The West University Buzz - October 2016

Sara Koch

Surprise Trips from Dad Parent Groups for College Years Fashion Throwbacks Chef’s Corner: Ronnie Killen Where to Eat Steak

#schoolbuzz Meet our Correspondents

by Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld

Family Politics Big Time in Big D Fall Outings Haunted Houston Houston, TX Permit No. 2047

Baby Buzz: Sleeping – or Not

PAID US Postage PRSRT STD

A Tailgating Menu

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE My wife Joni is the one who always initiates and plans our family trips. In 28 years of marriage I can’t recall planning a single trip. The irony is that once we get there, I’m usually the one who most enjoys the vacation while Joni can’t put her work and phone away. For other people, like Buzz resident Hector Herrera, planning a surprise trip for his family is half the fun. To read about Hector’s ambitious, secret trips and perhaps get some ideas for yourself, see Surprise Trips from Dad by Tracy L. Barnett in this month’s Travel Buzz column. Also, now in its third year, our School Buzz program has grown to more than 54 students from 22 area high schools. Our School Buzz blog gives high school reporters, editors and photographers an online community site to share what is happening in their schools. You can meet our energetic 2016-17 School Buzz correspondents in this issue and follow our School Buzz blog at thebuzzmagazines.com/school-buzz. michael@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 Vice President, Sales Account Managers

Sales Associates Interns

Joni Hoffman Michael Hoffman Cheryl Laird Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld John Duboise Tracy L. Barnett Sharon Albert Brier Andria Frankfort Angie Frederickson Todd Freed Cathy Gordon Michelle Casas Groogan Dai Huynh Annie Blaylock McQueen Jennifer Oakley Cheryl Ursin Haley Kurisky Mariaha Elizabeth Pedder Jay Janecek Andrea Blitzer Leslie Little Kim Montgomery Amber Lewis, Helen van Rensburg Sarah Bass, Benjamin Cohen Andi Minter, Maddy Payne

On our cover: Sara Koch, a junior at Episcopal High School, is a correspondent for School Buzz.

Cover photo by Nick de la Torre, nickdelatorrephoto.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 © 2016 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.

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MAILBAG

Your letters, thoughts, opinions Charmed by books article Jennifer [Oakley], you are a literary genius! The piece [One for the Books: Stories that changed their lives, by Jennifer Oakley, September 2016] is warm and charming and captured a very precious part of what I love about [daughter] Mollie. You have an artist’s eye and a magician’s touch with words! Thanks for a fabulous article!

Alan Gordon Editor’s note: This story – about the impact of Buzz residents’ favorite books – has been especially popular. If you missed it, you can find it and all past articles at thebuzzmagazines.com.

Everyone has a right book I wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I appreciate The Buzz Magazines shining a spotlight on books and the impact they can have on our lives. I thoroughly enjoyed the article One for the Books, telling stories of how books shaped the lives of several people and how they have shaped their lives to include healthy reading habits.

I am so pleased that Book Buzz is going to continue telling book stories and proud that local libraries and librarians will be contributors! My personal librarian motto is that if someone is not a reader, they just haven’t been introduced to the right book. I hope in the months to come we will be connecting your readers with many new books to love.

Linda Stevens, Harris County Public Library Editor’s note: Book Buzz is a blog by neighborhood librarians from the Houston Public Library, Harris County Public Library and Bellaire Library. You can follow it under Buzzworthy at thebuzzmagazines.com.

we just think of it as saving one special little spirit at a time. We are so appreciative of your support and kindness to us.

Tama Lundquist

Happy centennial, national parks I was very impressed with your story and the way you developed it [Travel Buzz: National Parks – 100 years of America at its best, by Tracy L. Barnett, September 2016]. It is a great tribute to our national parks. I have been at Glacier all week, and celebrated the 100th there. Each park has its own personality, and Glacier is no different. I took some interesting photographs. The light, clouds and weather have been perfect.

Steve Fadem

Parks veteran enjoyed story Tracy [Barnett], the National Parks really have been highlighted for the anniversary, and that has been nice to see. Thank you for your work on this article [Travel Buzz: National Parks – 100 years of America at its best]. It was fun to work with you. It was great to see the other pieces of the story and learn of other enthusiasts.

Melissa Fisher 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.

Thank you for sharing their stories Thank you to the moms who shared their pregnancy-loss stories [Buzz Baby: Experiencing pregnancy loss, by Annie Blaylock McQueen, September 2016].

It’s an elite club that no one wants to belong. I have one thought and two pieces of advice for moms like us: The hole in your heart will get smaller; time is a gentle healer. Share your story. Your child lived in you, and you can keep their spirit alive. Say your child’s name. They are a part of your family.

Gina Avioli Taylor, Kirby, Amanda, Seth and heavenly daughters Abigail and Emma’s mom

What’s your story?

We are looking for residents for upcoming articles who:

For the animals I have the chills, and you made my day! Thank you so much for your kindness to us and for taking the time to find that very relevant photo from last year [Buzz About Town, Ready, get set, by Annie Blaylock McQueen, September 2016]. Thank you on behalf of Houston PetSet and, of course, our loves, the homeless animals of Houston. We are very busy and very excited. Long days of planning and working, but we feel so blessed to be able to work in our passion. I was thinking recently how horrible I feel sometimes when I see stories about abuse and neglected animals, but how much worse I would feel if I couldn’t try to do something about it. We are taking little bites out of this big apple, but we have some momentum and WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 6

• Have a fun Christmas-stocking tradition.

• Have a compelling travel story.

• Have a funny or unique story about being a new parent.

• Have a fascinating neighbor to profile.

• Have an interesting passion or hobby.

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

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NEIGHBORS

by Haley Kurisky, contributing writer

Spooky Houston Discovering scary spots around town

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Rachel Kim

D

id you know that Houston is haunted?

Or at least parts of it supposedly are.

With Halloween around the corner, we thought it was time to revisit the Bayou City’s spooky side.

We talked with Houston historian Sandra Lord, owner of Discover Houston tour company, and Debe Branning, who investigates paranormal activity. They have co-written a book, A Ghost Walk in the Old Town of Houston, about haunted historical spots in Houston, due out this month. With their help, we have compiled a list of ghostly spots in Houston for you to visit.

Rice University has an intriguing backstory regarding its founding. William Marsh Rice (known as Willy), the founder of the university, put aside his fortune towards Rice’s founding, but was subsequently murdered by his butler. The butler was working in conjunction with Rice’s lawyer to try and change Rice’s will so that the money could be theirs. The plan was thwarted

by Rice’s friend, Captain James A. Baker, who recovered the money and put it towards the university. Rice’s ashes are located on campus inside the base of a statue bearing his resemblance in the middle of campus. There haven’t been any reports of ghostly sightings yet, but Rice students say that Willy is always watching.

The Spaghetti Warehouse building downtown, 901 Commerce Street, now houses the Italian restaurant. But it was once a warehouse, specifically for pharmacy items. Paranormal researchers describe this as one of the most fun haunted places to visit in Houston. The legend goes that a pharmacist once fell down an open elevator shaft, dying immediately. His grieving wife died shortly after, and their spirits have been said to haunt the restaurant, rearranging chairs and plates, and leaving restaurant-goers uneasy after feeling cold breezes in random areas of the restaurant.

What’s scarier than a haunted hospital and gravesite? Jefferson Davis Hospital, 1101 Elder Street, and built on top of a cemetery for Confederate soldiers, was remodeled and is now known as the Elder Street Artists Lofts, but once served as a psychiatric ward and juvenile-detention building. Residents report hearing screams and see-

WILLY IS WATCHING Haley Kurisky, this article’s writer and a student at Rice University, stands next to “Willy’s Statue,” where the ashes of the murdered founder of Rice, William Marsh Rice, are buried.

ing “shadowy figures” on the premises, supposedly haunted by ghosts of soldiers, nurses, and children.

If you’re of drinking age, you might be interested in checking out “the most haunted bar in Houston,” La Carafe, 813 Congress Avenue. It is speculated to be the oldest bar in Houston and is an official Texas Historic Landmark in downtown. The spirit of a longtime bartender for La Carafe, known as Carl, supposedly has been seen on numerous occasions peering out of the secondfloor windows at passers-by. In addition, child ghosts have reportedly been seen on the second floor, as well as orbs and glowing lights in the building. Local residents claim that a female ghost wearing a white dress will mess with women visiting the bar, as she is jealous of their beauty.

The last spooky spot we suggest visiting is the Old Downtown Library, also known as the Julia Ideson building, 550 McKinney. Branning says this is one of “the coolest haunted spots in the city.”

She says the building hosts a live-in ghost, who

often can be heard playing his violin on the top floor of the library. Jacob Frank Cramer, who was found dead in the library, worked as a watchman for the library in the early 1900s. The ghost supposedly has been seen on numerous occasions with the ghost of his dog, Petey, a German shepherd.

If you want a more planned, interactive experience, check out one of the scariest haunted houses in Houston: Nightmare on the Bayou, 1515 Studemont Street. Another haunted house you can go to is Phobia, 5250 South Sam Houston Parkway. Tickets for the houses are around $30, and can be bought in advance online.

You can also go on a haunted tour around the city with Houston Historical Tours. They range in length from one to four hours. See houstonhistoricaltours.com.

If you’re taking a trip down to Galveston, consider staying at Hotel Galvez – Galveston’s oldest hotel, located on the Seawall. It’s supposed to be one of the most haunted hotels in Texas.

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NEIGHBORS

by Jennifer Oakley, staff writer

And They’re Off Parent groups for the college years

W

hen a routine back-to-college drive from West University Place to Oxford, Miss., this August turned out to be anything but, Joni Hruska Fichter jumped into action.

A ride that should have clocked in at nine hours turned into an eventual 39 excruciating ones, including a 27-hour standstill, when she and daughter Kylie got stuck on I-12 during the Baton Rouge flooding.

With her usual can-do spirit, the outgoing Fichter walked a few miles off of the freeway to gather anything she could to eat (candy and soda was all that was left at the lone convenience store), made new friends in the massive traffic jam – and alerted other Ole Miss families making the same trek to chart a new course.

Fichter was able to do the latter quickly via an email distribution list and Facebook page dedicated to Houston-area parents of Ole Miss students, called Hotty Toddy Mamas. Because of her posts, many Ole Miss families were able to skip getting stranded on the road. “Sharing knowledge is a part of our story,” says Fichter, who started the group when Kylie was a freshman. “We got tons of responses from people in the group and people were able to re-route – we were our very own Waze [traffic app]!”

Traveling from Houston to their children’s college towns is a tie that binds local parents.

Seven hundred sixty-two miles. That’s the length between Stephanie Tsuru’s home in Memorial and the University of Georgia. Back in 2010, when Tsuru’s eldest daughter, Kylee, left for college, the campus seemed exceptionally far away. Tsuru needed a way to shorten the gap.

Her solution? She created Mama and Papa Dawgs, a social group for parents of students who attend the University of Georgia. They communicate via a large email list, which Tsuru likens to an “informal electronic bulletin board.”

“Despite the fact that my children are innately independent, Georgia is still many states away,” says Tsuru, a community volunteer and philanthropist. “It was a bit of insecurity on my part, combined with a need to somehow stay connected that prompted my search for a parents’ organization. The distance was definitely

GIG ’EM, MOMS Houston A&M University Mothers’ Club board members gather for their first meeting of this school year. Pictured: Michelle Maresh, Sheryl Namee, Michelle Rogers, Jana Gunter (president), Angie Durand, Michelle Williams, Stephanie Burritt, Peree Griffin, Cheryl Dinwoodie, Barbara Roberts, Kristi Cordova, Kristi Smith, Reneé Colyer, Donna Verschuren, Robyn Repass, Charleene Burgess, Melinda Brents, Kim Chavez, Margaret Harris and Chaille Ralph.

the defining factor.”

Thanks in part to the parents’ group, Mom survived the separation, and Kylee graduated four years later, with degrees in English and public relations, and is now a graduate student in journalism at Columbia University. Then it was younger sister Bailey’s turn in Athens, Georgia. She is on track to graduate in 2017 with a degree in education.

All the years as a UGA parent have provided Tsuru and husband Frank with a wealth of experience to share with families of incoming students.

“After I was unable to locate an existing group, I simply sat down at the computer one day, and started my search for other UGA parents by emailing my idea to the few families I knew had kids attending there,” she recalls.

“Before long my inbox was full of positive responses and enthusiasm for the idea.”

But first she needed a name for the club, which she decided should play off of the school’s canine mascot. “TCU had a group called Froggie Moms, but I didn’t think Doggie Moms would entice many members,” says Tsuru, laughing. “My children call me Mama, so I went with Mama Dawgs.

The dads were feeling excluded, so now we are officially the Mama and Papa Dawgs.”

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Tsuru says the group is both social and helpful. “If someone was searching for football tickets or had tickets they couldn’t use, we let people know,” she says. “If someone was going to visit, a goodie bag or winter coat can be transported – I’ve even delivered a passport to a kid!”

Tsuru says about 70 Houston-area families have students attending UGA, and all are welcome in the group, which hosts social events in town throughout the year.

She inspired her friend Fichter to create the group for the University of Mississippi in 2013.

“At Ole Miss you say, ‘Hotty Toddy,’ to everyone – it’s sort of like ‘Aloha’ and it means, ‘Hello, goodbye, have a nice day,’” says Fichter, owner of Career Placement and a community volunteer. “So it just seemed like the natural thing to call the group Hotty Toddy Mamas.”

Fichter says that the Hotty Toddy Mamas draws from the Greater Houston area and has 100 members and is growing. “We started as really a social-networking group but have grown to much more and have become friends and extended family. In addition to our Moms Nights Out, we assist with the Freshmen Summer Send-Off in August that is sponsored

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GROWNUP PLAYDATES The Hotty Toddy Mamas group of Ole Miss parents gather for an “Off to College Kick-Off” at Joni Fichter’s house. Pictured: Colleen Colby, Sallie Alcorn, Kari Alvarez, Audra Parrish, Gina Thomas, Linda Smith, Laurie Boeh, Meg Wilson, Lori Tieken, Holly Willis, Wendy Burks, Beth Barton, Earlene Stewart, Lisa Ganucheau, Deanna Barton, Karen Acton, Jana Ames, Andy Blitzer, Sheri Thomas, Joni Hruska Fichter, Lauren Dyer, Dacia Rowe and Laura Mudd.

by UM … and now have a Facebook page thanks to Andy, an incoming mom.”

For her part, Andy Blitzer, of Bellaire, whose daughter Greer is a freshman, says, “This group has made a world of difference when your child is going out of state. They are the most welcoming people.” Blitzer, who is an account manager at The Buzz Magazines, says that the Hotty Toddy Mamas private Facebook group pairs parent’s questions with answers. “For example, people can ask if someone has space in their U-Haul to take a piece of furniture up to their student or perhaps they need a ride driving up to Oxford.”

Another group with an active Facebook page is the long-running Texas Parents Association at The University of Texas at Austin, which, among other things, organizes student orientation and parents weekend. At least one Buzzarea freshman found his well-matched, out-ofstate roommate through the page.

Conversations range from the best way to score game-day tickets to how to navigate state-school bureaucracy. Sometimes the Facebook page becomes a sounding board for parents who are sad about having an empty nest at home. One parent even posted about her son being hit by a car in Austin, and the result was overwhelming, with fellow Texas parents rallying around the stricken student’s family and, later, celebrating when he recovered and returned to school.

Bellaire resident Lee Kaplan is a member of the Texas Christian University Froggie Mommies. She joined when her daughter Mallory, now a senior, was a freshman.

“It is nerve-wracking for all of us to send our children off to college,” says Kaplan, a realtor with Greenwood King Properties. “We all have the same questions and concerns. Personally I have met so many great Houston moms and enjoy getting together with them at Parents Weekend and home football games.

“The first meeting was wonderful! Friendly moms who welcomed us to the group were so helpful to share tips, information to make our daughter’s move-in and transition seamless.

They gave us a members’ directory and a TCU/Fort Worth resource directory, which have been extremely useful as well.”

Popular annual events in Houston include a send off-party in August, a Final Exam Survival Kit Packing in December and an End of Year social in May to welcome incoming freshman moms. And it is not just the parents who have taken note. Representatives from TCU have come down to Houston to attend the functions.

“This past spring, Chancellor Victor Boschini attended our spring social,” says Kaplan. “It was a wonderful opportunity for parents to meet the chancellor in person and to ask questions one on one in a relaxed environment.”

One local group that has withstood the test of time is the Houston A&M University Mothers’ Club. In 2017, the club will turn 90 years old.

Tanglewood-area resident Michelle Maresh is the club’s executive committee board parliamentarian.

Maresh notes that admission to the school required all students to participate in military training. “The club started because one moth-

er’s concern about the poor quality of life on campus and the need for ties to home to ensure happy and successful cadets,” says Maresh, whose son Cameron is a junior at A&M. “Ninety years later and 400-plus members strong, we provide that and so much more.”

The close-knit organization has grown into a powerhouse which raises $300,000 annually for scholarships and donations to TAMU. The club also provides something that was of particular interest to Maresh, who is a graduate of another in-state rival school: “to have a chance to learn the traditions of Texas A&M University.”

“I am an avid Texas Longhorn and thought for 18 years that Cameron would also be a Longhorn,” says Maresh, now a proud Aggie mom.

Maresh says the students enjoy the group as much as the moms do. “They love it!” she says.

“During Christmas and summer we have mother-child events such as bowling and dinner.

And, we have a Facebook page [Houston Aggie Moms] that has become our communication network. Last year I brought Memorial resident Rachel Coker four dress options for a formal and a pair of boots that she desperately needed!”

Fichter, the mom from Ole Miss, says, “Why should our kids have all the fun? When someone needs a doctor or a dentist, we find that information for them. When people need to buy or sell dorm furniture, we connect them. While we initially started as a social group to get together and know one another, the group has become so much more.”

Especially when roads to Oxford need a little re-routing, and Fichter is on duty.

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KIDS

by Jordan Magaziner Steinfeld, staff writer

#schoolbuzz Meet our 2016-17 correspondents

T

his fall marks the third year of our popular School Buzz blog, a program for high school students to share what’s going on at their campuses through stories, photos and videos on our website. School Buzz editors, reporters and photographers have published hundreds of blog posts presenting a behind-thescenes look of their campus culture and students.

We currently have 54 students representing 22 local schools for the 2016-17 year. If you’re in high school and love to write or take photographs, it’s not too late. Go to School Buzz on our website and click apply to join a team or start a new one.

Here, some of our School Buzz contributors introduce themselves and tell us what makes their schools special.

Alexander-Smith Academy Becca Stetzer, editor: “My main hobbies are playing volleyball, traveling, philanthropy and hanging out with friends and family. The great thing about being in such a small school are the amount of opportunities, as well as the relationships you form with your teachers and the feeling of camaraderie. Alexander-Smith was my third high school. I was behind on credits and was close to having to repeat a year, but with the help of the staff, I was able to regain control of my education, and I am beyond grateful.”

Awty International School Pranay Palvadi, editor: “I have enjoyed writing since I was a young child. When I was around 6 or 7, I wrote short stories and poems for fun. I gradually stopped writing and finally started again when I joined my school’s Newspaper Club last year. In my free time I play tennis, create art and play guitar. I was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and have been living in Houston for about eight years now. I enjoy living here because of the immense diversity. I am delighted to be writing for School Buzz.”

Meher Qazilbash, editor: “I realized that I loved writing when I wrote my first diary entry.

Writing about my experiences helps me remember things more vividly. I joined School Buzz because Awty is such a weird and incredible school, and I want to tell other people about the

unique things it offers. I write for my school newspaper, the Awty Rampage. I also love cats, videos of people falling down and exploring Houston with my friends.”

Bellaire High School Maya Kanani, editor: “Writing is something that I have always enjoyed. It began as an outlet for the thoughts in my head and has MEHER QAZILBASH Meher loves to write and is a School Buzz correspondent become a way to share at The Awty International School. stories. I have found a my Gold Award, and am involved in National passion in journalism, leading me to be a part of Charity League. A fun fact about me: I used to the School Buzz team for the third year. live in Saudi Arabia, and by the age of 4, I had Additionally, I am an online editor-in-chief for visited 13 countries.” the Bellaire High newspaper, the Three Penny Mackenzie McAnear, editor: “I was in second Press. I am excited to spend another year sharing grade when I found out I had dyslexia and Bellaire’s stories with the community.”

ADHD, but knowing that didn’t stop me from Angela Liu, photo editor: “From the scribbles reading and writing. I’ve had a love for literature that covered the walls of my childhood room to the since I was young and it has grown over time. I’m present-day doodles that riddle my lecture notes, involved in basketball, tennis, theater and yearI’ve always loved showing my immense fascination book photography. I have a poem published in in the art around me. Only recently, after joining the Anthology of Young Poets 2015 and 2016. A my school yearbook, did I unearth my infatuation teacher once told me, ‘If you have a gift, share it with words and realize their great role in capturing with the world.’ I have had some ups and downs, others’ hidden stories. This year, I’ll be taking on but I always say, ‘You gotta fall before you fly.’” the position of the Bellaire Carillon yearbook’s editor-in-chief as well as executive chair of the Texas Carnegie Vanguard High School Gulf Coast Region Red Cross Youth Service Stacey Yard, editor: “Ever since I can rememCouncil and president of Bellaire’s Red Cross and ber, I loved writing stories and poems, and sharKids with (Dis)abilities clubs.” ing them with my family. I’ve recently began writing screenplays, and I hope to double major The Briarwood School in screenwriting and law. I love playing soccer, Abbie Seay, editor: “I never thought I was drawing and watching all the independent films good at writing until my eighth-grade language I can. This year I will finish my last year at teacher said I was. I was shocked. Now, I have Carnegie Vanguard High School, and I truly been published yearly in our school’s literary dread the day I have to leave. Even with the magazine. I’m involved in varsity tennis, yearprestige and challenges of the academics, book, Executive Student Council, the Dyslexic Carnegie has one of the best atmospheres, with College Panel and theater at school. I’m starting students who are focused, caring and supportive.” my 13th year in Girl Scouts and am working on

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Grace Burgert, editor: “As an avid reader of newspaper articles and countless emails updating me on local, national and international news, I could not be more excited to start reporting myself. I love to write and have been taking pictures since my stubby little fingers could press down the buttons. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to share what is going on at Duchesne through such an accessible medium.”

The Emery/Weiner School Benjamin Cohen, editor: “I first began my pursuit of journalism when I joined the yearbook staff my freshman year. Ever since, I have been working my way and am currently the editor-inchief. As a summer intern at The Buzz Magazines, I grew my passion for writing and reporting. Living in Houston allows me the ability to do anything that I want as long as I set my mind on it. As a Student Ambassador, it is easy to represent The Emery/Weiner School, but through my writing I am able to express what makes Emery truly different. Along with the many trips that we take, to me, the teacher-student relationships set Emery apart.”

Will Bazarsky, sports reporter: “I first discovered my passion for sports journalism during my sophomore year when I joined The Emery/Weiner School Sports Podcasting Club.

From this club, I found a love for ESPN’s College GameDay and college football as a whole. This love of football prompted me to begin broadcasting Emery football games live on thecube.com. Since then, I have started my own sports blog and have become an editor of my school’s newspaper. Growing up in a city like Houston gives me the freedom to write about anything that I desire. As a sports broadcaster at Emery, it is easy to talk about players, but through my writing, I hope to demonstrate the determination and will that Emery students have when they step onto the fields.”

Emma Lapin, reporter: “Writing is a way to express my feelings and ideas. I’m excited for the opportunity to write for School Buzz about all the special qualities my school has to offer. The Buzz has a unique way of bringing our community together by sharing our stories, and community is something that is important to me. I’m active in a lot of different unique community activities including B’Nai Brith Youth Organization. I have been an Evelyn’s Park Ambassador since sixth grade and have been working to raise money to make the park a reality. Emery is a small, private school, but we have lots of school spirit, competitive sports, a great sense of community and an amazing theater program.”

Episcopal High School Sophia Wayne, editor: “I became interested in photography during eighth grade when I took a yearbook class and had the opportunity to go around school taking pictures of students and

events.

During sophomore year, I took a film-photography class where I got to develop my own pictures.

That same year, I took a photojournalism class. I have the photography bug! I also play for my school’s varsity tennis team. In addition, I participate on our students of service committee as the media director, and I participate in the admissions council.”

Sara Koch, editor: “I have always been interested in writing, and taking creative writing my sophomore year and working on the school literary magazine, Light and Shadow, really grew my love for writing. I am excitSOPHIA WAYNE Sophia is passionate about photography and chronicles what’s ed to write for happening at Episcopal High School for School Buzz.

School Buzz thing that makes Houston Christian one of the because I have never done journalism before, best schools in Houston is how welcomed and and I think it will be interesting to experience a loved you feel the moment you step onto campus.” different form of writing. My junior year, I will be in World Affairs Club and Light and Shadow Incarnate Word Academy and play lacrosse. My favorite thing about living Cristobella Durrette, editor: “I’m a recluse in Houston is, of course, the rodeo.” who grew up in a suburban area where the only light in the sky was green and flashing. Between The High School for the visits to the existential void and hours spent Performing and Visual Arts drawing comic characters, I went to the library, Savanna Lim, editor: “My dream is to travel which was empty of anything bearing a human the world and to document every leg of it, be it resemblance, except for a marble statue that through videography, photography or journalism. would occasionally move when I wasn’t looking.

I have lived in four countries, Singapore for the However, I hardly noticed; when I opened a longest, but I’d like to categorize myself as a global book, I escaped into a world far from the monotcitizen. My interests include international policy, ony of my own. Over time, my world expanded advocating for social change, peeling string cheese far beyond the confines of a page; it grew to have instead of biting it and photography. I attend magnificent places I had never been that I called HSPVA with a focus on set design, but my passion home and incredible people I had never met that for the arts is not limited to the stage. When not I called friends. Then, when I realized that I in action, I can be found feasting at one of the could create my own magnificent places and myriad of restaurants Houston has to offer. “ imagine my own incredible friends, I picked up a pen and began writing. I haven’t stopped since Houston Christian High School and can be found hunched over a desk, surroundMallory Jenkins, editor: “I love playing based by piles of books and empty coffee mugs.” ketball, being a student ambassador and being the president of my sophomore class. I was born in The Kinkaid School Birmingham, Ala., and moved to Houston when Sarah Bass, editor: “I fell in love with writing I was 9 months old. Although I miss my family in at a young age, and I read (continued on page 14) Alabama, I love living in Houston. I think one lawellphoto.com

Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart

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THE NEXT GENERATION Some of our School Buzz correspondents gather to brainstorm for the school year: (from left, bottom bleacher) Maya Kanani, Bellaire HS; Incarnate Word; Robert Coghlan IV, St. Pius X; Natalie Lee, Memorial HS; (second bleacher) Sophia Wayne, Episcopal HS; Stacey Yard, Carnegie Vanguard HS; HS; Julia Randolph, The Village School; Elisa Flores, The Village School; Benjamin Cohen, Emery/Weiner; Anna Epstein, Emery/Weiner; Channing Smith, St. Agnes; Grace Burgert, Duchesne; Sara Burpeau, Kinkaid; Emma Lapin, Emery/Weiner; Abbie Seay, The Briarwood School; (top bleacher) Deborah Brown, Robert M. Beren; (continued from page 13) every book I could get my

hands on. I discovered my passion for journalism my sophomore year and have enjoyed working on the Kinkaid newspaper ever since. As a senior this year, I plan on running a communityservice project, playing varsity lacrosse, being an associate editor of the newspaper and enjoying my last year as a high school student. Kinkaid is a unique place with great sports teams, amazing performing and visual arts, and rigorous but rewarding academics. I can’t wait to share all of the exciting events happening at Kinkaid through School Buzz.”

Ella Morgan, editor: “This is the first year that Kinkaid has been a part of School Buzz and I can’t wait to show Houston how our community works. I’ve always loved creative writing and joined my school’s newspaper staff in 10th grade.

I don’t spend a day without listening to music, and I am a total foodie. I love that Houston has so many different layers, whether you go to a new restaurant, concert or sports event, there is always something new and exciting going on.

Kinkaid is unique because it encourages students to be a part of every aspect of the community, but still manages to bring everyone together.”

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Memorial High School Rachel Amran, editor: “I fell in love with writing during my freshman year when I took my first journalism class. I will be a senior this year at Memorial and I will serve as the co-editor of our school magazine, The Anvil. A fun fact about me is that I have two sets of twins in my family. My favorite part about living in Houston is having the opportunity to discover new parts of the city.”

Michael E. DeBakey School for Health Professions Liana Salehian, editor: “I picked up my first

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Trevor Schneider, Strake Jesuit; Bayle Goldman, Stratford HS; Pranay Palvadi, Awty International; Celia Houston, Saint Thomas’ Episcopal; Cristobella Durrette, Celine Lai, Second Baptist; Reagan Bisel, Emery/Weiner; Savanna Lim, HSPVA; Mackenzie McAnear, The Briarwood School; (third bleacher) Sara Koch, Episcopal Jenna Blumrosen, Emery/Weiner; (fourth bleacher) Holly Kurisky, Memorial HS; Catherine Gassiot, St. Agnes; Claire Furse, St. John’s; Sarah Cowan, Memorial HS; Leora Geralnik, Beren; Liana Salehian, DeBakey HS; Madeline Muschalik, Memorial HS; Natalie Farrell, St. Agnes; and Meher Qazilbash, Awty International.

camera back in middle school, and that’s when I fell in love with telling stories through pictures and words. I plan on taking art classes and participating in another year of Health Occupation Students of America and my school’s Persian Club. Even though DeBakey is a medical-focused school, many of us enjoy hobbies that aren’t science- and math-related. Next semester, DeBakey will get a new building in the heart of Houston’s Medical Center to bring more opportunities for students to work alongside talented professionals.”

Robert M. Beren Academy

Deborah Brown, reporter: “As a kid, I was never seen without a book. My passion for writing came not far behind, and by the time I was in middle school my class notes were already infamous for their detail and complexity. Beren Academy gives me opportunities beyond taking notes. I am a member of National Honor Society; on the Teen Board of Yachad, an organization that promotes inclusion of individuals with disabilities; and a member of the Model United Nations team. This year I am assistant director of our drama society. I also take TaeKwonDo and I’m working to earn my Girl

Scout Gold Award.”

Leora Geralnik, reporter: “I have always loved reading, and at some point that love extended to writing. Telling the news and people’s stories is amazing, but I have always loved writing fiction. This year I hope to take part in the basketball team as well as volunteer at Texas Children’s Hospital. My favorite part about writing for School Buzz is that I get to talk to so many different people at my school. “

Saint Thomas’ Episcopal School Celia Houston, editor: (continued on page 16)

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Second Baptist School Celine Lai, editor: “I am eager to share about my school’s state-winning sports teams, studentled programs and once-in-a-lifetime trips. I am serving as my school’s Publicity Prefect, which means it’s my job to publicize student achievement inside and outside the school through Eagle Edition, a student-run online newspaper, and SBTV, a student-led broadcasting show. I also love music. I enjoy playing a large variety of instruments for my church, school and myself.”

St. Agnes Academy Natalie Farrell, editor: “My school has so many fun traditions, from Veritas Vacation Day to the International Food Festival. When I first came to St. Agnes, I saw a poster about joining the yearbook staff, and I knew I wanted to try it.

Three years later, I am the editor-in-chief of the yearbook. I have developed a passion for writing, photography and graphic design. In my free time I enjoy watching Netflix and shopping.”

St. John’s School Claire Furse, editor: “My interest in writing initially came from my love of reading. Now that I’m in high school, I don’t have as much time to read, but I still love it. I am an assignments editor at our school newspaper, The Review, and I think journalism is an interesting, important field, so I’m looking forward to participating in the School Buzz program for the first time. I also love community service and enjoy exploring new areas of Houston.”

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told me I would be writing articles voluntarily for a magazine, I would have laughed. I was told about this opportunity one morning when I was running late and in the front office getting a tardy slip frantically racing to second period (my normal morning routine). I was surprised when I found out I would have to write an article once a month for fun. I have learned so much through this program and learned to really enjoy writing.

I am involved in most aspects of student life: cross country, swimming, track, Hope club, Latin club, class president, student foundation, mock trial, ambassador, ceramics and design, captain of the sailing team, you name it. Being involved like this enables me write about all the different things that happen in my tiny, but very lively, school.”

Reena Kudchadker, editor: “When I first joined Saint Thomas’ Episcopal School, the first thing that sparked my interest was their outstanding yearbook and newspaper. I told my English teacher that the middle school deserved a chance to be heard and the next year the middle-school paper, The Loop, was created. When I was in eighth grade, I had the privilege to be its editor-in-chief. I started dancing ballet and tap at age 5 and continued on to an Indian classical dance form called Bharatanatyam. This past summer, I graduated with a two-hour solo performance in front of 200 people. Volleyball is another passion of mine.”

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(continued from page 15) “A year ago, if you had

ST. AGNES AND ST. JOHN’S At left: Natalie Farrell loves writing, photography and graphic design. In addition to School Buzz, she’s editor in chief of St. Agnes Academy’s yearbook. At right: Claire Furse, a budding journalist, is also an assignments editor at the St. John’s School newspaper, The Review.

St. Pius X High School Robert Coghlan IV, editor: “Ever since I was a kid, I’ve known that I wanted to be a sports analyst on ESPN. I remember sitting in one of my dad’s meetings and I kept interrupting because I was talking to my dad’s friend about the Astros. The next day I was watching basketball highlights on SportsCenter, and Stephen A. Smith was emphatically analyzing the game.

That’s when I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I also realized that before I can go on TV I must learn how to write well.”

Strake Jesuit College Preparatory Trevor Schneider, editor: “Ironically, it was through a sixth-grade assignment in which I declared my distaste for writing that I first found enjoyment in the medium. To my surprise, having the chance to employ creativity in my work led to the ‘stunning revelation’ that neither the writing process nor the finished product had to be boring. Thanks to that pagelong essay, I’ve become the person and writer that I am today – for better or for worse.

Beyond sitting in a dark room and writing until 2 a.m., my interests include theater, politics, Internet memes and obsessing over obscure heavy metal bands.”

Stratford High School Bayle Goldman, editor: “I have enjoyed writing and shooting photographs for as long as I can remember. During middle-school English class, I truly realized that writing was something that gave me a great amount of joy. I’m looking forward to using my passion for both to share news with the area about my school. I love the fact

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that despite being so large, Stratford still feels like a close-knit community. In addition to being on The Oracle newspaper staff I am also involved in the Stratford Playhouse, choir, Student Council, Junior Girls and Link Crew. A surprising fact about me is that I am trained to eat fire!”

The Village School Elisa Flores, editor: “I acquired a love for writing through excessive amounts of time spent reading followed by countless displeasures obtained from most book endings. Inspired to take matters into my own hands, I started fabricating stories. Be that as it may, my natural passion for composition and an undeniable knack for gossip soon led to my pursuit of journalism.

Being born in Mexico, I pride myself on being bilingual in Spanish and English, as well as having a wide cultural perspective among current issues and attending an international school. I spend much of my time playing basketball, listening to music and contemplating the ultimate purpose behind human existence.”

Julia Randolph, editor: “I was born in Greenville, South Carolina, and enjoy reading, writing, photography and painting. I have worked as a lead counselor for the summer camp program at The Village School, as well as being a student photographer at various school events. I have always had a passion for writing and am excited to report for School Buzz, as I feel this will help toward my goal in becoming a professional writer.”

MORE ONLINE See thebuzzmagazines.com/school-buzz for blog posts and bios from all student correspondents.

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KIDS

by Sarah Bass, Andi Minter and Maddy Payne, contributing writers

Embracing Mom Jeans Stylish teens pair old with new

D

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éjà vu (noun): a feeling of having already experienced the present situation.

That’s how older generations must be feeling when observing millennial fashion. The fashions they once wore – or were forbidden to wear – are back and undergoing a renaissance.

High-waisted pants, denim jackets, choker necklaces and crop tops are all re-appearing in the fashion world, immortalizing fads worn by this generation’s parents or even grandparents.

No longer do teens cringe at the sight of ’80s crimped hair or ’90s blue eye shadow. The most stylish of them enjoy pairing the old with the new, scouring parents’ closets for vintage finds and looking to old photographs for inspiration.

Our summer interns – also millennials, one in college and two in high school – visited with four Buzz-area teens who are turning throwbacks into comebacks, with a modern twist.

Meredith Bullock Meredith Bullock, a junior at Memorial High School, accents her everyday style with pieces from not only her mother, Annie Bullock, but her grandmother, aunts and great aunts as well.

Rather than stocking her closet with the typical teenage girl’s arsenal of Nike, Urban Outfitters and PINK, Meredith draws upon vintage clothing.

She utilizes old handbags, scarves and jewelry and combines them with clothes she currently has in order to stand out among popular trends.

Meredith takes pride in a style that is completely her own. Handbags, scarves and a glittery disco tank top from her mother’s college years, as well as a variety of colorful bags from Thailand and bracelets from Spain passed down by her grandmother, Patricia Bennet, are a few of the pieces that stock Meredith’s closet.

“The scarves aren’t really name brands, but I love all of them. They’re really hard to wear, so you don’t see that many people wearing them, but I’ve found they really tie it all together,” said Meredith. She typically pairs the scarves with jean shorts and a nice top, sometimes even wearing them as belts.

Meredith and her older sister, Heather, take advantage of their mother’s tendency to save items. “The Louis Vuitton is probably the most

SHOPPING AT HOME At left: Memorial High School junior Meredith Bullock likes to wear clothes handed down from her mom, grandmother and aunts. At right: Kinkaid senior Louise McCartney is a fan of the painted jeans from her mom’s college days.

coveted thing of my mom’s that I have, and I got to use it this year because I wouldn’t let my sister take it to college. But she took mom’s red purse with her because it matches OU’s colors.”

– Andi Minter

Louise McCartney For years now, Louise McCartney has been trying on and borrowing her mother’s and grandmother’s clothes. The fun-loving and hard-working senior at The Kinkaid School has a passion for art, travel, baking and fashion. Her interest in fashion began at a young age when visiting her grandmother after school to play dress-up with her friends.

For her eighth-grade dance, Louise wore a silk, navy and white striped Victor Costa dress that belonged to her mom, Judy Ann McCartney,

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 18

while she was studying at The University of Texas at Austin. “I remember one day when I was at my grandma’s house I found the dress and tried it on, and it fit perfectly,” Louise said. “The dress was tea-length, and it went down to around my knees. So, we got it tailored a little shorter, and it turned out super cute. It still fits today, and my mom and I are trying to find another event so I can wear it again,” she said, laughing.

Another one of Louise’s favorites is a pair of painted jeans her mother’s friend painted for fun while in college. The designer of the jeans, Carol DeShong, painted them for her friends, who all still have them today. In comparison to what other teenage girls may think about their mom’s painted, ’90s jeans, Louise treasures the colorful jeans that belong to a different decade.

Louise hopes to continue the tradition with

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GLAD THEY KEPT THEM At left: Kinkaid senior Sarah Fullenweider wears her mom’s Birkenstocks and even her hot-pink bodysuit (inset photo: parents Pam and Keith Fullenweider, at their rehearsal dinner). At right: Bellaire High School junior Nadia Rasheed loves her mom’s high-waisted, retro Coca-Cola jeans (inset photo: mom Christine Rasheed).

her future children. “Trends come and go, and I’m definitely going to save my high school dresses. It’s a lot cooler when you get to share your old, vintage dresses with your daughter rather than a vintage dress that some random person owned that you found in a thrift store.”

– Maddy Payne

Sarah Fullenweider Sarah Fullenweider, a senior at The Kinkaid School, is following in her mother’s footsteps – literally. Her wild, long, blonde hair, bright blue eyes and constant smile accompany her arsenal of thoughtfully considered and unique outfits.

Fashion has always been a passion of hers, and no matter where she is – school, art shows or athletic events – her personality shines through her style. She is loud, vibrant and totally original.

Inside Sarah’s closet you can find pieces belonging to three generations of women. A pair of Birkenstocks, a dazzling opal ring-and-earring set and a hot pink bodysuit/dress combo are three family heirlooms she likes to wear.

At Kinkaid, Sarah often wears her worn, brown Birkenstocks paired with new jeans and a simple James Perse T-shirt. “I love how no one else has that style of Birkenstocks because they don’t make them anymore,” Sarah said.

Her mother, Pam Fullenweider, wore the shoes when she was pregnant with Sarah’s older

brother, Will Fullenweider, and with Sarah.

“I’ve had teachers ask how old they are and appreciate that they were my mom’s. I do get a lot of questions on what style they are and how they’ve never seen that type before.”

Each birthday since they turned 15, Sarah and her older sister Kate have received jewelry from their grandmother, Mama Suzie. “I think vintage jewelry is so beautiful,” Sarah said.

As for that hot pink bodysuit…. That’s a show stopper. The Donna Karan New York dress features a V neckline and satin fabric. Her mom wore it in 1991 at Brennan’s for her rehearsal dinner before her wedding. It’s loud and retro and, with a little updating, fun to wear. After trying it on, Sarah discovered that the bodysuit could be taken off and worn separately from the skirt. She paired the bodysuit with worn, bluejean cutoffs and loved the look. – Sarah Bass

Nadia Rasheed What do you think of when you think CocaCola? Soda, right? Well, for Nadia Rasheed, a junior at Bellaire High School, her mom’s retro, high-waisted, Coca-Cola jeans come to mind.

The Coca-Cola jeans were distributed by the Coca-Cola Company to help promote the new line of Coke. And, Nadia’s mother, Christine Rasheed, was able to snag a pair at Foley’s at the old Northwest Mall. The jeans are high-waisted

and whitewashed with a leather Coca-Cola label on the back.

Nadia was able to snag the pair from her mother’s closet. “I usually will go look through my mom’s closet if I can’t find anything in my own or need an idea of what to wear. And I remember finding them and just falling in love with them,” Nadia said.

“We had a ’90s week for Homecoming, and I wore these jeans. A lot of people asked where they were from, and it was neat to explain that they had belonged to my mom,” Nadia said. “I also can just wear them to school since the high-waisted style is back in style, and I know that Coca-Cola doesn’t make jeans anymore, so it’s special to think I’m one of the few people out there to own a pair.”

Nadia, who spends her time outside of school playing volleyball, running and volunteering at the SPCA, also wears vintage shirts her mom used to wear when she was Nadia’s age. One was a gift her mom received from Christine’s guardian, Dorothy Krohn. The shirt is made of cotton and is black with little white flowers. Nadia uses it as both a summer shirt and an autumn blouse.

“She had gone to Greece and brought me back this shirt,” said mom Christine. “And I loved it – wore it constantly. And now, I see my daughter wearing it all the time, and it’s fun to see her in my clothes. It’s almost like looking at a mirror image from my childhood.” – Maddy Payne

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TRAVEL

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Dallas A big time in Big D

I

n Houston, Dallas gets a lot of flak. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find there’s way more than big hair and Big Tex in this iconic Texas city.

“We loved Dallas,” says Joanie Aron, who, with her husband Doug and their two children, lived there for three years. “The climate is better – you get more seasons, and you can wear all your clothes!”

Besides the weather, the Arons loved the shopping, restaurants and kids’ activities in Big D. Restaurants first: “If I come in town for the night,” Joanie says, “Shinsei [shinseirestaurant.com] is where we’re going.

Their fried rice is out-of-control delicious. It comes with an egg on top that you mix in.

“Bistro 31 [bistro31dallas.com] is fun, and they have an outdoor bar that is upstairs and wonderful on a nice night. With kids, it’s Campisi’s [campisis.us] for pizza.” Doug also counts Al Biernat’s [albiernats.com], which hosts a lively mix of patrons from the Park Cities, SMU and farther outside the city’s center, as a favorite for steak and seafood.

“We moved [back to Houston] two years ago,” Joanie says. (Doug commutes from Houston to his job at a Dallas-based refining company during the week.) “There are some great new spots [in Dallas]. I’ve heard Grange Hall [ufgrangehall.com] is supposed to have a wonderful restaurant and that Le Bilboquet [lebilboquetdallas.com] is fabulous too.” Try Le Bilboquet for French bistro fare.

The restaurant in Grange Hall, a home store touting “opulent oddities,” is open for lunch only.

For another lunch-shop combo, “I would add the T Room at Forty Five Ten [fortyfiveten.com] to the mix,” Joanie says. Forty Five Ten, named by D Magazine as “Best Women’s Designer Fashion Store,” carries home and gift wares inside what once was a 1920s art gallery.

“Highland Park Village [hpvillage.com] is amazing,” Joanie says. “It’s a little like New York because in beautiful weather you can walk around. Dallas also has some wonderful boutiques for women. My favorites were Cabana and Canary [shopcanarydallas.com].” The stores share an owner, and neither has a sign, but look

for a lavender door for Cabana. Then walk down the block to Canary, the more dressedup of the two.

No worries if the kids in tow aren’t keen on shopping.

With exposed architecture – to show visitors what goes on inside a structure – and a glass-encased escalator seemingly stuck to the outFALL IN DALLAS The writer's niece and nephews, Helen, Andrew and Ben Walter, side of the struc- make a trip every fall to play inside the Dallas Arboretum's life-sized pumpkin houses. ture (think Paris’ rytimes and other community activities. Savor Pompidou museum), the Perot Museum of [savorgastropub.com], the park’s restaurant, Nature and Science [perotmuseum.org] has feels like a glass-walled treehouse dropped onto become a new modern landmark in downtown the parkgrounds.

Dallas. “There are floors full of all kinds of activAfter Klyde Warren, explore the Dallas Arts ities for kids and a ton to do,” Joanie says. “You District [dallasartsdistrict.org], the largest urban could stay there for a long time.” If you do, try arts district in the country. Pick up the M-Line the Café – it’s run by famed chef Wolfgang Trolley [dart.org/riding/mline.asp] in Uptown at Puck.

West Village [uptowndallas.net], where you’ll Another must: the Dallas Arboretum and find fun boutiques and restaurants, then hit the Botanical Garden [dallasarboretum.org].

Dallas Museum of Art [dma.org] and the Nasher “There’s nothing like it in Houston,” Joanie Sculpture Center [nashersculpturecenter.org], says. In the fall, visit the Pumpkin Village, which showcases an extensive collection of where thousands of pumpkins and gourds are works by Calder, Rodin, Matisse, de Kooning assembled to create life-sized pumpkin houses. and others in an indoor-outdoor setting.

Also in the fall, Thursday evenings bring conAlso in the District: several performing arts certs on the lawn. After Thanksgiving, be sure centers, including the I.M. Pei-designed Morton to see the 12 Days of Christmas: walk through H. Meyerson Symphony Center [mydso.com] the gardens to view 12 ornate, glass-encased, 25and the Winspear Opera House [attpac.org], foot gazebos that bring the classic carol to life. named by Opera magazine as “America’s finest “The Park Cities – Highland Park and opera house.”

University Park – have a ton of very nice For a temporary home base, Doug suggests the parks,” Doug says. He and Joanie also recomRitz Carlton [ritzcarlton.com] for couples and mend visiting the Klyde Warren Park downthe Four Seasons Resort and Club at Las Colinas town [klydewarrenpark.org]. “It’s a cool new [fourseasons.com/dallas] for families. park with a lot of green space, and there are usually a lot of food trucks set up around,” Joanie says. Built over the Woodall Rodgers For links to all mentioned destinations, see this Freeway, the park offers free classes on meditastory at thebuzzmagazines.com. tion, tai chi and yoga as well as children’s sto-

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MORE ONLINE

NEIGHBORS

by Benjamin Cohen, contributing writer

Houston Arboretum

Fall In What’s happening around town

W

e survived Houston’s worst season and have started its best. Ready to venture out of air conditioning into the great outdoors? Here are some ideas.

5th Annual Halloween Haunted House Oct. 1-Nov. 2, times vary National Museum of Funeral History, 415 Barren Springs Dr. Get a fright from this haunted house all month long. The house is rated PG-13 and is recommended for 12-plus (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult).

Admission: $4 for adults; $3 for kids 11 and under. Half price when purchased with museum admission.

Festival Chicano Oct. 6-8, 7 p.m. each night Miller Outdoor Theatre, 6000 Hermann Park Drive In its 37th year, this annual festival is celebration of Chicano music. On Thursday: Elida Reyna y Avante, David Marez and Los Monarcas; on Friday: Little Joe y La Familia, Latin Breed and Adalberto Gallegos and Isabel Marie; on Saturday: Ram Herrera, David Lee Garza y los Musicales and Shelly Lares.

Admission: Free, but tickets (max 4) available for covered seating area 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. the day of each performance.

Original Greek Festival Oct. 6-9, hours vary Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3511 Yoakum Blvd.

Hear live Greek music, see children and adult dance programs, sample authentic Greek food and more at this popular annual festival.

Admission: Free 12 and under, $5 for adults Bayou City Art Festival Downtown Oct. 8-9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Houston City Hall, 901 Bagby St. Join the 20,000 people who head downtown Houston to enjoy food and entertainment and meet more than 300 artists and craftspeople who have their art on display.

Admission: Free under 5, $5 for children

ARBOORETUM Come in your costume for a back-to-nature, trick-or-treat trail at the Houston Arboretum's fall festival Oct. 22. According to her bag, this little festival-goer on the left also must have found her way to another local October favorite, the Houston Zoo Boo.

ages 6-12, $17 for 13 and up Festa Italiana Oct. 13-16, hours vary University of St. Thomas, 3800 Montrose Blvd.

In its 38th year, this festival is one for the family, with highlights including a classic-car show, pasta-eating contest and live entertainment.

Admission: Free under 12, $6 for adults Korean Festival Oct. 15, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St. Learn about Korean culture and enjoy food and performances such as traditional Korean dancers, folk musicians, TaeKwonDo masters and musicians.

Admission: Free

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14th Annual ZiegenBock Music Festival Oct. 15, 11:30 a.m.

Sam Houston Race Park, 7575 North Sam

Houston Pkwy S. Race over to Sam Houston Race Park for the annual ZiegenBock Music Festival. This year’s lineup includes the Josh Abbott Band, Cody Johnson, Aaron Lewis, Casey Donahew Band and more.

Admission: $35, or $29.50 in advance; VIP $95.

Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival Oct. 15-16, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Nature Discovery Center, 7112 Newcastle Drive, Bellaire Bring the kids out to this annual fall festival, where they can pick the perfect pumpkin to take home, take a wagon ride around the block, play games, and have their face painted.

Admission: Free, prices vary for food and some games 26th Annual Joy of Giving Market Oct. 18, 4-8:30 p.m. (Early Bird Shopping

Night); Oct. 19, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Oct. 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 717 Sage Rd. Find the perfect gift for the holidays at this annual market presented by The Episcopal Church Women of St. Martin’s.

Admission: Early bird: $15, includes hors d’oeuvres. Free Wednesday and Thursday.

Full Moon Fest in West U Oct. 21, 5:30 p.m.

Colonial Park Pavilion, 4130 Byron St. The West University Place Parks & Recreation Department will host its fourth annual Full Moon Fest. Dress in your best costume and join the City of West U for a festive evening of pumpkin decorating, costume contests, face painting and more. After the event, enjoy Hotel Transylvania 2 (PG) as part of the Movies in the Park series, starting at 7 p.m.

Admission: Free Asia Society’s Night Market Oct 21, 6-9 p.m.

Asia Society of Texas, 1370 Southmore Blvd.

This family-friendly Night Market will include activities, exhibitions, food trucks, local vendors and more.

Admission: Free LEGOKidsFest Oct. 21-23, times vary NRG Center, N. Stadium Dr. All kids who love Legos – and the young at heart – should make their way to NRG Center for LEGO Kids Fest. Bring your creative minds.

Admission: $19-22; kids 2 and under are free ArBOOretum Oct. 22, 12-4 p.m.

Houston Arboretum, 4501 Woodway Dr. All “ghouls and goblins” are invited to the annual ArBOOretum fall festival, which features a Trick-or-Treat Trail where kids learn about different creatures and collect candy along a nature trail, plus hay rides, live owls and reptiles, a petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin decorating, face painting, food trucks and more.

Admission: $13 online pre-order; $15 at the door Untapped Festival Houston Oct. 22, 4:30 p.m.

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St. Untapped Festival will feature more than 60 breweries with more than 250 beers to choose from and a lineup of live music including Dr. Dog, Neon Indian, Still Corners, Catch Fever, The Waxaholics and more.

Admission: $29; beer package: $42 Wings Over Houston Airshow Oct. 22-23; gates open at 8 a.m., show starts at 10 a.m., gates close at 6 p.m.

Ellington Airport, 510 Ellington Field Take in the sights and sounds of military air-

craft flying high, while stunt planes put on a show over Houston.

Admission: Free 5 and under, $5 for children ages 6-11, $30 for 12 and older Houston Zoo Boo Oct. 14-16, 21-23, 28-31; Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Drive Put your costume on, grab your trick-or-treat bag and head to the zoo for the candy corners, monster mural, tatzoo parlor and not-so-creepy creature maze.

Admission: Free for members, free 1 and under, $13 for children ages 2-11, $17 ages 12-64, $10.50 for seniors 65+ Fire Truck Pull and Car Show Oct. 22, 7 a.m.

Bellaire City Hall, 7008 S. Rice Ave Head to Bellaire City Hall for a fun day in support of Special Olympics Texas athletes. Fire Truck Pull: Play “tug of war” with a fire truck and compete for prizes. Car Show: Bring your favorite ride.

Admission: Free; Registration for Fire Truck Pull: $300 for team of 12 or $25 per person; Registration for Car Show: $25 in advance or $30 day of Scream on the Green Oct. 28, 6-10 p.m.

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St. Dress in your most creative costume for the ninth annual citywide costume contest and family-friendly Halloween celebration at Discovery Green. There’ll be prizes, music and more.

Admission: Free Houston Egyptian Festival Oct. 29; 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St. Take a trip to downtown Houston to learn about Egypt, try some belly-dancing lessons and see shows, get henna paintings and take pictures with, feed, and pet a camel.

Admission: Free 12 and under, $10 for adults Fall Carnival at Westbury Baptist Church Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m.

Westbury Baptist Church, 10425 Hillcroft St. Celebrate fall with activity booths such as bounce houses, a basketball hoop shoot, a cake walk, face painting, plus a food court.

Admission: Free International Quilt Festival Nov. 3-6; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thurs-Sat.; 10 a.m.4 p.m. Sun. George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas View impressive quilts, bid in the mini-quilt auction, and enter into the raffle to win a Fiesta Stars quilt.

Admission: Free 10 and under, $12 for adults, $9 for seniors and students

Annual Turkish Festival Nov. 5, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Nov. 6, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Jones Plaza, 601 Louisiana St. For the 25th time, everyone is invited out for a weekend of Turkish culture, entertainment, games and traditional food.

Admission: Free 12 and under, $6 for adults

Take a short drive Dewberry Farm Sept. 24-Nov. 13.; Saturdays 10 a.m.-sundown, Sundays noon-sundown FM 362 & Morrison Rd., Brookshire Highlights include an 8-acre corn maze, cowtrain ride and an 8-acre pumpkin patch.

Admission: Free 2 and under, $12 ages 3-54, $9 seniors 55+, $10 military and family with ID Austin City Limits Sept. 30-Oct. 2; Oct. 7-9, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd., Austin Take in the sights, sounds, and food that Austin has to offer at ACL, with over 130 bands, including Radiohead, Mumford & Sons, and Kendrick Lamar.

Admission: $100 per day, some days already sold out Texas Renaissance Festival Oct. 8-Nov. 26, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Thanksgiving Friday 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission Step back in time at this massive, permanently constructed renaissance fair, with shopping, strolling actors, comedy acts, falcon shows, singers, jugglers and more. Enjoy themed weekends ranging from Pirate Adventures to Barbarian Invasion.

Admission: $15 for children, $30 for adults Wicked Wonderland Family Carnival Oct. 16, 4-8 p.m.

Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands Come dressed in your costume for a spooky night featuring games, treats, live entertainment, and a viewing of the Halloween movie Hotel Transylvania.

Admission: Free Texian Market Days Oct. 22, 9 a.m.-5 p.m George Ranch Historical Park, 10105-10441 Farm-To-Market 2759, Richmond Celebrating its 33rd year, this annual festival allows visitors to experience over 150 years of Texas history with music, entertainment, artisan vendors and battle re-enactments.

Admission: Free 4 and under, $10 for children 5-15, $15 for adults, $13 for seniors 62 and up

MORE ONLINE For links to event websites, see this story at thebuzzmagazines.com.

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KIDS

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by Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Buzz Baby

Sleep – or lack thereof

Buzz Baby is a column about life with babies from the perspective of a first-time mother.

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ollow an expectant mom around and you will hear strangers say, “Get some sleep now. You won’t sleep for 18 years!” As the one about to take the brunt of it all, it can feel like a jab, even if well intended.

Neda and Zach Axelrod never envisioned sleeping on the floor of their newborn daughter’s nursery every night, but they felt desperate at the time. Rana, now 3, started waking 2-3 times a night at 5 months old. “It was a first-baby type of thing,” said Neda. Eventually, the couple decided to seek professional help for her sleeping habits.

They had already gone down the specialist road once. When Rana was born, they had a night nanny who would pull the night shift, allowing them to get some rest. Rest is important for women who are breastfeeding, as Rana was at the time. “She came every other night for the first three months,” said Neda. The price tag for a night nanny can be high (often $20-35 an hour) so most night-nanny gigs have an expiration date, as did theirs.

After she left, Rana’s sleeping patterns slowly worsened, and less-than-ideal habits started forming. “My husband would go in there every 2 or 3 hours [to give her a bottle] when she woke up,” said Neda. “That’s the biggest no-no.”

Neda called the Motherhood Center to find a sleep specialist, but ended up hiring an independent sleep specialist based on referrals from friends. Neda says she saved the day.

The specialist told Neda that what happens with a newborn during the day can affect the night. “[She] told me, ‘If you don’t get your day fixed, you’ll never get your night,’” Neda said.

“She said no way” on the bottle feedings at night, said Neda. “From then on, she taught me how to basically get rid of the bottle and just give a little water. Literally after that, my child starting sleeping through the night.”

The couple decided to do things differently right from the start when their son Asher arrived. Asher, now 6 months, has been a different experience. “I just lay him down and turn the mobile on, and this kid sleeps on his own,”

said Neda. “From 4-6 weeks, he was only waking up once” a night.

They let him sleep alone in his room, in his crib. “[Asher] started going in his crib from week 2,” said Neda. “My daughter didn’t go in the crib until month 5.

You want your child to like their bed, and not be scared of their bed.”

Infant sleep habits and parent techniques can vary widely. Some parents read, prepare and have a plan, while others SLEEP, BABY, SLEEP Kate Brollier’s mom, Mary Margaret, is using the sleep-training see what works best technique “Baby Wise” to get her on a schedule. when the baby freight train. Let’s just say, thank goodness for arrives. One Buzz couple let their daughter coNetflix and reruns of Modern Family to keep me sleep with them until she was 3. The mom said entertained at all hours of the night.” it started when her daughter would breastfeed Mary Margaret and Clay welcomed their secand fall asleep on her chest in their bed. “It got ond baby, daughter Kate, this past July. “I am to the point where [my husband and I] needed doing Baby Wise with Kate,” said Mary Margaret. to move her to her own bed so we could get some “I just started it much sooner with Kate because I sleep,” she said. A lot of families choose this coknew what I was doing this time around.” sleeping method, but it’s not for everyone.

Parenting is always presenting new challenges.

Mary Margaret Brollier and her husband Clay “I think the challenging part for me the second prepped before their first, Ben (now 2), was time has been making sure it doesn’t wake Ben born. Mary Margaret said she read the book On when I do let Kate fuss some in the night,” said Becoming Baby Wise: Giving Your Infant the Gift Mary Margaret. “Some nights, I practically leap of Nighttime Sleep written by Dr. Robert from bed when I hear her cry because I don’t Bucknam and Gary Ezzo. The technique of want Ben to wake up. Welcome to two kiddos.

“Baby Wise” emphasizes parental control of the Thank goodness for sound machines.” infant’s schedule rather than allowing the baby to determine when to eat, play and sleep.

Let’s admit it though; reading a book is not For more baby stories, see thebuzzmagazines.com for going to prevent the sleep deprivation. “With writer Annie Blaylock McQueen’s column, “Mommy [my first] Ben, no one could have prepared me Moments.” If you have stories to share, leave a comfor how sleep deprived I would be in the beginment online or email info@thebuzzmagazines.com. ning,” said Mary Margaret. “It hit me like a

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TRAVEL

by Tracy L. Barnett, staff writer

Travel Buzz Destination unknown: surprise trips from Dad

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ots of dads like to surprise their families, but Hector Herrera has taken a family tradition to a new level. Herrera has planned seven surprise trips to different countries for his family of five – and it hasn’t been easy.

He and Michelle started traveling with the kids when they were small. “When they were young, I wanted to show them the country; when they got older, I wanted to show them the world,” he said.

As an anesthesiologist and his hospital’s chief of staff, Herrera’s work involves life-and-death decisions on a regular basis. Fortunately for his family, he’s good at compartmentalizing the work aspect of his life; it’s almost as if he has two personalities, says Michelle.

“If you’d just met him, you’d think he’s very quiet and reserved, but not really knowing what’s going on under there – he’s someone who’s just busting to break loose and have a good time.”

It all started when John, the oldest, graduated from 12th grade. John was an aspiring young golfer, like his sister Catherine. So Hector and Michelle surprised their kids with a trip to St. Andrews, Scotland, the birthplace of golf.

The trip got Hector to thinking. “I really wanted to build it up this time,” he said. The next year, he chose Greece as the destination – Athens, with a tour of the ancient ruins, and a stay on the epically beautiful island of Santorini.

He decided it would be fun this time to surprise the whole family, including his wife.

“A lot of this was trying to generate a huge amount of anticipation and excitement. In the past we’d talk about it a lot. But now nobody knew, and it became kind of a big game to try and figure it out.”

Each of his children – John, Catherine and Alex, now 24, 22 and 19, respectively – would approach him independently and try to pry it out of him. “As it got closer, there were hours of questioning: ‘Give me a hint; what’s the weather like?’ That was a big part of leading up to the trip – everyone trying to figure out what we were going to do.”

Catherine looks back with amusement. “Dad would say, ‘Bring your bathing suits, bring shorts you can run around in; we’re going to a place with warm weather.’ So we’d say, ‘OK, Dad,’ and hope we were bringing the right thing.”

LAVENDER DREAMS One of the family’s surprise trips was to Provence during lavender season. From left: Michelle, Catherine, Alex, John and Hector Herrera.

Indeed, it wasn’t until they received the boarding passes for the final leg of their trip – at London’s Heathrow Airport – that they finally knew their ultimate destination.

“We got our boarding passes and everyone got a look of, ‘Oh my God, this is crazy – Greece is like ancient times!’” Michelle recalls. “We were so pumped and excited – you don’t know what to expect because you’ve never been there, and your imagination is going crazy.”

It wouldn’t be until later that they learned about Santorini. “To this day my kids swear that’s where they want to go when they retire – it’s so beautiful, and the people are just as beautiful.”

So much excitement can have its downside.

Michelle, a former dentist now studying law, wasn’t too sure how much she liked having the tables turned. She’s big on planning, and suddenly she couldn’t.

“Of course it was very sweet and endearing,” she recalled. “He wanted to make it really spe-

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cial, to do something we’d never done before.”

But her worries were more basic: “Am I bringing everything I need for my kids, and if not, can I get it where I’m going?’” On the upside, Michelle says, “we don’t come in with any preconceived notions, because there’s no time for it.”

Catherine, now getting her master’s in accounting, also had reservations. “It was pretty stressful at first; we had no idea where we were going,” she admitted. “We were wondering, ‘Is this going to be a fun trip?’ We were pretty skeptical – but it’s always been a blast.”

The next trip was to Vienna and Berlin.

Hector wanted to share all of Europe’s great cities, and these two stood out. “The closer we got, it was just all consuming for them,” he recalls with a mischievous smile. Again, they didn’t know where they were going until the final leg, when he handed them the boarding passes.

Highlights of Vienna included stunning architecture, Wiener schnitzel, strudel. Michelle was

TUSCANY ON TWO WHEELS Jordan Solcher, Catherine Herrera, Hector Herrera, Michelle Herrera, John Herrera and Alex Herrera (from left) are on the way to the village of Loro Ciuffenna. That day the group rode 50 miles, part of it on an old Roman road, and toured an olive oil press.

enthralled with the international flavor, the beautiful cathedrals, the aura of mystery. Hector was more taken with Berlin, with its World War II history, Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall.

For a contrast, he decided on something completely different for 2012. He rented a house in the south of France, in the tiny village of Aix-en-Provence.

That was the year, however, that one of his sons discovered the secret. Hector says John hacked his account. Michelle says Hector left a page open on his laptop. Either way, the boys knew, but managed to keep it a secret from their mother.

“That was a precious trip,” recalls Michelle.

Renting a house gave them an entirely different experience. Daily rhythms emphasized family time. They’d take turns cooking, cleaning, going on outings to buy food. It became about interacting with the neighbors, following the markets from town to town, soaking up the picturesque countryside. It was like walking in a painting of Paul Cezanne, one of Aix’s more famous residents.

In 2013, Hector doubled down on the secrecy.

It was perhaps the most surprising destination of all: Israel. And no one figured it out until they reached the airport in Newark. That’s where they had to go to a separate section of the airport to be interviewed by Israeli security officials.

“Leading up to that trip I couldn’t stop watching the news,” said Hector. “It was June 2013.

There was stuff going on every day – it was crazy.

But once we were in Israel, we never saw anything, no bombs, no fighting. There were lots of Palestinians around, and everyone was very nice.”

What struck Michelle the most was the

resilience of the people. “We were being led around to the most beautiful parts of the city – Tel Aviv, a beautiful city right on the Mediterranean – and I’m like, ‘Oh my God, what happened to that building?’”

“Oh, that’s where a bomb hit,” the guide would say, nonchalantly. “And that’s how it is.

They go back to their daily lives. That’s what makes them survivors.”

Paradoxically, Michelle said, she has never felt safer, especially in Jerusalem. “It’s the holiest of holy cities; here you have the merging of the three cultures – Jews, Christians and Muslims – all making a decision to coexist.”

The other surprise, she said, was the kindness they encountered. “That whole thing that Americans aren’t liked, we haven’t seen it,” she said. “All the cultures we encounter are so lovely and inviting.

“You’ll hear so many bad stories about traveling, especially with the crazy world we live in, the tension with other countries, other beliefs – if anything, it has made us want to travel even more, because we realize we have so much more in common than we have differences.”

In 2014, Hector decided on Mallorca, off the coast of Spain. The kids were pushing for a beach destination, and this one had history and culture. Indeed, it had many cultures – just not much of the Spanish one. The island is divided into sections dominated by people from different countries who go to vacation there. Hector rented a house in the German section.

“I would have thought I was on a beach off Germany,” recalls Michelle. “Everyone with blonde hair and fair skin.”

In 2015, Michelle was in summer school, so it wasn’t until this year that Hector was able to surprise his family once again – for a spectacular and perhaps final time. It was becoming increasingly apparent that the kids were now adults who wanted to have more of a say in the destinations and the itineraries.

Still, Hector had one more surprise up his sleeve. This time, he made it a trip that he was sure would delight his adventure-hungry kids and his culture-loving wife.

The weeks leading up to the trip grew increasingly tense as his family members threatened mutiny. He held fast, however, and when they all ended up in Tuscany on a guided cycling tour, all were thrilled.

“This last one was unbelievable,” said Michelle. Along the trail they stumbled by accident on the private resort that had just been created by the designer Ferruccio Ferragamo, scion of the famous shoemaking family. He’d purchased an abandoned estate and turned it into a private resort “that’s just off the charts,” Michelle said. “Il Borro, it’s called, and it is the most gorgeous place I’ve ever seen.”

But the tour itself, with two young Italians, Massimo and GP, or Gian Paolo, as their guides, was what left an indelible mark. By the end of the tour they were like family, said Catherine, and the lessons learned in half a decade of surprise travel were laid in deep.

“All of this at the end of the day has given my children so much,” said Michelle. “They’ve learned a great deal about being with people of other races and cultures – and they realize we can all live together, absolutely.”

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by Mariaha Elizabeth Pedder, contributing writer

The Junior League of Houston

FOOD

Cooking Buzz Tackle your tailgating menu Cooking Buzz is produced in partnership with the Junior League of Houston, a woman’s charitable and education organization founded in 1925.

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ootball is in the air, which brings schedule-packed weekends with friends to cheer on our favorite teams. Wherever your tailgate may be, food is the main event. When I host, I like to prepare my menu in advance, keeping it simple, budget friendly and fingerlicking good.

In addition to the classic Velveeta and Rotel queso, my kick-off appetizer – in a menu from the Junior League cookbook Peace Meals – is the Winter Guacamole. The recipe calls for serrano chiles, but I make it with grilled hatch chiles when in season. Typically, I double the recipe so it lasts through all four quarters. You can serve with seasonal veggies in addition to tortilla chips to make snacking a little healthier.

Sideline the guacamole with warm, chunky, home-style Southwestern Chicken Soup.

While this recipe is simple, it does require your attention for 15-20 minutes to create the chicken stock. I like to shred the chicken and garnish each serving with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheddar and sour cream. For larger parties, I’ll set up a soup bar with the garnishes for my guests to help themselves.

To guarantee a touchdown, fire up the grill with spicy and sweet Maple Salmon Bites.

Allow enough time for the salmon to fully marinate before cooking. You can change the bites into mini sliders with a biscuit. I like to top my sliders off with bacon jam.

Celebrate the extra point with a favorite spirit. I ask friends to bring their favorite local brew to share, and I have a batch of El Diablo on hand too. Contrary to its name, this drink is divine and can be made in advance and served in a large pitcher.

To secure your position in the playoffs with dessert, make the Chocolate Chip Biscotti.

Deflate-Gate is not a worry here; these are already a softer version of biscotti. Decorate in your team’s colors by adding colored sprinkles instead of sugar, or incorporate different flavors such as almond extract in place of vanilla and

top with chopped pistachios. If I have the time, I’ll make a batch of Blackberry Shortbread Bars. Because the recipe calls for frozen blackberries, they can be made year-round. And as the weather turns colder, I like to end the football celebration with a cup of Dark Hot Chocolate.

KICK-OFF APPETIZER Consider doubling this winter guacamole, a twist on a This recipe tastes like a classic tailgating dish, so it lasts through all four quarters. melted candy bar and is ¼ cup crème fraiche sure to win all your fans over. For a field goal, Sesame rice crackers top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings Snipped fresh chives and crushed peppermint candy-cane.

Winter Guacamole From Peace Meals ¼ cup minced white onion 2-4 serrano chiles (including seeds), minced 1 teaspoon coarse salt 3-4 large avocados, pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped 3 Tablespoons fresh lime juice ¾ cup peeled and diced pears ¾ cups red seedless grapes, halved ¾ cup pomegranate seeds, divided (1-2 pomegranates) Tortilla chips Combine the onions, chiles and salt in a large bowl, forming a rough paste. Fold in the avocados and lime juice. Add the pears, grapes and ½ cup of the pomegranate seeds. Place in a serving dish and top with the remaining pomegranate seeds. Serve with tortilla chips. Serves 6.

This recipe requires advance preparation.

Combine the maple syrup, soy sauce and ginger in a resealable plastic bag. Add the salmon and toss to coat with the marinade; refrigerate for 2 hours. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Lightly oil a foil-lined baking sheet. Mix the pepper and sesame seeds in a small bowl. Press the top of each salmon piece into the pepper and sesame seed mixture and place on the prepared pan.

Bake for about 5 minutes. Spread a small amount of crème fraiche onto each of the crackers. Top each with a piece of salmon and chives.

Serve immediately. Makes about 35 pieces.

El Diablo From Peace Meals 2 ounces tequila ¾ ounce crème de cassis (black currant liqueur) Ginger ale 1 lime, quartered

Maple Salmon Bites From Peace Meals 1 cup pure maple syrup 1 ⁄3 cup soy sauce 1½ teaspoons peeled and minced fresh ginger 1 pound skinless salmon, bones removed and cut into bite-size cubes 3 Tablespoons freshly ground pepper 3 Tablespoons black sesame seeds

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Stir the tequila and crème de cassis over ice in a tall chilled glass. Fill the remainder of the glass with ginger ale and squeeze in the juice of 1 lime wedge. Drop the lime into the glass as a garnish. Serves 1.

MORE ONLINE See thebuzzmagazines.com for more recipes.

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DINING

by Dai Huynh, staff writer

This Month in Dining Where to eat steak

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teakhouses are so in vogue. Houston – and the rest of the country – has seen an emergence of high-dollar beef emporiums in recent years, despite a soft economy. The buzz right now is centered around Steak 48 in the mixed-use River Oaks District at the corner of Westheimer Road and Westcreek Lane. Soon enough, the Phoenix import will be joined by the first Mastro’s in Texas at the 35-story tower The Post Oak. Ironically, the Mastro’s brand was founded by Steak 48 owners and brothers Jeffrey and Michael Mastro. Houston-based Landry’s Inc. CEO Tilman J. Fertitta purchased Mastro’s Steakhouse in 2013. The Landry’s steak roster is growing longer. It boasts 11 beefy concepts, including Morton’s and McCormick & Schmick’s. But the grand-dame is Houston’s own Brenner’s Steakhouse, which is celebrating 80 years of grilling.

The oldest steakhouse in Houston was originally Brenner’s Cafe in 1936, serving fried chicken, sandwiches and steaks. Today, a 10ounce center cut filet beef sells for $42. But back in 1950, a prime beef filet sold for $3.50. Steak is a timeless tradition in this town, and while our city is brimming with top-notch chains, from Sullivan’s and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle to Fleming’s and Smith & Wollensky, Houston also boasts its own homegrown brands, like Brenner’s. Here are other meat lover’s emporiums with roots that started in the Bayou City.

Brenner’s Steakhouse (1 Birdsall Street and 10911 Katy Freeway): With two locations, storied Brenner’s has built its reputation on juicy, prime steaks that are frequently paired with such sides as Lorene Brenner’s famous German-fried potatoes and homemade apple strudel.

Churrascos (five locations, including 947 Gessner Road, B290): Nicaraguan-born Michael Cordúa is credited with introducing Latin American cuisine to Houstonians and the rest of the country in the late ’80s. Churrascos is a Spanish term that means grilled meats, and his juicy, chargrilled, center-cut beef and fried plantains continue to captivate.

Lynn’s Steakhouse & Seafood (955½ N. Dairy Ashford Road) Reminiscent of a French

BRENNER’S Diners at the oldest steakhouse in Houston, Brenner’s, frequently pair the center-cut filet mignon with horseradish and mashed potatoes.

country inn, Lynn’s is a throwback to old Houston. Since 1985, this family-owned steakhouse has been serving aged prime steaks, veal, cold-water lobster and fine wines. Owner Loic Carbonnier’s cellar boasts about 900 labels, including treasured Burgundies.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse (5839 Westheimer and 1200 McKinney Street): Gleaming with brass and always bustling, Pappas Bros. is the goto place for award-winning wines from around the world and dry-aged prime steaks for many well-heeled oil and medical executives.

Vallone’s (947 Gessner): The brainchild of

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Tony Vallone and general manager/partner Scott Sulma, this Memorial Gateway Mall location features prime steaks aged on premise.

Signature dishes include made-from-scratch pastas and 55-day, dry-aged bone-in ribeye.

Vic & Anthony’s (1510 Texas): Landry’s CEO Fertitta and father Vic traveled across the country, forking into the finest steaks before launching this downtown destination. Borrowing the best attributes from each place, they carefully crafted the decor and menu, so it’s no wonder the butter-laced steaks at Vic & Anthony’s were immediate hits.

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Taking group benefits seriously Salary is not the only compensation for work. In most jobs, what used to be called “fringe” benefits – things such as health insurance – are now a very significant part of compensation. Unfortunately, the benefits are not as free as they once were. Increasingly, employees have to pay at least part of their cost. For that reason, you now have more choices in what you receive. So it’s more important than ever to consider your benefits carefully, and select the best options for your family.

Generally speaking, you can make changes to the coverage you are getting during the open enrollment period. This can vary by employer (and some may have two per year), but October is a common month for open enrollment to begin. Once it’s over, you may be stuck with your selections until next year, although life events such as getting married or divorced or having a child may allow you to make changes outside the open enrollment period (check with your human resources department for details).

Typically, an employer’s menu of coverage options will include health insurance, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) and disability. For most people, health coverage is the most important one. Your decision about it will depend on your specific situation: What does the plan cover?

How much of the cost is paid by your employer? What is available through your spouse’s employer?

Many couples with college-age kids automatically include them in their health plans. However, better options might be available. A client I met with recently has two children in college. Moving them onto coverage offered through their schools, and taking them off the client’s group plan at

work, saved the family a large amount of money.

Generally, I would avoid signing up for most of the special add-ons, such as AD&D, or cancer-specific coverage. Such bells and whistles are usually cheap, yes, but it’s for a reason (most never use them). I recommend putting those dollars into your 401(k) instead. Also, you should take advantage of employermatching 401(k) contributions to the greatest extent.

One coverage I do strongly recommend is disability. It pays when an injury or illness forces you to miss work for an extended period of time. Many people do not understand how often this happens. According to the Council for Disability Awareness, 1 in 4 of those who are 20 years old now will experience a period of disability before they retire. Imagine having to cope with that as your paycheck suddenly stops coming.

Some employers offer group legal coverage, which can provide you with an attorney’s services at discounted or no cost. I don’t have a strong opinion on this, but I have heard positive feedback from people with the coverage, so it may make sense for you. As I mentioned before, much depends on the specifics of your situation as well as exactly what your employer offers. Check with your human resources department for specifics, and talk to a trusted advisor.

James Waters, CFP®, PARTNERSINWEALTH, 3400 Bissonnet, Suite 145, Houston, Texas 77005, 713.964.4028, jrw@partnersinwealth.com, www.partnersinwealth.com

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Felix Sanchez

Restaurant Listings $ (under $10) $$ ($11-$30) $$$ ($31-$60) $$$$ (over $60) Prices include drink, tax and tip per person Buzz Dining Guide columnist Dai Huynh is a James Beard food-journalism award winner and longtime Houston-based restaurant writer. Her visits to listed restaurants were anonymous, and she paid for her meals to maintain objectivity. We’d love your thoughts too. Write to info@thebuzzmagazines.com with your own dining opinions and suggestions. Also, you can contribute in the Comments section under the online version of this story at thebuzzmagazines.com

B&B Butchers & Restaurant Cuisine: American Neighborhood: Washington Corridor B&B Butchers & Restaurant successfully executes a one-two punch – a terrific butcher shop and an attractive, modern, rustic dining room that serves well-prepared steaks, including wagyu beef and kobe beef. B&B is one of only nine U.S. establishments to receive a certificate from Japan's Kobe Beef Association. What does that mean? It allows B&B to serve authentic, certified A5 Kobe beef, which is considered the most heavily marbled and decadent variety of beef. Here, you can compare the different types of marbling, such as Texas wagyu versus Japanese wagyu, and then, Japanese wagyu versus kobe. The differences when compared side by side can be astounding for first-timers, who may conclude that richer isn't always better. It's a matter of personal taste. Some like their steaks to melt like butter, and others prefer a tad of chew. B&B proprietor Benjamin Berg gets it and offers a wide range of cuts and varieties, including an flavorful, 55-day dry-aged prime ribeye – a bargain at $75 for 22 ounces when compared to kobe at $220 for four ounces. But with its intense richness, you probably don't want much more. Open lunch & dinner Mon.Sun., 1814 Washington Ave., 713-862-1814; bbbutchers.com. $$$$

Fogo de Chão Cuisine: Brazilian Neighborhood: Woodlake/Briarmeadow In 2000, Fogo de Chão introduced Houstonians to Brazil’s all-you-can-eat steak concept. It was an immediate hit, and the granddaddy of churrascarias remains pristine in both service and offerings – from Latin side dishes, including cheese biscuits, to a “Market Table” salad bar brimming with every kind of vegetables and imported cheeses. With about 15 cuts of meat expertly grilled and swiftly delivered to

B&B BUTCHERS & RESTAURANT The in-house, dry-aged, USDA Prime porterhouse for two comes with seasonal sides.

the table, Fogo is the ultimate carnivore feast.

The chain steakhouse also features a bustling happy hour 4:30-6:30 p.m. weekdays, with Latin-inspired cocktails and a small but nice selection of small plates, including warm hearts of palms-spinach dip and beef skewers with chimichurri sauce. Open lunch & dinner Mon.Sun., 8250 Westheimer, 713-978-6500, fogodechao.com. $$$$

Killen’s Steakhouse Cuisine: American Neighborhood: Old Pearland Not too long ago, chef-owner Ronnie Killen cooked for princes and kings in London, and now he grills and smokes for his hometown crowd. The switch has worked well, garnering him countless accolades from peers, TV shows and food magazines for both his steakhouse and barbecue joint (a 2-hour wait unless you get there by 10 a.m.). Fortunately, his steakhouse takes reservations. Last fall, he moved his steakhouse to newer, bigger digs. It continues to attracts NFL players and regulars drawn to meticulously grilled USDA prime and wagyu steaks. Few chefs truly understands beef like Killen, and he doesn’t skim. Both sides and starters are given their due attention, including grilled Caesar salad with batter-fried white anchovies and cheese-crowned onion soup. As for dessert. Back in 2008, Food & Wine picked his crème brûlée bread pudding as one of the top 10 dishes in the country. Open dinner Mon.-Sat., 6425 W. Broadway Street, Pearland, 281-4850844, killenssteakhouse.com. $$$$

The Palm Restaurant Cuisine: American Neighborhood: Briargrove After nearly three decades, the Palm Restaurant remains a favorite haunt with many business and social elite. Caricatures of local celebs are a trademark, along with Nova Scotia

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 34

lobsters and deftly grilled, aged steaks. What makes a good steakhouse, of course, is lots of rich-flavored meat, and there’s plenty of that on the a la carte menu at the Palm, along with classic red leather-booth ambiance. For many diners, the Palm remains the quintessential, still-relevant, old-school steakhouse. It is, too, for some, home away from home, thanks partly to gregarious Jim Martin, who has managed the Houston location since 1978. Under his close watch, the kitchen rarely falters in turning out steaks that are perfectly charred and salty on the exterior, so that the result is a pleasurable crunch when you take a bite. As for sides, consider the creamed spinach or the half & half – cottage fries with fried onions. And when in season, try the watermelon with buffalo mozzarella – a refreshing, sweet, salty, creamy, tangy combo. Open lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun., 6100 Westheimer Road, 713977-2544, thepalm.com/Houston. $$$$

Saltillo Cuisine: Mexican Neighborhood: Bellaire Devoted fans were happy to hear that owner Carlos Abedrop continues his Mexican steakhouse roots, where family dining is encouraged.

Favorites include the 4 pound-plus ribeye cap ($190) large enough to share with five of your BFFs, or for a smaller group of four, there is the 3pound top sirloin ($80). Saltillo is smaller in size than its former incarnation as La Casa de Caballo but in many ways with more charm. We like, too, the three-course lunch specials for $20. Try the tasty trio of tacos. Open lunch Mon.-Sun. & dinner Mon.-Sat., 5427 Bissonnet, Bellaire, 832-6236467, saltillomexicankitchen.com. $$$

MORE ONLINE See thebuzzmagazines.com/restaurants for all restaurants that have been reviewed by The Buzz.

You can use our restaurant finder to search by area, cuisine and price.

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DINING

by Dai Huynh, staff writer

Chef’s Corner Ronnie Killen

F

ind out where the experts eat, with our Chef’s Corner column. This month, restaurant writer Dai Huynh interviews chef Ronnie Killen.

Back in 2006, London-trained chef Ronnie Killen set out to educate Texans about beef with his signature steak flights. Ever since, the Texas native has been on a roll as the king of Pearland dining with his upscale Killen’s Steakhouse (6425 W. Broadway), Killen’s Barbecue (3613 E. Broadway Street) and, his latest addition, Killen’s Burgers (2804 S. Main). Here, he shares his favorite steakhouses and how to shop for steaks.

How have meat-and-potato restaurants evolved since you opened your white-tablecloth steakhouse?

I remember 10 years ago, when everything was your classical à la carte steakhouses with standard wet age beef and standard sizes. Now, people are more open to trying different cuts of meats. Our steakhouse helped to lead the way for that. I got the idea for our steak flights eight years ago in Napa [California]. I had a flight of wines, and I thought, “Why can’t we do that for steaks?” Give people different options to try, 23 ounces each, so people can really see the difference between a corn-fed steak versus one that has been on a diet of all grass. The tasting flights really helped to open people’s eyes.

How much are the steak flights?

It’s $110 for four 3-ounce steaks – a Japanese, Australian and Texas wagyu, along with one from Idaho. When you compare them side-byside like that, it’s like ice cream and frozen custard – the difference is in the mouth-feel and fat content. Some people love the heavy marbling; others find it offensive, too fatty.

Ok, so ’fess up, Ronnie. Where do you go for steaks?

Cut in Beverly Hills Wilshire in California.

It’s a Wolfgang Puck restaurant, and when I went there six years ago, it opened my eyes about steaks. It inspired me. Here is a steakhouse, where everything is about being fresh, complete with a daily menu, which tells you exactly whether it had been grass fed or corn fed, dry aged or wet aged. It went into the different regions around the world. Cuts is a fine-dining

RONNIE KILLEN The rising king of Texas barbecue has garnered local and national accolades for Killen’s Barbecue and Killen’s Steakhouse.

steakhouse, where the plate I was eating on probably cost more than my restaurant. But it was worth it.

Now, closer to home, I’ve heard really good things about Steak 48. I haven’t been, but that is one Houston restaurant I want to try. Of course, I’ve been to Vic & Anthony’s, Pappas Steakhouse and others.

Give us some tips on picking the best steaks to cook at home. What should we look for at the grocery store?

People will pick out the steaks that are lean

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 36

and really red, thinking that these are the freshest cuts. But I tell people all the time to get the lightest color they can find at the store. When steak is dark red, maroon in color, it tells you that animal has been fed a lot of grass. You’ll get a livery, mineral taste. But the meat with a nice light pink color means there is more inner muscular marbling. It will tastes richer, more flavorful. I’m not a big fan of grass-fed beef. I know some people are. As for how to cook it. I pan-fry my prime cuts. I render the fat and sear it at about 425-450 degrees. I keep it simple with salt and pepper.

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WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 37

SPORTS

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by Todd Freed, staff writer

SportzBuzz A

fter losing to its biggest rival on the final play of the game in each of the previous two seasons, the Strake Jesuit Crusaders celebrated an especially satisfying 2010 victory over the St. Thomas Eagles in the 52nd annual matchup between the two schools.

“It’s like a playoff game in the first week of September,” said Strake Jesuit head coach James Clancy. “Our two communities are closely tied together. We had an overflow crowd of over 5,000 people at the game here at our stadium. It was an incredible atmosphere.”

Quarterback Felix Read guided a Strake Jesuit offense that kept the Crusaders offense on the field for much of the game, with running back Michael Purvey rushing for 147 yards and a touchdown in the win. Fullback Rick Clark added 48 yards on only six carries, including several key third-down conversions.

Cornerback Daniel Cho intercepted a pass for a touchdown, and Clancy also had praise for linebackers Michael Jewett and George Ikott, as well as linemen James Webster and Tommy Upton.

“James and Tommy were in the backfield the whole evening. Our whole defense did a tremendous job of shutting down a talented offense.”

With victories over UIL powerhouse Hitchcock and then St. John’s to start the year, the Second Baptist Eagles football team was off to its best start in several seasons. “Hitchcock had something like 16 starters back from a team that advanced to the state quarterfinals, so that was a great victory for us,” said Eagles head coach Terry Pirtle. “I was also really pleased with the way we played in the 31-10 win over St. John’s. To hold them to just 10 points was a magnificent effort by our defense.”

Offensively, the Eagles are led by quarterback Zach Heaton, who was also a standout pitcher for the Eagles’ state-championship baseball team.

Running back John Hildreth, who was the district’s defensive MVP last season at linebacker, as well as an all-dis- TAKING HIM DOWN Strake Jesuit’s Sean Kenneally makes a key tackle on St. Thomas’ Jaylen Davis in the Crusaders’ 20-10 win over the Eagles. The Strake Jesuit trict running back, victory snapped a four-game losing streak to St. Thomas. returns as a force on leads the team in passing statistics, and junior both sides of the ball. Running back Deion Smith defensive specialist Isabelle Long. “Both Ella and gives the Eagles another threat in the backfield, Isabelle are having terrific seasons,” said Clark. with sophomore receiver Anthony MacKenzie With an especially impressive third-place finalso providing an offensive spark. ish at the tough Clear Creek ISD volleyball tourMeantime, another standout two-way player nament, the Memorial Mustangs volleyball team for the Eagles is offensive and defensive lineman was well on its way to another successful season.

Austin Strozier, who starts on both sides of the The Mustangs defeated powerhouse programs ball for the third straight year. Senior middle such as Cy Falls, Pearland, Kingwood and Seven linebacker Fielding Davis, the team’s leading Lakes before falling to undefeated and state No. tackler last season, is again making big plays for 2- ranked Conroe Oak Ridge in the tournament the Eagles. “There’s zero selfishness to this semifinals. “Our girls really played phenomenal,” team,” said Pirtle. “We have a bunch of kids said Mustangs head coach Beth Gammill. who’ve bought into our program. There’s just The Mustangs, who owned a 17-6 record great team unity.” entering district play, returned several key In volleyball, the Bellaire Cardinals are again starters, including 6’2” junior middle blocker one of the area’s most talented teams, led by the Meredith Phillips, District MVP setter Maddie twin tandem of seniors Maya and Megan Evans, Taff and senior libero Alexis Pratt, who’ll play who helped guide the Cardinals to a 34-7 record collegiately at Southeastern Louisiana. a season ago. “Megan is just a tremendous setter In addition, Gammill credited the standout who runs the offense extremely well, while play of defensive specialist Sydney Gauss, sophMaya has made a smooth transition from middle omore outside hitters Sanaa’ Dotson and Jessica blocker to outside hitter this season,” said Hausmann, right side hitters Emma Mueller and Cardinals head coach Ap Clarke.

Gillian Koskie, sophomore setter Jessica Mayer The twins will remain teammates at the coland sophomore middle blocker Olivia Matthews. legiate level with both having committed to play volleyball at Tennessee State. “It’s amazing Editor’s Note: Todd Freed is the Emmy Awardhow well they work together,” said Clarke. winning co-host and producer of the KUBE “Megan just instinctively knows where her sister SportsZone, which airs Saturday and Sunday at 6 is going to be on the court and finds a way to p.m. on Channel 57-KUBE. To submit high school feed her the ball.” sports news for possible inclusion in SportzBuzz, Also making major contributions for the please email todd@thebuzzmagazines.com.

Cardinals are senior libero Ella Hawes, who

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Probate and access to justice If you are reading this article, you can probably afford a lawyer for estate planning and probate. Most people cannot.

The Access to Justice Commission was created in 2001, and charged with removing barriers to justice for low-income Texas. For estate planning, the Commission’s work has already resulted in improved bank disclosures regarding payable-on-death accounts and do-it-yourself transfer on death deeds.

Will forms are under study. For highlights, visit www.texasatj.org/policy-0.

Probate is harder. Consider the Small Estate Affidavit. The Harris County Clerk posts one with instructions at www.cclerk.hctx.net/forms/i0222.pdf.

Assets may be collected with an affidavit, and without a lawyer or formal probate administration.

To qualify, the probate estate must be worth less than $50,000. The homestead and other exempt assets don’t count. Non-probate assets, e.g., life insurance and IRAs with designated beneficiaries, are also disregarded.

So far, so good. If you don’t leave much cash, it’s possible your kids could collect your home in River Oaks, your $1 million life insurance policy, and your $2 million IRA, all on their own.

There’s a catch, though. The little cash and other non-exempt assets you leave have to exceed your debts. You must be solvent, and the life insurance, IRA, and other nonprobate assets don’t count. The judge won’t approve the affidavit without knowing the bank balance, and the bank won’t talk to the kids without a court order.

As part of the Access to Justice initiative, Estates Code chapter 153 now gives heirs access to your bank balances. A court order is required. If the

kids don’t request one, the judge may issue one without asking. It’s possible the kids could file an incomplete Small Estate Affidavit, and a sympathetic judge (they do exist) would order the bank to fill in the blanks.

Unfortunately, not even a law degree is enough to understand all the rules and exceptions. The Legislature doesn’t, and inadvertently introduced changes in 2015 that limit the Small Estate Affidavit to the surviving spouse and minor children, at least for collecting the homestead. If you’re counting on the Small Estate Affidavit as a substitute for a will for your family, please die while the children are minors. Once they’re 18, your widow might collect the house, but your adult orphans cannot without resorting to other, more expensive procedures.

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.

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WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 39

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.

Lacrosse all-stars The Pershing Girls Lacrosse All-Stars (top photo) competed at the 2016 Greater Houston Girls Youth Lacrosse Association City Finals in The Woodlands. The All Stars – (from left) sixth-grader Curstin Brown, seventh-grader Tori Julian, eighth-grader Haylie Sims, eighth-grader Chloe Herrera and sixth-grader Kara Lorenz – are student-athletes who were elected by their peers and coaches to represent Pershing Girls Lacrosse at the end-of-season tournament. Each of these girls has played lacrosse for a couple of years, and Tori, Haylie and Chloe also play at an elite level with Tenacity Texas Lacrosse.

Softball savvy St. Vincent de Paul seventh-grader Ella Smith (middle photo) rounds a base in a recent softball game. She has played softball since kindergarten, and her 12U West University Fury team won first place during the regular season. Ella was also a member of the 12U West University Wave team, where she played left field and shortstop and led the team in triples. When she is not on the softball field, you can find Ella on the basketball court, where she started on the St. Vincent de Paul eighth-grade team as a sixth grader. She also runs track and is playing volleyball for the first time this fall. Ella loves to compete and hang out with her teammates, and she hopes to play softball in high school.

Dedicated triathlete Triathlete Jake Kluczinik (bottom photo) competed in the Sylvan Beach Triathlon in La Porte. The race started with a tough, choppy, 550-meter swim in the bay, and continued with a 15-mile bike ride and 3-mile run. Jake has been competing for five years. He entered his first triathlon with a neighborhood Huffy bike, and his love for the sport grew from there. Since then, he has competed in 21 triathlons and has been on the podium 19 times. Jake’s mom, Karen, is a triathlon trainer, and she is his coach. “Triathlon gave me a tremendous amount of confidence both on and off the race course. It teaches you about hard work, dedication, pacing and sheer will power,” Jake said. He hopes to one day complete a full Ironman and qualify for the world championships in Kona, Hawaii.

Proud sponsor of West University and neighboring sports WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 40

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.

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NEIGHBORS

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by Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Buzz About Town Family fun night

Come a long way, baby

Come get into the fall spirit on Oct. 21 at 5:30 p.m. at the Colonial Park Pavilion (4130 Byron) for the fourth annual Full Moon Fest – for pumpkin decorating, costume contests for different age groups, face painting and more, hosted by the West University Place Parks and Recreation Department. The whole family is invited to come in their spookiest attire. Stay after the event for the movie Hotel Transylvania 2 (PG) as part of the Movies in the Park series (showing begins at 7 p.m.). For more information, call 713662-7420.

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital community, including Mia Gradney and Janet McCloskey (pictured, from left) along with parents and children and doctors, nurses and staff members from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), attended a Made in Texas-themed reunion. The event celebrated babies who had a stay in the NICU at Texas Children’s Hospital. The reunion offered a chance for everyone to reunite with the doctors, nurses and staff members who cared for them. The reunion was held at the Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women. It had games

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 42

for babies and toddlers, face painting, a photo booth and motorized ride-on plush animals.

A trip to remember The Yeager family had an incredible adventure.

They began in London, where their favorite sites were Westminster Abbey, The Tower of

Copenhagen visiting Tivoli Gardens, the Rundetaarn observation tower, The Little Mermaid statue, and dining by the canal at Nyhaven. Pictured in Norway are Nathan, Karen, Callie, Harlo, Grant and Carter Yeager.

Karen is this year’s PTO president at West University Elementary.

fourth graders Callie Yeager, Ally Faulk, Emily Jackson, Piper Egan and Jaina Jhunjhunwala. See westupto.org.

Some healthy competition

Fun fall events

London, Buckingham Palace, The London Eye and the London Transport Museum. Then, they traveled to Dover, England, to board a 12-night Disney cruise. Ports of call included Newcastle, England; Kirkwall, Scotland; Reykjavik, Iceland; Akureyri, Iceland; Bergen, Norway; Stavanger, Norway; and Copenhagen, Denmark. Favorite memories included visiting the Alnwick Castle in Newcastle, a pool adventure and visit to Santa’s house in Akureyi, and the Kongeparken Amusement Park in Stavanger. They enjoyed additional time in

Everyone is invited to attend West University Elementary October fundraisers, including the Boo Bash Carnival and the Halloween Dash 5k and Kids Fun Run. The Boo Bash Carnival will be on Oct. 15 on the school grounds from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. School-age children can enjoy lunch, sweets, games, inflatables and confetti eggs. Parents and adults can enjoy the shopping bazaar. The 5k and fun run will be Oct. 29 at 6104 Auden. The race starts at 8 a.m. Pictured at last year’s event (from left) are

The inaugural West University Senior Services summer bash/mini Olympics and lunch was a success. Participants got into the Olympic spirit at the West University Community Building.

The event featured relays, chair volleyball, cornhole, wackiest-hat contests and a cakewalk. The West U team battled it out with the Weekley YMCA and Bellaire L.I.F.E. The free event was sponsored by Park Plaza. Pictured (from left) are West U “Cougars” Molly Barrow, Lupe Palacios, Marilee Steiner, Ann Hornbeak, Gladwyn Dawson, Debbie Lokey and Susan Babendure. There’s another match against Bellaire on Nov. 1 at 11 a.m. To register, email pnoren@westutx.gov or (continued on page 44)

WEST UNIVERSITY BUZZ OCTOBER 2016 43

call 713-662-5896.

Anyone can come cheer the team on.

Heartbreak into help

Katie Montgomery Mears lives in Houston, but she was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. When she heard about the historic flooding that occurred in southern Louisiana, she was heartbroken. Her family members who still live there were safe, but she saw many distressing posts on social media. She found out about the thousands of homes flooded and the 13 people whose lives were lost, so she decided to help. She sent a message to a number of friends in Houston, asking if they would be willing to get together to assemble UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) flood buckets for the victims. The initial

goal was 30 flood buckets, but she learned 800 of them had been distributed in one hour. She recruited a larger group and was overwhelmed by the response. In just a few days, more than 80 people sent money or dropped off supplies for the buckets. The contents of each bucket costs about $65. Finally, 28 friends and neighbors of all ages got together and assembled 115 buckets.

Whitney Walsh provided food and drinks for the group to enjoy while working. They loaded the buckets in a U-Haul and drove them to Baton Rouge to be distributed at Broadmoor United Methodist Church. Pictured (from left) are John Faust, Mears, Whitney Mears, Debbie Cuda and Alice King (who’s on the outreach team from St. Luke's United Methodist Church) in front of the truck full of 115 flood buckets and 7,674 diapers headed to Baton Rouge.

Lester Lanin Orchestra from New York City.

Guests are encouraged to dress mid-century, in full Mad Men attire, including white dinner jackets, white gloves and glamorous gowns.

Funds raised will support master planning for a renovation of Jones Hall. See joneshall50th.org.

Keeping up the Jones

Bullseye birthday party

Alexandra (Alie) and David Pruner, along with James Postl, are co-chairing the Jones Hall 50th Ball – A Mad Mid-Century Celebration and Concert on Oct. 22 at Jones Hall Plaza.

Being recognized are the Jesse H. Jones family and the Houston Endowment. The night will include a concert featuring violinist Itzhak Perlman, who will perform with the Houston Symphony under the direction of Andrés Orozco-Estrada. The concert will be followed by a gala dinner and dancing to the music of the

Elyse Spector Kalmans (pictured, second from left, with friends Anna Kamins, Ann Guillerman and Cheryl Levy, from left) loves Target. When she saw how a mom recently threw her Target-obsessed son’s seventh birthday at Target – which went viral – Elyse was inspired. Elyse wanted to help families in Louisiana affected by the recent flood, and she knew that Kamins was about to head to Baton Rouge. She invited friends to celebrate at Target in Meyerland and buy supplies or gift

Alexander’s Portraits

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Agriculture class led by Ms. Angela Roth raise chickens, grow vegetables, and care for the garden on campus. They even have some hummingbirds to look after. Pictured (from left) are

cards in honor of her birthday to support families in Louisiana. In addition, Elyse is on the board of nonprofit Undies for Everyone, so her friends also helped purchase underwear to go to disadvantaged students in Houston. Elyse brought cupcakes decorated with the Target bullseye. Other friends helping out included Greta Ravitsky, Nicole Nathan Gibson, Sara Speer Selber, Beth Schlanger, Barbara Kalmans, Lewis Kalmans, Amelia Ribnick Kleiman, Laura Plastrik Alter, Elizabeth Rigney and Allison Levine. The group ultimately packed Kamins’ SUV full of diapers, paper towels, cleaning supplies and more for families from Louisiana.

Nurturing nature Pin Oak Middle School now has a new way to help the community. Students in the Urban

students Tommy Wen, Megan Gutierrez and Grady Jones. Throughout the year, the students also host farmer's market sales where faculty, staff, parents and community members can purchase fresh herbs, kale, vegetables and eggs.

Check the Pin Oak website for more information on the farmer's market dates, which are tentatively planned to coincide with the PTO meetings. See pinoakpto.org.

Vidor, is excited to have dedicated workers in the 70th year of the Houston Junior Forum.

Pictured (front row, from left) are Karen Hardin, Cooky Mays, Debbie Berner, (back row, from left) Jodie Parker, Linda West and Diana Root. The Houston Junior Forum is a

Meeting in Round Top

nonprofit women's service organization whose mission is to aid Houston's children, youth, women and senior adults.

The Houston Junior Forum new board’s term began June 1. The 2016-17 HJF Executive Committee gathered at Marilyn McDowell’s historic Oak Hill Ranch in Round Top to plan for the upcoming year. The new president, Kim

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.

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TOURING SPAIN Sophia Wayne (far left), a junior at Episcopal High School, spent her summer studying abroad in Spain. Here she is with friends (from left) Charlotte Baird and Sophie Allen, also juniors at Episcopal.

KIDS

by Sophia Wayne, age 16

Buzz Kidz T

Holá, España

his summer I traveled with two of my friends to study abroad in Seville, Spain, as part of the program called ISA High School so we could learn about Spanish culture and get better at speaking Spanish. After experiencing Madrid for two days, we spent a day in the medieval city of Toledo. It had a beautiful cathedral that we got to tour, as well as one of the oldest synagogues in Europe.

After Toledo, we arrived in Seville and met our señora, whom we lived with for the next two weeks. She was very nice but spoke no English.

This was hard in the beginning. The Spanish they speak in Spain is a little different than the Spanish we learn in school. In the end, we got used to it and were able to communicate well.

Our first full day in Seville was so much fun

because we got to meet the other students on our trip. We went on a tapas tour and got to try typical Spanish food. My favorite was the tortilla Española, a potato and egg omelet. We attended classes and also did fun activities with our group, such as kayaking down the Guadalquivir River and touring the famous cathedral in Seville. We traveled to Gibraltar, which was my favorite excursion. We went up the huge Rock of Gibraltar and were able to see the tip of Africa.

Gibraltar is a British territory, where they speak English and use the British Pound as money – and it’s surrounded by Spain!

We traveled to the coastal city of Cadiz, where we spent the night and went to the beach.

We got a little lost in the city, which was kind of scary since we could not really use our phones.

Luckily, my friend Charlotte is really good at reading maps and led us back to our hotel. The last week in Seville was amazing. We attended classes every day, but had more freedom and were able to explore the city. I definitely want to do something like this again in the future.

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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Two quick pathways to allergy relief Allergy shots are unique in that they make you less allergic to the pollen, dust mites, mold and/or animal dander you’re allergic to. They do this by helping your body to switch from an “allergic” response, to more of a “tolerance” response. In essence, your body no longer tries to fight off the allergens; instead, it learns how to ignore them. We have to start shots at a safe dose because you’re allergic, but the shots don’t help until you reach a high dose. After we finish building up your dose, you take a “maintenance dose,” usually once a month.

Since 1995, The Allergy Clinic has safely performed Rush on over 3,000 patients. This one-day procedure provides very rapid desensitization, getting you to that highest dose, or at least 90 percent of the way, in one eight-hour day, providing quicker relief of symptoms. Rush is a great procedure for those with busy schedules who would find it difficult to come in at least once a week for up to six months, which is what is typically required with more traditional methods of building to the high or “maintenance dose.”

But what if you can’t spend the entire day in our office? Or what if you can only come on Saturday mornings? Cluster is also a great option, and is almost as fast as Rush. With Cluster, we essentially do a series of “minirush;” that is, we give a set of allergy shots, observe the patient, then give another set of allergy shots, again observe the patient, and then give a final set of allergy shots for that day. So you spend 1.5 or 2 hours in our office, once or twice a week, for a total of 8 or 9 visits before you reach your maintenance dose.

With Rush, we have patients take several medications for three days

beforehand to reduce the chance of severe allergic reactions. With Cluster, you only premedicate with antihistamines. That’s because your immune system has at least 36 hours to process the previous set of shots, so the risk of having allergic reactions to the shots is less.

All insurance companies, including Medicare, cover Rush and Cluster, but there are some limitations. For instance, Humana will only cover it if we desensitize the patient to stinging insects, or to drugs (e.g., penicillin); however, Humana excludes coverage for the Rush or Cluster if it is done for airborne allergens, such as ragweed or dust mites.

Rapid allergy desensitization procedures such as Rush or Cluster are safe, effective options that are covered well by insurance companies and get your dose of shots where you receive relief much more quickly.

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

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Attending school open houses

A minute with Maisie

As a prospective school parent, you should attend at least 3-4 open houses before selecting a school for your child. Visiting a few different schools will give you a better understanding of the culture and climate at each of the schools you are considering.

However, remember when you are visiting a school, not only are you learning about and seeing the school, but the school is learning about and seeing you as well. Wellbehaved children, polite demeanor and eagerness may help you in the admissions process. On the other hand, disruptive children, aggressive questioning or negative demeanor may be noted by the admissions staff. Therefore, make the effort to present your family in the best light possible by being polite and respectful, and, if need be, leaving children at home with a caretaker.

I’ve put a free “School Tours Checklist” on our website at www.firateducation.com/tours that includes questions and items to look for when visiting a prospective school. Feel free to print this checklist and take it with you on school visits.

At Firat Educational Solutions, we will work with you to navigate these open houses. We will customize a system to help you find the best fit for your child, your family and your values. If you would like to learn more about our school-placement process, transition program or academic support and enrichment programs, please call or email us. We would love to customize a program to fit your needs.

Firat Educational Solutions, LLC, Nicholas Morgan, Ed. D., Chief Academic Officer, 3701 W. Alabama, Suite 390, Houston, Texas 77027, 713.871.1048, ext. 706, www.firateducation.com

Many clients ask me, “Who is the judge who will preside over my case?” There are 10 family law courts in Harris County, and each court contains an elected district court judge, as well as an associate judge who is appointed by the elected judge. Additionally, there is one court that hears family violence cases, exclusively. Each of these district court judges is an elected official. I encourage each of you to be an informed voter. Get to know these elected officials, as well as the candidates running against them, as family law judges make decisions that can affect every aspect of your life when litigating in their court. This year, the Honorable Alyssa Lemkuil is running for the 507th Judicial District Court. In my opinion, she is highly qualified, fair and conscientious. These requirements are mandatory for any judge, but more significant for a family law court. For example, a family court judge has the right to determine the frequency and conditions under which you will see your children. This is an extremely broad power, requiring a fairminded judiciary and an informed public to ensure the fairness and access to justice is equally available to everyone. Maisie A. Barringer is a partner at Jenkins & Kamin, L.L.P., a full-service, boutique, family law firm specializing in divorce, child-custody modifications, grandparent access, paternity, adoption, and premarital and postmarital agreements. Maisie A. Barringer has been recognized as a Texas Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters service printed in Texas Monthly magazine for 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2013.

Jenkins & Kamin, L.L.P., Maisie A. Barringer, Partner, Board Certified in Family Law, Two Greenway Plaza, Suite 600, Houston, Texas 77046, 713.600.5500, www.jenkinskamin.com

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Innovative laser treatment helps preserve voices In 2009, Dr. Mary Es Beaver, MD, FACS, became the first physician in Houston to use a KTP laser to treat vocal cord conditions. She has been using this pioneering technology at the Texas Center for Voice and Swallowing to treat hoarseness or persistent scratchy voices ever since.

Hoarseness is caused by a disruption of the normal vibration of the vocal cords or by a failure of closure of the vocal cords during vibration. The vocal cords normally work by creating a vibration in the air that flows through them from the lungs, similar to a guitar string when it is plucked. When hoarseness lasts for more than a week, it should be investigated.

Dr. Beaver uses stroboscopy, a procedure in the office, to visualize the vocal cords in motion to determine the true cause of the problem. Her patients are often professionals such as singers, attorneys, business executives or professional speakers who need to project their voices on a daily basis.

When vocal cords are strained or overused for extended periods of time, they can lead to nodules, polyps and cysts, which limit normal voice functioning. Certain growths on the edge of the vocal cords can lead to permanent damage to the voice if not treated early.

The KTP laser used by Dr. Beaver is a “Cool Laser” that uses green light and less heat than traditional lasers, thereby preserving delicate vocal cord tissues and normal voice functioning. Dr. Beaver prefers this laser treatment because, unlike other options, it selectively treats abnormal cells by eliminating their blood supply.

Dr. Beaver explains that the main benefit of this technology is that it doesn’t scar the vocal cords and leaves them intact. She says, “This is one

of the most amazing technologies available today, and many patients don’t know that there is such an effective solution to a seemingly unsolvable problem.” As a singer and professional who relies on her voice for daily communication with patients, Dr. Beaver understands the value of a properly functioning voice. She says, “Sometimes I see patients who have just learned to live with a hoarse voice that is not working properly, simply because they don’t know that it can be fixed. I love helping professionals attain their optimal voice performance.”

Visiting an ear, nose and throat doctor such as Dr. Beaver who has a specialty in voice is essential because many traditional ENT doctors lack the equipment and knowledge to perform such a procedure. Dr. Beaver is a board-certified otolaryngologist/head and neck surgeon and a fellowshiptrained laryngologist. She is the medical director of the Texas Center for Voice and Swallowing, and has dedicated her life to helping people with voice and throat disorders. To learn more about Dr. Beaver, please visit www.texas-voice.com.

Dr. Mary Es Beaver, Texas Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists and Kirby Surgical Center, 9300 Kirby Dr., Suite 100, Houston, Texas 77054, 713.791.9363, drbeaver@texasent.com, www.texas-voice.com

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Bienvenidos a BYDS

First checkup: age 7

“We were so thrilled when we heard that our daughter would begin learning Spanish in kindergarten this year. It is fundamental, and adding it to the curriculum at BYDS made an already amazing program exceptional.” – Dena Segal, kindergarten parent Beth Yeshurun Day School has initiated another “BYDS First.” Starting this school year, we have introduced Spanish to kindergarten. Two years ago, we added Spanish to our fourth and fifth grades. Based on the success and excitement around the program, we decided to incorporate it in every grade, starting with kindergarten. We will continue to add Spanish each school year until every class is included. All students will continue with Hebrew and Judaics as usual.

The students are enjoying two Spanish classes a week with Mrs. Dina Silberman, who also teaches fourth- and fifth-grade Spanish and first-grade Hebrew/Judaics. She has combined two activity-based curriculums to design an “alive” program that is interactive and fun. The students stay energized and motivated during the class through songs and movement. Learning through play allows them to soak in the language. And the songs stick in your head all day: “1-2-3-45 ¡Salta! 6-7-8-9-10 ¡Patea! Date la vuelta y aplaude ¡Meneate! ¡Y salta!”

“One of the most affirmative traits in BYDS is the constant commitment to strengthening its curriculum and faculty. With the introduction of Spanish as early as the kindergarten level, BYDS continues to push the envelope in education.” – Priya Ramamoorthy, Pre-K parent Beth Yeshurun Day School, 4525 Beechnut Blvd., Houston, Texas 77096, 713.666.1884, www.byds.org

One of the most common questions that Dr. Vladimir Tabakman and Dr. David Wadler hear from parents is, “What age should I bring my child in for a checkup?” The American Association of Orthodontics recommends all children get a checkup with an orthodontic specialist at age 7.

In the past, parents were usually told to wait until their child’s baby teeth were gone and all of their permanent teeth were in, or to wait until their dentist told them they were ready to see an orthodontist. However, this has changed over the years.

At early age, orthodontists can spot problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while baby teeth are still present. Even though your child’s teeth may appear straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. Early treatment may prevent serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. This will give your orthodontist the chance to correct problems when children’s natural growth processes are in full swing.

Keep in mind that timing is everything, and not all kids need early treatment. In fact, most kids don’t begin active orthodontic treatment until they’re 9-14 years old. You can trust the orthodontic specialists, Dr. Tabakman and Dr. Wadler, at Bellaire Family Orthodontics with your family’s precious smiles and to help you make the right decision. Call 713-7661921 today to schedule your free consultation, or get a second opinion.

Dr. David M. Wadler and Dr. Vladimir Tabakman, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 105, Bellaire, Texas 77401, 713.766.1921, www.rocknbraces.com

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What to look for when you’re looking for a therapist When you’re experiencing emotional distress, you want relief.

But what qualities should you look for when you decide it’s time to seek help from a therapist?

Resources To find a therapist, check out the websites of Mental Health America of Greater Houston, the Houston Psychological Association, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Houston or similar organizations.

Asking friends, family members and primary care physicians for referrals is often another avenue. If you choose this route, Megan Kale, LCSW, director of Outpatient Assessments and a staff therapist at The Menninger Clinic, advises against being treated by the same therapist a family member or friend uses. “Set healthy boundaries by finding someone else for your own therapy,” she says.

Criteria for selection “When evaluating a therapist’s qualifications, make sure they are licensed by their discipline’s state board and went to an accredited training program,” says Kale. “Those are essential qualifications.”

Once you find a therapist with these qualifications, make an appointment to discuss your needs. Ask them about their treatment philosophy and their experience treating individuals with similar needs. How long do they estimate the course of treatment will be? What types of assessments will they perform?

Also, make sure the therapist uses evidence-based treatments.

“There are many different treatments available, but they’re not all based

in rigorous science,” says Michelle Patriquin, PhD, director of Adolescent Research and a staff psychologist at Menninger. “Receiving evidence-based treatment helps ensure the benefits from treatment are maximized.”

If you’re evaluating a therapist for a child or adolescent, Dr. Patriquin recommends visiting www.effectivechildtherapy.org to learn more about what’s considered evidence-based treatment for those age groups.

Finally, Kale says, “Don’t make a decision based on a first impression. Give the therapist at least two or three appointments before you decide whether or not to continue. It’s also important to remember that it’s okay to meet different therapists and even try different therapies.”

Evidenced-based treatment by a qualified mental health professional is very effective, and there's a therapist out there who's right for you and ready to help.

For a therapy appointment with Megan Kale, LCSW, pictured, Dr. Patriquin or another Menninger therapist, call 713-275-5178.

The Menninger Clinic, 12301 S. Main Street, Houston, Texas 77035, 713.275.5000, www.MenningerClinic.com

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sponsored by

PETS

Neighborhood Tails

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Caring for a senior pet 713.662.2119 www.roveroaks.com

Finn, age 1, Poodle Mix, Lafayette St. My name is Finn, and I have a twin brother, Moose; he’s camera shy. After the May 2016 flood, we went to live with our new family in West U. We were only a few weeks old when we were thrown out of a truck into our family’s recycling bin, where they found us.

We were very sick for several months, but our human family took care of us, and now we are totally fine. Now we are living happily with our new family, and things could never be better. My mom calls me Woody Allen – apparently I am pretty high-strung, I have no idea what she means – WAIT, DID YOU HEAR THAT? TAKE COVER NOW! We love to be together, so our parents got us a huge cage for us to share. Moose and I do everything together and encourage everyone to recycle! It saved our lives.

Got a cute critter? Email a picture of your pet with approximately 150 words to info@thebuzzmagazines.com or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401. Featured pets receive two passes to Rover Oaks Pet Resort. Each pass can be redeemed for one day of lodging in a Bunk House Suite, 25 percent off your next grooming appointment or 25 percent off one obedience training class.

As our canine companions grow older, their health and physical abilities decline significantly, just like humans. One of the most obvious changes is a decrease in physical activity. Senior pets move more slowly, run less, and have a more difficult time with daily activities. However, daily exercise is very important for our older pets as long as we modify the intensity and the duration of the activity and watch their exposure to weather extremes. For example, take a casual walk down the block rather than a vigorous game of fetch. And significantly limit your senior’s outdoor time when the temperature is very warm or very cold. Often accompanying a senior pet’s decrease in physical activity is an increase in weight, and obesity can complicate many other health issues, especially joint-related problems. Pet owners should continually modify the amount of food they offer their pet and monitor the results in order to maintain a healthy weight. Other common complications of aging include loss of hearing and poor vision, both of which require additional patience and understanding from pet owners. Poor appetite, change in potty habits, skin and coat ailments, and gum disease are also health issues that may impact your elderly companion. By monitoring these changes and working closely with your local veterinarian, pet owners can continue to give their seniors the quality of life they so richly deserve.

Rover Oaks Pet Resort, 2550 West Bellfort, Houston, Texas 77054, 713.662.2119, www.roveroaks.com

Celebrate Family With the holidays approaching, now is the time to reserve your portrait session.

Mention The Buzz and receive 50% off your studio session.

Ask about our other holiday specials.

Offer valid through October 31, 2016

A portrait remembers 713.523.4916 nikky@lawellphoto.com www.lawellphoto.com

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College-prep checklist

Open house, open mind

School is in full force, and the first 6-weeks reports are about to be released. Also known as the initial performance indicator for the academic year, they serve a bigger purpose than just grades. They signal strengths, distress, areas to watch for, and ways to utilize your resources in school. It is easier to figure out ways to attack your weaknesses now rather than waiting until the end of the semester when finals are looming with 16-18 weeks worth of material piled up.

Here’s your October checklist: • Seniors: Major colleges have an early-application deadline of Oct. 15.

• Juniors: Meet with your counselors to discuss academic progress, and start talking seriously about your college list.

• Juniors: The primary date for the PSAT is Wednesday, Oct. 19.

• Taking the Oct. 22 ACT? Schedule a FREE 2nd SATurday practice test on Oct. 8. Identify your weaknesses, and PREP! • The November SAT deadline to register is Oct 7. (Late deadline: Oct. 25) For more customized help with college preparation, please contact us.

Our professionals develop and execute a customized plan for each student that aligns school academics, standardized testing and college counseling with college and career goals.

Firat Educational Solutions, LLC, Ibrahim Firat, MBA, Independent Educational Consultants Association Professional Member, 3701 W. Alabama, Suite 390, Houston, Texas 77027, 713.871.1048, www.firateducation.com

When I started eighth grade, there was one thing I knew for sure: I wanted to go to the same high school that all my friends from grade school were going to. Despite my certainty, my family encouraged me to have an open mind about my next four years. Where would I flourish? What school was the best fit for me as an individual?

At the Incarnate Word Academy Open House, I discovered the answers to these questions. I discovered a school with competent and compassionate teachers whose love of learning was contagious. I discovered IWA’s innovative Young Leaders Program, which empowers young women to lead and serve in their communities. I discovered a school in the heart of downtown Houston with a 144-year-old tradition of excellence in academics, values and spirituality. I discovered a place where I could soar.

Here I am, four years later, a senior at IWA. I am a National Merit Semifinalist and a director of the Young Leaders Program. I am a catcher on the softball team (we went to regionals last year!) and have found a home in the kind and supportive IWA sisterhood. Having an open mind about my high school options led me to Incarnate Word Academy, and IWA opened up my world. – Anna Winter, IWA ’17, St. Vincent de Paul ’13 Attend Open House on Sunday, Nov. 6, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Incarnate Word Academy, A Catholic College Preparatory for Young Women Since 1873, 609 Crawford Street, Houston, Texas 77002, 713.227.3637, www.incarnateword.org

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NEIGHBORS

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by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Back Porch

Family politics behance.net/runamokstudios

I

t’s hard talking politics with anyone these days. In the midst of a presidential election the likes of which we’ve never seen before, talking about who we’re voting for and why stirs lots of emotions. And talking about issues can be downright dangerous.

So what happens when the person you’re married to – the one you share a home and a life with – doesn’t share your political views?

Dollie and Abe Goren have spent a lifetime figuring it out. The couple, who met while working in a law firm, he as a lawyer, she as the manager of the firm, have been together 35 years, and married for 30 of them. They’ve got two grown daughters, and they actually worked together at the firm for 17 years. “Dollie and I get along fabulously,” Abe says. “We rarely argue.”

The couple has come together on issues that would have been insurmountable for some. Abe grew up in Houston in an Orthodox Jewish family, while Dollie was raised Baptist in Mexia.

“The first time I took Abe to Mexia, I think it was a cultural shock,” Dollie says. “My family knew so little about Judaism that before he came, they went to the library to research it.’”

“Growing up, I thought my in-laws would be Davids and Sols,” Abe says. “But I’ve got Billy Bobs and Roy Dons. The way you imagine things is never how they end up.”

The families came to love one another, and the religion question was answered when Dollie converted to Judaism.

But still, one glitch remained. Abe is a staunch Democrat, Dollie a staunch Republican.

“From the beginning, Abe’s been fiercely Democratic,” Dollie says.

“I was more liberal, and she was more conservative,” Abe says. “But neither of us will vote straight ticket. We’ll do a little bit of research and try to vote our conscience.”

That doesn’t mean they’ll agree. “I will tell you that some issues are so difficult,” Abe says.

“I can understand where the other side is coming from. But I still think my side is the correct one.”

“Well, the Republicans are late to the party when it comes to global warming,” Dollie concedes.

“Oh they’re still not at the party, baby,” Abe says.

“We agree to listen to each other,” Dollie says.

HARMONY AND DISCORD At the end of the day, couples put opposing politics on the back burner in favor of a happy partnership.

“We agree to disagree,” Abe says.

Have politics ever come between them?

“Never that I recall,” Abe says.

“It’s kind of like when you’re at a dinner party, and they say not to talk about politics or religion,” Dollie says. “When it has come up, we both respect each other’s points of view. If Abe believes strongly, I’m always open to hearing what he has to say.”

She’s apparently not open to yard signs, though.

“That’s the one place it gets touchy,” Dollie says, “because I don’t want a yard full of signs.”

“Somehow they disappear out of my yard,” Abe says. “I’m not quite sure where they disappear to.”

On second thought, Abe says there’s one more touchy spot in their marriage: “The bigger fight is A&M and UT. My allegiance to UT and hers to A&M has probably caused more discourse and ill will. With politics, I’m not going to convince you, and you’re not going to convince me, so let’s have dinner.”

Another couple whose politics diverge – and who ask to remain anonymous – have also made

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peace with their differences. The wife, a Democrat from a long line of Democrats, says, “I say we’re in a mixed marriage. I abandon talk of politics because it’s so personal to me, and I know it won’t end well, so I’m out. I want to talk about what we have in common as opposed to what’s divisive or difficult. Loyalty, friendship and humor. Shared values.

“I don’t believe I need to go there with him, because if I believe something politically it doesn’t affect the way we do business as a family,” she says.

“We categorically have shared values for that.

“That said, we’ve been together for 30 years, and I can say, ‘You’re driving me crazy, and I’m going to take you down,’ and he can say the same. A great sense of humor – and loyalty – will get you through everything.”

These couples can teach us all something about getting along and respecting each other’s views, whether we’re married or not. But sometimes a sense of humor does trump playing fair.

Abe’s last request for this story?

“The last two words must be ‘Hook ’em!’”