PEARLAND
CELEBRATING & DISCOVERING LIFE’S FINEST
Local Happenings Spring Cleaning with Vinegar Visiting Nashville UltraMagTexas.com
UltraMagTexas.com
PUBLISHER Juliet Hubbell
EDITOR Tamara Abel
ASSISTANT EDITOR Nancy Moreland Spring 2018
ART DIRECTOR Adra Staord
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Ann Greer
CONTRIBUTORS Byron Barclay Karen Bunch Newt Harlan Stephanie Brown Howaniec Ahmad Khan Bobby McCallitt Anice Shelton Susan Scott Watts Reader correspondence, editorial submissions and advertising inquiries are welcome.
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ads@UltraMagTexas.com
Let Us Hear From You! editor@UltraMagTexas.com
CONTENTS CALENDAR
HOME
Local Happenings
4
Family Events and Activities
Spring Cleaning
Vinegar Surprisingly Effective Household Cleaner
Good Eye Health
8
Does Your Pet Have a Hot Spot?
10
Heart Health
13
Top 20 Country Music Venues in Nashville
14
Ceiling Revamps
16
BABY BOOMERS 5 Habits to Adopt for Good Eye Health
PETS
HEALTH
TRAVEL
DESIGN
LEGAL
2
6
Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
Clever Ways to Be More Active Every Day
An Insider's Guide to visiting Nashville
Leave the Popcorn to the Movies
Guardianships in Texas
20
Looking Out For Your Loved One
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Ready to address your knee pain? See how this high-precision technology makes these results possible. Call 713-436-3488 or visit DrBurkeOrtho.com to learn more.
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TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS DR. BURKE ORTHOPEDICS 1 2 3
10223 W Broadway St A, Pearland, TX 77584 12835 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77034
Repicci, JA, et al., “Minimally invasive surgical technique for unicondylar knee arthroplasty,” J South Orthopedic Association, 1999 Spring; 8(1): 20 -7. Brown, NM, et al., “Total Knee Arthroplasty Has Higher Postoperative Morbidity Than Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty: A Multicenter Analysis,” The Journal of Arthroplasty, 2012. Hall et al., “Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (Alias Uni-Knee): An Overview With Nursing Implications,” Orthopaedic Nursing, 2004; 23(3): 163 -171.
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure including Navio-enabled partial knee replacement. Navio is not for everyone. Children, pregnant women, patients who have mental or neuromuscular disorders that do not allow control of the knee joint, and morbidly obese patients should not undergo a Navio procedure. Consult your physician for details and to help determine if Navio surgery is right for you.
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H
ULTRA CALENDAR
appenings
By Tamara Abel Greer
Houston Hospice Luncheon Featuring Author Amy Dickinson April 4th 11:00 a.m. The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa 111 North Post Oak Lane Houston, TX 77024 Houstonhospice.org 713-677-7123
Spring Break Xtreme Fun March 10th through 18th Children’s Museum of Houston Cmhouston.org 713-522-1138
Action-packed adventure is taking over this Spring Break at the Children’s Museum of Houston. America’s No. 1 children’s museum will have you on the edge of your seat with gravity-defying entertainment, special appearances and interactive activities during Xtreme Spring Break, March 10 – 18, 2018. Embrace your wild side at Houston’s top spring break family destination and explore five Xtreme Zones!
4
• Experience jaw dropping thrills in our “Ready to Roll” Block Party on March 10! • Unleash your inner ninja during our American Ninja Warrior-inspired shows with Warrior veteran Sam Sann, Warrior phenom Daniel Gil and more Ninja Warriors! • Spin out of control in our Human Hamster Balls. • Velcro your opponent in the Sticky Ball Arena. • Learn the ropes in the all-new Ropes Challenge Course. • Get in on the action with all-new S.E.C.R.E.T. spy missions. • Let things get thrown out of proportion during our annual Shaving Cream Pi(e) Fight on Pi Day, March 14! • For the first 100-kid Museum Members: Embrace your zany side with a different giveaway every day! UltraMagTexas.com
What would Amy do? A typical question posed to Amy Dickinson in her popular “Ask Amy” column which offers readers her take on a variety of topics, from finance, health, legal, to sex and manners. Guests of Houston Hospice’s 17th Annual Butterfly Luncheon in April will hear and meet Dickinson as featured speaker and for book signing copies of her memoir, Strangers Tend to Tell Me Things, at the Butterfly Luncheon at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa.
Proceeds from the luncheon help fund Houston Hospice operations and its Butterfly Program of pediatric hospice care. Through this program, children and their families are teamed with physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, hospice aides and volunteers with expertise in children's care.
PBS filmmaker Michael Wood is renowned for his engaging 2009 PBS series “The Story of India.” He heads to Houston on May 8 to share his insights about the successful reign of Akbar I (“the great), the Muslim Emperor of Mughal India in the 1570s. Akbar established a sprawling kingdom through warfare yet ruled with an emphasis on religious tolerance for all. Though illiterate, he cultivated an appreciation of the cultural arts in his court and among his subjects. His 49-year peaceful reign over his multicultural subjects is a model for enlightened leadership.
About Houston Hospice: Nonprofit Houston Hospice was founded in 1980 and has grown from an alternative, grass roots concept to a leader in hospice care for people of all ages and walks of life. Care is provided to patients and families in private homes and in residential facilities throughout Austin, Brazoria, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Jackson, Matagorda, Montgomery, Waller and Wharton Counties.
Pearland Farmer’s Market March 10th, April 13th, May 12th 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Pearland Town Square pearlandtowncenter.com FREE
Photo: Michael Banigan Dancer: Kendall Lockhart
area’s best dancers tackle it in two shows: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 7, and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 8. Directed by Michael Banigan and Dianne Jarrell, BalletForte provides a training ground and professional quality performance opportunities for serious dancers from the Houston area. BalletForte Company members audition for and are accepted into summer programs offered by professional ballet companies nationwide.
Shop for fresh, locally sourced items at the Pearland Farmer’s Market in its new location. Hosted monthly, the Pearland Farmer’s Market includes an assortment of vendors selling items such as fresh vegetables, handmade soaps, baked goods, honey and plants.
Swan Lake
April 7th and 8th Stafford Centre 10505 Cash Road Stafford Balletforte.org 281-799-7554 BalletForte presents “Swan Lake,” a mesmerizing tale of romance and a battle between good and evil, April 7-8 at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Rd, Stafford. One of the quintessential ballets of all time, “Swan Lake” is a technically and emotionally demanding four acts featuring Tchaikovsky’s heartbreakingly beautiful score. Come see the
BalletForte, which includes more than 40 area dancers, has been performing “The Nutcracker” every December since 1996. As a member of Regional Dance America, the group will be attending the Regional Dance America-Southwest festival near Dallas in March and then return to present “Swan Lake” to their local fans in April. BalletForte is a nonprofit organization and all donations to the organization are taxdeductible. Don’t miss this opportunity to support the local fine arts. Group rates, as well as student and senior discounts, are available for “Swan Lake.”
The Story of India 50th Anniversary Celebration May 8th 6:30 p.m. Asia Society Texas Center 1370 Southmore Blvd. Houston, TX 77004 Tickets $30
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The lecture will be followed by a celebration of Indian culture including dance, food, and music. The event is presented by the Archaeological Institute of America, Houston Society in collaboration with the Asia Society Texas Center.
Waugh Drive Bat Colony
March 2nd, 16th, April 6th, 20th, May 4th, 18th Waugh Drive Bridge between Memorial Drive and Allen Parkway houstontx.gov/parks/batpage FREE
The Houston Area Bat Team offers free, educational “Bat Chats” at the Waugh Street Bridge Observation Deck the first and third Fridays of every month. The Waugh Bridge Bat Colony lives in Houston year round. Every evening at sunset, 250,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from underneath the bridge as a group to feed on area insects creating an impressive sight. continued on page 18 5
ULTRA HOME
r a g e n i V h t i w g n i r p S n for
Clea Wiping away the grime of winter doesn’t have to mean launching an attack with dangerous chemicals. As you tackle this year’s spring cleaning chores, take a note from Mother Nature and rely on the cleaning power of a surprisingly effective natural product: vinegar. During the last century, vinegar has become increasingly recognized as a low cost and ecofriendly household product. From cooking and canning, to cleaning items indoors and out, homeowners are discovering that this eco-friendly, acetic liquid is as versatile as it is useful. Despite its strong cleaning power, vinegar does have one downfall: its distinctive odor. You can experiment with dozens of DIY recipes online to overcome this dilemma, 6
or you can rely on a store-bought non-toxic cleaning vinegar such as Four Monks, which ismade from a proprietary process that reduces the strong aroma and leaves a clean, crisp scent. Learn how vinegar can make it easier to tackle common tasks around the house with these hacks and discover more uses for cleaning vinegar at VinegarTips.com.
In the Kitchen Clean off the blades of a well-worn can opener with an old toothbrush soaked with vinegar to help remove dirt and grease. Clean your ice/water dispenser by running
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vinegar through the system. Flush the vinegar out by running water through the system for 30-60 seconds. Rid your dishwasher of mineral buildup by pouring half a cup of vinegar into the reservoir and running an empty cycle. You can also use vinegar in the dishwasher instead of another glass cleaner to keep your glassware sparkling. Renew sponges and dishrags by placing them in just enough water to cover them. Then add one-fourth cup of vinegar and let them soak overnight. Remove dark stains on an aluminum pot by boiling two cups of vinegar. For stained and smelly plastic food containers and
lunchboxes, wipe them with a cloth dampened with vinegar. To clean a grease-splattered oven door window, saturate it with vinegar. Keep the door open for 10-15 minutes before wiping with a sponge. Deodorize the garbage disposal by pouring in half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar. Let sit for five minutes then run hot water down the disposal. Avoid using toxic chemicals where you store food; wipe up spills in the fridge with vinegar.
In the Bathroom Rid a faucet of lime deposits by tying a plastic bag containing one-third to one-half cup of vinegar around it and leaving it there for two or three hours. Wipe down with a sponge and scrub any remaining deposits with an old toothbrush. The same approach can be used to remove buildup on a showerhead. The fizzing combo of vinegar and baking soda can unclog and remove odor from a tub drain. Pour half a cup of baking soda in the drain, then follow with two cups of hot vinegar. Immediately plug the drain with a rag to keep the bubbles contained for 10 minutes. Rinse by pouring a kettle of boiling hot water down the drain. Spray shower doors with vinegar after you’ve squeegeed the glass – or before you turn on the water – to help release hard water deposits. Clean shower door tracks by filling them with vinegar and letting it sit for a few hours. Pour hot water into the tracks and scrub away any remaining film with a toothbrush. To make the toilet bowl sparkle, pour in a cup or more of vinegar and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Scrub well with the toilet brush and flush. Remove old bathtub decals with vinegar heated in the microwave.
In the Laundry Room Remove coffee and tea stains by flushing the area with vinegar, rinsing and repeating. For wine stains, saturate the spot with vinegar and allow it to stand for several minutes. Then, wash as normal. Tip: For more delicate fabrics or precaution, test on an inconspicuous part of the garment first. Restore yellowed clothing by soaking garments overnight in a solution of 12 parts warm water and one part vinegar. Wash them the following morning. Soak new garments in a few cups of vinegar for 10-15 minutes before washing to stop dyes from running in the wash. If frequent ironing has left your iron plate dirty, make a paste from one part vinegar and one part salt to scrub it clean.
Remove scorch marks from an iron by rubbing it with a warm solution of equal parts vinegar and salt. If that doesn’t work, use a cloth dampened with vinegar. Forgot that you left wet laundry in the machine and it now smells moldy? Pour a few cups of vinegar in the machine and wash the clothes in hot water. Then run a normal cycle with detergent to rinse the clothes. Prevent lint from clinging to clothes by adding half a cup of vinegar to the wash cycle.
What Is Vinegar? Vinegar is the acetic liquid that results when a product containing sugar is allowed to ferment. Vinegar can be created from nearly any product containing sugar; fruit and grains, such as barley and corn, are common sources of vinegar. The ingredients in vinegar depend on the type of vinegar produced. For example, Four Monks uses distilled vinegar processed from corn, so it’s safe for your family. All vinegars are diluted with water to the preferred acidity before bottling. Four Monks has 6 percent acidity, which is 20 percent stronger than traditional vinegar, but gentle on everyday surfaces. This acetic quality is what enables vinegar to effectively clean while being safe for the body and the environment. (Family Feature)
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ULTRA BABYBOOMERS
5 Habits for a Lifetime of Good Eye Health Most of us are familiar with the healthy habits necessary to promote a high quality of life –whether we put them into practice or not. What some may not realize is that many of these common-sense teachings not only prevent disease; they also keep vital organs, such as your eyes, in tip-top shape.
“Your quality of life is closely linked to how well you see,” said Lisa Shin, an optometrist and VSP provider based in Los Alamos, New Mexico. “You can take steps now to take care of your eyes and preserve your vision well into old age.
(found in legumes, wheat germ, nuts and seeds); zinc (found in whole grains); and omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon).
”Protect your eyesight and keep your eyes healthy for years to come with these tips:
Cataracts are the most common cause of age-related vision loss in adults. Because the sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase your risk of developing cataracts, it’s important to take precautions to shield your eyes from the sun. Shin recommends wearing UV protective eyewear, as well as a wide-brimmed hat.
EAT A HEALTHY DIET. Research shows that certain foods can boost eye health and ward off age-related eye changes, such as macular degeneration. To keep your eyes in the best shape, Shin recommends incorporating eye-boosting vitamins and minerals into your diet, such as lutein and zeaxanthin (found in broccoli, corn, squash, peppers, spinach and kale); vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, melons, tomatoes and broccoli); vitamin E 8
REDUCE TIME IN THE SUN.
QUIT SMOKING. It’s a no-brainer that smoking is bad for your heart and lungs, but did you realize that it can also damage your eyesight? “Smoking harms nearly every bodily organ, including the eyes,” Shin said. “Cigarette
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smokers are at greater risk of developing both macular degeneration and cataracts.”
EXERCISE REGULARLY. Aside from keeping your waistline trim, regular exercise can also keep your eyes sharp. A study in the “British Journal of Ophthalmology” found that those who led an active lifestyle were 70 percent less likely to develop macular degeneration. Participants in the study walked at least two miles a day, but even just 30 minutes of walking a day can go a long way toward keeping your entire body in good shape.
GET AN ANNUAL EYE EXAM. Even if you think you have impeccable vision, it’s still imperative to schedule an annual eye check-up. The eyes provide a surprising number of clues about your overall health. By simply peering into your eyes, your eye doctor can detect a broad array of health conditions – from hypertension to diabetes – that you might not even be aware you have.
regular eye exams, you can keep your vision sharp at any age.
You only have one set of eyes, so it’s crucial to take the proper steps to care for them. By nourishing your body with the right foods, getting regular exercise and going in for
For more on the importance of eye health and for information on VSP Direct vision insurance, which costs as little as $17 per month, visit VSPIndividualPlans.com. (Family Features)
Turning Your Dreams Into A Backyard Reality Contact us to get a free estimate and schedule an in-home consultation for your new pool and get started today. Whether you are looking for a simple, budget-conscious pool, or an exotic backyard paradise, we’ve built them all. Custom In-Ground Gunite Pools and Spas Beautiful Custom Rockwork and Waterfalls Fountains, Spillways, and Lighting Effects Decking, Arbors, Fireplaces and Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens and Entertainment Areas Modern Energy Saving Equipment
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Does Your Pet have a Hot Spot? College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University
ULTRA PETS
Have you ever noticed your pet excessively licking, biting, or scratching a specific area on their body? This behavior can lead to an infection in the upper layer of the skin otherwise known as pyotraumatic dermatitis, or a “hot spot.�
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Dr. Alison Diesel, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explained what commonly causes these areas of raw, red skin.
MAN CENTERS
“Hot spots are typically caused by an inflammatory insult, including allergies, insect bites, or other causes of itch in dogs and cats,” Diesel said. “We most commonly see hot spots on the back or rump of dogs due to flea-allergy dermatitis and behind the ears, due to underlying and unaddressed ear infections.”
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While hot spots can occur in just about any breed of dog or cat, dogs with longer hair coats seem to be more prone to this skin condition, especially during warmer months, when it is humid. To keep your pet’s itching and scratching from causing an even deeper skin infection, Diesel said it is best to have a hot spot evaluated by a veterinarian right away. “Treatment often relies on breaking the itch-scratch cycle, addressing the infection, and keeping the pet from further traumatizing the wound,” Diesel said. “This may involve a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, topical antiseptics, and a local treatment for the wound. In addition, some sort of mechanical barrier, such as an e-collar or T-shirt, can help stop the pet from causing a deeper infection.” While there is a possibility that hot spots will recur, the best chance for prevention is to address the underlying cause.
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“This would include consistent flea prevention, treatment of ear infections, and identifying and managing allergies under the direction of a veterinarian,” Diesel said. UltraMagTexas.com
2517 E. Broadway Ste 103 | Pearland, TX 77581
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Helpenstill
CUSTOM HOMES AND REMODELING
Helpenstill
Construction, LLC
CUSTOM HOMES

REMODELING
Locally Owned Family Business
281-900-4781 helpenstills@gmail.com UltraMagTexas.com
Move More For a Healthy Heart ULTRA HEALTH
Ways to Become More Active Every Day In addition to working toward at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, it’s important to avoid being sedentary, when possible. You can do that by making choices that build activity in your day. Some examples include: Taking the stairs Printing at the printer farthest from your desk at work Getting off the bus one stop early Parking in the farthest space from the door Walking around while you are on the phone or having walking meetings Being active with your children, including playing outdoors Planning a vacation that includes physical activities
W
hile heart health and how to prevent heart disease are important topics, many people in the United States – African Americans, in particular – remain at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, African Americans ages 18-49 are almost twice as likely as Caucasians to die from heart disease. Additionally, about 33 percent of African Americans ages 35-49 and 61 percent ages 50-64 have high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. However, there are many ways for you to lower your risk for heart disease, and one of the most important is by becoming physically active. National guidelines recommend at least 2 hours, 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week for adults, like brisk walking where your blood gets pumping and you are a little breathless. If you find yourself short of time, you can incorporate physical activity in small chunks, such as three 10-minute intervals per day, and still achieve some heart health benefits.
How Moving More Helps When done regularly, physical activity can give your entire body – not just your heart – a boost. Getting your heart rate up and breaking a sweat can:
❤
Strengthen heart muscles
❤
Improve blood flow
❤
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
❤
Help control weight
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Playing basketball or taking a yoga class with friends instead of meeting up for drinks or a meal Putting on some music and dancing
Check with Your Doctor Certain physical activities are safe for most people. However, if you have a chronic health condition such as heart disease, arthritis or diabetes, talk with your doctor about the type and amount of physical activity that is right for your health. Incorporating regular physical activity into your life can help your health in many ways, but it can be especially helpful for your heart. Find more hearthealthy facts and tips from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute at nhlbi.nih.gov. (Family Features) 13
20
ULTRA TRAVEL
Top 100 Country Music Venues
in Nashville
by Susan Scott Watts
It’s that history of intersection of talent, live performance and radio that made the title stick. And it’s the respect of that history that makes Nashville what it is today. Because of its roots, Nashville is also known as “Music City” and “The Home of Country Music.” 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.)
Budding Country Music Singer and Songwriter Delaney Ann
ashville’s nickname, “Music City,” can be N 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. In the 1920’s an insurance company, aiming to broadcast the virtues of its policies, created a live radio broadcast, on WSM, of a barn dance, called “The Grand Ole Opry,” which locked in the title of “Music City” for Nashville. 14
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 an up close look at the stars. Advanced tickets are required at the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman performances. Top Acts Live Music With Good Food: City Winery (where you should order the shrimp and grits!), seats 150 with room for 300 more standing; The Listening UltraMagTexas.com
Room, reservations required, awesome menu, 225 seated, 700 standing; and 3rd and Lindsley, 300 capacity, limited menu, non-smoking and no reservations.
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.
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, continued on page 19
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CEILING REVAMPS Leave the Popcorn to the Movies ULTRA DESIGN
BEFORE
AFTER
Calling all DIY enthusiasts: Those popcorn ceilings have to go. They don’t get much love from homeowners or homebuyers, and they can really bring down the overall look and feel of an otherwise attractive room. Popcorn ceilings haven’t really represented stylish home design since disco was on the radio, though they’ve certainly lingered a little longer. 16
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10-11157_Ultra Pearland February_Print.pdf
Whether you’re interested in a fresh look for
incredibly frustrating, especially if you have
your own family or updating your home before
a popcorn ceiling that makes it difficult to
putting it on the market, upgrading from a
simply paint over. Covering or removing
popcorn ceiling is a great investment. As the
that ceiling allows you to fix the noticeable,
largest uninterrupted space in any room, the
distracting blemishes overhead and clear the
ceiling gives you a golden opportunity to add
path for a stylish upgrade.
1
interest or infuse your personality.
Scraping: Get ready to get messy. Mark Clement, a general contractor and blogger on MyFixItUplife, regularly advises
Popcorn ceilings don’t get enough credit for
homeowners on the best ways to create the
tenacity, really. Once applied, they’re not easy to
most value and appeal in their home. “Ceilings
remove! At best, you’ll be soaking your ceiling
really do make a greater impact than people
with water (and possibly your walls along the
realize,” he says. “The right choice can help a
way) before scraping the resulting slop off with
room soar - but you
a drywall knife. At
probably won’t get
worst, the water
that effect with a
won’t get through
popcorn ceiling.”
all of your layers of
But, before you grab your scraper, Clement has a few words of caution about tackling
“New ceilings are a great update, and with today’s options, they’re incredibly easy to install yourself,” Clement says.
paint, and you’ll be breaking out the heavy machinery to sand or scrape through it all, kicking C
up dust. It’s doable,
popcorn ceiling
but it’s a lengthy
M
removal as a DIY
process and not for
Y
project. “To remove
the faint of heart.
a popcorn ceiling,
CEILING REVAMPS
CM
MY
you have to really
Cover it up:
be committed
The easy way to fix
to the task. You can certainly do it yourself, but be forewarned that it can create a gigantic mess. You’ll want to
“Stylish ceiling details really turn heads, and a new ceiling can make a dark or uninviting room feel bigger and brighter.”
CY
CMY
ugly.
K
Don’t worry though - you can always cover up your popcorn ceiling
consider all of your
by installing a
options carefully,
new ceiling over
from removing to
the existing one.
simply covering it
Manufacturers like
up, based on your time and budget.
Armstrong Ceilings have many options: wood
Patience is also a factor!”
planks, metal tiles or patterned panels. How-to videos show how easy it is to install a new ceiling
If you know you want to make a change, but
in as little as a day.
you’re not sure of the best way to move forward, here are a few key factors you need to consider
To our modern eyes, popcorn ceilings
when addressing your popcorn ceiling(s):
definitely look a bit stale, but the good news is you’re not stuck with them. There are a
Stains: You can’t put lipstick on a pig.
number of options to freshen up your look and turn your ceilings into the fun, festive spaces
Water problems, cracks and other issues
that match your true style. (BPT)
that leave blemishes on your ceiling can be UltraMagTexas.com
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1
Happenings continued from page 5 The cloud of bats is so immense that when they emerge, the Waugh Drive Bat Colony can often be seen on weather radar. Located in Buffalo Bayou Park, the bat colony can be seen by crowds from a variety of good vantage points. The bats prefer to emerge from the east side of the bridge, often in a whirling vortex to gain height, speed, and as a group to deter predators. The bats tend to emerge after sunset but as a natural event, it isn’t always predictable. Temperatures below 50° or rain sometimes delay or prevent the emergence.
Young Writers Workshop March 17th, 24th, 31st, April 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, May 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Discovery Green 1500 McKinney Street
a touch of Texas. A variety of genres are featured with live bands performing weekly on the patio every Friday and Saturday night.
Big Horn BBQ at 2300 Smith Ranch
Road is a locally owned Pearland restaurant with a fun western vibe, smoked-to-perfection meats and a variety of genres playing live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Body by Broadway
Tuesdays – March 13th through August 28th Market Square Park 301 Milam Street Houston, TX 77002 FREE
FREE but Limited Admission Kids learn to express their thoughts and develop language skills. Presented by Houston Public Library/HPL Express and Discovery Green. Houston's only free and open writing workshop for kids conducted by Writers In The Schools. Limited to 25 students, first come first serve. For more information please call 832-393-1375. Families and Children Series presented by Shell.
Live Music in Pearland Sing, squat, dance and plank along to Broadway classics, old and new, on select Tuesdays this spring and summer. Instructors from DEFINE Body & Mind will teach fun, show-stopping classes that feel nothing like a workout. In partnership with Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) and DEFINE Body & Mind, the Houston Downtown Management District (Downtown District) brings Body by Broadway back to Market Square Park in 2018. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable workout attire and athletic shoes, and bring a towel and water bottle. All classes are free to attend. On-street parking is free after 6 p.m. Visit www.downtownhoustonparking.org for an interactive map with garages, surface lots and other parking options in the area. Please visit www.marketsquarepark.com for additional details and event updates. 18
Wondering where you can go to catch some live music in Pearland? Here are 3 good options:
King’s Biergarten at 1329
Broadway offers authentic German/Austrian cuisine in a casual, inviting setting. The relaxed atmosphere is family friendly and includes live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
Floyd’s Cajun Seafood at 1300
Broadway is a local favorite that offers a great selection of Cajun inspired dishes with UltraMagTexas.com
Hosting an event in 2018?
Let our readers know about it! To be considered for publication, the information must be received two months prior to the issue date. Please email a 100-word-maximium synopsis to editor@UltraMagTexas.com. Be sure to include the event name, date, time, venue, cost and website. Please send highresolution jpeg photos in a separate email.
Hosting an Event?
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.
TOP 20 COUNTRY MUSIC VENUES IN NASHVILLE continued from page 14 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
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!
do615.com find festivals, events and calendar.
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.
tinpansouth.com April songwriter event where hit songwriters play at various venues around Nashville April 3-7, 2018.
cmafest.com CMA Fest June 7-10, 2018; jammed packed with top current country artist.
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!
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ULTRA LEGAL
GUARDIANSHIPS IN TEXAS 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 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
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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.
BIOGRAPHY & DISCLAIMER
Some of the less-restrictive means of assistance can be using a previously executed medical and/or statutory power of attorney to allow a third party to make 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?
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.
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