Intown November/December 2011

Gift GuideCast & Blast

STREETSOF DESIRE

The Futureof Travel

An Interview with Arian Foster

November/December

www.intownmag.com • Intown September-October 2011 1

�� Lang Road, Houston TX ��Phone: (��) ��-��

Website: www.LR-refinishing.com Email: [email protected]

Services Available

befo

re

afte

r

2 Intown November - December 2011 • www.intownmag.com

CONTENTS

FOOD / 6__________________________________

Best New Restaurants

FINANCIAL FOCUS / 18_______________________________________________________

Talk to Your Children (and Parents)about Shared Financial Picture

ARTS & EVENTS / 26______________________________________

STREETS OF DESIRE / 8________________________________________

Kirby Street StoryWestheimer Road Story

LIFE A BETTER wAy / 22__________________________________________

GREENLINK - the key to the future

THE GAME / 12__________________________

Cast & Blast

THE LAST PAGE / 28___________________________________

So, Here I am. In Goma.

86 12

2822

GREENLINK

18


PublisherM.A. Haines

EditorLisa June

Production

Web Design:Melaroo

Art Director:E.K.Brown

Layout Design: Alona Preskovsky

Web Design: Jay Ford

ContributorsBuddy BaileyGracie CavnarMarene GustinKatheryn HoukBrenda JacksonNancy Kershen

For advertising ratesand information713.525.8607

[email protected] reservation deadline is 15

days prior to publication.

Intown Magazine is published bi-monthly by SNS Media.

Articles are welcome and will be given careful consideration

for possible publication. Intown Magazine does not assume any

responsibility for unsolicited materials. Materials submitted

will be returned if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. You can also e-mail [email protected]

Copyright 2011 by Intown Magazine. All right reserved.

Content may not be reprinted or reproduced with permission

from Intown Magazine.

EDITORIAL

New bus service is a game changer

www.intownmag.comWEB EXCLUSIVES

Photos, Videos, Features

Just a few weeks ago, it was quietly announced that the city of Houston in partnership with the Downtown Management District, Houston First and BG Group were establishing a free bus service to popular locations within downtown Houston. What was significant was not the fact that the service is free, but that the buses will be running by the spring of next year, powered exclusively by natural gas.

As the energy capital of the world, it is gratifying to see that Houston will become a leader in the use of alternative powered vehicles. The Greenlink project route extends little more than two miles but will have powerful ramifications in the energy world. You probably have seen the Exxon commercials telling us how plentiful natural gas is in the U.S. and how inexpensive it is. The cost of natural gas is roughly one third of the price gasoline. Well it is finally time to put that theory to good use and what a better place than in Houston.

First used in commercial vehicles by Italy after World War ll, natural gas vehicles (NGV’s) in the U.S. total just over 100,000 units primarily consisting of buses and trucks. Natural gas is an environmentally clean, plentiful and a low cost, domestically produced fuel that now is used in over a million homes and businesses. It can prevent the costly contamination spills such as the disastrous BP Gulf Coast spill and due to its’ non toxic nature and light weight it dissipates very rapidly in the air.

There are currently 40 manufacturers of NGV’s including Ford and Chrysler, so why are only one in every 1,100 vehicles powered by this abundant and affordable resource? Currently 75% of the world’s energy consumption is fossil fuels. Natural gas is not only a cheaper and more abundant fuel, it is an environmentally friendly alternative. It is and has been in the national security interest of the United States not to be so dependent on foreign interests for our energy needs. It is time to move forward with this game changing opportunity not only with city buses but other vehicles. Congratulations to the mayor and the three groups that have afforded Houston the Greenlink program.

Happy Holidays,

M.A. Haines


Best New Restaurants FOOD

The Bird and the BearHouston’s own Elouise Adams Jones or affectionately known as “ Ouisie” from Ouisie’s Table in River Oaks has just launched The Bird and The Bear. From lunch to late night, as well as Sunday brunch, she has an array of dishes that will please everyone from vegetarians, pescatarians to the hearty carnivore. 2810 Westheimer

Tony Mandola’s Gulf Coast Kitchen The new location of Tony and Phyllis Mandola’s Gulf Coast Kitchen is a dream finally realized in their brand new, free standing restaurant on Waugh Drive. Serving all of our nostalgic favorites as well as some pizzas with a new twist and other selections that will surely be on your favorites list for years to come. 1212 Waugh Dr. SorrelA fresh approach inside the loop. No need to take that drive to Ray’s Grill in Fulshear any longer to delight in the locally procured, seasonal flavors from owner Ray Salti and Chef Soren Pedersen.

A three course prix fixe during lunch is offered as well as an la carte . Many inspiring choices from their imaginative and fresh from the farm menu.2202 West Alabama

Felix 55Not the Felix that we all came to know and love in the Montrose , Owner Pejman “PJ” Jamea and Chef Michael Kramer has introduced a delectable American menu with many favorites for even the pickiest of patrons.5510 Morningside

Cru’Within the shiny new West Ave development in River Oaks, Cru’ will likely be a favorite place to see and be seen. From floor to ceiling one is surrounded by a wall of wine bottles that is sure to make you smile. If you’re new to the fine art of vinification or a seasoned sommelier you will feel right at home. With the offering of thirty or more wines by the glass and over three hundred bottles to choose from, Cru’ takes their interest in wine to a new level. Experience the menu of wine flights

By Lisa June

they offer and you will be on your way to a world of wine empowered with taste and knowledge without the attitude. Oh yes and let’s not forgot the delicious menu . My favorite is the pear and Gorgonzola pizza. Matt will be most helpful in choosing a perfect pairing with your choice.2800 Kirby within West Avenue Center

Hendrick’s Pub and EateryA fresh and friendly place that offers some favorite pub fare such as Bangers and Mash as well as salads and pizza. With over twenty-two draft beers and thirty-six bottled beers to choose from you can find something for everyone. The menu even states the alcohol content in each flavor. Whisky flights for the serious at heart also offered. 3320 Kirby Drive

D’Amico’s Italian Market Cafe in The HeightsThis location is a welcome sight in the Heights with it’s authentic Northern and Southern Italian recipes that is a taste of the old country. They offer a steam table from 11am-2pm with a wide variety of tasty items as well as the full menu of our favorites we came to love at the location in the Village. Outside seating and plenty of parking available. 2802 White Oak

Xuco Xicana Out with old and in with the new. This isn’t your momma’s El Patio anymore. This midtown hotspot has a revved up menu and nice covered patio where you can let your hair down and people watch. Professional staff that is friendly and attentive can help you navigate the new menu and make sure your dining experience is tasty and fun. 2416 Brazos

Mandola’s New Gulf Coast Kitchen

www.intownmag.com • Intown November - December 2011 7


EV.In Town ad.11-11_Layout 1 10/17/11 3:08 PM Page 1

STREETSOF DESIRE

Kirby & Westheimer

6

Haven - just hidden off Kirbyon Algerian way this seasonal kitchen is modern in every sense with recycled equipment and its own water filtration system. The chef Randy Evans keeps it interesting at lunch, dinner or brunch with shrimp quail and a great pork chop all with a Cajun flare. Homemade tater tots and fried green tomatoes are also served.

Miyako - it may not look like much from the road but since 1979 this Japanese fare has made it one of Houston’s favorites. A very reasonable priced happy hour and you will find old timers and youngsters alike enjoying sake and rolls of all kinds

House of Pies - This is the place with the lines wrapped around Kirby drive during the holidays as people line up to get the pies they promised for the Holiday Dinner. This Houston institution serves 24/7 and will surprise you with a home cooked meal whether its breakfast lunch or late night dinner. Over 100 pies to choose from by the slice.

1

2

3

Eddie V’s Founders Guy Vallavaso and Larry Foles recently agreed to sell this wildly successful chain that anchors the corner of West Ave. opposite Tootsie’s. An inviting bar and restaurant that oozes with smells of scallops and assorted gulf seafood fare. This popular seafood restaurant is somewhat famous for the steaks they serve as well.

4


Kirb

y D

r.

Kirb

y D

r.Ki

rby

Dr.

Kirb

y D

r.

Richmond AveRichmond Ave

W Alabama St W Alabama St

Westheimer Rd

Westheimer Rd

12

3

4

5

Ninfa’s

Papasi

to’sSush

i King

Intern

um Furn

iture

Carrab

ba’s

Pesce

Cierra

Who

le Foo

ds

R Snap

Michelle Williams

Gallery

Kata Robata

Desert gallery

Hendrick’s

Cafe Express

J.Sussan

Ashley Rugs

6

7

Downing Street- The correct name being 10 Downing Street wafts with the smell of expensive cigars and fine scotch. Wines by the glass served by some of Houston’s best and longest tenured bartenders will also make you a great sandwich for lunch or a late night cognac for sipping on the patio.

Taco M

ilagro

Cru’- A wine bar A descriptive title this long awaited arrival from dallas has not diasappointed. if wine and cheese and pizza and coolness is your thing you have met your match.if you really enjoy it you and your friends can rent out the whole place for private parties.

5

7

8

Tootsie’s - A newcomer to this fab street that really anchored the entire development for the Gable’s West Ave. development, this women’s store with over 35,000 square feet on the corner of Westheimer and Kirby is one of the signature stores in all of Houston. This fashion would fit in just as well in Milan, New York or London. Owner Mickey Rosmarinwho started in 1973, with a vintage clothing store can be proud of his showcase of sparkling marble floors and modern glass cases with accessories galore, that includes designers Givenchy and Valentino. There are 21 dressing rooms, valet parking, in addition to the 40 reserved spaces. Casual wear and one of a kind party dresses will hook you up.


Westheimer Road

Wes

laya

n St

Will

owic

k Rd

Westheimer Rd

Westheimer RdWestheimer Rd

Dre

xel D

rD

rexe

l Dr

Wes

tgro

ve L

n

12

3

4 Plants &

Petals

Mecox

Z Gall

arie

Josep

h

Victori

a’ Secr

et

L’occi

tane

Brighto

n Tasti d

’ Lite

Marmi

Kiehl’s

Bose

Restora

tion

Hardware

Janice

& Ja

ck’s Esca

lante’

s

Ann Tay

lor

Pottery

Barn-K

ids

Galypso

Donald

Pliner

Lucky

Brand

Centra

l Mark

et

Casalin

ea

Pottery

BarnCole H

aan

William

s Son

oma

PF Chang

’s

James

Avery

Eye el

egan

ce

Banna

na Rep

ublic

Donald J Pliner -One of five concept stores for the men and women’s shoe design-er. This husband and wife team were responsible for the first all elastic shoe and still use the material in most of their shoes today. Hence the term “Rolls Royce” of comfortable shoes’ giv-en to Pliner by a national morn-ing show. The store is inviting and who knows maybe you will meet the owners themselves as they frequent the location.

Smith & Wollensky- The only true steak house on this strip of shopper’s heaven, this place is capable of providing a great experience if you hit it just right. The weather will help because the outside patio dining also allows cigar smoking and great bar snacks between non-stop shopping. A great place for mingling or a private party on the second level overlooking what looks like could be Rodeo Drive.

STREETSOF DESIRE

RA Sushi- This lively ultra chic sushi bar sits atop West Elm in the heart of Highland Village. Since it’s opening this popular Japanese restaurant has been serving traditional fare but also offers some original dishes such as the crunchy calamari roll and the spicy gojira roll with shrimp,cream cheese, sriracha and spicy mayo. In addition their philanthropic endeavors include an annual fund raiser for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

West Elm- This Pottery barn and Williams Sonoma sibling is perfect if your looking for inexpensive nick nacks or household gift shopping. You will find a designers heaven. Inexpensive office tables and desks to go with some modern chairs and funky chandeliers will spruce up any office or study. Also holiday decorative gifts galore make this a one stop shopping mecca.

1

2

3 4


Frank’s Chop House-Owner frank Crapitto serves a great meal at a fair price. On Sundays they offer buttermilk fried chicken and half priced wine. The pork chop is the most popular item on the menu that features traditional fare and it will not disappoint. Open for lunch and dinner they also offer a kid menu called the Chopper’s Run by the same team that has Crapittos on Midlane.

Wes

laya

n St

Will

owic

k Rd

Westheimer Rd

Westheimer RdWestheimer Rd

Dre

xel D

rD

rexe

l Dr

Wes

tgro

ve L

n

5

Deutsc

he &

Deu

tsche

Valentino Vin bar- At the corner of Westheimer and 610 located in the popular Hotel Derek is a relatively new creation from Luciano Pellegrini and Piero Selvaggio of California and Vegas fame. Chef Cunningham West offers traditional veal, seafood and pasta with a flair, all in a lively atmosphere

5

6


The

Game Cast & BlastGrosse Savanne- A True Sportsman’s Paradise

By William Hanover

The amenities

also include

cuisine that

will make

even the most

discriminating

Cajun proud.


Floral designs + deliveriesHoliday decorations | Retail garden elements

Gifts + decor | Garden designWeddings events | Corporate parties

Specialty gifts

Come see us at the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market November 11 - 14 in booth 1755

Great landscaping and design, as well as your pool, fountain, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and

fireplace specialists.

A GiFt FoR All SeASoNS!

713.957.0449 ajslandscaping.comajsurbanpetals.com

IMMERSE

YOURSELF IN

LUXURY LIVING

Private, gated enclaveof 39 luxury garden homes,

nestled in the heart of Houstonand minutes from everything intown has to offer

GATED COMMUNITY | PRIVATE BACKYARDS | LARGE LIVING AREAS | HARDWOOD FLOORS

STAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN APPLIANCES | GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

LUXURIOUS BATHROOMS WITH TRAVERTINE MARBLE TILE

SPACIOUS MASTER SUITES | LUSHLY LANDSCAPED PARK AND WALKING TRAIL

LOCATED MINUTES FROM MIDTOWN, DOWNTOWN AND THE MUSEUM DISTRICT

713-242-7900 WWW.OASISINTOWN.COM

Homes ready for move-in or custom design

your own!

The Best Valuein the Inner Loop

From the 240's

Brokers Welcome

Louisiana locals call Calcasieu Lake the “Big lake” and with good reason. The lake record for speckled trout is 11.25 pounds and Grosse Savane Lodge manager Karl Zimmerman thinks there is “ a twelve pound plus speckled trout’ lurking in these brackish waters. For those in the know Calcasieu Lake is considered as one of the country’s top estuaries. The mighty Mississippi River and the beautiful saltwater marshes provides a fertile breeding ground for the fish habitat. Perched nearby on the marshes is the once hurricane battered Grosse Savanne Lodge. Finally it is back to an even more splendorous existence than before Hurricane Rita demolished it.

Along with the great fishing expectations comes the lodge, which is one of only 26 Orvis Endorsed Wingshooting Lodges in the country. Their stringent criteria for this exclusive endorsement includes quality of the hunt in addition to the quality of the service and the facilities, but also the amenities provided for after the hunt. With the fabulous casino Lauberge dulac and the award winning golf courses, Greys Plantation both nearby, there are plenty of diversions to keep you here awhile. The amenities also include cuisine that will make even the most discriminating Cajun proud. Duck and goose hunts are the most popular for guests, but don’t underestimate the fishing-both fresh and saltwater. For freshwater fishing enthusiasts they recently opened a 70 acre freshwater pond with bass and bull bream. Saltwater fisherman can chase red and black drum and flounder among others. For the expert they offer light tackle and fly fishing excursions. Grosse Savane Waterfowl and Wildlife Lodge is an avid proponent of the Coastal Conservation Association, Ducks Unlimited and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and can be found at 1730 Big Pasture Road in lake Charles, Louisiana or on the world wide web at www.grossesavanne.com


What is it like to be famous?I don’t consider myself to be famous actually. Well you are and do you like what it means?Let’s call it familiar not famous. It doesn’t

bother me it’s just part of it and part of what I do. It’s nice to have fans that admire you and respect you and I like to acknowledge that.

Do you think you are a little misunderstood because you don’t

use a lot of cliches? People are not use to that maybe because many athletes don’t think like me so maybe misunderstood.Were you poetic and creative as a kid? Yea I think I was born that way, but at Tennessee I developed my rebelliousness nature, but the creativity was always there.

You went undrafted out of college at the University of Tennessee. Was that a wake up call for you?I did have to change my mental attitude and my outlook on things. I was really rebellious and was not much for a systemic lifestyle. I like to be an individual and in the realm of the football world it’s not looked at as individualistic it’s looked at as rebelliousness so I had to find a happy median between the two. In the National Football League they are looking for outgoing personalities and people are looking for someone that they can relate with. Was it the hard work you told me about that turned it around for you? Yea when you are in college you work hard but in their system and you do what you are told and when you are in the NFL you are paid to perform but also to stay in shape. One of the freedoms they give you is the option of the best way for you to stay in shape and I think then I found my niche and was allowed me time to blossom by focusing on nutrition and all other aspects of training.

An Interview with Arian Foster

by John Granato

The

Game


Do you cook?No. I can but I don’t.

Besides the football what do you do for fun? I do a lot of things. I have a little daughter so you know we partake in a lot of activities and watch a lot of kids shows. I also have a little studio in my house that I have set up and I like to make music of different genres and am really involved with music. How did your daughter change you? Ah, she changed me dramatically. She is pretty much what I do everything for now and I see so much of myself in her and I just strive to be the best father I can be and the best shining example of a human being so she has someone she can look up to. There is a lot of negativity and news kind of flocks toward that so I try to be a positive example and show her different ways of doing things and really just trying to teach her how to develop her own mind and not try to mold her into a little me. Are you a fun dad? Absolutely. I am a fun person. When you retire what do you think you will do?There is no telling. I have always in my head as a kid told myself that I was going to be in the NFL and I will find something when I’m in the NFL that I enjoy doing and I will build on that and it’s starting to move that way.

I did have to change my mental attitude and my

outlook on things. I was really rebellious and was not much

for a systemic lifestyle.

16 Intown September-October 2011 • www.intownmag.com

A Cardinal’s Christmas event at Saks1 Souad Malouf Bajjani, Woody Nassar and Roseann Rogers

2 Tracey and Jim Geary

3 Nancy Golden and Adrienne IssacPhoto Credit: Catholic Charities

Atruim Fall Collection Preview Party 4 Chris Kimbrough and Lauren Grannello5 Annette Cuff and Melissa Cuff6 Celina Stabell, Luvi Wheelock and Christine HofferPhoto Credit: Priscilla Dickson

BOWLS THAT BENEFIT

7 Emily Shuffiled and Annie Dishman

8 Jim Dow, Philip Tenenbaum,and Mikki Donnelly

9 Abigal Ciscomani, Thais Cuffy and Mackenzie Hollas

The

BUZZby Roseann Rogers 1 2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9


6938

River Oaks Baptist School 2300 Willowick Houston, TX 77027.3996

713.623.

www.robs.org

Laying a firm foundation for your child’s future

Applications due by December 15 for first round admission consideration.

For almost 60 years, River Oaks Baptist School has been providing students a firm foundation – academically, morally, spiritually, socially, and physically. Discover how we help children grow in knowledge, character, and faith.

www.facebook.com/cafeadobetwitter.com/cafeadobewww.cafeadobe.com

River Oaks2111 Westheimer

(In the River Oaks District)713-528-1468

Clear Lake1330 W. Bay Area Blvd.(Adjacent to Baybrook Mall)

281-461-1468

Spring Branch/Memorial7620 Katy Fwy. Ste 355

(Marq-E Entertainment Center)713-688-1700

Sugar Land2329 S. Hwy 6

(Across from First Colony Mall)281-277-1700

Natural Cycle in vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most holistic IVF treatment possible, avoiding fertility drugs that would otherwise stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. It intends to only capture the one egg the body develops naturally each month during the menstrual cycle. This egg is generally the best quality egg a woman’s body will produce even when fertility drugs are used, with the greatest chance for pregnancy. Women who choose natural cycle IVF generally favor its holistic approach, the way nature intends women to conceive and create life. Natural cycle IVF is also ideal for women who, because of advanced age or poor fertility health, are less likely to produce multiple eggs even if high dosages of fertility drugs are administered. When they do undergo fertility treatment, they are either offered only limited IVF access or made to suffer cancelled cycles because they cannot produce more than three to five eggs. For them natural cycle approach avoids the side effects and high cost of drugs, as well as the discomfort of daily injections. Mini-IVF is another holistic IVF treatment offering a gentle alternative to conventional IVF. It differs from Natural Cycle IVF in its use of minimal dosage of fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries so that they can produce the maximum number (usually 3-5) of “quality” eggs possible in a single cycle. Research has shown that the quality eggs harvested in a Mini-IVF cycle are the only eggs that are capable of producing a healthy baby, even if more were to be produced through hyper-stimulation in a conventional IVF. Those beyond 3-5 are typically not viable and are either discarded prior to embryo transfer or will be prone to end up with miscarriage. Like in Natural Cycle IVF, women using Mini-IVF also avoid the side effects and high cost of drugs. Mini-IVF may be preferable to natural cycle IVF for some women because it yields more eggs and increases the chances of pregnancy. It also provides surplus embryos for freezing, and holds the reserve embryos for future use. The pregnancy rates for these two approaches is competitive with conventional IVF based on the number of embryos transferred while the health risks associated with multiple births are much lower. Both approaches are easier, less stressful and less expensive, and most ideal for couples who are interested in choosing a minimal drug and chemical way to build a family. To discover how Dr. James Chuong, Medical Director of Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine in Houston can make your dream of building a family come true, please visit www.cooperinstitutearm.com or call (713)771-9771.

HOLISTIC IN VITRO FERTILIZATION

– A NATURAL AND LOW COST WAY TO BUILD A FAMILY-


FINANCIALFOCUSby Buddy Bailey

Talk to Your Children (and Parents)about Shared Financial Picture

It’s Thanksgiving week. And if you’re fortunate, you can look around your Thanksgiving table and see several generations of your family. Of course, as you know, many types of cohesiveness are involved in knitting a family together. But one connection that frequently gets ignored, at least in terms of family dialogue, is the financial linkage between parents and their children on one hand, and these same parents and their parents on the other. So if you find yourself in this “sandwich” group, it may be worth considering your financial position.

If your children are very young, you might want to start by emphasizing the importance of three separate concepts: saving, spending and sharing. If you give them an allowance, or if you pay them to do some minor tasks around the household, you can encourage them to put the money in three separate containers. The “spending” jar is for them to use as they choose, the “saving” jar is to be put in some type of savings or investment account and the “sharing” jar is to be used for contributions to charitable causes. You can extend the spending, saving and sharing themes by encouraging your kids to spend wisely, watch how their savings grow and feel pride in the work done by the charitable groups their dollars support.

Later, when your kids are older, and can earn money by babysitting, mowing lawns or working part-time, you can further encourage good financial habits by offering to match their contributions to a Roth IRA. And be sure to discuss the

If you’re fortunate, you can look around your Thanksgiving table and see both your children and your parents. But if you’re in the middle of these generations — that is, if you’re in the “Sandwich Generation” — you may have some big financial responsibilities.

Preparing for the FutureLiving in the Now,

For many of us, our goals in life remain constant: financial independence and providing for family. Striking a balance between saving for such goals as education and retirement and allocating money for daily expenses can be challenging, but you can do it.

Learn how you can redefine your savings approach toward education and retirement. Call or visit today.

Buddy Bailey, AAMS®Financial Advisor.

2718 SackettHouston, TX 77098713-528-0606

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC


different types of investments available; they may enjoy learning about the ways in which they can participate in the financial markets.

Above all else, talk to them about the importance of developing good financial skills and how these skills will play a part in your family’s overall well being.

Now, let’s turn to your parents. If they’re elderly, you may find that talking to them about financial issues may be considerably more challenging than talking about these issues with your children. It’s unfortunate, but true: People are sensitive about money and often don’t want to talk about it.

You may find that you need to be persistent, especially if your parents are getting on in years. Perhaps you encourage them to consider their current position, and what planning might need to be considered. Do they have accounts in a local bank? Where are their investments held? Do they have a financial advisor? Have they worked with legal professionals on any arrangements?

If your parents have expressed interest in leaving a legacy or passing assets to family members, you might consider encouraging them to seek assistance from the appropriate professionals. After all, if something were to happen to your parents without them having made the proper arrangements, their wishes may not be carried out.

So this Thanksgiving, as you think about the value of your family, you might take some time to consider issues that need to be addressed. . It may take time and diligence — but when it comes to your loved one’s wishes and well-being, it’s probably worth the effort.

This article was written by Buddy Bailey - River Oaksyour local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.


HOUSTONRENOVATOR Time for your

Energy Audit

If you are just now recovering from the sobering energy bills of this record summer it may be time to reevaluate you home’s energy efficiency. It may according to Durable Energy consultant Jim Kuchenbrod save you “up to 50% on you energy bill, but also drastically improve the air you and your family breathe.”As the winter months approach now may be the time to do your home assessment prior to cranking up the heater or heading out back to split some firewood to keep your house warm during the holidays.

When designing or remodeling your home you should keep in mind the type of doors and windows and even the framing techniques that will help save you money in the long run.

By William Hanover

Save up 50% on your bill and breathe better


An energy assessment will pinpoint the main areas where your house is losing energy. While you may want to try yourself a professional energy auditor can carry out a more thorough evaluation. When looking at your water tank you may want to convert to a solar powered heater. A tank that is warm to the touch needs additional insulation. A drain water recovery system can recapture the hot water from your sink, tubs or dishwasher.

When looking at the doors and windows a calibrated blower door and an infrared camera equipment are necessary to detect the infiltration, insufficient or missing insulation. This equipment will also find your leaky inefficient doors and windows.

When creating the airtight efficient home, make sure the ventilation controls the amount of moisture that is in your home.

By controlling the air currents throughout the house caused by leaks or cracks you can dramatically affect the overall household air quality.

Last but not least is the fact that the less heat flow in your house the cheaper it is to cool or heat your home. Heat flow directly to the attics, garages, and the outdoors can be avoided with proper insulation. In the summer the proper insulation keeps the hot air from the interior of the house. Home Depot has an insulation calculator on their website but for most of us the best way is to have an experienced consultant come look at the whole picture and explain the necessary means to a more energy efficient home.

There are many types of insulation and places where it is applicable other than just in the attic.

While windows and doors have some effect on your energy bills, generally the home is well served by a thorough insulation review.


GREENLINK - ThE KEyof ThE fuTuRE

GREENLINK buses will provide downtown community with quick and easy travel

Houston, TX (October 10, 2011) – Free and convenient transportation is returning to downtown with the announcement of the new bus service GREENLINK, set to hit the streets in May 2012. Through a partnership between the Houston Downtown Management District (Downtown District), BG Group and Houston First Corporation, the downtown community can look forward to utilizing the environmentally friendly buses to get them to popular downtown locations quickly.

Seven buses will operate Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., approximately 7-10 minutes apart during peak hours. The route spans 2.5 miles with approximately 20 stops and will connect major office buildings along Smith and Louisiana streets to METRO transit, the convention corridor, hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Popular downtown destinations along the route include the George R. Brown Convention Center, Main Street Square, Discovery Green, Macy’s, Houston Pavilions, City Hall and the Central Library.

“The GREENLINK service would not have been possible without the support of Senator John Cornyn, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the City of Houston and our sponsors Houston First Corporation and BG Group,” said Bob Eury, executive director of Downtown District. “GREENLINK fills the need of the downtown community and we are excited that we have environmentally friendly buses to service our workers, residents and visitors.”

The overall budget for the GREENLINK program is $3.697 million of startup and $1.167 million for initial annual operating costs. The majority of the funding for the capital expenses of the buses came from two Federal Transit Administration grants, totaling $2.247 million, with additional funds provided by Downtown District, Houston First and BG Group. Operating costs will be funded through the Downtown District, Houston First and BG Group.

Since 1995, the Houston Downtown Management District has facilitated many of the public and private projects that have transformed downtown. The District has set important goals with quality of life as the underlying theme: building a lasting constituency downtown; recruiting investors, retailers and tenants while retaining those already downtown; and making downtown clean, safe and attractive.

BG Group Place


The buses run on Compressed Natural Gas, making them a cleaner transportation alternative. Features of the buses include a streamlined, modern design, low-floor access, perimeter seating, high-quality air conditioning, 28-seat capacity and are ADA compliant. The buses will be manufactured by Gillig LLC in the USA.“BG Group is proud to sponsor Houston’s GREENLINK initiative,” said David Keane, vice president of Policy and Corporate Affairs for BG Group. “We are a world leader in natural gas with a growing presence in downtown Houston, which makes our partnership with the Downtown District and Houston First Corporation a perfect fit. One of the reasons we chose downtown for our new Houston office is that Metro and other transportation connections make commuting easier and more economic for our employees. From our perspective, GREENLINK makes a good downtown transportation infrastructure even better.”

“With GREENLINK, visitors to Houston will move around downtown in ways they never could before,” said Richard J. “Ric” Campo, chairman of Houston First. “They’ll be able to travel with ease from the George R. Brown to hotels, restaurants and theaters. Thousands of people already attend trade shows and conferences every year, and GREENLINK will make Houston an even stronger destination for convention-goers and tourists.”

About Downtown District

The Houston Downtown Management District was formed in 1995 for the purpose of revitalizing the urban core of the coun-try’s fourth largest city. Downtown Houston has seen $4 billion of construction completed in over 110 public and private projects, the creation of 3.2 million square feet of new Class A office space, $500 million of infrastructure improvements, 3,000 new hotel rooms spanning 11 different projects, and a 250% increase in the population of permanent residents. For more information please call 713-650-3022 or visit Downtown District on the web at www.downtowndistrict.org or www.downtownhouston.org

About Houston First

Houston First represents the consolidation of the city of Houston Convention & Entertainment Facilities Department and the Hous-ton Convention Center Hotel Corporation. Houston First is respon-sible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of more than 10 City-owned buildings and plazas, and underground and surface parking for nearly 7,000 vehicles. Facilities include the George R. Brown Convention Center, Wortham Theater Center, Jones Hall and the Hilton Americas-Houston hotel.

About BG Group

BG Group is a world leader in natural gas, with a strategy focused on connecting competitively priced resources to specific, high-value markets. Active in more than 25 countries on five continents, BG Group has a broad portfolio of exploration and production, LNG and transmission and distribution business interests. It com-bines a deep understanding of gas markets with a proven track record in finding and commercializing reserves.

24 Intown September-October 2011 • www.intownmag.com

The

BUZZby Roseann Rogers

Chicks with Guns Book Launch

10 Alexandra Knight11 Lindsay McCrum12 Lynn Wyatt Photo Credit: Fulton Davenport

Intero Real Estate Launches West Ave with Benefit 13 Jose Luis Casteneda, Abigail & Intero West Ave President Daniel de Ciscomani and Jose Luis Casteneda14 Nicole Fertitta and Ashton Stresau15Morgan Goen, Luke Fertitta and Adam Gockley16 Jennifer Jacksis and Renee HousePhoto Credit: Meredith Wierick

Stilletto Social Makes a Stomp-The Buzz November 2011

17 Meredith Tcholakian, Paula Mott, Amy G. Pierce and Shelley Smith18 Victoria RentzPhoto Credit: Daniel Ortiz

Woman’s Hospital of Texas 8th Annual Labor Day Luncheon & Style Show19 Holly Thompson and Cathy Fitzpatrick Cleary wowed the crowd with a must-see style presentation.20 Fashion show producer Todd Ramos and his dog Rufus closed the show21 L to R: Luncheon Chair Dee Dee Gug-genheim, Event Emcee and Ch. 26 News Anchor Melinda Spaulding, and Event Chair and The Woman’s Hospital of Texas CEO Linda Russell

The BUZZ

10

11

12

13

14 15

16 17

18 1920

21


CELTIC NOIR®

ROYAL HIGHNIESPR.VASES. ROYAL VIENNA

CHARRIOL® introduces an exciting and innovative new take on what has become one of its most sought after collections.

CHARRIOL®’s signature black PVD cable.

3841 Bellaire Blvd. Houston TX 77025 ,Phone: (713) 668-5000

We believe in nothing but the best. 400 count Pima boxers are just one of the many outstanding gifts offered for the men and

boys in your life.

1818 Fountain view, 713-974-6321 www.vincentford.com

Jewelry: Antique, Estate & Custom. A fabulous selectionof treasures awaits you in our quaint Bellaire shop.

Come enjoy yourself.Phone: (713) 666-6683

4901 Locust St. Bellaire, Texas 77401, www.queenofheirs.com

A magnificent pair of Royal Vienna porcelain vases, depicting scenes from classical mythology, literature and the arts, is set

upon handsome matching bases.

2230 BISSONNET, Texas 77005, Phone : 713-524-3272

I. W. MARKS

VINCENT FORdCuSTOM APPAREL

gift guide

LR ANTIQuES

QuEEN OF HEIRS

ANTIQuE & ESTATE jEWELRY


Arts &EVENTS

Art EventsBUFFALO BAYOU

11/26,12/3, 9, 15, 16 and 17 from 5-8pm (weather permitting)No reservations are taken, and tours are on a first come - first serve basis.Limited capacity of 21 persons per trip.

Da Camera’s

11/5 - Jazz guitarist Russell Malone in first Da Camera jazz appearance at Wortham Center.11/8 - First Houston solo recital by pianist Simone Dinnerstein, all-Bach program at The Menil Collection.11/18 - Classical guitarist Sharon Isbin and violinist Mark O’Connor team up for a duo recital at Wortham Center.12/3- The Maurice Brown EffectCullen Theater Wortham Theater Center12/6 Fragment: Connecting Past and Present The Menil collection

Deborah Colton Gallery

11/12, 2011 to 1/7, 2012Opening Reception: Saturday, 11/12, 6:30 - 9:00 PMGroup Exhibition: Truth: Sublime Beyond Words, David Graeve, Daniel Kayne, McKay Otto, Joseph Cohen, Aron WilliamsSolo Exhibition: Rania Daniel, Urban IllusionVignette Solo Exhibitions: Linda Hofheinz, Jean-Daniel Lorieux and Matt Messinger

EventsGeorge R Brown Convention Center

11/3-11/6 - International Quilt Festival11/16-11/20 - Theta Charity Antiques Show 11/17-11/17 - TX Conference for Women11/19-11/19 - Athletic Cheer & Dance Championships11/24-11/27 - 52nd Annual AutoRama11/24-11/24 - Thanksgiving Feast 201112/1-12/3 - 55th Annual: The Money Show of the Southwest12/3-12/4 - High Caliber Gun & Knife Show12/4/-12/4 - Cheer America Championship12/4-12/4 - Asociacion Guadalupana12/10-12/11 - Texas Tornados Warm up Tournament12/11-12/11 - H-E-B Feast of Sharing12/11-12/11 - CHEERSPORT Grand Championship12/17-12/17 - welve Tastes of Christmas12/24-12/24 - Christmas Feast 201112/24-12/24 - Christmas Eve Celebration

Reliant Park 11/5- Scream Tour- The Next Generation11/9-13 - Disney On ice11/10-13 - Nutcracker Market11/13 - National Cheerleader Association - Lone Star Small Gym Classic

11/3 - Ribbon Cutting Bellaire SignsThe Post Oak Grill | 1415 South Post Oak Ln.,

6:00 to 8:00pm11/9 - Leadership Luncheon | Speaker: Bill King

Hotel Granduca, 1080 Uptown Park Blvd 7:30am to 9:00am

11/10 - Ribbon CuttingWells Fargo Bank, Habaneros Mex Grill, 5165 San Felipe

5:30pm to 7:00pm11/17 - Business After Hours | Location: TBA,

5:30pm to 7:30pm12/7 - Leadership Breakfast | Speaker: TBDMarriott West Loop, 1750 West Loop South

7:30am to 9:00am15/12 - Business After Hours

Location: TBA | 5:30pm to 7:30pm12/20 - Board of Directors

Location: TBA | 11:30am to 1:00pm

www. galleriachamber.com

Calendar


11/16-17 - Greater Houston Design- Z Paul Show11/16 - University of Houston- Continuing Education- Power Tools for Non-Profits11/19 - HBO World Boxing Championships- Julio Cesar Chavez , JR. versus Peter Manfredo11/20 - 9th Annual 97.9 The Box Los Magnificos Lowrider Car Show and Concert

TheaterHobby Center

11/1 - Voices of the Spiritz A celebration of four different styles of devotional music11/2 - Houston pride band11/5 - Dancescape 11/10-11 - Powder her Face -A controversial opera detailing the marriage and subsequent divorce of the”Dirty Duchess”

11/11 - Petrea-Back to the Rock Tour- the return of the pioneer of Christian rock11/11-12 - Musical Alchemy Arts Lyrica- Baroque viiolin sensation Ingrid Matthews joins Colin St. Martin, kathryn Montoya and Matthew Dirst11/18-27 - My fair lady- One of the most celebrated love stories with some of Broadway’s most famous songs11/18- Rain- A tribute to the Beatles12/3 - Virtuoisi of Houston-Young artists Chamber orchestra12/6-8 - White Christmas12/31- Bach and Time -Arts Lyrica anual new Year’s Eve gala following concert

Houston Grand Opera

Ongoing - through 11/6 - The Barber of Seville12/16-17- Recital at Rienzi- Two recitals each day performed at

the Museum of Fin Arts HoustonOngoing -11/13 Fidelio

Houston Symphony

11/3 - Matrix Live Film inConcert11/4-6 - The music of Paul McCartney11/18-20 - Emanuel Ax Plus Tchaikovskyy 3- performing Mozart Concerto 2512/3 - The Night Before Christmas12/6 - Christoph Eschenbach Returns - to lead the Houston Symphony in Mahler’s Synphony No. 52/9-11 - Very merry Pops12/13 - A Linda Eder Christmas12/15-18 - Handel’s Messiah 15th at sugarland Baptist Church16-18th at Jones Hall

Theatre Suburbia

11/4 - 12/3 - Dear Santa

SportsHouston Texans- Reliant Stadium

11/6 - Versus Cleveland12/4 - Versus Atlanta Falcons12/18 - Versus Carolina Panthers

Houston Rockets(pending Rosolution of Ongoing Labor Dispute)

12/6 - Los Angeles Lakers12/10 - Oklahoma City Thunder12/14 - Chicago Bulls12/20 - Phoenix Suns12/28 - Utah Jazz12/31 - Portland Trailblazers

ragincajun_uhad_final.pdf 1 10/18/11 9:49 AM


TheLAST PAGEIn Goma.

The city is literally just off the border of Rwanda and is one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern most cities. It lies beautifully at the shore of Lake Kivu, a massive lake that is encircled in mountains and serves as the capital of north Kivu. You enter Goma via the Rwandan town of Gisyeni. You have to walk across the border, leaving behind the unexpected ease and beauty of Rwanda. Suddenly, outside of the car, you put foot to the earth and begin the crossing. It’s a mere forty feet, yet a world of difference. Even the ground below you transforms from the red clay of Rwanda into the black lava flow of DRC.

The immigration officer opens my passport and greets me by name Lyn Ann.This surprises me, mostly because back home people stumble over it. We smile. He then asks if I am madame or mademoiselle a sneaky way to ask if I am married. I wag my finger and in my very bad French tell him he is cheeky. He stamps my visa and we are off down a road filled with puddled craters and lava rocks. Thank god for four-wheeled drive. I am lucky to be chaperoned by such an amazing hosting organization, WAR CHILD. They came to get me in Kigali and drive me over the border. You don’t fly in these days, as even UN planes are crashing. And with the efficient and beautiful new road through the mountains, it’s an easy three hour drive between cities.

Along the way, are waterfalls, tea plantations, kids waving as you pass.It’s great fun and you can sense the feeling of community rooted in the culture. The driver stops so I can get a picture of the volcano that rises in the distance behind Goma. He has parked near an egg stand which I know means we will end up buying eggs. You can’t stop right in front of a vendor and not make a purchase. Since I am vegetarian, it is decided we should get a dozen so I will have a protein source for dinner. They are tiny, like quail eggs, and come packaged in banana palm leaves tied up to resemble a nest. I am giddy that we get to carry them home in this way. I love that stuff!

On our way to the border we stopped to see the new WAR CHILD house inGisenyi. There are elections being held on November 28th. This always means FUN in Africa, as candidates try to out spin each other’s rhetoric. The staff has decided to move out of Goma the week preceding the elections, just in case the town becomes unstable with rallies, riots and killings. But for now, they are sticking it out in Goma. We are in a safe area, the UN are neighbors to the left, Bangladeshi army to the right, HEAL AFRICA ,an amazing health and psycho-social facility.

Behind us and across the street lives a city deputy. He has 24-hour armed guards in a deer stand out front. Our digs are pretty fortified.

The house is three stories. The lower level houses the kitchen and common areas. The second floor holds the WAR CHILD offices. Ex-pat staff and visitors like me all have rooms on the third floor. The upper terrace affords a view of Lake Kivu.

If this country got its act together the property values here would be astronomical. It baffles me that the beauty of this place is squandered by corruption, laziness, and selfish short-sightedness. This place is a gold mine, literally, and officials use it to their own personal advantage rather than nourish their country and make her strong. Military/UN/police officials are consistently busted at the border (road/air) smuggling minerals for their own personal gain. I’ve heard one bust garnered 5 million USD. It makes me angry, but frightens me too. Nothing is sacred. It’s all up for grabs.

We arrive before dark, a must, as it is a big no-no to be out after sundown. The house is quiet. It’s just me and one other woman sleeping here tonight. She shows me around. I like my room. I am also thankful to have a bathroom with a hot water shower. I unpack. We drink a beer. The cook is only here during the

day. For dinner we are on our own and it’s slim-pickings. Someone at some point left garam masala in the kitchen so I concoct a decent couscous with the tomatoes and carrots in the bin.

In the morning I am to meet the WAR CHILD staff, my interpreter, Judy and I make a site visit of the facility where I will be teaching. I sleep well and awake early to let the cook in. I am the earliest riser , unbelievable, right! And so the task has fallen to me. She is adorable and patient and mothers me -- offering me mango, passion fruit and a tree prune for breakfast. I like her instantly. I take my coffee back upstairs and get ready. Judy arrives at nine so we can discuss my needs and expectations and to give her a yoga primer. We look at the manual and handouts together. We go over names of body parts and some of the more subtle instructions involved in yoga & meditation.

I also am to meet with the head of Don Bosco, the facility where the yoga trainings are taking place. He is a youngish man, with eyes that smile, but it is hard to get a read off him. He and the WAR CHILD coordinator are going back-n-forth finding the best schedule for us to follow. Despite the way it sounds, it’s all good news! Counselors from all of their projects want to participate in the training! Holy cow...totally unexpected news. This means forty want to take the classes. I only brought twenty mats to DRC though. So we decide to allow six people from each site to do the training.

These six will be responsible for training the remaining staff at each of their centers. I am dancing inside as this is exactly how the model is supposed to work...a ripple effect! We have also gotten him to agree to four yoga classes a week for beneficiaries: two sessions a week for girls and two sessions a week for the boys. Already, in one meeting the project has evolved from one to three program centers. Stoked!

Before leaving we tour the facility. The rooms are packed with girls learning to sew. Rows of machines are lined up, reminding me of the typing class I took in seventh grade. It’s a trade, a tool, that will hopefully help them move forward. All of these vintage black singer sewing machines. Their feet pumping to make them run. I can’t wait to teach them yoga!

In the car ride back to the house, we stop to get me a SIM card. These are “chips” you put in your cell phone, unlocked cell phone, and works like a calling card does in the U.S. Having a number will make my friends and family back home have some comfort in knowing they can call me if they want to. It’s a superficial comfort, but it makes me feel closer to them too.

As I work to install the chip, the WC coordinator gets a call. It’s more good news. Her friend at another NGO wants to talk about starting a yoga program as well.

If I ever doubted this path, I don’t any longer.

Lenny Williams is the founder and executive director of the NYC-based non-profit, MANDALA HOUSE which provides self-directed healing programs to post/conflict populations. Specifically, focused on survivors of sexual & gender-based violence.

Working with a trauma-sensitive yoga & breath awareness model in a group dynamic, she teaches mind/body awareness tools that practitioners can take into their lives--healing themselves & others. She has never forgotten her roots. She grew up in Houston and attended U of H and later moved to the Big Apple . Wanting to make a difference in peoples lives everywhere.

You can learn more about Mandala House at www.Mandalahouse.org

We believe that just because we’re a bank doesn’t mean we have to act l ike one. To see what

banking can be, come join us for a cup of coffee at our new financial center in River Oaks.

2 4 4 3 W E S T H E I M E R , B E T W E E N K I R B Y A N D S H E P H E R D frostbank.com/switch

Intown November/December 2011

Documents

Transcript of Intown November/December 2011