Wow, what a week! Super Bowl came and went, and we got a good halftime show (first one in a long time). I was going for the Patriots (hey, I’m a photographer so of course I am going to root for the guy that’s married to the supermodel) but congrats to the Giants. The Texans will be there next year. In other sports news the new Astros owner has been back and forth with the proposed name change for the team (as of now he is sticking with the Astros). Some exciting news coming from Galveston as it was announced that Pleasure Pier will commence construction for a Memorial Day Weekend opening date and a promo video was released for it. Surely all the ladies saw the H&M commercial during the Super Bowl – and it could not have come at a better time for Houston as it was announced this week that we will be getting 2 stores, one in Willowbrook and the other in Baybrook. All good news and then there is better news: Last week I spoke about some of the charities to look out for this year so let’s see who is making moves to make the world a better place.

 

“Concerning the generation of animals akin to them, as hornets and wasps, the facts in all cases are similar to a certain extent, but are devoid of the extraordinary features which characterize bees; this we should expect, for they have nothing divine about them as the bees have.” ~ Aristotle 384 – 322 BC

 

It can’t be said any better. Bees have a divinity to them. There is much to learn from them and even more to benefit from. By keeping bees many women in Northern Pakistan have been empowered and that region has received economic development unlike any it has had before. The Hashoo Foundation USA in partnership with the Museum of Cultural Arts Houston (MOCAH) and the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline hosted the Plan Bee Art Exhibit and fundraiser recently at Americas River Oaks.

 

Artists from around the world – Rhonda Radford-Adams, T Anthony, Elisabet Barranco, Amanda Flores, Nia Jacob, Ann Johnson, Cherry Meekins, Ami Metha, Hilary Orr, Dilek Saleh, Anu Srivastav, Sam Turner and Munira Veliani – all came together to display their creative artwork to help raise funds to purchase new beehives for the women beekeepers who lost their beehives in the Pakistan floods.

 

Cristal Montañéz, executive director of the Hashoo Foundation USA, reported, “More beehives are still needed to help the beekeepers rebuild their honey business. The income the beekeepers earned through their small honey enterprises will improve their quality of life and ensure their children have safe, happy and healthy futures. Economic development programs, like Plan Bee, will strengthen vulnerable communities and help decrease poverty and the influence of extremism in Pakistan.”

 

“In alignment with MOCAH’s mission to use art and creativity as tools for social awareness and community development, it’s an honor to work with the Hashoo Foundation and some amazing women artists to raise awareness and funds for economic empowerment programs for women around the world,” said Reginald Adams, MOCAH president and CEO.

 

I had the pleasure of attending this great event and am glad I did. I learned a lot about the culture in Pakistan and how I can help out. It did not hurt that Chef David Cordua infused a touch of honey into the Pakistani-inspired delicacies and Hashoo Honey Punch. The sweetest part of the night for me: eating the honeycomb the bees made. Yum.

 

For more information on Plan Bee 300 Beehives for 100 Women, please contact:

Cristal Montañéz

cristalmontanez@hashoofoundationusa.org

 

How far would you go to make a difference? While some of us donate from the comfort of our homes (which of course is great), Iris McAlpine traveled 8,600+ miles to Cape Town, South Africa.

What started as a month of volunteering with Global Vision International (GVI) turned into an effort to help from home for her. “Working with GVI was amazing,” says Iris. “It was impossible for me to come back and do nothing.  I fell in the love with the children immediately.  Though I had to come back home, I knew my work wasn’t done.  If I can assist these children in getting a better education, I will know that I’ve done something meaningful to help.”

She began to raise funds and collected school supplies to send overseas to benefit South African Education. While in a township just outside of Cape Town, Iris, who doubles as a web developer, worked with children up to the age of 5 teaching English and providing basic care. The goal is to have the children placed in public primary schools. “Children must have a certain mastery of the English language to be accepted into primary school,” Iris says.  “Without those basic skills, children may be left to wander the township streets unsupervised.  It’s not a safe place for a 6-year-old.”

GVI has project sites with volunteer opportunities in 120 different countries, devoted to both humanitarian and conservationist efforts.  Iris is specifically devoted to gathering supplies for GVI’s project site in Cape Town in an effort to enrich the educational experiences of the children there.

Devoted to the cause, she held a fundraiser, “Drive to Africa,” in December to send supplies. Supporters raised over $1,200 and gathered many boxes of supplies. Artists Amanda Howe of My October Country and Jeremy Keas of Jeremy Keas Photography presented their work, donating a percentage of their sales to the cause.  Food and beverages were donated by Pinewood Cafe, Icing Cupcakes and Saint Arnold’s Brewery.  Sunday Riley Modern Skincare, The Upper Hand Salon, Eclipse Sunless Tanning and Bombay Brasserie also donated raffle prizes, which helped raised hundreds for the cause.

Those still interested in making a donation can go to Drive to Africa’s website.  All financial contributions go toward supplies, shipping and Global Vision International’s Charitable Trust.

Contact:

Iris McAlpine

iris.mcalpine@gmail.com

713-594-9681

 

One of the rising charities in the city is Starlight for the American Cancer Society. While not new by any means (it has been going for 14 years now), it has had a facelift since current president Emily Cotton took the helm.

She has been the president for two years and has close ties to the charity. “My grandmother had breast cancer so it’s an issue that hits close to home.” She has big plans for the charity. “When the dust settles I want Starlight to be the #1 young professionals fundraising charity. Coming up in June we will have our 5th annual fashion show, Ja’dore A Cure at La Colombe d’Or. It has been a huge success in past years and this year is surely to be our best yet.”

 

One of the unique and great things about Starlight is that everything is donated so more money can go to the charity. They use 100% volunteers and the money raised always stays in the community. It’s clear that Starlight will shine bright and bring hope to many lives for a long time to come.

 

Contact:

Emily Cotton

emilycharlottecotton@gmail.com

 

If this year’s resolution you made was to make more of a difference and get involved in charity – or even if it wasn’t  – there are plenty of great ways to help out.

 

Next week check back here to hear about some of the new places to grab a bite. Until then, have a Happy Valentine’s Day and enjoy the great weather we have been getting.

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA FOR LASTNIGHTPICS

 

Hey, everyone! I’m back. Took a small hiatus to get some things in order, and while away some things here at 002 changed – new web layout, new content and a new way to deliver to you the latest and greatest from Houston. Of course we will still be covering some of the hottest events in the city but now you can check back with us on a weekly basis for the inside scoop on all things hip, current & cool. So without further ado, I give to you the rundown. (Now usually I would recap the week’s happenings but since this is the first one I will give you the 2012 recap thus far. )

 

2012 came in with a bang. The biggest party to usher in the new year was held at the Wortham Center, hosted by Houston staples, DJ Bizz and DJ Senega. The newly sponsored by Ciroc DJs clearly know how to throw a party and NYE was no exception. The place was rockin’ and there were easily 4000+ in attendance including Hall of Fame NBA Legend Dominique Wilkins and LA Laker great Nick Van Exel. One thing is clear: I know where I will be December 31, 2012 – party rocking at Wortham with Bizz & Senega.

 

 

As with any year the start of one often brings many health-related resolutions. So far this month has been packed with many physically demanding events. We hosted for the first time ever Olympic Trials for both men and women. As if that was not enough to motivate you to get off your couch there was also the 40th annual Chevron Houston Marathon. If running 26.2 miles isn’t physical enough, then how about wielding a chainsaw in a park chopping up ice to make something out of it? The 4th annual Ice Sculpting Competition brought out the finest chainsaw masters to do their chilling work.

 

 

One of my resolutions this year is to get into art more and become more knowledgeable in that aspect. Lucky me, I have had a chance to cover a few art events. The Assistance League of Houston Celebrates Texas Art 2012 was the 42nd time the annual event was held. The curator of the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego was the guest judge this year and she had a tough task picking a winner from 323 works of art from 112 artists. Renowned Houston artist Dandee Warhol held a Ridiculously 80’s Inspired Show showcasing some of Houston’s most ultra artists at Villains on Friday the 13 (it couldn’t get anymore 80’s). The night featured an 80’s-themed fashion show, b boy battle and even had a DJ spinning with a Boba Fett helmet on.

 

 

 

So there you have it…everything that’s happened in 2012 in three paragraphs, just kidding. Part 2 will feature some of the people here in Houston that will shape 2012’s landscape. Check back here for upcoming projects from Paul Wall, DJLGDV, former WWE Superstar Shad Gaspard, artist Dandee Warhol and even something with Spider Man. It’s going to be a great year.

 

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA & LASTNIGHTPICS

 

 

 

 

There is only one thing better than hanging out with friends and
drinking wine and that is hanging out with friends and drinking wine while
donating to the American Cancer Society. That’s exactly what Starlight concocted
the other night for its Portraits & Pinot Event.

 

Starlight President Emily Cotton puts together fun events for a
serious cause and this time was nothing short of being real rad. With the help
of Republic Beverage Company, Favorite Brands & Bonnie Blue from “Women
That Rock,” attendees walked away with a great time and a cool hand-painted
caricature on an empty wine bottle. Only one place can play host to such a
great evening: St. Genevieve, which also donated a portion of proceeds to the
American Cancer Society.

 

Starlight stays busy and for a good
reason. Look out for their Jingle Brunch coming soon.

 

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA FOR LASTNIGHTPICS

 

 

If there is one thing we all know about Houstonians it’s
that we love to eat. Now I don’t mean in a glutton sense but in a “we love good
food and we’ve got a lot of it” way. There is no shortage of places to grab a
great meal. Most of us have our favorites and know of all the amazing places to
land what you are looking for. 
Well, add a new favorite place to your list,
because for the first time ever BlackFinn is in Houston.

 

The new Midtown spot (1910 Bagby) has no shortage of range
on its menu. Happy hour is Mon-Fri from 4pm till 7pm…I recommend the
flatbreads, all of them. They have a menu that runs until 1am on the weekends
and also have a killer brunch.

 

What also sets this place apart from other restaurants is
the atmosphere. They have 4 different settings to dine in. The Grille Room is a
chill/swank bar area with free wifi and outlets at every booth so you can tweet
non-stop while you eat. The Dining Room is very dimly lit for a romantic vibe
and also has a fireplace. The Saloon is definitely the most energetic room with
19 beers on tap and 42 by bottle, over 17 screens to watch the game or reality
show and of course a late night menu until 2am. The Patio for the dog lovers,
it’s dog friendly. And they have local bands playing on the weekends.

 

I went for the grand opening and I was not alone in enjoying
the eats and vibe that BlackFinn had to offer. They even had a fundraising
effort to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. It’s clear that Ralph Matthews,
Chris Funaro, Chef John Turner and Courtney Maddox have assembled a team that is
ready to further fuel your appetite.

 

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA FOR LASTNIGHTPICS

 

Ralph Matthews, Cindi Rose & Frank Rose

Lucy Breitling, Iva Tomova & Jennifer Smith

Emily Cotton & Karen Lix

Tod & Betsy Eason with Alex & Carla Martinez

Therese Trikilis, Courtney Maddox, Beth Rice & Chris Roth

Sarah Tucker & Stuart Rosenberg

Amy Stanley, Rich Alven & Aly Ramos

Lauren Haize & Valerie Puentes

Ashley Miranda, Stefanie Cotton & Ashley Birdwell

Jenn Molina, Michelle Tarallo & Kelli Cunningham

Aimee Woodall & Jayme Lamm

 

It is well known that Houston is one of the most giving cities in the
nation. We rank at or near the top in philanthropy and giving in all
categories. I have spoken in the past about the many organizations that touch
all of us in their quest for a better tomorrow. I love the Alzheimer’s
Association – we have lost too many amazing minds to Alzheimer’s.

 

Thousands came to support the Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the
nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support
and research. Since 1989, this all-age, all-ability walk has mobilized millions
to join the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, raising more than $347 million
for the cause. Events are held annually in the fall in nearly 600 communities
nationwide.

 

This year’s goal of $370,000 for Houston was exceeded – at last tally
there was over $375,000 raised. Sheila Jackson Lee spoke on the importance of
giving to this organization to help those that are suffering from this disease.
The goal is to one day say that Alzheimer’s is no more.

 

Morning radio icon Tom Joyner, one of the Alzheimer’s Association
biggest supporters, also spoke on the importance of these fund raising walks.
Other supporters in attendance were State Rep. Sarah Davis and reigning Miss
Texas USA 2012, Brittany Booker.

 

All donations can be mailed to:

Alzheimer’s Association

Attn: Houston Walk to End Alzheimer’s

2242 W. Holcombe Blvd.

Houston, TX 77030

*The Alzheimer’s Association website will remain open for all donations
as well.

 

Their vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. It should be yours too.

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA FOR LASTNIGHTPICS

 

 

Santa’s Elves and See’s Candies are working overtime to bring Houston the sweetest holiday treats! Get the candy lovers on your list covered at the See’s Candies Holiday Gift Center open now through December 26th at Willowbrook Mall. With an assortment of delicious goodies to choose from, this gift couldn’t be any sweeter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Count from 1 to 38. In that time someone died. That equates to about 2300 people every day. The culprit is not war, famine or car wrecks…it’s cardiovascular disease. It shows no prejudice to race, age, religion or status. Chances are you know someone that has been affected by this.

 

It’s always a serious issue when the American Heart Association raises awareness about heart disease but on this day thousands gathered to help turn this to a brighter day for others. The funds raised by participants in the 2011 Houston Heart Walk came to over $1.7 million (and still growing). It just goes to show that when our city gets together we can make a difference with the steps we take (literally).

 

It’s no secret that this is a cause very close to Mayor Parker who lost her father at the age of 51. She along with 25,000 others made the 5-mile walk along Allen Parkway.

 

I could mention all the big donors, but it is everyone’s contributions that are helping make a difference here. Special thanks to all participants, stepping up and out for the AHA.

 

BY OMAR MEJIA
PHOTOS BY BRIAN VOGEL FOR LASTNIGHTPICS
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I gotta give it up to moms. They have a tough job no doubt.
The modern Houston mom has to be quick on her toes and juggle many titles/jobs.
A lot goes into motherhood that often goes unnoticed … thanks, Mom.

 

Enter (dramatic entrance theme music here) “The Mommie
Series.” Misti Style created the Mommie Series to help educate new mothers on
various aspects of motherhood. Everything from finance and fashion to health
from some successful female experts. They hold the events quarterly as each
season brings in different fashion and dieting styles, not to mention different
obstacles.

 

The latest installment (the winter edition) was about
“Holiday Stress and How to Overcome It.” They really compiled a roster of
experts to help these mothers: Lynnsey Dohmen, M.S. (EcoStation & Powerplay
Educator at The Children’s Museum) spoke on family and how being active
stimulates the brain; Lori Hudson (Define Body & Mind) spoke on health and
how stress affects the body; Christine Walker (CPA CFP, MWA Advisors Inc.)
spoke on finance and overspending during the holiday season; Jessica McMahon
(designer of FIT Couture) spoke on fashion and the perfect fit and performance
fabrics. KPRC’s Courtney Zavala was the master of ceremonies and brought the
whole evening together.

 

Of course the evening included champagne, hors d’oeuvres
from Green Plate Kids and all the latest mommy gossip. Salute the moms in your
life –  they have a tough job. But
it just got a bit easier.

 

 

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY CLAIRE LEARNED FOR LASTNIGHTPICS
 

 

Lisa Ounds & Misti Pace-Krahl

Sally Jackson & Anika Jackson

Marisa Brunson & Janette Lindner

Christine Walker, Amy Cerny, Lori Hudson & Lynnsey Dohmen

Sherry Azimi & Jeff Kaplan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you know who Mac Miller is? Most people don’t. I first
heard of Mac Miller about a year ago. He is a teenage kid from Pittsburgh that
made some noise dropping mixtapes and releasing free music on the internet. He
is just the latest in a wave of rappers that have created buzz online before
dropping a single album.

 

Just last month J.Cole debuted his album Cole World to a #1 release. Two weeks
ago Wale released his 2nd album to a #2 debut; not bad considering Bieber was
#1. And last week Mac Miller released his independent debut to a #1 release
with over 144K albums sold.

 

What is remarkable about this feat is that he did it independently. The last time a debut
independent album landed the #1 spot was 16 years ago. His last mixtape, Best Day Ever, was downloaded over half
a million times; he has well over a million downloads of his mixtapes.

 

Mac came to do a concert at Warehouse Live last week and
followed that up with an after-party at Rich’s. I had a chance to exchange a
few words and enjoy a crazy/fun time with him at the after-party. Let’s just
say that he handles himself very humbly but knows that he is a rock star in the
making. He opened up his after-party with his biggest single to date, Party on 5th Avenue. He went thru a few
choice cuts from his catalogue before he came back to the VIP area to chop it
up with a few fans and friends/entourage.

 

When I asked him about how he is handling his newfound
success, he said he attributed it to the fans, and that even though he missed the
mark of 50,000 pre-orders, he still intended to donate $50,000 to the Make A
Wish Foundation. He plans to release another mixtape once his tour raps up (pun
intended) before working on another album. His favorite thing about Houston
other than the people, he said, was eating at Frenchy’s
Chicken near UH, which Bun B introduced him to. It was not long before he was
surrounded by a lot of beautiful ladies, so not wanting to get in the way I
just fell back and enjoyed the atmosphere.

 

Who is Mac Miller? Just the guy that slayed Michael Bublé,
Adele, Justin Bieber and Twilight in
one week. If you don’t know, you will soon enough.

 

 

BY OMAR MEJIA

PHOTOS BY OMAR MEJIA FOR LASTNIGHTPICS