March 2017 - Absolutely Memorial Magazine by absolutely! Memorial Magazine

MARCH 2017

All ! d r a o b ASpring Branch

Memorial Library's

Plant & Book Festival

Bayou City Art Festival

Home Is Where the Heart Is

Xtreme Texas Cookers

Hiking

Around Houston {5 Hidden Trails}

TREATMENT FOR THE MOST COMPLEX NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS. At Houston Methodist Neurological Institute, our physicians collaborate across specialties to diagnose and treat common to complex neurological disorders. As the highest nationally ranked neurology and neurosurgery hospital in Texas, we offer clinical trials and advanced technologies, bringing advanced treatment options to those who have few. Our team of physicians treats a variety of disorders, including ยง ALS ยง Alzheimerโ s disease and memory disorders ยง Back and neck pain ยง Brain and spinal tumors ยง Cerebrovascular disease

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Cranial and spinal disorders Epilepsy and seizures Headaches and migraines Movement disorders Neuromuscular disorders Stroke

For more information on our comprehensive neurological services in the Texas Medical Center, visit houstonmethodist.org/ni; or to schedule an appointment, call 713.441.3850.

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INSIDE FRONT

MEMORIAL Lacewood Lane | $4.7+mil 6-7/7.5+ - ±10,035 sf new construction | elevator | pool Susan Boss | 713.823.6992

MEMORIAL Wickwild Street | $3.1+mil 5/5.5+ - ±7,276 sf updated traditional in Hunters Creek Kelley Austin | 832.978.0086

MEMORIAL W Creekside Drive | $3.1+mil 5/5.5+ - ±6,512 sf new construction by Richard Price Kellie Geitner | 713.213.2011

MEMORIAL Mossycup Drive | $1.9+mil 5/4.5+ - ±6,132 sf extensively renovated | saltwater pool Cynthia Bigelow | 832.794.5167

MEMORIAL Willowend Drive | $1.4+mil 5/4.5 - ±4,216 sf exceptional location in Hunters Creek Sandie Parker | 713.202.9649

MEMORIAL Sugarberry Circle | $1+mil 4/3.5 - ±4,047 sf master down plus bonus room Joann Lammons | 713.824.4185

MEMORIAL Sugarberry Circle | $970s 3/3.5 - ±3,832 sf traditional home overlooking ravine Joann Lammons | 713.824.4185

SPRING BRANCH Cunningham Parc Lane | $780s 4/4.5 - ±3,608 sf new development | elevator ready Kellie Geitner | 713.213.2011

KATY Moonlit Lake Court | $640s 4/3.5 - ±4,359 sf Carmichael Dame in Cinco Ranch Diane Kiecke | 281.773.6884

marthaturner.com | 713.520.1981 Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY

Texas is a land of legends – but legendary care isn’t just another tall tale. Since 1954, Texas Children’s Hospital has provided outstanding care to children, and it continues to lead the state – and the nation – in pediatric treatment and research. Having expanded our range to our West Campus, we’ve brought expertise to the community in more than 20 specialties including pulmonology, diabetes/endocrinology and urology. With more than 100,000 pairs of boots walking through our doors every year, we know what it takes to give kids the best possible care, so they can carve out their own bright futures – one story at a time. Learn more about all our services at texaschildrens.org/westcampus.

31 MARCH 2017

{COVER STORY} {Features} 14 THE 72ND ANNUAL PIN OAK CHARITY HORSE SHOW WELCOMES SPECTATORS AND SUPPORTERS

Set for Wednesday, March 22nd through Sunday, April 2nd at The Great Southwest Equestrian Center, visitors can enjoy Olympic caliber equestrian competition.

16 ARE YOU RODEO READY?

Grab your cowboy hats and boots – it’s rodeo time! The New 93Q’s Erica Rico shares 10 tips to get rodeo ready.

31 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Dylan Brown, FaithAnn and Trent Monteverde, Delaney Brown and Hunter Monteverde.

Use these tips and resources to turn your house into your dream home!

Photo by Michael Martinez Photography.

THE LITTLE LIBRARY THAT COULD: Spring Branch Memorial Library’s Annual Plant & Book Festival

Since 1950, the Spring Branch Memorial Library has been a staple in the community. And each year, the community looks forward to the Annual Plant & Book Festival made possible by the Friends of the library. This year’s festival takes place March 24th and 25th.

{Columns} 12 HOMETOWN HEROES:

Linda Meriwether

20 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Houston Memorial High School Basketball Star Jerry Kroll

22 absolutely! FABULOUS FINDS 24 JAN GLENN’S PAWSITIVELY PURRFECT

Cat-ercises and Dog-ercises

30 SPORTS SPOTLIGHT 39 FAMILY LAW

Top 10 Tips for Divorcing/Blended Families During Spring Break and Other Periods of Extended Possession

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

REAL MUSCLE

IN HEART Setting the pace in cardiovascular care. Across Memorial Hermann, affiliated heart and vascular physicians performed more than 50,000 procedures last year alone. Break that down and you’ll find Memorial Hermann’s lifesaving expertise extends from heart rhythm disorders and heart attacks to treatment for advanced heart failure, including the most complex vascular surgery and heart transplant. Their groundbreaking work puts this program at the forefront of advancing heart health, and that means patients have a better chance of recovering faster and returning to the things they enjoy sooner. So for true strength in cardiovascular care, turn to Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute – Memorial City.

Learn more at heart.memorialhermann.org

CONTRIBUTORS MARCH 2017 VOLUME 13 | NUMBER 3

{Newsworthy} 13 THIRD ANNUAL SHIPLEY DO-NUTS DASH Benefiting Kids’ Meals

23 THE BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL Memorial Park

24 THE COVENANT HOUSE TEXAS GALA Set for Saturday, April 1st

38 XTREME TEXAS COOKERS Competes at World

Maureen Allen exploring the trails at Sam Houston National Forest.

Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

{

absolutely! Delicious

}

46 absolutely! DELICIOUS LISTING

{Medical Focus} 26 LET’S NOT PLAY IT BY EAR

absolutely! {Healthy Living}

40 HIKING AROUND HOUSTON Venture out to some local

hidden trails and strive to get healthier this spring!

44 absolutely! Q&A Texas Children’s Hospital West

Campus Answers Your Questions About Running and Safety

{In Every Issue}

8 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 28 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF MEMORIAL

42 MEMORIAL MENTIONS ON THE COVER: Delaney Brown with Trent and FaithAnn Monteverde. Photo by Michael Martinez Photography.

45 COMMUNITY EVENTS

47 MEMORIAL MARKETPLACE 48 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY 45

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Shirley Barr Contributor Page 8 Mary Jones Contributor Page 14 Laura Pennino Contributor Page 14 Erica Rico The New 93Q Page 16 Andrew Hollan Contributor Page 20 Debbie Clemens absolutely! Fabulous Finds Page 22 Jan Glenn Journalist Page 24 Tammy Hampton Contributor Page 30 Nancy L. Rommelmann Family Law Attorney Page 39 Maureen Allen Contributor Page 40 Suzanne Stiles Memorial Mentions Page 42 Stephanie Valtasaros Contributor Page 45

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! Associate Publisher, LARA BELL Vol. 13 No. 3 March 2017 Photo by Michael Martinez Photography.

Howdy partner! Spring has sprung – well, actually it never left did it? – and Spring Break is around the corner! The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo starts March 7th, and March Madness is trending too. Our cover story this month is about one of the best and oldest libraries in Houston: our very own Spring Branch Memorial Library. Yes, I said library. In this digital and technical age, one might think a library is old-fashioned and outdated, but it is the opposite. I recently learned about all of the programs and classes they offer and about their annual plant and book sale. Read all about it Lara Bell. on page 10. I enlisted the help of my friend Erica Rico, morning co-host of The New 93Q, to wade through some do’s and dont’s at the Rodeo. Ladies, if you think it’s a don’t, it probably is! We have once again partnered with the 72nd Annual Pin Oak Charity Horse Show. It starts Wednesday, March 22nd and goes through Sunday, April 2nd. What an unbelievable event. We are out there every year, and this year is no exception. We will also be doing ticket giveaways on Facebook, so be sure and like us! Finally, in this month’s Where Are They Now?, we take a look at former Memorial High School basketball star Jerry Kroll. I love finding out about the incredible people in our community! Have a great Spring Break and see you in April!

WWW.ABSOLUTELYMEMORIAL.COM

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E R Lara Bell M A NA G I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Jennifer Elliott Molly Ellis Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marinela Taylor WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHY Michael Martinez Photography

Absolutely! yours,

Lara Lara Bell-Milam lara@absolutelyfocusmedia.com @larabell

READER FEEDBACK Hi Lara, The absolutely! Memorial November cover photo and article truly capture the heart and spirit of Homemade Hope. I cannot thank you enough for this honor and opportunity! We have received numerous calls about donating and volunteering from people who read the magazine. Thank you again for spreading the word about Homemade Hope. We are forever grateful! With warm wishes and gratitude, Blair Bentley Founder and Director of Homemade Hope Published by

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700 STAFFORD , TX 77477 281-690-4242

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

CONTRIBUTORS Maureen Allen M.G. Angulo Shirley Barr Debbie Clemens Jan Glenn Tammy Hampton Andrew Hollan Mary Jones Laura Pennino Erica Rico Nancy L. Rommelmann Suzanne Stiles Stephanie Valtasaros O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein INQUIRIES 281-690-4242 E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Lara@absolutelyfocusmedia.com Subscription requests are free to all Memorial and Galleria addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside the Memorial/Galleria area. absolutely! MemorialTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2017 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! MemorialTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! MemorialTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

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The Little Library That Could: Spring Branch Memorial Library’s Annual Plant & Book Festival

Dylan and Delaney Brown with Trent, FaithAnn and Hunter Monteverde. Photo by Michael Martinez Photography.

arbara Rathgeber, a longtime Hedwig Village resident and archivist for the venerable organization Friends of the Spring Branch Memorial Library (SBML), remembers when some of the older library books were stored in the bathtub. This was in the original little white cottage that housed the library until 1975. Just like the little red engine that could, from the beloved children’s story, the library at 930 Corbindale Road just needed a little push. And today, it still gets it from the Friends. COVER STORY By Shirley Barr

“The Friends board and the many Friends volunteers drive the fundraising efforts to add much needed dollars to support the programs of our local Harris County Public Library,” said Fran Serena, president of the Friends of the SBML and chair of the book sale at the upcoming Festival Friday, March 24th and Saturday, March 25th. “Regular library goers in all of the Villages and beyond climb on board for the festival to lend their support.” Major purchases by the Friends through the years started with carpet and paint in 1994 and have continued with e-books through 2016. A milestone gift and event was when Friends’ board member and landscaper Bob Green designed the Edith Spang Reading Garden, a quiet oasis behind the library. Spang was the first librarian of SBML and remained on the board for many years, adding colorful history at each board meeting. Those who have been helped to locate books or get settled in one of the many classes by an intern can thank the Friends. Monies raised also have paid for interns and contract labor.

A Community Center There are many reasons to come to the library, including the handy copier machine and meeting rooms, but the programs and digital materials are the big draw. Classes and monthly meetings include cooking, crafting, computer robotics, environment and science, writing and book clubs, exercise, healthy eating and gardening. SBML keeps building its reference materials that include business, engine repair, languages and medical. A digital collection of movies, DVDs, e-books, audio books and

Spring Branch Memorial Library Milestones: 1950-2016* 1950

First library started in St. Frances Episcopal Church

1959

Dedication of the Little White Cottage on Corbindale; Librarian was Edith Spang

1962

Friends of the Library organized

1975

1989

1992

1993

*Dates are approximate.

1994

Current Marianne Joy Precinct 3 Angela Sweet New carpeting Spring Branch named new workmen Cloud named and paint paid Memorial librarian started ground children’s for by Friends Harris County maintenance librarian Library requested by dedicated at Friends board 930 Corbindale

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

1994

Buy-A-Book program started by Friends

1997

Karen Hayes named head librarian

at this month’s festival. According to Claudia Wilkinson, vice president of the Friends of SBML, the festival is a great way to acquire gifts for future occasions, add to your library or start a personal library for children or grandchildren. “The silent auction of rare books and books signed by the author is a traditional highlight at the festival,” said Wilkinson, who works in the book sale room each year and also keeps the lobby books in order year round. Renae and Regan Oswald with their Plant & Book Festival finds.

magazines are all free to download. Summer programs attracted about 1,700 students in June and around 2,500 total for the months of July and August 2016.

For the Love of Books But many regular library goers still just love books, like Bunker Hill resident Judy Glasford: “I belong to a book club, so always I shop at the SBML first for the books on our reading list and appreciate how the librarians are happy to order the book from another library if they don’t have it. My favorite authors are Wallace Stegner, Alexander McCall Smith, Bill Bryson, Lily King and the mystery series by Louise Penny. If you read the book 84 Charing Cross Road, you know why I buy used books, and I can usually find the ones I want at the Spring Branch Memorial Library.” Gently used children’s books, adult fiction and nonfiction – from cooking and history to the classics and religion – will all be available at bargain prices

1999

Edith Spang Reading Garden dedicated and designed by Friends Landscaper Bob Green

2000

First Computer Training Class

2002

Library staffer Marie Madrid celebrated 25 years; Rick Walter named children’s librarian

Inside the Festival In preparation for the festival, Plant Sale Chair Katie Wright has been meeting with community greenhouses and retailers requesting donations of flats of new seasonal bedding plants, including tomatoes and other vegetables, flowering trees, as well as hanging baskets and indoor and outdoor plants. Expect wonderful bougainvillea, bromeliad and croton. Past festivals showcased

Carrie and Delaney Johnson enjoying the Plant Sale.

2004

Jenifer Goldman was named children’s librarian

2009

2011-16

hibiscus shrubs and tree-formed Texas native ligustrum. Festival goers are encouraged to come early for the best choices, and they may be surprised what they can acquire for their garden. “Beginning Friday, March 24th, the plants for sale will be displayed prominently on the front steps of the library. We call it our public view of the Plant & Book Festival,” said Wright. Wright’s chair-mentor is Mary Waggoner, a long-time plant chair who is now on the Friends board to assist with volunteers and membership. Waggoner and her husband, Jim, are Hedwig residents and can’t remember when they weren’t active with the Friends. Jim started the Buy-A-Book program when he was treasurer in 1994 as a way to honor loved ones and raise funds for the library. As visitors enter the library lobby during the Plant & Book Festival, they will see a prominent display of coupons and gift certificates that have been donated for the festival. These can be purchased inexpensively as another way to contribute to revenues of the Festival, according to Christine De Angelis, coupon chair. “And don’t forget the appearance of the lively H-E-B Buddy grocery sack mascot and the complimentary Sweet Tomatoes refreshment booth,” said Waggoner. “We try to supply an extra reason for young parents and grandparents to bring their children to the annual Friends Festival!” Festival hours are Friday, March 24th from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturday, March 25th from 10 am to 4 pm at the Spring Branch Memorial Library, located at 930 Corbindale Road. Email fjserena@hotmail.com or call 832-8600174 for more information.

2013

2014-15 2015-16

New Reading E-Books Green bench Bryan Kratish Garden bench system started honoring named new purchased and expanded Edith Spang branch honoring with donations purchased manager; Bob Green from Friends by Friends Wendy Nielsen new children’s librarian

Classes and programs expanded to include digital materials, chess, book and computer clubs, cooking, crafts, gardening, writing and more

2016

Summer programs for youth attracted more than 4,000 during the months of June, July and August!

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

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“Your Neighborhood Financial Advisor”

Hometown Heroes: Linda Meriwether By M.G. Angulo

or most of her career, Linda Meriwether dedicated her life to educating children and training other teachers, and her retirement has done nothing to quell 70 year-old Meriwether’s desire to guide others. “We can serve God in our paid work, Linda Meriwether. but we are also expected to work for God to the best of our ability for as long as we can,” Meriwether noted. “As a preacher once pointed out to me, retirement is not a Biblical concept.” As a retired volunteer in her church, Meriwether now works with special needs adults and children in her community. “I have volunteered with Memorial Drive United Methodist Church every year I have been a member, for the past 16 years,” she said, adding that she also volunteered with the church for 12 years in the 1980s before she became a member. Through her volunteer role, Meriwether dedicates her energy to those who often find themselves on the outskirts of society. “Our Special Needs Council works to promote inclusion of persons with special needs into the full life of the church, including worship, study, fellowship and service,” Meriwether explained. Her focus on special needs people first sparked when Meriwether was teaching preschool at Memorial Drive United Methodist. “Children with various challenges and conditions were mainstreamed into my classes, and as I had to adjust my teaching methods and work with the more typical children and parents about welcoming these children, I found myself wondering what they encountered in other areas of life,” she said. Meriwether, who is married with two adult daughters and four grandchildren, is also committed to the Easter Seals Greater Houston program, which debuted at the church two years ago. The Easter Seals program partners with the church to provide leisure programs for disabled adults who are 20 to 30 years old. “These young people have a social group as long as they are in high school but tend to become very isolated when they graduate. Thus was born LEAD – Life Enrichment for Adults with Disabilities,” Meriwether explained. “On any particular

Wednesday, we might play board games, dance to favorite music, do yoga, play sports in the gym or work on a craft. We help with service projects such as packing bags of food for Blessings in a Backpack. For lunch, we are joined by Easter Seals’ group of older adults with disabilities, who also enjoy a strong fellowship and many of the same activities through the afternoon. “Easter Seals said from the beginning that they could provide a director, but they would need volunteers help to make the program friendly and safe,” said Meriwether, who was on the council that initially approved Easter Seals’ proposal. “The only way I could guarantee at least one volunteer would be there was to always go myself. It turned out to be so much fun that I looked forward to it, and we have many volunteers now.” Meriwether also volunteers at the Tuttle School at Briarwood, a school for children who learn differently. As it turns out, some of the Easter Seals adults are graduates of the Tuttle School, and Meriwether said she “finds it encouraging to see what the later results with these younger children might be.” It was former George H. W. Bush’s idea of “a thousand points of light” that confirmed Meriwether’s perspective on volunteering. “I found great inspiration in that idea – each person doing and giving whatever they can, right where they are, with whatever they have or know how to do. Joining with others amplifies our efforts, but every volunteer effort contributes to a better society for all of us. “Volunteering on every level – from one-on-one with a neighbor to local to national efforts – is important to fill the gaps. No amount of money can buy the human relationships that create compassion. I have been richly blessed by God throughout my life. I believe that the proper use of the abilities and opportunities I have received is to serve others, and it is very satisfying to be able to give freely what I learned through many years of paid work.”

J.D. Joyce Investment Management Group, LLC 1811 Bering Drive, Suite 250 • Houston, TX 77057 713-714-8500 • www.jdjoyceimg.com Sabira Khan receiving Soup Mobile packages from Linda Meriwether.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

Third Annual Shipley Do-Nuts Dash Benefiting Kids’ Meals

UT Physicians Women’s Center at Memorial City

Left to Right: Barbara Schroeder, MD; Jenny Van Winkle, MD; Maggie L. Richter, MD; Yesenia Blancas, MD and Jenna Mury, NP

Shipley Do-Nuts Dash participants jump, walk, run and crawl through a series of obstacles.

Memorial area families are teaming up with Shipley Do-Nuts and Kids’ Meals to make a difference in the lives of hungry children by supporting the 3rd Annual Shipley Do-Nuts Dash on Saturday, April 22nd. This two-mile event will begin at 9 am in front of BBVA Compass Stadium, home of the Houston Dynamo. Participants will make their way through the donut-themed obstacle course and finish by dashing under the sprinkle donut finish line at 8th Wonder Brewery. Participants of all ages are encouraged to dress as their favorite kind of donut for a chance to win Shipley Do-Nuts for an entire year! The dash concludes with a post-race party filled with plenty of family friendly activities. Run, walk or crawl, because you do-nut want to miss this! This year’s goal is to raise enough money to feed 100,000 Houston area preschoolers. For more information, visit www. shipleydonutsdash.com.

UT Physicians Women’s Center at Memorial City offers Comprehensive Care for Women of all ages with a personalized touch at our premier location in Memorial City. Dr. Barbara Schroeder, Dr. Jenny Van Winkle, Dr. Maggie Richter and Dr. Yesenia Blancas are affiliated with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth and are able to provide the most comprehensive medical care available in a private, personal and compassionate environment. For your first gynecologic exam through childbirth, for complex gynecologic issues, for easing the transition through menopause and for staying healthy whatever your age, UT Physicians Women’s Center at Memorial City is uniquely poised to be with you every step of the way. • • • • •

Well Woman Care and Preventative Health Screening General & Complex Obstetrics & Gynecology Adult & Adolescent Gynecology Minimally Invasive Surgery/Robotic Surgery Reproductive and Pelvic Health Issues

UT Physicians Women’s Center at Memorial City

713-486-6600 for Appointments www.UTPhysicians.com

929 Gessner, Suite 1300 – 13th Floor • Houston, Texas 77024 Memorial Hermann Medical Tower – Garage 5 www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

By Mary Jones and Laura Pennino

The 72nd Annual Pin Oak Charity Horse Show Welcomes Spectators and Supporters

he board of directors and sponsors of The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show invite Houston area residents and visitors to enjoy Olympic caliber equestrian competition at the 72nd Annual Pin Oak Charity Horse Show. The horse show will be held Wednesday, March 22nd through Sunday, April 2nd at The Great Southwest Equestrian Center, located at 2501 South Mason Road in Katy. PJP Farm is the presenting sponsor for Week 1 of the show, and Irish Day Farm is the presenting sponsor for Week 2. Most events are free and open to the public. In addition to experiencing amateur and professional equestrian events at The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, visitors can enjoy concessions from food trucks and shop for clothing, boots, jewelry, artwork and pet treats. Established in 1945 in Houston, The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show is one of the oldest and most prestigious charity horse shows in the nation. The primary philanthropic goal of The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show each year is to contribute a collective six-figure donation to its designated charities to support the healing of sick children. Since its inception, The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show has contributed a total gift approaching $7 million for its three designated children’s charities: Texas Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House Houston Family Rooms and Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Alliance. The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show attracts 1,200 horses each week and approximately 2,000 exhibitors from around the country including riders from Mexico and Canada. An award-winning horse show, The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show was the first to receive the coveted United States Equestrian Federation’s Heritage Competition designation.

Under the tutelage of Patty Roberts, “Secret” ridden by Sloane Meredith is a Pin Oak 2016 Champion, and barn mate “Loafer’s Lodge Onyx” ridden by Fields Burk won reserve champion. Photo by Shawn McMillen Photography.

Get Involved The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show welcomes volunteers, members, individual and corporate sponsors, in-kind product and service providers and contributions in any amount. Annual horse show personal sponsorships are available ranging from $400 to $30,000. Annual corporate sponsorships also are available ranging from $2,500 to $150,000. Benefits vary based on sponsorship level. Anyone who wants to help heal sick children can join The Pin Oak Club – no horse required! The Pin Oak Club offers many social and sporting events throughout each year, with its two featured events being the annual Sporting Clays Classic and the What to Wear to That Equestrian Affaire fashion show and luncheon. Annual Pin Oak membership options include Junior Membership for those 21 and under, $50; Individual, $75; Family for two adults and two children, $200; Patron, 1,250; and Lifetime, $2,500. Membership benefits are detailed at pinoak.org/pin-oak-club. Individuals, teams of four and sponsors are being recruited now for The Fourth Annual Pin Oak Sporting Clays Classic from noon to 5 pm on Monday, April 24th at The Greater Houston Gun Club. Fees range from $400 to $10,000 depending on the level of participation. For additional information or to learn more about becoming part of The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show tradition, visit pinoak.org or call 713-621-6290.

Complimentary Tickets

Photo by Fulton Davenport / PWL Studio.

absolutely! Memorial and absolutely Katy Magazines are long-term, in-kind media partners and supporters of The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show and The Pin Oak Club. Readers, advertisers and followers are invited to reserve complimentary tickets to Pin Oak Charity Horse Show’s Saturday night Grand Prix events on March 25th and April 1st. For tickets, call Laura Pennino at 713-419-1776 or email at info@ penninoandpartners.com. Provide your full name, number of tickets needed, phone number, email address and physical mailing address. Arrangements can be made to pick up tickets at the check in table on the night of the Grand Prix events. Sylvia Steiger with son Rhett “Bull” Wilkins, who was a 2016 Honored Hero at The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, at the 2016 check presentation of $200,000 to Pin Oak’s charities.

Background photo: Jack McGill riding “Nuttin But the Best” in the 2016 Pin Oak American Saddlebred competition. Photo by Casey McBride Photography.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

By Erica Rico

rab your cowboy hats and boots, because it is rodeo time. Yes, it’s that time of year when you can smell the barbecue in the air, hear the laughter and shrills coming from the roller coasters and see the lights from the concerts. If you’re a Houstonian, you know it’s the best time of year!

As a morning radio show host and a mom of many Future Farmers of America (FFA) students who have shown at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, I make it my business to know and see everything rodeo related. Whether this is your first rodeo or your 25th, here are 10 tips to get you ready to rodeo! Wear comfy shoes. You look super cute in those high heeled boots, but you will be regretting it 30 minutes in. There is a lot of walking, and this is also not the time to try to break in a new pair of boots. I prefer the boots with the rubber sole, which are perfect for walking around. Do not bring a big purse. If you can fit the necessities in your pockets, that is best. I take a jacket with me that has zip up pockets. When getting on rides, riding trams and walking around, you do not want to be the one with the big, bulky purse. Park smart. When it comes to parking, take the light rail whenever you can. Look up the pick-up points ahead of time. My favorite place to park is the yellow lot, where a tram takes people straight up to the front. Also, the best Park and Ride is Reed Road. It has great lighting at night and almost never fills up. Then, take a picture of where you parked or drop a pin and send it to yourself. After a long day of fun, everything starts to look the same. Take Cash. Yes, they have ATMs and accept credit cards, but if you have to pay for parking or don’t want to stand in ATM lines, cash is always best. Buy tickets in advance and arrive early. Even if you’re not going inside NRG Stadium, you can buy General Admission tickets in advance and skip lines at the door. This can save a lot of time. And if you arrive right before the concert, you may be stuck in traffic and miss some of it.

Co-hosts Tim Tuttle, Erica Rico and Kevin Klein. Photo by Bryan Anderson.

4 5

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo March 7th – 26th Visit www.rodeohouston.com 16

Buy half price carnival tickets ahead of time. The last day to buy them is Saturday, March 4th. This is great if you are taking your kids. If they are anything like mine, they burn these super fast. Plan ahead for kids. If you are taking children with you, make sure they either have a fully charged cell phone, or write your number on their arm with a Sharpie ahead of time just in case you get separated. There is a lost and found for children, but this will help them find you so much faster. It also helps to preplan bathroom breaks. There are bathrooms everywhere, so this should not be a problem. It’s always nice to not have to run like a crazy person when the urge strikes the little ones. Have a meeting point. Sometimes, there are so many people there that your cell phone will not work. Make sure you have a meeting point that is easy for everyone to find in case you get separated. Let babysitters know that it may be hard to get in touch with you and to be patient. Watch your step. Especially watch where you are stepping as you walk through the ag exhibits. You may go home with a surprise on your new boots. Have fun. There is so much to do, eat and see at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Download the RodeoHouston app, which is full of information and secrets. Make sure you stop by The New 93Q tent and see me. I cannot wait to see y’all!

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MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

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Where your pets are like our family!

• Affordable Rates • Excellent Customer Service • Small & Large Dog Day Care • Dog & Cat Boarding • We Support Area Thank you Dog Rescues for supporting a Veteran owned small business.

Come over for a tour! 9513 Yupondale • Houston, TX 77080 Located off IH-10 and Bunker Hill, just past Costco and HEB

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Houston Memorial High School Basketball Star

Jerry Kroll

By Andrew Hollan

Beyond basketball, Kroll has also been a superstar for over 30 years in the work world and has helped organizations including Future Farmers of America (FFA), Special Olympics, the Blood Bank and Houston Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He was the head basketball coach for five years at Spring Branch ISD’s Stratford and Northbrook High Schools and the head coach of a national champion 16U girls’ basketball team located in west Houston. Through practice and hard work, Kroll became the greatest basketball player the Memorial area has ever known. We had the opportunity to visit with this noble athlete and leader.

Andrew Hollan:

Who influenced you growing up in the Memorial area during the 60s?

Jerry Kroll: My family lived

in Hunters Creek, and I was very blessed that Slater Martin lived across the street. His basketball pedigree included being a Texas high school boys’ basketball state champion, former AllAmerican at The University of Texas and National Basketball Association (NBA) Hall of Famer. He played with the NBA champion Minnesota Lakers and the St. Louis Hawks. He also coached the American Basketball Association’s (ABA) Houston Mavericks. Mr. Martin owned Slater’s Sporting Goods on Long Point, and at the age of 14, I began using the basketball

Photo courtesy of Davidson Athletics.

erry Kroll led Houston Memorial High School to its only State of Texas Boys’ 4A basketball championship in 1966. During his playing career at Memorial, his team never lost a district game with 81 straight district wins.

As a three time all-state selection and a member of the Texas Basketball Hall of Fame, what fueled your competiveness for basketball? Coach Coleman was very inspirational. I have a painting of him behind my desk. The competitiveness I learned while playing on the Memorial Mustang team helped me earn a full scholarship to Davidson University. Without my successful background with the Mustangs basketball team, my family would not have been able to send me to Davidson, North Carolina. We Jerry Kroll playing basketball for won 73 games over three Davidson University. seasons and made the Elite goal in his driveway to pracEight at Davidson. tice tip drills. He also taught What else are me the rocker step, crossover you proud of Jerry Kroll. and double step. I used these from your Memorial High moves my entire career into School experience? the professional ranks. Our gifted basCoach Coleman emphasized ketball coach at Memorial, Don Colefundamentals – free throw man, taught us running, trapping, and outside shooting. At Davidson fundamentals, blocking out on defense University, I averaged 16 points as a and fast breaking. I had brilliant and junior, and as a senior, I led our team talented teammates including Larry with 81 assists. Wood, Vernon Cross, Sam Kent, Mike How was your professionMillegan, Ford Hall and Danny Horan al basketball career? to name a few. I was the 98th player picked What is your first memin the NBA draft by the Los ory after leaving Spring Angeles Lakers and in the 8th round Branch Junior High on Piney by the ABA Indiana Pacers. The Pacers Point and going to Memorial High traded me to the ABA Carolina CouSchool in 1962? gars, but in preseason, I damaged my The basketball gym at Meknee and was forced to retire for medimorial High School was enorcal reasons. mous. I always loved to practice by myWhat has life been like self, and the sounds of my basketball since retiring from your hitting the floor and goal were so cool. I basketball career? was always the first in the gym and the I opened my State Farm office last to leave. in 1980. I met my wife at DaWho were your sports vidson University. We have four grown idols? daughters. I set a goal and did not stop Bob Pettit, Bill Bradley and a until achieving it with State Farm. couple of the Boston Celtics. Anything is possible!

AH JK

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

AH JK AH JK

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s u o l u b Fa inds F

You may know me as a Memorial mom of four fabulous boys and wife to Roger Clemens, but what you may not know is that I love finding cool and unique products because, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it, in a house full of boys, a girl needs her girl stuff! So, here are some things I absolutely love... and hope you will too!

BY DE B B I E C L E M E N S @debbieclemens

Supergoop Setting Mist I am in the sun so much, and this can only help my skin! This unique, three-in-one mist has antioxidants, rosemary and mint. It sets makeup, controls oil and shine and has an SPF of 50 for protection against ultraviolet rays. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in! www.supergoop.com

Emtek Liscio Keypad Leverset This is a really good idea if you lose your keys or love to lock things and not have to have any keys! With Bluetooth programming and the ability to store up to 20 user codes, this electronic keypad leverset allows you to open your door using discreet buttons with a code programmed from your smart phone. www.emtek.com/liscio

The Cloudflow This is by far my favorite new running shoe. This fabulous shoe is so light and cushiony, and it has the best traction ever. Plus, it comes in great, energizing colors! www.on-running.com

Matador Camera Base Layer Bag For the active photographer, this camera bag is compact, padded with 600+ fill power down and protects the camera from bumps, scrapes and rain! www.matadorup.com

Boho Bliss Charcoal Cleansing Cloth This is an awesome way to clean your skin to help draw out impurities and fight any kind of acne-causing bacteria. This super soft cleansing cloth is good for up to 30 washes! www.bohobliss.com

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

The Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park Over 300 artists from around the country and 19 different disciplines will showcase their art at the 2017 Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park on Friday, March 24th through Sunday, March 26th. As one of the nation’s premier outdoor fine art events, the three-day festival will provide guests with the opportunity to personally meet artists, view original works and purchase world-class art. The festival will benefit local nonprofit partners and feature music, local food vendors, beverages, entertainment, gigantic bubbles with Hilary Scullane, a children’s creative zone and much more. This year’s featured artist, Amanda Bennett, is a mixed media artist who transforms mid-century advertising, acrylic mediums and photography into a mash up on plywood, inspired by pop art and funk style. Bennett remembers painting as a child with her grandmother, who used a spatula as her primary tool. However, it wasn’t until years later, staring at the blank walls of her loft in Birmingham, Alabama, that Bennett rediscovered her passion for art. As a Huntsville, Alabama native, Bennett spent 10 years in Nashville, Tennessee, where her musicinspired art gained local attention. She now resides in New Orleans, Louisiana, where the city’s rhythm, color palette and energy stirs and ignites her creative process. For 46 years, the Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA) has provided unique art experiences for the Greater Houston community by producing Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park in the spring and Bayou City Art Festival Downtown in the fall. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.artcolonyassociation. org or email info@bayoucityartfestival. com.

Memorial Hermann Memorial City

Apurva B. Pancholy, MD

Dr. Apurva B. Pancholy

Common conditions treated:

H H H H H

Loss of bladder or bowel control Pelvic organ prolapse Emptying problems Sexual dysfunction Painful bladder problems

is fellowship-trained and board certified in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) and Obstetrics & Gynecology. Urogynecology combines expertise in urology and gynecology to provide women with a holistic approach and comprehensive care for conditions that cause pelvic pain and often limit activity.

Dr. Pancholy and his compassionate staff will allay your fears and educate you about the latest technology in testing and treatments so you can get back to living your life. Services include:

H H H H H H H H H

Multichannel Urodynamic Testing Cystoscopy Pessaries Pelvic floor physical therapy Sacral and peripheral nerve stimulation Botulinum toxin bladder injections Interstitial cystitis therapy Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse Surgery for bladder or bowel incontinence

Urogynecology Center 929 Gessner, Ste 1300 Houston, TX 77024 Garage 5 Conveniently located in the Medical Tower Memorial Hermann Memorial City

Appointments and Information:

713-486-6160

www.UTPhysicians.com

Also

Now n E rofollr ing Summer

Finish the Year Strong and Excel on your Math Tests! We Make Math Make Sense®

Submit newsworthy items Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Caring for women with pelvic floor disorders...

Urogynecology Center

9778 Katy Freeway, Suite 500 Houston, Texas 77055 [ In the HEB Center, on the feeder, next to The Egg & I ]

PreK–12TH GRADE

Mathnasium of Memorial City

713.973.MATH (6284) Mathnasium.com/memorialcity

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

Jan Glenn’s

Cat~ercises and Dog~ercises

Pawsitively Purrfect

Swimming is a great exercise for both dog and owner.

5 6 7 8 9 10

Jog or run. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and foldable bowl, so you and your dog can rehydrate. Play tug-of-war using a towel. This can help build upper body strength. Play catch. Your pal will enjoy the thrill – and spending time with you! Take the stairs on rainy days. If you don’t have stairs, then a treadmill will give you both a good workout. Sign up for an exercise class. There is an agility class called “doga,” which is a form of yoga designed for both pet and owner. Resistance walking is a fabulous form of exercise. Walk your dog in the snow, sand or shallow water on the beach.

pproximately one-third of adults and 17 percent of children in the United States are overweight or obese. The statistics for dogs and cats aren’t good either. There are a lot of round hounds, pudgy pups and fatty felines around too. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention finds that 52.5 percent of dogs and 58.3 percent of cats are overweight or obese. I have had overweight pets through the years, and unfortunately, I have one now. My pooch Princess Grace Kelly, who has asked me to quit writing in my column about her weight problem, could stand to lose about five pounds. Being overweight – whether it is the owner or pet – can lead to heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and even cancer. Before you start your pet on an exercise program, talk to the pet’s veterinarian. Certain exercises, such as running or even jogging, are not recommended for puppies whose bones haven’t finished growing. Short-legged dogs don’t need as much walking as larger dogs, and flat-nosed dogs can have trouble catching their breath. Here are 10 fun ideas on how you and Fido can “dog-ercise” together: Take a hike. If you are not used to strenuous exercise, start with a walk, and build from there. Human bonding is great for the animal. Cut back on treats. Instead of rewarding Bowser with treats, give him some attention. If you want to give your dog a treat, break it in half, and put the other half away for another day. Visit the dog park. When you get there, toss the Frisbee around, and you both will get some exercise. Go for a swim with your dog. It is a great exercise for both of you!

1 2 3 4

Wand-style toys provide fun and exercise for felines.

Unlike dogs, cats cannot be hitched to the end of a leash and taken for a stroll around the neighborhood. It may take some imagination, along with some trial and error, but you can find ways to encourage your kitty to be more active. Here are some ideas to keep your cat in shape and entertained: Catch the light. Shine a flashlight on the floor and walls, and let the kitties play. Give your cat a wand. This is a good follow-up to the light. Get one of the flexible, wand-style toys with a feather or mouse. This is great for the hunter in your feline. Bring out the hunter in your cat. Put a few cat treats in different places around the house. Give your cat toys. Homemade or pet shop toys encourage your kitty to keep moving. Try a cat tower. Multi-layered cat towers are a good way to ensure your cat has plenty of places to climb and play. Try “boxing.” Let your cat play in a box or paper bag.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Aim to spend about 10 to 15 minutes a few times each day engaging your cat in some form of activity. Young cats and kittens will find their own entertainment. Older cats are tougher – just like humans!

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

The Covenant House Texas Gala Set for Saturday, April 1st

10% off all Ultherapy Treatments in March

Cheryl Boblitt, Amanda Lundquis and Ashley Tisius. Photo by David Shutts.

Excitement is building for the 2017 Covenant House Texas (CHT) Gala coordinated by the CHT Guild of volunteers and chaired by Amanda Lundquist and Ashley Tisius. The theme this year is Let Them All Eat Cake, a night of French fun and whimsy to provide homeless and at-risk youth a chance at the American Dream. This fun and inspiring event takes place Saturday, April 1st at 6:30 pm at the Omni Houston Hotel. Gala honorees this year are Julie and Jay Rogers and IBC Bank, and two CHT youth will be speaking. You won’t want to miss their stories of courage! KHOU Chief Meteorologist David Paul and his wife, Miranda, will serve as the emcees for the event. CHT has been helping youth under the age of 21 with shelter, services and programs for over 33 years. As the number one fundraising event for CHT, the annual gala helps make it possible for CHT to continue providing homeless and runaway youth with the services and programs they need to be successful. Table sponsorships and tickets are available, as well as the opportunity to donate items for the silent auction. Visit www.covenanthousetx.org to purchase tickets. For more information, contact Kate Ryther at kryther@covenanthouse.org or 713-630-5636.

Call for your appointment today Before

713-458-0224

90 Days After

Ultherapy uses ultrasound to stimulate the creation of new collagen and elastin in your skin. One treatment now could help your skin “spring” back to life before summer’s here! FDA-cleared • Non-invasive • No downtime

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14441 Memorial Drive, Ste 5 • Houston, TX 77079 The non-invasive Ultherapy® procedure is FDA-cleared to lift skin on the neck, on the eyebrow and under the chin as well as to improve lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. For full product and safety information, including possible mild side effects, visit www.ultherapy.com/IFU. ©2016 Ulthera, Inc. Ultherapy and See the Beauty of Sound are trademarks of Ulthera, Inc . 1001958B

Meet Will Schwalbe Tuesday, March 21st at 7 pm

Call for details 281-497-8675 14532 Memorial Dr. @ Dairy Ashford www.bluewillowbookshop.com www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

MEDICAL FOCUS

Let’s Not Play It by Ear Communicating with children is hard enough. Translating cries to laughs can be a job on its own. Preventative measures can reduce hearing problems that arise in children. Hearing loss Jana Emola-Austin, isn’t just an ailment Doctor of Audiology that occurs with old and Practice Owner age; it occurs at any stage, including childhood. Five out of every 1,000 children are impacted by hearing loss. Left undiagnosed, hearing loss can impact all aspects of life, from development in speech and language to education, career and social interaction. Children learn to speak by repeating what they hear. A child will hear a word, imitate it and correct themselves as their listening skills improve. If a child can’t hear properly, they will find it difficult to reproduce words, which in turn, can affect their ability to communicate with family, children or teachers. On the outside, your child sits quietly, eyes focused on the teacher, and appears to be listening. Internally, he is distracted by muffled sounds and wondering words in conversation – missing some if not all of the details. The inability to understand, interpret or communicate hinders a child academically but also psychologically. From mild to moderate hearing loss, your child can be constantly confused, struggle to stay alert and feel isolated. Children begin to avoid social situations and withdraw from others. Long-term effects include: fatigue, stress, depression, isolation, reduced academic or job performance and dementia. Fortunately, there is a solution. Allison Audiology’s goal is to provide families with the best possible hearing care. They use the most advanced technology available, and an audiologist will take the time to explain any and all findings. Schedule a consultation to get your child the care they need. Call 713-8271767 or visit www.allisonaudiology.com.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Support the next generation of physicians and healthcare professionals.

Spring into a new you with a new smile!

Join The Partnership For a fabulous night of fun benefiting

THE DAN L DUNCAN COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER!

Café Society Soirée Honoring C. KENT OSBORNE, M.D. Friday, April 7, 2017 The Briar Club Dr. Osborne is founding director of the Center and is responsible for its tremendous success over the last 10 years. As part of his vision, Dr. Osborne imagines far easier patient access to cutting-edge clinical trials for cancer care developed by investigators from one of the world’s premier research institutions. To get involved with The Partnership, please visit bcm.edu/partnership. For more information, contact us at partnership@bcm.edu or 713.798.5460.

Coming April 2017

KEY

Dr. Carin Domann • Dr. Angela Orfanos

www.townandcountryortho.com

713-465-3400

788 West Sam Houston Pkwy. North Ste. 201 • Houston, TX 77024

REALTORS ALLOW US TO SPOTLIGHT YOU IN YOUR COMMUNITY

As a professional, you’ll want to be seen in our special PROFILE sections. Bring new clients to your office, and distinguish yourself among the top professionals in the area with this unique opportunity to showcase your skills.

To advertise, call: 281-690-4242

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

OUT &

ABOUT IN THE HEART

MEMORIAL

Teammates Cissy Caldwell, Suzahn Peralta, Katie Ferris, Alexis Lyle, Alexis Stovall and Heather Boerke were awarded Grand Champions and First Place Overall at their recent competition. Congratulations!

AIDS Foundation Houston, together with event chairs Ernie Manouse and Bill Baldwin, hosted the annual World AIDS Day Luncheon sponsored by Chevron at the Hilton Houston Post Oak. Photos by Emile C. Browne.

Alessandro and Karla Grattoni.

Ryan DePuit with Bill and Ginger Baldwin.

Congratulations to Nottingham Elementary second grader Sophia Keith, shown with her art teacher Lindsay Ripley, for winning Best In Show at the Spring Branch ISD K-12 Rodeo Art Exhibit at the AYAM Art Museum! Look for Sophia's pastel drawing on exhibit at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in the Hayloft Gallery.Â Ernie Manouse and Gabe LaDuke.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Amy Absher and Joni Baird.

Bill and Elizabeth Kroger were recently spotted supporting Communities in Schools.

Kathy Covey, Linda Johnson, Colleen Stroup and Dini Hoover enjoyed the SALE at Bayou City Event Center benefiting Tri Delta Alumnae.

Lauren Wall got a taste of victory recently as she won first place in the Spring Branch ISD District Cross Country meet. Great job Lauren!�

Scott and Nancy with daughter Madeleine Carey, an eighth grader at Westchester Academy for International Studies, celebrated Madeleine’s success at the Harris County Fair, where she showed her lamb Marisol and placed 5th in her class. Madeleine is a member of the Spring Branch 4-H Club and plans to participate in this month’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Nearly 900 supporters of Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory High School of Houston celebrated at its first gala themed Moonlight Serenade at the new Marriott Marquis in Downtown Houston. Ileana Trevino, Raye White, Trini Mendenhall and Cyndy Garza Roberts were thrilled with the night’s proceeds of more than $1.5 million in support of the school.

Susan Eyre recently celebrated the 100th birthday of her mother, Moscelene Myers. Happy Birthday!

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

Sports Spotlight By Tammy Hampton tammy@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

It takes guts, hard work, dedication and energy to play sports!

Ready for Action Alexandar and Santiago Beer.

salutes the kids and parents who hit the fields week after week.

Congratulations to these outstanding team players!

Tigers Midget Baseball Miller Martin and Cash Porter.

Spring Branch-Memorial Sports Association Lacrosse Ian Conner, Tyler Willard and Connor Couch.

Spring Forest Middle School 7th Grade Boys Coach Ryan Harvey, Josiah Robinson, Nick Carroll, Teddy Rutt, Bruer Gilkey, Alexis Rushing, Diego Denson, Dylan Schick, Owen Mundweiler, Tyler Silas and Lennon Garcia.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Home Is Where The Heart Is Memorial’s Guide to Home Living

F E AT U R I N G

Bradley’s Art & Frame David Weekley Homes Beth Wolff Realtors Two Maids & A Mop Kaleidoscope-Studio of Interior Design Texas Custom Patios Experimac West Houston Heritage Texas Properties

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

Advertorial

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Family Owned & Operated Since 1970

When it deserves framing…

Custom Framing Specialties: • Art & Photography • Needlework • Mirrors • Memorabilia • Conservation & Preservation • Shadowboxes • Clothing & Jerseys

Art Services: • Restoration • Installations • Frame Repair • Design Consultations

1306 Blalock, Houston, TX 77055 713-461-5695 Mon. – Sat. 10 am - 6 pm Bradleysartandframe.com

Bradley’s Art & Frame: Framing Memorabilia Everyone has items tucked away in drawers or closets that remind them of friends and family, memories or special events. These items are known as memorabilia and can be anything from a signed football jersey, military patches or a fishing lure collection. They are treasured pieces that simply cannot be thrown away. The team of designers at Bradley’s Art & Frame helps customers preserve these treasured pieces and offers a personal and professional service that customers deserve. One family brought in various items that they saved from a summer vacation throughout the Virgin Islands. This was a fantastic trip that they wanted to remember with a memorabilia display, but they needed help deciding what to include in the shadowbox. Master Certified Picture Framer Lucy Quay designed a balanced layout with personal photographs, carefully selected seashells and wine corks from the trip. She also created a custom matboard arrow and plane cut out to show the family’s travel route over the map of the Virgin Islands. Now, with a finished memorabilia shadowbox, the family can reminisce and remember their family vacation every time they look on their wall. Bradley’s Art & Frame has been custom framing and caring for Houston’s art, memorabilia and more since 1970. Preserving family heirlooms, keepsakes and memorabilia with conservation materials and beautifully designed custom framing is their passion. Comprehensive art services including art restoration, frame repair, design consultations and art installation are also available. For more information, visit www.bradleysartandframe.com or call 713-4615695.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Sanctuary at Valley Oaks: Where Location and Luxury Combine Located in the heart of Spring Branch is Sanctuary at Valley Oaks, an exclusive Central Living by David Weekley Homes community. Perfectly situated off Bingle Road, south of Long Point, this private, gated community features 33 free-standing, single-family homes priced from the $529s. With four floor plans to choose from, Weekley’s unique style is evident here, where homebuyers can customize their new home to fit their individual lifestyles. Sanctuary at Valley Oaks features floor plans with first-floor living and options for bonus rooms, expanded Owner’s Retreats, outdoor yard space and much more! In addition, students are zoned to the highly acclaimed Valley Oaks Elementary, Spring Branch Middle School and Memorial High School. This beautiful community offers low-maintenance living with style! Enjoy quick access to major employers, world-class shopping, dining and entertainment at Memorial City Mall and City Centre. With their 40 year history in the Houston area, David Weekley Homes’ approach to building homes sets them apart from the competition, with a commitment to making sure every last detail is imagined. From regular meetings with a sales consultant and personal builder to their industry-leading warranty, they take care of customers from beginning to end! That’s the Weekley Way. Weekley has four homes ready for immediate move in – all with their own beautiful style and impeccable interior finishes. Find your dream home today in Sanctuary at Valley Oaks. Stop driving and start living! For more information, contact a sales consultant at 281-249-7793.

Advertorial

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

A Record Breaking 2016 The year 2016 brought another record-breaking year to the Houston area real estate market, with the total volume of properties sold exceeding the previous record set in 2014. Homebuyers have been delighted by the rise in inventory on the market. Sellers have seen the increase in sales contribute to success in achieving expected values. These results are being shown across the price spectrum. The average single family home price throughout the Greater Houston area increased 4.2 percent representing an end of year high. The luxury home market – homes priced at or above $500,000 – saw double-digit sales increases toward the end of the year. Houston has continued to see an influx of consumers from across the country and internationally. This has been brought on by growth in industries such as health care and technical services, enriching the diversification of the Houston economy. Consumer confidence has been on the rise and has shown its positive effects on the real estate market. In 2017, expect to see strong economic outlook both locally and nationally. Recent national trends have led the Federal Reserve to begin to increase interest rates. Additionally, due to home price gains in 2016, the Federal Housing Finance Agency has announced the Conforming, Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loan limits will be increased in Texas for the first time since 2006. These developments present a positive opportunity for both buyers and sellers making it a great time to consider your next real estate decision. For more information, contact Beth Wolff Realtors Real Living at 713-6229339 or visit www.bethwolff.com.

A home is more than a lifestyle... a home is where memories are made!

Two Maids & A Mop: Quality, Value and Peace of Mind Two Maids & A Mop is more than just a normal cleaning service. Locally owned and operated in the city of Houston, Two Maids & A Mop’s duty is to make their clients’ homes cleaner, flawless and invigorating one visit at a time. They understand that people are occupied with their everyday lives, which is why they believe that a clean home equals a satisfied customer! Whether you are a busy professional or a stay at home mom, the cleaning experts at Two Maids & A Mop have you covered. Two Maids & A Mop offers a numerous amount of packages and extra services to meet every need in order to provide clients with reliable, professional cleaning services to keep their home, office space, apartment or other living space clean and hygienically sound. They work to accommodate busy schedules for those facing difficulty keeping their home or office clean or would just enjoy the extra help. Making an appointment is easy! Just call, and the Two Maids & A Mop team will work with you to find a convenient time to come for a one-time cleaning or for regularly scheduled cleanings. Their affordable rates make this service available to businesses and individuals with budgets all across the financial spectrum. Call today and see what Two Maids & A Mop can do. For more information, call 832-909-4112 or visit www.maidsandmop.com.

713-622-9339

www.bethwolff.com

Each office is independently owned and operated.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

KALEIDOSCOPE studio of interior design

Your Neighborhood Interior Designers Don’t Short Change House Guests It is time to change the way you decorate your spare bedroom. Guest bedrooms often get leftovers, either the old master bedroom furniture or the furniture from the homeowner’s first apartment. House guests will judge the quality of an entire home based on their overnight experience in the spare room. Make this room as comfortable as a nice hotel, not a space filled with odds and ends that don’t coordinate. It is not necessary to spend a great deal of money to give guests the comfort of home. If the furniture is sentimental, keep it. If it is not, consider a simple but substantial headboard. Drawers give away the quality of a piece. To save money, consider night tables without moving parts. Chests should have drawers that are not flimsy. Good quality sheets and bed-coverings are important. Don’t use too many decorative pillows. Unless you offer turndown service and housekeeping, make it easy to undo the bed at night and make it in the morning! Large lamps on night tables add to the feeling of quality. A comfortable chair with a lamp for reading or dressing is a plus. A few larger pieces of wall art and a mirror will complete the room. Go on a stay-cation in your guest room, and make sure it reflects the overall feeling and quality of the rest of your home. And if you need help, call your favorite neighborhood interior designers at Kaleidoscope-Studio of Interior Design, located at 8558 Katy Freeway, Suite 119. Call 713-827-1282 or visit www. Kaleidoscope-Studio.com for more information.

Judy, Jordan & Christine

Furniture • Window Treatments • Upholstery Bedding • Accessories • Rugs • Lighting • Art New Home and Remodeling Selections

Call for a FREE Consultation • 713-827-1282 8558 Katy Fwy. • Ste. 119 • Houston, Texas 77024 I-10 @ Bingle

www.Kaleidoscope-Studio.com

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

The Texas Custom Patios Difference Texas Custom Patios is the premier custom builder of Houston’s outdoor living spaces. The family-owned company is the residential remodeling contractor to have design and build any outdoor living area. A custom outdoor space can include a patio cover, outdoor kitchen, fireplace or fire pit, sunroom, screened porch, pergola and decorative patios. The Texas Custom Patios team has completed over 1,300 projects and has been in business since 2004. Texas Custom Patios provides a turnkey custom design project. Their specialty is building projects that look original to the home. They serve all of the Houston area including Cypress, Memorial, The Woodlands, Fulshear, Katy, Kingwood, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Pearland,

Sugar Land, Tomball, Friendswood and League City. Those who are in or near these areas are invited to contact Texas Custom Patios today to discuss their outdoor living project. Homeowners know exactly what they are getting when they choose to work with Texas Custom Patios. Detailed designs include rendered views showing the completed project on the back of the home. For a detailed explanation of their process, from design to completion, visit their website. There is a huge photo gallery of completed projects that shows what they have done and also provides ideas for new backyard projects. Contact Texas Custom Patios today to schedule a free consultation. For more information, call 281-265-1994 or visit www.TexasCustomPatios.com.

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MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

Experimac West Houston: The Alternative Apple® Store Experimac West Houston buys, sells, upgrades and repairs all things Apple®: MacBook®, iMac®, iPhone®, iPad® and accessories. Walk in and experience the Experimac difference. There are no appointments, just expertise. The technicians at Experimac West Houston answer questions oneon-one and customize a solution to suit each customer’s needs. Whether your iPhone has a cracked screen or you are seeking to save money on a laptop, Experimac West Houston is your go-to store. It sells certified, pre-owned Apple products with enhancements to rev up your experience at a lower price. Experimac West Houston technicians are Apple certified experts and solely dedicated to working on MacBook, iMac, iPhone and iPad products. They also know all sorts of tricks to enhance your experience using Apple software. Experimac West Houston loves Apple so much, it dedicated a museum wall of vintage Mac® computers that is a must-see. Experimac West Houston is a destination for exceptional customer service and an educational experience. Experimac West Houston is an independently owned and operated franchise location, so the owner is truly invested in serving customers when they walk into the store. It’s so easy to visit Experimac West Houston in the shopping center across the Katy Freeway from Memorial City Mall. It is just off the I-10 feeder between Bunker Hill and Gessner, between Boudreaux’s Cajun Kitchen and JoAnn Fabrics. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm. For more information, call 832-4264337 or visit http://experimac.com/ west-houston-tx.

“Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere.” – Albert Einstein

Nicholas Pagel 713.322.4770 www.ImaginationWoodworks.com

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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Heritage Texas Properties Office Is up and Running in Katy

NEWSWORTHY

Heritage Texas Properties’ Katy office is up and running, according to Senior Vice President and Broker Sandy Benson. The new, expanded office is located at 28818 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Suite 140, in the heart of the vibrant Katy/Fulshear area. “The Katy/Fulshear area is growing by leaps and bounds. We have absolute confidence in this market and have expanded our footprint in the area,” said Benson. “Our new office is centrally located for our Katy and Fulshear clients and also better accommodates so many of our agents and

Xtreme Texas Cookers Competes at World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

absolutely! Memorial Magazine is excited to team up this year for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s (HLSR) World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest with Xtreme Texas Cookers. The group will compete against over 250 teams Thursday, March 2nd through Saturday, March 4th. Chief Cook and Owner Phong Vuong established Xtreme Texas Cookers in 1999 with the goal of winning some barbecue competitions, raising money for charity and having fun. Based out of Houston, the team consists of a very diversified group that shares a single love – cooking good barbecue. Collectively, the team has over 150 years of combined experience in the realm of competitive cooking and competes in each event with a great deal of enthusiasm. It takes a few months to prepare for the HLSR, and Xtreme Texas Cookers has been known to serve as many as 1,500 people in one day. “Of course, everyone who goes to the HLSR Cook-Off knows exactly who we are by the live Zydeco band, the beads, the jello-shots, the dancing and of course, our mouth-watering food. Our parties have become somewhat of a standard that all of the other competitors strive to match,” said Vuong. Since 2000, the group has won Champion Brisket twice with 2nd Place Brisket in 2015 and 4th Place Brisket in 2006. They also won Most Unique Pit in 2010 and advanced to the finals

their families who live in the Katy/Fulshear area. “Heritage Texas Properties is celebrating its 41st year in 2017, and we’ve been selling in Katy for over 30 years. We’ve been there as Katy has grown, and we credit much of our success to our award-winning relocation department.” For more information about Heritage Texas Properties, visit heritagetexas.com or call their Katy office at 281-5740900. See ad on Back Cover.

Xtreme Texas Cookers Phong and Lisa Vuong, Steven, Julie and Samantha Davis, Scot Pearson, Jeremy Elliott, Samantha, Kenny and Denise Vickroy, Justin Habinak, J.C. Messer, Sylvia Resendez, James and Amy Dziedzic, Randy and Marjorie Moreland, Steve Ranson, Heidi Wittenmyer, Ronnie Ybarra, Suzy Haugh and Chef Milo.

in ribs for the past 10 years at the HLSR Cook-Off. Through the years, Xtreme Texas Cookers has raised thousands of dollars for scholarships in the Houston metro area through event participation. The team has also participated in numerous fundraising events for Special Olympics Texas, cancer benefits, the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund and most recently, a fallen police officer benefit. When you’re out at the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest at NRG Park, listen for the loud tent and mosey on over! Visit rodeohouston.com for more information on this year’s event.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Top 10 Tips

for Divorcing/Blended Families During Spring Break and Other Periods of Extended Possession By Nancy L. Rommelmann, Family Law Attorney

Make a genuine effort to exercise Spring Break with your child. A child can feel unimportant to you if you are supposed to exercise Spring Break with them and you don’t make the effort to do so.

Advise the other parent well in advance what the plans are going to be for Spring Break so that that parent can assist the child to anticipate the plans you have made for the child and pack accordingly for the child.

Create a comfortable transition for a child. Remember a child is being removed from their routine. It can be helpful to show a younger child on a calendar when they will be with you and with the other parent.

Exercise this time together. Spring Break is time to share with your child. Don’t relegate the child to an unrelated caretaker.

5 FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

Put a child’s needs and desires above your own. Don’t make a child feel like an afterthought or burden.

Make arrangements for activities suitable for a child during extended periods of possession.

Ask a child what they want to do during extended periods of possession. Give consideration to their thoughts and feelings. For an older child, make your best effort to accommodate social plans they might have.

Encourage a child to communicate at a reasonable time and for a reasonable duration with the other parent affording the child privacy and respect.

FAMILY LAW

• Divorce Planning • Divorce (Contested or Uncontested) • Child Custody • Child Support • Complex Property Division • High Net Worth Divorce • Parental Relocations • Post Divorce Modifications • Paternity and Parental Rights • Visitation Rights • Grandparent’s Rights • Pre- and Post- Marital Agreements • Adoptions • Collaborative Law • Alternative Dispute Resolution (mediation and arbitration)

For families where airline travel is required for the child, get a child’s airline ticket far enough in advance for long distance travel to select reasonable times for a child to travel.

Nancy Rommelmann is regularly consulted by local media for her on-air analysis about family law.

Be at the airport ahead of time to meet your child. Do not make them wait! Show your child you care enough to be on time and not put them at risk in a public place.

Nancy L. Rommelmann

You’ll never hear anyone say, “I wish I hadn’t spent so much time with my child!” A real parent puts their child above their own selfish needs and wants.

Straight Answers • Strategic Thinking Compassionate • Experienced Family Law Attorney

Memorial City Plaza – Tower Two 820 Gessner, Suite 1630, Houston, TX 77024 (across from Memorial City Mall)

ph 713-622-3000 www.attorneynancyrommelmann.com Call us today for a consultation! www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

Hiking

By Maureen Allen

Around Houston M

arch is the perfect time of year to set some goals and strive to become healthier. If the gym isn’t your element, then hiking could be just the thing you’re searching for. Despite being the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston boasts some hidden trails tucked away. Venture out and get moving!

Mercer Arboretum

Terry Hershey Park Terry Hershey Park is a long, narrow, 500 acre park that follows Buffalo Bayou from George Bush Park Hike and Bike Trail to Beltway 8. Its hiking trails wind through it with access points all throughout the park. Parking is easily available at Highway 6 and Dairy Ashford, and fountains are speckled along the way. The terrain varies from pavement, gravel and grass. This trail is great for leashed pets, joggers, bikes and you!

Memorial Park Memorial Park’s hidden trails feature many wild flowers, creeks and other gorgeous greenery that is sure to speak to your soul. With over 30 miles of trails scattered within the park for running, walking and hiking, it is perfect for all skill levels. The park offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are allowed on the trail if kept on a leash.

Brazos Bend State Park For the more adventurous hikers, nature may have a few surprises in Brazos Bend State Park, located in Needville. Three interconnecting hike and bike trails are located around three lakes: Hale, Elm and 40-Acre. These trails are known for viewing alligators! The foot trails lead to the hardwood forest. Pets are allowed, but only on a leash, and the leash must be six feet long or less. Do not allow pets to drink from or enter the water.

Mercer Arboretum is 22 miles north of Downtown Houston near Bush International Airport. The entrances on the west and east sides of the road are well marked, and there is free parking with picnic areas, playgrounds and toilet facilities. The park includes 300 acres of gardens and walking trails, bogs and playgrounds. There are no significant hills on the trails, so hikes are relatively easy. Mercer Arboretum is generally open from 8 am to 5 pm, but hours may vary during the year.

Sam Houston National Forest If you want to venture out a little bit, Sam Houston National Forest offers 129 miles of trails. It passes through the eastern edge of the forest near Montague Church on FM 1725 near Cleveland and continues on the western edge near Richards. The terrain is pretty flat – no surprise – with some wet areas, but there are bridges for easy creek crossings. Trailhead parking areas are at main access points. Hiking is a great way to relieve stress, get fit and challenge yourself. If you’re curious to find out more about trails near you, the AllTrails app is a great way to casually surf through trails. It’s free and will tell you everything you need to know before Maureen Allen exploring the trails you hit the trailhead!

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

at Sam Houston National Forest.

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Mentions Memorial

Jennifer Miller, Marty Chapman, Elizabeth Seidensticker, Berklee Baay, Staci Flemming, Meka Arend, Jennifer Denny, Nancy Cofran, Jill Gilbert and Karin Donovan spent their annual girls’ trip together in Wimberley, Texas. BY SUZANNE STILES

Photo by Nicole McLemore.

suzanne@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Photo by John McCaine Photography.

Matthew Garvin, Andrew Dawson, Alec Abrams, Varun Dixit and Abhiraj Sinha, members of Troop 642 with Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, were awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at their recent Court of Honor. Congratulations!

Allison Zhu, Carys Andrews, Beihn Yi, Natis Bae, Sophie Zhou, Chloe Shaw, Anna Wolf, Catherine Lee Kuersteiner, Suzanne Goddard, Evelyn Seidensticker, Becca Survant, Lily Boehm and Arina Ha of Bunker Hill Elementary Brownie Troop 126003 enjoyed a field trip to Bingle Vet to earn their pets’ badge.

Local Rummel Creek Elementary first grader Marielle Kiersh won the Grand Championship last year in Mutton Bustin’ at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Frostwood Elementary fourth graders Rachel Lawrence and Megan McWilliams participated in Allegro Ballet’s The Nutcracker.

Louise Jones showcased her artistic talent with an exhibit at the Houston Museum of Contemporary Arts. Friends Leah Bohsali, Noor Alhafez, Luna Quaddoura, Gwyn Ham, Yara Al Jarrah, Louisa Damborg, Lilya Al Jarrah, Zyna Chahadeh, Gwyneth Storey, Anna Masucci, Leah Hwang and Elizabeth Brauchle celebrated Lilya’s 9th birthday at Figlia Kitchen with a Chopped themed party.

Spring Branch Independent School District Community Relations Officer Linda Buchman, Lisa Lauter and Memorial High School Principal Lisa Weir attended the Communities in Schools (CIS) Breakfast. Weir spoke about how beneficial it has been to have a CIS counselor on her campus.

Biron Elite Cheer’s Taylor Belger, Arden Staples, Kiley Rogers, Jenna Hill, Ellen Chamblee and Coach Doug Dorsten participated in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Cindy and Sarah Crofford ran a 5K together. A new family tradition has begun!

Becca Howard, Jen Espey and Elizabeth Kroger attended the Communities in Schools Breakfast.

Allison, Rachel, Beth and Bob Gower were at Beth and Bob’s Memorial home for the Communities in Schools Breakfast.

www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

absolutely!

& QA Running and Safety Expert:

Dr. Jorge Gomez, sports medicine physician at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus There are simple tips that everyone can use to make physical activity fun and safe for the entire family.

HOW SHOULD I HELP MY CHILD PREPARE FOR INCREASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY?

The most important step is to establish a pattern of regular, daily physical activity. Parents should strive for having their children engage in 60 minutes of activity every day. This includes free-play. If a parent has special concerns about their child’s fitness, such as concern over a previous injury, not having done much activity before or being overweight, the parent should consult with a sports medicine or fitness professional to come up with an age-appropriate conditioning program.

TEMPERATURES IN HOUSTON CAN BE QUITE SPORADIC. CAN MY CHILD STILL RUN OR PLAY SPORTS OUTSIDE EVEN WHEN THE TEMPERATURES INCREASE OR DECREASE DRAMATICALLY? Most children can play in hot, humid conditions if precautions are taken. It is extremely important to ensure that your child is adequately hydrated. While sports drinks are appropriate for exercise longer than an hour and during hard training, the best hydration fluid is water. Encourage your child to start drinking more water, and save the sports drinks for during or after exercise, as they add little value in their lunch box or at meal times. Make sure your children get plenty of rest, and they should not exercise in the heat if they are sick.

SHOULD MY CHILD’S DIET CHANGE WHEN THEY START TO TRAIN FOR A RUN OR WHEN THEY ARE PLAYING SPORTS? Proper nutrition is essential to the health and well-being of children all of the time, but especially when it comes to their success in sports. Children, not just athletes, should avoid high fat foods. On the other hand, high protein diets are not appropriate for children either. Balance is important. The young athlete’s diet should have plenty of complex carbohydrates for energy, plenty of protein for muscle building and enough fat to stay healthy. Eating the right foods at the right time, such as lean meats and whole grains, can help provide the sustained energy during exercise and promote the recovery muscles need after strenuous exercise. Ask a sports dietitian, sports medicine specialist or fitness professional about your child’s dietary needs.

OUR FAMILY IS GEARING UP FOR AN UPCOMING RUN. WHAT ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP US PREPARE? Whether you’re running long distances or training for an upcoming season of baseball, here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you prepare: • Get a safe start to your running training program. Avoid running in extreme temperatures. • Wear white clothing or a reflector badge on your shirt to make sure drivers can see you. • Lace up in proper running shoes and gear, so your feet are comfortable and supported. • Warm up and cool down with walking and good stretching. • Drink even when you are not thirsty. Your body loses fluid when you run or sweat. • Balance your diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy. • Get eight or more hours of sleep so that you’re rested and ready to go every day. • Try various types of exercise. This will give you extra strength and endurance.

If your family is looking for a fun activity you can train for and compete in together, join the

2017 Texas Children’s Hospital Family Fun Run Saturday, April 8th Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus Participants of all abilities, including those needing walkers and wheelchairs, are welcome. For more information and to register, visit texaschildrens.org/funrunwest. The deadline to register is Monday, March 27th.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

EVENTS By Stephanie Valtasaros

March 4th, 9:10 am

• Rodeo Run

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Rodeo Run, a pre-show kickoff event featuring a 5K run/walk, 10K run and wheelchair race supporting the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo educational fund. All events have a $30 entry fee. Call 832-667-1000 or visit www.rodeohouston.com/rodeorun.

March 4th, 9 am – 11:30 am • 7 Rings of Gold Walk The Houston Hearts of Gold will host its first 7 Rings of Gold Walk in honor of Nicole Lee. The family-friendly walk benefiting The Cure Starts Now Foundation will start and finish at the Memorial High School track, located at 935 Echo Lane, with seven laps around the track to remember Nicole Lee’s seven years of life, which were cut short by DIPG, an aggressive, inoperable tumor of the brain stem. To register, visit https://thecurestartsnow.webconnex.com/houstonwalk2017.

March 10th – 12th, 11 am – 5 pm • Azalea Trail The 82nd annual Azalea Trail is sponsored by River Oaks Garden Club. This year’s trail will feature Bayou Bend Gardens, Rienzi and the Forum of Civics Building on the tour, along with four magnificent homes and gardens located in River Oaks. Proceeds are given back to the community for projects in horticultural education, conservation and civic beautification. Tickets are available at River Oaks Garden Club Forum of Civics, located at 2503 Westheimer Road. Call 713-523-2483 or visit http://riveroaksgardenclub.org.

• Breakfast

Pancakes French Toast Breakfast Tacos Omelets

• Burgers Angus Buffalo Turkey

• Kabob Platter • Salmon

• Pitas

Gyros Beef Chicken Fish Vegetable

• Beer & Wine Santa Margherita La Crema Kim Crawford Stella

Happy Hour 3 to 6 pm 20% off all Beer & Wine

Free Hummus with Purchase of 2 Entrées

Est. 2000

www.islandgrillhouston.com 979 Bunker Hill Rd. Houston, TX 77024 832.831.7071 Please visit our Tanglewood & West U locations

Your neighborhood grill Voted #1 Restaurant by Memorial High School Students www.absolutelymemorial.com l MARCH 2017

A B S O L U T E LY ! D E L I C I O U S L I S T I N G

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Hamburger Grill Buy a hamburger, fry and a drink and get a regular hamburger for F R E E !

Limit 1 coupon per customer. Expires April 1, 2017 Limit 1 coupon per customer. Memorial Expires February 1, 2015Galleria

713-464-5268 9410 Gaylord TX 77024 46

713-789-4972 5860 San Felipe TX 77057

CONTEMPORARY

AMERICAN CUISINE

JAPANESE FINE DINING

MASRAFF’S 1753 Post Oak Blvd. 77056 713-355-1975 www.masraffs.com

KUU RESTAURANT 947 Gessner Rd, Ste. A180 77024 713-461-1688 www.kuurestaurant.com

Hands on proprietors, Russell and Tony Masraff, recognized premier Houston restaurateurs, offer affordable elegance, attentive yet unobtrusive service and exquisitely fresh American cuisine prepared with the best ingredients from around the world. Located in the heart of the Galleria, Masraff’s features the perfect ambience for business and social gatherings. Whether dining in one of the elegant dining rooms, stunning bar area with the elevated fireplace or The Patio on the Boulevard by the waterfall, Masraff’s impeccable service offers a dining experience to remember.

Executive Chef Adison Lee brings a fresh perspective to the art of fine dining. Intent on precision and complexity of flavors, Lee’s menu features seasonal ingredients and fish flown in from Japan, alongside hand-crafted cocktails and an award-winning wine list.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

“If you appreciate exciting dishes served in a handsome environment, with wines and cocktails of more than passing interest, it’s well worth investigating.” – Alison Cook, Houston Chronicle

MEMORIAL MARKETPLACE

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A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY

The 300 block of Main Street between Congress Street and Preston Avenue, 1866. A decade later, the same block of Main Street was populated with larger masonry buildings. These new buildings were constructed after a fire destroyed most of the older wood buildings on the block.

By The Heritage Society

Special Collections, University of Houston Digital Library.

Pieces of History

on Main Street

catch a glimpse of historic Houston, look no further than Main Street. When the Allens established the town of Houston in 1836, they centered the town plat at the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou. This resulted in a street grid that ran approximately northeast to southwest. Main Street ran perpendicular to Buffalo Bayou and directly in line with White Oak Bayou. The earliest ships carrying cargo and pioneering residents to Allen’s Landing arrived at the foot of Main. During the two years Houston served as the capital of the Republic of Texas, the capitol building stood at Main and Texas. Though the building was used as a hotel for a few decades after the capital moved to Austin, it eventually was replaced by the Rice Hotel, which still stands today. When the City’s original political wards were established in 1840, Main Street formed the division between the third and fourth wards. Early photographs show rapid development and redevelopment of Main Street near the bayou as the City’s growth and architectural improvements called for larger buildings. Farther from the bayou, Main Street’s early development in what is now considered downtown was mostly residential. Large, grand residences and trees lined Main Street outside the commercial center. One of these was occupied by Charlotte Baldwin Allen, wife of Augustus Allen, who lived in Houston and was an active community member until her death in 1895. Her residence at 718 Main was demolished in 1915, and the 1929 Gulf Building, now the J.P. Morgan Chase Building, stands in its place. Likewise, none of the grand mansions that lined Main Street in the late 19th and early 20th centuries remain today. As Houston grew into the 20th century, commercial and institutional development gradually replaced residential areas as it extended farther south. By the 1960s, Houstonians

could travel down Main Street from downtown, through the museum district, through the newly developed Texas Medical Center and all the way to the brand new Harris County Domed Stadium, better known as the Astrodome. Nineteenth and early 20th century Houston is most visible between Commerce and Texas Streets downtown. These blocks, along with a portion of Main that stretches across the bayou to Girard, are included in the City’s Main Street Market Square Historic District. Other examples are Allen’s Landing, the Main Street Viaduct, the H.S. Kress and Co. Building, First United Methodist Church, the Beaconsfield, First Church of Christ Scientist, Trinity Episcopal Church, commercial buildings between Berry and Alabama, Isabella Court, South Main Baptist Church, Sears, Baker Brothers Studio, The Museum of Fine Arts original building and the Warwick Hotel. Hermann Park and Rice University remain well-loved institutions along historic Main Street. Today, Houston’s METRORail Red Line provides an easy way to take in the City’s history along one of its earliest major corridors.

Now lined with skyscrapers, Main Street at Dallas included grand residences and trees in the early 20th century. Special Collections, University of Houston Digital Library.

MARCH 2017 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

INSIDE BACK

Our most important client is you.

LOWRY BENZ 832.444.1825

LACEY CANNON 713.298.4449

REBECQUE DEMARK & NANCY SCOTT 713.252.8899

CHRISTINE DUNCAN 713.882.0990

HENRY EGAN 281.757.2628

TRISHA FLETCHER 281.582.3915

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bungalow or a multimillion dollar home, we provide every client with the same high quality of personalized service. Wherever life takes you, ask us for the world.

HANK HUNDLEY 713.504.4288

MARGE HOPKINS 281.582.3951

PATTY JACKSON 281.582.3960

LISA JONES 281.723.2614

SCOTT LANDRETH 281.582.3925

KAREN MARTIN 281.582.3910

CLARANN MCCOY 713.882.3600

SHELLY PORTER 713.446.2473

SHARYN SHORT 281.582.3922

MARTHA WHITE 281.582.3956

Memorial Office 14340 Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77079 281.493.3880

LYNN ZARR, JR. 713.341.1667

Post Oak Park Office 1177 West Loop South Twelfth Floor Houston, Texas 77027 713.965.0812

ROBIN MUECK Chairman/CEO

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