The Memorial Buzz - September 2014

Taking Flight

Colby Stewart

by Cheryl Ursin

Take it Outside

Twenty Steps to Bliss Big Fun in the Backyard Houston, TX Permit No. 2047 PAID US Postage PRSRT STD

Ovarian Cancer: With Little Warning

EDITOR’S NOTE “I promise there will only be a few people.” It always starts out the same. A holiday was approaching, and I felt the itch to entertain. I didn’t know how to keep it small and simple. I wish I knew now what I learned from residents in this month’s issue about enjoying your backyard. They keep entertaining simple so they can enjoy having friends over. Good plan. One summer I had the brilliant idea to host a Fourth of July party after we were in the neighborhood parade. I had promised husband Michael it was going to be small. But every time I ran into someone at the parade I could not help myself and said, “What are you doing later?” That night we had over 100 people, including kids, dogs and parents. Michael did not have a clue. When he pulled up to the house he found a huge bouncy water slide across two yards. In the backyard I had set up two rented margarita machines. Minutes before the party, when I plugged them in, they blew a circuit, and the power went out. Enjoy your yards this month. And keep it simple. joni@thebuzzmagazines.com

THE BUZZ MAGAZINES BELLAIRE • WEST UNIVERSITY • MEMORIAL • TANGLEWOOD/RIVER OAKS Published by Hoffman Marketing & Media, LLC 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, Texas 77401 info@thebuzzmagazines.com • p: 713.668.4157 • f: 713.665.2940 memorialbuzz.com • facebook.com/memorialbuzz Editor Publisher Associate Editors Vice President, Sales Staff Writers

Contributing Writers Digital Media Manager Designer Account Managers

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Joni Hoffman Michael Hoffman Cheryl Laird Annie Blaylock McQueen Jay Janecek Tracy L. Barnett Sharon Albert Brier Andria Frankfort Angie Frederickson Todd Freed Michelle Casas Groogan Dai Huynh Dave Schafer Cheryl Ursin Cathy Gordon, Greg Hassell Scott Kennedy Jordan Magaziner John Duboise Andrea Blitzer Leslie Little Kim Montgomery Darsey Swaim Laura Callan, Helen Hamilton Michele Luke Mark Cox, Alex Daily, Jacob Padden, Madison Tebbe

On our cover: Colby Stewart uses his plane to bring family and friends on quick, fun trips. Cover photo by Michael Hart Photography, www.hartphoto.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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MAILBAG

Your letters, thoughts, opinions School Buzz a hit I was so happy to see your addition of School Buzz in the August issue [School Buzz: Introducing our correspondents, August 2014]. As the mom of a rising junior at Strake Jesuit, and as an advocate for children through my [nonprofit] work in 12 Houston-area schools (+Works), it’s wonderful to give these future leaders a voice not only on their campuses, but in the wider community. Thanks to you for sharing their important perspectives and news with us, and encouraging their skills as young journalists. And if that wasn’t enough to whet our appetites for fall, Dai’s column on Houston Restaurant Weeks [This Month in Dining, by Dai Huynh, August 2014] was just the ticket to get us out of the heat and into some great Houston kitchens for a cause. Trish Morille Editor’s note: You can keep up with our School Buzz blog, with regularly updated news from local schools written by students, at memorialbuzz.com. “Like” The Buzz Magazines on Facebook for links to this blog and other Buzz stories.

Kinkaid student a fan too I wanted to let you know how great I think it is that The Buzz is offering high school writers the opportunity to write/blog as “correspondents” representing our local schools. For those of us (teens) who wish to pursue journalism in college, being given the chance to write for such well-respected community publications, such as The Buzz and the newspaper [The Jewish Herald-Voice] I write a weekly teen column for, not only affords us the ability to reach out and relay information as “teen voices,” but more importantly, enables us to gain valuable experience, responsibility and expertise in our journalistic endeavors. Good luck to all Buzz correspondents, and best wishes on a great year of writing! Halle Brazda, The Kinkaid School

IWA pleased to be a part I receive The Buzz at my house and saw the article. What a great idea! I brought the magazine to school today to share. Thank you for having Monica Da Jose be a part of your team. Mary Aamodt Principal, Incarnate Word Academy

Student travels inspire What a wonderful article in The Buzz [Travel Buzz: Stepping out of the bubble, by Tracy L. Barnett, August 2014] – right before school starts. As soon as the electronic link is available, I will forward it to broader audience. What a bunch of lucky kids to have experienced Germany winning the World Cup [while] in Germany. It is all about Fussball over there! I wish I had been able to go on Frau Sisler’s trip. Alexia Benavides Editor’s note: Thanks for the kind words, Alexia. This story about high school students studying abroad is on our website and shareable at memorialbuzz.com, along with all other stories ever printed in The Buzz. 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:

Westbury Christian also on board As a former student journalist (from the days when we’d never heard the word blog!), I am really excited about seeing how this goes for all of the participants. Justin Lacey, Director of Communication, Westbury Christian School

St. John’s happy with idea I just got my Buzz the other day. The spread looked great. Best of luck with the new feature. There are some extraordinary high school journalists, and I'm glad your readers will have the opportunity to see their work. David Nathan, Upper School English, St. John's School MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 6

• Know of a beautiful and unique home we should feature. • Know an interesting neighbor to profile. • Have recently had a unique or funny travel experience. • Have a unique or funny family tradition during the holidays (for example: a specific game the family likes to play together, or gift-giving traditions). • Spend the holidays with family on getaway trips instead of at home. 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 Cheryl Ursin, staff writer

Taking Flight When the plane is your own

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ho hasn’t wished for a private plane while standing in the TSA line, shoes and toiletries in hand? Colby Stewart, a 48-year-old local ophthalmologist, knows the feeling well. Not only does he fly to Tennessee every month, but at 6-feet, 7-inches tall, he really feels the lack of legroom. “The airlines cram you in,” he said, “and then the flight will be late. It’s so frustrating.” Stewart recently joined a group of friends, some who fly as a hobby and some, like Stewart, who want the convenience of their own plane, and bought a 6-seat Piper Matrix. Ironically, Stewart doesn’t use the plane to go to Tennessee. There is no way around it: Flying in your own plane is always more expensive than flying commercially, when a commercial flight is available. And Stewart’s propeller plane would take twice as long, four hours, than a jet to make a trip of that distance. “At some point, you just say, ‘I’ll take the misery,’” said Stewart. What a small private plane is good for is replacing long car trips. Stewart and his friend, Cameron Greenwood, recently took their two teenaged daughters, Carolyn and Remi, on a father-daughter quail-hunting trip. It would have taken them six hours to drive to the South Texas ranch where they hunted. In their own plane, they took off minutes after arriving at the airport, since there’s no need to go through security. They rode in a cabin resembling a well-appointed SUV. And the foursome, along with pilot Don Sims, arrived at the ranch, landing on the ranch’s own landing strip, 1 hour and 20 minutes after leaving Houston. The entire overnight trip took a total of 24 hours, which would have been impossible without the plane. Chris deZevallos, an avid pilot who grew up in Memorial, would rather take his daughters, 4year-old twins Katharine and Sarah, in his plane than put them in the back of his car and drive them on Houston’s freeways. “I used to ride motorcycles,” he said. “Statistically speaking, the biggest risk to a motorcyclist are the drivers around him. When you fly, the biggest risk is yourself. Planes are as safe as you make them.” MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 8

FATHER-DAUGHTER WEEKEND Carolyn Stewart, bird dog Leo, Colby Stewart, Remi Greenwood and Cameron Greenwood, from left, enjoyed a whirlwind quail-hunting trip.

His wife, Shelly deZevallos, also a pilot, said they recently flew their girls to Sea World, a trip that took 1½ hours each way by plane, rather than 4 hours by car. “Planes are an incredible time-saving tool, for both business and family,” she said. “Plus, they are a joy to fly. My girls will look up and say, ‘Oh, we’re inside a cloud!’” In a way, planes are like boats, vacation homes and horses: fun to own but also involved. For many plane owners, aviation becomes a central part of their lives. The deZevallos live in a “hangar home” at West Houston Airport. Shelly, whose family has owned the airport since 1971, is a third-generation pilot who was flying before she had her driver’s license. She and Chris met in a hangar at the airport. Chris had learned to fly when his work in real estate had him traveling to locations without good commercial air service.

This year, the family’s Christmas-card photo featured their plane, a Beechcraft Bonanza. And daughter Katharine spells her name the oldfashioned way, with an “a,” because she is named after Wilbur and Orville Wright’s sister, who was deeply involved in running their pioneering aviation business. Steve Wright has been flying since 1967 and has owned his own plane since 1974. “I really wanted to be a commercial pilot,” he said. Instead, he taught people to fly while attending law school. Because of his plane, his family’s hobby has always been travel. Wright, who flew to Florida last month with his wife, Jan, said, “During their childhoods, we flew our kids to 45 of the 50 states, to Canada, to the Bahamas. Our family history is written in my log books.” Private airplanes come in two main types: jets, whose engines create thrust, pushing the

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FUN FLIGHT Carolyn Stewart and Remi Greenwood, from left, had a fun weekend with their dads when they all flew to South Texas.

plane forward, and planes that use propellers. Turbo-props are in between: They use a jet-like engine to power their propellers. Jets can travel farther and faster. Depending on the length of the trip, a jet can be twice as fast. However, they are much more expensive to buy and operate. Jet prices start at $1 million, with yearly maintenance costs of about $500,000. Some companies, such as Jet Linx, which runs its own terminal at Hobby Airport, and NetJets, seek to make private jet travel more convenient and (relatively) less expensive. Still, the cost is thousands of dollars per flight hour. Even Warren Buffett, whose company, Berkshire Hathaway, owns NetJets, finds the cost of a private jet hard to justify. According to a recent article in Forbes, Buffett named his own beloved jet “The Indefensible.” Propeller planes range widely in price. A 2seat, single-engine Cessna can go for as little as $10,000, while a brand-new, 6-seat, twin-engine Beechcraft Baron sells for $800,000. Planes do not depreciate as quickly as cars and sometimes gain value. Steve Wright bought his first plane in 1974. “It cost $9,500, which was a lot of money back then,” he said. “I sold it for $12,500 five years later.” That plane is still flying – and is now worth $30,000. That’s because planes are meticulously maintained. “Planes are basically kept, mechanically, in the same condition as when they rolled off the assembly line,” said Donald Sims, whose

company, Sims Air, provides aircraft management, pilots and flight instruction. Learning to fly your plane is involved, so involved that Stewart, after taking about 20 hours of flying lessons 10 years ago, decided not to pursue it. “To be a really good pilot, you have to fly all the time,” he said. “I liked flying but didn’t think I would be able to devote enough time to it. I figured it’s better that I do what I do best – ophthalmology – and hire a pilot to do what he does best.” Stewart’s not alone. Sims, a certified flight instructor, estimates that only about half the people who start flying lessons go on to get their private pilot’s license. That basic license is good for “visual flight rules” (VFR); basically, you can fly when you can see. To fly in less-than-perfect weather and through clouds, you need to have an instrument rating so you can fly under “instrument flight rules” (IFR); Sims estimates that fewer than 10 percent of all private pilots go on to get that rating. Pilots can also get “rated,” with additional training, to fly certain makes and models of airplane. Private pilots have to revalidate their licenses at least once every two years, taking a “check flight” with a certified flight instructor. Brady Crosswell, a co-owner of Stewart’s plane, had gotten his license in 1988, then, in the early 2000s, stopped flying while his family and a company he had started were young. Crosswell, who is instrument-rated, has

undergone 25 hours of additional flight instruction over the last six months to regain currency and to become rated for his Piper Matrix. Learning to fly is a bit of a psychological and emotional exercise. “Anyone can learn to fly, but some can’t get past the fear,” explained Chris deZevallos. “Everyone’s afraid at first, but you have to be able to push past that fear and fly the plane anyway.” Learning to fly by the instruments adds another layer to that. When people can’t see while flying, they can become disoriented, a situation pilots call “the leans.” The pilot will feel as if the plane is turning, climbing, even flying upside-down when it is not. “People will swear they are hanging upside down against their seat restraints,” said Sims. Sometimes, when teaching someone to rely on the plane’s instruments, a flight instructor will put a hood over the student’s head. Said Chris deZevallos, “You have to get to the point where you will go by ‘the six-pack,’ the six gauges in front of you, and ignore what your body is telling you.” So, owning your own plane won’t allow you to always avoid flying commercially. (Boo.) But it is fun. And it can be convenient, especially when you travel to locations without good commercial service. But beware: It can also become an involved avocation. “It’s really a great hobby,” said Crosswell, “and a great escape.” MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 9

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NEIGHBORS by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

Take it Outside Backyard bashes worth the effort

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here’s something intrinsically special about being invited into someone’s home. It’s more intimate than meeting at a restaurant. It takes more thought. It’s entry, for a little while, into someone else’s world. But for whatever reason – the huge numbers of great Houston restaurants, the extra effort entertaining requires, the fear of pulling it all together – the option of entertaining at home sometimes gets overlooked. So as Houston weather peaks and we all want to exit the air conditioning for crisper outdoor climes, it’s time to call some friends, make a date and take it outside. To the backyard. That’s what Shelly and Jeff Schultz have been doing for the past two-plus years. “We had built our house, and we had this huge backyard with just grass,” says Shelly, a program coordinator for MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Blood Bank. Eventually Shelly convinced Jeff, her dentist husband, to think about landscaping, even

Tips for throwing a backyard bash Make s’mores on the grill or fire pit. In lieu of the bigger equipment, buy a mini culinary blow torch at Bering’s and caramelize away. Syma Levy suggests hiring Photo Moto, a restored 1970s Volkswagen Bus that’s been converted into a photo booth. photomotohtx.com Melamine serving pieces are great for outdoors because they’re shatter-proof and sturdier than paper. Olivine in Rice Village has an extensive selection of French and Italian print pieces, and for bright, modern prints try frenchbull.com. Emerson Sloan in Rice Village stocks happy, party-worthy paper products as well as sparklers, banners and funky disposable wooden cutlery. Shelly Schultz’s No. 1 outdoor party tip is to find a good mosquito-control system.

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though he wouldn’t initially acquiesce to a pool. But one thing led to another, and the couple and their now 10year-old daughter wound up with what Shelly calls “a party house,” complete with a pool, hot tub, arbor, fire table and custom swing bed. “It’s like a couch, but it’s a swing,” Shelly says of the giant bed-swing that guests inevitably gravitate to and fall in FAMOUS SHOT Shelly Schultz is known for serving Jell-O shots when she entertains. love with. fancy Jell-O shot recipes I’ve thought about “Cole Parish, our landscaping architect, doing, but who has time for that? changed our lives and the way we live,” Shelly “By the way, I’m also the pool boy,” she adds. says. “He took our house from a blank slate to Cathy and David Herr entertain similarly, my fantasy backyard.” having built a backyard pool five years ago. After the redo, Shelly and Jeff began enter“That’s when it all started, and this whole thing taining outdoors often. “We went from our bunof Sunday parties kind of kicked off,” David says. galow to a bigger house so that we could have The energy trader, his wife and their two young friends come over, so that’s what we do. We’re children host friends every Sunday the family is not fancy entertainers; we just invite people over in town. “They aren’t big raging parties,” David for beer, host school socials and have kids’ swim says. “But there’s an open invitation to friends parties.” When asked if she cooks, Shelly says, and neighbors if we’re in town.” “No. That doesn’t work. I’m not a cook and I While David is quick to demur – “We’re don’t bake. My skills with decorations are limitnot making five-course meals, just chicken ed. I work full-time, life is busy and full, so to and sliders and hot dogs” – his entertaining entertain it’s take-out and having people over.” style falls a bit closer to the foodie end of the Shelly’s favorite take-out menu is barbecue spectrum, with more attention paid to the from the Old Hickory Inn in Meyerland. “That’s menu, than that of the Schultzes. “I like to be our favorite sausage place, and people go nuts for on the grill, and I’m always cooking someit.” She’s also known for her “skinny” sweet tea thing,” he says. “Sometimes I’ll look for vodka-lemonades and her Jell-O shots. recipes, like this weekend I’m going to make “Everyone talks about the Jell-O shots,” she says. a peach chutney pork dish that I found when “We make them with vodka and different flaone of those summer grilling ideas popped up vored Jell-O, and we have a kid version and an on my computer. I just thought it sounded adult version in different colors so we don’t mix good.” Note: David made the pork and sent an them up.” Shelly is a purist. “There are so many

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update with the recipe: “The peach pork chops were a huge hit and complemented Cathy’s salad perfectly! I highly recommend them.” The Herrs don’t have a signature drink, but they do keep their fridge stocked with beer and wine, and they’ll often make margaritas. Generally, decorations are minimal. But for both children’s birthday parties, they strung up Christmas lights from the back fence to the house. “Week to week we keep it simple,” David says, explaining how they manage to make it happen every Sunday. Syma Levy takes backyard entertaining up a notch. The party planner and owner of Oulala! What an Event has ideas upon ideas of ways to theme parties and make them “cohesive.” She likes to elevate a backyard barbecue with burlap linens, yellow rose centerpieces in galvanized tins and longneck beer “coozies” printed with something like, “Thank your lucky stars you’re in Texas.” Instead of barbecue, she suggests grilling steaks – and then branding them with the hosts’ name. (She orders brands at bbqfans.com.) “You could serve Texas wines, maybe have a Texas wine tasting,” she says. “And serve Blue Bell ice cream with miniature pecan pies for dessert.” (Syma suggests ordering the mini pies from House of Pies or Goode Company Barbecue.) For a crawfish boil, she decorated with lots of sunflowers and wrote menus on galvanized chalk boards. Mason jars served as glasses for iced tea with mint, and favors were personalized Tabasco bottles that said, “Thanks for spicing up our party.” Syma says, “You could use kraft paper to print your own labels on the computer. Just manually feed it through the printer.” Other readers like to add quartered muffalettas, the New Orleans ham, cheese and olive salad sandwiches, to the crawfish mix. Zapp’s Cajun Crawtator or Who Dat? potato chips and Abita and Dixie longnecks bring more Louisiana to the party. (Go to nolacajun.com to buy the chips or source more ideas for favors, menu and décor.) Syma is all for comfort food – mac and cheese, grilled cheese, fried chicken. “It’s generally taboo, but it’s fun to eat it all when we’re given the excuse. I can’t tell you how many parties I throw, and we spend thousands of dollars on tenderloin and sushi, but the adults wind up eating the greasy burgers and waffles meant for the kids.” With all her creative ideas, the bottom line, Syma says, is that it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Pick and choose a few details to focus on, and let the rest happen. “We all get dressed up and go out to dinner on Saturday night. But entertaining and being invited to someone’s home refreshes us, gives us something to look forward to,” she says. “Sometimes we try to make things so different and special, but really we just need to go back to basics and give people comfort – that’s what they love. Keep it simple. People will like it.”

ENTERTAINED David and Cathy Herr invite people into their backyard just about every Sunday.

Shelly Schultz’s Jell-O Shots 3-ounce envelope Jell-O flavored gelatin powder 1 cup boiling water 1 cup Pinnacle Cool Whip flavored vodka Plastic shot cups (Shelly buys hers at Spec’s) Stir Jell-O and boiling water until the powder dissolves. Add vodka and stir. Pour equally into shot cups, and refrigerate for at least four hours.

Shelly Schultz’s Skinny Sweet Tea Vodka-Lemonade Firefly Skinny Tea sweet tea flavored vodka Lemonade of choice Mix vodka and lemonade to taste. Shelly adds 2 shots of vodka to each glass of lemonade.

David Herr’s Grilled Pork with Peaches From a Southern Living recipe ½ cup peach preserves ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 4 pork chops or 2 pork tenderloins 1½ teaspoons salt ½ teaspoon black pepper Mix the preserves, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and mustard together to form a marinade. Place the pork chops or tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag; add the marinade. Seal the bag and turn to coat meat with the marinade, reserving extra marinade. Chill the marinating pork for 2 to 4 hours. Remove the meat from the bag and discard used marinade. Season pork with salt and pepper, and grill as desired. During the last five minutes of grilling, baste with the reserved marinade.

Cathy Herr’s Arugula Salad Baby arugula Cherry tomatoes Goat cheese Peaches, cut into chunks Store-bought raspberry vinaigrette Mix all the ingredients together in quantities to taste. MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 11

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NEIGHBORS by Cathy Gordon, contributing writer

Escape means heading for the backyard

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e all crave it. That dream retreat, our escape from the daily rat race of traffic, work and chock-full calendars. A place to unplug. Breathe. Lucky Buzz-neighborhood residents Mike and Janell Rogers needn’t endure the expense and hassle of a trip to follow their bliss. Nirvana is just outside their back door, a few paces across a lush, tree-lined lawn. Here sits a charming, open-air, gray cedar-shingled cottage that plays host to all manner of mind-clearing activities. For the past 10 years, it’s been the perfect athome getaway for the couple and their sons, Billy, now a Rice University student, and Charles, a St. John’s School senior. “Yeah, I have friends who have vacation homes they never use. I get to use mine every day,” quips Mike of their cupola-topped hideaway, fondly named Casa Dos. The family’s deep roots with a grand oak tree planted the seed for this staycation project. “About 10 years ago our neighbor next door was selling her cottage and property with beautiful oak trees on it,” explains Janell. “I thought if we don’t buy that lot, we’d just have to move because someone will buy it and remove that beautiful huge oak tree and build some mammoth house. We just couldn’t let that happen. We’ve enjoyed that tree for years!” Her lawyer husband heartily agreed. They bought the property, saved the tree and went about building the perfect Rogers retreat, but not without first touring the former owner’s 1930s cottage, slated for demolition. Charles, a kindergartener at the time, was perplexed. “He turned to his brother and said, ‘I can’t believe we’re moving into that little house just so mommy can save the trees,’” recalls Janell, laughing. “He thought we were moving into the former resident’s place next door.” Any concerns Charles had quickly disappeared when the family’s recreational getaway took shape. Houston architect Dillon Kyle followed simple instructions. It had to be simple, low-maintenance and outdoorsy. “I grew up in the Blue Ridge mountains, so I wanted something that felt peaceful and rustic,” says Janell. The retreat follows the footprint of the origiMEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 14

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Twenty Steps to Bliss nal cottage, sitting further back on the lot for privacy. Beautiful flagstone paths and gardens surround it, including crossbred daylilies planted by the structure’s first owner, a worldclass horticulturist. “In past years, we’ve had Little League parties here, then high school football team dinners and lacrosse dinners… you name it,” says Janell of their backyard haven. “Imagine setting up tables for 40 guys in the backyard. It’s been fun.” BACKYARD BLISS Rogers family members (from left: Billy, Janell, Mike and Charles) Their respite retreat to Casa Dos every chance they get for fun and relaxation. also includes a a pavilion look in the main part of the cottage half-length basketball court and pool. At one because we didn’t want it closed in. We wanted point there was a zip line from the mammoth that back and forth feel, to encourage taking oak tree to a pecan across the way. And a part in everything out here,” says Janell. “A whirligig, the four-seated cousin of the teeterplace to chill.” totter, elicits laughs every time someone gets on Yep, casual is key here. The Rogers have been it. “Yes, adults too,” says Mike. known to throw a tablecloth on the ping-pong Mike adores basketball, thus the sports court. table for Thanksgiving gatherings. And it’s been a hit with son Billy, who played And football season is always popular at Casa Dos. on his high school team. It has improvised as a “We might have 20 kids in here, all watching badminton court as well. And Mike recently the Texans game,” says Mike. took to hitting whiffle golf balls from it. “Just lay “Just picture it. A cold night in January, the out my mat there and shoot ’em,” he says. fire is on and a ton of guys are out there all hud“We’ve found lots of uses for the sports court.” dled in winter gear with their sleeping bags and The cottage has a cubby full of refreshing drinking hot chocolate. It’s quite a scene, so sodas, a bathroom and separate shower so no fun,” says Janell. one need enter the main house after rigorous So fun that the Rogers happily dropped their activity. “It’s full service out here,” says Mike. Texans football tickets. It also includes a screened-in dining area, but “What can I say? They have a blast watching the main space is open air with a big-screen telit out here,” she says. “And you don’t fight traffic evision and stone fireplace to accommodate cold getting home.” weather. “We opted for no screens at all, kind of

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TEXAN TIME Mike Rogers and sons Charles (standing) and Billy enjoy watching a little football in Casa Dos.

NEIGHBORS by Angie Frederickson, staff writer

Outdoor Play Going big in the backyard

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Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

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o play outside! has been shouted at children for generations. Today, it is Mom’s mantra when she has had enough of her children being glued to phones, tablets or Xbox consoles. But outdoor play doesn’t keep screenoriented children as occupied as it once did. Within minutes of being thrown out the back door, the kiddos often come back in declaring that there is nothing to do. To lure children outdoors and give themselves some grown-up play space as well, some Buzzneighborhood parents are installing elaborate outdoor equipment to create upscale, modern versions of the cool house on the block. Building a great backyard was a must when attorney Carlos Abello and his wife, April, searched for a location to build their new house. They found a large corner lot on a horseshoe street for their classic Mediterranean home. The Abello children, 14-year-old Carlos and 10-yearold Mia, who attend The Kinkaid School, only have to step outside to find a batting cage, sport court, trampoline, ping pong table and a pool with a cabana. “One thing we don’t have is a tennis court. My sport got left out. How did that happen?” April said, laughing. The Abellos are a sports-oriented family, and the yard suits them. Carlos (the younger) and his friends like to play basketball on the sport court. There is also the basketball goal on the trampoline and another in the pool. Mia and her friends also play basketball and log hours on the trampoline. One of dad Carlos’ favorite spots is the batting cage. He has coached baseball and softball for several years. In the spring, Mia’s tournament softball team, the Marucci Lady Bulls, and Carlos’ premier baseball team, the Spring Branch Mustangs, will get the benefit of extra practice and instruction in the Abellos’ backyard. During football season the Abellos spend Sundays watching the Texans’ away games on their large outdoor TV, which sits above the fireplace in the cabana. They are eager to actually use the fireplace if the weather ever cools down. They also hold family ping-pong tournaments, which teen Carlos almost always wins. “I never win,” April said.

EASY ENTERTAINMENT Paige Pesek and Claire Boudreaux (from left) enjoy an afternoon of fun in the Peseks’ kid-focused backyard.

Jennifer and Todd Colter also created a yard to entertain their four children between 1 and 10. The Colters moved in about three years ago and installed several kid-friendly structures. Todd and 10-year-old son Lincoln shoot hoops on the sport court and golf on the putting green. One of the best parts of the yard for daughters Carolyn, Charlotte and Corinne is the huge play structure with swings, four slides and two bridges. “The jungle gym is about 20 feet tall,” said Todd. “We installed artificial turf underneath to help soften any falls.” The Colter girls have all sorts of real and imaginary adventures there. In their minds, it’s a castle. “The girls love to dress it up,” Todd said. “We even put Christmas lights on it.” Nine-year-old Paige Pesek also has a backyard to envy. A fourth grader at St. Cecilia Catholic School, Paige enjoys having her friends over to swim in the pool and ride the zip line that runs almost the whole length of the large backyard. To ride the zip line, Paige first climbs a ladder to a wooden platform. From there she grabs the

handles, jumps on the seat and rides down the cable line to a large pine tree across the yard. “It’s perfect for us. The kids can swim while the adults hang out in the outdoor kitchen area and grill and watch games on TV,” said Amy Pesek. When Amy and husband Darrell entertain poolside, quite a few adults take a turn on the zip line, as well. Darrell’s favorite part of the yard is the putting green they had installed by a local landscape company that specializes in synthetic turf for recreational use in residential yards. Occasionally weeds grow up from the ground through the turf and Darrell gets them out of there immediately. “That’s his baby,” said Amy. Golf is a father-daughter activity for Darrell and Paige. They spend time together on the putting green and then hit the course at Lakeside Country Club. Even with all of this entertainment, kids occasionally come inside to say they are bored. What is Amy’s response? A resounding, “Are you kidding me?!”

Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

READY, SET, PLAY Top left: St. Cecilia friends Paige Pesek and Claire Boudreaux (from left) take turns flying across the Peseks’ backyard on the zip line. Top right: Carlos Abello works on his swing in the batting cage in his own backyard. Bottom right: Claire Boudreaux and Paige Pesek (from left) swing their clubs on the Peseks’ putting green. Bottom left: Kinkaid students and siblings Mia and Carlos Abello (from left) go one-on-one on their backyard sport court.

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Sulfa allergy The term “sulfa” refers to a drug in the sulfonamide group. This includes the sulfa antibiotics such as Bactrim and Pediazole, but also sulfonamides that are not antibiotics. Some of these non-antibiotic sulfonamides include the diuretics Lasix (furosemide), Diamox (acetazolamide) and HCTZ. Other non-antibiotic sulfonamides include the arthritis medicine Celebrex (celecoxib) and the migraine medicine Imitrex (sumatriptan). Whereas penicillin allergy often goes away if you avoid penicillin drugs for several years, sulfa allergy usually does not go away. Interestingly, if you are allergic to sulfa antibiotics, it is frequently OK to take most sulfa non-antibiotics. In 2003, The New England Journal of Medicine published an article that concluded people with sulfa antibiotic allergy could potentially be allergic to non-antibiotic sulfa drugs like Celebrex or Lasix, but that the Celebrex or Lasix allergy is not a result of the allergy to the sulfa antibiotic (N Engl J Med 2003;349:1628-35). In fact, those allergic to penicillin (most certainly structurally different from sulfa) were actually more likely to react to the non-antibiotic sulfonamides than those allergic to sulfa antibiotics. Confusion remains about sulfa allergy because some people allergic to Bactrim can take Celebrex and some can’t. Here’s the explanation: people who are allergic to one drug are at higher risk to be allergic to other drugs. It’s similar to the “iodine allergy” myth which mistakenly links shellfish allergy to x-ray dye hypersensitivity. In other words, people with allergies tend to be the same people with other allergies. There are some sulfa non-antibiotics that have increased cross reactivity

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 18

with sulfa antibiotics. One of these is Azulfidine (sulfasalazine), which is used for rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Some drugs used to treat the HIV virus infection or AIDS are sulfonamides. Two of these antiviral agents are amprenavir and fosamprenavir. Although not technically antibiotics (as they don’t kill bacteria; rather they kill viruses), they should be used with caution by those allergic to sulfa antibiotics as they also have increased cross reactivity. Drug allergy is a complicated science. Allergists who are board certified by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology spend two or three years in additional training in clinical immunology after becoming board certified in pediatrics or internal medicine. At Houston’s Allergy Clinic, we then spend a lifetime trying to master the field. 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

NEIGHBORS by Michelle Casas Groogan, contributing writer

With Little Warning Ovarian cancer first felt like stomachache

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hey say it comes with a whisper. Ovarian cancer. It can start with an inconspicuous annoyance that masks itself as digestive issues like bloating, cramping or constipation. The symptoms can lead to a dangerous delay in diagnosis, making this cancer particularly scary, says Buzz-neighborhood resident Cathy Lang. Cathy is a grandmother, fly-fishing enthusiast and two-time breast cancer survivor who has spent the last year fighting her biggest battle yet. “Breast cancer is bad, but ovarian cancer is worse because it’s so hard to detect and the cure rate is not good. It’s scary,” said Cathy. “There have been lots of tears. I have grandchildren I want to see grow up.” In May 2013, almost 13 years after surviving breast cancer, symptoms mimicking stomach problems revealed ovarian cancer. Within a month Cathy had undergone a full hysterectomy and had begun aggressive treatment. Within four months she was in remission and could focus on living and fishing. She and her husband bought a vacation home in Jackson

Home tour Nov. 6 - 23 The Buzz Magazines is partnering with the Home of Distinction project. Davis Builders is constructing an impressive 6,000-square-foot home at 5308 Woodway Drive that will be open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays noon-5 p.m. Nov. 6-23. Tickets are $10 at the door. Proceeds benefit the Judith Liebenthal Robinson Ovarian Cancer Foundation. See homeofdistinction.com. The JLR Foundation was created to honor Judith Liebenthal Robinson, Ph.D., a NASA scientist who, despite exercise, a healthy diet and regular exams, was diagnosed with advanced-stage ovarian cancer and died within a year. It was Judy’s mission to raise awareness about the vague symptoms of ovarian cancer and to improve screening procedures.

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Hole, Wyoming. “Don’t be afraid of what you have to do next,” said Cathy. “It’s like the whac-a-mole game. It pops up. You knock it down. It pops up again. You knock it down again.” And that is the disheartening game Cathy finds IN THEIR SHOES Suzy Reedstrom, lead associate minister at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, knows what she is talking about when she counsels others herself forced to battling cancer. play again. In have been much longer.” The first surgery was a April of this year, more discomfort revealed full hysterectomy, which led to a joyful 11 small nodules in her abdomen. Within a month months of remission. Then more bad news. Each they doubled in size. She has spent her summer subsequent round has included a different drug in Jackson Hole undergoing another aggressive or a different diet, but there has been one conregimen of chemotherapy. stant Suzy gives credit to. The Centers for Disease Control reports that “Women know their bodies better than anyabout 20,000 U.S. women get ovarian cancer body, and if something doesn’t seem right you each year and that about 75 percent of those have got to keep pushing to figure it out. I women die within five years. If ovarian cancer preach that constantly. I kept pushing. I wasn’t is found and treated before the cancer has spread satisfied. I knew something wasn’t right. I think outside the ovary, the five-year relative survival your body tells you that.” rate is 92 percent, according to the American The American Cancer Society says the most Cancer Society. However, only 15 percent of all common symptoms of ovarian cancer include ovarian cancers are found at this early stage. bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eatOvarian cancer causes more deaths than any ing or feeling full quickly, and urinary symptoms, other cancer of the female reproductive system, such as the need to go urgently or frequently. the CDC says, but it accounts for only about 3 The society says a woman should visit a doctor percent of all cancers in women. when she experiences any of these symptoms Lead associate minister at Memorial Drive daily for more than a few weeks. United Methodist Church and longtime area Despite feeling tired, Suzy hasn’t missed a full resident Suzy Reedstrom finds herself ministerday’s work, and she graduated with her doctorate ing most every day to those affected by cancer. in ministry just last year. And she is spending She didn’t predict she would have such a permore time with family, having weekly family sonal connection. She is in her third round of a dinners and making memories with her husband three-year battle with ovarian cancer. It started and two grown sons. with discomfort in the abdomen. She insisted “I think it shakes up everything inside you. on a colonoscopy that indirectly led them to the Then it has a ripple effect in your family. It’s discovery of ovarian cancer. hard to tell my boys I have cancer, and it’s hard “My colonoscopy saved my life,” said Suzy. “It to tell them each time it comes back,” she said. revealed a tumor growing on the outside. It had “I don’t have control over it, but I’m going to do attached itself to my colon, and that’s what was everything in my power to beat it.” pushing, and thank God it did that or it would

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 21

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NEIGHBORS

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by Sharon Albert Brier, staff writer

Rumor Has It Romantic. It was only natural that at Amanda Savage’s marriage to Travis Thompson the Aggie War Hymn was sung by a group of Aggie grads linked together. After all, Amanda and Travis met their freshman year at Texas A&M University. Later, in December 2013, he surprised her with a horse-drawn carriage ride through Highland Park in Dallas for the proposal. They married this summer near the Blanco River inside Old Glory Ranch’s charming Chapel Hall, with longleaf pine, antique light fixtures and 19th century stained glass windows. Guests dined under crystal chandeliers hung on majestic live oaks. The groom’s cake was a modern touch, covered with bite-size Reese’s peanut butter cups. Parents of the couple, Peggy and Ron Thompson and Joy and Gardner Savage, said, “Hullabaloo, Caneck! Caneck!” as the couple whisked off to a Costa Rican honeymoon. Gig ’em. Talked a lot. The gal pals donned white robes and slippers and claimed a spa day to help Laurie Selzer celebrate her 60th at the Travaasa Spa in Austin. Carol Frankel, Harriet Choice, Sherrie Kaplan, Sandy Burke and Laurie have known each other since their University of Texas days. Their children grew up together, and they have celebrated birthdays for close to 35 years. The special outings are when each turns 60. Kale smoothies, leisure walks and hikes were part of the loose agenda that started Friday. They headed back to Houston at noon Saturday in time for date night. Fireworks! The house was decorated with tinsel, bows and lights with a champagne-fountain centerpiece. Susan and Joe Winkler hosted their son Brian’s graduation with a Gatsby-style party on July 4. He graduated from Texas A&M’s Mays Business School with a bachelor of business administration and finance. Guests dressed in ’20s fashions, and feather headbands, beads and fedoras were available for added glitz. Brian asked his girlfriend Cara “Daisy” Caplan to say a few words. Cara, shocked, just thanked everyone for coming. Brian, on bended knee, proposed, and Cara cried yes as her whole family and parents Andy and Leah Caplan walked in for a hug. The wedding will be summer of 2015. MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 24

Art, war, cars, soccer. A three-week driving trip through Europe for Dr. Steve and Adriana Rosenbaum and grandson Morgan Rosenbaum began in Paris with a stop at Monet’s home in Giverny. The international 70th anniversary of D-Day celebration at Sword Beach, Normandy, was especially meaningful as one great-great-grandfather landed on D-Day in Normandy and another survived through the Holocaust. The Dachau concentration camp and visits to synagogues engaged their inner selfs, while a private tour of the Bugatti car assembly plant in France and a tour of TEXAS TWOSOME Newlyweds Amanda and Travis Thompson step into their the Mercedes factory in new married life as they step out of Chapel Hall in the Hill Country. Germany woke up their whales off their balcony as they wound through wild side. Avid soccer fans, they scored at pubs to icebergs. A helicopter trip to the Mendenhall watch the World Cup. Glacier to go dog sledding in Juneau was a high Athletic women. Three golf courses and five, and the lumberjack show in Ketchikan several hike trails later, Charlene Moore and where hot men cut logs and ran on water logs Lili Rubin couldn’t get enough of Beaver Creek, was a lot of wet laughs. Vail and Arrowhead, where the deer evaluated Smart dogs. Did you know that trained their putts. They watched the British Open at canines have removed over 80 firearms and $37 the Vista Restaurant and caught up with million worth of narcotics from our streets? You Charlene’s son, Adam Moore, in his new 911 can help to grant more canine K9s to agencies Porsche sports car on his way back to Denver, and schools at the Unleash Your Inner ’80s where he lives in a high rise near Coors Field. Rockstar fundraiser featuring the Spazmatics. High life! Buy unique leather collars and leashes decorated Cool trip. Families that cruise together, stay by celebrities and artists at the auction. Dig your together. The Carolyn and Clinton Wong famshoulder pads out, plus your tightest mini skirt ily, which included Randal and Tiffany with and loudest colors, to be in the ’80s zone and Gigi and Zachary, Andrew and Karen with join co-chair Jenna Jackson Oct. 28. For tickets, Ben and Elliot, and Chantal and Chris Tan look under Events at K9s4COPs.org with Izzy and Jeremy, started off in Vancouver. In Whistler, they mountain biked and bear Have some good news to share? We want to watched when Gigi sighted a momma and her know. Email us at info@thebuzzmagazines.com. cub. On the Alaskan Disney Cruise, they saw

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TRAVEL by Tracy L. Barnett, staff writer

Travel Buzz Togetherness at sea

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here was a time when family get-togethers were filled with long, heart-to-heart conversations around the dinner table. Nowadays, with families spread out all over the country, we’re more likely to find each other on Facebook than in the dining room. And even when we’re together, we’re often really not, thanks to the multiple intrusions from our handheld electronic devices. Enter the multi-generational family cruise gathering – today’s answer to the family reunion.

ALL ABOARD The Treadwell family takes a family photo at port in Philipsburg, St. Maarten. From left, back row: Scott Schroeder, Rachel Schroeder, Madison Schroeder, Pam Treadwell, Jerry Treadwell, Haley Schroeder, Julie Treadwell, Brett Treadwell. Front row: Katelyn Treadwell, Austin Treadwell, Tyler Schroeder, Courtney Treadwell.

Cruising out of Texas Here are some excerpts from “Reflections on a Texas Cruise Market,” a Buzz-exclusive online essay by Harry Shattuck, veteran cruise traveler and retired Houston Chronicle travel editor: The Texas cruise market continues to expand (after a brief lull), and by February of 2015 will include six passenger ships. By this time next year, the Port of Galveston will have four ships year-round, the Carnival Magic (3,600 passengers, double occupancy); Carnival Triumph (2,758); the Carnival Freedom, a newcomer to Texas (2,974); and Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas (3,114). The importance here is that these are all year-round clients. In January 2016 (or thereabouts), the Navigator of the Seas will be replaced by the Liberty of the Seas, an even bigger Royal Caribbean ship (3,634). Also in Galveston, the Disney Wonder will return for a brief stay in November and December of 2015 with cruises to the Western and Eastern Caribbean. Disney has not announced plans for future years. At the Port of Houston, the Bayport Cruise Terminal, which remained idle for several years, now has two clients, Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), but only for winter itineraries (up to six months). For the 2014-15 winter, those lines’ ships will be the Emerald Princess (3,114 passengers) and the Norwegian Jewel (2,376). For the 2015-16 winter season, they will be replaced by the Norwegian Jade, a similar-size ship to the Jewel, and the Caribbean Princess, similar to the Emerald Princess. The biggest issue facing Texas ships is potential fog delays during winter months. Also, ships are pretty much restricted to the Western Caribbean, other than sailings to the Bahamas and Key West, Fla. In a one-week period, they cannot access the other Eastern Caribbean ports. Carnival is experimenting with its Freedom when it moves from Fort Lauderdale to Galveston, sailing 12-day cruises that include several Eastern and Southern Caribbean ports. If Cuba opens up, it will be a huge help. On shorter cruises (4 and 5 days), only the Western Caribbean is accessible from Texas – usually just Cozumel on four-day Carnival cruises and Cozumel and Progreso (for Merida) on five-day Carnival sailings. On most seven-day cruises, it’s the same, with Cozumel usually included, along with two or three other ports that vary – either a Jamaican port, Grand Cayman, Roatan, Belize City or Costa Maya. Princess is a bit more upscale, with a slightly older and more sedate passenger load, but it’s not dull, and it still caters to travelers on a budget. Princess prefers to be classified as a premium line, one step above budget, but it depends on the ships and itineraries. Its ships are big and roomy. Some staterooms are terrific. Entertainment is good. I’ve probably done seven or eight Princess cruises (the original Love Boat) and always feel at home. Carnival no longer fits the former image of beer-guzzling around pools all day. Its entertainment is among the industry’s best. Its specialty restaurants are high quality. But it helps to know what cruise you are taking. I’ve done them all, and I can attest that a four-day weekend cruise (Thursday night to Monday morning) typically is more raucous – or should I say festive – than a five-day midweek cruise (Monday to Saturday) or a seven-day cruise. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, and later the Liberty of the Seas, are beautiful ships. They have a fantastic indoor promenade. Norwegian Cruise Line is a participant in AARP’s travel program. AARP members can save up to 5 percent for cruises purchased in advance. That’s what we did for an upcoming cruise on the Jewel. We saved about $375 each (or $750 for both of us) just by being AARP members. NCL is the only AARP-affiliated line with a ship based in Texas.

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A TURKISH CELEBRATION Mary Abell celebrated her 70th birthday in Ephesus, Turkey, a stop on a family cruise. From left: David Abell, the Rev. Ed Abell (Uncle Ed), Mary Abell, John Abell, Caty and Tom Gleason, Joe and Melinda Abell, Julie and Randy Merritt. Not pictured: Amber, James and Frank Abell.

Now with the new departures of two major cruise lines – Princess and Norwegian – from the Bayport Cruise Terminal, in addition to the cruises offered from Galveston, Houstonians have even more options to choose from, often less than an hour from their door. We talked with several Buzz-neighborhood families who have had family get-togethers on cruise ships, ranging from small and intimate to big and boisterous. All reported an unforgettable bonding experience. “One of the best things that came out of this experience for us as a family was that we were forced to log off,” said Buzz Magazines editor Joni Hoffman, who together with husband Michael and their two sons, Andy and Matt, were invited on a Princess Cruise of the Eastern Caribbean to check out the new offerings. “It’s the first time in years in our family that we had dinner seven nights in a row – especially without cell phones.” Joni, a self-described cell phone addict, says she doesn’t remember ever logging off since she’s had her phone. And while the cruise ship had wifi available, it was expensive enough that it was mainly for emergencies. This situation produced a family dynamic that most parents long for. “We talked, we laughed, we had serious discussions that probably never would have happened on land,” she said. “We really bonded as a family.” The Hoffmans enjoyed the Princess Cruise’s slightly older demographic, which gave the ship a calmer feel; there were no children under 10 on their ship.

Joni and Michael had a cabin with a balcony, while the boys had a separate cabin inside, and they all went their separate ways during the day. But the family established two traditions – coffee on the balcony in the morning and champagne on the balcony before dinner. “It was just great,” said Joni. “We would sit out on the balcony, hang out, read, have coffee. I would absolutely splurge for a balcony room – it’s worth every penny.” Julie and Brett Treadwell and family celebrated the 50th wedding anniversary of Brett’s parents, Pam and Jerry Treadwell, aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise recently and found it to be a wonderful bonding experience as well. “One of the highlights was the family dinners every night. There was an 8:30 seating,” she recalls. “That was our one time we knew we would all see each other. We had a great time talking and laughing, and the staff would do magic shows to entertain the kids. It was so nice to spend time with the family.” The Treadwell group included their three children as well as Brett’s sister and brother-inlaw, Rachel and Scott Schroeder, and their three children. The Schroeders live in Atlanta, so this extended period together was not something that had ever happened before. The best part, Julie said, was that they could just focus on each other – and having a good time. “Nobody had to cook or clean up; we just met and had a nice dinner.” Making it extra special were the two formal nights, when everyone got dressed up. Even the kids

loved it. Little 8-year-old Austin, Julie and Brett’s youngest, wore a necktie for the first time ever. The Treadwells took a 7-day cruise of the Eastern Caribbean, with ports in the Bahamas, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Their ship, the massive Oasis of the Seas, until recently was the world’s largest cruise ship, with a capacity of more than 10,000 people, with a maximum of 6,295 passengers and 4,000 staff. Another local family, Joe and Melinda Abell, joined a family cruise event hosted by Mary Abell on the occasion of her 70th birthday. Mary treated her six children and their spouses – and one lucky 5-year-old grandson – to a cruise through the Greek Isles, beginning with Athens and ending in Istanbul, for a once-in-a-lifetime family bonding experience. They were also joined by Mary’s brother, Father Ed Abell, a Catholic priest who has served in the Memorial area for many years. Father Ed conducted a private family Mass for Mary’s birthday on the Greek island of Patmos, where St. John wrote the book of Revelation. The cruise was on the ultra-luxury, small-ship cruise liner SeaDream I, actually more of a yacht than a cruise ship. On board were 95 staff and 95 passengers. “You have your own personal attendant, basically,” Melinda said. “It’s one of the top luxury cruise liners of the world, and it was a true sea dream for me.”

MORE ONLINE To read the full text of Harry Shattuck’s essay, click the Travel tab at memorialbuzz.com. MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 27

SPORTS

School Buzz From our student correspondents

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ast month, The Buzz launched a new online blog, School Buzz, which highlights what’s going on in local high schools from the perspectives of students. At the time, school hadn’t yet begun, but that didn’t stop our new editors and reporters from getting started. See below for some excerpts. To read the rest and see what’s new, check out School Buzz at memorialbuzz.com.

Practicing photojournalism Stratford High School’s Taylor Brittain reported: “This summer, many Stratford students from both the newspaper and yearbook staffs participated in a three-day Interscholastic League Press Conference workshop at The University of Texas. It was a chance for the students to work together and brainstorm.... As a student in the photography classes, I found the lessons extremely helpful and came away with a lot of new information about how to use my camera and take better pictures.”

Fish are friends, not food Madison Tebbe, a senior at Memorial High School, offered these tips for freshmen. “1. No matter what any upperclassmen say, there is not a swimming pool on the third floor aqua wing. 2. Bring snacks. Freshman lunch is around 11 a.m., so you have four more hours of school to get through before you can eat again. You’ll appreciate that bag of chips. 3. Ordering food from the provided vendors at lunch is way better than the cafeteria food. Aim for Hunan Inn or Schlotzsky’s; they’re definitely good. 4. Do not underestimate the importance of grades your first year of high school. You don’t want to look back and wish you had tried harder. 5. Try your best to attend every football game, whether it’s at home or away; it’s always good to support your team.”

Volunteer inspiration Monica da Jose of Incarnate Word Academy described her recent experience volunteering at a muscular dystrophy camp: “The kids impressed me in ways that I didn’t expect. They were incredibly patient of newbie volunteers like me. They were energetic MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 28

STRATFORD AT UT Stratford High School seniors Rebecca Williamson and Abby Boessling photograph a mural in Austin.

like other kids their age. They were sharp and mentally strong in ways that I hadn’t expected.... One of my campers had an older brother at camp with him, and he was keenly aware that his own condition would progress similarly to his brother. Even with that thought in the back of his head, he still enjoyed running around and riding horses and zip-lining. They were not dissuaded by their conditions. Rather, they accepted them as an aspect of life, one that wouldn’t stop them from going places.”

Summer in Florence St. Agnes Academy’s Catherine Gassiot blogged about summer travels through Florence: “The last month has been filled with classes, museum visits and plenty of free time to explore the city. The owners of our favorite little pizzeria and breakfast bar recognize us as we go almost daily and always smile at us and get our usual orders ready....

The locals weren’t the only people we bonded with; we made friends with the international college students who were backpacking through Europe and passed through our youth hostel over the World Cup games, even getting a few Facebook friends out of it. Two of the most valuable assets I think not only I, but also the other students on this trip, have gained after our time abroad is independence and fearlessness. Our repeated motto being: “YOFO,” or You Only Florence Once, because who knows when we’ll get to come back here and spend this much time just living in a foreign city. I know that this summer I’ve made memories and friendships that always will stay with me, as I know this summer has been unforgettable and possibly the best one yet.” Editor’s note: Support neighborhood students by commenting, liking and sharing at memorialbuzz.com and facebook.com/thebuzzmagazines.

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by Todd Freed, staff writer

Kevin Long, www.gulfcoastshots.com

SPORTS

SportzBuzz A

s the high school football season kicked off, it did so with high expectations for the Bellaire Cardinals. Bellaire returns several key starters from a team that went 8-3 last year, marking its winningest season since the 1970s. “We’re excited about the strides our program has made the last several seasons,” said Bellaire head coach Trey Sissom. The Cardinals figure to make big strides offensively behind all-district quarterback Trevon Smith, who accounted for 2,400 yards and 19 touchdowns last season. “Trevon is a very athletic quarterback who’s dangerous both with his arm and his legs,” said Sissom. Another big threat with the ball is running back Xzaviar Campbell, who rushed for 1,150 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. “We spread the ball around quite a bit, so for any running back to rush for that many yards in our system is pretty impressive,” said Sissom. The Cardinals also boast a big-time offensive weapon in junior wide receiver Courtney Lark, who’s ranked as the top junior receiver in the entire state. “Courtney is a phenomenal talent,” said Sissom. Defensively, Sissom is especially excited about the return of linebackers Jaylon Stiner and Shellie Adams, who are three-year starters for the Cardinals. “Those guys really anchor what we do defensively.” Sissom also had high praise for sophomore defensive end Alex Duke, who also was a standout on the Cardinals’ basketball team as only a freshman last season. “We’ve made the playoffs the last four seasons,” said Sissom, “but our goal this year is to win a district championship and get beyond the first round of the post season. After advancing all the way to the Class 4A state semifinals last year, the Stratford Spartans are primed and ready for another big season in 2014. “Last year was amazing, to say the least,” said Spartans head coach Eliot Allen. “We graduated a big bunch of seniors, but a number of our underclassmen saw significant playing time. We should be a pretty good team.” Among those returning from last year’s state semifinalist team is junior running back Rakeem Boyd, who rushed for over 1,600 yards while splitting time as a sophomore. If that weren’t MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 30

enough, Boyd also averaged a lofty 10 yards per carry. Boyd should have some running room ahead of him with the return of three all-district offensive linemen in Wade Touchstone, Jack Whitaker and center Houman Ziary. Allen also likes what he sees in junior quarterback Bryce Cooper, while wide receiver Torin Justice returns after a standout sophomore season. On defense, the Spartans’ strength will be up front with the first-team, alldistrict linemen Mikal Pruitt and Alex Miller. With the likes of ON THE RUN After a sensational sophomore season in which he rushed for Katy, Cinco Ranch and over 1,600 yards, Stratford junior Rakeem Boyd should be running for big chunks Katy Seven Lakes out of of yardage once again this season. the picture, the terback Matthew Jordan and wide receiver Memorial Mustangs are the favorite to win a Morgan Whatley, who caught 10 touchdown district championship this season. After compasses last season. peting against the Katy ISD schools for the last On the ground, running backs Kris Beasley several years. Memorial has been realigned into and Colton Taylor, who both saw limited action a district composed mostly of schools from the last year, will be called upon to help carry the Aldine ISD. load for what has traditionally been one of the That’s not to say that Memorial didn’t more area’s best rushing attacks. On the offensive line, than hold its own against the Katy schools, earntop returners include George Pappas and ing a playoff spot every season and even advancCharles Combe. Defensively, the Mustangs lost ing to the Class 5A state semifinals in 2010 key starters such as Khari Dotson and Cameron before falling to eventual state champion Cibolo Crawford, but if history is any indication, the Steele. Just last season, Memorial advanced to Mustangs’ defense should be as stingy as ever. the third round of the playoffs before losing to Memorial looks to make another deep run in the Manvel in the 5A Region III semifinals. post-season playoffs. Now, as a district favorite in 2014 and even boasting a Top 10 Greater Houston pre-season Editor’s Note: Todd Freed is the Emmy Awardranking, the Mustangs will have some big shoes winning co-host and producer of the KUBE to fill with the graduation of their two leading SportsZone, which airs Saturday and Sunday at 6 rushers in Matt Collins and Nick Abreus, who p.m. on Channel 57-KUBE. To submit high school accounted for 1,700 yards and 19 touchdowns sports news for possible inclusion in SportzBuzz, last season. To fill that void, the Mustangs bring please email todd@thebuzzmagazines.com. back several offensive players, including quar-

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Karen Thompson

SPORTS

by Scott Kennedy, contributing writer

SportzBuzz, Jr. W

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

Post Oak has memorable run

Karen Thompson

There aren’t many people in the world who can say that they have been on the same baseball team for seven years. And yet, out of a Post Oak Little League team of 13 players, nine have played together for the last seven years – about half their lifetime. The Post Oak Little League 14-year-olds All-Star team was created in June, after team managers voted on the league’s best players. Although a new team of All Stars is selected after every season, this group has seen many of the same players make the All Stars again and again. This familiarity of the players after all this time has created a highly successful team chemistry. The team has won nine banners, awarded for championships at various levels, more than any other Post Oak Little League team in history. Like other teams, they start by playing teams within their district, and the team that wins the tournament then advances to sectionals, then to state, regionals and, finally, nationals. From there, teams compete for the American spot in the Little League World Series, which includes teams from other countries. The team, in the Junior Division, started off their journey at the district tournament at West University Field, followed by sectionals in Huffman. The team won first place in both tournaments, routing their opponents. They outscored their district opponents nearly 4 to 1, and their sectional opponents by more than 20 to 1. After sectionals, the team advanced to the Texas East state tournament in Tyler, which they also won. In order for them to make it to nationals, as they had the year before when they were the national runner-ups, they had to win regionals. The tournament took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and it pitted Post Oak against the best teams from Louisiana, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico and Texas West. Post Oak came in second at regionals, ending a memorable season. While every player was critical to the team’s overall success, there were certain key moments: when Hill Johnson had a game-winning hit at district, when Ben Vaughan kept the Louisiana team to only two runs at regionals, and when Blake Fertitta and Andrew Alvarez contributed so many times at the mound and the plate. The team (pictured, top photo, from left) consisted of manager Dash Kohlhausen, Alex Graham, coach Brian Goodsell, Jack Thompson (also

pictured in photo at bottom right), Will Kunetka, coach Andrew Bean, Hayden Rome, coach Gareth Kohlhausen, Dillon Burr, Robert McHenry, Blake Fertitta, Andrew Alvarez, Nick Smith, Will Edens, Hill Johnson, coach Dan Myers, Harrison Cascadden, coach Josh Chaffin and Ben Vaughan. (Not pictured is coach Kyle Rynd.) “It was really fun,” said second basemen Jack Thompson. “It’ll be sad not getting to play again. The chemistry after all these years was amazing. I’ll always remember after the championship, running out to the banner and being with my team.” 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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Matt Power

NEIGHBORS

by Jordan Magaziner, staff writer

Buzz About Town Garden club The Garden Club of Houston’s 72nd annual Bulb and Plant Mart will be held Oct. 2-4 at its new location, St. John the Divine Church. Shoppers will find more than 500,000 top-quality bulbs from domestic and international suppliers, including hundreds of varieties of tulips, iris, amaryllis, daffodils, hyacinths and hard-to-find plants. Over the summer, garden club members have taken on the project of growing the native milkweed that monarch butterflies use as their host plant, and it will be available at the plant mart. Visitors will receive a horticultural guide for Houston and can visit the conservation booth,

which will feature native and drought-tolerant plants curated by experts. See gchouston.org.

Golf, greens and gatherings This summer, Houston Methodist supporters gathered in Aspen for a three-part event hosted by Cam and Rod Canion, Nancy and Jack Dinerstein, Kimberly and David Dominy, and Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook. Golfers teed up in the mountain air for the Grand Rounds Golf Open presented by Bayou City Capital, in which they were greeted at the fifth hole by Dr. Mauro Ferrari, president of Houston Methodist Research Institute; Dr. John P. Cooke, chair of the

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Department of Cardiovascular Sciences; and Dr. Michael Reardon, chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery. Non-golfers enjoyed eatable greens and insights about cooking with chef Martin Oswald and Houston Methodist nutritionist Kari Kooi during Food for Thought at Pyramid Bistro. The day concluded at Aspen Golf Course where guests enjoyed mountain views, cocktails, BBQ, live music, awards, raffle drawings and more. Pictured are Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook in front of a mountainous backdrop during the event. All of the funds raised from the day benefited the

Translational Research Initiative at the Houston Methodist Research Institute.

Peak performance

than racing at the top of a mountain!” Jennifer compared the experience to being “sort of like childbirth” because it’s painful and exhausting, but she’s ready to go through it all again next year. Monique said that although it was tough, it was a beautiful venue and they had a great time. The best part of doing triathlons, said Christine, are the friendships she’s made through racing. They’re already plotting their next destination race, but it likely won’t be anywhere with altitude.

Art inspirations Lagenia Clark, Christine Dodson, Jennifer Draper and Monique Boling (pictured, from left) started training and racing together several years ago through the Heart Zones Women’s Tri Training group. None of them knew that they’d all get hooked on the experience and that they would ultimately participate in the Steamboat Lake Sprint Triathlon this summer. They chose this race because Monique recently built a home with her husband Mark Boling in Steamboat. Although their training in Houston’s flat lands didn’t prepare them for the challenge of racing at an altitude, Jennifer placed second and Lagenia placed third in their race category. “I never thought I would welcome the heat and humidity of Houston,” Lagenia said, “but training and racing at sea level is definitely easier

Two years ago, Amazing Place, a day center devoted to adults with mild to moderate dementia, launched a weekly art class to provide participants with a creative outlet for expression. Many have never painted before but are showing talent and gaining pride from their works of art. Artists and volunteers Mary Alderson and Suzy LaForge developed the curriculum and have been teaching it since it started; both had parents with dementia as well as an interest in art. Art creat-

ed by Amazing Place participants was enjoyed by the public at the St. John the Divine Art Gallery during August. Pictured is Memorial resident Jeff Davis, who’s proven to be prolific in his art, in front of three of his paintings at the art exhibit. One of his abstract paintings is featured on the cover of a new CD, Struggle Pretty, by singer/songwriters Penny and Sparrow, available on itunes.com. Learn more about the center at amazingplacehouston.org.

Haute homecoming

The Spring Branch Education Foundation, which works to enhance the quality of education for students in SBISD, will host its second Legacies of Spring Branch Gala Oct. 25. Marissa and Duncan Klussmann, co-chairs of the Haute Homecoming celebration, have named the planning committee. Pictured are some of the com(continued on page 36) mittee chairs and mem-

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 35

bers, (from left, front row) Patty Busmire, Marissa Klussmann, Michelle Putnik, (back row) Tracy Thornton, Debra Aitken, Jennie Baker, Cece Thompson, Casey Rowe, Kimberley Morris, Michelle Majewski and Heather Sheffield. In addition to auctions and dinner, the gala will include a homecoming dance featuring Molly and the Ringwalds. Proceeds benefit educational and enrichment programs in the Spring Branch ISD. Tickets begin at $200; tables are available at $1,500-$10,000. Sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are available. Call 713-251-2381.

Honoring inclusion

The JFS Alexander Institute for Inclusion, Jewish Family Service’s division, which promotes

Family members, including Kasey’s mom, Patricia McCaleb, and Joel’s parents, Joe Dean and Sue Phipps, witnessed the wedding with a backdrop

a community in which individuals with disabilities are fully included, has been selected by the Ruderman Family Foundation as one of five worldwide organizations to receive the 2014 Ruderman Prize In Inclusion. The prize honors organizations that operate innovative programs and provide services that advocate for inclusion of people with disabilities. A key objective of the Institute is reducing the stigma related to disabilities, and this was the goal of ReelAbilities: Houston Disabilities Film Festival, hosted by the Alexander Institute the past two years with the partnership of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and founding sponsor TIRR Memorial Hermann. Pictured (from left) are Debra Cohen, JFS president, and Becky Cisneros at a family reception during the 2014 “Houstonians with Positive Exposure” festival. This event featured photos taken by photographer Rick Guidotti of local individuals with genetic differences and disabilities, presented at the Nicole Longnecker Gallery.

of mountains. The bride and groom’s families, including Kasey’s children, Jackson and Sydney Kelso, and Joel’s kids, Jackson and Margaret Phipps, arrived earlier in the week to enjoy a slew of activities including horseback riding, whitewater rafting and hiking. After a few weeks’ break from adventure, Kasey and Joel headed for their two-week honeymoon in Italy, with stops in Cinque Terre, Florence and Tuscany.

Buzz cover models wed

New principal

This summer, two former Buzz cover models, Kasey McCaleb Kelso (featured on the November 2009 Bellaire Buzz cover for a story about baking on “Pie Day” before Thanksgiving) and Joel Phipps (featured on the June 2011 Memorial Buzz cover for a story about father-son bonding) married in Crested Butte, Colorado.

The Memorial Middle School community is welcoming Dave Parker as the new principal. He joined the teaching staff at Stratford High School in 2000, where he taught English and coached tennis. Since 2004, Dave has served as assistant principal at Memorial High School. Currently, he’s part of a cohort of SBISD school leaders partici-

Lauren Brimhall Photography

(continued from page 35)

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finish at the Meet of Champions this summer. The boys set a record for the 13-14-year-old 200yard freestyle relay with a time of 1:48:38. McGuire also set a new meet record for the 50yard breaststroke with a time of 31.75. The boys were coached by Kyle Rathgeb and Ford Story, former teammates and 4A state champions at Stratford High School. “It’s not all too often you have 13-14s who come up to the blocks with not

pating in the Rice University Education Entrepreneurship Program, a leadership program for educators. MMS seventh graders Claire Loud and David Mouton recently interviewed their new principal for a Q&A. The students discovered that Mr. Parker’s favorite books to teach were Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck and A Separate Peace by John Knowles, and that his favorite books to read for fun are spy novels, such as The Bourne Identity series by Robert Ludlum. Pictured (from left) are Claire, Mr. Parker and David in the principal’s office as the students interviewed him.

only the confidence that they can win, but that they can also set a record,” said Kyle. “It’s something that makes you really proud as a coach (and as an older brother) to see. Ford and I couldn’t have been more proud of the boys.”

Ready, set, dive

Razzle dazzle

Wilchester Wahoos Dean Rathgeb, an eighth grader at Memorial Middle School, Colton Maloy, a freshman at St. Thomas High School, George McGuire, a freshman at St. Thomas, and Kyle Goodson, a freshman at Stratford High School, celebrated after their first-place

The Memorial Hermann Foundation will host its annual Razzle Dazzle Pink! Luncheon on Oct. 2 at the Westin Houston Memorial City, benefiting the Bobetta C. Lindig Breast Center at Memorial Hermann Memorial City. A champagne reception and boutique will start the

morning off at 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch and a program at noon. This year’s event, chaired by

Sandy Barrett, Jo Lynn Falgout and Grace Kim, will feature jewelry designer Kendra Scott as the guest speaker with Donna Vallone as this year’s honoree. Pictured (from left) are Cyndy Garza, Leisa Holland-Nelson and Soraya McClelland enjoying last year’s luncheon. For more information, contact Cathleen Fishel at 713-242-4450. Editor’s note: The Buzz congratulates Annie and Tyler McQueen on their beautiful twin babies. Annie Blaylock McQueen, associate editor and Buzz About Town columnist, is currently out on maternity leave, spending time with her newborn babies, Cash and Lila. In the meantime, Jordan Magaziner is handling this section. As usual, please send your high-res photos and community news to The Buzz at info@thebuzzmagazines.com or 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, TX 77401. Items are published on a space-available basis.

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 37

EVERYBODY GET UP Helen Scott, a freshman at Texas Tech University, is passionate about passing on the dance experience to younger kids.

KIDS by Helen Scott, age 18

Buzz Kidz

Waiting in the wings

I

was sweaty. My costume was itchy. And my face, covered in my mother’s makeup, smiled more than ever before. It was my first dance recital. At the time, I was in elementary school. I didn’t understand all the dance moves and wasn’t the best in the class, but I knew I had found something special. Years later, on a studio competition team, and devoting all my time to dance, I was heartbroken to know that many children in our city never get to experience dance and all the benefits that it reaps. I took a group of my friends to the Star of Hope Women and Families’ Emergency Shelter, where we taught summer dance classes to children ages 4-12. Classes went from stretching and dance technique to games and crafts. The kids seemed to love it. When we were teaching pirouettes and

turns, there were three 10-year-old boys who became incredibly excited to master the new skills. The point of teaching classes at the shelter was more than just a way to entertain the children, but also to nurture them. Studies have proven that dance classes have significant mental, physical and social benefits, including improved condition of your heart and lungs, increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness, increased aerobic fitness, improved muscle tone and strength, stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis, better coordination, agility and flexibility, improved balance and spatial awareness, increased physical confidence, improved mental functioning, improved general and psychological well-being, greater self-confidence and self-esteem, and bet-

ter social skills. The morning of our second day of classes, I was sitting in the waiting room, waiting to be lead back to the children’s center. My team of volunteers and I were beyond exhausted and ready for the day to be over. Then I saw the pigtails of a girl we taught the day before bouncing into the room. She spotted us and immediately lit up, excitedly asking, “You’re coming back today?!” A little confused, I said “Yeah.” Her excitement was uncontainable. She ran over and gave me a gigantic hug. 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, TX 77401.

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DINING GUIDE by Dai Huynh, staff writer

This Month in Dining Almost-homemade entertaining

Restaurant Listings $ (under $10) $$ ($11-$30) $$$ ($31-$60) $$$$ (over $60) Prices include drink, tax and tip per person

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Bundtlets are individual-sized little cakes. Flavors include (pictured) chocolatechocolate chip and white chocolate raspberry. Dai’s favorite is the lemon.

I

’m a cheat. I admit it. There hasn’t been a dinner party or patio brunch where I haven’t enlisted the help of a restaurant, deli or dessert gallery. I love to cook and entertain friends and families, but it never hurts to supplement a home-cooked meal with a few bought goodies. It benefits both me and my guests: less stress for me and more treats for them. Often, I prefer focusing on the main course, like smoking a brisket or grilling fajitas, but leaving desserts to someone else. These days, Houstonians have more options than grocery stores – although the Central Market (3815 Westheimer) cupcakes that a friend served at a recent outdoor party were incredibly moist with a surprisingly balanced butter-cream frosting. I also wouldn’t hesitate grabbing a dozen or so cupcakes at Smallcakes (1531 Eldridge Pkwy.). And Nothing Bundt Cakes (5115 Buffalo Speedway, Ste. 400) sells Bundtinis. The bite-sized beauties are sold by the dozen for $18.50. A personal favorite is the zingy lemon cake, but there is also chocolate, red velvet and white chocolate raspberry. I like my guests to have choices, so I get three of every flavor. For an upscale soiree, Common Bond Café and Bakery (1706 Westheimer) lines up beautiful tarts and other desserts like bejeweled soldiers behind glass window. In the past, I created a stunning display by layering 14-plus flavors of macarons from Bite Macarons (5172-B Buffalo Speedway) on three-tiered pedestal service plates. I took the same approach with the Indian desserts from Bombay Sweets (5827 Hillcroft). Inevitably, there is always a vegetarian or two in the party mix. When this is the case, I turn to the experts, like Green Vegetarian Cuisine (6720 Chimney Rock, Suite Y), which has several party plates that includes falafel, kale, tabouli, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, banana peppers, feta and tatziki. My guests have nibbled on dips from Leibman’s (14529 Memorial) and beef brisket and pork tamales from Alamo Tamale & Taco (809 Berry Road), followed by grilled beef and chicken from Fajita Pete’s Mexican Grille & Cantina (4050 Bellaire Blvd.). Salads are a cinch after I saw a woman bring her giant salad bowl to Island Grill & Juice Bar (multiple locations) to be filled with crispy lettuce, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, bell peppers and feta cheese. She said it’s a time-saver. MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 40

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. Leave time to enjoy your own party. This month, I’ve highlighted places with catering menus. Post Oak Grill offers great selections of hors d’oeuvres, such as mushroom canapés, hoisin-glazed lamb lollipops and coconut-crusted fried shrimp. Revival Market, Adair Kitchen and Kenny & Ziggy’s are my go-to spots for cheese, smoked fish and charcuterie platters.

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 pecan-

crusted baked chicken with citrus glaze. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 5161 San Felipe, 713-623-6100. adairkitchen.com. $$ NEW LISTING!

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. $

Bite Macarons French pastries Neighborhood: West University Making macarons is a dare, especially in Houston’s soggy climate. These delicate orbs in a multitude of colors and layered flavors are finicky. Their golden, smooth crust turns into dud-like chews at the hint of humidity.

Macarons also demand surgical precision in the sifting of superfine sugar and ground almonds, combined with the folding of egg whites. A misstep results in a gritty fistful of chalk. And so, it was a treat to bite into the carefully crafted puffed-up salted caramel and pistachio renditions from Bite’s pastry chef-owner Sandia Horng. At last, the search for macarons in the Bayou City that were “almost” like those from the venerable Ladurée in Paris is over. Granted, the weather was perfect that day – hardly a hint of humidity, nor a disappointed face at this white-gloss dessert-coffee house. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 5172-B Buffalo Speedway, 713-6642483. bitemacarons.com. $

Bombay Sweets Indian vegetarian Neighborhood: Sharpstown The all-you-can-eat buffet steams with aromatic basmati, vegetable curries and sautés that are constantly being replenished, keeping the selections fresh and tasty. Families and college students also come for chaats, such as samosas, idly rice cakes, lentil doughnuts and pani puri, a crispy hollow pastry filled with chili-spiked potatoes. A salty, sweet and tart explosion detonates when you pour the accompanied spice-fueled tamarind water into the shell. The chaser? Soothing masala chai. Lunch & dinner Mon.Sun. 5827 Hillcroft St., 713-780-4453. $

Common Bond Café & Bakery Pastries and sandwiches

NEW LISTING!

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 soul-satisfying breakfast with a steaming café au lait. The moistly crisped walnut chocolate chip cookies, even at $3plus 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, 713-529-3535. wearecommonbond.com. $$

Cottonwood Bar fare Neighborhood: Garden Oaks From the owners of (continued on page 42)

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 41

GREEN VEGETARIAN CUISINE This Chimney Rock restaurant serves vegetarian specialties, including a hefty Mediterranean Bowl brimming with sliced carrots, tomatoes, quinoa tabouli, kale salad, grape leaves, black olives, pecan hummus, tzatziki sauce and falafel patties. (continued from page 41) Raven

Grill comes Cottonwood in Garden Oaks. Part bar, part pub, part band venue, along with an excellent patio (fire pits, games, live music, etc.), Cottonwood also offers a great burger selection. The Squirrel Master Burger is a poblano-stuffed patty, topped with a jalapeño fried egg, pepper jack cheese and bacon. The egg adds a spicy kick to the burger, but does not overpower the flavor of the meat. Dinner Mon.-Thurs.; lunch & dinner Fri.-Sun; brunch Sun. 3422 N. Shepherd Dr., 713-8020410. cottonwoodhouston.com. $$

Down House Neighborhood modern fare Neighborhood: Houston Heights Kimchi is a Korean dish of seasoned, fermented vegetables. Add that and a fried egg to the burger at Down House in the Heights, and you have the awesome Kimchi Burger. A thick, Augustus Ranch, grass-fed, Texas-meat patty is topped with cheese, kimchi and a sunny side-up egg. The moist challah bun is well accented with bulgogi sauce, the Korean equivalent of a teriyaki marinade. This is a quaint Heights favorite. Be patient if there are crowds. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon-Sun., 1801 Yale St., 713-8643696. downhousehouston.com. $$

Funky Chicken Gourmet fried chicken Neighborhood: The Heights It seems simple enough – fried, moist chicken with skin so brown and enduringly crisp. Yet many chefs don’t get it right, and even fewer are able to take it to the next level. The exception is two-time James Beard winner Bradley Ogden. The Las Vegas superstar chef and son Bryan recently opened the Funky Chicken – the first of MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 42

many, they hope. We couldn’t be happier that they’re testing their recipes on Houstonians. The Ogdens have perfected the art of fried chicken with a savory coating reminiscent of the paperthin, amber-glass crust on a crème brûlée. The barely-there breading allows you to taste crispy skin along with the expertly marinated organic chicken. Funky Chicken also serves roasted chicken and gourmet sides like quinoa salad and roasted brussels sprouts. Lunch & dinner Mon.-Fri. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Sat.-Sun. 181 Heights Blvd., 832-924-4655. realfunkychicken.com. $ NEW LISTING!

Green Vegetarian Cuisine

Kosher vegetarian Neighborhood: Bellaire-Gulfton area Enchiladas, spaghetti and quinoa are on the menu of this San Antonio-based vegetarian kosher chain that is fast attracting a loyal following among green devotees and non-vegetarians hooked on the kitchen’s clean, simple flavors. The dishes are largely straightforward – from a portabella burger with A.1. steak sauce and caramelized onions to fried eggplant parmesan over marinara-tossed spaghetti. The key is ultra-fresh salads and ingredients brought to life by zippy sauces, which are always available for the asking. The green poblano ranch dressing doesn’t come with the satisfying Frisbee-sized Mediterranean Bowl. But try it to add another dimension to the quinoa tabouli, black olives, falafel patties, dolmas, carrots and tomatoes. Chipotle mayo pairs nicely with the artichoke and portabella quesadilla. Such well-prepared and affordable grub draws a constant stream of regulars to this friendly nook with an earthycrunchy vibe. Don’t leave without trying a vegan brownie or a hostess cupcake. Lunch & dinner Sun.-Fri. 6720 Chimney Rock, Suite Y.

832-649-4184. eatatgreen.com. $$

Island Grill & Juice Bar Smoothies and burgers Neighborhood: West University/Tanglewood Granted, the smoothies with natural juices at Island Grill are pretty lush. The Island Oasis is ripe with sweet pineapples, strawberries, coconut juice and vanilla yogurt. The juices – from lemon-ginger shots to coolers made with veggies and fruits – are refreshing. But regulars also come for breakfast bagel sandwiches, pancakes and egg tacos. Muscular, 8-ounce Angus burgers on soft buns lure many folks for lunch and dinner, along with fresh, pristine salads and pitas stuffed with a variety of grilled vegetables, seafood and meats. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. (closes 4:30 p.m. Sun.), 4024 Bellaire Blvd., 713-665-5388. 5709 Woodway, 713-334-4036. islandgrillhouston.com. $$

Kenny & Ziggy’s New York deli Neighborhood: Galleria area Kenny & Ziggy’s is a wood-panelled delicatessen plastered with movie posters, memorabilia and anything else that might invoke Broadway. Homesick New Yorkers line up for pickled herring, bagels, lox, potato pancakes, and pastrami and corned-beef sandwiches, which owner Ziggy Gruber stacks with hand-sliced, triple-smoked beef. While packed for lunch, breakfast draws a much smaller crowd. But hearty morning fare is Kenny & Ziggy’s best-kept secret. The two eggs any style with potatoes, bagel or toast are a bargain at $7.95 and with enough food to share with your best friend. Huge servings are the standard here. Even so, the Texas-size bowls of homemade matzo ball soup empty quickly. These tender orbs have won competitions all over town. Breakfast, lunch

& dinner Mon.-Sun. 2327 Post Oak Blvd., 713871-8883. kennyandziggys.com. $$

of sauce to elevate the flavors of beef and seafood. Lunch & dinner, Mon.-Sat., 1415 S. Post Oak Lane, 713-993-9966. postoakgrill.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. $$

Post Oak Grill Gulf Coast classics Neighborhood: Tanglewood Happiness exists in a bread basket at this popular outpost for business lunches. The basket usually cradles oven-fresh biscuits fragrant with green onions, bacon and cheddar cheese. One really isn’t enough; nor is two or three. Slow down, though, or you’ll fill up before the perfectly grilled rainbow trout arrives, glistening lightly with butter-caper sauce. Polo Becerra is a classically trained chef with a timeless approach of keeping ingredients simple and clean, with just a sheath

Revival Market Gourmet market and café Neighborhood: The Heights Partner Morgan Weber and chef Ryan Pera source fresh ingredients from local growers and suppliers. Their multifaceted concept (grocery store, deli, patisserie and coffee shop) is unique, with much to admire. It expands on a growing theme in the culinary world, in which chefs return to the basics, curing their own meats and preserving their own fruits. Weber and Pera take it a step further by raising their own heritage pork and chicken. You’ll also find artisanal foodstuffs, including house-made vinegars and pickles. Seafood bycatches are from PJ Stoops. Antibiotic-free smoked meats and sausages (try the boudin) are from Pera and charcutier Adam Garcia. Breakfast, lunch & dinner Mon.-Sun. 550 Heights Blvd., 713-880-8463. revivalmarket.com. $$

Smallcakes Cupcake emporium Neighborhood: Memorial We stumbled on this tiny, sweet-smelling shop by accident, and a happy one at that. The cupcakes here are edible icons of childhood innocence. Nearly perfect. Voluptuous. The cake is moist and tender. The well-balanced

frosting is buttery and fluffy. The Choco-holic (chocolate cake and chocolate buttercream) and the Caramel Crunch (with sea salt and pretzel) exemplify grown-up flavors and highquality ingredients. About 15 flavors are featured daily by this Kansas franchise founded by Jeff Martin, who competed on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and was featured on The View, where one of the hosts declared, “Now this is a red velvet cupcake right here.” Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sun. 1531 Eldridge Parkway, 281-9209110. smallcakesmemorial.com. $

Thai Gourmet Traditional Thai Neighborhood: Galleria Area Here, the lemongrass, coriander and galangal sing with clearly identifiable voices. Thai Gourmet’s flavors are bold. Sweet, sour and salty combine harmoniously, particularly in the fisherman’s soup brimming with mussels, scallops and shrimp. The execution of pad thai and beef satay are very fine, while the fiery beef curry with potatoes and chicken green curry rarely disappoint. Lunch & dinner Mon.Sat. 6324 Richmond Ave., 713-780-7955. thaigourmethouston.com. $$

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Expertise • Service • Satisfaction Susan Aggarwal

Mary BurrellHutchins

Jean Risha

Karen Parker

Wendy Bellow and Pat Nimtz

Tracie Pierce

Connie Wong

Judy LaFico

Lynette Lew

Lori and John Webster

12850 Memorial Drive, Suite 1155 • Houston TX 77024 • www.garygreene.com • 713.461.6800 ©2012 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

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Finding your financial advocate What’s the difference between a customer and a client? When it comes to finding an advisor who will truly serve as your financial advocate, understanding the difference between the two can make all the difference in the world. A customer relationship is driven by a transaction taking place, such as when buying a car or a mutual fund. A client relationship is based on objective advice that advocates for what is in your best financial interests. Think about a recent car purchase from an auto dealership. Were you a customer or a client? Most of us would agree that even after you drove the car off the lot, you were still a customer and not a client. While the dealer was there to educate you on the cars he or she sold, it was not the dealer’s job to objectively advise you on which car was in your best interest. It was also not in the dealer’s job is to seek the lowest purchase price for you, but rather the highest. There may have been, for example, the same car available for less money at competing dealer next door. As a result, your financial interests will typically be at odds with the dealer’s interests. The automotive industry and much of the financial services industry are very similar in this regard. Consider the following: 1. Both industries have vast dealer networks to distribute their products, such as dealerships for cars and bank and brokerage offices for financial products such as CDs, wrap accounts, mutual funds and annuities; 2. Both industries give their sales people important-sounding titles such as vice president, consultant, manager or advisor, rather than the more apt title of salesperson or broker; and

3. Both industries operate with an abundance of sales incentives for their employees, such as commissions, fees and sales quotas, many of which are not visible to their customers. Regardless of whether you're buying a car or a mutual fund, it is your job to be an informed customer and the burden is on you to advocate for what is in your best interests. An alternative approach is to hire a financial advisor who works directly for you as your financial advocate – the foundation of a true client relationship. Because you are paying the advisor directly a fee that is not contingent upon you buying any financial product, such a relationship will be in sharp contrast to the customer relationship in which your advisor receives fees and commissions from what you buy. Your relationship with your advisor as a client should always put your best interests first and not be contingent upon you buying a financial product. Matt Goff, President and Chief Investment Officer, The Goff Financial Group, 11 Greenway Plaza. Suite 1425, Houston, Texas 77046, 713.850.8900, GoffFinancial.com

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 45

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Beware of POD accounts

Ask Reneé, the Realtor

The most common reason individuals set up bank accounts as payable on death (POD) is because they want to provide fast access to cash for their family and to avoid probate. However, setting up accounts in this manner is usually not recommended. Typically, a parent leaves a bank account to only one of his/her children with the intention that that the child will share the funds with siblings. Here lies the unintended gift and problem. For 2014, an individual is allowed to give $14,000 ($28,000 for married couples) each year per recipient without gift-tax consequences or having to report the gift. If the child who is the POD beneficiary gives more than this amount to a sibling, a gift tax return must be filed, and the amount of the gift reduces the child’s federal estate-tax exemption amount. The problem may be fixed post mortem, but the individual cannot take action in obtaining ownership over the account. If the POD beneficiary collects the funds, then it is too late. Before accessing bank accounts after a loved one passes away, one should seek counsel with a probate attorney. Brett M. Moyer, Mitzi D. Rivero and Robert A. Tarleton are attorneys practicing in the West Houston area. Contact our office to schedule a free estate-planning consultation. Sloan & Moyer LLP welcomes Robert Tarleton, who joined the law firm in July. Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in estate planning. Sloan & Moyer LLP, 11767 Katy Fwy., Suite 1130, Houston, Texas 77079, 832.327.1180, www.sloan-moyer.com

MLS or non-MLS? In today’s market homeowners are thinking, hummmmm…. I can put my home on Facebook or email the neighborhood Mommy network to sell our home and save all those commissions! A word of advice: You are seriously limiting the buyer market for your property by not listing it with an experienced realtor and putting your property in the Multiple Listing Service via HAR.com. There are many qualified buyers right now who will not know who you are, some being transferred from out of the country and from out of state. Why limit the possibilities? It’s a fact that 99.9 percent of the time a knowledgeable Realtor will bring you the highest sales price than what could be achieved by selling on your own. Let’s also include the possible legal ramifications. The Houston Association of Realtors has worked hard for a No. 1 state-of-the-art listing service for sellers, and our MLS service brings strong value to our sellers. Sellers net more at the closing table by hiring a professional. Feel free to email me your questions or comments. I love hearing from all of those who contact me in the community. 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

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Thetas welcome Cornelia Guest New way to exercise The much anticipated annual Theta Charity Antiques Show is fast approaching. Treasures and Traditions, the 62nd Theta Charity Antiques Show, premieres November 20-23 at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Exhibit Hall A. During the four-day antiques extravaganza, novices and enthusiasts alike will have exclusive access to over 50 of the most prominent antique dealers from around the globe. The show offers a diverse selection of everything from exquisite furniture to vintage jewelry to one-of-a-kind artwork. At the 62nd Theta Charity Antiques Show, dealers exhibit items with prices ranging from modest to high end, to offer options for buyers of every price range. Saturday’s featured speaker is Cornelia Guest. Guest is known for her philanthropic passion for animal activism through fashion design as well as her entertaining abilities exhibited in her books. She has made special appearances on the Food Network and Extra. Guest will speak during the lecture series at 10:30 a.m. and sign copies of her recent book, Simple Pleasures: Healthy Seasonal Cooking & Easy Entertaining, following her presentation. Tickets to the forum are $10. General-admission tickets for all four days are $10. Since 1952, the Theta Charity Antiques Show has donated over $6.5 million to Houstonarea charities. For more information regarding the show and to purchase advance tickets, visit www.ThetaCharityAntiquesShow.com.

If your goal is to burn fat, experts recommend high-intensity interval training (HIIT) – not 30-60 minutes of cardio and traditional exercise every day, but rather short spurts of HIIT. The magic of HIIT is its ability to keep you burning fat even after your workout. This phenomenon is referred to as EPOC, which stands for Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption. After intense exercise, your body has to expend a lot of energy putting itself back together, metabolically speaking. So, while you may burn fewer total calories during a brief high-intensity exercise session, in the end, you burn more as a result of your efforts. However, for many of us, “high intensity” sounds intimidating, so the key is to find a program where you get the fat burning in a safe environment. The Exercise Coach (TEC) specializes in Right Intensity Training, a scientific exercise protocol designed to match each individual’s current fitness level. TEC combines some of the most advanced bio-adaptive exercise technology with personal trainers to deliver results in just two 20-minute sessions per week. Grant English, manager of TEC in Hedwig Village, brings close to a decade of experience to his clients. TEC is currently offering four free sessions for first-time clients. The Exercise Coach, 9412 Gaylord St., Houston, Texas 77024, 713.766.5300, www.exercisecoach.com

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Marcel, age 2, Standard Poodle, Briar Rose Dr. My name is Marcel. My family says I follow them around like a puppy dog because I am a puppy dog. I know I am very helpful. When the cat needs to be chased, I chase it. If someone walks by our house, I make sure everyone within miles knows. When anyone drops food, I’m there to clean it up. Once, when my dad was fixing something on the roof, I knew he would require my assistance. So I jumped out the window to see, but no one told me the roof was slanted. This is what happened: My momentum is carrying me toward the edge of the roof... There’s no time to hit the brakes... Oh, Nooo! I’m flying... This is great! Yikes! Time to land... Umph! Is this Heaven? Oh, wait a second. This is our backyard. Whew! I hope our security cameras captured me flying because I don’t want to try that again. Got a cute critter? Email a picture of your pet with approximately 150 words to info@thebuzzmagazines.com or mail it to The Buzz Magazines, 5001 Bissonnet, Suite 100, Bellaire, TX 77401. Featured pets receive two passes to Rover Oaks Pet Resort. Each pass can be redeemed for one day of lodging in a Bunk House Suite, 25 percent off your next grooming appointment or 25 percent off one obedience training class.

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Member since 1966

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A minute with Maisie

White Glove stores, delivers

Many clients ask me, “What do I do if my co-parent is not paying his or her child support as court ordered?” As a single parent, budgeting for your family becomes extremely difficult when your co-parent doesn’t contribute financially pursuant to the court order. Holding your co-parent accountable means filing a Petition for Enforcement of Child Support and forcing this parent to explain to the court why he or she is not paying the child support. While a parent may have excuses, such as job loss, it is that parent’s responsibility to modify the child support obligation immediately to avoid contempt. If the court finds that the co-parent had the ability to pay the support but failed to do so, the court can impose several remedies, including finding the co-parent in contempt of court, ordering attorney’s fees, levying bank accounts and even jail time. While this may seem extreme, failing to support your children is not merely irresponsible, it is criminal. 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, Ste. 600, Houston, Texas 77046, 713.600.5500, www.jenkinskamin.com

Have you ever needed a professional crew to assist with moving fine art or furniture from one place to another? How about someone to receive and deliver a shipment of French antiques? I am pleased to introduce you to WG Storage & Delivery. WG Storage & Delivery offers premier, full-service relocation, delivery, receiving and storage solutions. Whether you are remodeling, requiring storage or relocating across the United States, WG Storage & Delivery has gained popularity by old-fashioned service and professionalism. “There is such a need for a professional, service-oriented provider within our industry. I feel as if it has been missing in our area for a very long time,” said WG Storage & Delivery owner Leonard Ledford. With almost 15 years of experience in Austin, WG Storage & Delivery has also celebrated its fifth birthday in Dallas. WG Storage & Delivery has recently expanded into Houston. “We feel we have a secret recipe for success that the Houston area will appreciate,” said Ledford. As the moving season is on the horizon, WG Storage & Delivery is already beginning to book its schedule. “The key is to plan early. The company you choose to assist with your move makes a big difference. It is a very stressful time, and the last things you need to worry about are the contents of your home,” Ledford said. WG Storage & Delivery is a premium-service provider with comparable rates, so call them today to book your next move. Finally, a moving company that can take care of you and your possessions. Leonard Ledford, WG Storage & Delivery, leonard@wghouston.com, 832.713.7132

MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 49

NEIGHBORS

by Andria Frankfort, staff writer

.

Back Porch

Entertaining the family

W

ith all the talk of entertaining this month, I started thinking about a different kind – the kind we do every night, for our families. It’s not always (or even often) what we’d do for company, but if you think about it, what we do every day must be at least as important as what we do for special occasions, right? It’s like wishing for the weekend: If we hold out for Saturday, we won’t enjoy the other days of the week. Problem is, we get into ruts. I’ll make the

Italian Meatballs and Sauce 6 garlic cloves, mashed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 28-ounce cans Cento brand San Marzano whole tomatoes 2 teaspoons salt, divided 1 teaspoon pepper, divided 1 pound ground chuck 1 cup ricotta cheese 4 cloves garlic, chopped 4 shallots, chopped ½ cup grated parmesan cheese 1 cup panko bread crumbs 1 egg, beaten lightly In a large, lidded sauté pan or pot, brown the mashed garlic in the olive oil until the garlic is “cappuccino” brown. Add the tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper to the pan. Mash the tomatoes in the pan with a potato masher. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, mix the ground beef, ricotta cheese, chopped garlic, shallots, parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Shape meatballs and place in the simmering sauce. Simmer for 7 to 10 minutes (depending on meatball size) and turn the meatballs over. Simmer another 7 to 10 minutes. Serve with pasta. Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, olive oil or spices on top if desired. MEMORIAL BUZZ SEPTEMBER 2014 50

same recipe every week for weeks at a time, even though it wouldn’t be too taxing to rotate the repertoire. I have to know I’m not inspiring any kind of dinner table magic with turkey taco salad. From an envelope. In that spirit, my friend Sarah Sampson had a clever brainstorm: Have a party where everyone brings one of their family’s favorite recipes, cooked, along SO MANY CHOICES Claire Gorman and Michael Halverson check out what their moms brought to a recipe taste-testing party. Claire's mom's meatballs were with enough copies of a favorite. the written recipe for Laskin, Karin Davidson, Michelle Frankfort and each family to take home. The kids come, taste Brandy Silverman run together every Tuesday everything, and you go home with recipes for morning after carpool. Then they go back to one anything they’ve approved. Not to mention, of the women’s homes – it rotates – and cook a you’ve got one night’s dinner down, having fed family dinner together. The host chooses a your people at the party. Genius. recipe, buys ingredients and tells the other three After a couple of years talking about what a what containers to bring. Then each great idea she had, Sarah and I finally gave it a runner/chef brings dinner home to her respecgo this summer. It was seriously last-minute – I’m tive family. talking three-day notice – but we sent an e-mail Christine, an integrative-health coach, is all to a few friends we know like to cook and asked about “doing things you love and combining them to join us for a glass of wine while we them. We all want to cook, and we want to expanded our fall recipe reserves and the kids socialize,” she says. “We would be running, talktaste-tested and (hopefully) hung out together. ing about recipes and what we were making for Amazingly, the kids – all 16 of them, ranging dinner, so Karin suggested we just cook together. in age from 5 to 17 – approved just about every Now we run, wash our hands and do a recipe. recipe. “I’d really like my mom to make some of It’s something we need to do anyway, and our those [recipes] because all of those were delifamilies get excited about what we bring home.” cious,” 12-year-old William Perdue said. “I think They recap afterwards via e-mail, sharing what maybe we should do it every once in a while, at their families, including nine children ages 7 to least every year. There was nothing I didn’t like.” 12, liked or didn’t like. The foursome calls themWilliam’s favorite? Neighbor Susan Gorman’s selves the “Run Away Chefs.” Italian meatballs (see recipe). “We experiment with healthy recipes,” The idea engaged 12-year-old Will Christine says. “And we’ve made our lives a litSampson enough that he made dessert for the tle more simple. It’s a wonderful thing.” crew – meringue cookies with cardamomspiced strawberries. Come to find out, another group of moms are For more recipes, see this story online at way ahead of Sarah and me and have been sharmemorialbuzz.com. ing recipes for the past year and a half. Christine

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