intown magazine - january - february

January-February 2012

The MenilCollection25 Years

The Game The Events People

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

befo

reaf

ter

Services Available

�� Lang Road, Houston TX ��

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

(713) 935-0121

2 www.intownmag.com

CONTENTS

LIFE / 6__________________________________

Art and ActivismThe Menil Collection celebrating 25 years

THE BUZZ / 16, 17, 22____________________________________________

Celebrating the Completionof Kirby Drive

ARTS & EVENTS / 26______________________________________

THE GAME/ 14_______________________________________

Brian Cushing -The Leader of the Texans.

FINANCIAL FOCUS / 18_______________________________________________

What Does The Investment landscape look like.

ON THE COVER_______________________________________________

Danny LyonRachel in Texas (Robert Frank, Wavy Gravy, Paula Cooper, Danny Seymour) 1969Magnum Photos, and the Edwynn Houk Gallery© Danny LyonCourtesy Dektol.wordpress.com

THE GAME / 10________________________________________

New owner of the Astros answers some tough questions.

THE LAST PAGE / 28___________________________________

106 12

201817

HOUSTON RENOVATOR /20________________________________________

Organize, Secure andcontrol your Home

4 www.intownmag.com

PublisherM.A. Haines

EditorLisa June

Production

Web Design:Melaroo

Art Director & Layout Design:

Alona Preskovsky

Web Design: Jay Ford

ContributorsBuddy BaileyGracie CavnarMarene GustinKatheryn HoukBrenda JacksonNancy Kershen

For advertising ratesand information713.525.8607

[email protected] reservation deadline is 15

days prior to publication.

Intown Magazine is published bi-monthly by SNS Media.

Articles are welcome and will be given careful consideration

for possible publication. Intown Magazine does not assume any

responsibility for unsolicited materials. Materials submitted

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

Copyright 2012 by Intown Magazine. All right reserved.

Content may not be reprinted or reproduced with permission

from Intown Magazine.

EDITORIAL

New Year always bring Hope and Change

www.intownmag.comWEB EXCLUSIVES

Photos, Videos, Features

The New Year brings hope and many big promises for change. 2012 is also an election year and that is good news for many in the media because of more ad dollars and more stuff to cover. Locally we have some new faces on the City Council that will provide new challenges for the mayor.

In Houston and in this issue of Intown, we celebrate the completion of Kirby Drive by the Upper Kirby District. We also introduce a very important local charity Force4Compassion which was the host charity for Galleria Chamber and Intown Magazine party hosted by Harvey Gulf International. We also visited many other parties and charity functions that Houstonians are so well know for. Check out www.houstoinintown.com for more of these great events now and throughout the year.

One of the world’s best museums, The Menil Collection turns 25 this year and will have some fantastic exhibits to celebrate. Read more about this world class museum that many Houstonians still don’t know about. Marene Gustin, a local gem in her own right, pens this narrative. Cirque du Soleil returns in February with their immortalization of Michael Jackson and Society For The Performing Arts will kick off the new year, their 45th, with an invasion from the north with two shows from our Canadian friends. Dulciner Langfelder & Co. will perform her multi-media mix of song and dance about women across cultures and through civilization. In February, Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet will return to Houston after 26 years and perform the venerable ballet- Moulin Rouge. For the whole family the Imago Theatre will perform the comedy and musical ZooZoo. Check out the Arts & Events section in the back of the magazine or go to our website for more updated info.

Our very own Houston Texans now in their tenth season will play in and host their very first playoff game in January. They will be led by their controversial star pro bowl linebacker, Brian Cushing who is interviewed by veteran NFL play by play announcer and current daytime host, Craig Shemon, part of our sports partners at 1560 The Game Radio and the Yahoo Sports Radio Network. Travis Rodgers formally of Jim Rome fame now with 1560/ Yahoo Sports, asks the new Houston Astros owner Jim Crane some very tough questions for all of us baseball junkies. Last but not least, 1560 morning hosts John Granato and Sean Pendergrast find out if Daryl Morey is the smartest guy in the room and what to expect from our Houston Rockets in this strike shortened season.

Back to change There are a lot of things we would like to change but can’t and many that we can but won’t.

Subtle but inevitable is change and sometimes at a rapid and confusing pace in the internet age. We now promote our advertisers daily with information to our subscribers through our email blasts and this service has been a very important part of Intown’s business in the last year and a half. It is difficult to embrace many of the changes today, but those of us who do will have a better year than those who don’t.

Happy New Year!M.A. Haines

6 www.intownmag.com

LIFE

You’re driving through the tree-lined neighborhood with its charming bungalows, when suddenly, there it is: The Menil Collection’s stunning Renzo Piano-designed building. It hardly looks like a museum, with its simple gray painted wooden sides, wide porches and oddly shaped white roof — which allows natural light inside without directly hitting the art — that belies the amazing collection of art that resides inside.

“I love the approachability, acces-sibility and humanity of The Menil,” says resident Tom Williams. “Unlike so many museums, The Menil seeks to put the viewer into the space of the artwork so that you can absorb it as work and as a vision, rather than maintain the distance that forces one only to see it as an object.”

And he’s hardly alone, the museum, which turns 25 this year, brings visitors from around the world to enjoy the leafy 40-acre campus that includes the main building housing the extensive art collection acquired by the de Menils during their lifetime, the Dan Flavin Installation, the Cy Twombley Gallery and outdoor sculptures. “It’s hard to believe it opened June

4, 1987,” says museum spokesperson Vance Muse. “And that it was the first Piano commission in the U.S.”

Since 1987, when aviator sunglasses were all the rage, The Simpsons first premiered on Fox and artist Andy Warhol died, Piano has become a recognized architect of museums and buildings not only in America but around the world. And, of course, The Menil has become a beacon of art here in Houston.

So, for the silver anniversary, the museum is planning some very exciting things for 2012.

There’s the Men of Menil fundraiser in March, a men only black-tie affair featuring Japanese Sumo wrestlers no less, and a big gala planned for November.

And there will be some stunning art exhibits this year. From March 2 to June 10 you can view Richard Serra Drawing: A Retrospective, the first ever retrospective of the renowned sculptor’s paintstick drawings.

“His drawings have this incredible physicality when you stand in front of

“I’d like to say what a marvel that you exist, and that you move about in the world as you do.”“I personally…will and do celebrate your devotions, dedication and accomplishments.”– Mark Rothko and Robert Rauschenberg, in letters to John and Dominique de Menil

The Menil CollectionCultural Oasis Turns 25

by Marene Gustin

them,” says The Menil Collection’s Michelle White who curated the exhibit composed of works from major public and private collections from around the world. “I would

love for people to come away from this with a different idea of what drawing can be.”Serra uses blocks of melted down paintsticks on paper and linen to create

modernist drawings with breath and texture that the New York Times calls “genuinely radical” and “physically unsettling.” The exhibit opened in April of last year at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, then travelled to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art last October. Both received rave reviews. As an added bonus here, Serra will come to Houston to create several large-scale, site-specific drawings at the museum.Also, in late March running through late July, the museum will feature This World Is Not My Home: Danny Lyon Photographs.

The 70-year-old Lyon is well known for his poignant black and white candid photographs documenting America’s history of injustice from the civil rights struggle in the South through the life of Midwestern motorcycle gangs to his intimate photos of death row inmates at Texas’ Walls Unit. Most recently he’s pointed his camera at the children in China’s booming, polluted industrial cities and America’s Occupy protesters.

The exhibit is drawn from the 246 Lyon photographs in the museum’s permanent collection and many of the artist’s newer works including some never-before-seen Occupy photographs.

“I think we’re in a time of struggle and change today and that’s been a constant Lyon, who will be here for the opening,

René MagritteLa chambre d'écoute (The Listening room), 1952© 2011 C. Herscovici, London / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New YorkThe Menil Collection, Houston, gift of Fariha FriedrichPhoto: Paul Hester

8 www.intownmag.com

has a history with Houston. When he lived here briefly he met Dominique de Menil, who built and filled the museum with her family collection before gifting it to the city. De Menil provide support to Lyon, showing his death row exhibit, Conversations with the Dead at Rice University and provided funding for his film The Abandoned Children about Colombian orphans in 1975. The film, recently restored, will be shown at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s Brown Auditorium Theater during the exhibit.

“I think he’s one of the greatest in the street photography movement in the U.S.,” says Kamps.

Kamps will also curate the July through October exhibit, Silence; paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, performances and sound works that consider the absence of sound as a subject and a medium in contemporary art.

Dominique de Menil said she wanted “only to discover treasures, to bring them back home, like one makes a bouquet, without too much reflection and in the process for the joy of the eyes.” The Menil Collection, a public museum open free of charge to all who enter, is her gift to the people of Houston and to the world.

If you haven’t visited in a while or ever, 2012 is the time to see The Menil Collection.

THE MENIL COLLECTION 1515 Sul Ross StreetHouston, TX 77006Tel 713-525-9400 Fax 713-525-9444www.menil.org

Art and Activism: Projects of John and Dominique de MenilEdited and with a Preface by Josef Helfenstein and Laureen SchipsiJosef Helfenstein is director of The Menil Collection.Laureen Schipsi is the Menil’s publisher. November 1, 2010. 350 pages. 210 b/w and 106 color illustrations

9x12 $65.00 978-0-300-12377-7

Distributed by Yale University Press for The Menil CollectionJacket design by Don Quaintance, Public Address DesignFront cover: Dominique and John de Menil, Rice Media Center, Rice University, Houston, 1971The book includes a complete chronology of de Menil projects, exhibition history, a listing of the Menil film archive, and a selected bibliography. For more information contact [email protected] or WWW.MENIL.ORG

www.intownmag.com 9

THE PARTY AND SPONSORS Force4Compassion

Force4Compassion Charity Christmas Party (F4C) Sponsored by Harvey Gulf International, Galleria Chamber of Commerce and Intown Magazine to raise awareness of human trafficking. Launched in 2010 by Jana Rankin after the inspiration came from a book titled The Road of Lost Innocence written by Somaly Mam, a victim before the age of 12. F4C aims to raise awareness and provide hope for children and victims of human trafficking. As a non-profit F4C provides shelter, medical care, counseling and reintegration.Funds are generated through charitable contributions, donations and the sale of hand crafted bracelets called Freedom Chains. The night was a memorable one and most people left with a heavy heart and a solidarity chain bracelet on their wrist. To learn more or purchase a bracelet go to www.f-4-c.orgFor more photos go to www.houstonintown.com

1 2

34

56

7

8

9

11

10

Jun Viktor Bodorff, Brenda Holmes

Shila Aron, Roy Murray

1 Aneela Qureshi, Bob Brodoff, Karen Slaton

2 Rudy Szab, Paul Schrager

3 Brenda Holmes, Katherine Wilson

4 Julie Svancara, Tonja Oria

5 Vicki Lehner, Tom Lehner, Julie Webber, Andrew McCain

6 Aneela Qureshi, Karen Slaton, Nick Paris

7 Don Sweat, Jackelyn Viera-Iloff, Jay Guerrero

8 Yana Morales, Riyad Abu-Taha

9 Kevin Cullen, Janeice Weinano

10 Lee Ewing, David Young, Emily Smith, Lance Rosmarin

11 Hallie Bauer, Bill & Ani Scot, Stive Machann

The

Game

Travis Rodgers: So obviously the big topic here in town is that the Astros are moving to the American League in 2013...A lot of Astros fans are upset about that. What would you tell them?

Jim Crane: Well, that’s not the deal we signed up for, either, but it be-came very clear to us during the process that, if we were going to own the team, or anyone was go-ing to own the team, that it was go-ing to be an AL team. It does make sense for baseball because they need to even us out, and they’re go-ing to put another Wild Card team out there, and they needed this for the Collective Bargaining Agree-ment from a labor-side. So without an option, we decided we would be the best guys to own the team and we continued to put another up for

a different deal. We certainly need the fans support and want them to come back out and give us some time, and we’ll do a job for them.

TR: How long do you think it will take Astros fans to be comfort-able with being an AL team? Is it just a matter of winning games?JC: Well, you hope to put a bet-ter product out there...you know, baseball is baseball. There’s going to be some positives this season, you know you’ll see some east coast teams. I talked to Nolan Ryan who said it’s going to be great when we get down to the end of the division, at the end of the year, and we’re both in contention playing each other. I try to look at the positives. Change is always difficult...but we’re going to make the best of it and put a good product out there for the

New owner of the Astros answers some tough questions.

New Astros Owner - Jim Crane.Faces his biggest business challenge in rebuilding the Houston Astros

“Anywhere from 2-5 years to get us extremely competitive and compete for a championship.”

10 www.intownmag.com

Jim Crane from his playing days at Central Missouri

By Travis Rodgers1560 The Game/Yahoo Sports Radio

www.intownmag.com 11

fans, and we need the fans. The fans are the key to this whole business.TR: Now that the deal is official, what is the first order of business for you?

JC: We’re going to sit down with all the key employees and assess what they’re doing, try to get a feel for that. We’ll also take a good look at the baseball operations and get a re-port on what’s going on and what their plans are. Then we’ll make some decisions on what we need to do moving forward.TR: Is any of the money that was discounted [off the sale price] for moving the team going to be reinvested into the team?

JC: We didn’t get any of the money. Drayton took a discount off his original deal and base-ball cut a deal to compensate him. We saw a purchase price reduction and that’s because it’s a different deal...It’s a little more expensive to run a business in the American League. We will continue to invest money in the team. We have the excess capital in the structure they put together, we do have a big TV deal that’s coming through next year that’ll give us an-other $30MM.

TR: How far do you think the Astros are from being a competitive team? Is it a 2 year or 5 year process? In your mind, what do you see?

JC: Anywhere from 2-5 years to get us ex-tremely competitive and compete for a cham-pionship.

TR: What made you decide to buy into base-ball? Why did it appeal to you?JC: I played when I was a kid and played when I was in college so its always been a dream of mine. One of our big businesses, selling it, a few years ago gave me the opportunity to put the group together. I felt that I could put a good team together and build a winner here. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

TR: Do you have any idea of what kind of own-er you’re going to be? We’ve seen owners you are incredibly involved and have their hands on it from a very ground-level and we have guys that are taking a hands-off approach, they put their people in positions to make de-cisions and watch what happen. Do you know where you’re going to fall in that spectrum?

JC: I’d say, about in the middle. Having played a little bit, I understand the game and I un-derstand the business side. I will hire good people and hold them accountable but I will be visible and will make sure everyone’s do-ing their job correctly. We’ll continue to as-sess that. So, somewhere in the middle. I’m not going to over-manage anybody or be an obnoxious owner, that’s for sure.

'Tis the Seasonto plant, to prepare

and to

celebrate

713.957.0449 | www.ajslandscaping.com

(a great investment)landscaping + design, inc.TM

landscape architects + contractors


Jim Crane from his playing days at Central Missouri

The

Game

Granato: Talk about how difficult a time it is to put a team together after the lockout.

Morey: Yeah, it’s a compressed time period. We prepared all summer for this time; we’re full speed ahead talking to agents and talking to other teams about potential trades.

Pendergast: What was your optimism level [on a resolution to the lockout] as the negotiations were going on between the players and the owners. It was looking pretty bleak.DM: I was optimistic and [now] happy to be

back and playing. We appreciate the fans for sticking with us.JG: What are you looking for in free agency?

DM: I can tell you that we’re pursuing free agents to upgrade the team. Free agency isn’t something that we think is a great way to build a team. Trade is [the] more likely route where we upgrade the team. But we’ll be pursuing free agents and, if it makes sense for the Rockets, we’re going to do it.SP: With the compressed preseason and season, is there a certain type of team that will benefit from this type of schedule?

Is He Always the SmartestGuy in the Room?

John Granato & Sean Pendergast of 1560 the Game Radio interview Daryl Morey, The Houston Rockets GM.

IMMERSEYOURSELF IN LUXURY LIVING

Homes ready for move-in or custom design

your own!

GATED COMMUNITY | PRIVATE BACKYARDS | LARGE LIVING AREAS | HARDWOOD FLOORSSTAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN APPLIANCES | GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

LUXURIOUS BATHROOMS WITH TRAVERTINE MARBLE TILESPACIOUS MASTER SUITES | LUSHLY LANDSCAPED PARK AND WALKING TRAIL

LOCATED MINUTES FROM MIDTOWN, DOWNTOWN AND THE MUSEUM DISTRICT

Private, gated enclave of 39 luxury garden homes, nestled in the heart of Houston and minutes from everything intown has to offer

| 713-242-7900 | WWW.OASISINTOWN.COMThe Best Value in the Inner Loop

From the 240'sBrokers Welcome


Test Drive The Luxuryof the All New Jeep Overland

4807 Kirby Dr @ Highway 59800-945-2862 • riveroaksjeep.com

#1 Jeep Dealer in Texas!

River Oaks ServiceWithout River Oaks Pricing

DM: I don’t think anyone will get a big advantage either way. On the positive side for the Rockets, we’ve got a deep roster, a lot of quality players, and young legs. I think the back-to-back-to-back [games] will be in our favor. At this point, we have the [same] team we ended last season, which finished very strong. They’re used to playing together so that will be in our favor. The teams that have played together for a very long time come in with an advantage. Maybe the Spurs. But that [benefit] will be balanced a little bit by the multiple back-to-backs, which might hit a veteran team a little more. I’d say there’s factors both ways; I don’t really think anyone’s going to get much of an advantage either way. 66 games. Lets go play basketball and we’re going to make a strong push.

JG: Are you someone who thinks play won’t be all that tootie-fruity [or polished] to start the season?

DM: I think it’ll be a challenge. Normally you have a longer training camp and a full preseason to get ready. I think there will be a few more bumps in the road as the season gets going. We, the NBA, have the best players in the world and the best athletes...I think it will be back to business as usual before too long.

JG: You guys might have an advantage with the condensed schedule because of how deep you guys are.

DM: Right. We’re deep with quality players and young players. I think the condensed schedule does favor us more than it can hurt us. It nets out positive for us as we try to make the playoffs this season.SP: This is the first off-season and pre-season under your term as GM where Yao Ming hasn’t been a part of the conversation or plan. While its sad the way his career ended, is it somewhat clarifying to know how to go about your business?

DM: It’s a huge factor. He was our foundation, our all-star, franchise player, he was our center - all those things are frankly what we’re missing right now. Before every season (that I’ve been with the Rockets) you were able to say, ‘if Yao Ming’s healthy and Tracy McGrady stays healthy, you can add pieces to your team and, if things go right, you’re right there in the mix with some of the best teams in the league.’ Right now, we’re re-establishing that foundation- where we’ve put together our primary players

and our team has a shot to win the title. We like our team [now]. We like the young players. We need some of them to step up. We need Kyle Lowry to take another step or Kevin Martin to take another step or one of the many young players to take a step forward ([Guys] like Patrick Patterson, Courtney Lee, Chase Budinger). We have a lot of guys who are going to get a lot of opportunities to step forward and we have a lot of quality players already. We’re going to need someone to take a step forward and maybe some moves [trades] to where we’re back to having a foundation that’s in the mix

and can be talked about as a title team. JG: Have you heard Yao Ming has a wine that $289 per bottle. Are you going to get any?

DM: I had heard that and I heard its good.JG: You’d think he could throw you a [free] bottle of wine after [being paid] $93 MM from the Rockets.

DM: He gave his heart and soul to us so he doesn’t owe us anything. It wasn’t for lack of trying that his body broke down. He’s one of the greatest guys I’ve ever been around.


Craig: The Texans are playoff bound now. When you arrived in Houston 3 years ago, did you get a sense for how starved this city was for a winning football team? And How gratifying is it to be part of a team that the city can really embrace?

Brian: You always hear about Texas football no matter where you are, how passionate the fans are, and how special it is to them. There’s been no question about it, its lived up to the expectations. To give back to the city...to give them their first playoff game since 1993, and the first in this organization’s history, has been unbelievable.

CS: You were drafted out of USC, but you were originally from New Jersey. How does a Jersey guy end up in California?

BC: I came from a pretty good program [in high school] and we won a lot. I just like to win. I wanted to play for a good, competitive program with a coach that was just going to let me play. Being recruited by coach Carroll, watching how exciting he has (his scheme), and how much fun his players were having, it was [something] I wanted to be a part of. I didn’t care how far away it was. I knew that college was only a short, four year experience and it was something I definitely wanted to do.

Brian Cushing - The Leader of the Texans.

• Bent Grass Lawns • Custom Greens • Pet Runs • Bocce Ball Courts • Batting Cages • Croquet CourtsOver 2,500 Installations Throughout Texas. Golf Turfs of DFW has Installed More Greens & Lawns than Anyone. Unsurpassed Quality & Experience!

GolfTurfsofDFW.comCall Tom 713-304-8575

Maintenance Free Artificial TurfsBeat the Drought & Never Water or Mow Again

Interview by Craig Shemon of 1560 The Game Radio

The

Game


CS: What do you miss most about New Jersey?BS: You might think I’m crazy but I actually miss the cold weather. I miss the snow, the seasons, and all that kind of stuff. Growing up in it, that’s what you’re used to, that’s what you learn to love and once you’re away from it, you miss it.

CS: The marque story this season has been the drastic turnaround in the defense. Could you have imagined that in one year the team could go from the last-place ranked defense to the first?

BS: I did because I knew the talent we had and our attitude. A lot of our guys were fed up on the defense. We didn’t want to let people down anymore; we didn’t want to make to play poor football. We wanted to come in, take games over, play aggressive, play smart and just play up to our capability. The last three years we didn’t do that, especially last year. With Wade [Phillips] coming in and listening to what he was preaching, it was exciting.

CS: What do you enjoy most about playing for coach Phillips?

BC: I think what he does, better than any other coach I’ve ever experienced, is putting players in positions where he knows they’ll make plays and where he knows they’re going to be comfortable. He switched a lot of things up that people weren’t really sure about but have been perfect for the guys. He knows exactly what he wants and how it wants to do it.

CS: Even among NFL players, you’re a guy that plays with an abnormally high motor and have a tenacious, unrelenting attitude on the field. Where does that intensity come from?

BC: I just know I’m blessed and so fortunate to play this game. I think it’d be a shame to not go out ever Sunday and play as hard as you can when there are millions of people who want to do what you do. I’m just not going to let people down.

CS: Was that something you learned or were you born with that intensity?

BC: I was an intense kid but I think a lot of that came from my dad. I had an older brother and older sister. They never felt bad for me being the youngest one and, being bullied around a lot, you learn to stick up for yourself.

CS: When the story is written about this season, the theme will overwhelmingly be “overcoming adversity.” The Texans have dealt with key injuries all season and the phrase we hear a lot in sports is “next man up.” How do you mentally deal with losing key players to guard against disappointment or let-downs?

BC: You have to be resilient and you got to have a lot of trust in your teammates. You [need to] know that the guy next to you is going to get the job done and he’s going to put it all on the line for you. If you have eleven of those kinds of guys, you have a great chance of winning.

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

A Cardinal’s Christmas at River Oaks Country Club benefiting Catholic Charities.1 Michael and Holly Garner with daughter Audrey Garner and His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

2 Roseann Rogers and Abby Bryan

YTAC (Young Texans Against Cancer) was awarded for their fundraising efforts with an Outstanding Community Service Award by the National Associa-tion of Fundraising Professionals. 3 Matt Moncrief, Laura Reefe,Sean Hammerle, Andrea McManus

Elaine Turner Holiday Party 4 Kathy Kelley, Linda Walker, Kim Moody

5 Elaine Turner, Deborah Kirkland, Trish Hayes, Connie Spencer

Nicholas Kirkwood at Saks Girls Night Out for Winter Ball6 Harriet Gertner, Evelyn Leightman

7 Barbara Scott, Evelyn Leightman, Sylvia Forsythe

8 Meg Stow Crowley, Kristin Weiss

9 Heather James, Evelyn Leightman, Ryla Bouchier

10 Y. Ping Sun, Nicholas Kirkwood

The Little Bird Grand Opening11 Marcie Craig, Lacy Baird, Stella Baird

Stehlin Foundation Gala12 Kim Robinson, Tiffany Sandlin, LisaVaccaro, Lory Tauber

13 Lauren White, McComb Dunwoody

14 Lin Smolensky, Nancy White,Donna Lewis

The

BUZZby Roseann Rogers

1

2

4

5

6 78

11

9

10

12 13 14

3


Celebrating the Completion of Kirby Drive

responsible for implementing the partially federally funded streets cape improvements along the roadway. He noted federal participation consultants, the Goodman Corporation and the City of Houston. Axelson also noted the Holiday lighting along the roadway on Kirby Drive and said that it would be a Management District program that would continue to expand across the District.

The Upper Kirby Redevelopment Authority (UKRA) Chairman, Buddy Bailey spoke to the infrastructure improvements funded by the UKRA brought to light in 2001 when Tropical Storm Allison flooded many Upper Kirby neighborhoods and provided a preview of several upcoming projects soon to break ground in the area. Bailey advised that Richmond Avenue between Kirby Drive and Buffalo Speedway would undergo a drainage project in the first quarter of 2012, Westheimer between Shepherd and Buffalo Speedway would break ground on complete roadway reconstruction later in the year and that the Shepherd and Greenbriar drainage projects would follow shortly behind.

Also announced was a public/private initiative to bring an iconic piece of public art to Kirby Drive. World renowned artist and Houston native, James Surls has been selected to create the piece. The evening concluded with a special thank you to District C Council Member, Anne Clutterbuck for her integral role in making the street project a reality.

For information on how to get involved with Upper Kirby public art endeavors or for questions about area construction, contact 713.524.8000.

Above: Buddy Bailey, Jamie Brustor, Clutterbuck, Rob Axelson Above left: Clutterbuck, Davis & PendergraftAbove right: Collins, Pennington & Ellinger

Kirby Drive from 2727 Kirby Drive.Photos by Jay Ford

Kirby area property and business owners joined elected officials, Upper Kirby District board members and Houston area management district leaders Thursday, December 15 at the iconic 2727 Kirby Drive high rise development to ring in the holiday season and celebrate the completion of Kirby Drive construction from US 59 to Westheimer.

The first phase of Kirby Drive construction through the Upper Kirby District began in 2008 with the complete reconstruction of the roadway between Richmond and Westheimer and continued in 2010 with the segment between Richmond and US 59. This second phase was completed just last month. The two projects combined to upgrade all storm, water and sanitary infrastructure, repave the roadway, bury all overhead utility lines and install a complete pedestrian-oriented streets cape along nearly five-thousand linear feet of Kirby Drive. The project was made possible through funding participation by the Upper Kirby Management District, the Upper Kirby Redevelopment Authority, the Federal Transit administration and the City of Houston.Upper Kirby District President, Jamie Brewster welcomed guests, elected officials and event sponsors, the Goodman Corporation , the Gunda Corporation, Haven Restaurant, HEB and Texas Sterling Construction Thursday night and spoke to the fact that the Upper Kirby District has been working toward buried utilities on Kirby for over twenty years. Harris County Improvement District No. 3 (HCID 3) Chairman, Rob Axelson then spoke to HCID 3s participation and thanked those in attendance who contributed to the project. HCID 3 was


FINANCIALFOCUS

What Does The Investment landscape look like.

As an investor, you know that 2011 was a somewhat “choppy” year, with the financial markets going through many ups and downs. So what can you expect in 2012? As baseball Hall of Famer Yogi Berra is quoted as saying: “It’s hard to make predictions - especially about the future.” And these words are certainly applicable

for anyone who would like an accurate forecast of the investment climate. Yet we do know of some factors that may affect your portfolio in the months ahead. Here are a few of them: • Strong business fundamentals - This past year, all the noise about the debt ceiling debate, the size of the U.S. deficit and the European financial situation

tended to drown out some fairly good news: U.S. businesses’ balance sheets were strong for the most part, borrowing costs remained low, and corporate profits were good - and corporate profitability remains a key driver of stock prices. Heading into 2012, these fundamentals continue to look positive, which may bode well for investors.

by Buddy Bailey


• Europe’s debt crisis - Greece’s economic problems made a lot of news in 2011, but they weren’t the end of the story in Europe, as major financial difficulties also face Italy, Spain, Portugal and Ireland. It’s by no means clear how these problems will be resolved, so don’t be surprised to see them lead to intermittent, if short-lived, shocks to the markets. • Election-year patterns - As you’re well aware, we’re voting for president in 2012. But you might be surprised to learn that the S&P 500 index has shown negative returns in only three of the last 21 presidential election years. Coincidence? No one can say for sure - and at this point, no one can say if this pattern of positive returns will continue during this election year. Still, it’s an interesting phenomenon. So there you have it: the good, the bad and the quirky. Take them all together, and you still may not be able to foresee what will happen with the markets this year, but you’ll have a lot to think about. But instead of trying to predict what will happen in 2012, you may be better off following these tried-and-true investment strategies:• Diversify your holdings. By spreading your money among a wide range of investments, you can reduce the effects of volatility on your portfolio. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.• Don’t ignore your risk tolerance. If you worry excessively about market fluctuations, you may have too much risk in your portfolio, which means you may need to make some changes.• Always look at the “big picture.” Financial markets will always fluctuate. But if you can keep your focus on your long-term objectives, and make decisions accordingly, you can avoid overreacting to short-term events. Like other years, 2012 will bring with it periods of both turbulence and smooth sailing. But by making the right investment moves, you can still chart a course that can allow you to move ever closer to your future goals.

2012

Buddy Bailey, AAMS®Financial Advisor.

2718 SackettHouston, TX 77098713-528-0606

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Stop by or call today to schedule your free review.

When you stop and look back at what’s happened in the markets, it’s easy to realize how quickly things can change. That’s why we should schedule some time to discuss how the market can impact your �nancial goals. We can also conduct a free portfolio review to help you decide if you should make changes to your investments and whether you’re on track to reach your goals.

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


HOUSTONRENOVATOR Organize, Secure and

control your Home

More security, better lighting, the right volume of music and improving your home’s energy efficiency as well.


We all could use a little less confusion in our lives. Have you ever come home from a long day at the office wanting to relax, only to forget which of the five remotes and in what order to use them just to watch the news or your favorite shows? How about one device that can control your entire home or office at a reasonable price? More security, better lighting, the right volume of music and improving your home’s energy efficiency as well. You don’t have to be an internet guru or geek to enjoy a controlled lifestyle with the Control 4 system.

How about waking up to heated bathroom floors on a chilly morning/ How about when the sun is rising and hitting your windows, your shades automatically come down , saving on energy and your air conditioning bills. Another great feature is being able to play different music in every room simultaneously. The system can alert

you at home or your office if one of your doors have been opened at either location. If you forgot to turn up the air conditioning or turn down the heat before you left not to worry. Just pull it up on your phone or tablet and adjust from wherever you are. Monitoring your babies room and unlocking the front door from afar are all possible with just one system.Launched by Will West and Eric Smith in 2005 with millions in venture capital, this team had already had a winner with another control company they sold called Phast. Revenues at the Utah based company Control 4 based on their projections are approaching $100 million in sales. These high tech but simple control systems can be used with Apple or Android systems. With the tap of your finger you can control a plethora of things that make your life better. All personalized control and automated solutions from Control 4 are required to

be installed and service by an authorized dealer. To see a video demo go to: www.control4.com/myhome

Average American household has 4 remotes.There is over $240 billion spent annually on energy use for the home and some experts say that with efficiency improvements we can cut that number by 50%.

By 2019 Pike research says the smart appliance market will hit $26 billion.According to the Consumer Electronics Association the average household spends $1,380 on electronics and owns 25 electronic devices.

Picnic in the Park1 Meredith Tcholakian, Amy Pierce

2 Matt and Landy Thompson

3 Karen and Faisal Nazir

4 Divya and Chris Brown

Grand Opening Event Scenario VIP Reception Mayor’s Holiday Celebration 5 Lana Edwards, Omar Reid and Dr. Rhea Lawson

6 James Tillman, Margaret Lawler and Maureen Weyel7 Susan Bono, Karen and Paul Jon

8 Leah Davis9 Susan Bischoff and Sofia Martinez

10 Ashton and Lynette Brook11 Alexis, Dan, Karen and Katie Marcontell

12 Winell Herron & Deborah Fanci Dancer13 Marcus Carter and Paul Pettie

The

BUZZby Roseann Rogers 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11 12 13

www.intownmag.com • Intown November - December 2011 23

CELTIC NOIR®

ROYAL HIGHNIESLOETZ VASE

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

collections. CHARRIOL®’s signature black PVD cable.

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

Donate now to help end human trafficking

Website: www.f-4-c.org

We believe in nothing but the best. 400 count Pima boxers are just one of the many outstand-

ing gifts offered for the men and boys in your life.

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

A RARE, LOETZ ART GLASS VASE. Iridescent ruggled top bowl. Amethyst ground with extensive thrilling

in silver green.

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

I. W. MARkS

VINCENT FORdCuSTOM AppAREL

gift guide

LR ANTIQuES

FORCE4COMpASSION

FREEdOM CHAINS - THE pERFECT GIFT ANd dONATION

Valentines


LIFE Some of Houston’s Best kept Secrets

BAPs- shri swaminarayan MandirA breathtaking temple with detailed, hand carved marble walls, pillars and domes constructed without a single piece of iron or steel. Over 2400 Artisans in India created the carvings and then shipped them to Houston in 33,000 pieces, which fit together like a puzzle, then was constructed by volunteers in just 16 months. You will spend hours in amazement at the workmanship, beauty and spirituality of the Mandir.Open daily 7:30 am to 8:45 pm 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford, TXhouston.baps.org

Houston Bikeways and urban multi-use pathsThe City of Houston is “On a Roll” and has been steadily constructing and improving the bike paths and shared use paths around the city with some dramatic bridges and paved ways through our parks and neighborhoods. With over 300 miles of interconnected trails which also includes rails to trails. To access maps and get more info go to Houston Bikeways Program on Facebook or Houstonbikeways.org.

Memorial Park Golf CourseOn 600 acres, nestled within one of the largest inner-city parks in America, is a gem to be enjoyed just minutes from many neighborhoods and Downtown. Memorial Park Golf Course is perfect for golfers of any skill level. The course has a rating of 73 and a slope rating of 122. Home of the Houston Open from 1951-1963. Legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and other famous pros have played this top rated course 1001

East Memorial Loop Houston, TX 77007 memorialparkgolf.com

Waugh Drive Bat ColonyNightly at sunset, nearly 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the Waugh Drive Bridge over Buffalo Bayou to consume more than 1200 mosquitoes an hour. As far as the experts know, this colony is the only one that stays active all year, while other Texas colonies migrate south to Mexico for the winter. Located on Waugh Drive and Allen Parkway intersections there are observation areas. Get there about 20-30 minutes before sunset . Go to houston.tex.gov to learn about bat viewing etiquette and parking.

Kuhl-LinscombDesigner Pam Kuhl-Linscomb started her career in the fashion design industry and since has transformed her talents into an award winning interior design firm in the Upper Kirby District. Pam was also listed in House and Garden magazine as “one of the best American designers working today”. Earning a Pinnacle Award of Excellence for outstanding service, everyone feels at home without the stuffy attitudes of some other stores. The beautiful showroom is inspiring.2424 West Alabama, Houston, TX 77098.

Ink spots MuseumThe fabulous music of the Ink Spots is very much alive and well in the Heights. Legendary musician Huey “Ink Spot” Long is celebrated at this living museum at 117th East 20th st.. He lived to be 105 years old. He would often be there teaching and writing music on the weekends.inkspotsmuseum.com

Houston Bikeways and urban multi-use paths

BAPS- Shri Swaminarayan

Mandir

by Lisa June


Fathom

Diverseworks ArtspaceAs the name suggests, Diverseworks is a very unusual yet wildly successful contemporary artspace that nurtures and fuels the artists and allows them to fully express the wildest things an artist can dream. Diverseworks is just as involved with creating the audiences for the various artist and educating them with unique multimedia experiences.1117 East Freeway, Houston, TX 77002 diverseworks.org

Downtown tunnel systemWith access to over 70 restaurants and coffee shops, jewelry stores, optical, dental and medical offices, shoe shops, photo and framing stores, many newsstands, markets, gift shops and florists in the 7 miles of tunnels sneaking under the city, shopping is easy and fun to do. In a climate controlled system throughout, people can eat shop and commute in safety and comfort. There are many access points and exits to world above so one can mosey around for 95 blocks in the tunnel. The Theatre District is also accessible. Free audio waking tours. Open M-F 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. downtownhouston.org

Market square Historic DistrictMarket Square has been the original business district and hot spot for Houstonians since the 1800’s and now has returned to its roots. With the modern urban neighborhood loft community sprouting, they are venturing out to the cafes and shops nearby . Sculptures, fountains, garden spaces and dog runs make family friendly Market Square Park a perfect place for an afternoon of fun or relaxation. Nightlife in Market Square has an eclectic mix of past and present within a few blocks in The District. Metro Rail is a block away.marketsquarepark.codowntownhouston.org

19th street in the HeightsA quaint little district where folks stroll leisurely down the sidewalk enjoying the myriad of merchants and cafes. Funky salons, vintage stores and little shops that are so fun and inspiring with fashion and home accents. Antique shops are abundant and offer some fantastic deals. White Linen Nights and Lights in the Heights are just a few of the community wide celebrations of their neighborhood. This inspires residents

get to know all of their neighbors and shop at local , small businesses which makes this an ideal place to experience.

Buffalo Bayou Partnership

Among the 12 parks that make up this sprawling green space near Downtown, Allen’s Landing is considered to the birthplace

of Houston with the Allen brothers’ vision of trade along the waterways. Buffalo Bayou has been transformed into an ecological journey and waterway for your enjoyment. Kayak and canoe lessons and tours are available. Hike and bike trails have been improved and accessible to all. Dog parks and exercise spaces along the trails make it perfect to get a workout. Their is a free skate park as well. Connected with the new bridges and pathways, it is even easier than ever to enjoy.


Arts &EVENTS

MuseumsMuseum of Fine ArtsOngoing-3/11 New Formations: Czech Avant-garde Art And Modern Glass from the Roy and Mary Cullen CollectionOngoing 1/16 Gifts of The Sultan: The Arts of Giving at The Islamic CourtsOngoing -1/29 English taste: the Art of Dining In The Eighteenth Century

Ongoing-2/12 Dutch and Flemish Masterworks From The Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo CollectionOngoing-4/15 Tutankhamun ; the Golden King And The Great PharoahsOngoing-2/26 Matthew Buckingham “Where Will We Live?”Ongoing -2/20 The Spirit Of Modernism: The John R. Eckel Jr. Foundation Gift to the Museum Of Fine ArtsOngoing-3/18 Vision Of SaintsOngoing-2/20 Highlights Of The Peter Blum Foundation2/1 -5/6 Snail Mail2/55/28 Eye On Third Ward 2012; Jack Yates High School Photography2/12-5/6 Revelation: Major Paintings by Jules Olitski Contemporary Arts Museum1/64/11 Perspectives 177: McArthur Binion

Holocaust MuseumOngoing-1/31 “We Fought Too”-Jewish Soldiers In America’s WarsOngoing- 8/19 The Impact of Racist Ideologies: Jim Crow and The Nuremberg Laws2/17-8/12 - Returning: The Art of Samuel Bak

the Menil CollectionOngoing-1/8 Walter De Maria TrilogiesOngoing-1/15 Seeing Stars: Visionary Drawing From the CollectionOngoing-3/18 Imprinting the Divine: Byzantine& Russian Icons form The Menil Collection

Houston Museum of Natural scienceOngoing-4/29 Discovering The Civil WarOngoing - Spring Gemstone Carvings: The Masterworks Of Harold Van Pelt

Arts & Events

A. D. Players theaterFoxfire 2/15-3/25

Company onstage1/13-2/18 Hedda Gabler

Main street theatreJanuary 12-29 The Coast of Utopia: part 1 - VoyageChelsea Market - Shipwreck -Rice Village February 10- March 11Salvage Rice Village February 24 - March 11

Broadway Across America1/10-1/15 The Addams FamilyRiverdance 2/10- 2/12Million Dollar Quartet 2/28-3/4

the Hobby CenterThe Addams Family 1/10-1/15Tyler Perry’s The Haves and the Have Nots 1/19-1/22Party Like It’s Mardi- Benefiting Music Doing GoodBring It On 1/24-2/52/4 Vienna 1828- Schubert’s invitation ConcertMillion Dollar Quartet 2/28- 3/4

Houston BalletCinderella 2/23-3/4Rock, Roll & Tutus 3/8-3/18

Houston Grand operaVerdi: La Traviata 1/27-2/12Concert Of Arias 2/2Britten: The Rape Of Lucretia 2/3-2/11

Houston symphonyRachFest 1 /5 -1/22The Best of Spielberg and Williams

The Galleria Chamber of CommercePresents

The UninTended ConseqUenCes of BUsiness Planning

Thursday, January 26, 201211:30a.m. - 1:00p.m.

The Junior League of Houston1811 Briar Oaks LaneHouston, Texas 77027

Featuring An Expert Advisory Council:

Tax aCCoUnTing

WealTh advisory

legal advisory

William J. Hickle, III

Paul L. Comstock

Paul Strug

Individual tickets start at $35. Sponsorships available at $750. Tickets must be purchased by Monday, January 23, 2012 by going to

www.galleriachamber.com/upcomingevents or calling (713) 629-5555.

UHY Advisors Texas, LLC

Paul Comstock Partners

Weycer Kaplan Pulaski & Zuber P.C.

The Galleria Chamber of Commerce & Tony and Donna Vallone cordially invite you to a luncheon on February 7, 2012 at Tony’s Restaurant featuring key-note speaker Dr. Ronald A. DePinho,

President of UT MD Anderson

Dr. Ronald A. DePinhoPresident, UT MD AndersonTuesday, February 7, 201211:30a.m. - 1:00p.m.Tony’s Restaurant3755 Richmond AvenueHouston, Texas 77046

Individual tickets start at $75. Sponsorships available at $1500. Must purchase tickets by February 1, 2012 online at

http://www.galleriachamber.com/upcomingevents or by calling (713) 629-5555.


1/27-1/29Orbit- An HD Odyssey 2/10-2/12Beethoven’s Fifth 2/20 - 2/23

society For the Performing ArtsDulcinea Langfelder & Co.1/14 Cullen Theater, Wortham CenterJoshua Bell, Violin1/20 Jones HallCanada’s Royal Winnipeg ballet2/4 Jones HallIMAGO Theatre2/10 Cullen center, Wotham CenterTchaikovsky Competition Winner, Violin2/22 Cullen Theater, Wortham CenterTAO: The Art of the Drum2/24 Brown Theater, Wortham Center

theater LabHouston Country Gravy & Other Obsessions1/13-14, 1/27-29Confessions of A Mormon Boy2/8-12Shout! The Mod Musical l2/22 - 3/24 Friday and Saturdays,three Sunday matinees 3/11, 3/18, 3/25

Horse racing Sam Houston Race Park- Simulcast opens daily at 10:30 amJanuary 20- March 12 Live Thoroughbred RacingFriday- Saturday First Post Time 7:00 pmSunday 5:00 pm Monday 1:00 pmReliant Park1/1 Houston Texans vs Tennessee Titans1/6- 1/15 Houston International Boat Show1/20 -1/22 26th Annual Tristar Colllector’s Show1/21 -1/22 Houston Gun Collector’s Show1/21 Monster Jam1/25 - 1/29 Houston Auto Show1/28 HBO World Championship Boxing2/3-2/5 Cheer America National Championship2/4 Monster Jam2/8-2/12 Houston RV Show2/9- 2/12 Sesame Street Live: Elmo makes music2/10 -2/12 26th Annual Texas Home & Garden Show

2/11 -2/12 The Great Train Expo2/23- 2/25 World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

toyota Center2/10-2/12 Michael Jackson-The Immortal World Tour By Cirque du Soleil3/3 Radiohead3/8 Red Hot Chili Peppers3/15 Romeo Santo3/23 The Winter Jam3/31 Monster Energy AMA Supercross

Ice at the GalleriaPublic Ice skating

Junior Hockey programStarting 1/57 and Under13 weeksFor more info call 713-621-1500M-T 10-5F 10-8Sat. 12:30-8pmSun. 1pm -7pm

sports

Houston Aeros1/1 Ok. City1/6 Rockford 1/20 San Antonio1/22 San Antonio2/2 Texas2/4 Lake Erie2/5 Milwaukee

Houston rockets1/7 Ok. City1/13 Sacramento1/14 Portland1/17 Detroit1/19 New Orleans1/21 San Antonio1/25 Milwaukee1/27 Washington1/28 New York1/30 Minnesota2/13 Phoenix2/15 Ok City2/17 Minnesota2/19 Utah2/20 Memphis2/22 Philadelphia2/28 Toronto

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

River Oaks2111 Westheimer

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

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

281-461-1468

Spring Branch/Memorial7620 Katy Fwy. Ste 355

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

Sugar Land2329 S. Hwy 6

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


TheLAST PAGE The last 200 soldiers from the 3rd Brigade 1st Cavalry Division

returned to Fort Hood on Christmas Eve. Only about a dozen troops still remain overseas. December 15th, 2011 marked the end of Operation New Dawn.It is estimated that over 8,000 Americans were killed and 30,000 more wounded. Iraq claims over 100,000 people lost their lives.

intown magazine - january - february

Documents

intown magazine party

issue of intown

featuresthe new year

editorialnew year

election year

new challenges

new owner

new faces