CKW LUXE WINTER/SPRING 2017

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a r ing

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IN DN ESS

philanthropic, inspirational, and quality living magazine

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ISD OM

winter/spring 2017

www.ebEmotionalBaggage.com Embrace your Emotional Baggage you deserve to be You!

TABLE OF CONTENTS CKW LUXE: 8 Founder’s Message 9 Set Your Intentions for 2017 10 Star Awards Nominations 100 CKW Luxe First Anniversary Celebration

contributors Founder and Publisher: Connie Kwan-Wong General Editors: Grace Lynn

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Caring, Kindness, Wisdom: 61 Compassion 106 Sharing Is Caring 107 CKW Giving Art And Music: 11 Dan Lim: Photographic Storyteller 18 The Art World Comes Alive At The Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston 25 I Dream Too Much 26 Art In Pieces: The Distinctive Mosaics Of David Fink’s BellaVetro 30 Parvizian Oriental Rugs: Handmade Works Of Art 31 Ars Lyrica And The Allure Of Baroque Music Charity: 40 Education Is Key For Children At Risk 94 Thayer O’Neal Tees Off For Kids 95 HOPE Clinic Expands Into The Future 96 Recipe For Success Foundation Seeds A New Chapter With Hope Farms

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Margaret MacMillan Legal and Fitness Editor: Katya Dow Travel Editor: Lily Jang Health Editor: Dr. Jennifer Yen Clark Healthy Living Editor: Dr. Noreen Khan-Mayberry Art Editor: Cindi Rose

Education/Parenting: 33 Celebrating And Selecting The Best Children’s Books 36 Houston’s Mayor Appoints New Director Of Education 42 The Post Oak School: A Model Of Montessori Excellence 46 Montessori School VS Traditional School … Which Is Better?

Graphic Designer:

Health And Fitness: 56 You Don’t Have ADHD …

Unless You Do 60 Heart Health 63 On The Go? Try This Routine Anywhere!

66 Natural Scent

Margaret MacMillan

Mylene Sagrado Contributing Writers: Dr. Colombowala Dr. Nicholas Morgan Rebecca Jacobs Tania Staley

TABLE OF CONTENTS Food: 70 Broaden Your Horizons With Six More Foods That May Be New To You 76 Chef David Denis And Le Mistral Bring The Tastes Of France To Houston 78 Reduce Stress And Boost Energy

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Luxury: 49 BMW: The Future Of Luxury 52 The Love Of Sailing For A Good Cause Travel: 80 Travel With The Publisher To Portugal Where Fairy Tales Come True 92 Havana, Cuba: America’s New Favorite Tourist Destination

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Philanthropic Scenes: 102 The Women’s Home: Renew And Redo Fashion Show 103 MFAH Celebrates Art And Dance 104 Houston Symphony Opening Night 105 Houston Grand Opera Opening Night: Elixir Of Love

contributors Contributing Photographers: Aelish Lascoe Anthony Rathbun Aker/Zvonkovic Célia Abreu Dan Lim Gary and Sherri Romer Jacob Power Jaye Anderson Daspit Jenny Antill Lee Nguyen Paulo Barata Photos by Rovo Priscilla Dickson Quy Tran Rob Williamson Roswitha Vogler Wilson Parish Advertising Executive: Dawn Gunther Website: Mylene Sagrado Cover Photo by Dan Lim

CKW Luxe is a Philanthropic, Inspirational, and Quality Living Magazine

Profits from CKW Luxe are donated to Various Children’s Charities 80

*Disclaimer of Liability: Neither CKW Luxe nor its contributors shall be held liable for any use of the information described and/or contained herein, whether or not such use is proper; and neither CKW Luxe nor its contributors assume any responsibility for anyone’s use of the information. In no event shall CKW Luxe or its contributors be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, exemplary, or consequential damages (including, but not limited to: personal or pecuniary, injury procurement of substitute goods or services; loss of use, data, or profits; or business interruption) however caused and on any theory of liability, whether in contract, strict liability, to (including negligence or otherwise), or any other theory arising in any way out of the use of the information contained in the magazine, even if advised of the possibility of such damage.

*Disclaimer of Endorsement: Any opinions, advice, statements, services, offers, or other information or content expressed or made available through CKW Luxe by third parties, including information providers, users, or others, are those of the respective author(s) or distributor(s) and do not necessarily state or reflect those of CKW Luxe. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by CKW Luxe, and such reference shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.

*Disclaimer of Warranties/Accuracy and Use of Data:

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Although the information printed in CKW Luxe has been produced by sources believed to be reliable, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. CKW Luxe provides this information on an “AS IS“ basis. All warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, ARE DISCLAIMED.

New Year Wishes from the Publisher Happy 2017!

It’s the beginning of a shining New Year—a time for setting resolutions, working toward positive goals, and being with loved ones. Remember, during this time of renewal, to share your blessings with others whenever possible. Extending kindness to others fills us with joy and happiness and is fundamental to experiencing true fulfillment.

Here is a short verse to usher in 2017: Welcome, New Year!

We look forward to: A year of good health, A year of happiness in all things, A year of good fortune, A year of success in all our endeavours, A year of fun and enjoyment, And a year of peace, For ourselves, those we love, those in our community, and those in the global community.

Wishing you and your family a bright, joyful, healthy, prosperous and happy New Year!

Photography by Lee Nguyen

Connie Kwan-Wong

Publisher and CEO of CKW LUXE ckwanwong@ckwluxe.com

Set Your Intentions and Make Them Work for You in 2017 Rather than set New Year’s resolutions this year for things like not binging on chocolate or Netflix shows, why not try something different and set intentions for specific things you’d like to achieve.

“Intention is the starting point of every dream. It is the creative power that fulfills all of our needs, whether for money, relationships, spiritual awakening, or love,” according to Deepak Chopra.

It’s impossible to live without intention. Everything we do begins with it, whether it’s deciding to go for a morning walk or to invest in a particular stock.

“In simple form, your intentions are your thoughts directed toward a desired outcome. To be more complex, it’s the realization that our consciousness has the ability to create our reality,” according to Thai Nguyen.

In other words, you are what you think. When we put this logic to work, it makes sense, then, that by setting our intentions for specific goals, we can affect the outcome of our lives and make things happen the way we want them to. However, the manner in which we accomplish this isn’t just willy-nilly. Various proponents of setting intentions have come up with a variety of steps for how one should go about doing so. I’ve tried to take the essence of their suggestions and put them together in five steps that integrate their ideas to help us set our intentions for 2017. Here they are:

Quiet Your Mind

Our minds can be noisy characters and not very good company. When they’re filled with too many thoughts and emotions, it’s difficult to concentrate on the task at hand. One of the best ways to open your mind and arrive at a point of complete awareness is through meditation. When your mind is at rest and you’re sitting quietly in the moment, you’re better able to picture what it is you want to have happen in the months to come. It is at this time that you must plant the seeds of your intentions. Having a quiet and open mind will help you be honest with yourself when figuring out what it is you truly want to achieve.

Clearly Define What You Desire

It’s actually possible to be clear on setting the parameters for what you want to have happen in 2017. Start with a positive attitude when defining your intentions. Positive thoughts will attract positive outcomes, whereas negative thoughts will do the opposite. As well, don’t be afraid to be specific about your intentions, clearly stating when they will occur by, who you will be with, and details of what you envision the experience will be. Although specificity is key, don’t forget to be flexible as you move forward with your intentions. Modifications may prove to be necessary.

Be Centered in Your Purpose

“Intention is much more powerful when it comes from a place of contentment than if it arises from a sense of lack or need,” Deepak Chopra tells us. Approaching your intentions from a place of contentment and imbuing them with an affirming attitude free of doubt creates a fertile garden in which they can grow.

Allow Others to Help

As Thai Nguyen says, “If one consciousness can alter reality, a community of combined consciousness, no doubt, will help you move mountains.” It’s a good theory, so don’t be afraid to ask for the support of your community of friends in reaching out to the cosmos and setting intentions for you.

Nurture Your Intentions or Leave Them Alone?

There seem to be two schools of thought on this. The first directs us to visualize our intentions using the whole catalog of our senses to do so, as well as to work toward our goal doing something daily to move us closer to it. The other tells us to allow the higher powers of the universe to take responsibility for the complete fulfillment of our intentions and have faith in what the outcome will be. I wonder if we can’t combine the two giving our intentions direction while at the same time trusting in a higher power to help.

We all want to be happy, to live a life fulfilled that not only allows us to prosper and achieve our dreams, but that does the same for others. A quiet mind, clear goals, a positive attitude, help from others, direction, and faith are the main ingredients in the recipe for setting intentions that will flourish and take you where you want to go in 2017.

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CKW LUXE presents

STAR AWARDS

ANNUAL AWARDS RECOGNIZING INSPIRING YOUTH AND WOMEN There are many people who have impacted and influenced lives, and CKW LUXE Magazine wants to recognize the stars that shine bright. The Annual Star Awards go to exceptional and inspiring youth and women. Stars are nominated by readers and contributors, then selected by the publication staff.

INSPIRING YOUTH AWARDS

INSPIRING WOMEN AWARDS

AURORA AWARD This award goes to a youth who has inspired greatness in others. The winner will embody the characteristics of selflessness: giving, compassion, and understanding.

ASTRAL LIGHT AWARD This award goes to a philanthropic woman who is inspiring and transforming lives through art or music.

FIREBALL AWARD This award goes to an exceptional youth athlete. The winner of this award will represent the meaning of teamwork, determination, and passion for the sport.

CONSTELLATION AWARD This award goes to a woman who is philanthropic and shows sincerity, kindness, and friendship to others.

POP STAR AWARD This award recognizes the young people who shine in their talent. Whether they are amazing at art, music, or writing, we want to recognize them.

COSMIC STAR AWARD This award goes to a philanthropic woman who is inspiring and transforming lives through education or cultural awareness.

SHINING STAR AWARD This award recognizes the young people who have made a significant impact on their community through innovation or entrepreneurship. It shows our appreciation for those who start small and end up big letting their stars shine.

NORTH STAR AWARD This award goes to a philanthropic woman who has been a sincere leader, mentor, and teacher to others and made a significant impact by her wisdom and guidance.

SHOOTING STAR AWARD This award recognizes the young people who pave the way for themselves. They have shown extraordinary effort in the pursuit of a particular goal and have influenced the community for the better.

STELLAR AWARD This award goes to a woman who is philanthropic and also has superior taste in fashion.

D L

AN IM:

Photographic Storyteller 11

Photography Team Credits: Photographer/Creative Direction: Dan Lim - danlimphoto.com Creative Direction/Fashion Styling: Sarah Jay Style Makeup: Lisa Vella - lisavella.com Hair: Dat Tran - dattranhair.com Model: Aislinn at Plutino Models

Internationally acclaimed photographer Dan Lim thinks of himself as an “Image Alchemist.” It’s easy to see why. The goal of an alchemist is to turn base metals into gold. Lim, through the magic of photography, transforms images into conceptual visions that not only please the eye but engage the mind and convey a captivating story.

Known for his sophisticated yet inviting style, Toronto-based Lim is a photographer whose work is coveted by a wideranging group of admirers in the fashion, beauty, editorial, and advertising industries. Included in the long list of varied clients he has had the pleasure of working with are Mexx, Laura Canada, Schon! Magazine, HBO, Canada’s Next Top Model, Glow Magazine, Shoppers Drug Mart, Bonne Bell Cosmetics, and Interview Magazine. Renowned for his ability to record the beauty and spontaneity of a fleeting moment, Lim has also been commissioned to capture the likenesses of such celebrities as Sara McLachlan, Catherine O’Hara, and Diana Krall.

Recognized internationally for his photographic and film work, Lim has been awarded by The Advertising and Design Club of Canada, Communication Arts, Applied Arts, and the Summit Creative Awards. His body of work is also the subject of a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) short documentary.

Always keen to tell a story, Lim is adept at series work in which his photographs build on a theme. The fascinating Extended Self series features life-changing items and their owners, and illustrates how inanimate objects go from merely being “things” to becoming a part of our extended selves once an individual infuses them with an emotional reference.

With the EnWrapture series, by photographing six Canadian Olympic hopefuls performing their sport with the Canadian flag billowing around them, Lim reminds the public of the athletes’ commitment to their country and the importance of the country’s support of its athletes.

CKW Luxe is proud to feature the Elizabeth series within the pages of this issue and on the cover. Inspired by the film “Elizabeth,” starring Cate Blanchett, the series encapsulates the epitome of a woman of great strength and power, qualities CKW Luxe celebrates. Recently, we had the pleasure of talking with Dan Lim about his series work and about telling stories through photographs.

CKW Luxe: As well as your outstanding work with celebrities and for fashion and beauty campaigns, you create evocative photographic series with an eye to expressing a particular point of view that has meaning for the observer. Our readers would be interested in knowing where your ideas for these series come from.

Dan Lim: I’m inspired by life and the world in general.

We often look, but we don’t see what’s around us in our world. Fashion, design, architecture, film, photography, art, inventions, engineering, food, travel, music . . . on and on. It’s virtually all around us, everywhere and every day. All it needs is for us to put our own spin and point of view to whatever it is that inspires us.

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CKW: Because 2016 was an Olympics year, we would love to know what inspired you to produce the EnWrapture series and how its creation enabled you to give back to the athletes who give so much to their country.

DL: The EnWrapture series was created when I read an article, written by Kerry Gillespie of the Toronto Star, where she expressed that even gold medal winners have a difficult time securing sponsorship to help offset the high cost of continuing their pursuit of being Olympic champions.

Specifically, it was about the Canadian Ski Team, despite having a banner season, nearly not able to complete the season due to a lack of funding. I thought to myself, if gold medal winners were in this difficult a position, what about all the other athletes pursuing their Olympic dreams? How can I do my part to help? Thus, EnWrapture was born. The final framed prints from the series were donated to The Canadian Olympic Foundation where they were auctioned off throughout the months leading up to the 2016 Rio Olympics.

CKW: You have created a number of intriguing and thoughtprovoking series over the course of your career. CKW Luxe has chosen to feature your Elizabeth series on our cover and within our magazine because of the beauty inherent in strength and power that it depicts. Can you tell us what made you want to celebrate the movie “Elizabeth” in this way?

DL: More than anything, the movie inspired me from a visual perspective. The set, the costuming, the makeup, and hair. The cinematography absolutely blew me away. I simply wanted to shoot a fashion story inspired by the movie, but distilling it down to its bare essentials of the model and the costuming, hair, and makeup. Inspired by history, but adding a modern touch to it.

CKW: The photographs in the Elizabeth series convey both the strength and vulnerability of your subject. Was this intentional, and if it was, please tell us the devices you used to capture both qualities.

DL: Yes, indeed it was intentional. Casting for this particular shoot was crucial to convey those qualities. Aislinn, our model, was the perfect choice to pull this off. Her vibrant red hair and fair complexion were the perfect physical attributes required for the shoot. Her confident demeanor created the strength in the images while her youth/innocence projected her vulnerability.

CKW: You have said that humans have an innate need to tell stories and that you tell your stories through photographs.

What are the types of stories you choose to tell and what inspires them? How would you encourage other photographers to do the same?

DL: I think the single most important reason for me to choose a story is authenticity. That word is being used so often now that I almost hesitate to use it, but it’s true. A story has to resonate with me on some level, whether it be emotionally or intellectually, in order for me to choose it.

Take the EnWrapture series as an example. As a kid growing up, and all throughout school, I was quite the athlete playing all sorts of sports from baseball, football, and ice hockey, to track and field. I played all these sports at a very competitive, high level, and I experienced what it took in terms of work and sacrifice to achieve even that level of skill, let alone Olympic skill level. So when I read the article that inspired EnWrapture, it immediately brought back memories of my sporting days and what it took to be excellent at sports, and I associated with it immediately.

Everyone has a point of view, and in sharing my perspective I hope to inspire others to share theirs.

Without using any words at all, Dan Lim can tell a compelling, complete story employing carefully constructed pictures that have the ability to impart their meaning on us, the observers, as well as touch our souls. Each of his photographs is more than the sum of its parts. The same can be said for each of his series of photographs. Finding a theme that resonates with himself first, the alchemist in Dan Lim can magically turn it into a sequence of emotions that imbues us with a deeper understanding of the images and of ourselves. CKW Luxe is honored to share Dan Lim’s exquisite Elizabeth series with its readers in celebration of the beauty in strength the magazine so admires.

Audrey Jones Beck Building, Cullen Atrium

THE

ART WORLD COMES ALIVE AT THE

MUSEUM OF

FINE ARTS, HOUSTON

“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”

– Pablo Picasso Visual art takes many forms. It can be a watercolor hung lovingly in a home, a photograph taken with a discerning eye, a sculpture molded from clay, or a piece of modern art consuming the entire wall of an art gallery. Art is everywhere. And why is that? Perhaps it’s because artists have the need to represent the world, or some piece of it, through their own perception, and we have the need to see our world reflected back to us in a way that intrigues us, stimulates our minds, encourages us to ask questions, or simply moves us to great emotion. Visual art does all this and much more, and is important, because not only is it an outlet for creativity, it is a medium that educates and inspires us at the same time.

It would be an understatement to say that The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) is aware of the importance of visual art in our daily lives. With its diverse permanent collection, intriguing exhibitions, public programs, community involvement, and resources, the MFAH not only understands visual art’s importance, it celebrates it, making it accessible to all Houstonians for their pleasure and enrichment.

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Audrey Jones Beck Building exterior

Caroline Weiss Law Building exterior

Established in 1900, the MFAH is the oldest art museum in Texas. An important part of the Houston landscape since its inception, the main campus of the MFAH is an integral component of the city’s Museum District. It comprises the Audrey Jones Beck Building, the Caroline Wiess Law Building, the Glassell School of Art, and the Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden. Its other facilities, the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, and Rienzi, two remarkable house museums with outstanding collections of American and European decorative arts, are nearby.

Rienzi exterior A key component of the museum’s mandate is to provide stimulating programs that immerse visitors in art for their edification and enjoyment at no cost. To this end, the MFAH bites; the historically themed “Rienzi and Bayou Bend Book offers imaginative series and stand-alone experiences for all Club” brings good books and conversation together; “Yoga in the Gardens at Rienzi,” combines exercise with beauty age groups and interests. in a calming setting and includes a tour of Rienzi’s house For children and families, the “Sunday Family Zone + Stu- and gardens; “Photography in the Gardens of Bayou Bend” dio” offers a suite of programs whose activities include the provides photographers with the opportunity to capture the adventure of exploring a particular gallery, listening to spe- bayou’s blooms, woodlands, and landscapes through their cial storybooks, sharpening looking skills with sketching, own lenses. and creating individual works of art; the “Family Storybook Circle” connects art with entertaining stories; “Little Art Ad- The MFAH is also dedicated to community outreach by ventures,” especially designed for children from three to five bringing exciting and creative programs to those who need years of age, includes fun activities and simple art projects. them most. “Art for the Mind and Spirit” brings meaningful For adults, “Art Beyond Sight” engages visitors who are visual arts experiences to Texas Children’s Hospital, Ronald blind or partially sighted in the collections and exhibitions McDonald House, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Shriwith verbal descriptions and hands-on material; “Looking ners Hospital for Children, Houston. The program’s activities Together” engages those with Alzheimer’s disease and de- have been designed for families and children to encourage mentia, and their family members, in discussions about dif- them to view their surroundings as less sterile, less threatenferent works of art; “Happy Hour Thursdays” offers general ing, and less stressful; create an opportunity for self-expresadmission at no cost, cash bar, music, and fun food-truck sion; and allow participants to feel they are in control.

On-site workshops at each facility introduce participants to a work of art from the MFAH collection, which they explore through discussion as well as the addition of related images and hands-on materials. A wonderful bonus of each session is the opportunity for the participants to take part in a related art project of their own. Each activity accommodates therapy and treatment schedules and is adapted to any physical, mental, or emotional limitations participants face. It is also designed to provide comfort, solace, and healing to patients as well as to their families and caregivers.

“Glassell-on-the-Go” is a program of the Glassell School of Art, the teaching institute of the MFAH. The new studio art program brings the high quality youth art classes of the Glassell Junior School to underserved school students and their families. Two underserved schools in the Houston Metropolitan area will benefit from mobile art classes taught by esteemed members of the Glassell Junior School Faculty.

Each semester will culminate in a trip to the MFAH for the students and their families.

The Glassell Junior School is the nation’s only museum-affiliated school to offer year-round art instruction to children ages three to eighteen. While it maintains an active scholarship program for underserved students to take classes at the MFAH, the new “Glassell-on-the-Go” initiative will bring art classes to students who wouldn’t otherwise have had the opportunity to travel to the museum district and derive the benefit of everything it has to offer.

den, will be linked to the existing gallery structures. When the project is complete, the result will be a 14-acre public campus that will further enhance the lives of Houstonians by multiplying their opportunities for being immersed in the wonderful world of art.

Continuing its tradition of presenting exhibitions that immerse the public in a specific aspect or period of art, the MFAH opened two fascinating and illuminating exhibits in October of 2016. “Degas: A New Vision” will run until January 16, 2017 and “Emperors’ Treasures: Chinese Art from the National Palace, Taipei” will run until January 22, 2017.

“Degas: A New Vision” represents the most significant survey of the 19th-century French artist’s work in nearly 30 years, according to the MFAH website. Degas, one of the founders of the Impressionist movement, is best known for his paintings of the dancers he observed at the Paris Opera House. However, his work spans the length of the second half of the 19th century into the early years of the 20th. The only American venue for this remarkable retrospective, the MFAH is proud to display its 200 works culled from public and private collections from around the world. Their presence in one place offers a unique way to observe the continuity of Degas’ interests across various media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and printmaking that endured throughout his entire career.

With an eye to its future, the MFAH is currently involved in a project to design and build a facility dedicated to 20th- and 21st-century art as well as a new residence for the Glassell School of Art. Both buildings, along with a sculpture gar-

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Consisting of over 160 works of art rarely experienced outside of Taipei, “Emperors’ Treasures: Chinese Art from the National Palace Museum, Taipei” highlights the artistic and cultural contributions of imperial rulers in China from the Song dynasty to the Qing dynasty. The unique selection of paintings, bronzes, calligraphy, and decorative arts, which exemplifies superb craftsmanship and imperial tastes, offers Houstonians a glimpse into the roles played by eight emperors and one empress in establishing and developing new artistic directions through the treasures they collected, commissioned, and in some cases, created. It’s a fascinating way to discover how Chinese art evolved and flourished under Han Chinese, Mongol, and Manchu rulers.

Gary Tinterow with Degas Exhibition

CKW Luxe recently had the pleasure of speaking with Gary Tinterow, Director of the MFAH, about the museum, its significance for Houstonians, the Degas and Emperors’ Treasures exhibitions, and what he envisions for the museum’s future.

CKW Luxe: What do you see as the role of the MFAH in the city of Houston, and how do you make it accessible to everyone?

Gary Tinterow: The MFAH is the city’s principle art museum and one of its primary sources for art education and creative culture. There are many fine museums in Houston, but we feel we serve an important function, not only as a storehouse of world culture, but also as a community center where people of all faiths, continents, and nationalities are able to visit and find their cultures and ancestors represented.

CKW: The Degas exhibit is quite a comprehensive representation of the artist’s work. What do you think the selections add to our current perceptions of Degas, and how do they enhance our understanding of him as an artist?

GT: This is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of Degas’ work to be mounted in nearly 30 years. That alone

makes it important. It also provides us with an exceptional opportunity to experience the career, life, and work of one of the greatest artists who ever lived—an artist who was constantly searching for a profound understanding of what it is to be human. I believe we see in his work, and in the exhibition, as in the work of a great novelist, a number of characters occurring at the beginning of his career that he takes with him in his art. As Degas ages, so do his characters.

They seem to move through life together seeking a deep understanding of what human life is about.

CKW: As well as being a feast for our senses, how does the Emperors’ Treasures exhibit increase our understanding of Chinese imperial culture? Our readers would also be curious to know if you have a favorite piece in this unique collection.

GT: The Emperors’ Treasures exhibition is a great opportunity for Houstonians to experience some of the finest pieces from the imperial collections of the National Palace Museum in Taipei. Originally, the collections were housed in the Forbidden City in Beijing. During the 20th century, after the fall of the imperial household, the revolutions, and the subsequent civil wars in China, the collections were placed in various cities throughout China for safekeeping. Since 1949, they have been beautifully cared for in Taipei. This is only one of three occasions since then that items from the 23

collections have been loaned out. That in itself is extraordinary. There are many beautiful pieces in the exhibition, and they represent all the high achievements of Chinese culture: painting, ceramics, lacquer work, metalwork, enamel, and so on. Each is represented in its finest expression in objects owned by the emperors and empresses.

I don’t have a favorite piece, but my favorite emperor was the Qianlong emperor, a great collector who amassed works from antiquity and also commissioned new ones. When he liked an object he marked it with his seal. Many of the articles in the exhibition display that mark. In a way, the item that summarizes this activity is a puzzle box with secret drawers housing miniatures of these pieces. It is, in essence, an encyclopedia in miniature of his favorite treasures. That’s pretty great.

The MFAH, which houses and makes accessible to all Houstonians priceless works of art that not only please the eye, but tantalize our senses, make us question our perceptions, and educate us, is a treasure unto itself. From its inception at the turn of the 20th century to its entry into the 21st century, the MFAH has recognized visual art’s importance in our enjoyment and understanding of everyday life. With that tenet always at the forefront of its decisions, the MFAH continues to illuminate the public with stimulating programs, displays of its permanent collections, and exotic and thought-provoking exhibitions from across North America and around the world.

CKW: Please describe your plans for the museum’s future and explain how they will impact the people of Houston.

GT: We’re engaged in an important campus expansion that includes building a new Glassell School of Art, a new Nancy and Rich Kinder Building for modern and contemporary art, and a new Sarah Campbell Blaffer Foundation Center for Conservation. The expansion will help fulfill our mission as well as be a magnet for tourism. Not only will we be adding 50 percent more space to display our permanent collection and special exhibits, we will also be adding a fine dining restaurant, another theater for films and lectures, a larger café, a great hall to receive school children, a public plaza with a fountain, a roof garden, and an amphitheater.

I believe the museum will be a destination for the entire region and that the world will be impressed by what the city of Houston and its philanthropists will have achieved.

Audrey Jones Beck Building, exterior

CKW: Can you give our readers a preview of your upcoming exhibits?

GT: Next spring and summer we will be welcoming two important exhibits that focus on other parts of the globe. In the spring, we’re opening an exhibition called “Adiós Utopia: Dreams and Deceptions in Cuban Art Since 1950,” which will focus on the art and artists of Cuba from the revolution of 1959 to the present. It focuses on how important art was in establishing the new revolutionary principles of the new government of Cuba. It will also show the struggles the Cuban people have encountered to realize their vision of society and their place in the world as time goes on.

Then we have a comparable exhibition that will focus on Mexican revolutionary art from 1911 until the early 1950s. It will feature artists at the forefront of portraying revolutionary goals and helping political figures create an identity for a nation re-establishing itself.

Audrey Jones Beck Building, Jamail Atrium Photo Credits: Aker/Zvonkovic, Rob Williamson

The Coming of Age of

a First-Time Film Director

Katie Cokinos, writer and director of the film “I Dream Too Much” says…

I have been interviewed countless times regarding my feature film debut, “I Dream Too Much” (IDTM), over the past year and a half. One question I’ve never been asked, however, is: “What is it like to come (back) into your career at the age of 52?”

Ever since I graduated from college in the mid-1980s, I’ve been working in the film business.

However, when I had my first child, Lula, fifteen years ago, I decided to put my career on the back burner. But after about two years, I decided to start writing again and quickly learned how to write during my daughter’s naps and ballet lessons and while I was cooking. When I had my second child, Niko, four years later, I figured out how to do it during his soccer and baseball games.

I became adept at grabbing thoughts when they quickly arose and scribbling on whatever was available—notepads in my purse when I was lucky. I became, as my sister termed it, a stay-athome filmmaker.

It’s interesting, though, when I reflect on all the energy that went into creating IDTM, to realize one of the biggest challenges, apart from the writing, raising money, directing, and getting it out in front of audiences, occurred early on.

That challenge was making the conscious decision to make my first feature film important. My work had to be put on the front burner. It was an exciting, scary, and sort of crazy thing to do at the age of 52.

But that’s the nature of IDTM, a multi-generational female coming-of-age story. The characters: Dora, 20 (Eden Brolin); Abbey, 29 (Danielle Brooks); Helen, 49 (Christina Rouner); and Vera, 79 (Diane Ladd) are all wondering what the next phase of their lives will be. And as Diane Ladd said at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival, “You’re never too old to come of age.”

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in Pieces: The Distinctive Mosaics of David Fink’s BellaVetro By: Cindi Rose

David Fink isn’t your conventional graduate of SMU or the McCombs School of Business. Born in New Orleans, he has always appreciated mixed cultures, exotic food, and art. Prior to founding BellaVetro, which creates hand-cut mosaic art inspired by well-known artists, Fink was vice president of securities at Goldman Sachs, Houston. Working in finance, however, didn’t satisfy his creative side, so he shifted his focus from the financial world to luxury design.

After retiring from business, Fink began visiting countries that are off the beaten path. The typical “western” countries held no interest for him. The inhabitants of the countries he did visit had little in common with U.S. citizens. That was the idea. What he found was that, “No matter where I was, I was usually able to find native art. Where there was art, there was happiness!”

While traveling, Fink became a passionate photographer and began recording his experiences. This pastime, in a way, led to his interest in mosaics. It was while on these journeys that Fink discovered several tile artists who, after years of apprenticing, would eventually work closely with him. The process was difficult at first as the perfection Fink demanded wasn’t received well. However, he was later told that the artists respected him and felt that their skills improved due to his supervision and guidance.

Initially, Fink collected the pieces the artists created just for himself. Over a period of six years, the creative process became more refined, and he felt their art might be more accepted in the United States. Then, 18 months ago, as his friends’ faces lit up upon seeing the beauty and scale of the works, he knew he had a viable business. That’s when BellaVetro was born.

on her left ear. And Klimt’s portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer shows her wearing an exquisite choker made of real pearls, lapis, and tiger’s eye. The jewelry is designed by Fink.

Another differentiating factor enhancing BellaVetro’s exclusivity is the use of light. An interpretation of one of Matisse’s creations already showcases Fink’s backlighting skill, but he is most excited about a work in process, which involves backlighting an interpretation of Monet’s “Water Lilies.” Fink says this of the work: “The water, no, the whole image will come alive!”

Upon entering BellaVetro’s 7,000-square-foot gallery, one is immediately struck by the thoughtfully arranged pieces representing works by such lauded artists as Klimt, van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, and de Lempicka. A rendering of a selfportrait by Gauguin is lovingly placed near the spectacular 15-foot-tall portrait of his Tahitian bride, Tehamana, bursting with color. Fink’s favorite pieces are the renderings of Klimt’s works. All are resplendent in shimmering gold tile and beautifully mounted on black velvet. “The Knight,” an eight-foot-tall painting of a knight clad in gold armor and surrounded by three adoring women, is simply astounding, especially when seen with light reflecting from his gold armor and six-foot silver sword.

One of the elements that makes BellaVetro’s art especially beautiful is the judicious use of pearls, semi-precious stones, and cabochons. For example, Vermeer’s “The Girl with a Pearl Earring” has a large mabe pearl appropriately placed on her left ear. And Klimt’s portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer shows her wearing an exquisite choker made of real pearls, lapis, and tiger’s eye. The jewelry is designed by Fink.

Another differentiating factor enhancing BellaVetro’s exclusivity is the use of light. An interpretation of one of Matisse’s creations already showcases Fink’s backlighting skill, but he is most excited about a work in process, which involves backlighting an interpretation of Monet’s “Water Lilies.” Fink says this of the work: “The water, no, the whole image will come alive!”

Upon entering BellaVetro’s 7,000-square-foot gallery, one is immediately struck by the thoughtfully arranged pieces representing works by such lauded artists as Klimt, van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, and de Lempicka. A rendering of a selfportrait by Gauguin is lovingly placed near the spectacular 15-foot-tall portrait of his Tahitian bride, Tehamana, bursting with color. Fink’s favorite pieces are the renderings of Klimt’s works. All are resplendent in shimmering gold tile and beautifully mounted on black velvet. “The Knight,” an eight-foot-tall painting of a knight clad in gold armor and surrounded by three adoring women, is simply astounding, especially when seen with light reflecting from his gold armor and six-foot silver sword.

Adding a note of mischief to the ambience of the studio, several pairs of old scissors hang from the ceiling near the Matisse section. Their presence makes one ask, “Did he use this pair to create one of his famous “cutouts?” Taking the joke a little further, pipes hanging from the ceiling near the van Gogh exhibit seem to be waiting for the artist himself to take a puff. The most unusual, and perhaps the most nuanced pieces, are mannequins displaying small parts of Klimt’s paintings (see above).

It was a treat to be able to speak with David Fink recently about BellaVetro, his inspiration for his art, and what he sees in his future.

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Cindi Rose: Our readers would be interested to know how long you worked in finance and when you decided to retire from that world?

David Fink: I spent 30 years in the financial business and have enjoyed traveling to unique destinations since the early 2000s. Favorite places I have visited are Papua New Guinea; Myanmar; Tromso, Norway; Orissa, India; the grasslands in Mongolia; Tibet; Bhutan; and the Silk Road across China.

The common thread among these destinations is that they are less developed and more interesting and welcoming to me than the more developed parts of the world.

DF: It’s been my pleasure to donate some of my pieces to several prestigious nonprofits for auctioning. Recently, Vy Le was the top bidder at the Holly Rose Ribbon Foundation gala and Staci and Quang Henderson were the highest bidders on my mosaic portrait of Marilyn Monroe at the Blue Cure fundraiser. I am especially delighted to support the latter because of Carolyn Farb’s assistance when my mother had cancer. And I was proud to have Audrey Hepburn’s son, Sean Ferrer, approve the creation of a mosaic likeness of his mother that was auctioned at the UNICEF gala in Houston.

The proud winners of the piece were Alex and Astley Blair.

CR: Can you explain how pixels made you think of tile art, and what inspired you to create it?

DF: It was really the timing of my budding interest in photography and visiting a friend of mine in a small village in Kaiping, China, who, at the time, was a mosaic craftsman.

I liken a mosaic tile to that of a pixel in a photograph.

Anyway, I like that analogy!

CR: What sizes are your framed tile pieces, and how long does it take to render a commissioned work?

DF: The largest is a piece by Lichtenstein, and is 15 feet by 22 feet, but most are about four to seven feet tall. It takes about four to six weeks to complete a work that someone has commissioned, depending on size and complexity.

CR: Mosaic art is fascinating. Can you tell our readers a little about how your mosaics are made?

DF: I design the mosaic art, but I don’t cut the tiles. Design includes choosing the types of tile used, plotting out the tile “flow,” and making the color selections. I make extensive use of Photoshop while “collaborating” with the original art. The heart of the process involves hand cutting every tile with a primitive tool known as a “nipper” and then gluing it to a large piece of mesh. There is absolutely no mechanized phase of my creation process. I have seen machine-made mosaic art. It’s too perfect, cold; it has no charm.

CR: As someone who believes in the community, and in Houston as a center of culture, how do you personally give back?

CR: Where do you want your art to be in two years?

DF: Timely question! I have just begun talking to artists in Texas and Aspen about collaborating and interpreting their art using hand-cut glass tiles.

Although everything in the BellaVetro gallery is for sale, its focus is working with commercial designers to create oneof-a-kind art for hotels, restaurants, and office buildings.

Individuals who desire custom art and personal portraits are also an important part of the business. And because of the many requests he has received, Mr. Fink is now making his unique 7,000-square-foot studio available for special events.

BellaVetro is truly one of a kind. It is a gallery where works of art can be admired and bought, a venue for distinctive events, and an inspiration for custom art envisioned by private and corporate clients alike.

RUGS & HOME

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wning a luxurious, meticulously handcrafted Oriental rug is to possess a work of art that helps tell the narrative of who you are. It becomes part of you, moves with you, defines a space, and can become a collector’s item or a cherished heirloom.

Oriental rugs have been part of the world’s culture for centuries. Although their origin is uncertain, they are referred to in many early Greek and Arab texts. The oldest surviving piece of hand-knotted carpet, the Pazyryk, was retrieved from a southern Siberian burial site in 1949 and dates back to the fifth or fourth century B.C. Handmade of natural wool, silk, or cotton fibres and imbued with their own individual character and design, Oriental rugs are made in the Near East, the Middle East, the Far East, and the Balkans. The technique of knotting rugs may have originated with the nomadic tribes of Central Asia who are credited with spreading the art to other cultures. Embellished with geometric designs inspired by nature, their rugs were used as floor coverings, wall hangings, and curtains.

As the art developed, Persia and Turkey became rug-making centers, and the beauty of their pieces was extolled by Italian travelers like Marco Polo. By the early 16th century, Oriental rugs adorned the great courts of Europe. Their prominence in the Western world gained momentum during the ensuing centuries, and they are revered throughout the world to this day.

The quality of Oriental rugs varies and is determined by the intricacy of design, knot density, and the wool. The intricacy of design refers to the amount of detail a design possesses, along with the amount of color required to accomplish the pattern. Knot density is synonymous with fineness of weave: A greater number of knots per inch results in finer detail. The quality of the wool is defined by the length of its fibres and its pliability.

During the 1980s, the production of Oriental rugs in countries like India, China, Pakistan, Turkey, and Romania increased significantly. The tradition and technique of weaving didn’t change, but weavers began adapting designs and colors to suit Western tastes. Now there is a wide variety of color and design choice in a full range of prices.

In the United States, the Parvizian Company is synonymous with superior Oriental rugs and is one of the country’s most reputable dealers. When the company opened its first location in Washington D.C. in 1965, its mission then, as it is now, was “to provide its customers with the largest selection of the highest quality rugs at the best value.”

Gus Parvizian, owner of Parvizian Rugs & Home, immigrated to the United States from Iran in 1968 to attend university and partner with his brother in the rug business. In 1979, after the company had opened several new locations and added fine furniture to the rug collection, Mr. Parvizian expanded the business to Houston, where he has made his home. His strong ties to the community extend beyond simply being part of it to supporting many of its worthy causes, including Houston firefighters and the local chapters of the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the Arthritis Foundation, and the American Diabetes Association.

Parvizian Rugs & Home has recently moved Houston’s largest inventory of rugs, runners, and tapestries to a spacious new home at 5801 Westheimer Rd. Each piece on display is constructed by master weavers with meticulous detail and care. Handpicked from around the world by Mr. Parvizian himself, the exquisite collection is handsomely displayed at the glamorous 10,000-square-foot space.

As it has done since 1979, Parvizian Rugs & Home offers professional rug cleaning, repair, and restoration services.

Homeowners can also take advantage of impeccable interior design services provided by a knowledgeable and capable staff, and interior designers are invited to look into purchasing services created just for them.

Oriental rugs embody fine craftsmanship; symmetry of design; beauty; comfort; and often, luxury. They have been used for centuries to add warmth and decoration to a space, define individuality, and say something about their owners.

Parvizian Rugs & Home understands this and would be delighted to help you find the perfect carpet that turns your home into its own work of art.

Ars Lyrica

and the Allure of Baroque Music Ars Lyrica brings something special to Houston. The ensemble, founded in 1998 by harpsichordist and conductor, as well as artistic director, Matthew Dirst, performs master works of Baroque music on period instruments to the delight of its audiences. The esteemed company has been hailed by the Houston Chronicle as “setting the agenda for imaginative period instrument programming in Houston.”

The term Baroque comes to us from the French word “barroque” meaning irregularly shaped. Eventually, the word was used to describe “a dramatic style of art and music common in the 17th and early 18th centuries that featured many decorative parts, and details … often conveying a sense of dramatic movement and tension,” according to the “Merriam-Webster Dictionary.” Baroque music came into being around 1600 and rose to great heights between 1700 and 1750.

Contrast is used as a dramatic element in Baroque arrangements. Whether it be the difference between loud and soft, solo or ensemble, or the varying sounds of the instruments creating the music, contrast is important, according to the Music of the Baroque blog. As well, the revival of the Ancient Greek’s belief that music could arouse a variety of different emotions resulted in the awareness of music’s potential power. Thus, proponents of Baroque music came to believe that music was a powerful tool for communicating, a precept that came to dominate the era.

Masters of the Baroque include such classical music geniuses as Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, Antonio Vivaldi, and Giovanni Battista Sammartini. The unique styles, textures, and forms of their music enchant and delight the listener and influenced the shape and course of classical music, according to classical music expert Aaron Green. Baroque music has endeared itself to music lovers everywhere and is even more popular today than it was during its own time.

Johann Sebastian Bach is widely acclaimed for having brought the Baroque musical form to its zenith. The brilliant German composer and master of the organ and harpsichord adapted and incorporated rhythms, forms, and textures from abroad into his compositions, according

to “Wikipedia.” During this season of Ars Lyrica, Bach’s genius is being celebrated in “Bachanalia,” a festive all-Bach program that will ring in the New Year with cantatas the composer wrote specifically for the holiday, along with other celebratory works.

Recently, CKW Luxe had the pleasure of speaking with Ars Lyrica’s artistic director, Matthew Dirst, about Baroque music and its popularity.

CKW Luxe: Can you tell our readers a little bit about Ars Lyrica and its connection with Baroque music?

Matthew Dirst: Ars Lyrica specializes in the music of this era, when the notion of “bel canto,” or “beautiful song,” first came into common parlance. Virtually all music of the 17th and 18th centuries, whether for instruments, voices, or some combination thereof, realizes this ideal of bel canto in some way—through gorgeous, intimate, memorable sonorities that make the most of chamber, dramatic, and sacred musical genres.

CKW: It is our understanding Baroque music is even more popular now than it ever was. Can you tell us why that is and how audiences connect to it?

MD: It certainly has a large following these days, considerably more so in sheer numbers of listeners than was the case in the 17th or 18th century. Part of its charm, I suppose, is the wonderful paradox of music that combines sensuous pleasure with real depth of meaning.

CKW: Our readers would also like to know what draws you to Baroque music and how you choose the pieces to be played from season to season.

MD: As an organist and harpsichordist, I’ve always had a special fondness for music from the Baroque era; it’s my bread and butter, so to speak. Curating a season is a bit like planning a big fancy meal: What do you like best to cook and eat? What ingredients do you have already? Which ones will you need to shop for? What can you afford? Season programming is also a bit like a big jigsaw puzzle, the pieces of which fall into place one at a time, generally.

Ars Lyrica is a rich oasis of Baroque music in Houston keeping its exuberant nature alive for those who have an enduring romance with the art form as well as for those who are just joining the party. With its enthusiastic annual offerings and dedication to the music lovers of Houston, Ars Lyrica will continue in that capacity for many years to come.

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Celebrating and Selecting the Best Children’s Books By: Margaret MacMillan

We book lovers are interesting people. We are passionate about the written word and the worlds books make it possible for us to get lost in. Not only is the content of the book important to us, so is its tactile nature. There is nothing like removing our newly purchased or received treasure from its packaging. Running a hand over its smooth dust jacket with the appealing cover art, its only illustration, we are reminded of what it is we hope to find inside. Gently opening our book, so as not to hurt the binding, we introduce ourselves to its fresh new pages filled with words waiting just for us to come and play with them. We may not realize it, but that anticipation of discovery all wrapped up in an inviting package began before our earliest memories.

The fact that it has followed and stayed with us all our lives is what binds us to books and makes us friends with them for life.

Not only do we create this inseparable bond with books in general, we form relationships with specific books because of what they taught us, how they reflected our world, the way in which they showed us we were not alone, and because they made us aware that other weird and wonderful characters just like us also exist. Books become our friends for life and are always there to go back to when we need a reminder of the way they uplifted us, made us laugh or cry, or scared us, or, just because we want to go back to that moment in time and relive it all over again.

Books are important for children because they are a window on their world, one they can hold in their hands, touch, visualize, and play with. Not only do books reflect the child’s surroundings and feelings back to them, they also enhance and add to their world. For the very young, books can put words to objects baby is familiar with, introduce them to letters, numbers, and simple language, and, through illustration, make the words come alive. As they get older, books reflect the child’s feelings as they follow a character through a scenario they can identify with. Through the magical combination of words and illustration, children not only hear but see the story play out in front of them expanding their imaginations and enhancing their understanding. And don’t forget the pairing that comes with reading to a child.

When a parent, grandparent, or other family member is the narrator, their voice and comforting presence bring an added dimension to the activity enhancing its enjoyment and securing its place in the child’s memory.

Because we’re book lovers who believe not only in the importance of books for our children’s development, but also in their importance for enhancing our children’s lives and providing them with life-long friends they’ll never be without, we want to pass that connection on to them. How do we do that? The answer is really very simple; we shower them with books. Whether for a birthday, a milestone, a book shower, a holiday, a purchase after story time, or just 33

a “let’s-get-a-book” moment, take advantage of giving the gift of a book whenever you can.

how much he loves them, in this rollicking book that helps children learn color association.

This brings us to the question, “How do we select the books we choose for our children.” In this article, we’ll focus on the elements to look for when selecting picture books for children from the ages of zero to four. All of the elements discussed below won’t be contained in every book you choose, but some combination of them will. They are as follows:

A Good Story Simply Told A good story for children contains the same criteria as a good story for adults: first, it reflects the child’s own world in some way by including universal emotions and feelings like happiness, love, and a sense of family; second, it features a character they can relate to like another child, a pet, a beloved toy, or an animal that thinks like they do; third, it contains an element of humor, and fourth, it contains an element of surprise that makes it memorable.

It is especially important for children that the story be told in simple language, but not in language that talks down to them. Good stories for children also often contain universal truths and subtle life lessons. Here are five fantastic books that tell stories well:

Repetition and Rhyme Children love to hear words repeated. They can pick up on them easily this way, commit them to memory, and repeat them back. And repetition is fun. It also builds memory skills, imbues the child with a sense of accomplishment, and increases language skills. Once a child has repeated the words in a book with you a few times, they’ll remember them and pick up where you left off the last time you read the book together. Triggering that memory and the satisfaction it brought enhances the child’s enjoyment each time they repeat the experience. Rhyme seems to be a natural partner for repetition. Repetition sets up a pattern just as rhyme sets up a rhythm. Put them together and you have a winning combination. Children will delight in the singsong effect and revel in the fact that they can participate and say the rhyme along with you. Here are five fantastic books that do repetition and rhyme well: My Very First Mother Goose, by Iona Opie: This book combines the fun of the original rhymes with warm and inviting illustrations. (Available in board book.)

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault: This is the jazziest alphabet you and your child will ever have fun with, brightly and simply illustrated.

(Available in board book.)

Where Is the Green Sheep? by Mem Fox: In this book, children are introduced to colors with rhyming fun and quirky illustrations. (Available in board book.)

Jamberry, by Bruce Degen: Combining rhyming and nonsense rhyming with the exploits of a boy and a bear looking for berries to make jam, Jamberry will tickle your child’s funny bone and make them feel good all over.

(Available in board book.)

I Love My White Shoes, by Eric Litwin and James Dean: As Pete the Cat’s new white shoes change before the reader’s very eyes, Pete just keeps singing his joyful song about

Knuffle Bunny, by Mo Willems: This book tells the frantic story of how a little girl loses her favorite toy then finds it again with the help of her father. Funny, and filled with loving emotion at the same time, the story is evocatively illustrated with line drawings on photographs.

Elmer the Elephant, by David McGee: Elmer is a patchwork elephant whose jokes make the rest of his herd laugh.

When he thinks they’re laughing at him, Elmer tries to be more like them by hiding his patchwork. When he realizes his wit is his greatest gift, and he is loved for who he is, Elmer pulls off his best joke of all. Told with humor, and illustrated with pictures as bold and beautiful as Elmer’s personality, this gentle fable shows children that there is nothing wrong with being different.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee, by Phillip C. Stead: Amos McGee is a kindly zookeeper who makes time each day to play with his friends, the zoo’s residents. On the day Amos is too sick to see his friends and has to stay home, the animals decide to visit him and return the favor. This beautifully rendered and softly illustrated book relates the joy of friendship and the satisfaction inherent in giving back.

Corduroy, by Don Freeman: When a little girl’s mother advises her against buying a department store teddy bear because one of the buttons on his overalls is missing, the toy goes on an evening adventure searching the store hoping to find it. Although he is unsuccessful, the little girl returns the next day to buy him and take him home. She calls him Corduroy and gives him a real home, something he’s always wanted. This is a sweet story about caring and the nature of family gently told with simple illustrations.

The Snowy Day, by Ezra Jack Keats: Waking up one morning to find his familiar neighborhood haunts turned unrecognizable by a heavy fall of snow, Pete can’t wait to get outside and rediscover it in a whole new way. Illustrated with bright paintings and patterned paper that lend the images a sense of familiarity, The Snowy Day reflects every child’s joy in the wonders of a world transformed by snow.

Imaginative Illustrations and Enhancements You may have noticed that while discussing many of the books above, I mentioned the illustrations as well as the content.

You can’t have a picture book without illustrations. They visually represent the story the child is listening to, engage them further in the narrative, and put them in the story. When my granddaughter was about six months old, she would physically attempt to get inside her books, seeing them, I believe, as portals into another world.

Illustrations make the world of the story come alive and must be true to it in their use of mood, images, and palette. Here are three thrilling books with outstanding illustrations: Flotsam, by David Wiesner: Flotsam tells the tale of a scientifically curious young boy’s day at the beach, and it does so without using a single word.

The pictures tell the story. Using changing and inventive perspective, bright colors, and superb detail, Wiesner masterfully allows the viewer to discover, one step at a time, the miracles of beach treasure the same way the story’s only character does filling them with the same sense of wonder.

Birds, by Tom Henkes, illustrated by Laura Dronzek: Birds captures the color, beauty, and swift unpredictability of our feathered friends with simple language and pastel drawings.

As well as telling us about birds, the illustrations can turn whimsical imagining what a cloud would look like if it were shaped like a bird, or what a tree full of birds would look like after the tree yelled “surprise” inviting the viewer to imagine these delights as well.

Duck! Rabbit! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal: Just as Flotsam used detailed paintings to tell a story, Amy Krouse Rosenthal proves the same thing can be done with simple line drawings and very few words. Playing with our perception, this book begs the question, “Is it a duck or a rabbit?” in the best way possible.

Books don’t have to have add-ons or enhancements to be good. Quite the contrary, but enhancements are fun for children and encourage interaction with a book in a different way. Just as Pete’s song in I Love My White Shoes encourages children to enjoy another interactive dimension of the book, so do add-ons. They come in the form of pop-ups, tabs, and flaps, and, in my mind, should be used as part of the story.

Here are three fun books that do enhancements well.

Dear, Zoo, by Rod Campbell: What happens when the zoo sends you a variety of pets they’ve selected just for you? Lift the flaps and find out.

Knick Knack Paddy Whack: A Moving Parts Book, by Paul O. Zelinsky: What happens when a little boy goes on an adventure to the verses of “This Old Man?” Push the tabs, spin the wheels, and lift the flaps to find out.

What Makes a Rainbow? by Betty Ann Schwartz: How is a rainbow made? Open this colorful pop-up book and find out.

No matter what book you bring home to a child using the criteria for judging the elements mentioned here, you don’t know which of them will captivate that child’s heart and make them a book lover forever. They won’t all do that, but they will entertain them and enrich their lives and expand their imaginations in a way nothing else can. With that winning recipe, which combines a simple but meaningful story with enriching illustrations that can be turned time and again into something unique and surprising, their books will, more often than not, turn into friends they can always revisit.

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Shortly after he began his administration, Houston Mayor, Sylvester Turner, announced he had selected former Houston Independent School District (HISD) trustee Juliet Stipeche to serve as Director of Education, a new position within the mayor’s administration. The position was created to achieve “greater collaboration between the city and area schools, community colleges, and universities,” according to the Houston Chronicle. Mayor Turner explains it further in his announcement by saying, “The creation of this new position is meant to compliment, not compete, with the hard work of our area school districts. Creating the strong, well-educated Houston of tomorrow will require everyone working together. Juliet is the perfect choice for ensuring my vision gets implemented.”

Ms. Stipeche is well suited for the position. Not only does she have a law degree from the University of Texas, she also graduated magna cum laude from Rice University with a bachelor’s degree in political science, policy studies, and religious studies. She comes to the mayor’s office from Rice University where she was the Associate Director of the Richard Tapia Center for Excellence and Equity. For five years, she served as a trustee on the Houston Independent School District Board, including serving as president in 2014. Houston’s new Director of Education has also written and presented lectures on nearly 20 topics ranging from demanding excellence in education to empowering students in today’s world to educating for equity in Texas.

Mayor Turner goes on in his announcement to say this of his new appointee, “Juliet is very passionate about education and children and I share that passion. She is a visionary with transformative ideas.

Her collaborative approach of working with parents, administrators, business, law enforcement and neighborhoods will help achieve my goal of moving this city forward and reducing the income inequality that is so often the result of deficiencies in the education system.”

CKW Luxe was honored to sit down with Mayor Turner and Juliet Stipeche recently to ask them about the position of Director of Education, the path that led Ms. Stipeche to being chosen for the position, and the future both parties envision for the position.

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INTERVIEW WITH MAYOR TURNER: CKW Luxe: The position of Director of Education is new for your administration. Can you give us an idea as to the reason you considered the position necessary for Houston?

Mayor Turner: In my estimation, you can’t have a strong vibrant city moving in one direction and an educational system moving in another. Both must be heading in the same direction. I believe it is important to have someone in my administration, reporting directly to me, who is in charge of educational initiatives. There are 17 school districts that crisscross Houston. It is imperative that my administration have someone within it who is responsible for communicating and working closely with all of them and being a focal point for the administration in terms of education.

Juliet Stipeche, I am convinced, is the best person for that job. Not only is she a former member of the school board, she is also passionate about education.

MT: Houston is a diverse city and it is important to communicate with every group. Although many of the people are doing well, 24 percent are working poor. Income inequality in the city is growing. It is my belief that education has a lot to do with this. There are those who are dropping out of school, just getting their GED, or not going on to post-secondary education.

This is not because they aren’t smart or talented, but often times we don’t put the right amount of emphasis on the children of our city. It is my hope that Juliet will provide light on many communities where we can tap that talent, encourage students to stay in school, and provide them with the initiatives they need to turn their lives around and maximize their full potential. You can know what is required, but passion is necessary to get it accomplished. Not only does Juliet know the educational system, she is passionate about it and committed to it. It is my hope that we can reduce income inequality, not just through increasing minimum wage, but by providing our children with the skill sets needed to take advantage of opportunities coming to the city. We have a responsibility to say we believe in you, advocate for you, and will open doors for you with someone coordinating this and being responsible for it.

CKW: Can you tell us if there is any particular issue or concern within the Houston educational system that you consider to be the most pressing or time-sensitive? If there is, would you share it with our readers and discuss what you feel is the right direction to go in improving it.

MT: School finance. The Texas Supreme Court has ruled that our current system is constitutional. I disagree with that. Under our current system, HISD is going to have to give up $166 million to the Texas Education Agency, which the agency will distribute to other districts in the state. If this occurs, thousands of children will suffer. We need every dime to take care of our own.

Since the commissioner will be able to grab properties and reassign them CKW: Please tell us what you see as to other school districts in other parts the overriding philosophy of the po- of the state, I have tasked Juliet with sition as well as its chief goals and partnering with HISD and other school objectives. districts under recapture, or at risk of

recapture, to work together to persuade the Texas legislature, in January of 2017, to change or reform the school finance system so districts are not subject to recapture. We need a fairer school finance system or our kids will suffer. This, to me, is our most pressing concern; not only will it affect HISD, it will affect the city of Houston as a whole.

CKW: As education involves the whole community, how do you see the community becoming involved with working out solutions for education-based concerns?

MT: To reiterate my earlier statements, the community must work to persuade the Texas legislature, in January of 2017, to change or reform the school finance system so districts are not subject to recapture. Parents should be alarmed, and they must be educated about the action and engaged in the process of doing something about it. If not, education will be adversely affected. It is crucial they are aware of how much money will leave and go somewhere else unless they take a stand against it.

CKW: If you could look into a crystal ball, can you tell us what you believe will be the future inroads made in education in Houston as a result of this new appointment?

MT: Often times we focus on fundamentals like the infrastructure of the city, but many people are deficient in their own lives. Until human infrastructure is addressed, what we do with streets won’t be enough. Education addresses the potholes in human infrastructure giving students the tools they need to realize their full potential.

My hope is that, through Juliet’s efforts working with parents and school districts and focusing on education and business communities, this city will be one of hope and inspiration for our kids regardless of where they come from. Our message will be that we will provide you with what you need to succeed in any endeavor. The city will partner with school districts to give you that opportunity. If you want it, it’s there for you. You won’t be ignored. Our goal is that every child in the city, regardless of economic background, knows that if we believe it we can achieve it.

was in school. Serving and helping others is critical in my life and the reason I became a lawyer. In the courtroom, I advocated for others. Now, in this position, I can be an advocate for young people, students, and opportunity youth in our community.

ple in colleges and universities to serve as role models and mentors and how to empower parents with knowledge to help children succeed in school. We can do this by learning the best practices of what’s happening locally, regionally, and nationally and by bringing these practices to Houston and making them specific CKW: Can you talk a little bit about to Houston’s needs. The transformative your main duties as well as describe opportunity that presents through eduwhat you consider to be the most im- cation is critical and must be a priority portant aspects of your job? for the entire city. This is near and dear to the Mayor’s heart.

JS: Education really begins while children are in the womb, educating parents CKW: How would you like to see the on the importance of pre-natal care mandate of the position grow in the and helping young parents take care of coming years? and educate their children. Robust early childhood education is imperative so JS: I would like to see the mandate grow that children are ready to learn as soon in terms of us being able to develop as they start school. Then there is K to transformative innovative programs that 12, opportunity youth, technical edu- provide meaningful impact to the comcation, post-secondary education, and munity. Currently we are working on the much more … education permeates all Higher Houston Youth Initiative. We are levels of a life. The Mayor is hopeful we also collaborating with superintendents can expand opportunities to increase the from the various districts to develop INTERVIEW WITH access the entire population of Houston a strategic vision and plan to identify JULIET STIPECHE: has to educational opportunities regard- where we see ourselves in the next 10 to 30 years.

CKW Luxe: Our readers would love to less of age, class, and zip code. learn a little more about you. Can you fill us in on your background, your in- CKW: Please tell us what you person- HISD is facing a $107 million shortfall terest in education, and the post you ally hope to achieve as Director of for the 2016 - 2017 school year. UnEducation. der the state of Texas’ current funding held before accepting this position? structure, specifically Chapter 41 of JS: There is a study by Professor Stephen the Texas Education Code, HISD is reJuliet Stipeche: I tell everyone my stoKleinberg that identifies Houston as the quired to make “recapture” payment to ry begins with my parents. My mother is most diverse city in the country.

Accordthe state of $162 million. It is able to from Mexico and my father is from Aring to Mayor Turner, it is also becoming pay $55 million of that. Chapter 41 is a gentina. They always told me and my sister we could achieve anything we wanted one of the most economically segregat- state law passed in 1939 to try and balto if we studied and worked hard. After ed. Kleinberg’s study goes on to say there ance inequalities between property-rich attending a local area high school, I re- are structural barriers that prevent every and property-poor districts. It allows ceived a scholarship to Rice University, young person from succeeding. We are the state to remove money from propergraduated with honors, had an oppor- attempting to identify those barriers and ty-rich districts exceeding a state-set level tunity to receive a scholarship from the break them down. They include income and redistribute it to property-poor disUniversity of Texas School of Law, and inequality, quality affordable housing, tricts. Even though 80 percent of HISD attained my law degree. After law school, and great public schools. One barrier students are from low-income families, I went on to practice law and served on that is often not discussed is access to so- HISD has exceeded the state-set level the HISD board from 2010 to 2015. cial capital, meaning networks of oppor- due to Houston’s rising property values, With this new opportunity, I am delight- tunities like scholarships and job and ed- causing it to go into recapture, according ed to be able to serve with Mayor Turner ucational opportunities. I believe it is my to the HISD. to help young people and the commu- job to communicate and coordinate the resources that exist to open the doors of Although the City of Houston has nunity. opportunity for all young people. merous educational issues to confront and a large hurdle in the form of recapCKW: In your own words, what do you think are the skills and insight CKW: Do you plan to enlist the help ture to overcome, it has a Mayor and a of the local community, and if so, new Director of Education looking at you bring to the position? what role do you think it will be able the concerns and seeking solutions with their eyes wide open. It is clear that not JS: As a native Houstonian growing up to play? only do they understand the best paths to in the city’s East End, I saw people who JS: The role of the community is crititake to successfully solve the issues, they experienced economic challenges. As cal to the success of education.

We need also have the passion required to make well, I loved to help my fellow students, and so I tutored other students when I to think about how to enlist young peo- certain their goals are accomplished.

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EDUCATION Is Key for

Children at Risk’s Mission: Children at Risk serves as a catalyst for change to improve the quality of life for children through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy.

Risk is currently examining the impact the Pre-K programs implemented by the 84th Legislature are having on low income children, and will continue to advocate for increased access in the next legislative session.

A Little Background

Quality Public Schools Data indicate that students in the Texas public school system, especially those across low-income and minority populations, aren’t mastering core subjects and are dropping out of high school at an alarming rate. The system is in desperate need of reform.

Children at Risk is a nonprofit organization that drives change for children through research, education, influencing public policy, and educating the community and public officials based on its ground breaking research, which tracks children’s health, safety, education, and economic conditions. Its causes include public education, human trafficking, health and nutrition, and parenting.

In 1989, a group of child advocates, aware there was a grave lack of data regarding the status of children as well as an absence of strong public policy support for children in the city of Houston, got together and produced a 60-page volume titled Children at Risk. The report was funded by a grant from the March of Dimes.

The group released the publication at a legislative forum in 1990 hoping to educate legislators about the needs of the children of Houston and spur them to action, but received little response.

The fortunate outcome of the endeavor was that it highlighted the need for a strong advocate for Houston’s children. From this, Children at Risk was born. In 1991, it was recognized as a nonprofit organization.

For over 25 years now, Children at Risk has been advocating for Houston’s children and affecting policy changes at the municipal and state levels. As time has progressed, so has the ability for the organization to speak out and elicit change for the state’s children.

Among major media outlets, public officials, and the nonprofit sector, Children at Risk has become the go-to resource regarding issues affecting children. As well, its community voice is becoming stronger every day through its regular radio program, frequent television spots, and newspaper partnerships.

Educating Those at Risk Children at Risk believes “education is the pathway for our children to pull themselves out of poverty and improve life outcomes,” according to the organization’s website. Recognizing there is much still to be done to ensure there are ample school programs and early education opportunities in place to meet the needs of those growing up in poverty, Children at Risk believes it is important to concentrate on the following: Early Education When a child is given access to quality early education, they are more likely to be ready for school, their eventual academic outcomes will be better, and the likelihood of their graduating is increased. This is especially true for children of low socioeconomic status. Not only is quality early education an investment in our children, it is also an investment in our community. Children at

To keep the public abreast of everything it needs to know regarding public school education, Children at Risk gathers useful data that is accessible to everyone. Publications like What You Need to Know—A Parent’s Guide to the Impact of the Public Education Budget Cuts; Doing More with Less—Public Education in a New Fiscal Reality—Statewide Assessment; and Doing More with Less? Looking beyond Public Schools, are designed to educate parents and the public on the impact the budget cuts of the 82nd Legislative Session have had across the state. Its Annual School Rankings provides parents with a framework by which to better understand the performance of our schools, including all public schools and grade levels. Last, but not least, the interactive website, TexasSchoolGuide.org, provides school choice information and parent action guides for almost all public schools across the state.

Graduation and Dropout Rates Because the issue of high school dropout rates is an important one for the individual as well as for the state—those who drop out face limited earning potential, have a higher potential for committing a crime, and face a shorter life span—Children at Risk calculates its own graduation rate by tracking “leavers.” Leavers are students who leave a school for reasons other than transferring. Recently calculated at 71 percent, Children at Risk’s graduation rate strives to account for those who fall through the cracks.

Recent Research After a year-long study focusing on Texas’ child care subsidy system, which provides over $500 million per year for child care assistance to low-income families, Children at Risk has released its findings in the report, The Early Investment Project: Subsidized Child Care in Texas. Funding for the report was provided by the W. K. Kellogg Foundation. The findings relate to the efficiency and transparency of state-funded child care programs—a critical source of early learning for the state’s most vulnerable children.

Based on the findings, policy recommendations have been made for the 85th Legislative Session.

Children at Risk is like no other organization. It is the only nonprofit whose sole priority is the well-being of the whole child.

When it comes to public education, Children at Risk is focused on every aspect by advocating for changes that will ensure better more fulfilled lives today and in the future.

Magnificent India honorees

Mrs. Sushila and Dr. Durga Agrawal co-chairs

Mrs. Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia Dr. Marie and Mr. Vijay Goradia Mrs. Angela and Mr. Chowdary Yalamanchili

honorary co-chairs

Drs. Renu and Suresh Khator Mrs. Raj and Mr. Jugal Malani Mrs. Nalini and Dr. Virendra Mathur Mrs. Nidhika and Mr. Pershant Mehta

march 3, 2017

for more information about tiger ball 2017, please visit asiasociety.org / texas / tigerball2017

THE POST OAK SCHOOL: A Model of Montessori Excellence “Imagination does not become great until human beings, given the courage and the strength, use it to create.”

– Maria Montessori

The Post Oak School was founded in 1963 and makes Montessori education available to children from the age of 14 months through to high school. It is an educational leader among Houston’s top private schools as well as among the more than 5,000 Montessori schools across the United States. Not only is The Post Oak School one of the oldest Montessori schools in the country, it is the oldest in the Southwest.

Montessori education “is a child-centered educational approach based on scientific observations of children from birth to adulthood,” according to the American Montessori Society (AMS) website. With the view that children are naturally eager for knowledge and able to initiate learning on their own in a supportive environment, Montessori method develops the whole child, including the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive aspects. Multi-age groupings that foster peer learning, uninterrupted periods of work time, and guided choice of work activity are hallmarks of the technique.

The Post Oak School offers five different levels of education, which include Young Children’s Community (YCC), Primary, Elementary, Middle School, and High School. For all these levels, the mission, “to prepare an outstanding Montessori environment that fosters collaboration, cooperation and peace, and to provide experiences that promote curiosity, inquiry and engagement,” remains the same.

Maura Joyce, Head of School

In July of 2016, The Post Oak School faced the daunting task of selecting a new Head of School to replace John Long who was retiring from the position. The successful candidate was Maura Joyce, who had the support of the former Head of School from the beginning. It’s easy to see why. Not only does Joyce have a master’s degree in education from Loyola University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College, she is a lifelong educator committed to Montessori education, and she held the same position at the Montessori in Redlands.

CKW Luxe had the honor, recently, of speaking with Maura Joyce about The Post Oak School, her dedication to Montessori education, the path that brought her to the school, her perception of the school’s impact on its students today, and her dreams for its future.

CKW Luxe: First of all, CKW Luxe would like to congratulate you on your new position. Our readers would be interested to know how you are adjusting to it, and what, if any, challenges you have faced over the past months.

Maura Joyce: Thank you! Houston has welcomed me with open arms and my family and I are really enjoying the city.

The Post Oak School community created a wonderful atmosphere for my arrival. It has been a smooth landing into the job, but not without its share of excitement. In addition to a change in headship, Post Oak hired a new CFO this summer, finished up two construction projects at our two campus locations, and moved the Middle School program from our Bissonnet Campus to the Museum District Campus.

CKW: Please tell us about the path that brought you to The Post Oak School.

MJ: I met John Long, Post Oak’s former head of school for the past 21 years, a little over a decade ago as part of the national Montessori community. In 2005, I brought my entire administrative staff from Montessori in Redlands (my former school) to Post Oak to shadow John’s administrative team. After that, John became a mentor of mine and we stayed in close contact.

The second thread of this story is that my husband’s family lives in Houston. Whenever we came to town to visit his parents or his brother, I would take the time to visit Post Oak, or at least have lunch with John. When John announced his retirement and Post Oak announced the search, I threw my hat into the ring. I was thrilled to be offered the position, and it seemed like the right move, not only for my professional career, but for my family as well.

CKW: We’re sure our readers would be fascinated to learn when you became involved with Montessori education, what it was about its principles that drew you to it, and how you educated yourself in it.

MJ: After graduation from college in 1989, I was in Chicago teaching high school math when I ran into an old friend. She was working at a Montessori school and began to tell me about it. Our conversation did not make much sense to me then, but she encouraged me to go and talk to her boss, the head of school at a large school in the city.

After 45 minutes talking to this amazing woman, I signed a training contract and left that office with 16 days to get to Washington D.C. for the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary training. It changed my life. The Montessori training really touched me on several levels.

First and foremost, it changed how I looked at children and how they learn. Montessori students learn how to learn it for themselves. I remember my department head at my previous job telling me to “never show them that you don’t know the answer,” which is opposite to saying, “I may not have that answer, but I know where we can find out.” That was my mantra when I first became a Montessori elementary teacher. From that point on, I immersed myself in additional workshops and training courses to become the best Montessori teacher I could be.

CKW: The Post Oak School is the oldest Montessori school in the Southwest. Can you tell us how it has adapted the delivery of its core principles with the passage of time to meet the changing needs of its students?

MJ: Luckily for Post Oak, Montessori core principles are based on fundamental human development, and the implementation of our programs at the YCC (14 to 36 months) and Primary (three to six years) levels really meets the needs of the developing child today, as it has for over a century.

The rich, dynamic learning environment of the Montessori preschool classrooms provides opportunities to explore and discover and build all the fundamentals of learning.

At the Elementary level, the core Montessori curriculum is expansive and includes big-picture lessons that provide context for the skill development in reading, writing, math, the sciences, geometry, history, and the arts. Also, at the Elementary level, the adaptation in delivery has been mostly related to the integration of technology and ways in which students can use it to enhance learning.

At the Middle School and High School level, Montessori principles allow for incredible creativity in curriculum delivery. For the adolescents, the dynamic learning environment includes studio spaces and open areas for students to engage with each other and work collaboratively. The science and tinkering labs allow for that exploration and discovery that is the basis of the work in Montessori. Seminar discussions allow students to learn from each other and engage in deep discussions on a topic.

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Finally, I think that the commitment of the Post Oak parent community is by far the most impressive I have ever experienced. This group of families is so involved, and all of them give so generously of their time and money. But it is much more than volunteerism and giving. Post Oak families treat the school as their children’s second home.

CKW: For those of us who don’t have an in-depth knowledge of Montessori education, can you briefly describe the main precepts that differentiate it from traditional education?

All students participate in field work in the form of community service or internships, as an application of what is learned in the classroom, and which connects them to their Houston community. Although many might call this innovative, it is a timeless idea similar to an apprenticeship, which has been around for centuries.

CKW: The Post Oak School is considered one of the best and most influential Montessori schools in the country. Can you tell us what elements you believe set it apart from other Montessori schools?

MJ: It starts with the environment: make the right space, provide the right tools, and give them the right amount of freedom and time to work. It is the opposite of the “sage on the stage” model, where most of the in-class time is devoted to lecture and assignments are homework. Most of the time in the class is work time, discovery, and exploration with the right materials and guidance from the teacher.

Children and young adults work at their own pace towards mastery of each concept.

The other major focus of Montessori education is the sense of community and collaboration. Students are grouped in multi-age classes, and this mirrors society—a collection of different ages, talents, and experience levels—all working together collaboratively. Social development of the students is paramount and integrated into the learning atmosphere.

CKW: Can you elaborate on how children learn from their peers in multi-age classrooms and what role the teacher plays?

MJ: Many Montessori schools in the country look to Post Oak for leadership. I think there are three things that set it apart from the rest. The first is that Post Oak’s commitment to the highest quality Montessori practice also sets it apart from other Montessori schools. The school’s Montessori foundation is the AMI teacher training certificate, a requirement for Post Oak faculty.

Secondly, Post Oak is a stable structure as a private, independent school. The school’s engagement with local and national independent school organizations ensures its sustainability as an organization. Working with professional organizations keeps the administration of the school, the quality of the programs, governance, advancement, and admissions processes stable and in line with Post Oak’s private independent peer schools.

MJ: In a multi-aged classroom, students get to play the role of novice, experienced peer, and leader in a three-year cycle. Many times, a teacher can assess a student’s mastery of a concept based on their ability to teach it to someone else. New, younger students to the class have mentors who help them manage the day-to-day routines: arriving, getting to work, snack, lunch, recess, and dismissal.

Each teacher is trained to cover three to six years’ worth of curriculum and gives lessons to the students in a sequence.

Having them for multiple years means that the teacher can simply pick up where they left off each year. It also means that teachers have the time to learn each child’s particular learning style, and they know how to capitalize on their strengths and focus on their areas of growth.

CKW: Educating the whole child is integral to Montessori education. Can you tell us what part sports and extracurricular activities play at The Post Oak School?

Volleyball practice in the gym

MJ: Post Oak has a rich athletics and extracurricular program. During the school day, all the children get to experience art, music, Spanish, and physical fitness. The After School Enrichment Program (ASEP) has really grown at Post Oak the past several years. This fall we are offering students classes in the arts, foreign language, engineering, chess, Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN), sewing, and knitting.

Our Bearkats athletic program has also expanded, especially at the High School level where our growing enrollment provides for a larger variety of sports teams and opportunities for league play. Post Oak is proud to have cross country, track, flag football, volleyball, basketball, and soccer at both the Middle School and High School level.

CKW: The Post Oak School seems to be a close-knit community. Please elaborate for us the parents’ role at the school.

CKW: Finally, can you tell us what changes, developments, and commitments are in the school’s future and how they are designed to enrich the lives of your students?

MJ: Post Oak has several exciting things on the horizon. As we integrate the Middle School program onto the Museum District Campus, we want to take advantage of opportunities that location offers the students. Community service, a core part of the Middle School curriculum, will extend its reach to collaborate with organizations in that area of Houston. The High School internship and field work experience is committed to building more relationships with the institutions in and beyond the Museum District to increase the variety and diversity of options for the students. The new building on the campus gives us the room to grow enrollment in the High School and Middle School, and Post Oak is committed to future options for athletic facilities on that campus.

Our renovations at the Bissonnet Campus included both the addition of a Parenting Center and a new music studio and performance space. We have only scratched the surface with the possibilities we can offer families on their parenting journey, and we are working on a broader vision for the Parenting Center. With the new music studio and performance space, we look forward to expanding the music program for the students and providing more opportunities for student performances.

There is a lot going on, and I picked an exciting time to be at Post Oak!

Upper Elementary classroom

MJ: Parents keep this place moving. They are involved in the classrooms, volunteer in the library, plan and execute events and activities, raise funds, and participate in Parent Education workshops to learn more about integrating school and home. Post Oak prides itself on its Partnership Agreement with parents, which is a clear description of what parents can expect from the school and what the school expects from parents. From the start, both the school and the parents know this is teamwork. The Post Oak Parents Association (POPA) is incredibly active during the year with many events that support the school and the parent community.

Students at The Post Oak School are part of a community of parents and educators who believe in the development and life opportunities a Montessori education can give them. As such, they are also the recipients of excellence in education only a vibrant institution with strong roots in the community can offer. As the new Head of School, Maura Joyce is dedicated to her young charges, and to the principles that form the school’s foundation and shape its future.

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choose what lessons they learn and when they learn them. Possibly just as important, is the fact that they learn in a specifically designed educational environment. Additionally, students with a range of ages share the same space, learning from, and leading, each other.

The teacher’s role is that of a facilitator and/or cheerleader, rather than a provider of solutions or someone who directs the student toward certain outcomes.

By: Dr. Nicholas Morgan

Montessori school vs traditional school arguments have been raging for over one hundred years—110 to be exact. In 1907, Maria Montessori opened a school in a poor area of Rome with her own unique educational philosophy in place. Since then, her ideas and philosophy have spread worldwide and have become known as the Montessori method.

The moment her philosophy began to circulate around the globe, the debate around whether her method was better than traditional teaching methods surged. So which side is right; the one that supports the Montessori method or the one that supports traditional methods?

Now that we have explored the history and rise of Montessori education, let me go back to my original answer: “It’s complicated as to which format is better.”

The Montessori method has been found to be highly effective. Students generally have a more holistic education and make better connections across multiple subjects or topics. This format works very well for preschoolers and young children. It becomes much more complicated as students enter elementary schools or grade schools in which state and national standards are required. These involve predetermined objectives that must be learned, removing the students’ ability to make their own choices.

Unfortunately, as with many things in life, the answer is not that simple.

Finding accurate and unbiased information can be difficult as many publications attempt to sway their readers one way or the other. Let’s start with a basic understanding of education and work from there.

When I refer to education, I’m referring to the type of instruction or format of the actual lessons. With regard to this, we are looking at a spectrum. One end of the spectrum is highly structured, or teacher-centered instruction (the typical lecture model), with no student interaction or student choices. At this end of the spectrum, learning occurs by the learner being told the answer or how to find the answer. The other end of the spectrum is loosely structured, or student-centered instruction, with mostly student-driven interactions, endless student choices, and first-hand learning by doing or experimenting. Schools fall up and down this spectrum, depending on their format, style, and beliefs, and even individual subjects or lessons.

If we think back to classrooms of the mid to early 20th century and before, many schools were strictly teacher-centered or traditional in their approach to education.

While Maria Montessori was not the only educator to see the need for change and develop new teaching practices, she was certainly part of the progressive movement in education, along with many others. The progressive movement pushed education toward student-centered classrooms and lessons. This new Montessori method took education and school organization from one end of the spectrum to the other. In the years since this new philosophy burst onto the educational scene, many different forms or versions of Montessori education have developed. Most of them have the same basic principles, with organizationalor material-based differences.

Nonetheless, in a pure Montessori classroom, students are given the option to

On the other hand, lecture-style lessons have their place. Lecture-style classrooms can be more cost and time effective and provide information not available from other sources. Additionally, lectures can provide students with a variety of viewpoints, highlight background information, and explain similarities and differences between two points, arguments, or sides.

Fortunately for us, most of what are considered traditional schools today, are not actually traditional in the true sense of the word. I would consider them modern schools, which value both philosophies, especially elementary schools. In fact, it is fairly well accepted in most schools, that the lecture-style or teacher-centered style is not the most effective. Therefore, we see schools using both styles on a regular basis. Middle schools and high schools will move slightly toward the teacher-centered model, compared with elementary schools, but not nearly to the extreme of forty or fifty years ago.

Graphic 2 Which method is better?

Which method is better?

As I stated at the outset, the answer isn’t a simple one. Neither system is perfect nor right (contrary to what proponents will try to sell you), and not every student will thrive in either.

Some students crave the structure a more traditional setting provides, while others blossom in the freedom of a Montessori system. Some families believe in the importance of firmly knowing the fundamentals of math, reading, science, and so on. Other families believe in letting the child explore, create, and discover things on their own.

Every family is different. Even within a family, every child is different. The challenge, as a parent, is to reflect and observe your child, then find the right educational setting that fits their personality and needs, as well as your family’s values. Likewise, every school is different. Explore at least a few schools before deciding on one. Every school falls on that spectrum in a slightly different spot.

Here are some questions to reflect on as you make your decision: 1) Which of the following do I (my family) value more: basic fundamentals or the process of exploring and discovering? 2) In which setting will my child thrive?

Are they curious and driven to find answers or more passive in learning and prone to watching others? 3) In which setting will my child be happy? Will the fact that everyone in the room is doing something different bother them? Will being expected to hit certain academic milestones stress them out?

In the end, neither of these educational formats is “right” or the best. The key is to find which is best for your child and your family. Understanding the differences and where your child is most comfortable are the first steps to finding the right fit.

All of these questions are truly hard to answer, which is what makes educational decisions about our children so challenging. If you would like to discuss your thoughts or questions about them, please feel free to contact me at nick@firateducation.com, or visit our website at www.firateducation.com.

We would be happy to meet with you and help you navigate these decisions to find the right fit for your child.

What to expect when you work with Dr. Nicholas Morgan, Independent Educational Consultant: Parents consider sending their children to independent schools, including Montessori schools, for a variety of reasons, including the need for individualized attention, the desire for more structure and discipline to learn better work habits and study skills, or concern over the quality of available educational options.

Independent schools provide exciting learning environments, often away from immediate distractions, where students can thrive and learn to do more than they ever dreamed. The right school can provide countless academic and extracurricular opportunities to maximize a child’s potential and develop new interests, skills, and life-long friendships. Independent schools differ in setting, size, philosophy, and structure. Teaching and discipline styles, religious affiliation, and the role of the arts and athletics are additional elements that define each.

What other factors should be considered when choosing a school? How does your family know if your child will feel comfortable? Will the school adequately meet your child’s unique needs? Who will be your child’s friends and role models? Dr. Nicholas Morgan, IECA member, is a trained professional who possesses extensive knowledge of educational options. His expertise, combined with a caring approach to understanding your child, helps families identify a school that is academically, socially, and financially appropriate.

Dr. Morgan meets with families to understand their children’s unique needs and skills to develop personal educational plans. To find the school that is right for your child, he learns as much as possible about your student and your family. He helps you clarify your child’s educational needs, identify strengths and weaknesses, and consider interests and dislikes. Placing your child in an independent school is an important decision, one that most often leads to an enriching experience.

Dr. Morgan helps facilitate the process of selecting the school in which your child can be happy and successful. By guiding your family through the oftentimes overwhelming admissions process and focusing on the right match for your child, he can also save you time, energy, and valuable resources. In short,

Dr. Morgan helps you understand what to look for in a school.

All schools strive to promote the positive aspects of their academic and social environments, but how do you uncover the school’s true profile to know if it’s the right choice for your child? By spending the time it takes to get to know your child, Dr. Morgan will thoroughly research which environments meet your family’s needs, while formulating a customized list of appropriate options.

He will then review specifics about each school, including admission criteria, student-to-teacher ratio, community expectations, school culture, academic and extra-curricular activities, diversity, and various other characteristics of the student body and school community that will aid you in your decision.

As a former Head of Early Childhood and Lower School at an independent school in Houston, Dr. Morgan has firsthand knowledge of area schools, which he enhances by touring many Houston campuses, spending time meeting with admissions officers and other key staff, visiting classes, and meeting current students. Dr. Morgan is well versed in what questions to ask and what to look for during his visits.

To better serve our clients’ families, he engages in ongoing professional development that keeps him current in educational trends. Dr. Morgan’s expertise is the result of years of working with students with a range of academic and extracurricular talents and interests, varying socioeconomic backgrounds, learning styles, cultures, and nationalities in a variety of educational settings.

Dr. Morgan serves the immediate and long-term interests of your child. He works closely with fellow educational consultant, IECA Member and College Counselor Ibrahim Firat to help with your child’s college planning and can assist in formulating long range plans and goals for your child. Dr. Morgan will stay in touch with you and your child to ensure that the placement is successful and can assist you in developing an extended educational plan.

Dr. Morgan listens to your special concerns, helps you thoroughly investigate the options, and can monitor your child’s progress to ensure a successful independent-school experience.

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The Love of Sailing for a Good Cause

A regatta is a series of boat races. The term typically describes racing events of rowed or sailed watercraft, although some powerboat race series are also called regattas. A regatta often includes social and promotional activities, which surround the racing event, and, except in the case of boat type or class championships, is usually named for the town or venue where the event takes place.

The local regatta for The Bay Area of Houston is called The Harvest Moon Regatta. Their philanthropic initiative is The Bay Access Foundation in cooperation with Lakewood Yacht Club. Its purpose is to promote youth sailing in the Galveston Bay Area for youth aged seven to eighteen. Those who participate are exposed to basic sailing skills, water safety, seamanship, best practices, and team building exercises.

Although regattas are typically amateur competitions, they are usually formally structured events, with comprehensive rules describing the schedule and procedures of the event. Regattas may be organized as championships for a particular area or type of boat, but are often held just for the joy of competition, camaraderie, and general promotion of the sport.

That’s what happened for John Scherer when he decided to enter the Harvest Moon Regatta in October of 2016 with his new Lagoon 42, the Chaton Noir. John hadn’t run the Harvest Moon Regatta before.

His entry the previous year didn’t count because the race was cancelled. In 2016, however, he couldn’t have been happier because he won his division with the beauty.

At first, Scherer had been a bit skeptical of the Lagoon 42 because of the jib and boom. But after taking it for a sail with Jonathon Davis of The Yacht Sales Company, he had a complete change of heart.

“I was so impressed with the knowledge, experience, and overall genuine interest that Jonathon had with me, I knew it was the right fit,” states Scherer. He says that doing “half boats” is well-known, but going on a “cat” was always his dream and it didn’t disappoint.

“My friends know that I enjoy teasing them about their tippy half boats and enjoy sailing with them, but my dream was always to win the Harvest Moon Regatta on my whole boat (one with two hulls),” laughs Scherer.

Jonathon Davis of The Yacht Sales Company wasn’t just a sponsor of the Harvest Moon Regatta, he was also thrilled to be part of John Scherer’s team on the Chaton Noir. “The team that was put together for the race was great, and the experience could not have been better for me. I was glad to see John win and I loved seeing how the Lagoon 42 responded under these racing conditions,” says Davis.

Scherer proudly stated that he gives The Yacht Sales Company and his team as many stars as you can get for the attention to detail, responsiveness, and overall care everyone took to make the win happen. “The Harvest Moon Regatta met my expectations, but the Lagoon 42 exceeded my expectations by handling magnificently as she slid and felt strong underneath us on the water! I will definitely do it again and look forward to sailing under more leisurely circumstances,” John excitedly commented. He was also delighted to not only be racing, but to be sailing for a good cause.

John Scherer’s vessel, the Lagoon 42, won in Division C against eight other boats in the Harvest Moon Regatta, 2016.

Jessie Fulmer, Victoria Holt, Tracy Piercy, Jonathan Davis, John Scherer, Jacqueline Irwin, Robin Rice

Photo credit: Gary and Sherri Romer

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ALWAYS MORE!

More is really more. More comfort, more performance, more choice, more space and fun. It’s stunning how a Lagoon can offer you more. With The Yacht Sales Company we can get you more because “From sale to sails we take care of you!”

CONTACT FOR SHOWING

281-334-1993 WWW.THEYACHSALESCOMPSANY.COM

FROM SALE TO SAILS... WE TAKE CARE OF YOU

You Don’t Have ADHD . . .

Unless You Do By: Jennifer Yen Clark, MD

As a board certified psychiatrist who sees patients from preschool to adulthood, one of the most common complaints I hear from people is that they, or their children, are having difficulty focusing and paying attention. Young children are brought to me by their parents because teachers are worried about the fact that they’re not reading yet or that they aren’t keeping up with the other kids in their class. High school and college students arrive at my office because they’re swamped with work and struggling to get organized. Adults report they’re overwhelmed with the responsibilities of life, they can no longer multitask, and their memories are terrible. All these individuals tell me one thing: “Doctor, I really think I have (or my child has) ADHD.” My answer to them? “Maybe . . . or maybe not.”

What Is ADHD? Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is defined as a persistent pattern of behavioral changes that include inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity, which disrupts development or the ability to function at home, school, or work.

The definition also states that some of the symptoms must be present in an individual before the age of twelve, persist for at least six months, cause issues in more than one setting, clearly decrease functionality or quality of life, and cannot be better explained by another mental disorder. Although there are recent studies with preliminary results suggesting a form of ADHD that presents in adulthood, the current understanding is clear that the disorder must present in childhood. That said, diagnosis may occur at a later time if good social support, individual motivation, and minimal severity of symptoms exist to allow for someone to compensate for the disorder.

How Common Is ADHD? During the years 2012 to 2014, 10.2 percent of children (around 6 million) between the ages of five and seventeen were diagnosed with ADHD, according to a survey made by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Boys were almost twice as likely as girls to be diagnosed.

The survey goes on to state that the average age at the time of diagnosis is seven, although some of the more severe cases are often diagnosed earlier, and that, from state to state, prevalence of ADHD diagnosis in children varies from 5.6 to 18.7 percent. It’s interesting to note that only one in three children with ADHD receives both medication and behavioral therapy, according to the CDC survey. The National Comorbidity Survey of 2005 documented that 4.1 percent of adults in the United States had a lifetime prevalence of ADHD. This reflects the prevailing belief that only a percentage of children with ADHD continue to suffer from significant symptoms when they reach adulthood. However, it has been suggested this number actually underestimates the number of adults who suffer from ADHD. Why Not ADHD? Despite the fact that so many people suffer from ADHD in the United States, it is only one of many other mental disorders that present in childhood. For example, 25 percent of teenagers aged 13 to18 develop an anxiety disorder, 11.1 percent have major depressive disorder, 2.7 percent suffer from an eating disorder, and between 15 and 35 percent abuse alcohol and illegal substances. In adults, the numbers are 18 percent for anxiety, 6.7 percent for depression, 0.3 to 1.2 percent for eating disorders, 8.2 percent for substance abuse disorders, and 2.6 percent for

bipolar disorder. All of these problems affect cognition, which in turn appears as a change in attention, focus, and memory. Similarly, many physical disorders, including thyroid disorders, autoimmune issues, and chronic sleep problems, can also affect mental clarity. There are even some medications that mimic ADHD symptoms when taken regularly. As the diagnosis of ADHD can, in most cases, only be made after excluding other possible mental disorders, a person complaining of issues should be fully evaluated by a healthcare professional, preferably one experienced in mental health.

How Is ADHD Diagnosed?

When getting evaluated for ADHD, a thorough assessment of the history of onset, types of symptoms, and severity of impairment should be performed along with a clinical face-to-face interview with the person affected. In the case of children, at least one parent or guardian (ideally all caretakers) should also be interviewed. Collateral information from teachers is also important. Consideration of other mental or physical disorders should occur and either be ruled out, or, if needed, psychological or objective testing be recommended. All medications and any illicit substances the person is taking should be reviewed, as they can be factors. It’s possible that the evaluation will take longer than one session, because information needs to be gathered from multiple sources. Rating scales and self-reports are only screening tools and are not reliable for diagnosis.

Jennifer Yen Clark, MD graduated from the University of Texas Medical School in Houston and went on to complete residency training in general psychiatry there.

She then completed fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine. Jennifer currently splits her time between her private practice, Serenity Behavioral Health, and academics as Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine.

What Can Be Done If I Have ADHD (Or Not)?

In the instance that an individual is diagnosed with something other than ADHD, treating the disorder in question is the most appropriate first step. If the attention and focus issues don’t improve, a provider can then re-evaluate the residual symptoms. When ADHD is the diagnosis, treatment depends on the individual’s age. For children in preschool or very early on in elementary school, behavioral therapy and school accommodations may be all that’s needed to address the symptoms causing the issues. In severe cases, where the child is disruptive, aggressive, or self-injurious, medication may be recommended. For older children and adolescents, medication is the most common treatment for ADHD symptoms. Classroom accommodations, organizational and behavioral therapy, transferal to a smaller school, or one-on-one teaching can supplement the use of medication to improve functioning. In the case of adults, medication is the most common recommendation if there is significant impairment and dysfunction. Your provider will discuss potential treatment options and help monitor your progress if needed.

What Are Some Important Things to Remember?

Inattention, focus issues, and restlessness are common symptoms and can be indicative of various problems. Increased stress, chronic sleep issues, physical illness, and mood or substance disorders can all result in changes in the way your brain works. Also, keep in mind that some amount of attention and focus loss is normal and doesn’t necessarily require intervention. If you’re concerned, it’s important to seek an evaluation with a qualified mental health professional or experienced medical professional to determine if your symptoms are truly related to ADHD. The treatments available are effective for most people and can provide you with the tools you need to be successful personally and professionally. In the end, whether you have ADHD or not, addressing the core issue will improve your quality of life and allow you to pursue your dreams.

Dr. Yen Clark is also the author of a young adult novel series entitled The Avalon Relics, under her pen name of J.L. Clark. The series follows a teenage girl named Sophia as she discovers a realm of magic, intrigue, and romance.

Through her writing, Dr. Yen Clark strives to send a message of empowerment and acceptance to her readers, while, at the same time, entertaining them with a journey through a hidden world of wonder and fantasy.

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GET PLENTY OF REST Getting adequate and restful sleep is an important part of maintaining optimal cardiac health. The average adult should sleep about nine hours per night. A bedtime routine that includes refraining from the use of external stimuli, such as a cell phone or television, helps to establish healthy sleep patterns.

By: Dr. Colombowala Despite revolutionary innovations in the care of heart disease over the past 30 years, cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in the Untied States. It may be hard to conceive, but, among the general population, a heart attack occurs every 42 seconds and death from heart-related illness occurs every minute.

While there are some risk factors for developing heart disease that you can’t control, including family history, age, and sex, you can take some key steps to minimize your risk.

BE ACTIVE Regular exercise not only helps you look and feel better, it also reduces cardiovascular risk. Health and Human Services recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise to maintain overall cardiovascular health. To lower blood pressure and cholesterol, the American Heart Association recommends 40 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise three to four times per week.

While setting aside time to exercise is great, we might simply find ourselves too busy from time to time. Just a simple change in your routine can add much needed activity to an otherwise sedentary lifestyle. Try parking farther away from your destination and taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work.

EITHER DON’T SMOKE OR QUIT Smoking kills. How? Nicotine and other chemicals and toxins directly increase blood pressure and damage the inside lining of the arteries leading to plaque buildup and arterial narrowing. Carbon monoxide also replaces bloodstream oxygen forcing the heart to work harder.

Recently, electronic cigarettes have become a popular alternative to traditional cigarette smoking. While there is some data to suggest that “vaping” might carry fewer risks, the body is still exposed to nicotine and it should be avoided, especially by those with heart disease.

The good news is quitting helps. Your risk of heart disease falls by 50 percent after just one year, and the risk is similar to that of a nonsmoker after just five years.

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS High blood pressure, or hypertension, is known as a “silent killer.” It usually has no symptoms, but it raises the risk of stroke, heart attack, and organ failure. It usually can’t be cured, but it can be managed. The ideal blood pressure is less than 120/80.

Cholesterol plays an important role in many parts of the body, including forming essential parts of our cells and making certain hormones. Having too much cholesterol in your blood increases your risk of heart disease because cholesterol and other fats can build up, which blocks or narrows the arteries. It’s best to have a total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dl, LDL (bad cholesterol) of less than 100 mg/dl (or as low as possible), and HDL (good cholesterol) of 60 mg/dl or above.

Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose (blood sugar), which our bodies use for energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. Optimal fasting blood sugars are below 100 mg/dl.

EAT “HEART SMART” Put very simply, try to burn as many calories as you consume every day. Get to know nutrition labels and make good choices at the grocery store. In selecting foods, aim to choose fruits and vegetables, fiber-rich whole grains, and lean proteins over sugars and unhealthy fats.

Saturated fats from red meats and full-fat dairy products should only account for about 5 percent of your daily calories, and trans fats should be eliminated altogether. Healthy fats come from plant-based sources such as avocado, olives, nuts, and seeds. Consuming fish rich in omega-3 fats, such as salmon, trout, or herring, twice a week, has been shown to lower your risk of heart disease.

While modest alcohol consumption is thought to lower cardiac risk, more than one drink per day for women under 65 years of age or two drinks for men under 65 years of age should be avoided.

It’s important to wake up feeling rested. If a good bedtime routine has been established, but you continue to feel the need to hit snooze in the morning, you may be suffering from interrupted sleep patterns, and a sleep study (polysomnography testing) may be in order.

Snoring (more specifically untreated sleep apnea) is a common treatable cause of sleep interruption. It’s also a potent trigger for cardiac rhythm problems and can result in high blood pressure or even heart failure.

CURB YOUR STRESS Stress seems to be an inescapable fact of everyday life. Unfortunately, stress results in higher blood pressure, hormonal changes that can trigger increased appetite and weight gain, and increased rates of smoking and alcohol consumption.

Exercise is a great way to combat stress, as are daily relaxation, meditation, and quiet time. Finding a new hobby or craft, or making time for an old favorite, can provide an outlet for the stressors of modern life.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY COMPOSITION Excess body fat, especially around the middle, is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, especially when combined with high blood sugar, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol.

This condition, known as metabolic syndrome, is believed to increase the risk of diabetes by 9 to 30 times and to increase cardiovascular risk two- to fourfold over the general population. Upwards of 20 to 30 percent of the population in industrialized nations has metabolic syndrome! The good news is that the various components of metabolic syndrome are reversible with diet; exercise; and sometimes, medication.

One way to determine body composition is to use the “body mass index” (BMI). BMIs of more than 25 are associated with higher cholesterol, higher blood pressure, and higher blood sugar. BMI is not perfect, however, mostly because a muscular build can result in a higher BMI without adding additional risk.

Another helpful way to determine body composition is to measure waist circumference. Men are generally considered overweight if their waist measurement is greater than 40 inches; women with waist sizes greater than 35 inches also fall into the overweight category.

HAVE ROUTINE WELLNESS CHECKS Periodic evaluation by your healthcare provider should help you identify risks early on so that they can be managed before they cause harm over the long term.

Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar should be monitored, and all of these should be treated aggressively with lifestyle modification or medication when they are noted to be too high.

Visit your doctor. Know your risk, and take control of your future health!

A native Houstonian, Dr. Colombowala attended Dartmouth College and then returned to Houston for medical school and medical training at Baylor College of Medicine and at the world-renowned Texas Heart Institute. He is board certified in cardiology, nuclear cardiology, and cardiac electrophysiology.

Dr. Colombowala has been involved in multiple large clinical trials. He is published and lectures nationally on topics ranging from stroke and sudden death prevention to long-term heart rhythm monitoring. Dr. Colombowala sees all types of cardiac patients. His care philosophy is to approach patients as individuals, carefully managing risk factors and conditions leading to heart disease and arrhythmia.

As well, Dr. Colombowala implants pacemakers, defibrillators, devices for heart-failure treatment, and cardiac rhythm monitors. In addition to treating arrhythmias with medications, he specializes in advanced diagnostic monitoring and catheter-based ablation procedures for heart rhythm disorders, including atrial fibrillation. Away from the hospital, Dr. Colombowala enjoys spending time with his wife, Elizabeth, and their three sons. They enjoy travel, fly fishing, and skiing.

Compassion Three Compelling Reasons for Being Compassionate “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” - Albert Schweitzer Compassion entails being understanding and considerate of someone else’s suffering coupled with the desire to help. There should be no barriers, rules, or contingencies that get in the way of our ability to feel compassion toward another. In a world where division seems to be increasing rather than decreasing, it may be the right time to take a minute and think about why compassion is necessary for the betterment of everyone.

Compassion Opens Our Minds Allowing ourselves to learn about and be open to someone else’s situation enables us to open our minds to their suffering. It creates understanding and enriches our lives. Education doesn’t end when we leave high school or university, it continues through life experiences. Keeping an open mind and encouraging ourselves to understand and respect the situation of another increases our knowledge of the human condition. It also gives us perspective, which makes us wiser.

Compassion Opens Our Hearts Giving to others, whether it is of our time, our hardearned money, our expertise, our advice, or our love and kindness enables us to be a little more selfless. Being selfless opens our hearts to our fellow man. An open heart allows all kinds of positive emotions to fill it up and makes us, in turn, more susceptible to the kindness of others.

Compassion Makes Us Happier It is a proven fact that compassion makes us happier.

A brain-imaging study headed by National Institute of Health neuroscientist Jordan Grafman showed the pleasure centers in the brain that are active when we experience things we like are equally as active when we give as when we receive, according to an article in “Psychology Today.” The article goes on to say, “Giving increases well-being above and beyond spending money on ourselves.” Happiness encourages us to be more content with our own lives. It also allows us to be less critical of others’ lives and even develops a pattern within us to continue improving our own lives as well as the lives of others.

The benefits of being a compassionate human being are cyclical. Opening our minds and our hearts to the plight of others through understanding and giving makes us happier. Happiness enables us to expand our minds and hearts even more. To live with compassion means to live without fear and hatred, something to which we should all aspire.

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ON THE GO? Short on time and want a workout that you can do if you don’t have access or time to get to a gym? Here is a routine that you can do anywhere in 10 minutes or less. For maximum effectiveness, complete the exercises as quickly as possible (but still maintain your form) so you get your heart rate up. Allow 10 to 30 seconds between each set of exercises. As you get more comfortable with them, try to complete each set twice in this time period. Feel better, get stronger, make a healthy difference in 10 minutes!

Downward Dog Ab Toner

Repeat 10 times on each side: • Start in a Downward Dog pose (a yoga posture) as follows: start on the floor on your hands and knees.

Stretch the elbows and relax the upper back between the shoulder blades, which gives you the feeling that the arms fall into the shoulder blades. Exhale and lift your knees and draw your back backwards from the pelvis, so that your arms and back form one line. Stretch your legs in such a way that you get the feeling that someone behind you is pulling your legs and hips backwards from the top of your upper legs. Let your head hang down in a relaxed sort of way. Actively push your weight into your heels while reaching your tailbone to the sky. Now lift your left leg up.

• Inhale and lift your left leg up as you push your weight back into your heels. This completes one repetition. This full-body move works the upper body while also toning the abs. It is also a great stretch for your hamstrings and calves.

“Feel better, get stronger, make a healthy difference in 10 minutes!”

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Elbow Plank with a Twist

Repeat 10 times on each side: • Start in side elbow plank on your right side, with your feet stacked one on top of the other (you can stagger your feet for more stability). Place your hand so your fingers point away from you.

• With your right leg extended, inhale to bend the elbows, lowering into a push-up. Exhale to straighten your arms, keeping your leg lifted. This completes one repetition.

This modified one-leg push-up will challenge your arms while working your abs. Actively squeeze the glute of the lifted leg to tone your backside too.

Marching Bridge • Place your left arm behind your head, and inhale to prepare.

• Exhale, and pull your navel to your spine while rotating your ribcage toward the floor, bringing your left elbow to your right hand.

• Return to the starting position. That is one repetition.

Repeat 20 times, alternating legs:

• This move tones the obliques (the abdominal muscles that crisscross the abdomen). To increase your stability in this position, reach your bottom toward the ceiling; this will also work the inner thighs.

• Lie on your back with your hands by your sides and with your heels about 12 inches from your pelvis. Press your heels into the floor to come into a bridge position with a neutral spine.

Leg Lift Push-Up

• Press your right heel into the floor, and keeping your knee bent, raise your left leg until it is at 90 degrees.

Lower your left leg down, pressing through your glutes so your pelvis doesn’t drift to the floor along with the leg.

Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side: • Begin in a plank with your knees on the mat.

• Extend your right leg straight behind you so it’s parallel with the floor. Pull in your abs, and keep your left heel in line with your hips by engaging your glutes.

• This completes one repetition. Switch sides and lift your right leg for your second repetition.

• Make sure to keep your hips up high when raising and lowering the leg!

BUTTERFLY CRUNCH

• Lower the right leg to complete one repetition. Repeat the squat again lifting the left leg as you stand.

• This squat variation tones and sculpts your backside from all angles while you work your core by standing on one leg. This will also work the inner thighs.

Superwoman Push-Up Repeat 5 to 10 times: • Lie on your back with your knees open and the soles of your feet together (in a butterfly position). Lengthen your arms overhead so they are resting on the floor.

• Exhale and bring your hands and knees toward each other, performing a full-body crunch.

Repeat 10 times: • Begin by lying face-down on the mat. Exhale and lift your legs and upper body off the mat, pulling your elbows back squeezing your shoulder blades down and together.

Keep your abs engaged to protect your lower back.

• Inhale and lower your legs to the mat, placing your palms by your shoulders.

• Your shoulder blades should be off the mat as you lift your pelvis a bit off the mat. Hold this position for a moment and really feel your abs squeezing.

• Slowly lower your arms and feet back to the starting position while keeping your core engaged to complete one repetition.

Squat with Side Leg Lift

• Exhale, engage your abs and push your body up into a full plank.

• Inhale, lower your body slowly to the floor to complete one repetition.

• This exercise focuses on strengthening your upper back to improve your posture (making you look taller and thinner) while working your arms as well.

Katya Dow is a Houston

Repeat 20 times, alternating sides: • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, feet parallel.

Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor, keeping weight back in your heels.

• Rise back up, straightening the legs completely, and lift the right leg out to the side, squeezing the outer glute.

attorney, legal practice professor at the University of Houston Law Center and legal program director at JCAP Texas (www. jcaptexas.org). She is also an avid sprinter, competitive ballroom dancer and fitness competitor, as well as the mother of a 16-yearold boy, so she knows the difficulties of trying to stay fit while maintaining a busy schedule. For fitness videos, tips and helpful links, please visit her page in CKW Luxe online. She can also be contacted at katya@jcaptexas.

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The Tangible Power of By: Dr. Noreen Khan-Mayberry

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cents have been proven to be directly linked to memory, but did you know they can also stimulate energy, focused thinking, and relaxation, as well as reduce stress and relieve painful headaches? The trick is using natural scents instead of man-made chemicals that mock them. You can use them fresh or in organic essential oil form. When using essential oils make sure you dilute them and never handle or ingest them at full concentration to avoid skin sensitization and irritation of the upper digestive tract. A diffuser is a great way to add the following scents to any space for maximum benefit.

APPLE Got migraines? The scent of fresh green apples just might shorten the time span and intensity of the pain. It is also an effective stress reducer during intense emotional and high anxiety episodes.

CINNAMON Research has shown that the scent of cinnamon will improve your memory and cognitive functioning, specifically increasing attention span and visual-motor response.

EUCALYPTUS Eucalyptus is widely used to relieve respiratory and sinus congestion, but it has many productivity boosting powers as well. An exhausted mind struggles not only to concentrate but also to carry out everyday tasks. The aroma of eucalyptus oil has a refreshing and rejuvenating effect on the body and spirit. It also increases blood flow to the brain, making your mind sharper and more efficient.

Similar to peppermint oil, the aroma of eucalyptus oil can be enjoyed by breathing it in from its container, dabbing a small amount on the skin, or spreading it throughout the room in a diffuser or vaporizer.

JASMINE Jasmine will not only stimulate alertness and energize you, it can also help combat sadness or thoughts of depression, and reduce stress, tension, and anxiety. Both calming

and energizing, jasmine may increase confidence and even make you feel happier.

LAVENDER Can’t sleep? Lavender has been shown to help alleviate insomnia, so keep it by your bedside or spray some on your pillow. Lavender also may relieve stress and tension and has been used to combat depression and headaches and to provide an immediate sense of calm and relaxation.

LEMON The scent of lemon supports energy and alertness, provides a sense of calm, and can reduce overall anxiety.

PEPPERMINT Peppermint’s strong aroma can increase concentration and energy levels, as well as boost your mood. This scent is great when you need a pick-me-up or if your mind is in a million different places. Research has shown that peppermint increases motivation, energy, speed, alertness, reaction time, confidence, and strength among athletes.

ROSEMARY Rosemary is energizing and improves concentration. It also enhances memory, combats exhaustion, and can alleviate headaches, as well as reduce cortisol levels in the bloodstream, leading to lower stress levels, and, potentially, a decrease in your waistline.

Dr. Noreen Khan-Mayberry, better known as “Dr. Noreen, The Tox Doc,” is a professional toxicologist and medical scientist, with 20 years of professional experience working in the fields of toxicology, petrochemicals, microbiology and chemistry. Dr. Noreen studies contaminants found in our environment and the impact that they have on human health. She is the owner of NKM Environmental Health Sciences. This consulting firm works with environmental, legal, medical, construction and real estate concerns. Dr. Noreen also works for NASA* where she initially served as the first female NASA* space toxicologist, one of only seven space toxicologists in the world. Dr. Noreen has spoken internationally and is routinely featured on TV, radio and online. http://www.doctornoreen.com. *The information and statements expressed are the professional opinion of Dr. Noreen Khan-Mayberry and are not endorsed, sponsored or representative of the federal government or any federal agency.

281-741-5207 1396 Eldridge Pkwy STE C, Houston, TX 77077

Where atmosphere meets creative cuisine

CATERING • EVENTS • CUISINE • WINE • COCKTAILS • PRIVATE DINING 713-893-5841 D AV I S S T R E E T. C O M

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POMELO

Photo credits: Boonsom, Photodynamx, Jessica Kock, Hoxuanhuong, Tashka2000, Mially, Photomailbox, Gianni Marchetti, Sgoodwin4813, Bentaboe, Tvk888, Dreamstime

Our previous issue featured the first article in this series. In it, I suggested we equate ourselves with the fruit hunters and chefs who scour the world looking for an exotic new fruit to introduce to our tables or a rare ingredient to add to our recipes.

Because there are so many delightful, strange, and beautiful foods that may still be waiting for us to discover them, I suggest we continue the adventure. Let’s seek out six more foods that will bring joy to our palates and diversity to our menus while we navigate the aisles of our grocery stores and fresh markets.

We will begin, once again, in the fruit aisle. This time we’ll be looking for something that reminds us of a familiar food, but that may be a little easier to swallow.

POMELO I don’t know about you, but it isn’t often I explore new foods for breakfast. Eggs, grains, and berries are my staples, although I am constantly looking for new ways to prepare and serve them, especially when I turn breakfast into brunch. The pomelo, however, is a fruit I’m unfamiliar with that sounds like it would be a pleasure to add to either meal.

If you look up the word pomelo, you’ll find there are a variety of ways of spelling it. You’ll also discover there are other names, like Chinese grapefruit and shaddock, given to it. No matter what you decide to call it, pomelo is a fruit worthy of our attention.

Commanding in its presence, a pomelo is the largest fruit in the citrus family and can grow to ten inches in diameter. Some even weigh as much as four pounds. On the outside, the peel is usually light green or yellow. On the inside, the flesh resembles that of a grapefruit, and can be either white or pink. It also has a similar flavor to grapefruit. The white variety of pomelo is sweet while the pink variety is a bit sour. In general, however, it is still less tart than grapefruit. This makes it a little more palatable than grapefruit, that is if you prefer fruit that isn’t too tangy.

Its mild flavor makes it an ideal addition to your breakfast tray or brunch fruit salad. If you like, you can just break off the sections and pop them in your mouth. If you prefer, however, the pomelo, especially the variety with the pink flesh, makes an appealing sight when the fruit is cut in half and placed on a pretty plate. If you want to take it beyond breakfast or brunch, pomelo can be made into a satiny sorbet to become a refreshing palate cleanser or yummy dessert.

Found in abundance in many eastern countries, including China, Japan, and Thailand, pomelos are also now grown in California and Florida, so you should be able to find them in your grocery store or market. To the Chinese, the pomelo is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, and it is especially popular for celebrating Chinese New Year. Its peel is often used in Chinese cooking and can be candied and used for flavoring, especially in sweet soup desserts. With its delectable fresh flavor and striking appearance, the pomelo is a fruit worth going the extra distance to find.

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KING OYSTER MUSHROOMS

KING OYSTER MUSHROOMS King oyster mushrooms are the largest of the oyster mushrooms. Their size—the stems can grow up to six or eight inches—combined with their small caps and trumpetlike shape, make them immediately recognizable among the other mushroom varieties on display in your grocery store.

Why should we choose them? If you’re a mushroom lover, like me, you find most varieties of mushroom enjoyable.

I don’t think I’ve found one I didn’t like, although I haven’t tried them all, and I haven’t tried this one. Partly drawn to its unusual size and shape, I also chose the king oyster mushroom because everything I read about it employed adjectives like “delectable,” “mild,” “exotic,” and “versatile.” How could I resist? As I learned more about its nutritional and medicinal benefits, I became even more intrigued. When Medical Mushrooms.Net described it as “…the one ingredient that a chef might want in the kitchen since it is not just large but very delicious,” I was convinced I had to try it.

Wild king oyster mushrooms are native to the Middle East and the northern part of Africa. The cultivated version is farmed in Asia. Because areas of the United States also cultivate the fungus, it should be available in the produce section of your grocery store or market. It will distinguish itself from the other mushrooms by its size and trumpet shape. Lucky for us, once picked, the king oyster mushroom doesn’t go bad quickly. As it ages, the hue may deepen, turning tan or light brown, but the quality shouldn’t be affected. Once you have your bounty home, it will keep for

up to ten days when placed in a paper bag and refrigerated.

I was amazed by the number of recipes featuring king oyster mushrooms all over the Web. Their wonderful flavor and thick meaty stems make them a natural for cooking. They can be used as the star in many recipes, or as a complimentary ingredient and can be braised, broiled, sautéed, or stewed.

Add them to soups, stews, sauces, pasta, vegetables, meats, and seafood to enhance their flavor and texture. They can even be used as a vegan substitute for scallops, according to forkandbeans.com. When you cook them whole, remember to add a little cooking time because of their meatiness. If you choose to sauté them, you’ll know they’re done when they are nice and brown.

I just want to take a moment to talk about their food value.

King oyster mushrooms stand out amongst their peers, not only because of their size, but also because they contain many nutrients in the form of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also an excellent source of antioxidants, which assist our immune systems in fending off diseases. This royal member of the mushroom family will not only perk up the dishes we serve to our friends and family, it may also improve our health.

I truly am a mushroom lover, so if you’ll bear with me, I’d like to stay in the mushroom aisle for just a moment longer and check out a variety that is quite different from our large friend, the king oyster mushroom.

ENOKI OR ENOKITAKE MUSHROOMS Also known as snow puff mushrooms, golden mushrooms, golden needles, lily mushrooms, seafood mushrooms, winter mushrooms, and velvet stems, cultivated enoki mushrooms are easily recognized by their long slender white stems and snowy diminutive caps. When grown in the wild, they are orange-brown in color and have shiny caps. Their pleasing crunchy texture and slightly fruity taste make them unique members of the mushroom family. I have to admit, the ethereal beauty of the cultivated variety is what initially drew me to them, but the description of their unusual flavor makes me especially curious to try them. Cultivated enoki mushrooms are available fresh year-round at Asian markets and at supermarkets in most cities in the western world. You can usually find them in cellophane wrapped trays and vacuum-sealed packs. They are also available canned. If you buy them fresh, keep them refrigerated in a paper bag for no more than eight days or wrapped in paper towels inside plastic bags for no more than five days.

ENOKI OR ENOKITAKE MUSHROOMS

Delicious when cooked or served raw, these mushrooms can be used in sandwiches, soups, and pasta sauces. They are also very popular in Asian cooking and especially good in salads. When you buy them, enoki are attached at the base. They should be cut away from it and freed before using. Because heat can make them tough, be sure to add them to cooked recipes at the last minute. I look forward to embellishing salads with these long-stemmed beauties.

As difficult as it may be to do, it’s time to pull ourselves away from the many intoxicating varieties of mushrooms at our fingertips. The spice aisle beckons.

TURMERIC In the spirit of full disclosure, I have to admit that I do use turmeric.

I just don’t use it enough, and I hoped that by researching it I might be able to find new uses for it. As you probably know, turmeric is a staple in Indian curries. It is also used to flavor and color curry powder, mustards, butters, and cheeses. I use it to make Thai curry broccoli soup, one of my family’s favorite dishes, and one I’ve only recently mastered. Turmeric’s warm bold flavor makes it a natural for spicing up egg dishes like scrambled eggs and frittatas, tossing with vegetables, adding to rice, sprinkling over sautéing greens, adding to soups, and blending in smoothies. It can also be added to vegan dishes like tofu scrambles to enrich the taste. In eastern countries, turmeric is known as a healing spice, and it’s been used to combat colds, sore throats, flus, and stomach ailments for centuries.

TURMERIC

To my great surprise, turmeric is a delightful addition to warm milk.

I was looking for a new way to use the gorgeous spice, and I think I’ve found it. What a soothing bedtime snack turmeric milk will be for my family and overnight guests. A blend of milk, dates, honey, turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger, it’s hard to imagine anything more conducive to a good night’s sleep than this warm beverage.

Discovering turmeric milk has made me interested in looking for another brew I’ve never tried before. This one is a feast for the eyes.

Let’s take a trip over to the tea section and see if we can find it.

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FLOWERING TEAS Flowering teas are new to me. They are small balls of hand-tied teas that, when steeped, bloom into lovely flowers. The tea leaves are wrapped around one or more dried flowers to form a bulb. The bulb is then set aside and dried. Steeping it causes the bulb to expand emulating the action of blooming. The flower inside the tea leaves takes center stage as the tea leaves unfurl. The result is an experience that indulges the senses. Not only are the teas aromatic and delicious, they are beautiful to behold. Globe amaranth, chrysanthemum, jasmine, lily, and hibiscus are just a few of the flowers used to make flowering teas.

It is best to serve flowering teas in a glass vessel if you want to witness the transformation from bud to flower. Glass teapots, made especially for this purpose, as well as the teas themselves, are available from online retailers and in specialty shops. Can you imagine the compliments and gasps you’ll hear as you serve such a beautiful indulgence?

We have one final item to seek out. It may be the greatest indulgence of them all.

FLOWERING TEAS

FORTUNATO NO. 4 CHOCOLATE

NACIONAL CACAO

COCOA BEANS DRYING ON A TABLE AFTER FERMENTATION

COCOA POWDER

If you read the first article in this series, you will remember you were promised chocolate . . . well, here it is. The story of Fortunato No. 4 chocolate is one of discovery. In 2007, Dan Pearson and Brian Horsley were sourcing food for mining companies in Peru when they rediscovered Pure Nacional, the prized cacao trees that were believed to be all but extinct.

Genetic testing of the leaves by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) proved they were indeed from Pure Nacional. The chocolate is named Fortunato for the Peruvian farmer, Fortunato, on whose property the mother tree grows.

The number four in the name is for the fourth USDA genetics sample tested, which was the one requested by Pearson and Horsley.

Since its rediscovery, the chocolate has become available to consumers through Anthony Bourdain’s Good & Evil bar at a cost of $18 USD for 2.6 oz. It’s also available in other specialty bars that cost a little less and as individual chocolates.

What makes this chocolate so special apart from the fact that it is quite rare? According to chocolatier Igor Van Gerwen, it is “. . . a very complex, powerful chocolate . . . it’s like no other.” As well as being available in its dark chocolate form, Fortunato No. 4 is also available as a milk chocolate.

Special occasions can be made into exceptional occasions just by sprinkling shavings of this decadent chocolate over your favorite artisanal ice cream, or serving a selection of fondant filled chocolates made with Fortunato No. 4 on a silver serving dish. Your guests will talk about the event for months.

We may not be adventurous chefs or bold fruit hunters who travel the world looking for a fruit so rare we’ve only read about it or trying to locate the reincarnation of a cacao bean believed to be extinct. However, we can benefit from the efforts of food explorers who go the distance to discover these wonderful treasures for us. We can also emulate them by hunting down their finds online and in our favorite food stores. There is a wonderful world of food to be had right around the corner. Let’s leave the comfort of our usual selections behind and go out and find it.

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Chef David Denis, owner and executive chef of Le Mistral, located in the upscale Energy Corridor of Houston, traces his roots back to the town of Le Revest-les-Eaux in the Provence region of France. Here he often spent his summers learning the fundamentals of French cooking from his mother and grandmother in their respective restaurants. Denis’ strong connection with the area inspired him to name his Houston restaurant after the mistral winds that blow from southern France into the Gulf of Lion in the Northern Mediterranean.

At the age of 17, Denis began a gastronomic journey through Europe that included attending culinary school in Blois and perfecting his art in some of Europe’s finest kitchens, including the Hotel Carlton International in Cannes, the Restaurant le Bois de Lune in Montvenix, and the Hotel le Gasthof Baren in Lyss, Switzerland. In 1995, Denis arrived in Houston where, for five years, he served as personal chef to one of its most prominent families and traveled with the family to its homes around the world creating original menus from local ingredients. Shortly before opening Le Mistral, Denis was given the opportunity to return to school.

This time it was as an executive instructor at the Culinary Institute LeNotre in Houston.

When Le Mistral opened its doors it offered Houstonians French cuisine with a flair. Exuding elegant charm, the French eatery combines simple ingredients in an imaginative yet uncomplicated manner, embodying simplicity at its best.

Signature dishes are masterfully created using fresh local ingredients and inventive combinations. These delicacies are made even more enjoyable by the restaurant’s relaxing

ambience, which is accented with soft lighting and classical music and a knowledgeable wait staff that attends to their guests’ every need. Le Mistral isn’t all Denis has contributed to Houston’s culinary community. He is also co-owner of Foody’s Gourmet and Artisans Cuisine & Savoir-Faire.

Along with everything else he is involved in, Denis is on the Chefs Advisory Board at Recipe for Success, an important nonprofit organization that encourages healthy eating and knowledge of food from seed to plate in children. Denis has also devoted his time and talents to the Little Plates for Little Feet competition, the AVDA Home Safe Home gala, Houston Restaurant Weeks, Truffle Charity Challenge, and the American Heart Association Heart Ball, all admirable causes he believes in.

CKW Luxe had the pleasure recently of speaking with Chef David Denis about his roots in French cooking, the culinary journey that brought him to Houston, and what he envisions for the future for himself and Le Mistral.

CKW Luxe: Your roots in French cooking extend back to your home life as a young boy in Provence. Can you tell us what you learned from your mother and grandmother that stayed with you?

David Denis: I learned a great deal by just cooking with both of them in the kitchen. I learned that simplicity is key, to respect the ingredients, stay away from cream and butter, and that olive oil is the secret. They gave me a foundation to build on.

CKW: Our readers would be interested to know what brought you to Houston initially, and the differences, if any, you noted in culinary tastes, food preparation, and restaurants between it and European cities.

DD: A well-known family fell in love with my cooking when I was cooking in the south of France. They asked if I would join them in Houston, where they were based, and be their personal chef.

The restaurants in each location are completely different because of the type of service and tastes that respective locals prefer. European patrons are more adventurous in terms of food and prefer small portions compared to Houstonians.

Houstonians are foodies and cosmopolitans. They are not the “Texan cowboy” stereotype that most Europeans think of.

CKW: You’ve been so successful in everything you’ve done, we couldn’t help but wonder if you have any new projects coming up.

DD: My mind is always developing new ideas and concepts. You’ll have to stay tuned to see what happens next.

CKW: We are also curious about what you would like to achieve in the next three years. Can you tell us?

DD: I do have some ideas and goals that I want to achieve in the next coming years, and I’m already in the process of bringing them into fruition. What I can tell you is that they are food-related.

CKW: Your first job in Houston entailed traveling to various parts of the world designing menus around local ingredients and cultures. What was that like for you?

DD: There is nothing more exciting for a chef than to travel around the world working with new ingredients. It allowed me to be very creative because I wasn’t confined to a budget.

I was able to expand my palate with those travels and that is always a beautiful experience. Every morning I got to go to the local market and design the menu on the spot based on the fresh produce that was presented to me. It gave me the opportunity to create my art with these new flavors.

Chef David Denis learned the fundamentals of French cooking from the two most important women in his life: his mother and grandmother. His roots in Provence are so much a part of him that he named his Houston-based restaurant after a type of wind that blows there. After cultivating his chops at culinary institutes and some of the best kitchens in Europe, Denis brought the tastes and culture of France to Houston for the pleasure and edification of its food lovers in the form of Le Mistral.

Not only has Denis set up his business here, he has made his home in Houston catering to Houstonians’ tastes and becoming an integral part of their community.

CKW: Please tell us what it’s like to be the owner of a successful restaurant, as well as co-owner of two other businesses, and how those experiences have brought you closer to the Houston community.

DD: It definitely has its challenges, but I love what I do and it keeps me on my toes. There is never a dull moment.

Houstonians are wonderful and very friendly, and I’m grateful that they have accepted me with open arms. I have gotten to know them just by interacting with them over the years, and

Lobster Truffles 77

BOOST ENERGY D By: Rebecca Jacobs

o you deal with stress on a daily basis? My guess would be that nearly every one of you reading this probably does. Stress has become a normal part of our everyday lives. However, our bodies haven’t had the chance to adapt and learn how to appropriately respond to the chronic levels we’re inundated with. Here’s the truth about stress. While our bodies are able to adapt to acute levels, chronic stress is an entirely different story.

When we are constantly battling with times of fight or flight, dealing with constant levels of intense stress, and not giving ourselves enough “me” time, our hormones and entire body can become out of balance. Reaching a state of homeostasis after years of chronic stress can take some time and may even seem like an uphill battle. Here’s the thing, however: while all stress isn’t avoidable, there are certain foods you can eat that will nourish your overall stress response and certain stressreducing activities you can engage in that make stress just a little bit more manageable.

in providing that extra something to improve your energy throughout the day. Enjoy salmon twice a week to fuel your brain with a healthy dose of these important fats.

Eggs Eggs are a simple and fairly inexpensive food to add to any diet and contain high levels of protein, iron, and B vitamins.

The latter are essential for providing energy and boosting your mood. The variety of Here are some of my favorite foods and tips to help naturally amino acids found in eggs can reduce stress and boost energy at the same time. Who doesn’t lift your spirits, relieve stress, and assist with sleep. An egg need an energy- and stress-relieving boost? We all could use omelet with vegetables for breakfast, or boiled eggs for an afternoon snack at work, may give you just the pick-me-up one, and these tips may be just what your body needs. you need to get through your day.

EAT WELL RAW COCOA What you feed your body is equally as important as other selfI’m sure you’ve heard care measures you may take to help manage intense stress that chocolate actually levels. Eating nutrient-dense foods will help nourish your has health benefits. This overall stress response and nourish your body so that its other is true. Now, I’m not functions aren’t disrupted. The crazy thing about stress is that talking about the sugarit has the ability to upset nearly every single body process, so loaded chocolate bars it’s critical to do what you can on a nutritional level to prevent by the grocery store things from spiraling out of control. The great news about checkout. Choose 70 these nutrient-rich foods is that they also have the ability to percent or higher unsweetened dark chocolate or raw cocoa help boost your mood and energy levels all at the same time. powder.

Raw cocoa is great for heart health, but it’s also Win, win! an excellent choice when you need a little lift. Raw cocoa Here are four foods to include in your diet to boost mood, works on the neurotransmitters in the brain to make you increase energy, and provide your body with powerful nutrients feel better. It can even help you relax. Homemade hot cocoa made with a little raw cocoa, full-fat coconut milk, and a during times of stress. teaspoon of pure maple syrup is a delicious treat at any time of day.

Salmon Salmon is extremely high in omega-3 fatty acids, Unsweetened Yogurt which are essential fats Yogurt contains probiotics, which are needed to support that are critical for brain overall digestive health. There have been countless studies health. It’s also effective done on the power of the gut and brain connection and how they relate to each other. It turns out that if our gut isn’t

healthy, our mental health will suffer as well. The probiotics found in yogurt may also be able to alter brain chemistry leading to lower stress levels. You can add unsweetened yogurt to your favorite breakfast berries or smoothie to give your digestive tract the healthy bacteria it needs to function properly.

BE ACTIVE What about stress-reducing activities? Now that you know that healthy dietary choices are essential for managing stress and boosting energy, let’s take a look at some of the easiest and most effective activities that will do the same.

Yoga and Meditation It’s not news that daily yoga practice can significantly reduce stress levels. Yoga is also great for overall health and can help improve circulation, muscle tone, and digestion. In terms of stress, try practicing just ten to fifteen minutes of yoga daily, and incorporate some deep breathing and meditation into your practice to instill a sense of calm. Practicing yoga and meditation regularly can leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Practicing progressive muscle relaxation can be an incredibly valuable tool for reducing your levels of stress. This exercise is especially helpful when you feel yourself becoming tense and you just need to take some time out to gather your thoughts and recenter. Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and then relaxing various different muscle groups. When you tense each individual muscle group you become more aware of what that feels like and then what it feels like to relax it. When you notice you’re becoming increasingly stressed try progressive muscle relaxation for a quick way to completely relax your body.

Exercise We all know that exercise is essential for achieving optimal health, but I think the stress-reducing effects of exercise are underestimated. Exercising on a daily basis, or a near daily basis, can help combat stress before it even sets in. It’s the same thing if you’re already stressed. Instead of comfort eating or participating in another unhealthy practice to reduce stress, try going out for a jog, hitting the gym, or pressing play on your exercise video. An endorphin release will have you feeling happy, stress free, and rejuvenated in no time. You get bonus points if you incorporate some yoga or Pilates at the end of your exercise routine. Both are excellent ways to cool the body down and promote an even further state of relaxation.

TREAT YOURSELF I recommend you invest in a Himalayan salt lamp. These pretty fixtures have a number of health-promoting features, but here’s one we can all get on board with: they are thought to help reduce stress! They may even improve energy levels due to the ions in the salt. If you’re looking for a natural way to relax and boost energy, purchasing one may be worth exploring. The worst thing that can happen is that you’re left with a beautiful lamp that will brighten any room.

Stress is common in modern-day society and is seen far too often. There are way too many stress-inducing activities and not enough time to wind down and relax. Even if you have an on-the-go lifestyle, and you feel like there’s not much you can do to change it, there are ways to take care of you. Eat well, exercise, and practice stress-reducing activities. Taking baby steps toward gaining control over your stress levels is the path to a more relaxed life. Here are some delicious recipes to help you on your way.

COCOA YOGURT PARFAIT Serves: 1 Ingredients: 1 cup full-fat unsweetened Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon raw cocoa powder ¼ teaspoon maca powder 1 tablespoon raw cocoa nibs 1 tablespoon almond butter 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup ¼ cup raspberries Directions: Place the Greek yogurt in a mixing bowl, and mix in the raw cocoa powder and maca powder. Stir to combine.

Put the yogurt in a serving dish, and top with the almond butter, raw cocoa nibs, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, and fresh raspberries.

EGG AND AVOCADO TOAST Serves: 1 Ingredients: 1 slice gluten free toast ½ an avocado, mashed 1 egg over easy 1 handful fresh basil 1 pinch sea salt Directions: Spread the mashed avocado on the toast and top with the over easy egg.

Finish with fresh basil and a pinch of sea salt.

Rebecca Jacobs is a holistic nutritionist who believes in a non-traditional approach to achieving health goals.

She understands that everyone’s journey is different, and she is aware that one size does not fit all. Some of Rebecca’s areas of interest include detoxification, weight loss, kidney health, food sensitivities, and digestive health.

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Travel with the Publisher to

Portugal Where Fairy Tales Come True By: Connie Kwan-Wong Photography by Célia Abreu

Lapa Palace – Tower Suite

I had the good fortune, recently, to travel to Portugal and spend two wonderful weeks in the fabled country, one of the oldest in Europe. Located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe, Portugal is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. Wherever I went, I was met with breathtaking scenery and historical vistas as well as unique cultural opportunities and the chance to sample fine food.

It was so easy to get there. My trip from Houston to Lisbon was under 10 hours in total. It was such a wonderful trip, I wanted to share it with you and include helpful tips in case you decide to visit.

Once there, I traveled along the coastline to the Alentejo Region, continued to the Algarve Region, then went on to Lisbon and GuimarĂŁes, with stops in between. If you have the opportunity, I recommend enlisting the services of a private tour guide, at least for part of your trip. I did, and found the expertise of Leonel from Portugal Premium Tours to be invaluable.

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HIGHLIGHTS The Alentejo Region After landing in Lisbon, I traveled along the coast through the Alentejo Region to Lagos, a three-hour trip by car. Along the way, I stopped at three beautiful villages: Sines, Porto Covo, and Vila Nova de Milfontes. I especially fell in love with the latter, a charming village full of narrow streets and surrounded by rugged coastline. It was calm and relaxing and the perfect spot for a little meditation.

Lagos Located in the Algarve Region, Lagos, whose origin dates as far back as 1000 BC, is a vibrant town filled with cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and gorgeous views. While in Lagos, I stayed at the Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort, which is perched on a clifftop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodations at the luxury five-star resort include elegant rooms, suites, apartments, and holiday villas. One of its most enjoyable features is a pool with a natural sand bottom.

As a refreshing treat, I began my first day at the Tainai Spa, which offers a variety of holistic experiences, spa programs, and signature therapies. I also tried the wellness menu, prepared by executive chef Diogo Pereira, and inspired by a healthy and balanced cuisine. There are even vegetarian and gluten options.

Because I was feeling daring, I tried the cuttlefish eggs. They were really tasty with a texture similar to scallops.

There was lots to do in Lagos, like soaking up the sun at the Doña Ana beach, one of the most picturesque beaches in the region, and exploring the town itself, especially its historic sites.

One of my favorite expeditions was a boat tour on the Ponta da Piedade, which features natural caves and rock formations resembling various shapes like elephants and camels. There is even a cave of love and a phantom cave. If you prefer to explore this scenic area by paddle boarding, kayaking, or snorkeling, you have that option.

I also really enjoyed Cape St. Vincent at Sagres, which isn’t far from Lagos. It is the most southwesterly extremity of Europe, and, until the 14th century, was considered the end of the known world. Windswept, with dramatic cliffs, Cape St. Vincent features one of Europe’s brightest lighthouses and is a popular spot for surfers.

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Lagos

Cruise Caves Algarve

DoĂąa Ana Beach

Ponta da Piedade

Sagres

Lapa Palace – Royal Suite

Lisbon From Lagos, I traveled to Lisbon, the second oldest capital in Europe. An exotic city built on a series of hills and surrounded by the sea, Lisbon is noted for its historical and cultural treasures and neighborhoods that resemble medieval villages.

While there, I stayed at the Olissippo Lapa Palace, located in the diplomatic area only a short drive from the city’s center. Dating back to the 19th century, this exquisite landmark was originally built as a house and later converted into a palace by the Count of Valença. With the assistance of many of the leading artists of the day, the palace interiors were decorated with fine paintings, tiles, ceramics, and furniture.

Converted into a hotel in 1988, the Lapa Palace has become renowned for its exceptional service and stunning rooms.

With three wings to choose from: the Palace wing, the Garden wing, and the

Villa Lapa, as well as a variety of deluxe suites, including the Royal Suite and the Tower Suite, there is something for every taste. I fell in love with the Royal Suite. The furnishings, draperies, and fixtures were exquisite, and the moment I stepped over the threshold I felt like nobility.

Since its conversion, the Lapa Palace has welcomed celebrities, heads of state, and members of royalty like Bruce Springsteen, Barbara Streisand, President George Bush, Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, and Queen Sofia of Spain. You never know who you might pass while walking through the magnificent lobby.

While touring the city, I was fascinated by the Tuk-Tuk, a three-wheeled auto rickshaw, which I spotted everywhere.

The name comes from the sound the vehicle’s engine makes. Riding in one is

lots of fun, but it can be a bit uncomfortable due to the cobbled streets.

Lisbon has a lot to offer, and I experienced as much of it as I could. One of my favorite locations was the elaborate 16th century Jerónimos Monastery built to honor Vasco da Gama’s historic trip to India in 1498. It’s located in the beautiful Belém neighborhood and has a number of fascinating features, including the Manueline cloister. I also enjoyed Belém Tower situated near the mouth of the Tagus River. One of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, the tower is a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Crossing the Tagus River, I visited the commanding Christ Statue (Cristo Rei). From atop a high pedestal, the form of Christ, with arms outstretched, appears to be blessing the city. It’s quite a sight to behold. Other standout landmarks I visited included Lisbon Cathedral (sé Catedral de Lis-

Lapa Palace – Royal Suite

Ajuda Palace

National Coach Museum

Tuk-Tuk Belém Tower

boa), the Church of St. Anthony (Igreja Santo Antonio), Saint George’s Castle (Castelo de São Jorge), and the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint. Each one had its own remarkable features to recommend it.

I also endorse spending time in the Chiado, an elegant district filled with theaters, shopping, restaurants, old-style cafes, and quaint bookshops, as well as attending a Fado show.

Fado, traditional Portuguese folk music, can be experienced in restaurants, museums, and on many tours.

Lisbon has a number of notable museums.

Two of my favorites were the National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches) and the Ajuda National Palace (Palacio Nacional da Ajuda). One of Lisbon’s most popular and visited sites, the National Coach Museum took my breath away with its displays of ornate coaches that once transported the Portuguese elite on their daily outings. Opened to the public as a museum in 1968, The Ajuda National Palace impressed me with its displays of decorative arts that date from the 15th century to the 20th century.

Jerónimos Monastery

Cristo Rei 85

As you would expect, Lisbon is home to many fine restaurants, and I sampled quite a few of them, one of my favorites being the Michelin rated Belcanto. Here you can experience Portuguese cuisine that takes you from the past to the future in a sophisticated and exclusive atmosphere set with only ten tables. From the two offered tasting menus, I chose The Discoveries menu, and especially enjoyed the grilled red giant shrimp with rosemary ashes and mandarin. The exquisite food, artfully prepared and presented by Chef José Avillez, and incomparable service made for an unforgettable dining experience.

Cascais

Another excellent culinary spot to visit in Lisbon is Pasteis de Belém, in the Belém district, noted for its egg custard tarts. These delicious morsels, inspired by an ancient recipe from the Jerónimos Monastery, have been delighting palates since 1837.

While staying in Lisbon, I also visited a couple of nearby towns. Cascais, a coastal town less than 20 miles west of Lisbon, is a charming spot that offers a mix of history, gorgeous beaches, and stunning natural beauty.

Sintra, a popular day trip from Lisbon, is filled with exquisite palaces, regal residences, and intricate gardens constructed by Portuguese elite and nobility drawn to the spot by its cooler weather.

Pena Palace, located in the Sintra Hills, is an exceptional example of 19th-century Romanticism and shouldn’t be missed.

It sits in a gorgeous forested park full of lush gardens and is visible from every section of the park.

Pena Palace Sintra

Óbidos, Bussaco, and Aveiro

Óbidos

On my journey from Lisbon to Porto My next stop was the Bussaco Palace I made some delightful stops along the Hotel, an actual fairy-tale castle in the heart of Bussaco National Park. If you way. have time, I recommend you stop there The first was Óbidos, a beautiful, for- for lunch. tified, medieval village known for its Last, but certainly not least, I visitshopping; chocolate festival; ginger li- ed Aveiro, a hidden gem of a city. It queur, which can be purchased in and is known as the Venice of Portugal drunk from a chocolate cup; colorful because of its many canals and gonhouses; and abundance of flowers. If dola-like boats. Here I sampled Ovos you’re lucky enough to visit in Decem- Moles de Aveiro, Portuguese egg yolk ber, you can witness a magical transfor- sweets, and experienced sea salt being mation. From December 07 until Janu- harvested. ary 02, a spectacular Christmas village that will delight children and adults alike All of these locations were a delight, is set up around the beautiful Castle of and I’m glad I took the time to enjoy them. Óbidos.

Bussaco

Aveiro

Porto – City View

Clérigos Tower

Porto In Porto, I stayed at the InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas, housed in a stately 18th century palace in the heart of the city with lots of gorgeous rooms and suites to choose from. Within walking distance of many of Porto’s attractions, the hotel is perfectly positioned for sightseeing. One of my favorite spots to visit was Livraria Lello Porto, a famous bookshop that has inspired many world-renowned authors, including J. K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series. I also enjoyed Clérigos Tower, an imposing example of Baroque architecture that seems to watch over the city. If you follow the 240 steps to the top, it’s the perfect place for an aerial view. Another piece of architecture that shouldn’t be missed is the Ponte de D. Luís I, a metal arched bridge with a double deck spanning the Douro River.

For sightseeing at its best, be sure to take full advantage of the Cais da Ribeira district, Porto’s heart and soul, laced with narrow medieval streets and alleyways and populated with old homes decked out in various colors. When the sun sets, it comes alive with night spots, cafés, and bars. And don’t forget to visit the Palácio da Bolsa, a grand monument that honors Porto’s past and present money merchants. Its glass-domed entrance and intricately detailed rooms are beyond compare.

Livraria Lello Porto

Palácio da Bolsa

Ponte de D. Luís I

Cais da Ribeira

Douro The Douro Valley is the world’s first officially designated wine region. To learn more about its wines, I visited Sandeman’s Quinta do Seixo Wine Centre, which overlooks the Douro Valley and the center’s impressive terraced vineyards. It was a pleasure to attend a guided tour of the grounds, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy a picnic of traditional food accompanied by specially selected wines.

It’s also important to note that Porto is where port wine, a fortified wine, comes from. You can book tours to different cellars and enjoy delightful wine tastings pairing the selections with artisanal cheese or chocolate under the guidance of a knowledgeable sommelier.

Speaking of wine, I also visited an amazing wine shop in Porto called Garage Wines, owned by Ivone Ribeiro. It’s the perfect location for finding limited varieties as the wines are produced in small amounts in small plants called garages. The setting is as intimate as the Guimarães wine itself greeting customers with a The last thing I did was take a day trip warm minimalist style. to Guimarães, which is considered the While in Porto, I also went to Capela birthplace of Portugal because the do Senhor da Pedra, the Chapel in the country’s first independent king was Sea, located in nearby Miramar. Perched born there. Although I went by car, diatop a rock on the shoreline of the At- rect train service from the São Bento lantic Ocean, this lovely petite building Railway Station in central Porto will get has withstood over 350 years of crash- you there inexpensively in just over an ing ocean waves with little or no dam- hour. Most tourists divide their sightseeing in this lovely medieval city into age. It’s a wonderful spot to visit.

Guimarães

three areas: the charming city center, focused around the Largo da Oliveira, the Largo Republica do Brasil, and the Largo do Toural; Largo Hill, which is home to many of the city’s important monuments; and Penha hill, which provides amazing views of the city and pleasant walking tours. If you tour Guimarães this way, you won’t miss anything.

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Indulgences While in Portugal, look for Portuguese filigrana, or filigree, jewelry. The art of making this delicate jewelry, created by weaving together fine strands of precious metals, has existed for centuries.

Predating the Roman period, filigrana is one of the oldest jewelry-making techniques on record. Fine delicate designs made in Portugal are some of the best examples of the work in the world. One of the most iconic designs in Portugal is the Viana heart, a symbol of love,

and it is often used to create beautiful distinctive pieces of filigrana. Recently, modern designers have revolutionized the technique making it bolder while still finding inspiration in the tradition’s heritage. You can find examples of both traditional and modern filigrana to treat yourself to in jewelry stores throughout the country.

I fell in love with the food in Portugal. The fish and seafood are especially fresh and delightful to the palate. I recommend trying dishes that include octopus, squid, sardines, and cod. And remember those cuttlefish eggs I mentioned earlier? They are still among my favorite dishes. Food here is prepared simply using fresh ingredients to heighten flavors producing robust memorable dishes. Dried salted cod, the signature dish of Portugal, is actually imported from countries like Iceland, Canada, and Norway. When cod is salted, it’s sweeter, and Portugal has an abundance of recipes for this favorite ingredient.

If you’re interested in something even sweeter, there are lots of enjoyable options for snacking or providing that finishing touch after a fabulous meal. As a matter of fact, sweets are so revered in Portugal, they are sometimes offered as meals for breakfast, lunch, or an easy afternoon indulgence. The egg custard

Capela do Senhor da Pedra tarts I mentioned earlier, were delicacies I could experience over and over again. Cinnamon is a favorite flavoring, as are almond paste and honey.

Fresh figs are also found in abundance and the perfect remedy for your sweet tooth. You can eat them plain or drizzled with a bit of Portuguese honey.

Adding a little requeijão, the Portuguese version of ricotta cheese, also makes a tantalizing treat for your taste buds.

they are: If you plan on using a hairdryer or other appliance, take an adapter with you.

Portugal has 220-volt electricity.

Bring your sunglasses! Portugal has more hours of sunshine per year than many other countries, and the quality of the light is impressive. It will dazzle you, so make sure to protect your eyes with the proper eyewear.

The best times to visit Portugal are spring and fall. It’s lovely and warm at Portugal is close to being the ideal both these times of year, but not too country to visit. Its climate is temper- hot, and the crowds are less than they ate with hot summers made cooler by are in the summer.

Atlantic breezes and mild winters. I Make sure you try the coffee; it’s excelenjoyed almost perfect weather while lent and inexpensive.

I was there. The Algarve region is especially noted for its beautiful weather Traveling with a private tour guide realand it didn’t disappoint. Being in the ly does make your trip better. Mine was country sometimes felt like having flexible and gave me great guidance restepped into a fairy tale with its castles, garding the best places to visit and the monuments to heroic and historical most authentic restaurants to eat at. times, sumptuous food, and medieval surroundings, not to mention the Did I mention I hired a local photogragrand vistas of topaz ocean, the sandy pher to help record my journey? I did, beaches, and the rugged hills many of and it was one of the best decisions I the cities are built on. It’s understand- made. I chose Célia Abreu from Porto, able why so many famous authors have who did an amazing job. Thanks to her, looked to Portugal for their inspiration. I have professional pictures capturing I also felt safe while in the country and the best moments of my trip to look well looked after wherever I went. Al- back on for years to come. though every city I visited had remarkable amenities to offer, my favorites I also recommend taking a hydrating were Lisbon, Largos, and Porto. mask with you to use on the plane. Its benefits will have you looking and feelFinal Tips ing refreshed after your long flight.

Impressions

I’d like to leave you with some final words that I hope will make your trip to Portugal go even more smoothly and be as enjoyable as possible. Here

Above all, get out, walk around, take day trips, eat, drink, and enjoy all the beautiful, magical, and historical moments this amazing country has to offer.

CKWEVENING COLLECTION CLUTCHES w w w. c k w c o l l e c t i o n . c o m

HAVANA, CUBA:

America’s New Favorite Tourist Destination By: Lily Jang

Havana is a city of indefinable magic. Now that the United States has normalized diplomatic relations with Cuba after half a century, and Americans can travel there, Havana has become the new tourist hot spot. If you dream of simpler times, visit this beautiful city filled with welcoming people and classic American cars. I was there recently and thought I’d share a few tips to make your visit that much more enjoyable.

TRAVEL There are still travel restrictions for Americans visiting Cuba.

The purpose for the trip must fall within certain categories, some of which include family visits; professional research and professional meetings; educational activities; religious activities; and public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions. Check out https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/ Documents/cuba_faqs_new.pdf for a comprehensive list from the U.S. government.

United Airlines is now offering non-stop flights from Houston to Havana on Saturdays. If you’re traveling on other days, you can fly AeroMexico from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Mexico City and then to Havana, like I did. During my layover in Mexico City, it was easy to purchase a 30-day tourist visa for about $20 at the airport ticket counter. If you’re flying direct, you can also visit cubavisas.com. Other popular airlines that fly into Cuba are Interjet, Cubana, and Air Canada.

As well as commercial flights between Houston and Havana, private flights offering upscale service are also available from IAH. For the moment, however, only limited private jet operators are able to fly to Havana.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Currency Credit and debit cards issued by American banks are currently not accepted in Cuba. This means your trip to the island country will involve bringing all the cash you need for your entire stay. Just to give you an idea of how much food costs, I ate three full meals with adult beverages for about $75 a day. To be safe, bring more than you think you’ll need, because if you run out of cash, you’re out of luck. Two currencies circulate in Cuba: the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) for tourists, and the Cuban Peso (CUP) for locals.

The latter is worth a lot less. When you exchange money as a tourist, you will receive the CUC, which is the equivalent of $1 USD. Before you leave the United States, it’s best to

exchange your USD for Euros or Canadian dollars. Try to avoid the U.S. dollar since you will be subject to a 10 percent penalty fee. Once you arrive in Cuba, visit a local bank to exchange your Euros or Canadian dollars into CUC. There are also official currency exchanges inside and outside the airport in Havana. If you have money left over at the end of your trip, you can exchange your CUC for U.S. dollars before you leave the country.

Electricity Generally, Cuban electricity is 110v and utilizes the square socket, so you don’t need an adapter. However, some hotels have predominantly 220v and use round sockets.

Travel Medical Insurance Cuba requires all tourists to acquire travel medical insurance before visiting. Don’t worry, many companies offer it.

I used AXA Assistance Insurance’s silver plan, which cost $54 for the duration of my stay. Thankfully, I never needed it and no one asked about my travel insurance, except for random checks at the airport.

Internet There are a handful of Internet hot spots near some of the hotels in Havana. If you ask around, the locals will direct you to them. In order to use the Internet, you’ll need to purchase a prepaid Wi-Fi card for about $5 USD that will give you 30 minutes of access. The connection isn’t blazing fast, but you can surf the web and upload to Facebook and Instagram. bus ride to the beach that will cost about $5. One last thing: Make sure you make it to La Torre, a restaurant/bar on top of Edificio Focsa, Havana’s tallest building. It’s located in the Vedado neighborhood. Order appetizers and drinks and watch the sun set over the water from the thirty-third floor.

You can thank me later.

ACCOMODATION There are many hotels and resorts in popular tourist cities like Havana, Trinidad, and Varadero, and prices don’t differ much from American hotel prices. Airbnb also operates in Cuba, and I booked my entire stay through them. There are many places that include a homemade breakfast of fresh eggs, fresh local fruits, and toast. The cost of Airbnb accommodation runs about $20 to $40 a night for a double room. Walking around Havana, you’ll also see many signs on doors saying “room for rent.” Because lodgings are plentiful, you can backpack Havana easily on the cheap.

THE SIGHTS Just walk. Sightsee. Get lost. Go down alleys. You’ll see beautiful colors, marvel at the architecture, and be amazed by a culture suspended in time. Walk to Old Havana and take a bicycle taxi that you’ll find parked on the side of the street. Old Havana will give you the opportunity to see the many historic buildings that Havana is known for. There are plenty of landmarks, shops, street vendors, and restaurants.

If you would like a day at the beach, a must-see is Santa Maria. A 30-minute cab ride from Havana, it’s where the locals go and is usually packed with beachgoers, vendors, and merchants selling street food. You can also take a 45-minute

TRANSPORTATION I didn’t rent a car in Cuba, but it’s apparently not easy or cheap: A rental will run you at least $70 a day, there aren’t many available, and you have to book your reservation at least two weeks in advance by emailing or calling the rental company. If you do decide to rent a car, make sure you bring enough cash to cover the deposit required. The way I got around Havana was by hailing old American Chevys from the 1950s. These vintage taxis will cost you about $10.

Renting one for a two- to three-hour trip to Santa Maria will cost around $40 depending on your bargaining skills. I mentioned the bicycle taxis earlier, which are fun. They’ll take you a few miles and cost less than a regular taxi, depending on where you go.

FINAL ADVICE The biggest question I keep getting is whether or not Cuban cigars can be brought back to the United States. The answer is “yes.” However, you are limited to $100 worth of Cuban cigars and $400 worth of souvenirs. If you have a seven-day vacation planned, make sure you take a side trip to another city such as Trinidad that is only a $30 one-way cab ride away. You’ll experience the different terrain, and you can hike through the mountains and see how Cuban coffee is made.

The beauty of traveling to a pristine country such as Cuba is that you don’t see fast food on every corner. Enjoy the live music and fresh seafood offered at most local restaurants.

Reservations are generally not required. Havana is vibrant, bustling, and exotic. Make sure you enjoy at least one mojito (a cocktail made of rum, lime, sugar, mint, and soda water) at almost any bar in town, and dance the night away at one of Cuba’s famous night spots or cabaret clubs in La Habana Vieja.

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THAYER O’NEAL TEES OFF FOR KIDS INVITATIONAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

On March 20, in the midst of tax season, the partners and staff at Thayer O’Neal will put down their pens and pick up their clubs at the Riverbend Country Club to raise money for three local charities: Spaulding for Children, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship.

REINING STRENGTH THERAPEUTIC HORSEMANSHIP

Spaulding for Children is a no-fee-for-services, nonprofit adoption agency licensed by the State of Texas that finds permanent and adoptive families for children with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities; older children; minority children; and children belonging to sibling groups. For more information, please go to: www.spauldingforchildren.org

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is a 501 (c) (3) organization providing therapeutic horsemanship programs for children and adults who have physical, cognitive, social, or emotional needs. Located in the heart of Fort Bend County, Reining Strength provides customized equine-assisted activities and therapies to help improve the lives of those they serve. The organization also helps people realize their individual potential through custom therapies that draw on the natural human connection with horses. For more information, please go to: www.reiningstrength.org With your participation, sponsorship, or donation to the Thayer O’Neal 4th Annual Invitational Charity Golf Tournament, you are supporting all of these efforts to improve and save the lives of hundreds of children and adults. The hope of Thayer O’Neal partners Mickey O’Neal, John Thayer, and Curt Vaculik is that each participant has an amazing day golfing while raising money for these three wonderful causes!

The Thayer O’Neal Company, LLC, Certified Public Accountants, provide a wide variety of accounting, tax, audit, consulting, financial reporting, valuation and litigation, and support services in the Fort Bend and Greater Houston areas. The company is PCAOB registered and a member of AICPA, NACVA, and GMN International.

For more information on the Thayer O’Neal 4th Annual The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), Texas Gulf Invitational Charity Golf Tournament or Thayer O’Neal Coast Chapter is a nonprofit organization committed to cur- Company, please contact Brenda Cheney at 281-305-2534 ing Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and Myeloma, or bcheney@thayeroneal.com www.thayeroneal.com while also improving the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS exists to find cures and make sure medical care is available for all blood cancer patients. According to the organization, “We are the voice for all blood cancer patients and we work to ensure access to treatments for all blood cancer patients.” For more information, please go to: www.lls.org

HOPE Clinic’s Mission Statement: To improve the health of residents in Greater Houston through culturally and linguistically appropriate services.

HOPE Clinic was established in 2002 by the Asian American Health Coalition (AAHC) as a nonprofit clinic run by volunteers who would provide culturally and linguistically competent care four hours a month for Houston’s underserved and linguistically isolated Asian communities. Located in the racially diverse neighborhood of Alief, HOPE Clinic gained recognition in 2005 when it provided services to 3,000 Vietnamese evacuees from Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. Today it is a full-time Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing services to over 13,000 patients a year.

Financial Growth

Regardless of a patient’s ability to pay, HOPE Clinic serves those who are uninsured or under-insured and have limited English proficiency and a low income. One of its unique characteristics is the ability to provide services like well woman exams, pediatric care, immunizations, mammography, prenatal care, and exams, to name only a few, in over 14 languages.

HOPE Clinic also has a range of programs with which to benefit its patients to ensure their good health and proper care. These include: The Phoenix Project, an award-winning breast cancer project that provides free mammogram screening and diagnostic procedures and treatment, as well as clinical breast examination and breast health education and treatment; B-Free Houston, which addresses the high incidence of hepatitis B in the Asian community by providing free screening, immunizations, and treatment; Jade Circle Project, which is a new initiative to help prevent cervical cancer, and addresses the fact that Vietnamese women have the highest rate of the disease; and The Pink Lotus Project, which addresses teen pregnancy and repeat teen-pregnancy and provides a safe environment of care for teenage girls who require gynecological or obstetric care in an effort to prevent teen pregnancy and increase early entry into prenatal care.

Patient Visits

Fourteen years since its inception, HOPE Clinic has three locations, an annual budget in excess of $8 million, and a full-time staff of 120 dedicated professionals, serving over 13,000 patients in over 50,000 patient visits. Its vision is “a healthy community with quality affordable healthcare for all.”

VISION FOR HOPE, a $20 million capital campaign, is now under way to expand the clinic in two phases. Phase I of the campaign, raising funds for the HOPE Health and Wellness Campus, kicked off on December 08, during the HOPE Clinic Annual Luncheon at the Junior League. Phase I will include the construction of an expanded clinic, administrative headquarters, community space, and outdoor recreational area. The land purchase of $2 million to secure 3.5 acres of land on Bellaire Boulevard and Metro Boulevard commenced with a challenge match from the Chao family of $250,000 for the down payment of the property. The balance of the cost will be financed

by HOPE Clinic through bank financing. Phase II is scheduled to begin in two years and will include an assisted living facility, leased space for complimentary services, and a parking garage.

The welcome expansion of the HOPE Clinic, a gift to the community, is seen by its benefactors as a permanent facility that will transform the environment in a significant architectural manner and continue inspiring health and wellness individually and collectively through prevention and affordable quality health care that is culturally and linguistically competent.

What began as a part-time facility, run by devoted volunteers, in an attempt to provide competent health care to a community in desperate need of it, has grown into a full-time quality healthcare center providing affordable services and programs focused on the culturally appropriate care of its patients. With the VISION FOR HOPE campaign, the Hope Clinic is secure in the knowledge that it has a permanent place in the community of Houston to continue its good work and expand its stellar services.

For more information regarding the VISION FOR HOPE campaign, Contact HOPE Clinic at 713-337-3641 or Online at www.Hopechc.org and click on donate 95

Recipe for Success Foundation’s Mission Statement: Recipe for Success Foundation is dedicated to combating childhood obesity by changing the way our children understand, appreciate, and eat their food, and by educating and mobilizing the community to provide healthier diets for children.

Having just celebrated its tenth anniversary, and now heading into its second decade, Recipe for Success Foundation is a nonprofit 501C3 whose healthy eating programs have empowered more than 30,000 children in Houston and beyond by giving them the knowledge and skills they need to lead healthier lives. The foundation works to create a culture where nutritious food is shared, appreciated, and celebrated. Through its award-winning efforts like the nationally offered Seed-to-Plate Nutrition Education in schools; Eat It! Food Adventures, children’s cookbooks; farmers marKIDS DAYS; the VegOut! 30-Day Challenge; and the Hope Farms urban agriculture project in Houston, the foundation works to make healthy food appealing and available to everyone.

On April 22, 2016, the Recipe for Success Foundation broke ground for a unique initiative called Hope Farms that will put down roots in the heart of

Houston to help parents and caregivers provide their children with a healthier option. Through Hope Farms, the foundation is working to establish a thriving urban agriculture and local produce distribution system to ensure that tasty, affordable, fresh food choices are available to one and all. Hope Farms will train U.S. Veterans to become urban farmers, operate an on-site farm stand, provide jobs and internships for neighborhood youth, host field trips and programs for children and their families, and operate The Rolling Green Market, which will deliver healthy affordable produce to those who need it most.

With the help of a generous seed grant from Wells Fargo Foundation and the support of a variety of generous foundations, corporations, and philanthropists, Recipe for Success Foundation is able to build the Hope Farms Showcase and Training Center right in the heart of Houston’s historic Sunnyside neighborhood. Just imagine the beauty of a lush urban garden in the midst of the city’s skyscrapers! The on-site farm stand will be filled with fresh produce, eggs, and honey for the use of neighbors near and far. Hope Farms has been designed as an integrated operation using organic methods to generate significant crops in the midst of the city’s largest food deserts.

Its training of U.S. Veterans to become new urban farmers will allow them to create their own micro farm businesses. Veterans will be prioritized as farmer trainees in a year-long program that teaches them sustainable horticulture, financial literacy, accounting, banking, and business planning. In short, they will learn all the skills necessary to establish and grow their own micro business.

Farmer trainees will also be mentored by members of the Houston business community and will benefit from taking classes at Houston Community College in a well-rounded workforce development program.

Recipe for Success Foundation thinks of everything when it comes to teaching the children of Houston the joy and importance of eating nutritious fresh food. Not content to merely tell, Recipe for Success Foundation demonstrates, and involves children in, the growing, preparation, and enjoyment of good food in a manner that will become second nature, and part of them, for the rest of their lives. Understanding that adults need assistance in taking the same message to their children, Recipe for Success Foundation is helping once again with the establishment of Hope Farms so they can do just that.

For more information about Recipe for Success Foundation or Hope Farms, please call 713-520-0443 or go to www.recipe4success.org

June 25 was a night of celebration at the Mosaic Penthouse as CKW Luxe magazine celebrated its one-year anniversary and announced its Star Award honorees for 2016. The Star Awards are bestowed annually to exceptional and inspiring women and youth. This year’s honorees are all truly inspirational in their own unique way and act as guiding lights for their communities. ​ The 2016 Star Award honorees include: Dr. Susan Snider Osterberg, Phyllis Williams, Dr. Anne Shen Chao, Gracie Cavnar, Cynthia Petrello, Leona Chen, Simone Biles, Chloe Choudhury, Tarun Srinivasan, Sean Gilmore, and Bradlee Few. ​ CKW Luxe was also proud to honor their art editor, Cindi Harwood Rose, renowned silhouette artist and founder of the Holly Rose Ribbon Foundation, which provides free reconstructive surgery to post-cancer patients. Her unparalleled skills as a silhouette artist have made her the fastest in the world, as well as the joint subject of a fascinating and informative new film called Silhouette Secrets. Not only does Cindi appear in the award-winning film, she is also an associate producer. ​ Over 150 friends and supporters joined in the event, which was aptly themed “be inspired.” Jewelry designer Joe Vilaiwan of Beverly Hills even made the trip to Houston just for the festivities.

Popular KHOU Channel 11 news anchor Lily Jang emceed the evening to the delight of all in attendance. Guests were treated to unparalleled musical performances by renowned musicians from Ars Lyrica who also contribute their talent to Houston Symphony, Houston Grand Opera, and Houston Ballet. It was an evening not only of celebration, but one of culture and fine food. Davis Street at Hermann Park pleased palates with eight delicious appetizers, Edible Moments satisfied each guest’s sweet tooth with winsome wedding-like cake presented by Chellew Productions, and Macaron by Patisse tempted taste buds with a magnificent macaron tower. ​ The highlights didn’t end with superlative entertainment and delectable food, however. There was also a giveaway of exceptional door prizes, whose collective value exceeded $15,000. The door prizes included: a Davis Street at Hermann Park dinner for four in the Chef ’s Room, a CKW Collection crystal clutch and gift tickets compliments of Houston Grand Opera valued at $2,300 in all, a weekend giveaway with BMW and Fleming’s dinner for four, Vilaiwan Fine Jewelry valued at $2,000, a Utopia MedSpa gift certificate valued at $2,000, an art piece from Allan Rodewald valued at $2,000, an Emotional Baggage handbag valued at $1,200, a Hanh Gallery painting party for 12 valued at $1,000, and a private yacht charter from The Yacht Sales Company valued at $1,000. ​ One year ago, CKW Luxe was subscription-only. The magazine has now expanded distribution to hundreds of locations and is for sale in many stores and on many newsstands. Connie Kwan-Wong, publisher and founder of CKW Luxe, explained that they will continue their mission of great storytelling and spreading the message of love, hope, and positivity. Houston is such a philanthropic and educated city, and she hopes to create a magazine that makes all Houstonians proud. Not only are the letters CKW her initials, they also stand for Caring, Kindness, and Wisdom. It is Connie’s wish that CKW Luxe helps make the world a better place.

Below is a list of the CKW Luxe Star Awards and their recipients: ​

Astral Light Award - Dr. Susan Snider Osterberg Constellation Award - Phyllis Williams Cosmic Star Award - Dr. Anne Shen Chao North Star Award - Gracie Cavnar Stellar Award - Cynthia Petrello Aurora Award - Leona Chen Fireball Award - Simone Biles Pop Star Award - Chloe Choudhury Shining Star Award -Tarun Srinivasan Shining Star Award - Sean Gilmore Shooting Star Award - Bradlee Few

For more information about the awards and honorees, please visit: http://www.ckwluxe.com/#!ckw-luxe-star-award-honorees-2016/ttoxy ​ Event Sponsors and Donors: ​Davis Street, Momentum BMW Southwest, Evolve Air, Teresa and Dr. William H. Reading, Emotional Baggage, Mai Le, Chellew Productions, Amber Magic Studio, Fleming’s Steakhouse, Macaron by Patisse, Hanh gallery, Allan Rodewald, Lucho, Vilaiwan Fine Jewelry, Utopia MedSpa, The Yacht Sales Company, CKW Collection and Houston Grand Opera.

Photo Credit: Quy Tran and Aelish Lascoe

The 7th Annual reNew and reDo Fashion Show

The 7th Annual reNew and reDo fashion show benefiting the Women’s Home took place at the Wortham Grand Foyer on Wednesday, August 17, 2016. It raised $155,000 with 425 in attendance. The stunning venue boasted a chic runway and a pop-up boutique featuring high-end designer clothing and accessories from the Cottage Shop, the Women’s Home resale boutique social enterprise, and the closets of a select few best dressed Houstonians. Hundreds of guests had the pleasure of shopping for fabulous finds from the runway to the racks in the mobile boutique.

This year’s event was an evening of fun, fashion, and philanthropy. It was produced by Lenny Matuszewski and Tamara Bonar. Stylish Stacie Henderson and Michael Pearce were the chairs. Deborah Duncan from KHOU 11 was the fantastic emcee.

All models rocked the runway, and this year’s fashion icons were Danielle Ellis, Dominique Sachse, Gayla Gardner, Sippi Khurana, Vivian Wise and Lenny Matuszewski. The stylish models included Alice Mao, Anika Jackson, Katina Kearns, Maria Taylor Bosarge, Vanitha R. Pothuri, Alex Martinez, Peter Remington, Gregg Harrison, Jeff Shell, Amanda Abiassi, Layla Asgari, Randi Carrabba, Lois de Armas, Angel Drake, Onyi N. Eruchalu, Helen Jaw, Zoë Jackson-Jarra, Logan Lester, Heather Mellinger, Romy Mitchell, Mary Frances Nance, Angela Sturm, Brian de Armas, Shelby Kibodeaux and Bruce Padilla.

Delicious bites were provided by Chef Ricky at Elegant Occasions, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Catering by Culinaire. Other partners included Elizabeth Anthony, Elaine Turner, More Than You Can Imagine and Baubles & Beads. At the end of the event, all guests left with a copy of CKW Luxe Magazine.

Staci Henderson, Michael Pearce

Alice Mao

Sippi Khurana

Lenny Matuszewski

Kat Kearns

Admiral Transfer & Rigging, Inc

Elegant Occasions

Patti Murphy, Danielle Ellis

Grace Lynn, Matthew Brams, Rose Chen, Cynthia Xu

Tanaz Choudhury, Joanne King Herring

Farida Abjani, Shikha Gupta, Vanitha Pothuri

Faces in the crowd: Hilary and Joan Duff, Joanne King Herring, C.C. and Duke Ensell, Kenneth Gayle, Evin Thayer, Rita Garcia, Angela Sturm, Lois and Brian de Armas, John P. McGovern Foundation, Regina Mellinger of Primary Services, Scott Ensell of Admiral Transfer and Rigging, Inc. and Randi Carrabba.

About The Women’s Home ​ The Women’s Home has been helping women build whole lives for nearly 60 years. During this time it has been successful in offering many women, a number of whom are homeless and lack job skills due to substance abuse and mental illness, a home and a model of care called Whole Life.

Photo credits: Quy Tran, Photos by Rovo

The MFAH Celebrates

Art and Dance

at Its Grand Gala Ball

Laurie and Reed Morian

Rodney and Judy Margolis, Margaret Alkek Williams and Jim Daniel

Janice and Bob McNair

Gary Tinterow and Christopher Gardner

Lynn Wyatt

Joe and Lynne Hudson, Cristina and Lee Hudson

Arthur and Carson Seeligson, John and Boo Kennedy

Lela and Robin Gibbs, Frances Marzio

Russell and Elise Joseph, Charles and Anne Duncan

2016 Grand Gala Ball Ballerina

2016 Grand Gala Ball Decor

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) held its biggest fundraiser of the year, The Grand Gala Ball, Friday evening, October 07, 2016 at the Caroline Wiess Law Building. The event drew more than 450 guests who entered beneath a tent accented with rose gold garlands and sparkling chandeliers for a night of dinner and dancing. The evening’s theme, “Come Dance with Me,” celebrated the exhibition Degas: A New Vision and the artist’s iconic ballerinas. Laurie and Reed Morian, the event’s chairs, helped raise over $1.85 million toward the MFAH’s operating budget.

Celebrating Degas and his dancers, ballerinas became live art pieces, and shadow box dancers struck poses of perfection. The venue was masterfully decorated by Todd Events with tables set with centerpieces of antique-pink garden roses, crystal candelabras, luxurious linens, and pavé floral columns. City Kitchen wowed guests with a menu that included lobster salad, pan-roasted chicken with cognac and crème fraiche, and pumpkin with sage and hazelnuts. For dessert, guests indulged in ile flottante with crème anglaise.

Lee and Cristina Hudson and Ralph and Lisa Eads generously donated white and red wine from their vineyards in Napa Valley and Bordeaux for everyone’s enjoyment. After dinner, guests danced the night away to the sounds of The Jordan Kahn Orchestra. It was an event not to be missed.

Thanks to all the generous donors who help make the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston one of the best museums in the country.

Guests: Nancy and Rich Kinder, Sara and Bill Morgan, Phoebe and Bobby Tudor, Barbara and Gerald Hines, Janice and Bob McNair, Diane Lokey Farb, Cherie and Jim Flores, Lynne and Joe Hudson, Lee and Cristina Hudson, Cornelia and Meredith Long, Martha Long, Courtney Sarofim, Carol and Michael Linn, Cynthia and Tony Petrello, Ann and John Bookout, Pat Breen, Rose Cullen, Anne and Charles Duncan, Prince Piotr and Princess Maria-Anna Galitzine, Margaret Alkek Williams, Jeanie Kilroy Wilson and Wallace Wilson, Lela and Robin Gibbs, Sandy and Lee Godfrey, Ginni and Richard Mithoff, Laurie and Reed Morian, Lynn Wyatt, Karol Barnhart, Shahla and Hushang Ansary, Eliza and Stuart Stedman, Sara Paschall Dodd, Nancy and Butch Abendshein, and Vivian Wise. ​ About MFAH Founded in 1900, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is among the ten largest art museums in the United States.

Located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District, the MFAH comprises two gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, a theater, two art schools, and two libraries, with two house museums, for American and European decorative arts, nearby. The encyclopedic collection of the MFAH numbers more than 65,000 works and spans the art of antiquity to the present.

Photo Credits: Wilson Parish and Jenny Antill 103

Houston Symphony:

Opening Night: A Celebration of ConocoPhillips’ Thirtieth Consecutive Year of Supporting the Houston Symphony Opening Night Concert and Gala

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ouston Symphony presented Opening Night: A Celebration of ConocoPhillips’ Thirtieth Consecutive Year of Supporting the Houston Symphony Opening Night Concert and Gala, Saturday, September 17 at 6 p.m. in Jones Hall and the Corinthian. Ralph Burch chaired the event with honorary chairs, Lisa and Ryan Lance. ConocoPhillips were the underwriters and Robin Angly and Miles Smith were the underwriting committee chairs.

Over 590 guests attended both the concert and the gala dinner celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of ConocoPhillips’ support as the Houston Symphony’s opening night concert sponsor and opening night gala lead corporate underwriter.

Concert attendance totaled 1,900 people. The evening featured Oscar, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, GRAMMY, and BAFTA-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley narrating Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf.” Music Director, Andres Orozco-Estrada led the musicians of the Houston Symphony in a concert program that, in addition to “Peter and the Wolf,” also featured Rossini’s thrilling Overture to “The Thieving Magpie” and Richard Strauss’ extraordinary Suite from “Der Rosenkavalier.” Following the performance, the black-tie partygoers continued the evening at The Corinthian where they sat down to a spectacular dinner catered by Jackson and Company.

Houston Symphony Opening Night

The décor, created by Bergner and Johnson, transformed The Corinthian into a contemporary venue with large red drum chandeliers and vibrant centerpieces of red hydrangeas, roses, tulips, coxcombs, and lilies.

Dinner began with chilled poached salmon with cucumber scales and sauce verte and a composed salad of mache, Belgian endive, radicchio, pistachio crusted goat cheese, and roasted red and yellow bell peppers. The main course included herb crusted beef tenderloin, seasoned haricots verts with slivered almonds, potatoes fines herbes gratin, and yeast rolls. Wine pairings provided by Spec’s Wine, Spirits, & Finer Foods, and underwritten by Ralph Burch, accompanied the meal and included Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon. The dessert, a “Symphony Trio,” included lemon curd tart, handmade chocolate truffle and tiny bittersweet chocolate wafer, and fresh berries with raspberry coulis. In celebration of ConocoPhillips’ continued support, dessert plates were garnished with a chocolate “oil derrick.”

After dinner, the Richard Brown Orchestra took to the stage commencing the late-night party that had guests dancing into the wee hours of the morning.

The evening’s honorees were: ConocoPhillips and Conoco CEOs/Chairs: Ralph E. Bailey, Howard W. Blauvelt, Archie W. Dunham, Ryan M. Lance, L.F. “Frank” McCollum (in memoriam), John G. McLean (in memoriam), James J. Mulva, Constantine S. “Dino” Nicandros (in memoriam), and Andrew W. Tarkington (in memoriam). Past and Present Houston Symphony Trustees from ConocoPhillips and Conoco: Ralph Burch, Clyde W. Lea, Kevin O. Meyers, and Wayne E. Glenn (in memoriam). In attendance were: Ryan Lance; Ralph Burch; Kevin O. Meyers; and, representing L.F. “Frank” McCollum, his daughter Olive Jenney and granddaughter Emily Brown.

The event raised over $730,000 for the Houston Symphony’s Education and Comunity Programming, making it the second most successful Opening Night Concert and Gala in the history of the event.

Stephanie von Stein and Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl

Kelli Cohen Fein

Photo Credits: Wilson Parish, Jenny Antill, Anthony Rathbun

Guests: Jan Barrow, Marian and Gary Beauchamp, Gina and Devinder Bhatia, Marie and Joy Bosarge, Stephanie von Stein, Barbara Burger, Janet Clark, Sue and Chris Conway, Nathalie Diamantis, Amber Elliott, Josette George, Christina and Mark Hanson, Suzy and Al Hirshberg, Shelby Hodge and Shafik Rifaat, Scott Irvine, Sippi and Ajay Khurana, Rochelle and Max Levit, Cora Sue and Harry Mach, Joella and Steve Mach, Carmen and Butch Mach, Beth Madison, Barbara and Pat McCelvey, Dore and Kevin Meyers, Ruchi Mukherjee, Rey and Orlando Ocanas, Diane and Mike Pfister, Alie and Dave Pruner, Scott Rosen, Daniela and Manolo Sanchez, Jerry Simon, Dr. Karl Tomm, Susan and Andy Truscott, Phoebe and Bobby Tudor, Betty and Jesse Tutor, Fran Vallejo, Judith Vincent, Lori and Don Wallette, Margaret Alkek Williams, and Jim Daniel.

About Houston Symphony Founded in 1913, the Houston Symphony has played an important role in Houston’s cultural and civic life for over 100 years. It is one of America’s oldest arts organizations, and has a distinguished musical history. Today, the Houston Symphony performs approximately 300 concerts and recitals for over 330,000 Houstonians annually. Along with its regular season, the Houston Symphony also brings concerts to the region during the summer, many of them free. And through over 200 education and community engagement performances and events, the Houston Symphony works ceaselessly to fulfill many of the community’s needs.

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ouston Grand Opera (HGO) presented Season Opening: The Elixir of Love, Friday, October 21 at 7 p.m. in the Wortham Theater Center’s Ray C. Fish Plaza. The buoyant performance of Donizetti’s beloved opera, celebrating the opening of HGO’s 62nd season, was followed by a late-night dinner chaired by Mary and Dr. Mark D’Andrea and Valerie and Tracy Dieterich.

A total of 400 guests and cast members assembled in the party tent to celebrate the start of another fantastic HGO season. The tent’s interior, decorated by The Events Company, was covered in murals and video projections of puffy clouds, giving guests the feeling they were dining in the sky. This effect was accentuated by the signature hot air balloon, inspired by the opera production, dancing around the eaves. The floral centerpieces adorning the tables were whimsical hotair-balloon topiaries of red and yellow roses. Catering was provided by Tony’s Catering.

HGO Managing Director, Perryn Leech, welcomed patrons to the event. He was followed by Artistic and Music Director, Patrick Summers, who introduced the internationally acclaimed cast of The Elixir of Love, led by tenor Dimitri Pittas, soprano Nicole Heaston, and bass-baritone Patrick Carfizzi.

The evening’s honoree’s, Anne and Dr. John Mendelsohn, were honored for their extraordinary dedication to, and support of, HGO. As Board chairman, John has provided extraordinary leadership for HGO in many capacities.

The evening’s events also included an exciting auction. Items bid on included support and oversight of an upcoming Opera to Go! production, which was won by Connie Kwan-Wong and the opportunity to conduct the playing of the national anthem at HGO’s 2017 opening night, which was won by Jana Arnoldy. The highlight of the auction was a VIP Super Bowl package, which was won by Marguerite Swartz.

The event raised $463, 000 in total.

Guests: Robin Angly and Miles Smith, Denise and Philip Bahr, Tony Bradfield and Kevin Black, Pat Breen, Divya and Chris Brown, Robert Bruni, Janet and John Carrig, Donna Josey Chapman, Donna Moylen and Benjamin Chu, Bobbie-Vee and Jerry Cooney, Rufus and Yvonne Cormier, Molly and Jim Crownover, Mary and Mark D’Andrea, Valerie and Tracy Dieterich, Diane Lokey Farb, Kelli and Martin Fein, Princess Tatiana Galitzine, Amanda and Morris Gelb, Sandy Godfrey, Liz Grimm and Jack Roth, Ellen Gritz and Mickey Rosenau, Michelle and Frank Hevrdejs, Debbie and Stan Horton, Connie KwanWong, Caroline and Perryn Leech, Beth Madison, Karen and Ramon Manning, Frances Marzio, Anne and John Mendelsohn, Gina and Mark Metts, Cynthia and Anthony Petrello, Janie and Paul Puente, Debra and Gary Reese, Jill and Allyn Risley, Sybil Roos, Glen Rosenbaum, Kristina and Paul Somerville, Christina Stith, Patrick Summers and Beau Miller, Marguerite Swartz, Carolyn Taub, Betty and Jess Tutor, Barbara Van Postman, Birgitt van Wijk, Alastair Walton, Andrea and Bill White, Margaret Williams, Rini and Edward Ziegler, Farida Abjani.

ABOUT HOUSTON GRAND OPERA Since its inception in 1955, Houston Grand Opera has grown from a small regional organization into an internationally renowned opera company. HGO enjoys a reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 61 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. In addition to producing and performing world-class opera, HGO contributes to the cultural enrichment of Houston and the nation through a diverse and innovative program of performances, community events, and education projects that reaches the widest possible public. HGO has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and has won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards—the only opera company to have won all three honors.

Through HGOco, Houston Grand Opera creates opportunities for Houstonians of all ages and backgrounds to observe, participate in, and create art. The NEXUS Initiative is HGO’s multi-year ticket underwriting program that allows Houstonians of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy world-class opera without the barrier of price.

Since 2007, NEXUS has enabled more than 225,000 Houstonians to experience first-quality opera through discounted single tickets and subscriptions, subsidized student performances, and free productions.

Marguerite Swartz and Perryn Leech

Photo Credits: Priscilla Dickson, Jacob Power 105

“Life has taught me that respect, caring, and love must be shared, for it’s only through sharing that friendships are born.” –Donna A. Favors “No one has ever become poor from giving.” –Anne Frank Often when we think of charity, it conjures up images of flashy logos, catchy reminders to give, and matching outfits. We think of charity auctions, talk-show giveaways, and grandiose displays of altruism. We consider charity something we do, and contribute to, at the holidays or after tragedies, such as war, floods, tornados, and fires. But, while these acts are wonderful and organized giving is great, there are ways we can give and things we can do every day to help others in need. Here are six things you can give to others to show you care: Money When people think of charity, they most often think of giving money. They conjure up images of big checks being handed out, bell ringers at Christmas, and donation plates and boxes at houses of worship. Money does indeed help organizations do the things they need to do, and if time and other resources cannot be given, money is certainly a way to assist a cause you are passionate about. However, it is important to remember, though it may sound cliché to say, that every little bit helps. While large displays of monetary giving are wonderful, you should not be deterred from giving what you can to charitable efforts, even if what you are able to give is less than what someone else is able to. If everyone came together to give a little bit to help others, the world would definitely be a better place.

Resources Along with money, goods are the other most recognized form of charity. Clothes, food, water, diapers, and toiletries are all items that many shelters and charity organizations need on a daily basis. Even toys, not just during the holidays, can be a wonderful item to present to families in need.

Time Time is often a scarce commodity in the busy lives we all lead, which makes it a form of charity that many don’t give.

But time can be just as important as money. When you give your time to someone, you show them you care enough about them and their needs to make them a part of your life experience. You can give time in many different ways: read books to the young or the elderly, play games or entertain

at senior-citizen’s centers, volunteer at an after-school program or youth center, pass out flyers for a charitable organization, or be a listening ear to someone who is lonely or in need of counsel.

Talents Using your talents is a fun and fulfilling way to give back. Teach dance to underprivileged youth; sing songs with seniors; put on a play to bring awareness to, or raise money for, a cause; or paint murals to brighten up a shelter. If you can build houses, gather a crew to construct a house for victims of a fire. If you have a technical mind, help repair computers to give to underfunded schools, or teach computer skills to those seeking employment. If you can cook, teach others at recreation centers or home/ parenting classes. Whatever your talent is, you can use it to help someone else in need.

Knowledge Along with talent, knowledge can be a powerful tool for giving back. Tutors are often in short supply for all types of learning. Those who have teaching skills can also be quite helpful in rehabilitation programs to help members earn their GED or obtain employment. Another realm of knowledge is legal counsel, which can be helpful for newly created charity organizations or for individuals in need.

Kindness Possibly the most important things you can give are kindness and compassion. Be a listening ear to someone in mourning or in distress. Flash a smile at someone having a bad day.

Buy a cup of coffee for someone out in the cold. Kind acts breed other kind acts. A simple act of kindness can go a long way.

It is important to remember that any way you can show someone in need you care is a good way to make the world a better place to live in. Charitable acts do not have to happen through organizations or during special events; they can occur with anyone you meet. You could help an elderly neighbor mow their lawn, assist a new mother with chores so she can get acclimated to parenthood, or hand out hats and scarves to anyone you see in need of them. Sharing truly is caring, and the more caring there is in this world, the better it will be.

CKW GIVING

OUR INITIALS: CKW stands for Caring, Kindness, and Wisdom OUR MISSION: IMPROVING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN WWW.CKWGIVING.ORG WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT: At CKW Giving the precepts of Caring, Kindness, and Wisdom are second nature.

They make up the heart of what CKW Giving is all about and encourage us all to CARE for our fellow man, treat everyone with KINDNESS, and be WISE in our understanding of others. CKW Giving believes it is of the utmost importance that awareness regarding the immediate problems and issues facing so many of Houston’s children be clearly articulated and solutions be found.

To that end, CKW Giving, which is funded by the profits from CKW Luxe magazine and CKW Collection, acts as a bridge to the community to find resolutions and seeks out and assists outstanding children’s charities, fostering growth and community involvement in these charities.

Above all, CKW Giving aims to ultimately improve the lives and well-being of as many children as possible through its charitable giving. CKW Giving is currently working from a local level, but will eventually expand to a global one so that the lives of children around the world will also be better.

CKW LUXE

CKW COLLECTION

CKW Luxe magazine represents the interests, concerns, and values of the Houston community with topical, socially relevant, and current articles presented with integrity and style.

Our family of dedicated professional contributors is committed to producing a product of the highest quality and standards. We just celebrated our first fabulous year and look forward to a stellar second one. With charity always in mind, the profits from CKW Luxe help fund CKW Giving.

CKW Collection takes a holistic approach when it comes to beauty believing everyone is beautiful from the inside out.

Our skincare products and supplements are made from the purest and most natural ingredients and our exquisite accessories are second to none. Because beauty begins within, charity is of the utmost importance and profits from CKW Collection help fund CKW Giving.

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