ENERGY CORRIDOR SEPTEMBER 2019

ALSO Oktoberfest Art Market—page 12 Grilling Up Greek— page 11

Cover photo by David Postma, Genesis Photographers LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

PUBLICATION TEAM PUBLISHER: Amy Dukes CONTENT COORDINATOR: Rhonda Texter Are you ready for adventure? The DESIGNER: Donna Johnson September issue is packed with CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: David Postma family friendly excitement and CONTENT CONTRIBUTING INTERN: Esha Garg CONTENT CONTRIBUTING INTERN: Osahon Irabor activities. Have you ever visited Tagore Grove in Ray Miller Park? ADVERTISING Learn more about it on page 13. Contact: Amy Dukes Email: [email protected] We also have all the details on the Phone: 713-557-8057 Grilling Up Greek festival and the FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS Oktoberfest Art Market. If you really Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are want to find excitement, be sure to always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for meet the Griffith Family, featured submissions are the 25th of each month for the on page 4. They know how to make publication 2 months from then. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” every day an adventure, even in their You may also email your thoughts, ideas and own neighborhood. That is what we photos to: [email protected]. feel is so special about the Energy CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINE Corridor; adventure is just around the Content Due: Edition Date: corner. We encourage you to explore September 25 November your surroundings with fresh eyes this HOA SUBMISSION INFORMATION month. Try a new restaurant or coffee Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, shop. Discover hidden treasures on updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. our hiking and biking trails. Mingle IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS with fellow residents at a festival or All Emergencies...... 911 the farmer’s market. If you visit one of Non-Emergency Public Safety: our sponsors in your journey, be sure Energy Corridor District...... 281-759-3800 Harris County Precinct 5 Constable.... 281-463-6666 to let them know you appreciate their City of Houston Service Helpline...... 311 support in bringing you community CenterPoint Energy...... 713-207-2222 Southeast Texas Poison Control...... 800-222-1222 news each month in these pages. Public Library...... 832-393-1880 Dispatch Health...... 832-968-8827 Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2019 Best Version Media. All rights reserved. See you in the

AMY DUKES RHONDA TEXTER neighborhood! PUBLISHER CONTENT COORDINATOR

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at [email protected] or 713-557-8057.

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2 SEPTEMBER 2019 3 COVER FEATURE

Photos by David Postma, Genesis Photographers

Brandon, “is the Abacos Islands in the The adventure continued as they went a secure, guarded neighborhood with Bahamas. The water is clear blue, and the snowmobiling on a glacier, explored lava lots of culs-de-sac and no thru-traffic,” islands feel safe and residential, not touristy tube caves, rode ATVs to a mountain top, explains Melissa. “It is the perfect size to or overrun.” hiked to a hilltop hot spring for swimming, have an association that holds plenty of Perhaps their most incredible adventure and visited the famous Blue Lagoon. “It neighborhood social gatherings, or go for a was their trip to Iceland. Brandon and was the adventure of a lifetime for us,” says run or walk within in the neighborhood.” Melissa went snorkeling in 37-degree water Melissa. Melissa brings her sense of adventure to in a fissure between two tectonic plates, There are plenty of adventures at home, as the Memorial Thicket Women’s Association BY RHONDA TEXTER rappelled into a glacier and ice climbed well. The Griffiths have lived in Memorial board, where she has served for about 10 back up with crampons and ice axes. Thicket for 12 years. “We love that it is years. “We plan events for the neighborhood Photos by David Postma, Genesis Photographers >> CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 he Griffith family squeezes as much fun Melissa and Brandon met by chance at The will attend the University of Oklahoma and adventure out of every day as one Lounge on Montrose. “Brandon approached in the fall, where she is looking forward Tpossibly can. Brandon, Melissa, Emma, me with the line, ‘my friend over there to sorority rush. Like her parents, she and Sawyer love playing sports, trying new is a rodeo clown from Montana, and he loves playing sports and volunteering for things, and being outside together as a fam- wants to meet some real Texas women,’” organizations. Emma played soccer for ily. Even the way Brandon and Melissa met recalls Melissa. “I was endeared by the several years for the Albion Hurricanes and shows how this couple isn’t afraid to take a boldness it takes to use such a goofy line. Houston Christian, and she has worked risk when the reward is so great. We started chatting and the rest is history.” for the past several years for MDUMC in Brandon grew up in the West Houston The two dated for two and a half years the Sunday School classrooms and other area. He moved to California for a few before Brandon proposed on a ski trip to children’s programming. She also likes years, but returned to finish high school Steamboat Springs, Colorado. They married wakeboarding, water skiing, surfing, and at Stratford. Melissa was born in Toronto, at their church, Memorial Drive United hanging out with friends. Canada, and moved to Dallas in fifth grade. Methodist Church (MDUMC), with a Their son, Sawyer, is going into third grade Like many Texas natives, Brandon attended reception at Lakeside Country Club. at Holy Spirit Episcopal School. He loves Texas A&M, earning a Bachelor of Arts in All of the Griffiths love to be outdoors. dinosaurs, dogs, sports, and playing outside Finance. He spent eight years as a financial Brandon enjoys bird hunting with their with friends. He plays soccer for the Albion advisor for Merrill Lynch before leaving Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Maisy, as Hurricanes and baseball with Memorial to join his father’s oil and gas business. well as fishing and water skiing on Lake Ashford Little League. He also water skis in Brandon now heads up the operations at McQueeney. He loves watching Aggie the summertime for the Lake McQueeney Griffith Land Services, Inc. football and is waiting for the Ags to rise to Ski Bees Show Team. Sawyer learned to Melissa received a Bachelor of Science the top of the SEC. slalom last year at seven years old and is in Computer Science and Business Melissa likes running, playing tennis and really enjoying practicing and improving Administration from Trinity University in golf, and water sports on Lake McQueeney. this summer. He has competed the last San Antonio, Texas. She moved to Houston She also makes time to catch shows at the two years for Holy Spirit Episcopal School to work as an oil and gas software engineer, Hobby Center and enjoy all of the fun in PSIA (Private School Interscholastic but she eventually returned to school to things Houston has to offer with her family. Association) Academic meet in Storytelling pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health at Volunteering is also important to Melissa. and went to the State competition at TCU in the University of Texas at Houston, School She keeps busy planning events for the Holy 1st Grade placing 4th in State. This year he of Public Health. She worked for Baylor Spirit Episcopal School PTO and MDUMC’s placed second in the district competition. College of Medicine’s Children’s Nutrition Hearts and Hands Market. As a family, the Griffiths like to go snow Research Center before deciding to stay The couple’s daughter, Emma, just graduated skiing every year if possible, often in home after Sawyer’s birth. from Houston Christian High School and Breckenridge. “However, our favorite ‘off the beaten path’ vacation destination,” confesses 4 SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 2019 2019 5 COVER FEATURE >> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 THE CALENDAR OF EVENTS IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY ALLEGIANCE BANK.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

September 7, Sat. Meet by Sky High Sports in the September 28, Sat. Saturday evenings there is a live band GRILLING UP GREEK COOKOFF southwest corner of the lot near the OKTOBERFEST ART MARKET starting at 8pm. Visit the website for AND VENDOR FAIR detention pond. The closest guess @Plazas at the Parkway more detailed information. @St. Basil the Great Greek Orthodox of the number of swifts will win a fun 1127 Eldridge Pkwy Time: 5:30pm-closing prize. Bring lawn chairs, bug spray and 832-982-3598 Church, 1100 Eldridge Pkwy. Art Is An Outdoor Market's next More than just a cook-off, it’s fun for binoculars. community event is our Oktoberfest Time: 7pm Thurs.-Sat. All Month Long the whole family and admission is free. Art Market. Join over 50 artists, farm- LIVE MUSIC Cost: Free ers, and artisans for family friendly fun. There will be food, entertainment, a @Lomonte’s Italian Restaurant kid zone and craft vendors. 713-932-1639 Time: 11am-6pm 14510 Grisby Road Images courtesy of the Griffith Family Time: 10am-5pm September 20, Fri. Cost: Free Free Admission artcellarhouston.com Enjoy live music while you dine by PARACHUTE PLAY TIME a variety of artists including John such as the annual Christmas Walk progressive September 8, Sun. @CityCentre Tuesdays All Month Long Chaney, Alii Michelle, Tony Salinas, holiday party, the Wine-tasting, Oktoberfest, the MUSIC CONCERT 800 Town and Country Blvd. TACO TUESDAY Gabe Montoya, and Duane Dulane. Easter and Halloween parties, summer happy hours @CityCentre Join for toddler-friendly fun! Young @Taqueria Las Tortugas Visit the website for more detailed and much more,” she says. These local adventures 800 Town and Country Blvd. children are encouraged to learn 1416 Eldridge Parkway information. and develop as they play movement Time: 5:30pm-9pm have been a wonderful way for neighbors to connect, Join Chapelwood United Methodist Authentic double corn tortilla street Church in the plaza for the Beyond games, participate in song and dance, tacos including marinated pork, Cost: Free “I love that our neighborhood is large enough to have the Horizon Concert Series. Enjoy and experience the famous 20-foot shredded beef, fried pork, and much www.lomontes.com the people and resources to hold fun community- uplifting and inspirational music rainbow parachute. more. Time: 10am-12pm Saturdays All Month Long building events and pursue beautification projects,” from James Kelly while dining on the Time: 10am-8pm FARMERS MARKET surrounding patios, or join Chapel- Cost: Free Cost: $1 Brandon adds, “but small enough to know many of @Grisby Square, 14710 Grisby Rd. wood’s Children’s Ministry for games 281-497-9101 the neighbors and see friendly faces around often.” September 28, Sat. Enjoy locally grown and seasonal fresh and activities. TWRC WILDLIFE CENTER’S 2ND foods at the Energy Corridor Farmers During Harvey, the Griffiths saw neighbors rescuing Time: 5-7pm Tues, Fri. & Sat. All Month Long ANNUAL 5K WALK/RUN Market. For more information, email each other, and although every single home flooded Cost: Free LIVE MUSIC & DAILY SPECIALS [email protected]. and everyone was busy rebuilding, their community citycentrehouston.com/events @Nottingham Park @O’Connors Irish Pub still came together to help one another and put the 14205 Kimberley Ln. 1127 Eldridge Parkway, Suite 600 Time: 9am-1pm Cost: Free neighborhood back together. September 8, Sun. Join us for TWRC Wildlife Center’s Come check out the Energy Cor- SWIFT NIGHT OUT 2nd Annual Run Wild Run 5K Walk/ ridor’s newest pub! Every Tuesday 281-759-3800 Whether spear-heading the fun for their @Spring Branch Silos Run. There will be raffles, awards for evening is Steak night, Wednesday neighborhood, or traveling towards adventure as 10510 Westview Dr. top runners and best costumes, face evenings are Open Mic night in a family, the Griffiths make the most out of every Join Houston Audubon in counting painting, and much more. association with Improv, Thursdays is hour in the day. Melissa sums it up quite nicely. the swelling numbers of Chimney Time: 8am a free buffet starting at 5pm, Friday Cost: $35-125 “Seriously, we just like to have fun, try new things, Swifts migrating through Houston. evenings is Ladies night and on and be outdoors.”

DO YOU KNOW A NEIGHBOR WHO HAS A STORY TO SHARE? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at [email protected].

Ask for Lakes of Parkway Let There Be More Light In Your Life references Accent your home, landscape, and outdoor living investment while at the same time providing safety and security. BEFORE AFTER

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6 SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 2019 2019 7 HEALTH AND WELLNESS What Is Training for Warriors?

BY JEFF BIEHL, FITNESS DIRECTOR AT MEMORIAL ATHLETIC CLUB ACEC Preschool provides rich, wholesome learning experiences in a Christian atmosphere. arents often watch their kids compete originally created for some of the best more appropriate for each individual participant’s background or Pin sports or do training programs and combat and MMA athletes in the world. limitations. Having this variety makes traditional strength training wonder, “What if I could have done that as a Today, the training methods of the TFW safer and more effective. Now enrolling kid? It would have been so much fun.” New system can benefit anyone looking to lose TFW workouts are organized so each day has a different focus. for the Fal l exercise programs have evolved over the fat, build muscle and feel good. During a typical week, TFW recommends two days of interval past few years that are giving more mature TFW encompasses a signature warm-up training and two days strength training. If you only do strength 12 Months through Pre K (281) 497-6901 athletes a chance to have some of that fun, protocol, speed training, strength training, training, you will only be strong, and if you only train aerobically 2201 S Dairy Ashford Road while pushing their fitness to higher levels. endurance training, flexibility work and or anaerobically, you will have a hard time building strength. We There’s an effective, safe, motivational and nutrition, all based on a comprehensive all know that a strong body makes us less vulnerable to injuries and fun adult group exercise program for all evaluation process. The most unique increases our metabolism. levels, and it’s called Training for Warriors and valuable component of the system (TFW). Finally, the foundation element of the TFW program is its is its motivational approach and family comprehensive evaluation process. What you don’t track, you can’t Don’t let the name scare you; but rather environment. While TFW is not designed measure! If you don’t check your body weight, circumferential body challenge you to bring out the warrior from as a sport or competition, it does focus on measurements, body fat, flexibility, strength and endurance, how within. TFW defines a warrior as anyone you competing against yourself, bettering will you know if you are improving, and how will you know where prepared to work hard, develop oneself your body, mind and spirit. to start? What’s your resting heart rate, how flexible or inflexible are and take on his or her particular challenges In TFW, we choose to use traditional your glutes, how many correct push-ups can you do, and how you in life. The fun and exciting workouts of strength training exercises such as the squat, do currently look in the mirror? the TFW system are designed to help you dead lift, moderate overhead presses, pull If you are ready to make a change or are interested in trying a develop the muscular strength and mental up, bench press, and other body weight fortitude needed to take on those challenges and reach your fitness FREE TFW class at Memorial Athletic Club, please contact us at functional moves. All of these exercises are easy to learn and can www.fitmactrainingforwarriors.com goals. The TFW system began 20 years ago as a fitness program be modified by using different forms of resistance to make the lifts

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8 SEPTEMBER 2019 9 ORGANIZATION WITH A CAUSE THE ORGANIZATION WITH A CAUSE IS PROUDLY NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ SPONSORED BY CHRISTIAN BROTHERS AUTOMOTIVE No Shame, No Blame Grilling Up Greek Domestic Abuse and Human BY JODY POLLOS Trafficking in the Asian Culture

BY EILEEN DONG

awareness speech at the movie Stay tuned for upcoming omestic abuse is a pattern domestic abuse. In the Asian screening jointly with UNICEF events, how to download the Dof behaviors used by one culture, a victim might stay in and University of Houston song and to learn more about partner to maintain power and an abusive relationship because Downtown (UHD) was a great how to get involved, please control over another partner in of a concept of honor or shame. success. go to: an intimate relationship. Honoring the Asian heritage, HPG has received recognition www.hopepyxglobal.org while also trying to honor their Domestic abuse does not from Congress, as well as from www.FB.me/HopePyxGlobal discriminate. Anyone of any sense of freedom and justice the City of Houston. It was also race, age, sexual orientation, in the Western culture, they mentioned in the World Hall of www.instagram.com/ religion or gender can be a see getting help as bringing Fame. It has been broadcasting HopePyxGlobal dishonor to his family and victim—or perpetrator—of in multiple languages www.twitter.com/ $ OFF Any Detail Service not an act of empowerment. 5 domestic violence. It can happen throughout the international HopePyxGlobal (Seat, Carpet, Hand Wax, Super Clean Interior) to people who are married, Therefore, women do not dare communities to bring awareness (Special Discount on Multiple Detail Services) to speak up, neither is there an www.LinkedIn.com/in/Hope- Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers. living together or who are and empowerment. HPG will be Offer valid through 9/30/19. dating. It affects people of all Asian voice who understands hosting another conference in Pyx-Global oin the fun at the Grilling Up Greek Prudential vendor. This is something every socioeconomic backgrounds their culture. October at UHD, while the new STATE INSPECTION Jevent on September 7, 2019 held at St. parent should have. and education levels. As a survivor, Eileen is here awareness song is being released. $ .50 Basil the Great Greek Orthodox Church You can also have your photo taken with 25 WITH FREE CAR WASH located at 1100 Eldridge Parkway. More Domestic abuse includes behav- to break the silence. “If you $5 Value Everet Bear, the spokesbear for the Joe build it, he will come.” She than just a cook-off, it’s fun for the whole Joe Bear Foundation, which provides the iors that physically harm, arouse Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers. family and admission is free. fear, prevent a partner from has founded Hope Pyx Global Offer valid through 9/30/19. comfort of a Joe Joe teddy bear to children doing what they wish or force (HPG), a 501(c)3 non-profit, One of the highlights of the event, the Steak suffering long term or critical illnesses. them to behave in ways they do dedicated to families from all Cookoff Competition is sanctioned by the Enjoy music by JPAPA Productions, backgrounds who are victims Car Wash • Auto Detailing Steak Cookoff Associations. You’ll meet not want. It includes the use of Express Lube • Preventive Maintenance voted Best of Wedding in 2018 and 2019 physical violence, threats and and survivors of domestic abuse, the grill masters who are competing for a by The Knot. If you have an upcoming intimidation, emotional abuse human trafficking, etc. through chance to win the championship in Dallas event, be sure to stop by and talk with empowering victims and and find out the secrets to their success. and economic deprivation, etc. John Papasideris. Food and drinks will be survivors, advocating for the Want to compete? Register online at steak- Many of these different forms available for purchase. of domestic violence can occur safety of survivors, promoting cookoffs.com/event-3291580/Attendees. For more information on the event, at any one time within the same accountability for abusers and Come shop our variety of vendors. sponsorship or vendor opportunities, email intimate relationship. fostering a community response 2030 Highway 6 South, Houston, TX 77077 Shopping is both indoors and outdoors. us at [email protected] or follow to abuse. HPG delivers its There will also be free “I.D. a Kid” kits Human trafficking is a form 281.870.1439 Grilling Up Greek on Facebook. mission by providing diversified given to families sponsored by our of modern-day slavery. This continuum of services. IncredibleCarWash.com crime occurs when a trafficker uses force, fraud or coercion to Eileen Dong successfully control another person for the launched HPG in 50 days, purpose of engaging in soliciting releasing the first PSA in 16 labor or services against his/her days with 8,400 combined social will. While Houston, Texas is media views alone and highest one of the most diverse cities in post reach of 1,380 in five days. the United States, it is also the HPG co-hosted the domestic number one port in the entire violence awareness conference nation for human trafficking. in 47 days, followed by the Statistics shows that victims #DVAM365 campaign in 10 of domestic abuse are more days, as well as the Christmas likely to be trafficked, due to event for the survivors in 102 the similarities in terms of the days. In 58 days HPG became controlling aspect. part of Houston 20’s anti- Eileen Dong, Founder of Hope human trafficking coalition. Pyx Global is a survivor of Eileen’s recent human trafficking 10 SEPTEMBER 2019 11 NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ Visit Tagore Grove OUTDOOR LIVING in Ray Miller Park

Oktoberfest Art Market BY ESHA GARG

BY SARAH B. LOWE

rt Is An Outdoor Market returns oil blends for physical ailments and Ato the Energy Corridor District emotional wellbeing; and Solonut Jewel- on September 28th, m to 6pm, for our ry (www.facebook.com/solonutjewelry) Oktoberfest Art Market. Featuring local designs eco friendly jewelry from Tagua Houston artists, farmers, and artisans, Nuts found in the Amazon. Oktoberfest, in partnership with Vista In the Kids Zone, the TWRC Wild- Properties, is located at Plazas at the life Center will make an appearance Parkway (1127 Eldridge Parkway). with their wildlife animals to inform Open to the public and free of charge the community of their rehabilitation for guests, Oktoberfest Art Market will efforts; Guitar Center will bring their exas is no stranger to droughts, as weeks Tagore’s works were admired for their lyrical believed that India would gain true national- also feature an array of food purveyors drum kit and ukulele for children to and musical entertainment. Tof brutal summer sun burn up our grass and optimistic nature. Tagore’s love for ism through “steady and purposeful educa- play; and the Art Cellar of Houston will and weaken our trees. Texas is also no nature bloomed while managing his family tion.” He published and spread songs of these One can expect to see artists such as have a paint on pumpkin station for stranger to kindness, and the kindness of estates. He envisioned that preserving nature beliefs, facing criticism and anger from many. Black Tea Cafe Shop (www.etsy.com/ all ages. Art Is An Outdoor Market is a the Tagore Society of Houston led to a very was the route to environmental education Though their thoughts did not fully align, shop/blackteacafe) presenting elaborate watercolor pieces printed unique market, bringing the arts of all flavors and styles to various interesting feature in Ray Miller Park. and sustainable living. He wrote extensively Tagore had a close relationship with Gandhi, on tea towels, pillows, and greeting cards; Guerra Girl (guerragirl. communities around Houston. Perhaps you have seen the 6-foot, 4-inch on man’s relationship with nature. and both influenced and supported each other’s philosophies and visions. com) offering printed woodblock cuts on lush paper and fabrics; For additional information go to www.artcellarhouston.com or statue surrounded by a fenced enclosure Though known mainly for his poetry, Tag- Shosho's Kitchen shares their love of fresh fruit and pepper jellies, check Facebook for regular updates on vendors and sponsors. with an arbor for a flowering vine. This is ore wrote many essays, novels, short stories, The Tagore Society envisioned a memorial baklava, and roasted pecans (shoshosjelly.com); Oils Earth (http:// Tagore Grove, born from a dream six years dramas, and thousands of songs. Tagore for Tagore in Houston, a city known for its oils.earth) is all natural, crystal infused, therapeutic grade essential ago. After a drought in which Houston parks began publishing short stories and dramas diverse international population. The Con- lost many trees, the Tagore Society wished to from the young age of sixteen. He invented sul General of India, Parvathanesi Harish, donate trees to Ray Miller Park. The Tagore the Bengali short story genre through his was present at the unveiling of the Tagore Society saw this as an opportunity to honor stories about India’s poor and common Grove, which features a full figure bronze their namesake, Rabindranath Tagore, people. statue of Tagore. It is the first full-size statue with a small grove and a bronze statue, as Tagore also composed over two thousand of Tagore in the United States and the sixth his dream of preserving the environment songs. One of his compositions, Amar Shonar statue of Tagore outside of Kolkata, Tago- aligned so well with the project. Bangla, became the national anthem of re’s birth place. The statue is inside a fence Rabindranath Tagore was a Bengali writer, Bangladesh in 1971. The first five stanzas of enclosure that is surrounded by rose bushes, musician, and artist who spoke about topics India’s national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, are weeping willows, and magnolia trees that both personal and political. He was greatly from a hymn that Tagore composed, and the symbolize Tagore’s love for nature. Situated recognized for the Gitanjali, a collection of Sri Lankan National Anthem was inspired by in an area known for its diverse internation- poetry about devotion. He was awarded the Tagore’s work. Tagore also wrote eight novels al population, his message of universalism Nobel Prize for this work, becoming the first and four novellas, many highlighting Tagore’s and world peace fits right in. non-European to receive the Nobel Prize in views on Indian politics. You can find the statue of Rabindranath Literature and the second non-European to Tagore opposed imperialism and advocated Tagore in Ray Miller Park located at 1700 be awarded the Nobel Prize. for Indian independence from Britain. He Eldridge Parkway in the Energy Corridor. Taqueria las Tortugas The authentic taste of Mexico. Enchiladas de Mole, Tortugas, Gorditas, ... and much more! Happy Hour 3-7pm Patio Dining Live Music - Parties • Catering BYOB (No corkage fee) Thurs, Fri, Sat Take Out • Team Parties Uber Eats, Door Dash, Amazon Sunday 10am-3pm 1416 Eldridge Pkwy • 281.497.9101 Tuesday thru Thursday 10am-8pm 14510 Grisby Road, Houston Friday and Saturday 10am-9pm taquerialastortugas.wixsite.com 281.496.0030 | [email protected] 12 SEPTEMBER 2019 13 NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ Staging Your Home for Sale

BY SHERRY CAMPBELL, OWNER/BROKER, ENERGY REALTY

s the real estate market in Houston has • Minimize décor - I’ve been in homes that Ashifted to a buyer’s market, we have seen have amazing artwork, but artwork can a resurgence in the need to stage a home overwhelm a home and distract buyers before listing for sale. Buying a home is an from focusing on the home. I always tell emotional purchase, and it is a Realtor’s job my buyers to remember that we are selling to create the right emotion in your home the home and not the art or furnishings. to appeal to the largest number of buyers. When selling a home, the art should only Staging has become a critical step when be an accent to the home, not the main selling a home, and when done well, your feature. home will not only sell faster, but it will also • Rearrange furniture - Once again, we are sell at a higher price. selling your home, not your furniture. If While our homes may be decorated beauti- there is too much furniture, we may need fully, sometimes the decorations or furniture to pare down the furnishings. Additionally, can be a distraction to buyers. A staged sometimes a beautiful furniture arrange- home helps a potential buyer see themselves ment can block some of the home’s main living in your home while appreciating the selling features, like the fireplace or views key features. of the backyard. Before listing your home for sale in this When selling a home, it is best to see your market, the following tips will help make home with a fresh perspective and put your- your home “showcase ready” for photo- self in the buyer’s shoes. What does a buyer graphs and visitors—you want that first see when they walk into your home? It is impression to be a lasting impression: difficult for a seller to see their home from to clean light fixtures and windows inside • Declutter - When we live in our homes, this perspective, because they have lived in and out. If tile grout is dirty, or looks dirty, we live in them. This means we may have and decorated their home to their personal either clean with bleach or purchase a accumulated a lot of extra stuff or knick preferences. A third-party home stager or grout pen. knacks. Stuff can be distracting to buyers, Realtor can help freshen the perspective on so pack up anything that is smaller than a • Curb appeal - Buyers will form an impres- your home and stage it to sell! football, and keep countertops clear except sion of your home from the moment they Energy Realty agents provide professional for a few decorator items. We want to see drive up. Lawns should be mowed, beds staging and photography to sell your home. how much counter space you have! mulched and cleared of debris and weeds, Call us today at 281-679-6266 for a free and walkways power washed if needed. consultation on staging your home to sell. • Clean - A sparkling clean home not only Make sure the front door and outside light feels “new”, but it also gives the impression fixtures are clean. Fresh colorful flowers in of a well maintained home. Don’t forget pots at the entry are a nice touch.

Every Saturday 9am-1pm

For more information, email [email protected] Location: 14710 Grisby Rd., Houston,TX (in the parking lot at Grisby Rd. and Grasshopper Ln.)

14 SEPTEMBER 2019 15 EYE ON EDUCATION Houston, Texas 77077 www.folcc.org Ashford Community Church 2100 Eldridge Parkway Grace Point Community Church Outstanding IB Results Houston, Texas 77077 1315 S. Dairy Ashford www.ashfordhouston.com Houston, Texas 77077 www.gracechurchhouston.org Ashford United Methodist Church at The British International School of Houston 2201 S. Dairy Ashford Memorial Drive United Methodist Houston, Texas 77077 Church BY JO TURNER, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER www.ashfordumc.org 12955 Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77079 Helping Families and Friends Honor Their Loved Ones BridgePoint Bible Church www.mdumc.org 13277 Katy Freeway Dettling Funeral Home is here to guide your family to create a meaningful tudents, teachers, parents and school community members at score of 45 points. This is an incredible achievement for this stu- Houston, TX 77079 Saint John Vianney Catholic ceremony that honors the life and memory of a loved one. The ceremony SThe British International School of Houston are celebrating dent, as only 0.4% of students worldwide received full marks this www.bridgepointbible.org Church can be anything you wish it to be: simple or elaborate, traditional or unique. thanks to students achieving exceptional results in the International year on the IBDP. 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail However it is planned, we will ensure that this important step to recovery is Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for the 2018/19 academic Christ Memorial Lutheran Church Houston, Texas 77079 tailored to the specific needs of your family and loved ones. As a family owned • Additionally, two students achieved impressive scores of 43 points. 14200 Memorial Drive www.stjohnvianney.org school year. and operated funeral home, we take great pride in putting your family first. • 19% of BISH students achieved 40 points and above. This is the Houston, Texas 77079 The British International School of Houston achieved an average www.christ-memorial.org Saint Basil the Great Greek level of attainment required to gain admission to the world's elite Orthodox Church Funerals & Cremations score of 34.3 this year. The average score was 15% higher than the universities, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Harvard and Stanford. Covenant Presbyterian Church 1100 Eldridge Parkway Traditional & Memorial Services IB global average of 29.78 points, widening the gap between the 2402 Gray Falls Drive Houston, Texas 77077 All Funeral Pre-Arrangements Accepted school and other IB schools around the world. We also had a 100% • Two thirds of BISH students achieved a score higher than the IB Houston, Texas 77077 www.mystbasil.org global average. www.covenantpca.org pass rate with our IBCP programme. These results showcase the Saint Thomas Presbyterian Church difference that Nord Anglia Education schools bring to students’ “Year after year, I am so proud of our Nord Anglia students Emmanuel Episcopal Church 14100 Memorial Drive academic results. @Temple Sinai Houston, Texas 77079 who—through their dedication—achieve results that exceed 13875 Brimhurst Drive www.stthomaspc.org At Nord Anglia Education—the world’s leading premium global averages for the IB Diploma,” said Andy Puttock, Group Houston, Texas 77077 international school group—all 61 of its schools support students Education Director, Nord Anglia Education. “This year’s results www.emmanuel-houston.org Tallowood Baptist Church powerfully show how our students benefit from world-leading 555 Tallowood Rd. to achieve more than they may have ever thought possible. Every Encourager Church Houston, Texas 77024 Nord Anglia school, including The British International School teachers who go beyond traditional education to inspire them 10950 Katy Freeway www.tallowood.org of Houston believes there is no limit to what students can achieve toward success,” he said. Houston, Texas 77043 14094 Memorial Drive @ Kirkwood socially, personally and academically. www.encouragerchurch.org Temple Sinai Houston, 77079 13875 Brimhurst Drive • The school and its student body were particularly thrilled after it “We’re very proud of our fantastic students who have again Fountain of Life Christian Center Houston, Texas 77077 281.497. 2121 received word that one student received full marks—the maximum achieved outstanding IB results. Our Class of 2019 will now 2300 Barker Oaks Drive www.temple-sinai.org www.DettlingFuneral.com continue their educational journey at some of the world’s leading universities. Please join me in congratulating our students for Mention this their tremendous achievements. A bright and rewarding future ad for 25% awaits these fabulous young people.” —Mark Wilson, Principal of Discount! Yogurt1809 Eldridge Yo! Parkway The British International School of Houston.

New Ownership This year, Nord Anglia students around the world achieved an IB Diploma pass rate of 33 per cent in total. New Flavors The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, commonly referred to as the IBDP, is a two-year education programme for students age 16-19. The programme is a widely accepted and recognised qualification for entry into higher education and universities worldwide. To learn more about the International Baccalaureate, you can visit their website at http://www.ibo.org. Open 7 days a week 12PM - 9:30PM

16 SEPTEMBER 2019 17 NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ New Name, Décor and Menu Healthy Food Hacks By Kady Parker for Popular Memorial Area Restaurant Whether your goal is to drop a few pounds, boost your CHIPS & GUAC HACK energy or just eat a little healthier, we all love a good healthy An avocado contains about 30 grams of fat. BY HOLLY CHERVNSIK food hack, right? I find making small changes to my favorite While this is mostly healthy fat, it is still a foods and recipes is more sustainable than crash dieting. considerable amount, especially when it’s easy Keep reading for a few of my favorite healthy food hacks. to down a whole one in the form of guacamole without batting an eye. Lighten up guacamole RICE BOWL HACK by incorporating nonfat Greek yogurt in a ratio Cauliflower is everywhere these of three parts avocado to one part yogurt. Not only does days, making cameo appearances the yogurt provide a nice tang, it adds volume without any to lighten up everything from fat. For dippers, consider baked plantain chips, tortilla chips gnocchi and pizza crust to made from beans or slices of crunchy jicama. “mashed potatoes” and fried rice. The riced, frozen stuff is so SUB SHOP HACK convenient and can be used for many applications. If you’re You can still be healthy while looking for a healthier rice bowl (but don’t want to cut out eating fast food, and here is the grain completely), try swapping half the white or brown proof. Order a 6-inch vegetable rice out for cauliflower rice. This way, you get the flavor and sub without cheese on whole chewiness but you slash the carbs in half. wheat bread. Then, go crazy with the vegetables! Finish with some honey mustard or light mayonnaise and there you PROTEIN COFFEE HACK have it: a healthier fast food option. Bonus: At many sub acaro Kitchen & Wine Bar, a hidden gem in Venice, where locals stop in for a glass business and social parties for up to twenty Here is one you may have seen circulating nestled in the heart of Memorial, has or two of wine, cicchetti (small plates), and guests, as well as a patio seating for sixteen. shops, this sandwich rings in at right around five bucks. B on social media. If you love coffee and are a new name, a new look, and a new menu freshly made meals. Dane George remains Sunday Brunch from 10:30 am-3:00 pm fea- with Italian flair. Maria and Bill Loveday at the helm as Executive Chef and General watching calories, listen up. Swing by your EGGLESS EGG SALAD HACK tures wine specials and live music by a tal- favorite coffee shop and order two shots Say what now? That’s right! You can make eggless own and operate the restaurant, formerly Manager and was taught to cook by his ented Latin guitarist. The bar menu includes of espresso over ice in a large cup. Pour in (even vegan!) egg salad. This hack is quick, tasty The Devine Affair, which has been in Sicilian grandmother. This has inspired his wine/beer specials for happy hour 3:00-6:00 operation more than eight years as a popular most popular menu items: Gulf Shrimp & pm daily and 9:30-11:00 pm Friday and Sat- your favorite protein shake (I like Premier and perfect to whip up for a summertime lunch dine-in and happy hour spot with take-out Diver Scallop Scampi, Pappardelle Bolog- urday nights. On Wednesday evenings the Protein in the caramel flavor). It’s as easy as on the deck. Simply drain and rinse a can of options. nese, Chicken Piccata and Eggplant Parme- restaurant offers samplings of new wines, that. It tastes like an iced caramel latte and won’t break the chickpeas and mash them in a bowl with a fork. Add in salt and Bill Loveday announced, “We hail from san. He’s adding new delectable dishes to the as well as monthly sit-down wine tastings calorie—or actual—bank. This can be done at home if you pepper, a couple tablespoons of vegan mayo, lemon juice, maybe New York and now live in Katy. Maria is menu as well. and regular wine dinners featuring specific own an espresso machine. I have a milk frother, and I can a dab of mustard and a scoop of pickle relish—whatever you Italian and the spiritual soul of traditional “Our focus is to provide the best wine and wineries or themes. tell you this works well hot, too. The protein shake becomes typically put in egg salad. Serve it in between two slices of bread tastes and hospitality, and I’ve worked in the menu options in the Memorial area. Enjoy A grand opening celebration is planned to creamy and frothy. You won’t believe it’s healthier for you. or on a bed of lettuce and chow down. This is so good; I find I restaurant industry for more than twenty our restaurant and the new bar menu with a kick off the busy fall season. Owners Bill and prefer it to classic egg salad. Bonus: chickpeas have more than years. We saw an opportunity to conceptu- variety of cicchetti and Mediterranean dish- Maria Loveday plan to expand into Katy and twice the protein that eggs do. alize our brand in the Memorial area and es, such as grilled octopus and crudos of the other West Houston neighborhoods deliver an exquisite experience with a mix of freshest fish. Or stop in for take-home meals formal and casual dining.” on busy days,” says Chef Dane. Bacaro Kitchen & Wine Bar is located at 14021 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079. The overall atmosphere is inspired by the Bacaro is a cozy place with a seventy-seat Visit the website at bacarokitchen.com or warmth and neighborliness of the Bacari dining room and a separate area perfect for call 281-759-6300.

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