September 2015 - Absolutely Memorial Magazine by absolutely! Memorial Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2015

Be Brave, Be Bold, Go Gold!

Charlieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels

LABOR DAY Getaways

Tailgate IN STYLE absolutely!

Home Living

RICE MILITARY Paseo Caceres Place | $1+mil 4/4.5 - ±3,758 sf stunning | elevator | rooftop terrace Kellie Geitner | 713.213.2011

MEMORIAL Chimney Rock Road | $890s 3/3 - ±3,056 sf Mid-Century Modern home on bayou lot Kellie Geitner | 713.213.2011

MEMORIAL Tarrington Court | $1.4+mil 5/3.5+ - ±3,703 sf fabulous Hunters Creek Village home Charlotte Leach | 713.252.6121

SPRING BRANCH Forum Drive | $740s 4/3.5 - ±3,495 sf exquisite detail | just completed Ronald Espinoza, Jr. | 713.366.1001

GALLERIA Bering Circle | $710s 4/3.5 - ±3,451 sf great home in gated community Joann Lammons | 713.824.4185

KATY Birchmere Court | $1.3+mil 6/5.5 - ±5,528 sf executive home on oversized lot | pool Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

MEMORIAL Warrenton Drive | $1.1+mil 4-5/3.5 - ±3,629 sf master & 2nd bedroom down | pool Karen Harberg | 713.558.3203

MEMORIAL Tall Oaks Street | $2.9+mil 6-7/6.5 - ±8,026 sf Frank Lloyd Wright home in Bunker Hill Karen Harberg | 713.558.3203

MEMORIAL Stuckey Lane | $3.3+mil 5/5.5+ - ±8,230 sf master down | gourmet kitchen | pool Karen Harberg | 713.558.3203

MEMORIAL Blalock Lane | $2.6+mil 5/5.5+ - ±7,752 sf custom home on cul-de-sac | pool/spa Cynthia Bigelow | 832.794.5167

MEMORIAL Broken Bough Drive | $3.3+mil 5-6/5.5+ - ±6,610 sf master, 2nd bedroom & game room down Susan Boss | 713.823.6992

MEMORIAL Lacewood Lane | $5.2+mil 6/7.5+ - ±10,035 sf master & study down | elevator | pool Susan Boss | 713.823.6992

Welcome Home Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

marthaturner.com | 713.520.1981

campbell wellness center A one-of-a-kind Memorial area progressive health facility offering a balance in lifestyle.

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Exercise Prescription Nutritional Counseling Massage Therapy Yoga Zumba TRX

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Spinning Couple’s Dance Preparation Extreme Cardio Open Access Colonoscopy Sports Chiropractor

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Campbell Rd.

d. Blalock R

1446 Campbell Road Houston, Texas 77055 281-740-4550 www.campbell-wellness-center.com

oint Rd. gP Lon

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Bingle Rd.

live your healthiest lifestyle.

We’re just down the way. Located right here in West Houston, we’re ready to partner with you in the health care of your child. With a dedicated pediatric emergency room, pediatric intensive care unit and more than 20 pediatric subspecialties conveniently located on site, we offer top care for kids, close to home. From sports medicine to cardiology to ophthalmology, our specialty clinics are staffed by experts in their fields using the most advanced technology, in facilities designed specifically for children. Texas Children’s is ranked #4 in the nation by U.S.News & World Report and is the highest ranked children’s hospital in the southwest.The next time your child needs medical care, come to us. We’re all about kids. For maps and information, visit westcampus.texaschildrens.org. Texas Children’s Urgent Care is now in your area.Visit urgentcare.texaschildrens.org to find hours, location and conditions we treat.

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus 18200 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 832-227-1000

COVER STORY SEPTEMBER 2015

F E AT U R E S 26 MEMORIAL’S FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS To help you make it to your favorite team’s games, here are the Spring Branch ISD 2015 Varsity Football Schedules. Go team!

30 2007 BOND PROJECT

Recognizes Legacy of Former Spring Branch High School

37 LEGAL EAGLES

Meet Memorial’s Finest Attorneys

41 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

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

COLUMNS 18 absolutely! FABULOUS FINDS 32 ASK ALEX

All About Mums

34 KIDS’ CORNER

Everyday Concussions

36 FAMILY LAW Charlie Dina

Texas Law: Where Should I File for Divorce?

Photography by Hallie Keller.

38 JAN GLENN’S PAWSITIVELY PURRFECT

14 CHARLIE’S ANGELS Angela Dina shares the news that changed her son Charlie – and the rest of her family – forever, and the incredible foundation they established as a result. Today, the Go Gold Fund is changing lives through its mission to fight for youth in the pursuit of elevating childhood cancer awareness and generating bold action.

It’s Pawty Time! Every Dog Has His Day

49 SPRING BRANCH SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Debbie Clemens absolutely! Fabulous Finds Page 18

SEPTEMBER 2015

VOLUME 11

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 24

NUMBER 9 24

NEWSWORTHY 19 SPRING BRANCH EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S Signature Events

T R AV E L

Stephanie Valtasaros Contributor Page 28

28 Rusty Graham Spring Branch ISD Page 30

52 LABOR DAY GETAWAYS Favorite destinations for the last hurrah of summer

31 SPECTRUM OF TASTES: Charitable Dining at Its Best

33 NEWSPRING Fundraising Luncheon

35 THE MEMORIAL HERMANN FOUNDATION Hosts 6th Annual Razzle Dazzle

absolutely! AUTO REVIEW 24 2015 LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER

absolutely! DELICIOUS

25 THE WOMEN DRIVING BUSINESS High Heel Connections Social

absolutely! H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

El Tiempo Restaurant

34 Nancy L. Rommelmann Family Law Attorney Page 36

58 TAILGATE IN STYLE 59 TALES FROM THE TRUFFLE LADY 60 VINE SLEUTH Cheers to Relaxing with Rosé

36 Jan Glenn Journalist Page 38

38 Tammy Hampton Contributor Page 49

61 absolutely! DELICIOUS 49

Suzanne Stiles Memorial Mentions Page 54

62 absolutely! DELICIOUS LISTING 54

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 57

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

57 Jennifer Elliott absolutely! focus media Page 58

20 SEEN ON THE SCENE

40 AERIAL YOGA

28 COMMUNITY EVENTS

56 absolutely! Q & A

50 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF MEMORIAL

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus Answers Your Questions About Otolaryngology

Patrick Biron Birons Youth Sports Center Page 34

57 THE ARTIST’S PALATE

With Tony Vallone

BUSINESS BRIEFS

60 Tony Vallone Vallone’s Page 61

61 SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Jeanne DeBell Polocheck Contributor Page 59 Amy Gross wine4.me Page 60

54 MEMORIAL MENTIONS 64 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY

Alex Belt Silly Silly Girls Page 32

MEET THE FACES OF

NEUROSCIENCE

Offering advanced neurology, neurosurgery, pain management, and neuro-oncology services. Innovative, comprehensive and convenient care. That’s what you can expect from the neuroscience experts affiliated with UTHealth Medical School and Memorial Hermann. We’re part of Mischer Neuroscience Associates, which means all of our patients are treated by some of Greater Houston’s brightest neuroscience minds. From neurooncology to complex spine and intracranial medicine to rehabilitation and beyond, we’re advancing health right here in West Houston at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital.

Mischer Neuroscience AssociatesMemorial City 929 Gessner Road, Suite 2410 Houston, TX 77024

Mischer Neuroscience Associates-Katy Medical Plaza 1 23920 Katy Freeway, Suite 240 Katy, TX 77494

Call 713.242.4410 to book an appointment or visit neuro.memorialhermann.org to learn more.

EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Vol. 11 No. 9 September 2015

Associate Publisher, LARA BELL Okay folks, can it really be September in this heat? I guess! Now that the kids are back in school, guess what time it is? Football! On the cover of this issue, you will find Memorial superstar Charlie Dina, a remarkable little boy who has fans big and small, including one very famous football star. Read about Charlie’s Angels and Charlie’s battle fighting childhood cancer on page 14. You’ll see what makes him so special. Also in this issue, Jennifer Elliott shares some really cool items to add to this year’s tailgating. And who remembers high school mums? Well, they are not quite like they were when I was in school. Alex Belt shows us how to make them and what is trending this year. Finally, something that we felt we needed in this issue are the Spring Branch Lara Bell ISD 2015 High School Varsity Football Schedules. You’ll find them on page 26! Have a great school year. Moms, let’s meet up for a morning coffee somewhere and start counting down the days until summer 2016!

WWW.ABSOLUTELYMEMORIAL.COM

PUBLISHER E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F 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 April Roseberry WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza

Absolutely! yours,

Lara

O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Adrienne Boring

Lara Bell-Milam lara@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Hallie Keller

ON THE COVER: Charlie Dina Photography by Hallie Keller.

READER FEEDBACK Thanks so much to absolutely! Memorial Magazine for including the Westside Homeless Partnership luncheon in the June issue! Westside Homeless Partnership

Thank you to Suzanne Stiles, Lara Bell and the absolutely! Memorial family – excited to have the #EnergyThatConnects in your special Home is Where the Heart Is issue. Shyne Energy

Girls’ Day Out: Shopping at Dog Friendly Stores was too cute! Kim Counts Lynch

absolutely! Memorial asked: What is your favorite way to beat the heat? Go swimming! – Rachel Navarrete Sonic slushes. – Tanesha E. Mosley-Pickens

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

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

CONTRIBUTORS Alex Belt Patrick Biron Debbie Clemens Jennifer Elliott Jan Glenn Rusty Graham Amy Gross Tammy Hampton Steve Kursar Alisa Murray Jeanne DeBell Polocheck Nancy L. Rommelmann Suzanne Stiles Tony Vallone Stephanie Valtasaros 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 Published by

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 © 2015 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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Charlie Dina. Photo by Hallie Keller.

COVER STORY By Lara Bell

“My family’s life changed forever on May 30, 2012. Our then four-year-old son, Charlie, had been complaining of a stomachache over Memorial Day weekend. After a couple of days of home remedies and phone calls to the pediatrician, we made the decision to go to the Texas Children’s Hospital ER near our home. The diagnosis was nothing we could have ever prepared for: Stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. It is a pediatric cancer that typically starts in the adrenal gland and grows quickly, often spreading to the bones and bone marrow before being diagnosed. We had never even heard of it before that fateful day. The first weeks in the hospital were full of stress and anxiety. Charlie wasn’t happy with the poking and prodding. Our older daughter, Caroline, wasn’t happy that she felt abandoned by her parents, and Mike and I just generally felt grief stricken. I remember waking up each morning in the hospital room and thinking, ‘Ugh, this is not a dream. This is really happening. What is the future of the life of my precious family?’ Yet, we also felt so blessed and thankful to live in Houston with its medical center, as we learned quickly how many families had to divide and travel to get the care for their loved ones. We were also blessed to have such supportive family. So many other patients didn’t have the family to lean on or the financial stability to see such a long-term illness through.

Finding Strength in the Storm

Charlie’s

Angels

“We also had a group of friends who showed up at Charlie’s bedside in the very beginning. We cried together in fear of the road ahead and prayed for strength to help my family through this. Many friends vowed to never leave us and to help in any way possible to support our needs. So many people truly were angels in our lives, now ‘Charlie’s Angels.’

s a parent, the worst thing I think that I could hear is, “Your child has cancer.” I recently sat down with Angela Dina, who heard those very words about her son Charlie. She and her family shared the news that changed her family forever and established an incredible foundation as a result. Here are Angela’s own words of that fateful time. 14

Angela, Charlie, Caroline and Mike Dina.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

“Rubber wristbands were made in Charlie’s favorite color at the time, bright yellow. They display a favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13: ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.’ T-shirts were sold, prayer meetings were held and dinner calendars were organized. We saw the most beautiful side of people. Their caring hearts and Christian spirits made it almost impossible not to get through even the toughest of days with at least a little bit of a smile. “Boy, there have been some tough days! Charlie has endured five rounds of chemotherapy, two surgeries, including one 19 hours in length that resulted in the removal of one of his kidneys, radiation and a stem cell transplant that nearly took his life due to heart failure.

Brave Charlie Dina.

“Caroline has dealt with having her family fractured and not always feeling the same kind of normal that she was used to. This cancer has taken its toll on our family and friends, but Mike and I made a conscious decision that we didn’t want to look back on our lives as something we had wasted or worried or lamented through.

Special Support “One special time during our journey was when our then Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel was given one of the yellow prayer bracelets to wear for Charlie. This was before he was a known candidate for the Heisman trophy and before a lot of people even knew his name. He knew Charlie thought he was ‘the best Aggie player’ in Charlie’s words, and that is all it took for that then 19 year-old young man to make a commitment to our son

and wear his band every day, including on the football field. “Johnny found out more about Charlie’s cancer and was so moved by his story that he spoke of Charlie on the Heisman trophy stage months later. This was a complete shock and blessing to us, as it raised awareness not only for childhood cancer but of the need that only God knew at the time Charlie would have for big prayers. In the coming days, Charlie went into heart failure. The cardiology team came into ICU and began to prepare Mike and I for the worst. They said without a doubt that if Charlie ever recovered, he would be on all kinds of heart medication and very limited in his activity the rest of his life. “Mike and I grieved the loss of the life we had envisioned for Charlie all over again. But something stirred in Mike very quickly, and he looked at me and said, ‘God has elevated this story for His glory. Charlie will be healed. I just know it.’ We believe fully it was only by God’s grace and so many prayers from around the world that he made a full recovery just days after in the heart department. “Johnny’s mom called me shortly after we arrived home from Charlie’s stem cell transplant, introduced herself and told me what a blessing we were to their family. We were a blessing to them? I pondered how God sometimes lets lives intersect for His purpose and how amazing the thought of us having any influence on the year’s Heisman winner was to even comprehend. She went on to say that Johnny’s sister was helping put on a golf tournament through her school and that they had selected Charlie’s ‘foundation’ as the partnering charity if that was okay with us. Foundation? We didn’t even have a foundation in place. All of our time had been poured into saving the life of our son and focusing on keeping our family and lives afloat. “However, Mike and I felt a calling to start a foundation to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancer. We were astounded during Charlie’s treatment to find that less than four percent of each year’s federal funding for cancer goes to all childhood cancers and

Johnny Manziel and Charlie Dina.

that it is usually private sector funding that pays for any new clinical trials and drugs. This call from Johnny’s mom certainly gave us the kick-start to get our foundation process moving. What a blessing! “We knew God was giving us a wink when we went to the bank to set up the account for the foundation, and the lady who helped us said, ‘I am so glad you are doing this. My daughter had a rare type of pediatric cancer. It’s called neuroblastoma. You have probably never heard of it.’ We shared with her that this was also Charlie’s cancer type and that we hoped to make a difference in the lives of many children someday. We then asked, ‘How is your child now?’ as neuroblastoma many years ago had a very grim prognosis. She said, ‘Well, my daughter was given a one in a million chance of survival, but she beat the odds and is today a research nurse at MD Anderson Hospital.’ “We know that this kind of an outcome is truly miraculous, as many children are still losing their battles to all kinds of childhood cancers each day. Our hope is that our foundation can help propel childhood cancer into a national spotlight, therefore increasing funding where there is just not enough.

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

“We believe it was God’s plan to heal him here on this earth so that he could be a symbol of hope for all of those precious children fighting for their lives.” – Angela Dina

Go Gold Fund “Our foundation name is Go Gold Fund with the tagline ‘Be Brave, Be Bold, Go Gold!’ Gold refers to the fact that the Childhood Cancer Awareness ribbon is gold with the awareness month being September. The mission of our organization is to fight for the voiceless youth in the pursuit of elevating Childhood Cancer Awareness and generating bold action through online story sharing, events and media with hopes to change the percentage of dollars invested in childhood cancer research and make a real difference for a cure. “One key way we believe this can happen is through athletic activism. We watched the power of Johnny Manziel at the height of his Heisman popu-

months, but we believe it was God’s plan to heal him here on this earth so that he could be a symbol of hope for all of those precious children fighting for their lives. We ask for your continued prayers and thank this community for your amazing and unending support. Go Gold with us today!” Photo by Hallie Keller.

Charlie Dina and Johnny Manziel.

larity use his voice for good through speaking out in support of Charlie and thus raising awareness for his illness and that of so many other children. Athletes often have an elevated platform that so many people listen to, and we know that by engaging sports teams, especially in the awareness month of September with the call to action to ‘Go Gold,’ they can use their voice to make a real difference. “This September, we are partnering with the Ohio University football team and the Texas A&M University soccer team to create templates for teams to use in the future as to how to use their voice to make a difference. We are also working with Spring Branch Independent School District with plans to implement programs in the future that will work in school districts across our country. The Theatre Under The Stars performance of The Little Mermaid at the Hobby Center will also promote our organization during their September performances. Please check our website at www.GoGold.org to find out how your organization or sports team can partner with us too. “As for our sweet Charlie, he has been in remission for two years. He continues to have scans every four

Charlie Dina has been in remission for two years.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

IN ELIMINATING

JOINT

PAIN

Contact a Memorial Hermann Joint Center. And start living pain free. Staying active is key to staying healthy. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Joint Center specialists use the most advanced treatments to get you moving again. From new prescription options, to minimally invasive surgical interventions, our affiliated body of experts is ready to help you find the best path to the life you want to live.

Call 713.272.1888 or visit jointpain.memorialhermann.org for more information or to make an appointment.

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, let’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

Lays Southern Biscuits and Gravy Potato Chips Lays released its final four in its “Do Us a Flavor” contest, and you can vote for your favorite online through October 18th. You have to try these chips! Being a southern girl who loves biscuits and gravy, my vote is for the Southern Biscuits and Gravy potato chips! www.dousaflavor.com

Ladies’ Golf Apparel I was hooked when I read the inside tag, which says, “And golf with love,” not to mention the sequins on the ladies’ golf wear. I love this new, really fun brand. Now go make some birdies, and play with heart! www.girls-golf.de

Valek Laser Engraved Rolling Pins You can be so fun and creative with these new rolling pins! They are awesome for rolling out pie crusts, but how about using one for an art project to roll on the paint? You can even personalize them for a nice gift. www.valekrollingpins.com

Clean Green Eats by Candice Kumai Steigen Performance Socks Made in Australia, these socks are intended for performing in sports activities. They help prevent blisters during intense running and are very fitted. www.steigen.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

This book features delicious recipes to clean up your diet! They are easy to make and include the most nutritious foods. Improve your life by eating clean! www.candicekumai.com

NEWSWORTHY

Spring Branch Education Foundation’s Signature Events Spring Branch Education Foundation (SBEF) recently announced dates for its 2015-16 signature events. The season kicks off with an October style show and luncheon and ends with the Bright Stars awards for scholarship winners, as well as teachers and principals of the year. “Our events continue to grow as our community becomes more familiar with the successful mission of SBEF,” said Debbie Slack, SBEF executive board member and special events committee chair. “All funds raised in our events are used by the foundation to fund programs that enhance the education of every student and support every teacher in the district. We have something for everyone – from a fashion show to sporting clay and golf tournaments to the popular Running for the Arts. The most important aspect of all of these events is the money that benefits Spring Branch ISD’s 35,000 students.” Friday, October 9, 2015 Style Show and Luncheon Co-Chairs: Lara Bell and Patty Busmire Saturday, November 21, 2015 Magical Masquerade Ball Chairs: Melissa and Mano DeAyala Tuesday, February 16, 2016 Sporting Clay Tournament Chair: Kirk Guilanshah Sunday, April 3, 2016 Golf Classic Co-Chairs: Doug Goodson and Rob Stewart Saturday, April 30, 2016 Running for the Arts Thursday, May 19, 2016 Bright Stars of SBISD Co-Chairs: Michelle Majewski, Leanne Newton and Casey Rowe For more information, call 713-2512381.

UT Physicians Women’s Center at Memorial City

Left to Right: Barbara Schroeder, MD; Tiffany Tarrant, MD; Jenny Van Winkle, MD and Jenna Mury, NP 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. Our OB/Gyns, Dr. Barbara Schroeder, Dr. Tiffany Tarrant and Dr. Jenny Van Winkle are affiliated with UT Health 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 SEPTEMBER 2015

S E E N on the Scene

The Menninger Clinic’s 2015 Signature Luncheon Honoring the Mental Health Channel

Rick & Connie Wittenbraker

Evelyn & Bob Jewell

Bess & Robert C. Wilson III

Wells & April McGee

Susan Canfield, Elaine Finger, Colleen Holthouse & Leila Gilbert

Chris & Letty Knapp

Lydia & Joe Gorczyca

Catherine, Brittany & Leland Fondren

Corbin & Barbara Robertson

Douglas & Nikki Richnow

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SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

May 7, 2015 • The Westin Galleria Hotel

Linda King Allison & Eliza Duncan

Terry Bryant, Maria Castellvi, Berthica Fitzsimons & Alessander Torre

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Trinka Blaffer Taylor & Ann Trammell

Elissa Love, PA-C Family Medicine

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713.266.9955

Lizabeth Riley, MD Family Medicine

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group welcomes long-term Memorial resident, Jennifer Chong, MD to our practice. At Houston Methodist Primary Care Group, your family’s well-being is at the center of all we do. From wellness visits to managing chronic and acute disease, our board-certified physicians provide the compassionate care you need, as well as access to our leading network of world-class specialists. Our practices offer: Jennifer Chong, MD Family Medicine

• Online scheduling • Same day access • After hours appointments • Convenient location • Patient portal for secure communication with your care team

Visit us online: houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713.266.9955. 7575 San Felipe Street, Suite 155 | Houston, Texas 77063 www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

S E E N on the Scene

George Springer All-Star Bowling Benefit

John, Joshua & Patti Allbritton

Haywood Jeffries, Lisa Velasquez & Rob Sammons

Lance McCullers, Carlos Correa & Vincent Velasquez

Gabe Canales & Julianna Padilla

Amanda Reyes, Blanca Luna & Matthew Stephen

George Springer, Robert Gallegos & Taro Alexander

Chester Pitts & Khambrel Marshall

Alexa Porter & Brian Feiwell

Adam Dunn & Kurt Ainsworth

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Benefiting The Stuttering Association for the Young • July 20, 2015 • Lucky Strike Houston Photos by Daniel Ortiz.

Preston Tucker & Morgan Pirkle

Micheal Garfield & Carolyn Farb

Russ Spielman, Dana Fennewald & Rick Rhodes

Everett Bradley & Roy Marsh

Rob Todd & Dinah Lin

Johanna & Mike Chryssiko with Jim Crane & Whitney Wheeler

Brent, Brooks and Lara Milam

Parker Wright, A.J. Hinch & Doug Wright

Abby Clarke, Charlise Castro & Lena Springer

Coolsculpt now and Rock your favorite dress this holiday season Buy 2 Areas, Get the 3rd Area Free

Call Today

713-458-0224

14441 Memorial Drive, Suite 5 Houston, TX 77079 (Located between Kirkwood and Dairy Ashford)

www.skinscriptionsbymelissagibbens.com www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

absolutely! AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2015 LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER T

he 2015 Land Rover Range Rover is a British SUV that combines top-tier luxury and unsurpassed capability. This vehicle can scale the heights of the Himalayas with ease while swaddling the driver in creamy leather and rockin’ out with the 29 speaker sound system. Why would anyone want to own such a vehicle? Well, Queen Elizabeth II drives a Range Rover when she tours Balmoral, her Scotland country estate. Need I say more? Land Rover brought out the first generation Range Rover in 1970. It was designed to drive fast on English motorways and be sturdy enough to handle muddy and rocky terrain. The first Range Rovers immediately appealed

to Londoners who wanted a vehicle to drive directly from their city homes to and around their country estates. Mud left by boots could easily be hosed out of the interior. The high-quality interior materials came later, but the ability to traverse challenging terrain remained. The 2015 model represents the fourth generation Range Rover with an aluminum unibody that has lost none of its capability or appeal. The exterior styling of this big SUV is classic, understated, timeless and yet very contemporary. It is available in a standard body style and a long-wheelbase (LWB) version. The interior is spacious, although there is no third row option. The quality of the leather used is superb, and the fit and finish is exquisite. Although you may never need to touch it, there’s a knob in the center console that allows the driver to instantly adapt the Range Rover to adverse conditions, such as mud, snow, sand or rock crawling. To fully understand the capability of the Range Rover, a course at a Land Rover Experi-

ence Driving School is a must. You will emerge as a true believer. The base Range Rover has an MSRP of $83,495 and that comes equipped with a 340 hp, 3.0 liter, supercharged V6 engine mated to an eight-speed transmission delivering EPA estimated fuel economy numbers of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. If you need more power, opt for the 510 hp, 5.0 liter supercharged V8 (13 mpg city/19 mpg highway) that can rocket this SUV from 0 to 60 in 5.1 seconds. And just in case you hit it big, the Range Rover Autobiography Black LWB with Valloire White Paint is available for $200,995. It’s the ultimate luxury SUV, truly fit for a queen. Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars. blogspot.com.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

BUSINESS BRIEFS

The Women Driving Business High Heel Connections Social Donna Vallone, the “Grand Dame” of Houston’s fine dining scene, will host the Houston West Chamber of Commerce’s Women Driving Business High Heel Connections Social at Vallone’s in Memorial City on Thursday, October 22nd. Vallone serves on the Houston West Chamber of Commerce Advisory Board and became involved with the Women Driving Business series because of a strong desire to support women in business. In addition, Vallone is the chair and host of the Women’s Excellence in Business luncheon series, an event that attracts female industry leaders from across Houston. “I’ve found that woman network and support one another in an amazing way, and because of their passion, sharing information and working together, it makes it so Donna Vallone easy for me to support female business owners and employees in any way that I am able,” said Vallone. A breast cancer survivor, Vallone also devotes her time to philanthropic efforts that fund cancer research and has served as honoree for several events focused on raising money to eradicate the disease. After 50 years in the restaurant business, Tony and Donna Vallone have become a staple within Houston, and it comes as no surprise that the couple knows how to throw a party, having entertained and hosted members of England’s Royal Family, movie stars, all categories of celebrities and the political elite in their three Houston locations: Tony’s, Ciao Bello and Vallone’s. Jeannie Bollinger, president of the Houston West Chamber of Commerce said, “Donna’s leadership has proven invaluable to our membership, and we are so honored to host our upcoming Women Driving Business social at Vallone’s.” Visit womendrivingbusiness.com or call 713-785-4922 for information.

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www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Memorial’s

Friday Night Lights T

hey say football is big in Texas, and Memorial football is no exception. Each Friday night, stadiums across the area are on fire with Friday night lights, spirited fans and rough and tumble competitions. The question on our minds at absolutely! Memorial as we dust off our stadium seats and wash our favorite jerseys is simple: “Are you ready for some football?” Regardless of who you root for this fall, fans will have plenty of opportunities this season to enjoy the game close to home. To help you make it to your favorite team’s games, here are the 2015 High School Varsity Football Schedules for Memorial and Stratford High schools. Stand up and holler!

Memorial High School

Stratford High School

8/27

Stratford

Tully E

7 pm

8/27

Memorial

Tully

7 pm

9/4

Pearland

Tully

7 pm

9/4

Elsik

Crump

7 pm

9/12

Cinco Ranch

Tully

6 pm

9/12

Ridge Point

Hall

6 pm

9/18

Summer Creek

Turner

7 pm

9/25

Magnolia

7 pm

9/25

Aldine Davis

Tully

7 pm

10/2

Tomball

Tully

7 pm

10/10 Aldine

Thorne

6 pm

10/9

Brenham

Cub Stadium 7 pm

10/17 Aldine Nimitz

Tully

6 pm

10/16 Spring Woods

10/23 Aldine MacArthur Thorne

7 pm

10/23 Tomball Memorial Tomball

7 pm

10/30 Aldine Eisenhower Tully

7 pm

10/29 Magnolia West Tully

7 pm

11/6

7 pm

11/6

7 pm

Northbrook

Tully E

Waller

“Football is like life - it requires perseverance, self-denial, hard work, sacrifice, dedication and respect for authority.” – Vince Lombardi Home Games are Bold Homecoming is Red

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Tully

Waller

7 pm

Fall In Love With Your Skin • • • • •

Dysport Botox Restylane Perlane Juvederm

• • • • •

Radiesse Dermaplaning Chemical Peels Laser Services Sclerotherapy

• • • •

Clear & Brilliant Laser Skin Pen CoolSculpting® Ultherapy

Radiesse Dermal Filler $525 a Syringe ( $125 Savings )

10% Off Ultherapy Dysport $3.33 a Unit Obagi Radiance Peel $125 ( $25 Savings )

713-458-0224

14441 Memorial Drive, Ste 5 • Houston, TX 77079

www.skinscriptionsbymelissagibbens.com

Partners in Health Pediatrics Paul S. Metz, DDS, MD • Shelley Seidel, DDS, MD John Orfanos, DDS, MD

Dedicated to the Health of Children and Youth

Care we provide includes: Well child visits from birth to 18 years of age Sick visits

Back to school and sports

WE TREAT FACIAL INJURIES Dental Implants • Teeth Extractions • IV Sedation • Bone Grafts Sleep Apnea Correction • Facial / Dental Trauma • Oral Pathology Orthognathic/ Reconstructive Surgery • Teeth-in-a-Day

713.464.2833

www.OMSH.us

8800 Katy Freeway, Ste. 210 • Houston, Texas 77024

Routine childhood and youth immunizations

We accept all types of health insurance plans including Medicaid.

School / sports physicals

Walk-ins are welcome.

ADHD consultation and much more

Call us to schedule an appointment today.

Sonober Umair, MD, FAAP

713-255-0400

Diplomate American Board of Pediatrics

Dr. Umair is fluent in Spanish, Hindi and Urdu languages as well. Come and experience our personalized care for your child.

902 Frostwood Dr., Suite 179 Houston, TX 77024 (Medical Plaza One)

Fax: 713-255-0404

www.pihpeds.com

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

••

EVENTS

• •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

By Stephanie Valtasaros

Distinctive Residential Settings | Chef-Prepared Dining and Bistro | Pool Premier Health and Wellness Programs | Award-Winning Memory Care Professionally Supervised Therapy and Rehabilitation Services Open for tours seven days a week — call today! West University (713) 592-9200 Hunters Creek (713) 781-1505 belmontvillage.com © 2015 Belmont Village, L.P. | ALF 106016, 030197

AbsMem_9_2015_golden.indd 1

7/22/15 11:14 AM

Pratik Vakil, DMD, MA

Gentle, Caring Dentist You Can Trust • • • • • for the Whole Family! • Family and Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Veneers, Fillings, Crowns • 3-D Imaging, CT Scan • Full Mouth Restorations • Teeth Whitening

Treatment

BEFORE

Most Major Insurances Accepted! Schedule your appointment today

281-397-3352

Theatre Under The Stars presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid, featuring bright, inventive sets and costumes. The family-friendly musical features favorite songs such as Under the Sea and Part of Your World, as well as new songs written by Oscar-winning Disney tunesmith Alan Menken. The performances take place at the Hobby Center, located at 800 Bagby Street. For tickets and more information, visit www.tuts.com or call 713-315-2400.

AFTER

www.smile32dentist.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Photo by Bruce Bennett.

Call us TODAY! 14637 Memorial Dr., Ste B Houston TX 77079

Relive Beatlemania with the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall, located at 615 Louisiana Street, as they pay tribute to the first time the Beatles officially arrived in Houston 50 years ago and performed at the Sam Houston Coliseum. The first half of the program features the entire Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, ranked #1 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The second half includes a salute to the biggest hits of the band’s astounding career, featuring tunes such as Let It Be, All You Need Is Love and Eleanor Rigby. Tickets start at $25. For tickets and more information, visit www.houstonsymphony.org.

September 10th – 13th The Little Mermaid

• Sleep Apnea • Laser Dentistry • Invisalign • Six Month Smiles • TMJ Treatment

September 4th – 6th Music of the Beatles

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

September 18th – 20th Dog Days at Discovery Green Bring your pup for a three-day festival at Discovery Green, located at 1500 McKinney Street. The festival includes canine athletes from Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana competing in jumping events, a doggie costume contest and more! Dogs of every shape and size compete for the grand prize in diverse jumping challenges, including the high jump and long jump off a 20 foot dock into a 40 foot pool of water on the Jones Lawn. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit www.discoverygreen.com/dogdays.

Memorial Hermann Memorial City

Apurva B. Pancholy, MD

Dr. Apurva B. Pancholy

Common conditions treated:

September 23rd – 25th, 11 am Children’s Performance of The Velveteen Rabbit The Houston Grand Opera presents The Velveteen Rabbit, adapted from the beloved book by Margery Williams, which tells the story of the enduring bond between a child and his favorite toy. This heartwarming story is a delight for all ages. The free performances take place at Miller Outdoor Theatre, located at 6000 Hermann Park Drive. For more information, visit www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.

Caring for women with pelvic floor disorders...

Urogynecology Center

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

1-888-4UT-DOCS | www.UTPhysicians.com

September 26th St. Jude Walk to End Childhood Cancer Join supporters in Houston at the Houston Zoo to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The 5K family-friendly walk includes live entertainment, free food and much more. The fee for adults and children ages six and up is $10. Registration begins at 6:45 am, and the walk begins at 7:45 am at the main entrance of the zoo, located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. To learn more, visit www.stjude.org/walkrun.

Meet Katherine O’Sullivan Saturday September 19th 2 pm 281-497-8675 14532 Memorial Dr. @ Dairy Ashford Details at www.bluewillowbookshop.com www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

By Rusty Graham

2007 Bond Project Recognizes Legacy of Former

Spring Branch High School

eremonial dirt was turned on Tuesday, June 30th at the former Spring Branch High School, a groundbreaking literally years in the making. Spring Branch High School opened in 1949, moving into its building on Westview in 1952 where it operated until closed by the district in 1985. The building morphed into the Spring Branch Education Center (SBEC), housing the district’s Academy of Choice and Cornerstone Academy. Significantly, the building also housed a collection of artifacts from the high school, a treasure trove of memorabilia that serves as tangible reminders of a Spring Branch that once was. And while the facility was scheduled to have work done as part of the 2007 bond program, the work was mechanical in nature and made no visible difference from the street. “We had allocated about $18 million for basic renovations,” said former superintendent Duncan Klussmann, whose role in the groundbreaking was one of his last official acts. “I worried that we wouldn’t be able to tell we’d spent any money at all. We started talking about what we could do.” After a study of the district’s site on Westview, a site that includes SBEC, a warehouse, community education, tax office, Grob Stadium, Spring Branch ISD Police Department, the Bear Boulevard School and Vines Science Center, a plan was devised that would demolish the wings from SBEC and rebuild separate wings for Academy of Choice and Cornerstone Academy. The plan leaves the original auditorium and library from 1952, bridging the current and future Spring Branch High School’s rich legacy. The Spring Branch High School Museum will have a permanent home in the building’s former library,

The new project honors the legacy of Spring Branch Senior High School.

giving it more display space and a more accessible location. Through sound financial management of the $597.1 million 2007 bond program, the district was able to find another $10 million to pay for the $29 million renovation of the campus. For the June 30th groundbreaking, alumni, including District A Houston City Council member Brenda Stardig, shared history and memories of Spring Branch High School, underscoring the school’s legacy in the community. “The spirit of the Bear didn’t die when the school was closed,” said Della Sivley Mousner, class of 1953 and the museum’s curator, following up on Linda House’s comments on how the alumni association and museum came into being. Jill Wright, school director of Cornerstone Academy who will add Academy of Choice to her duties after the retirement of Michele Hilberth, said she was excited that after years of trying to force programs to fit the building, the building would be designed to fit the programs. Mike Andrews, class of 1959 and former mayor of Spring Valley, inside whose boundaries the school lies, brought back memories of his time as a student at Spring Branch Senior High School, describing favorite teachers, administrators and life in the community at the time.

Spring Branch Senior High School Alumni Association members Alice Smuts Blackburn, Ida Pearl Pape-Ripple McDonald, Brenda Stardig, Lois Dorsey Cramer, Della Sivley Mousner and Linda House at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Board of Trustees Vice President Karen Peck said that trustees were excited when presented the opportunity to do something special with the SBEC site, pointing out that beyond honoring the legacy of Spring Branch High School, the building in more recent years has been the “embodiment of the district’s belief” in student choice. Besides the new wings, plans call for restoration of the building’s original entry, currently behind the two-story brown brick wings stretching across the Westview entrance built in 1958 to handle ever-increasing enrollment. The Spring Branch High School name will be added back to the building by including the museum. The auditorium’s interior will be redone as well. “We are committed to doing this right,” Klussmann said. Academy of Choice and Cornerstone Academy will reside in the East Transition Center – the former Edgewood Elementary building on Emnora – until the renovation is complete in late 2016.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

DENTIST TO THE ENERGY CORRIDOR

Spectrum of Tastes: Charitable Dining at Its Best

Terrence C. O’Keefe, DDS, PC

Cameron, Connor, Wendy and Collin Dawson.

Who doesn’t love a great reason to dine out? If a fivecourse tasting menu isn’t enough, add in the charitable contribution to Social Motion Skills, a local program dedicated to helping children and young adults with learning differences, including autism spectrum disorders, such as Asperger’s syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and the social needs of those with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The Spectrum of Tastes event benefiting Social Motion Skills takes place Monday, September 14th at 6:30 pm at Ibiza Restaurant, located at 2450 Louisiana Street. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that autism affects one in 88 children and of that, one in 54 boys. Factor in those who have ADD and ADHD, and it is clear that many families raising children with learning differences need a lifespan partner to assist them with services and solutions as their child ages from school to work to independence. Social Motion Skills offers social skill training focused on communication, self-awareness, self-esteem and perspective taking. Community-based activities help generalize social awareness skills in a real-world format for students ages five-years-old to 45 years-old. The Spectrum of Tastes fundraising dinner was envisioned by local resident Wendy Dawson, founder of Social Motion Skills, who created the program for her son Cameron. Tasting across celebrity chef Charles Clark’s culinary spectrum ties into the idea that services must be provided to cover the wide range or “spectrum” of learning differences being diagnosed in our community. This year’s fundraising efforts focus on expanding class locations around Houston and the Foundations job transition program. For tickets and sponsorships, call 713-461-7200 or visit www.socialmotionskills.org/events.

Cosmetics, Implants & General Dentistry 11757 Katy Freeway Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77079 www.drokeefe.com 281.496.6878

Our team provides personalized attention to detail while Dr. O’Keefe prides himself on developing lasting, one-on-one relationships with every person in our care. Whatever your dental needs, we will create a healthy, attractive smile that will exceed your expectations. Member of:

Texas Monthly: Super Dentist 2011-2014 Houstonia Magazine: Top Dentist 2013-2015 H Texas: Top Dentist 2011 – 2015

YOUR CHILD CAN SUCCEED IN SCHOOL! For over 35 years, our proven method has helped thousands of students improve skills, confidence, and grades. • Interactive reading, writing and math development • An academic evaluation identifies problem areas • Programs tailored to address each student’s needs • Lessons are taught at the student’s pace

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When you ask about our fall programs!

Memorial / Hedwig Village 9451 Katy Freeway, 77024 713-933-2655 Memorial.huntingtonhelps.com © 2012 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. *Offer valid for Academic Evaluation or Tuition, new students only. Not valid with any other offer HPA111-3

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Ask Alex: All About Mums

lex Belt is a Memorial mom, business owner and all around in the know kind of gal. Friends call on her relentlessly for advice. With football season in full swing and homecoming just around the corner, we’re doing what everyone else does – asking Alex!

Q A A homecoming mum and garter created by the Memorial Markettes.

Q A

I just moved to Texas and am not familiar with homecoming mums. Can you tell me about the tradition?

A homecoming mum is an oversized mum corsage decorated with three-foot long streamers in the school colors with bells, charms, banners, plush animals dressed in bows, sparkly letters and even lights. Mums are a highly popular tradition in Texas schools. Homecoming mums are usually worn on the chest with the streamers flowing down the front of the body almost touching the ankles. They make quite a fashion statement! Homecoming mums can be given to the wearer by a boyfriend, friends, mom, dad, aunt or just about anyone to express how special they are and that they are truly loved.

Where can I buy a mum for my child’s homecoming?

The Memorial Markettes make homecoming mums every year as their biggest annual fundraiser. You can choose from their designs and add special trinkets and sayings per mum. The Memorial Markettes on average make and sell 450 each year of which 200 are garters for boys. They start making mums in February, as it takes countless Markettes and moms to make each homecoming mum special. You can purchase mums through the Markettes at Memorial High school or online at markettes.weebly.com.

A homecoming garter.

My daughter wants to give her date something for homecoming. What do guys usually get?

Andrew Strong and Meghan Reily.

Garter mums are designed for the guys to wear on their upper arm and can be customized with their sport theme, musical theme or school club theme. They resemble a miniature mum.

Q A

If I wanted to make my own homecoming mum for my son’s date, can you tell me how to do this?

Warm up the glue gun! When making a mum, start with a two-circle disc of white cardboard stapled together for strength. Add ribbon points or loops of ribbon spaced all around the edge of the circle. You can add as many layers to the base before adding the mum, using feathers, curling ribbon, sparkly ribbon, lace or other material. Then, start adding the long ribbons with the school name ribbons. It is best to have a base of long ribbons, like three to four inches wide by 20 to 22 inches long. Next, add all of the fun trinkets to make it bling and jingle by using hot glue or tying them on. For a silk mum, spray with glitter glue for added sparkle, then staple on the white cardboard base. Hot glue the mascot in the center of the mum, add the grade level trinket, hot glue a pipe cleaner loop at the top so that it can be pinned on and add another white circle on the back to hide staples. Keep adding more to personalize it as much as possible.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

Newspring Fundraising Luncheon

Don and Mary Kay Coleman

More than 200 area residents are expected to attend a fundraising luncheon in support of Newspring, a faith-based non-profit dedicated to making positive social and economic impact in the Spring Branch area since 2007. Coach Don and Mary Kay Coleman, longtime residents of the Spring Branch Memorial area, will chair the inaugural event on Tuesday, September 22nd from 11:30 am to 1 pm at The Houston Racquet Club. “We are honored to chair this event in support of our mission – inspiring at-risk populations in Spring Branch to define and achieve a bright economic future,” said Mary Kay, a Newspring board member. “The issues confronting at-risk youth and young adults in Spring Branch are not standing still, waiting for us to act. They must be faced each day, one person at a time,” said Robert Westheimer, chairman of the board and founder of Newspring. “At Newspring, we are encouraged by our faith that God will continue to bring others alongside us, working together to bless the Spring Branch community.” Hosting the event is Bill Stubbs, wellknown interior designer and supporter of Newspring since its inception, and Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale will be the keynote speaker. The event will also honor Wayne Schaper for his 50 plus years of leadership in and advocacy for the Spring Branch community. For more information, contact Mary Kay Coleman at 713-464-3824 or marykaycoleman@comcast.net.

Call for your appointment today

713-458-0224

www.skinscriptionsbymelissagibbens.com

14441 Memorial Drive, Ste 5 • Houston, TX 77079 (Located between Kirkwood and Dairy Ashford) 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. ©2015 Ulthera, Inc. Ultherapy and See the Beauty of Sound are trademarks of Ulthera, Inc . 1002222C

ctober is absolutely Breast Cancer Awareness Month The October issue of absolutely! Memorial Magazine will be dedicated to breast cancer awareness and breast cancer survivors.

To advertise, call 281-690-4242 www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

r e n or n

C Bir ’ rick t s a id By P

Everyday Concussions

ith all of the focus and attention concussions are getting nowadays, it isn’t strange to see how parents are so very sensitive towards them when it comes to youth sports. But interestingly enough, some medical reports estimate that more children suffer concussions due to non-sports injuries than sports-related injuries. It’s easy to compartmentalize the fear to just athletics, but be prepared as parents to identify and treat concussions elsewhere.

It seems silly, but I can’t tell you how many parents at our sports center pressure us – or their child – to overrule a doctor’s concussion recovery plan simply because their child looks fine. The parents do not understand that the symptoms of a concussion don’t always correlate with the actual severity of the brain injury. While no parent or coach can prevent all injuries from occurring, they can control the level of training, responsiveness and precautions of the environment into which they place their child. Many athletic leagues and facilities require coaches to complete a concussion certification program every two years, as well as training in the prevention, treatment and return to competition. Parents should never shy away from asking questions before their child gets injured. In all circumstances, they should always follow a medical professional’s prognosis and never let a coach pressure them or an athlete back into competition against medical advice. But this still leaves out most of the concussions that kids experience. Since it is estimated that most occur outside of sports, how do parents prevent, identify and treat concussions? Even as a certified Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician, I had my own level of panic and uncertainty when my two-yearold decided to dive off the couch and slam his face into the coffee table. I know me, and I know that in those moments with my own child, I am not always the most calm or rational. So, I typed up a “concussion protocol” for our house. It’s just one page and is based on what I’ve learned through my training, business and ongoing research. It lists the possible symptoms of concussions, the “red flag” emergency symptoms that require an immediate emergency room visit and the steps we take should one of our boys have an injury to their head. It’s great for grandparents and babysitters too. I encourage parents to talk to their child’s doctor and coaches, do research and form their own protocol for concussions around their house. While parents can’t prevent all injuries to their kids, they can arm themselves with up-to-date information and throw aside the old wives’ tales, putting kids on the best and healthiest road to recovery when concussions do occur.

A concussion in its most general definition is simply “a general disruption of brain activity.” A child may suffer a concussion from hitting his head on cement or from the whiplash motion in a car accident. He might get one from being hit in the head with a baseball or from falling off the bed. The child might black out or never lose consciousness. He may have a severe headache or not have one at all. This huge variability when it comes to both causes and symptoms of concussions leads to the general confusion that most parents, coaches and businesses have, as well as the “better safe than sorry” mentality in most concussion protocols, which are very slow to return an athlete to sports.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

NEWSWORTHY

The Memorial Hermann Foundation to Host 6th Annual Razzle Dazzle The Memorial Hermann Foundation will host the 6th Annual Razzle Dazzle Luncheon, “The Power of Pink,” at The Westin Houston, Memorial City Hotel on Thursday, October 1st. Yvonne Cormier and Claire Cormier Thielke will serve as this year’s co-chairs, along with honorary chair Donna Vallone. This year’s luncheon will honor breast cancer survivor Cora Sue Mach for her support of breast cancer awareness and Cora Sue Mach treatment, as well as her tireless philanthropic work in the community. The Memorial Hermann Foundation is excited to welcome back Geralyn Lucas, the New York Times best-selling author of Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy and most recently Then Came Life, as this year’s keynote speaker. Guests at the luncheon will enjoy shopping from local boutiques while sipping on champagne and pink lemonade. Confirmed boutiques include Chocolate Pizazz, DEFINE body & mind, Haute and Cool, Julie Beth Handbags, Kelly Kathleen Designs, Kendra Scott, Presmer, Smocked Frock and Trebor Style. Proceeds from the luncheon will benefit early detection and outreach programs at the Bobetta Lindig Breast Care Center located at Memorial Hermann Memorial City. The Bobetta Lindig Breast Care Center is a comprehensive breast health facility

with a full range of advanced screening and diagnostic services. Whether it’s a routine mammogram, diagnostic mammogram or biopsy, the caring staff and physicians provide early answers and the best treatment options available. Since its inception in 2010, Razzle Dazzle has generated more than $1,270,000 to support breast cancer patients and their families receiving care. One of the innovative measures incorporated into the Breast Center as a result of the success of the luncheon is tomosynthesis 3D mammogram technology. Thanks to funds raised at Razzle Dazzle, Memorial Hermann is equipped with the latest breast imaging technology to detect the earliest stages of breast cancer. “Five years ago, a group of women passionate about breast cancer awareness created this fabulous event,” stated Ileana Treviño, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the Memorial Hermann Foundation. “The luncheon is now a signature Houston event to support comprehensive breast cancer services.” For more information on sponsorships and tickets, visit www. razzledazzlepink.com or call 713242-4450.

Dentistry with a Woman’s Touch... General and Family Dentistry Member Of:

690U Texas Dental Association • Academy of General Dentistry • American Dental Association

Your556Ucomplete care includes Tooth-Colored Fillings • Crowns • Veneers • “Zoom” In-Office Whitening and Take Home Trays Professional Cleanings and Polishings • Implant Restorations New patients and visitors welcome

Call Today 713-465-3626

www.SBarfieldDDS.com DrBarfield@SBarfieldDDS.com

Accepting emergencies

915 North Gessner Rd., Suite 660, Prof. Building 3, Houston, TX 77024 Located Next to Memorial City Mall • Hours: M-F 8 am to 4 pm

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Texas Law: Where Should I File for Divorce?

“ Your Neighborhood Financial Advisor ”

By Nancy L. Rommelmann, Family Law Attorney General residency rule: A person can file for divorce in Texas and in a specific county if either the wife or the husband have been a domiciliary of the state of Texas for six months and a resident of the county for the 90 days prior to filing for the divorce. The test for residence and domicile requirements generally involve an inquiry as to the parties’ intent. This requires that there is an intention to establish a permanent home accompanied by some act done to execute that act. Divorce by non-resident spouse: If one spouse has been a domiciliary of Texas for at least the last six months, a spouse domiciled in another state or nation may file a suit for divorce in the county in which the domiciliary spouse resides at the time the petition is filed.

1811 Bering Drive, Suite 250 Houston, TX 77057 713-714-8500 www.jdjoyceimg.com Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Network, LLC(WFAFN) Member Sipc. J. D. Joyce Investment Managment Group, LLC is a seperate entity from WFAFN

(mediation and arbitration)

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

Straight Answers • Strategic Thinking Compassionate • Experienced

Nancy L. Rommelmann 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!

FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY

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

Acquiring jurisdiction over a nonresident spouse: If one of the parties has resided in Texas for six months and has been a resident of a county for the 90 days preceding filing for divorce, but the other party no longer resides in Texas, the court may exercise personal jurisdiction over the out of state party/their personal representative if:

Texas is the last marital residence of the parties and the suit is filed before the second anniversary or the date on which the marital residence ended, or

There is any basis consistent with the Texas constitution for exercise of personal jurisdiction. Armed forces personnel not previously residents: A person not previously a resident of Texas who is serving in the armed forces of the United States and has been stationed at a military installation in Texas for at least the last six months and a military installation in a county of Texas for at least 90 days is considered to be a Texas domiciliary and a resident of that county for those periods for the purpose of filing for a divorce.

“Love begins at home, and it isn’t how much we do . . . but how much love we put in that action.” – Mother Teresa

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

LEGAL EAGLES

PROFILES Photo by Nesossi Studios.

Mitha Law Firm, P.C.

Iqbal “Ike” Mitha Attorney at Law

9494 Southwest Freeway Suite 550, Houston, TX 77074 1455 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-621-4555 imitha@mithalawfirm.com www.mithalawfirm.com

Mitha Law Firm was established 23 years ago with the goal of providing intelligent and strategic solutions for clients’ legal issues by first comprehensively analyzing each client’s specific requirements. Iqbal “Ike” Mitha’s clients consider him a trusted advisor because of the premium quality of his legal services, thorough knowledge of the law, experience, ethics and integrity. Mitha has handled 275 litigation cases with exceptional success. The firm’s practice areas are business litigation, business and real estate transactions, personal injury litigation and estate planning. Mitha Law Firm has been very successful in obtaining substantial results for their clients and in averting clients from significant liabilities in excess of $100 million. Mitha is highly regarded for advising business owners and individuals on best practices to minimize legal problems. Mitha is a graduate of Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University. Mitha’s legal experience includes working in the office of the Chief Justice of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, as well as practicing criminal defense law in Fort Bend and Harris counties. Mitha supports many non-profit organizations through charitable contributions, community service and pro bono work, including the Asia Society Texas Center, Aga Khan Development Network, Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, Child Advocates of Fort Bend and Greater Houston Retailers Association. With Mitha Law Firm on their side, clients can protect and enforce their legal rights. When lawsuits are unavoidable, they can provide a strong defense.

10 Questions To Finding the Perfect Lawyer

hese questions should give you general knowledge of a specific lawyer’s experience, expertise and skill level, and most importantly, whether the lawyer is a good fit for you. 1. How long have you practiced law? 2. What type of cases do you handle, and what percentage of your practice is devoted to this specific area? 3. Who is your typical client? 4. How many cases have you represented that were similar to mine? 5. What kind of special training or knowledge do you have that might apply in my situation? 6. What are your fees, and how are they billed? Will paralegals or legal assistants be working on my case? 7. What is your philosophy in representing a case? 8. Can I solve my legal problem without hiring a lawyer? 9. How will you let me know what’s happening with my case? 10. What is the likely outcome in my case?

T. Aaron Dobbs Shareholder

Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey P.C. T. Aaron Dobbs is a shareholder at Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey P.C. and leads the firm’s estate planning, probate and trust section. Dobbs advises beneficiaries, executors, trustees, trust departments, creditors and non-profits in all aspects of estate planning and estate and trust administration, probate, will contests, trust and fiduciary litigation, creditor claims and guardianship disputes before trial and appellate courts across the state of Texas. Dobbs is board certified in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been listed by Thomson Reuters as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in Estate and Trust Litigation in 2014 and 2015, and by H Texas Magazine as a Top Lawyer for Wills, Trusts and Estates in 2014 and 2015.

2277 Plaza Drive, Suite 290 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-207-7697 • www.rmwbhlaw.com adobbs@rmwbhlaw.com www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Jan Glenn’s Pawsitively Purrfect

It’s Pawty Time!

Every Dog Has His Day

ummer is over! The kiddos are back in school, and finally it is time for the family dog. Summer is usually kid season, and the dog takes the back seat. Now is the time to do something for your four-legged best friend. Give him a howling good “pawty!” Round up those bow-wow pals and have an old-fashioned Texas “Bark-B-Q” or a birthday bash. A pawty is great fun for your pal, no matter the occasion. After choosing a theme and the date, the next big decision is the guest list. It should include an interesting selection of friends from all walks of life to provide a stimulating exchange of gossip and growls. The invitations could simply be barked over the phone or written. Written invitations are fun if your creative spirit is working overtime. Don’t invite too many guests, or the event may get out of control. If your dog is shy, one or two guests might be plenty.

Samantha celebrating her first birthday.

If the pawty includes games, such as fetch or pin the tail on the doggy, prizes could be given. It is important that each guest wins something even if it isn’t a contest prize. A dog could win Best Pawty Animal, Miss Congeniality, Most Handsome or Most Beautiful, and toys and ribbons are ideal as prizes. The food served should be “paw food,” because some of the four-legged pals might not have the best etiquette. Serve a dog-friendly cake that is vanilla or lemon flavored. Chocolate and fudge are dangerous for dogs, so that is a big no. There are hundreds of cake recipes online if you want to make a cake, or you can enlist the help of a canine caterer. Pet bakeries are all over Houston serving snickerpoodles, woofers, pupcakes, doggie bits and other take-out items to add to the menu, so let your creativity go wild. Don’t forget to include cake and cookies for the two-legged guests. After all, they brought the dogs to the pawty. As the pawty starts winding down, individual doggie bags filled with pet goodies can be handed out. They can be filled with small gift cards to pet stores, dog shampoo, brushes and other canine beauty essentials and dog treats. These treats are great for the Fidos and Fidoettes, but don’t forget the human guests. A thank-you note for their participation is a nice touch.

Princess Grace Kelly on her eighth birthday.

Remember, the pawty is for your pal and should include games, cake, presents, doggie bags and a pawty nap. Pawty hats and individual doggie bag treats are fun items to add to the festivities, but forget the noisemakers for this crowd, and remember to alert the neighbors that you are having a canine gathering. Entertainment is easy! This crowd brings its own. Watching the interaction of the animals checking each other out, competing in fetch or simply being cute is enough. Chances are the owners will have more fun than the doggies.

Bridget Bardot Dog dressed for a pawty.

At the end of the pawty, guests can gather to exchange tall “tails” or “howl” at the moon! Everyone can autograph a stuffed dog, so Bowser – and you – will have a momento of this fabulous day. Everyone will be dog tired after having such a doggone good time!

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Benefiting

You are invited to the 21st annual

American Girl Fashion Show

2015 Texas Monthly Super Dentist

at the Junior League of Houston

Saturday, November 14 Breakfast—10:00 a.m. Lunch—1:00 p.m. Sunday, November 15 Lunch—1:00 p.m. Tea—4:00 p.m. Enjoy elegant refreshments, enter to win prizes, and learn how clothing has changed over the years to reflect history, culture and girls’ individual styles during this fun-filled presentation of historical and contemporary fashions. Runway Tables available starting at $1,650 Individual Tickets available starting $50 VIP Model Packages available for $150

DrJenningsOrtho.com 13132 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079

Purchase Online or by Phone: www.hitsfashionshow.com Phone: 713.904.3777 311 W. 18th Street

Fewer visits. Better results. Orthodontics simplified.

(Near Beltway and Memorial Dr.) Monday - Wednesday • 8am - 5pm

The most fun possible while gettin g smile that a rocks!

Benefiting HITS Theatre Houston, TX 77008 www.hitstheatre.org

FREE SUBSCRIPTION

www.absolutelymemorial.com

The Case for Christ

A Journalist’s Personal Search of the Evidence for Jesus

theist-turned-Christian Lee Strobel, joins us to kickoff a three-week study of his best-selling book, The Case for Christ, his personal quest for the truth about Jesus.

The former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribue is the author of more than 20 books and serves as Professor of Christian Thought at Houston Baptist University. The Case for Christ records Strobel’s attempt to “determine if there’s credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God.”

12 Issues a Year Delivered Free absolutely! Memorial Magazine wants to provide readers with the best community feature magazine possible. We want to focus on our READERS and mail exclusively to residents who invite us into their home. Requests are FREE to all Memorial and Galleria addresses*. * Annual paid subscription required outside Memorial and Galleria areas. Call 281-690-4242.

Wednesday, September 16 6:30 PM MDPC Sanctuary

Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church 11612 Memorial Drive at Blalock | 77024 | mdpc.org

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

absolutely! HEALTHY LIVING

erial yoga is the newest yoga trend sweeping fitness studios across America, and Memorial just jumped on the bandwagon! A 75 minute exercise takes students through meditations, standing and seated poses, balancing postures and inversions. This isn’t a traditional mat class. Instead, participants enjoy a low-intensity workout with a hammock suspended in the air. Elevated yoga is a relatively restorative practice – with the exception of some challenging poses – including a dash of Cirque de Soleil. Aerial yoga helps build core and upper body strength, as well as flexibility and relieving stress. “There is something very liberating about floating, stretching and flying through the air. The best part about this sport is the inversions, which lengthen your muscles and release tension in your back,” said Donovan Greer, owner of Pro Dynamics.

Hanging in Downward Dog over fabric will soothe an old back injury in seconds. Inversions are gentle on shoulders, neck and wrists. The hammock used in flying yoga is a silk-like texture called tricot. Not only is the fabric soothing to the skin, but it also encourages relaxation during the workout. Additionally, the hammock is the perfect prop for support and a safe approach to gradually building strength and balance. “This has been a popular form of yoga with Hollywood celebrities for a long time, so I am excited to see it here in Houston – let alone in Memorial!” said Melissa Mann, who recently attended her first class. The aerial hammock makes it easier to hold an inverted pose while correcting alignment. Although many first-time students struggle with the vulnerability of letting go and placing full trust in the hammock, opening up

Ali Greer

to the experience of aerial yoga can inspire participants in the best ways. Those who are looking for a boost of adventure and playfulness may find aerial yoga to be the perfect dose of happiness and well-being.

Dr. Katia Lemke, DMD Orthodontic Specialist

Braces for Children & Adults • New Low-Dose DIGITAL X-ray •

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SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

absolutely

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

F E AT U R I N G

5 Tips for Tackling a Home Improvement Project River Oaks Plant House Texas Custom Patios Heritage Texas Properties Kaleidoscope Studio of Interior Design Shyne Energy Nos Caves Vin Custom Wine Rooms 7 Painting Projects for Weekend Warriors

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Advertorial

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

Tips for Tackling a Home Improvement Project

hether you’ve just bought a new home or you’re looking to refresh your familiar abode, chances are good you have a laundry list of home improvement projects to accomplish.

rom aesthetic upgrades like replacing laminate floors in the kitchen with patterned tile to practical necessities like removing tree roots from sewage pipes, there is no shortage of projects for homeowners to tackle. With so much to do, homeimprovement projects can feel overwhelming. Rely on research tools such as YP.com and these five tips from home blogger and author Justina Blakeney to help you get started.

Timing is everything. Prioritize projects by needs, not wants. Blakeney advises making sure important projects like functioning air-conditioning are set before tackling less crucial ones like popcorn ceilings. Create a list of all of the things on your wish list. Then start with the most timely matters and work your way down the list. Be realistic with your goals, and always factor in 20 percent more money and time than you think the project will take to leave some leeway for any unexpected issues that may arise.

Do it yourself (DIY) or hire an expert? Some projects are simple enough to DIY, like swapping out the greenery in the yard. But other projects, like installing solar panels or getting a new water heater, may be outside your wheelhouse and better handled by experts. Honestly assess your own level of expertise, permit requirements and local regulations, your budget, your timeline and ultimate goals before deciding whether to DIY or hire an expert. Whether you need a personal organizer or a painter, a foundation specialist or a handyman, if you decide an expert is the way to go, ask friends for referrals and then head online to check business information and dig a little deeper before getting a project bid.

Get organized. Doing your homework before starting a project can help speed things up later on. Create a “mybook®” collection at YP.com of professionals you will be working with and stores you will source materials from. You’ll have all of the info in one place for follow-ups, and it’s easy to share the info with friends once they start asking

for recommendations. Also get a clear breakdown of all elements involved in each project, how much each step will cost and deadlines for each step along the way. A clear plan of action will help keep the budget and timeline in check.

Get savvy. One of the best ways to save time and money is to find things second hand. Thrift shops, salvage shops and flea markets are great places to find furniture, appliances and hardware on the cheap. Or, repurpose items you already own by moving them to a different room or by painting them different colors. Explore all of your options and resources before going out and spending that hard-earned cash.

Just get started. It’s okay to start small. Swap out the old hardware on your kitchen cabinets or fix the broken brick on your patio. Just start somewhere, and build your way up to the larger stuff. If you’re feeling paralyzed, try setting and accomplishing one small home improvement goal every week. Source: Family Features

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.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

Topiaries: A Garden’s Living Sculptures Topiary refers to the horticultural art of training plants to grow into and maintain defined shapes or designs. Originally, this meant trimming down shrubs until they formed a shape. These “living sculptures” can take the form of almost anything, from basic geometric shapes to animals. The sky is the limit when it comes to designing topiaries. Fortunately, topiaries now hold their unique shape without any laborious gardening. Thanks to a revolutionary approach, these life-like plant structures are now easy to maintain. Topiaries grow in full or partial sun, as well as in the shade. Likewise, their resistance to diseases is key to consider. When meticulously created with patience, great craftsmanship and attention to detail, topiaries will not only have a unique shape and quality but will last for years. This makes topiaries the garden equivalent of sculpting. The most important factor in maintaining and growing a topiary is water. Do not let a topiary dry out. The moss on it must remain moist until the next watering. Additionally, the “coat” will grow much more rapidly if fertilized two or three times a month using any general house plant food. The experts at River Oaks Plant House recommend Peters 20-20-20 or Miracle Grow. For larger pieces, look for a manufacturer that provides an efficient, built-in sprinkler system for ease in maintenance and additional beautification. The key daily requirements to care for topiaries are simply water and love. Rest assured that in exchange, they will return your love many times over. For more information and special offers, visit www. RiverOaksPlantHouse.com/am. See ad on page 43.

Texas Custom Patios Is Your Design-Build Outdoor Living Expert Texas Custom Patios is the Houston area’s premier designer and builder of stylish outdoor living spaces. The company is a family-owned, residential remodeling contractor specializing in designing and building custom projects to enhance outdoor living, such as patio covers, outdoor kitchens, sunrooms, fireplaces, screened porches, pergolas and decorative patios. They have completed over 1,000 projects in the Houston area since 2004. Texas Custom Patios provides a turnkey custom design project. Their specialty is building projects that look original to the home, including patio covers, pergolas, screened porches, room additions, guest houses, decks, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and custom patios. They serve much of the Greater Houston area, including Cypress, Memorial, The Woodlands, Fulshear, Katy, Kingwood, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Pearland, Spring, Sugar Land and Tomball. If you are in or near these areas, contact Texas Custom Patios today to discuss your project. Clients 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 the process they use, from design to completed construction, visit their website. There is also a huge photo gallery with hundreds of pictures of completed projects to provide ideas for your dream backyard. Contact Texas Custom Patios today to schedule a free design consultation! For more information, call 281-265-1994 or visit www.texascustompatios.com.

YOUR DESIGN-BUILD Outdoor Living Experts

Patio Covers • Outdoor Kitchens • Screened Porches • Decorative Patios • Sunrooms • And More!

Spend Time Outdoors this Fall

Call today to schedule a free design consultation: For Design Ideas, visit:

281-265-1994

www.TexasCustomPatios.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 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 Heritage Texas Properties Introduces Bold New Look For nearly four decades, Heritage Texas Properties has been a respected name in providing distinguished residential brokerage services for clients in Texas and beyond. As they embark on the next 40 years, Heritage is making a bold statement that signals a new era for the company. “To visually align our brand with the modern company we’ve become, we’re proud to unveil our new logo and corporate identity that underscores the sophistication of our company and illustrates our ambition for the future,” said Vice President of Marketing Jaclyn Reed. “Not only does our new brand pay respect to where we’ve been, it represents the innovative, diverse and progressive company we are,” said Reed. “The word ‘heritage’ embodies who we are, what we value and that which has helped us achieve our longstanding tradition of excellence and integrity. This will never change.” “I’m gratified by the hard work and preparation that led to this day,” said Heritage President and CEO Robin Mueck. “Our path forward has never been clearer. We’re firmly rooted in the communities we serve and extremely proud of who we are and where we’re going.” Heritage Texas Properties is the largest independently owned, residential Real Estate firm in the markets they serve, providing residential brokerage services and a tradition of integrity since 1976. The company employs more than 300 licensed Real Estate professionals selling homes from 16 office locations throughout Greater Houston, surrounding counties, Galveston and the Texas Hill Country. Heritage will celebrate its 40th Anniversary in January 2016. For more information, call 281-4933880. See ad on Back Cover.

studio of interior design

Your Neighborhood Interior Designers

Judy Buchanan ASID

Christine Cook Allied Member ASID

Furniture • Window Treatments • Upholstery Bedding • Accessories • Rugs • Lighting • Art

Call for a FREE Consultation

713-827-1282 8558 Katy Fwy. • Ste. 119 • Houston, Texas 77024 I-10 @ Bingle

www.Kaleidoscope-Studio.com

Achieving a Great Family Living Room There is confusion over the distinction of a family room and a living room. In homes that have both spaces, a living room is more formal and used for quiet conversations or entertaining. On the other hand, a family room is the hub of the home. Everyone in the family uses this space for a multitude of activities. If there is only one room, it is considered a family room. Whether one has a large room or small, all spaces have their own charm, as well as challenges. With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, this room should meet everyone’s needs and be comfortable and inviting. In open concept homes, the family room and kitchen are open to each other, creating a great room. The kitchen is where people tend to congregate. When planning the design for the family room, it is vital to consider the overall flow and how the two areas will relate to each other in terms of colors and style. Large rooms can be tricky and seem overwhelming in their proportions. There are design tricks that can help warm up any large space. The use of color even in small amounts can bring things together even if a room has a neutral palette. Fabrics on the windows change the whole feeling in a room. Moving furniture away from the walls creates coziness and could open the room to several areas of activities, such as a comfortable seating area, a game table and a nook by the window for reading. A professional designer has the skill set to provide space that functions for your family. For more information, contact Kaleidoscope Studio of Interior Design at 713-827-1282 or www.Kaleidoscope-Studio.com.

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Advertorial

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Special Advertising Section A New Energy for Texas: Shyne Energy

As a full service Texas Retail Electric Provider, Shyne Energy wants to provide the electricity needed for home and business for the way everyone lives today – connected. Shyne Energy offers true fixed rates, no hidden fees, custom contracts and a level of personal customer service that is rare today. “We are different. It is hard to find a clear and straightforward approach to meeting electric needs for homes and businesses, and that is why we are here for our fellow Texans,” said Michele Luccirelli de Gomez, founder of Shyne Energy. A variety of plans and payment methods are offered, including a program to balance energy expense over the year with the Balanced 12 program. “As a family owned and operated business, we know how hard people, as well as small to mid-size businesses, work to make the most of their budgets. A big surprise in an electric bill is not what anyone wants or needs. With Shyne Energy, that will not happen,” said Luccirelli de Gomez. With a clean and simple business model, Shyne Energy is a fresh face in the deregulated retail electric market. Luccirelli de Gomez reflected, “We cannot live our lives today without electric power, and we will deliver that service with honesty and integrity – this is our promise.” For more information about Shyne Energy, visit shyneenergy.com or call 832-932-9239.

Turn Unused Space into a Climate Controlled Wine Feature What can be done with that unused closet or the wall in the dining room that just seems forgotten? How about a gorgeous, custom, climate-controlled wine feature that is both functional and visually interesting? A good wine room designer can turn a closet or an unused wall into a striking wine feature. There are some caveats of course, but for those who have wine needing to be stored at the proper temperature and an under-used closet or space, Nos Caves Vin (NCV) Custom Wine Rooms has the solution. The task of turning a closet or long wall into a properly constructed, climate-controlled space is not trivial but also not impossible. There are many factors to consider to do the job properly. The most important step is hiring a contractor who has experience with building climate-controlled spaces to ensure that there are no moisture related problems down the road, as well as experience with wine racks. Instead of creating a climate-controlled room, one option is a custom, climate-controlled cabinet. These are completely custom, so clients get to select the exterior and interior finishes and the types of racks. The final cost could range from $15,000 to $40,000 depending on many factors. The results are additions to the home that are both visually interesting and very functional. And, all that wine is off the floor! Jost Lunstroth of NCV Custom Wine Rooms has been designing and building custom, climate-controlled wine features in Greater Houston and the Hill Country since 2005. For more information, call 713-524-2554 or visit www.ncvwine.com.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Coming November 2015

‘Tis The Season

Holiday Entertaining & Dining

To Advertise: 281-690-4242

absolutelymemorial.com

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

Advertorial

A new energy for

your family

Connect with electricity for your home from Shyne Energy and get simple fixed rate plans, no hidden fees and concierge customer service Call 832 932 9239 or visit shyneenergy.com today! Connect with Shyne on Facebook and Twitter

Texas Energy Company PUC License #10221

Wine Storage MEMORIAL CITY AREA Members Only Lounge Wine Tastings, wine dinners and more Highly secure climate controlled Deliveries Accepted ncvwine.com 713-524-2554

D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall •in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Enjoy The Sights & Sounds While You Shop Around!

D&S Refinishing & Restoration • Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery • Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop • Sewing Machine Repair • Scissor Sharpening Full Line of Howard Wood Care Products Like Us or Follow Us

Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 • 801 2nd Street 281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600 Come shop with us, then explore Historic Downtown’s 3 restaurants and 12 other antique & boutique shops. www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

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

Invent your own artwork. Unleash your inner artist and create unique designs on canvas or fiberboard. Use painter’s tape to make abstract designs and add your favorite paint color before finishing each piece with a decal or monogram.

Enhance your tired armoires. Give armoire doors a makeover. Paint a colorful border around the front of the door and adhere adhesive hooks in the middle for a stylish, yet functional, new piece.

Painting Projects

Skip store-bought photo frames. Instead, paint basic shapes directly on the wall. Mount artwork or photos onto the painted backdrops for a picture-perfect place to preserve your favorite memories.

for Weekend Warriors 5

omeowners are often advised to keep the home neutral and avoid decorating with anything too bold or personal. But in order to make a house your home, the décor should reflect your personality and style. The good news is you don’t have to make permanent commitments. Paint is an easy and cost-effective way to infuse color and patterns that transform the aesthetic of a room or piece of furniture.

Design a lavish headboard for less. Save money and splurge on style by painting a “frame” on the wall above your bed. Rectangular shapes work best for most beds. Get creative by trying patterns such as stripes or chevron.

Install faux panel moulding. No moulding? No problem! Buy inexpensive frames and paint them the same color as your baseboard trim. Adhere the frames to the wall without the backing and glass for a simple, dramatic look.

Make a statement wall. Pick your favorite pattern trends and bring them to life on one wall of the living room or bedroom. If you’re not ready to take on patterns, bold and bright colors will do the trick. Source: Family Features

Regardless of whether you’re a masterful weekend warrior or a first-time do-it-yourselfer, paint projects don’t have to be time intensive or overwhelming. A little paint and creativity can go a long way toward refreshing your space. “The key to achieving professional-looking results is using the right tools,” said interior decorator Martin Amado. “That’s why I start all of my painting projects with high-quality paint brushes, a can of paint and 3M Safe Release Painter’s Tape.” Amado suggests these painting projects that can be accomplished with just one can of paint:

Color block your furniture. Take the dining room from drab to fab by painting the bottom halves of table legs and chairs in a bold, solid color. Change the look each season to impress guests on every occasion.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

SprinG Branch

Sports Spotlight By Tammy Hampton sbmsapics@gmail.com

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

The 9-10 Lacrosse Bandits: Wyatt Survant, Jonny Fleming, Jayden Lanning, Robert Strock, Caleb Xu, Andrew Mountjoy, Ryan Kearns, Everette Weinert, Matthew Fraser, Harris Kimzey, Noah Brown, Andrew Carles, Charlie Kenne and Ilya Ahmadov.

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

Congratulations to these outstanding Spring Branch-Memorial Sports Association (SBMSA) team players! The 7-8 Nationals: Ford Givens, Aaron DeLeon, Ethan McKnight, Gavin Mundwiller, Grant Berry, Rafe Williams, Jax Jones, Hunter Blalock, Kenny White, Wade Laird, Gavin Rump and Michael Gunkle.

The Renegades: Boden Harris, Christian Keist, Logan Beardsley, Carter Coleman, William Fowler, Chris Fields, Carson Beahm, Brazos McKenzie, Jack Springer, David Goddard, Patrick Lindsay and Cameron Brenton.

The 6U Heat: Lisa Alpe, Phoebe Katterhenry, Mary Chamberlain, Alex Alpe, Avery Rushing, Morgan Long, Reese Waggoner, Aashna Kapoor, Camille Canterbury, Tanner Dixon, Kendall Dornier, Gwyn Katterhenry and Caroline Chamberlain. www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

OUT &

The Covenant House Texas Guild presented its annual gala, where over 500 guests enjoyed a silent auction, entertainment, dancing and raised funds for Covenant House Texas for a night to remember.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

MEMORIAL

The eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dynamic group of volunteers was spearheaded by Jo Ann Petersen, Rhonda Robinson, Cheryl Boblitt and Angela James.

Mary and John Eads.

Linda Bell and Jackie Fair.

David and Miranda Paul.

Lisa and John Sarvadi.

Robert and Linda Ligon with Doug Pitcock.

Photos by Larry Pullen and Randy Kozlovsky.

The 11th Annual Impact A Hero Hall of Fame Gala was a tremendous success, raising support and awareness for severely wounded post 9/11 veterans.

Nina Hendee, Javier Negrete and Edd Hendee.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Dan Sullenbarger and Max McSwain.

The Stratford freshman summer baseball team played at Constellation Field and won third place. They did a great job this summer, winning 10 games and only losing three.

Congratulations to Will Graham, Gerik Grabowski, Brady Putnik, Jacob Best, Kyle Storemski, Yuki Arisato, Hayden Allen, John Denson, Sean Healy, Tim Snapp, Mathew Willis, Ronan McDonald, Thomas Satterwhite, Thompson Green and Cullen Hannigan!

Heritage Texas Properties has a bold, new look! Kirsten Abney, Christi Aufdenspring, Rebecca Trahan, Robin and Jerry Mueck, Jaclyn Reed, Phyllis Childress, Chaille Ralph and Mike Mahlstedt celebrated the unveiling of the Real Estate firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new logo and corporate identity.

Young musical artists wowed the crowd at the Legends of the Future: Celebrating Heroines and Heroes Gala. Held at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, the annual concert and dinner benefited Virtuosi of Houston. Photos by Gary Fountain.

Tyson Salinas, Anoosha Anupindi and Roselyn Rios with Jason and Stacey Johnson.

David and Mary Ann McKeithan with Dominique Sachse and Audrey Toll.

Philamena Baird and Peter Remington.

Rafael Chaves, Camina Zamorano, Shelby Hodge and Shafik Rifaat. www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Labor Day By Lara Bell

Source: woodlandresort.com

his Labor Day is the perfect time to get away before the hustle and bustle of the fall really kicks off. I asked my staff where they like to go for a quick getaway. They shared some great ideas!

LaToretta [ Suzanne Stiles ]

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa [ Jennifer Evans ] “Just outside of Bastrop, Texas – a few hours drive from Houston – nestled up against the massive McKinney Roughs Nature Park on the lower Colorado River is Hyatt Regency’s Lost Pines Resort and Spa. Lost Pines offers year-round fun for all ages. With exceptional service, several restaurants designed to fit any taste and lush Texas landscape, Lost Pines is a jewel. “Numerous activities are available at any time, although I enjoyed some guilt-free time with a good book and a shaded sofa on the back lawn. Aside from staples like the Crooked River lazy river and s’mores every night by the fire pit, our family recently enjoyed hitting the greens at Wolfdancer Golf Club’s course, rafting the river at sunset hosted by staffers from the Lower Colorado River Authority, biking all over the property with a free loaner, viewing local historic art and playing chess on the lawn with giant carved pieces.” lostpines.hyatt.com

“We kicked off Memorial Day weekend by going to LaToretta and may go back Labor Day too. The girls love the pool and lazy river! The AAA Four Diamond lakeside Texas resort is wrapping up summer with its ‘Play More, Save More’ offer, valid Labor Day weekend. The package allows guests booking two nights to save 15 percent off La Torretta’s published rate and an additional 20 percent on golf or spa treatments. Guests staying three nights can save even more.

“The all-suite resort offers families an amazing water park with multiple pools, Lay-Z River Rapids and twisting water slides, miniature golf, 18 holes of championship golf, paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks on Lake Conroe. Or, relax on the resort’s private white, sandy beach where kids can build sandcastles and enjoy the lakeside view. A number of free resort activities for Labor Day weekend are also planned.” latorrettalakeresort.com

The Woodlands Resort [ Molly Ellis ] “We like to spend a long weekend at The Woodlands Resort. It’s close, and the girls love the pool! Just 30 minutes north of Houston, it offers a Labor Day weekend of family fun at the resort’s Forest Oasis Waterscape™. Poolside activities include sponge races, cannonball splash, limbo contests, craft creations, dance parties and more. At dusk, families gather around for the alwayspopular build-yourown s’mores and take in a dive-in movie while relaxing or playing in the pool. “Guests can also enjoy 36 holes of on-site championship golf, 21 indoor and outdoor tennis courts and access to the property’s spa and fitness center, complete with nature-inspired treatments, whirlpools and a eucalyptus steam room. Rent bicycles and cruise more than 190 miles of hike-and-bike trails, or hop aboard the resort’s complimentary shuttle to The Woodlands Town Center for unique shopping, dining and entertainment.” woodlandsresort.com

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Hyatt Market Street, The Woodlands [ Robin Ebrecht ] “Since we have three boys, we have spent many evenings at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion for concerts. Staying the night at The Woodlands Hyatt has been a lifesaver for me not wanting to drive home late after a concert! The Woodlands is celebrating Labor Day with two nights – September 5th and 6th – of fun, fireworks and live entertainment at Waterway Square. “Less than an hour from Memorial, The Woodlands is just the ticket for a weekend break that truly feels like an escape. If you haven’t been before – or for a long while – it’s a great time to discover this community, which has an undeniable, resort-like feel and endless opportunities for family and couples fun. Waterfront parks and water taxis, miles of wooded trails, great golf, fantastic shopping and an array of recently opened restaurants, like the incredible Hubbell & Hudson Bistro, give this pedestrian-oriented enclave a dose of dazzle. It’s also a perfect base for ex-

Golden Nugget [ Lara Bell ]

Source: goldennugget.com/lakecharles

“This may seem a little atypical, but as it is still under a year old, I wanted to see what all the buzz is about! Tilman Fertitta really outdid himself with this latest addition to his Golden Nugget franchise, and the best part is it’s a super quick getaway.

“Located only two hours from Houston and a straight shot down I-10, Golden Nugget Lake Charles is the newest, most luxurious resort on the Gulf Coast, deeming the property the ‘Las Vegas of Louisiana.’ Guests might feel transported into luxury, but they

ploring area attractions ranging from Lake Conroe and Huntsville’s Blue Lagoon to charming Old Town Spring. “Hang your hat at Hyatt Market Street, The Woodlands. The pint-size property is just steps from Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and surrounded by boutiques and eateries. The Stay at Hyatt, Shop Market Street package indulges with a $50 gift certificate to use at a nearby mix of stores and restaurants. The hotel offers 70 snazzy rooms and suites and is known for its high service standards. Take a dip in the rooftop overlooking Market Street and sip on Market Street Bar’s addictive watermelon jalapeño margaritas. The hotel also offers a very popular weekend breakfast buffet.” marketstreetthewoodlands.hyatt.com

will also still get a sense of the natural beauty and uniqueness of Southwest Louisiana. “The 290 acre hotel and casino features luxury hotel rooms and suites, an 18 hole championship golf course, a world-class spa, extensive retail options, a private beach front and marina, a number of Landry’s signature restaurants and more. Throughout September, Golden Nugget Lake Charles has a variety of entertainment and events scheduled for travelers to unwind, relax and have some fun in the sun. Labor Day weekend is guaranteed to be action-packed as Hank Williams Jr. takes the stage on Sunday, September 6th in the Grand Event Center at 8 pm. It will be a memorable event you won’t want to miss!” goldennugget.com/lakecharles

Congratulations to Amanda Terrell, winner of our Galveston Island Getaway!

Gunner, Amanda and Kaylee Terrell.

“Galveston has a special place in the hearts of my husband and myself. When we got married, my husband was in the Navy, so we had an extremely short honeymoon in Galveston. We stayed in a beach house on Jamaica Beach and had lunch on the seawall before making our way back to Houston. We then drove to North Carolina where he was stationed. It was an amazing start to our marriage.”

Amanda received: • A two-night stay at the beautiful San Luis Resort • VIP passes to 15+ Galveston attractions • Dinner for two at Riondo’s Ristorante on the island’s Strand Historic District

Thanks for reading and congratulations!

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Mentions Memorial

BY SUZANNE STILES

Photography by Joaquin Sosa.

suzanne@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Memorial High School 2010 graduate Taylor Weeks was chosen by The Hill as one of Washington D.C.’s most beautiful! Taylor is a former Memorial Markette and attended Texas Tech University.

The 11U Mizuno USA Baseball team placed 9th in their divisional bracket at the American Amateur Youth Baseball Alliance World Series in Flower Mound. Congratulations to Aidan Carr, Grayson Kim, Nate Lopez, Kade Cannizaro, Carson Zahn, Ross Cannizaro, Trey Duffield, Harris Ranger, Everett Bates, Alex Miller, Connor Denham, Rigo Lopez, Adam Peavy, Miles Daughtry, Mark Klein and Todd Miller!

Afton Alligators Brynn Bond, Margaret Cannon, Campbell Zahn and Claire Herreratry tried to stay dry on a rainy swim meet evening before they swam a 9 - 10 girls medley relay.

Spring Branch Middle School students and cadettes of Troop 18175 Laney Moreton, Aidan Shine, Isha and Ruhi Thapar, Isabella Zatorski, Brittany Sanders, Sarah King, Meredith Ryan and Maria Amador earned their Silver Award. The girls decided that to make a positive and lasting impact, they would work with Communities in School, an organization that helps underprivileged kids who are at risk of dropping out of school. Through this project, the girls learned leadership skills and forged lasting friendships.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

At the Margo Marshall Tribute Reception, guests gathered to honor the life of the late Margo Marshall, artistic director of the Margo Marshall School of Ballet and City Ballet of Houston and icon in the Houston dance community.

Barbara Klopenstein was one of Margo Marshall’s first students.

Ruth Gerum, Catherine Stiles and Suzanne Gerum Stiles.

Gilbert Rome and Jennifer Novak.

Glenda Brown, Thom Clower and Vanessa Brown.

Sisters and dancers Racheal and Daphne Standefer.

Serena Harmon and Marguax Blackwell.

Mary Beth Arrington and Christy Holden.

Maria Amador with Regan and Patti Kroger.

Adrian Ciobanu and Margo Sappington.

Charlene James and Vernon Chambers.

Memorial Antiques & Interiors (MAI) hosted Barks & Bubbles, a fun event showcasing rescue pups from Lola’s Lucky Day rescue. The event helped to raise money and awareness of Houston’s homeless animal crisis. Special guests Garrett Graham of the Houston Texans and Owen Daniels of the Denver Broncos were on hand with Lola to sign autographs. Pictured are Larissa Gavin, Ericka Graham, Mark Gavin, Garrett Graham and Owen Daniels.

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

absolutely!

& QA

Otolaryngology

The otolaryngology clinic at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus is a child-friendly space where world-class pediatric otolaryngologists provide expert care for children of all ages who have ear, nose, throat, head and neck diseases or disorders.

EXPERT: Dr. Shraddha Mukerji, otolaryngologist at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus

WHAT CONDITIONS DOES THE TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL WEST CAMPUS OTOLARYNGOLOGY TEAM TREAT?

Physicians at the otolaryngology clinic at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus diagnose and treat children with disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck. Ear infections, hearing loss and other hearing disorders, nasal and sinus disorders, recurrent tonsil infections, neck masses and airway problems are common diagnoses treated by our Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) team. Patients who require wax removal, treatment of nose bleeds, scopes or tube extractions for chronic sinus disorders or middle ear inflammation can be treated in clinic. Minor surgical procedures, such as foreign object removals, tube placement and other surgical procedures are also performed by our specialists.

A Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus lobby. Photo by A. Kramer.

WHAT OTHER SPECIALISTS WILL SEE MY CHILD WHEN THEY COME TO AN APPOINTMENT IN CLINIC?

The otolaryngology clinic at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus is uniquely designed to support a collaborative environment so that patients benefit from having multiple specialists all in one location. ENT specialists work closely with the hospital’s audiology department to provide the best care to each patient. Whether it is a child referred to the audiology clinic for a hearing test or an audiology patient requiring further treatment, patients have access to the best treatment plan for their unique needs.

HOW DO CHILDREN’S EAR, NOSE AND THROAT ISSUES DIFFER FROM ADULTS?

AS A MEMBER OF THE OTOLARYNGOLOGY TEAM, WHAT IS YOUR MAIN SPECIALTY?

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

Children suffer very commonly from ear, nose and throat issues. Many kids attend daycare and school, and recurrent ear infections are extremely common in the pediatric population. Children tend to suffer more from recurrent sinusitis as compared to adults. Additionally, common colds and upper respiratory infections tend to become sinus issues earlier and more quickly in children. Many of the ear, nose and throat issues in children can be treated medically. Outpatient surgery, if required, is fairly straightforward for the majority of patients who require a more invasive treatment plan.

My specialty is to treat children with chronic nose and sinus issues. I am also interested in finding ways and means to prevent recurrent ear infections in children.

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus. Photo by A. Kramer.

We offer same-day appointments for otolaryngology. Appointments are available at Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus and many of our other locations. To make an appointment, visit westcampus.texaschildrens.org or call 832-227-1420.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Parrilla Salad

By Alisa Murray

El Tiempo Restaurant

Roland Laurenzo and Alisa Murray.

hird generation small businesses are a rare thing in this country. They are not only rare, but they are something to be proud of and real community treasures. Roland Laurenzo of the El Tiempo family has been offering good eats to Houstonians for a very long time.

Born in Harlingen, Texas, Roland came to Houston in 1948 and watched both parents in the family business of making tortillas. The Rio Grande Tortilla Factory was located on the east side of Navigation Boulevard, where lessons were learned and passed on to the next generation. Today, there are several family restaurants that serve Houstonians. The El Tiempo on Navigation is not far from where Roland grew up as a child. As they say, acorns don’t fall far from their trees, and thankfully, Roland’s son Dominique had the fortitude to create innovative cuisine in the family’s newest line, Laurenzo’s. I visted Roland at the original and very tasty El Tiempo. In 1998, the first Laurenzo’s El Tiempo Cantina opened on Richmond Avenue followed by eight more locations throughout Houston. The menu is diverse but primarily features Tex-Mex style cuisine. During my visit, Roland featured Ceviche with shrimp, scallops and calamari, diced avoCeviche with shrimp, scallops and cado and fresh veggies; calamari. Parrilla Salad made with mixed greens, avocado, mango, jicama, mandarins and praline pecans tossed in cilantro citrus and drizzled with tamarindo mole sauce with choice of grilled chicken, spicy shrimp or carnitas; Mollejas de Ternera, which is veal sweetbreads with onions, salsa verde, avocado, sour cream and tortillas; Ratones de Pollo, which is their chicken stuffed jalapeños that – by the way – need to come with a large glass of iced tea, and finally, Parrilladas Mixtas.

Parrilladas Mixtas are perhaps the best fajitas in town. Each Parrillada comes with fajitas, rice, beans and trimmings plus super jumbo shrimp, quail, baby back ribs, carnitas Mollejas de Ternera: veal sweetbreads with and jalapeño sausage. onions, salsa verde, avocado, sour cream What is supposed to and tortillas. feed one will actually feed several and that makes for very good eats with the family. I especially liked the poblano pepper filled with cheese and the lobster, which is not usually included in a regular fajita plate but available by request. Parrilladas Mixtas are served on an anafre – a.k.a. a hibachi with mesquite charcoal. It’s like a little stove for your table! Roland is a family man, and his sons cook alongside him in the business. I asked Roland about his style of cooking. “I just cook what I like to eat. My menu is pretty stable year round. We do occasionally introduce new items that we think will have a lot of appeal to our customer base.” I also asked Roland for a cooking tip, and he told me not to marinate beef fajitas. “I find that it’s too strong of a flavor changer on the beef, so what I do is make a basting sauce we call Salsa Negra. The secret is Worcestershire, spices, soy and maggi sauce.” Whether you enjoy a really well-made margarita, sweetbreads or fajitas, El Tiempo is one place you’ll need to visit often! Bon appétit!

El Tiempo 3130 Richmond Avenue • Houston, TX 77098 713-807-1600 www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Tailgate in

Style

absolutely! DELICIOUS By Jennifer Elliot

ailgating used to mean grabbing a light beer out of an old Igloo cooler, eating a somewhat bland burger with chips, sitting in a woven strap lawn chair and listening to other games on the radio. Well luckily for us, tailgating has come a long way, so take a look at these options for tailgating in style. Let’s start with the beverages. Maybe you want to upgrade to a fun local brew like Karbach Hopadillo IPA. Or, maybe you prefer a little wine. Keep that vino nice and cool in an insulated wine tumbler. It even has a lid to reduce spills. Who says you’re too old for a sippy cup?

To keep beer cold, stash cans in a Yeti cooler complete with your college logo on the front. You can get the Roadie if you have a small group, or jump up to the Tundra for larger gatherings.

Now, what about the seating? Most of us are used to the folding chair you can find at any Academy. If you want to really step up your game, check out these trailer hitch hammock chairs. Now these are comfortable. Just be careful getting up!

Ancient Grains Super Salad Serves 6 to 8 as a Side Dish

½ bag cooked Central Mar ket Grains Bulgur & Quinoa 1 ½ cups cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved ¼ cup each green onion and fresh basil, chopped ¼ cup olive oil 3 oz. olive tapenade 3 oz. crumbled feta cheese salt and pepper to taste Cook grains according to pac kage directions and cool thoroug hly. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and stir thoroughly. Serve chilled or at room temp.

For burgers, be sure to pack up a gourmet sauce and seasonings kit to maximize that chargrilled flavor. As for the chips, I realize some folks will not be willing to let go of the bag. However, others might consider a refreshing quinoa salad a big upgrade. My friend and neighbor Sharon Appel shared this great recipe.

Last but not least, ditch the radio for checking the scores of other games. Ditch the phone and iPad as well. What you really need is a portable satellite television, so you can watch the other games live. There’s no better way to keep up with your fantasy football players around the country.

Not everyone wants to watch television, so offer some other entertainment with a fun game of cornhole – the Houston Texans version. Football season is upon us, so pack your gear and get your tailgate on!

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Tales from the

ou might have heard about a certain truffle madness that has overtaken the Memorial area. Suddenly, your friends are inviting you over for truffle risotto and sharing this crazy story about their fresh truffles that were jetted in from Provence or heavenly truffle oil that helps kids in Haiti. Have you ever wondered what truffles are and why restaurants charge $60 for just a tiny shave over pasta? As foodies and hosts of a globetrotting travel show, my family did too. So, my co-hosts – my middle and elementary school daughters – and I traveled to France to discover the delicious world of truffles and bring their story back to Houston. We landed in the Luberon, a picturesque part of southern France and a heavenly place if you’re into anything that’s grown, picked or dug up. Known for fields of lavender, grapes and olives, Provence is stunning. We pulled into the tiny village of Cadanet to meet Lisa and Johann Pepin, owners of Les Pastras Organic Farm, to take a truffle hunting tour. Lisa is an all-American girl who met Johann when he was studying in the States. They married and gave up the big city life in Chicago to move back to France and take over Johann’s grandfather’s farm. After finding a softball-sized truffle, Lisa and Johann realized they were sitting on what chefs call black gold: Black Perigord truffles, which sell for as much as $1,000 per pound. Truffles need the perfect mix of soil, acidity, light, heat and moisture and take eight to 10 years to grow on the roots of oak trees. Truffle farmers can inoculate the roots of oak saplings with truffle spores, but there are no guarantees. They could plant 500 trees, and by the time the kids are ready for college, they may only have one tree with truffles. I became the public relations consultant to the French American Chamber of Commerce, working with some of Houston’s finest chefs. I began flying in truffles every week for the chefs and started a truffle club on Facebook called The French Market. A partnership was created. When we visited the farm that summer, Johann showed us how they make Organic Black Winter Truffle Oil by cold Johann and Lisa Pepin.

absolutely! DELICIOUS

By Jeanne DeBell Polocheck

Truffle Lady

Black Perigord truffles from France.

pressing extra virgin olive oil from their own olives, then steeping their winter truffles in the oil for seven to 10 days. Unlike chemically flavored olive oil sold as “truffle oil” in the United States, the farm’s truffle oil is 100 percent organic and made with real black winter truffles. The Pepins give 50 percent of their profits from their truffle oil to the One Family orphanage in Haiti. Lisa sent me home with truffle oil to try. I knew some of my foodie friends would love something organic and heavenly. At 9:30 that night, I posted on two Memorial Facebook sites. I told the story of Les Pastras and their charitable giving with a link to the episode we filmed, and I offered the truffle oil for sale. At 12:30 am, the pinging of my computer woke me up. I opened Facebook to find that 150 cans of truffle oil had sold in three hours. By 9 am, another 70 cans had sold. The Pepins sent the check to the orphanage, and the orphanage sent back a photo with a note. In a hurricane ravaged country, where bare necessities are a luxury, they were able to take the children shopping for toiletries and buy shoes for every single child in the orphanage. I’m so proud to be called the “truffle lady” by friends old and new in Memorial. We’re fascinated by the connection between a mom and her two kids, a tiny farm in a little village in France and a powerful group of foodies who spoke with their taste buds and their hearts to benefit children half a world away. For more information, visit www.thefrenchmarket.us. www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

By Amy Gross

Cheers to Relaxing with Rosé

ne thing I love about September in Memorial is that it brings more time to enjoy delicious dry rosé wines in the heat. Sure, I love a zingy New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in the summer, and at times, a crisp Pinot Gris can also be refreshing. But these late summer days make me want to drink something that beckons me to linger. And since we’ve survived the sweltering heat of August, it’s time to relax and linger over something delicious – something that tells your body to just sit back, unwind and relive great memories. Give me a gorgeous, dry rosé, and I’m ready to sit, sip and savor for awhile, catching up with friends, exchanging summer vacation stories and making plans for the fall to come. And isn’t that what wine should be all about? Just to clarify, I’m not talking about sweet pink wines. Sure, some wine lovers enjoy White Zinfandel, and that’s okay. But what I’m talking about here is a dry rosé – those wines that are crisp with acid and yet have gorgeous, strawberry notes. Those wines that pull you in for another sip as you wonder just what is dancing on your tongue. . .

Rosé wines go fantastic with lobster or shrimp or just about anything pink, as Mark Oldman of Oldman’s Brave New World of Wine says. I couldn’t agree more. Rosé wines are also the perfect complement to a thin crust margherita pizza, just a bit charred from the grill. And rosé wines are perfect to sip while munching on crusty baguette, marcona almonds and platter of charcuterie. What could be more relaxing among friends? Want to relive the relaxation of summer now that the back-to-school crazies have begun? Call up some friends, grab a nice bottle of rosé and let the casual conversations begin. You won’t regret it. Look for Provence on the bottle to be sure to get a nice, dry one. Italy and Spain also produce delicious rosés, as do many wineries right here in the United States.

Need a few rosé fun facts to impress? I’ve got you covered: • In most cases, rosé wines are made pink through contact with grape skins just before fermentation. The longer the contact, the deeper the color. • Rosé wines can be made from a variety of grape types. • Rosé wines can be made still or sparkling. • France’s Provence is the world’s largest wine region specializing in rosé, having produced rosé since 600 B.C. • In Spain, rosé wines are known as Rosado. • In Italy, rosé wines are called Rosato.

I sure hope this helps you extend that lazy feel of summer as the fall season picks up around you. I know I’ll be enjoying a bottle or two of rosé this month with friends. Cheers!

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

Tony Vallone

I recently received an email from a reader asking me to share my tips on shopping for a great piece of beef and how to prepare it.

absolutely! DELICIOUS

with

By Tony Vallone

absolutely! Delicious

here are three “grades” of beef: prime, choice and select. Here at Vallone’s, all of our beef is prime from Chicago and is dry aged. There are a few retail stores that carry prime. But at most supermarkets, here is what you can look for when you’re shopping for great beef. All beef is graded solely on its marbling. Marbling is the fine, hair-like strands of fat in the meat. The more marbling there is, the better the beef. To me, one of the best, healthiest and most value-driven cuts of meat you can buy is top sirloin. This is a very lean cut of meat without much marbling. Because it doesn’t have a lot of fat, you need to keep it rare to medium rare. The best way to prepare it is to season with salt and pepper to taste and then broil or grill, keeping rare to medium rare and slicing it thinly. When you cook and serve beef in this manner, you’ll have a very flavorful piece of meat. Hanger steak is another great value-driven cut of meat. It has a little more chew to it, but it’s also rich in flavor. Again, keep it rare and slice it thin. It’s fabulous with sautéed mushrooms and rice or pasta on the side. For a special occasion, use a center-cut, bone-in rib-eye, which is the most popular steak at Vallone’s. This is the most flavorful and elegant cut of steak you can serve and requires a little more attention to detail when cooking. The exterior of the steak will cook more quickly than the part close to the bone, and this is what gives it its bold but nuanced flavor. Because of its size, it also makes for a great steak to share. No matter the cut, always use a room-temperature steak. And if time permits, let the steak sit five to 10 minutes uncovered before slicing. Another personal favorite of mine is our center-cut, largeeye lamb chop from Colorado. It has delicate flavor and great texture. This is really the perfect meat. Again, broil or grill but serve medium rare to medium. Email Tony@VallonesHouston.com to submit a food-related question to Tony.

Vallone’s prime, dry-aged steak with lobster and topped with asparagus.

www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

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

Natural Café and Health Food Store

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN CUISINE MASRAFF’S 1753 Post Oak Blvd. 77056 713-355-1975 www.masraffs.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.

CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN CUISINE URBAN KITCHEN 14008 Memorial Drive, Ste. F 77079 281-531-7550 www.urbankitchenhouston.com

HEALTHY ECLECTIC A MOVEABLE FEAST 9341 Katy Freeway 77024 713-365-0368 www.amoveablefeast.com

This casual yet classy neighborhood restaurant is tucked in a centric shopping center located at the corner of Memorial and Kirkwood, just blocks away from the Energy Corridor. Urban Kitchen features the perfect ambience for business and social gatherings. The terrace is surrounded with beautiful planters providing a perfect setting for those who enjoy the outdoors. Regardless if you visit during lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch, Urban Kitchen offers a dining experience to remember.

Family owned since 1971, A Moveable Feast remains the gathering place for foodies of all tastes. The delicious food is prepared in a healthy way, using only the freshest ingredients. Enjoy seafood, Texas bison and grass-fed beef burgers, Tex-Mex, vegan entrées, hummus, fresh juices, many wheat-free choices and more, all served up counter-style in a funky atmosphere. Enjoy wine and cold beer on the patio surrounded by unique gardens. Good vibes abound in this unusual café inside a health food store.

MEXICAN

JAPANESE CUISINE

CANTINA LAREDO 11129 Westheimer 77042 713-952-3287 www.cantinalaredo.com

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

Cantina Laredo specializes in authentic Mexican dishes in a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere. The entire lunch, dinner, Sunday Brunch and Cantina menus are all available for take-out, some delivery and catering. Selections such as Ensalada de Cilantro y Pollo, Cascabel Ribeye and Tacos al Carbon are divine, not to mention the Mexican apple pie that is served with a warm brandy butter and choice of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream.

Situated in the new Memorial Gateway complex, Kuu Restaurant has now opened to bring upscale Japanese dining to West Houston. Executive chef Adison Lee, formerly of Nobu, has brought his talent and passion for Japanese fusion cuisine to the Memorial area. Focusing on artistry and complementary flavors, Kuu has a constantly changing menu featuring locally raised ingredients. With an extensive wine list and private dining area, Kuu is well equipped to handle any event.

Southwell ’s

Hamburger Grill Buy one hamburger, fries and drink, get another hamburger for F R E E !

Limit 1 coupon per customer. Expires October 1, 2015

Memorial 713-464-5268 9410 Gaylord TX 77024 62

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SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

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www.absolutelymemorial.com l SEPTEMBER 2015

Lodowick Justin Latham:

A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY By The Heritage Society

Founding a Houston Legacy

odowick Justin Latham, the patriarch of one of Houston’s forgotten early families, founded one of the most well-connected lineages in Houston. Born around 1814 in Connecticut, Latham was a prominent businessman in Houston and helped establish the city as an economic center. Coming from a line of sea captains, Latham began seafaring at a young age, traveling as far as the East Indies and China. He became the captain of his own ship at 23 and began trading, transporting cargos of household goods and groceries. In 1839, he made a trip that changed his life. After departing from Boston, Latham traveled to Houston and decided to stay. Latham opened a grocery store on Main Street and Capitol. At this time, Main Street, unpaved and bustling, was at the heart of Houston. After the Civil War, as the city grew, Main Street boomed. Latham expanded his business and turned it into a furniture and household goods store. L.J. Latham

Furniture & House Furnishings became the largest furniture store in Houston. Latham sold a variety of goods, such as china, glassware, silverware, carpets and even wallpaper. Like many other business owners in Houston, Latham became involved in money lending. Before the Civil War, Texas had no formal banking system. It relied on a private lending system. After the Civil War, the first chartered bank in Houston, the First National Bank of Houston, was set to open. In 1867, however, Benjamin Armistead Shepherd, an old friend of Latham, decided to merge his bank with the First National Bank of Houston. Shepherd asked Latham to serve as director in 1868 and vice president in 1874. Latham remained vice president until his death in 1886. In the 1840s, Latham traveled back to the East Coast to Brooklyn and married his cousin, Caroline Ascenith Latham. They had five children, and the descendants of their eldest child, Justina Latham Cleveland, still live in Houston today. Justina married the successful cotton factor William D. Cleveland, who had served with Terry’s Texas Brigade during the Civil War. He began courting Justina after she returned from boarding school in Paris, where Latham sent her for the duration of the war. One day, W.D. Cleveland sent a note to Latham, which stated, “I will be at your gate tomorrow morning at seven o’clock, and with me will be a minister. If Miss Justina comes out, and I think she will, we shall go to Christ Church and be married. We should like to have your permission and blessings.” Arrogant though he was, Cleveland was a successful merchant This family record of William and Justina Cleveland is a beautiful visualization of their family tree. in his own right and became one Image from the Houston Public Library.

This portrait of Lodowick Justin Latham was painted in the 1850s.

Image from The Heritage Society.

of the founders of the Houston Cotton Exchange and Board of Trade. W.D. and Justina’s son, Alexander Sessums Cleveland, was also a highly influential man in Houston, serving as a trustee of Rice University for 24 years and on the Houston School Board for 18 years. During World War I, Alexander headed the Red Cross in Houston. He later served as president of the Houston Chamber of Commerce. Two of his daughters married into well-connected families, further establishing their prominence in the Houston area. One of his sons-in-law, William A. Kirkland, descended from Benjamin Armistead Shepherd, Lodowick’s friend. Another son-in-law, Dudley C. Sharp, was the son of Walter B. Sharp, who was a partner of the Sharp-Hughes Tool Company with Howard Hughes, the father of the famous Howard Hughes Jr. Dudley played an instrumental role as President Eisenhower’s Secretary of the Air Force. Though Lodowick was forgotten by many, his descendants have continued their involvement in Houston society into the 21st century.

SEPTEMBER 2015 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelymemorial.com

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Lacey Cannon 281.582.3992

Jo Cochran 281.582.3961

Rebecque Demark & Nancy Scott 281.582.3992

Christine Duncan 281.582.3959

Trisha Fletcher 281.582.3915

Marge Hopkins 281.582.3951

Janice Ireland 281.620.8427

Patty Jackson 281.582.3960

Vicki Jackson 713.899.5221

Scott Landreth 281.582.3925

Karen Martin 281.582.3910

Clarann McCoy 281.582.3907

Donna Pierce 281.582.3903

Sharyn Short 281.582.3922

Carol Waldrop 281.582.3962

Martha White 281.582.3956

Betty Wearing 281.582.3928

Lynn Zarr, Jr. 713.341.1667

Robin Mueck President/CEO

heritagetexas.com Memorial: 14340 Memorial Drive, 281.493.3880 | Post Oak Park: 1177 West Loop South, 12th Floor, 713.965.0812

MeMoriAl CiTY

LEAdIng ThE wAY

For more than 50 years, Memorial City has been an address that’s synonymous with stability and growth. Every day new businesses open, bringing with them new jobs, new opportunities and new people. Our can-do spirit is writ large in our neighborhood, and we take our role in the community very seriously. The four leaders featured in this month’s Memorial Cityzen section understand that Memorial City is a special place. They all operate well-known businesses here and give to organizations that help the community grow and prosper. Each and every day they work to help others have access to the opportunities that have helped them succeed. FrOM TOp LEFT: DAN WOLTErMAN - MEMOriAL HErMANN HEALTH SySTEM, JAy GrAHAM - WiLDHOrSE rESOurCES BOTTOM: FABiAN AND pHiLLip TOrrES - GuADALAJArA MExiCAN rESTAurANTS

m u c h more than a mall Me Mori AlCi TY.CoM Business Leaders in the Community | in T his issU e

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a community priority

For DAn WolTerMAn, President and Ceo of the Memorial hermann health system, keeping people healthy isn’t just part of a job description– it’s a necessity for being part of such a diverse, dynamic community. Since 2002, he’s led Memorial Hermann, whose corporate headquarters are located in Memorial City. The organization operates 13 hospitals, more than 200 outpatient care sites and has a 108-year tradition of treating people across Southeast Texas. “Memorial City is a great community and we are proud to be part of it,” he said. “As an organization, we know that our success is partly because we are here. And we want to be an active part of the community to improve the quality of life for everyone here. Being able to give back to our neighbors is important to us.” That’s one of the reasons the health system has aligned its core care mission with a broad array of outreach programs. Through the work Memorial Hermann does with local schools and the United Way, Wolterman says the organization maximizes its commitment to health, and helps ensure the community has access to great care. In each of the last three years, Memorial Hermann had donated more than $1 million to the United Way, something Wolterman says is a powerful statement about the dedication to community service by hospital employees and affiliated physicians.

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“We’re proud of that contribution, and by giving to the United Way, we help advance the health of people across Southeast Texas,” he said. “And partnering with the United Way is a natural fit for us.” That’s certainly true, but Memorial Hermann touches a great many lives itself. In addition to those throughout the system, the organization partners with schools in Houston and other districts to run health clinics and dental services vans to provide care to those in need. Memorial Hermann has 10 clinics serving 70 schools, providing access to care to nearly 65,000 children every year. System wide, Memorial Hermann contributes more than $438 million of free services to the community’s indigent population. “We’ve seen that chIldren Who are In better health do better academIcally,

their rate of absence plummets, and they show overall improvements in their daily lives,” said Wolterman. “We’re able to teach them healthy habits and we can provide necessary follow-up care.” For Wolterman, who has more than 35 years of experience in the health care industry and has been named to Modern Healthcare Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare list every year since 2007, contributing to the community is not only about community health. It’s also smart business. “By being mindful of our need to give back to the community in these ways, we’re taking our non-profit mission and using it to make a greater impact on the health of our neighbors.”

gOOd

sports

JAY GrAhAM, Co-Ceo of Wildhorse resources, takes his roots in Memorial City seriously. One of the reasons he started his company here eight years ago was because the area is home and he liked the idea of not having a long commute. When he and business partner Anthony Bahr decided to operate their own upstream oil and gas company, they began with two employees. They knew they would grow, and Graham knew Memorial City was the place to be. “When we opened in 2007, it was long before the north side of the freeway was developed,” he said. “But I really saw the area as the place to be and hoped it would become what it is now. It’s actually become bigger than I ever thought it would.” Graham knew then, and it’s been proven, that Memorial City was a desirable address. With its concentration of health services; dynamic restaurants, shopping and entertainment options; and excellent housing options, Graham says the area is a great place for himself and his employees to enjoy a tremendous quality of life. “The amenities here really allow our workers to get things done before, during, or after work, . This is a pretty area, and it has a whole different feel than other Houston business centers. And Metro National, as a landlord helps provide a real community spirit.” Community spirit is important to Graham. Having his business and his home here gives him a feeling of connection to the area. It also allows him a luxury many

dads don’t have – the ability to spend more time with his sons, both of whom were born at Memorial Hermann Hospital Memorial City. Graham is the Director of Junior Baseball for the Spring Branch Memorial Sports Association (SBMSA), an all-volunteer association which runs more than a hundred baseball teams for youth ages five to 12. More than 1,300 kids take part in the baseball program, which operate seasonal leagues between February and May and a summer league during the month of July. His sons play baseball with SBMSA and Graham is also a coach on their teams. “I probably put in 40 to 50 hours a week from December to June as the Junior Baseball Director,” he estimated. “And it’s not just about being able to be close to my boys and participate with them. My goal is to make SBMSA the best sports association in the country, not only in terms of experience for the kids, but also in terms of sportsmanship, and providing a good, safe program.” The leagues are open to any child regardless of where they live either in the Spring Branch Memorial area or out. In addition to baseball, SBMSA operates softball, basketball, football, lacrosse and soccer leagues. “I Want the youth In thIs area to have a great experIence, and learn the skIlls they need to be successful In lIfe – goal settIng, teamWork

– and this is a way to that,” he said. “I just feel that this is where I am supposed to be and what I am supposed to be doing.” M eM o r iA lC i T Y.CoM

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tradition

“We grew up in Memorial City – It’s in our roots,” said PhilliP Torres, co-owner of Guadalajara Mexican restaurants along with his brother, FAbiAn. Growing up here, Torres recalled when Gessner was a two-lane road, and said he’s watched the area grow since then – and seen his business grow with it. They opened the first Guadalajara in Town and Country Village in 1986, then moved it three and a half miles to Memorial City in 2001.

The Torres brothers and their company have been generous donors to multiple Memorial City-area organizations and avid supporters of local sports teams. It was a tradition their father, George, started 44 years ago and it’s an important tradition that the Torres brothers have carried on. “Our father was a Korean War Veteran. He always set a good example for us. He is a big believer in giving back to our community and we are proud to carry on that tradition.”

“MetroNational has done a really good job with the development in Memorial City. They’ve played a pivotal role in bringing key amenities to the Memorial area – Memorial Hermann Hospital, fabulous restaurants, great shopping, a thriving business district, there’s always something new and creative happening at Memorial City and this area has become one of Houston’s top residential areas.”

“Whether we’re giving to a church or a school or a team, the act of contributing is fundamental for us,” he said.

Forming relationships has been a key element of the Torres brother’s business practice. They’ve headed up the restaurant group founded by their father in 1971 since 1978. Known for its high-quality Mexican food and welcoming atmosphere, the four restaurants aim to be the kind places where guests of all ages have a great dining experience, realizing they are supporting a business that supports its community.

“If you’re goIng to be part of a communIty, you need to take part In communIty lIfe.”

“We will always try our best to bring good food to the table,” he said. “We use a high quality beef – aged 21 to 25 days – for our fajitas. The ingredients we’re using are as good as those in steakhouses. We know we have a lot of competition – and that’s good. It helps keep us in line, and pushes us to be our best.”

Memorial City, the city-within-a-city, is a 265-acre mixed-use development located in the heart of the thriving West Houston market. Owned and managed by MetroNational, Memorial City contains 8.2 million square feet of developed real estate and is a unique blend of Class A office space, retail, luxury midrise apartments, chef-inspired restaurants, upscale hotel accommodations including The Westin Memorial City and the Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, the second-largest medical campus in the Houston metropolitan area.

Additional information can be found by visiting MEMORIALCITY.COM and MEMORIALCITYMALL.COM m uch more than a mall