The Woodlands , TX December 2020

D E C E M B E R 2 02 0

“ S I DE BY S I DE ”

BY SUZ A N N E S E I LE R

LI F E + C U LTU R E SHARI N G T H E G I F T O F PE AC E FO R T H E H O L I DAY S

JANUARY 4 - 31, 2021 Q: Why was is so important to move forward with this event with all the obstacles in the way? Wouldn’t it have been easier to postpone this event until the following year?

The Chamber is a member based, volunteer centered organization and one of our core values is “We are dedicated to the success of others”. During the summer our Taste team of volunteers met and concluded that there needs to be an event that would help an industry that has been hit very hard by the pandemic.

Q: Tell us about the “Taste of the Town” event coming in January 2020. What changes will we see?

We are very excited to be able to host Taste of the Town 2021 for the entire month of January although it will be unlike our traditional event.

In previous years, restaurants brought their food and drinks to the Marriott Waterway where we hosted thousands of attendees for one evening of exquisite food, drinks and fun.

Despite the pandemic, it was very important to organize this event even if in a different way. In January ticket holders will have the opportunity to visit all participating restaurants.

Q: How is the new format going to work?

What are the benefits to both the Restaurateur and the Guests?

With the purchase of a $25 ticket individuals will be able to visit a restaurant and have the featured Taste of the Town appetizer, entrée, dessert, or beverage… whichever the restaurant chooses to offer. Tickets can be used once at multiple restaurants. It is a great benefit to the guest as they can pick and choose the restaurant and day they want to visit during the month. Additionally, restaurants benefit from event traffic to their front door.

Q: How can the community get involved in this event and support our restaurants and community?

The best way is to purchase a ticket. They make great stocking stuffers! We also have an option to donate to the Montgomery County Restaurant Association so they can help those employees who have been displaced during this time.

Q: How can businesses wanting to help get involved?

Member businesses can get involved by sponsoring, purchasing tickets, and helping us spread the word and details of the event. If you are a restaurant and you are interested, just contact us at the Chamber office: (281) 367-5777

Q: How does this event benefit the community? in terms of funds and business Not only does this event focus on a huge part of the quality of life we have in The Woodlands, it also helps to support the Chamber and our core functions of advocating for the community, providing marketing and relationship building opportunities, serving as a resource for the area, and supporting charitable causes.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Tonya Butler | tonya.butler@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

THE HOLIDAYS ARE HERE!!!

I AM SO EXCITED THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS FINALLY HERE. The excitement of the lights and sounds surround our beautiful Woodlands community. The season for celebration, peace, love and joy. All of which we all need in our world today.

This year, I have learned to take time and allow more peace in my life. On the front cover of this month’s issue, we showcase a local artist, Suzanne Seiler’s beautiful

Charity Kilgore | charity.kilgore@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Radhika Patel, Melissa D’Mello, Suzanne Seiler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Charity Kilgore, Marianne Pfeil, Melissa D’Mello

mosaic, “Side by Side”. This is not your typical traditional Holiday theme. However, these birds are a symbol of how we should lean on each other. They find solace in the cold of winter by standing side by side sharing peace and harmony, is this not what our holidays are all about? I believe this is something we can all learn from as we all have faced tough times this year, bringing us all together!

Let’s take the opportunity this season to make sure we are sharing and spreading the joy of the season. This month’s issue includes a ‘Dream Gift Guide’ that peeks into what you may not see on the shelves, but what our own local businesses have to offer in The Woodlands. Elm & Magnolia restaurant is a new hidden gem and Chef Macri treats us to his wonderful recipes for a traditional Christmas dinner. You will not want to miss this. Giving Back is the theme to our feature on Glade Arts Foundation as they share their story of supporting our artists during this difficult year.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Want to know which events are going on during the holiday season. Check out our

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

feature ‘Winter in the Woodlands ‘highlighting some of the great activities you can

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

share with your family. Don’t forget to check out our calendar of events along with our

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

updated listings at www.citylifestyles.com/thewoodlands.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

This holiday season is going to be wonderful! Remember to find time for yourself. “Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly Merry Christmas”. T Holiday Warmest wishes for a bright Holiday Season from The Woodlands Lifestyle family. We

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

can’t wait to see you next year!

Tonya Butler, Publisher Charity Kilgore, Editor

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER “Side by Side”, paper mosaic by Suzanne Seiler

PHOTOGRAPHY BY QUE IMAGING OF HOUSTON 4

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

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Proverbs 3:5-6 The Woodlands Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the The Woodlands area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in The Woodlands Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 10 Elm & Magnolia Old Town Spring’s newest restaurant offers recipes worthy of a holiday celebration.

22 Holidays Escapes in The Woodlands Fabulous and festive places to visit right in our own backyard this winter

26 Enriching Lives Through Accessible Art Glade Arts Foundation supports local performing artists

26 29

29 Featured Artist Suzanne Seiler

22 DEPARTMENTS

10

4

Lifestyle Letter

7

Good Times

8

Around Town

10

Hot Spot

14

Locally Owned

18

Healthy Lifestyle

20 Local’s Choice 22 Travel Destination 26 Giving Back 29 Artist’s Palette 31

Realty Report

32 Lifestyle Calendar

GOOD TIMES

Open your Purse for Change 7th Annual Open Your Purse for Change was held on October 23, 2020 at the Butler House. The chairs, Ally Seder, Elvira Graham organized the event and raised $44,870 for the Montgomery County Women’s Center. To donate or volunteer visit www.mcwctx.org.

The Butler House is located at 23931 Gosling Road, Spring TX 77389.

In The Pink of Health - 20th Annual Celebration Funds support the operations of Canopy – The Cancer Survivorship Center on the campus of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, Interfaith Community Clinic for free mammograms for the underserved, technology at MH The Woodlands Breast Center, books and resources for newly-diagnosed cancer patients, and ovarian awareness initiatives and support through our partner, OVARCOME. $500,000 was raised during the event.

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AROUND TOWN

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE DROP-OFF, DECEMBER 4TH On Friday, Dec. 4 from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. all collections can be dropped off at either The Woodlands United Methodist Church located at 2200 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77380 or at Conroe Founder’s Plaza adjacent to Owen Theatre at 205 Metcalf St. Conroe, TX 77301.The day will be filled with music, live performances, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa! Donations items needed include: Canned Meat or Pouches (tuna, chicken, spam), Grains (rice, pasta, macaroni & cheese), 100% fruit juices, Canned vegetables (low sodium, no salt added), Canned or Dry Beans, Peanut Butter, Canned Fruits (light syrup or its own juices), Hot and Cold Cereals (oatmeal, cheerios, corn flakes, raisin bran), Healthy snacks (raisins, granola bars), Monetary donations ($1 provides five meals). Additional information can be found at mcfoodbank.org.

HABITAT MCTX IS OFFICIAL VETERANS BUILD ORG Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County (Habitat MCTX) is now recognized as an official Veterans Build Organization through Habitat for Humanity International. This designation allows Habitat MCTX funding and partnership opportunities to help local veterans and their families through affordable housing and home repairs in our county. Every military family deserves a decent and affordable place to live and Habitat MCTX is ready to help. Habitat MCTX is currently identifying and partnering with local Veteran organizations to assess community needs.

Learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County’s homeownership program and many other initiatives including the Women 8

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

Build, Home Repair Program, Veteran Build, and upcoming events by visiting the website at www.habitatmctx.org or the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HabitatMCTX

16TH ANNUAL SIGNATURES AUTHOR SERIES IS GOING VIRTUAL The John Cooper School Fine Arts Council has announced that the 16th Annual Signatures Author Series will be a virtual experience on December 4, featuring international bestselling author Jesmyn Ward.

“We feel that a completely virtual experience is the best approach for this year’s event, and we are very excited about the opportunities that going online will provide,” said

Signatures

Hollingsworth.

Co-chair

The

2020

Lisa virtual

event also features a raffle drawing

Striking the balance between the creative, the functional, and the structural

for over three decades...

and new virtual sponsorship opportunities. A VIP Meet and Greet will be held for major sponsors and their guests prior to the keynote presentation at noon, and every guest will receive a signed book.

As is tradition, a portion of the proceeds from the 2020 event will go to a local charitable organization. “This is going to be a fascinating way to hold our annual literary event and we are very excited to offer an enhanced and unique experience this year,” said Cooper’s Director of Advancement Troye Skipworth.

For information log on to www. johncooper.org/signatures or call the Advancement Office at 281-3670900 ext. 2441.

281.367.0316 Would you like to get in touch with

| jeff@paultx.com

jeffpaulcustomhomes.com

us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ TheWoodlands using the Get In

@jeffpaulcustomhomes

Touch link and let us know what you think.

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9

elm &

PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ELM & MAGNOLIA

HOT SPOT

magnolia OLD TOWN SPRINGS NEWEST RESTAURANT OFFERS RECIPES WORTHY OF A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

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The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

“AS SOON AS I WALKED AROUND OLD TOWN

Crispy Pork Belly & Noodles: Sesame-ginger

SPRING, I WAS LIKE ‘OH MY GOD’, I HAVE THE

glazed pork belly, soba noodles, mango, avocado,

ART SCENE, THE VINTAGE SCENE, THE BIKER

tomatoes, shredded cabbage, crispy noodles, sri-

SCENE, THE JAILHOUSE SCENE AND THE

racha sauce

UNION PACIFIC TRAIN THAT BLOWS THREE

Roasted beets & asparagus: The dish is made with

TIMES A DAY” MARIA SAID. This town owned me

roasted beets, asparagus and field greens topped

from the minute I walked into it, and I knew “I need to

with Dijon dressing, pickled red onion, goat cheese,

be here for the rest of my life”.

walnut pralines and bacon.

Meet Joe and Maria Macri; They are the propri-

Pumpkin Mascarpone Cheesecake: Creamy

etors and executive chefs at their newest restaurant,

house-made

‘Magnolia & Elm’ were a unique Americana menu fea-

cheese, Italian Mascarpone cheese, roasted

tures everything from an Italian Bene for their week-

pumpkin and Fall spices

cheesecake

made

with

cream

end brunch to the wonderful blue cheese crusted Double Cut Pork Chop. Everything is fresh and cooked from scratch except for the bread. “Everything else is butchered on-site, prepped on-site and everything is

Reviews (based upon 25 guests surveyed on Facebook)

cooked to order. Our thought process is always the

100 % Recommend

client and his experience” says Joe. Joe and Maria’s sophisticated twist on food come from

TESTIMONIAL

humble beginnings. Joe caught the restaurant business

Had a birthday celebration for my lady last night.

buzz when he worked at a pizzeria in New York. Maria

The owner Joe, and our waitress, Cheyenne made

learned to cook from watching her father work as a chef

the event wonderful. The service and food were

in New Jersey. They married and took their love of food to

great. I might add, Joe baked an Italian cheesecake

the next level by building their own restaurants.

that was simply delicious. The music provided by

After the couple made a trip to Houston to visit

Kevin was also excellent.

friends, they knew immediately that they had found their new home. Upon arrival, Joe landed a job as

I highly recommend Elm and Magnolia for a quick bite,

an executive chef at the family owned restaurant trio

a romantic dinner, or a group party. And be sure to

Nino’s, Vincent’s and Grappino di Nino in Houston.

order the cheesecake! A.D.

He earned a degree from the Culinary Institute of America. They were set…

They opened up the Black Sheep Bistro and

Make sure you check out Elm & Magnolia for your Special Events and Catering for your Holiday Parties…

turned a purple vacant building into a local favorite.

The former East Coast residents combined their

The restaurant is available for private events: wed-

years of restaurant experience in fine dining to open

dings, business lunches, dinners, cocktail receptions,

the bistro in August 2013. First there was the Black

and more. Joe and Maria would love to discuss how to

Sheep Bistro, now there is Elm & Magnolia. A new

be a part of your next event.

space, with the same great food with a much larger venue featuring outside dining on the porch and on the lawn. A full-service bar with a unique selection of wines and live music and entertainment nightly.

Email elmnmagnolia@gmail.com Attention Joe Facebook/Instagram/Yelp

COME BY AND TASTE SOME OF THE CUSTOMER

www.elmnmagnolia.com

FAVORITES INCLUDING:

206 Magnolia St.

Miso-glazed Chilean Seabass: The dish is marinated in miso and sake and swerved with soy garlic spinach and toasted sesame.

Spring, TX (342) 386-3014 CONTINUED >

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HOT SPOT (CONTINUED) TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY MEAL BRAISED LAMB SHANKS WITH SWEET POTATO MASH AND PECAN PRALINE Owners Joe and Maria Macri

Serves 2 people INGREDIENTS LAMB SHANKS + 2 ea Lamb fore-shanks, 16-18 oz. ea + 1 cup Carrots, peeled and rough chopped (1” pieces) + 1 cup Celery, rough chop (1” pieces) + 1.5 cups White Onions, rough chop (1” pieces)

+ 10 ea Garlic Cloves, peeled & left whole + 1/2 cup Tomato Paste

+ 3/4 cup Dry Red Wine + 10 Sprigs Thyme, Fresh + 6 Sprigs Rosemary, Fresh + 2 Quarts Beef Broth (low Sodium or Homemade is Best!) + 2 Teaspoon Kosher Salt + 1 teaspoon Black pepper, ground + 4 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil SWEET POTATO MASH + 2 ea Sweet Potatoes + 3/4 cup Heavy cream + 1 teaspoon Salt PECAN PRALINE + 1/2 cup Pecan Pieces, toasted + 1/2 cup Light brown sugar + 1/4 cup Heavy Cream

Chrispy Pork Belly and Noodles

12

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

braised lamb shanks with sweet potato mash and METHOD

pecan praline

LAMB SHANKS 01 Preheat oven to 375 degrees F 02 Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper 03 Place the seasoned lamb shanks in a roasting pan or oven proof pan and roast for 30-45 minutes. (The lamb should look browned and the meat should have shrunk, exposing the bone.

04 While the lamb shanks are roasting, heat a skillet with the vegetable oil and sautĂŠ your carrots, celery, onion and garlic. Cook the vegetables on medium to medium-high heat until they are browned and caramelized. (This may take 10-15 minutes) 05 Add the tomato paste to the caramelized vegetables and cook together for one minute 06 Add the red wine to the vegetables and cook for one minute, or until the alcohol taste disappears.

07 Place the roasted lamb shanks with the caramelized vegetable mixture into an oven proof casserole dish.

08 Add the herbs and broth to cover the shanks, and put the lid on the casserole dish or cover with foil.

09 Place the casserole in the oven and cook for approximately 1.5-2 hours, or until the meat begins to fall off the bone.

10 Strain the braising liquid and reduce in a pot until it thickens into a sauce consistency SWEET POTATO MASH 01 Bake the sweet potatoes in a 375 degree oven until tender 02 Peel the skin away from the sweet potato and while still hot, put into a food processor 03 Add the salt and heavy cream, puree until smooth PECAN PRALINE 01 Combine the toasted pecans, brown sugar and heavy cream in a small sauce pot 02 Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute. The brown sugar and cream should turn into caramel in this amount of time. Do not overcook because it will thicken as it sits off of the stove top CityLifestyle.com/TheWoodlands

13

LOCALLY OWNED ARTICLE RADHIKA PATEL PHOTOGRAPHY CHARITY KILGORE

vogue rugs VOGUE LIVING WITH TRADITIONAL CHARM

14

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

QUALITY RUG BUSINESS OPENS IN THE WOODLANDS The holidays are here in full force—a time to decorate with all things seasonal or perhaps a décor refresh. Vogue Rugs, a family-owned business newly opened on Lake Woodlands Parkway, is here to support your decorating dreams with top quality rugs and furniture, including accent pieces.

Co-owner Sojan Abnoos goes by the motto “dream by heart.” Mixing design expertise and knowledge with passion stemming from her childhood, Vogue Rugs truly is the epitome of a business with compassion, “we want everyone to have an opportunity to own a rug to accent their taste and own design concept. You can find a rug to fit your budget.” says Sojan.

Sojan grew up in Wiesbaden, Germany, where her family owned a hand made rug company. Surrounded by entrepreneurship, she learned the importance of taking care of clients, which is now apparent in her own business, “you will work with your designer and rug maker/ supplier most of your life as your home changes and your styles change.

We will be here for our clients,” says both Sojan and Hamid. The husband and wife duo are here to educate their customers about what they are buying. Forming relationships via trust, knowledge, and genuine care is the foundation of Vogue Rugs.

This trust and genuine care concept are echoed throughout the business, even down to the company logo. Sojan has always revered the deer as a guardian that has guided her through life, from overcoming fear of the woods as a child to defying doctor expectations in bringing her unborn child to term. The deer has been a symbol of strength through life that is now the face of their business.

Visit today to finalize your decorating for the holiday season or give the gift that keeps giving with a timeless heirloom rug.

CONTINUED >

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

SERVICES OFFERED

BY VOGUE RUGS Contemporary Rugs Fine Silk Rugs Antique Rugs Fine Persian Rugs Free Pickup and Delivery Expert Repair Expert Cleaning

16

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

THE GIFT OF A

GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP EDUCATE YOURSELF INTO RESTFUL DREAMS

LOOKING FOR A MATTRESS CAN

When you visit Best Bed, with more

BE MORE PAINFUL THAN WAK-

than five locations and now a new

ING UP WITH BACK PAIN ITSELF.

Woodlands location, know you are

Michael Langley, the Best Bed owner,

being served by people who are proud

provides customers with education

to be there, who have been trained rig-

and knowledge before they decide

orously in matters of mitigating pain,

to buy their next mattress. Langley’s

regulating interruptions of sleep , and

business reflects and echoes the

are there to give you accurate informa-

idea of education over intimidation

tion. Langley, who comes from a mili-

and misinformed “we don’t sell, we

tary and law enforcement background,

educate the consumer, and then the

entered the world of sleep after hav-

consumer acquires the bed system

ing worked alongside veterans with

they really need, after having real

chronic, pain, trauma and sleep issues

information.” Best Bed isn’t here to

at the Lone Survivor Foundation.

sell you the over hyped, overpriced,

Expanding

to

The

Woodlands

under-performing bed you saw on TV.

seemed like a natural transition for

Langley’s business is operated in a no

Langley, “I’m falling in love with this

pressure, “education not intimidation

city!” “It is clear that the quality of

environment,” “we would rather help

life here is top of mind and that’s

them solve their problems and save

exactly the type of community we

them time and money in the process”.

wish to associate with.” His love for The Woodlands echoes his passion for people and providing the highest quality service possible. Best Bed stands for integrity and education, “if

ARTICLE RADHIKA PATEL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BY BEST BED

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The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

we’re not helping someone, we’re not doing it right.”

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

lav ish luxury

GIFT GUIDE Y HOLIDAYS PP HA P

HO

YS HAPPY H DA OL LI I 20

LIDAYS HAP HO PY

Y DA

PY

APPY HOLI DA S H YS

HA

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

01 THE "HEARTFELT OFFERING" museum-quality Amethyst heart-shaped centerpiece Edward Alton Designs, Priceless | 02 LOUIS VUITTON ONTHEGO GM MONOGRAMMED CANVAS BAG Louis Vuitton, Market Street $2,690 | 03 2021 ROLLS ROYCE DAWN Rolls Royce Motor Companies, The Woodlands - $356,500 | 04 MARCO BICEGO® SIVIGLIA GRANDE 18K YELLOW GOLD AND DIAMOND COLLAR Thomas Markle - $10,890 | 05 ROBERTO COIN Garden Ring - Vander Dys $6,590 | 06 LIMITED COLLECTION PEAL CHAIN CHANEL GLASSES Focus Optical $1,149 | 07 2021 CLUB CAR ONWARD LIFTED 4 PASSENGER GOLF CART Conroe Golf Cars $12,500 | 08 TROPICAL VACATION TO REMOTE SEYCHELLES Andrew Butler Travel Agency | 09 OLD GRINGO WOMEN'S BONNIE PIPIN GLAM BLACK AND GOLD WITH FLORAL EMBROIDERY SNIP TOE WESTERN BOOT Cavendar's Boot City - $570

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

holiday escapes in the woodlands

FABULOUS AND FESTIVE PLACES TO VISIT RIGHT IN OUR OWN BACKYARD THIS WINTER

22

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

T

HE WOODLANDS IS A MAGICAL PLACE TO ENJOY A TEXAS WINTER. With lots of amazing events and festive sites located close by; there

is always something to do for you and the family. From the graceful athletic activities offered at The Woodlands Ice Rink to the always cheerful Christmas décor offered just a short drive away in Old Town Spring and the fantastic Christmas concerts by the likes of Wynonna offered at Dosey Doe – The Big Barn. While we are still lacking the normal level of Christmas Events during this unprecedented year, we can still finish 2020 off with wonder and excitement! So, get out and explore what Winter in The Woodlands has to offer!

Skating enthusiasts can glide into the season while the rest just try to stay upright; nevertheless, fun can be had every day through January 18th at The Woodlands Ice Rink. The 21,000-square-foot multipurpose facility opened its doors on November 20th for the season with joyful lighting, a state-ofthe-art sound system, table, and concessions.

Located

adjacent

to

the

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, the rink is open Monday to Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m., Friday from 3 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. The Ice Rink is open during special holiday

the wo o d l a n d s ice rink

hours on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, and school holidays.

Operations have been modified throughout the facility to accommodate more stringent cleaning procedures and provide social distancing for guests in accordance with CDC guidelines and local orders. All visitors will be screened prior to entry and temperature checked. Masks are required for entry but may be removed when skating. Ice Rink guests should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines established by the CDC when in public spaces and around others outside of your household.

Admission for a two-hour skate session ranges from $12.50 to $17.50. Children 5 and under are $6. All prices include skate rental. Helmet and walker (children’s skate trainer) rentals are also available for an additional cost. Observer-only fees range from free to $2.

CONTINUED >

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TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

Table rentals and reservations are available. The Ice Rink also offers skate lessons. For rental information, reservations, skate lessons, or other details, please email icerink@spectrumfcs.com.

Produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department, The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center is sponsored by Market Street, The Strong Firm and The Howard Hughes Corporation.

For information, advance reservations and other details, please visit www.thewoodlandsicerink.com, call The Ice Rink at 281-419-5630, or email icerink@ spectrumfcs.com. Reservations are encouraged for the best pricing.

Photo by Marianne Pfeil - SearchingforTexas.com

The 40th Annual Old Town Spring Home for the Holidays will be every weekend until Christmas.

The hometown holiday festival features a spectacular display of twinkling holiday lights, entertainment, family-friendly activities, and photos with Santa every weekend! Mark your calendar and come discover this “Texas-style winter wonderland” during the holiday season.

During previous years, the holidays have come alive with the Spirit of the Season as visitors have enjoyed holiday lights, horse-drawn wagon rides through town, and a petting zoo for children to enjoy and strolling entertainers. This year will be a bit different however the

old town spring

festivities

con-

tinue as the Horsedrawn carriages are still offering free rides around the decorative small town taking you back in time.

Additionally, two Santa mailing stations have been set up for children to send their secret wishes off to Santa with his own dedicated mailboxes.

The shops and boutiques offer a variety of local unique holiday gift ideas and perfect treasures for everyone on your shopping list.

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The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

dosey doe – the big barn Hunting for some live entertainment you can enjoy in a fabulous location; you must check out Dosey Doe – The Big Barn. The 165 year old Kentucky tobacco barn will be festooned in twinkling lights inviting you in to have a bite to eat and hear great acts like Wynonna and the Big Noise, Annie Moses, Tab Benoit, The Gatlin Brothers and others!

The Acoustics in The Big Barn, are created with 300 to 600-year-old growth oak and birch massive beams. Many artists that play here are astounded by the quality of sound in the venue. Filled with Americana artifacts from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, there is plenty to see.

Entrees are scratch made based on the season and special offerings of the purveyors with the type of music of the night in mind. They offer meals that would be the reason by itself to visit; however, on top of great eats you are also getting nationally recognized artists from around the world. The presentation is note-worthy, and the creations are featured in several cookbooks from Canada to Texas.

Nationally recognized artists from around the world no dominate the calendar here: from Jerry Jeff Walker to The Rippingtons, Dave Mason to Lee Roy Parnell, Clint Black to Bela Fleck, Leon Russell to Spyro Gyra, Steve Wariner to Hayes Carll, Roger Creager to Mel Tillis, Manhattan Transfer to Gallagher... up very close and personal. Most artists will stay to have photos taken and give autographs after the show. Many very rarely do it anywhere but here and almost everyone says it is one of their favorite rooms to play.

Dosey Does is a completely magical experience. Your hands touching the hand-hewn 2000lb barn beams, your eyes filled with art, artifacts, and signage from a simpler time, your taste buds excited from salad to dessert, and music so pure - up close and personal... all designed to “Take You Away” . It is a place where memories are made. No need to run from the restaurant to music hall, as here you have it all.

Dosey Doe – The Big Barn Event Schedule and ticket information can be found at doseydoe.com.

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GIVING BACK

ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH AC C E S S I B L E A R T

Katya Du Pond

GLADE ARTS FOUNDATION SUPPORTS LOCAL PERFORMING ARTISTS

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The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

TUCKED INSIDE THE ICONIC LOCAL ARCHITECTURAL GEM,

ARTICLE MELISSA D'MELLO

FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE WOODLANDS HOMEFINDER

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY GLADE GALLERY

CENTER, IS THE GLADE CULTURAL CENTER AND ARTS FOUNDATION. Brainchild of longtime local resident Dragos Tapu, Glade Gallery opened its doors five years ago as the first contemporary fine art gallery in The Woodlands. A treat for art enthusiasts, Dragos established a much-needed fine arts venue in a community that was lacking one. With the overwhelmingly successful reception of Glade Gallery, Dragos realized that there was a much greater need for cultural events and activities in The Woodlands and in 2017, the Glade Cultural Center and Glade Arts Foundation, the nonprofit arm, were formed.

While Glade Cultural Center provides a unique accessible fine arts experience and curated museum-like exhibits showcasing local and international artists as well as acclaimed private and public art collections. Glade Arts Foundation’s mission is to give back to the community with programs focused on art education, scholarships and community based public art projects.

The museum housed within the Glade Cultural Center, is The Woodlands first museum for contemporary art, film, and visual culture in its widest sense. Glade Arts Foundation Museum bridges the relationship between artistic questions and wider societal issues, between the regional and international, artists and public, tradition and innovation, reflection, and presentation.

It features a permanent collection of early oil paintings by David Adickes, a world-renowned Huntsville-born artist and creator of the massive Sam Houston statue.

Profiling artistic practices bound against the conventions of figurative art, The Glade Gallery portion of the Cultural Center highlights the diversity within contemporary art and fuels the synergy that describes the creative exchanges between American and European art today. Bringing together outstanding artists of diverse generations and genres, Glade gallery gathers around the various modes of representation that have come to define figurative art in recent decades, as well as affirming its enduring urgency. Reflecting upon the resonances of the multifaceted contemporary art, the gallery intends to unfold new approaches to the creative act, ultimately offering both the artists and the public the preferred landscape in the building of greater future scenarios. Glade gallery also offers art brokering, appraisal, restoration, and conservation services.

Since its opening, Glade Cultural Center has also offered live music and intimate concert series ranging from symphonies to jazz performed by local and visiting musicians that can be enjoyed within a museum setting.

With the onset of the pandemic, like so many art and live music venues, Glade Cultural Center was forced to pivot from regular operations. Since many of their scheduled in-person exhibits and concerts had to be canceled, Glade Arts Foundation used the technology available at the center and quickly turned to an alternate online approach. With the Glade Arts Foundation being a nonprofit

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/TheWoodlands

27

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

organization, they were able to set up a fund dedicated to supporting the musicians and artists. At a time when many musicians and artists were struggling, the Glade Arts Foundation found a way to support local artists.

Local saxophonist Woody Witt and vocalist Tianna Hall, who have both performed at the Glade Cultural Center, worked with Dragos to curate and launch a new concert series that was broadcast live on Facebook from The Woodlands gallery. They opened the gallery for musicians to come and perform and an online donation option was set up for all wanting to help support the performers. The response was astounding. Since March, local artists and musical groups have gathered at the center several times each week to share a variety of music with viewers from The Woodlands and throughout the world.

Even when the venue was able to open back up, the Glade Arts Foundation made a decision to continue to give all the funds collected from the performances directly back to the performing artists as the gallery gets ready for new artist exhibits.

The latest addition includes works from artist Katya Du Pond who was born in Mexico City. From an incredibly young age, Katya showed interest in the arts and stood out for her remarkable creativity. As a teenager, she took painting courses that led to the awakening of her love for art.

Katya completed her studies at the Art Institute of the city of Houston as an Interior Designer, which expanded her passion for color and textures but always with the vision of conveying a deep message. Since her beginnings, her works highlight color and expression evoking strong feelings and intense messages that lead to different interpretations according to the perception of the observer. An opening reception was hosted at Glade Gallery in early November and her artwork will be available to view and purchase at Glade Gallery through December.

Glade Cultural Center also offers a unique setting for public and private events. Architecturally stunning and educationally rich the space offers a unique expevenue perfect for any type of event or special occasion.

CONTACT INFO

Equipped with full A/V and advanced technology to

Address: 2000 Woodlands Parkway

support any needs and full-service catering services to

The Woodlands, TX 77380

provide simplicity in event coordination.

Website: www.gladeculturalcenter.com

rience both inside and out. The facility is a full-service

As the air gets crisper and the days grow shorter, we

28

Phone: 832-557-8781

recommend making it a point to visit the Glade Cultural

Email: dragos@gladeculturalcenter.com

Center and Arts Foundation. The serene and beautiful

Instagram: @gladeculturalcenter

setting is guaranteed to bring peace and maybe even

Facebook: @gladeculturalcenter

foster an appreciation for fine art.

Twitter: @gladecenter

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

ARTIST’S PALETTE

ARTICLE SUZANNE SEILER

F e at u r e d Artist

Mosaics over the last ten years. Working with glass or tile places limitations on my ability to cut

SUZANNE SEILER

intricate pieces, so I developed the process to use paper in lieu of glass. The color palette of paper is endless. I am proud that the majority of my papers sourced from discarded material were destined for landfills … “Trash to Treasure”. Early on, my

On the C o v e r :

art utilized mostly linear cuts creating a design of individually hand-cut pieces fitting tightly together. Today, with a greater supply of colored I RECALL FROM MY EARLIEST DAYS MY

and textured papers, I blend colors to create

MOTHER TELLING OTHERS THAT I WAS BORN

mosaics with a more realistic appearance – truly

“Side by Side”, my Fine Paper

WITH A PENCIL IN MY HAND. I was continually

“Painting with Paper”. I developed a technique

Mosaic, is a created scene on

drawing as a youngster, sometimes on surfaces

(“secret sauce”) to individually hand-embellish

a cold wintery day. The cool

like the house walls. Needless to say that did not

each individual piece to further draw up the color

metallic grayish background

make my Mother happy. When other children

and provide depth. The final result is amazing.

is in contrast to the vibrant

were asking Santa for toys, my list consisted of

Capturing the beauty of creation is still my pas-

colored robins sitting on the

art supplies. I spent my youth outside drawing all

sion. My desire is for my mosaics and watercolors

branch snuggled together,

that Creation had to offer as my inspiration.

to be enjoyed by many for a lifetime.

hence side by side. The use

One of my greatest supporters was my

Four years ago several volunteer artists began

of metallic paper added with

Grandfather, a distinguished architect and engi-

teaching a group of Special Needs Adults (First

the embellishment enhances

neer. I am certain this is where I inherited my love

Saturday Special Friends). At a recent Market Street

the beautiful, sparkling glass

for impeccable detail. At the age of ten I discovered

Art Festival they sold 67 pieces of art. Imagine the

appearance. Enjoy.

pen and ink drawing. Being from New Orleans I

pride and self-confidence when a customer pur-

drew plantation scenes, making certain that the

chases their art. Blessings flow in both directions.

structures were as close to perfect as possible.

Not long after my move to The Woodlands, I was

Soon I started adding watercolors to enhance the

introduced to Kari Schmidt, owner of Cornerstone

ink, which led to my first commission pieces.

Framing. I have exclusively tapped into her skills

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. I

for all my custom framing. If interested in a Private

owned and operated an art school, ARTWORKS,

Showing for art and framing, contact me through my

for 20 years while also creating art, entering com-

website @ www.mosaicsandwatercolors.com.

petitions and earning commissions. During this time I was primarily a watercolorist.

Following a trip to Greece and viewing the beautiful mosaics I have focused on Fine Paper

I am proud to participate for my fourth year in The Woodlands Waterway Art Festival to be held on April 10 & 11, 2021. It is wonderful event that draws artists from around the Nation.

CityLifestyle.com/TheWoodlands

29

REALTY REPORT

REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD

THE WOODLANDS

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

East Shore

$5,000,000

$4,800,000

96%

283

5

5 full, 2 half

Carlton Woods

$3,495,000

$3,225,000

92%

183

5

5 full, 2 half

Carlton Woods Creekside

$2,680,000

$2,175,000

81%

572

5

4 full, 1 half

Indian Springs

$1,595,000

$1,482,500

93%

74

5

4 full, 1 half

East Shore

$1,495,000

$1,362,500

91%

108

3

3 full, 1 half

Grogan’s Mill

$1,299,000

$1,234,567

95%

89

5

6 full, 2 half

Cochran’s Crossing

$1,295,000

$1,225,000

95%

757

4

4 full, 2 half

Carlton Woods

$1,249,000

$1,200,000

96%

1248

5

4 full, 2 half

Grogan’s Mill

$1,195,000

$1,199,999

100+%

352

6

3 full, 1 half

Sterling Ridge

$1,200,000

$1,116,000

97%

255

5

5 full, 2 half

This data is a sampling of sold properties from a previous month. Source: IRES MLS system.

Working for You Give me a call today!

Carol Knott Tefft (713) 253-7812

TheHometownTeam.com | Off ice (281) 370-5100 | 19510 Kuykendahl Road, Spring CityLifestyle.com/TheWoodlands

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1-31

a new thrilling way to climb at Texas

CHRIMSTAS LIGHTS DISPLAY

don’t want to miss! Book your spots

TreeVentures as lights will illuminate

The Light Park

the course. This is something you now before they are all gone.

The Light Park is truly a one-ofa-kind Christmas lights display, boasting

millions

of

animated

lights synchronized to a cheerful mix of holiday music along a onemile driving path. The Light Park is located at 21300 Interstate 45

DINNER/MUSIC WITH WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE ‘CHRISTMAS’ Dosey Doe - The Big Barn

5

THIS SHOW WILL SELL OUT! DO

MONTGOMERY COUNTY MISTLETOE MARKET

Entrée, Dessert, Soft Beverage.

NOT DELAY!!! Dinner served 5:30-

Lone Star Convention and Expo Center

N, Spring, TX 77373 at Hurricane

Come explore this upscale indoor

Harbor Splashtown. For more infor-

market with handmade and fashion

mation, visit TheLightPark.com or

jewelry, women’s and children’s bou-

call (281) 407-1311.

tique clothing, home, holiday, and garden decor, gourmet food items,

4

6

and so much more. 9AM - 5PM

6:30 Price Includes: Salad, Choice of

6 AUTISM SPEAKS 5K & 1K FAMILY FUN RUN Town Green Park

This unique fundraising event creates a safe and fun day for runners, friends, and supporters of those

ILLUMINATED NIGHT CLIMB

that are affected by autism. The day

Texas TreeVentures

includes a 5K and 1K Family Fun Run

Ever wondered how fun the course

for families and individuals of all ages.

would be at night? Come experience

This race is the perfect way to run or

DEDICATED AND CARING

DYNAMIC AND INNOVATIVE

Cooper faculty recognize and support the unique strengths of every child.

Cooper students explore the world around them through authentic learning experiences.

EXPRESSIVE AND CONFIDENT Extensive visual and performing arts courses nurture and inspire the ability to create.

PK-12 INFORMATION SESSION JANUARY 9, 2021 | 1 PM The John Cooper School is a leader in pre-k through grade 12 independent school education. Hear from teachers and administrators about grade level programs and admission for the 2021-22 school year.

LEARN MORE: WWW.JOHNCOOPER.ORG/ADMISSION

SPIRITED AND DETERMINED

“Dragon Pride” roars on the Cooper campus!

From Curiosity to Wisdom | 281.367.0900 | From Curiosity to Wisdom WWW.JOHNCOOPER.ORG 32

The Woodlands Lifestyle | December 2020

walk and raise funds needed to fuel innovative research and lifelong support and services. 6AM - 9AM

13 DINNER/MUSIC WITH THE GATLIN BROTHERS ‘CHRISTMAS’ Dosey Doe - The Big Barn

Grammy, 3 ACM, DOVE awards. 7 #1 singles, 32 Top 40s. BROKEN LADY, HOUSTON, ALL THE GOLD, I DON’T WANNA CRY. Larry ranks 4th as Writer with most top 40 Hits for: Elvis, Streisand, Cash, Orbison, Campbell, Charlie Rich, Tom Jones, Dottie, Kristofferson. Dinner served 6:307:30 Price Includes: Salad, Choice of Entrée, Dessert, Soft Beverage

13 JINGLE BELL RUN

Join us virtually for the merriest, most memorable holiday FUN RUN around! Wear your favorite holiday costume and jingle along your own 5K route as we jingle for a cure! For more help or information about the 2020 Jingle Bell Run – Houston, TX contact Jen Torres at jtorres@ arthritis.org or call 713-253-0688.

18 JINGLE BOATS

Riva Row Boat House

This fun family adventure will have you wishing for a kayak under the tree this holiday season! Participants will depart from Riva Row Boat House in search of presents on our local shores. 2PM -3PM

CityLifestyle.com/TheWoodlands

33