For Your Information - Legends 971

Guest was Alan Clark, Houston-Galveston Area Council transportation director. We talked about the transportation plan for the Houston Galveston 8 county area. We talked about how projects are requested, planned, approved and funded. We talked about the safety, environmental and economic impact of transportation planning, and how to plan for automation and future growth.

Guests were Connie Chavez, Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council VP of Communications America Cadena, a Cadette who has been a “top Seller” and a girl scout for 7 years. We talked about how through their cookie business, girls learn business and financial skills and earn money to fund their Girl Scouting goals. Through “learning by earning,” Girl Scouting aims to empower girls through the development of five essential skills: goal setting, money management, people skills, decision making, and business ethics.

Guest was Houston Association of Certified Fraud Examiners President Chrysti Ziegler, and V.P. David Kirtland. We talked about the effect of criminal and civil fraud on companies, people and the economy. We talked about identifying evidence of fraud, and the importance of proactively evaluating the fraud risk of a business or organization to prevent fraud.

Guest was Meredith Watassek, Fort bend ISD Director of Career and Technical Education. We talked about STEAM, an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. The end results are students who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. These are the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the 21st century!

Guests were Danielle Fanfair and Michele Pola with the Hines Center for Spirituality and Prayer. We talked about the effects of stress in today’s world, and the benefits of movement, mindfulness and meditation. We talked about the mental and physical health benefits. How it helps us relate to our environment with compassion in our personal and professional lives, as well as how it can boost productivity, reduce days off due to mental and physical illness, and improve safety, and is increasingly used in various professional fields and disciplines.

Guest was Scott Arthur with the Star of Hope Mission. We talked about homelessness at the holidays. We talked about programs such as transitional housing, life-management, shelter, employment, education and recovery from substance abuse. We talked about the Men’s Development Center, and the new cutting-edge master planned SOH Cornerstone Community for women, children and families. We talked about immediate crisis and safety needs, as well as long term needs to help families get on their feet.

Guests were Renee Bumpus, Senior Director of Wildlife Conservation Programs, and Lauren Wabbler, with the Houston Zoo. We talked about the Houston Zoo’s effort to make every ticket sale, every donation, and every action count towards animal conservation on our planet. We talked about the responsibility of the Zoo to protect endangered animals, and the environment. We talked about how educating farmers, villagers, communities and governments around the world, about animal and environmental conservation, benefits everyone environmentally, as well as economically and socially.

Guest was Dave Milich. CEO, United Health Care of Texas. We talked about open enrollment for employer insurance, Medicare and Obamacare. We discussed the deadlines, options, coverage, wellness and other benefits to consider during open enrollment.

Guests were Dr. Hahn Trinh, and Monica James with Houston Hospice. We talked about Hospice end of life care, support and comfort for both patients and their family members. We talked about misconceptions of hospice, such as that hospice is a place, too expensive, and only for when it’s time to give up. We talked about how hospice is paid for, and can offer patients comfort and dignity, while supporting family and caregivers. We talked about the differences in palliative care, comfort car and crisi care, as well as the benefits of hospice at home, and support for families in the bereavement stage of losing a loved one. We also talked about hospice for children and veterans.

Guests were Mark Malarkey, VP of Texas Children’s Hospital, and Manager, Philanthropy Jennifer Smart. We talked about the upcoming Radiothon fundraiser with Cox media Group Houston. We talked about TCH continued high national rankings, including being ranked #1 Cardiology and heart surgery #1 Pulmonology #3 Nephrology (kidney disorders) #3 Neurology and neurosurgery #4 Gastroenterology and GI surgery #4 Urology #6 Cancer #6 Diabetes and endocrinology. We talked about the new Legacy Tower opening, the PAWS Program and partnership with Disney, as well as the importance of keeping kids healthy through the Texas Children’s Health Plan. We also talked about the effort to help kids who have gone through trauma, such as students in the Santa Fe high School Shooting, and those affected by Hurricane Harvey.

Guests were Michelle Hoevker, Program Director of Foster Care and Adoption in Houston, and Lisa Johnson, Development Officer for Houston Region, with Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services. PCHS. We talked the three types of adoption, the language people use to discuss adoption, children aging out of foster care, and community services that preserve families. We talked about the need and qualifications of foster families, helping children with health and mental health issues, and early-intervention education and financial programs to prevent child abuse and preserve families.

Guest was Donna Holman, with DAV Disabled American Veterans. We talked about Veterans day, and the non-profit organization DAV that helps veterans navigate healthcare, disability, employment, education, and financial benefits they have earned.

Guest was Joe Bontke with the Houston District office of U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Its two new harassment prevention programs—"Leading for Respect" for supervisors and "Respect in the Workplace" for employees—dealing with civility, acceptable workplace conduct and behaviors that contribute to an inclusive workplace. We talked about the business cost of workplace harassment, and how it contributes to decreased productivity and increased turnover.

Guest was Donna Clark Love. Counselor, and bully expert. We talked about workplace bullying. We talked about workplace Bullying. The repeated, health-harming mistreatment of one or more persons (the targets) by one or more perpetrators. We talked about the effects of bullying on mental and physical health, as well as the effects on business. We discussed how workplace bullying is different from harassment, and how threatening, humiliating, or intimidating, abusive conduct prevents work from getting done, and costs companies money. We also talked about cyber bullying co-workers, and how important it is for companies to craft a social media and workplace bullying policy. We also talked about what targets, bystanders and managers can do when someone is being bullied by a co-worker or boss. A workplace culture that encourages respectful behavior and discourages inappropriate behavior is likely to be more productive and benefit from fewer sick days, fewer stress-related issues and lower turnover.

Guest was Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse CEO, Sherri Kendall. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. We talked about what domestic abuse it, how abusers control their victims through intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control. We discussed how abuse knows no boundaries in terms of age, race, religion, sexual orientation, culture, or socio-economic status. And AVDA’s mission to end family violence by advocating for the safety and self-determination of victims, promoting accountability for abusers and fostering a community response to abuse. We also talked about a new partnership between the Astros Foundation and AVDA to facilitate the Futures Without Violence program, "Coaching Boys into Men," which teaches leaders and coaches how to break the cycle of family violence by educating the next generation.

Guest was Patsy Chapman, CEO of the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market. We talked about the annual nutcracker market benefitting the Houston Ballet. We talked about how the Nutcracker Market has raised $63 million dollars in 37 years for the ballet education, youth and community programs.

Guest was Dave Milich. CEO, United Health Care of Texas. We talked about open enrollment for employer insurance, Medicare and Obamacare. We discussed the deadlines, options, coverage, wellness and other benefits to consider during open enrollment.

Guests were Rania Mankarious, Chief Executive Officer of Crime Stoppers of Houston. And, Janes Conway, former FBI special agent, US diplomat and expert on counter terrorism. We talked about Crime stoppers new Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Task Force to stop mass shootings and other violent attacks before they happen. We talked about where terrorism comes from, and the challenge for law enforcement to identify and investigate extremism and violent acts before they happen. We talked about how the creation of a task force using law enforcement, as well as community-based elements such as schools, parents, mental health organizations and the religious community, to help identify potential threats, and intervene before violence happens.

Guests were Gabriela Gerhart, President and Founder of motherhood Center, and Dena Rogge, instructor of the grandparent refresher class. We talked about how grandparenting classes can help get new grandparents up to date on current baby care practices. We talked about Safe sleep guidelines and SIDS prevention, Tummy time, nutrition, breastfeeding, Crying & Comforting (Including Dr. Karp’s 5 S’s) Newborn Health, Umbilical cord and circumcision care. We talked about changes and best practices of general newborn care tips such as diaper changing, umbilical cord care and sponge baths are all covered in the grandparent class.

Guest was Dr. Percy Francisco Morales is a Houston based Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist. We talked about Atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, which is the most common heart rhythm disease. We talked about what it is, the causes, and treatments. But most importantly, we talked about AFib and the risk of stroke

Guests were Marian Mankin, Program Director, and Mary Beth Staine, Executive Director of Bo’s Place. We talked about grief. Bo’s place offers resources and support groups for those going through the death of a loved one. We talked about the importance of support in grief, and the different ways people grieve. Bo’s place has support groups for adults, children, families, teens and care givers. We talked about addressing grief in schools, and helping caregivers and hospice workers.

Guest was Sally Bradford, Executive Director to the N. Houston Development Corp. We talked about the area of Houston known as Greenspoint. The N. Houston Development Corp. is a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, or TIRZ. We talked about the history of the area, the challenges such as blight, crime, flooding and high-density housing and dilapidated apartments, and what the N Houston Development Corp has done to redevelop residential and commercial properties through financing of: water, wastewater and drainage facilities; new streets and street reconstruction; parks and trails systems; landscaping and streetscape; public art, retail development and public facilities.

Guest were Connor Hagan with the FBI Houston, and Doctor Kashif Siddiqui with the FBI Houston Citizen’s Academy. We talked about how the Citizens' Academy is a stimulating program that gives business, religious, civic, and community leaders an inside look at the FBI. During the 10-week course, participants experience curriculum and teaching methods like the traditional methods used at the FBI Academy, taught by FBI staff, to foster a greater understanding of the role of Federal law enforcement in the community through frank discussion and education.

Guest was Northwest Assistance Ministries Chief Advancement Officer, Brian Carr. NAM provides basic human needs like food, shelter, health, education and domestic violence awareness and intervention to 130,000 people in the NW Houston area. We talked about the increase in need, especially after hurricane Harvey.

Guest was astronomer James Wooten with the Houston Museum of Natural Science Burke Baker Planetarium and George Observatory Learning Center. Houston is the home of the highest resolution planetarium in the world. We talked about the work with NASA, Houston Schools, the Eclipse, and light pollution.

Guests were Dr. Alicia B. Harvey-Smith, Lone Star College executive vice chancellor Student Success. And Rachel Perez, LSC graduate, transferring to University of Houston-Downtown this fall. We talked about the Promise Scholarship Program, to help students already on financial aid cover the tuition gap. We also talked about how community college provides opportunity for students who may not otherwise get an education.

Guest was Galveston County Judge Mark Henry. We talked about Hurricane season, safety and the effects of Harvey. We talked about affordable hurricane preparation, and the 12 Billion-dollar Ike Dike Plan. We also talked about the Santa Fe Shooting.

Guest Doctor Susan C. Gilchrist, Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. We talked about the increased risk of heart disease after a patient is treated for cancer. We talked about how the Healthy Heart Program works to correct/prevent those problems? And what can individuals do to improve heart health?

Guests were Francisco Sanchez from Harris County Office of Emergency Management, and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. We talked about Hurricane Season. We discussed preparing for hurricane season, whet to do before, during and after a storm, and how storms affect businesses and the economy in our community.

Guests were Kimberly Pate, and Leondre Ledoux with Texans Recovering Together Crisis Counseling Program. Texans Recovering Together (TRT) is grant program established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). TRT has started offering free assistance, through the Harris Center, to survivors of Hurricane Harvey through supportive outreach and referrals. Services include: free counseling, stress management education, peer support activities, educational presentations, and referrals to recovery resources such as; social services, job assistance, legal assistance, medical care, mental health care, and substance abuse counseling. The assistance will be provided through schools, community events, social service agencies, and private homes.

Guest Doctor Susan C. Gilchrist, Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. We talked about the increased risk of heart disease after a patient is treated for cancer. We talked about how the Healthy Heart Program works to correct/prevent those problems? And what can individuals do to improve heart health?

FOR YOUR INFORMATION - M.D. ANDERSON CHILDREN'S CANCER HOSPITAL - MAY 27TH Guests were John Livingston, M.D., Co-Director, M.D. Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital's Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Program. Michael Roth, M.D., Co-Director, AYA Program, and Director of Survivorship Program. And Alma Faz, a 20-year sarcoma survivor, now Diagnostic Imaging, Supervisor at MD Anderson. We talked about the importance of focused treatment and research for AYAs with cancer, as well as the unique challenges faced by AYAs with cancer, such as social needs, body image, fertility, education and future careers.

Guests were John Livingston, M.D., Co-Director, M.D. Anderson Children's Cancer Hospital's Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Program. Michael Roth, M.D., Co-Director, AYA Program, and Director of Survivorship Program. And Alma Faz, a 20-year sarcoma survivor, now Diagnostic Imaging, Supervisor at MD Anderson. We talked about the importance of focused treatment and research for AYAs with cancer, as well as the the unique challenges faced by AYAs with cancer, such as social needs, body image, fertility, education and future careers.

Guests were Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Summer Hanson and Dr. Margaret Roubaud. Assistant Professors, Department of Plastic Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. We talked about Breast reconstruction as an essential part of cancer care, as it restores a woman’s sense of self and wholeness after partial or complete mastectomy. We discussed the different options a woman has today, two important federal laws regarding mastectomy reconstruction coverage. We also talked about the upcoming Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Symposium.

Guests were David Barron, Houston Area Coordinator and Director of the Texas Carpenters and Millwrights Houston Training Center, and Maria Robles, chairwoman of the Council’s Sister in the Brotherhood Program, and Council representative of the Central South Carpenter’s regional Council. We talked about the Carpenter’s and Millwright’s Houston Training Center, and the value of the apprenticeship program. We talked about the value of earning while learning, a career vs a job, the earning possibility of skilled labor, and the need for qualified men, women and veterans to fill the skill gap.

Guests were Francisco Sanchez from Harris County Office of Emergency Management, and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. We talked about Hurricane Season. We discussed preparing for hurricane season, whet to do before, during and after a storm, and how storms affect businesses and the economy in our community.

Guests were Dr. Alexander Prokhorov, professor, Behavioral Science; Director, Tobacco Outreach Program. And Ashish Arya, program director, Youth & Family Cancer Prevention Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. We talked about JUULing, a dangerous form of vaping. JUUL is a vaping delivery system disguised as a hard drive. We talked about what JUULing is, how to spot it, and how it is marketed to kids and young people. We talked about the risks of cancer from JUULING, as well as the damage nicotine does to young people, and the environment. We talked about the ASPIRE education program developed to fight JUULing.

Guest was Dr. Therese Bevers, medical director of MD Anderson Cancer Prevention Center. We talked about the importance of cancer screenings like mammograms. We talked about who should get them, why, and when to start. We talked about the fears and myths women and men have about mammograms, what to expect, what happens after a positive result, and the importance of early detection.

Guests were David Barron, Houston Area Coordinator and Director of the Texas Carpenters and Millwrights Houston Training Center, and Maria Robles, chairwoman of the Council’s Sister in the Brotherhood Program, and Council representative of the Central South Carpenter’s regional Council. We talked about the Carpenter’s and Millwright’s Houston Training Center, and the value of the apprenticeship program. We talked about the value of earning while learning, a career vs a job, the earning possibility of skilled labor, and the need for qualified men, women and veterans to fill the skill gap.

Guest was Julie Finke, President of the Barbara Bush Literacy Houston Foundation. We talked about the legacy Mrs. Bush has left as the first lady of literacy. We discussed the power of literacy—the ability to read, write, speak clearly, and think critically. We talked about child and adult literacy, the economic value of a literate workforce, and the importance of breaking the cycle of illiteracy.

Guest was Betsey Blanks, Assistant Director of the Center for School Behavioral Health, Mental Health America of Greater Houston. We talked about the need for mental assistance after Hurricane Harvey. We talked about the increased need for mental health training in schools, so teachers can help students traumatized by the disaster, as well as mental health treatment and training for teachers themselves, as well as staff, parents and families. We talked about getting funding for mental health training in schools, and the need for more.

Guests were Kerry Goelzer and Steve Curry with Houston MOD, a non-profit, membership organization dedicated to promoting knowledge and appreciation of modern architecture in Houston and Texas. We talked about the need to preserve Houston’s architectural cultural legacy. We talked about commercial and residential Mid-Century Modern architecture here in Houston, and the dangers of them disappearing. We talked about preserving the Astrodome and the Sears building downtown, as well as the responsibility of a homeowner who buys a midcentury modern home in Houston

Guest was Jen Torres, Executive Director of the Arthritis Foundation, Houston. And, Dennis Sousa and his son Hayden. We talked about Arthritis, the treatment, diagnosis and research being done, as well as the economic impact and the need for Pediatric Rheumatologists.

Guest was Ron Sokol, President & CEO of the Safety Council of Texas City. We talked about the importance and value of safety in industry. The SCTC is a nonprofit organization that does safety and security screening, safety training, and promotes occupational health in the Texas City Industrial area. We talked about the value of safety and reciprocity to business and the economy, and the importance of protecting people, property and the environment.

Guest was Hillary Hart, Executive Director of Theatre Under the Stars. We talked about the 50th season of TUTs, as well as the how TUTs serves the community, schools and youth through education through the Humphreys School of Musical Theatre, and The River Center for Performing and Visual Arts. We talked about the economic impact of TUTs, as well as the recent impact of Hurricane Harvey.

Guests were Hope Baker with SBP, client Daniel Gutierrez. SBP is one of 4 organizations chosen by JJ Watt to distribute the 37 million dollars he raised for Hurricane Harvey relief. We talked about SBP’s goal to rebuild hundreds of homes in Houston, helping families otherwise destitute.

Guest was Shelagh Moran, VP and COO of Lighthouse Houston, an education, health, community and service center dedicated to assisting blind and visually impaired people to live independently. We talked about the beeping Easter egg hunt, and summer programs for kids, as well as safety training, environmental classes, and the economic contribution the from work programs for vision impaired.

Guest was Dr. Salil Deshpande, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas. Texas ranked 44th in America’s Health Rankings, the longest running state-by-state analysis of our country’s health and the factors that affect it. We talked about infant and mother mortality during pregnancy, childbirth and the need for more cervical cancer screenings and well-baby visits. We also talked about Opioid addiction and obesity.

Guests were Dr. B. Dena Woodall, Curator, and Laine Liberman with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. We talked about the exhibit "Michelangelo and the Vatican: Masterworks from the Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte, Naples." Masterworks by Michelangelo and his contemporaries highlight the artistic legacy of Pope Paul III and the vital role that drawing played in art production throughout Europe in the late 15th and 16th centuries. Michelangelo and the Vatican features drawings, cartoons, paintings, sculpture, and prints by Renaissance master Michelangelo and his predecessors and successors, including Raphael, Rubens, Tintoretto, and Titian.

Guests were Cinda Hitchcock and Kathie Herrick with The Woodlands GREEN. We talked about The Woodlands GREEN recycling program, lecture series, education, scholarships, nature walks and economy.