Clear Lake Chatter

October 1st, 2017

Karen Reed, from left, goes over plans for the Bay Oaks Women’s Association style show with Sandy Carney and Dorinda Corbett of The Clotheshorse in League City as the crowd begins arriving at the country club.

Style show becomes a fundraiser

EACH YEAR the Bay Oaks Women’s Association begins the new season with a fashion show luncheon, so members can catch up on all their friends’ summer news and be up to date on the latest fall fashions.

This year, however, board members considered canceling it, wondering if it would be appropriate with so much suffering in nearby communities because of Hurricane Harvey. While debating it, they learned that several country club employees were among Harvey’s victims, and decided to turn it into a fundraiser to help those employees get back on their feet.

And, afterward, most seemed happy to get some normalcy back in their lives.

President Jodi Schnabel, who brought Tori Bogle as her guest, was there to greet the arriving crowd that included Jackie Daley, Sandy Lantz, Emmeline Dodd, Marilyn Lunney, Gloria Cruz, Susan McCoy, Angela Swint, Sue Broughton, Cindy Zook, Janine Hoefnagles, and Darla McKitrick.
Followed shortly thereafter by Sharon Dillard, Amy Roppolo, Ruth Beecher, Dee Wolfe, Lynn Stovall, Glenna Crist, Debbie Roan, Sue Laabs, Karen Reed, Linda Fincher, Beverly Braden and Pam Clary.

Kathy Braeuer, from left, visits with Gloria Cruz, Angela Swint and Sandi Wiemer during the Bay Oaks Women’s Association Fall Fashion Show Luncheon to launch BOWA’s fall season.

Before long, it was time for the fashion show that featured the latest styles from The Clotheshorse in League City introduced by Sandy Carney and Dorinda Corbett and modeled by Judie Ferguson, Dee Wolfe, Mary Colombo, Jodi Schnabel, Chris Howland, Melissa McKinnie, Priscilla Ennis and Kathryn Robinson – much to the delight of Trisha Gunn, Bobby Moutz, Susan Franklin, Lisa Kaczmarek, Ann Dooley, Laura Jardine, Linda Herzfeld, Jane Dannecker and Marie Counts Bradley.

Mary Alyce Hall brought Janet Atteberry as her guest and Lynn Brannan had Barbara Kimball as her guest while Priscilla Ennis arrived with Sandi Widmer, Lisa Maki, Jan Elsperman, Betsey Ennis, Kay Nute and Kathy Braeuer and Carlene Langford, brought Cindy Woodall and Roemehl Dewey as her guests,

Still others bringing guests were Karen Gandy with Jennifer Carlisle, Lynn Brannnan with Barbara Kimball, Mary Smith with Donna Jerz, Mary Russell with Beverly Stroud, Virginia Hosea with Carrie Lee and Mary Ellen Vail, and Bridgid McVaugh, who had Cornelia Kiessling as her guest.

Retired Johnson Space Center Director Mike Coats, center, gets a warm welcome from Rotary President Ralph Kramer and Rotarians Kippy Caraway, far left, and Mary Alys Cherry as he arrives at Bay Oaks Country Club to address the club.

Space Center Rotary off to a lively start

SPACE CENTER ROTARY is off to a great start to its new club year with two well known speakers and a new set of officers.

Banker Ralph Kramer is the club’s new president, following aerospace executive Daryl Smith, who passed the gavel at the beginning of the new Rotary year. Other officers are President-elect Nancy Anderson, Secretary Michael Porterfield, Treasurer Raymond Moore and Sgt.-at-Arms Michael Thomas.

Mike Coats, the retired Johnson Space Center director, was the first to address the Rotarians as they began a new year, marveling at all the work done by astronauts and cosmonauts on the International Space Station. “What’s fascinating are the long stays in space,” he said.

“There is a tremendous amount of research done on the space station. At any one time, astronauts are conducting 150 different experiments,” he said, noting that the ISS had been designated a national laboratory by Congress.

Before Harvey, we were all enjoying life. Here, Bay Oaks Country Club General Manager Stephen Morris, second from the left, welcomes, from left, Yvonne Perrin, Perry Laabs, Zack Seiberling and Megan Napoli to the Margaritaville new member mixer the club hosted during the summer.

But while he is fascinated with the work on the ISS, he was equally frustrated at all we have to pay the Russians to carry astronauts into space – “$80 million a flight. Half a billion a year!” And, he added, “I’m excited that next year sometime we’ll have two spacecraft flying (from the U.S.) at a cost of about $200,000 per flight to the ISS.” He also expressed hope the Space Council, revived by President Trump, will provide a clear direction for NASA.

Santiago Mendoza, the senior vice president of Bay Area Regional Medical Center, brought the Rotarians back to Earth the next week as he described the hospital’s work and accomplishments as it focuses on healness and wellness, and continues to expand and grow.

After giving a rundown of the hospital’s various attributes – 191 beds, 8 operating suites, 4 cardiac cath labs, a full service emergency room, 23 treatment rooms, 4 trauma rooms, plus a new women’s center, he pointed out that its just-opened Heart and Vascular Center is one of only five in Texas, and it recently was awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Surgery.

And soon, he told the crowd, the new Women’s Center will start delivering “little miracles, providing exceptional care for both moms and babies with a family centered approach.” And for those with weight problems, the hospital has the Metabolic Weight Loss Institute

Clear Lake Chatter

September 4th, 2017

The Lunar Rendezvous’ 2018 Royal Court stands for a photo at the Coronation Ball in Galveston. They are, center, King William McArthur and Queen Serina Weathers, with Capt. Ian Schaider, right, and Queen Alternate Katherine Nifong.

By Mary Alys Cherry

Serina Weathers crowned Lunar Rendezvous queen

A PRETTY Clear Horizons Early College High School rising senior, Serina Marie Weathers, was crowned the 2018 queen of the Lunar Rendezvous Festival at this year’s Coronation Ball July 29 at the San Luis Convention Center in Galveston.

A former Little Lady in Waiting, she is the daughter of Brett and Kimberley Weathers of Clear Lake and was sponsored by Sandy Carney of The Clotheshorse Boutique in League City.

After all the princesses, lieutenants, little ladies and page were introduced by the emcee, astronaut Shane Kimbrough, she was crowned by the 2017 queen, Madelyn Claire Emilia Chidester, and then danced the first dance with Festival King Bill McArthur, who just retired from NASA’s Astronaut Corps.

Her escort was Lt. Daniel Patrick Monks, son of Pat Monks and his wife, former festival Chairman Annette Dwyer.

Queen Alternate is Katherine Josefine Nifong, daughter of Craig and Wendy Nifong and a senior at Clear Creek High School. Katie was sponsored by her grandparents, Richard and Helga Rietz and escorted by Lt. John Raymond Mahon, son of Kelly Mahon and John Mahon.

Troy Harless and his daughter, Princess Tory Harless, enjoy themselves at the Lunar Rendezvous Ball.

This year’s captain is Ian Schaider, son of Paul and Elaine Schaider and a rising senior at Lutheran South Academy. He was escorted by Princess Madeleine Barlow, daughter of Mark and Eileen Barlow and was sponsored by Charlie Pfeiffer of Pfeiffer and Son.

Festival Chairman Dinah Matthews and Vice Chairman Tisa Foster helped Ball Chairmen Debbie Reichert and Laurie Vaughn welcome the black-tie crowd that included Festival Board of Directors Chairman Mike Landolt and his wife, Ann, a past festival chairman; and Advisory Board Chairman Jill Reason.

Plus a number of former kings — Judge Louie Ditta and his wife, Renee; former astronaut Jerry Ross, with his wife, Karen; Jerry Foyt and his wife, Kate; Jerry Clause and his wife, Peggy, a former chairman; and Tom Wong and his wife, Gloria, also a past festival chairman. Other former festival chairman in the mix included Wendy Shaw, who came with Greg Broderick, Karen McCorkle and Kellie McCorkle Byrd with husband, Joe.

Glancing around, you might have also spotted Julie and Tim Rainey, Todd and Suzanne Zerecheck, Dave and Carol Bergman Reynolds, Krista Williamson, Kathy Dooley, Jennifer and Richard Simmons, Linda Byrd, Elizabeth Byrd Olin, Wendy Drapela, Ange Mertens, Lisa and Eric Tanzberger and Lizzie Nifong, a former queen alternate who was there to see her sister introduced as the 2018 queen alternate.

Fashion Show Co-Chairmen Janis Blizzard, right, and her daughter, Savannah McMahon await the arriving crowd at the popular event.

Fashion Show a fun time for all

THE LUNAR Rendezvous Fashion Show is always one of the biggest events of the summer, so Co-Chairmen Janis Blizzard and her daughter, Savannah McMahon, wanted to make it a memorable one, picking “Fly Me to the Moon” as the theme and inking Lenny Matuszewski Jr. as the producer.

Besides seeing friends one hasn’t seen all summer, it’s always fun to see all the princesses, lieutenants, little ladies and the little page come down the runway with their proud moms – among them Kate Foyt and Linda DeMasie, both with daughters named Lauren; Renee Ditta with her third princess daughter, Macey; Ellen Chuoke with daughter, Annie; Debbie Kropp with daughter Jamie; Julie Rainey and daughter Kayla; Wendy Shaw and daughter Sophia; and Krista Williamson with twins Marie and Marlie — all with ties to Lunar Rendezvous.

Also adding pizzazz to the show were the dancers from the Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre, who always brighten up our events.

We also might mention the many who worked behind the scenes with Festival Chairman Dinah Matthews and Vice Chairman Tisa Foster to make the festival a success. Folks like Treasurer Cyndi Frohling, Publicity Chairman Justine Powell, Auction Chairmen Lucy Cavillo, Paula Black and Misty Killebrew, Raffle Chairman Wendy Drapela, Program Chairman Elizabeth McCarty, Sponsorship Chairman Cindy Sebald and Kickoff Chairmen Ronda Cook and Judy Talley.

Plus, the ladies who put in so many hours working with the princesses and lieutenants – Jill Smitherman and Belinda Schuerich; and the cuties in the little court – Laura Mackay and Amanda Mark, making sure they all knew their places, what to wear and when to show up.

Now….it’s on to next year!

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.

Clear Lake Chatter: Dr. John Grunsfeld presented National Space Trophy

June 1st, 2017

Dr. John Grunsfeld, left, is presented the National Space Trophy by former NASA Administrator Dr. Michael Griffin.

By Mary Alys Cherry

NASA FOLKS jokingly call former astronaut Dr. John Grunsfeld “the Hubble repairman.” As in Hubble Space Telescope and the thousands of miles he traveled on three space missions to repair it.

For that and his many other contributions to the space program over a span of 25 years, he was honored April 27 as the recipient of the Rotary National Award for Space Achievement Foundation’s National Space Trophy.

Former NASA Administrator Dr. Michael Griffin made the presentation at the 2017 RNASA Space Gala in the Downtown Houston Hyatt Regency Hotel April 28 before a crowd of nearly 800 Rotarians, educators and the space community, who cheered his many space accomplishments. Among them were five space missions including trips to the Hubble in 1999, 2003 and 2009 for a total of 58 days in space and 58 hours spent on 8 space walks and a host of other contributions, including his role as NASA’s chief scientist.

Afterwards Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Tom Stafford presented him with an Omega Watch. Both General Stafford and Dr. Griffin are former space trophy winners. In accepting the trophy, which stays on display for a year at Space Center Houston, Dr. Grunsfeld said, “I was inspired by so many people – John Glenn in particular. I also want to thank the American people who allow us to explore space.”

Eileen Collins, from left, former space shuttle commander, visits with astronaut Kate Rubins and Michelle Lucas.

Rob Navias, known as the “Voice of Mission Control,” was presented the Space Communicator Award by Jeff Carr, president of Griffin Communications, who was introduced by the gala’s emcee, the always humorous PBS science commentator Miles O’Brien.

Looking around as RNASA President Rodolfo Gonzalez welcomed the crowd, you might have spotted Johnson Space Center Director Dr. Ellen Ochoa and Glenn Research Center Director Dr. Janet Kavandi and three other former Space Trophy winners — Eileen Collins, Glynn Lunney and Tommy Holloway taking their seats.

The guest list read like a Who’s Who in the space industry and included Boeing Vice Presidents John Elbon and John Shannon, Jacobs VP Lon Miller, Lockheed Martin VPs Lisa Callahan and Mike Hawes, Orbital ATK VP and GM Frank Mauro and Orbital Space Systems President Frank Culberson and KBRWyle President Dr. Vernon McDonald and VP Genie Bopp – many with their spouses.

Plus, Blue Origin CEO Rob Meyerson, Barrios CEO Sandy Johnson and President Robbie McAfoos, A2B Solutions CEO Alfred Boyd, MEI Technologies CEO David Cates, MRI Technologies owners Debbie and

Griffin Communications President Jeff Carr and his wife, Mengo, left, visit with Elliot Pulham, of the RNASA Board of Advisors.

Tim Kropp, Aerojet Rocketdyne VP Scott Ward, Oceaneering GM Mike Bloomfield, Bastion Technologies President Jorge Hernandez, Ares President Tom P’Simer, SAIC VP Mike Mazzella and Axiom Space President Mike Suffredini.

Other NASA luminaries included JSC Deputy Director Mark Geyer, Associate Director Dr. George Nield, Flight Operations Director Brian Kelly, Communications Manager James Hartsfield, General Counsel Bernard Roan, Safety Director Bill McArthur and Space Station Program Manager Kirk Shireman, plus a number of astronauts such as Dr. Kjell Lindgren and Dr. Kathleen Rubins, who passed out the Stellar Awards to some mighty deserving folks; and Michael Fossum, Patrick Forrester and Marsha Ivins.

Lots of Rotarians in the crowd, including Rotary District Gov. Eric Liu, Space Center Rotary President Darryl Smith and President-elect Ralph Kramer, plus Nancy Anderson, Geoff Atwater, Scott Rainey, Bill Taylor, John Branch, Bob Wren, Mike Porterfield, Delia Stephens, Gary Johnson and Mark Hollis and former members Frank Perez, Floyd Bennett and Donnie Johnson.

Judge Holly Williamson, left, goes over plans for the program with BOWA President Jodi Schnabel.

Judge Holly Williamson presents interesting ‘trial’

“HERE COMES de Judge,” someone said as Judge Holly Williamson arrived to present the program for the Bay Oaks Women’s Association, getting a smile as she walked by.

But instead of a speech, Judge Holly had an intriguing idea for the ladies luncheon, inviting one and all to take part in a “trial.” One was the prosecutor, another the defense attorney, another the defendant, and so on, with all who didn’t have key roles assigned seats on the jury.

Something different and quite enjoyable as Chris Howland, Amy Roppolo, Jane Daniels, Carlene Langford and Eileen Hult soon found out after being welcomed by President Jodi Schnabel and Vice President Suzanne Leatherman.

Some of the other faces in the crowd included Judie Ferguson, Carol Bobo, Carol Howard, Debbie Roan, Jo Nell Hunter, Jane Daniels, Susan McCoy, Angela Bivens, Jan Duffy, Susan Franklin, Courtney Atchley, Allyson Jackson and Debbie May, who began making plans for their big fall fashion show Sept. 7 spotlighting fall fashions from The Clothes Horse in League City.

Charles Smitherman, Bay Area Museum director who was the 2017 Silver Tea honoree, with his wife, Joy, a long-time museum activist.

Silver Tea honors Charles Smitherman

NOT MANY realize all he does, but without Charles Smitherman, Bay Area Museum probably wouldn’t be the pretty place it is today. So, it was only fitting that the Museum Guild chose him as the Silver Tea honoree.

In introducing him to the crowd, Silver Tea Chairman Missy Rorrer noted that “he has given literally hundreds of hours, overseeing renovation projects, repairing and restoring various areas of the museum, fundraising and making sure the museum was in good operating condition.” His work and dedication to this little museum is truly remarkable.

After moving here in 1987, he and his wife, Joy, who also served as president of the Museum Guild, have worked diligently to preserve and maintain the museum for the past 30 years.

Besides dozens of Lunar Rendezvous princesses and lieutenants and their parents, we spotted quite a few Guild members including Emmeline Dodd and Gene Hollier, Annette Dwyer, Carl and Diane Konick, Mary Ann Baxter, Judy Raiford, Anita Fogtman, Nancy Poffenberger, Eva Galt, Nina McGlashan and Wendell and Pat Wilson, to name a few.

 

 

Clear Lake Chatter: It was like a jungle at this Ball of the Wild

May 1st, 2017

Ball of the Wild officials came dressed for the part – all in animal prints. They are, from left, Fundraising Chairman Yvonne Perrin, Silent Auction Committee member Dee Wolfe, Silent Auction Co-Chairman Belinda Scheurich, Gala Chairman Jennie Hampton and Vice Chairman Pam Bungo.

WALKING INTO the Assistance League Ball of the Wild, one might have thought he had walked into a jungle. There were that many among the crowd of about 300 dressed in leopard and zebra prints and jungle wear – all just having a delightful time.

Just as quickly as Chairman Jennie Hampton and Co-Chairman Pam Bungo joined President Dee Cover in welcoming everyone to the South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom, Reservation Chairmen Gail Ashby, Kim Barker, Lisa Holbrook and Ann Hammond were signing them in and helping them find their tables.

Long-time Assistance League member Atiya Abouleish, left, arrives at the Ball of the Wild with her son, Dr. Amr Abouleish, a UTMB-Galveston professor, and daughter-in-law, Dr. Lamia Abouleish.

Early arrivals included Judy and Frank Law, Shep and Yvonne Perrin, Bill and Katy Bastedo, Rick and Jill Lammers, Richard and Traci Dvorak, David and Dee Wolfe, Dan and Joan Burt, Nelson and Dana Brown, Sue Ellen and Dr. John Jennings, Doug and Carol Latimer, Debbie and Dr. Peter Wuenschel, Madeline and John Nugent, Deed and Diane Vest and Peter and Pam Culpepper.

They had hardly had a chance to browse through the silent auction items when in walked Melinda Garcia, Einar and Linda Goerland, John and Georgia Piwonka, Jerry and Jean Krebs, Doug and Johanna Mathera, John and Jill Smitherman, Gary and Sally Wigginton, John and Donna James, Jerry and Peggy Clause, Annette Dwyer and Pat Monks and Joe and Carol Base, stopping as they made their way across the ballroom to admire the beautiful table centerpieces donated by HEB.

Emcee Rebecca Spera of ABC Ch. 13 and her husband, Eric Valentino, a 1991 Clear Lake High grad, stop for a photo during the Ball of the Wild.

Pretty ABC Ch. 13 Traffic Anchor Rebecca Spera served as the evening’s emcee. She came with her husband, Eric Valentino, a 1991 Clear Lake High grad and a long-time area resident. Both seemed thrilled to sit at the same table with the league’s special guest, Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Greg Smith, along with Texas PTA President Lisa Holbrook, CCISD Trustee Ann Hammond  and Gala Chairman Jennie Hampton.

A highlight of the evening came with the presentation of the H.O.P.E. award to the Albemarle Foundation and the National Operation School Bell Award, which was awarded to United Way of Greater Houston – Bay Area Center.

Which brought smiles to the faces of Stan and Cindy Senger Lewis, Sue and Harrol Smith, Barbara and Ron Weitenhagen, Janet and Bill Summers, Hillary and Paul Gramm, Peter and Debbie Wuenschel, Misty and Kyle Killebrew, Jordan and Steven Quillen, Eileen and Chris Ball, Susan and Mike McCoy, Drs. Ann and Nils Hasselmo, Drs. Amr and Elerian Lamia Abouleish and Meredith and Aaron Levine.

Some of the others spotted just having a grand time  were Vic and Melanie Lovuola, Bob and Kathy Panneton, Leslie and Garrett Maddox, Stephen and Gail Ashby, Sonny and Jennifer Maxwell, Gordon and Sharon Christman, Betty and Bruce Walcott, Raleigh and Rita Johnson, Peggy and Jim McBarron, Marion and Achim Noack and Lance and Barbara Miller.

Clear Lake Chatter: Go Red for women raises $200,000 for AHA

April 1st, 2017

Among the many spotted enjoying the Go Red for Women Luncheon were from left, seated, Kathie Wiley, Becky Day, Emmeline Dodd and Karen Reed; standing, Kimberley Fleming, Anita Fogtman, Karen Keesler, Sandy Records, Kim Barker, Ellen King and Ann Brannen.

THERE’S NOTHING quite like it, our Go Red for Women Luncheon. You walk in, and there before your wondering eyes is a sea of red – lovely ladies in fashionable red outfits, mingling with handsome men in black suits and red ties. All for a wonderful cause: to raise money to help the American Heart Association.

And, best of all, the 2017 Go Red for Women Luncheon raised more than $200,000 for the fight against heart disease and stroke, AHA Gulf Coast Division Communications Director Michelle Mason told us later — $40,000 more than last year.

Men Go Red Chairman Jim Sweeney, right, welcomes Bay Area Regional Medical Center Chairman Dr. Michael Lyons, left, and Dr. Rizwan Chaudhry, a 2017 Heart Throb, to the Go Red for Women Luncheon at South Shore Harbour Resort.

This year’s luncheon, chaired by Senior Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Bay Area Regional Medical Center Santiago Mendoza Jr., had its biggest crowd yet with nearly 500 guests filling the South Shore Harbour Resort Crystal Ballroom to nearly overflowing.
Walking into the foyer, you might have bumped into Co-Chairmen Darcy Whatley, Theressa Riggs, Tama Brantley and Goinar Doroudian, who were busy checking with Heart Throb Chairman Sandy Adams, Open Your Heart Chairman Fay Picard, Auction Chairman Laurie Dahse and Fashion Show Chairman Stephanie Rice to make sure all was ready for the arriving crowd.

As were Event Committee members Amanda Fenwick, Brandy Gates, Melissa Vidrine, Teresa Provis, Hilary Hart, Kelsey Richardson, Elizabeth Quigley, Donna Orozco and Abbey Lee.

Wasn’t long before we spotted Karen Reed, Emmeline Dodd, Kathie Wiley and Anita Fogtman as they checked in before tagging up with Karen Keesler, Becky Day, Kimberley Fleming, Ann Brannen, Ellen King, Sandy Records and Kim Barker.

En route to their table, they passed three tables of folks from the University of Houston-Clear Lake including attorney and alumnae Marilyn Sims, Leigh Ann Shelfer, Mary Sue Anton, Karen Barbier, Joyce Delores Taylor, Mary Ann Shallberg, Alex Malone and Theresa Presswood.

Lots of physicians in the happy crowd, too, including Dr. Rizwan Chaudhry and Dr. Larry Cato representing Bay Area Regional Medical Center, Dr. Kyle W. Stephens representing Houston Methodist St. John Hospital, and the 2017 Heart Throb winner, Dr. Matthew Higgs, representing All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute; and Bay Area Regional Medical Center Chairman Dr. Michael Lyons.

Circle of Red Co-Chairmen Tama Brantley and Darcy Whatley and Men Go Red for Women Chairman Jim Sweeney also circulated through the crowd, stopping to visit with first one and then another before Ch. 2’s Syan Rhodes took the stage to emcee the program and fashion show, which featured JoAnn Armstrong, Meloney Bee Bean,dSandra Cruz, Keishia Gatson, Janice Gunnin Wilson, Kimberly Ito, Linda Reppert, Rita Torres, Sandy Williamson, Geraldine Zidek, Debbie Robinson, Rhonda De La Moriniere and Veronica Weir.

Men Who Cook chefs Barry Terrell, Rick Clapp, John Collins, Chip Boettler, Hans Mair and Chris Kurzadowski, from left, prepare to serve the crowd at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook.

Meanwhile, Seabrook men were busy cooking . . .
WHILE THE WOMEN were all in red, the Seabrook Men Who Cook were busy getting into their black and white chef outfits and serving a delighted overflow crowd at Lakewood Yacht Club.

Mostly, they work like old pros, and truthfully, they are. Many have been serving up delightful dishes for years. Longest serving are Hans Mair, owner of the Sundance Grill II, and Rick Clapp, Bay Area Houston Magazine CEO, who have been celebrity chefs for 21 years.

Some of the other long-time chefs include Tom Davis and Charles Clemmons, 19 years; Mike DeHart, 18 years; and David Imbrie, 16 years.

Many others have multiple years of pleasing the crowd – Trey Hafely, Chip Boteler, John Collins, Chris Kurzadowski, Steve Hegyesi, Thom Kolupski, Kim Morrell, Tom Diegleman, Michael Giangrosso, Darrell Picha, Paul Dunphey, Gary Johnson, Warren Rocky Miller and Rick Wade.

Proceeds benefit the Seabrook Rotary Foundation and the Seabrook Police Department Association’s charities.

Clear Lake Area Chamber President Cindy Harreld DeWease, second from left, asks Chris Wallace, center, president of the Texas Association of Business and speaker for the chamber’s Government Affairs Committee Luncheon, to pose for a photo with, from left, Brian Freedman, Chamber Chairman Carl Joiner, and emcee Lisa Holbrook, who is chairman of the committee.

Chamber hosts special speaker
THE CLEAR LAKE Area Chamber had a very special speaker at its Government Affairs Committee Luncheon — Chris Wallace, president of the Texas Association of Business, who listed the TAB’s 2017 legislative priorities.

Lisa Holbrook, who has been active in several legislative sessions as a key aide to former State Rep. John Davis and now serves as president of the Texas PTA, emceed the event and introduced the speaker.

Covering an amazing amount of ground, he quickly stressed how important education is, promising to work to raise education standards across Texas, support both full day Pre-K and the training of community college students for jobs in the workforce and higher education.

He supports the proposed Coastal Barrier to protect the Gulf Coast from storm damage, he said, opposes the bathroom bill and advocates for quality health care and access to choices of care. And, that was just some of his many priorities.

All in all, an interesting event.

Clear Lake Chatter: Rodeo style show better than ever

February 1st, 2017

Hundreds gathered at the Gilruth Center for the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Style Show including, from right, Courtney Atchley, Jo Nell Hunter, Kay Lee Benoit, Jill Reason, Ondi Lyon, Michelle Richardson, Lisa O’ Brien and Sue Ellen Jennings.

MASKS MINGLED with cowboy hats as the Bay Area Go Texan Rodeo Committee unveiled this year’s Black and White Masquerade Fashion Show and Ball Friday, Jan. 20.

And, what a great time was had by all!

Bay Area Capt. Dianna Jones and Assistant Capt. Anita White were at the door welcoming the happy crowd to NASA’s Gilruth Center and inviting them to join the fun.

And fun it was seeing friends from all over the Bay Area before emcee Greg Schroder introduced one and all to what is one of the most enjoyable events in the Houston area – the Rodeo Style Show, featuring some 25 models, including Nassau Bay City Manager Jason Reynolds, singer and former Kemah Councilor Kelly Williams, Space Center Automotive owner Todd McIntosh, Clear Lake Chamber VP Sherry Sweeney and Webster Fire Chief Patrick Shipp.

Model Nancy Buffaloe models an elegant gown during the Bay Area Rodeo Style Show.

Others showing off an array of outfits from Casanova’s Downfall, Cavender’s Boot City, Adelaide’s Boutique, The Clotheshorse, Dillard’s-Baybrook Mall, Kendra Scott Baybrook and Jill’s Fashions and Bridal Included Anna Babineaux, Karla Boddie, Mel Bosley, Nancy Buffaloe, Jeremiah Corbin, Sarah Elliott, Kellie Gross, Karen Jordan and John Kocher.

Plus, Kimberly Konkel, Logan Lester, Stephanie Ludwig, Peggy Morrow, Bobby Osoria, Shelley Rhodes, Debbie Salisbury, Jamie Sausser, Stacy Stockwell, Lee Ann Vogel, Joe Wilson and Marka Woodard with fashion guru Lenny Matuszewski producing the show.

Faces in the audience included Clear Lake Chamber President Cindy Harreld DeWease and former Chairman Jane Sweeney, League City Councilman Keith Gross, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell, Norman Frede Chevrolet GM Joan McKinney, CPA Olive Murphy Riker, and a number of rodeo aficionados such as Rocky Mauldin, Irene Pavig, Gene Hollier, Emmeline Dodd and Anita Fogtman.

Glancing around, you might also have spotted Jill Reason, Mary Ellen Arledge, Johnette Norman, Marcy Fryday, Patty Kane, Lillie Harman, Courtney Atchley, Kay Lee Benoit, Jo Nell Hunter, Lisa O’Brien, Ondi Lyon, Michelle Richardson and Sue Ellen Jennings, to name a few, all having a great time.

Drew and Sandy Lewis, left, stops to talk with Lauren Kutac and Chris Lewis as they arrive at St. Cecelia Community Center for the Houston Alumnae Panhellenic Foundation’s Annual Wine Tasting Event, “HAPA in NAPA.”

Area residents attend fundraiser
A NUMBER of Clear Lake faces were in the crowd attending the recent Wine Tasting hosted by the Houston Alumnae Panhellenic Association to raise funds for scholarships for collegians in the Greater Houston Area.

Among those HAPA President Connie Zieba of Taylor Lake Village welcomed were Drew and Sandy Lewis, Polly Kent, Lauren Kutac and Chris Lewis of Clear Lake.

Cooky Mays and Susan Banks served as co-chairmen of the Wine Tasting event at St. Cecilia’s Community Center in Houston.

The annual event raises funds for fraternity women of the Greater Houston Area in financial need for continuing their education. Last May, 24 women were awarded scholarships totaling $58,000. These women represent 14 sororities and 13 universities located across the United States. In the last 30 years, HAPF has awarded $789,800 in scholarships to 500 women.

League City was well represented at the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership’s Jan. 17 luncheon by Mayor Pat Hallisey, at right, and City Councilmen Greg Gripon and Larry Millican, from left, and Mary Hammer with MHM Consultants.

Mayor updates BayTran
GALVESTON MAYOR Jim Yarbrough drew quite a crowd when he updated the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership on his city’s three major economic engines – tourism, the port and education – and what is best for the island’s 52,000 residents at the BayTran luncheon at the Hobby Marriott Hotel.

Some of his thoughts include vertical parking at the nation’s fourth busiest cruise terminal and encouraging development along Harborside Drive and replacing and reconfiguring the Pelican Island bridge to allow growth at Texas A&M Galveston.

Meanwhile, he said City Manager Bryan Maxwell and his staff are doing a terrific job, and that includes Assistant City Manager Rick Beverlin – a former Kemah city administrator and BayTran board member.

Among the crowd BayTran President Theresa Rodriguez welcomed were Mayors Pat Hallisey of League City, Glenn Royal of Seabrook and Louis Rigby of La Porte; City Councilors Amanda Fenwick of Clear Lake Shores and Larry Millican and Greg Gripon of League City; Galveston County Commissioner Ken Clark and Port Commissioner John Kennedy, UHCL Business Dean Dr. Ted Cummings, United Way Bay Area Executive Director Melinda Garcia, and former BayTran President Barbara Koslov, now with Judge Ed Emmett’s office.

Time for 2017 Go Red for Women Luncheon
CH. 2 ANCHOR Syan Rhodes will emcee the 2017 Bay Area Go Red for Women Luncheon Friday, Feb. 24, in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

Bay Area Regional Medical Center VP Santiago Mendoza Jr. is chairman of the popular event with Tama Brantley, Golnar Doroudian, Theresa Riggs and Darcy Whatley on his leadership team. Sandy Adams is the Heart Throb chairman with Laurie Dahse heading up the Auction Committee, Fay Picard as Open Your Heart chairman and Stephanie Rice chairing the Fashion Show. For tickets, visit BayAreaGoRed.Heart.org

Coasting around….
RETIRED ASTRONAUT Michael Fossum has been named vice president and chief operating officer of Texas A&M Galveston. Until his recent retirement, he was assistant chief of the International Space Station in the Astronaut Office….Cheryl Bordwine of League City, has been nominated for the prestigious Heroes of Military Medicine Award. She serves in the U.S. Army Reserves and is a division medical operations officer, overseeing medical readiness before deployment for about 500 soldiers and is also the College of the Mainland Medical Assisting Program coordinator….1981 Lakewood Yacht Club Commodore Bernard Aaron “Bunny” Pearl of Seabrook, passed away Jan. 16. A Celebration of Life was held in Lakewood’s Ballroom Jan. 22 when friends shared amusing and cheerful memories of Bunny.

Clear Lake Chatter: What fun it is to party every day!

January 1st, 2017

NO DOUBT about it – the Bay Area loves to party, and what better time than the holidays?

Actually, the wee set got the parties started with the Bay Area Houston Ballet’s Breakfast With the Sugar Plum Fairy at South Shore Harbour Resort and the Bay Area Museum Guild’s Toyland Fantasy breakfast at Bay Oaks Country Club.

What fun it was to watch the little ones in their party garb, dancing around and wearing smiles a mile wide.

Bay Area Museum Guild President Brandie Corrao welcomes Lunar Rendezvous Queen Madelyn Chicester and Festival Capt. Alex Struss to the Guild Holiday Open House at the museum.

And then the parties began with Museum Guild members opening the museum doors Sunday, Dec. 4 for their annual Holiday Open House, where President Brandie Corrao joined Co-Chairmen Ava Galt and Jan Larson in welcoming the crowd that included Taylor Lake Village City Councilman Tony Galt, Matthew and Angie Weinman, Delicia and Alex Struss, Cindy and Dave Kuenneke, Anita Fogtman and Emmeline Dodd.

Lunar Rendezvous Queen Madelyn Chicester joined the party, as did Festival Capt. Alex Struss with the Clear Lake Sound Waves providing entertainment.

 

UH-CLEAR LAKE kept up the beat, hosting its big annual Holiday Reception Dec. 7 at Bay Oaks Country Club, where retiring President Bill Staples and his wife, Darlene, were on hand to welcome the happy crowd.

Area Legislators Dennis Paul of Clear Lake and Ed Thompson of Pearland were among the crowd, as were Pearland Mayor Tom Reid, attorneys John Gay and his wife, Becky Reitz; Marilyn and Glynn Lunney, Alan and Peggy Hill, Theresa Presswood, Marilyn and Charles Sims, Ken and Nedra Gurry, Kippy Caraway, Mary Ann Shallberg, Rob and Karen Barbier and Rhonda Thompson.

Plus, Science and Engineering Dean Zbigniew T. Czajkiewicz, College of Education Dean Mark D. Shermis, Business Dean William T. Cummings and Human Sciences and Humanities Dean Rick J. Short.

 

Michelle Richardson, Kelli Baliker, Diana Shuman and Ondi Lyon, from left, share a light moment as at the Clear Lake Area Panhellenic Holiday Brunch at the Shuman home in Bay Oaks.

CLEAR LAKE Panhellenic kept up the beat the next day, Dec. 8, with Diane Shuman hosting the sorority alumnae group’s big annual Holiday Brunch at her home in Bay Oaks.

Diane, in a bright red outfit, joined Brunch Co-Chairmen Judie Ferguson and Sue Ellen Jennings, both wearing colorful Santa hats, and Panhellenic President Jill Reason, wearing white, in welcoming the festive crowd.

Among them were Peggy Clause, Lisa O’Brien, Jennie Hampton, Jo Cat Bruce, Michelle Richardson, Sue Broughton, Judie Ferguson, Kay Lee Benoit, Ondi Lyon, Ruth Beecher, Ellen King, Karen McCorkle, Diane Overman, Jo Nell Hunter, Kathie Wiley, Barbara Dickey, Judie Raiford and Kelli Baliker.

 

BAY AREA HOUSTON Economic Partnership members gathered at Lakewood Yacht Club later that day with Mayors Glenn Royal of Seabrook, Johnny Isbell of Pasadena, Carl Joiner of Kemah and Michel Bechtel of Morgan’s Point in the crowd that filled up the ballroom.

Joining them were State Rep. Dr. Greg Bonnen, Houston City Councilman Dave Martin and a host of business men and women celebrating the holiday season.

Plus, UHCL President Bill Staples,  San Jacinto College Chancellor Brenda Hellyer and Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Greg Smith.

 

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER Director Ellen Ochoa hosted another big party with a number of city officials and aerospace executives joining her and her husband, attorney Coe Miles, Friday, Dec. 9 in JSC’s Building 9 for some good conversation and an update that included noting that we have had a continuous presence on the International Space Station now for 16 years.

Familiar faces in the crowd included Mayors Jon Keeney of Taylor Lake Village and Louis Rigby of La Porte with their wives, Lynn and Marlene, Jacobs Technology Senior VP and GM Lon Miller, Barrios Technology President Robbie McAfoos and his wife, Victoria, and Clear Lake Area Chamber President Cindy Harreld DeWease and her husband, businessman Jeff DeWease.

Plus JSC Deputy Director Mark Geyer, who brightened up the party when he arrived in one of the most colorful jackets we’ve ever seen.

 

Assistance League Holiday Reception hostess Cecilia Dismukes, right, joins President Dee Cover, left, and Reception Chairman Elizabeth McCarty before the annual party at the Dismukes’ lovely home.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE members were all wearing big smiles as Cecelia Dismukes hosted their big annual Holiday Reception at her home in Kemah’s Waterford Harbor.

ALBA President Dee Cover and Chairman Elizabeth McCarty joined the hostess in welcoming the arriving crowd, which included Yvonne Perrin, Pam Bungo, Melanie Lovuola, Kathy Panneton, Justine Powell, Badiha Nassar, Kim Barker and Lisa Holbrook.

Others you might have spotted were Brunella Altemus, Becky Richey, Barbara Groh, Katy Bastedo, Kathleen Courville, Mari Stockard-Young, Leslie Schwanke, Dee Wolfe, Janet Vallelungo, Elaine Rister, Barbara Weitenhagen, Jean Simms, Mary Vaughn, Brook Cimas, Betty Walcott, Sandra Kelver, Cookie Derderian, Amy Wortham, Betty Stoub and Joyce Alderman.

 

Houston Symphony League Bay Area President Mary Voigt, center, looks on as Dana Puddy, left, and Alice Steele prepare for the holiday party.

HOUSTON SYMPHONY League Bay Area members gathered at the home of Vicki Buxton in Clear Lake for their annual Holiday Reception, chaired by Special Events Coordinator Carole Murphy.

Buzzing around the Buxton home, you probably would have bumped into President Mary Voigt, Dana Puddy, Pat Biddle Kahl and Alice Steele and former Presidents Jim Moore and Patience Myers – just a few of the many who dropped by for the holiday celebration.

OTHERS joining the party-go-round included the Clear Lake Area Chamber and League City Regional Chamber Holiday Receptions at their offices, Recherche Christmas Brunch at Lakewood Yacht Club, Bay Oaks Country Club and Lakewood Yacht Club holiday parties for members and on and on…

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.

Clear Lake Chatter: With spring comes the fun times

April 1st, 2016

Trey Hafely, stirs his Lobster Bisque, as Rick Clapp, center, and Bobby Horton look on during the Seabrook Men Who Cook at Lakewood Yacht Club. This is Hafely’s 13th year as a chef and Clapp’s 20th year.

Trey Hafely, stirs his Lobster Bisque, as Rick Clapp, center, and Bobby Horton look on during the Seabrook Men Who Cook at Lakewood Yacht Club. This is Hafely’s 13th year as a chef and Clapp’s 20th year.

AS SPRING began blossoming out all over the area, many celebrated its early arrival at parties and luncheons.

First came the 22nd annual Seabrook Men Who Cook, put on at Lakewood Yacht Club by Seabrook Rotary to benefit its foundation and the Seabrook Police Charities with hundreds joining the fun.

Next was the annual Go Red for Women Luncheon at South Shore Harbour Resort, where several hundred gathered – all dressed in red – to raise $160,000 for the American Heart Association and pick Dr. Safi Madain of Clear Lake Regional Medical Center as their 2016 Heart Throb. Tama Brantley and Darcy Whatley served as co-chairmen of the event.

Still another big event was the Houston Symphony League Bay Area’s Day By the Bay Home Tour and its Pre-Tour Party in Brook Forest chaired by Martha and Ernie McWilliams, as the League continued its 40th anniversary celebration.

And, that’s just a few of the events that kept us on the run!

Kimberly Harding, Lauri Gordon, Susan White and Nancy Suarez, from left, were among several who spent many hours making the Go Red for Women event a big success.

Kimberly Harding, Lauri Gordon, Susan White and Nancy Suarez, from left, were among several who spent many hours making the Go Red for Women event a big success.

Retiring Nassau Bay Police Chief Joe Cashiola was honored at a farewell party at City Hall with hundreds of citizens dropping by. Former Mayor Don Matter, left, was among the many stopping by to wish the long-time chief and his wife well.

Retiring Nassau Bay Police Chief Joe Cashiola was honored at a farewell party at City Hall with hundreds of citizens dropping by. Former Mayor Don Matter, left, was among the many stopping by to wish the long-time chief and his wife well.

Former Nassau Bay City Manager Chris Reed, City Councilman Bob Warters, Constable Phil Sandlin and State Rep. Dennis Paul, from left, were among the hundreds who stopped by to say thank you to retiring Police Chief Joe Cashiola for his many years of work at farewell party the city hosted for him.

Former Nassau Bay City Manager Chris Reed, City Councilman Bob Warters, Constable Phil Sandlin and State Rep. Dennis Paul, from left, were among the hundreds who stopped by to say thank you to retiring Police Chief Joe Cashiola for his many years of work at farewell party the city hosted for him.

Bay Area Houston Magazine