Dallas Flow Magazine by Duraine Williams

Katie McCutcheon

Zen & The Pure Spa

Page 34

Page 42

GCB: Good Christian… Blondes? Page 26

Who’s Got The Voice

Studying Abroad

Page 32

Page 62

www.livingbellavita.com

PHOTOS BY JOYCE NICOLE, FROM ARLINGTON IMPROV, WITH DIANNA PIETRA AND CANDY SLATTEN

ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION

LIFESTYLE

PUBLISHER and EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DURAINE WILLIAMS ASSISTANT EDITOR: CHRISTINA FITE FASHION EDITOR: ANDREA FENDER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: SAMANTHA KAUFFMAN XHEVRIJE WEST BRITTANY PIRES ASHLEE GREEN LAURA PUIG BEATRICE COCHRAN ALEX REJAEE JILLIAN FERTIG CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: RANDY ANDERSON SERGIO GARCIA MILIND KOTHARE DANNY CAMPBELL JOYCE NICOLE SARAHI IBARRA STACEY POWERS VIDEOGRAPHERS: REYNA CUELLAR RUTH GARCIA LACEY SIMPSON SPECIAL THANKS TO: MIND SQUAD, IVONNE KINSER, ANDREA FENDER, SEBASTIAN GREEN, CHRISTIAN ILES, PAIGE ANDERSON, RANDY ANDERSON, CARSON INGLE, LEONARDO D’ALMAGRO, DIANA PIETRA, KAYLA HICKS, MIND SQUAD, BELLA VITA CUSTOM HOMES, ERIC THOMAS.

JENNIFER HOBSON

www.DallasFlow.com

MODEL: SOPHIA LEE PHOTO BY DANNY CAMPBELL MAKEUP BY MOTIVES COSMETICS

THIS MONTH IN DALLAS FLOW MAGAZINE

ENTERTAINMENT Larry Hagman’s Last Stand Page 12

Q & A Session: Tim Halperin Page 14

Review: The Voice Page 26

Scenes From: Red Carpet Launch Party Page 28

FASHION Winter Fashion Wonderland Page 30

Christian Dior: Spring/Summer 2013 Page 34

Scenes from: Lily Vasaelini & Andrea Fender’s Fashion Show Tailored Looks For Men Page 40 Page 43

LIFESTYLES Pure Spa Page 44

Resort Style Living For Everyone Page 50

Restaurants Page 52

Top 5 Men’s Grooming Spots Page 54

Restaurant Review: Tasty Bites Page 56

Romance in the Workplace Page 58

Studying Abroad Page 62

By Ginger Adams

exas has lost a GIANT. Love ‘im or hate ‘im, J.R. Ewing has done his last deal, thrown his last barb, and flashed his last devilish grin. Larry Hagman, the larger-than-life actor who incarnated the Texas icon, passed away November 23 peacefully at his home. He was 81. Hagman was in the midst of shooting the second season of the resurrected TV series “Dallas” for the TNT cable network. He had been battling throat cancer, but had enthusiastically stepped back into the role that had thrust him -- and the city – into the worldwide spotlight during its first run, 1979-1991. Along with reviving the Southfork Ranch-based show, Hagman had also recently started the Larry Hagman Foundation to benefit underprivileged children and the arts. The Foundation released this statement: “Larry was back in his beloved Dallas, re-enacting the iconic role he loved most. Larry’s family and close friends had joined him in Dallas for the Thanksgiving holiday. When he passed, he was surrounded by loved ones. It was a peaceful passing, just as he had wished for.”

Larry Hagman was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on Sept. 21, 1931, to Broadway legend Mary Martin and her attorney husband, Ben Hagman. Martin was just 17 years old. Larry’s early years were spent in Weatherford Texas until his parent’s divorce. Mother and Grandmother took young Larry to California for Martin to pursue her acting career. Here, they enrolled Larry in military school.

Hagman’s last public event was in Dallas November 15. He and fellow “Dallas” cast mates Linda Gray and Sheree Wilson headlined a fundraiser for Wilson’s charity, the White Bridle Society. Never one to disappoint, Larry brought his ten-gallon hat and signature radiant smile.

Martin soon met and married Richard Halliday, a story editor for Paramount. He became Martin’s manager and the family moved to New York. There Martin went on to become one of the great musical actors of her time, most notably appearing in the lead roles of South Pacific, Peter Pan, and the stage version of The Sound of Music. By the time he was a teenager, Larry decided to return to Texas to live with his father and become a cowboy. He did return to Texas and attended his mother’s alma mater, Weatherford High School. However, he soon decided there must be an easier way to make a living than out on the 10

range. He dabbled in the theatre, in his mother’s footsteps, but then was drafted for military service. He joined the Air Force, serving in England from 1952 to 1956 in the Special Services entertainment division. While in England, Larry met and married his sweetheart, Swedish clothing designer Maj Axelsson, on Dec. 18, 1954. When his tour of duty was over, they returned together to New York so Larry could pursue an acting career himself. Larry found fame the first time in the ‘60s campy comedy TV series, “I Dream of Jeannie.” He fell easily into the role of Major Tony Nelson, an astronaut who becomes the master of a beautiful genie in a bottle he finds on a deserted island. The series continues today in syndication. Larry signed on for his signature role in 1978, as part of an ensemble cast in a five-part miniseries, “Dallas.” The series centered around two quarreling Texas families with two young lovers in a Romeo and Juliet-type situation. Larry’s character, J.R. Ewing, was not the main character but quickly found its way to the forefront of the story. Larry developed the character’s dastardly charm and caustic lines that brought comedy to the drama and made viewers love to hate him. His is the only character that appeared in every episode. In one of his memorable and self-revealing quotes, J.R. Ewing said, “A conscience is like a boat or a car. If you feel you need one, rent it.” Ratings soared as the miniseries turned into a ground-breaking primetime soap opera. At the end of the second season, J.R. Ewing was shot, with each character having a motive to do the deed. The world over was asking, “Who shot J.R.?” During the interim, Larry renegotiated his contract, adding to the suspense about whether his character would even return. The season three premiere episode garnered the highest TV ratings ever at that time, as viewers desperately wanted to know who was guilty. Larry relished the role he created in J.R. He even good-naturedly had imitation $100 bills printed with his picture on it, emblazoned with “In Hagman We Trust,” and handed them out to fans. Larry continued working post-“Dallas,” but his health began to fail. Decades of hard drinking began when he lived in Texas. He openly talked about his constant flow of alcohol on the set of “Dallas,” as life imitated art, or art imitated life in J.R.’s character. In 1992, Larry was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver, and doctors also found a cancerous tumor on his liver. Fortunately, he was able to get a transplant just in the most critical time. After recovery, Larry’s new lease on life led him to become an advocate for organ donation and a supporter of the National Kidney Foundation. He also became an anti-smoking advocate, having quit in the 1960s, and becoming chairman of the American Cancer Society’s campaign, “The Great American Smokeout.” Fans can read about Larry’s life in his memoir, “Hello Darlin’: The Tall (and Absolutely True) Tales About My Life,” published in 2001. Sheree Wilson, who played April Stevens in “Dallas,” said in an interview with local radio host Nicole Barrett just after Larry’s death, “Larry is my treasured friend. He was truly Peter Pan’s son – he never wanted to grow up. He was just as charming and impish, full of life. He had etched in his mirror, ‘Don’t worry, be happy, feel good.’ And that’s just how he lived his life.”

Season two episodes of “Dallas” are scheduled to premiere on TNT January 28. 11

You may remember Tim Halperin as a top 12 male finalist, from Fort Worth, on American Idol Season Ten in 2011. But even if you didn’t watch the show, you heard Kidd Kraddick proclaim on his nationallysyndicated radio show (which airs on 106.1 KISS FM) after Tim was cut, that “Idol Got it Wrong.” 15

In fact, Kraddick was such a believer that he set up his own contest during the remaining weeks of the Idol season. He let Tim compete on his radio show against the remaining contestants on their same songs. Listeners called in and each week, the votes came pouring in for Tim. He was so loved, Kraddick asked Tim to write a song for the Kidd's Kids program which supports an annual trip to Disneyland for 60 children who are medically fragile or terminally ill. Tim is a truly happy-to-be-alive kind of guy, and that’s why he has such chemistry with the people in the causes he supports! Dallas Flow wants to know: You are regularly in demand to perform at Race for the Cure events around the country and are a Komen National Partner. Tell us more about this: I first became involved in supporting TCU's partnership with Komen at the invitation of my manager Ann Louden, who is Frogs for the Cure chair, and was my mentor during my days in school at TCU. Ann asked me to write a song in tribute to breast cancer survivors. In five days, I finalized "We Fight Back" which was put on iTunes to benefit the cause. My second tribute song "Cross That Line" was showcased by TCU this year in a music video with over 1,000 TCU students, faculty, staff and community members. Let’s talk about your experience on “American Idol.” Did it change you? A little bit. I definitely gained a lot more confidence as a result of being on American Idol. I also found out what strengths I have as a singer and performer. It was a great experience to have. Were the judges brutal? The new judges that came on the year I was on it gave good feedback. Any improvement needed was also coupled with a compliment or said in a way that wasn’t really hurtful. I did get frustrated at my very last performance, when they said it just wasn’t a good song for me. I thought the song was a good fit. What doors were opened because of Idol? Idol exposed me to millions of people and a whole new audience. It really gave me a lot of momentum to go out and do the things I want to do and give it a real shot. Right after American Idol, I gave my song, “The Last Song,” away for free. I wanted the people who had gotten a taste of what I could do on American Idol to enjoy this and it gave me the opportunity to gain a lot of fans. Songwriting: There are several themes in my music; definitely the number one is love songs. Especially on “Rise and Fall.” The second theme is focused on inspiration and encouragement. One of the opening lines of one of my songs is “This is for those of you who have lost your hope” (in “That’s All You Got”). I think there are so many out there who are hopeless, distraught, and downtrodden in whatever it may be. Whether it’s illness, or whether it’s a trial in life, and I think music is something that touches the human spirit, the human emotion like nothing else can. I want to reach out to those who have lost their hope. That’s a result of my faith. It’s a result of who I am as a person. I really do like to help the brokenhearted. Who is your fan base? My fan base ranges from high school girls to soccer moms. Piano-driven music is great on the level that it can relate to almost anybody. The goal of a singer/songwriter is to write lyrics that are timeless and that can appeal to all different age groups. My fans range from those who appreciate my lyrics to those who like the pop-rock sound of my music. That includes females who listen to the words and guys who connect with the beat. Biggest lesson so far about the music business: Not to put all your eggs in one basket. If someone promised you something, the chances of it actually happening are slim. That hasn’t affected my positivity about life or career, but it has affected the way I look forward to certain things. Ever moving to Nashville or L.A.? I’ve thought about it, but I’m also a firm believer that you don’t need to be in a certain place to have a career in music. In this day and age, the internet allows us to be connected with anybody from anywhere. However, it is crucial to get face to face with some of the people that can make things happen for you. Nothing can replace direct communication. What is your favorite thing to do in DFW at Christmas? My fondest memory in the Metroplex during the Christmas holiday is the TCU Christmas tree lighting. My earliest experiences were at TCU and just with lots of friends together at the tree lighting. In the past, Ann had an incredible lighting display (at her house) and I use to play “Buddy the Elf” in that. Ann played Mrs. Claus. I love the holidays, and that’s what inspired my 2012 Christmas album. I’m a happy person. I smile a lot, and I love the holidays because people are generally happier and in better spirits. I love the whole 16

Christmas spirit of loving one another and being forgiving and sharing and caring. We are excited to find out what’s next for you? Holiday shows and promotion of the new Christmas CD for the season, industry meetings in New York, and plans for a spring tour are in the works. Where do you want to take your music down the road? Anywhere and everywhere! You will see me reaching as far as I can reach and pushing as far as I can push. I’m so thankful for all the things that have happened and all the steps that we’ve taken as a team. As a musician, we all want that hit song. I think that would be incredible but most of all I will continue writing authentic music! Summing it up: I think there’s nothing more validating than knowing I was in the top group on American Idol after over 100,000 people auditioned. So it gave me great amounts of motivation and encouragement to continue and pursue a music career full time. Ann definitely has my back, of course my family and friends have all been there for me, and I continue to be grateful for my many loyal fans! Tim’s music is available on iTunes and on his website, www.timhalperin.com.

CRUISE IN LUXURY AAIC TRAVEL www.aaicluxurytravel.com

Exploring Dallas: Hidden Gems

abundance of shops. Unfortunately, the emergence of

By Allison Smith

effort two decades later transformed this neighborhood into

ibrant, innovative, and full of life, Dallas is a fascinating, sprawling city. It would be easy in such a vast metropolis, to miss the many hidden

gems located within this glimmering, contemporary, urban environment: The Bishop Arts District. Chances are, if you are not directly looking for this fascinating neighborhood, you may never know it exists, and that would be a

shopping malls and suburban spread contributed to the decline of the region in the 1960’s. A spirited revitalization

the charismatic destination it is today. Walking down North Bishop Avenue, the allure of the independent and unique makes the draw to these city blocks even more appealing. You will find an eclectic mix of vintage and local designs at Epiphany Boutique, and revel in the their one of a kind jewels sparking amidst the clothing, or inhale the calming drift emanating from natural, handcrafted blocks of herb infused soaps from Shambhala.

shame. Bursting with energy, these white-lighted, treeThe other magnet that will pull you back to these trendy

lined streets, illuminate a historic charm that is rare in Dallas.

streets is the availability of undisputedly some of the best restaurants in the city. Neighboring eateries such as the

Originally, this area was a bustling, burgeoning center. From the 1920’s until the 1940’s, both Davis Street and Bishop Avenue greeted rising warehouses, as well as an

infamous Bolsa, and, the recently opened and high-end Italian fare of Lucia’s, compete with an outstanding mix of other delectable cuisines. The gorgeous Hattie’s, a South20

ern American bistro style restaurant, will surprise you

First Thursday is a great place to start your initial visit to

with the sublime every time. You have never had chicken this amazing area, when every month, many of the stores and waffles like this, both elegant and comforting all at

and restaurants stay open until 10PM, while offering a

once. Another almost unassuming treat is Veracruz Café. host of interesting wares, sales, and goodies. Savor the Do not leave without tasting the Mole Xiqeño, without

distinctive flavor of this great spot by spending an even-

dispute, the best dish in the city. Save a bit more room

ing taking in the sites, sifting through the shops, and tast-

for a chicken or pork tamale, sprinkled with “pipian,” a

ing the tempting selection of food. I guarantee you will

spicy, ground pumpkin-seed topping.

enjoy one of the most independent and unique hidden treasures of

Whether you are simply looking for an escape from

Dallas.

the everyday chain stores that pervade the city, or search- The Bishop Arts District is located in the heart of Oak Cliff, at the intersection of Davis Street and North Bishop Avenue.

ing for a unique experience that will make you feel like

Allison Smith is a freelance writer and educator living in the DFW

you have arrived in an urban cross of New York and San

area.

Francisco, take a stroll through the Bishop Arts District.

very important cornerstone of the JEM business plan. A percentage of the revenue from every case sold is donated to The Peter Burks Unsung Hero Fund. This funds main goal is to send goods to troops serving over seas that will make their stays more comfortable. Items like clean socks, phone First Distillery in Carrollton, TX surges ahead with 3 cards, up to date magazines and more are sent industry veterans at the helm over to troops that do not have access to such luxCarrollton, TX – After 20 months of preparation uries. To date, the fund has shipped over 10 tons and jumping through permitting hurdles, the wait of goods overseas. “We are proud to support our is over. JEM Beverage Co and Master Distiller, Mike Troops and couldn’t be happier to partner with Pfeiffer, are hitting the streets. Their first effort, The Peter Burks Unsung Hero Fund. Being able to Western Son Texas Vodka will hit shelves in less give back to fellow soldiers while living my dream than a week in Texas. Their patrons eagerly await is a perfect combination,” says Pfeiffer. the 10 times distilled, crystal clear elixir that was JEM Beverage Company is also launching Stingray perfected by Pfeiffer. Spiced Rum, infused with Cinnamon, Almond and “I’ve been dropping by every week for what seems Vanilla. The namesake for this brand comes from like an eternity, but they say the finest things are the early 1600’s, when piracy was running ramworth the wait,” said Dallas resident, Matt Cawpant. Sailors, pirates and bootleggers would hide thon, who plans to be one of the first to purchase their finest spiced rum on the shallow ocean floor, a bottle. Cawthon has been following the compa- safe among the Stingray. Even today, Stingrays are ny’s progress via Facebook and has already heard synonymous with the finest Spiced Rum. the success in Arkansas and Mississippi. He is a JEM Beverage Company’s Western Son Texas Vodvodka enthusiast and is particularly interested in ka and Stingray Spiced Rum will be available the small batch process and the sweet finish from statewide starting July 26th. The distillery is locatusing 100% Yellow Corn. ed at 2525 Tarpley Rd Suite #104 in Carrollton, TX. Pfeiffer, a veteran of the US Army and the alcohol For more information please visit beverage industry, decided to trade in his corpowww.westernsonvodka.com and rate suit and tie to take his shot at redefining quali- www.stingrayspicedrum.com or email inty. Small batches, hyper-clean water, and supfo@jembevco.com. porting the troops is what Mike and partners had in mind. Producing 200-gallon batches at each run allows Mike to taste, view and smell the vodka at every stage. Carefully examining each batch to guarantee quality. JEM Beverage also uses reverse osmosis to get the cleanest possible medical grade water. Water so clean, that it is truly neutral and the definition of clean.

JEM Beverage Co releases Western Son Texas Vodka and Stingray Spiced Rum

As a military veteran, supporting the troops was a 22

Knock Knock. Who’s There? It’s The Voice

ith extremely high ratings, and high profile coaches, The Voice is making a name for itself giving weekly reasons as to why their outshine other singing competition shows.

aren’t what brings viewers in. When first auditioning, contestants are singing to the back of chairs, proving that it’s not always all about appearance.

After a couple episodes of bothersome and rather awkward auditions, American Idol loses viewers. AfWith over 25 million viewers during the season ter all, that’s what most claim their reasoning is as to premiere, The Voice has become one of the nation’s why they watch American Idol; to see the judges inmost intriguing singing competition shows. sult and pick on the less talented participants, and in some sense, that shows a lack of professionalism. Differing from shows such as American Idol and X Factor, The Voice is truly about what it says…the But oh no, not The Voice. The Voice requires true voice. American Idol gives any contestant an oppor- talent, and that is why their popularity continues to tunity, whether they are phenomenal or whether sky rocket on a weekly basis. they are not good at all. To audition for The Voice, it Well renowned pop singers Christina Aguilera and is a necessity to have background and legitimate Adam Levine along with R&B/Pop sensation Ceelo experience in your back pocket. So bad auditions 26

ants left on Team Cee-lo and sang their hearts out on tonight’s show as well as Katrina Parker, Mathai, Tony Lucca, and Pip from Team Adam, leaving coaches Adam Levine and Cee-lo Green with a difficult decision to make in their instant elimination. Gritting their teeth, Adam Levine eliminated Pip and Cee-lo eliminated Pip, shrinking their teams down to three. Watch Tuesday night on NBC at 8/7c to see who gets saved by America and who will have to lay their voices on the line in hopes that they will receive immunity from their coaches. And give your hearing senses a little tingle Monday nights on NBC at 8/7c to watch the semi-finals and Green and country star Blake Shelton are the four see who makes it one step further on winning The coaches who all have previous fame before joining the Voice. show.

Story By Cortney Haygood

The Voice starts off with the “blind auditions” in which the four coaches chose their teams, and for the rest of the season they coach them and form bonds and relationships with them, which heightens the competition. The competition is now in the quarter-final stages where judges will have to send home at least one of their team members. Last week, contestants Jesse Campbell from team Christina and Jordis Unga from team Blake were eliminated. America saved Chris Mann leaving Ashley De La Rosa and Lindsey Pavao to sing for their lives. Christina Aguilera decided to send Lindsey Pavao packing, which leaves Ashley De La Rosa and Chris Mann fighting for their place in the finals. From team Blake, Jermaine Paul was saved, which left Raelynn and Erin Willet to duke it out for the finals. In the end, Erin Willet was too much dismay, let go. This week, it was Team Adam and Team Cee-lo who had their final four contestants battling it out on stage. Jamar Rogers, James Massone, Cheesa, and Juliet Simms are the four contest27

PHOTOS BY SARAHI IBARRA

Sergio believes the best images are captured by working together with an enjoyable team, who work together as one cohesive group. At the end of the day, he enjoys doing what he loves for a living and capturing distinct images for his clients. A close friend, Jeanette Chivvis, of "Chivvis Styles", says: “Sergio and I have been working together ever since I came back to Texas from LA. You know when you meet someone and you feel like you have known them forever? That is how I felt when Sergio and I worked together four years ago. We have a kindred creative spirit and have created some beautiful pictures together. He has a very unique point of view and is a true artist at heart. What makes a good photographer is possession of a very unique strong point of view on beauty and he has it! We also really enjoy just hanging out and making each other laugh! It isn't very often you meet someone who you click with on so many levels!” Inspired Images: “These top looks were inspired by Eskimos and all their layers of clothing. I wanted the light to have a moody and edgy feel,” says Sergio. Kim Dawson’s model Rachel Thomas did an outstanding model shoot and was able to take the character Sergio created to perfection. Rick Flores for hair and make up, Anna Devereux for styling, and Craig Thomas for lighting made an excellent combination, illuminating the final creation. “It really takes a whole crew to make something that looks easy, come together.” says Sergio Garcia. We know you’ll appreciate Sergio Garcia’s talent as much as we do at: www.prismshots.com 30

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www.facebook.com/phyrestudio 32

DESIGNER HANDBAGS WWW.LILYVASAELINI.COM

By Laura Puig

ior’s new Creative Director, Raf Simons, debuted his first readyto-wear collection during Paris Fashion Week, garnering rave reviews. According to his Vogue interview earlier

The most significant pieces of the line came at the end with elegant dresses and coat dresses cut at different hemlines. The last four looks to hit the runway paraded a historic elegance with rich, full, above the ankle skirts and tasteful black short and long sleeve tops. The skirts were of colorful, iridescent nylon with different flower patterns.

A lot of the shows’ major moments could be accredited to the very distinctive use of fabrics. The different materials allowed the pieces to illustrate themselves as fresh and refined all in one. There were a variety of skirts nipped at the waist and flared at the bottom, which greatly resembled the antique fashions of the 1950s when a curvy, elegant look was deeply desired. Simons' detail to the fit of each piece was evident in in the year, Simons had a clear vision of what he want- the sense that the clothes were perfectly tailored. ed to accomplish with the collection, stating that he While some of the pieces were lackluster, such as the would like to “bring back some emotion” to the line. His two-toned off-white and neon yellow dress and the passionate aspiration was apparent from the start of flowy black dress with pale pink polka dots, the collecthe show to the end; the entire production radiated tion as a whole worked, and it worked well. It was practhrough and through. tical, modern and appropriate for all ages. It displayed The show-space displayed white walls with sizeable edgier looks such as low V cut coats and dresses and cut outs draped with pale pink fabrics, creating a colorful, asymmetrical tops that were paired with smooth, sensual effect. There was an airy, light aura shorts, and it also provided more sophisticated pieces given by the set that automatically transcended to the for an older crowd, such as stiff black pants and above clothing as soon as the first piece hit the runway. Sithe knee dresses. mons began the show with minimalistic, black suits and Simons came to impress and impress he did. The colsuit dresses that were toned down by a simple romanlection provided all of the elements that made a Dior tic scarf displayed in several colors including black, show eminent. His interpretation of a modernized Dior pink and red. The show took a turn towards the middle woman was apparent in various pieces, and his past and provided the audience with more colorful, vibrant experience and knowledge have proven to be a valuapieces, which have made quite a statement in various ble asset to The House of Dior. The poetic, romantic runway shows this season. and soft collection ignited a spark that is sure to keep The makeup was not overdone and added to the ethe- people captivated, excited and wanting more. real-like theme of the loose, free pieces. The eyes were strong, pulsating and bold. All models wore a black stiletto, some with added color and some without. There was a lot of movement on the runway, yet every piece still managed to look controlled and sophisticated. Dresses were draped with sheer tulle, giving the structured one underneath a wavy feel. Simons was able to take a step back into the history of Dior and integrate the “A” and “H” line cuts into the collection, ingeniously making them more modern by incorporating them into coats and jackets. He also added a modern twist to the legendary “Bar” jacket Christian Dior himself, made popular back in 1947.

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PHOTOS BY JOYCE NICOLE

en’s fashion is often overlooked but Dallas Flow is here to change that trend! You guys deserve some love and our fashion hearts are yours! Many people may think there are not many choices in men’s clothing, but in actuality there is. Gentlemen get ready, set, and go! Some trends in men’s fashion are strong, sleek, and tailored. Almost like a sailor getup but without the wide leg pants and the captain hat! Current fashion designs consist of collared button-up shirts, slimming slacks, and an outstanding necktie. A blazer can be added to top things off! There are large varieties of really interesting prints and bold colors. If that’s not the look for you, shorts or jeans can be worn instead. HINT: Just make sure the shorts or jeans are crisp to match the rest of your look! Don’t forget those striking shoes rich in color! Color matching? Not this time! Try piecing things together so you don’t match from head to toe. Maybe a striped top and polka dot bow tie for those who dare! Even a fun colored blazer or slacks are totally acceptable for men. Mix it up and make it coordinate to your style and boldness! So to all our sophisticated men out there, dare to be fashionable! Make it casual cool, stunning and handsome, or dapper crisp. This look is calling you, so tailor it up and strut your stuff! Time to turn some heads in style! 43

Zen and the Art of Pure Spa and Salon By Allison Smith

ypically, spas have been a place for pampering and calm relaxation, but the increasing demand of clients expecting more long-term outcomes from their treatments has invoked a new generation of businesses crossing the feel-good indulgence clients expect, with the longterm visible effects customers want. While many spas offer a few medically infused techniques into their repertoire of treatments, or offer a few pampering facials along with a full range of cosmetic medical procedures, there are few spas in the Dallas area that offer the complete package. Pure Spa and Salon is one such spa that offers a full range of skin, body, and hair services, along with long-term cosmetic medical procedures practiced by a board certified physician.

Tucked away on East Mockingbird Lane, at the edge

plete with whirlpool, steam cave, and rain shower. Very

of the University Park neighborhood, the minute you

few day spas can offer this kind of service. We are al-

open the door to Pure Spa and Salon a calming drift of

ways looking forward to see what is out there, what are

herbal and coconut aromas draw you in. You will find

the trends, what is hot right not, and we try to make sure

Minna Taylor at the spa on any given day, quietly scurry- that we bring that to Pure. ing about, ensuring everything is perfection. Dallas Flow

What are your most popular services at present?

sat down with Minna, to find out the plans for the future of this top rated spa in the city.

Definitely our massage bookings, and our Pure Renewal Facial. The Pure Renewal facial really leaves your skin

Since taking over Pure Spa and Salon in November of

glowing. The mushroom mask we apply during the treat-

last year, what changes have you made to the spa, and what concepts do you foresee instituting that will separate you from other salons? When we took over the spa we made some physical changes, but we really wanted to concentrate on keeping the best of the best technicians. Each one of our staff comes highly recommended, and all our technicians have seven plus years of experience. We currently have eight massage therapists, three estheticians, three hairstylists,

ment really helps to reduce pore size and smooth out fine

and two full time manicurists and pedicurists, each one of wrinkles, your skin looks and feels firm and smooth. them the best in their field. I think the incorporation of both the medical side along with the spa amenities, is what separates us from other day spas. We are the complete package. You come to our spa and you can have your hair done, get a massage, or a facial, and having the medical services available is a huge plus for those who want that option of maybe considering something a little more permanent than what they already are currently having done. We also have our Waterhouse available, com-

You Tweeted a special on a coconut lime wrap and body treatment a few weeks ago, that sounds delightfully Spring-like. What inspires you when designing a spa experience for your clients? Many of our body treatments we make ourselves. We purchase organic ingredients, such as fresh limes, sugar, and play with the ingredients, testing them out to make sure we can make them as effective as possible for the treatment. Our body wraps our different from other spas, 46

we really lather the product on and wrap the whole body.

dragged into a spa by their wives or girlfriends, realized

I try to think seasonally, bringing ingredients into the

what they were missing, the benefits, as well as the relaxa-

treatments that remind me of that time of year. I am play- tion of the experience. Massage is a popular service for ing with an orange vanilla treatment right now, kind of

our male clients, but right now we have a new monthly

like a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Creamsicleâ&#x20AC;? for summer. Products that we do not

maintenance Pure Platinum Membership program, where

directly make at the spa are all organic, and many come

for $69 per month, you can choose from a Pure Signature

from right here in Texas.

Manicure plus a Hot Stone Pedicure, a fifty-minute Pure

How has beauty changed over the years and how has Pure Spa and Salon transformed along with those changes? Well, we are constantly looking to see what else is out there, testing new products, and creating more effective treatments, finding out the trends of today and tomorrow, for skin and hair. I feel like right

When we took over the spa we made some physical changes, but we really wanted to concentrate on keeping the best of the best technicians. Each one of our staff comes highly recommended, and all our technicians have seven plus years of experience.

Signature Facial, a haircut conditioning treatment, plus a blow-out, or a fifty minute Massage Hot Towel Aromatherapy. Couples have been purchasing these together, so it is really becoming a popular thing for men and women to do together. What would be your two essential service picks for someone who is looking to revitalize the look of their skin before the start of the warm

now we have finally found a body wrap that really helps you lose inches and weight. We are weather?

still working and training on this treatment which we hope I think the best treatment on the medical side to really give to launch in May. We always have our finger on the pulse you that glow, where your skin looks beautiful and fresh, of what is happening in skin and hair care. Have you found an increase in male clients over the years, and what services are popular with men?

would be Microdermabrasion with Laser Genesis Skin Therapy. The Microdermabrasion revitalizes your skin by the application of fine grains that buff away the surface layer of your skin, and the Laser Genesis, or collagen remodeling, helps to lessen any redness in your skin, im-

Oh yes, I would say our male clientele has risen to about twenty-five percent now. I think for years men were kind

proves skin tone, and gives your skin a completely vibrant look. On the spa side of treatments that can help revitalize

of left in the dark, and suddenly, whether they were 47

skin, I would suggest a Renewal Facial, and a massage.

Pure Spa and Salon?

What are your favorite services at the spa and salon?

I want to ensure that we have top notch technicians work-

Definitely a Blow Out before a night out. I love having

ing on our clients. I feel this is really important. I also

that, it really makes you look great and feel special. I al-

want the clients have a very positive experience in all re-

so love our Hot Stone Massage. The hot stones really get spects. Keeping the facility top notch, making sure the deep into your muscles, and completely relax you, and

salon is sparkling clean, relaxing, calming, these are all

massage has been proven to have medical benefits, in-

concerns that I make sure are attended to at all times.

creasing your overall health.

In one word, describe a trip to PSS? Zenful. Life is so difficult and so stressful; people deserve some peace, to forget about everything going on. Emails, text, phone calls, I want this to be an oasis from â&#x20AC;&#x153;out there.â&#x20AC;? I want our clients to know that as soon as they walk in the front door, they are in for an hour or more of relaxation and calm. The atmosphere of Pure Spa and Salon immediately washes over you when you walk in the door, and calms any tension in your body. The peaceful ambience, sooth-

June weddings are around the corner, what service suggestions would you offer to a bride to be for the big

ing music, and the friendly welcome from the staff makes you want to slip your shoes off, shut your cell phone

day?

down, and indulge yourself with all of the offerings the Pre-wedding, Microdermabrasion, and a massage. On the day of, definitely hair, make-up, manicure and pedicure.

spa presents. You will leave Pure not only feeling good, but also looking great.

We have a lot of bridal parties that come in for services Pure Spa and Salon is located at: 5555 E Mockingbird Ln S300 Dallas, TX 75206 phone 214.827.4200

before the wedding, and that is really a fun and relaxing thing to. We offer a twenty percent discount on bridal parties of six or more, so that can be a big advantage for a large group.

Allison Smith is a freelance writer and educator living in the DFW area.

What is your primary concern when a client visits

BY Allison Smith

riving up to the arched gates of the master-planned community of Savannah, Texas, located on U.S. 380, about five miles west of the Dallas North Tollway, I have a sudden urge to kick off my work shoes, don a pair of flip-flops, and throw on a swimsuit. It may be the enormous private water park, equipped with two giant tube slides, the cascading, fifteen foot, rock waterfall, or the massive clubhouse with its own private theater, greeting me as I arrive, that gives me this overwhelming feeling as if I have just arrived on vacation, however, glancing around at the unique homes which circle around this towering center, proves otherwise. Although Savannah may seem like a holiday retreat, make no mistake, while this may be premier, resortstyle, living, it also stands as a deeply rooted community that boasts something for everyone.

A Huffines Communities Development, built only eight years ago and carved out of open land in the 380 corridor, Savannah now has a population of over five thousand. Each house in this community, by builders such as Grand Homes, LionsGate Homes, Grand Homes, Nathan Carlisle Homes, and History Maker Homes, has a very distinctive style, elegant architectural details, and well laid out floor plans. The original concept of the community was fashioned after both Southern and Cape Cod styles, but newer construction also incorporates an Austin, Texas look, with brick, natural wood, and stone work. Just recently, Nathan Carlisle Homes began construction on Savannahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s active adult community for the fifty-five plus set, Isabella Village. This area of the community offers single story homes and 2 models with optional 2nd floor game rooms, plus a separate Amenity Center, specifically for these residents. When people hear the words â&#x20AC;&#x153;complete communityâ&#x20AC;? they may think of cookie cutter homes, where it becomes impossible to distinguish one

house from another, but this is definitely not the case in Savannah. The variety of designs available offer a multitude of houses available for any taste, and ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs, and the prices ranging from the $140's to the $300's, make it accessible to a wide scope of budgets. Despite the variety of elegant and charming homes available, the real draw to Savannah is the amenities and the community spirit. Aside from the private water park, the Junior Olympic swimming pool, separate adult pool, and the over eighteen parks scattered about the neighborhood that include fishable ponds, the community also features tennis courts, a regulation baseball field, basketball court, and a soccer field. The clubhouse itself offers a three story workout facility, conference rooms, a spectacular cathedral ball games, and pool parties. The events staff always tries ceiling sitting area, a breathtaking library with fireplace, a to host one event a month, and ensures there is always private theater which can accommodate up to seventy peo- something for everyone. According to Chellie Feathers, one of the onsite Huffines team members, residents are all very active in the community, and it is the kind of place where everyone knows their neighbors. Families with young children make up a large part of this community, but there are also many empty-nesters, singles, and working couples, creating a very dynamic make-up of residents. The attraction for prospective Savannah residents may be the resort-style living, a place where you can live and play in top notch, well maintained facilities, but the community feel, that is so very evident when walking around the neighborhoods, where families watching their children on the playgrounds, or single people jogging to the gym to ple, a cafĂŠ area, and a commercial kitchen for both catering and community events. The community also features and exemplary Denton ISD neighborhood school, Savannah Elementary for kindergarten through to grade five, and while kids may be sold on the waterpark, parents will definitely be sold on the fact their children can bike or walk to school located right in the community. The jewel in the crown of Savannah, however, is the energetic role the residents and Homeowners Association play to create a one of a kind community. A full-time activities director helps organize the many neighborhood activities

workout, wave welcomingly, is what will have buyers calling this their home. Allison Smith is a freelance writer and educator living in the DFW area.

and events that take place, such as pancake breakfasts, base51

Dallas Dining Do you enjoy live entertainment with your dining? Enjoy these fine restaurants with excellent entertainment that will please every taste.

Arthur's Steak & Seafood - Addison 15175 Quorum Drive ; Addison, TX US 75001

(972)-385-0800

Arthur's serves prime aged steaks and fresh seafood in a glamorous and elegant setting. Live Piano entertainment adds to the already sumptous atmosphere and the four curtained rooms are popular for romantic dining.

Bruno's Ristorante - Irving 9462 N. MacArthur; Irving, Texas 75063

972-556-2465

You will be delighted with the romantic atmosphere, excellent cuisine, pleasant service, and the beautiful view of the canals in this great Valley Ranch location on MacArthur just north of LBJ. Live piano music, featuring Mike Coldewey, will make your dining experience a memorable one, not just for the food but for the ambience he creates.

Lavendou - Far North Dallas

190009 Preston Road; Dallas, Tx 75225 972-249-1911 On Thursday's, join our vocalist and French guitarist on Lavendou's enchanting patio for a relaxing evening.

India West Fine Dining & Lounge - Addison 5290 Belt Line Road #114; Dallas, TX 75254

972-503-5000

India West features live jazz every Friday and Saturday evening. Join us for a relaxing evening of dinner and jazz.

Steve Fields Steak and Lobster - Plano 5013 W. Park Blvd.; Plano, TX 75093

(972) 596-7100

View our website www.SteveFieldsRestaurant.com for our current drink special and upcoming events.

Bavarian Grill - Plano

221 West Parker Road; Ruisseau Village; Plano, Texas 75023

(972) 881-0705

Bavarian Grill offers live music nightly. We have live accordion music Tuesday thru Saturday 710pm and on Tuesdays we also have Bavarian Bier Jazz (Dixieland) 7-10pm.

Avanti Ristorante - Uptown/McKinney 2720 McKinney Avenue; Dallas, Texas 75204

214-871-4955

Avanti Ristorante offers a small and intimate dining room with a sleek, uptown bistro atmosphere convenient to the McKinney Avenue Trolley line. The menu features Northern and Southern Italian dishes made with fresh seafood, steaks, veal and pasta. Avanti Ristorante offers live jazz nightly.

Citrus Bistro - Dallas 5930F Royal Lane; Dallas, TX 75230 Located at the SW corner of Preston and Royal, Citrus Bistro Seafood offers creative and original cuisine by chef Didier Viriot. The small dining room allows chef Didier to bring you an exceptional experience, giving the attention that is necessary to make everything run to perfection.

Top 5 Men’s Grooming Locations

by Alex Rejaee

cently opened in Preston Hollow, The Gent's Place and all it has to offer can be easily experienced by everyone. We Only Wax, located in Dallas off of North Central Expressway, focuses on, you guessed it, waxing for men and women. While men may think waxing is feminine and a pain, We Only Wax offers a discrete practice and the most painless waxing you will ever experience, from “head to toes”.

The Grooming Room by Culwell & Son has many services that range from haircuts to shoe shining. Related and located next door to the renowned Men's Shop off of Hillcrest, t is often times difficult to find a The Grooming Room also prides itself on staunch grooming business for quality and experience. No reservations are men these days. Quality and service has required and walk-ins are openly welbeen downgraded for time financial efficien- comed. cy. After scouring the metroplex, the top grooming shops have been selected for your Winston's Barber Shop offers haircut, coloring, shaves, and waxing. Friendly employreview. ees and a wide array of grooming products The Menz Room, featured in national maga- makes this barber shop worth the visit. Winzines such as VIBE and Hair/Fashion, has a ston's is located on the lower level of The vast clientele base and welcomes everyone Shops at Willow Bend in Plano in between with open arms. Services offered are hairNeiman Marcus and Dillard's. cuts, manicures/pedicures, shaves, facials, coloring, eyebrow details, wardrobe styling or a total makeover (consultation required). Located in Downtown Dallas, The Menz Room is urban oasis in the mist of a concrete jungle where the metropolitan male can get male bonding, networking, health/ wellness tips, community info, upcoming events info, as well as quality grooming services & products The Gent's Place: Men's Fine Grooming offers a variety of lavish services such as haircuts, trims and shaves, coloring, waxing, massaging, facials, and even a pedicure (“Foot Repair”, as they like to call it) that includes whiskey and television. With a location in Frisco and a second property re55

Restaurant Review: Dallas's Tasty Bites and Rich Spirits By Christina Dowers

allas is home to some of the best, world-class restaurants and bars. Whether it’s a Mediterranean flare you are seeking or good ol’ American cuisine, the Big D has a lot to offer. The slew of choices that are available in the city is enough to satisfy any appetite and quench every thirst. Chris Davidson, cofounder of FN Dinner Club (a blog about Dallas’s best restaurants), suggests to those who are looking for a more upscale atmosphere to try out Victor Tangos, Rosewood Mansion, or The Chesterfield Bar and Restaurant. All three offer a unique menu and some of the best savory cocktails in town.

Victor Tangos offers an intimate charm Victor Tangos, located in the increasingly popular Knox/Henderson area, is known for its intimate dining experience where guests can catch up with friends and share American inspired small plates. The restaurant’s acclaimed, executive chef, Greg Buffey, is very familiar with what Dallasites are looking for in cuisine, as he has worked for two other restaurants in the Dallas area (Stephan Pyles in the arts district and Hibiscus Restaurant) prior to opening up Victor Tangos four years ago. “It is one of Dallas's most understated yet vibrant eateries! Their infamous lamb chops and mint julep's are simply divine!” Azalea Murga, a frequent customer of Victor Tangos, says. The restaurant is famous for their unique, fresh cocktails. One of the most popular drinks is the passion fruit gimlet, which is made with fresh thyme, vodka, real pieces of passion fruit, freshly squeezed lemon juice and house-made clover, honey syrup. All of their specialty cocktails are served in a tall or short, chilled martini glass. They also offer a small batch of American craft beers.

strive to create a personalized experience for each guest by asking what types of flavors they like, then making a specially concocted drink based on their preferences. “My life has led me to the obsession of managing bars and restaurants,” Eddie “Lucky” Campbell, the owner, says. “Bars are a living piece of art. All walks of life gather to celebrate events and most bar scenes are of life gathering at bars.” Mansion Restaurant is unique to Dallas and Texas alike

In addition to the signature cocktails, The Chesterfield has Mediterranean style dishes with a new American and classical French twist. A full lunch and The Rosewood Mansion is a restored 1925 mansion dinner menu is offered. The chef makes his own pasthat has a different ambiance from other restaurants ta and breads, and the seafood used in the dishes is and bars in the city. The restaurant has been around always fresh (never frozen). Guests usually come in for more than three decades; therefore, it has a loyal and order small plates to share with each other, but following of customers. Offering haute Texas cuithe restaurant also has a variety of entrees. sine, The Mansion has a daily, full-service breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. Whether you are looking for an intimate setting to have good conversation with friends in or a more “On any given night you’ll find people just hanging classical atmosphere to relax to jazz music in, Dallas out in the bar, getting engaged in the library and hav- has what you are looking for. Victor Tangos, The ing a business dinner in the main dining room,” Mansion and Chesterfield are just a small sample of Stephanie Hutson, marketing manager, says. “When what this city has to give. Come out and experience the weather is nice, the terrace is a great, relaxing it for yourself! place to be.” Live entertainment is provided throughout the week and on the weekends. A mixture of blues and jazz fusions are part of the usual playlist. The music tends to start out mellow at the beginning of the night and grows livelier as the night progresses. Every Thursday evening, the bar has wine chats where guests can sit down with Mansion beverage director, Michael Flynn, to try new wines the restaurant has brought in. And Monday through Thursday customers can enjoy half-price specialty cocktails for happy hour. The most popular drinks include the homemade tonic with gin; and the blazing turtle, The Mansion’s signature cocktail, with lots of champagne.

Chesterfield brings downtown back to the golden age of cocktails While only being in business since this past December, The Chesterfield has already established a big pool of returning customers. Guests tend to come in and get lost in the menu, as it offers chapters of signature cocktails to try. The bartenders and waiters 57

ROMANCE

AT THE

WORKPLACE WORK PLACE ROMANCE: GOOD, BAD, OR UGLY? By Noel Liz Smart

n today’s day and age, it seems as though there are more people than ever on their grind, trying to get to the check. So it is not surprising that many are spending more time on their jobs than freely, giving leeway to a workplace romance. But can real love develop on the nine to five? Maybe it should be all work and no play, then again, there is that possibility of business mixing strictly with pleasure. There are more than just the elements of broken hearts or the chance at happily ever after when considering entering into a romantic conquest on the worksite. It’s an issue that is not only built on lovers but it also includes foundations based in liberty and popular culture. To me, the possibility of soul mates meeting at their place of employment and having a successful relationship sounds wonderful, especially if the industry in which employed is stable and profitable. However, it is easy to neglect the facts that some feel employers compromise rights when enforcing rules against dating, which could be viewed bad in more than one way. On top of that, relationships that do not consist of strings are constantly portrayed in movies, television shows, plays and songs in a

popular way which affects dating colleagues in a diverse way as well. Some can make a workplace love affair work. If I had to guess, I would have to assume that it must take a whole lot of patience and more than the love of Jesus, (that is love thy neighbor of course) to make a workplace rendezvous work . For these couples, convenience may play a large role. Working the same schedule and clocking out at the same time is a thing of dreams for those couples that just adore being attached to the hip. Yet still, for those couples that do not mind having time apart, alternating shifts at the same company would be ideal. A relationship backed by a shared job security blanket is a plus as for most financial security is a factor in their liaison. Two gainfully employed people that have adoration for each other is also good for the economy (especially during holidays) because people with dispensable money buy things; typically, people that are in a relationship buy things not only for their significant other but also to impress their companion. There are dating and wedded couples that work or have worked together on the job successfully not only in blue collar but also within white collar and the entertainment industries. However just as there are married couples working together, there are also numerous amounts of divorcees that were once married to a person that was or is a coworker. For this reason, some companies enact anti-romantic fraternization rules that will likely result in unemployment if broken. This could work, but then again, this could be a depraved thing in two ways. First, you have to consider how much authority you think your employer should have over your life off of the clock. Do I think that employers should have that much say in an employee’s personal life, especially since most of my bosses generally displayed a “leave home at home” attitude? Well, too much control is always a bad thing right? Then you have to consider what could happen if you do not decide to rebel against these fraternization policies and end at a job where you have to 59

do the right thing by following heart-influenced rules. There is the possibility of missing out on that Eddie Murphy, Halle Berry, bring it right back to you, earthshattering, deep, loveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna bring you home type of love. You know, that has to be considered worse than a bad thing, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just disastrous, terrible, catastrophic.

stricting of work romance but the implementation of the wrong type of passion on the job can very easily get ugly. However, all in all, I believe that the success or failure of a work romance is contingent upon the people in the relationship. If there is patience and willingness to make a relationship work, no matter the articles or obstacles, it can work. I am not totally against love and the workstation as Then there is the ugly also known as the coworkers with benefits beast. Although the notion of friends with benefits it has worked fairly well for me in the past. For me, workhas become a popular notion, the odds of such a relation- ing together also affected the compassion we had for one another as we understood what stresses we encountered on ship ending in blockage and titter beef are high. Adding the element of making money into the mist of such a deli- the job which boosted the success of our time spent together. But, a romance on the job is not for everyone becate situation could end terribly messy. Divide and concause love and money is cursed with good, bad and ugly. quer is an idea that can be implemented with success in any situation, there is no greater divide that torn secret lovers and nothing worse than having enemies on the same team. Love or relationship at work can be good, bad or ugly. A successful drama free courtship could be a virtuous thing in more ways than one. Both partners being employed together can affect both the relationship and economy positively. Employers trying to control its employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emotions by restrict intimate relationships from blossoming could be looked at by some as a ruthless device. The unre-

Studying Abroad Even in the Current Economy by Kelly Craig

verything familiar -- food, language, scen-

ery, transportation, culture -- is being left behind. College students have decided to escape all things familiar and live out of their comfort zone by studying abroad through the bad economy. According to VistaWide.com, a website known for study abroad statistics, studying abroad has increased nearly 130% in the last decade. In 2007/08, it said, about 262,000 American students studied abroad in foreign countries. There is no question unemployment has soared. Not only America, but Canada, most of Europe and Asia have been hit by the recession. Amid the economic squeeze, how can studying abroad even be an option for college students? Rosemary Orr, a junior at Ramapo College, is currently studying in London, England, where the economy has been hurt as it has in the United States. Throughout her experience, she realizes how the economy is plummeting in England like the United States. “Tuition is so outrageous that if you're going to be in debt for 10 years after graduation anyway, might as well tack on two more years of debt and go to Europe,” she says. “Also, there's financial aid and scholarships to help you go abroad now, but after college it'll probably take years to find a good enough paying job or a job at all to be able to pay for a trip abroad so might as well do it while you can.” Michelle Cox, a senior at Ramapo College, is spending her fall semester in Ireland. “Well for me it was the experience,” she said. “The economy sucks here too, but I wasn't going to let it hold me back from an experience of a lifetime. At home- you work with what you have and get through it.”

Cox described her itinerary: “Germany for a week, Brussels, year, and even graduate schools participate in studying Italy, all over Ireland and I’m headed for Scotland, Lonabroad programs and encourage students to apply for scholdon... and Spain! I travel every weekend. I was originally arships. planning on going with $3000 and then someone told me that she studied abroad and to bring $5000,” she added, “so I worked as much as I possibly could and had close to that.” “I’m borrowing a little from my dad,” Cox said. “but I tried to budget as much as I could.”

“Students have the opportunity to Experience cultures outside of their own. Kids are too sheltered.”

According to VistaWide.com, more women study abroad than men. About 65% of participants each year are female, 35% male.

-Patrick Dwyer

Patrick Dwyer, a sophomore, says students study abroad “to experience a different culture, to have a resume builder, and to get away from America. People feel that the economy will pick back up, so they will pay off when it does.

“I think studying abroad is an awesome opportunity regard- Sheldon Nguygen, a sophomore at Rutgers University says, less of the condition of the economy, assuming there are no “The experience is priceless...not to sound corny.” money issues with the person doing it. The experience alone “Traveling and seeing new things and meeting new people is worth it,” says Alexander Ucci. and learning is not something you get to do every day, so Kate Godfrey, Study Abroad Advisor of Ramapo College, people take advantage of it,” she says. says, “Students have the opportunity to experience cultures outside their own. Kids are too sheltered. Cultures open their eyes to the world. It is a chance at independence and to learn. There is still a strong desire, and there are more scholarships now than 20 years ago; they’re more accessible,” she said. Millions of dollars are donated in scholarships to help students study abroad. These scholarships are very accessible to all college students no matter the institution. Public, private, community, four-

Frank Santoriello of Penn State says, “it's an opportunity to see the world. When you get a job you won't have the time to travel or have the opportunities presented to you by universities. If you can get out of the U.S. and get credits at the same time you're golden. Sometimes that experience is worth the money you have to spend to do it.” Junior Marisa Magrino points out, “Students were never rich to begin with. Does the economy really affect them? There are always loans, which they were probably going to take out to pay for school anyway. Also, if the economy is bad, and study abroad is about the same price or just a little bit more than a normal semester, than its really like a bargain vacation.”

She said: According to transitionsabroad.com, a site about studying abroad, The Institute for the International Education of Stu- “I learned more from the past four months of studying dents (IES), www.iesabroad.org, surveyed alumni from all Spanish here in Argentina than I learned in five years of IES study abroad programs from 1950 to 1999. high school classes and two semesters of college classes. The ISA staff are so helpful and easy to talk to, I can’t say Regardless of where students studied and for how long, the enough how strongly I would recommend this program. data from the more than 3,400 respondents (a 23 percent “Not only did I learn the language I came here to learn, I response rate) shows that studying abroad is usually a dereally came to love the culture and really gained perspecfining moment in a young person's life and continues to tive on the United States and how I feel about how things impact the participant’s life for years after the experience. work in this world. I would pay the money all over again for the amount of mental epiphanies and realizations I had Though students are abroad to learn, over 90% said the ex- on this trip.” perience increased their self-confidence. They also said the experience served as a catalyst for increased maturity and had a lasting impact on their personal worldview. The trips have influenced subsequent educational experiences. Studying abroad experiences helped students better understand their own cultural values and biases. Trips influences one to seek out a greater diversity of friends and continues to influence interactions with people from different cultures. Tera Duffer of Missouri State University, an ISA, International Students Abroad, student is quoted on http:// studiesabroad.com/parents/comments/ fromStudents#Florence:

AAIC LUXURY TRAVEL www.aaicluxurytravel.com 65