The Season Refined Grace of
ABOUT INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE
InFluential Magazine delivers exceptional content to a sophisticated audience of educated, affluent, and forwardthinking individuals who embrace the art of living well. Our readers are not only upwardly mobile but also deeply engaged in the pursuit of inspiration, innovation, and personal growth.
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With each issue, InFluential Magazine continues to elevate the art of living well, offering trusted, forwardthinking content that informs, inspires, and empowers.
FOUNDER & CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER
William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree, ForbesBLK Member Round Rock, Texas
CO-FOUNDER
Sandra Rascon, ME Corpus Christi, Texas
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EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor-in-Chief
William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree, ForbesBLK Member
Contributing Writers
Urmi Hossain, CFA, CAIA
William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree, ForbesBLK Member
Merilee Kern, MBA
Gwen Payne
InFluential Magazine Editorial Team
ART & PRODUCTION
Creative Services
Argenis Gudino / Jose Luis Venegas Quinteroo
Contributing Photographers
Rick Acevedo Inexmoda
Camara Lucida
Kerri Meigs Photography
Vladimir Yelizarov
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Founder & Chief Business Officer.
All the rights of the artwork and photography belong to the Founder & Chief Business Officer.
InFluential Magazine is Round Rock, Texas owned and operated.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This issue of InFluential Magazine was proudly envisioned, crafted, and brought to life in Round Rock, Texas, a vibrant city that embodies creativity, innovation, and community spirit. Rooted in local pride yet soaring with global ambition, this publication reflects a harmonious blend of regional charm and worldwide influence.
Every page of this issue celebrates the art of living well through a lens that transcends borders and cultures. It’s a tribute to the visionaries, writers, designers, and contributors who inspire us to explore new ideas, embrace fresh perspectives, and redefine what it means to live boldly and exceptionally.
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This issue stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring pursuit of excellence. With every issue, we reaffirm our commitment to being your trusted source for trends, insights, and ideas that shape the way we live, dream, and distinguish our world.
18
REFINEMENT & REFLECTION
18 | Feature
Elegance in Simplicity: How Refinement Will Define 2026
24 |
The Harmony Formula: Career Growth, Personal Passions, and Wellness
28
HUMANITY & HEART
28 | Feature
Tangela Bailey Where Luxury Meets Authenticity
48 |
Is Your Anxiety Impacting Your Child? Signs and Solutions for a Calmer Home
52 | How to Honor Loved Ones’ Memories During the Festive Season
56
STYLE & CELEBRATION
56 | Feature
CLAUDIE Restaurant, a French-Mediterranean Masterpiece in the Heart of Miami
62 | The InFluential Table Red Ash Italia
FASHION EDITORIAL
36 | Les Bohemiens by Pink Filosofy
68 | Collection Giannina-Goodwill
98 | Alirio Temporada de sol
The Season of Refined Grace
Where elegance meets authenticity, and influence is defined by generosity and style.
As we arrive at the close of another remarkable year, I find myself reflecting on what it truly means to live with refined grace. It’s not merely about luxury or the appearance of success, it’s about the quiet strength behind kindness, the sincerity that fuels connection, and the generosity that turns influence into something lasting and meaningful.
This season reminds us that elegance has as much to do with how we make others feel as it does with how we present ourselves. Grace, after all, is a choice. It’s found in the way we pause to appreciate beauty, in the way we extend compassion, and in the small, thoughtful gestures that bring light to someone else’s world.
In this issue of InFluential Magazine, we celebrate that balance between sophistication and soul. From the timeless allure of fine dining at CLAUDIE Restaurant to the understated wisdom of Elegance in Simplicity, each feature invites us to live beautifully, inside and out. We honor those who give with purpose in Give Like It Matters and those who live authentically in Tangela Bailey: Where Luxury Meets Authenticity. We also explore the harmony of career and well-being, the awareness of our digital age, and the emotional depth that comes with understanding and nurturing one another.
The closing months of the year are a time to give thanks, for opportunities realized, lessons learned, and the people who have walked beside us through every season. It’s also a time to look forward with optimism and hope. The world may move quickly, but grace allows us to move intentionally. It reminds us influence is not measured by wealth or applause but by the kindness we give, the connections we cultivate, and the dignity with which we lead our lives.
As you turn these pages, I invite you to exhale, to reflect, and to find your own rhythm of grace. Let this season be one of generosity and gratitude, of celebrating beauty in its truest form, authentic, giving, and deeply human.
Thank you for allowing InFluential Magazine to be part of your journey. From all of us, we wish you a season of calm elegance, radiant joy, and a new year filled with purpose and promise.
William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA Publisher, InFluential Magazine
ELEGANCE IN SIMPLICITY:
How Refinement Will Define 2026
nWRITTEN BY WILLIAM T. JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, FORBESBLK MEMBER
THE WORLD IS GETTING LOUDER. TRENDS EMERGE AND VANISH IN THE SPAN OF A SCROLL, VOICES COMPETE FOR ATTENTION IN AN ENDLESS DIGITAL CHORUS, AND ABUNDANCE HAS TOO OFTEN BEEN MISTAKEN FOR MEANING.
Yet, amidst the noise, a quiet revolution is unfolding, one defined not by excess, but by elegance. The coming year will not reward those who clamor the loudest, but those who move through life with intention, grace, and a reverence for what truly endures. In 2026, refinement will be the ultimate luxury.
Not the kind that demands attention, but the kind that commands it softly, effortlessly, and with unwavering confidence.
The Return to Craftsmanship
In a landscape saturated with mass production and fleeting fads, the art of craftsmanship is experiencing a renaissance. From the ateliers of Paris to the leather workshops of Florence, the world’s discerning few are turning their gaze back to the timeless. Handmade garments, hand-tolled accessories, and heirloom pieces are no longer relics of the past; they are the new future of luxury.
When a single silk scarf requires fifty hours of artisanal labor, or a pair of Italian shoes passes through the hands of twenty skilled craftsmen, something magical happens. The object transcends function. It becomes a testament to human dedication, heritage, and artistry. In an age of algorithms, the human touch is the rarest treasure.
“In a world of algorithms and fast everything, the human hand is once again the ultimate luxury.”
The truly influential are seeking pieces that whisper of legacy. A well-tailored blazer that could have belonged to one’s grandfather. A meticulously
restored timepiece that carries stories within its gears. These are not acquisitions; they are investments in history, culture, and beauty.
Experiences Over Excess
The new luxury traveler isn’t chasing destinations; they’re curating moments. The stamp in the passport matters less than the depth of the experience itself. A candlelit dinner in a family-owned vineyard tucked away in Provence. A quiet poetry salon in Marrakech where strangers become confidants. A sunrise yoga session in Kyoto’s bamboo forest, where stillness becomes its own language.
The world’s most discerning individuals are choosing intimacy over spectacle. Wellness retreats, immersive cultural journeys, and bespoke experiences are replacing the grand displays of the past. The new aspiration isn’t “I’ve been there”; it’s “I was transformed there.”
“The chicest passport stamp in 2026 will not be where you went, but how deeply you experienced it.”
Luxury, at its highest form, is no longer about what you show. It’s about what you feel.
Cultural Sophistication as the New Status Symbol
Logos fade. Cultural depth endures. The next era of influence will not be marked by what one owns but by what one understands, values, and contributes.
The modern tastemaker attends intimate gallery openings, supports emerging artists, learns languages for the joy of connection, and curates libraries instead of closets. They engage in thoughtful discourse, immerse themselves in history, and travel not as spectators but as students of the world.
This shift mirrors the elegance of centuries past, when Parisian salons and Roman courtyards brimmed with conversation, literature, and music. Today’s cultural
““In a world of algorithms and fast everything, the human hand is once again the ultimate luxury.”
William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA
connoisseurs are reviving that spirit not to impress, but to enrich. The status symbols of tomorrow will be fluency in ideas, the ability to listen deeply, and the grace to both teach and learn.
Living Artfully Every Day
Refinement is not reserved for gala evenings or luxury vacations. It is cultivated in the quiet rituals of daily life. It is in the way one sets a table, not with extravagance, but with intention. It is in the choice to wear a signature scent that lingers softly in memory. It is in the stillness of morning coffee enjoyed without distraction, or the warmth of a conversation where every word is given space to breathe.
“Elegance is not reserved for special occasions. It’s in how you fold the napkin, pour the wine, and look someone in the eyes.”
To live artfully is to recognize that beauty is not a performance. It’s a posture. It’s how we move through the world, graceful, discerning, and present.
A Call to Curate with Intention
As 2026 approaches, the world doesn’t need more noise. It needs more nuance. It doesn’t crave more spectacle. It longs for substance. The future belongs to those who can distill the chaos into clarity, who can edit their lives like a masterpiece, removing the unnecessary until only the exceptional remains.
Elegance is not about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about choosing craftsmanship over convenience, experiences over excess, culture over consumption, and daily artistry over occasional opulence.
As we step into the new year, may we all embrace refinement not as an affection, but as a way of life. May our choices speak softly yet powerfully. May our lives be less about what dazzles at first glance and more about what endures, crafted with care, lived with intention, and remembered for their quiet brilliance. l
THE HARMONY FORMULA: CAREER GROWTH, PERSONAL PASSIONS,
AND WELLNESS
nWRITTEN BY URMI HOSSAIN, CFA, CAIA, CONTRIBUTING WRITER FOR INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE
AS A WOMAN WEARING MULTIPLE HATS, I OFTEN FIND MYSELF JUGGLING BETWEEN MY CAREER AND MY LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK.
At the beginning of my career, my sole focus was work, work, and more work. I defined my success by external validation, especially through my day-to-day job. But the more I did, the more I realized I needed to step out of my comfort zone and enrich my evenings with personal passions and interests.
From a young age, we’re taught success is defined by career advancement, promotions, and salary increases. And that’s what I believed as well. However, with time, I realized even though I achieved all of these, I still felt unfulfilled and unhappy.
So, I started reading books on self-growth and self-development and came to understand the need to pursue my passions and find balance with my career is part of my definition of success. I learned life isn’t about chasing perfection but about integrating career, passions, and wellness to create harmony.
Here are ten practical ways to find your balance.
CAREER
l Putting boundaries at work: Setting boundaries is the first step to achieving balance. Learn to say no when needed, avoid taking on extra work that could lead to burnout, and make it a habit to log off once work is done. These small steps create a big impact over time.
l Prioritization: Focus on what truly needs to be done and what is urgent.
There’s no need to start a project due month from now if you have pressing tasks that require attention. Working on what’s most important and urgent helps you avoid unnecessary stress and prevents burnout.
l Time blocking: Block time on your calendar to stay focused and minimize distractions. If it’s scheduled, you’re more likely to stick to it.
l Creating to-do lists: Lists are one of my favorite tools. Writing down your daily tasks helps you focus on what’s necessary and urgent without overwhelming yourself or carrying the mental load unnecessarily.
PASSIONS
l Find networking opportunities: In Montreal, I’m fortunate to have access to many female-led events, whether in business, leadership, or tech. And I’m sure it’s the same in your city. So, attend any of these events to connect, to learn, and to feel inspired. You’ll realize how many more women are like you, wanting to find balance and chase their dreams.
l Dedicate 30 minutes a day to a hobby: Whether it’s podcasting, drawing, or creating content, start small. Even half an hour a day adds up over time and keeps your passions alive.
l Treat your passion as nonnegotiable: Block time on your calendar for yourself. Communicate with your family or partner that this is your personal time. It’s okay to put yourself first and pursue your interests without guilt.
WELLNESS
l Physical wellness: Exercise is key to recharging. Whether it’s running, yoga, Pilates, or highintensity workouts, view it as a way to energize yourself, not as punishment. Just 30–60 minutes can change how you feel after a long day.
l Mental wellness: Journaling, meditation, or simply being present helps you stay in tune with yourself. Mental wellness is self-love, and it goes hand in hand with physical wellness.
l Social wellness: Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you. Plan a girls’ night, find mentors, or attend networking events with likeminded individuals.
Balance is about integrating all aspects of your life. It’s about finding what makes you happy and doing a little bit of everything. You don’t need to go big or do a million things to find happiness. True balance comes from small, consistent habits that add up to create meaningful change. When you find this harmony, life becomes richer and more satisfying, and you, as a person, become much happier.
A fulfilled life means not only career growth but also space for joy, passion, and health.
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a great book if you want to learn about habits and how tiny steps can have a massive impact on your life. l
THE MORNING SUN RISES OVER AUSTIN’S ROLLING HILLS, BATHING THE LANDSCAPE IN A SOFT, GOLDEN LIGHT. THE AIR CARRIES THE SCENT OF WILDFLOWERS AND THE DISTANT RHYTHM OF LIVE MUSIC DRIFTING FROM A CAFÉ ON SOUTH CONGRESS. ALONG THE COLORADO RIVER, ELEGANT HOMES CATCH THE LIGHT, THEIR GLASS FACADES SHIMMERING AGAINST THE WATER’S SLOW CURRENT. THIS IS A CITY THAT THRIVES AT THE INTERSECTION OF CREATIVITY AND REFINEMENT.
Tangela Bailey: At a Glance
Title: Luxury Real Estate Specialist
Affiliation: Horizon Realty
Experience: 22 Years as a Full-Time REALTOR®
Education: Houston Community College, University of Houston, Certifications: Graduate of the Real Estate Institute
Professional Associations: Austin Luxury Network, NAR, TAR, ABOR, HAR, Clubhouse by Commission Co.
Awards: Horizon Realty Top Producer Award year after year
Specialties: Luxury Properties
• Sales Marketing Specialist
• Investor Marketing
Website: www.tangelabailey.com
Email: tangela@tangelabailey.com
Tangela Bailey
WHERE LUXURY MEETS AUTHENTICITY
nWRITTEN BY WILLIAM T. JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, FORBESBLK MEMBER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRI MEIGS PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s here that Tangela Bailey has built a remarkable career. She moves through this landscape with quiet authority, blending elegance with strength.
Clients describe meeting her as a moment of exhale. She’s warm yet focused, approachable yet commanding, with a gift for making those around her feel both seen and secure.
For twenty-two years, Tangela has been a defining force in Austin’s luxury real estate market. As a seasoned REALTOR® at Horizon Realty, she’s built a reputation for deep market expertise, intuitive connection, and enduring excellence. She’s not simply a broker of properties. She’s a trusted advisor, a curator of lifestyles, and a guiding presence for those seeking to find their place in Austin’s vibrant world.
Her journey began in Texas, where family, faith, and perseverance shaped her from an early age. Austin’s vibrant music scene, world-class culinary landscape, and rugged natural beauty spoke to her spirit. Its character mirrored her own, refined but welcoming, dynamic yet grounded. Tangela’s love for homeownership began personally, with the profound experience of finding a place that felt entirely her own. That moment sparked a passion to help others experience that same sense of belonging.
She laid her professional foundation with purpose. She studied at Houston Community College and
the University of Houston, sharpening her mind and building the discipline that would guide her career. Earning her Graduate of the Real Estate Institute certification was not just a professional milestone. It was a commitment to mastery.
Her early years in the title industry gave her invaluable insight into the mechanics of real estate, from contracts to negotiations to closings. She entered the market with a rare combination of emotional intelligence and technical precision, skills that became her signature.
Behind her extraordinary career stands her husband, whose unwavering support has been a constant source of strength. “It has been his behind-the-scenes support that has allowed me to have longevity despite the ebbs and flows of the markets over these past 22 years,” Tangela shares. “I’m very grateful to him.”
At the center of it all is her family. Being a mom has profoundly shaped her. She speaks with joy and pride about her children and the people they are becoming. Her family grounds her and inspires the way she leads, with empathy, strength, and vision.
She also credits her broker, Christine Choate, for her mentorship and support throughout her journey.
Over time, Tangela’s presence in Austin’s luxury real estate community has become synonymous with excellence. Her affiliations include the Austin Luxury
HUMANITY & HEART
TANGELA BAILEY STANDS AT THE INTERSECTION OF LUXURY AND AUTHENTICITY. HER STORY MIRRORS AUSTIN’S OWN: VIBRANT, EVOLVING, AND DEEPLY COMPELLING.
Network, the National Association of Realtors, the Texas Association of Realtors, the Austin Board of Realtors, the Houston Association of Realtors, and Clubhouse by Commission Co. Her peers offer many endorsements, recognizing her skill, integrity, and unwavering professionalism.
Her consistent performance has earned her the Horizon Realty Top Producer Award year after year, a distinction that speaks to both her results and her reputation. Clients describe her as a force who leads with clarity, foresight, and genuine care.
“Tangela is one of the savviest agents I’ve worked with,” says fellow REALTOR® Melanie Anthony. “Her professionalism, expertise, and genuine concern for others shines in everything she does. I recommend Tangela, hands down. She’s the best.”
Another client, Leticia Bell, remembers the sale of her home vividly. “She patiently answered all our questions and offered smart advice on staging and lighting,” she says. “Our home showcased beautifully and went under contract in less than a week. She’s the only one we wanted to work with again.”
Tangela’s strength lies in her ability to bring both strategy and soul to every interaction. She stays ahead of trends by working closely with realtors, lenders, and builders, ensuring that her clients always have access
to the most current and meaningful opportunities. Whether representing a multi-million-dollar estate, serving as a Sales Marketing Specialist for investors, or guiding new homeowners, Tangela brings precision, warmth, and a sense of artistry to her work.
Beyond real estate, Tangela’s life is full of texture and joy. She finds peace on the water, skiing across the Colorado River at sunrise or snow skiing in the winter. Fitness has been a part of her life since childhood, instilled by her parents and carried forward as a source of balance and strength. She delights in Austin’s culinary and music scenes, savoring its vibrant, soulful energy. And she cherishes a good glass of wine, seeing it as a celebration of life’s simplest and richest pleasures.
Working with Tangela is more than a business transaction. It’s a partnership built on trust, guided by expertise, and infused with care. She listens deeply, strategizes thoughtfully, and executes with precision. Her clients know they’re in capable hands, hands that turn dreams into reality with elegance and ease.
Tangela Bailey stands at the intersection of luxury and authenticity. Her story mirrors Austin’s own: vibrant, evolving, and deeply compelling. For those fortunate enough to work with her, the experience lingers long after the deal is done. It’s about more than real estate. It’s about finding home. l
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PINK FILOSOFY by
n@pinkfilosofy IN PARTNERSHIP WITH @veja @malva PHOTOS COURTESY OF @inexmoda
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IS YOUR ANXIETY IMPACTING YOUR CHILD? SIGNS AND SOLUTIONS FOR A CALMER HOME
When left unchecked, it can shape how children interpret safety, resilience, and self-worth. This article explores how parents can recognize when their own anxiety is influencing their children’s wellbeing and outlines evidence-based strategies to manage it.
PARENTAL ANXIETY OFTEN HIDES
IN PLAIN SIGHT, MANIFESTING THROUGH OVERPROTECTION, CONSTANT WORRY, OR THE SILENT TRANSMISSION OF STRESS.
The Gist
Parents’ anxiety can subtly affect their children through tone, habits, and modeled coping patterns. Recognize signs like excessive reassurance-seeking, fear-driven decisions, or your child mirroring your stress. Managing it requires self-awareness, professional support, structured calm routines, and open communication. Even small improvements in emotional regulation can significantly enhance family resilience.
Understanding the Emotional Echo
Parents don’t just teach emotional regulation through words; they model it through their own
emotional presence. When anxiety becomes chronic, it creates an “emotional echo,” shaping how a child perceives safety and control.
Exploring online FNP programs can help parents address these patterns both personally and professionally. Such programs not only expand clinical and leadership skills but also deepen understanding of family mental health, empowering parents to manage their own anxieties while modeling emotional balance for their children. In this way, the benefits of online FNP programs extend beyond career growth, they strengthen the parent-child bond through healthier co-regulation and emotional resilience.
nWRITTEN BY GWEN PAYNE, CONTRIBUTING WRITER FOR INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE
How Parental Anxiety Manifests in Children
Parental Potential Child Long-Term Effect Behavior Response if Unaddressed
Constant reassurance Hypervigilance, Heightened stress
(“Be careful!”) fear of failure reactivity
Overcontrol of activities Reduced autonomy Low confidence, dependence
Avoidance of Modeling of fear Social withdrawal, uncertain situations avoidance coping
Visible worry Mirroring of stress Anxiety symptoms about outcomes or somatic complaints
Checklist: Is My Anxiety Affecting My Child?
Self-Check Indicators
l I often anticipate worst-case scenarios about my child.
l My child seeks reassurance frequently.
l I struggle to separate my fears from my child’s experiences.
l Family routines revolve around avoiding discomfort.
l I notice my mood influencing my child’s behavior.
If you checked more than three, it’s time to evaluate your emotional boundaries and coping patterns.
For broader insight into anxiety cycles and their impact on families, explore resources like Verywell Mind.
How-To: Managing Anxiety
While Supporting Your Child
Step 1 — Name and Externalize It
Recognize anxiety is a signal, not an identity. Journaling or cognitive tracking can help.
Use digital mindfulness apps such as Headspace for guided breathing and reflection.
Step 2 — Model Calmness Through Structure
Children observe patterns. Introduce calming rituals: morning check-ins, gratitude rounds, or shared breathing before bedtime. See routines backed by developmental research at Child Mind Institute.
Step 3 — Seek External Perspective
Therapists specializing in cognitive-behavioral approaches can help reshape intrusive patterns. The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers parent support groups nationwide.
Step 4 — Build Tolerance for Uncertainty
Incrementally expose yourself and your child to manageable stressors, unplanned outings, new hobbies, or small independent tasks.
Strategies That Create Emotional Safety
l Encourage open dialogue about fear and coping.
l Use “I feel” statements instead of reactive commands.
l Replace control with collaboration: let your child make low-risk decisions.
l Establish calm-down zones, spaces for self-regulation, not punishment.
l Reward effort, not perfection.
You can find structured exercises for parent-child communication in ParentLab and ractical family activities from The Gottman Institute’s parenting resources.
Product Highlight: Supporting Daily Emotional Regulation
Muse 2, a real, research-backed brain-sensing headband, helps parents (and their children) practice mindfulness by providing realtime feedback on brain activity, heart rate, and breathing. Using gentle audio cues, it guides users to notice when their mind wanders and return to calm focus. This biofeedback-based system transforms meditation from guesswork into measurable progress, helping families build consistent emotional regulation habits together. For alternative methods, browse mental health tech directories like Healthline’s anxiety apps list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can my anxiety “cause” anxiety in my child?
Not directly, but consistent exposure to anxious modeling increases the likelihood of internalizing those patterns.
Q2: What if I’m already in therapy but still feel anxious?
Therapy isn’t about elimination but management. Ask your clinician about exposure-based techniques or mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT).
Q3: How do I talk to my child about my anxiety?
Use age-appropriate honesty: “Sometimes I worry more than I need to, but I’m learning ways to stay calm.” This transparency teaches emotional literacy.
Q4: Should I involve my child in my coping practices?
Yes, shared breathing, walks, or gratitude journaling normalize coping as a family activity.
Glossary
l Emotional Co-Regulation: The process by which children learn emotional responses by observing caregivers’ behaviors.
l Cognitive Distortion: Inaccurate thought patterns that fuel anxiety.
l Somatic Symptoms: Physical manifestations of emotional stress (e.g., stomachaches).
l Exposure Therapy: Gradual confrontation of anxiety triggers reduce avoidance.
Anxiety is contagious but so is calm. By recognizing how your emotional state influences your child and implementing structured, compassionate coping systems, you model resilience instead of fear. Small, consistent adjustments build a foundation for emotionally secure, self-assured children, and a calmer you. l
Discover the art of living well with InFluential Magazine, your multi award-winning digital lifestyle guide to staying informed and inspired!
HOW TO HONOR LOVED ONES’ MEMORIES DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON
GUIDANCE AND RESOURCES TO SUPPORT FAMILIES NAVIGATING GRIEF DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON
The festive season can be a time of joy and connection, but it can also bring intense feelings of loss and sadness for those grieving the death of a loved one.
To help families honor memories while caring for their emotional well-being, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) recognizes the unique challenges of this season and offers these resources and tips.
Embrace Your Feelings
Grief is unique to each person, and emotions during the festive season can vary widely – from sadness and longing to moments of joy and peace. Give yourself permission to feel whatever arises without judgment. Allow space for tears or quiet reflection and remember it’s OK to
experience mixed emotions. Acknowledging your feelings honestly can help you move through the season with greater self-compassion.
Create New Traditions
While old festive season traditions often hold treasured memories, creating new rituals can help you honor your loved one in a personal way.
“Keep as many traditions as you can keep, but we always encourage families to create a new tradition to remember that loved one who’s been lost,” said Tim Schramm, owner of Howe-Peterson Funeral Homes.
Lighting a candle in their memory, sharing stories that celebrate their life or setting up a special display of photos or keepsakes are small acts that can bring comfort. Some people find meaning in donating to a charity in their honor or volunteering together with family or friends to celebrate the spirit of giving.
Lean on Your Support System
Having trusted people around you can offer solace. Whether through family gatherings, friends, support groups or counseling, reaching out helps bridge feelings of loneliness. Being with others who understand your grief or sharing your memories can provide reassurance and companionship during times that might feel isolating.
Set Boundaries to Protect Your Well-Being
It’s important to do what feels right for you, even if that means saying no to events or stepping away from overwhelming situations. Setting limits helps protect your emotional health and allows you to navigate the holidays at your own pace.
“As funeral directors, we often remind families that caring for yourself is just as important as honoring your loved one,” said Dr. Camelia Clarke, owner and licensed funeral director at Paradise Memorial. “Setting boundaries isn’t selfish – it’s an act of compassion
that allows you to truly be present in the moments that matter most.”
Communicate honestly with loved ones about your needs as they will likely appreciate your openness.
Prioritize Self-Care
Grief can be emotionally and physically tiring, especially around the festive season. Take care of yourself through adequate rest, comforting meals, finding a new hobby or buying yourself a gift. Simple mindfulness practices,
such as journaling or breathing exercises, can also help manage stress and bring moments of calm.
Remember with Compassion
Honoring your loved one’s memory is a personal journey. You might choose to share stories, write letters, observe moments of silence, or engage in creative expressions like art or music. Embracing these acts with kindness and patience fosters healing and helps keep their spirit alive.
The festive season often brings both challenges and opportunities for healing. By embracing your emotions, leaning on support, creating meaningful rituals, and caring for yourself, you can honor your loved ones in ways that feel right for you. Remember, you don’t have to face this time alone. Resources like journey cards from RememberingALife. com and other ways to keep memories alive are available to provide guidance and comfort as needed. l
CLAUDIE RESTAURANT,
in the Heart of Miami a French-Mediterranean
Masterpiece
Miami’s ever-evolving culinary scene has a dazzling new jewel: CLAUDIE. Nestled in Brickell, this French-Mediterranean restaurant captures the timeless allure of the Côte d’Azur with a menu, ambiance and energy that transport diners straight to the South of France. The restaurant celebrates “la cuisine du soleil,” a culinary style pioneered by Roger Vergé that emphasizes the light, fresh and sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean.
CLAUDIE is the latest milestone for Riviera Dining Group, the creators of MILA, AVA MediterrAgean, and CASA NEOS, and continues their legacy of redefining high-energy, experiential hospitality. Founded by Gregory Galy and guided by the culinary mastery of Chef Michaël Michaelidis, who honed his craft at celebrated establishments such as Le Louis XV, Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon, CLAUDIE is an elevated dining experience where artistry and gastronomy converge.
A Riviera-Inspired Escape
From the moment you enter, CLAUDIE envelops you in the timeless charm of the Côte d’Azur. The space exudes Mediterranean sophistication, proffering an experience that is as much about ambiance as gastronomy. Outside, a 2,470-square-foot terrace welcomes diners into a lush Mediterranean garden complete with a radiant fountain centerpiece. A stunning bronze sculpture by Ada Da Silva serves as a focal point, further anchoring the alfresco dining area’s artistic sensibility. While high energy music is piped throughout both the indoor and outdoor dining space, a roving group of musicians amplifies the festive sensibility.
MIAMI’S
EVER-EVOLVING
CULINARY SCENE HAS A DAZZLING NEW JEWEL: CLAUDIE
nWRITTEN BY MERILEE KERN, MBA, CONTRIBUTING WRITER FOR INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY MERILEE KERN, MBA
Other design and décor details are as notable. Flooring throughout features Mediterranean-inspired tiles, while rich natural finishes, lime-wash walls, warm wood, and natural stonework, evoke the Côte d’Azur’s coastal villages. Handcrafted furnishings in rattan, wicker, and clay tones create a breezy, sun-drenched vibe, complemented by lush olive trees and greenery that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. The centerpiece, a cascading fountain adorned with candles and florals, serves as both sculpture and gathering point, anchoring the restaurant in romance and ritual.
CLAUDIE’s design goes beyond atmospheric, it makes an architectural statement. The bespoke dome light fixture in the main dining room doubles as an art installation, casting warm golden hues that change
as the evening progresses. Along one wall, guests encounter a hand-painted mural by artist Victoria Krylov, which brings a dreamlike Riviera landscape into the dining room. This dialogue between light, art, and texture ensures CLAUDIE is not only a restaurant but also an evolving gallery of Mediterranean culture.
Classics Meet Creativity
While CLAUDIE’s menu brims with temptations, like theatrical table-side gazpacho, indulgent seafood towers and elegant entrecôte wagyu & frites, several dishes stood out during my visit. The Escargots were a decadent nod to tradition, bathed in Burgundy garlic and parsley butter that melded into each delicate bite. The Burrata di Puglia, elevated with fig, perfectly ripe heirloom tomato and basil oil, offered a refreshing yet indulgent balance of creamy richness and bright Mediterranean flavor.
Equally memorable was the New Caledonian Obsiblue prawns, presented with lemon zest and
extra virgin olive oil. Sweet, delicate and lovely in presentation, the prawns exemplified the clean flavors of “cuisine du soleil”.
Among the mains, the Rack of Lamb was a striking success, succulent Australian lamb smothered in fragrant herbs and paired with smoked eggplant caviar that added depth and refinement. The Truffle Toupie Macaroni, with its infusion of truffle, ham and Comté cheese, delivered a rich and indulgent counterpoint: decadent comfort food elevated to haute cuisine.
Truly stealing the show was the Lobster Spaghetti, featuring one and a quarter pounds of Maine lobster bathed in a creamy bisque sauce with just the right touch of spice, a dish that epitomizes CLAUDIE’s fusion of luxury, showmanship and approachability. And for dessert, the Sicilian Pistachio Ice Cream with golden praline and Etna olive oil, which is generously portioned to serve three to four people, provided an unforgettable finale: nutty, creamy and beautifully complex.
Hospitality Elevated Through Art & Ambiance
With every element thoughtfully considered, from design and décor to cuisine and cocktails, CLAUDIE embodies the chic, celebratory spirit of the French Riviera. More than a restaurant, it is an escape where art and nature meet, where every meal becomes a moment and where guests are encouraged to embrace the mantra of “Carpe Diem.”
“The roots of CLAUDIE are deeply personal, drawing inspiration from the South of France, particularly the village of Mougins, where I grew up and where my father has served as mayor for decades,” said Gregory Galy, Founder & CEO of RDG. “Mougins is celebrated for its blend of artistry and Michelin-starred cuisine,
epitomizing a way of life centered on slow living, effortless sophistication and an appreciation for beauty and culture. At CLAUDIE, under the leadership of Chef Michaël Michaelidis, we are dedicated to offering an elevated culinary experience that embodies our unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Like its sister venues, MILA, AVA MediterrAgean, and CASA NEOS, CLAUDIE reflects RDG’s vision of hospitality as lifestyle. The restaurant isn’t designed merely as a meal stop but as a multi-sensory destination where food, design, art, and music converge. The experience flows from intimate indoor dining to breezy patio seating, each area carefully curated with Mediterranean pottery, woven textiles, and artisan tableware. These elements underscore the group’s philosophy: that the ritual of dining should embody “slow living,” balancing indulgence with ease.
The result is a transportive epicurean escape into Riviera glamour. From exquisite cuisine to inspired design, CLAUDIE is a testament to the art of living beautifully. l
Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As a prolific lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, Merilee keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and
online publications. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com and www.SavvyLiving.tv/ Instagram www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / Twitter www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern / Facebook www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.
***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.**
THERE’S A MOMENT, JUST AS THE DOOR CLOSES BEHIND YOU, WHEN THE OUTSIDE WORLD SLIPS AWAY AND RED ASH ITALIA TAKES OVER.
THE INFLUENTIAL TABLE
Red Ash Italia
Downtown Austin hums only a few steps beyond, but inside, the atmosphere shifts. The lighting glows with a sultry amber warmth. Shadows dance across exposed brick walls. The gentle roar of the wood fire commands attention, weaving scent and sound into a sensory embrace. Conversations hover in that perfect register, vibrant yet intimate, as if everyone present knows they’re part of something electric.
Red Ash isn’t merely a place to eat. It’s a stage, a ritual, a statement. Each night, beneath the brick and iron beams, a kind of culinary seduction unfolds, and everyone is invited to play their part.
“Dining at Red Ash Italia is an immersion, not just in flavor, but in spirit. It’s bold. It’s unapologetic. It’s unforgettable.”
~ William T. Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA
A SEDUCTION OF FLAME, FLAVOR, AND MODERN ITALIAN CRAFT
Where Fire Leads the Dance
Every great seduction begins with a spark. At Red Ash, that spark is literal, a custom-built wood-burning grill, oven, and plancha that anchors the open kitchen and defines the restaurant’s soul. Flames flicker against steel and stone. The scent of smoke lingers, soft but insistent. This is where the magic happens
Guiding that magic is Executive Chef Duber Ramirez, whose leadership blends reverence for Italian culinary
traditions with Austin’s distinctive swagger. While founding Executive Chef John Carver shaped the original vision, it’s Ramirez who now conducts the nightly performance, curating dishes that feel timeless and daring all at once.
The menu is both grounded and audacious. It honors rustic Italian roots, handmade pastas, prime meats, pristine seafood, but filters them through live fire and modern technique. Each dish emerges from the flames carrying a whisper of smoke, a signature that’s unmistakable.
Dishes That Demand Attention
braised beans with an olive vinaigrette that cuts through with precision.
Pasta is where Red Ash flexes its elegance. The Agnolotti “Piemontese Style”, filled with pork and veal and finished in truffle butter and roasted veal jus, is deep, silky, and transporting.
To dine at Red Ash is to surrender to flavor. Begin with the Red Snapper Crudo, where delicate fish mingles with avocado, smoked trout roe, celery, and a touch of Calabrian chile, a bite that’s elegant, unexpected, and quietly thrilling.
The Wood-Roasted Beef Bone Marrow, dripping with shallot butter and paired with grilled country bread, is indulgence in its purest form. The Octopus a la Plancha, tender and flame-kissed, rests on pancetta-
The Pappardelle alla Bolognese, wide ribbons tangled in a porcini-studded ragù, is traditional in form but electric in execution. And the Frutti di Mare, layered with lobster, clams, shrimp, and mussels in a spicy San Marzano broth over black and white spaghettini, is theatrical, a dish that arrives with presence.
There are no weak choices here. Even the simplest dishes, bruschetta, a grilled vegetable, arrive touched by flame, transformed by intention.
An Ambiance That Pulls You Closer
The dining room itself is a study in contrast. Rugged architecture meets refined textures: exposed concrete
walls softened by plush leather banquettes; iron beams offset by warm candlelight. The space wraps itself around guests, making every table feel like its own moment.
The two-story layout creates natural vignettes: a bustling bar alive with energy, a mezzanine that overlooks the kitchen’s performance, and intimate corners where conversation deepens as the night unfolds.
The service is masterful in its restraint, elegant but never pretentious. Glasses are refilled before you ask. Plates arrive at the precise moment you’re ready. There’s a subtle choreography to it all, one that enhances rather than interrupts the rhythm of the evening.
Downtown Pulse, Timeless Allure
Red Ash occupies prime space in Colorado Tower, 303 Colorado Street, Suite 200, in the heart of downtown Austin. The location is as intentional as the menu. Here, in one of the city’s most dynamic corridors, the restaurant mirrors Austin’s essence: cultured, confident, and always alive.
Evenings here feel full of possibilities. It’s the kind of place where business deals find their spark over a perfectly grilled steak, where relationships deepen over a shared bottle of Barolo, and where nights often stretch just a little longer than planned. Red Ash doesn’t just host the evening; it sets it in motion.
The Final Word
Red Ash Italia isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a magnetic force. It seduces without trying too hard. It commands attention without raising its voice. Every element, from the flicker of the fire to the curve of the pasta, the hum of the room to the decisive pour of wine, is orchestrated to leave a lasting impression.
For those who understand that influence often happens at the table, where ideas are born, bonds are forged, and stories unfold, Red Ash is more than a destination. It’s a declaration. l
n DESIGN | Giannina Azar @gianninaazar PHOTOGRAPHS | Rick Acevedo @rickacevedo.pr FOUNDATION @goodwillsfl
AS THE FINAL PAGES OF THE YEAR BEGIN TO TURN, MANY OF US FEEL A SHIFT, NOT JUST IN THE AIR OR ON THE CALENDAR, BUT SOMETHING DEEPER. IT IS A QUIET AWAKENING. A CALL TO REFLECT. A REMINDER OF THE MOST LASTING IMPACT WE MAKE OFTEN BEGINS NOT WITH WHAT WE ACCUMULATE, BUT WITH WHAT WE ARE WILLING TO GIVE.
This isn’t about tradition or generosity in the conventional sense. It’s about something far more powerful: giving from a place of gratitude, not because we’re expected to, but because we understand what it means to have been given much, in ways both visible and unseen.
Giving, When Done Well, Is a Declaration
We often think of giving as a simple act. Something charitable, kind, perhaps even routine. But truly meaningful giving is none of those things. It’s not small, and it’s never superficial. It’s not driven by guilt or expectation.
When rooted in gratitude, giving becomes a declaration of values. It’s a statement that says, “I remember where I’ve been. I see what I have. And I believe in the impact I can make.”
We give because we’ve been shaped by others who gave. Teachers, mentors, friends, and even strangers
Give Like It Matters
HOW GRATITUDE CAN BECOME THE MOST POWERFUL FORCE FOR CHANGE WHEN WE CHOOSE TO ACT ON IT
who saw potential in us before we saw it in ourselves. We give because someone once held space for us, extended grace, opened a door, or said, “I believe in you,” when it mattered most.
In return, we carry that responsibility forward. Not as a burden, but as a privilege.
Gratitude Is Not Passive
Gratitude is often treated as a feeling. A fleeting moment or quiet reflection. But real gratitude, the kind that changes the way we move through the world, is never passive. It demands expression and insists on action.
Gratitude does not only make us feel thankful. It compels us to do something about it.
This is where giving comes in. Not as an obligation, but as a natural extension of what we know to be true: we didn’t get here alone, and someone else still needs what we now have to offer.
The Myth of Waiting for “Enough”
Many people hesitate to give because they believe they do not yet have enough. Enough time, enough money, enough energy, enough clarity. But “enough” is a moving target. If we wait for it, we may wait forever.
Some of the most powerful acts of giving come not from abundance, but from scarcity. Not from surplus, but from intention.
A college student tutoring a younger sibling on weekends.
A single mother donating ten dollars to a cause she believes in.
A busy professional carving out time to mentor someone just starting out.
A young person sharing their voice in a world that keeps telling them to stay quiet.
These aren’t grand gestures. They’re deliberate ones. And they often change lives.
Giving Is Not Always Financial
Generosity is not defined by financial contribution. Some of the most transformative gifts have nothing to do with money and everything to do with presence.
Time, listening, kindness, encouragement, and experience are currencies of connection. In a season when so many people feel unseen, unheard, or forgotten, they may be the most valuable gifts of all.
To give like it matters is to pay attention. It means noticing who is missing from the room, who hasn’t been asked, who’s still waiting to be invited in or simply acknowledged.
The Courage to Go First
It takes courage to give first. To extend a hand without knowing if it’ll be taken. To offer help before being asked. To take initiative, not because it’s easy or convenient, but because it is right.
Giving first does not mean giving everything. It simply means being willing to lead. To speak the kind word, to open the door, to be the one who begins.
Often, that single act of courage sparks a chain reaction. Gratitude grows. Generosity spreads. Something shifts.
This isn’t about fixing the world in one sweeping act. It’d about nudging it closer to the one we hope to live in.
Let Gratitude Be the Guide
As the year draws to a close, let gratitude guide you. Not just in reflection, but in action.
Think about what you’ve been given this year. The people who showed up. The lessons that shaped you. The grace that carried you. The resilience you didn’t know you had.
Then ask yourself how you might honor those gifts.
Perhaps it’s through mentoring. Or showing up for a cause you care about. Perhaps it’s expressing thanks in a way that lingers. Giving someone else a platform. Or simply being present for the people around you, in a way that makes them feel truly seen.
Let your giving reflect what you’re grateful for. Let it be generous, personal, and full of purpose.
The Final Word
The world does not need another checked box or another empty gesture. What it needs is people who are willing to give from a place of authenticity and gratitude. People who understand that giving isn’t just something we do, it’s something we become.
This season isn’t about having more. It’s about being more. More present, more generous, more alive to the opportunities around us.
So don’t wait.
Give like it matters.
Because it does. l
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
EASY AND DELICIOUS SIDES TO SPRUCE UP
FESTIVE SEASON WEEKNIGHTS
FESTIVE SEASON FEASTS MAY GET A LOT OF ATTENTION, BUT THERE’S NO REASON TO OVERLOOK REGULAR WEEKNIGHT MEALS – OR SAVE YOUR FAVORITE SIDES FOR THE MAIN EVENT –DURING THE BUSY FESTIVE SEASON. THESE EASY, GO-TO SIDES CAN SPRUCE UP YOUR DINNER ROUTINE, EVEN ON HECTIC WEEKNIGHTS.
Try these Cheesy Baked Little Potatoes for an easy, delicious side that brings a little holiday happiness to regular family mealtimes. Halved Little Potatoes are seasoned and roasted to perfection, creating a crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner during this
busy season, it’s a versatile, easy-toprepare complement to an array of main courses.
Mashed potatoes are a familiar sight at the table this time of year, but you can spruce them up with these Goat Cheese and Thyme Mashed Potatoes. A classic dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, they make getting dinner on the table a breeze and bring a little calm during an otherwise busy season.
Sustainably grown on family farms, Little Potatoes from The Little Potato Company simplify weekday mealtimes during the hustle and bustle of the festive season. They come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough they don’t need to be cut, allowing for less time in the kitchen and more time at the table enjoying moments with family and friends.
Plus, they’re a fresh whole food packed with nutrients you can feel
good about serving – balancing the rich, decadent indulgences of the festive season. They cook in as little as 5 minutes as a weeknight go-to solution to make the whole family happy. Available in the produce section, their convenience adds a bit of peace to the kitchen and brings little moments of happiness during the festive season.
To find additional quick, delicious recipes for serving to your loved ones, visit littlepotatoes.com.
Cheesy Baked Little Potatoes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
• 1 1/2 pounds Little Potatoes (any variety)
• 1 1/3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated small
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 5 sprigs thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Pierce potatoes with fork and microwave for 7 minutes. Cut in half and place cut side up in parchmentlined 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, mix cheese, cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt and pepper. Pour over potatoes, spreading cheese evenly.
Bake for 10 minutes then broil 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Goat Cheese and Thyme Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
• 1 1/2 pounds Little Potatoes
• water
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter pepper, to taste
• 2/3 cup goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
1. Add potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon salt and boil for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
2. In a small saucepot over low heat, heat milk and butter until butter is melted and milk is steaming.
3. Once potatoes are cooked, strain and transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
4. Using potato masher, smash potatoes with milk and butter mixture and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Remove thyme from stems and lightly chop.
6. Once potatoes are mashed, stir in goat cheese and fresh thyme. (Family Features).
HAVE A HAPPY, HEARTY FESTIVE SEASON MEAL
THE FESTIVE SEASON IS ABOUT CELEBRATING WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY OVER WARM, MEMORABLE MEALS, AND FEW THINGS MAKE THOSE GATHERINGS MORE SPECIAL THAN SERVING DISHES MADE AT HOME.
To elevate your menu, consider a versatile, beginner-friendly ingredient like Wild Caught Texas Shrimp for your next occasion. For a luxurious Italian dish, try creamy Shrimp Risotto with arborio rice. Or, for a comforting bowl of goodness, serve Shrimp Wonton Soup with tender pork and chopped shrimp.
You can feel good knowing you’re serving seafood free from antibiotics and additives while supporting local shrimpers and the Texas shrimping industry. Choosing domestic over imported shrimp ensures your meal is responsibly
sourced, meets strict U.S. standards and helps sustain a Texas tradition worth celebrating.
“Asking for Wild Caught Texas Shrimp brings quality to your plate that’s delivered with pride and shines
a light on the people that make Texas seafood exceptional,” Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said.
For cooking tips and fresh seafood recipes, visit WildCaughtTXShrimp.com.
Servings: 4
• 1 pound Wild Caught Texas Shrimp
• 2 cups arborio rice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• salt
• pepper
• 8 cups broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 white onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup grated Parmesan Italian parsley, for garnish
1. Peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails on. Rinse, pat dry a nd set aside.
2. Heat oven to 375 F.
3. Season shrimp with paprika, salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil then toss to combine. Lay shrimp in
single layer on baking sheet and refrigerate.
4. Heat medium saucepan over medium-low heat and add broth.
5. In separate deep, heavybottom pot, melt butter. Chop onion and garlic then add to pot and cook until soft and browning. Add arborio rice and stir to incorporate. Cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
6. Add wine and cook, stirring, until alcohol smell evaporates. Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring consistently. Do not add another ladle until liquid from previous ladle is mostly soaked up by rice.
7. Risotto has finished cooking when rice is chewy with consistency of thick oatmeal.
8. Roast shrimp until cooked through.
9. Remove risotto from heat and stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
10. Scoop into bowls and lay roasted shrimp on top.
11. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Shrimp Risotto
Soup:
• 48 ounces chicken broth
of wrapper with water. Add 1-2 teaspoons filling to center. Fold wrapper corner to corner so two wet edges meet two dry edges, creating triangle shape.
3. Press sides together to seal. Take two corners of triangle and join with water to create purse-like shape. Press to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. To make soup: In saucepan over high heat, stir broth, ginger, soy sauce, wine and sesame oil. Bring mixture to simmer.
5. Cover pot and turn down heat, simmering 10-12 minutes.
6. Add bok choy leaves, shrimp and scallions. Cook until shrimp are pink and heated through.
7. In separate saucepan, heat water to boil.
8. Drop in wontons in small batches and cook until floating, 5-7 minutes.
9. Transfer cooked wontons to bowls along with shrimp and bok choy from soup pot. Ladle broth, as desired, into bowls.
Servings: 4
Wontons:
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 pound Wild Caught Texas
Shrimp, peeled, deveined, finely chopped
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• salt and pepper
• 1 package square wonton wrappers
• 1 piece ginger (2 inches), grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1-2 baby bok choy
• 1/2 pound Wild Caught Texas
Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 scallions, sliced
1. To make wontons: In large bowl, mix ground pork, shrimp, scallions, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt and pepper.
2. One wonton wrapper at a time, brush edges of two sides
Funded by a RESTORE Act Direct Component grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury). The opinions, findings, recommendations and conclusions contained herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position of Treasury. References to specific individuals, agencies, companies, products or services should not be considered an endorsement by Treasury. (Family Features) l
Shrimp Wonton Soup
INSPIRED FESTIVE SEASON ENTERTAINING
THE FESTIVE SEASON IS A TIME FOR CREATING MEALS AND MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME, BUT IT’S ALSO ONE OF THE BUSIEST TIMES OF THE YEAR. IN THE BLUR OF COMMITMENTS, CROWDED SCHEDULES AND ENDLESS PREP, THE TENSION BETWEEN A DESIRE TO CREATE MAGICAL MEALS AND WANTING TO ENJOY THEM IS REAL.
The right cookware can help shift that balance. Inspired by the calming essence of the outdoors, the KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series brings a breath of fresh air into the kitchen, blending expressive design with performance that simplifies the season. From durable stockpots to versatile nonstick pans, these tools elevate both prep and presentation.
In the middle of the festive season bustle, they provide a sense of calm and control, helping you plan, cut
stress and truly savor the moments that matter most. Because the best festive season moments aren’t just about what’s on the table – they’re about the joy you feel when you’re a part of them, from the quiet satisfaction of chopping, stirring and creating to the connection that comes when you share the results with those you love.
Including 12 pieces, the HardAnodized Ceramic Induction Nonstick Cookware Set brings the emotive power of nature into
the kitchen, elevating your cooking with deep forest-green hues and elegant bronze handles. Ideal for stove-to-oven-to-table cooking, the high-performance ceramic nonstick cookware is eight times harder than traditional aluminum and features thick, forged bases for fast, even heating. Shatter-resistant glass lids seal in heat, lock in flavor and allow easy monitoring.
When you’ll be spending many special evenings around the table during the festive season, these invaluable tools can help streamline the cooking process whether you need a dish that can be made in advance and frozen for easy entertaining like this Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli with White Wine and Herb Butter Sauce or one that lets you focus on the fun and celebrations even with guests in town such as Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Bacon.
If those seasonal recipes call for stirring, whipping or mixing, the KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series
Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is up to the task with ten speeds, a tilt-head design to easily add ingredients and more than ten different available attachments. Blurring the line between appliance and art through its unique color, finish and walnut wood bowl, it gives makers unmatched potential for creative expression.
Find more recipes and tools to bring culinary inspiration to life during the festive season at kitchenaid.com.
• 1pinch ground nutmeg
• 48 round dumpling wrappers
• water Sauce:
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, divided
Ravioli:
• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus additional for serving (optional)
• 2 tablespoons plain dried breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup chopped shallots
• 2/3 cup dry white wine
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
1. To make ravioli: Line fine mesh sieve with dampened cheesecloth.
Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli with White Wine and Herb Butter Sauce
Recipe courtesy of Marge Perry and David Bonom Servings: 4
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
Add pumpkin puree and strain 1 hour. Transfer to bowl and stir in egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, sugar, salt and nutmeg.
2. Arrange six dumpling wrappers on work surface in single layer. Place 1 tablespoon pumpkin mixture in center of each and brush edges with water. Place second wrapper over filling, carefully pushing out any air bubbles then pressing edges to seal.
3. Transfer ravioli to baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Place sheet of plastic wrap over ravioli. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 6-Quart Ceramic Stockpot over medium heat, bring salted water to a gentle simmer
5. To make sauce: In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 3-Quart Ceramic Saucepan over mediumhigh heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, 1 minute. Add wine, bring to boil and cook until mixture resembles wet sand, 8-9 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk in remaining butter and heavy cream until melted. Stir in sage, chives and salt; keep warm, stirring occasionally.
7. To cook ravioli, add half to simmering water and cook, stirring gently once or twice, 3 minutes. Remove with slotted spoon and divide between two plates. Add remaining ravioli to pot and repeat dividing between remaining plates. Spoon sauce over ravioli and serve with additional grated cheese, if desired.
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 6 slices center-cut bacon
• 1 onion, chopped
• 5 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth, divided
• 3/4 cup low-fat milk
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 1 pinch salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1 pinch pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided chopped parsley (optional)
1. In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 6-Quart Ceramic Stockpot,
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Bacon
cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series 5-Quart Ceramic Saute Pan, cook bacon until crisp. Chop and set aside.
3. In same pan, add chopped onion and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until pieces are soft and lightly caramelized.
4. Add butternut squash cubes to onions along with 2 cups chicken broth. Cover and bring to boil. Reduce heat and cook until squash is soft and most liquid is reduced.
5. Pour squash and onions into bowl and add milk, remaining chicken broth, dry mustard, nutmeg and pinch of salt and pepper. Using KitchenAid Evergreen Design Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, puree mixture until smooth and creamy.
6. Pour pureed sauce into saute pan. Over low heat, add Parmesan cheese and 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly. Add noodles and stir well.
7. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Top with chopped bacon, remaining cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. (Family Features). l
A ALIRIO TEMPORADA DE SOL
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TEMPORADA DE SOL
TOP HIGH-PAYING JOBS THAT ARE IN DEMAND
LOOKING FOR A HIGH-PAYING JOB IN A GROWING PROFESSION? HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SOME OF TODAY’S TOP PROFESSIONS OFFERING GENEROUS COMPENSATION AND GOOD JOB SECURITY:
Health Care
The U.S. population is aging, and the demand for health-care professionals is growing. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that nurse practitioners and physician assistants are among the top 20 fastestgrowing professions nationwide, both earning median pay well over $100,000 per year. Trusted and valued by patients, peers and physicians, both career paths offer rich and intangible rewards, along with long-term job security.
Financial Planning
A growing talent shortage in the financial planning profession means that this career path is likely one that will offer job security for years
to come. In fact, a recent study by McKinsey & Co. predicts that by 2034, U.S. wealth management firms could be about 100,000 financial advisors short of the number needed to fulfill customer demand.
Consumers and firms are actively seeking advisors who meet specific requirements; 81% prefer an advisor who takes all areas of their financial life into account and 90% see an advisor’s certifications as important. This is why CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification can give financial planners at any stage of their career a leg up. During the certification process, CFP® professionals develop deep subject matter expertise in everything from tax and estate planning to retirement income analysis and debt management.
With a median annual compensation of $185,000, financial planning is a job that pays well. And given the rigorous, comprehensive training CFP® professionals undergo, it’s no surprise they earn 13% more than other financial planners and commonly receive generous benefits packages and other perks.
To learn more about the financial planning profession, along with the numerous career advantages CFP® certification affords, visit CFP.net.
Information Technology
With technologies such as machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing being introduced into workplace processes, organizations will need freshly minted information technology (IT) professionals with expertise in these areas to seamlessly implement these tools into their business models. At the same time, IT professionals are needed to protect companies from emerging cybersecurity threats. With a median salary of $169,510 and an unemployment rate at just 1.4%, according to U.S. News and World Report, IT managers are wellcompensated and job secure.
Whether you’re a young person investigating post-graduation opportunities or a mid-life careerchanger, understanding industry trends can help you align your career goals with greater financial security. (StatePoint). l
ECZEMA’S TRUE IMPACT ON PEOPLE OF COLOR: MORE THAN SKIN DEEP
WHEN MOST PEOPLE THINK OF ECZEMA , THEY PICTURE A DRY, RED, INFLAMED AND ITCHY RASH. BUT ON DARKER SKIN TONES, ECZEMA CAN LOOK VERY DIFFERENT, SOMETIMES APPEARING PURPLE, GRAY OR DARK BROWN. THESE DIFFERENCES CAN LEAD TO A MISSED DIAGNOSIS AND DELAYED TREATMENT.
This not only worsens the symptoms of this common skin condition, but it can also increase the chances of developing additional allergic conditions. Delaying treatment for eczema can take a toll on mental health as well, causing frustration, anxiety, stigma and emotional stress.
With greater awareness and culturally informed care, eczema patients can find relief - for their body, mind and spirit. Allergy & Asthma Network and the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
(ACAAI) created the website https://eczemainskinofcolor. org/ to help patients and healthcare providers better identify eczema symptoms on skin of color.
What are the unique signs and symptoms of eczema in skin of color?
Eczema (also referred to as atopic dermatitis) affects people of every race and ethnicity. However, research shows that people with skin of color - especially children - are at higher risk of developing eczema and often experience more severe symptoms.
Eczema on black and brown skin often doesn’t appear as the typical red rash seen on lighter skin tones. Instead, it might look purplish, ashen gray or darker than the surrounding skin. As a result, many patients and healthcare providers may not identify the skin condition as eczema. They may diagnose it as something else or dismiss it as “just a rash.”
Without proper treatment, eczema can cause patches of lighter or darker skin in people with skin of color. (This is known as post-
inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.) It may also cause the skin to thicken over time. These visible changes can be especially distressing for people of color.
How does eczema affect mental health in people with skin of color?
If eczema makes you feel selfconscious, anxious or depressed, you’re not alone. The visible nature of the condition, along with the itching, discomfort and social stigma, can lead to feelings of embarrassment or isolation. Over time, this emotional strain can worsen depression, anxiety and stress.
Research presented at the ACAAI annual meeting in 2023 found that 72% of people with eczema reported they had poor mental health for 1-10 days of the previous month. Another study published in the May 2025 issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that adults with eczema are two to three times more likely to have depression and anxiety. Yet these mental health needs too often go unaddressed.
For people of color, the emotional burden of living with eczema can be even greater. Barriers such as limited access to affordable or culturally competent healthcare, greater exposure to environmental triggers, and social and economic factors make it harder for many to get effective treatment. These challenges can lead to worse mental health outcomes.
A lack of representation in healthcare, historical and ongoing mistrust of care, and limited medical training on how eczema appears on darker skin tones all contribute to delayed eczema and mental health treatment.
Addressing eczema in skin of color means not only treating
the skin but also supporting the whole person.
How can I find support for mental health?
Many resources are available to help you recognize symptoms, access treatment and find support for the emotional challenges that often accompany eczema. When you visit your healthcare provider - ideally an eczema specialist such as an allergist - ask for a referral to a mental health specialist. Addressing both your skin and emotional well-being is an important part of managing eczema and improving your quality of life.
The https://eczemainskinofcolor. org/website is a comprehensive
educational guide with advice on how to talk with your healthcare provider about stress, selfesteem, anxiety and depression related to your skin condition. It includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers of children with eczema, such as creating an “eczema kit” with creams, moisturizers and wipes to bring to school or activities.
You don’t have to manage the physical and mental burden of eczema alone. To learn more about how eczema presents on skin of color and find more resources for care and support, visit https:// eczemainskinofcolor.org/. (BPT) l
RTIPS FOR PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM DEEPFAKE FRAUD
apid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has armed bad actors with sophisticated tools to enable impersonation fraud using deepfakes. A deepfake can consist of audio, video or imagery that has either been created or altered using AI. The danger is that with a simple sample of audio or video or even a few images, a criminal can create a deepfake that is almost impossible to detect.
A National Institutes of Health study in 2023 found that even when individuals were given a warning that one out of five videos for them to review was a deepfake, only 21.6% were able to correctly identify the fraudulent option.
In today’s technological climate, the risks are too high to trust the naked eye to determine truth. Luckily, there are certain things you can do to help reduce your likelihood of getting duped, and they don’t require specialized skills or technical aptitude.
One important one is never assuming that someone contacting you is legitimate, even if they share a seemingly legitimate image or video, have a familiar voice, or come under the guise of someone known and trusted. Creating safe words with close family members and friends is also a good idea. That means you have a secret code word only they know. If the caller doesn’t know it, that is an easy and effective way to identify a fraud.
Just as important if not more than picking out deepfakes, is protecting your identity against EMPOWERMENT &
YOU ANSWER THE PHONE AND HEAR A FAMILIAR VOICE, BUT ARE YOU SURE YOU KNOW WHO IT IS ON THE OTHER END OF THE LINE? THE CORRECT ANSWER SHOULD BE “NO.”
being exploited to create a deepfake. Here are some measures that could help mitigate the risk:
Social Media Management: Don’t over-post your face or voice and limit who can view your content by tightening up privacy settings on your accounts
Watermarks on Images: Consider putting watermarks on imagery you post online to discourage repurposing of it.
Stronger Identity Protection: Subscribe to identity monitoring services that will send alerts if your personal information appears on the dark web where criminals buy and sell stolen credentials.
Limited Voice Exposure: Screen phone calls and only answer when they come from a known number. It’s also recommended to use the factory setting voicemail message rather than recording an outgoing message using your own voice.
Prompt Reporting: If you are contacted by someone you believe is leveraging a deepfake to impersonate a person or brand, report it immediately to that person or brand. They will want to work with the authorities and time is of the essence.
To learn more about tools and techniques to help protect your identity and respond to fraud, visit PNC’s Security & Privacy Center.
Technology is providing criminals more sophisticated technologies to commit fraud, but good, old-fashioned caution and common sense are still the best protection, and that applies to deepfakes, too. (StatePoint) l
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