The Memorial Buzz - December 2014

Christmas

Molly, Will and Griffin Murphy

Traditions by Annie Blaylock McQueen

Holiday Gift Guide Applying to College Shopping with Your Dog Celebrating Hanukkah In the Yucatan with Dad Houston, TX

What Wine Experts Drink

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Holiday Recipes

PUBLISHER’S NOTE As The Buzz Magazines winds up its 13th year of publication, I want to thank our Buzz team, loyal readers and wonderful advertisers. We had a very busy year and couldn’t have done it without you. We introduced many new features, columns and writers and continue to receive more reader letters in our Mailbag column every month. Our December theme is holiday traditions. We hope you’ll enjoy reading about everything from baby’s first Christmas and Hanukkah memories to tested party recipes and tips from wine experts. As always, the stories and sources come from your Buzz neighborhoods. The issue also features our 2014 Holiday Gift Guide, full of local gift ideas for friends and family on your list. On a more serious note, writer Cheryl Ursin tackles the sometimes-overwhelming subject of college admissions, and Travel Buzz's Tracy L. Barnett shares a very personal and moving story of the final trips she took with her dad. Happy holidays to you all. See you in 2015. 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 memorialbuzz.com • facebook.com/memorialbuzz Editor Publisher Associate Editor Vice President, Sales Staff Writers

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Joni Hoffman Michael Hoffman Cheryl Laird Jay Janecek Tracy L. Barnett Sharon Albert Brier Andria Frankfort Angie Frederickson Todd Freed Michelle Casas Groogan Dai Huynh Annie Blaylock McQueen Dave Schafer Cheryl Ursin Cathy Gordon, Jennifer Gould Russell Weil Jordan Magaziner John Duboise Andrea Blitzer Leslie Little Kim Montgomery Darsey Swaim Helen Hamilton Michele Luke

On our cover: Murphy siblings Molly, 7, Will, 9, and Griffin, 2, always read the story of Jesus’ birth together on Christmas Eve. Cover photo by Todd Parker, www.stpimages.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. Editorial content does not necessarily express the opinions of the publisher. Copyright © 2014 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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Your letters, thoughts, opinions Do you remember these places? Loved the article [Restaurant Memories: A look back at Houston’s dining past, by Russell Weil, November 2014]. Do you remember Los Troncos? With the tree house booths and paella ordered 24 hours in advance? My favorite was Tokyo Gardens. The tatami mats, the koi fish clumping near the bridge, over the river filled with coins. The fish ate from your hands. The authentic kimono dancers and the Japanese music? Also removing your shoes and rice candies after shrimp tempura with chopsticks? Also Vargo’s lush gardens and settings with elegant silver platters? Remember orange butter at Sonny Look’s and the homemade bread loaves? Lantern Inn on Memorial had amazing fried shrimp. And the original Hobbit Cafe. The original Antone’s had lines around the block on Voss Road. Keep up the great work! Lindsay Freireich

About the chair in that photo I married Sonny Look’s daughter, Elizabeth. We were both excited to see that you included him in your recent article about restaurant memories. I think my mother-in-law Carole has a chair that matches the seat you all are sitting on in the picture. It makes you feel like a king when you sit on it. It was a treat to see your article and the picture. Andrew P. Biar

Sonny’s sport coats Great job. Loved this. Wonderful memories. Sonny [Look] had quite a wardrobe of sport coats, and he could be seen on any given night wearing several of them (but not at the same time of course). Lynton Ellisor

Brookwood gives her hope I was delighted to see the wonderful article on The Brookwood Community [Brookwood Community: Where there’s opportunity for all, by Cheryl Ursin, November 2014]. My sister is developmentally disabled, and it is difficult to find a good program in which she can thrive. The structure of Brookwood’s program is very successful. My sister is happier whenever she has a purpose, whether it is helping set the dining room table for Thanksgiving or unloading the dishwasher. What Yvonne Streit has built has helped individuals and their families and will continue to do so for many years to come. Barbara Vilutis

Thank you from Brookwood I am writing for many folks who are so appreciative of your Buzz article focusing on Brookwood! It was wonderful. What a blessing. Our citizens were ecstatic when the magazines came out. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Buzz, and so do our friends and neighbors. Yvonne Streit and all Brookwoodians MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 6

From Alex’s dad Thank you, Michelle [Casas Groogan, Buzz writer]. Thursday, June 19, 2014, was the saddest day of my life. On that day, the Johnson County medical examiner told me my son, Alexander Meyerson, had passed away. That moment changed my life forever. The first few months I was in shock, angry and asking myself over and over: Why? Later, I found out Alexander had been diagnosed as being bipolar a few weeks earlier. He refused to take his meds. If a person does not take his meds when diagnosed with a mental illness the chances of passing away are greatly increased. I look back now and realize there were signs Alexander needed help. There were times the mood swings caught me by surprise. Joni [Hoffman, Buzz editor], I remember when you called to ask if The Buzz could do a story about Alexander and bipolar illness. I agreed, as long as the article focused on Alexander, bipolar illness and not about me and my broken heart. Michelle Groogan talked to me several times before she wrote the article [Bipolar Disorder: How we lost Alex, October 2014]. I commend her for sharing information that I hope and pray may help at least one family. I have only one message to share: Hug your kids and your friends too. Jerry Meyerson Send letters to info@thebuzzmagazines.com. Please include your name, address, phone number and email address for verification purposes. Letters are subject to editing for clarity and space. Views expressed in letters do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Buzz Magazines, and The Buzz takes no responsibility for the content and opinions expressed in them.

What’s your story? We are looking for residents for upcoming articles who: • Know an interesting neighbor to profile. • Have helpful stories and advice for new parents. • Have a unique proposal story. • Have gone on a memorable couples trip. • Have questions for the local chief of police. 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 Annie Blaylock McQueen, staff writer

Keeping Traditions What we do every Christmas

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now figuring out their holiday traditions. Last Christmas was daughter Molly’s first. “There was nothing like sitting and watching your 4½ month old figure out how to open a present. Molly was way more into the Christmas tree lights and ornaments than the presents,” said Melissa. “Christmas morning is all about family sitting around and opening our stockings and Christmas gifts. I hope to continue this tradition with my own family now.” Commercial real estate broker Anthony Heins and his wife Alex, a realtor, are looking forward to their daughter Annabel’s first 1 Christmas this COUSIN TIME Mollie McInnes, 2 ⁄2, enjoys a Christmastime tradition, a slumber party with her cousins. They make gingerbread houses, sing karaoke and have December. Anthony talent shows. recalled his own part of their Christmas. “John’s mother [Missy Christmas morning at 8 years old. “All I wanted McInnes] loves Christmas more than anything was the Nintendo game, Super Mario Bros. 2,” in the world. In fact, we are actually convinced said Anthony. “It was all I could think about.” she is Mrs. Claus. She decorates every inch of To his dismay, Christmas morning his brother their home with decor, light-up toys, Lynn Lee was the one who opened Super Mario Bros. Haney Santa [figurines], and four live trees. It is 2. “I began to cry. It really doesn’t make sense truly a child’s heaven,” said Deborah. why we needed two copies of the same game They also never miss church on Christmas though, I’m sure that Alex and I will unintenEve. “My family always attends the Christmas tionally continue the tradition of forgetting very Eve service [at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church], important gifts and remind Annabel that and afterwards we have a big dinner at my parChristmas isn’t all about what you get.” ents’ house. My mom spends the whole week John McInnes, an oil and gas analyst, and before making everything, and it is the most his wife Deborah have large families. “There delicious homemade meal,” said Deborah. are 19 grandkids in my family,” said Deborah. Then, the family rides around Tanglewood in “For the past eight years, we have hosted a two horse-drawn carriages (from A to Z Events), slumber party before Christmas for my nieces. bundled up, looking at the lights, singing carols. We make gingerbread houses, have talent They may not be the Tabernacle Choir, but to their shows, sing karaoke.” family, Deborah says, the carols sound just as sweet. Going all out on the Christmas decor is also stpimages.com

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ach Christmas, my siblings and I would dump out our stockings. At the bottom of my hand-knit stocking, a small orange waited. I didn’t eat the orange. I never did. I saved my appetite for the chocolate coins that were in there too. But it made me happy, year after year, knowing that small ball of orange would be there to greet me every Christmas morning. Recently, I spoke to some Buzz families about their favorite holiday traditions. Attorney Harris Stamey and his wife, Sarah, have three children, Gracie, 4, Gage, 18 months, and Piper, 6 months. The family loves collecting Christmas ornaments at all the stops they make throughout the year, such as the zoo, traveling, or even a trip to Target. Each kid also gets an ornament every birthday. Sarah dates the bottom of them. “Our tree is becoming a story, and hopefully one day, not one branch will be empty,” she said. The family always has a traditional Christmas Day brunch with the whole family. “On Gracie’s first Christmas, we offered to host brunch. The invitation list kept growing. It became a family reunion of like 50 people in our tiny house. The downstairs was only about 800 square feet,” said Sarah, laughing. Food is part of the family’s traditions. “On Christmas Eve, I always make a large pot of chili, and we have a chili bar with endless toppings. After dinner all the kids help us bake cookies for Santa and make reindeer food,” said Sarah. On the other hand, Margaret Murphy and attorney-husband Billy’s three children, William, 9, Molly, 7, and Griffin, 2, won’t carry on part of Mom and Dad’s favorite holiday tradition until they’re 21. “Christmas morning, we always have sausage balls and frozen mimosas,” said Margaret. “It’s Billy’s favorite. My mom passed down her secret recipe.” Every Christmas Eve, the family takes pictures in Christmas pajamas, and then the kids leave food outside for Santa’s reindeer. “We also read the story of Jesus’ birth with our children,” Margaret said. “We try to emphasize the real meaning of Christmas, so that the kids’ focus on Christmas morning is not just about what Santa brought.” Teachers Melissa and Connor Cook are just

stpimages.com

SANTA BABY Annabel Heins, 7 months, will celebrate her first Christmas this December with parents Anthony and Alex Heins.

NEIGHBORS by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Party Time lawellphoto.com

The gift of girlfriends

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nexpected sleepovers, cars rolling into a ditch and Dirty Santa presents. That’s what happens when a group of 40 moms in Memorial gets together the Friday night school lets out for the holidays. They’ve been doing it for nine years. One mom (who asks to remain anonymous) hosts an all-out girls’ bash – limited to mothers at her children’s schools – with dinner and drinks catered and bartended. “Everyone brings a fun wrapped gift,” the host says. “We have a $50 limit, but that seems to have gone up [judging] by the gifts. Then we all draw numbers. Number one picks a gift, opens it and shows it to everyone. Then number two can either steal that gift or open a new one. Once a gift has been stolen two or three times, it is dead. People get very serious about it.” The “dirty” gift isn’t what it sounds – it’s just one that the host secretly adds to the mix. “Usually something horrible like a snowglobe or a whisk. But you never know if you got the dirty gift or if someone actually brought it, so folks are too nice to say anything.” At party’s end, the guest who got the dirty gift gets a surprise from the host, “a nice purse or something similar.” Then those who have visited the bartender a few times sleep over, in an attempt to keep everyone safe and keep any cars from rolling into a nearby ditch (it’s happened). In a tamer tradition in West U, Brenda Willson’s Bunco group gathers every holiday season for Bunco, dinner and a white elephant gift exchange similar to Dirty Santa, minus the crummy gift. “There are usually several coveted gifts,” Brenda says. “When our kids were younger they were decorations they would love, but now, it’s evolved into something like a rosemary tree. We all can’t wait to learn what the prized gift is every year.” Each January, members are assigned a month to host Bunco and dinner. Whoever gets December hosts the group the second week of the month, “before the craziness starts and everyone’s frantic.” Brenda’s Bunco group started some 22 years ago with 12 moms of children at Annunciation Orthodox School and West University MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 10

MERRY MERRY Brenda Willson's friends celebrate the holidays with dinner, bunco and a white-elephant gift exchange. Seated, from left: Margarita Longoria, Sue Pruden, Brenda Willson, April Konopka, Cherie Howell and Lynette Mafrige. Standing, from left: Dorothy Kaldis, Lisa Caledonia, Connie McMaken, Kelley Lubanko and Carrie Wood. Not pictured: Anita O'Shaughnessy

Elementary. Through the years, friends and neighbors joined, but the count remains 12. “It’s fun having these friendships for all these years, going through pregnancies and babies and now the kids are getting married.” In Meyerland, Sarah Braham hosts a Hanukkah-Mahjong party for 35 women, where they eat latkes and Hanukkah cookies, then light Hanukkah candles and sing blessings. Sarah invites women from all areas of her life; the common bond is a mahjong passion. They’ll start at 11 a.m. and play until 5 p.m., breaking only for lunch and candle-lighting. About half of the group is Jewish, so “those who know sing along, and the others are good sports,” Sarah says. “All these women have watched our kids get bar and bat mitzvahed, they’ve gone to our weddings, they share our traditions. This is another way to share tradition. And then we play a whole lot of mahj!” If these parties sound fun, but the thought of adding one more thing to the holidays is making you fidgety, worry not. There’s another group of Houston women who learned the hard way that

three weeks before Christmas is no time to squeeze in one more thing, so they wait until the first Saturday after New Year’s to host their “I was just too busy” holiday party. Wendy Burgower, a family lawyer and an originator of the party, says, “The fun thing about doing it after New Year’s is that everyone has a good story to share.” Wendy and a group of 15 other women who work in family law eat, drink and exchange white elephant gifts. Then each writes down the name of a charity and drops it in a hat. One charity is randomly chosen, and everyone attending the party writes a check to that charity. “We all recognize that we are blessed and don’t need nice presents,” Wendy says. “The collective is what makes the gift significant. It’s usually a couple thousand dollars.” Maybe most importantly, Wendy and her friends are passing the tradition down. Several tween and teenaged daughters attend the party now, learning not only about charitable giving, but also about the importance of nurturing – and celebrating with – a great group of girlfriends.

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KIDS by Cheryl Ursin, staff writer

How to survive the process

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confess: When my son was 18 months old, I sent him to a nursery school that required an interview – with him – as part of the admissions process. Word on the parents’ benches at the playground was that the school was a “Baby Ivy” (we were in Manhattan), a “feeder school” for good elementary schools, which in turn would feed into good middle and high schools, which ultimately would land him in a good college. Do we parents, and in turn, our children, really need to worry like this? I interviewed admissions officers from a selection of Texas universities, and while they didn’t give me the answer I was hoping for (“Don’t worry. It’s easy to get into Harvard”), they did put things into perspective. If you’re thinking, “What’s the big deal? I did my college applications myself, with little input from my parents,” then you need to know that applying to college has changed. For a variety of reasons, not least that college is more expensive than it used to be, parents feel the need to be more involved. And college admissions can seem more competitive. The number of high-school students in the United States has only recently begun to level off from an all-time high, with some regions, including Texas, still experiencing growth. A bigger percentage of these kids are applying to four-year colleges, and, thanks in part to online universal applications, each applicant, on average, applies to more schools. According to the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA Los Angeles, the number of college applications per student has doubled over the last 40 years, with 24 percent of current students applying to eight or more each. Many schools, such as Baylor University, are receiving record numbers of applications. As a result, some schools are reporting their lowest “admit rates” ever. Stanford University was in the news recently for having the lowest admit rate, 5.7 percent, for the fall of 2013. According to U.S. News & World Report, Harvard followed closely, with 5.8 percent, and Columbia came in at 6.9 percent. Our own Rice University admits only 15 percent of its applicants, according to Chris Muñoz, MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 12

Robert Rogers/Baylor Marketing & Communications

Applying to College Rice’s vice president of enrollment. This puts Rice in line with Swarthmore College, Bowdoin College and C o r n e l l University. Muñoz described the quality of Rice’s appliBAYLOR UNIVERSITY In 2013, over 52,000 prospective students – a record numcant pool as ber – visited Baylor University in Waco. “astonishing” and ence” in an application, said Rice’s Muñoz. Of pointed out that even perfect GPAs and test course, the standard advice is to note the averscores do not guarantee admission to Rice. age GPAs and test scores of successful applicants But while much of the press coverage – and (available in directories and on school websites) cocktail-party chatter – we hear focus on these and select some “match” (you fit the paramemost selective schools, the reality is, according ters), some “safety” (you exceed them) and some to Jeff Fuller, director of student recruitment for “reach” (you are a little below) schools to apply the University of Houston’s Central Campus to. But the truth is, much is not within the stuand the president of the National Association dents’ control. Kids need to know: In a quest to for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC), create a diverse, vibrant class, admissions officers that only about 100 of the approximately 3,000 may pick another applicant, with credentials four-year institutions in the U.S. fall into the similar, or even lesser, just because he is from category of “most selective.” Wyoming or she plays the oboe. The vast majority of U.S. colleges and uniAbove all, kids need to know that where they versities accept most of their applicants, accordare accepted or rejected is not a “referendum on ing to the NACAC. And many are on the hunt their self-worth,” said Stuart Dow, head of The for prospects. According to a 2014 survey by Emery/Weiner School. In fact, at Emery/Weiner, Inside Higher Ed, 61 percent of schools had not students post, not their acceptance letters, but filled their fall freshman class by May. Collegetheir denial letters on a school wall. This is admissions officers say you can get into a good meant to emphasize that receiving a rejection, college, though it may not be the one you first something most kids will experience, is not the hoped for. end of the world. This is not to say that students should not Parents should talk to their children about all apply to selective or well-known schools, but of this, said University of Houston’s Fuller. knowledge of schools’ admit rates can help them “Where they get into college is just one small from taking rejection letters personally. “You piece of their lives,” he said. One father could be very, very academically prepared and explained to his children that the credentials capable and not get in. It’s a numbers game,” they’ve achieved, or haven’t, so far in their lives said Brandie Eneks, associate director of admisaren’t going to follow them forever. “Once you sions and student services for Texas A&M get into college, no one is ever going to look at University. One area family refers to their chilyour high-school grades again,” he said. dren’s applications to “reach schools” as “the lotWhile students may understandably be excittery tickets,” to help their children keep a ed to work on their dream school’s application healthy perspective. first, one mom suggested having them apply as “What creates people’s anxieties is that they early as possible, but in a non-binding way, to a don’t know what is going to make the differ-

The University of Texas at Austin

UT AUSTIN “Don’t tell us what you think we want to hear” and “Be yourself” are two pieces of advice The University of Texas at Austin gives about college-application essays.

“safety school.” Receiving that first acceptance letter can ease their stress. “They’ll know, hey, no matter what, they have a place to go,” said this mom, “and they’ll have an answer when everyone asks – and everyone will – if they’ve been accepted anywhere.” Every admissions officer interviewed stressed that the most important part of the application process is researching what colleges, from all the ones out there, you might be interested in. This also helps turn students’ attitudes around, by having them focus on, not, “How can I get these schools to want me?” but, “Do I want these schools?” Christine Bowman, dean of admissions and enrollment services at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, recommends going on a few tours of schools near you as early as your child’s sophomore year. This is not to get a competitive advantage but to experience some colleges in a low-stress way, to see what a big school is like versus a small one, for example. And at the information sessions, students will hear the same advice you’ve been giving them – study hard, choose rigorous courses – from someone else. “If they hear ‘the admissions lady at Southwestern’ say it, it might carry more weight,” said Bowman, whose own daughter, attending an information session at another school, turned to her and conceded, “Okay, you win.” Students should not be afraid to contact schools directly. This personal contact can alleviate some stress and clear up questions. “We’re here to serve you and want the student to submit the best application possible,” said A&M’s

Eneks. According to Fuller, at least 20 out-oftown and some out-of-state schools keep permanent admissions offices in Houston to encourage contact. “School representatives are one of your best resources,” said Alex Mitchell, director of the Houston Admissions Center for The University of Texas at Austin. Demonstrating knowledge of the school can make your application shine. One of Rice’s essays asks the applicant, basically, “Why Rice?” “If you can replace the word ‘Rice’ in that essay with ‘Cornell’ and the essay still works, it’s not a good essay,” said Muñoz. The admissions processes at schools do vary a bit. UT and A&M, for example, have automatic admissions if you meet certain criteria, such as class rank. Some big schools, because they receive tens of thousands of applications, cannot offer the opportunity to interview and may ask for short-answer questions rather than fullblown essays. However, the information requested – transcripts, test scores, essays or shortanswers, activities – is basically the same. And the applicant should make each piece of information as good as it can be. This means, yes, working to get good grades and taking the most rigorous high-school courses that make sense for you as well as preparing for and taking the SAT and/or ACT as many times as possible. Essays should be polished – though students should write them themselves. “When an essay sounds very contrived, we can almost guess which consultant they hired,” said Rice’s Muñoz. And if something is optional, like an

interview or teacher recommendations, it’s best to turn it in. (It’s like when your mom asks, rather than tells, you to take out the garbage.) Admissions officers like to see an applicant’s activities and report that, sometimes, students don’t list all of them. “A college application, like a job interview, is one of the few times it’s okay to brag about yourself,” said University of Houston’s Fuller. Your application, said A&M’s Eneks, “is your opportunity to shine. If you don’t tell us, no one else will.” While parents and students might speculate on which activity or sport seems “more impressive” to colleges, admissions officers look for how committed a student is, sometimes in terms of hours spent (asked on both the Common App and Apply Texas), to whatever the interests are. “Whether they are involved in one thing heavily or several things, but each less heavily, doesn’t matter,” said Brian Kim, admissions counselor for the Houston area for Baylor University. “They should do whatever they are most passionate about and truly love doing.” Southwestern’s Bowman cautions that, “Sometimes the arms race of perfection creates more stress and tension than there needs to be.” Like, for instance, when my son clung to my leg during his nursery-school interview, letting go only to slug another boy. And he still got in.

MORE ONLINE See this story at memorialbuzz.com for helpful college links. MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 13

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Should you take the lump sum or the pension? For many years now, employers have been phasing out their pension plans, which is one reason we see clients who are offered a lump sum in lieu of a pension for life. Typically these clients are in their 50s and 60s and nearing retirement. These same clients often face difficult choices regarding when to take their Social Security. When faced with these difficult decisions, we are reminded of an old saying in financial planning, “If we knew how long you were going to live, we could tell you exactly what to do.” Of course life is not that simple, and only time will tell which financial choices provided the highest level of financial security. Regarding the question “Should you take the lump sum or the pension?”, for those who choose the lump sum, their former employers are freed of the burden of paying pensions. As a result, a lump sum can represent significant cost savings to these companies. In addition, many financial advisors are highly biased in favor of the lump sum as this choice can result in additional assets for them to manage. While the financial benefits to the client’s former employer and financial advisor are often clear, a lump sum is not always in the client’s best interest. If you are offered a lump sum, here are three reasons you may want to take the pension instead: • If you are healthy and have an above-average life expectancy due to longevity in your family, a pension may be a more financially secure option compared to a lump sum; • If you are married and the pension provides a generous survivor benefit to your spouse, taking the pension may be the least risky choice; and • If the pension includes a cost of living adjustment each year, it is more

likely to keep up with inflation, thus providing you with more income over time. The lump-sum option will only provide you with a higher level of financial security if it is properly invested. A lump sum can be the more attractive option if your pension does not include a cost-of-living adjustment. Also, if the company paying your pension is not financially secure, taking the lump sum can be less risky. When our clients are faced with difficult choices regarding company pensions, lump sums or when to take Social Security, we will run various financial projections to see which options are expected to provide the highest level of security. Before making what are often irreversible decisions, such financial planning will help answer the question, “Should you take the money today or later?” If you have any questions regarding the topics discussed in this article, send us an e-mail at MGoff@GoffFinancial.com Matt Goff is president and chief investment officer of the Goff Financial Group. The company is an independent, fee-only investment advisor registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. 11 Greenway Plaza, Suite 1425, Houston, Texas 77046, 713.850.8900, GoffFinancial.com, Email: mgoff@GoffFinancial.com

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PETS by Cathy Gordon, contributing writer

Dogs About Town Shopping with your pup

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loves to go there.” At home, golden retriever Cooper bolts for the door, tail wagging, when owner Danna Burkett reaches for the car keys. “Oh yeah, he totally knows what that means,” she says of the mild-mannered dog who accompanies her to the furniture, accessories and gift shop, Renovate, on Westview. “He’s my third golden retriever. They have great temperaments. DOG DAY OUT Golden retriever Cooper is one happy dog when owner You can just tell him to Danna Burkett takes him with her to the furniture and gift shop Renovate. lie down in the store, lover enthusiastically calls out to those walking and he does that while I shop. A very sweet their dogs, welcoming them into the shop and boy.” handing out treats. Packer recently “lured in” a Jennifer Lyon’s terrier-mix, Elizabeth, isn’t Chinese Crested hairless dog and owner. one to lie down when they visit Bering’s “Fashion is a passion, but so are pets,” says Hardware. “She’s all over that store. She loves Packer. “Our store is really an extension of our the place. She does a really good job of going all home. We have great customers who come in over and showing me what the new items are,” with their dogs. We had an Irish wolfhound says Lyon. “She totally knows when things are come in once. Looked like a horse.” changed up and points them out. That’s kind of The boutique has held fundraising events for her thing.” Freedom Collie Rescue and the animal welfare Joyce Lehrfeld, retired from a career in corpogroup, Barrio Dogs. rate development, is rarely without her 15Cotton Club Collection clothing boutique in pound Havanese therapy dog, Lola. They freRiver Oaks is sensitive to the owner-dog bond quent Lululemon Athletica, Chico’s and a host too. “We welcome all sizes, standard poodles to of other shops together. “Pretty much any place teacup Yorkies,” says owner Lisa Spain. I go, she goes,” explains Lehrfeld, whose furry Jackie Barish, senior vice-president of Chair bundle eases her symptoms of post-traumatic King Backyard Store, frequents the boutique stress disorder. with Poppy, her curly-coated Lagotto Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets. Well, almost. Romagnolo. “She’s a great companion when try“When she sees me getting dressed up and ing on clothes,” Barish says. putting makeup on to go out, she doesn’t think “She just comes in, sits down and offers no she’s going,” says Lehrfeld, “so she goes in my judgment. Nice to have no comments.” closet and starts pulling my casual clothes off of the hangers like ‘Put these on. Don’t get all Editor’s note: Have photos of your pooch shopdressed up and leave without me.’ She’s a pistol.” ping with you? Email info@thebuzzmagazines.com Any dog within eyesight of Penny Packer will or share them on our Facebook page at be ushered into her Rice Village clothing boufacebook.com/thebuzzmagazines. tique, Azuz, for royal treatment. The animal lawellphoto.com

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hh, to be Gigi. She’s the center of attention with those black and white, soft curls and dancing eyes. And she’s dripping in jewelry. “The first thing people say is, ‘Oh, she’s so cute; she’s so tiny!’ Then it’s, ‘Look at that bling!’” says attorney Melissa Fertel, whose 4½pound, toy Parti poodle is dressed to the ca-nines for shopping excursions. The glitzy pooch eagerly jumps into her pet purse for outings to Grace Anna’s Boutique and White House Black Market, among other favorite haunts in Rice Village. “People gravitate to Gigi. I’m just wallpaper,” quips Fertel, who handcrafts her dog’s necklaces, dubbed “Gigi’s Gems.” They even wear matching jewelry from a “Mommy and Me” line. “It’s probably easier to list the places where I don’t take her,” jokes Fertel. “Gigi has never had a bad day in her life!” Fee-Fee and Fido needn’t be left behind when the shopping urge strikes. Some local shops as well as national chains welcome four-legged family members. Old Navy, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, T. J. Maxx, Marshalls and Bed Bath & Beyond are a few with pet-friendly policies. Nordstrom has welcomed dogs for 20 years. Policies vary. Some chains leave it up to the individual retailer’s discretion as to what’s allowed, so best to check before venturing out with pup in tow. Shop owners decide if dogs are welcome on leash as well as in a carrier, says a city spokesman. But health code dictates that only registered service dogs are welcome in grocery stores. Several restaurants have patio permits for owner-dog dining. “Oh gosh, yes! We welcome all dogs,” says Helen Stroud, owner of the French-inspired home shop, Olivine, in Rice Village that touts easy-care living for both people and pets. Stroud has never met a dog she didn’t like and has a menagerie at home. Her part-chow, Pippi, is longtime doggy ambassador at the shop. Realtor Julie Webber and her English cream golden retriever, Libbie, are regular Olivine customers. “They’re always so attentive to her,” says Webber. “Libbie is ultra-calm and really sweet and loves meeting people and other dogs. She

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More pet-friendly spots

CANINE COMPANION Attorney Melissa Fertel and her purse-size poodle, Gigi, enjoy an afternoon of shopping at Azuz.

For local restaurants, bars, hotels and dog parks that allow dogs, see dogfriendlyhouston.net. For pet-friendly travel spots, see tripswithpets.com. The Buzz is a dog-friendly workplace. You’ll often see Bailey, a sweet golden retriever, hanging around the office on Fridays. We want to give a shout-out to other local businesses that welcome pups. All of these listed below advertise in the magazine; we know them well and that’s why we are familiar with their pet policies. If you know of other pet-friendly local businesses, we’d love to include them also. Please add them in the Comments section under the online version of this story at memorialbuzz.com. Azuz: Penny Packer, the owner of this Rice Village clothing boutique, welcomes all well-behaved dogs and even hands out treats. Bering’s: Bering’s is happy for friendly, well-behaved pets to accompany their owners. There are two mascot parakeets in the store. Blue Willow Bookshop: Owner Valerie Koehler said she would hate to see a pet left in the car. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. French Cuff: French Cuff Boutique welcomes clients who shop with their leashed pets at both the Bellaire and Woodway location. Loop and Raspberry Rose: In both shops, pets are welcome as long as they’re on a leash and well-behaved. Renovate: This interior design and home furnishings studio welcomes well-behaved pets. Uptown Pharmacy: A bulletin board displays photos of pets whose prescriptions come from the pharmacy. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. Zadok Jewelers: Two staff members bring their puppies to work every day, which Helene Zadok said raises the spirit in the store. Well-behaved pets are welcome. Years ago, one customer used to bring a pet monkey in to shop.

MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 17

NEIGHBORS by Russell Weil, contributing writer

Happy Hanukkah Celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights

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hile leading a tour as a docent at the Holocaust Museum in Houston, I found myself standing in front of a display case of items representing the Jewish faith. One was a Menorah used to celebrate Hanukkah (The Festival of Lights), and I confidently began to explain this special Jewish holiday to the group. Once the tour was over, one of the participants pulled me aside to let me know that I had mixed in some information about a different Jewish holiday, Passover – a more serious ceremony commemorating the Israelites being freed from slavery in Egypt – and proceeded to advise that I visit our local library to find some books on Jewish holidays. Thanking the gentleman, I assured him that I would check some books out. Admittedly, I lacked the courage to tell him that I was Jewish, or how embarrassed I was to have created a new Jewish Holiday – Passokkah. I began thinking about this story and our different Jewish holidays and traditions again recently. My cousins celebrate Hanukkah with their large family by placing hundreds of Maccabee statues on the spiral staircase in their home. (The Maccabees were the leaders of a Jewish rebel army that took control of Judea.) The family’s Maccabee collection grows each year. The colorful statues are now all familiar characters – even the grandchildren who are not being raised in the Jewish faith see them as “wise men” or “drummer boys” usually associated with Christmas. The annual holiday card is a photo of my cousins’ grandchildren on the spiral staircase flanked by these Maccabee statues. When I receive this annual holiday greeting, I am filled with warmth and the spirit of Hanukkah. While many are familiar with the Hanukkah Menorah, lighting the candles for eight nights, and those delicious potato latkes, one Hanukkah tradition that is not as familiar is the tradition of sufganiyot. The first time I was introduced to this treat was three years ago while celebrating Hanukkah with friends in Dallas. Pronounced SOOF-gone-ee-OAT, these are jelly doughnuts eaten in Israel and around the world during Hanukkah. The doughnut is deep-fried, filled with jelly or custard, and then topped with powMEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 18

dered sugar. The custom of eating fried foods commemorates the miracle of Hanukkah, when oil that should have lighted the Temple for one night lasted eight days and nights. “Dreidel, dreidel, dreidel – I made it out of clay.” This is the first line to a favorite Hanukkah song. The real fun is in playing the dreidel game. A dreidel is a foursided spinning top, with Hebrew let- HAPPY HANUKKAH Grandchildren of Nancy and Robert Levinthal celebrate Hanukkah last year surrounded by Maccabee statues. At top, from left: Chandler ters (each having a Levinthal, Parker Levinthal. At bottom, from left: Morton Gassett, Pierce Levinthal, numeric value) on Kendall Levinthal (holding Jonah Gassett), Rainey Levinthal. all four sides. tion of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the Players spin the top, with the winner detertime of the Maccabean Revolt against mined by which side the dreidel lands upon. The the Seleucid Greek government of the 2nd prize is gelt (Hebrew for money), actually gold century BCE (or BC, as Christians say). foil-wrapped chocolate coins. According to the Talmud, the Temple was Gifts play a large part in any Hanukkah celepurified, and the wicks of the menorah miracbration, especially for the children who customulously burned for eight days. arily receive one gift after lighting each night’s For 2014, Hanukkah begins at sundown on candles. As our parents would hide presents in Dec 16. Based on the Hebrew calendar, the date a closet, my older brother and I would peek of Hanukkah varies each year. Yet, there is one inside daily to count the new gifts added. The constant during the Festival of Lights – larger boxes had us waiting on pins and needles. Hanukkah brings families and friends together Mine were sure to be either Matchbox or Hot in celebration of a rich tradition. From dreidels Wheels cars-related, and my brother’s would to latkes, Hanukkah is known as an especially have something to do with soldiers or spacecraft. fun Jewish holiday. After all, we were living in Houston in the I look forward to hearing some of your 1960s, when man had landed on the moon. favorite Hanukkah traditions. Happy Hanukkah Regardless of what your family traditions to all who celebrate. might include, food, family, gifts, songs and the dreidel certainly bring Hanukkah to life. Editor’s note: To share your Hanukkah traditions Through Hanukkah’s celebration, we are with Buzz readers, email info@thebuzzmagazines.com reminded of the history of this eight-day or comment under this story at memorialbuzz.com Jewish holiday commemorating the rededica-

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2014 Holiday

Gift Guide Unique gift ideas for even the hardest to please

Uniquely French. Uniquely Houston. Voted Zagat’s Best of Houston 2010-2012. Diners come from near and far for the delectable French fare, warm ambience and polished service. Show appreciation with a gift card (at any price) or try a personalized gift certificate with a special message, a bottle of wine or inscription in our very own Energy Cuisine cookbook. Le Mistral, 1400 Eldridge Pkwy., Houston, Texas 77077, 832.379.8322, www.lemistralhouston.com

Tennis Anyone? Our striking bracelets can be made with round or princess cut diamonds or with other stones of your choice. Simple yet elegant and traditional. Klein’s Jewelry, 5868 Westheimer (new location), Houston, Texas 77057, 713.977.4003, www.kleinsjewelry.com

Viva Tejas!

Sit, Stay, Smile

Houston’s own Tejas Yacht Club brand polo shirts are the perfect blend of Southern style, rugged pima cotton quality and four fingers of scotch. Perfect for game days, afternoons at the ice house or just enjoying a cocktail down on the Gulf. $75. www.tejasyachtclub.com

Christmas celebration at Carter’s Pet Depot on Saturday, December 13th. Bring the kids and your pets for free pictures with Santa and free personalized ornaments! Storewide sale. Carter’s Pet Depot, 9333 Katy Fwy. @ Echo Lane, Houston, Texas 77024 (this location only), 832.356.1600, carterspetdepotkaty.com

Buckle Up for the Holidays

Delightful Dutchi This is your classic Dutch bike. A sweeping curved frame and refined upright posture make it the elegant choice for trips to the market or just riding down the boulevard. Bikes available for everyone in the family, starting at $349. Ham Cycles, 2309 Dunlavy Street, Houston, Texas 77006, 713.522.8330, www.hamcycles.com MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 20

You can't go wrong with this handmade fine classic alligator belt. Pair it with an array of sterling silver or solid gold buckles from dress to classic to western; or stay linked with a pair of sterling silver hand engraved rectangle cuff links with 14K gold initial overlays. Maida’s Belts and Buckles, 5727 Westheimer, Houston, Texas 77057, 713.629.9091, www.MaidasBelts.com

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From Here to Eternity All the colors of our holiday season wrapped up in eternity bands just for her! Starting at $500. We have a vast selection of antique & estate jewelry. Custom jewelry & repairs. Queen of Heirs, 4901 Locust Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401, 713.666.6683, www.queenofheirs.com

Ready for Game Day Show your game day pride with these adorable ballet flats, $72, and sunglasses, $20. University Blvd is your Houston hub for a variety of collegiate merchandise, apparel and accessories representing 35+ universities. University Blvd, 7030 Mapleridge Street, Houston, Texas 77081, 713.591.1771, www.universityblvd.com

Let the Light Shine Lighting Treasures creates one-of-a-kind lamps and chandeliers. Come see our assortment or bring your family treasure in so we can create one for you. Also see our collection of shades to spruce up your holiday décor. Lighting Treasures, 5709-G Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77057, 281.974.3165, www.lightingtreasures.com

Infrared Grilling Looking for a high end professional stainless steel grill? Saber Grills combine performance, innovation, and affordability. All Saber Grills cook with 100% Infrared heat. Free assembly and free delivery. Texas Star Grill Shop, 2045 Southwest Fwy., Houston, Texas 77098, 832.426.4229, www.TexasGrillShop.com

Time in Words No hands. No digits. Klein’s Qlocks by Qlocktwo makes you stop and look at time in a different way. The typographical display combines the moment with the written word and turns it into a statement, “It is half past seven.“ Available in almost every language and a multitude of colors and finishes. Klein’s Jewelry, 5868 Westheimer (new location), Houston, Texas 77057, 713.977.4003, www.kleinsjewelry.com

Shiny and Bright A unique gift your friends will love all year long. This chic chain link tray is versatile for use in many rooms of the home. $36. Renovate, 7413 Westview, Suite C, Houston, Texas 77055, 713.269.4417, www.renovatehou.com MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 21

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Elizabeth and James Jewelry These geometric designs are 23k gold plated and sparkle with a delicate band of white topaz stones. Featured bracelet $195. French Cuff Boutique, 4048 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, Texas 77025, 713.665.3336 and 6401 Woodway, Houston, Texas 77057, 713.334.4900, www.frenchcuffco.com

Wardrobe Wizard High Tech Grilling Green Mountain Grills offers the finest in wood pellet grilling. New Wi-Fi technology allows you to entertain guests while keeping an eye on your food and grill temperatures. Free assembly and free delivery. Texas Star Grill Shop, 2045 Southwest Fwy., Houston, Texas 77098, 832.426.4229, www.TexasGrillShop.com

Limitless Possibilities Any custom ring can be made using our Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. Bring in a picture of the ring you want and Klein’s can design it. Master jewelers since 1969. Klein’s Jewelry, 5868 Westheimer (new location), Houston, Texas 77057, 713.977.4003, www.kleinsjewelry.com

Give the Gift of Fine Art Stop in for a one-of-a-kind gift. Local artist Kellie Morley is a favorite of designer Cathy Robinson. Kellie's pieces are featured at Renovate, Cathy's studio. Renovate, 7413 Westview, Suite C, Houston, Texas 77055, 713.269.4417, www.renovatehou.com MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 22

For the person with a full closet, but “nothing to wear.” Jamie Bisel will provide a three hour closet consultation and help create outfits from your existing wardrobe. A gift that will keep on giving! Making The Most of What You Have, Jamie Bisel, 713.542.2179, jbisel@comcast.net, www.facebook.com/makingthemostofwhatyouhave

A Perfect Match The perfect gift for the mom-to-be! This 4piece set includes comfy bottoms, nursing top, robe and adorable baby gown. Great for mommy and baby photos at the hospital. Variety of prints available. Gift certificates also available. Pickles & Ice Cream Maternity, 1800 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 6150, Houston, Texas 77056, 713.623.2229, www.picklesandicecream.com

Cuckoo for Cocomats Cocomats: The original auto mat. First introduced by European carmakers in the 1950s, Cocomats hide dirt while adding style. Available in over 24 colors for any vehicle. Each mat is hand crafted to order and made in America. 1.800.461.3533, www.Cocomats.com

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Make It Personal Sweet monogram necklaces for every girl or woman in your life in a variety of styles to match her unique personality.14 karat gold-plated or sterling silver. $75 $155. Silly Silly Girls Gift Boutique, 7951 Katy Fwy., Houston, Texas 77024, 713.812.1270, www.sillysillygirls.com

Uniquely Yours Visit Brookwood’s Gift & Garden Center to find our famous Comfort Bowls, as well as other stone cast decorative items, ceramics, garden statuary, & plants, all handmade from the hearts and hands of the adults with special needs at Brookwood. Proceeds from all sales benefit the citizens at Brookwood. Brookwood, 1752 FM 1489, Brookshire, Texas 77423, 281.375.2100 and Brookwood Store Town & Country Village, 600 West Sam Houston Pkwy. North, Suite 500, Houston, Texas 77024, 713.464.1150, www.brookwoodcommunity.org

Wrap Up Stay warm and cozy this season with True Grit’s Sherpa Pullover for men and women. Available in different colors. Mark’s Clothiers, 12466 Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77024, 713.465.6428, www.facebook.com/marksclothiers

Artistic Enjoyment “Sand art” was born in the ‘60s and has recently resurfaced thanks to an Austrian artist. No two designs are the same. Each is a sure fire conversation starter. Various shapes and sizes, $50$1,400. Open every day. Eclectic Home, 345 W. 19th Street, Houston, Texas 77008, 713.869.1414, www.eclectichome.ws

Chic Compliment This hila. lariat necklace, called the "Miss Jones," is the perfect finishing touch for any outfit. Can be worn long, as a choker, or wrapped as a bracelet. Special order jewelry or shop our many jewelry designs, clothing and handbags. hila. 2609 Greenbriar, Houston, Texas 77098, 713.599.0991, www.hiladesigns.com, www.facebook.com/hilajewelry

What She Really Wants Earrings are the perfect gift because they are always the right fit. She can wear them every day. These diamond studs and other fine jewelry available at Klein’s Jewelry, 5868 Westheimer (new location), Houston, Texas 77057, 713.977.4003, www.kleinsjewelry.com

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Diamond rings made to order can design the ring using our custom CAD to design to their exact specifications. Whether it’s an engagement ring, bracelet, earrings or pendant, we can design the piece so it comes out exact. Using computer CAD design technology is amazing. It gives us the ability to make anything.” Mark’s inventory in loose diamonds is second to none. “We have one of the largest selections of loose diamond inventories in the city of Houston. Whether a customer would like a smaller diamond or large, we have it in stock. We are considered a retail store, but with wholesale prices.” In addition to designing jewelry, Mark’s staff is top notch when it comes to jewelry repairs, which are done on-site. “We have a distinct advantage over major chain stores because we repair and manufacture on-site. Whether it’s repairing their jewelry or designing a ring for them, we work closely with them from start to finish ensuring we meet the customers’ needs.” Klein’s Jewelry, 5868 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Texas 77057, 832.316.1388, www.Kleinsjewelry.com imagesbykristy.com

Doesn’t everyone need a great jeweler? One that can do custom jewelry and repairs on site? One that can manufacture anything in jewelry and is extremely affordable? One that has had a great reputation since 1969? Mark Klein of Klein’s Jewelry can be that jeweler. Mark has been making unique and beautiful custom jewelry since 1990. A native Houstonian, Mark has built his reputation on taking care of customers by giving great customer service as well as creating beautiful pieces of jewelry at a great price. “Quality of craftsmanship and using the finest diamonds are what is most important to me. Making a fantastic, beautiful ring for a client is a great feeling. Pleasing the customer and continuing the relationship after the sale with customer service is how we have built such a great reputation.” Mark Klein took over for his father, Michael Klein, in 1990 after his dad passed away at the age of 47. Michael Klein had built a successful business in Houston since 1969. Mark continued in the family business by building relationships through customer service one customer at a time. This fall, Klein’s Jewelry moved locations for the first time in 29 years to a beautiful new store located at 5868 Westheimer (Westheimer and Augusta). Using state-of-the -art technology, CAD (computer-aided design) software, Mark has the ability to create any ring by just looking at a picture. “A customer can choose from one of our hundreds of designs in stock, or they can bring in a picture of a design they would like and we

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by Sharon Albert Brier, staff writer

Rumor Has It Where’s my tiara? Guests, dressed in “Versaille Magnifique” or “Tres Chic” to give a toast to elegance that made Marie Antoinette a legend, attended the Soirée Marie benefit to support Stages Repertory Theatre costume and clothing design. The champagne flowed and the gemstones glittered at Crimson/Lumen Lounge, where the owner Joe Arbeely held court. Actual royalty there included Lady Lorraine Palmer of Great Britain and relatives of Marie, the Duchesse Catherine de Gramont of France, Archduchess Maria Anna of Austria and Prince Piotr Galitzine of Russia, who had a royal good time with Michael Pearce and Matt Burrus, among others who won gems from Houston Jewelry. In step. While Brian Kamery turned on the pool fountains and lit the tiki torches, Sarah Gauss assisted with a grilled dinner. It was a beautiful evening as they ate in the outdoor gazebo. Soon after, Brian opened a black box with an LED light beaming on an engagement ring and popped the “Marry me?” question. The couple wed Oct. 4 at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, and they two-stepped to their first dance at the Houston Racquet Club afterward. They beached it on their honeymoon in the Dominican Republic. Parents of the couple are April and Joe Gauss and Bob and Bonnie Bateman. Howling success. The DJ blasted music on Halloween at Joni and John Zavitsanos’ house as 100 feasted on gumbo, burgers and hot dogs. Sons Socs and D.Z. were there, along with neighbors Neil, Oxana and Danielle Manning, Anthony Tarantino, Paul, Benjamin and Toby Finnet, Linda and Steve and Hannah Schweitzer, Chris, Reese, Bryce and Kylie Baker, Anne and Burt Adkins, Sylvia Campbell, Jana and Stuart Kusin, Mary and Jim Gosnell, Marnie, Nick, Alexandra, Nicolas, Eva Luna, and Juan Pablo Medina and Hugh Wilson. Staci, Quang and Sophie Henderson wore circus costumes. Down the street a fire pit glowed at Bert and Felicia Baker’s. Dahlgren Baker’s sweet-potato pound cake and toasted marshmallow ice cream served with Elaine and David Davenport’s MorgueMEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 26

Asem Sheshtawy for PWL Studio

NEIGHBORS

aritas with eyeballs bewitched all. Fly high. During World War II, Jayne (Forse) Pace drove a Red Cross command car, transported the wounded, and sold war bonds before she joined the Civil Air Patrol. She watched for German submarines and maintained surveillance of a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp on the Louisiana coastline. At 92 years old, she was honored by U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul and promoted to lieutenant colonel. SOIRÉE MARIE In-character Michael Pearce hams it up with chair Magan M. She will be awarded a Hunt and Matt Burrus to benefit Stages Repertory Theatre. Congressional Gold and Madeline admired the police horses while Medal. Cheering her were Capt. Audrey Keyvane Yousefi and Shima Zare loved the fire Morrow, Gaynel Morris, Kathy Tuttle, Judy truck. David and Erica Shaw, with William and Ebling, Geetha Mammen, Rachel Messina and Kate, and Ange Keck, with Tristan, Julian and the Rev. Rick Myers. Evan in tow, were impressed by the Memorial Dinner was a surprise! Hunters Creek Hermann Lifeline helicopter and all the Trader mayor Bonnie McMillan, Memorial Villages Joe’s giveaways. Aimee Renaudin’s daughter, chief of police J.D. Sanders and city adminisMimi Hall, got her face painted. The DARE trator Tom Fullen greeted guests at the Hunters program brought Peggy and Elizabeth England Creek City Hall to celebrate the village’s 60 and Alla Vinter and son Grisha Semyon. years. Chip Cowell, Harriet and Spiro Pappas Voyage to Utopia. It was a dream night as and city councilman and mayor pro tem Jim 275 patio-attired partiers wandered into Natasha Pappas were among residents touting 40 years and Michael Bleyzer’s home on the bayou to celof residency. Others who chatted with city offiebrate the Bayou Preservation Association’s 15th cials and ate Jonathan’s the Rub restaurant bites anniversary with the theme Bayoutopia. Walls of were Ed Neuhaus, Joanne and Bill Crassas, glass opened to the eight-plus-acre grounds lined Steve Smith, Nancy Goldberg Wilkes, Dennis with flaming torches. A kayak was anchored in and Linda Adams, and John McMillan. the pool, and gymnasts were bouncing and high Recyclable Hunters Creek bags and letter openarching from a built in-trampoline. Chairs Laurie ers were party favors. See what you missed? and Doug Vander Ploeg, Frances and Nick Hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones. Stephens, and Mariana Green and Dan Searight The Memorial Villages Night Out hosted over cheered the event success, as donors dined on 1,000 residents at the Memorial Drive culinary concoctions by Tony’s. Presbyterian Church parking lot. Bunker Hill mayor Jay Williams and Texas Rep. Jim Have some good news to share? We want to Murphy were busy greeting villagers, along with know. Email us at info@thebuzzmagazines.com. other mayors. Tia Schmidt and children Ethan

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TRAVEL by Tracy L. Barnett, staff writer

Travel Buzz Life lessons in the Yucatan with Dad

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LAYA DEL CARMEN, Quintana Roo – A light breeze moves in the jungle beyond our patio at the Grand Velas resort. Birds call to each other with liquid notes, and my mother reads her Bible beside me as my father sleeps. We’re winding to the close of our actionpacked itinerary – maybe too action-packed, I reflect, but as Dad would say, “We had ‘er to do.” Unforgettable moments flip through my memory: my father’s boyish grin lighting up in spite of himself as he stood, lifejacket up around his ears, the dolphin leaning in and kissing his cheek. Shaking his head in disbelief as our two waiters explained the special six-course meal that the famous French chef at Piaf, Michel Mustiere, had prepared for him, tailored to the complicated restrictions of his diet. Lying back on a canopied lounge on the beach, soaking up the sun and the attentions of a watchful staff. My factory-worker dad, father of nine and grandfather of 21, had never come close to such luxury. He hadn’t even known it existed. A shade-tree mechanic and consummate fixer of broken things, I found him examining the cooling system in our suite and chatting up the shuttle drivers we would meet along the way. Recently diagnosed with mesothelioma, an asbestos-induced cancer, he was given no more than a year to live. Doctors said it was too late for surgery or radiation, and that chemotherapy might at best give him a few more months. He rejected the death sentence and decided to work with a naturopathic doctor. One strategy was a radical change in diet; my meat-andpotatoes Dad was a sudden vegan. Another was to keep living to the fullest, doing things that brought him joy. “I’m not afraid to die,” he told me not long after his diagnosis. “But as long as I’m here, I’m going to live.” I decided to support him in that vow. And as luck would have it, I would have 18 months to do so. Dad had shared with me my love of travel, but rarely had the resources to go far beyond the borders of his native Missouri. I had long dreamed of bringing my parents to Mexico, my adopted second country, to share with them a bit of the culture that I had come MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 28

MEMORIES WITH DAD Writer Tracy Barnett’s father, Gary Brunk, took his first trip to the Riviera Maya with his childhood sweetheart and wife of 55 years, Judy.

to love. I knew there was no time to waste. Just five months had passed since I had bid him – an unstoppable force at 72 – farewell at the Mexican border. When I arrived back in Missouri and embraced him after the diagnosis, I couldn’t believe my eyes; he had aged a decade in a few months. I persuaded them to get their passports, and in December, we escaped the dreary Midwest winter for nine precious days on the Yucatan Peninsula. Then in March, we boarded a ship for the Holistic Holiday at Sea, a weeklong macrobiotic cruise through the Caribbean (atasteofhealth.org). And finally, in September, we took a trip to the Bahamas to receive an alternative treatment that ultimately didn’t cure him, but gave us memories of a lifetime. The trip to Mexico was everything we’d hoped for. First we took a road trip across the peninsula to Merida. We stayed at the intimate colonial Hacienda Petac, lovingly restored from ruins by Houstonians Dev and Charles Stern. “A little piece of Eden,” my father termed it, a place where an attentive staff of traditionally dressed Mayan women worked closely with us to prepare an exquisite vegan menu inspired by indigenous traditions. There we soaked up the ambience of the sto-

rybook-perfect environs, and were serenaded by one of the leading music trios in the region, pampered in the hacienda’s first-rate spa, taken on a birdwatching walk through the jungle, and treated to a level of TLC unheard of in the hotel industry. Then we headed to Grand Velas on the Riviera Maya – named one of the world’s finest hotels by Condé Nast and AAA. There we would explore the ruins of Tulum, swim with the dolphins at Xel-Há and enjoy some exquisite chef-prepared vegan meals from the resort’s Mexican, Asian and French restaurants. Ultimately we will never know if the diet helped him; we do know that he outlived his prognosis by more than a year, and it was a year we packed full of love and life. “You just had to see it to believe it,” he’d say. “…and there were these chefs…. and we had a butler… and they treat you like a king… and the dolphin kissed us, and we kissed the dolphins.” “And me, an old boy from Iron County, Missouri. It was just more than I could have imagined.” Editor’s note: Tracy L. Barnett (tracybarnettonline.com) is an independent journalist and author (and former Houstonian) based in Guadalajara.

MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 29

FOOD

by Jennifer Gould, contributing writer

Cooking Buzz

Most wonderful time of the year

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

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must admit that I am a bit of a Christmas junkie. I love everything about the holiday – the sights, the sounds, the smells, and who doesn’t love presents? Since I was a little girl, listening to my mom’s Johnny Mathis and Andy Williams Christmas albums, baking cookies and wrapping presents, I have loved Christmas. I love the real Christmas story and the candlelight Christmas Eve service. And I also love the not-so-spiritual side of Christmas – trees, stockings and jingle bells. But mostly I love that the season brings family and friends together, usually over a special meal. I grew up in California, celebrating Christmas Eve with my mom’s side of the family, and that meant a traditional Italian meal – dish after dish, brought out from the kitchen by my grandma until I could not possibly eat another bite. I loved those evenings around her table with my parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins. Even though my grandma is no longer with us, my family still tries to recreate those special meals over the holidays, while also creating new traditions with our “adopted” family here in Houston. Entertaining over the holidays can seem stressful, but if you break it down into smaller (bite-size) pieces, it can be easy. First, I take my time decorating our home. I look forward to starting on Thanksgiving weekend and stretch it out over a few weekends, doing a little bit every day. I set the table with holiday china and décor for the entire month of December. It has this amazing way of warming up our home. Then, as I plan the meal, I look for recipes that can be prepared in advance or that require minimal preparation time while my guests are here. I want to be able to spend time with my guests, not in my kitchen! I focus on a few simple dishes that may seem “fancy” but are relatively easy to prepare. I like to start off with the Field Greens, Crumbled Blue Cheese & Spicy Pecan Salad from the Junior League of Houston’s Stop and Smell the Rosemary cookbook. This salad has MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 30

become a go-to salad for me – it looks beautiful, is easy to put together ahead of time, and everyone loves it. For the main course, I have come to rely on Beef Tenderloin with Gorgonzola Sauce from the League’s most recent cookbook, Peace Meals. The key to this recipe is to make the CHOCOLATELY GOODNESS These dark-chocolate desserts are even more sauce ahead of time. It delicious topped with fresh peppermint whipped cream. See recipe on this page. takes quite a bit of 4 egg yolks tending, and you don’t want to be stuck at the 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract stove while your guests are hoping to spend Fresh whipped cream time with you. Shaved chocolate Since moving to Texas, I have learned that Melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Whisk grits are a great companion to beef tenderloin. in the sugar. Gradually add the cream, whisking I love the Grits Casserole in Houston Junior constantly until smooth; remove from heat. In League. Again, this is a very easy make-ahead a medium bowl, vigorously beat the egg yolks. recipe that you pop in the oven when your Gradually whisk about one-fourth of the chocoguests arrive, so it will be ready to serve when late mixture into the yolks. Add the egg-chocoit is time to sit down. late mixture back into the pot with the warm One of my favorite, festive holiday desserts is chocolate mixture, whisking constantly. Whisk Chocolate Pots du Crème from Peace Meals. Be in the vanilla. Spoon into small pots de crème sure to crumble peppermints on top of each cup cups or cordial glasses and chill for at least 1 to give a special holiday flavor. And, of course, hour. Top each serving with fresh peppermint a hot toddy to go with this very chocolaty whipped cream and shaved chocolate. dessert is the perfect end to a special meal. Try Holiday Coffee, again from Peace Meals. It is a Peppermint Whipped Cream great accompaniment to the pots du crème. ½ cup heavy whipping cream If you like to have your guests leave with a lit2 to 3 teaspoons sugar tle treat, the Spicy Roasted Cashews from Peace ½ teaspoon peppermint extract Meals make a perfect take-home treat. Pour the cream into a chilled bowl and beat it vigorously with an electric mixer until it just Chocolate Pots du Crème begins to hold its shape. Add the sugar and pepServes 4 to 6 permint extract and continue to whip until the These rich chocolate desserts will satisfy even cream holds very soft, droopy peaks. To make the most serious dark-chocolate lover. They can more traditional whipped cream, use pure vanilbe topped with fresh mandarin-orange wedges la extract in place of the peppermint extract. and zest, crushed peppermints or chopped, toasted pistachios. 8 ounces good quality dark or semi-sweet bakFor more recipes, see this story at ing chocolate, coarsely chopped memorialbuzz.com. To buy a cookbook, see 2 tablespoons sugar www.jlh.org or call 713-871-6608. 1 cup heavy whipping cream

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SPORTS

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by Todd Freed, staff writer

SportzBuzz F

or the fifth time in the last six years, St. Thomas’ Episcopal School is a state champion in cross country. With four finishers in the top 20, the STE Saints boys team won the TAPPS 3A state title by a 16-point margin over Schertz JP II. “It was a really special year,” said STE cross country coach Bret Ramsey. “The goal for our guys is to represent themselves, their family and our school in an honorable way. I think all of that shows up in practice and in the meets.” At the state meet, STE’s top finisher was senior Ben Graves, who came in fifth overall. “Ben has been incredibly consistent all year,”

said Ramsey. “He was on the 2011 and 2012 state-championship teams and has been a key part of our program for his high school career.” Just behind Graves, STE junior Adrian Fetterley placed sixth overall at the state meet. “Adrian put it into high gear and ran a great race,” said Ramsey. Other top finishers for the Saints included senior Matthew Hrncir, who despite taking a fall in the race, finished 12th. In addition, junior Saagar Pateder finished 17th, senior Kyle Lin came in 20th, sophomore Riley Moran was 24th, and fellow sophomore Christopher Han came in 48th. “I’m just really proud of all our

guys and especially our two seniors, Ben and Matt. They showed great leadership throughout the season, and it paid off,” said Ramsey. Meanwhile, it was quite a run for girls from St. Agnes Academy, who finished second overall at the girls TAPPS 5A state meet. In a field of 120 of the state’s best runners, the top finishers for St. Agnes included Maryella Cohn (11th), Emily Sullivan (12th), Sydney Davis (14th), Lauren Schiller (17th), Triona Swanson (19th), Amber Boettiger (28th) and Courtney Schell (36th). “Our girls trained really hard all summer and even went to a running camp in Colorado, so

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all that hard work paid off,” said Tigers head coach Kristi Robbins. “We don’t have one exceptionally fast runner, just a great group of runners who run as a pack. They stick together and do really well. One of the great things about the state meet was that we edged out Dallas Ursuline for second place, and they were the defending state champion.” The second-place finish also speaks to the growth of the cross-country program since Robbins took over at St. Agnes. “When I arrived here from Cinco Ranch High School there were only 15 girls running cross country. We’re now up to over 80 girls in the cross-country program, which amounts to about 10 percent of the student body. Plus, we’re a pretty young group, so the future looks pretty bright.” Finishing two spots behind St. Agnes in fourth place overall at the same TAPPS 5A state meet was Awty International, which won the state championship in TAPPS 4A last year. “Our girls overcame a lot of adversity to do as well as they did,” said Awty cross country coach Robert Sload. “We lost one of our top five runners, Sydney Arceneaux, to a stress fracture early on. Plus, two of our other top runners, Amelia Ward and Anaelle Lahitte-Crohare, were slowed by injuries this season.” The Rams were led at the state meet by Nikita Prasad, who finished ninth overall.

“Nikita ran a really solid race,” said Sload. “She’s been all-state every year she’s run cross country and is being recruited by a number of schools. She’ll certainly run in college.” Other top runners at state for Awty were Amanda Gerlach, Margot Hemminga, Christina Moreno and Ashling Devins. Meanwhile, led by the individual ninthplace finish of Thor Crux, Awty boys fin- AWTY AT STATE Despite injuries and moving up in classification this season, the ished third at the Awty International girls still finished in fourth place at the TAPPS-5A state cross-country meet. Pictured from left (back row) are Sydney Arceneaux, Lauren Ward, TAPPS 5A state meet. Anaelle Lahitte-Crohare, Nikita Prasad, Catherine Ohrt, Margot Hemminga, Aaron Hurd was 12th Christina Moreno, (front row) Amanda Gerlach, Amelia Ward and Ashling Devins. overall, followed by Ben Stratford High School. As of press deadline, the Matthews, Dylan Thissen, Nicolas Motta, Stratford boys were looking to defending their Jason Rehg and Martin Motta. “Thor was UIL 5A state championship while the Stratford tremendous,” said Sload. “He’ll run in college girls also had earned a berth to state. next year at Texas A&M Corpus Christi. For us Editor’s Note: Todd Freed is the Emmy Awardto move up in classification from 4A to 5A and winning co-host and producer of the KUBE finish third in the state was quite an accomplishSportsZone, which airs Saturday and Sunday at 6 ment by our entire team. They really came p.m. on Channel 57-KUBE. To submit high school through.” sports news for possible inclusion in SportzBuzz, In next month’s column, we’ll have a report please email todd@thebuzzmagazines.com. on the powerhouse cross-country teams from

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SPORTS

by Angie Frederickson, staff writer

SportzBuzz, Jr. W

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

First on the floor Gymnast Peyton Donovan (top photo) exemplifies precision and strength at the Level 5 state meet in Plano. An eighth grader at Westchester Academy for International Studies, she recently retired from gymnastics after spending eight years in the sport and competing up to Level 6. She competed with Stars Gymnastics and is the reigning Level 5 state floor champion and south state floor, vault and all-around champion. “She made life-long friends in gymnastics and learned important life lessons that had nothing to do with gymnastics, but that have shaped her character for the better,” said Peyton’s mom, Karin. “Gymnastics taught her time management, self-discipline, self-motivation, and the importance of always striving to do your best.”

Racing to the goal Fourth graders Abigail Tomaski and Mackenzie Arend (middle photo, from left) drive the ball down the field in a recent game at the Spring Branch Education Center fields. Abigail attends Frostwood Elementary, and Mackenzie attends Wilchester Elementary. The girls have been friends since age 2. They played on a soccer team together at age 4, and they are together again this year on the 10U Shooting Stars team. Other members of the Spring Branch-Memorial Sports Association’s (SBMSA) team are Isabelle Burkhart, Caroline Cashin, Lauren Clark, Alyssa Dearing, Kendall Emery, Claire Hess, Ellie Johnson, Elise LaVern, Ashton Lombard, Brooke Mandery and Alison Wells. Dads Jake Emery and Chris Arend have coached together for five years, and the team is having a great season.

Strategy session The SBMSA freshman flag football Texans finished the regular season, undefeated, with a record of 8-0. In a recent game, offensive players Ben Robishaw, John Kafka, Jake Nichols, Anthony Voinis, John Patterson, Myles Goebel, George Gring and Danny Mazzei (pictured, bottom photo) huddle up to review their next play against the Colts. Along with defensive players Jaxson Carr, Blake Iversen and Conner Dillard, the boys were victorious over the Colts, 41-30. The kindergarten and first-grade Texans were the “white division” champions and were led by coaches Paul Robishaw, Mike Voinis and Clayton Gring.

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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 SportsBuzz, 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

Alien invasion

on the grounds of the school’s transition campus behind Westchester Academy, the annual fundraiser brought hundreds of students and families out for an afternoon of festivities. A dunking booth, inflatable climb-on games, confetti eggs, music, food and raffles kept everyone entertained. Rummel Creek Elementary’s new school is slated to open in the spring of 2015. Pictured (from left) are Ryann Weber, Cara Manry, Reagan Weber and Jessica Jones.

Successfully dressed Blue skies and blue aliens could be found at Rummel Creek Elementary’s fall festival. Held

Kevin and Alyssa Maples (pictured) attended the Dress for Success Houston 16th annual

Open House Thurs., Jan. 29th, 5-7:00 p.m.

MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 36

Daniel Ortiz

Buzz About Town fundraiser, The Sky Is The Limit, at the DFS facility on Eastside Street. The co-chairs of this special event, Kristy and Chris Bradshaw and Rebekah and Gary Reaves, drew in a crowd of more than 300 supporters. The evening’s honorees, Stan Marrder and Eniver and Mark

Judson, were recognized for launching the agency’s new website. They also have helped with ongoing video production, invitation and program-design concepts. The evening was a success, raising $400,000 for the local non-profit, which helps women get back into the workforce by providing a work suit and other resources. In the fun were Mia Gradney, board chair Willie Stanfield with wife Rosa, Dress for Success Houston co-founder and president Nancy Levicki, Joan and Stanford Alexander, Linda and Steve Webster, Marie Louise Kinder, Clare and Steve Jackson, Niloufar and Amir Molavi, Virginia and Dan Steppe, and Mary and Ben Patton.

Stephanie Maierson Photography

A show about Sharon

It was a birthday bash to remember. Act 1 was just the beginning of the “The Sharon Show,” a non-reality, reality show where the star, birthday

girl and Buzz columnist Sharon Brier (pictured, center, in the tie), changed clothes 12 times as 12 characters in 12 acts. About 80 friends helped her celebrate her entry into her 65th year. She created a music video by Scott Ross that included six out-of-town friends (from Germany to Seattle, Florida to California) performing to the tune of On the Road Again. “Acts” at the party included dinner divas, travel and fashion, fun and crazy, poker wives, mah jong players and Hadassah and City ArtWorks. Friends in blonde wigs put on skits to roast and toast Sharon. Pictured (from left) are breakfast club-network buddies as they throw business cards in air, Claire Daum, Linda Suib, Brier, Janet Cash, Debi Balter and Esther Levine.

She didn’t make a profit off the event but was pleased to know these dresses will dance again.

Reaching new ranks

Dance again Girls from Memorial High School, Memorial Middle School and Westside High School shopped their friends’ closets after Memorial mom Jennifer Moss had a great idea. Why not, she thought, repurpose old dresses that her daughter and her friends have worn once? She hosted the Dance Again resale event at her home, where young ladies could shop from friends’ closets for dresses for homecoming, prom and other events. No dress was priced over $50. Jennifer arranged for the dresses to be dropped off at her house all week. Each was tagged with the owner’s name, number and price wanted.

Five Boy Scouts, (pictured, from left) Christian Dixon, Joshua Beall, Joseph Fox, Tommaso Costantini and Nathan Malone, were awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at a Court of Honor cer(continued on page 38) emony for Troop 642,

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sponsored by Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church. Beall is 18, a senior at Memorial High School; Costantini, 18, is a senior at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory; Christian Dixon, 18, and Nathan Malone, 17, are both seniors at Second Baptist High School, and Joseph Fox, 18, is a senior at Stratford High School. To earn the top rank, Beall led the repair and replacement of playground equipment for The Mission Center of Houston. Costantini organized construction of outdoor chess tables at Bendwood Elementary. Dixon

worked with the Texas Ramp Project to build a wheelchair ramp at a house. Fox built storage bins and bookcases for Memorial Assistance Ministries. Malone’s project was fabricating squirrel cages and owl boxes for the Wildlife Center of Texas.

up for the school’s first Boosterthon Fun Run. The event proved to be a great success for the school, generating many funds for the PTA, which will use proceeds for improvements at the school’s new campus such as an outdoor learning center and water-bottle filling stations.

Two of a kind

And all that jazz

Twins Finley and Sinclaire Burton (from left) were among those who threw up their hands and joined in a school pep rally for Rummel Creek Elementary. All 700-plus students got pumped

Claire Sharp

(continued from page 37)

Thespians at the Stratford Playhouse, part of Stratford High School, spent the last few months preparing for the fall production of Chicago. The cast wore flapper costumes and wowed audiences with their song-and-dance scenes. Pictured (from left) are Marlina Brown, Katie Moore, Eliza Masewicz, Tucker May, Kirby Morris and Erin Higgins in the cellblock tango scene with manipulative lawyer “Billie Flynn.” The theater now is being used for rehearsals for the upcoming production of Bye

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Bye Birdie, which will hit the stage Jan. 29. See shsplayhouse.org for details.

Man’s best friend

transported over 40 dogs this past year from distant locations like Afghanistan, Germany, Japan and Kuwait to be reunited with their former handlers or adopted to new families. Mission K9 Rescue currently has 20 retired working dogs in Houston that came from Afghanistan and Kuwait, and they are looking to raise donations for their care. For more information, see their Facebook page at facebook.com/MissionK9 or call Kristen at 713-240-1383.

Pumpkin carving 101

Kristen Maurer (pictured, with rescue dog Roxie) is raising funds for some special canines. She is president and co-founder of Mission K9 Rescue, a non-profit organization that transports, adopts, reunites and provides care for military and contract working dogs. The organization has

The fourth annual dads-and-daughters pumpkin carving was a blast for third graders at Wilchester Elementary. The gals and their fathers gathered to carve perfect pumpkins for porches and chat about Halloween festivities to come. Pictured are David and Paige Mandery, Fritz and Alexann Fowler, Louis and Lucy Hamilton, Trey and Macy McAfee, David and Natalie Boersma, Brian and Meryl Schwertner, Jeff and Emma Taylor, David and

Kate Michels, and David and Tessa Maloy.

Critters on campus Will Coolidge, a seventh grader at Western Academy, designed this label for his school’s honey, collected from its beehives. The school also has a chicken coop, bunnies, pet snakes, turtles and many other critters. Last year, the school had a mare named Lilly that was expecting a foal. Students were hoping the birth would occur during school hours. Instead, the foal was born in the wee hours of the morning. Students were able to watch him grow, alongside his mom, during the last two months of school. Editor’s note: The Buzz is happy to welcome back Annie McQueen, our Buzz About Town columnist, from maternity leave and we are thrilled to report that her twin babies, Cash and Lila, are doing well. Please send your high-res photos and community news to The Buzz at info@thebuzzmagazines.com or 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401. Items are published on a space-available basis.

MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 39

SIX SECONDS OF FAME Leah Touchstone, a sophomore at Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, created a YouTube video to ask Nash Grier, a well-known “Viner,” to a Cotillion dance with her. Pictured (at right) is Leah with her friend Ally Calderhead, who helped her film her video.

KIDS by Leah Touchstone, age 15

Buzz Kidz

Nash Grier, will you go to Cotillion with me?

O

ne Friday, my friends and I were brainstorming ideas on how to get Nash Grier to notice me out of all of his fans. Nash Grier is a 16-year-old “Viner” who became well-known through the smartphone app Vine by creating six-second videos that many people enjoy. My friend came up with an idea to ask Nash to Cotillion by making a funny YouTube video that would stand out to people our age. Cotillion is a girls-ask-guys formal dance, and it is on Valentine’s Day this year. I thought it was a great idea, and I started coming up with skits. The reason why I chose Nash Grier out of all the other teenage heartthrobs is because he has always brought a smile to my face, whether it is through Snapchat, YouTube or Vine. He is a really funny, outgoing person who I would love

to spend time with at Cotillion. I met him in person in San Antonio at Wizard World Comic Con’s Fan Tour, and he was such a sweet, enthusiastic guy. Making this video was not a simple task. With many of my friends helping me, I spent about three weekends filming the clips that I put together to create the video. I filmed the skits from a range of five to 25 times each to make sure that it was perfect before I uploaded it. Although it was a long, stressful process creating and editing the video, in the end, I am proud of the outcome and the amount of views I have been getting. At the moment, I have more than 4,700 views. It makes me happy that people enjoy my video and want this to happen for me. My friends

have promoted my video in every way possible. Without them, this video would not have turned out the way it did. It would mean the world to me if Nash Grier went to Cotillion with me, and I can’t wait to see how it will all come together.

MORE ONLINE See this article at memorialbuzz.com for a link to Leah’s clever video and help her spread the word. 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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DINING GUIDE by Dai Huynh, staff writer

This Month in Dining Holiday wine: What Houston’s experts would like to drink

I

’m a fan of wines under $30, but I confess that I still fantasize about Dalla Valle’s 1999 Maya, a blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Alas, I don’t splurge $450 on wine. I can only harken back to the afternoon when vintner Naoko Dalla Valle invited me to her Tuscany-inspired hillside vineyard overlooking Napa Valley. After guiding me to Dalla Valle Vineyards’ tasting room, my hostess – with a knowing smile – poured a glass of her 1999 Maya. A sip inspired images of damask roses and sunny, blue-sky afternoons humming with honeybees. Beautiful wines are capable of doing that. The 1999 Maya, aged in new French oak, was striking, incredibly balanced and replete with flowers and dark, voluptuous fruits – cassis and red cherries. The first sip tasted like a mother’s love: pure and deep, yet powerfully complex. Once sipped it was soft and round, with a smooth, mouth-filling finish. A lot of care was put into creating the wine created in honor of Naoko and husband Gustav’s daughter, Maya. Gustav passed away in 1995, but Naoko continued their shared vision of producing world-renowned wines, and Dalla Valle Vineyards has garnered a loyal following. Maya remains my dream wine, and I feel honored to have tasted it, even once. An experience like this made me curious as to what Houston wine gurus would bring to their holiday tables if price were no object. Brennan’s of Houston (3300 Smith) wine guy John Ramos would choose the 2007 CôteRôtie La Mouline from E. Guigal ($725) with its smoky, peppery, barnyard overtones softened by cherries, violets and dusty tannins. He likes to pair the brooding, earthy Rhone Valley wine with Brennan’s grilled-game platter of rosemary bobwhite quail, herb-seasoned antelope chop and wild boar sausage, with cornbread pudding and huckleberry pepper jelly. As for a white, Ramos recommends the 2006 Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Puligny-Montrachet Les Levrons ($175), made from 100 percent Chardonnay. He describes it as having “an amazingly integrated oak structure with notes of pear, Fiji apple, white peach and spice.” The wine’s MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 42

RARE MAYA Maya, a blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, is one of California’s most sought-after cult wines. Dalla Valle Vineyards overlooking Napa Valley produces fewer than 500 cases of Maya annually.

ideal match? Brennan’s Louisiana jumbo lump blue crab cakes crowned with mirlitons, Wood Duck Farm pea shoots and a sweet corn-leek cream sauce. Ramos suggests savoring the 2000 pinot noir from Eyrie Estate Marguerite ($189) on its own. He finds this wine, from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, earthy, displaying flavors of mushroom, herbs and well-integrated tannins. At Tony’s (3755 Richmond), general manager and partner Scott Suma would toast the New Year with 1985 Krug Collection Privee ($2,500), and then pair a white Alba truffle soufflé with Jean-Marc Pillot 2008 Chevalier Montrachet ($995) or the saddle of lamb with the 1995 Giuseppe Quintarelli Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva ($2,200), which is ready to drink now and through 2020 with notes of ripe red fruits and dark chocolate. At chic Japanese restaurant KUU (947 N. Gessner Road), Ricky Cheung wouldn’t hesitate to usher in 2015 with a bottle of Vouette et Sorbee Extra Brut Champagne ($195), a 100 percent Chardonnay bubbly with lemon and apricot annotations rounded out by a toasty fin-

ish. The operations manager and sommelier’s current choice for red is Hirsch San Andreas Fault ($150), which he declared as “one of the best pinots noir I have ever tasted.” Compared with most California pinots noir, he says this soon-to-be classic is low in alcohol. Palazzo Cuvee Blanc ($75) is another favorite. Composed of 90 percent sémillon grapes and 10 percent sauvignon blanc, the scent is “wonderfully floral and seductive, with intense aromas of pear, orange blossoms, rose petals and hints of spearmint, beeswax and white truffle laced throughout,” Cheung says. It’s a Napa Valley wine to be enjoyed with food, and it has a balanced mouth-feel, with a rich, broad texture. White peaches, nectarines and apricots fill your mouth with notes of Meyer lemons. And yet, Cheung finds the finish lush, almost weighty and wonderfully long, especially for a white wine. Meanwhile, at Mockingbird Bistro (1985 Welch), sommelier Adrian Cuneo would raise a glass of Salon Le Mesnil ($350), vivacious with crystalline citrus, white stone fruits and hints of bitter almonds. A more budget-friendly choice

ROYAL TREAT For those who want to splurge, sommelier Sean Beck suggests toasting 2015 with the 2000 Pol Roger Sir Winston Churchill Brut Champagne, the same bubbly Prince William and Kate sipped at their royal wedding.

is the Pierre Peters Blanc de Blancs ($90), a multi-layered and complex pour with crisp acidity, a long finish and juicy accents, with notes of apples and peaches, plus shades of brioche, as well as toasted almonds. Right now, Cuneo is really loving charbono – the purpliest of grapes. “The guys at Shypoke [Winery] do a wonderful job of keeping this old-fashioned grape around – fullbodied, dry and tannic, with amazing flavors of black cherries, plum sauce and exotic spices,” he says. The Shypoke Charbono ($55) pairs well with Mockingbird’s Rohan duck. A perfect companion for Houston’s warm weather – or even in winter – is LieuDit Cocagne Chenin Noir ($40), a rose with crunchy acidity and notes of watermelon, strawberry and stone fruits. “Its big tannins make this wine sing,” Cuneo says, “either by itself or with Houston’s eclectic cuisine.” At Triniti (2815 South Shepherd) chef Ryan Hildebrand recommends bidding adieu to 2014 with the Ruinart Blanc de Blanc ($80). For a rare treat, pop open the 2005 Levy & McClellan ($950), a big, bold cabernet sauvignon reminiscent of dark, ripe berries, leather and earth. Its John Wayne stature needs to be paired with something equally robust, such as Hildebrand’s rack of lamb with dried figs and whole grain mustard demi glace. Another red is the 2011 Frank Family

Cabernet Sauvignon ($95), a luscious libation that goes well with the venison, served with sweet potato puree and apple horseradish relish. A white to consider is the 2010 Grenache Blanc from Epiphany – a dry, floral treat that goes well with most soups and seafood dishes. Sean Beck gives a nod to the 2000 Pol Roger Sir Winston Churchill Brut Champagne ($370). “It’s one of the all-time great bubbly houses, even good enough for the last royal wedding” of Kate and William, says the sommelier for Backstreet Cafe (1103 S. Shepherd), Hugo’s (1600 Westheimer) and Caracol (2200 Post Oak, No. 160). Made in the style preferred by Winston Churchill, Britain’s WWII prime minister, it uses a higher percentage of pinot noir as the base wine. “The incredibly fine bubbles contrast the powerful flavors, leaving the drinker with a sense they’re sipping on something precious,” Beck says. On the lookout for bargain finds, Beck recently added 2010 Morgenster Lourens River Valley Red Blend ($56) from Stellenbosch in South Africa. It’s a blend of meritage (a red and sometime white wine made from various Bordeaux grape varieties) and cabernet franc that is earthy and aromatic, yet with gentle tannins and well-woven fruit that pair nicely with Caracol’s wood-grilled lamb chops. The 2012 Le Rocher des Violets ToucheMitaine ($48) is a tiny parcel of old Chenin

blanc vines, a white grape variety grown in Montlouis-sur-Loire of France. “It’s a tremendous fall wine with its rich viscosity, wealth of citrus, smoky melon and pineapple,” Beck says. “It provides a beautiful contrast to the deep flavors of our seasonal mushroom menu at Backstreet Cafe. While over at Caracol, it plays beautifully with our wood-roasted oysters.” A wine to savor on its own is the 2010 Joseph Voillot Les Champans Volnay ($160). “While it’s quite fantastic with food, this is a wine that is more captivating on its own,” he says. “The pinots from (Côte de Beaune, France) typically show a very alluring mix of red fruits. The Voillot takes it further with a wine that is hauntingly beautiful, sexy. A core of intoxicating wild plum, dark cherry and fragrant earth make for an unforgettable bottle.” Even after eight years, I can easily recall the dark fruits and rose essence of the alluring Maya, and how Dalla Valle’s red volcanic soil nursed just enough minerality and sweetness to create an graceful, lasting impression. What’s your unforgettable bottle? Editor’s note: Aside from the Maya, which retails for $450-600, the above costs are restaurant prices. To share your favorite wines – from extravagant to budget-friendly – with readers, email info@thebuzzmagazines.com or comment under this story at memorialbuzz.com. (continued on page 44) MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 43

Restaurant Listings $ (under $10) $$ ($11-$30) $$$ ($31-$60) $$$$ (over $60) Prices include drink, tax and tip per person Dai Huynh is a James Beard food-journalism award winner and longtime restaurant writer. Her visits to restaurants in our Buzz Dining Guide 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 memorialbuzz.com.

(continued from page 43)

Adair Kitchen American fresh-fare Neighborhood: Galleria The Belgian waffles were tender inside, slightly crisp outside, and beautifully dressed with ripe, fresh strawberries lightly showered with white powdered sugar. But along with the usual breakfast fare, such as fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs and French toast, Adair Kitchen turns out some not-so-common, stellar options, such as a sourdough toast topped with buttery avocado and chorizo-flavored pork sausage (which can be amped up with an optional fried egg). Combined with fresh cilantro, lime and a side of mashed black beans, it leaves a favorable impression of this hip shabby chic space that manages to appeals to hipsters and families with its creative juices (like Just Beet It with apple and kale) and updated traditional dishes, such as pecancrusted baked chicken with citrus glaze. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 5161 San Felipe, 713-623-6100. adairkitchen.com. $$

Alamo Tamale & Taco Tacos and tamales Neighborhood: Northside Village Alamo Tamale & Taco encompasses everything we love about Houston – good, down-toearth, cheap, Tex-Mex tacos on-the-go for breakfast and lunch. At sunrise, the line snakes out the door at the location on Navigation bordering downtown. But at the Berry Road outlet near the Heights, a major expansion about a year ago has helped alleviate the large crowds that clamor for the $1-2 tacos billowing with an assortment of steam-table offerings including barbacoa and carnitas. But as it did in the ’60s, Alamo continues to etch its reputation making pork, beef brisket, chicken and jalapeño-cheese tamales. Breakfast & lunch Mon.-Sun. (Closes at 5 or 6 p.m.) 809 Berry Road, 713-692-6363. $

Antica Osteria Regional Italian Neighborhood: Southhampton MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 44

Antica Osteria, in a vintage brick house, attracts an eclectic mix with its warm, old-fashioned feel. There are Turkish movie stars, socialites, ingénues, young lovers, media types and, even, parents with well-behaved children. The attractions are the well-prepared pastas; spaghetti carbonara lush with cream and pancetta makes the strongest impression, along with abundantly friendly service and a homey vibe. Every meal begins with complimentary bruschetta and ends with a gracious smile. In between, there are simple, satisfying antipasti. Many customers order pastas as their entrées, but for those who must have meat, consider the deftly prepared osso buco – an occasional special – or the grilled angus fillet. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 2311 Bissonnet, 713-521-1155. anticarestaurant.com. $$$

Arnaldo Richards’ Picos Regional Mexican Neighborhood: Upper Kirby Many remain nostalgic about the old Pico's location on Bellaire. But upon entering the new locale, it's hard to fault owner Arnaldo Richards for moving into this graciously appointed, hacienda-inspired space made warm and inviting with coral tablecloths, ceiling beams and dark furniture. His food, too, has been tweaked, often with winning results. The tomato salsa sings. The ranchera salsa smolders with charred tomatoes. The chicken consommé soup is still a cure for the blues, swimming with pulled chicken, onion, cilantro, Mexican rice and avocado. A dash of Serrano pepper provides a mild, welcome kick. And his signature huachinango a la Veracruzana (red snapper) is elegantly draped with an exquisitely light tomato sauce flavored with green olives, capers and chiles güeros. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 3601 Kirby, 832-8319940. picos.net. $$

Common Bond Café & Bakery Pastries and sandwiches Neighborhood: Montrose area The long search for moist, buttery kugelhopf ends here. Speckled with brandy-soaked raisins, the sultan’s turban-shaped cake-bread is a soulsatisfying breakfast with a steaming café au lait. The moistly crisped walnut chocolate chip cookies, even at $3-plus apiece, are worth it. The only version that surpasses these, you can’t get since it comes out of my brother’s oven. Not every pastry is perfect at Common Bond. Its frequently touted plain croissant falls short on texture. While beautiful to look upon – glisteningly golden-brown – the overly crisped shell tastes dry and interior mealy. Scones, too, were tough. But the pastries that are nearly perfect here, like the kouign amann (a flaky, buttery, caramelized, sugar-topped pastry), surpass their counterparts around town. Common Bond bustles at breakfast, and for good reason. Offerings include a stellar sourdough sandwich stacked with pork sausage, cheddar, frisee and fried egg. Be kind; share it with a good friend. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Tues.-Sun. (Kitchen closes 3 p.m. daily, but

the dining room remains open for coffee and dessert until 7 p.m.). 1706 Westheimer Road, 713-5293535. wearecommonbond.com. $$

Coppa Osteria Artisanal pastas and pizzas Neighborhood: Rice Village Like Coppa Ristorante Italiano, this casual rendition applies the principles of Italian cooking by allowing ingredients to speak with minimum interference. Chef Brandi Key’s clarifies ingredients and judges flavors finely. Pizzas shine. Creamy burrata shimmers with peppery extra-virgin olive oil. Spaghetti carbonara crackles with black pepper and the creaminess of raw eggs and Parmesan cheese. Calabria chili and Meyer lemon brighten shrimp linguine with parmesan cream. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 5210 Morningside, 713522-3535. coppaosteriahouston.com. $$ NEW LISTING!

Corner Table

Contemporary American Neighborhood: Upper Kirby The Paleo Diet – a nutritional regimen centered around eggs, nuts, pasture-raised meat, fresh fruit and vegetables – is no longer a fringe movement. It has charged into the mainstream, spawning how-to books and glossy magazines. There are restaurants inspired by Paleo, including Corner Table, a multi-faceted space that boasts a luxe wine room reminiscent of France's Louis XIV era, a live-music lounge and a cozy mixology room with a speak-easy vibe. At the center is the restaurant, which shines even brighter with a culinary rising star at the helm. Ja'Nel Witt – winner of Gordon Ramsay's season 11 of Hell’s Kitchen – adds a much-needed global flair to the menu, from a beet-root hummus with an undercurrent of cumin to a wood-fire pizza topped with eggplant baba ganoush, roasted red pepper and feta cheese. Under her watch, the kitchen is turning out sharper fare with succinct presentations and clean, multi-dimensional flavors. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sat. 2736 Virginia Street. 713- 568-9196. cornertablehouston.com. $$$ NEW LISTING!

HK Dim Sum

Chinese dumplings and small bites Neighborhood: Bellaire Chinatown HK Dim Sum, or formally Hong Kong Dim Sum, has been stuffing Chinatown families full of dumplings since 2007. To grasp its popularity, arrive by 11 a.m. on Saturday or Sunday, or else you’ll find yourself waiting in line outside this tiny nook until one of the many crowded tables clears out. Order some xiu mai pork dumplings or hakao, which are translucentskinned, shrimp-filled dumplings. Dip them in red vinegar and chili oil to bring out their sweet shrimpiness. The rest of HK's selections – from pan-fried turnip cake and fragrant lotus leaf stuffed with sticky rice and ground meats to pork ribs with black beans – stands up to the tasty example set by the pork xiu mai. Breakfast,

direct, simply spiced with vibrant plum tomatoes, mozzarella and organic basil. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 3333 Weslayan, 713-8928100. pizzeriasolario.com. $

Tacos Tierra Caliente

CORNER TABLE Among executive chef Ja’Nel Witt’s repertoire of signature dishes at paleo-driven Corner Table is the grilled marinated jumbo shrimp in Asian-inspired pesto.

lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun., 9889 Bellaire Boulevard, 713-777-7029. $

Kasra Persian Grill Classic Mediterranean Neighborhood: Tanglewood/Memorial Tables brim with savory mezzes, such as creamy hummus, eggplant dips and toasted rice topped with kidney beans and beef. Complimentary feta cheese, fresh mint, parsley and radishes with yeasty, golden flatbreads are served upon arrival. Mint tea, grilled beef on dill-scented rice and moist Cornish hens on fluffy barberries-laced rice scent the air. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 9741 Westheimer Road, 713975-1810. kasrahouston.com. $$

Local Foods Chef-driven gourmet deli Neighborhood: Rice Village Hand-crafted sandwiches and salads from chef Dylan Murray draw a diverse crowd. Savor duck confit smothered with melted brie, aioli and cranberry preserves on wheat bread. Shrimp-and-crab on ciabatta with green goddess dressing is another must-try. Sandwiches come with two sides that include Tuscan kale with golden raisins and potato chips speckled with Old Bay seasonings. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 2424 Dunstan, 713-521-7900. houstonlocalfoods.com. $$

Lucille’s Creative Southern Neighborhood: Museum District The fried green tomatoes – lightly crisped and anointed with a rich, bright-orange remoulade sauce – know few peers around town. This and a glass of New Zealand sauvignon blanc, in this refurbished brick building, would

do just fine for lunch. That and a side order of chef-owner Chris Williams’ hot rolls. Look around. You’ll see many breaking bread while waiting for shrimp and grits and the pan-roasted white fish on a pile of pancakes, surrounded by candied-sweet cherry tomatoes. Lunch and dinner, Tues.-Sun., 5512 La Branch, 713-568-2505. lucilleshouston.com. $$$

McHugh Tea Teahouse and more Neighborhood: Bellaire This shabby-chic corner charms with its practical lunch menu and English ambiance, illuminated by tea-cup chandeliers, refurbished tea sets and ornately framed photos of famous tea sippers, including Marilyn Monroe and Michael Jackson. Fragrant, organic teas – hibiscus blossom oolong, masala chai and cabernet assam – gently brew in glass orbs while regulars fork into lemon and chocolate pies topped with solidly crisp, snow-white meringue. But the homemade jellies and buttermilk scones (tender, hot, just out of the oven) are what have won the hearts of regulars. Lunch, Mon.-Sat., 5305 Bissonnet, Bellaire. 713-218-6300. mchughtea.com. $

Pizzeria Solario Neopolitan pizzeria Neighborhood: Highland Village When it comes to the Neapolitan pies at this cheery spot with patio seating, there are no tricks, just good techniques: a fiery 800degree wood-burning oven that chars the edges of a bubbly, soft-bottom pizza (you can request a crispier bottom). The creamy mozzarella and garlicky white sauce are made in house. Try the Appolonia with soppressata salami, black pepper, parmesan cheese and an egg on top. The pizza margherita is satisfyingly

Food-truck fare Neighborhood: Lower Montrose Some of Houston's best grub can be found in parking lots and vacant lots, dished out of Airstreams and food trucks by both amateur and professional chefs. About 1,000-plus food trucks cruise Houston streets. But Tacos Tierra Caliente in lower Montrose is legendary. Former Hugo’s cook Nana Samano’s tacos pack optimal flavors. For less than two bucks, you can buy a diminutive corn tortilla stuffed with roasted pork and sweet, tangy chunks of pineapples, or try the robust barbacoa blanketed with fresh onions and cilantro. Spritz on fresh lime and savor the true flavors of Mexico. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. On the corner of McDuffie Street and West Alabama, next to the convenience store across from the West Alabama Icehouse. $ NEW LISTING!

Triniti

Contemporary American Neighborhood: Upper Kirby Eye-catching modern architecture aside, chef Ryan Hildebrand and his kitchen staff, which includes talented chef de cuisine Greg Lowry, manages to bridge wildly inventive cuisine (check out the nightly eight-course tasting menu) with updated steakhouse classics, such as a perfectly seared garlic-thyme prime New York steak accompanied by a roster of sauces. You can choose up to three, such as the samba-sake butter or whole grain mustard. The menu also features accomplished desserts, such as the hazelnut mousse. Lunch & dinner Fri.-Sun. and dinner Wed.-Thurs. 2815 South Shepherd. 713527-9090. trinitirestaurant.com. $$$$

Vallone’s Modern-American steakhouse Neighborhood: Memorial The option of adding any homemade pasta, such diminutive corn ravioli or short-rib tortellini, to your steak dinner for $9 adds to the appeal of the impeccably hand-cut slabs of steaks. But really all that is required for the juicy, charred, dry-aged, bone-in ribeye is a side of fries and a robust California cabernet. With his new steakhouse, restaurateur Tony Vallone again illustrates that he knows good food, and his impeccable tastes are expertly translated on the menu. Normally, we skip sauces, especially when the steaks (wet and dry age) shine with just a dash of salt. But in this case, the cabernet foie gras jus and spicy béarnaise are hard to pass up, as is the Colorado lamb chop with chickpea purée. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. and dinner Sun. 947 Gessner, 713-3956100. vallonessteakhouse.com. $$$$

MORE ONLINE For more restaurants and to comment, see this story online at memorialbuzz.com.

MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 45

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Are you allergic to Christmas trees? The Christmas tree you buy each year is at the end of its long journey. Having grown up in Oregon, it is harvested and placed on a flat bed truck for its cross country journey. Once every few stops, the trees are watered down to keep them moist and fresh. Just make sure that the beautiful Tannenbaum you invite into your living room doesn’t make your allergies worse. Although an artificial tree is best (if you rinse off the dust it collected in the attic), here are some tips if you decide to go with a real tree: 1. That continual watering promotes mold growth. Make sure to spray your tree with a garden hose and let it dry off completely before bringing it inside. This also helps rinse the pollen off the tree. Although pine trees aren’t a major source of tree pollen, they can trigger hay fever if you get a big dose of the powder right in your face. 2. Take your allergy medicine before trimming the tree. 3. Your ornaments may have spent the off-season in the attic with dust and mold. Carefully clean them off in a well-ventilated area. After Christmas, pack the ornaments carefully in sealed plastic bags to make next year’s job a bit easier. 4. Keep the living room well-ventilated. The aromatic resins that impart the pine scent can act as non-allergic irritants. Rinsing the mold spores off the tree before bringing it into the house will reduce but not eliminate the mold. 5. Don’t forget to take the tree out of the house on December 26 before more mold grows. Along with cheerful holiday gatherings come colds and flu. How does your

doctor keep from getting all those bugs? We wash our hands with hot soapy water or Purell all day long. Careful hand washing can prevent transmission of respiratory germs and viruses. What else does your doctor do to minimize the chance of getting sick each winter? Flu shots. Flu season usually doesn’t hit Houston until January, so you still have time to get your flu shot for the 2014-15 season. If you absolutely don’t want a shot and are between the ages of 5 and 49, you may want to consider FluMist, a nose spray that it also effective in preventing influenza. Allergic to eggs? Ovalbumin contents in today’s flu shots are so low that most egg-allergic people can safely receive the vaccine. Stay well and happy holidays from The Allergy Clinic, your allergy and asthma specialists! 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. Alnoor A. Malick, 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 & Asthma Clinic

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GONE WILD! HOUSTON PEDIATRIC DENTAL SPECIALISTS DR. REGINA LEWIS DR. JULIE LONGORIA When was the last time your child had a grrrreat time at the dentist? We care for your children as if they were our own and their oral health is our priority.

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Neuromuscular dentistry

Supporting (ex-)students

Traditional dentistry has focused on the teeth, what might be called “one-dimensional” dentistry. Neuromuscular dentistry is a term that has been applied to the additional consideration of the “second & third dimensions” muscles and TM joints. The limited time in the dental curriculum makes it difficult enough to prepare dentists to deal with the teeth. Therefore, muscles and joints do not get the attention to detail as needed. As dentists go into practice, it is not uncommon to hear them say that they have done procedures “by the book”, have less-than-satisfactory results, or that treatment is so complex they cannot treat a particular patient. Dr. John Barras and his team specialize in neuromuscular dentistry taking muscles and joint status into consideration, which aids in optimizing the patient’s treatment. Our comfortable and contemporary office technology include jaw tracking, electromyography and joint sound recording in order to get a complete analysis of the function (or dysfunction) of the masticatory system, which consists of the organs and structures primarily functioning in mastication, including jaws and jaw muscles, teeth, temporomandibular joints, tongue, lips, cheeks and mucous membranes. Our team treats patients with TMJ problems, lack of airway and snoring issues, and severely worn teeth breaking down around the gum line, as well as rebuilding teeth. Dentistry by John Barras, DDS, 1330 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1300, Houston, Texas 77056, 713.993.9814, www.johnbarrasdds.com

Parents who are providing ongoing financial support to college students (or students who have moved back home) should keep in mind the annual limit on gift-tax free transfers. An individual may make gifts of up to $14,000 total each year (in 2014) to as many recipients as desired without having to report a taxable gift or using the individual’s lifetime gift exemption. This amount is per calendar year, and both parents are entitled to the annual gift exclusion, so a couple may give up to $28,000 annually to each child without filing a return. Two other important gift-tax exemptions also help parents provide financial support. For tuition, an unlimited education exemption applies to tuition payments that are made directly to the qualified college or university. A similar unlimited exemption applies for healthcare expenses when payments are made directly to a hospital providing medical care or for regular health insurance coverage. The IRS is not going to audit the amount of food missing from a parent’s refrigerator over the holidays, but other types of transfers or support to a child, such as large checks or a new car, would attract interest in an audit. Robert Tarleton, Brett M. Moyer & Mitzi D. Rivero are attorneys practicing in the West Houston area. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation for your estate-planning needs. Sloan & Moyer LLP, 11767 Katy Fwy. Suite 1130, Houston, Texas 77079, 832.327.1180, www.sloan-moyer.com

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Ask Reneé, the Realtor

A minute with Maisie

This month’s real-estate question comes from A. Jamison: “Reneé, we are thinking of moving to the Memorial Villages; however it seems impossible to find a home. By the time we pick a home to see, it is under contract. What do you suggest?” Answer: Time is of the essence. Buyers who are serious and not just touring for decorating ideas need to have game on and have a Realtor who is two steps ahead of them for their benefit. Sometimes we cannot wait until the spouse returns from a business trip or even until the weekend when Saturday might be more convienent. If you are in the market to move, have your pre-approval letter ready from your preferred lender, have your tennis shoes on, and get ready to rumble! Many times we know about properties well before they go on the market, so it is imperative in this hotter-than-hot market to be prepared. The phones are ringing with buyers, but inventory is still down! If you are considering selling, whether moving out of town, upsizing or downsizing, give me a call – I can guide you through this rat race of a market! Strong market knowledge, incredible marketing tools and proven sales records, along with a team of proven agents, Reneé and her team are consistently recognized and reccommended as the ones to go to for real-estate needs. Reneé Davy Oakum Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Anderson Properties, 12900 Queensbury, Suite 101, Houston, Texas 77079 and 3600 Kirby, Suite T, Houston, Texas 77019, 713.647.8278, renee@davyoakumbhhs.com, www.andersonprops.com

Many clients ask me, “Where will my divorce take place?” Jurisdiction and venue issues arise most often when one party has moved to another county or state and the other party remains in the marital residence. The Texas Family Code provides that you or your spouse must have resided in Harris County for the preceding 90 days and the state of Texas for the preceding six months prior to the filing of the petition if you desire to file your divorce action in Harris County, Texas. Obviously, if there are multi-state issues, this can become quite complicated, but the Texas Family Code has codified Uniform Acts that provide some guidance for potential jurisdiction dilemmas. If there are jurisdiction questions in your case, do not hesitate to contact an attorney, as these issues can become quite problematic if not resolved according to the law. 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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NEIGHBORS

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

.

Back Porch

Standing on (holiday) ceremony

T

his month for Back Porch we asked friends to share their best holiday-tradition stories. They didn’t disappoint. What we got was inspiring – happy and heartwarming and a tribute to what family and the holidays are all about. Read on for some highlights that we hope might inspire a new tradition or two in your family.

Bake day Pulling off a holiday bake day for one grandmother, eight children and 19 grandchildren might seem impossible. But every year, Nancy Barziza, better known as Nana, pulls it off. Her clan is scattered throughout Texas, but the group finds a day each year to get together and bake family recipes, recall old memories and make new ones. “Everyone picks a recipe from a family cookbook my mom started,” Nancy’s daughter, Stephanie Petru, says. Each person brings ingredients to make his or her chosen recipe. They’ll bake one batch of everything, “so that everyone can sample it that day,” and then individual families go home with their own pre-made dough for each recipe that they can freeze until the holidays arrive. “The aroma and taste of baking the recipes is a memory in itself,” Stephanie says.

Tex-Mex and Xbox Joy Yeager says that every Christmas Eve we’ll find her family “dining on tamales, baking cookies for Santa, with plenty of extras for ourselves, and watching It’s a Wonderful Life, which I’ve probably seen 50 times and somehow gets better every year.” But it was an unexpected surprise, not a tradition, that became one of Joy’s favorite Christmas memories. “It was that really rainy and cold December 25 about three years ago, and we Yeagers opened our presents, one of which was “Family Feud” for the Xbox. I think we played it for about six hours in our pajamas and had a ball. Not exactly Norman Rockwell, but lots of fun.”

Secret Santa, digitized Jenifer Ben-Shoshan and her two sisters, who live out of town, celebrate a night of Hanukkah MEMORIAL BUZZ DECEMBER 2014 50

during Thanksgiving weekend, knowing that everyone will be in town. “A few years ago, [we] decided to do Elfster, an online secretSanta program,” Jenifer says. “My youngest sister coordinates, and it matches us up, making sure not to match up spouses. We can each input a wish list, and it can even link to websites for exactly what you want.” Kids get presents from everyone, and adults get one present that’s guaranteed to hit the spot. See elfster.com.

BAKE DAY ON STEROIDS Nancy Barziza's family – all eight children and 19 grandchildren – get together one day every year (in one kitchen) to bake family recipes for the winter holidays. Not an easy feat to pull off, let alone take a picture of; hence this Easter family photo instead!

Turkey break The Trautner family – Barbara, Kevin, Margaret and Mark – always buys their Christmas tree the Friday after Thanksgiving. They spend that night, just the four of them, decorating the tree and celebrating at home with homemade pizza. “We aren’t Italian,” Barbara says. “We just crave pizza after all that turkey!” Barbara makes the dough from a box of Pillsbury Hot Roll Mix. “I have to have that box,” she says. “They are getting harder and harder to find in stores, so I buy two whenever I see them.”

Midnight madness Imagine five grown siblings – all girls – and their families in matching PJs. At midnight. Starting what will become a very competitive game of Monopoly. At midnight. That’s what Jill Klaff and her family will be doing this and every Christmas Eve. They all travel to Miami to be together (one sister lives there). On Christmas Eve, they’ll go out for a nice dinner and come home to open presents, always gifting each other with matching pajamas. At midnight, they start the game that

won’t end until 3 a.m. “It’s the only time during the year that we get into a seriously competitive family game,” Jill says. Christmas morning, they’ll be sleeping in.

Game on Every New Year’s Eve, Tracy and Josh Pesikoff and their two children host a family game night at their home. “Instead of making plans to be out on December 31, we invite over some other families and order in Thai food and play charades, Balderdash and Taboo until midnight,” Tracy says. “We love this tradition because it keeps us all safe at home spending time with our family and friends and not having to get all dressed up, make reservations somewhere and worry about driving. One of my favorite family traditions!”

Eggnog, please And, well, there was one shared story, anonymity required, from an awesome family who just happens to be in touch with – and very open about – their own dysfunction: “Does not seeing [one side of the family] at all count as a tradition?” the wife asks. “It works. Others should try it!” Happy holidays.

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