Mexico Point: A Slice of Our Heaven

By Michele Marano

There was nothing more exciting than pulling up at the gate and parking in front of the big wooden fence. The “No Trespassing” sign was posted on the huge maple, just inside the fence line.  We would gaze at the sign each time we visited and would read our family’s names on it.  Arriving at Mexico Point was as exciting as knowing we were in a sweet, safe haven.

The fresh scent of flowers mixed with wet grass and early morning dew sits with me like heaven. The water is barely moving, yet there’s a small wave that washes pebbles ashore and trickles onto the rocks along the beach.  I would play on the rocks until mom said it was time to leave.   I can still smell the scent of those days and see images of Mexico Point; a property on Lake Ontario owned, developed and operated by my family for 33 years.

My father, Francesco Marano, my uncle Joseph Marano and a family colleague, Joseph DiSalvo, acquired Mexico Point in 1948.  The boys were young and naive but their integrity, ambition and drive earned them the reward of owning real estate.  Over the years, the 3 young adolescents unexpectedly, yet meticulously developed a property of 33 acres and a small clubhouse into a full resort of over 100 acres named Mexico Point.

The property was unique in it’s own natural beauty and it attracted individuals from everywhere. It was a meeting ground for those who wanted to escape the public, relax in privacy and enjoy themselves among friends.  The boys even brought in a boxing ring and 2 of the most prominent boxers of their time, Carmen Basilio and Joey DeJohn, would be manufactured at Mexico Point.

After acquiring the property, the boys met Professor William Casey, who had been a long-time visitor of Mexico Point.  Bill was a Columbia University Law Professor.  He was as unique and nostalgic as the property.  He had fallen in love with Mexico Point over the years and asked to spend a few weeks each year on the grounds.  He called it “an “Italian Villa, and “a place where you could see the full setting of the sun.”  He had taken such an affection and love to our property that he discontinued his visits to Martha’s Vineyard and chose Mexico Point as his summer retreat. His short visits grew into what the boys wanted him to have, a lifetime right to occupy the property every summer and that is how he became a part of our family and a part of our Mexico Point.

In 1952, the boys lost the clubhouse to a fire and what remained were remnants of the stone, massive chimneys and the manor house.  Between 1965-1967, my dad and his brother built a cottage, which later was used as a quaint place to relax for guests on the property.  Bill helped the boys after the fire and the cottage would become Bill’s home, where he would spend each summer admiring breathtaking sun sets and exercising his passion for botanicals by growing bountiful gardens of flowers all across the grounds.

Mom and I periodically traveled on weekends to Mexico Point to visit Professor Casey. When we visited him, he would give us tours of the gardens, pointing out each flower and identifying each one by name.  I always thought of him as the most interesting man I had ever met, as he had set a deep impression on me as a young girl.  Bill stood 6’6 tall with a frail, thin frame.  He was a genius, a historian, and an artisan.  He was a methodical man who had interesting stories to share.  Bill had been an advisor to President Eisenhower.

He started writing books at the early age of 17 and had accumulated a collection of writings over the years.  He would sign his name in every book and sometimes you would find it on page 99.  Bill wanted his books with him at the cottage but had no way of getting them there so my dad and uncle had them shipped to their warehouse, where they arrived by the numbers, packed in wine cases.

His love for the property extended beyond the land.  He had such a passion for Mexico Point, he committed to the reconstruction of the medieval manor that sat on the grounds.  A chapel was built on the second floor, where a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary would stand.  Bill invited architects and artists, some very famous names from around the globe, to donate their work, in dedication to a chapel.  With his mother in mind, the manor house and “the chapel” became a sacred and beautiful piece of work.  The chapel was hand crafted with meticulous carvings of wood, inside and out.  As a little girl, I looked at it as monumental. The chapel remained locked and it would only be used at Bill’s discretion.  After all, it was in it’s own right a piece of art and would remain used as a sanctuary.

The cottage sat empty for the remaining seasons of the year and it would open again every spring. Bill was family to us and it was such a treat to visit him each year.  Everyone who met him was intrigued with his intelligence, humor and kindness. Bill died in 1978.   After his passing, we felt a great loss without him. The property was rarely used, however, our personal ties to the property remained, while our fondness for Bill grew deeper.  A melancholy lightness hung over Mexico Point, knowing his presence was bestowed upon us.

In the late ‘70s early 80’s, a committee was formed in efforts to transition our property into a state park; however, our family was not a part of this arrangement.  Knowing my dad was being pressured to sell the property to the State, I made whimsical visits to Mexico Point and took photos while we still owned it.  Soon after, the partners had to make a serious decision about either losing the property to eminent domain or freely selling it before others made the decision for them.    Mexico Point was sold to the State in 1981.

 

Epilogue

In preparation for the sale to the State New York, former students from Columbia University asked to come to Mexico Point to retrieve Professor Casey’s books and art from the chapel and the Marano brothers agree, provided a special room would be created in his honor at the University.

My visions of Mexico Point still run deep and are very vivid.  Our family has learned a lot from our property and it has given us invaluable memories and a way of feeling peace.  Now, time has passed, my sister and I have lost our parents, but through our nostalgic memories of Mexico Point, we are able to find them.

Today, I thank my Uncle Joe dearly for sharing with me his memories, stories and passion for Mexico Point and for making it what it will always be to us, “A slice of Our Heaven.” It is a place that will never be forgotten

The Lofts on Post Oak Boulevard

by Michele Marano June 22, 2017

Most people who know Houston are familiar with Post Oak Blvd.  As long as one can remember, Post Oak has always been the heart of the Galleria and while it has changed over the years, it is still continuously transforming today.  Over just the past couple of years, Astoria (high-rise) and BHP Billiton added new heights to the area – heights as in towers.  The posh Boulevard has a bit of everything for everyone – lots of restaurants, shops, Energy Companies, and a new bus lane coming soon.  That’s right.  Being the busiest area, aside from downtown, there is no method of transportation to and from other areas of Houston.  In an attempt to resolve this, a bus transit lane is being designed for Post Oak Blvd, specifically for its’ commuters.

So, while Post Oak continues to evolve and grow, why not own a condo on the Boulevard while prices are still affordable?  It’s a question that should be asked if you travel to and from Houston or work in the area. For $250,000, in the heart of the Galleria, you can own 869 sq. feet, overlooking one of 6 pools with amenities that include coffee, movie, computer, conference and club rooms, a beautiful fitness facility and a lavish entertainment/kitchen area for parties.  In addition, the condo unit has a low monthly maintenance fee of $382.  This is rare with mid-rise and high-rise condominiums, especially those within the  area.

If you compare a similar size residence in the first, second and third largest cities, (New York, LA and Chicago), you will not find a condominium (also called co-ops) anywhere close to this price.   Located in one of the most desired areas of Houston, the building is situated perfectly between shops, restaurants, hotels and a busy work environment.  Across the street is Apache Corp, and SUEZ and a short distance away is Marathon Oil Corp. and Schlumberger, which makes this condo an ideal home for someone who works for one of the many Energy Corporations located in the area.  In addition, Uptown Park is 2 blocks away, and the beautiful upscale Whole Foods Market is just one block north of the Lofts.   If you’re an outdoorsy type, you will enjoy the monthly gathering of food trucks just across the street and the holiday festivities held at Uptown Park in December.

Whatever the time of year – spring, summer, fall or winter, there is always something for you to do while living on Post Oak Blvd..  And if you want to get away from the Galleria, you will soon be able to hop a ride on the bus transit system and head out to another part of Houston.

The loft condo has bamboo flooring in the living area, slate in the kitchen and bath and new carpet in the bedroom.  The condo has been freshly painted pale chic gray, with gray baseboard and trim accent, and carpet is a beautiful plush dark grey (below).

Condo overlooks one of 6 pools on the grounds.  Your living room has access to a French door, which opens to outside pool view.

Kitchen opens to living area with a bar counter and small dining area.  All appliances, including refrigerator and washer and dryer will remain with the unit.  The washer and dryer is located inside the bathroom – a closet area.

Below is the clubhouse kitchen and entertainment area adjacent to the lobby.  Its a great place to relax with friends and enjoy the activities held at the Lofts.  For more info on the condo, please contact Michele@MicheleMarano.com or 713-899-8420.  MLS # is 59998614 on www.HAR.com.

by Michele Marano

Twice a year, April and September, Round Top becomes a focal point on the map, holding the largest antique festival in the country.  Stretched over 25 miles, what are typically quaint little towns turns pastures of green into an array of color and beautiful ranch acreage is transformed into an antique extravaganza.

If you’re looking for a certain piece but can’t make the trip, bring us a photo and we will find it for you.   Michele Marano & Associates – www.countrycottagechick.com is the design side of our real estate business, www.MicheleMarano.com.  We stage our clients’ homes who sell with us and Michele also keeps a booth stocked full of antiques, refinished & distressed furnishings, architectural pieces, doors, artwork, custom pillows and all kinds of vintage accessories at the Antique Gallery of Houston Booth A-2 in Spring, Texas.

“Being inspired by the countryside, I love to incorporate the beauty, yet simplicity of nature into design, whether it be through the use of calming colors, textured fabrics, or simply an antiqued refinished piece of furniture aged from time.  There is something comfortable about mixing an old timeless piece with a little bit of rustic and a little bit of French.   I like to take a deconstructed piece of furniture, like a chair or a sofa and add to the space around it.  Combing rustic with cottage and adding a European twist to it, just feels right.  There is a sense of nostalgia and I like that.”

If you are looking for that certain piece or want to create a look for a room, we can assist you.  The trip to Round Top is just one of our shopping sprees we will be making this fall!

Michele Marano & Associates, 713-899-8420 Michele@MicheleMarano.com

Antique Gallery of Houston, Booth A-2.

21127 Spring Towne Drive Spring, TX 77388.

When you live in an oil-producing state, chances are your memory of oil prices and dates are very keen. A few years ago, was memorable in the Energy Capital of the World and if you are like me, a Real Estate Agent – ex Energy Commodity Broker, you will correlate the energy industry to Houston’s real estate market.

In the early part of summer 2014, we saw oil prices start a decline that lasted over 2 years and affected all aspects of our economics, including job layoffs and housing price declines. Over the past year, crude oil has tested the $50 mark a number of times, but until now – with a new President Elect Trump- there weren’t many positive factors to reinvigorate Houston’s energy sector or housing market. I am feeling confident things will change starting in 2017 and during Trumps’ tenure as President – hopefully more than 4 years. Here are my indications that point to higher crude prices and a housing bump in the near 18-24 months.

1. President Elect Trump: That’s right. You might want to thank our country who voted for him – even if you did not. The direction of our country will drastically change, as will the way our government is run. The Trump administration will unravel the past – years of policies that were not particularly in favor of our country and years of global focus – unwarranted treatment to nations which appeared to delegitimize the priority of our own.

2. The economy will turn faster than we’ve ever seen. With the house of Representatives and the Senate both controlled by the Republican party and with a Republican President, it will most likely be easier for laws to pass, even though Democrats will throw tempers – and tantrums. Trump’s plan to cut taxes, lift regulations, renegotiate trade deals, repeal and replace Obama care and trim the fat of government spending will have an immediate impact on the future of our economy. Our new Presidents’ “get the job done” work ethic means there’s no time to waste. He has essentially started working weeks prior to his inauguration.

3. A Mind Full Administration: This administration is taking a different approach, carefully and mind fully interviewing and selecting successful business people and others – high-ranking generals – all fully capable of making a difference in the positions which they will serve. Trump has identified individuals who will represent the most important posts in our government. A new America is being formed and things will get done. You will see a country run on principles of business rather than politics and political correctness.

4. Jobs on the way: The most important aspect of the Trump administration is stimulating the economy to increase jobs in our country. With the huge number of companies who have left the US, Trump will offer benefits to retrieve them and penalties for those who have left, thinking business as usual. As new tax laws take effect, which will be lowered for both individuals and corporations, all will have the opportunity to benefit. Lower taxes free up company dollars, which encourages reinvestment in future business dealings – growing business, adding jobs. In addition, lower taxes will allow new businesses to emerge, another plus to the Houston economy.

5. Stability in Oil Prices + US Shale: The loss of 200,000 jobs in the energy sector was a shock to our nation when oil prices dropped in 2014. In the meantime, we’ve gotten somewhat comfortable with lower gas prices at the pump, but still seeking stabilization for the price of crude oil. Trump’s new selection of Rick Perry for Secretary of Energy, Rex Tillerson, as Secretary of State and Scott Pruitt to head the EPA – Environmental Protection Agency will play an important hand in stabilizing US oil – mainly as it pertains to the ability to produce. Trump is in favor of an “energy revolution” but we can only wait until he is sworn in to see if the Trump admin will strategically outmaneuver OPEC, known for historically dominating global oil prices. Trump wants to dismantle regulations on the energy industry, increase production, decrease imports, make the US more independent and not so tied to OPECS influence over global influence of prices.

Savvy picks, strategic thinking, “negotiations are key” and “oil is money” are words I would use to describe the Trump mindset. No more bureaucratic thinking, (or acting) because decision-making positions will get the jobs done. Our new government is business people, CEOs, deal makers, successful people – in general, which equates to our country running on principles of business – not politics. Obviously, a huge change in the direction we’re going will give us a bump in the markets we’ve needed.

http://www.michelemarano.com/category/arcticles/

 

 

If you’re in and around Houston, or outside Texas, and in the market for a high-end home as a long-term investment, you might want to look right here.  A captivating home at Creek Bend in Lake Point; a premier, gated, waterfront community in Sugarland, Texas awaits you.  Why an investor opportunity?  Because the buyer will earn an immediate lessee for the next 2-4 years, negotiated upon purchase.

Houston continues to top the lists, Fastest Growing Metropolitan areas of the U.S., a reason for the consistent attraction to investors from around the globe.  Houston is one of the most diversified cities, creating the largest number of jobs year after year in all areas of business including oil, technology and research – not to mention The Texas Medical Center being the largest in the world.  Most major oil headquarters are located in the Houston area, from Downtown, to the Energy Corridor, Katy and the Woodlands.  Also, with no state income tax, Houston captures the entrepreneurial spirit of start-ups, allowing plenty of space for growth, lots of places to live and an endless list of restaurants to fancy the palette of all tastes.

Creek Bend is an enclave that sits on a small shoreline called Oyster Creek. Lake Pointe, a master-planned community situated along Oyster Creek, is conveniently positioned within walking distance to Sugar Land’s Lake Point Town Centre.  Also within arm’s reach is Sugar Land’s Town Square.  Both areas offer an array of fine dining, food hot spots, shops, and Whole Foods Market, as the anchor.  In addition, there are 3 Starbucks, each within a short distance of the home.

 

 

The home, built in 2014 is a mixed flair of contemporary and Mediterranean style.  It sits on a corner lot and boasts a classic interior with an open floorplan. Almost everything in the home is a custom upgrade including beautiful honey and clove colored extra-wide hand scraped floors, a gourmet kitchen with silestone counters, an oversized island with a gas cooktop and a spread of Alder custom cabinets – also sized to fit a sub-zero refrigerator.  All lighting, including pendants and vanity were customized throughout the home, including both crystal chandeliers in the entry and stairway.

Large guest room on first floor.

Spacious Gourmet Kitchen with large island and open seating in breakfast area.

The master bath was specifically designed with white Carrara Marble from floor to ceiling.  The main concept here –  a luxurious space designed for 2, side by side with large double sink areas for both him and her, a Jacuzzi style tub and an enormous walk-in shower, almost quadrupling the standard size.  His and her walk-in closets are situated within the master bath – on the opposite side of the bedroom.

Upstairs has a large landing area for choice of use, 2 additional guest rooms – each with a full bath and a media room.   One of the guest rooms is transformed into a posh style nursery (above).

The home is fully wired for audio/video.  The media room was customized with a beverage/wine refrigerator, a full sink and 2 walls of custom cabinets (below).

As an extension to the living room, a fabulous outdoor covered patio includes travertine flooring, a gas-burning fireplace set in stacked stone to continue the Mediterranean elevation.  On the other side of the patio is an outdoor kitchen space equipped with ample counter space, a built-in grill and an outdoor beverage refrigerator.

The home has many advantages for those looking for luxury, with all the features of a million-dollar price tag.  If you want to own in the Houston area, but aren’t ready to relocate just yet, you will want to consider this great opportunity that awaits that special investor.