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Getting the Drift

Paddling down Buffalo Bayou brings Katrina close to home

A A A Comments Thursday, Sep 15 2005

The last thing most Katrina evacuees probably want to see is water (tell that to the smart folks who're putting them on cruise ships), so we're guessing that Houston's newest guests won't be lining up for this weekend's canoe tour down Buffalo Bayou. But for locals, the paddle tour, which is part of the Best of Buffalo Bayou series, might be of interest. This Saturday's "Introduction to Ecology and Earth Science" will address the ecology and geology of the bayou and -- something particularly timely -- the history of attempts at flood control and erosion maintenance in the area. So essentially, residents who live near the waterway can find out what's being done to keep it out of their living rooms in case a hurricane hits Houston. The tours are led by Don A. Greene, a bayou guru who has been working to preserve Buffalo Bayou for more than 30 years. Paddle with Greene down the waters, and you'll gain some insight into what he calls liquid energy -- and even more compassion for our friends from Louisiana and beyond. Reservations deadline is 10 a.m. Friday, September 16. Tour runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 17. Participants meet at 5000 Memorial Drive. For information and registration, call 713-752-0314 or visit www.buffalobayou.org. $52. -- Eric Ervin

Courtesy of BBAP

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A Shot at the Beach

For most golfers, winning those hole-in-one contests usually means bragging rights, or maybe even free drinks from the losers later that night. But this week at the Norman Frede Chevrolet Golf Tournament, the golfer who gets a hole-in-one will receive an exclusive, four-day golf trip to the world-renowned Pebble Beach course (in the world of links, that's four days in Valhalla). If that's too much pressure, swingers can compete in a closest-to-the-hole contest that will net the winner an Arnold Palmer putter. Also, check out a silent auction featuring photography of such golf icons as Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, and even some personal memorabilia from Palmer himself. 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 21. South Shore Harbour Country Club, 4300 South Shore Boulevard in League City. For information and registration costs, call 281-474-5875. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Prostate Cancer Foundation. -- Steven Devadanam