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PUBLISHER Juliet Hubbell
EDITOR Nancy Moreland
ASSISTANT EDITOR Tamara Abel
February 2016
ART DIRECTOR Adra Stafford
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Ann Greer
CONTRIBUTORS
CONTENTS SPORTS
I’ll Take That Bet
6
REAL ESTATE
Talk to Tammy
7
Unusual Ways to Gamble on the Super Bowl
What is Staging
PETS
Preventing Obesity in Pets
8
HOME
Revamping Your Ceiling
10
TRAVEL
Top 20 Country Music Venues in Nashville
12
STYLE
Tips to Writing the Perfect Note or Card
Simple Steps to Help Keep Your Pet Healthy
FOOD
Leave the Popcorn to the Movies
An Insiders Guide to Planning a Visit to Nashville
The Lost Art of Handwriting Notes
Bon Appetit
Homemade Gumbo Just in Time for Mardi Gras
In Sickness and in Health
BABY BOOMERS Caring for a Loved One Who’s Under the Weather
4
15 16 19
For the Love of Wine
20
HUMORIST
Honest Lies and Misguided Thoughts
22
LEGAL
Guardianships in Texas
25
HEALTH
Why an Orthodontist
26
Multitasking
Looking Out for Your Loved One
Differences Between Dentists and Orthodontists
Ultra Magazine Texas
UltraMagTexas
@UltraMagTexas
Reader correspondence, editorial submissions and advertising inquiries are welcome.
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CONNOISSEUR
A More Casual Approach to Wine
Byron Barclay Tammy Bateman Audrey Boutros Karen Bunch Newt Harlan Bobby McCallitt Anice Shelton Susan Scott Watts
We offer complimentary mailed subscriptions for zip codes in our coverage area. Just send us your address and request ULTRA Magazine be mailed to your home each month. ULTRA Magazine Houston is published monthly. All rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced by any means whatsoever without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. The magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented. Advertisers and their agencies assume all liability for advertising content. We encourage our loyal readers to support our advertisers. Printed on recycled paper. PLEASE RECYCLE.
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I’ll Take That Bet! Unusual Ways to Gamble on the SuperBowl
by Bobby McCallitt
ULTRA SPORTS
The Super Bowl is played this month, and while it is extremely popular worldwide, no one loves the big game more than Las Vegas. More money is bet on the Super Bowl each year than any other single sporting event - and it’s not even close! And while wagering on who will win the big game is what most are familiar with, there are dozens of proposition or “prop bets” that can be made. In fact, the various things you can wager on are quite amazing. Want to know the outcome of your bet immediately without having to actually watch the game? Then wager on which team will win the coin toss. Or how long it will take to sing the national anthem. (Depending on the performer, usually established at over or under around two minutes. In 2012 Kelly Clarkson completed the song in a mere one minute, 34 seconds, while Alicia Keys took two minutes, 35 seconds in 2013.) Will the singer forget or omit at least one word of the National Anthem? Only interested in part of the game? You can 6
bet on who will win the first quarter. Or which team will be the first to score. Will that players’ jersey be an odd or even number? What will that score actually be - a touchdown, field goal, or even a safety? Will the first touchdown be scored by a run or a pass? Or will it be a defensive or special team score? Will there be a field goal kicked from over or under 40 yards? Will a field goal be missed in the game? And if so, will the miss be to the left, the right, short, or blocked? Will any kick bounce off of an upright during the game? I know, it’s crazy! If you want to be kept in suspense, try your hand at things that might take a bit longer to determine. How many passes will the quarterback throw? How many completions? How many yards? Will his longest completion be over or under 35 yards? Will he threw an interception? Will he run for a touchdown? For a first down? How often will he be sacked? Will there be a roughing the passer penalty? Will either quarterback have to miss a play because he got injured? UltraMagTexas.com
Will there be a two point conversion in the game? An on-sidekick? A fake punt? You can even bet as to whether or not the overhead sky camera will actually fall onto the field during the game. No kidding. So you are a diehard and will watch every play right to the bitter end. Maybe you will want to wager on who will be the game’s MVP? Will the game go to overtime? (It’s never happened.) Or the color of Gatorade poured on the winning coach? Who will the MVP mention first in his post-game interview – teammates? God? Fans? Coach? Family? None of the above? There are odds on all of the choices. But you don’t even like football that much. All you are really interested in are the commercials or maybe the half time entertainer. No problem, as there are prop bets for you too. Will the first commercial shown include an animal - yes or no? Will the first ad at half time be for a beverage product? What will be the first song performed by the half time entertainer? If you ever wonder what the
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treadwellelectric.com likelihood of something happening during the game – no matter how crazy it might seem – chances are the casino will have odds on it. A successful prop bet is typically made very clear by the casinos, thus there has been little controversy over what a winning bet is and what isn’t. However, there was a bit of a hubbub over the national anthem wager back in 2011. Christina Aguilera was well on her way to the “over” one minute, 50 seconds established, when she skipped a verse. Her performance resulted in a “no bet” or “push” for anyone who bet on the song length, and all bets were refunded as nobody had noticeably flubbed the lyrics in that manner before. Alas, Aguilera’s rendition resulted in the addition of the wager on whether the singer will miss a word. It’s a lot of pressure – over 100 million people are watching – and a lot of money is riding on you! These are just a few of the multitude of prop bets available each year during the Super Bowl. With so many viewers watching one single sporting event, Vegas clearly wants to take advantage of every way possible to pry some money from your hand. None of the prop bets are available until after the participants are determined. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) in this country you can only legally bet on sporting events in Nevada or New Jersey.
You hear everyone in real estate saying that you should “stage” a home, but what is staging? First of all, the intention of staging a property is not to hide or misinform a buyer, but it is to showcase the property in its best light. Think of it as preparing yourself for an interview. You want to showcase your best assets! Sellers Tammy Bateman need to prepare their best asset just like and Mustang they would prepare themselves or their car. A professionally staged property not only shows better than the competition, it is proven to make a difference in days on market and how much money the property will receive in offers. The less things a buyer needs to do in their minds makes it a more desirable property. So, go ahead and power wash that driveway and paint the front door! Make sure the house smells fresh and brings in a lot of light. Perhaps you need to update some accessories or rearrange the furniture to show off the fireplace or a big picture window. Don’t forget the lawn. A fresh pop of color does wonders. Don’t forget that if this is not your forte, a professional stager can be hired for assistance. A lot of times it is hard to see your home as a buyer sees it and the use of a neutral third person is just what you need. Tammy Bateman Properties has experience in staging and is happy to assist you when you are ready. Just give us a call...
While San Francisco is hosting the game this year, the 2017 Super Bowl will be right here in Houston. Good luck and enjoy the game! UltraMagTexas.com
Have a Real Estate Question for Tammy?
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7
ULTRA PETS
Preventing Obesity in Pets College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
Like humans, pets can become obese and develop excess body fat, which can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes or degenerative joint disease. In order to provide your furry best friend with the highest quality of life and increase their life span, be sure to follow these simple steps to prevent your pet from becoming obese.
pet. “Your regular veterinarian is the best person to give advice on what to feed your pet,” she said. “They will be able to provide an optimal diet type based on the animal’s age and body condition. In general, feeding guides on food products tend to overestimate the amount of food needed, so these guides can be
Weight gain in pets is often a result of overfeeding and lack of exercise. To keep your pet at a healthy weight, be sure to provide a healthy balance between food intake and physical activity. For example, give your dog or cat two to three meals a day instead of providing food at all times, and make sure to include at least one daily walk or some playtime. Maintaining a healthy weight for dogs and cats also depends on the type of food they eat on a daily basis. Owners should choose an appropriate pet food according to the animal’s age, weight, and activity level. Generally, younger dogs and cats need to consume more calories per pound of body weight than older dogs and cats. Animals with active lifestyles and pregnant or nursing females require more protein, minerals, and calories in their diet. Dr. Audrey Cook, associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explained the best way to choose the healthiest option for your 8
misleading.” In addition to diet and exercise, pet owners can regularly monitor their pet’s weight by routinely weighing them around the same time of the day. This can be effective in catching your pet’s weight increase before it becomes a more serious problem. Obesity can also be caused by some serious health problems rather than simply reflecting poor diet and lack of exercise. Weight gain can be related to hormone problems, such as hypothyroidism in dogs and acromegaly in cats, UltraMagTexas.com
which is defined as excess growth hormone production. Dogs with hypothyroidism gain weight without eating more food than usual, while cats with acromegaly will experience an increase in appetite. Dogs and cats with Cushing’s syndrome will appear as if they’ve gained weight with their pot-bellied appearance, but these patients rarely experience a weight increase. No matter the cause of obesity in dogs and cats, severe secondary diseases and health problems can develop if the obese patient is left untreated. There is good evidence that obesity impacts quality of life as well as life span. “In dogs, obesity is often associated with joint problems, such as arthritis and loss of mobility,” Cook said. “Obesity in cats is strongly associated with diabetes mellitus.” In addition to these health conditions, an obese pet may also have difficulty breathing, become fatigued with routine exercise, and be unable to groom itself effectively. Though it may be tempting to spoil your pet with table scraps and extra servings of food, consider thinking twice about the consequences your pet may face as a result. To provide your pet with a healthy and happy life, consult your veterinarian in keeping a balanced lifestyle and choosing the right food for your pet’s needs.
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CEILING REVAMPS ULTRA HOME
Leave the Popcorn to the Movies BEFORE
AFTER
Calling all DIY enthusiasts: Those popcorn ceilings have to go. They
popcorn ceiling is a great investment. As the largest uninterrupted space
don’t get much love from homeowners or homebuyers, and they can really
in any room, the ceiling gives you a golden opportunity to add interest
bring down the overall look and feel of an otherwise attractive room.
or infuse your personality.
Popcorn ceilings haven’t really represented stylish home design since
Mark Clement, a general contractor and blogger on MyFixItUplife,
disco was on the radio, though they’ve certainly lingered a little longer.
regularly advises homeowners on the best ways to create the most value and appeal in their home. “Ceilings really do make a greater impact
10
Whether you’re interested in a fresh look for your own family or
than people realize,” he says. “The right choice can help a room soar -
updating your home before putting it on the market, upgrading from a
but you probably won’t get that effect with a popcorn ceiling.”
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But, before you grab your scraper, Clement
allows you to fix the noticeable, distracting
along the way) before scraping the resulting
has a few words of caution about tackling
blemishes overhead and clear the path for a
slop off with a drywall knife. At worst, the
popcorn ceiling removal as a DIY project. “To
stylish upgrade.
water won’t get through all of your layers of
remove a popcorn ceiling, you have to really
paint, and you’ll be breaking out the heavy
be committed to the task. You can certainly do
machinery to sand or scrape through it all,
it yourself, but be forewarned that it can create a gigantic mess. You’ll want to consider all of your options carefully, from removing to simply covering it up, based on your time and budget. Patience is also a factor!” If you know you want to make a change, but you’re not sure of the best way to move forward, here are a few key factors you need to consider when addressing your popcorn ceiling(s):
“New ceilings are a great update, and with today’s options, they’re incredibly easy to install yourself,” Clement says. “Stylish ceiling details really turn heads, and a new ceiling can make a dark or uninviting room feel bigger and brighter.”
kicking up dust. It’s doable, but it’s a lengthy process and not for the faint of heart. Cover it up: The easy way to fix ugly. Don’t worry though - you can always cover up your popcorn ceiling by installing a new ceiling over the existing one. Manufacturers like Armstrong Ceilings have many options: wood planks, metal tiles or patterned panels. Howto videos show how easy it is to install a new ceiling in as little as a day.
Stains: You can’t put lipstick on a pig. Scraping: Get ready to get messy.
To our modern eyes, popcorn ceilings definitely look a bit stale, but the good news is you’re
Water problems, cracks and other issues that leave blemishes on your ceiling can be
Popcorn ceilings don’t get enough credit for
not stuck with them. There are a number of
incredibly frustrating, especially if you have a
tenacity, really. Once applied, they’re not easy
options to freshen up your look and turn your
popcorn ceiling that makes it difficult to simply
to remove! At best, you’ll be soaking your
ceilings into the fun, festive spaces that match
paint over. Covering or removing that ceiling
ceiling with water (and possibly your walls
your true style. (BPT)
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ULTRA TRAVEL
20
Top 100 Country Music Venues
in Nashville
by Susan Scott Watts
makes Nashville what it is today. Because of its roots, Nashville is also known as “Music City” and “The Home of Country Music.”
required, awesome menu, 225 seated, 700 standing; and 3rd and Lindsley, 300 capacity, limited menu, non-smoking and no reservations.
As a visitor to Nashville, you can see different levels of talent if you know the right places to go for the type of music you would like to see. (Notice, I said, “see” music, because if you just wanted to listen, you would stay at home.)
Places to See a Headliner in Town on the Down Low: At any of the above-mentioned places, and possibly at these: Mercy Lounge; The Basement; The Bluebird. Mercy Lounge seats up to 1,000 where you can see top national acts and emerging bands of all genres. They also have a second, smaller venue “High Watts,” for local acts. The Basement, has no seats, but packs in the crowd on weekends with hot new bands. Lastly, The Bluebird is very much like you see on the TV show, surprisingly. It’s small, limited menu and depending on the night and lineup, you never know who you may see. Mostly country genre. Monday nights are open mic, Sunday nights are writer nights.
Budding Country Music Singer and Songwriter Delaney Ann
Nashville’s nickname, “Music City,” can be traced to a proclamation by Queen Victoria upon the delight of hearing Fisk Jubilee Singers, of Nashville’s Fisk University, in 1873 while touring Europe. Before that, Davy Crockett’s famed storytelling and fiddle playing gave his hometown of Nashville notoriety.
Starting with the stars and headliners, down to people who have never sang outside the shower, certain venues cater to different levels of talent and here’s an insider look at the top places to go in Nashville:
Must Do: See stars of today and yesterday: The Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium; also go to the Country Music Hall of Fame, to get In the 1920’s an insurance company, aiming to an up close look at the stars. Advanced tickets broadcast the virtues of its policies, created a are required at the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman live radio broadcast, on WSM, of a barn dance, performances. called “The Grand Ole Opry,” which locked in the title of “Music City” for Nashville. Top Acts Live Music With Good Food: City Winery (where you should order the shrimp It’s that history of intersection of talent, live and grits!), seats 150 with room for 300 more performance and radio that made the title standing; The Listening Room, reservations stick. And it’s the respect of that history that 12
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Songwriter Venues: People don’t realize that people who do not consider themselves singers wrote some of the greatest songs. However, pro songwriters occasionally, go out and perform their radio hits and new music at venues like: The Bluebird Café, Douglas Corner, Blue Bar, and The Commodore Grill. It’s these places where,
depending on the night, you may see a pro songwriter, or on open mic night, a newcomer. Strolling lower Broadway at Tootsie’s, Legend’s Corner, The Stage, Rippy’s, you will see a mix of long-time Nashville area pro musicians singing hits and originals, as well as unknown acts. Typically unknowns are booked during daylight hours, but can be surprisingly good.
HERE ARE SOME GOOD WEBSITES AND RESOURCES www.do615.com find festivals, events and calendar.
www.songsuffragettes.com a new movement, away from “bro-country,” which promotes, “Let The Girls Play,” host up and coming female artists at the Listening Room, every Monday night.
www.tinpansouth.com April songwriter event where hit songwriters play at various venues around Nashville April 5-9.
www.cmaworld.com CMA Fest June 9 – 12; jammed packed with top current country artist.
www.nashvillesongwriters.com If you are considering coming to Nashville to start a career in the music business, start here. “It all starts with a song,” is their motto, and the ingredients for a good song are six strings and a heartache!
Another great tip to find named acts is to look at the charity and school calendars. Often they have benefits that allow guests an up close setting with top artists. Regardless of your taste in music, your taste buds will always find a happy place in Nashville. Here are a few places that top my list: Adele’s: award winning, outstanding menu, fresh and interesting, great ambience, reservations required. Up-and-coming country singer and songwriter, Delaney Ann, bumped into Taylor Swift one night while having dinner. Check out her selfie at delaneyann.com and on Twitter @delaneyannmusic. Husk: excellent chef and food, stays booked up, get reservations early. Hattie B’s: you may have to stand in line for their hot fried chicken, but it’s worth it! Biscuit Love: Amazing breakfast and lunch, food truck come home to roost, award winning. So, you got me. That’s more than 20 things to do in Nashville, and I haven’t even mentioned the NFL team, The Predators hockey team, Vanderbilt University’s football, Belmont University’s concerts, the ballet, symphony, marathon, and so many more things to do. Visit and discover for yourself that it’s impossible to make a short list of the top 20 things to do in Nashville! UltraMagTexas.com
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ULTRA STYLE
Tips to Writing the Perfect Card or Note Everyone loves to discover a handwritten card or note among a thick stack of mail. Regardless of how many electronic words we get bombarded with each day, the personal touch of a message written by hand remains a special gesture that never goes out of style. From choosing a card or stationery that reflects a personal style to accenting the letter with the right seal or stamp, every detail matters to underscore a thoughtful message. Stamps are often one of the first details noted by a letter recipient, so choosing a stamp such as the love-letter themed Sealed with Love Forever stamp from usps.com/stamps or your local post office is perfect for the occasion.
telling your friend or loved one why he or she is so important to you. That message may just be the best gift you can give. CELEBRATORY CARDS: When acknowledging the birth of a baby or the recent wedding of a friend or relative, pick a card they will want to save and treasure for years to come. When writing your sentiment inside, keep congratulations simple and let them know you share in their joy.
To my dear friend.. A note of appreciation
Not sure what sentiment to write for the occasion? Here are a few ideas: NOTES OF APPRECIATION: Whether the recipient gave you a gift, hosted you for dinner or did a special favor, keep the message brief and sincere. Don’t ever hesitate to send a note of appreciation just to let someone know how truly special they are. Unexpected notes are always wonderful to receive. BIRTHDAY CARDS: Celebrate one’s personal accomplishments in the past year and any special events planned in the next year ahead. End by
NEW JOB: Starting a job at a new company or changing one’s career path can be a time for renewal and exciting beginnings. A sincere message wishing a friend or loved one luck and adding advice that he or she might find helpful is often a welcome message to show someone you care.
CONDOLENCE CARDS: If a friend is going through a difficult time, share special memories you have of the person who passed away and why you will miss having that person in your life. End by offering to call or visit in the near future. These gestures, plus the card itself, will remind the recipient they aren’t alone in their grief. Remember, cards and notes are about letting another person know how much their friendship, gifts or presence means to you. Follow a simple formula, add a few personal touches and you will soon be writing cards with ease. (Family Features)
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t i t e p p A Bon UMBO HOMEMADE G n by Anice Shelto
ULTRA FOOD
Laissez le bon temps rouler Let the good times roll
Happy Mardi Gras Y’all! I am a South Texas beef cattle rancher’s daughter but I sure do love a big bowl of anything Cajun--especially if that bowl contains gumbo! To me, a bowl of rich gumbo is not just a treat but comfort food at its best. It’s warm and rich, full of delicious things, and it’s served over rice. It can be spicy or mild and you can make so many types of gumbo. I love them all: shrimp gumbo, seafood gumbo, turkey gumbo, chicken gumbo, sausage gumbo…you get the picture...I just love gumbo! I order it all the time at restaurants. On a cold day, there is nothing that warms me up more. Notice I said “order it” and this is a cooking column…
Roux can be found in many forms. You can purchase pre-made roux, make it in the oven, or stir it up on the stove. And you can use various oils to make your roux. There really is not a “right” or “wrong” way although most purists would agree a homemade roux is best. I’m going to give you directions for a slowstirred homemade roux but if you want a short-cut you can easily buy pre-made roux at the local grocery store. Also, there are instructions for making roux in the oven found on the internet---I suggest you follow Alton Brown’s method if you want to go that route. I called up a Louisiana-born friend who I know is an excellent gumbo cook and asked her advice. Here is what she said: “Pour yourself a glass of wine, find a movie or football game on tv, pull up a stool and stir!”
I think most home cooks have a few dishes that scare the heck out of them and for me, gumbo was pretty much it. What was I scared of? THE ROUX!
It was great advice. I opted for a beer instead, but the rest was en pointe.
Then one day, I was faced with a turkey carcass and leftover meat and a 17 year old boy who requested some turkey and andouille gumbo.
A good roux requires patience, plenty of stirring, an extra set of hands in case you get tired, and a whole lot of love.
ROUX INGREDIENTS: ¾ cup flour ¾ cup vegetable oil or butter
BLONDE ROUX
16
So, I decided to tackle the dish I feared. I was going to make gumbo and get over my fear of it and the roux.
I’m certainly no expert on gumbo making, but if you follow the recipes below, I think you might find that you end up with a pot of yumminess that is definitely worth the time and effort. I do not choose to put okra in my gumbo---otherwise no one in my family would eat it. If you like okra, I have been advised to use frozen sliced okra to prevent sliminess. We prefer to add a dash of gumbo filé to our bowls after cooking. It thickens it and adds flavor. I was told not to add filé to the pot, so that’s how we roll in my house. I’m a rancher’s daughter---I don’t question Cajun wisdom when it comes to their food. Another word of wisdom I received was that a veggie stock is preferable to a fish stock in a seafood gumbo unless you like a strong seafood taste. I like to let the flavors of the seafood I add shine so I use a veggie stock that I easily make in my stockpot. I like making roux with butter (which may not be traditional but my oh my it’s good) but if this is your first attempt at a roux, I would definitely go with oil because butter is much easier to burn. Regardless of what kind of gumbo you make you will need the “holy trinity” of vegetables (one part celery, one part bell pepper, and two parts onion) and a good stock. Make a homemade stock---it’s totally worth it (recipes in the January issue of Ultra Magazine on line at UltraMagTexas.com). continued on page 18
In a heavy bottomed pot (I like to use my enameled cast iron dutch oven) stir the flour (go ¼ cup at a time) into the oil or melted butter over medium heat. I like to stir the flour in with a spiral whisk and then alternate stirring the roux with the whisk and a silicone spoon. Keep your heat low and never higher than medium. Stir constantly. Drink your beverage of choice and stir. Watch the movie and stir. Talk to your family and stir. STIR! It will go through several color changes, starting with a light blonde roux like you would make for a bechamel and eventually moving to a light then dark caramel color and eventually you will be rewarded with a rich dark chocolate color. That’s what you want. I’m not going to lie---it’s going to take at least an hour maybe longer. You have been warned. It takes patience but is worth it.
LIGHT CARAMEL ROUX
MEDIUM CARAMEL ROUX
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DARK CARAMEL ROUX
DARK CHOCOLATE ROUX
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continued from page 16 SEAFOOD GUMBO 1 roux recipe 1 cup diced celery 1 cup diced bell pepper 2 cups diced onion 2 TBS minced garlic 6 cups veggie (or seafood) stock 1 TBS Worcestershire sauce 2 bay leaves 1 TBS chopped fresh thyme or ½ TBS dried thyme cayenne pepper to taste salt and black pepper to taste Seafood of your choice Note: I have not specified what seafood because this is where your tastes come in...I like shrimp, crab, oysters and crawfish tails. I usually add one 8 oz container of shucked oysters and the liquid, a lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 1 lb crawfish tail meat, and a cup of crabmeat. Just add in what you wish. Andouille sausage is also a nice addition. Whatever you choose, buy the freshest and best quality you can get. Remember a good gumbo and roux can’t be rushed so plan on this taking a minimum 3-4 hours… Make your roux...when it has reached a dark chocolate color carefully add in your chopped veggies and garlic. Turn your heat down to low and I like to cover my pot and let it barely simmer so the veggies soften and almost melt into the roux. Stir frequently (I give it a stir about every 5-8 min) and let it go for about an hour. I like to warm my veggie stock so it will incorporate faster so heat it up and add about a ladle at a time to the veggie/roux mixture. Add slowly and stir. It’s going to look like it is going to separate but trust me if you add it in slowly and keep stirring it will smooth out. Once you have added in your stock, add the herbs and Worcestershire. Season it and let it gently simmer for another hour. About 15 minutes before serving, turn the heat up so that you have a good simmer (but not a boil) going and start to add in the seafood: I start with shrimp, then add in oysters, then crawfish and crabmeat. Cook for about 2 minutes between each addition. Serve over rice with filé gumbo on the side. I also like to top it with some chopped green onion and a little Tabasco. 18
VEGGIES AND SAUSAGE ADDED
STIRRING THE GUMBO AFTER ADDING STOCK
GUMBO WITH SAUSAGE AND TURKEY
SEAFOOD GUMBO
CHICKEN/TURKEY AND SAUSAGE GUMBO 1 roux recipe 1 cup diced celery 1 cup diced bell pepper 2 cups diced onions 2 TBS minced garlic 6-8 cups chicken or turkey stock (homemade preferred) 1 TBS Worcestershire sauce 2 bay leaves 1 TBS chopped fresh thyme or ½ TBS dried thyme cayenne, salt, and black pepper to taste Poultry meat (see note above) 1 lb andouille or smoked sausage, sliced into thin rounds Note: this is a very flexible recipe. You can use fresh chicken or a rotisserie one or use turkey or even duck for a “gamier” gumbo. My preference is to use fresh, boneless, skinless, thigh meat because breasts tend to just be dry and lack flavor. If you use fresh chicken, just cube the thigh meat and brown it in the sausage drippings before adding to the gumbo. As for how much you need, I use about 6 boneless skinless thighs (8 if they are small), or about 3 cups of cooked leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken meat. You can add more or less depending on how “meaty” you want it to be. Make your roux...when it has reached a dark chocolate color carefully add in the vegetables and garlic. Turn your heat down to low and cover the pot and let it barely simmer for an hour or so until the veggies are
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very very soft. Be sure to stir it frequently. Warm your poultry stock and add it in about a cup at a time to the veggie roux and stir until it is completely combined. It may look like it won’t come together, but as it warms, it will mix. Add in the Worcestershire, herbs, and seasonings and gently simmer for an hour. After an hour, in a separate skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage until it begins to brown and render out the fat. Add to the gumbo and if using raw chicken, saute the raw cubed chicken meat in the drippings and season with a touch of salt, black pepper and cayenne if you wish. Cook until browned but not thoroughly cooked. Add to the gumbo and simmer gently for another hour or so. If using cooked meat, add it with the sausage. Be sure you simmer the gumbo with the meat and sausage for an hour so that the flavors mingle. Adjust your seasonings to taste. Serve over rice with some green onions on top. Offer gumbo filé, Tabasco or hot sauce on the side. So there you go...gumbo basics. The beauty of gumbo is that like any good soup or stew it can be made with whatever you have on hand as long as you have good stock and a roux and your “holy trinity” of celery, onion, and bell pepper. I’m definitely not a gumbo expert, but these basic recipes should give you a start in your gumbo making exploration. Just work your roux slowly and gently and give your gumbo plenty of time to simmer to let the flavors develop and you can’t go wrong. Don’t be afraid of what only seems complicated...you will be rewarded with the ultimate comfort food for a cold winter’s night and the perfect dish to serve for your Mardi Gras celebration!
ULTRA BABY BOOMERS
In Sickness and in Health: Caring for a Spouse Who’s Under the Weather
When saying “I do,” the classic marriage vows, “In good times and in bad, in sickness and in health” spring to mind. However, when sickness strikes, many are not prepared for the strain it can have on the relationship. While we may think we know our spouses well, nearly half of Americans never experienced their spouse’s “sick persona” until after they were married, according to a survey commissioned by Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain. A cold or the flu can bring added stress to a relationship and it’s not always well received. In fact, 20 percent of people admit they’d rather be sick themselves than deal with a sick spouse, which is likely because almost a quarter reported that their spouses complain often when they’re ill. While it’s perfectly normal for patience to run thin when a spouse is under the weather, putting in the extra effort can strengthen a relationship afterward. To help you become a better caregiver for a spouse during cough, cold and flu season, Rachel Sussman, therapist and relationship expert, recommends the following tips:
1. Bring on the food for the soul No cold or flu remedy is complete without
a warm bowl of chicken soup. Whether homemade or store-bought, you partner will appreciate the loving gesture. If your partner has a larger appetite, prepare their favorite foods and serve them in bed.
2. Stock the medicine cabinet One of the most important aspects of being a good caregiver is preparation. Be sure to keep the medicine cabinet stocked with product to combat tough cold and sinus symptoms, like Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain.
3. Provide entertainment Sickness can take its toll on not only physical health, but also emotional well being when one is spending the day resting. Help your partner get through a long, dull day by having entertaining books, movies and magazines at the ready. For the music lover, create a personalized playlist that shows them just how much you care.
4. Keep them warm A warm, soft blanket and comfy clothes can make a big difference when feeling under the weather. Ask your spouse what their favorite convalescence UltraMagTexas.com
clothes are, whether comfy pajamas, cozy sweatpants or fuzzy slippers and be sure they have them for the duration of their sickness.
5. Help with chores When one is sick, chores and errands tend to fall to the wayside. Offer to help your partner with the small tasks, like laundry, paying bills or urgent phone calls. Has your partner been to the doctor? Almost eight in 10 married individuals report their spouse doesn’t seek professional help as soon as possible to get better. Offer to set up a doctor’s appointment to ensure your partner is on the road to recovery as fast as possible.
6. Show patience and understanding Above all, remain patient, be a good listener and show you can handle the extra stress. Listening to your partner attentively offers them a chance to unburden and vent, leading to a greater sense of calm and understanding. Couples who engage in this behavior are presented with an opportunity to achieve greater intimacy and deepen their relationship connection as a result. (BPT)
19
For the L♥ve of Wine
ULTRA CONNOISSEUR
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Industry transitions as wine becomes more casual Whether it’s relaxing at home, dining out at a restaurant or celebrating with friends and family, Americans are enjoying wine at a wider variety of occasions than ever before. In fact, 85 percent of frequent wine drinkers now believe that wine is equally appropriate for casual and formal settings alike. Today’s attitudes and behaviors toward wine drinking were recently captured in the second Gallo Consumer Wine Trends Survey, commissioned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. The survey of 1,000 frequent wine drinkers found that 82 percent enjoy between one and five glasses per week, which they enjoy at a wide range of occasions.
member and vice president of marketing at E. & J. Gallo Winery. “For more than 80 years, Gallo has strived for excellence and will continue its family tradition of crafting innovative wines that cater to Americans’ evolving wine preferences.” A more casual approach to wine suggests that shoppers are more likely to try new wines across a range of prices. In fact, more than one-third of survey respondents classified themselves as a “wine adventurer,” while only 3 percent of those surveyed self-identified as “wine snobs.” To learn more about the evolving wine culture,
visit... gallowinetrends.com “We are always glad to see Americans’ love of wine expand each year as they experiment with flavors, varietals and packaging formats,” said Stephanie Gallo, third generation family 20
Exploring and experimenting More sipping occasions means more opportunities to try new wines. The top
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factors that inspire a frequent wine drinker to try something new are recommendations from friends, family members and coworkers. Additionally, 86 percent of wine drinkers would be encouraged by a server, bartender or sommelier recommendation, followed closely by a recommendation from a wine store employee. Not surprisingly, millennials are more influenced by the digital world than older generations. Survey data shows that millennials are more likely to be encouraged to try a new wine if it is featured prominently and positively in the media or if it is recommended on social media. Selecting your sips The occasion itself still influences the wine choice for many. While wine drinkers identified Chardonnay as the most popular choice for casual get-togethers, Cabernet Sauvignon was most often the front-runner for formal environments.
At the same time, sparkling wines are breaking out of formal occasions and becoming more popular for everyday moments. Interest in Rosé is also expanding beyond the peak summer months of June, July and August as more wine drinkers reach for blush wines in April and September.
that boxed wine is best for large social gatherings and is becoming higher quality. Wine in a can is a relatively new concept that more than one-fourth of frequent wine drinkers expressed interest in trying particularly for outdoor excursions. Among fans of alternative packaging, outdoor events remained the primary occasion for the use of these products, which also include mini bottles and tetra packs.
However, looks still matter in the wine aisle. Millennials are four times more likely than baby boomers to select a bottle of wine based on its label, frequently looking for personality and originality. Baby Boomers, by contrast, look for region of origin and tasting notes on the label. Thinking inside the box Mirroring the changes in wine drinkers’ shopping habits, the wine industry is thinking “inside the box” these days. Boxed wine has evolved considerably in the minds of consumers, thanks in large part to its convenience. The extended freshness of boxed wine allows wine drinkers to enjoy it at their own pace and the box’s portability allows for easy transport to all types of occasions. In fact, 1 in 4 surveyed agree
“The increase in popularity of these new packaging options is undeniably making wine more portable, practical and possible to enjoy anywhere,” Gallo said. “A single-serve package, in particular, offers a convenient option for those who reluctantly grab a beer simply because it is easier.” Overcoming wine fears As wine culture becomes more approachable, common fears among wine drinkers are less prevalent. The survey found that fears, such as mispronouncing a wine’s name or being judged for wine choices, are still continued on page 24
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ULTRA HUMORIST
Honest Lie s and Othe r Misguide d Thought By Newt s Harlan
G N I K S A T I T MUL
22
I’ve noticed a new word being used quite often
To hear folks talk, there must be a bunch of
Well, this isn’t quite the truth. I pretty much
in conversations lately. Of course the word has
them who are pretty good at this multitasking.
had to listen to news and talk shows because
probably been in use for some time, but it’s
Probably the original multitaskers in the
if I listened to music, the faster the music
pretty new to me. The word is “multitasking”
business world are the receptionists. They can
played, the faster my car went. Even after I
and it was originally a computer term, which
answer the phone, type a letter, greet visitors,
changed over to the news/talk format, I got to
like so many other technical terms lately has
and sort the mail, all the while talking on
concentrating too much on the talk and missed
crossed over into everyday use.
the phone to a friend about last night’s date
a few (bunch of) exits and had to turn around
or this coming weekend’s party. I couldn’t do
and go back.
Here’s how the dictionary defines multitasking:
that. In fact, when you get very far past the
n. the concurrent operation by one central
walking and chewing gum at the same time
My next multitasking challenge came when I
processing unit of two or more processes.
stage, I’m not much good at multitasking
first had a car phone installed in my company
whatsoever. In fact, I don’t even chew gum
car. I’d been looking forward to this for several
I assume that when this definition is applied
very often anymore.
years because it meant that I wouldn’t have to
to humans instead of computers, the brain
hunt down a phone when I needed to make a
is the central processing unit and the things
That’s not to say I haven’t tried multitasking.
call. I could be driving down the road and just
that we are doing are the two or more
Back when I was spending a lot of time on
reach over and dial up whomever I wanted to
processes…like walking and chewing gum at
the road, I did a pretty good job of listening to
talk to. Wrong. Trying to turn down the radio
the same time.
the radio while driving and even maintaining
and remember or look up a number and drive
the speed limit before we had cruise control.
and dial the number and talk and drive…
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you get the idea. This was entirely too much multitasking for me and I had to be very careful or I’d drift over into the lane with the car beside me or slow down to about 40 mph on the freeway or look up to find that I was driving around 90 mph. Even incoming calls were enough
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distraction. It didn’t take me long to learn that it was best to pull over and stop in a safe place when using the phone…I still do.
Gala
Apparently there are folks who can, or at least think they can multitask pretty well while driving. You see people doing all kinds of things while tooling down the road. In my travels, I’ve observed young (and not-so-young) girls applying make-up and talking on the phone…I’d jab my eye out if I tried that…men shaving, people reading and doing crossword puzzles, many folks eating and drinking and probably just about everything else you can imagine being done
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while driving a car or truck. I think I observed the greatest example of multitasking in a vehicle several years ago as I was driving on I-10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge, on the section we used to call the “Atchafalaya Swamp Speedway.” I was going around 80 mph and I looked in my rearview mirror and saw this car coming up pretty fast behind me. I looked over as he pulled alongside and, I swear this is the truth, he was talking on a cell phone, with a newspaper spread across his steering wheel and a portable TV playing on the dashboard in front of him, all the while driving about 100 mph. It didn’t take long for him to get out of sight and for the rest of the way to Baton Rouge, I kept expecting to come
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upon a big wreck or at least find that he’d run off the road into the swamp, but I never saw him again. Everyone does multitasking of one kind or another during the course of a day and I’m sure that there are some of you who are more into it
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than the rest of us, like those of you working on computers all day, or musicians, or doctors, or school teachers. School teachers have to be among the best, trying to teach something to 15 or 20 some odd of those little angels while acting as a jailer, baby sitter, surrogate mommy, nurse and referee, plus a half hundred other things. While writing this, I decided to have one more try at multitasking. Y’all know how you can get radio broadcasts from the Internet, well I punched up one of my favorite talk shows with the intention of listening to it while writing this -- didn’t work. Either I’d quit writing and listen or write and quit listening. It’s painfully obvious that my central processing unit is incapable of multitasking at this point. Perhaps I need to run a disc scan, or maybe do something to get rid of all those superfluous bits of information floating around on my hard drive before it crashes ---I’m thinking a morning Bloody Mary might not be a bad idea. UltraMagTexas.com
23
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FOR THE LOVE OF WINE continued from page 21 on the minds of some wine drinkers, but those who enjoy it regularly are not dramatically affected by these concerns.
* BARBECUE: Pair grilled items, such as shish kabobs, burgers or corn on the cob, with a Riesling for its vivid and sweet flavors. * RED MEAT: Enhance the robust taste of roast beef or grilled steak with Cabernet Sauvignon for its black fruit and spice notes.
“As an industry, we must continue working to remove these barriers in order to nurture wine’s expansion into everyday occasions,” Gallo said. “By exploring the more emotional implications of wine culture and sharing these findings broadly, we hope to welcome more people into wine.”
* CHICKEN: Serving an oven-roasted chicken with medium-bodied Pinot Noir will bring subtle flavors of cherry and sweet fruit.
Pairings for every occasion When it comes to food and wine pairings, the proper match can exponentially improve the eating experience - no matter what the occasion. The key is to choose wines and foods that complement each other in their components, richness and textures. To help get you started, Gallo Family Vineyards recommends the following pairings:
* DESSERT: Complement a slice of cheesecake, chocolate covered strawberry or chocolate chip cookie with Moscato. The light-bodied, refreshing flavors of peach, honey and ripe citrus are a perfect match.
* FRESH FISH: Complement garlic butter baked salmon or another favorite fish with a glass of Chardonnay for its rich fruit flavor and lush texture, or Sauvignon Blanc for a more crisp finish. 24
* PRETTY MUCH ANYTHING: Rosé is often underappreciated when it comes to food pairings. From spicy Mexican to chicken salad, pecorino cheese and peach cobbler, it is an excellent option for dishes year-round. (Family Features)
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GUARDIANSHIPS in Texas
BIOGRAPHY & DISCLAIMER
Looking out for your Loved One | Courtesy of Byron K. Barclay Over a series of articles, I have reminded you that taking care of your estate matters while you are still able to do so is not only in your best interests, but also important for your loved ones. A Designation of Guardian lists a trusted person and an alternate or two that you prefer to manage your affairs should you be unable to do so, but it is also important for your loved ones to do so as well. Why? Here’s some food for thought. Should your mother or brother or adult daughter become incapacitated, who will a Judge appoint to manage their affairs? If you have siblings, or your adult children are married, there may be obvious choices as to who should be designated, but what if ULTRA there is some disagreement within the family about who would be best to take on that responsibility? How will that decision be made? Ultimately, a Judge can decide this matter, but wouldn’t the proposed Ward (the person who needs the guardianship) offer the best guidance on who should be appointed? Once the incapacity has developed, creating the need for a Guardian, it is too late to ask the proposed Ward. Texas has recently added new provisions to the Guardianship procedure to protect the proposed Ward and to force the parties seeking a guardianship to actively and specifically consider less restrictive alternatives to guardianship that would offer assistance to a proposed Ward without restricting or terminating their rights. Remember that once a guardianship is ordered, the Ward loses their legal capacity to make decisions about
their welfare. The Ward has the same legal capacity that a ten year old Texan does, which is to say they can no longer operate a motor vehicle, cannot vote, cannot make financial decisions about their money, cannot enter a contract to sell or purchase real estate or even hire a lawyer to represent themselves. Because the determination of legal incapacity is so far-reaching, the Courts are very careful about appointing a guardian unless it has been adequately proven that appointment of the guardian is in the proposed Ward’s best interests. Some of the lessrestrictive means of assistance can be using a previously executed medical and/or statutory power of attorney to allow a third party to make LEGAL medical and/ or financial decisions for the proposed Ward. Similarly, adding a responsible and trusted person as a secondary signatory to your bank account can aid in getting bills paid that are necessary for the proposed Ward’s household or living expenses. If you or your loved one has reached the level of legal incapacity however, a guardianship may in fact be the best alternative. When the proper documents have been signed before an incapacity develops, your family will have a number of options that can be implemented that will provide the assistance required without imposing restrictions that would unnecessarily complicate your day-to-day life. From the standpoint of an incapacitated adult, a Guardianship can provide the love and care you need at exactly the time you need it, and isn’t that the best option for you, or your loved one? ADVERTORIAL UltraMagTexas.com
BYRON K. BARCLAY BKBarclay@lawyer.com www.BarclayLawFirm.com 713.224.2334 Byron K. Barclay is a Houston, Texas attorney and Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law. In addition, Mr. Barclay handles estate planning matters and is regularly appointed to serve various courts in Harris County as an Attorney Ad Litem for the estates of persons who have died without a will. Mr. Barclay also handles commercial litigation, divorces, family law and child custody issues. The foregoing article is offered only as a public service to this community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site and column should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author. Nothing in this column or on any website where it may be published is intended to create an attorneyclient relationship and nothing posted by Mr. Barclay constitutes legal advice. Should you have questions, you may forward them via email to Mr. Barclay at BKBarclay@lawyer.com. Questions may be edited for length or clarity. Mr. Barclay will choose questions submitted for brief answers and possible publication. Mr. Barclay reserves the right to choose which questions to answer, and submission of a question does not guarantee that he will provide an answer.
25
ULTRA HEALTH
Why An
Orthodontist? Courtesy of Dr. Audrey M. Boutros, DDS, MS
Your smile is the most striking part of your face. Do you think your smile (or that of your child’s) can be improved? Many people ask themselves this question. Orthodontists are specialists in moving teeth and aligning jaws. Orthodontists are uniquely qualified in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthodontic problems. They dedicate their professional lives to creating healthy, beautiful smiles in children, teens, and adults. There are three steps in an orthodontist’s education: college, dental school, and orthodontic residency program. It can take 10 or more years of education after high school to become an orthodontist. After completing college requirements, the prospective orthodontist attends dental school. All orthodontists are dentists first. Out of 100 dental school graduates, only six go on to become orthodontists. Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists. Only orthodontists are accepted for membership in the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Selecting a member of the AAO for orthodontic care is the public’s assurance that they are selecting an orthodontist. You trust your heart to a cardiologist, your skin to a dermatologist, and your knees to an orthopedist. Like these specialists, orthodontists have in-depth experience in orthodontic care. They use their knowledge and skills to help you get the best results possible. There are a lot of treatment options these days, from clear aligners to high tech braces. They each have their uses, but only an orthodontist has the specialized knowledge to identify and plan for all the variables in your mouth. Orthodontists take your unique needs and wishes into consideration too when recommending the right treatment option for you. Orthodontists have knowledge of the full range of orthodontic appliance “tools”. They know what to use and when to use it because they work with these “tools” every day. Sure you want a winning smile and your orthodontist wants that for you too. You deserve the best - a good bite and a healthy beautiful smile. Consult an AAO member orthodontist for your life, your health, your happiness, and your smile! Call our office today to schedule your complimentary orthodontic evaluation.
AUDREY M. BOUTROS
Call our office today to schedule your complimentary orthodontic evaluation.
DDS, MS
Member of the American Association of Orthodontists
26
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