Clear Lake Chatter: BOWA Fashion Show Launches New Season

October 1st, 2018

BOWA Secretary Chris Howland, from left, welcomes model Jordan Quillen and Misty Killebrew to the annual Fall Fashion Show Luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club.

BAY OAKS Women’s Association kicked off its new season with an elegant Fashion Show Luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club that opened with a champagne reception as members and guests began arriving.

President Susan McCoy and Vice President Amy Schweers joined Hospitality Chairman Terri Steinkamp and her committee in welcoming the arriving crowd, which included Mary Colombo, Gaye Wylie, Emmeline Dodd, Cheri Burke, Ann Lyon, Judge Holly Williamson, Janet Greenwood, Marilyn Lunney, Lea Bodie, Betty Woodhouse, Janet Gortno, Misty Killebrew, Nancy Smith, Eileen Hult and Sharon Dillard.

Before they hardly had had time to say hello to one another, in walked Jackie Daley, Margaret Vail, Sharon Phelps, Carol Murphy, Angela Bivens, Norman Ogletree, Dr. Kimberly Weathers, Glenna Crist, Debbie May, Ann Dooley, Ruth Beecher, Sue Laabs, Mary Alyce Hall, Rita Armstrong, Linda Guice, Jean Dupre, Peggy Green, Amy Roppolo, Debbie Roan and Past President Jodi Schnabel.

Hospitality Chairman Terri Steinkamp, right, goes over plans for the BOWA Fall Fashion Show with model Diane Saltzer on arrival at Bay Oaks Country Club.

Soon, they were watching models Sue Broughton, Valerie Brumfield, Susan Franklin, Julie Gallager, Susan McCoy¸Lola McLain, Martha McWilliams, Darla McKitrick, Jordan Quillen, Diane Saltzer and Cindy Zook present fall fashions from Dillard’s at Baybrook Mall, with Bay Oaks General Manager Stephen Morris escorting them.

Much to the delight of Lucille Terraso, Rose Sobotik, Sandy Buyajian, Elaine Rister, Georgia Piwonka, Carol Bobo, Julia Guzman, Mary Smith, Heather Hernandez, Beverly Braden, Lisa Schulte, Linda Fincher, Gail West and Secretary Chris Howland, who then enjoyed Shrimp Escabeche and Blueberry Crumble.

Bay Oaks Country Club members will get “A Taste of Asia” Saturday, Nov. 3 when BOWA hosts its annual gala at the club.

Chairman Pam Clary says the focus will be on the Far East with Chinese dancers performing, beautiful red and gold decorations, plus gaming tables and the popular Main Street Band. Guests will be sipping on Singapore Slings, wine and champagne before enjoying Beef Teriyaki and Coconut Encrusted Shrimp. Sounds like a delightful evening is ahead.

Symphony League Bay Area Starting New Year

HOUSTON SYMPHONY League Bay Area members also got their season off to a happy start as Anita Gale hosted a Wine & Cheese Party for prospective members at her lovely home in Nassau Bay with Vice President Ann Morgan chairing the event.

Nearly 80 members and guests enjoyed tasty appetizers and desserts provided by members as all were entertained by member Alice Steele’s trio Arcadia. Another highlight of the evening came when the children of Dr. Gerard and Nicole Abreo, ages 3-15 and known as the Abreo Family Strings, played several classical pieces on their violins, with beautiful music filling the home.

All nine Abreo children have been students of Beatrice Stanley since the age of three, and she says they are a joy to teach. Afterwards, the Abreo children and the Arcadia trio performed together – much to the delight of all.

League President Nina McGlashan and her husband, Bob, were there to welcome the crowd that included Al and Natalie Ong, Dr. Patrick McKinney, Julia Guzman, Sandy Conway, Betty Geehan, Sallie Watts, Gayle Nelson, Jean Raffetto, Donna Ward, Betty Gilfillan, Karen Brumley, Angela Mendoza, Dana Puddy, Lisa Brandenberger, Jane Lackow, Jean Gray, Bill Straight, plus Pat Biddle and her husband, Ron Kahl, to name a few.

Hostess Stacy Bush Lyon, left, welcomes Jenny Frantz to her home for Clear Lake Area Panhellenic’s Fall Friendship Tea.

A new season for Panhellenic
CLEAR LAKE Area Panhellenic members were all smiles as they began another season with their annual Fall Friendship Tea at the lovely Clear Lake home of Stacy Bush Lyon.

This year’s theme was “Around the World in 80 Days,” which also will be the theme of their popular fall fashion show luncheon Friday, Nov. 2, in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

President D’Lisa Johnson was there to greet the arriving crowd, as was Chairman Kay Lee Benoit and the hostess, plus several members of the executive board. Hot topic of conversation was, of course, the upcoming style show luncheon, in which most all members have a part. In fact, members brought food from different countries for the tea, to get everyone in the groove — including Sally Jordan, Linda McCormack, Sheryl Williams, Ruth Beecher and Judge Holly Williamson.

Some of the others enjoying the annual gathering included Peggy Clause, Jill Reason, Laurie Vaughn, Jill Smitherman, Sue Broughton, Judie Ferguson, Jo Nell Hunter, Jo Cat Bruce, Karen Douglass and Jenny Franz.

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Clear Lake Chatter: Assistance League Passes Out Awards

August 1st, 2018

Assistance League officers for 2018 line up for their installation at the luncheon at South Shore Harbour Country Club. They are, from left, Assisteens Coordinator Valerie Piercy, Treasurer Sandra Kelver, President Sarah Foulds and Secretary Betty Stoub. President-elect Lisa Holbrook was unable to attend.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE members gathered at South Shore Harbour Country Club this year for their annual meeting, which includes the installation of officers and presentation of awards to their hard-working members.

And, after many long hours of service to the Bay Area community, outgoing President Ann Marie Doolin installed new President Sarah Foulds and the other new officers who will lead the organization as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

Other new officers include President-elect Lisa Holbrook, Treasurer Sandra Kelver, Secretary Betty Stoub, Vice Presidents Karen Douglas, Brooks Cima, Kim Barker and Cathy Wolfe, Marketing Chairman Sharon Klumb, Strategic Planning Chairman Marie Keener, Education Chairman Mavis Irvan and Assisteens Coordinator Valerie Piercy.

The year-end luncheon is also a time to honor some of the hardest working members. Winner of the Sue Brady Award was Kathleen Courville with Marie Keener presented the Sue Holstein Award and Yvonne Perrin, Mary Pergande and Betty Suagee winners of the ABCD Award.

Merrill Crawford was named recipient of the H.O.P.E. Award, the Paul Mitchell Academy won the Glass Slipper Award and Sandra Sellers received the Ada Edwards Laughlin Award.

New Clear Lake Panhellenic officers line up for a photo at their year-end luncheon at the Bay Area Museum. They are, from right, President D’Lisa Johnston, 1st Vice President Cheryl Williams, 2nd Vice President Kathryn Vernau, 3rd Vice President Greta Mae, Secretary Darla McKitrick, Treasurer Kim Barker, Corporation Karen Douglass and Parliamentarian Michelle Richardson. Photo by Jill Reason

C.L.Panhellenic gets new officers
D’LISA JOHNSTON is the new president of Clear Lake Area Panhellenic, which held its year-end luncheon at Bay Area Museum in Clear Lake Park.
Others elected to serve with her include First Vice President Cheryl Williams, Second Vice President Kathryn Vernau, Third Vice President Greta Mae, Secretary Darla McKitrick, Treasurer Kim Barker, Corporation Karen Douglass and Parliamentarian Michelle Richardson.

Also, Sally Jordan was honored with the Citation Award.

But the announcement of the scholarship winners got the biggest smiles from the recipients. Jacy Murdock, Karissa Murdock, Madeleine Pomes and Amie Le were the lucky winners of $8,000 college scholarships.

Bay Area Museum Guild officers get together for a photo after being installed at their May luncheon at the home of Carole Murphy. They are, from left, standing, Co-President Carole Murphy, First Vice Presidents Louise Russell and Gail Devens, Recording Secretary Lois Costin and Corresponding Secretary Sally Jordan; seated, Parliamentarian Kandy Johnson and Co-President Ava Galt. Brandie Corrao and Diana Dornak were unable to attend.

Museum Guild installs officers
BAY AREA Museum Guild members who re-elected Co-Presidents Ava Galt and Carole Murphy to serve another term gathered for their installation at the Guild’s May luncheon at Carole’s lovely Brook Forest home.

Elected to serve with her are First Vice Presidents Gail Devins and Louise Russell; Second Vice President Brandie Corrao, Recording Secretary Lois Costin, Corresponding Secretary Sally Jordan, Treasurer Diana Dornak and Parliamentarian Kandy Johnson,
Others in the luncheon crowd you might have spotted included Cindy Kuenneke, Sandi Allbritton, Barb Spencer, Nina McGlashan, Jan Larson, Donnie Johnson, Angie Weinman, Pat Biddle, Elizabeth Quigley, Terri Monnett and Peggy Clause.

 

EDUCATION is growing all around the Bay Area, Clear Lake Area Chamber members learned at their June luncheon. More students and more buildings.

Speakers were Dr. Greg Smith, superintendent of the Clear Creek School District, Dr. Laurel Williamson, deputy chancellor and president of San Jacinto College; and Dr. Mark Shermis, UHCL dean of education – each of whom have new buildings going up.

Clear Creek ISD, Dr. Smith said, is currently rebuilding League City Elementary and completing construction of a new school, Florence Campbell Elementary, also in League City, with money from the $487 million bond passed in 2017. Work on both should be completed next year. And, while building, they are working to improve school safety.

“The climate in our schools is strong and healthy. Our focus today is on teaching kids how to have kind hearts, not just smart minds. It is simply not enough to teach and assess…We must model and teach a set of core values of caring, respect, trustworthiness and citizenship.”

That’s the good news. But he also had some not-so-good news: Along with thousands of families in recovery mode, the school district is still feeling the effects of Harvey, “with more than $19 million in damages to our facilities, and we have not received reimbursements yet on those damages.With little or no funding. . .from the Legislature, we are facing a significant budget deficit for the 2018-19 school year” and are hopeful the district can negotiate a tax swap with the school board to keep operating at optimal level.

 

New SJC Buildings
Over at San Jacinto College, which was recently named a Top Five Community College nationally by the Aspen Institute for Community College Excellence, three new buildings are going up and some nine older buildings are being renovated with money from its recent $425 million bond package, Dr. Williamson told the chamber crowd at the Nassau Bay Hilton.

The Center for Industrial Technology, which focuses on welding, pipefitting, diesel, electrical technology, plus heating, air conditioning and refrigeration, opened on the North Campus in March 2017, she said, while the Center for Petrochemical, Energy and Technology on the Central Campus and the Center for Engineering and Technology on the South Campus are both expected to open next spring.

And, for many local industries that have jobs to fill and the 42,000 students San Jac serves annually, the sooner, the better.

 

New UHCL facilities
Dr. Shermis also had some good news for the crowd. The UHCL College of Education dean said the new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Classroom Building was opening this fall and the university is working with Clear Creek ISD on STEM classes at both the university and the school district.

The 121,575-square-foot building, being built at a cost of $65.7 million is one of two under construction on the Clear Lake campus.

UHCL also is building a new $38.2 million Recreation and Wellness Center that will serve as the home for the Exercise and Health Sciences program and Fitness and Human Performance program, as well as a host of general instruction classrooms and recreational activities for students, faculty and staff.

A new $24 million Health Sciences and Classroom Building is also expected to open in the spring on UHCL’s Pearland campus, Dr. Shermis said.
Chamber Chairman Bryan Bogle welcomed the crowd and introduced special guests and Dr. Peter Wuenschel, chamber Education Division chairman, provided the invocation.

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Clear Lake Chatter: They’re leading the way for 2017-18

July 1st, 2017

Elected Assistance League chairmen for the coming year, from left, Strategic Planning, Marie Keener; Assisteens Coordinator Karen Douglass; Marketing, Lisa Holbrook; and Education, Mavis Irvan stop for a photo at the May luncheon.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE outgoing President Dee Cover passed the gavel to incoming President Ann-Marie Doolin as she was installed, along with President-elect Sarah Foulds at the philanthropic organization’s annual meeting and installation luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club.

Others who’ll serve with them are Vice Presidents Katy Bastedo, Cathy Miller-Thornton, Jill Smitherman and Ellen Lancaster; Secretary Cathy Wolfe, Treasurer Barbara Weitenhagen, plus Assisteens Coordinator Karen Douglas, Education Chairman Mavis Irvan, Marketing Chairman Lisa Holbrook and Strategic Planning Chairman Marie Keener with Ann Hammond as parliamentarian.

Gail Ashby is the recipient of this year’s Sue Brady Award — an honor presented for leadership and exceptional service to Assistance League goals while Jill Williams was given the Sue Holstein Award — an honor presented to any member who has continued to support Assistance League over the years and is a positive voice in organization — a body of work award.Brooks Cima, Beverly Braden and Gail Ashby are this year’s recipients of the A.B.C.D. Award, given to members who go above and beyond the call of duty — members who do not know the meaning of the word hours.

In later updating the membership on ALBA’s accomplishments, Dee noted that the annual Ball of the Wild gala in April netted more than $91,000 to help with their philanthropic activities.

Symphony League Vice Presidents Ann Morgan, Patience Myers, Jim Moore, Glenda Toole and Carol Wilson, from left, share a light moment at the May installation luncheon at Lakewood Yacht Club as they begin preparing for the coming year.

Symphony League taps Martha McWilliams
HOUSTON SYMPHONY League Bay Area members have chosen Martha McWilliams to lead their organization in the coming year. She was installed, along with the other officers, at the league’s annual May installation luncheon in the Lakewood Yacht Club ballroom.

Nina McGlashan, a former vice president, was installed as the League’s president-elect and six vice presidents – Glenda Toole, finance; Jim Moore, education; Ann Morgan, membership; Carol Wilson, programs; Patience Myers, development; and Graciela Kavulla, communications were elected to assist in planning activities.

Other elected officers include Recording Secretary Jane Lackow, Corresponding Secretary Alice Steele and Nominations Chairman Carole Murphy.
Afterwards, the crowd was entertained by a group of jazz musicians — Glenn Taylor, piano; Michael Gorman, bass and Keith Credo, tenor sax and clarinet – who presented a selection of jazz standards, including “All of Me,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” and New Orleans favorites like “When the Saints Go Marching In” and “Basin Street Blues.”

 

A number of past Panhellenic presidents were in the crowd at the May luncheon including, from left, front row, Judie Ferguson, Dana Brown, Ruth Beecher, Diane Overman, Pat McAllister, Peggy Clause; back row, Kay Lee Benoit, Jill Reason, Jennie Hampton, Ondi Lyon, Laurie Vaughn, Barbara Dickey, Hazel Harron and Kim Barker.

C.L. Panhellenic installs new officers
CLEAR LAKE AREA Panhellenic’s new president for the coming year is Michelle Richardson, who was installed at the sorority alumnae organization’s May luncheon.

Others who’ll serve with her are First Vice President D’Lisa Johnston, Second Vice President Kathryn Vernau, Third Vice President Greta Mee, Treasurer Lisa O’Brien, Corporation Kay Lee Benoit  with Past President Jill Reason taking the job of parliamentarian.

Besides the installation of officers, another highlight was the presentation of college scholarships to several lucky young ladies — Micaela Torres, La Porte High School; Nazneen Ibtehaj, Clear Springs High School; Avery Wood, Clear Creek High School; Lily Cao and Juliana Bozeman, Clear Springs High School.

Many marveled at the large number of past presidents in the crowd besides Jill – Judie Ferguson, Dana Brown, Ruth Beecher, Diane Overman, Kay Lee Benoit, Jennie Hampton, Ondi Lyon, Laurie Vaughn, Kim Barker, Pat McAllister, Peggy Clause and Barbara Dickey.

Bay Area Museum Guild officers and committee chairmen for 2017 are Directory Chairman Sandi Albritton, Parliamentarian Sally Jordan, First Vice President Jan Larsen, Co-President Carole Murphy, Corresponding Secretary Louise Russell, Hospitality Chairman Nancy Sanders, Treasurer Diana Dornak and Recording Secretary Gayle Nelson.

Museum Guild gets new co-presidents
BAY AREA MUSEUM Guild has not one but two presidents for the 2017-18 season – Co-Presidents Ava Galt and Carole Murphy.

Others elected to help lead the organization are First Vice President Jan Larsen, Second Vice President Brandie Corrao, Corresponding Secretary Louise Russell, Recording Secretary Gayle Nelson, Treasurer Diana Dornak and Parliamentarian Sally Jordan.

Among others playing major roles will be Directory Chairman Sandi Albritton and Hospitality Chairman Terri Monette with Mary Ann Baxter and Charles Smitherman serving as directors of the museum.

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Clear Lake Chatter: Having Lunch Kentucky Derby Style

December 1st, 2016

It’s fun time as Panhellenic President Jill Reason, First Vice President Michelle Richardson, Stashia Hardman and Lisa Peters, from left, stop for a photo op on arrival at the Fall Fashion Show Luncheon at South Shore Harbour Resort.

It’s fun time as Panhellenic President Jill Reason, First Vice President Michelle Richardson, Stashia Hardman and Lisa Peters, from left, stop for a photo op on arrival at the Fall Fashion Show Luncheon at South Shore Harbour Resort.

By Mary Alys Cherry

PICTURE THIS: A roomful of ladies all dressed up and in beautiful hats – Kentucky Derby style.

That’s the view you would have seen if you had walked into the South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom during the Clear Lake Area Panhellenic’s annual Fall Fashion Show Luncheon, which this year had a “Run for Scholarships – Derby Style” theme, borrowed from the Run for the Roses by Chairman D’Lisa Johnston and her talented committee.

Along the way, you probably would have passed Dan Reason and Jerry Clause dressed as jockeys while Sen. Larry Taylor, Josh Griffon, Dr. John Johnston, Arden Hill, Kenny Koncaba and Thomas Royce served the arriving crowd champagne.

While there were no horse races, a bugler had to sound the call to the post to signal it was time for the fashion show, which was directed by fashion guru Lenny Matuszewski Jr. and featured Judge Holly Williams, Laurie Vaughn, Peggy Clause, Wendy Shaw, Ellen King, Karen Weber, Jessica Burgess, Heather Lindsay, Marcy Ortega, Janet Jones, Allison Precise, Amber Allen, Melody Seavey, Annette Dwyer, Debby Reichert, Amy Judd, D’Lexis Royce and Jenny Frantz modeling some lovely fall fashions from Dillard’s.

Kristin Leary shows off the beautiful hat she made especially for the Clear Lake Panhellenic Fall Fashion Show Luncheon.

Kristin Leary shows off the beautiful hat she made especially for the Clear Lake Panhellenic Fall Fashion Show Luncheon.

Just a delightful luncheon, as Sue Ellen Jennings, Janet Greenwood, Carole Murphy, Cindy Kuenneke, Lisa Dishman, Kathleen Courville, Kelli Baliker, Diana Shuman, Jo Nell Hunter, Sheree Frede, Dana Brown, Cambrey Rogers, Cathy Osoria, Karen Reed, Ebby Creden, Charlotte Teeter, Angela Swint, Anita Fogtman, Becky Reitz, Pam Culpepper and Carol Bergman will quickly tell you after enjoying the show and then the Roasted Chicken dinner topped off with a yummy piece of Kentucky Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie.

Still others in the crowd of 300 lovely ladies were Judie Ferguson, Kelly Halbach, Kay Lee Benoit, Martha Bowles, Dewanna Norris, Aggie Bourgeois, Georgia Piwonka, Yvonne Perrin, Karlee Marcom, Lyla Nettles, Mary Ann Shallberg, Kathie Wiley, Lisa Holbrook, Ann Gay, Pat McAllister, Hazel Harron, Karen and Jenny McCorkle, Kelli Byrd, Marjorie McConnico, Sally Jordan, Betsey Ennis, Badiha Nassar, Lisa Long, Lisa Peters, Joy Muniz, Tisa Foster, Renee Ditta, Sheri Leboe and Kim Gurry.

And, we must not forget D’Lisa’s hard-working committee – Jo Cat Bruce, Janet Jones, Kim Barker, Karen Douglass, Becky Hensley, Kathryn Vernau, Melody Seavey, Sheryl Williams, Laurie Vaughn, Debby Reichert, Elizabeth McCarty, Greta Mee, Ellen King, Sue Broughton, Barbara Dickey, Ondi Lyon, Lisa O’Brien and Jennie Hampton.

Proceeds will help Panhellenic fund scholarships for young Bay Area women.

Bay Oaks Women’s Association President Jodi Schnabel and her husband, Kirby, are ready to welcome the arriving crowd as the annual BOWA gala gets underway.

Bay Oaks Women’s Association President Jodi Schnabel and her husband, Kirby, are ready to welcome the arriving crowd as the annual BOWA gala gets underway.

BOWA Gala sends crowd home happy
CASABLANCA is one of the most famous movies of all time, and Bay Oaks Country Club members got a look back at that era while spending “An Evening at Rick’s” – as they remembered actor Humphrey Bogart and Rick’s Americana Café in Morocco’s largest city.

Hosted by the Bay Oaks Women’s Association, the 2016 gala drew quite a crowd, including members of the Bay Oaks Wine Committee, many of whom were delighted with the story the evening told and the elegant table decorations.

Gala Chairman Angela Bivens and her husband, Darrell, joined BOWA President Jodi Schnabel and her husband, Kirby, in welcoming the happy crowd, including Glenn and Carlene Langford, Michael and Sharon Phelps, Gene and Eileen Hult, Lance and Barbara Miller and John and Georgia Piwonka.

Early arrivals included Sue Ellen and Dr. John Jennings, Angela and Robert Swint, Glynn and Amy Roppolo, Tom and Ann Marie Doolin, Lewis and Joan Wade, Bill and Carol Bobo, Craig and Cindy Zook, Perry and Sue Laabs, David and Dee Wolfe, Randy and Gail Beaty and Margaret and Henry Vail – all ready to party.

As they were mingling with the crowd, in walked Dr. Danny Williamson and his wife, Judge Holly Williamson, passing the strolling musician as they admired their cool seating cards, which looked like antique airline tickets.

Wasn’t long before they were joined by Tom and Jennifer Verghese, Adam and Trish Taylor, Bob and Linda Herzfeld, Dave and Helen Seitz, Molly and Troy Gorrell, Mark and Cindy Wheeler, Rita and Jim Armstrong, Edward Smith and Beverly Braden, and Patrick and Cheri Burke, who headed over to the casino tables, where “Rick” gave everyone a $2,000 casino voucher.

Looking around, you might also have spotted Richard and Jennifer Simmons, Sue Broughton and Randy Allen, John and Danele Buehler, Kathleen and Harold Parrish, Walter Bell and Elisabeth Wilson, Jason and Lea Bodie, Marty and Amy Schweers, Greg McKnight and Adrienne Johnson, Craig and Tonya Moody, Murry and Sandy Lantz and Alex and Megan Prejean wearing big smiles as the Royal Dukes filled the club with music for both enjoying and dancing.

Some of the others enjoying the evening in Casablanca were Jim and Janet Greenwood, Will and Karen Reed, Elaine and Randy Rister, Yvonne and Shep Perrin, Terri and Jim Steinkamp, Bill and Tencha Heimlich, Malcolm and Susan Franklin, Lila and Mark Sprague, Tara and Rusty Morrison, Darcy and Sam Santala, Michelle and Derek Hall, David and Megan Griffith, WG and Linda Fincher and Smith and Chris Howland.

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Clear Lake Chatter: Variety of events get social season underway

October 1st, 2016

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic President Jill Reason, right, and hostess Cathy Osoria prepare to welcome the crowd to the Fall Friendship Tea.

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic President Jill Reason, right, and hostess Cathy Osoria prepare to welcome the crowd to the Fall Friendship Tea.

BAY AREA social calendars are filling up fast these days with Clear Lake Area Panhellenic and Houston Symphony League Bay Area kicking off the season with their annual welcome parties.

Clear Lake Panhellenic members filled Cathy Osaria’s Bay Oaks home to overflowing for their annual Fall Friendship Tea – catching up on each other’s news and planning the year ahead after a warm welcome from President Jill Reason and Chairman Jo Nell Hunter.

Looking over the crowd, you probably would have spotted Karen Weber, Michelle Richardson, Kelsey Richardson, Ondi Lyon, Jo Cat Bruce, Lisa O’Brian, Ruth Beecher, Emmeline Dodd, Sue Broughton, Sue Ellen Jennings, Holly Williamson and Kay Lee Benoit among the early arrivals.

Wasn’t long before they were joined by Belva Dewey, here from Baton Rouge, Diane Overman, Ann Gay, Laurie Vaughn, Judie Ferguson, Ellen King, Annette Dwyer, Darla McKitrick and dozens and dozens more.

Tracey Webb, dressed up as a jockey, even brought her son’s small horse to add to the merriment.

One of the afternoon’s highlights came as Fall Fashion Show Chairman D’Lisa Johnston announced the Kentucky Derby theme for Panhellenic’s big luncheon Friday, Nov. 4 at South Shore Harbour Resort. Instead of the Run for the Roses, it will be the “32nd annual Run for Scholarships,” as profits from the event provide scholarships for area graduates and funds to help local students attending Girls State.

To date, Panhellenic has provided scholarships totaling more than $500,000 with profits from its events.

There were smiles aplenty as the Houston Symphony League Bay Area hosted its annual Wine and Cheese Party, including those of Gillian Ford, Sallie Watts, Liana Russell, Cindy Kuenneke, Sisbee Winburne and Darlene Clark, from left, as they lined up for refreshments.

There were smiles aplenty as the Houston Symphony League Bay Area hosted its annual Wine and Cheese Party, including those of Gillian Ford, Sallie Watts, Liana Russell, Cindy Kuenneke, Sisbee Winburne and Darlene Clark, from left, as they lined up for refreshments.

Symphony League draws big crowd
HOUSTON SYMPHONY League Bay Area members launched the 2016-17 season with their annual Wine and Cheese Party to welcome new and prospective members.

Hostess Angie Weinman wore a big, warm smile as she joined Chairman Carolyn Murphy in greeting the arriving crowd that included Mary Ann Shallberg, Gillian Ford, Sallie Watts, Liana Russell, Cindy Kuenneke, Sisbee Winburne and Darlene Clark.

Dr. Patrick McKinney was there, chatting with President Mary Voigt and Vice President Jim Moore and his wife, Aggie, at the Weinmans’ Bay Oaks home in Clear Lake.

Looking around, you might also have spotted Pat Biddle, Carol Wilson, Sandra Strickhouser and Martha McWilliam, to name a few.

RNASA President Rodolfo Gonzalez, left, presents Mark Wright a check for $11,500 for the Texas Aerospace Scholars Program during Appreciation Dinner.

RNASA President Rodolfo Gonzalez, left, presents Mark Wright a check for $11,500 for the Texas Aerospace Scholars Program during Appreciation Dinner.

RNASA celebrates another success
THE ROTARY National Award for Space Achievement Foundation celebrated another successful Space Gala with RNASA President Rodolfo Gonzalez presenting a check for $11,500 to Mark Wright for the Texas Aerospace Scholars Program at its annual Appreciation Dinner at Landry’s Seafood Restaurant in Kemah.

Another $10,000 from the gala profits was presented to the Caltech Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships Program in the name of this year’s gala honoree, Dr. Charles Elachi.

“I’m delighted that RNASA is making a generous donation on my behalf to the Research Fellowship Program, which enables a new generation of space explorers to work on research projects with seasoned mentors,” said Elachi, who recently retired as director of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab and is professor emeritus at Caltech.

Special guests included retired Johnson Space Center Director Mike Coats, Lorna Onizuka of the Challenger family, retired Rockwell President Dr. Glynn Lunney and his wife, Marilyn, and former RNASA President Floyd Bennett and his wife, Carolyn.

Some of the others joining them in the celebration were Vivian and Geoff Atwater, Lauran Rochon, Karen and Gary Johnson, Debbie and Tim Kropp, Jordis and Bob Wren, Kippy Caraway, Delia Stephens, Susan and Bill Taylor, Frank Perez and Priscilla Ennis, Jean Walker and Mark Hollis.

Fashion Show Chairman Karen Reed, right, receives congratulations from Bay Area Women’s Association President Jodie Schnabel on another successful event.

Fashion Show Chairman Karen Reed, right, receives congratulations from Bay Area Women’s Association President Jodie Schnabel on another successful event.

Fashions for fall on BOWA’s radar
BAY OAKS Women’s Association members were out in force the other day when BOWA kicked off the season with its popular Fall Fashion Show, featuring the latest styles from Sandy Carney’s The Clotheshorse in League City.

Rest assured, she did not disappoint, sending Angela Bivens, Mary Colombo, Susan Franklin, Tencha Heimlich, Sue Ellen Jennings, Elaine Rister, Jodi Schnabel, Amy Schweers, Dee Wolfe and Cindy Zook down the runway in an array of beautiful outfits.

Much to the delight of Jackie Daley, Sandy Lantz, Ann Brady, Eileen Hult, Yvonne Perrin, Carlene Langford, Glenna Crist,  Norma Ogletree, Ruth Beecher, Joan Wade, Mary Smith, Traci Dvorak, Judie Ferguson, Janice Gornto, Kathy Costanza and Chairman Karen Reed.

They were among dozens who oo’d and aa’d including Pam Ploss, Emmeline Dodd, Carol Bobo, Gloria Wong, Rita Armstrong, Angela Swint, Tencha Heimlich, Priss Fletcher, Ann Dooley, Sue Broughton, Janet Greenwood, Sarita Singh, Sharon Phelps, Diane Konick, Georgia Piwonka and Rebecca Richey.

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Clear Lake Chatter: Dee Cover is new Assistance League president

July 1st, 2016

Dee Cover, fourth from left, is the new president of the Assistance League of the Bay Area. Other new officers joining her here for a photo are, from left, Secretary Cathy Wolfe, Vice Presidents Ellen Lancaster and Katy Bastedo and President-elect Ann-Marie Doolin. The treasurer, Barbara Weitenhagen, was absent.

Dee Cover, fourth from left, is the new president of the Assistance League of the Bay Area. Other new officers joining her here for a photo are, from left, Secretary Cathy Wolfe, Vice Presidents Ellen Lancaster and Katy Bastedo and President-elect Ann-Marie Doolin. The treasurer, Barbara Weitenhagen, was absent.

DEE COVER, the new president of the Assistance League of the Bay Area, was installed, along with President-elect Ann-Marie Doolin, when the philanthropic organization held its annual meeting in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Marina Plaza Ballroom.

Others who’ll serve with them include Vice Presidents Katy Bastedo, Cathy Miller-Thornton, Carol Latimer and Ellen Lancaster; Secretary Cathy Wolfe, Treasurer Barbara Weitenhagen, plus Assisteens Coordinator Karen Douglas, Education Chairman Arlis Miles, Marketing Chairman Lisa Holbrook and Strategic Planning Chairman Ann Hammond.

Yvonne Perrin was this year’s winner of the Sue Brady Award and Pam Bungo was named recipient of the Sue Holstein Award. Outgoing President Peggy Clause presented the A.B.C.D. (Above and Beyond the Call of Duty) Awards to Cathy Miller-Thornton, Priscilla Munoosent and Mavis Irvan and the Ada Edwards Laughlin Award to a charter member of 27+ years, Atiya Abouleish, calling her “our unsung heroine.”

In updating the crowd on ALBA’s accomplishments, Peggy noted that the annual gala in April, “A Night in Old Havana,” netted $70,209 to help with their philanthropic activities.”

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic’s officers for the coming year are installed at the May luncheon. Among them are, from right, President Jill Reason, First Vice President Michelle Richardson, Second Vice President Kathryn Vernau and Third Vice President D’Lisa Johnston.

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic’s officers for the coming year are installed at the May luncheon. Among them are, from right, President Jill Reason, First Vice President Michelle Richardson, Second Vice President Kathryn Vernau and Third Vice President D’Lisa Johnston.

C.L. Panhellenic taps Jill Reason
HOSTESS Barbara Dickey’s lovely Bay Oaks home was full to overflowing for Clear Lake Area Panhellenic’s May installation luncheon, featuring the introduction of Jill Reason as the sorority alumnae organization’s new president.

Others installed to serve with her were First Vice President Michelle Richardson, Second Vice President – Scholarship Kathryn Vernau, Third Vice President – Philanthropy D’Lisa Johnston, Secretary Sheryl Williams, Treasurer Lisa O’Brien and Corporation Secretary Becky Hensley.

Another highlight of the luncheon came when Jo Nell Hunter and Michelle Richardson were each presented with Citation Awards for their contributions to both Panhellenic and the community.

Mary Voigt, second from left, is the new president of the Houston Symphony League Bay Area. Among those who will be assisting her in the coming year are, from left, Nominations Chairman Dana Puddy, Corresponding Secretary Alice Steele and Recording Secretary Jane Lackow.

Mary Voigt, second from left, is the new president of the Houston Symphony League Bay Area. Among those who will be assisting her in the coming year are, from left, Nominations Chairman Dana Puddy, Corresponding Secretary Alice Steele and Recording Secretary Jane Lackow.

Symphony League elects Mary Voigt
HOUSTON SYMPHONY League Bay Area members have chosen Mary Voigt to lead them in the coming year. She was installed, along with the other officers, at the league’s annual May installation luncheon in the Lakewood Yacht Club ballroom.

She’ll have no shortage of help with six vice presidents lending a hand — Vickie Buxton, development; Nina McGlashan, education; Karen Akkerman, membership; Carol Wilson, programs; Patience Myers, finance; and Jim Moore, communications.

Other elected officers include Corresponding Secretary Alice Steele, Recording Secretary Jane Lackow and Nominations Chairman Dana Puddy.

Sorority alumnae head re-elected
ALPHA CHI OMEGA alumnae have elected their officers for the coming year, choosing Monica Gibbs to serve another term as president of the local Iota Psi Iota chapter.

Her installation came during their spring luncheon at South Shore Harbour Resort.

Serving with her will be Vice President Michelle Richardson, Treasurer Janel Salmen and Secretaries Brandie Soenning and Carolyn Waidhofer.

Guild re-elects Brandie Corrao
BAY AREA Museum Guild President Brandie Corrao has been reelected to serve another term. Joining her in heading the organization for the coming year are Missy Rorrer and Susan Barton, who will serve as first vice presidents – programs and Second Vice President – Membership Justine Powell.

Others who’ll assist Brandie next year are Treasurer Diana Dornak, Secretary Gayle Nelson, Corresponding Secretary Jill Williams and Parliamentarian Carole Murphy.

They plan another full schedule of events starting with the museum shower in September, and including Just A Pretty Table in October, the Toyland Fantasy Breakfast in December, the Silver Tea in May, plus Music at the Museum and Picnic at the Museum.

They were installed during the guild’s installation luncheon at the South Shore Grill.

Erika Steele, right, is presented the 2016 Athena Leadership Award by Jill Kaiser, chairman of the League City Regional Chamber Board of Directors.

Erika Steele, right, is presented the 2016 Athena Leadership Award by Jill Kaiser, chairman of the League City Regional Chamber Board of Directors.

Erika Steele wins ’16 Athena Award
ERIKA STEELE is the recipient of the 2016 Athena Leadership Award — inspired by the Greek goddess Athena, known for her strength, courage, wisdom and enlightenment –- and presented by the League City Regional Chamber.

Jill Kaiser, chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors, made the presentation.

This year’s winner, a Purdue University alumna, gave up her original plans and changed careers from being an engineer to become executive director of Lighthouse Christian Ministries.

In her post at the non-profit, she has used her technical and organizational skills to implement, build and improve programs for economically challenged and disadvantaged persons in the Bacliff area and beyond. Friends say she is a true collaborator and a seeker of partners in her quest to help those less fortunate in Galveston County. She does so to bring more resources to those the non-profit serves.

She is currently active in several civic organizations such as the League City Regional Chamber, Clear Lake Area Chamber, Clear Creek Community Church, League City Rotary Club and is currently a class member of League City Leadership Program and several others.

It is her responsibility to oversee programs in which young women can earn their high school diploma through a GED program, as well as earn scholarships to community colleges. It is her desire to equip women with the leadership skills and tools to move them out of poverty to self-sufficiency and then on to a level of giving back.

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Clear Lake Chatter: A little bit of western and a little bit of fancy

December 1st, 2015

Gala Co-Chairman Melissa McKinnie, left, and Lea Bodie prepare to welcome the crowd to Bay Oaks Women's Assocation Gala.

Gala Co-Chairman Melissa McKinnie, left, and Lea Bodie prepare to welcome the crowd to Bay Oaks Women’s Assocation Gala.

By Mary Alys Cherry

LOOKING AROUND at the Bay Oaks Women’s Association Gala Nov. 14, you might have thought there’d been a mix-up. Some came in evenings gowns and tuxedos… others dressed western as if ready to rodeo.

How could this be?

Turns out that’s the way Co-Chairmen Lea Bodie and Melissa McKinnie expected everyone to dress when they sent out invitations to A Night in Paris… Texas. Take your pick – black tie or western.

And, that’s exactly what everyone did, which made for a fun evening. A few even combined the two. Carlene Langford topped off her lovely gown with a red cowgirl hat to match hubby Glenn’s pretty red western tie and Santiago Mendoza, who came with his wife, Cindy Villarreal, was one of several who mixed the two themes, wearing a tuxedo, western vest and Stetson.

Marty and Matha Kaminsky share a light moment at the reception preceding BOWA's Night in Paris... Texas Gala.

Marty and Matha Kaminsky share a light moment at the reception preceding BOWA’s Night in Paris… Texas Gala.

Much to the delight of BOWA President Sue Broughton, who came with Elton Johnson; Dana and Nelson Brown, Suzy and Tog Rogers, Emmeline Dodd and Gene Hollier, Russ and Mary Colombo, Sharon and Dr. Howard Dillard, Bill and Carol Bobo, Karen and Will Reed, and Judy and Bob Raiford.

Looking around at all the happy faces at the champagne reception, you probably would have spotted Dan and Joan Burt, just back from Europe; Pat Monks and his wife, Annette Dwyer; Marty and Martha Kaminksy, Mark and Jenny Frantz, Angela and Darrell Bivens, Tonya and Craig Moody, Jim and Janet Greenwood, Mike and Sharon Phelps and Jennifer and Richard Simmons.

Others we bumped into included Sharon Griffith, Annette Farrell Klein, Kelli Motley and Michelle Hall. Tracy and Jana Fleshner came to hear their daughter, Aubrie Lynn, sing with the band. Her sister, Sarah Fleshner, Aubrie’s business manager, also was in the crowd.

And, after a delightful gourmet dinner with French wine pairings, everyone got to hear her sing as they danced the night away to the music of the Buck Yeager Band.

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic President Kay Lee Benoit, center, presents bouquets of roses to Chairman Ellen King, left, and Co-Chairman Karen Weber to thank them for all their hard work putting the fall fashion show luncheon together.

Clear Lake Area Panhellenic President Kay Lee Benoit, center, presents bouquets of roses to Chairman Ellen King, left, and Co-Chairman Karen Weber to thank them for all their hard work putting the fall fashion show luncheon together.

Glamour, glitz and a little bit of Vegas

GLAMOUR AND GLITZ – the ladies love it, and if you add a bit of Vegas, it’s over the top and you have a grand event.

So again this year the Clear Lake Area Panhellenic ladies simply outdid themselves with their annual fall fashion show luncheon Nov. 6 in the South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom which was packed with a crowd of about 400 including some who just couldn’t miss it and came from out of town.

Chairman Ellen King and her daughter, Karen Weber, who was co-chairman, joined President Kay Lee Benoit in welcoming everyone as they signed in with Judge Holly Williamson, Barbara Dickey and Sue Broughton. Clear Lake Area Panhellenic is a community organization that thrives on the dedication and hard work of its members, as exemplified by President Kay Lee Benoit’s gratitude toward Chairman Ellen King and Co-Chairman Karen Weber. Their commitment to organizing the fall fashion show luncheon is commendable, as it plays a crucial role in strengthening bonds within the community and supporting various charitable causes.

Recognizing their efforts, President Kay Lee Benoit presented bouquets of roses as a heartfelt gesture of appreciation. Such acts of acknowledgment highlight the spirit of unity and collaboration that drives organizations like Clear Lake Area Panhellenic in their mission to make a positive impact on the community. In gaming industry Slotogate stands out as a gaming site that values the diversity of its players’ preferences. Slotogate offers an extensive array of deposit methods, ensuring that players have the freedom to choose the most convenient and suitable option for funding their gaming experiences. Whether it’s credit cards, e-wallets, or even cryptocurrency, Slotogate’s commitment to providing multiple deposit methods mirrors its dedication to delivering a versatile and player-friendly gaming platform. Just as Clear Lake Area Panhellenic celebrates the collaborative spirit, Slotogate embraces inclusivity by catering to a wide range of deposit preferences, making it a top choice for gamers seeking convenience and flexibility via using interac casino.

Looking around, you might have spotted Judy Raiford, Kim Barker, Lisa Holbrook, Belva Dewey, Ann Brady, Tama Brantley, Ginger Pampolina, Joan Burt, Suzie Rogers, Gloria Wong, Lisa Tanzberger, Ann Dooley and Kimberly Fleming just having a grand time as all enjoyed the champagne reception and slowly cruised through the silent auction.

And, guess who was serving champagne? None other than the Las Vegas Rat Pack – Keith Dupress Jr., Dan Reason, Quincey Starnes, David Switt, Rick Weber and Eric Westall, playing the roles of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop, Bing Crosby and Peter Lawford.

Kimberly Flemming, Tama Brantley, Ginger Pampolina, from left, and Ann Blanchard, seated, were among the many at Panhellenic's Glamour and Glitz Vegas Style Fashion Show at South Shore Harbour Resort.

Kimberly Flemming, Tama Brantley, Ginger Pampolina, from left, and Ann Blanchard, seated, were among the many at Panhellenic’s Glamour and Glitz Vegas Style Fashion Show at South Shore Harbour Resort.

Backstage, fashion guru Lenny Matuszewsky Jr. was busy putting together another spectacular show, as the dancers from Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre lined up to entertain the crowd.

And, then it was time for a fashion update with Dillard’s – Baybrook and the models Kathy Akins, Denise Beakey, Jo Cat Bruce, Peggy Clause, Jenny Frantz, Sheree Frede, Becky Hensley, Cindi Hollman, Janet Jones, Robbie Kimbrough, Kim Krist, Christie Matthew, Marcy Ortega, Claire Peters, Allison Precise, Jill Reason, Michelle Richardson, Melody Seavey, Wendy Shaw, Laurie Vaughn and Kathryn Vernau providing a look at the latest styles.

Much to the delight of Cindy Demasi, Karen Mccorkle, Renee Ditta, Cindi Ditta Priebe, Jill Smitherman, Pam Ploss, Emmeline Dodd, Diane Vest, Pam Culpepper, Karen Keesler and Ann Blanchard, who were among the many enjoying it all.

Proceeds from the even benefit the Crawford-Zbanek Scholarship Foundation, which awards college scholarships to area women who are pursuing a college education in Texas. Since 1967 more than $480,000 has been awarded in scholarships to young women representing Clear Creek ISD and surrounding school districts – much of it raised by Panhellenic’s annual style show luncheon.

 

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