Shabbat services, there’s something for everyone at GFC. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

YMCA Camp Cullen Est. 1974 Ages: 7-16 Co-ed • Overnight camp 460 Cullen Loop, Trinity, Texas 75862 936-594-2274 • campcullen@ymcahouston.org • www.ymcacampcullen.org Camp Director: Luke Dooley Our goal is to provide a summer camp experience rich in tradition and centered on our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, while allowing campers to gain independence, a higher self-worth, and lifelong, positive memories as they continue to grow as individuals and leaders. At YMCA Camp Cullen, campers will learn new skills, develop their character, and make forever friends.

Yorkshire Academy Summer Program Est. 1984 Ages: PreK-6th grade Co-ed • Day camp 14120 Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77079 281-531-6088 • darnell@yorkshireacademy.com • www.yorkshireacademy.com Camp Director: Lori Darnell Yorkshire Academy’s Summer Program offers one-stop summer-camp shopping June 6-July 22. With over 40 enrichment camps, there is something for everyone. Work the right side of your brain in the morning and the left side of your brain in the afternoon, and switch the next week. Yorkshire Academy’s enrichment camps include offerings such as filmmaking, golf, Harry Potter camp, coding, dance, circus arts, Minecraft, tennis, theater, soccer, engineering, debate, and more. This is a community-wide program that attracts campers from beyond just West Houston and Katy.

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KIDS

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by Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Buzz Baby

Introducing solids

Buzz Baby is a column about life with babies.

Writer Annie McQueen is a mother of four children under the age of 7.

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ntroducing solid food to your baby can be memorable and exciting but also overwhelming. Pediatricians can offer parents guidance and advice on this exciting endeavor, and there are lots of other helpful resources available too.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend children should be given options for food other than breastmilk or formula when they are about six months old and developmentally have shown signs of readiness. A few signs solids are on the horizon are when the baby has started to maintain good head control, can sit up on his or her own, and begins to swallow food instead of spitting it out (and making a big mess on their chin and face instead of eating it).

Everything is new when solids come into the picture – not only for the parent but for the baby, too. There is the setup of it all, the child sitting upright in a highchair, seeing a spoon approaching their face, and their parent’s smiling, nervous face preparing to feed them (or letting them feed themselves).

Traditionally, a lot of babies start the solids

Safety and solids It is important to know the steps to take if an infant (up to the age of 1) stops breathing. Infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes are offered online and at various locations in Houston. The class is often taught in one day and can become a life-saving investment. To register for a CPR class, see houstoncpr.com or see cprandsafetylady.com. Most local hospitals also offer CPR and safety courses.

Interested in resources for introducing solids? The Solid Starts App is a searchable food database of baby foods compiled by experts.

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journey on rice cereal, a simple, mushy substance of rice flakes mixed with water. One Buzz parent, who opted to stay anonymous, says when her oldest daughter tried rice cereal for the first time, it was a big family affair. “Both of our par- STARTING SOLIDS Mom-of-two Helen Bernard made her own baby food ents came over. We when her firstborn, Whit, started to eat solids. Pictured is his younger brother, Lane, at 6 months. Helen jokes she’s introducing solids the “second-time-mom were all recording it on way” with Lane. our phones,” she said, $300) to make the food. Helen says she spent laughing. hours each day making Whit’s baby food. Helen Now with her fourth child, she says the videos says Whit enjoyed pears, cinnamon, bananas, have stopped but they still eased into solids and sweet potatoes – mostly sweet foods. She slowly for her 10-month-old son through babyalso introduced him to vegetables, but he never led weaning. The mom said she picked up a copy really wanted to eat them. of Baby-Led Feeding: A Natural Way to Raise With her second baby, Lane, she says things Happy, Independent Eaters by Jenna Helwig and have changed and gotten more relaxed with the used it as her guide. Baby-led weaning is an solids phase. Lane has not tried any homemade introduction-to-solids technique in which the food from Mom. Helen picks up store-bought parent follows the baby’s lead, allowing baby to baby food when she is at the grocery store. self-feed.

Another substantial change has been where he eats. With Whit, she would place him in his he difference between a more traditional high chair and put his bib on each time for the form of weaning and baby-led weaning is meals. Lane eats in a more relaxed environment. that with traditional, babies are first spoon-fed “I am giving him food when we are on the fly with mashed, smooth food (such as purees, and trying my best to follow our Moms on Call yogurt, or rice cereal), and learn to chew later; schedule,” said Helen. (Moms on Call is a popwith baby-led weaning, babies skip the smoothular sleep-training, baby-care guide). food phase and begin to experience the lumps and Whit suffered from food allergies as an infant, textures of food, and chew from the beginning. some of which he still has, so Helen says she Another Buzz parent, Helen Bernard, has made sure to introduce one ingredient at a time found herself experiencing the introduction of (a common recommendation from pediatrisolids in two opposite ways – the “first-timecians). Whit’s allergies included dairy, nut, tree mom” way and the “second-time-mom” way, she nut, sesame, and coconut. Making her own solid joked. Helen has an almost 6-month-old son food allowed her to keep better track of which named Lane, younger brother to Whitfield, their ingredients were in the food Whit was eating.

2-year-old. When Whitfield was born, Helen Lane is six months now and getting his introand her husband Will were living in Chicago duction to solid foods. He is not showing any (they have since moved to Houston). signs of food allergies, so Helen feels more comDuring the cold Chicago winter, when Helen fortable giving him premade baby food and was home a lot with her newborn baby, she pouches. With two under the age of 2 and condecided to introduce him to solid food by makcerns of choking, Helen says she feels prepared ing it all from scratch. “I made everything by for solids after taking infant CPR classes at hand and labeled each jar,” said Helen. She purNorthwestern Women’s Hospital in Chicago. chased a Vitamix blender (which runs around

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WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 37

ARTS

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by Cindy Burnett, staff writer

Buzz Reads

Five picks for April

Buzz Reads is a column about books by reviewer Cindy Burnett. Each month, Cindy recommends five recently or soon-to-be released titles.

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ngels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper – Set in the Philippines during World War II, Angels of the Pacific focuses on the Angels of Bataan, a group of U.S. Army and Navy nurses who courageously endured four years in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp after the Japanese Imperial Army invaded the Philippines. Hooper also weaves in the role that Filipinas played in the resistance, working to thwart the Japanese invaders.

Hooper’s historical-fiction tale honors the various women who fought back under horrific circumstances and highlights a part of World War II that people are not as familiar with – the Pacific arena.

Bomb Shelter: Love, Time, and Other Explosives by Mary Laura Philpott – Mary Laura Philpott’s new essay collection is outstanding; her humor, hope, and insightfulness will resonate with anyone who has struggled to understand life, death, and the last few years.

Centered around her response to her son’s epilepsy diagnosis, Bomb Shelter tackles serious topics but laces them with funny anecdotes about the turtle who lives in her yard and knocks on her back door, college tours, and her inability to keep pet frogs alive. Reading Bomb Shelter feels like spending time with a close friend and when you are done you will wish you were friends. Philpott’s can-do attitude and positive outlook are so refreshing, and it is also comforting to find that someone else worries as much as I do.

Love & Saffron by Kim Fay – Written in epistolary format and set in the 1960s, this beautiful book tracks the friendship between two women, Imogen and Joan, as they get to know each other through letters. Imogen Fortier is a longtime columnist for a magazine and lives on Camano Island near Seattle. Joan, who is younger, is a new food columnist in Los Angeles. When Joan writes Imogen a fan letter and encloses a recipe and some saffron, the women begin a correspondence that develops into a wonderful relationWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 38

ship. Incorporating the history of the era, food, and personal tidbits, the women bond and become close friends as they correspond about their lives. Filled to the brim with humor and heart, Love & Saffron is a joy from start to finish. It will be in my top reads of the year and is historical fiction at its finest.

Take My Hand

by Dolen PerkinsValdez – In this dual timeline historical-fiction story, Civil Townsend hopes to make a WHAT TO READ This month’s picks include three historical-fiction books, one about cooking and friendship, one about World War II in the Pacific, and one based on a true story difference in her in Alabama, a memoir written in essay format, and a beautiful story about relationships. community by With her gone, Greta and her father Conrad working as a nurse at the Montgomery Family struggle to bridge the divide between them Planning Clinic, a birth control clinic, in 1970s especially in the face of their shared grief. Both Alabama and serving those desperately in need hope the cruise to Alaska will help them learn of care. But when one of her first jobs involves to understand each other. In addition to trying putting 11- and 13-year-old girls on birth control to repair her relationship with her father, Greta when neither girl has even kissed a boy, Civil is is working on her sophomore album, dealing compelled to fight this injustice. Years later, Dr. with fans on the cruise ship, re-evaluating her Townsend is ready to retire but these stories from current relationship, and trying to recover from her past refuse to stay hidden when she finds herher public meltdown. Ultimately, The self having to explain to her daughter what hapUnsinkable Greta James is a story about repairpened and why. This incredibly sad story highing relationships, finding your joy, and living lights what happens when those in charge think life to the fullest. I absolutely loved this one they know what is best and take matters into their and highly, highly recommend it. own hands.

The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer Editor’s note: Southside Place resident Cindy E. Smith – Following a public breakdown Burnett also writes our weekly Page Turners column brought on by the sudden death of her mother, at thebuzzmagazines.com. She hosts the Thoughts indie musician Greta James agrees to accompafrom a Page Podcast, is co-creator of the Houston ny her father on a cruise to Alaska. They have literary event series Conversations from the Page, always had a tense relationship, and while she runs the Instagram account @thoughtsfromapage, was alive, Greta’s mother, her biggest fan, had and regularly speaks to groups about books. helped father and daughter communicate.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 39

TRAVEL

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by Tracy L. Barnett, staff writer

Travel Buzz

Catching the waves in Hawaii

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ike many people these days, Tracey and Jarret Reeves have canceled a lot of their travel plans over the past couple of years.

So when son Parker, 14, had a school break in January, they decided to take advantage of it.

They were prepared for the complications related to the pandemic – but little did they know their visit would also coincide with the largest volcanic eruption in 30 years.

“I started looking and saw that Hawaii had stringent Covid guidelines, and I wasn’t sure we could swing it,” said Tracey. But all three of them had had both doses of the vaccine, Tracey and Jarret had had their boosters, and they all had time away from school and work.

Parker had never been to Hawaii, and his parents wanted to share the experience of one of their favorite destinations. “So we decided to go for it.”

They chose the island of Oahu so they could get a direct flight.

“That was around the time all the flights were being canceled, so we opted to go nonstop,” said Tracey.

In March, Hawaii lifted its strict Covid requirements, but they were indeed stringent at the time of the Reeves’ visit – the strictest in the country. For starters, they had to register at a special website and upload all their vaccination documents in order to avoid a mandatory quarantine. They did not have to take a Covid test, thanks to their vaccination status.

They did need to present their vaccination documents at the airport, however, and also when they arrived in Hawaii.

“There they give you a special wristband and everyone looks for that wristband, and they also ask for your vaccine card at restaurants,” she said.

She booked their flight for the second week of January, and booked their stay at the 90year-old Royal Hawaiian, a bright pink art deco hotel popularly known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, where they were able to steep themselves in island history and atmosphere right on the famous Waikiki Beach.

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hey arrived in Honolulu after their eighthour flight tired but excited, and with

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SEASIDE HIKE Jarret, Tracey, and Parker Reeves take a hike along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail, seeing spectacular views across the North Coast as well as the historic red-roofed lighthouse.

enough time for a hike and sunset.

“We dropped everything in the hotel room and went to the top of the Windward Coast, and in 15 minutes we were in the mountains,” she recalled. They made their way up to the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout and there they got their first taste of Hawaii: out across Kaneohe Bay and overlooking the spectacular Ko'olau Mountains.

Then they headed back to the hotel, where they took in their first Hawaiian sunset on their home beach – Waikiki, the birthplace of modern surfing. Its name translates to “spouting waters” in Hawaiian, and it once served as a retreat for Hawaiian kings and queens.

The Reeves were pleasantly reminded that in Hawaii, sunset is a daily happening. “It’s

something that everybody stops to watch every day,” she said. “So around 5:30, six o’clock, everybody just stops what they’re doing and they watch the sun slip below the horizon. And it’s kind of magical. There’s clapping involved sometimes; it’s just beautiful. It’s nice that there’s a real respect for nature in Hawaii and the natural surroundings.”

By then they were exhausted and the guys were falling asleep, but Tracey held out for dinner and a drink.

“I came all this way, I want a Mai Tai,” she said with a laugh. There were a lot of the typical chain restaurants to choose from, but they wanted something a bit more Hawaiian. They ended up at the vintage classic Rainbow Drive-in,

SURFING, SCENERY, AND SUNSET Parker gets his bearings as he learns to surf at Waikiki Beach; Parker and Jarret take a moment for a photo in front of Manoa Falls; Tracey and Parker take in the sunset from the hotel cabana.

where they were able to sample the local fare.

Among other popular dishes, they tried some “Loco Moco” – beef patties with two eggs on top, covered in gravy. “Everything traditionally has rice and macaroni salad,” said Tracey. “It’s a real rib sticker.”

Other local cuisine they learned to love included the traditional (and undoubtedly lighter) poke (pronounced po-kay) – marinated raw fish with rice and fresh vegetables. But their favorite Hawaiian food, and the one they started each day with, was fresh pineapple.

“I don’t know if it’s just because you’re in Hawaii, but it's just so good. I feel like the

pineapple you have here is so bland and over there it’s just amazing.”

The next day they awoke ready to explore.

“There are so many things to see – Honolulu is very urban at some points, you’re in traffic and you feel like you’re in Houston, but literally in 15 minutes you’re in the mountains and looking out at ocean as far as you can see.”

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heir first day immersed them in a more somber side of Hawaiian history: The USS Arizona, a part of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. The wrecked battleship lies at the bottom of Pearl Harbor where Japanese

bombers detonated the explosion that killed 1,177 of the 1,512 crewmen on board at the time and precipitated the US entry into World War II. Jarret’s uncle served in World War II in the South Pacific theater and died, so the family wanted to honor their special connection to the place. There under the placid waters lie the remains of more than a thousand of the sailors.

Now a white memorial structure spans the mid portion of the sunken ship and provides a shrine for more than 1.7 million visitors to pay their respects each year.

After some time for (continued on page 42) WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 41

A TASTE OF THE GOOD LIFE View of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve from above, and a food truck Mai Tai in Haleiwa near North Shore. (continued from page 41) reflection, they decided

the best course would be to immerse themselves in the natural wonders around them.

They took a winding trail through the lush tropical rainforest to the spectacular 150-foot Manoa Falls. A sign warned visitors not to swim in the inviting pool at its base because of the threat of leptospirosis infection, and though many people ignored it and swam anyway, the Reeves thought better of it and headed back to the beach for a cleaner swim.

Visiting in January was perfect – the weather was beautiful, with an occasional sprinkle, but the sun would always come back out. The season did however make it extra important to be careful about the beaches they chose, Tracey said.

“I don’t think there’s a bad time to go to Hawaii, but it is winter, so some beaches are more dangerous this time of year – you can’t just wander into the water, you have to know what you’re doing,” she said.

The more dangerous beaches are on the more exposed north side of the island, she said; on the south side, Waikiki and other beaches were very calm.

Their third day they had a beach day. Parker had his first surf lesson, and Jarret is an avid scuba diver, so he went on a dive.

Parker quickly learned to surf right there in Waikiki, as thousands of others have done since Duke Kahanamoku popularized the sport in the late 1800s. Parker was able to get up on his feet after four attempts and surfed the rest of the day.

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ut what started as a carefree day in the sun quickly turned frightening for Tracey. As her husband explored under the waves and her son on top of them, she fielded a message from her sister telling her about an underwater volWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 42

cano that had just erupted in Tonga.

“Surely that will affect us,” she thought. “I was concerned — Parker was out there surfing, and I couldn’t get ahold of Jarret. So I was here waiting for a tsunami or something.”

Tonga, however, is more than 3,000 miles to the southwest of Hawaii. While the authorities put out warnings to be on the alert for large waves, and Jarret’s dive crew changed the dive site due to a shift in currents, the impact in Hawaii ended up being minimal.

Elsewhere, throughout the South Pacific, the damage was severe, with more than $90 million in damages and at least three deaths. It wrecked homes and businesses throughout the region, and that weighed on their minds.

“It was hard to enjoy the beauty, knowing of the devastation the people in Tonga were suffering,” said Tracey. “It was sad.”

That evening they went to the Polynesian Cultural Center, spending hours taking in the exhibits and learning about some of the many Pacific Island nations, from Fiji and Tonga to Samoa and Aotearoa (also known as New Zealand). “There’s enough to spend your whole day,” she said.

The day ended with a luau-style meal and a beautiful show: Ha – Breath of Life, which gave a glimpse of life, from birth to death, portraying all the contemporary cultures they had seen that day.

“I know a lot of luaus can be really touristy, but this one was more educational,” said Tracey. “We have a tremendous amount of respect for the Hawaiian people and their culture, and the people of the South Pacific islands in general. I think it’s important to learn about them and show that respect.”

Their last day they spent snorkeling at Hanauma Bay State Park, a protected reef

located in a partially submerged volcanic crater. The spectacular site has suffered from overtourism, so has been more restricted in recent years, only allowing 700 people per day.

Visitors are required to watch a short video to make sure nobody damages the coral.

Finally they made their way to the very different North Shore. More rural and laid-back than the busy South Shore, the wilder north side offers more space for contemplation – and, in the wintertime, massive 30-foot waves.

They took a hike along the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail in the morning, seeing spectacular views across the North Coast as well as the historic red-roofed lighthouse.

They went to Turtle Beach to look for sea turtles and then went to watch the surfers at the famous Banzai Pipeline, popularly known in the surfing world as “The Pipe,” where the surf breaks over a deep reef and forms a long tunnel of water.

“They (surfers) just get in the roll and follow that down like a pipeline,” she said. “There’s a whole surfing culture of which we were not a part but you could see it’s a totally different lifestyle, and they’re serious and good at what they do.”

They topped off the day with more Hawaiian fare from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck and then, for dessert, Matsumoto’s famous Shave Ice. “And then it was time to come home,” she concluded. “It was sad, but we did everything we set out to do, and we did it as safely as we could.

We were well when we left and we were well when we got back, so I consider that a success.”

Editor’s note: Buzz travel columnist Tracy L. Barnett is a Lowell Thomas travel journalism award winner and longtime travel and environmental writer. Email her at info@thebuzzmagazines.com to share your own travel tales.

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Tony Bullard

DINING

by Dai Huynh, staff writer

Chef’s Corner

Craft cocktails

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re you a fan of espresso martinis?” I asked my blue-eyed millennial stepdaughter.

“Love ’em,” Shelby said. “Ask any of my friends, and they’ll tell you the same. Everybody is drinking it.”

“It’s baaack,” said bar manager Michelle Knox at Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen (1743 Post Oak Blvd.).

Yep, that chic martini glass, brimming with espresso and frothy crema, is having a moment – a second one since its introduction in the ’80s.

Like many trends, millennials and social media are fueling the cocktail rage.

The espresso martini is just one of several trendy cocktails. There are also cocktails on draft (historically reserved for beer), sous vide libations (a cooking method usually used for meats), and Texas Ranch Water is making a splash.

Ranch Water was started in the ’60s by a West Texas rancher. OK, so its origin may be contested, but without a doubt, it has amassed a new fan base. We’ll dive into this, along with what makes a stellar espresso martini.

Search #espressomartini and its variants on Instagram, and you’ll find 600,000-plus photos of high-voltage caffeine cocktails. Almost every bar, hotel, and restaurant offers a version, including Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, Doris Metropolitan, Ember & Greens, Tobiuo Sushi & Bar, Better Luck Tomorrow, Masraff’s, Bludorn Restaurant – the list goes on.

Saltillo Mexican Kitchen bartender Lazaro Villalobos serves an espresso martini with Kahlúa, DeKuyper Creme De Cocoa Dark, and Tito’s Vodka. Daily Gather makes one with Haku Vodka and William Price Distilling Company Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur. There are dozens of variations. Rainbow Lodge features a white chocolate espresso martini.

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raft cocktails generally are sharing the limelight with appetizers, entrees, and desserts, so libations are no longer sideline players. For many restaurants, like Kenny & Ziggy’s, alcoholic beverages have bolstered the bottom line that rising food costs have trimmed.

Restaurateurs are complaining about food costs WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 44

rising 30 to 40 percent.

When Kenny & Ziggy’s relocated down the street a few months ago, owner Ziggy Gruber added a sleek, hipster bar, framed ESPRESSO MARTINI Kenny & Ziggy’s bar manager Michelle Knox pours an espresso with white subway martini made with Reyka Vodka, which hints of vanilla even though it doesn’t contain tiles, like his any. It is distilled from barley, wheat, and glacial spring water from Iceland. favorite, Smith’s espresso martini is the frothy white foam on top.

Bar in New York City: “It’s given us a fighting To make the required crema, shake the martini chance,” Gruber said, adding that the in-house shaker vigorously for about 15 seconds to release pastrami used to cost him $5.40 per pound. Now the coffee’s air bubbles and natural oils. it’s $15. Thus, the additional income from cocktail Brennan’s mixologist Christine Selvidge sales has helped: “I should have done this 20 years serves up several coffee-based cocktails, ago,” he added. including the N’Awlins Chicory Pecan His right-hand woman, Knox started bartendMartini (a winter item), the pyrotechnic café ing at Pappas Restaurants before her current gig. brulot, and Spanish Carajillo with vanillaHer passion is mixed drinks, and during the panflavored Licor 43. demic – when everything shut down – she conBrennan’s makes its pecan cream liqueur for verted her garage into a full bar with blue LED the N’Awlins Chicory Pecan Martini. Roasted lights. She relishes playing the alchemist, mixing pecans are cooked in a sous-vide machine with and developing what she calls “potions.” Before the half-and-half. Traditionally, chefs employed this new location opened, she devoted an entire week slow, gentle cooking process to produce tender, to demonstrating to co-workers why ice matters. juicy meats, but lately, savvy cocktailians, “We went back and forth on this, but it’s including Julep owner Alba Huerta, apply this important to have the right ice,” Knox said. technique to maximize flavors.

“Now we have three kinds of ice.”

Take Huerta’s Tepache Julep. Tepache is a Regular ice, the kind used in Ziggy’s water or Mexican pineapple drink with pre-colonial sodas, melts too quickly, which can water down roots. Pineapple, tamarind, maraschino, mezcal, cocktails faster than Speedy Gonzales, causing and raspberry are sous vide with Spanish verdejo them to lose delicate notes and nuances, Knox wine at her bar on Washington Avenue. explained. So now, Ziggy’s uses 1-inch cubes in “We sous vide to achieve certain flavors that many cocktails and 2-inch cubes for cocktails are more well-rounded when cooked at a lower such as the old fashioned and Sazerac. temperature,” she said.

One-inch cubes go in the shaker to make the The result is balanced, delicious, and refreshespresso martini that Dick Bradsell created at ing, which drinkers clamor for as temperatures Soho Brasserie in London: “Back in the ’80s, a soar in this balmy climate. model walked in and wanted something to wake Along with coffee cocktails, the Post Oak her up and mess her up,” Knox said.

Hotel bar, lounge, wine cellar, and restaurants sell loads of fizzy spritzes, particularly Ranch ike any hand-crafted cocktail, a great espresso Water, the ice-house darling riding on the coatmartini starts with good ingredients. Knox tails of Topo Chico’s popularity. prefers raw turbinado instead of white sugar for The award-winning hotel sells about 50 to 60 her simple syrup. It adds a whiff of caramelized Ranch Waters daily, and “when pool season depth, but for her, the most satisfying part of an

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Paula Murphy Paula Murphy

Kimberly Park

Post Oak Hotel Jenn Duncan

CRAFT COCKTAILS Top, from left: Ranch Water from the Post Oak Hotel, N’Awlins Chicory Pecan Martini from Brennan’s of Houston, Kenny & Ziggy’s espresso martini. Bottom, from left: Julep’s Tepache Julep, and Kenny & Ziggy’s cocktails, including the Maven’s Old-Fashioned with glazed pastrami-washed bourbon and garnished with sous-vide pastrami.

opens, close to 100,” says assistant beverage and food director Faith Chen, who loves its simplicity. The three-ingredient drink calls for tequila, lime juice (lots of it), and Topo Chico. That’s it! And yes, it has to be Mexican spring-sourced Topo Chico for the crispest, most thirst-quenching porch sip ever: “It’s a very simple cocktail you can do at home,” Chen said. “And just like a mojito, you can add flavors to it, and it won’t change the dynamic of it. You can add pomegranate juice, pineapple, apple, or watermelon, just about any fruit.”

Classic Espresso Martini From Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen ½ ounce Reyka Vodka 1½ ounces espresso ½ ounce turbinado syrup (see note) 2 dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 3 roasted coffee beans for garnish Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with 1-by-1inch ice cubes, followed by vodka, espresso, turbinado syrup, and Regan’s Orange Bitters.

Shake well until well-chilled and frothy, then

strain into a chilled martini glass. Float the coffee beans on top and serve. Makes one cocktail.

Note: To make turbinado syrup in a saucepan, combine 2 cups of turbinado sugar with 1 cup of water. Cook over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves into a syrupy consistency for about five to seven minutes. Refrigerate until ready to use.

French Chartreuse Spritz From Brennan’s of Houston 2 ounces Chartreuse liqueur Italian Prosecco In an old-fashioned glass, pour in 3 to 4 ounces of Italian Prosecco, or to your taste. You also can use any sparkling wine you may have around the house. It’s a very forgiving recipe.

Gently add 1-by-1-inch ice cubes with tongs to keep the wine from losing bubbles. Add Chartreuse, gently stir once, and serve. Makes one cocktail.

Texas Ranch Water From the Post Oak Hotel 2 ounces blanco tequila

½ ounce lime juice or about half a fresh lime, plus a lime wedge Topo Chico, chilled Fill a highball glass with ice cubes, followed by blanco tequila and the juice from the half lime. Top with chilled Topo Chico. Add a fresh lime wedge to the rim of the glass and serve.

Makes one cocktail.

Fruit variations: Squeeze fresh orange or grapefruit juice, or pureed watermelon, strawberries, kiwi, or another favorite fruit in a blender.

Add 1 ounce of fruit puree to Texas Ranch Water, stir, garnish with fresh mint, and serve.

For a spicy version of Ranch Water, place one or two slices of fresh jalapeño in a highball glass.

Muddle the jalapeño with a wooden muddler or spoon. Add ice, tequila, lime juice, and Topo Chico. If you like, garnish with jalapeño and a wedge of lime. Enjoy!

Editor’s note: Buzz dining columnist Dai Huynh is a James Beard food-journalism award winner and longtime Houston-based restaurant writer. This Q&A was condensed and edited.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 45

SPORTS

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by Todd Freed, staff writer

SportzBuzz W

ith a remarkable game-winning shot from sophomore Justin Begg, the Episcopal Knights captured their first SPC boys’ basketball championship since 2013.

Trailing by two points to Dallas Greenhill as the final seconds ticked off, Begg connected on a three-point shot from deep in the corner to give Episcopal the dramatic victory, 52-50. “When I let it go I thought it was going in,” said Begg. “It had the right spin and everything looked great.

It’s just a blessing - I don’t know what else to say.”

“It was legendary,” added Begg’s teammate and Knights standout sophomore Jakeel Registe. “When Justin made that shot we screamed, hollered, and celebrated.” For Knights senior Reid Turlington the fantastic finish couldn’t have been any more special. “This means everything to me,” said Turlington. “It’s the last sport I’ll ever play in high school and to end everything with a championship and especially on a buzzer-beater is just awesome.”

The victory also culminated a season in which Episcopal posted a lofty 30-7 record and was ranked fourth in the state among all private schools. “Just a special group,” added Knights head coach Wayne Jones. “We have this thing where I would say to them that they were the best part of my day when I got the opportunity to be with these guys. We talked about trusting the process, accountability, culture, and about love and we did all of those things. For this group to finish the way they did was just icing on the cake.”

tories in the 200-yard freestyle and a school record victory time in the 500-yard freestyle. In addition, McLean teamed up with senior Dylan Sandrock, sophomore Tyler Sandrock, and senior Carrick Brogan to win the 200-yard medley relay. Plus, the very same foursome captured gold in the 200-yard medley relay while breaking school record times in both relay events.

“Our four seniors in Josh, Dylan, Carrick, and Charlie Ramirez have been true leaders for this swim program for four years,” said Jones. “All four of them were part of our two state championships and two state runner-up teams.”

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ed by a sensational showing from senior Josh McLean, the St. Thomas Eagles finished second in the state at the TAPPS Division I State Swim Championships. The finish also capped off a phenomenal four-year run for the Eagles, which includes two state championships and two state runner-up finishes. “Just a really great core of guys,” said Eagles swimming and diving coach VanArthur Jones. “We have a lot of kids who are extremely invested and have sacrificed so many hours to succeed. It’s a super committed group.”

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HISTORIC SEASON The Saint Thomas’ Episcopal School girls basketball team captured an undefeated district championship while also advancing to the playoffs for the first time in 15 years. From left: Katrina Chan, Eden Stewart, Mia Russell, Brinley Bowden, Chifum Ibekwe, Lillian Lehman, Jennah Savage, Audrey Finch, Annie Matte, and Naomi Hughes.

n girls’ basketball, it was an amazing turnaround season for the Saint Thomas’ Episcopal School, with the Saints earning a playoff berth for the first time in 15 years. In addition, the Saints advanced to the third round of the post-season before being eliminated in the TAPPS 4A regional quarterfinals. “It was very exciting,” said STE girls basketball coach Terri Petties. “Our girls hadn’t even won a district game in three years on the varsity level and this season we were undefeated district champions.”

The Saints went from worst to first behind a starting lineup that all earned first team all-district honors including district MVP Jennah Savage,

freshman Chifum Ibekwe, sophomore Audrey Finch, junior Lillian Lehman, and sophomore Brinley Bowden. In addition, Petties was named the TAPPS 4A District 5 Coach of the Year.

“Everything just came together to make this happen,” said Petties, who has also been a track and field and volleyball coach at STE for 18 years before becoming the girls’ varsity basketball head coach just this season.

“First, we had Jennah transfer here from Deer Park, which was huge. Chifum came to our school as an eighth grader and she’s extremely talented. Chifum’s from Africa and actually taught herself to play basketball by watching YouTube videos and just working hard at her game. Also, Audrey had transferred to Bellaire in eighth grade but returned to STE for her sophomore year, and Lillian has gained a lot of experience with this being her third year of varsity. It’s also exciting that four of our starters will be back next season.”

Editor’s note: Todd Freed is the host and executive producer of H-Town High School Sports, which airs Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on CW39 and MondayThursday on AT&T SportsNet SW. To submit high school sports news for possible inclusion in SportzBuzz, please email todd@thebuzzmagazines.com.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 47

SPORTS

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by Angie Frederickson, staff writer

SportzBuzz Jr. W

elcome to SportzBuzz Jr., a column spotlighting neighborhood athletes in elementary and middle school.

Wrestling champs Pin Oak Middle School seventh grader Charlie Turner (top photo, left) and Pershing Middle School seventh grader Josh Guzman (right) competed in the Texas Middle School state wrestling tournament. The athletes qualified for the competition after extensive training that led to each of them winning first place in their division at the Houston Area Middle School championship. Josh placed fourth at state and finished with a 5-2 record, winning two matches by pinning and three by decision. Both Charlie and Josh plan to continue wrestling and hope to win first place in their division at next year’s state competition.

A spirited opening day The West University Softball Association (WUSA) Moonbeams (middle photo) were named spirit winners for the 8U age group at the annual season-opening celebration. Players and families from 92 WUSA teams gathered for a parade of teams, opening ceremonies, and a carnival to kick off the league’s 45th season. Each team used its mascot as inspiration for festive parade costumes that included creative touches like boas, tutus, and headdresses. After the parade, teams gathered on Gilbert Field at West University Elementary School for opening ceremonies and the carnival, with rides, games, and confetti eggs. The spirit-winning 8U Moonbeams are (back row, from left) Danny Hughes, Jen Hughes, Beatrice Layne, Kelly Layne, (front row, from left) Molly Hodges, Victoria Diaz, Chloe Abrams, Anna Katherine Hulsey, Austyn Laird, Emma Hughes, and Saige Lowery.

Basketball in the neighborhood The Bellaire Rec League 10/11 Rams (bottom photo) are having a great basketball season. Players love to participate in this league where kids from many different schools come together to form teams, competing in a regular season, playoffs, and championship games. Rams coaches David Weiner and Roger Mendelovitz are leading a successful season for the boys, who attend Condit Elementary School, Horn Elementary School, Mandarin Immersion Magnet School, Pin Oak Middle School, T.H. Rogers School, and Lanier Middle School. The Rams are (top row, from left) coach David Weiner, Trajan Wright, James Davis, Micah Ahn, Mason Mendelovitz, Michael Weiner, coach Roger Mendelovitz, (bottom row, from left) Gabriel Rose, Brooks Cannon, Luke Pinkston, Simon Rose, and Dhilan Desai.

Editor’s note: Send your best high-resolution photos and behind-the-scenes stories about young local athletes, in both team and individual sports, to SportzBuzz, Jr. at info@thebuzzmagazines.com. Include all contact info, names, ages, grades and schools. Featured athletes must live in Buzz-circulation neighborhoods. Items will be published on a space-available basis.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 48

Enter The Buzz 2022 Photo Contest Win a Couples Staycation Package at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

Entries are now being accepted for our seventeenth annual Photo Contest. Entry deadline May 15.

Our grand prize winner will receive a couples staycation package at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa. This luxury weekend package includes a Friday and Saturday night stay in one of the hotel’s newly renovated suites, a “TEX-LEX” dinner for two in the private Wine Room of TRIBUTE restaurant, two day passes to Trellis Spa’s Soaking Pools & Garden, and complimentary access to the prestigious Houstonian Club. Winning photos will be published in our July issue and online beginning July 1.

To submit photos, and for contest rules and prize details, visit thebuzzmagazines.com/photocontest.

You can also view our 2021 winners online.

Sponsored by

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 49

ICY COOL COUTURE Carnegie Vanguard junior Manasi Saxena (pictured) showcased her designs at the Contemporary Arts Museum Teen Council’s Annual Fashion Show.

KIDS

by Manasi Saxena, age 16

Buzz Kidz

A fashion show in a freeze

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ue to inclement weather, HISD has canceled all after-school activities,” my principal said over the loudspeaker.

It was the day I had been working towards for months. It was the day when my friends would be walking on a runway wearing my styled outfits in front of over 100 people. The Contemporary Arts Museum fashion show was here. This event was organized by the museum’s teen council, which is composed of a small group of young artists and art enthusiasts, to give teenage designers and stylists the opportunity to showcase their designs. All of their hard work was leading up to this day.

“Everyone must be out of the building by 5 p.m.”

Once the bell rang, I rushed out of my seat and headed towards the bathroom. My team of mod-

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els and I would have to work quickly as we had less than an hour to do hair, makeup, and get dressed. This was only the start of a long, fulfilling night ahead. Running through the rain, we rushed inside the museum, and a wave of warmth fell over us. The cold weather was reminiscent of the freeze that took place in February 2021.

Worry nagged at me; I hoped that we wouldn't have a repeat of last year. I took a deep breath and got to work. I looked around and took in my surroundings. I saw designers and stylists adding the finishing touches to their beautiful pieces.

Bright colors of downy fabrics and the shiny, metal luminescence of others filled the room.

The nerves began to set in. The council had decided that my team – including Jones Mays, CAMH teen council member, and models Maren

Brown, Isabel Hoffman, and Anika Palacharla – would be opening the show. I said a silent prayer as my models went out. Everything that could possibly go wrong went through my mind. What if the pins I attached weren’t tight enough? What if the lehenga I fought to keep from falling down ended up doing just that? All of my worries melted away as I saw them coming down the stairs.

These moments are some that I will never forget. I am forever grateful to the CAMH teen council for making this possible and giving us the unforgettable fashion show in a freeze.

Want to be a Buzz Kid? Email approximately 350 words, a high-resolution photo and caption to info@thebuzzmagazines.com. Or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401.

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Spider veins: What you don’t know More than 50 million Americans suffer from venous insufficiency, and the majority of these people are unaware. Symptoms such as leg pain, itching, burning, restless leg, cramping, skin discoloration, and swelling are not normal. Many of these patients have been told by their doctor that “these symptoms are a normal part of aging.” This is not true, and, in fact, many of these symptoms can be treated in an office setting and are covered by most insurance plans.

Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in our veins remain open too long, allowing a backwards flow of blood into the leg. It is this pressure that forces fluid from the bloodstream into the surrounding tissue and causes the many symptoms described above. This process is very gradual and can occur over many years. Therefore, most patients find it difficult to notice. It can also lead to bulging veins and visible veins on the skin’s surface. Just because you do not see bulging veins does not mean you do not have varicose veins/dilated internal veins. This is a common misconception. The only way to be sure if you have varicose veins is by undergoing a venous doppler ultrasound of your legs. This should be performed at your initial visit and the results given at that time.

Individuals at risk for developing vein disease are those age 40 and above, people with a family history of vein disease, anyone who sits or stands for prolonged periods of time, obese populations, women, especially if they have had children, pregnant women, smokers, and those who have had a leg injury in the past.

Vein disease is progressive and should be treated sooner rather than later to avoid worsening symptoms. The lower leg skin discoloration associated

with venous reflux disease is often irreversible and if diagnosed early can be prevented.

The biggest misconception is that vein procedures are cosmetic and not covered by insurance.

While some procedures are considered cosmetic, often we find there are underlying medical conditions that could be related to your spider veins.

The good news is that most insurance companies cover these in-office procedures as well as your initial consultation. Not all patients will require treatment, but an office visit at an Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) accredited vein center is the place to start. There are many places that are treating vein disease, but there are only four vein centers in Houston that have undergone the rigorous credentialing process of the IAC. As an experienced interventional vascular doctor and radiologist treating patients for close to 30 years, I specialize in minimally invasive procedures that get to the root cause of the medical issue in the least invasive way in an out-patient setting.

Give us a call today at 281-888-1464 or visit us at www.txvwi.com to schedule your consultation. Your legs can be healthy and beautiful just in time for the spring!

Dr. Srinivas “Vasu” Rao, Texas Vein & Wellness Institute, 5585 Weslayan St., Houston, Texas 77005, 281.888.1464, txvwi.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 51

PETS

Neighborhood Tails Snickers, age 12, Schnoodle, Glen Haven Hiya! My name is Snickers, and I am a 12-year-old Schnoodle – that’s a Schnauzer/Poodle mix.

I love to go on walks, but mainly so I can sniff everything. There are lots of smells in our neighborhood, and I need to know about all of them. I love to lay in the sun in our dining room and relax. I’m pretty sweet to most people and other animals. We have two cats and I like them, and my sister Kyle has a dog that I like too.

Some people say I am “scared” of thunder and fireworks and “hide in the shower.” I don’t know why no one else takes the precautions I do, but I do a great job of protecting my family! Lots of mail carriers and package delivery people come to our door, so I have to bark loudly at those people to scare them away.

Got a cute critter? Email a picture of your pet with approximately 150 words to info@thebuzzmagazines.com or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401.

Celebrate Family.

Now reserving sessions for Mother’s Day. LaWell Photography 713.523.4916 • nikky@lawellphoto.com • www.lawellphoto.com

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To advertise in The Buzz Magazines, contact us at 713.668.4157, ext. 11 or advertising@thebuzzmagazines.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 52

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Disaster philanthropy and Ukraine As I write, early in the second week of the Russian invasion, 1.5 million people have fled Ukraine for Poland, Hungary, Moldova, Slovakia, Romania, and Russia, triggering acute humanitarian needs and an outpouring of government and private donations.

Your gifts will go further if you understand the tax basics of lifetime transfers, which work well for most donations. Planned giving uses more complicated techniques, not discussed here, for the largest gifts.

Private gifts generally are not tax-deductible, e.g., sending $500 to a displaced relative, or to a baker feeding refugees.

Private gifts greater than $16,000 (the current annual gift tax exclusion amount) can be subject to a 40% gift tax. Give more than that to any one person, and a gift tax return is required. The due date is the same as that for the donor’s income tax return for the year.

The annual gift tax exclusion is per donor, per donee. You could send $16,000 to everyone on the planet this year and every year, and no gift tax return is due. If donating to support a family of five, that’s $80,000 a single donor can give before a gift tax return is required. A married couple could give $160,000 to that same family before triggering a gift tax return.

Filing a gift tax return seldom means gift tax is actually paid. U.S. persons now have a basic exclusion amount of $12,060,000. You could transfer millions over a lifetime, file every appropriate gift tax return, and still not be out of pocket any gift tax.

Most donors prefer to give to a charity rather than to individuals. If an organization is exempt from federal income tax, it can use more of its

resources to further its mission. Contributors to qualified charitable organizations may be eligible to claim tax deductions, and the value of these contributions is not subject to gift tax, regardless of the amount (no gift tax return!).

Charity Watch posted a list online of highly rated U.S. aid organizations already doing work in Ukraine before the 2022 war. A recent New York Times article featured four: Direct Relief, Mercy Corps, International Medical Corps, and Save the Children.

Contributions to foreign charities generally are not deductible. IRS.gov, Tax Exempt Organization Search, offers a tool to ensure your preferred charity is eligible to receive deductible contributions. When in doubt, rely on the charity’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) rather than name. Doctors without Borders, e.g., is organized in New York as Medecins Sans Frontiers Usa Inc, EIN 13-3433452. Charity Watch if not the organization itself posts EINs online.

We write wills and go to probate court. Foreign nationals and international families welcome.

Russell W. Hall, J.D., LL.M. (Tax), Board Certified – Estate Planning and Probate Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization, 6750 West Loop South, Suite 920, Bellaire, Texas 77401, 713.662.3853, bellaireprobate.com/blog

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 53

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It’s an Amazing Place

The importance of an advocate

Receiving an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis is overwhelming enough, let alone navigating all the options for care that your loved one may need. At Amazing Place, our Day Program provides a safe and social environment where adults with mild to moderate dementia can feel respected, valued, and empowered. Our Day Program participants experience laughter, friendships, and compassionate care when they walk through our doors.

Recent research has shown a 71 percent improvement in the “Quality of Life” for both caregivers and participants.

Everything we provide, including on-site nursing, focuses on our participants’ health to help prevent cognitive and physical decline. To keep brains healthy and active, our staff oversees a variety of programs such as art, history discussions, trivia, word games, exercise, and more. Day Program participants also enjoy a three-course Memory Preservation Nutrition® lunch prepared in our own kitchen.

Located inside the 610 Loop, Amazing Place features a thoughtfully planned, 13,700 sq. ft., natural light-filled building, including an art studio, library, chapel, and multiple recreation rooms surrounded by an expansive courtyard. You will find moveable gardens, a putting green, a koi pond, and other areas designed for fun and relaxation. Being aware of the challenges caregivers face, we also offer numerous resources for families that can be found on our website.

Amazing Place, 3735 Drexel Drive, Houston, Texas 77027, 713.552.0420, AmazingPlaceHouston.org

Recently, a woman contacted S. Gerber & Associates for advice. She had just learned that her mother, who had had surgery on a broken neck, was being discharged from the nursing home in two days. She’d assumed that, given her mother’s need for rehabilitation, her mother would be in the nursing home long-term, so she hadn’t made any arrangements for when her mother was discharged.

The nursing home was following Medicare guidelines, but nobody there had communicated with my new client about the impending release until the last minute – and they didn’t tell her she could appeal the discharge to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. We quickly filed the appeal, which meant that her mother could remain in the nursing home until CMMS ruled on the appeal.

Unfortunately, most people don’t know to seek advice when dealing with a nursing home or healthcare facility or where to get good advice.

That’s why having an advocate, not just for the parent but also for the family, is essential. This is true even for routine services.

At S. Gerber & Associates, we combine in-home care with consultation so you can make the best decisions and get the quality of care you deserve from all the services you receive, not just the ones we provide. Hopefully, this will relieve some of the stress of providing care for your loved one.

S. Gerber & Associates, 3730 Kirby Dr., Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77098, 713.857.3227, sid@personalcaregiving.com

Instagram - @forsythefotography Fine art prints available for purchase at www.forsythefotography.shop 832-878-8967

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Allergies in older adults In April 2017, the AARP Bulletin wrote about allergies, and since it’s an AARP publication, it focused on adults age 50 and over. Before the 1990s, it was taught that allergy was an ailment of the young and usually got better as one became older. Further, it was thought that older individuals didn’t suddenly “become allergic.” Since the 1980s, though, the prevalence of allergy has increased in all age groups. It is now known that one can develop allergies at any age.

Just as treatment is different in children than it is in adults, a great deal of caution goes into considering therapeutic options in older adults. For instance, oral decongestants, such as Sudafed, are more likely to cause side effects in older adults (e.g., high blood pressure, insomnia, irritability, and/or rapid heart rate). Sudafed PE is much safer. It doesn’t contain any “Sudafed” (pseudoephedrine) at all; rather, it contains phenylephrine, a much milder decongestant. Antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, Benadryl and Xyzal, can make you sleepy. Claritin and Allegra are less likely to cause sedation. Of further concern about sedating antihistamines is that long-term use may increase the risk of dementia. The only antihistamine NOT on that list is Allegra (even Claritin is sedating and with anti-cholinergic effects at higher doses). Generic Allegra (fexofenadine) is much less expensive and works just as well for about 95 percent of our patients. Costco sells it as “AllerFex,” and Walgreens as “Wal-Fex”.

Nasal steroids are usually tolerated better than any of the oral medications because a much smaller dose of medicine is required to be effective since the medicine is applied directly to the nose. But some nasal steroids cause

nosebleeds; original Flonase is most likely to cause a bloody nose. Two other over-the-counter nasal steroids, Flonase Sensimist and Rhinocort Allergy, are less likely to cause a bloody nose.

One treatment that works well in younger and older patients is allergy shots. Once we identify what you are allergic to, we can use allergy shots, or immunotherapy (IT), to make you less allergic.

As opposed to medications listed above, which just treat your symptoms, IT is disease modifying.

IT teaches your body’s immune system to ignore the dust mites, cat dander or tree pollen that can cause “false alarms” in the allergic. A word of caution about IT, though: many so-called allergists are not board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology, and don’t use optimal doses of allergens in their recipes. All four allergists at The Allergy Clinic and Houston Allergy and Asthma Clinic are not only board certified by ABAI, but maintain that certification on an annual basis.

No one nose allergies like we do.™ Note: Information contained in this article should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a board-certified allergist to address individual medical needs.

David B. Engler, M.D., The Allergy Clinic, 7707 Fannin, Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77054, 713.797.0993, *1200 Binz, Suite 1400, Houston, Texas 77004, 713.522.9911, www.allergyclinic.com, *Operating as Houston Allergy and Asthma Clinic

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 55

Jacob Power

NEIGHBORS

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by Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld, staff writer

Buzz About Town Daniel Ortiz

Crawfish for a cause

The event was sponsored by 8th Wonder Brewery and raised $3,000 benefitting the YPG’s literacy efforts in the Houston community. Pictured are (from left) Clara Orlean, Megan Butler, Martina Albino, and Tori Tolbert.

Having a ball for West U parks

Katy Anderson

The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s Young Professionals Group hosted the fourth annual “Crawfish for a Cause” at Holman Draft Hall. The fourth event drew out nearly 100 YPG members and guests interested in joining the YPG and supporting the literacy cause in Houston. Attendees enjoyed an afternoon lounging on Holman Draft Hall’s patio, sipping on beers from 8th Wonder Brewery, and feasting on jumbo crawfish from HTX Crawfish Supply Co.

The 30th annual Park Lovers’ Ball brought together more than 400 West University Place neighbors and friends at Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District. Themed “The Pearl Gala” - a nod to the traditional 30th-anniversary gift - the event raised more than $400,000 for West U parks. Event co-chairs were Kimberly and Dimitri Ang and Kelly and Blake Hill; auction co-chairs were Jordan Jewett and Buckley Morlot; and the underwriting chair was Erin Gaston. Guests were entertained with a whiskey blackjack table, a putting green, wine pull, and an exciting silent auction. Dr. Linda Christians, senior pastor of West U Methodist Church, provided a heartfelt invocation. The event was emceed by Ilona Carson, Emmy Award-winning former anchor and reporter at ABC13, who’s also a West U resident. Guests made their way to the dance floor as Password kept everyone dancing till midnight. Pictured are (from left) Buckley Morlot, Donna LaMond, Kimberly Ang, Kelly Hill, Sami Morrison, and Jordan Jewett. See westuparks.org.

Hearts, hope, and healing Bo’s Place annual Hearts of Hope luncheon celebrated being “Together Again” in person. More than 450 supporters gathered at The Westin Galleria Houston. Special guest speaker was Ann Christensen, the first woman to chair the English Department at the University of Houston and a former Bo’s Place support group participant, who shared her experience after the death of her husband. Ann read some pieces from her memoir-in-progress, which explores grief, widowed motherhood, aging, and gratitude. Event chairs Daisy and John White, and their daughters and sons-in-law Niccole White Greeley and Christopher Greeley and Jacqueline White Arribas and Alfredo Arribas joined to support the efforts and were thrilled with the over $425,000 raised from the luncheon. Sue Smith and Craig Brown were the Heart of Gold Presenting Sponsors for the luncheon. Rebecca and Christyn Taylor received the Robin Bush Award. The award is given in memory of Robin Bush, daughter of President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush, who were early supporters of Bo’s Place.

A nonprofit, free-of-charge bereavement center, Bo’s Place offers grief support services for children, families, and adults. Pictured are Mark and Debbie Gregg.

Mardi Gras krewe The Knights of Momus, Galveston’s oldest Mardi Gras Krewe, presented its royal court, King Frivolous CVI and his queen at the Knights of Momus Coronation Ball and reception at The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston. Ball chair Craig Kovacevich and Mistresses of the Robes Caroline Barnes and Janet Wegner hosted a record 950 guests. The 30 duchesses were presented at the Coronation Ball and at The Fertitta (continued on page 58) WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 56

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 57

Rhea’s Photographic Art

evening and the Honky Tonk Revivalists on Saturday evening. Pictured (from left) are Charity Ball chairs Laura Rickaway, Christina Fredrick, Carson Kelley, Anaam Zamorano, Lauren Gates, Mary Morgan Stevens, Lauren Rae Brown, Emily-Frances McAdams, Dionella Martinez, Amanda Pritchett, Amy Strickland, Megan Brown, and Blaire Burdine.

Supporting Seven Acres

(continued from page 56) Family’s annual San Luis

Salute and they rode in the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade. The duchesses’ gowns were designed by Houston fashion designer Miwa Sakashita and reflected the ball’s theme “Midnight in Paris.” Duchesses from West University included Lucy Maas Frankfort, daughter of Mr. Todd Maas Frankfort and Mrs. Andria Milstein Frankfort; Alexis Marie Gust, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Lee Gust; and Cara Liann Wolff, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wolff. Pictured are 2022 duchesses from the Houston area. For more on Mardi Gras frivolity, search “Galveston’s Mardi Gras! Party”

by Andria Frankfort at thebuzzmagazines.com.

A Texan affair for JLH The Junior League of Houston hosted its 74th Annual Charity Ball: The Road Home, a twopart event that raised a total of $900,000 to fund the League’s community initiatives. More than 600 Junior League members and supporters gathered for the annual black-tie gala. The décor, dinner, and drinks paid homage to the theme with a Texas twist. The event included the traditional performance from Junior League members, an exciting raffle, whiskey tastings, and a live auction. Guests got their bootscootin’ boogie on and two-stepped the night away to live music from The Grooves on Friday

Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services’ 2022 virtual gala, themed “Shooting for the Stars – the Future is Ours!” raised more than $1 million to help fund the cost of charitable care for their residents. The annual event honored the family and legacy of Malcolm P. Slatko, late CEO of Seven Acres, with the Joyce Proler Schechter Spirit of Life Award. Supporters watched this year’s gala virtually via a livestreamed YouTube video and live auction. In keeping with the celestial theme, the livestreamed video opened with a vintage television set showing a NASA rocket lifting off from Kennedy Space Center and traveling to the stars. The video was emceed by Linda Lorelle and highlighted Seven Acres’ mission of providing compassionate care to the elderly and elder disabled. It followed past presidents Judy Yambra, Gary Swartz, and Buster Freedman as they reminisced about the legacy that Malcolm Slatko left over the 40 years that he served as CEO. Pictured are (from (continued on page 60) Daniel Ortiz

Books and brunch

Conundrum; and Patricia Hunt Holmes spoke about her book Crude Ambition. All books were available for sale and signed by the authors. Jan Carson served as Mistress of Ceremonies. The fundraiser included a silent and live auction; all proceeds benefitted the philanthropic programs of Assistance League of Houston: Operation School Bell, Scholarships Program, Celebration of Giving, and Head Start Readers. Pictured are (from left) ALH member and committee chair, Mary Jane Casimir, with her daughter, Cathy Burch, and friend Jodi Eby.

Assistance League of Houston’s annual Books & Brunch fundraiser took place at the Houston Racquet Club. The event featured three local authors – chef Johnny Carrabba, who spoke about his book With Gratitude, Johnny Carrabba, Celebrating 30 Years of Recipes, Stories, and Family; Stacy Edick (writing as Stacy Wilder) presented her recently-published Charleston WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 58

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(continued from page 58) left) gala co-chairs Dr.

Bob and Sandy Light, president Michael Feinstein, and gala co-chairs Robyn and Adam Burck. Honorary co-chairs were Robert Caplan, Raymond Kalmans, and Marsha Stein; auction co-chairs were Abby Ackerman and Michael Wiesenthal; and fundraising committee included Buster Freedman, Larry Buck, Michael Feinstein, Brad Rauch, Vicky and Michael Richker, Gary Swartz, and Judy Yambra.

traveler” attire. The title of Animeals “Top Pet” from the fashion show was awarded to Melanie Baxter with her two travel partners Janet and Sally. Pictured are Doe and Henry Florsheim.

Walk, roll, stroll for Easter Seals

Intervention Program. This photo was taken after Oliver’s birthday during which Oliver’s parents requested gifts for the Early Childhood Intervention Program. Through therapy, training, education, and support services, Easter Seals creates life-changing solutions that allow people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in the community. See eastersealshouston.org.

Spring shopping spectacular

Quy Tran

A tail-wagging time

Be seen in Buzz About Town. Send your high-res photos and community news to info@thebuzzmagazines.com.

Items are published on a space-available basis. Also share your upcoming-event listings on thebuzzmagazines.com.

Buz Marvins

Easter Seals Greater Houston will host its 11th annual Walk With Me event on Sat., April 23 at the Houston Zoo. Participants will enjoy a non-competitive Family Fun Walk to raise funds for the nonprofit. After taking a virtual approach in 2020 and a hybrid approach in 2021 due to Covid, supporters of the nonprofit are excited to walk, roll, and stroll together in person this year. Oliver Cole, one of the many children that benefit from Easter Seals’ services, is a Walk With Me ambassador this year. Here, Oliver is pictured with parents Courtney and Ben Cole and (on left) Charisse Clark, Oliver’s physical therapist in the Early Childhood

Ready for spring? Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market Spring is a three-day shopping experience featuring approximately 150 merchants from across the country. The market will offer a range of seasonal items, trendy apparel, jewelry, colorful accessories, gourmet food, travel necessities, and home décor. Spring market committee members include (pictured) Katrina Arnim, Ann Bean, Susan Binney, Wendy Wilkins Burks, Cecilia Campbell, Ben Carmona, Mabel Casanova, Patsy Chapman, C.C. Conner, Jr., Elise Cross, Sarah Davidson, Julia Figueroa, Gaylon Gullquist, John Kendall, Megan Kessler, Lorena Latte, Susan Lehmann, Denise Malone, Jean May, Kaylon Phillips, Kathryn Riddles, Kristi Roberts, Michelle Seymour, Rhonda Smith, Christine Sofka, Jana Stiffel, Tracey Williford, and Cheryl Zane. Proceeds from tickets plus 11 percent of all merchandise sales support Houston Ballet Foundation, its Academy, and scholarship programs. The Nutcracker Spring Market takes place Friday, April 8, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, April 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $20; children ages 2 and under are free. See nutcrackermarket.com or call 713-535-3231.

More than 250 animal lovers “took flight” with the Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston crew for the 9th Annual Wags & Whiskers Brunch and Pet Fashion Show at the Lone Star Flight Museum, chaired by Melinda Wineinger.

The event, themed “Around the World with Animeals,” raised more than $109,000 for the Animeals program, which provides free pet food and vet care to the dogs and cats of Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels homebound seniors.

Casey Curry served as emcee and welcomed guests onboard to fly around the world on Animeals Airline, Flight 2022. Ann Kaesermann, a longtime Animeals donor and volunteer, was honored with the 2022 Animeals Champion Award. Pets, accompanied by pet parents, took to the runway to show off their “world WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 60

www.vbaf.com • Family Owned Since 1952 2504 Bissonnet Street • 713-528-2404 WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 61

NEIGHBORS

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Back Porch

The group-text conundrum

W

e have all thought about it: How did we not get lost without Google Maps?

Without the Life360 app, how did we track the whereabouts of our children, or our parents?

How long could we go without a check-in before we decided our child had tripped and fallen into the lake and drowned during her morning walk?

Without the Facebook app, how did we know our high school friend we hadn’t seen in 30 years had a fabulous time in Cabo last week?

And how many hours must we have spent on landlines connected to walls, calling individual people to organize a game of golf, or a group vacation, or a PTO project?

Personally, I have no idea. It amazes me that I was ever not able to Find My Friends (meaning my children and mother).

Certainly our lives have been made easier via the smartphones we are now lost without. Who else feels strangely unsettled and untethered upon accidentally leaving your phone at home – or worse, having it fall out of your jeans and into the toilet at the grocery store? Those tiny computers keep us connected to everyone and everything that matters in our lives. Family, friends, bank accounts, emails, even meditation practices.

They’re all in our purses and pockets, just a screentouch away. I don’t want to be disconnected.

That is, until the texts start flying. Then, I cannot – I mean cannot – keep up. Glancing at my phone right now, I have 84 unread texts.

That is not good. But between emails and texts and 16 calls a day from my children at college (no cap, in their words), I give up.

To my friends who are more organized or more compulsive, or maybe just in possession of more spare time: I am sorry. It’s not personal.

But please, please, please don’t send me “???” when I don’t answer your text within the hour.

Or the day. Like I said, I’ve given up. If you really need me, just dial the phone.

And I say this before I even address the topic of group texts, but group-text shame is real.

“I am on so many group texts,” one mom of four little people says. “For example, ‘Boy Moms of 2026,’ ‘Girl Moms of 2026’ since I have boygirl twins, all of my kids’ sports teams, a 40th WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ APRIL 2022 62

birthday party I’m hosting for a friend, a trip I’m taking in April with some moms.

If I don’t look at my phone for a solid hour or two hours, like if I go to the grocery store or to my workout class, I’ll get out and I’ll have, you know, 86 texts.”

Total coincidence on numbers of unread texts – this mom and I did not coordinate.

“I know a lot of other people experience this too,” she says, “but I find it all so overwhelming. Even one dinner starts a group text!

“I don’t want to be the person who SILENT MODE? Sometimes it’s hard to keep up with texts coming at us from all parts of never replies, but our lives. when I finally sit One friend frantically called me a few months down to read them all, I am lost, and then I have ago, wondering what to do after she’d told her to go up to the very top and read the whole entire lunch group of eight that the main organexchange.” izer needed to lighten up and let someone else My advice: Give yourself a few years, and you decide for once where the group would meet. “Is might not care as much about being the one there a way to recall it?” she wanted to know who doesn’t reply. (she was asking the wrong person). Short of Still, that leaves us with the problem of hitthat, “What do I say to make it sound like I’m ting the wrong button. It happens on social not actually annoyed and I really like her?” she media all the time – we’re stalking Facebook and asked. Beats me. I just let her vent and told her accidentally “like” our high school boyfriend’s it would all blow over…she just had to stay ex-wife’s new husband’s post. There’s no taking home for a while. that back.

But we don’t want to stay home. We want to There’s also no taking back the touch of the go to lunch…and PTO meetings, and tennis little text-send arrow, even a split-second after games, and couples’ trips. So please, please, please, you realize you sent that message to the group keep us on the group texts! Just don’t judge when instead of the one friend you thought you it seems like we’ve drowned in the lake. could trust. behance.net/runamokstudios

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