The West University Buzz - August 2018

Dr. Crystal Wright with sons Andrew and Reid

One Year After the Flood Harvey, With Newborns Saving Meyerland Chef’s Corner: Michael Mina Back to Bellaire High

School-Night

Suppers

by Jennifer Oakley

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Connecting Through Food

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EDITOR’S NOTE Harvey was a jerk. So many said it (and often with more colorful language) in the moments and months following the storm that caused destruction, loss and stress for so many. Sara Schoenfield Murphy found out her Nottingham Forest home was being destroyed and her family evacuated while she was in the hospital delivering a baby boy. No, she opted not to name her newborn “Harvey” – yes, everyone asked, including me as we were sitting outside her almost-done, remodeled home along with big sister Morgan. (She and Daniel named their son Miles.) They were one of so many families in the Buzz coverage area affected by Harvey. Our annual Back-To-School Issue happens to mark the oneyear anniversary of the hurricane. We certainly did not want to honor Harvey; however, we did want to highlight just a few of the families finally seeing the light after a year of hardships. In this issue you will find our traditional school articles, including school-night suppers, as our kids start a fresh year, alongside Harvey-related articles that show the strength, resilience and power of our neighbors. 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 Editor Publisher Associate Editors Design Manager Staff Writers

Contributing Writers Account Managers Interns

Joni Hoffman Michael Hoffman Cheryl Laird Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld John Duboise Tracy L. Barnett Deborah Lynn Blumberg Sharon Albert Brier Andria Frankfort Angie Frederickson Todd Freed Cathy Gordon Michelle Casas Groogan Dai Huynh Annie Blaylock McQueen Jennifer Oakley Cheryl Ursin Russell Weil Mary Lee Wilkens Andrea Blitzer, Stephanie Goldfield, Leslie Little, Kim Montgomery Jack Avedesian, Julia Boyles, Abby Cohan, Benjamin Cohen, Nathan Lederman, Kelly Thomas

On our cover: Dr. Crystal Wright makes sure sons Andrew (on counter) and Reid eat healthy at home.

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 © 2018 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 AUGUST 2018 4

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 5

MAILBAG

Your letters, thoughts, opinions Photo feedback was a bonus I just wanted to send a quick note to thank the Buzz Magazines and all of the judges who selected my photograph [Icelandic Horses] as the Grand Prize winner of this year’s photo contest [July 2018]. I am truly humbled to have my photo recognized in this way.

But even more importantly I appreciated the thoughtful feedback all of the judges gave me on why they liked the image. That was an extra “prize” for winning the photo contest I hadn’t expected. I look forward to next year’s contest; better start planning my next photo trip!

Darren Inoff Editor’s note: Congratulations again, Darren! See all winning photographs at thebuzzmagazines.com. Amateur photographers, look out for details about next year’s Photo Contest in the March issue of The Buzz and online in the spring.

Uncle Matt did good It is always fun to see the published photos that The Buzz selects for the annual photo contest. It is even more exciting to see your children in a photo that placed. My sons, Travis and Bennett, were very excited to see the photo their Uncle Matt (Bennett) took of them [The Clay Boys, Third Place/People category]. My brother’s artistic skills captured the essence of my boys.

To say the least, seeing that photo published on the cover of The Tanglewood/River Oaks Buzz created a tremendous “buzz” in our home.

Caroline Clay

Photo contest inspires Thank you to all at The Buzz Magazines for putting on such an amazing photo contest! Love that you offer five fun categories and accept unlimited entries. Add in that it’s free, limited to amateurs and judged by experts, and you’ve got a winner of a contest. There aren’t many – if any – out there with all these features. You’ve made submitting photos a snap, and your staff is supportive, kind and responds promptly to questions. I’ve participated in the contest the last few years, and every year I look forward to it.

[Kathy’s photo Full Moon on Duty received fourth place in the Landscapes category this year.]

For me, it’s often the spark for needed jolts of inspiration to get out there and click, click, click! It’s exciting and fun to be a part of – and an honor to be published in your magazine.

Kathy Miller-Fujimoto

Back porch fan Thank you for the quick response to my request about an online link to Andria Frankfort’s Cleaning Up After Camp article [July 2018 Back Porch] so I could email it to my daughter and daughter-in-law. They both live out of state, and they really liked the article. They are experienced moms of campers, but learned new information about the “art" of unpacking after camp.

I look forward to reading The Buzz each month; it’s upbeat and positive (especially the Back Porch column.., which is truly like a “back porch” WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 6

experience). Passing on new ideas that I read in The Buzz helps me to be a “cool” mother and mother-in-law.

Marge Mayer Editor’s note: Marge, thank you for your letter, and we’re so glad this article helped out your family. If you missed it, you can see this article for great camp cleanup tips at thebuzzmagazines.com.

Two green thumbs up I really enjoyed reading Kelly Thomas's [online] piece about recycling [Recycling: A Greener City, a Greener Planet, Buzzworthy Blog]. It was an impressive overview about the importance of recycling and sustainability, and her background research was complete and well communicated. Some of my family members and acquaintances have mentioned that they were motivated to be more mindful of recycling following reading this article.

The staff at Buzz Magazines are remarkable, and I anticipate that Kelly has a promising future ahead of her!

George Williams, MD, Member, Environmental and Sustainability Board Editor’s note: Thank you, George, for the kind words and for being interviewed

by Kelly Thomas, one of our talented summer interns. You can see this article and more from our interns at thebuzzmagazines.com/buzzworthy.

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 unique holiday traditions.

• Know a compelling neighbor to profile.

• Have interesting or funny parenting stories.

• Traveled to a fascinating travel destination.

• Enjoy buzzworthy hobbies.

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

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 7

NEIGHBORS

by Jennifer Oakley, staff writer

Weathering the Storm I

t’s been a tough year,” says Beth Yeshurun Synagogue Senior Rabbi Brian Strauss. “It’s been a tough year for a lot of people.”

Hurricane Harvey roiled through Houston last August and, with 51 inches of record-breaking rain, altered the physical and emotional landscape of the city. The disaster left residents with a new benchmark: life before Harvey and life after the storm.

“I don’t believe God causes natural disasters like hurricanes,” says Strauss, answering the question as to why Harvey could do so much damage to so many. “I think God is with us to help us through prayer, community and loving kindness. In Hebrew, the word savlanut means to be able to bear a burden, to be able to bear the weight. Harvey has taught me the value of patience and to be able to bear weight.”

And for Strauss, wife Lisa Shapiro Strauss and their three children, Joshua, 17, Noa, 14, and Ari, 13, all students at The Emery/Weiner School, there was a lot to bear. “We are that one family that had it all three places in our lives – both of our places of work and our home – all flooded,” says Lisa, a criminal defense attorney.

“It was a triple whammy. It was a nightmare.

Our home was a nightmare. Our synagogue is our life, and that was flooded, and it was such a nightmare downtown at the Criminal Justice Center where I work, with it flooding. Our whole life was just ‘flood’ for nine months.”

Their Bellaire home had never flooded before, and they did not expect it to do so during the hurricane. “Sunday morning we woke up and water started coming in and destroyed our downstairs,” recalls Rabbi Strauss. “Everything upstairs was okay, so we started trying to pick up our valuables like artwork, pictures, DVDs – as much as we could get upstairs. We spent the whole day thinking: How are we are going to get over this?”

The answer, it turns out, was in the form of friends – and complete strangers. “The community was great,” says Strauss. "I think there really is something unique about Houston and how we are there for each other. People came out of the woodwork to help.” As a rabbi, Strauss is used to tending to people’s needs; being on the receiving end was a new experience for him. “It’s WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 8

the first time in my life, I was like: ‘Ya, that would be great,’ when people showed up and offered to help.

This flood reminded me of the power of community.

Whatever part of your community you are in, it makes a difference, whether it’s synagogue or Little League.” The family was able to move back into their remodeled home in June.

I

Dylan Aguilar

One year after Hurricane Harvey

n the September 2017 issue of The Buzz, readers met Tom King in the article “Flood of Humanity.” King, a sales executive with Victory Packaging, along with his children, Max, 11, and Kenna, 9, students HOMEWARD BOUND Rabbi Brian Strauss and his wife Lisa Shapiro Strauss moved at St. Vincent de back into their renovated home nine months after Hurricane Harvey flooded them out.

Paul Catholic because his house was gutted so quickly, he was School, had been rescued from their Meyerland able to find workers and materials before items home and aided by friends from the West got scarce or backlogged.

University Little League community. In the year For three months, the Kings lived in a friend’s since Harvey, King has been able to restore his garage apartment. “Reid and Laura Bumgarner home, and the family moved back in around took us in,” says King. “I knew them a little bit Thanksgiving. He credits Keesha and Robby because of baseball. Every morning, they would Organ for bringing 100 volunteers to his house to share their breakfast with us. It was a simple daily clean it up as soon as the floodwaters receded. routine that included warm, genuine hugs, and “I am so glad for the network of people that my kids definitely needed that. They would hug we had – it was a game changer for us,” says and hold my kids like they were their own. Their King. “Had they not stepped in to help, I think warmth and their love was very comforting.” even two weeks later the labor would not have King rebuilt his home (continued on page 10) been there to help me rebuild.” King says that

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 9

(continued from page 8) with industrial materials

that will be able to survive if there ever is another flood. “There is no wood on the floors; it’s all tile. All of our beds are raised. The TV and media equipment are raised. Even in my office, my work table is raised; it’s an old table on steel legs. My pool table converts into a dining table and has cast iron legs.” They also have learned to live with less.

“When we moved back in, I had four plates and a couple of pots and pans. Whenever we use them, we just wash and reuse them,” he says, noting that he put salvaged items in storage last September. “I have not been back to the storage unit. And I know there are some things there I could use. I think Max and Kenna have learned an appreciation for the simple things in what you have, like just having one jacket, having less but being selective about what you have.”

King says living through Harvey just a few years after his wife died of breast cancer has been difficult. “The five stages of trauma are real, and the kids got a taste of that after they lost their mom,” he says, adding that their Weimaraner, Comiskey, died of old age in January at age 14.

“But I am still grateful. I am in a great community. I have survived back-to-back trauma, and I not only survived but got good at it. Max and Kenna are awesome kids, and it’s nice to be back home and have stability and a routine.”

L

indsay and Clay Colvin are still searching for that routine. Since Harvey, they have been out of their Braes Heights home and in a rental apartment with their four sons: Graydon, 11, Bennett, 8, Jack, 4, and Rhodes, 2.

“Our bedtime prayer usually starts with: ‘Dear God, thank you for our family, our friends, our home, our church, our neighborhood and our schools,’” says Lindsay. “Sometimes, this year in the apartment, I’ve struggled over the word ‘home’ as it applies to our current situation.”

“It’s not home in a traditional sense,” says Clay, a consultant with Accenture. “It’s a place we live. It’s four walls and a roof over our heads.

That’s the difference between a house and a home. When you are not in your home, you want your old bedroom with your brother, and you want the marks on the wall where you measure your kids’ heights.”

When Harvey blew into town, the Colvins were uneasy. Clay went out to check the bayou around midnight and saw that the water had spilled over its banks. After that he packed up their cars and moved them to higher ground at a shopping center. “Around 2:30 a.m. we got up and started picking things up and saving stuff,” says Lindsay. “The water did not start coming in until 5:30 a.m.” At 7:30 a.m., Clay put life jackets on everyone and then pulled Lindsay and the boys in his inflatable kayak to a friend’s house several blocks over. Then, he went back to their street and made two trips rescuing neighbors who had taken refuge in an attic.

With the aid of friends to watch their children, the Colvins were able to get back to their WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 10

AFTER HARVEY Lindsay Colvin and her husband Clay found some smiles when a cousin convinced Lindsay to try on her flood-soaked wedding dress. Later, they were able to have the dress restored.

house once the water subsided. "We had a tremendous amount of support,” says Clay.

“Friends, people from church [First Presbyterian Church of Houston], and some people we did not even know just showed up to help. There was one guy – his name was Cory and he was from Chicago – just showed up. He said he was a teacher and he had taken a few days off and just wanted to come help. He stayed a full day just pulling things out of the house.”

One sentimental item found during the clean up was Lindsay’s wedding dress, which had been hanging in a hall closet. Saddened that the dress was stained by flood water, Lindsay did not know what to do. Her cousin encouraged Lindsay to try it on. “It was just like our wedding day when she put on the dress – just not as clean as our

wedding day,” laughs Clay, who says they have tried to find some humor in the events of the past year. “She looked beautiful in the dress.”

The Colvins say patience has been key to surviving the year since Harvey. Instead of remodeling or rebuilding, they opted to put their home up for sale and want to buy a new one in Braes Heights. “Maybe it takes a natural disaster, but it is amazing to see how the community comes together in a time of need,” Clay says. “It’s one of the reasons we don’t want to leave the neighborhood. It is pretty fantastic to see that this community is the glue that pulls us all together. As we look to start the next chapter in our lives, we hope to find that new home in the same community that has given us so much.”

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WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 11

NEIGHBORS

by Michelle Casas Groogan, staff writer

Saving Meyerland Residents rise to the challenge

M

eandering the streets of Meyerland, it doesn’t take long to notice the bareness that still dots the tree-lined streets here. Shells of homes litter the landscape after floodwaters from Hurricane Harvey ravaged the area one year ago, ejecting families from their homes and tight-knit community.

“My husband grew up in this neighborhood; he went to Kolter Elementary. I grew up just five minutes down the road. This neighborhood has always been ‘home’ for us. You can't beat the location, the bayou trails are wonderful, the homes have character with beautiful trees,” said Valerie Davis, mother of 10-year-old Luke, 8year-old Eli and 4-year-old Jules.

According to one estimate, 1,900 of the 2,400 homes that make up Meyerland had water in them. For residents like the Davis family, flooding has become a too-familiar story, after Memorial Day 2015, Tax Day 2016 and, finally, Hurricane Harvey 2017. But roots run deep in Meyerland, and many families, including the Davises, are staying.

“We knew this time we couldn't take the risk of repairing and moving back in at ground level.

We cleaned and dried out our home as quickly as we could,” said Valerie. “We took a few months to consider our options: sell our home, tear down our home, or elevate our home. The thought of moving to a non-flooding neighborhood was very enticing; however, when we thought about what brought us to Meyerland in the first place, there was no way we could leave.”

Once showcased in magazines for its affordable single-story ranch-style homes and its "ideal plan" for a subdivision, Meyerland is the vision of a man named George Meyer who in 1955 developed 1,200 acres of rice fields into the neighborhood. What was first built as a suburb is now a community that hugs the heart of Houston, touted for its convenient commute to the Medical Center, the Galleria and downtown.

It is a quiet enclave of attractive but not flashy homes where kids still ride bikes and can play a pickup game of baseball at the park. It’s home to some of HISD’s best-performing schools, plus bayou exercise trails and nearby shopping.

Today, the look of Meyerland is rapidly WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 12

HERE TO STAY Valerie and Matt Davis couldn't walk away from Meyerland. After three floods, they are elevating so their children – Luke, 10, Eli, 8, and Jules, 4 – can return to their home.

changing, with many of those sprawling singlestory homes now protruding above the tree line – the result of city-mandated flood mitigation affecting development in the floodplain. The new ordinance that goes into effect September 1 requires all properties in the 100- and 500-year floodplain that are built new or modified by more than 50 percent of their current structural value to be elevated to at least two feet above the 500-year flood plain. For most homes that means elevation from 6 to 8 feet.

“When we’re done our house should be more attractive than it ever was,” said Jamie Bisel.

She and her husband Chris have flooded five times since 2001, when they moved into their Meyerland home. They were one of the first families to receive federal grant money to elevate after the Memorial Day flood of 2015. They should be in their newly elevated and renovated home by Thanksgiving.

“It’s a great location, but we wouldn’t have stayed without the grant. Most people can’t take a $500,000 loss on the house; we can’t afford to take some type of hit like that. So we felt like we had to raise,” said Jamie. “A lot of the older population did move, but you have a lot of younger families moving in. And a lot of people who didn’t have as much water in their houses have already repaired them and are back in.”

Harvey wasn’t just a hurricane but a four-day rainfall event that shattered U.S. records. The volume of water that fell in Harris County was equivalent to one trillion gallons, an amount that could fill the Astrodome 3,200 times. By Day 4, rising water had made a disastrous impact on Meyerland. Brays Bayou water levels were the highest ever recorded, surpassing previous historic floods in September 1983, Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 and Memorial Day 2015. Homes that had never flooded were (continued on page 14)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 13

(continued from page 12) suddenly inundated.

“It was such a scary and surreal thing to sit there and watch rising water inch closer and closer to your house,” said Michelle Comstock.

She and her husband Chance, along with their boys Braden and Carter, had just moved into their beautifully renovated Meyerland home just 60 days before Harvey hit.

“The last piece of art was hung on August 24th after months of furniture and décor planning took place. It was completely put together, only to be torn apart two days later. We had wanted to move to Meyerland for years and were confident with pursuing this home in Meyerland because it had never flooded. It was the quintessential plan – we would be able to walk our boys to and from their neighborhood school and eventually for them to gain independence by riding their bikes to school [Kolter Elementary].”

Michelle was aware of the risks. As a realtor, she has sold many homes in Meyerland before and since Harvey. They chose not to elevate or build new but to repair the damage. After six months they were among the first on their street back in their renovated home.

“We had heard throughout the years that the Meyerland community is the strongest there is.

We could never really begin to understand or comprehend this concept until Harvey happened,” said Michelle. “New friendships were made while living in The Highbank apartments [next door to Hobby Lobby] immediately after Harvey. There is almost an immediate intimacy that is present among the folks of Meyerland because of the vulnerable states we are or were in due to Harvey and repeat flooding.”

Kristin and Nick Welch bought in Meyerland at the height of the market in 2014 when this well-preserved booming slice of Houston could easily draw half a million for a piece of property.

Theirs was no exception, with a prime location across the street from Kolter Elementary so their three young children could walk to school.

“I felt like our neighborhood became a true community when we went through this the first time in the Memorial Day flood. Everybody was willing to help out their neighbors. You don’t get that everywhere you live. In some communities you don’t know your neighbors. We know almost everyone in our neighborhood. We have this bond.

It’s a sweet community, and we love this neighborhood,” said Kristin, who is a mortgage broker.

They thought about moving, but, as Kristin puts it, “it’s a big financial decision either way you go!” They opted for demolishing their “dream home” and building a new home in the same spot.

The same thing happened to Kolter Elementary. New construction on a new school has begun, with plans for students to return in January 2020.

Ed Wolff, a long-time Meyerland resident and realtor, admits it is tough to be surrounded by so many reminders of heartbreak. “My son watched the demolition of Kolter. He is 13 years old; it’s been his school since pre-K. It was sad and excitWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 14

UP, NOT OUT Jamie and Chris Bisel – with daughter Reagan and son Devon – raised their Meyerland house after five floods. They hope to be back in their home by Thanksgiving.

ing at the same time,” said Ed. “Most of the people we know are doing whatever they can to stay in the neighborhood. I believe Meyerland will come back bigger and better than it was before.

I think we stand a chance of Meyerland being less affordable now. When everything is new all at once and the bayou trails are better and flooding will continue to get mitigated you tend to see positive growth.”

And many believe that will still include a strong contingent of Jewish families. Meyerland has always been a central hub of Jewish life in the Bayou City, with several synagogues and Jewish agencies located in the area. But the Jewish Federation says Harvey’s destruction has left Houston’s Jewish community in crisis. A demographic study from 2016 by the Federation showed there were there 19,500 Jewish households in the Meyerland and Bellaire area.

“Based on the data we have from our synagogues and our partner organizations and Jewish Family Service, we believe about 2,000 Jewish households were impacted by Harvey and many

of them in the Meyerland area,” said director of Harvey recovery Kari Saratovsky. “We’ve seen incredible resilience within the community, but being so far removed from the storm we feel like there is still a paralysis among some. While many have been able to move on..., many are still suffering.”

The Jewish Federation has no plans to move away from Meyerland and is prioritizing funding for families to stay connected to Jewish life, with scholarships for day schools and camping programs. They are vigorously attempting to raise another $12 million and call the campaign imperative for the Jewish community’s longterm sustainability. A powerful video produced by the Federation details the catastrophic imprint Harvey left on the Jewish community while highlighting its resilience.

In the wake of a storm unmatched in a millennium, it is a message shared by thousands of Meyerlanders who’ve chosen to remain.

“It was a lesson about people and community,” said Ed Wolff. “We are more than buildings.”

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 15

Dylan Aguilar

NEIGHBORS

by Russell Weil, staff writer

Back to School Revisiting Bellaire High School

T

he desire to go back and relive a part of our past is often nothing more than a fleeting thought. Knocking on the door of a childhood home and asking for a nostalgic tour or reconnecting with a friend from grade school can bring back vivid memories.

After high school graduation in 1979, I was ready to move on. I thought I would never again step foot in those school hallways. The future was centered on becoming a Longhorn at The University of Texas at Austin.

But recently, I had an opportunity I couldn’t pass up, to return to my alma mater, Bellaire High School, going back to school as a 57-yearold student – for a day.

Bellaire principal Michael McDonough paired me with a student to shadow: Fayth Kemp, an energetic and bright junior (now senior), was my host for the day. Fayth, who loves writing, is on staff at the student-run news site Three Penny Press. She is in the eMotion Dance Company and National Honor Society, and will attend Florida A&M University to major in prelaw and business.

Her class schedule had been provided to me in advance, so I was aware that the day would run the spectrum from Spanish and AP Calculus to jazz dance. With introductions made, it was 7:40 a.m., and we were off to first period. Memories flooded back walking though the familiar halls lined with red lockers on the same terrazzo floor I walked on 40 years ago. Chattering students still scurried to get to class before the final bell rang. Entering the first class of the day, I noticed the door was adorned with artwork and posters, instead of the plain red-painted door we had when I was at Bellaire. These subtle differences stood out, yet so much looked and sounded the same.

Taking a seat in the class, I wondered what other changes were awaiting.

The energy of the classroom had taken on a new dynamic. Gone were the black chalkboards, replaced with white boards. The teacher’s desk, once prominent at the front of the room flanking the dusty chalkboards, was now positioned to the side or rear of the classroom. Rather than sitting behind the desk in WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 16

NOW AND THEN In the top photo, writer Russell Weil is brave enough to try one of today's electives at Bellaire High School, jazz dance. The bottom photo (courtesy of the BHS yearbook) shows a typical elective from when he went to high school almost 40 years ago, typing.

lecture mode, the instructors seemed more interactive, walking around the room and engaging with students. Even the entertaining class clowns in my U.S. History class were seamlessly brought into the conversation about the Red Scare of the 1950s by our teacher, Jared Manuel. The class clowns were fully relatable, as I had been labeled one myself. I took comfort in knowing we were still represented.

Beyond the interactivity of the teachers, classmates also intermingled with each other.

Fayth’s Spanish class, taught by Sandra Barron, was having an extra-credit quiz on the day I visited. On a large computer screen at the front of the class, quiz results were live as students proceeded through the exam. Working as a team, everyone’s progress was visible for all to see, which created great momentum to reach the finish line. This was quite different from when I was in school where any interaction between students taking a quiz could have been labeled as cheating. Technology has made learning an entirely different and fun game.

From all that I had encountered so far, high school had clearly become less rigid. Four

decades ago, violating the rules forbidding eating or chewing gum in class was considered misconduct and could result in being sent to the principal or given detention, as I had experienced first-hand. Today’s rules against food in the classrooms seemed to have been relaxed.

Initially, I thought my classmates were sneaking in a few bites. I asked Fayth if we were allowed to eat in class. She responded with an emphatic “of course.” I pulled out my Fiber One bar and enjoyed snacking in class without suffering the consequences.

A day in the life of a high school student is not complete without P.E. class. As I am awkward in all sports, this had always been my least favorite class. As I was repeatedly the last one chosen for any team, I was certain the same scenario would be playing out again. But the class I would be joining was eMotion, the Bellaire jazz dance company. Originally, this had me a little concerned. I have zero rhythm. Certain this would be embarrassing, I had reached out to Bellaire’s director of communications, Debbie Campbell, to suggest I follow another student with a more conventional schedule. Debbie

Dylan Aguilar

Bellaire High School yearbook

HE'S BACK In the photo at left, from the 1978 BHS yearbook, Russell Weil (top row, third from left) was part of the Office Education program, which allowed him to go to school in the morning and then work as an office assistant for Gerald Hines. Inset: Russell's 1979 senior picture. At right: Fayth Kemp, now a senior at BHS, is on staff at the student-run Three Penny Press. She led our writer around for the day.

reassured me that all would go well, so I found myself facing jazz dance.

“They start with stretching,” reassured Fayth.

“That will be easy for you to do.” I walked in on energetic young ladies in dancewear, stretching in preparation for the days’ practice. While not dressed accordingly, I joined the stretching.

While awkward and embarrassing at first, the rhythm eventually set in. Fayth encouraged me to just have fun.

Watching these talented performers practicing a routine for an upcoming show was inspiring. Their choreographer set the tone with just the right hip-hop music. Repeatedly rehearsing each step made for a swift third period. The options for P.E. at Bellaire go far beyond the standard rotation of volleyball, track and softball I had to endure. The jazz dance class at Bellaire is popular, with both guys and girls signing up for the program.

As a student, I always had looked forward to lunch, the best part of my school day.

Admittedly, I cannot recall ever eating the food in the Bellaire cafeteria. There was a walk-up window where students could order sub sandwiches, but other than that, I opted to leave campus to grab a burger from Bellaire Broiler Burger or to enjoy a barbecue sandwich from The Hickory Pit. In the interest of full disclosure, I shared with Fayth that lunch would often be my last class of the day, as I often chose not to return to school afterward.

When I explained to Fayth that we had an hour for lunch when I was at Bellaire, she educated me on lunch at Bellaire today. “We have 43 minutes for lunch. None of the cooler students eat in the lunchroom. Some leave school, but most just eat their lunch sitting somewhere on campus in little groups.”

I noticed students sitting everywhere – the hallways, the area by the auditorium, outside, and in

the parking lot. The cafeteria, however, is still where the action is. Students with backpacks wearing the standard jeans, shorts and T-shirts queued up in line chatting about the latest in pop culture or listening to music funneled in through headphones as they waited to be served. Surprisingly, some of the food served was not an HISD creation.

Fast food such as Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s and Taco Bell are brought in on rotating days as ways to support the various clubs on campus. I walked through the long lunch line for burgers from McDonald’s that were stacked where only HISD pizza and rolls costing 10 cents used to dominate.

There is a separate line should any student opt to eat HISD-prepared meals like chicken wings, tacos and beef hoagies. Lunch options have clearly multiplied over the last 40 years.

The students I shared class with were welcoming and did not make me feel as if I were the odd man out. Selfies were taken, and questions were answered. During my introduction to the staff of the school paper, Three Penny Press, I explained that I employed and worked with young social-media professionals. Two students, writer/poet Jackson Gray and photographer/meteorologist-to-be Mark Hicks, asked me for a job. I think they were joking, but maybe not.

The eight-period day at Bellaire was long and exhausting. While so much about Bellaire has changed, much of the familiar remained.

Three teachers who taught when I was at Bellaire are still on staff. The chance to revisit with Russian teacher Lisa McClendon, Career Technology Education teacher Alice McKinney and English teacher Camille Quaite brought back memories. Their dedication as teachers and mentors is inspiring.

Ms. McClendon and I reminisced about how she and others led Bellaire students on the school’s first trip to Russia in 1979, and

how they went three times a year for the next 10 years.

Ways of disseminating information have changed. Laptops have replaced schoolbooks and bulky televisions where we once viewed public-television shows or witnessed space travel and exploration. “Technology enables us to do different things in the same classroom, like cartoons in Russian for different levels or keyboarding in Russian on the phonetic keyboard,” said McClendon. “The constants are the excellent leadership…. The wonderful students and their parents make the school as strong as it ever was.”

Bellaire is about to embark on the largest evolution yet. With the exception of the science building, which was completed in 2012, the entire school will be razed in phases to make way for a new and much larger 425,000-square-foot complex, including a multi-level parking garage.

During this time, students will occupy the campus and move to completed areas as construction progresses. An updated contemporary structure with symmetrical design features, along with outdoor and rooftop green spaces, will replace the current mid-century building that has been home to Bellaire High School since 1955. The construction is estimated to take approximately 30 months, with students expected to begin roaming the halls of a completed new Bellaire High School in early 2021.

Going back to high school was hard. As we parted, I commented to Fayth that I didn’t recall my school day being so long. I found it somewhat challenging to keep up with her pace. Fayth was engaged in each class we attended, eager for any test or task that was assigned. These are skills that will serve her well as she continues her journey beyond Bellaire High School.

Go, Cardinals!

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 17

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FOOD

by Jennifer Oakley, staff writer

What’s For Dinner?

School-night suppers

W

hat’s for dinner? Weekdays, especially when school is in session, are busy.

So what’s a mom or dad to do to get dinner on the table with ease? For that we have turned to four Buzz residents who have mastered school-night suppers.

Kat Thompson Kat Thompson’s suppers always start on the weekend. “I think about what I am going to cook for the week on Sundays,” says Thompson, an outgoing civic volunteer who lives in Memorial with husband Brian, owner of Thompson Custom Homes, and son Will, a senior at Memorial High School. “I am ‘the Queen of Google,’ and I will look up recipes and then read 10 different recipes and combine them together to make something.

I shop and cook on Sundays.”

Thompson strategizes her dinners so that one meal leads to the next. Case in point: her roast chicken. She will roast a chicken on Sunday, and the family will have that for dinner.

Leftover chicken is then pulled off the bones and turned into chicken enchiladas for Monday and Oriental chicken salad on Tuesday. Often, Thompson will do double-duty and cook two complete meals to further stretch out dinners.

Her young-adult children, Courtney and John, often show up when they are done with work for the day, too. “They come over all the time to eat,” she says. “We try and eat as a family two times a week.” She cooks before Will comes home from school and says family dinners are the goal, but when he has events or SAT tutors, she serves his dinner early before he has to go to his next activity.

She credits her mother for instilling her love of cooking. “She is a really good cook, and I would literally sit on the kitchen counter and watch her,” she says. Thompson enjoys replicating meals her own mom made and have passed those down to her children. “I still make her red beans and rice, but I have not mastered her gumbo.”

Jennifer Smith Jennifer Smith is nicknamed “The Breakfast Fairy” by her friends because she likes to wake up early and prepare menus that include items WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 18

such as German Puff Pancakes. Yet Smith is equally as passionate about dinners. “I think gathering in the kitchen and cooking has always been a big part of my life,” says Smith, a law partner at Hogan Lovells. “It’s where we were raised: in the kitchen!”

At age 12, Smith got a job working at a catering company. “That is TAKING THE CAKE Lucy, Caroline and Molly Vestal (from left) love mom Jenny what I did every Vestal’s Black Russian cake.

Saturday.

I made night – with a few simple ingredients, you can desserts for 200 people, and I learned a lot from marinate it in the morning before you leave for the professional chefs.” Those early experiences work and then boom, put it in the oven or on made Smith particularly invested in cooking for the grill when you get home,” she says. her family, husband Peter Ragauss, a retired CFO of Baker Hughes who is now honorary Jenny Vestal consul of Latvia, and children Andrew, a freshFor Jenny Vestal of Bellaire, a cookbook writman at St. John’s School, and Emily, now a ten by her mother is treasured help with schoolfreshman at Colorado College. night suppers. “My mom was an amazing cook,” Even though their schedules take them in difsays Vestal. “We grew up eating cuisine from all ferent directions, suppers are sacred. “We do sit over: curries to shish kabobs, stir-fry to good ole down together, even if it is just for 20 minutes,” American meatloaf! Mom made cookbooks of her says the lively Smith, who lives in River Oaks. recipes for me and my brother and sister. She is no “Family dinner is important to me. With two longer alive, but that was the greatest gift ever.” careers and both parents working it has become Today, Vestal shares those recipes with her the time to connect and check in and hear three daughters: Molly, a freshman at Bellaire about how everyone’s day is going. We have no High School, and twins Lucy and Caroline, sevelectronics when we eat; we are truly enth graders at Pin Oak Middle School. “One unplugged.” To make suppers seamless, Smith major change in the last year has been inviting plans ahead. “I try and keep it simple with prep the kids to take part in dinner,” she says. “They time and cooking time reduced to a minimum. have always enjoyed learning to cook, but now I choose my meals and my recipes on the weekit’s actually helpful. One kid might not have a end, and I make the plan and my shopping lists.” lot of homework and can help prepare the salad.”

Although Smith gets help with the shopping, Vestal says she and husband Wesley, a vice presshe does all the cooking herself, with Peter ident with Weatherford International, have a lot assisting at the grill. of moving parts with three active daughters.

“I won’t say we are super healthy, but I try,” “I typically plan the week by thinking out the she says. “I use veggies a lot and keep it super meals for the week depending on the evenings’ simple like roasted asparagus and broccoli. I will schedules,” she says. “When days and nights are cook a protein, a carb, a vegetable and a salad really busy, I turn to meals I have frozen ahead of like sliced tomatoes or bell peppers.” A favorite time by taking them out of the freezer the morning protein is fish. “Fish is super easy on a school

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FINE DINING At left: A family favorite is Kat Thompson’s homemade spaghetti and meatballs. Middle: Jenny Vestal’s Black Russian cake is a treasured recipe. At right: Dr. Crystal Wright cooks an updated version of her mom’s beloved jambalaya.

of to defrost before dinnertime. When my evenings are a little slower, I am able to cook bits and pieces of the meals between driving and ‘Mom calls!’”

Vestal is always on the lookout for ways to feed the family on particularly busy days. “I do like using a crock pot because it’s a great way to have dinner ready, but the prepping begins in the morning,” she says. “I have a great ribs and beans recipe that is kind of like barbecue where the meat falls off the bones – it is delicious.”

“We do make it a point to eat together as a family, and that time may change every day.

Dinnertime is when we get all the good scoop on the day’s events. Sometimes the conversations aren’t pleasant, sometimes they are insane and silly, sometimes they are somber, but it’s always a great way for everyone to unload and share thoughts.”

This year, the Vestal family is particularly thankful for family dinners; after months of living upstairs in their house after being flooded during Hurricane Harvey, they are back downstairs, cooking in a newly renovated kitchen.

Crystal Wright Dr. Crystal Wright, an anesthesiologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center, credits her mom and her husband, neurologist Randall Wright, with helping make school-night suppers a success.

With two boys, Andrew and Reid, fifth- and third-grade students at River Oaks Baptist School, they try to balance good food and family time.

“We cherish dinner time together as a family, and I want the meals to be simple, healthy and visually appealing,” says Wright, who lives in West University Place. “We eat with our eyes, so I try to think of creative ways to make the meals look appealing. That happens by having several pre-prepped vegetables of varying colors

that make it easy to toss into a salad or main dish and develop a colorful plate.”

Wright says watching her mom cook at home while growing up in Lafayette, Louisiana, inspired her own cooking. “My favorite dish from my mom is a crawfish étouffée and jambalaya,” says Wright, who has adapted her mom’s recipe to have a “healthier twist on the jambalaya.”

“I have learned so much from my mom and village of friends that probably love to cook more than I do. I am a list junkie, and I always have a list around of certain staples that we need. I always have spices, Greek yogurt, a protein, colorful veggies, scallions, onions, bell peppers, avocado, brown rice and bulgur around. With these items I can quickly whip up any meal.”

That’s where her husband enters the equation. “My other role model for cooking is my husband. Although time is more limited for him to participate in meal preparation, when he does cook he is creative with meals. He is the author of The Wright Choice: Your Family's Prescription For Healthy Eating, Modern Fitness & Saving Money, a book that he wrote to help guide his patients along the journey of healthy eating. His passion for healthy eating is creatively integrated into our family meals.”

That’s the ideal prescription for tackling school-night suppers. “Life is busy and crazy. I always try to make sure the boys realize that they need to sit down and be together to eat dinner and everyone has the opportunity to go around and say what they are grateful for and thank God for all their blessings.”

Miso-Glazed Salmon

by Jennifer Smith ¼ cup white miso (fermented soybean paste)

¼ cup mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine) 2 Tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar 2-3 Tablespoons soy sauce 2 Tablespoons minced green onions 1½ Tablespoons minced fresh ginger (jar fine) 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil 4 salmon fillets, 8 ounces each Salt and freshly ground pepper Whisk together the miso, mirin, vinegar, soy sauce, green onions, ginger and sesame oil in a small bowl. Place the salmon in a baking dish, pour the marinade over and turn to coat. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Heat outside grill to high. Remove the fish from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Grill the salmon, skin side down, with the cover closed, until golden brown and a crust has formed, about 3 to 4 minutes. Turn the salmon over and continue grilling for 3 to 4 minutes for medium doneness. Note that this recipe works equally well if baked in a 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes. To save on clean-up time, I cover the metal roasting pan and the rack insert to the pan in aluminum foil and spray with Pam.

Healthy Jambalaya

by Crystal Wright 1 Tablespoon coconut oil 1 large onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 3 ounces sausage (turkey or andouille), finely chopped 12 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces 2 10-ounce cans unsalted diced tomatoes and green chiles 2 teaspoons salt-free (continued on page 20) WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 19

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WHAT’S COOKING At left: Jennifer Smith’s miso-glazed salmon, quinoa with cucumber, tomato and feta and tomato salad. At right: Emily and Andrew Ragauss, with parents Jennifer Smith and Peter Ragauss (from left), enjoy dinners together at home. (continued from page 19) Cajun seasoning

½ teaspoon Kosher salt 2 cups of cooked brown or white rice 4 scallions, chopped 1 lemon, cut into wedges Hot sauce (optional) Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high.

Add onion, green bell pepper and sausage; cook 4 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Add chicken; cook 4 minutes or until chicken is lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Strain tomatoes in a colander over a bowl, reserving ¼ cup liquid. Add strained tomatoes, ¼ cup reserved tomato liquid, Cajun seasoning, salt and rice to pan, scraping pan with a wooden spoon to loosen browned bits.

Cover pan, reduce heat to medium, and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove pan from heat; sprinkle with scallions. Divide evenly among 4 bowls. Serve with lemon wedges and hot sauce, if desired. Pair with crusty bread for dipping. For a bright punch of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon over your bowl or a hit of hot sauce just before serving.

Spaghetti Sauce

by Kat Thompson 5 Tablespoons salted butter 1 large white onion, peeled and halved 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons dried basil 1 large garlic clove, minced 1 bay leaf, optional 2 6-ounce cans tomato paste 2 cups water Heat a large saucepan over medium heat.

Add all of the ingredients except tomato paste and water and bring to a simmer. Turn the heat to low to keep a steady simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Stir in tomato paste and water and simmer for another 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 20

Black Russian Cake

by Jenny Vestal 1 box yellow cake (no pudding in the mix) 1 large box of instant chocolate pudding 1 cup canola or vegetable oil 4 eggs ¼ cup vodka ¼ cup Kahlua ¾ cup water Glaze: ¼ cup Kahlua ½ cup powdered sugar Mix together for glaze Mix cake ingredients together. Beat 4 minutes until very smooth. Bake at 350 degrees in a greased bundt pan for 45-50 minutes. (Not to worry: the alcohol all bakes off.) While cake is baking, mix glaze ingredients together and set aside. When cake is ready, remove from oven; cool 10 minutes. Poke little holes all around, and after it has cooled, pour the glaze all over the cake. Sprinkle powdered sugar before serving.

Chinese Chicken Salad

by Kat Thompson 1 bag Asian salad mix 3 green onions ½ roasted chicken (about 2 cups, chopped or shredded). You can also buy a rotisserie chicken.

Optional: 1 small can of Mandarin oranges, drained ¼ cup sliced almonds ¼ cup sunflower seeds Dressing ingredients: 1 ⁄3 cup rice wine vinegar 1½ teaspoons sesame oil 3 Tablespoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon minced ginger 2 Tablespoons canola oil 2 Tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce or chili sauce

(If you do not want to make your own dressing, simply use your favorite bottle of Asian dressing.)

In a large bowl, combine Asian salad mix, green onions, chicken and oranges (if using).

In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, oil, brown sugar and chili sauce. Pour dressing over salad, put in the almonds and sunflower seeds and toss to combine

Quinoa with Cucumber, Tomato and Feta

by Jennifer Smith 1 cup quinoa Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 ⁄8 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 lemon) ¼ cup good olive oil 1 cup thinly sliced scallions, white and green parts (5 scallions) 1 hothouse cucumber, un-peeled, seeded and medium-diced 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved through the stem 2 cups medium-diced feta cheese (8 ounces) Pour 2 cups of water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the quinoa and 1 teaspoon of salt; lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, until the grains are tender and open (they'll have little curly tails). Drain, place in a bowl and immediately add the lemon juice, olive oil and 1-1½ teaspoons of salt. In a large bowl, combine the scallions, cucumber, tomatoes, 1-2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Add the quinoa and mix well. Carefully fold in the feta. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate and serve cold.

MORE ONLINE See this story at thebuzzmagazines.com for lots of weeknight-dinner recipes from these Buzz residents.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 21

.

by Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Buzz Baby

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KIDS

A year after the flooding

Buzz Baby is a column about life with little ones.

Writer Annie McQueen has three children under the age of 4.

H

urricane Harvey didn’t care if you had 6-week-old twins at home, or if you were overdue with your second baby. It didn’t care if it brought 5 feet of water into your home at 5 a.m., or whether you had flood insurance.

But neighbors, emergency responders and even complete strangers cared. They cared about people like the Bowmans, who were evacuated out of their home by boat early in the morning with five children under the age of 4, three adults and two dogs.

Lindsey Lenig Bowman, a former high school teacher, and her husband, Ben Bowman, a territory manager for a cyber-security company, had welcomed twins on July 13, 2017. Their oldest child, Kaleb, was 4 when Harvey hit, followed by Connor, 2, Katherine, 1, and the twins, Brooke and Benjamin.

They lived in the quiet Memorial-area neighborhood of Whispering Oaks, where Lindsey, a Memorial High School grad, grew up. No one expected what happened during Hurricane Harvey to happen in their neighborhood.

At 1 in the morning on Sunday, Lindsey was awake doing what most parents of new twin babies are doing, feeding them. Ben had been out of the house, surveying the area to assess the potential risks that were looming in the minds of so many in Houston last August.

Ben came in to tell Lindsey the news – water was rising near their home, quickly. It was time to take action.

Lindsey woke up her sleeping mother, Rita Lenig, who was in town from Cresson, Texas, helping out with the twins. The three adults scrambled, packing a large cooler full of anything they could grab, and moved the children upstairs. They packed clothes, diapers and formula. The three older children settled into their parents’ bed to watch a show on the iPad, unaware of the danger surrounding them. The cartoons kept them distracted as water started seeping through the front door.

“I was still so naive that I began placing towWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 22

els in the entryway to avoid water spilling over onto the wood floors,” said Lindsey. “I think Ben knew better. He had brought in a chainsaw and an axe from the garage and told me that it was necessary in the event we needed to evacuate through the roof.”

Lindsey, Ben and Rita watched the water slowly rise inside their family living room, to the staircase, then above the first stair, then second, followed by the third. It was not stopping. ALMOST HOME Sara and Daniel Murphy were at Memorial Hermann Memorial City for the birth of their son, Miles (pictured, with older sister Morgan), as water Lindsey called 411 came into their family home during Hurricane Harvey. Their home should be ready and reported their by Thanksgiving. situation. Within who was holding Brooke tripped and fell into 10 minutes, volunteers who had been rescuing the water, accidentally dunking Brooke's car people since midnight arrived at the Bowman seat. “Thankfully, there was another volunteer home. It was four men and one woman, dressed down at the bottom to help him up almost in life jackets. The volunteers pointed at immediately, but Brooke's car seat and her Lindsey, Rita and the babies, and said, “You all clothes were wet. Ben said I looked up at him at and the babies, you go first. You have two minthis point, and all of the color had drained from utes to grab what you need.” Lindsey, Rita and my face and I looked terrified.” the volunteers took the babies in their car seats.

Before boarding the small rescue boat, Lindsey grabbed her backpack and started liftLindsey caught a glimpse of her family’s home. ing up one of the twins. “I remember them “I'll never forget the shock of walking down the telling me, ‘No, we will carry the babies out for stairs, and looking around the corner into the you,’” she said. They followed their orders and living room,” she said. “All of our stuff was floatstarted carefully walking down the stairs. ing in dark, murky water. Just 12 hours prior we Through tears, Lindsey says she remembers were playing in the playroom and sitting on the begging them to make sure they returned for her couch, and now everything was floating aimlessother three babies and husband. “That was the ly through the house.” hardest part. My three older ones couldn’t The rescuers returned 15 minutes later for Ben, swim,” she said. the three children and Rita’s (continued on page 24) While heading down the stairs, the volunteer

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 23

Sadie Cakes Photography

ONE YEAR LATER Lindsey and Ben Bowman and their children – twins Brooke and Benjamin, 1; Katherine, 2; Connor, 3; and Kaleb, 5 – were evacuated from their home at 5 a.m. by rescue volunteers during Hurricane Harvey. (continued from page 22) two small dogs. The family

was reunited at the Bunker Hill City Hall. The children, excited by the adventure, danced on the steps of the city hall in the drizzling rain. Three hours later, the family was taken to a shelter at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, where they stayed for four days.

Almost five feet of water stayed in their home for 12 days. On day 13 and for days after that, volunteers showed up to help them remediate the house and salvage anything they could.

Their neighborhood filled with volunteers from all over to help residents. “We had so many friends calling, texting and messaging to come help clean out our house – people I hadn't seen in years and others I had only briefly known,” said Lindsey. “The entire process was very emotional; little things would set me off. For example, school was about to start for my boys, and the thought that we had lost their backpacks and lunchboxes made me break down.” The family did not have flood insurance.

Today, almost a year later, the Bowmans, continue to regain momentum after Harvey. In July, they celebrated the twins’ first birthday, and construction is about to start on rebuilding their new home on the same lot.

S

ara Schoenfield Murphy, a commercial construction photographer, and her husband, Daniel, who manages a battery company, were expecting their second child, a baby boy, in August 2017. Their daughter Morgan was 2 at the

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 24

time, so Daniel’s mother, Sharon Murphy, traveled in from Canada with a friend to help out.

The couple, who lived in Nottingham Forest VIII, and neighbors were not overly concerned during Harvey, as the neighborhood had never flooded before. To be on the safe side, Sara and Daniel booked a hotel room at The Westin Houston, Memorial City, which connects to Memorial Hermann Memorial City where Sara had been planning to deliver. “There were a bunch of pregnant women walking around The Westin,” said Sara, laughing. Sharon and her friend Wendy stayed at the Murphy home to take care of Morgan.

The course of events changed when Harris County Flood Control District made a live public televised announcement that the reservoirs would be released. Sara and Daniel helplessly watched through tears from their hotel room, unable to leave and get home to their family.

The next morning, Sara arrived for her C-section. The baby needed to get out, and even a hurricane like Harvey was not going to change that. As they rolled her into the operating room, water rolled into her home. Her brother, Trey, who lives in a part of the neighborhood that did not flood, brought a canoe over to evacuate Morgan, Sharon and Wendy to his dry home.

Baby Miles Murphy was born on Monday, Aug. 28. As Sara was brought into post-op recovery, texts, Facebook posts and news flooded in.

Their home was flooding. Sara’s blood pressure started to rise. The group texts pinged their

phone: “You need to call your insurance” and “You need to call FEMA,” they read. “Neighbors were going into homes by boats and calling us, asking what they could save,” said Sara.

Sara’s blood pressure remained elevated, so they put her on a notoriously unpleasant magnesium sulfate drip through an IV. “It was awful,” she said. The doctors elected to keep her in the hospital until Friday. During that week, Daniel was able to rent an apartment at The Lofts at CityCentre apartments.

Nottingham Forest neighbors, friends and strangers rallied around the Murphy family.

They collected donated baby gear, a crib, baby clothes, adult clothes, furniture and more and brought it all to the apartment to set it up.

Sara and Daniel and baby Miles patiently waited to be reunited with Morgan. “We hadn’t seen Morgan in over a week,” Sara said. They brought baby Miles to their new home at the apartment. Inside they found a picture-perfect setup where not one detail was spared or overlooked – a baby crib was made up with fresh sheets, tiny newborn clothes dangled in the closet, and Morgan even had a “princess” room all to herself. “We were crying the whole time,” said Sara. “We felt so loved and so supported.”

The family is rebuilding their lives and, like the Bowmans, will build a new home where Harvey destroyed the old one. They say they are forever thankful for the support. “It looked like we were standing strong,” said Daniel, “but it was everyone holding us up.”

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 25

TRAVEL

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by Tracy L. Barnett, staff writer

Travel Buzz

From Houston to Guatemala, with love

sage of the power of the volcanos; the one they were scheduled to climb had just made headlines with the death of five hikers who lost the trail in the thick clouds and died of hypothermia.

But it would be many months later before the true power of those volcanoes would be brought home. In the background of one of their photos looms the Fuego Volcano, whose deadly eruption on June 3 left over 100 people VOLCANOES Bellaire HS volleyball players Brooke Burgess, Christina Saenger, dead and thousands Hayley Burgess and Lorena Valle (from left) climbed Volcán Pacaya in Guatemala. homeless.

Volcán de Fuego looms behind them.

The news of the erupafter her return. “It’s a lot of people displaced, tion hit close to home for Hayley, who thought ayley and Brooke Burgess have been but it’s been awesome to see that regardless of of the hospitality of the people she met in friends with Lorena Valle since Bellaire the political situation in Guatemala, regardless Guatemala. When her mother read in the newsHigh School, where they played of the lack of money from the population as a paper that six of the youngest burn victims were together on the volleyball team. When Lorena whole, everyone has come together to help each being treated at the Shriners Hospital for went to visit family in her parents’ native counother. So that sense of community really did Children in Galveston, Hayley had an idea. “I try of Guatemala, she climbed one of the counkind of give me flashbacks to what we went wanted to help in any way I could to make them try’s famous volcanoes and posted photos of herthrough last year.” feel more welcome,” she said. self on the summit.

A charity has been coordinating a significant She and Lorena ended up putting together a Hayley and Brooke saw the photos and decidrelief effort, but resources are falling short, said set of “comfort packages” for the kids in the burn ed they wanted to climb a volcano, too – and last Lorena. “They have 2,800 people without a home unit and their families. A couple of weeks after winter, the girls all flew down to Guatemala right now in a country that’s already experiencing the volcano, Lorena headed to Guatemala hertogether and made the trek up Volcán Pacaya. It extreme poverty, and it’s sad to see. I really hope self to spend time with the family and see what was an eye-opening trip, with a fascinating people will help because they need it.” could be done to help. One of her aunts has glimpse into another culture and an exhilarating Beyond hoping, Lorena has organized a been working closely with the relief efforts, as trek up one of the country’s most iconic volcanos. fundraiser to support the community-based has a cousin who is a medical student.

“It was hot enough that there was a hole dug organizations that her aunt is working with. The “It really reminded me of the situation we where you could roast marshmallows,” recalls donations will go to TECHO-Guatemala (they went through with Hurricane Harvey,” she said Hayley. Even then she received a poignant mesbuy materials and build homes for the homeless; “techo” means roof) and Fundación de Niños Quemados de Guatemala (for children who were burn victims).

Charleene was also touched by the connecShriners Hospital for Children: Galveston is no longer accepting physical donation between her girls and Lorena’s trek and the tions for the volcano victims, but your monetary donations will help assure their care and subsequent eruption. “Travel makes it a smaller that of other needy children. world,” she reflected. “And it helps us care for Lorena’s GoFundMe campaign: www.gofundme.com/guatemalan-volcano-relief-fund each other in need.”

A personal note: When Charleene Burgess contacted The Buzz staff about a volcano-trekking trip her daughters had taken to Guatemala, and the way that trip had motivated them to support victims of the disastrous June 3 eruption of the Fuego Volcano, it hit home for me. That’s because eight years ago, I climbed that volcano myself.

I witnessed a different natural disaster on that trip – Tropical Storm Agatha – which ended up killing over 200 and causing over $1 billion in damages.

Like their friend Lorena, who has family in Guatemala and went to help after the Fuego eruption, I saw the devastation and poverty. And like Lorena, I saw the tremendous spirit of solidarity and kindness of the Guatemalan people, who risked their lives and shared what little they had to help neighbors – the same inspiring spirit that has arisen in Houston every time a hurricane hits. So today I share a different kind of travel story – one of giving back to a destination that touches one’s heart.

H

How to help

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 26

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 27

FOOD

The Junior League of Houston

by Mary Lee Wilkens, contributing writer

Cooking Buzz Connecting through food Cooking Buzz is produced in partnership with the Junior League of Houston, a women’s charitable and education organization founded in 1925.

T

en years ago, the Junior League of Houston published Peace Meals: A Book of Recipes for Cooking and Connecting. As members prepared to distribute the new cookbook celebrating a “nourishing connection,” Hurricane Ike struck Houston, wreaking havoc and prompting residents to reach out and help each other.

That connection was on display again a year ago, as Houstonians delivered meals to friends, fed strangers, and ate with homebound neighbors. The anniversary of Hurricane Harvey reminds us of the powerful comfort of a meal.

The late-summer months are a good time to nurture our connections with the help of food.

Consider welcoming guests with warm White Bean Dip with Lemon Sage Olive Oil. This creamy dip is perfect served with warm pita triangles or crackers. The flavors are complex, but the recipe is not.

The Radicchio Salad with Blue Cheese and Peppered Almonds is colorful and full of flavor.

Double the portion of peppered almonds for guests to snack on while you plate individual salad servings in radicchio leaf “cups.” Feel free to substitute goat or feta cheese if blue cheese is not your favorite.

To balance the flavors of the salad, I love the creaminess of Spinach Tortellini Casserole.

This dish serves as an entrée or side dish. For a hungrier audience, pair the casserole with a rotisserie chicken and a loaf of crusty bread.

Some of the best recipes don’t even require a trip to the grocery store. The Any Day Chocolate Cake is a brownie-like cake made with pantry ingredients. It is delicious served plain or topped with fresh whipped cream and berries.

So often we wait for a reason to gather over food: to celebrate, mourn, reminisce or comfort.

Consider inviting friends over for a relaxed meal now and celebrate the enduring neighborly spirit of Houston.

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 28

WARM WELCOME For an appetizer, try this creamy, warm White Bean Dip with Lemon Sage Olive Oil served with pita triangles or crackers.

Radicchio Salad with Blue Cheese and Peppered Almonds From Peace Meals Peppered Almonds: 1 cup unsalted almonds, chopped or whole 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon coarse salt 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 1½ teaspoons sugar Salad: 1 head radicchio, torn 1 head butter lettuce, torn 8 ounces blue cheese, crumbled ¼ cup red wine vinegar 5 Tablespoons almond oil (or olive oil) Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the almonds, oil, salt, pepper and sugar in a small bowl, and toss to coat. Arrange the almonds in a single layer on a baking pan. Bake for about four to five minutes until the coating is crisp and the almonds are toasted, stirring occasionally; set aside to cool. In a large serving bowl, combine the lettuces and blue cheese. Combine the vinegar and almond oil and drizzle over the salad. Sprinkle with the almonds and toss gently. Serves 6.

White Bean Dip with Lemon Sage Olive Oil From Peace Meals ¼ cup olive oil, divided 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)

1 bay leaf 30 ounces canned white beans, drained and rinsed, with 3 Tablespoons whole beans reserved for garnish 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon coarse salt 1 Tablespoon thinly sliced fresh sage leaves 1 Tablespoon firmly grated lemon zest Fresh pita bread or crackers Warm ⅛ cup of the olive oil in a medium sauté pan over low heat. Add the garlic and bay leaf, cooking gently for about one minute (do not overcook). Discard the bay leaf. Pour that oil and sautéed garlic into a food processor or blender, setting the sauté pan aside for later use.

Add the white beans, lemon juice and salt to the food processor, and puree the mixture until smooth. Transfer the pureed dip to a serving bowl and top with the reserved whole beans.

Heat the remaining ⅛ cup of olive oil in the sauté pan over medium. Add the sage and lemon zest, cooking just until the sage begins to curl and the zest begins to turn golden. Remove from heat and drizzle the infused oil, sage and lemon zest over the bean dip. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread or crackers.

Makes 2 cups.

MORE ONLINE See thebuzzmagazines.com for more recipes mentioned in this article.

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Administration of nonprobate assets Everyone knows and dreads probate: someone dies, someone else goes to court, and after delay and expense the assets are distributed. Probate assets often include the house, cars, traditional bank accounts, timeshares, mineral interests, rental property, and certificated securities. Banks and title companies generally won’t cooperate in the transfer of these assets without “letters” issued by the probate clerk.

Nonprobate assets transfer immediately. A death certificate is enough to collect. No lawyer, no probate, no delay. To oversimplify, there are two ways to create a nonprobate asset. First, a single owner may designate a beneficiary. The beneficiary may not know of the designation, and it can be changed without notice. Second, an asset can be set up as joint ownership with right of survivorship. Each owner must agree, and no owner can be removed without every owner’s consent. The key is the survivorship agreement; without it, probate is required to clear the deceased owner’s share.

Life insurance, IRAs, brokerage accounts, and internet bank accounts usually have a designated beneficiary. Bank and brokerage accounts with two or more owners often have a survivorship agreement. For many people, these assets are the bulk of their wealth, and they skip probate.

Nonprobate transfers are expressly authorized by the Texas Estates Code.

However, the same enabling statutes often allow the executor or administrator of the probate estate, and sometimes even a creditor, to claw back nonprobate assets to pay decedent’s debts.

There is an income tax benefit to death: decedent’s assets (aside from IRAs and other qualified plans) receive a new basis on death. Appreciated

assets may be sold without the capital gains the decedent would have owed. This is true for nonprobate assets, too, not just the probate estate.

The income from nonprobate assets during decedent’s life must be reported on decedent’s final income tax return. Nonprobate assets are part of decedent’s gross estate for federal estate tax purposes.

Both these tax returns become the executor or administrator’s responsibility. If no one is appointed, whoever received the asset is responsible.

Nonprobate does not mean no problem.

Nonprobate assets should be coordinated with administration of the probate estate, both to complete the executor or administrator’s job, and to protect the nonprobate beneficiaries from the IRS and other creditors.

This article was not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used by the taxpayer, for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer.

We write wills and go to probate court. We offer no-obligation initial interviews for estate planning and administration, so it costs nothing to hear specific recommendations that suit your needs. 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, www.rwhpc.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 29

DINING

by Dai Huynh, staff writer

Chef’s Corner

Michael Mina

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ames Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina can claim success across the country and in Dubai with 39 restaurants. The Mina Group – with seed money from tennis great Andre Agassi – has forged a restaurant empire with wideranging concepts, from classic French and rustic Italian to Japanese sushi and, recently, Mexican.

It’s an incredible achievement in a fickle, and often brutal, industry, but Cairo-born Mina – particular and meticulous in his approach – couldn’t have guessed how things would unfold, or that the 2018 NBA playoffs would threaten the rollout success of his latest venture: International Smoke in CityCentre. Last month, Mina opened the global and grilling concept in Houston with lifestyle guru and Instagram superstar Ayesha Curry. The Food Network star and cookbook author is married to Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry. So, before International Smoke even opened, legions of unhappy Rockets fans gave it one-star Yelp reviews.

It got so flagrantly nasty that Yelp stepped in on June 20 to “clean up” and remove negative and positive posts that “appear to be motivated more by the news coverage itself than the reviewer’s personal” experience.

When asked about it, Mina’s cheery features darkened, but the cloud quickly passed, and the gregarious, 50-year-old chef flashed a rueful smile. “It was a double slap,” the San Francisco resident said, explaining that Hurricane Harvey delayed International Smoke’s opening by five months, then the Houston Rockets lost in the Western Conference Finals to the Golden State Warriors, who went on to win the NBA Championship. Houston morphed from the friendliest city to a bitter stew of hurtful Yelp and Facebook posts targeting the restaurant – and even Ayesha Curry, who gave birth to a boy two days before her eatery opened.

Here, Mina shared what happened during International Smoke’s grand-opening week, his favorite San Francisco restaurants, and why he invested in a Mexican cantina in Hawaii with Houston chef Hugo Ortega: Your executive chef, E.J. Miller, is a local guy.

He stressed that all your cooks are Houstonians and WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 30

Rockets fans. He hoped that would win over the locals, along with delicious grub, of course. So, how was your grand opening?

I’m very passionate about sports, but I can’t imagine making my dinner decision based on that. The second night SMOKE, NOT FIRE Chefs Michael Mina and Ayesha Curry, Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry’s wife, opened International Smoke in CityCentre after of our opening, we had weathering two storms: bogus Yelp reviews from upset Rockets fans, and 275 people come Hurricane Harvey. through, so that’s great.

I can’t get enough of him. He’s magical. And Knock on wood. That’s a good thing. yes, we were just in Hawaii. We just opened Mi Houston is your second location. The original Almita Cantina at the Street Food Hall (by location is on Mission Street in San Francisco. How Michael Mina) in Honolulu. Why? Because is that one doing? there is no good Mexican food in Honolulu. But It’s in a great space in San Francisco, too. We our first full-blown restaurant will be in Los closed a very successful restaurant, RN74, Angeles. The cantina has 90 seats. The one in which is unheard of, to open Smoke. It opened L.A. will be 150 seats. It will have a tequila bar in August of last year, and it’s doing great. It’s and will be a real showpiece. insanity, really. Here we are, 11 months after Los Angeles? That’s an interesting choice. It’s a tough opening, and it is still the hardest reservation to market. It’s a city rife with amazing Mexican options. get in the city. We’ll do 500, 600 people a day.

That’s what I told Hugo. Obviously, Hugo is We assumed – wrongfully – that International killing it in Houston, and I don’t know how Smoke was about American barbecue, as in smoked close you are to Mexican food around the counbriskets and ribs. Granted, you have barbecued pork try, but Hugo can compete with anybody. He ribs, but the rest of the menu looks like a travelogue totally can. So, why not go to the heartland? of grilled and smoked flavors from around the world.

Go to where you’re going to be pushed, and yes, You have grilled Sinaloa chicken from Mexico, it’s going to be tough. But he’s going to kill, and cedar-smoked salmon from the Pacific Northwest, he’s going to make it. His food is that good. If Argentinian wood-grilled steaks, Asian grilled redfish I even thought there was a question about it, I with garlic fried rice – and there is your Egyptian wouldn’t do it. mother’s recipe for Punjabi-spiced fish fry with rice Ok, Michael, so where do you eat when in pilaf and cucumber raita.

Houston, and what places should we check out in My chefs and I used to talk about a restaurant San Francisco? like this, so it was always in the back of my mind.

All of Hugo’s restaurants, of course. Another But with Ayesha, it came to the front because of favorite is Uchi (904 Westheimer). As for San her different ethnicities and heritage. You see Francisco, La Ciccia (291 30th Street). It’s that in her food, so we did a pop-up of Sardinian, and it’s really good. Order the woodInternational Smoke. It sold out in 18 minutes. fired shellfish there. And if you’re in Chinatown, In 18 minutes, we were sold out for three months.

R&G Lounge (631 Kearny St.). That’s a good You and Ayesha are opening International one. Order the pepper crab. It’s so good.

Smokes in San Diego and Miami, but what’s this about you opening a Mexican restaurant with our Editor’s note: Buzz dining columnist Dai Huynh own hometown guy, Hugo Ortega – and in Hawaii, is a James Beard food-journalism award winner and of all places? longtime Houston-based restaurant writer.

Hugo is everything right about this industry.

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Alpha gal – an exceptional allergy It is uncommon for individuals to develop a food allergy in the adult years of life, especially if that allergy is to red meat or pork. As we know, however, the world of medicine is full of exceptions. Alpha gal sounds like a strong female leader, but it’s actually one example of an exception in the field of allergy. Folks with food allergies generally react to certain proteins in food.

However, alpha gal is not a protein, but rather a carbohydrate called galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, which is found in non-primate, mammalian meat.

In other words, alpha gal can be found in four legged hoofed animals – cows, goats, pig, lamb, etc.

Even more odd is that this allergy develops after a tick bite, although the exact mechanism is not yet fully understood. Tick bites rarely lead to an alpha gal allergy, but the ones that do tend to occur in the eastern United States. After being bitten, individuals, who may have enjoyed meats containing alpha gal for years, will be at risk for delayed anaphylaxis if they consume such meat, even if it is only a small amount. Since anaphylaxis can be life threatening, people with an alpha gal allergy should avoid all red meats and pork, and carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case there is a reaction after an accidental ingestion. For some, an avoidance to dairy is also recommended. Since this reaction is delayed, it takes longer for symptoms to develop than a regular food allergy, about 3 to 4 hours. The most common symptom is a red, blotchy, itchy rash, known as hives.

Interestingly, the allergist who discovered alpha gal is Dr. Tom PlattsMills at UVA Charlottesville med school. He also put dust mite allergy on the map many years ago by identifying them as the active allergen in

house dust.

How do you know who has an allergy to alpha gal? Since alpha gal is a carbohydrate rather than a protein, the typical skin and blood tests to meat proteins are not reliable for diagnosis. A blood test that specifically looks for a reaction to the alpha gal carbohydrate should be used in conjunction with a clinical history.

How long does the allergy last? I want my steak and bacon! The immune response to alpha gal typically declines slowly over time. An allergist will look at a combination of regular blood tests and clinical history to decide when it is time to possibly reintroduce non-primate mammalian meats into your diet.

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 180, Houston, Texas 77004, 713.522.9911, www.allergyclinic.com, *Operating as Houston Allergy and Asthma Clinic

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 31

SPORTS

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by Todd Freed, staff writer

SportzBuzz A

s our local high school teams get back to action this month, we wanted to wrap up some of the top performances closing out the past school year.

The Lamar High School lacrosse team was well represented on a national level this summer, with Lamar players Kaelin Isaacson and Tori Julian competing for Team Texas at the US Lacrosse Nationals and then earning roster spots for the Southwest division team in the Under Armour All-America Lacrosse Games.

At the US Nationals, Isaacson and Julian helped lead Team Texas to a pair of victories in four games.

“To make both the US Lacrosse Nationals and the Under Armour All-American Games was a great honor,” said Lamar Lacrosse board member Chivas Julian. “The Under Armour invitation was especially prestigious, considering only 22 players out of close to 200 who tried out from a five state-region were selected to the team.”

Even before the summer, the Lamar lacrosse team, which competes in Division 1 of the Texas High School Lacrosse League, was making a big impact. Lamar finished third in the City Championship behind powerhouse programs The Woodlands and The Kinkaid School. In addition, Lamar’s Natasha Perez-Krause, a four-year starter and team captain, signed to play lacrosse at Southwestern University in Georgetown.

The Kinkaid Falcons girls lacrosse team came within one victory of winning the state championship, falling to Dallas Hockaday 18-16 in the TGHSLL D1 state championship final. The Falcons, who earlier won the City Championship, finished 16-2 on the season, while reaching the state tournament for the first time since 2001.

“The chemistry between the girls and the physical work they put in daily really propelled this team,” said Falcons assistant coach Molly Higby. It was a great season for senior captain Belle Martire, who’ll next play lacrosse at the College of William & Mary. “Belle consistently led this team on and off the field,” said Higby.

In addition, junior Chloe Hunter, who’s committed to play at Penn, was among the team’s most consistent players, according to Higby.

Other top players included state finals MVP WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 32

Nakeeya McCardell, as well as junior Mikela McCauley, who’s already committed to play college lacrosse at Dartmouth.

It was the greatest season ever for the Stratford Spartans girls lacrosse team, which finished third in the TGHSLL D2 state tournament. Stratford, which posted an overall 15-2 record, also won its first ever district championship. “This team was definitely special,” said GOING NATIONAL Lamar High School lacrosse players Kaelin Isaacson (left) Spartans coach Scott and Tori Julian competed for Team Texas in the US Lacrosse Nationals this past summer. The duo was also selected to play in the Under Armour All-American Elmore. “I coached at Lacrosse Game.

Memorial for 19 years also led the team in hitting with a .517 batting and was fortunate to have two teams advance to average and 13 home runs. Grams was nearly state. I’m proud of the girls and blessed to be with perfect on the mound with an 18-1 record and this Stratford program.” a 1.16 ERA. Elmore had high praise for junior captain The Knights’ second leading hitter was junior Hannah Harrington, who scored 49 goals with third baseman Rachel Boeker, who hit for a another 22 assists on the season. “Hannah is a .485 batting average with 30 RBIs. Also leading great leader on and off the field and is one of the the hit parade was sophomore center fielder best players I’ve ever coached.” In addition, junKa’lyn Watson, who owned a .414 batting averior midfielder Meredith Schomburg scored 39 age with 12 home runs and five triples. Other goals with 20 assists, while freshman Lillie Baird top hitters included first baseman Alexis Sagers lit up the scoreboard with 50 goals and 11 assists. (.461), infielder LeAnn Dromgoole (.443) and Defensive leaders for the Spartans included sencatcher Alexis Aboulafia (.433). ior defender Catherine Parnell, goalie Marissa Over the course of a dominant season, the Hormell, sophomore defender Claire Gibennus Knights defeated several large school UIL proand junior defender Erin Fitzsimmons. grams, including four of five victories at the Clear It was a spectacular season for the Episcopal Creek ISD tournament, as well as a champiKnights’ softball team, which boasted a lofty 36onship victory in the Schulenburg tournament.

1-1 record, while securing a second straight SPC “Our girls could pretty much match up with any Championship. “It was definitely the best team team at any level in the state,” said Randolph.

I’ve had in all my years at Episcopal,” said Knights softball coach Kim Randolph. “This Editor’s note: Todd Freed is the Emmy Awardteam had all the right ingredients, including two winning co-host and producer of the KUBE outstanding pitchers in seniors Sarah Venker SportsZone, which airs Saturday and Sunday at 6 and Daryn Grams.” Venker, who signed to play p.m. on Channel 57-KUBE. To submit high school next at Ball State, was sensational both on the sports news for possible inclusion in SportzBuzz, mound and at the plate. In addition to a perfect please email todd@thebuzzmagazines.com.

13-0 record with a miniscule 0.92 ERA, Venker

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Back-to-school parenting Often, parents worry about their kids going to school. For some kids, going to school and life at home are much more challenging than for others.

Each year there is more at stake. Some parents might even sense that something doesn’t feel right but may not be sure what the problem is. Or, you’ve tried everything, and nothing works for very long. You may even feel you are at the end of your rope.

Kids hate the usual consequences for poor choices. For “intense” kids, consequences often don’t work. And knowing the consequences, they keep making the same poor choices!

Intense children/teens are more likely to have a greater need for connection, especially with their parents. It can appear to be the opposite when an intense child seems to push their parents away and continue to make poor choices.

Some kids seem to prefer negative attention to none at all. For intense kids, everything we do that connects with them, whether positive or negative, feeds the child’s intense need to connect. Connection has a strong influence on children’s behavior. Giving more intense attention to positive choices and drastically reducing negative attention are critical pieces of changing behavior.

Most parents naturally praise and do positive activities with their kids.

However, when kids make negative choices, parents tend to talk louder and longer, use more detail, show more emotion, make more intense eye contact, and even move closer to their children. These actions say, “I am fully present with you right now.” Conversely, when parents praise children, it often consists of fewer words, like “Good job” or “Way to go.” These non-specific statements provide a less intense, less present connection than what is often

said about poor choices.

Try these three principles in combination (based on The Nurtured Heart Approach created by Howie Glasser) to nurture the behavior you want: Stop giving your energy and connection when things are going wrong. Instead, give a short, clear consequence without much talk.

Then move on. Over time, this is likely to be more effective.

Fully connect with your child/teen when they are making good choices or moving in a positive direction. This includes eye contact, a specific description of the positive action, and pointing out the positive character trait they showed by that action.

Give specific, clear direction about your expectations and rules. Give a brief consequence every time, without the added connection of yelling, lecturing, threatening or arguing.

Trent Everett, PhD, and Erin Whitney, LPC-S, are clinicians at The Conative Group, PLLC, and are both Advanced Trainers in this approach.

For an appointment or to learn more about workshops or groups, call 713993-7030 or visit the website at www.theconativegroup.com.

Trent Everett, PhD, and Erin Whitney, LPC-S, The Conative Group, 4130 Bellaire Blvd., Suite 208, Houston, Texas 77025, 713-993-7030, www.theconativegroup.com

nurturing young minds emphasis on individuality

respect for students

focusing on academics

From her first steps through graduation.

A portrait remembers.

There is still time to make your yearbook deadline!

Call for details.

Offer valid through August 31, 2018

Reserve your session now A Portrait Remembers 713.523.4916 nikky@lawellphoto.com www.lawellphoto.com

Alexander-Smith Academy An extraordinary college preparatory high school

713/266-0920 • www.alexandersmith.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 33

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.

Headed to sectionals The Bellaire Little League (BLL) 10U tournament team (top photo) won the 10U Texas East District 16 championship. After a solid 11-5 victory over Post Oak Little League, BLL claimed the first-place title after a nearly two-week Little League International tournament. BLL hosted this year’s tournament, which made the championship title even more exciting. Liam Miller was on the mound for most of the final game and threw 68 pitches, including 52 strikes. Nathan Kalmin led the team in hits, with 5 RBIs. The BLL champs are (top row, from left) manager Ryan Loving, coach George Summers and coach Jeff Gorski; (bottom row, from left) Zac Selzer, Nick Gillette, Liam Miller, Jordan Beinart, Preston Gorski, Hayden Summers, Andrew Baca, Luke Loving, Patrick Albright, Nathan Kalmin, Ryan Richter, Marco Quintanilla and Devin Singh.

Westbury Soccer Club’s World Cup summer camper River Dai (middle photo, at right) ran down a ball, while Rivers Terry and Kyle Tang (middle photo, from left) tried to defend. The players had the opportunity to attend the camp and be coached by professional players on the Houston Aces women’s soccer team. Coaches Natalia Ariza, Tatiana Ariza and Isabella Echeverri are also Colombian women’s national team players and have played at multiple World Cup and Olympic games. Held at Bayland Park, the World Cup Camp gave experienced players the chance to work on technical and tactical components of soccer with seasoned professionals, while having fun and being exposed to role models.

Heavy lifting Morgan “Morgs” Tannery (bottom photo), 10, is a Houston weightlifting champion. The Fay School rising fifth grader won the 31kilogram and 38-kilogram weight class, overall, at the USA Weightlifting Houston City Championship for youth under 13. Olympic weightlifting consists of two barbell lifts, known as the Snatch and the Clean-and-Jerk.

Morgs set personal records for both types of lift, and qualified for nationals with the second highest total in the country. Coach Jordan Weichers is preparing him to compete at both state and nationals in the coming year.

When Morgs is not training, he enjoys football, wrestling, track, lacrosse and video games.

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 AUGUST 2018 34

Equality Weightlifting

Learning from the best

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New era for school

Mediterranean diet class

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School is celebrating a renewal with the arrival of Jerri King as the new Head of School. Ms. King has been at the forefront of education for more than 25 years, most recently as the Head of School at a PreK-to-8 Montessori school in Georgia. In her role there, she was instrumental in successfully concluding a $3 million building campaign, the development of an integrated Outdoor Science Education Program and a mainstreamed learning-support program for students with dyslexia and/or ADD. “I am thrilled to be joining the St. Stephen’s Episcopal School community. I’m drawn to the school’s academic embrace of a powerful, progressive learning environment where questioning, individuality and relationships are central to learning, values and Episcopal identity,” she said. “I come with a firm belief that students learn more deeply when allowed to make age-appropriate choices, develop responsibility for their learning and actively engage with material. St. Stephen’s Episcopal is obviously focused on its people and is invested in weaving together high-level academic knowledge, character and personal affinity.”

With 200-plus students, St. Stephen’s is nestled in the Montrose neighborhood. Students, 15 months to eighth grade, are mindfully curious, wildly creative and highly engaged. Families considering new avenues for stellar learning opportunities for their children are invited to learn about St. Stephen’s Episcopal School at www.ssesh.org or 713.821.9100.

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Jerri King, Head of School, 1800 Sul Ross, Houston, Texas 77098, 713.821.9100, www.ssesh.org

The Clever Kitchen and UTHealth School of Public Health have partnered to deliver the perfect course to start your fall with a heart-healthy lifestyle change. “Outsmarting Disease and the Mediterranean Diet Foundations Class” is a two-week, hands-on cooking course focused on the Mediterranean diet, which promotes fresh and seasonal plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, seeds, nuts, olive oil, herbs and spices, as well as fish and poultry, while limiting red meats and sugar. Additionally, each month we offer Mediterranean cooking classes with a seasonal focus.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, primary prevention is the most effective and affordable method to prevent chronic disease, and dietary interventions positively impact health outcomes across the lifespan. The Mediterranean diet is not about recipes or diet plan, but quality food components. Research has shown that patients who follow the Mediterranean diet have a 30 percent reduction in death for all diseases.

Attendees will join registered dietician-nutritionist Pam Fullenweider in a fun setting as they create healthy, delicious meals in the UTHealth School of Public Health’s state-of-the-art Nourish kitchen, using herbs and vegetables from the holistic campus garden. By the end of the course, participants will have the understanding to build their own meal plans.

For more information, visit the thecleverkitchen.com/blog; to register, visit the thecleverkitchen.com and click “Classes.”

UT Health, 1200 Pressler Street, Houston, Texas 77030, 713.898.2308, Pam Fullenweider MS, RDN, pam@thecleverkitchen.com, thecleverkitchen.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 35

RECYCLING BOOKS The Kardesch siblings – Claire and Carter, juniors at Episcopal High School, and Cory, an eighth grader at River Oaks Baptist School – teamed up with each other and with friends at other Houston schools to organize book drives for kids who don’t have access to books.

KIDS

by Claire, age 16, Cory, age 13, and Carter Kardesch, age 16

Buzz Kidz

A Novel Idea

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ast year, our mom shared with us an article about high schools in the Houston area that don’t have a library. As longtime lovers of books and reading, we were in disbelief and disappointed to learn of the void. Around the same time, we noticed that many students were discarding the novels they had read throughout the year as the school year was ending. We started brainstorming on ways to help and combine the two to benefit those in need.

This is how A Novel Idea came into existence.

Aiding in literacy wasn’t new to us, since we had created projects benefiting organizations that promote literacy (Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation Houston and Neuhaus Education Center). Through contacts we had made through these efforts, we put together a plan.

Every person we spoke with wanted to get involved. We met as a group earlier this year and mapped out how to approach schools for their involvement, timing for book drives, collection, goal, sorting and delivery.

Mechiel Rozas, HISD’s director of secondary literacy, suggested a high school in the Sunnyside area as the recipient of the books collected.

Sandra Ahlhorn and Trenton Ormsbee-Hale from Books Between Kids offered their space to hold and sort the books until delivery. We, along with Cole Colley, a student at St. Thomas High School, collected hundreds of books. Students PJ Rozas (Heights High School), Rebecca Duran (HSPVA), Allie Guerra (HSVPA), Henry Huelskamp (Lamar) and Jane Skjonsby (Bellaire) also planned book drives at their schools.

Your smile can last forever Anna Maria Salas, D.D.S., M.S. Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics

713-481-4885 3642 University Blvd.

Suite 102 Houston, TX 77005 www.westuortho.com WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 36

We sorted all the books that were collected and, in all, we received 1,070 books to donate to Worthing High School, and donated 200 books to Books Between Kids for younger kids.

Since then, we’ve collected several more bags that we’ll sort and deliver in time for the start of school.

We plan to continue these efforts and hope other students and schools will join too.

If you would like to participate, please send an email to anovelideahouston@gmail.com.

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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Voting? Remember your judges

First-half real estate metrics

On your November ballot, you’ll see more than 50 judicial races. In Texas, we hold our judiciary accountable directly to the electorate, but the electorate needs to exercise that accountability by voting. It is vital that we elect the proper attorneys to these important positions. The 22 Criminal District Courts of Harris County oversee serious felony cases like murders, rape, robberies, home invasions and financial fraud. Those judges should have extensive experience practicing in felony criminal law and trying felony criminal cases before sitting on the bench. There is a big enough learning curve to be a judge – you should already know how to be a lawyer!

But, how do you know who deserves your vote? Practicing lawyers can advise and help determine which judges work hard, try cases, and make timely decisions according to the law. Ask which candidates deserve your support!

Remember to vote for the judges “down the ballot” this November!

Judge Catherine Evans was appointed to the 180th Criminal District Court in 2013 by Governor Rick Perry. She runs an intensive probation program and personally oversees the rehabilitation of offenders. Prior to her appointment, she was a prosecutor for 12 years and tried cases of all types: capital murder, child abuse, fraud, intoxicated manslaughter, and aggravated robbery.

Pd. Pol. Ad. By Catherine Evans Campaign, in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Frank Harmon, Treasurer.

Judge Catherine Evans, 180th District Court, catherineevans.org, facebook.com/CatherineEvansForJudge

The first-half home sales set a 10-year high. The year began quietly with the number of first-quarter, single-family home sales in West U/Southside, about 30 percent below the first quarter 2017. However, the second quarter rebounded so strongly that firsthalf sales in 2018 set a 10-year high, with 149 singlefamily units sold. Two-thirds of these sales were in the $1-2 million range. New highs were set for West University and Southside, with average sales price of $1,445,539, up about 6 percent from 2017. Median sales price also increased 6.9 percent to $1,336,005.

Lot sales remained strong in the area, ranging from lows of $70-82 per square foot along Community to a high in Southside of $160 per square foot. Lots in the 3800-4200 blocks of West U are pricing in the $130-persquare-foot range, and higher-end West U lots are commanding $140-150 per square foot.

Fourteen new construction homes sold in the first half 2018 on MLS, with 22 active new-construction listings on the market: Nine are priced $1-2 million, 11 at $2-3 million and two in the high $4 million bracket.

As you’ve probably noticed at the gas pumps, WTI crude’s low price of around $60 per bbl had risen to over $70 per barrel in June. Houston continues to add jobs, with about 79,000 added over the last year.

If you have questions or seek more data, please email me, your West U neighbor.

George Sutherland, Greenwood King Properties, 832.435.7942, george@greenwoodking.com

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 37

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Napping is my favorite hobby, besides eating. I can nap anywhere – in my bed, on the couch, under the table – as long as no human or dog disturbs me. The humans are fine, but they always try to pet and love on me, which I only allow when I want attention. When they aren’t looking, I drink out of their water cups. The kitchen table is my favorite spot to rest and steal their water. Gotta go, dinner’s ready!

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Foot health for kids

Post-2018 alimony in divorces

It is important to pay attention to children’s feet from the time they are born to head off problems down the line. Look carefully at your newborn’s feet…. Be on the lookout for anything unusual. Lightly cover your baby’s feet.... Kicking and moving the legs and feet around helps strengthen the muscles in preparation for walking. Let your toddler go shoeless…. When kids first start to walk, going without shoes indoors is good for normal development. Cut toenails straight across.... This will help prevent painful ingrown toenails. Keep feet clean and dry.... Thoroughly wash your kids’ feet at bath time. Afterward, dry them well between the toes to prevent athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that thrives in moisture. Buy well-fitting shoes.... Always take your child with you when purchasing shoes. Kids’ feet need to be measured every single time, since they grow so rapidly. Prevent foot injuries....

Walking barefoot outdoors on dirty pavement exposes kids’ feet to splinters, cuts, and severe injuries. Wearing shoes when playing outdoors can prevent these problems. Cover cuts…. Wash minor cuts, scrapes, and scratches on the feet with soap and water and keep them covered with a bandage until they’ve healed. Show and tell…. Clean and properly dry your feet and have your child copy. Many adult foot problems start in childhood. Explaining why good foot hygiene is important and showing your kids how to care for their feet is good medicine for a lifetime of healthy feet!

Bellaire Podiatry/Nail Laser Center of Houston, Dr. Barry P. Weinstein, 4909 Bissonnet, Suite 120, Bellaire, Texas 77401, 713.721.5500, www.BarryWeinsteinDPM.com

Clients are asking me, “What does the new tax law regarding the alimony deduction mean for me?” In Texas, we have never had courtordered “alimony,” but clients have agreed to alimony where one spouse receives money per month and the other spouse receives a tax deduction for the amount paid. This was beneficial to both spouses and used for settlement negotiations. Spouses relied on alimony in order to effectuate either a disproportionate split of assets and/or to allow one party to have a stream of income to pay bills if there were concerns one party might struggle paying monthly expenses. However, after Dec. 31, 2018, the tax deduction for alimony payments is eliminated. Pre-2019 alimony payments will still be tax deductible if they meet Internal Revenue Code requirements. With the elimination of the deduction, parties need to work with competent counsel to structure creative settlements to fill the void elimination of alimony leaves behind.

K. Nicole Voyles is a partner at Tindall England PC, a family-law firm specializing in divorce, child-custody modifications, grandparent access, paternity, adoption and premarital and postmarital agreements. K. Nicole Voyles has been recognized as a Super Lawyer by Texas Super Lawyers 2014-18.

Tindall England PC, K. Nicole Voyles, Partner, Board Certified in Family Law, 515 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 500, Houston, Texas 77027, 713.622.8733, www.tindallengland.com

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WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 39

NEIGHBORS

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by Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Buzz About Town teers. It costs approximately $100 to train one support volunteer who could potentially serve four newly diagnosed cancer patients. This year’s luncheon proceeds exceeded the goal, raising over $245,000.

That’s a Junior League wrap

West University residents were undeterred from celebrating the Fourth of July, despite the very wet day. Some parade goers, including (pictured, from left) Austin Halvorson, Caleb Cote, Marianna Davis and Greg Cline, sought shelter under the activities-booth tent. Adults and kids had a good time biking and walking from City Hall to the Recreation Center. Participants in the parade included dogs, the “world famous” West University Rotary Club Kazoo Marching Band and even a Captain America. The parade was followed by a quick visit to activity booths at the Recreation Center before participants rushed home to continue the celebrations indoors.

Those who CanCare

The gavel was passed at the last meeting of the year to the new 2018-19 Junior League of Houston executive committee. Last year’s executive committee included (pictured, from left) Steph Magers, Mary Lee Wilkens, Catherine Smith, Sarah Snyder, Mitra Woody, Courtney Hoyt and Melisse Reynolds. Incoming executive committee members are Magers, president; Jayne Sheehy Johnston, president-elect; Alicia Lee, community vice president; Anne Sears, development vice president; Ellen Kolpin Toranzo, financial vice president; Tara Merla Hinton, membership vice president; and Elizabeth Roath Garcia, recording secretary. Outgoing president Snyder accepted a silver platter as a token of appreciation for her leadership, during which the Junior League of Houston contributed over $2 million in volunteer time and financial support to Houston.

Girl Scout gold award Jennifer Doherty, Megan Vondra, Jordan Seff and Cristina Vetrano (pictured, from left) gathered for CanCare’s 24th Annual National Cancer Survivors Day luncheon at the Westin Houston, Memorial City hotel. Each year, the non-profit hosts the luncheon to celebrate cancer survivorship and raise money to train volunWEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 40

autism center Avondale House. The curriculum was designed to educate children with autism about social behavior and life skills like sharing, introducing themselves when meeting new people, hygiene and expressing feelings. Hill also wrote puppet shows for the students to help them better understand the social behavior and life-skills lessons. She assembled a puppet theater outfitted with curtains and puppets and donated it to Avondale House.

For families Alvin Gee Photography

lawellphoto.com

Jack Avedesian

Rain or shine

Lindsey Hill (pictured), a St. John’s School graduate, earned her gold award through the Girl Scouts. The honor recognizes girls in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate leadership through community-service projects that require a minimum of 80 hours to complete. Hill created a curriculum with the help of the teachers at

The FORGE for Families, an urban ministry for families located in the Third Ward, held its annual Game Changer luncheon at the Junior League of Houston’s ballroom. FORGE offers after-school enrichment programs for kids from kindergarten to eighth grade. Pictured (from left) are co-chair Lolly Erwin, Dr. Rick Rigsby and co-chair Christiana McConn. Co-chairs for this year’s luncheon were also Melissa and Matt Morris and Gabrielle and Rallin Welch, along with the 2018 host committee. This year’s “change agent” award recipient was longtime supporter and former district attorney, Carol S. Vance. Also, the first-ever “youngest change agent” award went to Charles Richard Stasney.

Charlie is the 8-year-old son of Spencer and Allison Stasney. The change award is given to an individual who sees a need for change and gathers resources and knowledge to help make an impact.

New park coming Residents from the City of West University Place gathered for a cere- (continued on page 42)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 41

the occasion were West U Mayor Susan Sample, council person Bob Higley, council person Kellye Burke, former council person Bob Kelly, the Hughes Park task force committee, parks and recreation board representatives, Friends of West U Parks board representatives, the Hughes family, and more.

This is her fight song

monial groundbreaking to kick off the construction of the Jennie Elizabeth Hughes Park at 6446 Sewanee. The 15,000-square-foot park will include a covered front-porch entry at the corner of Sewanee and Pittsburg, recessed lighting and rocking chairs for residents to look out onto a large green space. Kids will be able to stay cool with a button-activated water feature. There will be lots of areas to relax in, including benches, log

(continued from page 40)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 42

seats and a picnic table. The park will be made possible due to a generous bequest from longtime West University resident James M. Hughes, who donated his property and $200,000 to be used for the design and development of a quiet park honoring his mother, Jennie Elizabeth Hughes. The Friends of West U Parks Fund will fund remaining construction expenses. The park is projected to open in October of this year. On hand to mark

More than 300 supporters of the ovarian-cancer non-profit Ovarcome, including board members (pictured, from left) Mike Beck, Dr. Aparna Kamat, Betty White, Runsi Sen, Dr. Priya Bhosale, Linda Ibrahim, Juuhi Ahuja and Rob Heifner, attended the annual gala “UnMasque” at The St. Regis to celebrate survivors. Musician and teen Caly Bevier received the 2018 Ovarcome Excellence Award. In a memorable moment, Caly invited all survivors in the room to join her on stage as she sang Rachel Platten’s Fight Song. Caly had felt a growing lump in her stomach area for nearly a year, but it wasn’t until she was in a bathing suit around family that her parents noticed just how big of problem the lump had become. They immediately brought her in to be examined. In the summer of 2015, at age 15, Caly was diagnosed with (continued on page 44)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 43

(continued from page 42)

stage 3 ovarian cancer.

After treatment including chemotherapy, Caly is now in remission.

Cindy’s surprise

Cindy Atlas’s birthday wasn’t until a month later so it was indeed a surprise when she walked into Toulouse to find 36 friends shouting, “Surprise!” The surprise dinner was orchestrated by her daughters, Kim Harrington, Julie Taylor and Angela Mutisya, while mom and dad (Brian) were cruising in the Greek islands.

Gigantic balloons with confetti inside created a festive ambiance. Sharon Brier, along with Donna Palmer, Brenda Fant and Debby Stanton, created a fake flash-mob audience participation with signs and props before crowning Cindy Queen for the Night, assisted by the daughters. Pictured (from left) are Brian, Julie, the birthday girl, Angela and her husband Kevin, Kim and her husband Zac, and Julie’s husband Jeremy Taylor.

Emanu El’s Sisterhood’s 75 years Congregation Emanu El’s Sisterhood, which offers camaraderie and promotes community

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 44

volunteerism for women of all ages, will celebrate 75 years on Aug. 29 at its 75th Anniversary Opening Dinner, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pictured are (back row, from left) Barbara Coleman, Joan Morgenstern, Libby Marvins, Judi Levy, Jeannette Nestvold, Ellen Grabois, Judy Solomon, Barbara Kalmans, Debbie Colton, Marlene Rubin, Hilda Herzfeld, Linda Zoll, (front row, seated, from left) Claire Brooks, Linda Kates, Diane Puschette, Carol Sue Zionts and Lori Lessey. Black Tie Music Productions will provide music featuring singer Marcia Sterling and a three-piece band. Cochairs are Levy and Jan Rose. Tickets are $1520. Email sisterhood@emanuelhouston.org or call 713-529-5771, ext. 233, by Aug. 22.

Skills About 45 kids from West University, Bellaire and surrounding areas polished up on their basketball skills at St. Vincent de Paul School’s Young Sports Camp. The kids darted and dribbled on the court during the first three days of skilled work, and, on day four, they were divided up into teams to play some tournament games. Two area high school coaches came by to give a talk, coach Wayne Jones from Episcopal High School and new head coach Gary Hall from St. Thomas High School.

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.

Named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School

Online applications for the 2019-2020 school year will be available mid-August.

For further information visit www.saintvincentschool.org or contact Renee McCurry, Director of Admissions - rmccurry@svdp-edu.org.

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School • 6802 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX

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NEIGHBORS

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by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Back Porch

Surviving the permit driver

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ AUGUST 2018 46

behance.net/runamokstudios

I

magine locking yourself into a moving car surrounded by other moving cars and myriad perilous objects (curbs, trees, people) without control over said car’s speed, direction or ability to stop, with no escape. If you can truly transport yourself to this place without hyperventilating, can you please come log some driving hours with my 15-year-old permit-driver?

I’m taking a risk here talking about this situation. If and when my new driver reads this, I might not be doing much talking at all, especially with my child.

Because that’s the way this thing has been going. My sweet baby – the one who promised me more than a few times that she would never be that teenager and would always let me kiss her cheeks and hold her hand – does not like it one bit when she looks over from the driver’s seat to find me holding on to the window, positioned to escape.

How does she even see that happening? Because I myself have no idea it’s happening – somehow I just find my hands plastered to the window, which, sadly, is pretty smooth and is really not the most comforting thing to hold onto.

Deep breaths.

In part I need to breathe – or merely remind myself to force an exhale – just to survive the ride. But another part of my exaggerated breathing is to do my very best to be calm and keep smiling as my sweet baby tells me to stop getting crazy nervous “right now” and it makes everyone else crazy and how is she supposed to drive when I act like this and why didn’t I do this with her sister? Then her eyes get very big.

This isn’t my first go-round; it’s my second child learning to drive. I can’t tell you I didn’t have my moments with the first one. Those passenger-side curbs and anyone walking anywhere near them were fairly alarming. But why is this one somehow harder? Is it because every time she gets in the driver’s seat she has to remind herself out loud which pedal is gas and which is brake, followed straightaway by a turning both ways – all the way – of the steering wheel to be sure it’s centered? (If you’re confused, don’t worry. So am I.) Or is it that I have to continuously remind her, not without a little panicking on my part, to “turn the wheel the other way” mid-journey?

HANG ON Riding in the car with student drivers – especially when they're your own children – isn't for the faint of heart.

Or is it just because she’s the baby, and she’s really not supposed to be doing this. (Note the period here: This is not a question.)

I know for a fact I’m no worse than any other middle-aged parent trying to let go. The other day, I was on speakerphone with a friend whose 15-year-old daughter was practicing driving during our conversation. All was calm until, midsentence with me, my friend abruptly yelled, “Maddie, what the *@#! are you doing??? Did you not see that car coming? What in the world?

You idiot!” The three of us quickly laughed it off, everyone thankfully safe. But she said it.

If we all survive this phase without 1) someone accosting someone else, 2) seriously hurt feelings, and/or 3) totaling a car, and if we’re still speaking – better yet, laughing – when we drive to DPS to get the real license, we will have done our jobs. We’ll get to dust ourselves off and dive into the next thing, whatever that is.

But right now, I can’t go there. The thing is,

I’ve survived turns into the wrong lanes, missed stop signs and so many other moments of sheer terror. I’ve whimpered, I’ve gasped, I’ve even (please don’t tell) closed my eyes a few times and said a prayer just to get through it. And every time, my sweet driver looks sideways at me with her giant green eyes, like I’ve not only lost my mind and have no idea what I am screeching about, but also like she can not believe what a complete control freak I am, and why can’t I just chill out a little?

Well, here’s the answer: Eventually – and this is contingent on whether she actually does get the difference between the brake and the gas – I’ll let her drive, on her own, without me keeping us safe by pumping the invisible brake on the passenger side. But even when she’s out there on her own, likely fully capable and careful, I’ll probably never chill out the way she’d like for me to. Because even with a driver’s license, that’s still my baby behind the wheel.