Tag: LEAP Center

A Day on the SHMM Grounds

Throughout the summer, the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library offers “Spotlight Saturday” programs (10am-2pm), with each one highlighting different aspects of 19th century life.

This past Saturday, LEAP enjoyed one of our many visits to the Museum to learn about spinning, home-made ice cream as made during Sam Houston’s time, and the art of dueling, an interestingly complex artifact of another time.

The ice-cream, always a significant draw, wasn’t quite ready when we arrived, so we walked the Museum’s grounds (approximately 18 acres), enjoying this rustic retreat nestled in the heart of the community. There were waterfowl…

…squirrels, and turtles, including one that had a special need for attention.

When we returned, they were still churning the ice cream.

So, we ventured into the gift shop, which, in many ways, is a typical gift shop for a historical site. There are t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and the like.

But a few things distinguish the Wigwam Neosho. They have a nice book collection, including one written by Mac Woodward, one illustrated by Wade Dillon, and one written by an assemblage of students and staff, as well the excellent Houston biography written by James Haley. Moreover, Neosho has soap and pottery made on the Museum grounds, a nice touch.

We purchased one, this one made by Grady Mangum, who worked at SHSU.

Some of the bowls were a good size for ice-cream, but as it turns out, the ice cream wasn’t yet ready.

Accordingly, we checked out the spinning, which drew a full house.

After roaming the historic buildings on site…

…we managed to catch the leadup to one of the docents’ dueling sessions.

Phillips discussed some of the preparation work…

…including showing off the weapons used (which are also on display in the Museum).

Tim Ross and Matt Phillips discussed the finer points of dueling “etiquette,” which involved the use of seconds/mediaries, how to extricate yourself from an impending duel, and the negotiations over the specifications of the duel (weapon choice, number of paces). Timed for exactly “high noon,” the duel took place in front of us; Ross and Phillips did a realistic enactment of the contest–without, of course, real bullets–taking their paces, aiming, and firing, and without hurting anyone.

With the suspense over and the heat of the day bearing down, we turned back to the porch for ice cream. Unfortunately, it wasn’t ready.

After more than two hours on the grounds and feeling the heat and the pangs of hunger, we prepared to leave, having enjoyed the structures, the nature, and the gift shop, albeit without the ice cream.

Discovering the Dizzying Magic of “Vertigo” at Houston’s River Oaks Theatre

By Brian Aldaco

In classic LEAP fashion current students and LEAP alumni joined forces in Houston for a viewing of one of Hollywood’s most celebrated films, Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo. The screening is part of The Summer of Hitchcock, a joint literary venture between Brazos Bookstore and River Oaks Theatre.

As part of this summer project, Houston-area Hitchcock fans are invited to read “The Lady Vanishes,” “Vertigo,” and “Psycho,” and watch the film adaptations directed by the Master of Suspense at the newly re-opened River Oaks Theatre.

With its glistening art deco marquee, this 1939 theatre is nestled on West Grey St. in one of the most emblematic Houston neighborhoods, for which the theatre is named. Following a post-pandemic closure of the theatre, which many Houston area cinephiles feared would be permanent (this writer included), the theater finally re-opened last October. While it retained its screening of classic, contemporary, and independent movies, the interior has been renovated to adapt to the new movie-goer expectations, while also offering seat-side meal service.


For most of the group members that joined us at the showing, it was our first time watching this adaptation of Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac’s French novel “D’entre les morts” (“Among the Dead”). Released in 1958, Vertigo follows a mysterious investigation led by a recently retired San Francisco detective. Tasked by an old college friend to follow his wife who is feared to be obsessively replicating the actions of a mysterious ancestor, the former detective, played by Jimmy Stewart, along with the equally intrigued audience, tour the city of San Francisco while trailing the college friend’s wife, played by Kim Novak.

The film has been widely praised, and in fact, was ranked as the greatest film of all time in a 2012 poll of international film critics (it “slipped” to #2 in 2022). Nonetheless, the craftsmanship managed to impress and surprise. In Hitchcockian fashion, the narrative is told through expertly orchestrated POV and over-the-shoulder shots, evoking a sense of voyeurism of which the movie’s protagonist extensively takes part in throughout his investigation.

The film showcases the costume design of Hollywood legend Edith Head, which complements the equally impressive cinematography of Robert Burkes, whose striking use of color film stock (and color theory), impressive panoramas of San Francisco and San Francisco Bay, and a subjective camera contribute to the film’s beauty and psychological themes.

Such cinematic feats are perhaps most famously illustrated by the “Vertigo Zoom,” engineered by second-unit cameraman Irmin Roberts. Ask by Hitchcock to create a visual metaphor for the protagonist’s vertigo, Roberts used a subjective camera (from Stewart’s perspective) and dollied the camera toward the ground level of a staircase while simultaneously zooming the lens out (or away) from the ground level.

This effect has since been used in countless films, most famously in “Jaws,” “Goodfellas,” and “The Lord of the Rings.”

Vertigo, as with many of Hitchcock’s works, is a testament to the range of emotions that can be transmitted to an audience through stellar acting, a vivid imagination, and plethoric cinematic techniques implemented by an auteur director with a clear vision.

The whole experience reminds the viewer that this piece of cinematic literature deserves contemplation in a proper movie theatre. In the Houston of 2025, Star-Cinema-Grill owned or not, it’s difficult to think of a better site than River Oaks Theatre, and even more difficult to think of a better group of people with whom to see it.

Reflections from the Capitol: A Day of Service, History, and Perspective in Austin

by Olivia Discon

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Texas Capitol and share a few reflections from my term as student regent. I was invited by the Governor’s Appointments Office to speak to the newly appointed student regents, which was a real honor—and a full-circle moment I didn’t take lightly. I wanted to make the most of the opportunity and my time in Austin.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was being invited to the Governor’s Mansion. After a quick security check by DPS, I had the chance to tour one of the most historic and iconic buildings in Texas. The Greek Revival-style mansion was designed by Abner Cook—who, interestingly, also supervised the construction of the Walls Unit in Huntsville. That connection alone was enough to trigger my compulsive need to tie Sam Houston into everything.

Photo Courtesy of The Office of Governor Greg Abbott

I’ll admit I was a little photo-shy walking through the mansion, but that didn’t stop a few photos from happening. To my surprise, I got to greet Governor Abbott again and take a quick photo with him—inside his house, no less. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Being appointed as a student regent during my undergrad was an incredible opportunity, and I’ve felt supported at every level of my college experience. That support made moments like this possible.

As we made our way through the mansion, we passed through rooms filled with stunning 18th-century furniture—and, of course, nods to Sam Houston in almost every one. They even have a room named after him. Seeing this more glamorous side of Houston’s life, and then comparing it to his final years at the Steamboat House in Huntsville, was oddly moving. He was so committed to his principles that he gave up comfort for conviction. It’s just one of the reasons Huntsville has such a strange charm to me. Somehow, all roads in Texas lead back to it.

Even though the Governor’s Mansion is a historic landmark, it’s still a lived-in space. Just outside the window, we caught a glimpse of the Abbott family’s three golden retrievers playing in the yard. The timing of the visit couldn’t have been better—it was a great reminder of how historic homes can still be part of everyday life, thanks to organizations like the Friends of the Governor’s Mansion.

Photo Courtesy of SHSU LEAP Center, 2016

Later that afternoon, I joined Chris Covo, a former student regent for the Texas State University System, and Luke Shwartz, who was recently appointed student regent for the UT System (congrats again, Luke!). We sat down with Brent Connett for a moderated conversation about the role, what surprised us, and what advice we’d offer.

For me, the biggest takeaway was this: being a good representative can open more doors than you might expect. Investing in your professionalism, doing your research, and showing up prepared—not because you’ve “made it,” but because you’re serious about learning—goes a long way. When you present yourself as someone competent and curious, people take notice. You get to be in the room for real conversations and real opportunities.

After the panel, I stopped by to see my good friend Michelle Cardenas, who was deep in the legislative trenches as session wrapped up. She took a much-needed breather and walked me through the Governor’s Reception Hall. Watching her in action, compared to where we started—back when we walked into the Capitol for the first time with LEAP—was surreal. We’re in completely different places now, but there’s something meaningful about knowing LEAP brought us both here.

Electric Gravy
For dinner, I continued on my sappy tirade by joining Cinthia Villarreal and Michelle Cardenas at an Indian fusion restaurant—Electric Gravy.

It’s been getting a lot of local attention, including a recommendation from former LEAP Ambassador Saara Maknojia.

We started with the curry queso (which was excellent), and then I had the chicken tinga curry, Cinthia got the chicken masala, and Michelle went with the pork vindaloo. All of it was solid—definitely a fun place worth checking out.

Mount Bonnell
To wrap up the day, I visited Mount Bonnell for a great view of Lady Bird Lake. It ended up being the perfect spot to close out a long day—quiet, scenic, and full of the kind of quirky passersby you can only find in Austin.

The sun didn’t set until about 8:30 p.m., but once it started going down, it dropped fast.

I might be wrong, but I think this was the first time I ever intentionally watched a sunset. It was a nice experience!

Heard of G.O.A.T.s

by Olivia Discon

As a LEAP Ambassador, you’re not expected to be an art expert—or even an enthusiast. But after visiting dozens of museums through the program, it’s only natural that some of us become fans… or critics. I’ve now been to 75 museums with LEAP. Before joining, I’d only ever visited one. Among all those experiences, one name has stood out again and again: James Surls. Of those many wonderful educational experiences, James Surls is a name I had come to frequent more than most. 

Surls is something of a household name in LEAP. As a distinguished alum of Sam Houston State University and a prominent figure in Huntsville, his work has served as many students’ first introduction to art—including mine.

So when we heard about the opening reception for the Surls + Locke Museum and the Heard of G.O.A.T.S. exhibit, we knew it was something we couldn’t pass up!

After being shuttled to the 40-acre property, we went to Surls’ studio, which had been transformed into an event hall for the afternoon. Inside, towering sculptures filled the space, and even the live musicians were performing among the artworks on stage.

We spent a long time taking in the ambiance, discussing which pieces were our favorite. Moya and McCaughan were especially drawn to the work of Charmaine Locke, Surls’ wife and an artist in her own right.

Inspired by the natural world, Surls uses both medium and or composition to emulate life. This presents itself in various ways, but he’s most known for his sculptures that resemble flowers or plants, his eye motif, and sometimes, a combination of the two!

His work stands out not just visually, but intellectually.

While I didn’t initially grasp the depth of his pieces, I’ve come to appreciate their layered meanings over time.

As one article (written by my professor) quotes Surls:

“Right then and there, I drank from the well of true belief in something far greater than myself. I got the calling for my life, and I answered the call with a resounding ‘Yes, I will do it.’”

That sense of purpose resonates with me—and with LEAP as a whole. It reminds me of why we serve and why we learn.

We later walked through the Gift from the Bower exhibit, which featured a series of outdoor installations on its final day.

We spent a lot of time here, discussing meaning, appreciating how the pieces interacted with the environment, and—for Chrissy—getting eaten alive by bugs.

I personally enjoyed Sonic Overlook by Patrick Renner…

and Chrissy liked Learning to Fly by Sherry Owens and Art Shirer.

We had the opportunity to meet Surls himself and have him sign photos we took of his work at the Gaertner Performing Arts Center. It was an honor to meet the artist behind the incredible work that so many LEAP students have enjoyed over the years, and it’s an experience I will cherish for a long time. 

Victoria McClendon-Leggett, former LEAP President, also had the opportunity to meet Surls.

As for the Heard of G.O.A.T.S. exhibit itself, the gallery was filled with other famous names. John Alexander…

Lynn Randolph…

and Bill Haveron…

Michelle took a liking to a piece called His and Hers Red Nest by James Drake. She found that the nests looked like angel wings and fittingly posed for a photo upon discovery.

Chrissy, on the other hand, enjoyed a much moodier scene, Siddhartha by Carlos Canul. 

Interestingly enough, the Terry Allen sculpture was on display on the outdoor patio. Titled Bust, the piece depicts a man in a suit that is blowing against an imaginary force of wind. Like all of his pieces, this was thought provoking and visually interesting. It’s no surprise that this bust is courtesy of the Surls + Locke Museum’s collection!

In all, this was an experience that reminds you why LEAP exists—to open minds, spark curiosity, and connect students to opportunities and perspectives they might not have encountered otherwise. It was an incredibly memorable experience, and one I will always be grateful for.

Holmes and Hounds in Houston

by Olivia Discon

A mysterious death. A howling hound. A suspiciously Texan heir. What do all these things have in common? Chaos, comedy, and the incredible Todd Waite in his final bow as Sherlock Holmes at the Alley Theatre.

With only five actors and 36 characters flying in and out of scenes, The Hound of the Baskervilles was a theatrical juggling act, with a few wig, costume, and accent changes. Which is to say: it was impressive, ridiculous, and a lot of fun.

Before diving into the fun, we primed ourselves with a little chaos of our own: lunch at Post Market. In the spirit of the show’s variety, we went for food from all corners: noodles, rice, sushi, and African inspired power bowls— none of which appeared to be from the same restaurant. 

Our group included LEAP friends Bill and Carol Hyman and Wayne and Andrea Scott, along with students Macey Schank, Jacob Wessels, Chrissy Biello, Michelle Moya, Mikaela Baires, and Austin intern Cinthia Villarreal. We showed up full and ready for whatever the Alley threw at us.

The Hound of the Baskervilles follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the legend of a supernatural hound that haunts his family’s estate. In this version, five actors take on dozens of characters, adding a fast-paced, comedic twist to the story.

When we saw Todd Waite last month at Murder by the Book, he mentioned how Sherlock Holmes is, frankly, a smart aleck, but one you can’t really get mad at, because he’s always right on the nose. Having heard him talk about the role made seeing him perform it even better. His timing, his wordplay, and even his smallest asides all landed with precision. He clearly knows Sherlock inside and out.

Dylan Godwin was another fan favorite in this show among our group. As the Texan heir to the Baskerville estate (among a dozen other characters), he was constantly shifting personalities and finding ways to distinguish the hilarious traits for both a grumpy street cop and a simple minded Texan—even when they are both in the same scene! 

In all, this was a great experience for the LEAP Center to share with some amazing community friends.