April 2009

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002houston | april 09 | volume 11 | issue 124

hip.current.cool guide

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 04 06 08 10 12 13 14 16 18

table of contents letter from the editor houston map downtown map news worthy | uptown map scene calendar museum district art houses+museums+exhibits

47 scene

48 THE CENTER OF IT ALL

54 52 DEVELOPMENTAL UPDATES 54 BUYERS BE READY 55 where to live

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56 ARCHICHAT: NEWBERRY CAMPA ARCHITECTS

20 living smart |scene 21 spacetaker

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22 GALLERY: BOOKER-LOWE GALLERY 24 for art’s sake: the wizard of oz 25 gish at the movies

58 ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN: ROLF FEHLBAUM

26 NONPROFIT: BREATHE+BUILD+LEARN GREEN

26 27 28 29 32 33

scene destination: moscow scene born cool. grow hip. on our radar

people of houston costumes for cocktails retail wrap: rebecca + drew jewel box

62 business profile: babyplays.com 63 finance

64 65 66 67 68

wise guy SCENE vroom vroom tools+toys+gadgets restaurant listings

70 DINE WRITE: COURSES

48 39 40 41 42

60 002PROFILE: HAR.COM

60 44

34 36 37 38

58

72 73 74 75 76 78

new restaurants chef’s special: ludovic poirier+todd leveritt sip codes scene club review: union bar 002 nightlife

scene it’s cool to be energy efficient 4 greats things i love

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44 CLEAN LIVING…REAL SPRING CLEANING

80 recording: spitten king 81 cd reviews | scene 82 crossword puzzle | before we go

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

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Photography by Sofia van der Dys |Hair by Elia Graves at Jose Eber salon and Makeup by Pati + Trixi

A

lthough we’ve seen some local construction come to a screeching halt (Turnberry, Titan, Whole Foods Post Oak, to name a few) others will change the city’s horizon by the end of 2009.

From City Centre on the west side to the Houston Pavilions downtown (and aerially on the cover). To Cross Creek in Fulshear, (right outside Katy, people; not that far with the KE autoban –a.k.a Katy Freeway) and East Downtown.

We’ve got some updates.

CARLA VALENCIA de MARTINEZ

And what about your own real estate? The one you call home? In Clean Living I get a little education on increasing the value of our home while increasing the capacity of our life. Turn to page 44. Brace yourselves: you have no idea what’s lurking in your walls, ducts and attic.

How will you celebrate Earth Day this month?

Learn about 3 local nonprofits who breathe green every day on page 26. And with everyone talking green, eco this and efficient that, do you really know what all that means? It’s cool to ______ teaches you how to be energy efficient this month. Turn to page 40 to get started.

Thinking about purchasing a home and feeling almost guilty that you can in this climate? Read Buyers Be Ready for a report from a gal in the know persuading you to buy now. Come on, we dare you!

Need a laugh? Check out Beatrice Valencia’s SipCodes. Seriously, it’s relatable and hilarious and not just ‘cause she’s my little sis!

May will be our Arts and Entertainment issue, so in the spirit of that issue check out Second Baptist’s high school musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Hobby Center. Yes, I know what you’re thinking, but they really put on a “Broadway”-like production with first-rate sets, costuming and music performed by real hired orchestra performers and great talent from the school. April 24 – 26, Hobby Center – Zilkha Hall. Tickets are $20-28. For ticket information, 713.213.2525 or visit thehobbycenter.org.

volume 11

issue 124

PUBLISHER alejandro martinéz ext 16 a.martinez@002mag.com EDITOR AT LARGE | FASHION DIRECTOR carla valencia ext 13 c.valencia@002mag.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR victoria bartlett ART DIRECTOR alex rosa ext 17 arosa@002mag.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR | EVENTS beatrice valencia ext 11 bvalencia@002mag.com ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER william king ext 18 w.king@002mag.com ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES carlos valencia ext 12 cevalencia@002mag.com jarrod klawinsky ext 15 jklawinsky@002mag.com terri-ann chen tchen@002mag.com

isabel terraso ext 14 isabel@002mag.com beenish ahmad beenish@002mag.com PHOTOGRAPHERS kim coffman, emily dwyer, kennon evett, jill hunter, gabriella nissen, daniel ortiz, jack potts, anthony rathbun, aaron m. sprecher, sofia van der dys, michelle watson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS jenny antill, walter arias, bernard bauri for lastnightpics.com, cody bess, richard ebbs, alexander flenner, joan marcus, john mcmaine, kyle mills, joseph moran, julie soefer, jenny wang CONTRIBUTING WRITERS michael andre adams, leigh bell, michael garfield, sarah gish, patricia gras, sandra gunn, travis jones, jeff lane, hal lynde, mariella massa, nadia michel, tim moloney, sandra ramani, jenni rebecca stephenson, justin travis, kristina vaquero-nemec, lance scott walker, jenny wang, scott ward INTERN wilbert chinchilla FOR SUGAR LAND SALES

Cover Build it, and they will come

Photography Richard Ebbs of Sky Cam Aerial Photography skycamaerial.com

OOPS! none!

And keep those Are You the Face of Houston? entries coming! We’ve got a bash planned for June for the winner! Deadline is April 24; 002houston.com/maxfactor

Carla Valencia - Editor at Large Fashion Director 6. april09 002houston

002houston Magazine is published monthly by NODO Magazine, L.L.C., 1310 NANCE ST. STUDIO C, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77002. Copyright © 2009 by NODO Magazine L.L.C. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

002houston Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear.

For subscription information, call 713.223.5333x14 or send a check or money order for $35.00 to 002houston Magazine, 1310 NANCE ST. STUDIO C, HOUSTON, TEXAS 77002.

002HOUSTON MAGAZINE 1310 NANCE ST. STUDIO C | HOUSTON, TX 77002 713.223.5333 | FAX 713.223.4884 | LETTERS@002MAG.COM WWW.MYSPACE.COM/002HOUSTON | WWW.002MAG.COM

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Downtown......................................1 Holocaust Museum.........................2 Galleria..........................................3 Uptown Park..................................4 River Oaks Park.............................5 Rice Village....................................6 Highland Village............................7 Memorial City................................8 Town & Country Village..................9 Loehmann’s................................10 Sam Houston Race Park..............11 Katy Mills...................................12 Sugar Land.................................13 Zoo ............................................14 Museum District..........................15 George Bush Intl. Airport............16 Hobby Airport.............................17 Space Center Houston.................18 Kemah........................................19 Miller Outdoor Theatre................20 Contemporary Arts Museum........21 Houston Museum of Fine Arts......22 Children’s Museum......................23 Houston Museum of Natural Science..24 Houston Arboretum.....................25 Houston Theater District..............26 The Woodlands............................27

HOUSTON MAP

What's hip.current.cool? Get on our list, e-mail us at events@002mag.com to make sure you're invited.

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NEWS WORTHY RETAIL After 28 years in one location, Gallery Furniture, the nation’s largest furniture retailer by square foot, opened its second location at Post Oak and Westheimer.

Through a partnership with Bill Stubbs, Gallery Furniture owners Jim and Linda McIngvale brought on the host of the PBS series Moment of Luxury to design the Galleria Area Showroom

ACCOLADES HoustonPBS received a My Source Community Impact Award for Education from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) last month in Washington, D.C. The My Source Community Impact Awards for Education were created by CPB to give welldeserved recognition to public television stations for their commitment to providing educational services to learners of all ages and abilities, all races and backgrounds, from pre-schoolers to senior citizens, as well as for the services the stations provide to teachers, parents and caregivers.

HoustonPBS will be recognized for its commitment to education through its Ready to Learn Family Literacy Workshops.

REMODEL The Houston Public Library’s historic Clayton Home at the Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research has opened its doors after a public/private renovation project totaling approximately $7 million. The newly-renovated property includes the renovated Main House, Guest House, Carriage House and gardens of the Clayton Home, located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District.

WATER FOR ALL The Mad Potter celebrates Earth Day by filling cups around the world with clear water. The paint-your-own-personalized pottery studios partner with Living Water International, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean and safe water to communities in need all over the world.

Throughout April, visit one of The Mad Potter studios, paint one of their many varieties of pottery cups, and for each cup or mug painted, $1 goes to the Living Water International in hopes of more unfortunate areas having access to clean water. Kick-off event is Thursday, April 9, 6–8pm at The Mad Potter West 1341 S. Voss Rd. | 713.278.7300.

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Photography by PWL Studio

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EVENT MAGNIFICENT MARIE HOUSTON BALLET BALL WHY TO CELEBRATE THE NEW PRODUCTION OF MARIE WHERE WORTHAM THEATRE CENTER WHEN FEBRUARY 21 This very special evening was themed to celebrate Marie Antoinette and the new show added to the Houston Ballet, Marie. Female guests wore Victorian pieces of clothing that reassured their Francophile standing. Ladies shimmied into corsets while gents also played their part by donning original tuxes that embodied the bright pastels of the era. While Tony’s provided dinner, Houston Ballet artistic director Stanton Welch treated guests to two new stage numbers. And with a standing ovation the court agrees: Marie Antoinette lives.

Lisa Epley, Lindsey Love

Karen Payne

Christopher Mendel, Deanna Osborne, Monsour Taghdisi

Astrid Van Dyke

Lance & Alicia Smith, Kimberly & Frank DeLape

Tyson & Tena Faust

Vanessa & Perry Sendukas

Bobby & Phoebe Tudor

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CALENDAR

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april 2009

SUNDAY

PERFORMING ARTS + CONCERTS + SPORTS + FESTIVALS + GENERAL INTEREST

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

Jones SPA: The Ten Tenors

PLAN AHEAD May 1, CWMP Dave Matthews Band 7pm May 2, HOB Bob Schneider 8pm Toyota Fleetwood Mac 8pm May 3, CWMP Kenny Chesney 7:30pm May 14, Verizon Bonnie Raitt 8pm May 15, Verizon James Taylor 8pm May 24, HOB Gavin Rossdale 7pm May 31, CWMP No Doubt 7:30pm

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Hobby TUTS: Les Miserables 8pm Stages Repertory Theatre Wallflower 7:30pm Verizon Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band 8pm Wortham Da Camera: A Little Day Music 12pm

• April 1-5, Shell Houston Open at the Redstone Gold Club. shellhoustonopen.com • April 1-12, Artania at The Showgrounds of Sam Houston Race Park. theshowgrounds.com

Hobby TUTS: Les Miserables 2 & 7:30pm Jones HS: John Williams & Rachmaninoff 2:30pm Main Street A Midsummer Night’s Dream 3pm Reliant Center: WrestleMania Axxess 8am & 1pm | Stadium: The 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania

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5:30pm Stages Wallflower 3pm Toyota Rockets vs. Portland Trail Blazers 6pm

• Tour for Life Adopt-A-Thon, 12-6pm at the CAP shelter off Katy Freeway. For further info, visit cap4pets.org or call 281.497.0591.

Alley Mauritius 7:30pm H obby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 2 & 7:30pm HOB Silverstein 6pm Stages Wallflower 3pm Toyota Aeros vs. San Antonio Rampage 4:05pm

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Minute Maid HOME OPENER: Astros vs.

Chicago Cubs 6:05pm Toyota WWE RAW! 6:30pm

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• April 6-9, Got milk? Mustache Mobile Tour cruises through Houston hosting free events to encourage residents to not only live well, but to drink well with nature’s wellness drink – milk. Visit whymilk.com for more info or email arueber@webershandwick.com.

• April 6-12, Men’s Clay Court Tennis Championship at River Oaks Country Club. riveroaksinternational.com

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Toyota Rockets vs. New Orleans Hornets 7:30pm

Metropolis screening, 7:30pm at Discovery Green. Part of KUHF’s Silent Film Concerts.

Admission is free. Visit discoverygreen.com for more information.

Apr il 17-19, Fri ends of the Houston Li brary 2009 Annual Book Sale at the Convention Center. For more info, visit friendsofhpl.org.

Apr il 17-26, Worldfest H ouston I nternati onal Film & Vi deo Festi val at Studio AMC 30. For more info, visit worldfest.org.

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Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm | Project Divisi: Crossroads of America 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Chicago Cubs 7:05pm Toyota Rockets vs.

Orlando Magic 7:30pm Warehouse Live Josh Hoge 7pm

Alley Mauritius 7:30pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm

Alley Mauritius 2:30 & 7:30pm Hobby Masquerade Theatre: Children of Eden 2pm | BIH: The Wizard of Oz 2 & 7:30pm Jones HS: Leila Josefowicz Plus Brahms’ First 2:30pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Cincinnati Reds 1:05pm Reliant Stadium: Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey 1:30 & 5:30pm Stages Wallflower 3pm Wortham HGO: Rigoletto 2pm | Indo-American Assoc.: A Tribute to Bismillah Khan 6pm

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Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

Apr il 17,

Minute Maid Astros vs. Cincinnati Reds 7:05pm Warehouse Live The Faint w/ Ladytron 7pm Wortham Inprint: Bill Bryson 7:30pm

• Center for Houston’s Future Annual Luncheon, 12pm at Hyatt Regency Hotel – Downtown Houston. Contact Jaymie Pedigo at jpedigo@centerforhoustonsfuture.org or visit centerforhoustonsfuture.org.

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Alley Mauritius 7:30pm HOB Zac Brown Band 7pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 7:05pm Warehouse Live Black Label Society 7pm

Buffalo Bayou “Looking Back” History Boat Tours, 10am & 1pm at Buffalo Bayou. buffalobayou.org April 25,

Alley Mauritius 2:30 & 7:30pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 7:30pm Jones HS: Leading Ladies of the Silver Screen 7:30pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Milwaukee Brewers 1:05pm Wortham HGO: Rigoletto 2pm

• April 27, 21st Annual JCC Charity Golf Tournament at Black Horse Golf Club. For more info, call Cynthia Whittington at 713.729.2900 ext.3212 or email her at cwhittington@jcchouston.org.

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Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm HOB Wonka presents the Bamboozle Road Show 6pm Jones SPA: The Ten Tenors 8pm Miller Outdoor Theatre HITS: Beauty and the Beast 8pm Stages Wallflower 7:30pm Wortham Houston International Dance Coalition: Dance Salad Festival 7:30pm

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25th Anniversary BP MS 150 H ouston-to-Austin Bike Tour at Tully Stadium, Rhodes Stadium or Waller Stadium. For more info, visit ms150.org.

April 18–26, H ouston I nternati onal Festival highlighting Ireland, downtown in Hermann Square & surrounding City Hall area. Visit ifest.org for more info.

April 18–19,

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Alley Mauritius 7:30pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm Reliant Stadium: Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey 7:30pm Stages Wallflower 7:30pm

• April 15–May 17, Grey Gardens at Stages Theatre. Visit stagestheatre.com for more info.

Alley Mauritius 7:30pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm | Masquerade Theatre: Children of Eden 8pm MOT HITS: Beauty and the Beast 8pm Reliant Stadium: Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey 7:30pm Stages Wallflower 7:30pm Toyota Nickelback 7pm

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Free MD Anderson Program for Young Breast Cancer Patients & Survivors, 8:30am-1:30pm on the 8th floor of the Cancer Prevention Building. To make reservations or for more information, please call 713.792.8208 or visit mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor.

April 18,

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Alley Mauritius 7:30pm HOB Kevin Rudolf 6pm MOT Houston Metropolitan Dance Company: Swing, Jive, Pop! Into Dance 11am Minute Maid Astros vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 7:05pm Verizon Jagermeister Music Tour featuring Pennywise & Pepper 6pm

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Alley Mauritius 7:30pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 7:30pm Warehouse Live Ryan Bingham & the Dead Horses 8pm Wortham Progressive Forum: An Evening with Lester Brown 7:30pm

• April 26, Sheila Stark Phillips – Wit & Wisdom, 3pm, at The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston. thegrand.com

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Alley Mauritius 7:30pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 7:30pm H obby TUTS: Rent 8pm HOB UB40 7pm Verizon Cake 7pm Warehouse Live The Black Kids & Mates of State 8pm

Alley Mauritius 7:30pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 7:05pm

• April 23, Second Annual Lilith’s Spring, 6:30pm8:30pm at The Laura U Collection. For more information, visit laurau.com or call

Food Affair in Sugar Land. For more info, visit thegrandwineandfoodaffair.com or call 281.SIP.WINE

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Hobby TUTS: Les Miserables 8pm Jones HS: John Williams & Rachmaninoff 8pm | Reliant Center: WrestleMania Axxess 6pm | Stages Wallflower 7:30pm Toyota Aeros vs. Iowa Chops 7:05pm

• Artful Thursday – Several Dancers Core: I Unravel Myself and Make the World 6:30pm at the MFAH in the Brown Auditorium Theatre in the Caroline Weiss Law Building. mfah.org • “The A-List” Crisis Intervention of Houston’s annual gala, 6pm at the River Oaks Country Club.

713.533.4501.

• April 22–26, The Grand Wine &

Neil Sedaka, 8pm, at The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston. thegrand.com April 25,

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Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm Meridian Ratatat 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Chicago Cubs 7:05pm Stages Wallflower 7:30pm Toyota Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band 7:30pm Warehouse Live Not Without a Fight Tour featuring New Found Glory 7:30pm

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THURSDAY

713 522 0855.

Alley Mauritius 7:30pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 7:30pm Hobby Dominic Walsh Dance Theater: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart 7:30pm | TUTS: Rent 8pm Jones HS: Slatkin’s Beethoven Eighth 8pm

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NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? TRY ONE-STOP SHOPPING AT HOUSTONTHEATERDISTRICT.ORG

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Hobby TUTS: Les Miserables 8pm HOB Wade Bowen w/ Band of Heathens 8pm Jones HS: Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra 8pm Minute Maid Spring Training: Astros vs. Cleveland Indians 7:05pm Reliant Center: WrestleMania Axxess 6pm Stages Wallflower 8pm Verizon Craig Ferguson: Stand Up for Houston’s Children 9pm Wortham Da Camera: Dafnis Prieto Quintet 8pm

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H-E-B Houston Children’s Festival, 10:30am-6pm Downtown in front of City Hall. houstonchildrensfestival.com April 4-5, The Woodl ands Waterway Arts Festival. For information regarding hours, parking, etc., visit woodlandsartsfestival.com.

Hobby TUTS: Les Miserables 2 & 8pm HOB An Evening with Yonder Mountain String Band 8pm Jones HS: John Williams & Rachmaninoff 8pm Main Street Theatre The Reluctant Dragon 1 & 4pm | A Midsummer Night’s Dream 8pm Minute Maid Spring Training: Astros vs. Cleveland Indians 1:05pm Reliant Center: WrestleMania Axxess 8am, 1:30 & 7pm Toyota WWE Hall of Fame 6pm Verizon Comedy Central Live: Stephen Lynch 3 Balloons Tour 8pm

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April 4-5,

Alley Mauritius 8pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm HOB Gavin Degraw w/ Angel Taylor 7:30pm MOT HITS: Beauty and the Beast 8pm Stages Wallflower 8pm Toyota Aeros vs. San Antonio Rampage 7:35pm Wortham Houston International Dance Coalition: Dance Salad Festival 7:30pm

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• Virtuosi of Houston’s “Legends of the Future IV: H onoring Our Armed Forces” Annual Dinner and Concert, 6:30pm at the Hotel InterContinental. virtuosiofhouston.org • 10am – 8pm, Nordstrom Fits America, call 832.201.2700 x1240

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• Waugh Bridge Bat Colony Pontoon Boat Tours downtown in Buffalo Bayou. For more

• Best of Buffalo Bayou Pontoon Boat Tours downtown in Buffalo Bayou. buffalobayou.org

info, visit buffalobayou.org.

Alley Mauritius 8pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 8pm | Masquerade Theatre: Children of Eden 8pm HOB Christopher Titus 7:30pm Jones SPA: Monumental 8pm | HS: Leila Josefowicz Plus Brahms’ First 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Cincinnati Reds 7:05pm Reliant Stadium: Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey 10:30am & 7:30pm Stages Wallflower 8pm Toyota Celtic Woman 8pm Verizon Amateur Cage Fighting–The Young Guns 8pm Wortham HGO: Rigoletto 7:30pm

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Alley Mauritius 8pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 8pm Jones HS: Leading Ladies of the Silver Screen 8pm MOT Golden Dragon Acrobats of China 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Milwaukee Brewers 7:05pm Verizon No Fear Energy Music Tour featuring Lamb of God 7pm Wortham HB: Ben Stevenson Academy Spring Showcase 7pm | HGO: Rigoletto 7:30pm

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• April 24, “I Wear My Sunglasses” 80’s at Night Sammy’s Rockstar Karaoke & Main Street Rockstar Competition benefiting Boo Town and Houston Fringe Festival. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Visit sammysat2016main.com for more information.

Alley Mauritius 2:30 & 8pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 2 & 8pm HOB Who’s Bad 8pm Jones Morrissey 8pm Meridian Merge+Music+Festival 11am MOT HITS: Beauty and the Beast 8pm Stages Wallflower 8pm Wortham Houston International Dance Coalition: Dance Salad Festival 7:30pm

Alley Mauritius 2:30 & 8pm Hobby BIH: The Wizard of Oz 2 & 8pm | Masquerade Theatre: Children of Eden 8pm Jones HS: Leila Josefowicz Plus Brahms’ First 8pm Main Street Sideways Stories from Wayside High 1 & 4pm Meridian Amon Amarth 7pm | Eric Sardinas 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Cincinnati Reds 6:05pm Reliant Stadium: Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey 11:30am, 3:30 & 7:30pm Stages Wallflower 8pm

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• April 18–19, B ridal Symposium at Reliant Park. bridalsymposium.com Alley Mauritius 2:30 & 8pm | Rock ‘N’ Roll 2:30 & 8pm HOB Etta James and The Roots Band 7pm Jones HS: Aladdin and the Arabian Nights 10& 11:30am | HS: Leading Ladies of the Silver Screen 8pm Main Street Sideways Stories from Wayside High 1 & 4pm MOT Nrityagram Dance 8pm Minute Maid Astros vs. Milwaukee Brewers 7:05pm Verizon Seal 7pm Wortham HB: Ben Stevenson Academy Spring Showcase 1:30 & 7pm

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TO PURCHASE TICKETS, PLEASE CONTACT: ALLEY THEATRE alleytheatre.org

CWMP- 20th Season Coming Soon!

Check website for 2009 season! woodlandscenter.org HOBBY CENTER 713.315.2525 thehobbycenter.org

HOUSE OF BLUES hob.com

JONES HALL 713.227.3974 joneshall.org MAIN STREET THEATER 713.524.6706 mainstreettheater.com

MERIDIAN meridianhouston.com MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE (MOT) milleroutdoortheatre.com MINUTE MAID PARK houston.astros.mlb.com MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS mfah.org MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE hmns.org STAGES REPERTORY THEATRE 713.527.0123 stagestheatre.com

THEATER DISTRICT OUTDOOR cityofhouston.gov TOYOTA CENTER 1.866.4HOU.tix houstontoyotacenter.com VERIZON THEATER verizonwirelesstheater.com WAREHOUSE LIVE warehouselive.com WORTHAM CENTER 713.237.1439 worthamcenter.org GENTE DE TEATRO gentedeteatro.org RELIANT PARK reliantpark.com

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MUSEUM DISTRICT 1. THE MENIL COLLECTION menil.org

Through April 26 the exhibition Face Off: A Selection of Old Masters and Others from The Menil Collection presents prints from the 15th-19th centuries, preRenaissance sculptures, and a handful of modern and contemporary paintings. From painting to flesh, this exhibit revolves around the past with works of artists like Francisco Goya, Honoré Daumier, Francis Bacon and other artists. Opening March 27 is Marlene Dumas: Measuring Your Own Grave. This exhibit explores the spectrums of human life and emotion through the use of human figures. This is the first time artist Marlene Dumas has been mounted in the United States.

2. HOUSTON CENTER FOR PHOTOGRAPHY hcponline.org

Because we live in an industrial city, we often forget that Houston is surrounded by nature.

Human Nature seeks to question, whether we as humans seek true necessities of life or if we are just living to seek material objects, all the while disregarding Mother Earth. Human Nature opens April 3 along with an accompanying exhibit Human Nature – Collaborations VI: Food that includes art from 18 students from 9 Houston area high schools.

3. THE ROTHKO CHAPEL rothkochapel.org

An intimate sanctuary available to people of every belief, this modern meditative environment was inspired by the paintings of American abstract expressionist Mark Rothko. The Chapel serves as both art museum and public forum and hosts a range of educational programs, inter-religious dialogues and symposia on critical issues.

4. BYZANTINE FRESCO CHAPEL MUSEUM menil.org/Byzantine

The only intact examples of 13th-century Byzantine wall painting of this size and importance in the Western Hemisphere, these masterworks were stolen by thieves from a chapel in the Turkish occupied town of Lysi, cut into pieces and smuggled off the island of Cyprus.

Rescued and restored by the Menil Foundation, the dome and apse now reside on a longterm loan from the Church of Cyprus in an intimate chapel designed by award-winning architect Francois de Menil.

5. HOUSTON CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY CRAFT crafthouston.org

Texas Turned: Gulf Coast Woodturners runs through April 17 and is located in artist hall.

Members of the Gulf Coast Woodturners Association (GCWA) made Woodturned pieces that were selected

by HCCC fine craft curator Gwynne Rukenbrod.

Literally Figurative opens April 4.

6. LAWNDALE ART CENTER lawndaleartcenter.org

April 22-26 is the 20th Century Modern Market includes a free public lecture on April 22, 7 pm, by Robert Summers titled Lone Star Modern: Discovering the Origins of Modernism in Texas Art that examines the art influence of places like Europe and New York coming to Texas, with an emphasis on Houston artists.

On April 24, 6-9pm, the Preview Party will allow patrons to shop early for furniture, accessories, clothing, jewelry, rugs and art. Tickets are $30 per person for Lawndale members and $40 for non-members; this includes admission throughout the weekend for nonmembers. Market Weekend is April 25 and 26, 10am5pm; admission is $5. Exhibits at the Lawndale Center include Ritual Prototypes for the Afterlife, Ta Marmaruga, The Listening Post and Silent Topographies, which all run through April 18.

7. BUFFALO SOLDIERS NATIONAL MUSEUM buffalosoldiermuseum.com

The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum pays tribute to African-American military history from the Revolutionary War to modern times. During the 1860s, soldiers of the 10th U.S. Calvary were nicknamed “Buffalo Soldiers” for their fierce fighting ability and bravery.

8. HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON hmh.org

Through July 17, the exhibit Besa: Muslims Who Saved Jews During the Holocaust tells the story of Albania and its hand in helping Jews during the German occupation.

Norman Gershman is a Colorado-based photographer who wanted to collect the names of non-Jews who helped save Jews during the Holocaust. He discovered that some names were from Albanian Muslims. When he interviewed these Albanian aides 16. april09 002houston

he asked why had they rescued the Jews and they responded Besa, a creed deeply rooted in Albanian culture and solidified by the Muslim faith. As a quarterly education session the Museum will present Legacies and Lesson, educational sessions about the Holocaust.

Extended hours start April 2.

9. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF HOUSTON cmhouston.org Celebrate a new green state-of-mind with

Earth Day Wonderweek starting April 16-22. In order to help children understand environment awareness the Museum will host eco-friendly games, activities and even a free tree giveaway. Day of the Child is April 27, learn about the arts and traditions of Mexico. Make piñatas, watch ballet folklórico and take home a book with you. With the recent addition to the Museum comes the new exhibit Powerplay which focuses on getting kids active and helping them understand the relationship between exercise and health. This engaging exhibit houses a three-story climbing installation called the PowerTower and a dancing/twister mash-up called Stretch It Out. 10. THE HEALTH MUSEUM thehealthmuseum.org

New Permanent Feature–You: The Exhibit is similar to the 1939 World’s Fair World of Tomorrow featuring the latest multimedia and special effects technology to help visitors understand what the makeup is of “you”.

This exhibit explores your physiological traits that have helped create what you are. Some highlights include a Body Scanner that allows you to see your organs in real time, a Life-Span-O-Meter that can determine a statistical lifespan and Global View of how living in Houston can compare to life in another city.

11. HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE hmns.org

If you need help Foolin’ Around with the Family, then you should go to the Houston Museum of Natural Science on April 1, 5:30-7:30pm; tickets are $15 per person.

Through April 12, The Birth of Christianity: A Jewish Story – Through the display of ancient scrolls, objects and artifacts, this exhibit tells the fascinating story of two of the world’s most important religions. Swim alongside the ultimate predator in Sharks 3D, IMAX’s newest film.

12. HOUSTON ZOO houstonzoo.org

On April 11, guests will be able to meet the Easter Bunny and other smaller animals after a buffet breakfast. Zoo Member prices for tickets are $19 for adults and $14.50 for children, and Zoo non-member prices are $23 for adults and $18.50 for children; infants

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under the age of 2 are free. April 18-19, 9am-3pm, The Houston Zoo and Waste Management will have a party for the planet, celebrating Earth Day 2009.

Enjoy a Recycling Relay Race and a film festival of 60second shorts in which the winner will receive a Green Globe award.

13. RICE UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY ricegallery.org

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17. CZECH CENTER MUSEUM czechcenter.org

The Czech Center Museum Houston works to preserve, record and celebrate the language, scholarship and arts of Bohemia, Moravia, Silesia and Slovakia. There will be a featured film series showcasing The Power of Good, the documentary of Nicholas Winton’s exploits saving Czech children from Nazi tyranny, and Citizen Havel Goes on Vacation.

Rice Gallery is dedicated to the creation and exhibition of site-specific installation art. The gallery is located on the ground floor of Sewall Hall, near the main entrance to one of the nation’s most beautiful college campuses.

Through May 9, Henrique Oliviera: New Installation.

14. THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, HOUSTON mfah.org

Thru April 17, Core 2009 – check out works from the museum’s Houston core program which awards residencies to highly motivated, emerging visual artist and art scholars. Going with the Grain: Woodcuts from Houston is on view until April 19. Following the history and process of woodcut art, this exhibition is divided into four sections: European development of the woodcut, its revival in Europe, its revitalization in the U.S. and Mexico, and lastly woodcut implementation in Contemporary Art. Thru May 22, snap up a one-of-akind Afghan-made scarf with 75% of sales benefiting Afghan Hands.

15. CONTEMPORARY ARTS MUSEUM HOUSTON camh.org

Through April 12, The Puppet Show features artworks displayed in a variety of media that explore the imagery of puppets. From actual puppets to works that evoke topics associated with puppetry and others that introduce new variations of this historical and global form of theater, The Puppet Show features works that are, in various ways, movable and/or moving objects that perform as alter-egos for the artist or as human surrogates – often with wicked good humor. Through May 3, Perspectives 165: Contents Under Pressure: Work From Houston Area Teens – Conceived by the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston’s Teen Council, the exhibition explores the dual theme of containers and containment.

KEY TO SYMBOLS



PARKING RESTAURANT SHOPPING SNACKS FREE ADMISSION

16. THE JUNG CENTER OF HOUSTON junghouston.org

April 3-29 the Jung Center presents Light in the Eighties by artist Philip Renteria. His paintings are renowned for the sparseness of form, elegant marks and color; the exhibit is found in the main and side galleries.

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18. JOHN C. FREEMAN WEATHER MUSEUM wxresearch.org

How long can we survive on this revolving blue ball?

On April 21, the John C. Freeman Weather Museum will address your curiosity in a lecture titled Global Climate Change: In Search of the Science. This event will be hosted at the University of St. Thomas Scanlan Room. April 22 is not just Earth Day but the birthday of the John C. Freeman Weather Museum.

The celebration is free to attend, 10am-7pm; they will also be celebrating the City on the Bayou Exhibition.

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ART HOUSES+MUSEUMS+EXHIBITS 1. diverseworks| 2. vaughan christopher gallery | 3. ctrl gallery

MUSEUMS ART CAR MUSEUM artcarmuseum.com 140 Heights Blvd. 713.861.5526

BLAFFER GALLERY class.uh.edu/blaffer UH Campus, Ent. 16, 713.743.9530

GALVESTON ARTS CENTER galvestonartscenter.org 2127 Strand St. 409.763.2403 HERITAGE SOCIETY heritagesociety.org 1100 Bagby 713.655.1912

BARBARA DAVIS GALLERY barbaradavisgallery.com 4411 Montrose 713.520.9200 thru April 11, Christopher Deeton: Numinous BERING & JAMES GALLERY beringandjames.com 805 Rhode Place #500, 713.524.0101 thru April 10, Landscape: Past and Present opens April 24, Fireworks and Wheels Exhibit BETZ GALLERY betzgallery.com 1208 W. Gray 713.576.6954

MUSEUM OF PRINTING HISTORY 1324 W. Clay 713.522.4652 printingmuseum.org thru April 11, Of Birds and Texas: The Art of Scott and Stuart Gentling thru April 11, Shell Prints of Jean Charles Chenu thru April 25, Illustrated Fine Printing: Whittington & Matrix in America

BLAFFER GALLERY 4800 Calhoun Rd. 713.743.9521 opens April 11, 2009 School of Art Masters Thesis Exhibitions

PROJECT ROW HOUSES projectrowhouses.org 2501 Holman 713.526.7662

CANAL ST. GALLERY canalstreetgallery.com 2219 Canal St. 713.223.2219 opens April 1, Glenn Lyles

DOMY BOOKS domystore.com 1709 Westheimer 713.523.3669

COMMUNITY ARTISTS’ COLLECTIVE 1501 Elgin 713.523.1616 communityartistscollective.org COMMUNE ON NORTH communeonnorth.com 2445 North Blvd.

ART HOUSES

CAROLINE COLLECTIVE carolinecollective.com 4820 Caroline 713.825.4613

AEROSOL WARFARE GALLERY aerosolwarfare.com 2110 Jefferson ANYA TISH GALLERY anyatishgallery.com 4411 Montrose 713.524.2299

APAMA MACKEY GALLERY mackeygallery.com 628 East 11th Street 713.850.8527 thru April 4, Eric Schroeder: Wallpaper | Gabriela Trzebinski: Tibor and the Human Head, video ARCHWAY GALLERY archwaygallery.com 2305 Dunlavy 713.522.2409 opens April 4, John Slaby ARTSCAN GALLERY rudolphprojects.com 1836 Richmond 713.807.1836

ART LEAGUE HOUSTON artleaguehouston.org 1953 Montrose Blvd. 713.523.4080 thru April 17, Repository thru April 17, The Board Room

2.

BOOKER-LOWE GALLERY bookerlowegallery.com 4623 Feagan St. 713.862.8364

UNIVERSITY MUSEUM tsu.edu/museum 3100 Cleburne Ave. 713.313.7145

18 HANDS GALLERY 18handsgallery.com 249 West 19th St. 713.869.3099

3.

ART STORM artstormhouston.com 4828 Caroline St. 713.568.8174 thru April 18, Fidel Ordonez + Mural opens April 25, Adam Lister

HOUSTON FIRE MUSEUM houstonfiremuseum.org 2304 Milam 713.524.5395

ORANGE SHOW orangeshow.org 2402 Munger 713.926.6368

1.

CTRL GALLERY ctrlgallery.com 3907 Main St. 713.523.2875 thru April 18, Get a Rope opens April 24, Heimir Björgúlfsson

DAKOTA GALLERY 2324 Shearn 713.523.7440 dakotaframing.com/dfp/dakotagallery.asp

DESANTOS GALLERY desantosgallery.com 1724 Richmond 713.520.1200 DIVERSEWORKS diverseworks.org 1117 East Main at Naylor 713.223.8346 thru April 18, Solution

G GALLERY 301 East 11th Street 713.822.4842 redbudgallery.com/gGalleryIndex.html opens April 1, Clean Slate opens May 6, Worn In GALLERY 1724 gallery1724.com 1724 Bissonnet 713.523.2547

GALLERY SONJA ROESCH gallerysonjaroesch.com 2309 Caroline 713.659.5424 thru May 2, Frozen Light

DARKE GALLERY darkegallery.com 5321 Feagan 713.542.3802 opens April 4, Gwen Plunkett, Linda Darke, Sharon Kyle Kuhn & Julia Koivumaa Wax Works DEBORAH COLTON GALLERY 2445 North Boulevard 713.869.5151 deborahcoltongallery.com thru April 25, Spring Molly Gochman

FOTOFEST fotofest.org 1113 Vine Street 713.223.5522 thru April 25, New Visualism

GITE GALLERY thegitegallery.com 2024 Alabama St. 713.523.3311

GOLDESBERRY GALLERY goldesberrygallery.com 2625 Colquitt 713.528.0405 thru April 24, Let Me See: Tara Conley GREEN HOUSE GALLERY greenhouseartgallery.com 716 W. Alabama St. 713.535.6462 opens April 3, Bark for Art, benefits the Red Collar Rescue opens April 10, Salon International 2009 opens April 24, Joseph Zbukic, by reservation only GREMILLION & CO. FINE ART gremillion.com 2501 Sunset Blvd. 713.522.2701 opens April 2, Christian Renociat

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GUTHRIE CONTEMPORARY 2734 Virginia St. 713.522.8086

HCC-CENTRAL GALLERY centralfinearts.info 3517 Austin 713.718.6570 opens April 28, Annual Spring Juried Student Art Exhibit HOUSTON LANDMARK GALLERY 1200 McKinney 713.927.8800 houstonlandmarkgallery.com HOUSTON STUDIOS 707 Walnut St. #100, 713.223.0951 HOLLYWOOD FRAME GALLERY 2427 Bissonnet 713.942.8885 hollywoodframegallery.com thru April 23, Yes, You are Moving HOOKS-EPSTEIN hooksepsteingalleries.com 2631 Colquitt St. 713.522.0718 thru April 25, Leamon Green JOAN WICH & CO. GALLERY joanwichgallery.com 4411 Montrose 713.526.1557 thru April 18, John Sturtevant opens April 24, Rabéa Ballin KINZELMAN ART CONSULTING kinzelmanart.com 3909 Main Street 713.533.9923 KOELSCH GALLERY koelschgallery.com 703 Yale 713.626.0175

LAURA RATHE FINE ART laurarathe.com 2707 Colquitt 713.527.7700

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LAURA U COLLECTION lauraucollection.com 1840 Westheimer 713.522.0855

REDBUD GALLERY redbudgallery.com 303 E. 11th St. 713.862.2532

LOVETT INN ART GALLERY lovettinngallery.com 501 Lovett Blvd. 713.522.5224

RICE UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY 6100 Main St. 713.348.6069 ricegallery.org thru May 9, Henrique Oliveira

LAZZARA ART GALLERY gallerialazzara.com 5400 Mitcheldalle 713.681.0681 opens April 7, Spring Influence

M2 GALLERY m2-houston.com 325 W. 19th St. 713.861.6070

McCLAIN GALLERY mcclaingallery.com 2242 Richmond 713.520.9988 thru April 23, Ali Smith opens April 30, The Art Guys: New Clichés McMURTREY GALLERY mcmurtreygallery.com 3508 Lake St. 713.523.8238 thru April 25, Sydney Philen Yeager MEREDITH LONG GALLERY 2323 San Felipe 713.523.6671 meredithlonggallery.com

MIDTOWN ART CENTER midtownartcenter.com 3414 La Branch 713.521.8803 MOODY GALLERY moodygallery.com 2815 Colquitt 713.526.9911 thru April 25, Pat Colville

MOTHER DOG STUDIOS 720 Walnut 713.229.9760 home.earthlink.net/~motherdogstudios/ motherdogstudios MOXIE moxiehouston.com 2307 Dunlavy 713.807.7994

RETRO GALLERY retrogallery.com 1839 W. Alabama 713.522.7074

RUDOLPH PROJECTS I ARTSCAN GALLERY 1836 Richmond 713.807.1836 rudolphprojects.com SICARDI GALLERY sicardi.com 2246 Richmond 713.529.1313

SPACE 125GALLERY haatx.com 3201 Allen Parkway 713.527.9330 STUDIO 1107 East Freeway 713.224.5555

TALENTO BILINGUE tbhcenter.com 333 S. Jensen Drive 713.222.1213 opens April 14, Retratos y Banderas, TANSU tansustyle.com 321-B West 19th 713.880.5100 THE ARTFUL CORNER theartfulcorner.com 3423 White Oak Drive THOM ANDRIOLA newgallery.net 2627 Colquitt 713.520.7053 thru April 25, Cheryl Kelley THORNWOOD GALLERY thornwoodgallery.com 1201 Birdsall 713.861.2787 thru April 21, Xinsheng Want @ Colquitt

NAUHAUS GALLERY texascollaborative.com 223 E. 11th St. 281.615.4148

VAUGHAN CHRISTOPHER GALLERY 1217 South Shepherd 713.533.0816 vaughanchristopher.com opens May 7, Paul Manes

NOLAN-RANKIN GALLERIES 6 Chelsea Place 713.528.0664 nolan-rankingalleries.com

WADE WILSON ART wadewilsonart.com 4411 Montrose #200, 713.521.2977 opens April 4, Knut Pani opens April 3, Beneath the Seen

PARKERSON GALLERY artnet.com 3510 Lake St. 713.524.4945

WATERCOLOR ART SOCIETY 1601 West Alabama 713.942.9966 watercolorhouston.org

O’KANE GALLERY uhd.edu One Main St.@UHD 713.221.8042

PEEL GALLERY SHOP peelgallery.org 4411 Montrose Blvd. 713.520.8122

WINTER STREET STUDIOS winterstreetstudios.net 2101 Winter Street 713.862.0082

POISSANT GALLERY poissantgallery.com 5102 Center St. 713.868.9337

ZARPOSH INDIA GALLERY zarposhindia.com 1951 Richmond 713.668.2948

POST GALLERY postgallery.com 2121 Sage, Ste. 390, 713.622.4241 "by appointment only"

PROJECT ROW HOUSES projectrowhouses.org 2519 Holman St. 713.526.7662

XNIHILO GALLERY 2115taft.org 2115 Taft St. 713.622.1846 thru April 25, Stations of the Cross

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Photography by Anthony Rathbun

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EVENT SYNERGY – SPACETAKER’S 5TH ANNUAL GALA WHY TO CELEBRATE AND PRESENT HOUSTON’S VIBRANT ART SCENE WHERE WINTER STREET STUDIOS WHEN FEBRUARY 25

The creatively converted Japanese Geisha scenery, which was once Winter Street Studios, hosted SYNERGY. The event showcased a wide variety of arts groups that help create a unique culture in Houston. With over 800 guests on hand and DJs Sun & Soular Grooves spinning, everyone had a good time. Chairs of the event – Tiffany Halik, Alton Laday, Gail Rubin, honorary chair Caroline Tyson and honorary chair Wade Wilson – outdid themselves for one of 002houston’s favorite causes!

Shannon Holiday, Molly Gochman

Steven Hempel, Michelle Aviña, Adam Gibson

Gonzo, CKC

Barbara Davis, Deborah Colton

A

LIVING SMART WITH PATRICIA GRAS

Alton LaDay, Tiffany Halik

Heather Wagner, Kristine Mills

Travesty Dance

Living Smart with Patricia Gras airs on Sundays at 3pm and Thursdays at 10:30pm on HoustonPBS Ch. 8.

DIANA PETROCHELLI I still read articles by people who say the negative can work with the planet to be in harmony. “Let’s not impact of global warming is an exaggeration. They forget the planet will survive. It has been around for claim those of us who feel it is a serious problem are millions of years and it will outlive us but it appears alarmists. I am open to debate on this but in the our actions are now turning the planet into meantime, let me share some facts. There an inhospitable place for us,” says COOPERATION, are glacier retreats, rising sea levels, Petrochelli.

NOT COMPETITION, IS arctic shrinkage, a number of species THE VERY BASIS OF EXISTat risk of extinction and extreme Petrochelli owned her own company ING LIFE SYSTEMS AND OF weather events. I am alarmed but posiwhich focused on intercultural training FUTURE SURVIVAL. tive we can do something about it. That’s as well as conflict resolution. Wanting a —Bill Mollison, Founder of Permaculture why I invited permaculturist Diana change in her life, she decided to close Petrochelli to Living Smart. her company and take six months off from working. At that time, hurricanes Katrina and Rita “Permaculture is the design of an ecological system for hit the Texas and Louisiana coasts and Petrochelli realhuman life in a sustainable way. It is a concept that ized that “we needed to be mindful of sustainability, works with nature, not against nature.” Petrochelli elab- because if we don’t, this could happen more often orates that we as humans should work with what we than we can imagine.” have around us. “Build in Houston with what we have in Houston,” Petrochelli says.

Diana Petrochelli earned her certification as a “Permacultural Designer” from the Permaculture “There are three principles in Permaculture: the care of Institute-USA. She recently joined the Pachamama self, the care of the earth, and giving back to the peo- alliance and has helped organize the Awakening the ple or the planet the excess.” Petrochelli shares this Dreamer, Changing the Dream Symposium in Houston. requires one to understand how the planet works, so we The Pachamama alliance is a nonprofit which works 20. april09 002houston

PATRICIA GRAS + DIANA PETROCHELLI

with indigenous groups in the Amazon basins of Ecuador and Peru. Their goal is to protect the world’s rainforests and make people aware Planet Earth does not offer free and limitless services. “We need to stop ecological degradation and learn a different way of life if we want our future generations to thrive.”

For more information on this topic, go to our website, under Diana Petrochelli.

Share your experiences by either calling 713.743.8513 or emailing livingsmart@houstonpbs.org.

If you miss this program, or if you would like to view streaming videos of past Living Smart shows on the Internet, go to our website. Patricia Gras is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and the producer and host for Living Smart with Patricia Gras.

You can reach her at patriciagras.blogspot.com.

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By Jenni Rebecca Stephenson

e

ACH YEAR, UPON THE ARRIVAL OF APRIL 1ST, WE BRACE OURSELVES FOR THE TRADITIONAL ARRAY OF APRIL FOOLS’ DAY PRANKS. SENSES MORE KEEN THAN USUAL, OUR EYES FOCUSED AND EARS PERKED, WE ENTER OUR OFFICES AND SCHOOLS POISED FOR ANY POTENTIAL GAG AT OUR EXPENSE AND READY TO DEFLECT EVEN THE MOST ZEALOUS JOKER. THERE WILL BE NO SLIP ON THE BANANA PEEL OR SNIFF OF THE WATER-LOGGED LAPEL FLOWER THIS YEAR – WE KNOW BETTER BY NOW. YET, SOME COMPANIES, SUCH AS GOOGLE, PERPETUATE THE HOLIDAY BY RELEASING CURIOUS NEW FEATURES ON APRIL 1ST THAT NONETHELESS SLIP PAST OUR IMMEDIATE RADAR. IN 2000, THE COMPANY ANNOUNCED “MENTALPLEX,” A SEARCH ENGINE CAPABLE OF READING ONE’S MIND, THEREBY ELIMINATING THE NEED FOR TYPING IN SEARCH INQUIRIES. IN 2006, IT WAS “GOOGLE ROMANCE” – THE SOLUTION TO ‘YET ANOTHER SEARCH PROBLEM.’ BUT IN 2008, GOOGLE WENT FOR BROKE WITH A SERIES OF PRANKS RANGING FROM “GMAIL CUSTOM TIME” (ALLOWING USERS TO PREDATE MESSAGES TO ENSURE TIMELINESS) TO ADDING “I’M FEELING LUCKY” TO GOOGLE CALENDAR (GIVING USERS THE OPTIONS TO ADD DATES WITH CERTAIN CELEBRITIES TO THEIR SCHEDULE). THIS YEAR, WHILE RECORDING YOUR DATE WITH ANNA KOURNIKOVA, REMEMBER TO ADD A FEW OF HOUSTON’S AMUSING ART EVENTS TO YOUR CALENDAR!

April 3, 6-9pm – “Beneath the Seen” Opening Reception @ Wade Wilson Gallery Make a date for the opening reception of Wade Wilson’s latest group show. Wilson curates the showcase of new works by artists Lucinda Cobley, Danielle Frankental, Joseph Marioni, Jill Moser, Steve Murphy, Yigal Ozeri and Mark Williams. Presenting artists best known as painters, the exhibition focuses on studies and works on paper – affording the audience the rare treat of witnessing artists working outside of their preferred media, where new inspirations can take root. Wade Wilson Gallery – Free. wadewilsonart.com

artists Dick Moiel and Kathy Poeppel at Jackson Hill’s Houston Studio Glass.

April 4, 2-9pm – I C Art: 4th Annual Open Studio Tour Satisfy your curiosity about the inner workings of a working artist’s studio and catch a glimpse of public and private art spaces along the Washington Avenue Corridor. Pop in on participating artists to visit, witness demonstrations and peruse works on display and available for sale. With a printed map in hand, this self-guided tour is the perfect opportunity to explore the countless/quirky art spaces within the First & Sixth Wards and West End, housing both emerging and well-established artists represented by fine galleries across Texas.

Including the West End Gallery, Winter Street Studios, the historic Pink House Gallery, as well as private spaces owned by Allan Rodewald, Michael Meazell and others – take an inside look where creativity lives. While studiohopping, make sure to catch demonstrations by glass

(RSVP to louisechehlaoui@usa.net.) americanvoices.org

Washington Corridor – Free. innerartcorridor.org April 23, 7-9pm – Jazz Bridge Musical Event Artists Louise Chehlaoui, Rania Daniel and Tanja Huybregts collaborate with St. Louis-based jazz pianist Phil Dunlap and Iraqi violinists Zana Jalal and Alan Salih for an evening uniting art and music. An organization dedicated to furthering the understanding of American music and culture in developing countries, American Voices Association hosts this special opening reception in the main gallery of Winter Street Studios, where the exhibition will be on display until April 30. Winter Street Studios – Free.

April 25, 3pm – Stop, Look and Listen: The New Songs Project @ The Menil Collection Education, creation and innovation collide as Da Camera Aspiring Artists perform newly written music along with texts composed by eighth grade students at HISD’s Grady Middle School. A joint program of Da Camera of Houston and Writers in the Schools, Stop, Look and Listen are free family concerts presented on The Menil Collection campus.

Combine a visit to the museum with an interactive and informative concert at this increasingly popular family event. Cy Twombly Gallery, 1501 Branard St. – Free. For

more info: 713.524.5050 or menil.org/programs/Programs.php

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April 25, 6:30pm – “Art with Heart” Charity Auction Celebrate a good cause with the 3rd annual “Art with Heart” Charity Art Auction, benefiting San Jose Clinic and its mission to provide quality medical/dental care and education for Greater Houston’s uninsured individuals and families. Over 200 original pieces of art will be on view, featuring both local professional artists and area high school students. Partake of wine and hors d’oeuvres, while swaying to jazz beats care of the Harry Sheppard Jazz Group and doing your part for the greater good.

Three Allen Center, 333 Clay Street – $50.

Info & art previews: sanjoseclinic.org April 30 through May 2, 7:30pm – Dominic Walsh Dance Theater’s The Trilogy – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Put the finishing touches on April with the much-anticipated Houston premiere of choreographer Dominic Walsh’s Mozart Trilogy at the Hobby Center. A collaboration with Sarasota Ballet of Florida and an homage to the composer’s piano sonatas, operatic works and symphonies, the trilogy has been a yearlong interstate work-in-progress.

Wolfgang, the first installment, premiered with Sarasota Ballet, while Amadeus premiered with Dominic Walsh Dance Theater – both to rave reviews. The third and final installment Mozart will be presented for the first time with its two predecessors and performed by both companies.

Thrilling cross-pollenization marks this unique instance of two outstanding contemporary dance companies combining forces. Hobby Center – Tickets $20-50. dwdt.org

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THE GALLERY

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By Sarah Gajkowski-Hill Photography by Kennon Evett

BOOKER-LOWE GALLERY 4623 feagan st., houston, tx 77007 | 713.880.1541 | bookerlowegallery.com | info@bookerlowegallery.com | hours wed-sat., 11am - 5pm

The

nana booker

Booker-Lowe Gallery on Feagan, between Memorial and the Heights, is the largest gallery in the country boasting Australian Aboriginal Art. This art is singular in that, although it is over 40,000 years old, it has been drawn on cave walls, on human bodies during ceremonies, and in the sand until relatively recently. Canvases were first introduced to the Aborigines in the 1940s.

While some of the artists still mix their paints from ochre and minerals derived from the earth and mixed with an indigenous fixative much like glue, the newer artists have started using acrylic on large medium-toothed linen canvas.

Nana Booker, co-owner of the gallery, has been the honorary consul to Australia for the State of Texas since 1999. She and her husband, co-owner M. David Lowe, have a great passion for the Aboriginal people. They travel to Australia yearly and meet with the directors at various artistic centers—which are organizations set up in the late 1970s to preserve the native cultures in the remotest parts of the continent. Both Booker and Lowe are people who interact regularly with both the elders of the tribe and the young artists who are being schooled in the way of their ancient artistic tradition. In this way, the artistic integrity of the communities is respected and the money earned with the sale of their art is spent on schools, paving roads and building community centers.

Some of the most modern-looking art is being created by the telling of ancient creation myths, or the “Dreamings,” of the oldest living culture. These indigenous people live in remote villages of the desert, plains and even the islands north of the Australian mainland. Major artistic communities spring from the Barrier Reef and the tip of Queensland, to Derby in far western Australia and even to the far tip of the Cape York Peninsula. Their creation tales are called Tjukurrpa, or the “Dream Time.” In this ancient world, only a few god-like characters reigned, with names such as the Rainbow Serpent and the Lightning Men. They roamed the barren earth and created human beings, plants, animals and geographic landmarks.

Only certain individuals are given custody of “Dreamings,” determined by where and when they were born and their ancestral ties. A series of dots and lines make the paintings pleasing to the eye and rhythmic—often songs are sung while the paintings are being made.

The Aborigines used to paint their stories on sand and the paint was made of a mixture of natural ochre or charcoal. The mixing of paint and the sand was what presumably made the paint draw itself into dot-like shapes. Some of the origin stories are of a crop, an animal or a season. “Honey Ant Dreaming,” “Water Dreaming” and “Two Kangaroos Dreaming” are all examples of names of “Dreamings” which are important to different communities.

The unique bird’s-eye view of the trails and footprints of animals and geographical areas makes the artwork resonates with a map-like quality. The lack of a horizon and Western perspective makes these works nearly burst with topographical and three-dimensional movement.

Owners Nana and David Lowe travel by plane and four-wheeler to the furthest regions of Australia – some places that aren’t even accessible during the rainy season – to pursue their private collection of the beautiful and vibrant pieces and to continue on their quest to bring Aboriginal art to the forefront of the American art scene. The gallery prides itself on showcasing a plethora of art from a myriad of artistic communities including regions such as the Lockhart River Art Gang and Papunya, Balgo and the Tiwi Islands. Their prices can range anywhere from $170 to $35,000. In addition to the shows, the BookerLowe Gallery shows at least one non-Aboriginal artist per year and is showcasing world-renowned speakers, such as an upcoming evening with Andrew Wagner, the Editor-in-Chief of American Craft.

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FOR ART’S SAKE

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By Nadia Michel Photography by Joan Marcus

FROM HOUSTON TO BROADWAY: THE WIZARD OF OZ TAKES TWO LOCAL GIRLS OVER THE RAINBOW (AND BACK AGAIN).

The Wizard of Oz will be at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts | April 7-19 Performances are Tuesday – Friday at 8pm; Saturday at 2 & 8pm; and Sunday at 2 & 7:30pm.

Tickets are available by calling 713.629.3700 or online at www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. | Tickets start at $21.

S

tarring on Broadway may seem like a far-fetched fantasy for most, but two local girls went over the rainbow and found a pot of gold. They are part of the ensemble cast of the The Wizard of Oz, which hits the stage at the Hobby Center this month. Part of a national tour, Oz is a large-scale Broadway musical that promises to take young and old on a magical journey.

A celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film starring Judy Garland, the stage version of The Wizard of Oz pulls out all the stops from the moment the tornado touches down and transports the audience to a dazzling art deco Oz, complete with munchkins, flying monkeys and plenty of pyrotechnics. Not surprisingly, local actors Sara Ruzicka and K.C. Leiber are plenty excited to be performing in their hometown.

k.c. leiber sara ruzicka

The road to New York’s version of Oz has been paved with plenty of hard work, though. “I’ve been doing this since I was little,” says 23-yearold Ruzicka, who plays a number of characters in the show. The actress, who moved to Houston from Virginia just before her senior year of high school, performed in The Nutcracker Ballet as a young girl and played Annie at the age of 11.

By the time she was 19, she was working with Theatre Under The Stars at the Hobby Center, making the trek from League City three times a week after school to practice her craft.

As Tree #1, Ruzicka is part of a trio which she describes, on a cell phone from her tour bus in Wabash, Indiana, as the “sexy and sassy trees of the Haunted Forest.”

She also plays smaller parts as a Winkie and an Ozian. As the understudy for the Wicked Witch role, Sara has the possibility of filling in as one of the main characters. As luck would have it, the day we spoke, Wicked Witch actress Pat Sivley twisted an ankle and Sara took over for the first time.

24-year-old K.C. Leiber, who grew up in the Heights, also started her training early.

As a teen, she worked with HITS, putting on shows at Miller Outdoor Theatre. She was part of the dance program at Episcopal High School, which was serious enough to get invited to perform in Austria. After graduating from the Musical Theatre program at Syracuse University, Leiber remained in New York City, where she had a short stint as a waitress. A couple of months into the job at a French brasserie, serving drinks to the likes of Mel Brooks, she dedicated herself entirely to auditioning. It eventually paid off when she landed The Wizard of Oz. “I find it amazing that I’m doing this show. When I was little I used to watch the movie every single day!” she says.

“I am the Mayoress of Munchkin Land and I boss the mayor around,” she says of the pink cotton candy-wigged character she plays. Leiber also raves about her part as a gang member in the Jitterbugs scene – a 20’s inspired jazz segment that was cut from the original movie. In addition to these ensemble roles, she must prepare to take over the coveted Glinda part, in the event Caitlin Maloney is unable to go on. “A lot of it is just watching, and staying on your toes,” she explains.

Being in a Broadway musical isn’t always glamorous, though. The girls spend most of their time on the tour bus, going from city to city. The cast usually makes pit stops at food courts in malls around the country. “That way, everyone can find something to eat,” says Ruzicka, who relies heavily on Subway sandwiches.

Leiber, who loves traveling, was impressed when they stopped in Philadelphia, calling it a “mini-New York.”

With five production trucks, this is no dinky little show. Produced by NETworks Presentations and Cadillac Broadway Across America, The Wizard of Oz is directed by Nigel West and choreographed by Leigh Constantine. The visually stunning set and costumes are designed by Tim McQuillen-Wright. Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow are a perennial children’s favorite. Perhaps, a little trip to Emerald City is just what we grownups need, too.

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By Sarah Gish

RIVER OAKS, WORLDFEST, SYMPHONY, and BACON The Landmark River Oaks Theatre (landmarktheatres.com) is going international this month with Sin Nombre on April 10 and Paris 36 on April 17. In Sin Nombre, a Honduran teenager reunites with her father, bringing her closer to her dreams of emigrating to the United States, while Paris 36 is a French musical guaranteed to make us forget our current economic climate. This month marks the 42nd incarnation of the “Annual WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival”, which is dedicated to screening independent and American films alongside shorts and documentaries. “WorldFest” (worldfest.org) will be onscreen at the AMC Studio 30 from April 16-25. Alamo Drafthouse West Oaks (drafthouse.com) is having fun with Mr. Six Degrees in “The Kevin Bacon BACON FEAST” on Thursday, April 2, at 7:30pm – $50 will get you a screening of the classic Bacon flick Flatliners and 6 courses of bacon (oh yeah, baby!).

Mason Park is hosting a mini car show on Friday, April 3, at 7pm in preparation for the opening of Fast & Furious, and the Rocky Horror Picture Show on Saturday, April 25, at midnight with the travelin’ cast, The Beautiful Creatures. In downtown Houston, the Houston Symphony (houstonsymphony.org) is presenting “Leading Ladies of the Silver Screen” on Saturday, April 25, at 8pm.

FROM ALIENS TO DISNEY The “Fourth Annual ICCC Contemporary Italian Film Series” is in full swing for 2009, with a screening of La Giusta Distanza (The Right Distance) by Carlo Mazzacurati on Thursday, April 16, at 7pm at the Italian Cultural and Community Center (icchouston.com) at 1101 Milford Drive.

The “right distance” refers to the professional distance journalists must maintain – a distance tested when young journalist Giovanni is charged with covering the soap opera-esque adventures in his hometown.

And, yes, the plot sounds familiar, but it’s still fun: Alien Trespass (alientrespass.com) is opening here April 3 at Angelika and revolves around a fiery object from space that crashes into a mountaintop in the California desert, bringing the threat of disaster to Earth. Speaking of Earth, the Walt Disney Company is hoping to garner new audiences with Disneynature, a new film label charged with producing environmental films, and Disney XD, a cable channel dedicated to (god bless their little souls) 6- to 14-year-old boys. Rave Motion Pictures (ravemotionpictures.com) is presenting Disneynature’s first product, Earth, on April 22, which is “Earth Day.” Enjoy the Earth and outdoors films at Discovery Green (discoverygreen.org) with the “Reel Teen Film Fest” on Wednesday, April 1, at 7pm; A Pocket Full of Soul: The Harmonica Documentary on Saturday, April 4, at 5:30pm (with a music blow-out, naturally!); the über-cool “rock opera” Speeding Motorcycle (created by Houston fave Jason Nodler) on Sunday, April 6, at 6pm; and Metropolis on Friday, April 17, at 7:30pm, which is a presentation of the “KUHF Silent Film Concert Series.”

ARTS GROUPS and MOUNTAINS IN LOVE The Aurora Picture Show (aurorapictureshow.org) and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (mfah.org) continue to join forces this month, starting with bringing independent animator Emily Hubley to town for screenings on Friday, April 3, at 7pm (“Emily Hubley Shorts Program”) and Saturday, April 4, at 7pm (The Toe Tactic). Ms. Hubley was the animator for the cult classic Hedwig and the Angry Inch and her hand-drawn films contain diverse and experimental creativity such as a diary coming to life and animation combined with Xerox copies. The Aurora is bringing back their annual “Media Archeology Festival” with the theme “Liquid Light to the Laptop, the Evolution of Live Visuals” on Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, at 8pm at the Museum. And on Saturday, April 25, 3-9pm, they are participating in the “The Menil Arts Community Open House” in which the Aurora gals will screen short films by Texas filmmakers at 8pm. Over at DiverseWorks (diverseworks.org), the exhibition “Solutions” (on view through April 18) features the provocative video Lesbian Mountains in Love, which is a projection in real time of two mountains side-by-side: Mount Rainier in Washington State and El Popo just outside Mexico City. The two “lovers” were separated over 150 million years ago, but apparently remained close in spirit. The show’s theme is a study of progress and its impact on civilization.

ART FILMS ARE GOOD FOR THE SOUL… TAKE A FRIEND TO ONE!

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NONPROFIT 3 NONPROFITS: BREATHE + BUILD + LEARN GREEN IN HONOR OF EARTH DAY THIS APRIL WE BRING YOU THREE NONPROFITS, MAKING EARTH A LITTLE GREENER.

GHASP AND MOTHERS FOR CLEAN AIR –

Now one entity working for the health of Houston’s air quality 713.528.3779 | earthdayhouston.org

Houston

can breathe easier today due to the combined efforts of Galveston-Houston Association for Smog Prevention (GHASP)/Mothers for Clean Air. As a prominent environmental watchdog, this reputable organization has worked for many years fighting air pollution.

to the development of an organization focused on air quality oversight: GalvestonHouston Association for Smog Prevention.

To learn more, join GHASP/MfCA at Earth Day Houston, April 11, at Discovery Green in downtown Houston for a free celebration featuring interactive conservation awareness zones, a farmers’ market, recycled art activities, music and entertainment. The day kicks off with the Mothers for Clean Air Earth Day 5K followed by a party for the planet.

Matthew Tejada, PhD – Executive Director, GHASP/Mothers for Clean Air

USGBC-HOUSTON 8 Greenway 15th Floor | Houston, Texas 77049 281.506.3867 | info@usgbchouston.org | usgbc-houston.org

Created by concerned citizens in 1988, GHASP’s purpose was to influence public policy on air quality and environmental health issues by monitoring environmental agency performance. As a technical expert to nonprofit allies and local and state leaders, GHASP participates in the regulatory and legislative processes, helping to educate the community on air pollution issues as well as holding polluters and regulators accountable.

In 1996, GHASP established Mothers for Clean Air (MfCA) as a separate nonprofit to serve as an outreach program in the community. Concerned about adverse effects of Houston-area air pollution, especially on children’s health, MfCA develops community programs to address environmental justice issues and to educate children and adults in local communities about air quality issues and prevention of exposure. MfCA educates communities with plays, film and an interactive theater called Ozone Theater teaching young students about air pollution.

Last September, GHASP/Mothers for Clean Air united with one board and one executive director, as well as in its mission: to reduce air pollution in the Houston region, to protect public health and environmental integrity through research, education and advocacy. With a combined network of support and collaboration between existing board members, institutions such as local school districts, along with city and county offices, GHASP/MfCA is the primary leader in clean air advocacy in the Houston region.

Air pollution in Houston is unique. The ozone in many other smoggy areas arises primarily from mobile sources. Houston has its traffic problems, too, but a bigger issue is the rapid ozone formation caused by sudden industrial releases of ozone precursors. The volumes of pollutants released in these bursts can rival a facility’s annual routine emissions. And while such events may be atypical of most facilities individually, they are routine when the hundreds of industrial facilities in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria area are considered as a whole. In addition to ozone, other air toxics and fine particles of toxic compounds often cause even more serious problems than ozone. This complicated elixir mixed with stagnant air, heat and humidity threatens the health of Houston-area residents on a daily basis, and lead

the mid-1990s the U.S. Green Building Council – Greater Houston Area Chapter was not considered a touchstone for the construction industry in any way. The volunteers of the nonprofit organization remember when they were struggling to start the chapter at a time when Houston was not a bastion of innovative sustainable design.

In

“It was an uphill battle,” remembers Rives Taylor, a founding chapter member. “You weren’t seen as a sustainable designer, you were seen as some bystander treehugger.” Taylor, along with other likeminded innovators believed that a nonprofit organization dedicated to the mission of green building could not only change the built environment, it could change the culture.

Taylor remembers the pushback but also the committed support founders received in the academic community. Alumni of the UH Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture gladly offered resources and sweat equity. Today, chapter leaders believe the movement is entering the mainstream because it makes economic sense.

“Standing on the shoulders of our founders, the green building movement has taken off,” said Tim Murray, immediate past chairman of USGBC-Houston. “There is a fundamental change in the way we design, build and use buildings.”

COLLABORATIONS

The national LEED for Schools initiative challenges America’s public and private schools to increase the benchmark for the learning environment. In 2008 the Houston Chapter was able to engage in a successful partnership with the Houston-

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Galveston Area Council (HGAC) in a year-long Green Schools Symposia. The symposia reached audiences representing about 60 different school districts within Chapter boundaries.

The Houston-based 501(c)(3) organization is dedicated to educating consumers about smart, healthy and green materials.

“LEED for Schools will improve children’s and teachers’ health and test scores and help the environment, but I think the biggest change is that a LEED-certified school is a teaching tool,” said Amy Boyers, LEED AP® and Senior Environmental Planner for

“The air inside your home may be two to five times more polluted than the outdoor air which can be a major health risk,” says Speer Selber. “But by choosing healthy-green building, decorative and cleaning materials, you can reduce damage to the planet and curb potential exposure to allergies, infectious diseases and even cancer.”

HGAC. “Kids can participate in environmental stewardship at their own schools.

They will grow up in an environmentally aware culture and pass that on to their parents and others. Recycling and water and energy conservation will not be something they need to be taught or think about; it will just become their way of life. That new culture extends much farther than just their school.”

CITY OF HOUSTON ENERGY CODE

One of the most recent accomplishments to illustrate the chapter’s ability to leverage relationships with other nonprofits and lead sustainable change in the community came when the Houston City Council adopted a new energy code, ASHRAE 90.1.

“Folks on the Energy Code Committee formed the new code into what it is today,” said Keith Reihl, USGBC-Houston Chairman. “Committee members were able to educate City Council members and folks in the design, manufacture and construction industry about 90.1. We were able to coordinate with ASHRAE and received support from their staff, while working closely with the City and the building industry to make sure all stakeholders had a chance to voice their opinions. We were especially excited about the additional requirement of “cool roofs” to the code and the requirement of commissioning.”

FUTURE

LEED building owners such as John Mooz, vice-president of Hines, believes that USGBC-Houston is critical to the education of the marketplace. “This organization trains people and makes owners understand its mission,” he said. “Sustainable design goes further as it becomes the benchmark on how we construct buildings.”

He said USGBC-Houston will remain in the forefront of the green building community along the Gulf Coast. “LEED will become the way buildings are built going forward. Class A buildings are by definition now LEED buildings. If you build it otherwise, you are not a Class A building.”

Lora-Marie Bernard – Executive Director, USGBC Houston

With many green products, certifications and programs out there – some incorporating a health focus, some not – the hunt for healthy-green materials can be overwhelming. BuildClean’s website (buildclean.org), akin to a one-stop shopping mall, provides an easy-to-navigate clearinghouse of information in one of the most ecofriendly environments: the Internet.

The site is organized around news items, lists of resources and also has a section dedicated to the top six indoor health hazards BuildClean has identified: asbestos, bacteria, lead, mold, radiation and VOCs – Volatile Organic Compounds.

Speer Selber says it’s important to consider climate when choosing building materials. She recalls that thousands of “new Houstonians” who moved here from northern states in the early ’80s replaced composite or wood siding with vinyl on their houses, because that was the material of choice in Detroit.

“NOT a good decision here in Southeast Texas!” says Speer Selber. “Vinyl siding here is like sealing in mold which grows remarkably fast. Our walls must breath and be allowed to dry between wet or humid periods.”

FOR HOT AND MOIST HOUSTON, SHE SUGGESTS: With floods and constant humidity, try sheetrock with moisture-barrier properties that prevent mold from growing inside your walls in lieu of paperbased products. Mold can exacerbate allergies or, if exposed to for a significant amount of time, cause lung infection.

VOCs, such as formaldehyde, can be found in flooring, paint and furniture.

They are used to prepare or manufacture a product. But, once that product is installed, carbon-based chemicals are released into the air, or “off-gassed,” potentially aggravating respiratory conditions and have been linked to causing cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

BUILD CLEAN 3701 Kirby Drive, Suite 540 | Houston, Texas 77098 713.533.4509 | buildclean.org Speer Selber opens most of her conversations with: “So what do you think ‘green’ means?” She usually receives the same answers: environment, recyclable, natural, sustainable. Then she asks, “What about ‘healthy’?”

Sara

In 2007, Speer Selber, a longtime Houston health activist, co-founded not-for-profit BuildClean to give homeowners an integrated source of information about the health effects of indoor materials.

“We’re talking about human health and well-being. BuildClean fills a void in the green movement and provides information to people who aren’t plugged in yet to everything that ‘green’ can mean.”

Tile and stone floors and countertops can cool off a room, but some types may actually be “heating” it up if they contain high levels of cancer-causing gamma radiation or radon. If you’re buying new, ask your vendor to test for both. [Important: It’s critical that the actual slab or tiles you plan to purchase be tested, not a random sample. Two virtually identical pieces could produce dramatically different results.]

“So when you’re out there shopping ‘green’ and ‘recycled’ consider adding ‘VOCfree’ and ‘moisture-resistant’ to the list. When in doubt, a little education always goes a long way. As long as we continue to receive support, this shop never closes. We’re open 24/7.”

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DESTINATION

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By Sandra Ramani

MOSCOW

ON THE SURFACE, THE TIMING DOESN’T SEEM GREAT FOR A TRIP TO MOSCOW. AFTER ALL, IT’S CONSIDERED THE MOST EXPENSIVE CITY IN THE WORLD (YUP, OVER HONG KONG AND LONDON), A PLACE WHERE CAB RIDES BREAK THE BANK AND “ECONOMIC CRISIS” JUST MEANS THE BILLIONAIRES HAVE BECOME MULTI-MILLIONAIRES. BUT IN A GREATER SENSE, NOW IS A FASCINATING TIME TO EXPERIENCE THE CITY, WHICH ONLY RECENTLY BECAME OPEN TO THE WORLD AT LARGE BUT IS GROWING IN LEAPS AND BOUNDS. CONSIDER THAT IT’S ONLY BEEN ABOUT 18 YEARS SINCE THE U.S.S.R. COLLAPSED, LEAVING IN ITS WAKE A NUMBER OF INDEPENDENT NATIONS AND A BURGEONING CAPITALIST ECONOMY. SINCE THEN, MOSCOW IN PARTICULAR HAS SEEN ENORMOUS CHANGE, AND IS NOW HOME TO AN INTERESTING MIX OF SOVIET-ERA REMINDERS AND GLITTERING MONUMENTS TO A NEW MILLENNIUM. LUXURY BRAND NAMES FROM RITZ-

CARLTON AND FOUR SEASONS TO CHANEL AND VERSACE LINE THE STREETS (THE RUSSIANS ARE REALLY INTO DESIGNER LABELS), AND THERE’S EVEN A HIGH-END MALL CARRYING THE LIKES OF VUITTON AND HERMES IN RED SQUARE — JUST OPPOSITE COMMUNIST LEADER VLADIMIR LENIN’S TOMB. BUT AMID ALL THE NAME-DROPPING, CLUB-HOPPING AND CIGAR-CHOMPING, THERE’S STILL A REAL MOSCOW UNDER THE GLITZ, A CITY WITH CORNER BLINI STANDS, LEAFY NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS AND RITUAL SUNDAY TRIPS TO THE LOCAL BATHHOUSE. IT MIGHT TAKE SOME DIGGING, AND A GOOD ENGLISH-TO-RUSSIAN PHRASE BOOK, BUT YOU’RE SURE TO COME BACK WITH A QUIRKY STORY OR TWO. JUST BRING A HEALTHY SENSE OF ADVENTURE—AND A WAD OF $50S IF YOU PLAN TO TAKE CABS.

WHERE TO STAY: While all the big name high-rise hotels loom over Red Square, we prefer the chic, comfortable all-suite Ma Maison Pokrovka, where the 84 rooms come with fully-equipped kitchenettes, free WiFi and lovely apartment-style furnishings.

Along with the fine dining restaurant, Numbers, there’s an outdoor lounge (in summer) and a two-level Algotherm Spa, which includes a massive above-ground pool and a treatment menu of seaweedand mineral-based body treatments and facials. Located between the city’s Garden and Boulevard rings, the Pokrovka neighborhood was historically the gateway between the Kremlin and the royal country residences, but today is known for its charming restaurants, cafes and shops. www.mamaison.com/moscow

WHAT TO DO: Seeing it in pictures cannot prepare you for the majesty of Red Square, the massive main plaza at Moscow’s hub. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the square separates the Kremlin district— site of government buildings, palaces, the President’s residence and Lenin’s Mausoleum—from the merchant quarter, represented on the square by the ornate GUM department store. Also here are the State Museum and the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, whose multi-colored onion-shaped domes have become a symbol of the city.

From this downtown location it’s easy to explore sites like the gold-domed Church of Christ the Savior, which sits along the Moskva River; the giant sculptures and kitschy vibe at the Tsereteli Museum; and the master impressionist works at the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum. Also nearby is the beautiful neo-classical Bolshoi Theater, home to the famous ballet company; for a performance schedule and to purchase tickets, visit www.bolshoi.ru/en.

Unless you’re into paying twice as much for designer clothes than you would in dollars, skip shopping in Moscow. For small souvenirs, head to Yeliseyevsky Gastronom, a gourmet grocery store on Tverskaya Ul—the city’s Fifth Avenue—

that boasts a restored pre-Revolutionary interior with chandeliers and carved ceilings. There you’ll find local delicacies, decorated bottles of vodka and chocolate wrapped in pictures of Moscow monuments.

WHERE TO EAT: For a delicious, casual meal of cheeseand-meat boards, fresh breads, salads and the best blinis around, we love Apartment 44, a hip two-floor bar/restaurant designed to look like a hotel ma maison pokrovka cozy academic’s pad. Book shelves line the upstairs, where groups of friends and colleagues pack the nooks for lunch and dinner, while a bar and live music attract crowds downstairs.

On the upscale front, locals love the over-the-top, Versaillescomes-alive vibe at Turandot, a multi-room eatery where meals are overseen by waiters dressed as 18th-century attendants, all while a costumed, white-wigged duo play the pianoforte and harpsichord on a rotating platform. (It is as crazy as it sounds.) Next door, the more low-key Café Pushkin is popular for snacks and fresh-baked desserts.

turandot

There’s no shortage of bars and nightclubs, but two options with the best views include the top floor bar at the Ritz-Carlton, a modern, glass-roofed hotspot overlooking Red Square, and the sexy bar/restaurant Sky Lounge, which sits on the 22nd floor of the very Soviet-era Russian Academy of Science.

GETTING THERE: On service-oriented Singapore Airline’s recently launched direct flight from Houston to Moscow, flying time is about nine hours but feels like much less, particularly if you’re riding in their new business class cabin with flat-panel TVs and armchair-width seats that transform into flat beds. Visit www.singaporeair.com for more information and deals.

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MAGAZINE SHOWCASES THE BEST OF TEXAS TO THE AFFLUENT MEXICAN MARKET ANNOUNCES OUR SPECIAL REAL ESTATE SECTION FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE MAY – JUNE TODO LUJO magazine, a high-quality, tasteful, targeted publication, is distributed directly to a prime Mexican audience on a regular basis.TODO reaches the affluent demographics with a magazine that informs, entertains and most importantly, delivers our advertisers' messages effectively.

Offering you the opportunity to reliably reach these elusive and sought-after customers in a cost-effective way.

TODO LUJO MAGAZINE 713.223.5333 | www.todomag.com

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born cool. grow hip.

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Get your stroller ready, Mama! Springtime is here and your sweet little wrecking-ball is sick of his toys and ready for a change in scenery. Not much of a “walker”? Me neither! I know what you’re thinking. The very last thing you want to do after a sleepless night and a shirt full of formula is lace up (leaving the warmth and safety of the PJs-only “baby cave” you’ve been hibernating in all winter) and face the world outside. But, seriously, you’ll be amazed at how much better you will both feel with a little fresh air. That said, it can still be a little brisk out there some mornings, so make sure you have all the essentials before heading out. TIPS: Lace up, bundle up, sun screen up, and take a snack. Oh, and skip the sandbox!!

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Photographed by Gabriella Nissen

by Kristina Vaquero-Nemec

A Walk in the Park ATTENTION PARENTS – IT’S ALMOST CAMP TIME AGAIN!

Not too keen on sending your tumbling tot off to sleep-away camp, but still long for some time for yourself while providing great social stimulation and culture for Jr.? Well, EXPLORER ADVENTURE CAMPS will take students on a tour of the world without leaving Houston. This day camp will immerse them in the culture, traditions, art, rhythms and language of the diverse places that form our planet. For ages five through twelve, each week will focus on a different place (Australia, South America, Africa, France, India, Spain, Japan, Italy, and China) and bring to life the heroes, peacemakers, saints, artists and leaders of these faraway lands and times. Payment and registration deadline is April 30th. For more information, contact sofia@kyoconsulting.com or call 281.752.4869.

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RESTAURANT RDG/BAR ANNIE is the official name for Schiller-Del Grande’s highly anticipated new flagship restaurant slated to open in May 2009. With 3 distinct spaces, the entire first floor will be occupied by BLVD Lounge – a perfect gathering space to share cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The second floor will be home to Bar Annie – a holdover from Cafe Annie – and the RDG Grille Room featuring a selection of steaks and seafood.

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ON OUR RADAR

FOOD NEWS ABOUNDS THIS SPRING SEASON! REAP THE BOUNTY AT ITS MOST RIPE AND TRY NOT TO BE A GLUTTON!

sue is y m o n o gastr

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR opened in Town and Country Village (788 West Sam Houston Parkway North) last month. The nationally acclaimed restaurant is the premier destination for food and wine lovers, offering the best in steakhouse dining – prime meats and chops, fresh fish and poultry, generous salads and side orders – with a sophisticated and unique wine list that features over 100 wines served by the glass, known as the Fleming’s 100™.

Uptown aficionados have been frequenting the hot spot for years; now Memorialites will have just an easy opportunity for prime dining.

HOUSE OF BLUES HOUSTON began a weekday lunch service last month at the members-only Foundation Room that will be open to the public. This room ROCKS and lunch will be the sexiest thing in Houston. The new menu will have major Asian influences.

LEGENDARY BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON WILL BE REBUILT AND OPEN THIS FALL AFTER BEING SEVERELY DAMAGED BY FIRE AS A RESULT OF HURRICANE IKE LAST SEPTEMBER. STUDIO RED ARCHITECTS, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LINBECK CONSTRUCTION AND PIN OAK INTERESTS AND THE JOHNSON STUDIO OF ATLANTA, ARE RESTORING 80% OF THE ORIGINAL JOHN F. STAUB 1930 DESIGN WHILE BRINGING THE BUILDING UP TO 2009 STANDARDS. THE CHARMING ALEX BRENNANMARTIN SAID AT A RECENT MEDIA EVENT THAT HE WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO RESTORING SOME OF THE ORIGINAL ARCHITECTURE THAT FRANKLY HIS FAMILY HAD COVERED YEARS AGO. “THIS ISN’T DONE WITH TAXPAYERS DOLLARS, I WANT TO ADD,” BRENNAN-MARTIN SAID IN CLOSING.

THE OMNI HOUSTON HOTEL has just signed on two new chefs – Jacques Lolliot and Dean Sprague. Chef Jacques is a seasoned veteran of the Sofitel family of hotels having traveled the world including stops in Indonesia, Korea and Bora Bora. He will serve as Executive Chef for the entire Omni Houston Hotel. The immensely talented Chef Dean joins the Omni following a stint at the Crested Blue Butte Mountain Resort in Crested Butte, Colorado.

Following on the success of its first Houston location at Main and Kirby (7811 Main), which opened in December, Colorado-based SMASHBURGER is expanding its local presence with three new locations this summer in the Galleria area, West U and the Energy Corridor.

THE CROWN JEWEL OF LA TORRETTA DEL LAGO’S CUISINE EXPERIENCE, CHEZ ROUX IS LOCATED ALONG THE SHORELINE OF BEAUTIFUL LAKE CONROE AND ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE RESORT’S PROPERTY. THE FINE DINING RESTAURANT OFFERS SPECTACULAR SUNSET VIEWS AND A CULINARY EXPERIENCE CREATED

BY MASTER CHEF ALBERT ROUX, A REVERED NAME IN THE INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT WORLD. FROM WORKING AT THE FRENCH EMBASSY IN LONDON AND THE BRITISH EMBASSY IN PARIS, TO SERVING AS A PERSONAL CHEF TO SOME OF THE UNITED KINGDOM’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS FAMILIES – ROUX’S CAREER PATH IS AS IMPRESSIVE AS HIS AWARD-WINNING CREATIONS. VOTED ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL CHEFS IN THE U.K. IN 2003, ROUX IS PERHAPS BEST KNOWN FOR OPENING LE GAVROCHE, LOCATED IN LONDON, IN 1967.

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Formerly a popular nightclub named Mantra, ANGELO’S was born during renovations of the historic building when owner Angelo Soto discovered a brick oven and the original ceiling molding which had been hidden for years by layers of sheetrock. While Soto had first considered a focus on premium pub fare, the brick oven find redirected the menu to home style Italian, inspired by his family’s heritage and the foods he grew up eating and later cooking. Kevin Bryant has joined Angelo’s as executive chef. Angelo’s is located at 711 Main Street. For more information, call 713.225.3500.

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1

MIKE WINTER + JOANI NUNEZ

JENNIFER ROSENBAUM age 32 sign Aries occupation Independent Consultant, Arbonne International; royalskincare.my arbonne.com

PEOPLE OF HOUSTON

2 age 65 | 54 (this month!) sign Virgo | Pisces origin Texas | The Pleiades occupation Director/Owner Bikram Hot Yoga Houston | Yoga Teacher, Director, Shaman

Photography by Daniel Ortiz

3 H. KIM VO, MD age 34 sign Taurus origin Vietnam occupation Skin Care and Laser Physician

1. JENNIFER ROSENBAUM •WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TREND? Lots of bling….I love it!!

•WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIAN? Kenny Chesney •WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT? The day I found out I was having triplets!

•WHERE DO YOU PLAN TO GO ON YOUR NEXT VACATION? Africa in June

2. MIKE WINTER+JOANI NUNEZ •WHERE IS YOU FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP? Whole Earth Provisions | Online •IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY, WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU WOULD BUY? A no-kill shelter for the city of Houston for dogs and cats | Two weeks all expense paid travel anywhere in the world for each of our staff members (taken consecutively, not concurrently!)

•WHAT DO YOU PREFER: READING, WATCHING TV OR LISTENING TO MUSIC? Reading non-fiction, currently Eckhart Tolle’s A New Earth: Awakening Your Life’s Purpose | Reading while listening to music (how come gardening isn’t on this list?)

•HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? Relaxed, simple, straightforward | Relaxed, easy, flexible, comfortable…. fun-loving; it’s all about keeping the Goddess energy alive, smiling and fluffed up.

3. H. KIM VO, MD •IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY, WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU WOULD BUY? A “green” mansion (with solar panels and heat from thermal energy) •WHAT IS ONE THING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT? Silk pajamas •WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? Raise my 3 kids (ages 7, 5 and 2) •IF YOU COULD ONLY WEAR ONE COSMETIC PRODUCT, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Dermagenix Sunscreen (I never leave home without it.)

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COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS

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Styling by Beatrice Valencia Photography by Gabriella Nissen Illustration by Cynthia Bogart

Zingara – Their first stateside store opens this month in Highland Village. I mixed and matched swimsuit and cover-up but they have the whole matching outfit, swimsuit to shoes, if you’re so inclined.

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NO SHOES, NO SHIRT, NO PROBLEM! THE SMELL OF SALTY AIR, THE SUN’S WARMTH ON MY SKIN, AND THE WIND GUSTING THROUGH MY HAIR ARE ALL BITTERSWEET REMINDERS THAT SPRING BREAK MAY HAVE COME AND GONE BUT SUMMER IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER! NOTHING BEATS THE EXTRA HOURS OF DAYLIGHT.

CH B U M…

This bandeau is perfect for avoiding unsightly tan lines. The stone detail is a touch of jewelry without having to put anything extra on. Zingara jeweled swimwear | I need to keep track of my time in the sun to know when to reapply SPF. This watch is rugged but clean all at the same time. | Swiss Army Convoy Chrono, $450 @ www.swissarmy.com | Every time I get a whiff, I’m transported to the beach. Inevitably anyone who smells it will get nostalgic. LaLicious Coconut Cream Body Butter $24 @ www.lalicious.com | Beach hair is key in warmer weather. This line helps you tame your kinks, curls or waves with products specifically designed for each texture. | Hair Rules product line available @ www.hairrules.com | I can wear this to the beach and then cover up, add the matching bangles and hit a sunset happy hour. A perfect ending to a perfect day. Zingara strapless cover-up & bangles

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RETAIL WRAP

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Photography by Jenny Antill

NAME LINDSAY ARONSTEIN | BOUTIQUE REBECCA & DREW

years in operation 6 months | address 2015 d west gray, houston, tx 77019 phone 713.522.7500 | website rebeccaanddrew.com

CURRENT OBSESSION: Shirtdresses and the versatility they offer. Living in Houston with the heat and humidity makes me love the lightweight fabric. I wear them yearround with my black patent leather Lucchese boots (my current obsession) or paired with flipflops.

DESIGN INSPIRATION | ICON: Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, both always look effortlessly chic and have a classic sense of style!

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS BUSINESS? Working in the pharmaceutical industry for 10 years, I struggled with finding proper fitting button-front shirts. Last year while shopping in New York, I found Rebecca & Drew in the Meat Packing District and fell in love with the concept. I knew Houston needed this problem-solving boutique – shirts that fit according to your bra size and height, ingenious!

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER BOUTIQUES? Rebecca & Drew button-front shirts, shirtdresses and tops are made with the patented TrioFit sizing system, which is exclusive to Rebecca & Drew. Finally no more gaping at the chest or boxiness at the waist. Men have had custom shirt options for years, now women have close to custom options off the rack, and instant gratification!

WHAT ARE YOU COVETING THIS SEASON? J Brand white jeans paired with any of our Rebecca & Drew short-sleeve buttonfront shirts in our many spring colors, espadrilles and lightweight scarves.

RULES

OF

STYLE

1. A Must-Have: A classic button front shirt that will go with anything!

2. Have fun with accessories; a scarf can add a nice pop to any outfit.

3. Always feel confident in what you are wearing; do not give way to trends if they don’t work for you.

4. Dress for your body type!

5. Always have a great bag that you will covet forever!

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OK, SO UNLESS YOU WERE LITERALLY BORN YESTERDAY, YOU’RE PAINFULLY AWARE THAT THIS RECESSION HAS YOU CAGING YOUR BLOOD LUST FOR ALL THAT GLITTERS. LET’S FACE IT, YOU ARE MORE LIKELY TO FIT INTO THOSE TWO SIZE-TOO SMALL CHOOS YOU BOUGHT “ON SALE” LAST YEAR THAN TO GET SUZE ORMAN TO “APPROVE” THE ACQUISITION OF THAT $950 YSL NECKLACE YOU’VE BEEN PINING OVER. AND YET, THAT NAGGING LITTLE VOICE SOMEWHERE IN YOUR SHOPPING SUBCONSCIOUS KEEPS WHISPERING...”NEED MORE JEWELRY.”

JEWEL

BOX

by Kristina Vaquero-Nemec Photography by Gabriella Nissen

THINK

thrift

I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to stop shopping for great jewelry; just change how and where you do. Case in point, remember the aforementioned Yves Saint Laurent beauty? Well, not only is it inspired by a vintage piece, but last year on one of my weekly treasure hunts I found one of the original designs (large chain link necklace above) at The Charity Guild Shop on Dunlavy for HUNDREDS less! And, take a look-see at these Gucci snakeskin bangles. That’s right – also a thrift store find. Need a gift for the guy? Most of the cufflinks here (below right) were found at BJ’s Antiques on Westheimer for $10 to $15 a pair!

For some, shopping secondhand has a certain stigma attached. But just ask any of my closest friends and they will confirm that one of my biggest thrills is finding a great deal on classic vintage. Don’t get me wrong, I like shiny new digs and accessories as much as the next girl, but I mean, how else can you scratch that shopping itch, find designer pieces AND stay within your budget?

So think thrift – stores, that is…..Recession tested, Fashionista APPROVED!!!

All jewelry, stylist’s own. Contact for pricing and availability. kristina@002mag.com 38. april09 002houston

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EVENT THE ART OF FASHION WHY TO PRESENT ARTIST’S WORK AND THE LATEST IN FASHION WHERE NEIMAN MARCUS GALLERIA WHEN MARCH 11 Over 400 people packed the lower level of Neiman Marcus to view a one-of-a-kind fashion show. Before the show began, guests gnoshed on bites from Arturo’s Uptown Italiano and Mariposa along with featured wines from the Saddlerock Wine family.

The tunes from DJ Little Martin began the state-of-the-art fashion show featuring Neal Hamil models sporting springs must-haves while selected art from William Betts, Marjon Fatezimedah, Allison Hunter and Omar Perez set an artful backdrop. model

Elizabeth Saunders, Kara Davis

Vivian Wise, Lindsey Love

Nicole Haagenson, Elaine Dillard

Alicia Cribbs, Jim Bagley

Pixie Ibañez, Josie Iriarte, Milo Keener, Adriana Berlanga

Baroness Elizabeth, Bubba Macnealy

The scene at Neiman Marcus

Carrie Bozkurt, Maryam Lumpkin, Linda Van Nifterik, Marjon Aucoin, Tanja Hendrick, Marzi Petris, Christina Chiang

Kristina Sedlock, Daniela Rojas, Christine Noel Goins, Tuesday Williams

Lilyanna Bui, Eugene Esselborn

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WEDDING ISSUE JUNE 09

Photography by Anthony Rathbun

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CALL US REGARDING OUR WEDDING GUIDE ($350)

713.223.5333 letters@002mag.com

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t n e i c i f f e y g r e n IT’S COOL TO b___________. e e

Shot on location at 6214 Memorial Drive 5457 sq. ft. | 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 4 car combined garage and porte-cochere, custom pools, 11,325 sq. ft. lot | Contact Tricon Homes at 713.334.6060 for more information or visit TriconHomes.com AND IT’S NOT SO DIFFICULT AS OUR 002 DO-IT-YOURPhotography by Gabriella Nissen SELFER SHOWS US. SOME ARE COMMON SENSE, BUT SOMETIMES YOU NEED A GENTLE REMINDER.

DO Replace your standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent ones. Lighting extraordinaire Nicholas Phillips (nicphillips.com) pick is the Sylvania Dura-One. This no ordinary compact fluorescent - it's an ELECTRODELESS CFL. What that means is that the lamp has eliminated many of the parts that cause typical fluorescent lamps to fail and therefore making the lamp better. It's instant-on – no warm up like lesser CFLs, flicker free, not impacted by being switched on/off, not affected by temperature, and last longer – 15,000 hours!

DON’T Leave the water running; this one’s easy enough. Washing your face, brushing your teeth, forgot something at the fridge. TURN IT OFF!

DO According to treehugger.com, the US Department of Energy says you can save 10% on yearly heating and cooling costs by adjusting your thermostat 10-15% for eight hours a day, meaning setting it 6 or 7 degrees warmer in the summer and colder in the winter.

HOME SWEET HOME

DON’T Speaking of the refrigerator, don’t leave the door open while you do whatever it is you’re doing – close it. Re-open when you’re ready and you’ll waste less energy.

DO Weatherstrip your doors and windows to keep air in and exterior air out.

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ONE GREAT PROVISIONAL MUSEUM

Photography by Joseph Moran

In the last two decades, the world has seen an explosion of dedicated spaces to study and exhibit different currents in design at every scale – whether furniture, cities, buildings, websites, automobiles or digital artifacts. These institutions have established themselves as icons of their urban surroundings, appealing to evergrowing and diverse audiences, and transforming the artistic, educational and economic landscape of their respective societies. The ANZA FALCO MUSEUM OF ART AND DESIGN will create such a space in Houston through the construction of an iconic building housing exhibition, curatorial, educational and research units devoted to the critical exploration of the origins, development and future of design. The Transitional Museum (The M Pavilion) constitutes the initial stage of this cultural entity. Its iconic architectural components suggest to visitors the type of exhibition spaces and artistic content that the Museum will offer to the public once it opens its doors in the near future. Both the permanent and the transitional buildings have been designed by Mauricio Rodriguez Anza through self-sustaining architectonic projects of low operative maintenance. anzafalco.com

ONE GREAT LEGACY The Brilliant lecture series will bring Caroline Kennedy to the Jones Hall on April 20 for Conversations with Brilliance. She will autograph copies of her book, A Family of Poems – My Favorite Poetry for Children. Tickets start at $25, all the way up to $250 for the VIP level which includes a private reception. If you haven’t been to a Brilliant Lecture series yet, they are genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be in the room with icons. Brilliantlectures.org

ONE GREAT OPPORTUNITY

to hear an exceptionally gifted architect and we aren’t the ones calling him so. Rice Design Alliance (RDA) has recently started giving out a new award to recognize exceptionally gifted architects in the early phase of their professional career. Spotlight: The Rice Design Alliance Prize will be given annually and carries a $1,500 cash prize. The inaugural Spotlight Prize will be given to Antón García-Abril, founder of Ensamble Studio/Materia Inorgánica in Madrid, Spain. While the first prize will go to an international architect, RDA Executive Director Linda Sylvan says, “The Spotlight Prize is intended to showcase the best new designers, and bring their ideas to Houston. We see it as a way to invigorate our local design community with fresh ideas.” García-Abril will be in Houston this spring to accept the award and will present his firm’s work at the Spotlight lecture on Wednesday, April 15, 7pm (pre-lecture wine reception begins at 6pm) at the Brown Auditorium, MFAH. Free for RDA members and students presenting identification. Tickets for nonmembers are $25.

ONE GREAT FIND

on April 25th in Houston’s Downtown Warehouse District. A list of emerging design talent will be showing their collections of sumptuous, leather handbags and musthave jewelry pieces along with music, friends, food and the opportunity to indulge in an all-out shopping and all-things fabulous event in one day, in one place. THE FIND is a one-day shopping event for fashion lovers to discover emerging design talent in the areas of jewelry, handbags, clothing, shoes, lingerie, etc. Tickets are $10 on the day of the event but you can purchase tickets online in advance for $5 at thefindhouston.com. Registration will be open online until midnight April 24 so skip the line the day of the event – go online and get your tickets early! Saturday, April 25, 8am-6pm 1310 Nance Street, Houston, TX 77002 | thefindhouston.com.

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THINGS I LIKE LOVE

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By Carla Valencia de Martinez Photography by Sofia van der Dys

Love this brand! Their signature scent rocks and they were among the first to bring “Eco” into the mainstream vernacular. Celebrate Aveda’s 30th anniversary this month with their Light the Way candle which supports organic farming and the brand’s global efforts to help make clean water a human right. $10 at Aveda.com

DOESN’T GET CUTER THAN MY LITTLE KITCHEN SCRUBBER. HE MAKES SCRUBBIN’ GRUB A LITTLE LESS CRUMMY. KUHLLINSCOMB.

My Kindle. I “heart” it so much (can’t believe I just “hearted” something) but seriously all I see is a heart shape in my brain when I think of it. It’s heaven. Lightweight, easy to use and I can pull it out anytime, anywhere and read anything I want for $9.99 in most cases. Can’t WAIT to travel with it. $350 Amazon.com. P.S. My mom gave me mine for Christmas, people, and I got it around March 15th, that’s how long I had to wait.

Granted, they upgraded me to the 2nd generation.

$12 ALL YOU CAN EAT DUMPLINGS AT GIGI’S. THAT SHOULD BE ENOUGH SAID, BUT THEY ARE SO GOOD! I DREAM ABOUT THE LITTLE LUSCIOUS PLUMP SHUMAI AND THE VARIETY OF VEGGIE DUMPLINGS TO CHOOSE FROM! OBVIOUSLY THEY HAVE THE PORK AND CHICKEN, ETC., BUT NEVER HAVE I HAD SO MUCH VARIETY. INSIDE TIP: TRY THE MINI-CUPCAKES; YOU’LL BE ORDERING A DOZEN TO GO. 713.629.8889 GIGI’S IN THE GALLERIA. 42. april09 002houston

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Our Art Director has been loving his new BlackBerry so much, I decided to let him gush here: The BlackBerry® Curve™ 8900 is the new addiction to the ’Berries clan. The revamped design is thinner, sleeker and more robust than its predecessor. Right off the bat, the 480x360-pixel screen astounded me with how crisp and clear it was – perfect for checking those PDFs, maps and attachments. The full keyboard is spacious and easy to use; it allowed my fingers to flow freely and rapidly while texting and emailing. Loving the 3.2 megapixel camera/video with auto focus (and flash!). I missed the 3G support a little, however the wi-fi or T-Mobile’s EDGE did a great job connecting online. t-mobile.com

I have ravaged hands. I break out in nasty blisters at the sight of a lime (no sun necessary); I get a paper cut a day, cut and slice my fingers quite often, and if I am trimming flowers (which I do weekly) I don’t even need thorns to cause an accident.

My hands are worse than the wicked witch in Snow White. But I’ve been slathering on NaturaBisse’s Tensolift Hand Cream for about a week now and the results are as they promise!

Youthful, even skin tone, noticeably diminished dryness, improved elasticity and texture. I can’t stop looking at my hands as I type this.

Neiman Marcus

Charlie Palmer’s Practical Guide to the New American Kitchen is my latest addiction.

Not only is the book itself waterproof, spillproof, wine-proof and chop-proof – but the recipes are so easy to follow! There is a ponzu recipe that I make and keep bottled in the fridge for emergency anything. The stuff is like a magic elixir that transforms chicken, fish, bok choy, ANYTHING into the most delicious meal ever, period. $35 charliepalmer.com

SPRING IS IN THE AIR! LOVE FLOWERS ANYTIME OF THE YEAR, BUT SPRING BRINGS THE BEST BUNCHES TO CHOOSE FROM! THESE RANUNCULUS LOOK LIKE THEY ARE MADE FROM TISSUE PAPER IN THE MOST BEAUTIFULLY SATURATED SHADES. I PICKED THESE UP AT KROGER’S.

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CHECKUP YEARLY TO INSURE ALL YOUR SYSTEMS ARE A GO, SO IT ONLY MAKES SENSE FOR THE PLACE WHERE YOU SPEND THE MOST TIME (AND INVEST THE MOST MONEY) GET A CHECKUP AS WELL, NO? PARK LANE HEALTHY HOMES ANALYZES THE OVERALL PERFORMANCE OF NEW AND EXISTING HOMES, AUDITING THE OVERALL HEALTH OF YOUR HOME.

mate goals – whether it’s to lower monthly bills, improve quality of air, optimize comfort, increase value of the home or simply to be more conscious of their carbon footprint. And then, with the diagnostic performed, they help each client achieve those goals. They also ask for a copy of your last 12 months of electrical bills so they can follow up one year after their work is complete to see how they actually did in lowering your bills and in meeting the customers’ overall goals.

Easy enough, right?

Well, yes, it actually is that easy. Steven Deutser and Brent Friedman, owners of Park Lane Healthy Homes, walked us thru making our home healthier – and, boy, was I surprised. You probably have a maid or clean your home yourself and if you’re like me the façade looks pretty darn good! But it’s literally the guts of your home that hold all those skeletons. Our home has no attic and a flat roof, which complicates things. It’s also a home built in 1977 that we remodeled and modernized. So our journey begins…

So on the day of the audit, Park Lane marches into my house like the ghostbusters, decked out with all sorts of gadgets in hand to blast our home. Each new client is presented with a form to assess their ulti-

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The reality is that people are looking for ways to control the cost of their home. Park Lane helps achieve this by analyzing your home, and recommending some relatively minor changes allowing homeowners to often realize substantial savings on their energy bills while also providing other benefits: increasing the value of their home; improving the quality of air not only for health but comfort level by removing dust, mildew, pollen VOC and other toxins; and reducing the home’s carbon emission.

The audit begins. Trained technicians arrive, sealing all the vents, ducts and openings in the home. The professionals keep their shoes covered at all times taking care not to bring any more dirt into our home. A blower door test is administered measuring the natural air changes per hour the home currently cycles. The test essentially measures how leaky our home is and gives a gauge on how many open areas need to be found and sealed. In other words the tighter the home can be made, the less the AC unit will have to run, making our home more comfortable, with fewer allergens and lower monthly bills. As the home is devoid of all pressure, we notice a putrid, strong sewer smell take over our kitchen – if there were rats, they would have run out screaming! This is only the first of many small incidents that have me questioning the pit I call home. Mind you, the professionals aren’t worried at all.

They are calm and collected and remind me that my home is a good home. Now this is a smell we’ve noticed come and go in our master water closet over the year and half we’ve lived here, but never that strong nor in that room.

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Next, a duct blaster test checks HVAC (heating, venting and air conditioning – just in case you always wondered what that meant) system and duct work making sure it is sealed properly, filters are changed often and sized correctly, leading to an efficient system which maintains overall air quality and minimizes air leakage. All the units inside and outside our home are checked. One of the units is crammed into a small closet next to a water heater – I mean inches away from it. (Remember we

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So based on the blower door test – remember, this is the leakage test – “tier one” for us includes caulking all recessed incandescent lights, around all skylights and in between sheetrock on register. These are areas where air is escaping and sealing them will better retain our air conditioning. We could also apply 3M window film to our windows, but that’s a “tier 2” solution; for now we’ll close the blinds.

On to the duct blaster test. This one revealed opportunities to properly seal off return air chases and areas reachable to optimize efficiencies and improve the quality of air. Step one was the removal of feces and urine. I took care of that stat! Step two was to seal return airs on both existing vertical furnaces, seal the evaporator coil at furnace and plenum on 3.0 ton system, including cutting out opening and installing an access panel at the sheetrock allowing access to evaporator coil.

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have a flat roof, no attic. That’s where this stuff usually goes) the technicians can’t even get to the back of the unit to check the coils, etc. They even question how the unit was installed there in the first place. Oh, but it’s the second unit that kills me. Also enclosed in a closet on a shelf, we (OK, they) discover the shelf is covered in rat feces and urine. The smell is horrible. We think it’s the smell that came out in the kitchen since the droppings are in such close proximity to the unit – in reality this is the filtered air we’ve been breathing. And, yes, we had the house inspected prior to purchase, someone had to have noticed this and no one told us any of this. I was mortified. Had I know Park Lane existed I would have paid to have them inspect the house.

I couldn’t get Park Lane’s staff out of my house fast enough so I could begin Operation Cleanse This Home! I scrubbed that shelf till my knuckles bled. (OK, my dad removed the stuff ’cause all I could do was cry…but after that I scrubbed and cleaned and vacuumed every surface in the house.) The smell seemed to disappear altogether.

And last but not least, lighting, skylights and appliances were inspected as well.

MARCH 5, 10AM PLUMBERS Park Lane Healthy Homes sends their plumbers to assess that smell in the master water closet. I share what the countless other plumbers have come out and checked, including the vents, the P-traps, replacing the wax ring on the toilet, etc., etc., etc. The new plumbers walk around the house, climb on it and low and behold, we notice the wind blowing the smell as we walk the perimeter of the house. They notice the plumbing vents on the roof are basically too low or short, allowing the sewer gas escaping from somewhere beyond the perimeter of our home to enter through the vents. So they tape all the vents up in our master bathroom and bedroom. As I write this it’s been about two weeks taped up and NO MORE SMELL! I love them, they are my heroes.

MARCH 9, 2:15PM HEALTHY HOME AUDIT RESULTS Steven Deutser and Brent Friedman sit down with my husband and me to discuss the results and what can be done. There are a couple of tiers to their results. The first tier aims to access and fix lower-cost issues in the most cost-efficient manner.

In our case, it’s not like they recommended we tear out that unit with the feces infested shelf to replace it (although I would have liked that). Our assessment showed that our home, built in 1977, in its current state does perform better than most homes its age, yet it has room for improvement. Fortunately, the issues identified are not expensive to remedy and many can be performed by us.

On our suspicious sewer smell … well, an appointment is set to have the galvanized vent replaced that is covering plumbing vent and install a 4” lead jack to make sure it’s gone forever.

They also offer a “deep cleaning” service which is a crew of “deep, healthy cleaners”. This same crew has been cleaning high-end new construction and remodelled homes for Steven’s father for more 20 years. Trained to use non-toxic cleaning supplies, the crew can clean your home better than it has ever been cleaned, using non-toxic cleaning materials. They recommend a quarter cleaning to help make sure your home is free of all of the hiding dust, pollen and mold spores and other home pollutants. Brent says you will be surprised what all your housekeeper misses. (Cost is $125 per hour for a crew of five cleaners).

All in all the overall costs included $149 for the audit and $1,330 for the construction work (for a total of $1,479). Park Lane believes they can help save customers about 20-30% on their bills. (In our case, that would equate to about $630.00 to $940.00 per year.)

The business model of Park Lane Healthy Homes is that they view the home’s performance as a system. As they explain, to view the insulation, HVAC, windows, duct work, appliances, lighting and indoor air quality in isolation can only give you an incomplete picture of the “ecosystem” that is your home.

We had that bizarre week of cold weather at the helm of all of this and our heating worked much better we noticed, there is already less dust, and the aforementioned smell seems to be gone. I truly wish I had heard of this before we bought our home. I really would have had them do an inspection. You pay for it anyway when you’re buying a home. And I sincerely felt at a loss, trusting the various inspectors to do their job, not simply check if there was an HVAC system or if there were furnaces. If someone would have told me the units were too close together I might have had time to tear out the wall and put some space between the units during our remodel. Or replace the nasty shelf, or seal the whole house.

But now, you know. We’ll follow up in our home issue in August on any updates on our bills.

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PARK LANE HEALTHY HOMES LLC 4106 SHEPHERD DRIVE | HOUSTON, TX 77098 713.524.6200 | PARKLANEHEALTHYHOMES.COM

Photography by John McCaine

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EVENT RODEO UNCORKED! ROUNDUP AND BEST BITES COMPETITION WHY A WINE TASTING OF INTERNATIONAL WINE COMPETITION WHERE RELIANT CENTER WHEN FEBRUARY 8 A crowd of more than 4,000 wine aficionados swirled, sniffed and drank select wines competing in the 2009 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition. 1,879 wines were hosted from all over the world, including 583 Texan wineries. With a panel of 15 judges that are both nationally and internationally recognized as experts, Vina Robles Suendero, Pasa Robles, 2006, earned best of show award.

Andy Robinson, Emily Klim, Monica Robinson, Libby Koch

Nancy and James Ebanks

Russell Masaraff, Tony Masaraff

Lana Hirtz, Ron Helton

Leroy Shafer, Jim Janke, Charles R.“Bear” Dalton, Stephanie

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HOUSTON’S CITYSCAPE MAKES THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR SPRING’S BEAUTY BOUNTY. GET INTO THE

The Center of it It All All Photography By Sofia van der Dys

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Bvlgari Gem Essence ® Crème Precieuse – Jewelers extraordinaire present their dermatologist-developed, exclusive formula skincare collection. Neiman Marcus.

Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Sun Indulgence Lotion for Face SPF 30 esteelauder.com Liz Earle’s Superskin Concentrate – aromatic, intensive nighttime nourisher. Lizearle.com Kinerase C8 Peptide Intensive Treatment with potent dose of Vitamin C kinerase.com

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Heart of the City Aveda sun care Protective Hair Veil with UV filters to help protect hair aveda.com Sundari Gotu Kola and Carrageenan as well as Neem and Manuka body cleansers sundari.com Sundari Gotu Kola and Kukui as well as Neem and Blood Orange body lotions for all skin types Liz Earle’s Energizing Body Wash – pure plant extracts energize and invigorate! Lizearle.com

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Uptown Face

Chantecaille’s Sweet lip gloss is perfection for summer, Neiman Marcus Estée Lauder Lipstick Estée Lauder limited edition Sand & Sea Eye Shadow Palette Chantecaille’s Lip Shear in Rose Coral

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DEVELOPMENTAL UPDATES – WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON IN OUR CITY? WE’VE SEEN SIGNS OF NEW BUILDINGS EVEN ASSISTED RIBBON CUTTINGS AND CHAMPAGNE COCKTAILS TOASTING THE BEGINNING OF NEW COMKICKERILLO COMPANY TO BUILD CUSTOM HOMES AT TRENDMAKER DEVELOPMENT’S CROSS CREEK RANCH The new venture blends two well-known and highly respected real estate brands on Houston’s popular west side,” said Will Holder, president of Trendmaker. “Both names are highly recognized and trusted by homebuyers and realtors alike. A strong focus on quality builders, an eco-friendly land plan and resortstyle amenities will continue to resonate strongly with current and future buyers in Cross Creek Ranch.”

Kickerillo’s gated “Lakes of Cross Creek” section is mostly waterfront home sites that will feature homes from his Elite Homes and Signature Collection. The community is conveniently located to the Westpark Tollway, in a high-growth area with easy access to established retail developments such as La Centerra and Katy Mills Mall and the continued expansion of quality medical facilities, including Texas Children’s Hospital and Memorial Hermann Hospital. Construction is scheduled to begin in fall of 2009 and presales are already underway. kickerillo.com | CrossCreekTexas.com

Photography Julie Soefer

CITY CENTRE “Our MO is generally to find the best possible real estate and try to figure out what’s the best thing to do with it.” – Jonathan H. Brinsden, CEO Midway Companies We’re sure you’ve noticed the whole new world sprouting up from the ashes left by the once acclaimed Town & Country. If you haven’t noticed the 1.8 million-sq.ft. community, it’s about time you did. With 350,000 sq. ft. of retail space (combined with Town & Country Village); 140,000 sq. ft. Lifetime Athletic – fitness facility and spa; 250 luxury rental lofts; Valencia Group’s 245-room Hotel Sorella featuring a partnership with Alex Brennan-Martin for Café Rosé and Bistro Alex (slated to open July 2009); 22 corporate penthouse residences atop the hotel; 35 brownstones; 370 upscale apartments; 425,000 sq. ft. of office space; restaurants including Eddie’s, Yardhouse, Straits and RA Sushi; Studio Movie Grill (now open); Norris Conference Center and three covered parking facilities. In the words of the developer, “in our eyes, it’s the incredible synergies you can create across all the uses.” We can’t wait to see how City Centre creates community in this part of town where 2 million people can get here in 20 minutes. citycentrehouston.com 52. april09 002houston

M T S H

N S E -

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MERCIAL AND REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS AND IN A MATTER OF MONTHS SEEN MANY OF THOSE PLANS GET SCRATCHED. NOW, WE DON’T HAVE ALL THE DIRT, BUT HERE’S AN UPDATE TO SATIATE YOUR CURIOSITY.

By Carla Valencia de Martinez

HOUSTON PAVILIONS Continuing to grow, with the already established House of Blues as the main anchor, expect to see Mia Bella, Andalusia Tapas Restaurant and Bar, Cork Wine Bar, The Board Room, III Forks Steakhouse and Yao Restaurant and Bar by summer 2009. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant – open since October 2008 – has one of the most popular happy hours downtown, packed with movers and shakers every day. Recently opened is Guadalajara del Centro as well as Clique Salon, a beautiful downtown salon specializing in cut, color and styling. The rumor mill has been out of control in regards to the highly anticipated Lucky Strikes bowling alley. 002 was told the leaders of Lucky Strike Lanes are in contact with Houston Pavilions and reassure that they are in due diligence with new investors.

Fingers crossed; hopefully things will turn around sooner than later so we can get our bowling shoes on! The retail side of Houston Pavilions will continue to grow in 2010, but it already has the most fashionable places to shop in downtown Houston with XXI Forever’s trendy and affordable clothing and the ever-chic apparel at BCBGMAXAZRIA. Houston Pavilions is open seven days a week. That’s new for downtown. So, now you can have Sunday brunch at Guadalajara del Centro, go shopping for the perfect outfit and get a latte at Joe Mugg’s in the 25,000-square-foot Books-A-Million.

1201 Fannin | houstonpavilions.com

EADO East Downtown is blossoming into a bona fide community to be reckoned with.

With Vietnamese cuisine at the new Huynh Restaurant located at St. E (St. Emanuel) and McKinney; District 7, located at Hutchins and Bell with scrumptious pesto pasta, burgers and pizzas; and of course, a stop in EaDo is not complete without a chocolate or vanilla shake from Sparkles on Leeland and Dowling. Entertainment and arts venues include Francisco Studios Artists Lofts, Aerosol Warfare, Stockyard Studios, the Texas Guandi Temple and Warehouse Live. Speaking of Warehouse Live, owner Brent Silverman shared the latest addition to the entertainment venue. The Green Room launched late last month. The new 130-seat venue similar to a lounge developed while Silverman and some of his artist friends checked out the space and decided to re-paint it, installed banquettes, granite counter tops, TVs, vintage art rock posters and showbills in order to utilize the space for shows, VIP events, rehearsal dinners and happy hours. METRO’s Light Rail program is progressing forward with 2 LRT and with the anticipated development of the new Dynamo Stadium, 2009 is a year for bloom much like the bluebonnets and wildflowers blooming along the Union Station/Columbia Tap trail in EaDo. eadohouston.com.

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WEST AVE. MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT A multi-story mixed-use development now under construction in the chic River Oaks area of Houston, West Ave. will debut 190,000 sq. ft. of retail beginning in late summer 2009, including a number of independent and new to market retail and dining offerings including Rome spa, Swig martini bar, Pie Bar for gourmet late night pizza, Cru wine bar, Social House gastropub, Wildfish and Design Source. 2920 Kirby Drive | westaveriveroaks.com

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With

all that is spreading through the news these days it’s good to know that there is a ray of light in the Houston real estate market. We are fortunate to live in a city that is one of the exceptions to the rule of declining markets. Our overall economy within the city is currently strong due to our diversification with the energy, medical and other industries. These factors, along with hav-

Buyers now have more purchasing power to negotiate a favorable sales price.

One important aspect to have your agent research is how long the property has been on the market and if there have been any price reductions. This will enable you to see how motivated the buyer is, as well as give you an idea on their willingness to negotiate. Also, make sure your agent researches what is being offered for sale in

By Mariella Massa

ing one of the lowest costs of living, have helped the market maintain its stability through these troubled times. While there are still pockets in Houston that hold an excess of inventory or high foreclosures, the overall statistics to date show a more stable market compared to the national average. Although a small decline in Houston was apparent in the 4th quarter, it was nowhere near the sharp declines seen in other major cities.

As you may already know it is a buyer’s market and there are excellent opportunities for first-time buyers and investors. Builders are providing great incentives to clear their inventory and homeowners selling their properties are now more apt to entertain offers they may not have considered at an earlier date.

the immediate market area, such as active/pending listings and most importantly, what has sold. Ideally, you would like to see comparable properties that have sold within the last six months in order to grasp the actual market value. This can either be done by a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis), by your realtor or if you prefer a more detailed report, you may seek the advice of a Licensed appraiser.

We all have the American dream of owning a home, however, realistically most of us will need the help of a bank to do so. It seems that every week you turn on the news and another major bank is collapsing or in some sort of serious financial trouble. Even that being the fait accompli, there are still many banks that are providing financing. Before you start looking for a home, speak with your mortgage professional to find how much you are able to afford. Banks are back to basics with playing more conservative and not taking risks on borrowers. If you have good credit and low debt, this is the time to take advantage of these historically low interest rates. Here’s an example of how much you could save. If a viable borrower was purchasing a $200,000 home 2 years ago, they may have had an interest rate of 6% on a 30-year term. If that same borrower was able to purchase that home today with a 4.75% interest rate on the same term, the savings would be nearly $155 less on the monthly payment. That may not seem like a lot now, but over your 30-year term it is about $56,000 in savings! In addition you will also have the tax benefits from the interest you pay on your mortgage. If you are ready to purchase a home within the next few months, it is an excellent time to take advantage of the lowest interest rates in years and the ability to negotiate your sales price. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals to advise you on this major purchase as the market is constantly changing.

Buying a home is exciting and overwhelming but with the right team of real estate professionals, it can be painless.

Mariella Massa is the Chief Operations Officer and partner at Initech Appraisals Real Estate firm located in 24 Greenway Plaza. She has been featured on CNN Radio. Initech Appraisals has offices in Houston and Austin. The firm has a full staff of Licensed/Certified appraisers who provide appraisals and consulting services to the largest foreclosure company in the US, builders/developers, major banks and mortgage companies.

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WHERE TO LIVE

LOCATION

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DEVELOPERS + BUILDERS PLACE YOUR PROPERTIES HERE – EMAIL US AT LETTERS@002MAG.COM

1516 WAVERLY

218 PAYNE

GABLES MEMORIAL HILLS

1516 WAVERLY HOUSTON, TX 77008 (HOUSTON HEIGHTS)

218 PAYNE POPULAR WOODLAND HEIGHTS

4200 SCOTLAND STREET HOUSTON, TX 77007 MEMORIAL HEIGHTS/RIVER OAKS AREA

Charming remodeled Heights Bungalow

Renovated Woodland Heights Bungalow, zoned to Travis Elementary

Houston’s newest upscale apartment homes located near downtown off Memorial Drive, just steps away from Buffalo Bayou Park!

A large 6,600-sq-ft LOT (1,208 living space) with alley access for the garage and a nice size backyard with side yard too!

Granite counters, new appliances, lighting fixtures, built-ins, great floors throughout. The master suite is at the back of the house and has been enlarged. One story home with two-car detached. Washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances and lots of extras.

Hardwood floors, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, stamped concrete driveway, wrought iron fence, new 30-year roof, electrical and plumbing new – great find in the Popular Woodland Heights

UNITS/ROOMS

3 bedroom (third bedroom can be home office/study) with two full bathrooms

3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1265 square feet, and lot size is 5300

Gables Memorial Hills offers sweeping panoramic views of Houston, including the downtown skyline! This luxury community boasts state-of-the-art amenities such as dry cleaning concierge service, Cyber-lounge w/ gaming tables, gourmet chef’s kitchen/coffee bar for entertainment and contemporary swimming pool with underwater speakers. The interior features will offer contemporary residences with open-style floor plans, upscale finishes, 10foot ceilings, iPod docking stations in select apartment homes and spa-inspired baths. Enjoy your view of the city and explore living beyond ordinary. Welcome home to Gables Memorial Hills! City life, your way!

One bedroom plans ranging from 570 - 1075 sq. ft.

Two bedroom plans ranging from 1102 - 1539 sq. ft.

WITHIN REACH

Within a few miles of downtown Houston. New running/walking Heights trail one block away.

Downtown, popular 19th Street in the Heights, Discovery Green Park, Minute Maid Park, Toyota Center

Located just minutes away from Downtown, Memorial and Bayou Park, Houston’s Theater District, The Galleria, Greenway Plaza and the Texas Medical Center

AMBIENCE

AMENITIES

PRICE

CONTACT

$283,500

$350,000 Cindy Burns 713.520.1981

Dustee Gutierrez 713.253.2017 DusteeGutierrez@gmail.com Karen Derr Realty 55. april09 002houston

One bedrooms starting at $1,308 Two bedrooms starting at $1,736 Gables Memorial Hills 713.861.6222 memorialhills@gables.com

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ARCHICHAT

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By Sandra Gunn, a native Houstonian and Realtor. Her firm, Sandra Gunn Properties, specializes in the unique and prides themselves on being architects of community. sandragunn.com Photography by Cody Bless | Interior photo by Walter Arias

KEN NEWBERRY | TROY CAMPA | CLINT JOHNSON

I MET KEN NEWBERRY AND HIS TEAM AT THEIR HEIGHT’S OFFICE ON A BEAUTIFUL HOUSTON AFTERNOON AS THEY WERE PREPARING FOR THEIR FAVE CHARITY STARFISH KENYA’S FUNDRAISER. NEWBERRY CAMPA ARE DESIGNING ONE OF THE FIRST PLATINUM LEED RESIDENTIAL HOMES IN HOUSTON. THE CLIENT: A RESIDENTIAL BUILDER! I CAN ONLY HOPE THAT THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF A MOVEMENT TOWARD HOUSTON’S DEED RESTRICTED NEIGHBORHOODS’ UNDERSTANDING OF THE IMPORTANCE TO COME UP TO SPEED TO ALLOW FOR MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOMES. DID YOU KNOW THAT SOLAR PANELS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN SOME OF HOUSTON’S OLDEST NEIGHBORHOODS?

COMPANY NEWBERRY CAMPA ARCHITECTS, L.L.C.

EDUCATION BACKGROUND: Ken:Bachelor of Architecture, University of Houston Attended University of Rome in Florence and Rome, Italy PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS: American Institute of Architects (AIA) U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IS GLOBAL AT NEWBERRY CAMPA SPECIALTY: Newberry Campa Architects is all about team work and collaboration. We don’t have one particular style, but are best known for our customdesigned floor plans and details for single-family residences that are sustainable and incorporate reclaimed architectural antiques.

WHAT DROVE YOU TO ARCHITECTURE? As a child, I loved to design, plan and build skyscraper models, train sets with cities, elaborate haunted houses, tree houses that spanned multiple trees with bridges, trap doors and movable ladders.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT IT? The ability to create structures and spaces that enhance the joy and productivity in our clients’ lives.

CURRENT PROJECTS: Residences in Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Texas and Ottawa, Canada. A Texas residence is planned for LEED Platinum Certification. A large retail project is in the planning stages on Galveston Island.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER FIRMS? Attention to detail. We’re always striving for excellence and we like to provide comprehensive services. The quality of our professional team allows us to offer a full range of services – from the selection of project teams and construction administration to the acquisition of European architectural antiques.

We love projects with strong design collaboration amongst all team members: clients, interior designers, landscape architects and contractors. There’s amazing energy when you incorporate the interior finishes and furnishings, as well as the landscape, into the overall design. It becomes one cohesive plan and people can see and feel the difference in the finished space.

HOW HAVE LEED STANDARDS AFFECTED YOUR CURRENT RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS? LEED standards go beyond materials selection. For example, it guides us in selecting materials, methods of construction and the location and orienta-

Troy Campa, assoc. | Clint Johnson, principal | Sandra Gunn | Ken Newberry, senior principal

tion of structures on the lot. Our team has been using LEED standards since long before they became popular. We welcome LEED standards because it encourages a higher level of planning, while challenging the creative process.

HOW DO YOU FORESEE LEED STANDARDS AFFECTING HOUSTON’S ARCHITECTURE IN THE COMING YEARS? Hopefully, it will encourage more people to build sustainable architecture. Eventually, all construction will be required to conform to some type of energy standards. This is a positive step for people and for the future of our environment.

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OUTSIDE OF ARCHITECTURE, FROM WHAT OR WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION? We are inspired by our clients and the desire to create projects that are unique to the people enjoying them.

WHAT TIPS CAN YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WANTING TO CREATE A MORE COHESIVE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THEIR HOME? Work with a good team. We enjoy collaborative projects with interior designers and landscape architects. The result is evident and amazing. The interior and exterior should relate and flow together; this can be physically and/or visually achieved.

WHAT STRUCTURE DO YOU WISH YOU HAD DESIGNED? WHY? The Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is a beautiful master plan and it would be such an honor to design a memorial.

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HOW DID YOU COME TO LIVE/WORK IN HOUSTON AND WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN TO MAKE THIS YOUR HOME? I am from Galveston so Houston was just next door. The people, the energy, the opportunities and, believe it or not, I love the humidity!

WHAT STAMP OR IDEA DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE ON THE WORLD AND WHY? That one person can make a difference in creating a better world. I truly believe this whether we’re talking about building sustainable architecture or helping people in need.

WHAT CHARITIES ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? I’m a founding board member of Starfish Kenya (starfishkenya.com) and serve as a board member for AIDS Foundation Houston and The Mankind Project Houston. I am also a member

of the Greater Houston Preservation Alliance and the Houston Heights Association. As a firm, we’ve also supported Design Industry Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) for many years. Our employees are all involved in community nonprofits and together we do our best to support social causes that matter to each of us.

TELL US, WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG, LINCOLN LOGS OR ERECTOR SET? Lincoln Logs, erector sets, toothpicks, playing cards, popsicles, sticks and anything else that could be glued, nailed or screwed together.

MOVIE: SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON; I LOVED THAT TREE HOUSE AND WATER SLIDE. AS AN ADULT: CRASH. CITY: NEW YORK CITY FANTASY DINNER PARTY GUESTS: I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE DINNER WITH ALL OF THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY I HAVE LOST. THAT WOULD BE A FUN AND JOYOUS OCCASION. ON YOUR IPOD: UPBEAT AND DANCE, MAINLY FOR RUNNING. LAST PLACE YOU WANT TO GO BEFORE YOU GO: I BETTER MAKE IT TO MACHU PICCHU. IF YOU WERE NOT AN ARCHITECT, WHAT WOULD YOU BE? A PROFESSIONAL WAKE BOARDER! YOUR MOTTO: YOU CREATE YOUR OWN WORLD. 57. april09 002houston

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ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

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By Jeff Lane Photography by MILLS | Chair images by www.vitra.com.

ARTICLE+INTERVIEW OF ROLF FEHLBAUM

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eames pax chair

J: INITIALLY YOU DIDN’T THINK YOU’D RUN VITRA. R: I didn’t want it and I didn’t think I could do it. I had to fight with that issue of taking over something, and I found that difficult. Years later I felt that it had become sort of my own.

J: WHAT DID YOU DO PRIOR TO VITRA? R: I was hoping I could do something with film, but that was actually a failure. I worked for an architecture association for a couple years. I entered into a partnership, Art Edition, for a while, but that was only a mild success. So I didn’t come to Vitra with a great business success story behind me. I was very shy in the beginning, wondering how I would do it.

J: FILM COMPANY, ARCHITECTURE, ART, IT ALL HAS A CREATIVE SLANT. R: I was always attracted to that, and I still am. It helped The Project in the end, because business knowledge in the narrow sense, you can acquire.

The other, an interest in design, is something you

have to have within yourself. It helped me, then, to combine rational business practice with cultural interests to the benefit of the company.

J: INITIALLY YOU DIDN’T HAVE A PARTICULAR FONDNESS FOR THE CHAIR, BUT NOW IT’S A PASSION. R: I think whether you do hats or shoes or chairs, or if you’re in another field, whenever you dig deeper and go beyond the obvious and the trivial, it becomes interesting. I think the chair itself maybe lends itself particularly to interesting considerations. It is an everyday object that has been around in our culture for a long time. It’s always the same in principal, but every period produces its own objects. And you can read a culture through its chairs. In the 20th century, design became particularly interesting. In the past, artisans had done all these objects. Then there was a split into architects who designed and producers who produced. This made for great, daring, new ideas that before might not have been born because the artisan has too much self-censorship.

wiggle chair by frank gehry

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J: A BIG PART OF THE VITRA PROJECT IS COMMISSIONING DESIGNERS AND COLLABORATING WITH THEM. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THAT RELATIONSHIP? R: There is a common misunderstanding: a designer designs, brings a design to a producer who produces. The reality is there is a partnership for any project, be it a chair or a desk, whatever. The inspired producer and the inspired designer work together changing roles all the time. The producer, of course, often has a technical competence, understands the markets, and the client base. But sometimes the designer knows more about that.

It’s a long process and can be frustrating because you go through many errors. It’s trial and error until something looks very natural in the end. And you think, “Why did it take four years? It looks so easy.” When you say that, though, you have succeeded.

J: BUT YOU’RE STILL A BUSINESS AND YOU WANT TO MAKE A PROFIT. HOW MUCH DOES THAT AFFECT THE PROCESS?

marshmallow sofa

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R: We are not naïve, vis-a-vis, the market. But we are also not trying to be too clever. I think we follow the idea of Charles Eames, who said a designer should be like a good host, anticipating the needs of his guest. But you’re not thinking of guests you would never invite. The principle is you work, in your mind, for your friends and for people you relate to. And to look at a business as a mix of commercial and cultural aspects, it makes the work more interesting. You dig deeper.

You know more. By collecting, making the collections available, doing exhibitions…in the end, you know your discipline better than people who just run to the next job.

In this way, you avoid flops. You make products that make sense. We have a very big catalog. We make many products. Not all are commercially interesting, but they are important for the collections. And others do very, very well. It has never been a problem, fortunately, to get that balance.

J: 50 YEARS IS A PRETTY GOOD TRACK RECORD. R: For the past 50 years, it has worked. The fact that this sort of commercial/cultural project has been going on for a significant amount of time, tells us that it might be a business model that works. It’s not the business model for the fast gross, or to become the biggest. It is a recipe to go on doing interesting things in a way that has been good for the company, good for the family, and to an extent, good for the community around us.

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002 PROFILE HAR.COM | 12 YEARS OLD [BORN IN 1997]

HAR.com is the Web site brought to you by the 23,000 members of the Houston Association of Realtors® which is, the largest trade association in Houston and the second largest local Realtor® association in the U.S. HAR.com is the most frequently visited real estate portal in the Greater Houston area. It is also the only local Web site that regularly ranks among the 25 most frequently visited real estate Web sites in the country. Each month, one million unique visitors generate an average 1.5 billion hits while viewing some of the nearly 50,000 properties for sale or lease on the site.

FAVORITES: MEAL ELECTRICITY QUOTE OR WORDS TO LIVE BY REALTORS®RULE! TRAVEL DESTINATION I WOULDN’T LIVE ANYWHERE BUT HOUSTON (I KNOW THAT WAS MORE THAN ONE WORD...)

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DO YOU VOLUNTEER? Yes. I helped match up more than 3,000 families with free housing during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. I am currently very involved in helping the City of Houston with its affordable housing and down payment assistance programs. I am very philanthropic.

DO YOU RECYCLE? Of course, I recycle a lot of information. I am very environmentally friendly. I help save tons of trees by having everything online, as opposed to back in the day when our listings were all in book form. And people don’t have to use gas and cause emissions by driving around to look at houses anymore. That is so 1988.

DO YOU SPEAK ANY OTHER LANGUAGES FLUENTLY? In addition to English, I also speak Spanish, Chinese, Italian, German, Vietnamese and French.

My Realtor® friends speak a total of 82 languages though, and I have more than 300 international properties for sale on me. I am very well traveled.

ARE YOU MORE LIKELY TO EAT PIZZA FOR BREAKFAST OR CEREAL FOR DINNER? I do not have time to eat. I am busy working 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

SLIPPERS OR BARE FEET AROUND THE HOUSE? I don’t have feet, but the great thing about me is that you can wear slippers or go in bare feet and still view any of my nearly 50,000 properties on me. That’s comfort.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SAYING OR LIFE MOTTO? “Make the RIGHT choice. Use a Realtor®.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BRAG ABOUT YOURSELF? My extremely shy nature and modesty won’t allow me to tell you that I consistently rank as the most utilized real estate site in Houston, that I was one of the 25 most frequently visited real estate sites in the U.S. last year, that I have been named the best real estate search engine by the National Association of Realtors® five times (more than anyone else), that others regularly try to copy me (you can just call me the Carrie Bradshaw of real estate sites), that I am THE most successful and envied local real estate site in the country. But again, I am too shy and modest to say any of those things.

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU SPEND ON THE COMPUTER EACH DAY? I am constantly on the Internet…

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DO YOU WATCH TV SHOWS OR MOVIES ON THE INTERNET? I watch lots of videos of properties that my 23,000 Realtor® friends post on me to show video tours of their listings. I have my own channel called HAR-TV. WHO DO YOU CARRY PHOTOS OF IN YOUR WALLET? I have a secret crush on Wikipedia. He is sooo smart and knows so much about so many different things. I love a smart Web site. Hopefully he doesn’t read your magazine…

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? I grew up in Houston but frequently travel throughout my eight county region that includes Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, parts of Galveston, Harris, Montgomery, Liberty and Waller Counties. I also travel internationally quite a bit too.

HOW DID YOU CELEBRATE YOUR LAST BIRTHDAY? I had a big house party with 23,000 of my closest friends (all my Realtors®). Don’t ask me how old I am though…I had a facelift last year for a reason….

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MEAL? I love electricity. But what really keeps me going is the hundreds of thousands of people who have found their home on me.

WHAT’S ON YOUR KEY RING? I don’t drive but neither do my friends who visit me. All they have to do is go online to find their dream home. Fo’ shizzle!

WHAT REALITY SHOW DO YOU WATCH? I enjoy and quite a bit. I am also TiVoing two new shows— and . I have a bit of everything. I also like , and —don’t judge me! But I can’t wait to see if Lauren and Heidi become friends again. And Heidi needs to drop Spencer fast. He’s a loser!

WHAT’S YOUR PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY? If you build it, they will come. I’m pretty laidback. I like to be helpful. I have lots of information and love to share.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR HOME? I love all my homes. Fortunately, I have nearly 50,000 to choose from depending on my mood that day.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

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3:46 PM

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Photography by Jack Potts

LORI LAMP POPE | BABYPLAYS.COM

IS THIS YOUR INTENDED CAREER PATH? IF NOT, HOW DID YOU GET HERE? This is very similar to my intended career path.

My goal was to start a company with a completely unique concept that could have worldwide appeal. Another aspect of my goal was that this company would improve family relationships, reduce household spending and clutter, and be environmentally friendly. BabyPlays.com accomplishes all these goals.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A mother, a singer and Queen!

WHY HOUSTON? Houston is my hometown and the center of the universe. Real estate is reasonable, and talented people are plentiful. This town is perfect for a dotcom business that ships nationwide.

FAVORITE BOOK? Little Women; business book: Good to Great FAVORITE BAND? Fleetwood Mac WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION? My children, my husband and Julie Aigner-Clark (Baby Einstein Co.) BIGGEST LIFE LESSON LEARNED? It is better to give than to receive, work smart, put God and family first & tomorrow is a new day and a chance to do better!

HOW DO YOU WANT TO BE REMEMBERED? As a determined, resourceful wise woman whose greatest assets were love, compassion and understanding of human relationships.

WHO WAS YOUR ROLE MODEL? My mother, my husband and Cinderella.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? I began working when I was 12 and had many jobs from babysitter, to dishwasher in a pizza restaurant 11 hours a day, to grocery store clerk, to ammunition re-loader, to medical assistant for a urologist, to art teacher in my first entrepreneurial endeavor, to president of my own oilfield supply company.

WHAT DO YOU PLAN ON DOING WHEN YOU RETIRE? Travel with my children to places in the world that will impact their lives in such a way that their focus in life becomes being the best person that they can be so that they are capable of making a difference in the world.

WHAT LUXURY (ITEM OR SERVICE) DO YOU WISH YOU COULD INDULGE YOURSELF WITH? Honestly, I wish I had a limo driver always waiting for me.

WHAT DEFINES HOUSTON AS YOUR “HOMETOWN”?

I lived here when I was just 3 years old and moved back when I was 11. I met my husband here and our life is rooted in this wonderful city. Houston is the best place to live in the world.

HOW MANY MAGAZINES DO YOU SUBSCRIBE TO? 4 – Oprah, Self, Food & Wine and Martha Stewart Living WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN HOUSTON TO SHOW OFF TO A VISITOR? The Museum District TEXANS STILL HAVE A REPUTATION FOR BRAGGING. WHAT WOULD YOU BRAG ABOUT? I would brag about working hard all of my life and how grateful I am for the life lessons that came from those years of hard work and not watching TV. WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER A HIDDEN TREASURE OF HOUSTON? Houston is loaded with exciting places to visit, but one thing that is magical to me about Houston is its close proximity to the wide open spaces of the country. You can drive just 30 minutes and sit and observe the stillness of God’s Creation.

IF YOU OWNED A HOUSTON SPORTS TEAM, WHAT WOULD YOU CALL THEM? Valor 62. april09 002houston

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FINANCE

3/19/09

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Page 63

By Hal Lynde, Managing Director, Morgan Keegan Photography by Daniel Ortiz

YOU’VE JUST LOST YOUR JOB…NOW WHAT? MAYBE YOU SAW IT COMING, MAYBE YOU DIDN’T, BUT THERE IT IS – THE PINK SLIP IN YOUR INBOX, THE PERSONNEL OFFICER SHAKING YOUR HAND AS YOU’RE SHOWN THE DOOR. SO, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO NOW? I MEAN, RIGHT NOW? EVALUATE YOUR EXIT PACKAGE If you haven’t already done so, find out the exact terms of your termination. Are you being fired for cause?

Laid off? Downsized? Will you lose your health insurance immediately (unless you pay to extend it through hal lynde COBRA), or will it carry you through the end of the month? Are you being offered a severance package?

(Do you have any leverage to negotiate it?) Will receiving it depend on signing a waiver? (If so, you might want to consult an attorney first.) Are you required to sign a noncompetition or a nondisclosure agreement? Will you receive any help searching for a new job (outplacement), or be allowed to use company equipment (copy machine, telephones, etc.) while you’re doing so? Will your former employers write references for you? And what will they say about you when future potential employers call to verify your employment?

CALL YOUR STATE UNEMPLOYMENT OFFICE Since your unemployment benefits may not start until two or three weeks after you file your claim, the faster you can initiate processing of your claim, the sooner you’ll receive your first check. In general, your benefits will be a percentage of your earnings, up to the state’s maximum claim amount.

REVIEW YOUR FINANCIAL SITUATION Obviously, your financial situation will be impacted by your loss of income, especially if your lack of employment lasts a while, so now’s the time to rethink your budget (even if it turns out only to be for the short term). Determine your expected income from unemployment benefits and other sources (severance pay, part-time temporary employment, investment income and perhaps spousal income). Then develop a bare-bones budget (one that pays the essentials and postpones the nonessentials) and compare it to your expected income. If your expenses will exceed your income, schedule withdrawals from your cash reserve to cover the difference. (Your cash reserve? It’s that “financial safety net” of 3 to 6 months income you’ve accumulated for a situation such as this.) Also list any other possible sources of potential income, including investment accounts or other assets you could sell if you need to.

HIT THE FLOOR RUNNING Looking for work is, in itself, a full-time job, and you should treat it as such. Look for employment online, in newspapers and in trade journals. Contact employment agencies and headhunters. Attend industry conferences or seminars, relevant community events and networking meetings to make new contacts and disseminate your résumé. Follow up any new employment leads in writing and/or with telephone calls. Be positive, and be aggressive. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don’t wait for the world to come to you.

Need help with a retirement plan rollover? Are you planning to retire in the next ten years? For a free review of your current investment situation, contact Hal Lynde / 713-840-3640. hal.lynde@morgankeegan.com. Listen to Hal’s daily stock market report at 6:45am & 3:45pm on 94.5 The Buzz.

DON’T MISS HAL’S MARKET UPDATES AT 6:40AM AND 3:45PM AS CAPTAIN CASH ON 94.5 THE BUZZ.

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WISE GUY

Page 64

THE GREAT QUES-OFF OF 2009

by Tim Moloney

I HAVE A LOVE/HATE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHEESE. THERE, I SAID IT. BEING LACTOSE INTOLERANT MAKES DAIRY PRODUCTS AN ENEMY COMBATANT OF MY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM, BUT THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT QUESO THAT I JUST CANNOT RESIST. SPENDING AN AFTERNOON WITH MARGARITAS, QUESO AND PRACTICED BULLSHITTERS IS MY IDEA OF HEAVEN. So, I brought these three key elements together for the first ever 002houston magazine QuesoQuesOff. We decided to go old school (Ninfa’s on Navigation) vs. NQOTB (new queso on the block) at Guadalajara in Houston Pavilions, in a queso cage match of epic proportions. And epic portions.

the draw? Don’t worry. We were there to get answers!

Their specialty is a smooth white queso composed of white mild cheddar, American and Chihuahua cheese. Bell peppers, tomatoes, onions and several secret ingredients are chopped very, very small so there’s a spicy spike in ever bite (the good stuff doesn’t sink to the bottom). But, it’s not the rough and tumble, killmy-hangover-now-dammit variety you find at Ninfa’s. It’s more suited to polite company. My female companion was particularly enthusiastic: “It tastes kind of light, and much healthier than regular queso. I would like a big bowl of it next to me when I’m watching TV.” So, then, the verdict in this queso culture war: you’re going to think I’m taking the easy (cheesy?) way out, but it’s really a tie. If you need some hardcore cheese action, some man-queso, I would set my GPS for Ninfa’s. But say you’re on a date or taking a client to lunch, or not hungover for once and want a smoother, lighter queso, Guadalajara should be on your radar. Either way, you’ll be the winner. It’s queso, man.

It was a rough Sunday afternoon when my friends and I all pulled up at Ninfa’s (everyone in their own cars, in true Houston style). Some had admittedly drank too much the night before, others had “allergies,” aka polite-society hangovers.

Another was just hungry and bitchy. All were in need of a cheese IV, stat!

But what to order? Ninfa’s is famous for both its chile con queso AND its queso flameado. Like true investigative journalists, we ordered both.

We started with the chile con queso – the Standard Oil of the melted cheese family. It was yellow, gooey and hot with chunks of red and green stuff floating in it – to get any more technical than that is pointless. It’s the most popular item on the menu besides the Ninfarita for a reason.

Up next was the Queso Flameado, a delightfully stringy concoction of white cheese – with a mild hint of cinnamon – rolled tableside into flour tortillas. The dish is rightfully a Sunday morning favorite – joining Bloody Marys, Lucky Charms, Avalon Drug Store cheeseburgers and Fierce Grape Gatorade among the pantheon of “random stuff guaranteed to swiftly kill a hangover.” It is truly amazing.

My friend Mr. February 002houston, who declined to be identified, was in cheese heaven. “The queso was amazing; so many flavors all rolled into one day of nothing but cheese. Who’d have thunk it?” Check back issues to identify this saucy gourmand.

Onward, our intrepid group. Our next stop was Guadalaraja del Centro in the shiny new and eerily quiet Houston Pavilions development downtown. This place was so crowded at lunch that I could not believe my eyes. Was their queso blanco

And now, let’s turn the cheese channel for this important message from our friend David Michael.

Here’s what’s up in the hair department for guys this spring/summer.

Ninfas, 2704 Navigation Boulevard, Houston 77003, 713 228 1175 Guadalajra del Centro, 1201 San Jacinto, Houston 77002, 713 650 0101

HAIRSAY!

By David Michael Garcia of David Michael Salon

The two distinct trends for this year are the rocker and schoolboy.

The main element for the rocker is the fringe, which is longer and textured – a modern version of the caesar cut.

To achieve this look I would use design paste by Profound Beauty, which is pliable with a matte finish. (And is carried at the salon!)

The second trend is the schoolboy, either slicked back or with a classic part. Think 30’s Hollywood – very polished and with a hint of shine. Pomade has returned for this look. I like Lumi Control from L’Oreal Serie Expert.

David Michael Salon, 1807 West Gray, Houston 77019, 713 942 7224

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Photography by Daniel Ortiz

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EVENT CLASSY, TRASHY & SASSY BIRTHDAY PARTY WHY TO CELEBRATE THE MARCH BIRTHDAYS OF AMANDA MILLS, JEREMY LITTLE & KC GIFFORD WHERE ULTIMATE RANSOM ROOM AT HOTEL ZAZA WHEN MARCH 6 Houston's young social set came out in force to wish the trio many happy returns.

Among the well-dressed and rowdy crowd were Lindsay Love, Dr. Betsy and Tod Eason, Chef Philippe Schmit, Mark Sullivan, Elizabeth Abraham, Carla Valencia and Alex Martinez, Candy and Lonnie Schiller, Stuart Rosenberg, Kristen Cannon, Erin Florescu, Erica Updegraff, Lauren Pray and Amanda Mills' French bulldog Crissy Snow.

Elizabeth Abraham, Sarah Smith

Betsy Eason, Stuart Rosenberg, Tod Eason

KC Gifford, Amanda Mills, Jeremy Little

Ashley Allan, David Cordua, Lauren Pray

Lynee Willette, Irena Hixson

Esteban Mayebe, Jennifer Rosenbaum, Trisha Harrison, Tiffany Whiteley, Jillian Rotter

Charles & Robin Rimer

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VROOM, VROOM

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By Michael Andre Adams

LUXURY PERFORMS UNDER $50K! CONSIDERING A CAR IN THE LUXURY PERFORMANCE CLASS? CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S PICKS…

2009 CADILLAC CTS V6 DI PERFORMANCE

2009 VOLKSWAGEN CC VR6 4MOTION

PRICE: $37,240 MSRP / $49,700 Loaded MPG: 17 city / 26 highway ANNUAL FUEL: $1,380 (15,000 miles @ $1.84 per gallon-regular unleaded)

PRICE: $39,300 MSRP / $42,630 Loaded MPG: 18 city / 27 highway ANNUAL FUEL: $1,371 (15,000 miles @ $1.92 / gallon-premium)

Drenched in technology and pizzas, the new CTS is far from Pop-Pop’s Cadillac!

The fierce face and grill with sleek sidelines says to others a chief is on board. And you’ll really mess them when you hold down the button on the remote to have the car started and seats heated (or cooled) as you make your way through the parking lot. Yeah, that’s the new CTS! • While resting comfortably on the supple leather seats you’ll notice how sports-car-esque the CTS sits (low and centered), despite the ease in the process of entering and exiting for nearly any size/body type. The handling is simply superb in terms of acceleration and maneuverability – thanks to a 304 horsepower (3.6L V6) direct injection engine, a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels. • The center of the dashboard is where you’ll find most of the convenience controls, including a powered navigation/information screen that raises and lowers with the flip of a switch. In addition to the standard luxury norms (navigation with automatic traffic alerts that offer to reroute, voice recognition, Bluetooth, rain sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic wheel, keyless access and start, etc.), CTS’s “Information” feature will forecast the weather (for the day or extended days) along the route in which you’re heading. • Remember to hit the record button should a friend get in with a hot new CD. That way you can save a song, or the entire CD on the 40-gig hard drive. And Tivo fans will love the pause and play radio – an industry first – by which you can actually back up any song playing on the Bose surround sound AM, FM or satellite radio. That’s hot!

CC’s sleek lines, frameless windows on all four doors, sloped trunk, exterior signal mirrors and just enough bling on the front grill to tastefully define its luxury class status are attributes parallel to impressions of the Mercedes CL Class, less the $80K price tag. • CC’s base includes nearly every option conceivable in a mid-range luxury vehicle, minus navigation and rear view camera, both of which are included in the Technology Package for an additional $2,640. • Slide the remote into the ignition slot and depress to start the vehicle. Doing so at night in particular is sure to impress onlookers as the BI-XENON automatic headlights perform a leveling adjustment that’s beyond cool and exciting to see. • Lower the power rear sunshade, set the heat and fold side view mirrors, connect your iPod to the powerful premium sound system that operates from the steering wheel and you’re ready to roll. • Reminiscent of a coupe, the handling of this car is tight and oh so smooth, thanks to a host of technological features to stabilize the vehicle at all times. It takes curves like a champ for a car in its class, thanks in further part to a 3.6L VR6 engine, paddle shifters to command the six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and VW/Audi’s legendary 4Motion-four wheel drive. • Once again, VW has outdone itself. And at $42K, this one is a must-see. Don’t miss or dis’ it, as most did with the VW Phaeton!

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TOOLS+TOYS+GADGETS

3:49 PM

Page 67

By Michael Garfield

Layoff Tracker These are grim economic times and many people are worrying about their jobs.

Now there’s a website that offers its own layoff tracker – citing numbers, companies and all the rumors surrounding job uncertainty. It’s called TelOnU.com (“Tell On You”) and the site indeed tells all the bleak news including graphs, individual stories and searchable industry and business layoff statistics, trends and gossip. A feature allows users to anonymously rant and dish the dirt about their company, warning off others or sharing information on bad bosses and questionable polices. The site is a giant clearing house for corporate intelligence in these trying times.

Most of the information is sourced and the charts are tabulated daily.

There are scores of blogs and websites on the web that monitor specific industry layoffs and shutdowns but this one probably offers the most accurate and up-to-date info you can find. www.TelOnU.com

PBreolktinecCtlaomrp On Surge

DWeesaktthoepr Station Oregon Scientific has released a new weather monitor that makes it easy to know when bad weather is on the way – it sounds an alert.

A push of a button pulls up government forecasts and the device looks good enough to sit in the kitchen or bedroom where it can serve as a clock radio. The WR606 Desktop Emergency Radio Weather Station packs a lot of nifty technology in a black and gray case that measures 1.2 x 5.2 x 2.2 inches and weighs just 10 ounces. The neatest feature of this little gizmo is its ability to tune in and program weather forecasts – up to nine of them. This is great for those who have a summer home up north, or a winter home in Florida. It also has a 12/24-hour time, a day/month calendar and two daily alarms with snooze function. www.oregonscientific.com | $125

WSierceulersitsy Camera

One downside of surge protectors is they are typically down on the floor and difficult to reach. If you ever have to switch out something on a regular basis it becomes even more of a nuisance. Belkin now has a cool little surge protector that should make your life a little easier. The Clamp-On Surge Protector secures to the edge of a desk, table, workbench, two-by-four or sawhorse. It doesn’t take up much space and access to the cords is easy. It makes an excellent device for your AV equipment when clamped to the back of a TV stand, or in the garage for utility lights and power tools. It has 6 surge-protected outlets and an extra-long 10-ft. power cord. No more reaching, just plug-and-play. www.belkin.com | $41

If you’re looking for a wireless security camera that supports the high-speed Wireless-N standard, Trendnet has something for you. The company just released an Internet Camera Server with 2-Way Audio. Essentially, this is a security camera that you can access and control over the Internet without any additional equipment.

The camera can be easily installed near front or back doors and entry gates. Its two-way radio feature means you can communicate with the person standing in front of the camera from the remote location. It comes with a free software suite that can manage up to 32 Trendnet security cameras with some advanced features including event-driven email alerts. A removable lens and a powerful 16x digital zoom make this camera a must-have for conspiracy theorists. Images can even be stored on an SD card in the built-in SD card slot. www.trendnet.com | $250

MICHAEL GARFIELD is known as "The High-Tech Texan®" to millions of radio listeners and TV viewers. He can be heard and seen across many markets dispersing technology news and tips. His radio program airs in Houston on The 9-5-0 every Saturday at 11am. Visit his website at www.hightechtexan.com.

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RESTAURANT LISTINGS Monarch inside Hotel ZaZa 5701 Main. 713.527.1800 monarchrestaurant.com

american

*17 inside Hotel Alden 1117 Prairie. 832.200.8800 aldenhotels.com

Noe noerestaurant.com Four Riverway. 713.871.8177

Artista In the Hobby Center 800 Bagby. 713.278.4782 cordua.com

Polo’s Signature 3800 Southwest Frwy.

713.626.8100 polosignature.com

ruggles green

Quattro fourseasons.com inside The Four Seasons Hotel 1300 Lamar. 713.276.4700

Benjy’s benjys.com •2424 Dunstan. 713.522.7602 •5922 Washington Ave. 713.868.1131

Ruggles Green rugglesgreen.com 2311 West Alabama. 713.533.0777

Bedford bedfordrestaurant.com 1001 Studewood. 713.880.1001

Tart Café tartcafe.com 4411 Montrose. 713.526.8278

Bistro Lancaster 701 Texas Ave. 713.228.9502

The Oceanaire Seafood Room 5061 Westheimer. 832.487.8862 theoceanaire.com

Boom Boom Room 2518 Yale St. 713.868.3740 theboomboomroomhouston.com

Shade shadeheights.com 250 W. 19th St. 713.863.7500

Bowl eatbowl.com 607 Richmond. 832.582.7218

spindletop

Skyline Bar & Grill Hilton-Americas 1600 Lamar. 713.577.6139

Daily Review Café dailyreviewcafe.com 3412 West Lamar. 713.520.9217

Glass Wall glasswalltherestaurant.com 933 Studemont. 713.868.7930 Gravitas gravitasrestaurant.com 807 Taft. 713.522.0995 La Strada lastradahouston.com 322 Westheimer. 713.523.1014 Lake House Waterside Cafe Discovery Green North Side. thegrovehouston.com

mccormick and schmick’s

McCORMICK AND SCHMICK’S •1151 Uptown Park. 713.840.7900 •1201 Fannin St. [Houston Pavilions] 713.658.8100 mccormickandschmicks.com/houston.com

Gigi’s Asian Bistro 5085 Westheimer. 713.629.8889

Voice inside Hotel Icon 220 Main. 832.667.4470 hotelicon.com

Tiny Boxwoods tinyboxwoods.com 3614 W. Alabama St. 713.622.4224 Diedrich Coffee diedrich.com 4005 Montrose. 713.526.1319

Kam’s [fine chinese cuisine] 4500 Montrose Blvd. #C. 713.529.5057

Inversion Coffee House 1953 Montrose, #A. 713.523.4866 inversioncoffee.com

Kubo’s [japanese] 2414 University Blvd. #200. 713.528.7878 kubos-sushi.com

Kraftsmen Baking kraftsmenbaking.com 4100 Montrose #C. 713.524.7272

LES GIVRAL’S KAHVE [vietnamese] 801 Congress St. 713.547.0444 lesgivrals.com

Mak Chin’s [pan asian] makchins.com 1511 Shepherd. 713.861.9888 Monsoon Wok & Lounge 1200 McKinney, #103.

713.571.SAKE monsoonhou.com Pagoda [vietnamese] pagodabistro.com 4705 Inker St. 832.673.0400

RA SUSHI [japanese] rasushi.com 3908 Westheimer. 713.621.5800

SPINDLETOP Hyatt Regency Houston 1200 Louisiana St. Houston, TX 77002 Uptown Sushi uptown-sushi.com 713.375.4775 spindletopathyatt.com Uptown Park. 713.871.1200 Spindletop, atop the Hyatt Regency Zake [japanese] Houston, features innovative steak and seafood fare. The elegant 2946 S. Shepherd. atmosphere creates the perfect 713.526.6888 setting for business dinners and special occasions. CLOSED ZUSHI JAPANESE CUISINE ra sushi UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. 5900 Memorial Dr., #102.

713.861.5588 SoVino sovinowines.com zushihouston.com 507 Westheimer. 713.524.1000 The Grove thegrovehouston.com 1611 Lamar. 713.337.7321

DON DIEGO COFFEE dondiegocoffee.com 208 Travis. 713.228.3560

The Coffee Groundz coffeegroundz.net 2503 Bagby. 713.874.0082

Fish [japanese] fishhouston.com 309 Gray. 713.526.5294

Post Oak Grill postoakgrill.com 1415 S. Post Oak. 713.993.9966

Americas cordua.com •1800 Post Oak Blvd. 713.961.1492 •21 Waterway Ave. 281.367.1492

les givral’s kahve

Azuma [japanese] azumajapanese.com •909 Texas. 713.223.0909 •5600 Kirby. 713.423.9649

Open City ochouston.com 2416 Brazos. 713.522.0118

Antone’s •810 Capitol. 713.224.4679 •2724 West T.C. Jester. 713.686.4338 •4520 San Felipe. 713.623.4464 Antone’s Catering. 713.977.4000

Max’s Wine Dive maxswinedive.com 4720 Washington. 713.880.8737

Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House 2621 S. Shepherd.

713.524.8410 auntiechangs.com

bakery+ coffee+tea+others Antidote Coffee 729 Studewood. 713.861.7400 myspace.com/antidotecoffee

asian

Bright & Early 4825 Washington. 713.934.8234

26ten Sushi [japanese] 2610 Sage. 713.974.4000

Café Brasil 2604 Dunlavy. 713.528.1993 68. april09 002houston

Mango Beach [snow cones] 2304 White Oak Swirll [frozen yogurt] •1944 West Gray.

•15955 City Walk. swirlls.com Taft Street Coffee 2115 Taft. 713.522.3533

pagoda

Te House of Tea teaagora.com 2402 Woodhead. 713.522.8868

bar-b-que

Beaver’s beavershouston.com 2310 Decatur St. 713.864.2328 Goode Company Texas Barbecue goodecompany.com 5109 Kirby. 713.522.2530 Luling Bar-B-Q Bar 138 West Gray. 713.520.6400

Pizzitola’s Bar-B-Cue pizzitolasbbq.com 1703 Shepherd. 713.227.2283 Thelma’s 1020 Live Oak @ Lamar. 713.228.2262

Crave Cupcakes couture-cupcakes.com 1151 Uptown Park Blvd. 713.622.7283

The Breakfast Klub thebreakfastklub.com 3711 Travis. 713.528.8561 The Buffalo Grille thebuffalogrille.com •3116 Bissonnet. 713.661.3663 •1301 S. Voss. 713.784.3663 Empire Café empirecafe.net 1732 Westheimer.

713.528.5282

zushi

Fountain View Café 1842 Fountain View. 713.785.9060 Rustika Café 3237 Southwest Frwy. 713.665.6226

cajun+creole+ southern

BB’s Kitchen thebetterbite.com 2710 Montrose. 713.524.4499 Houston’s This Is It Soulfood 207 W. Gray. 713.659.1608 thisisithouston.com

Mardi Gras Grill mardigrasgrill.net 1200 Durham. 713.864.5600 Soul On The Bayeaux 3717 Dowling. 713.528.0732 Treebeards •315 Travis. 713.228.2622 •1117 Texas. 713.229.8248 •1100 Louisiana. 713.752.2601 •700 Rusk. 713.224.6677 Zydeco Louisiana Diner 1119 Pease. 713.759.2001

european+french Brasserie Max and Julie [french] 4315 Montrose. 713.524.0070 maxandjulie.net

breakfast

Café Montrose [belgian] cafemontrose.com 1609 Westheimer. 713.523.1201

11th St. Café 748 E. 11th St. 713.862.0089

Charivari Specialty Restaurant [european] 2521 Bagby. 713.271.7231 charivarirest.com

Avalon Drug Co. & Diner •2417 Westheimer. 713.527.8900 •12810 Southwest Frwy. 281.240.0213 Baby Barnaby’s barnabyscafe.com 602 Fairview. 713.522.4229

indian

Indika indikausa.com 516 Westheimer. 713.524.2170

Kiran’s kiranshouston.com 4100 Westheimer. 713.960.8472

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Narin’s Bombay Brasserie 3005 W. Loop South. 713.622.2005 narinsbombaybrasserie.com Shiva Indian Restaurant 2415 Times Blvd. 713.523.4753 shivarestaurant.com

italian

ARCODORO arcodoro.com 5000 Westheimer. 713.621.6888 ARTURO’S ITALIANO arturosuptown.com Uptown Park. 713.621.1180 Divino Italian Restaurant 1830 W. Alabama. 713.807.1123 divinohouston.com Mia Bella 320 Main. 713.237.0505 Mingalone Italian Bar & Grill 540 Texas. 713.223.0088 mingalone.com Ristorante Cavour inside Hotel Granduca. granducahouston.com 1080 Uptown Park. 713.418.1000

latin Café Piquet [cuban] 6053 Bissonnet. 713.664.1031 El Meson [cuban] 2425 University. 713.522.9306 El Patio [mex] •6444 Westheimer. 713.780.0410 •2416 Brazos. 713.523.8181

The Lemon Tree [peru] 12591 Whittington.

281.556.0690

El Rey [cuban-mex] •233 Main. 713.225.1895 •910 Shepherd. 713.802.9145

tio pepe Rioja Spanish Tapas TIO PEPE [spain] riojarestaurant.com 5213 Cedar St. 11920 Westheimer. 281.531.5569 Bellaire, TX 77401 713.667.4409 Tacos a Go-Go tacosagogo.com tiopeperestaurant.net 3704 Main. 713.807.8226 Best PAELLA and SANGRIA in Houston!

Houston’s original and still most authentic Spanish cuisine. mediterranean+ Newly renovated. Under new management. greek

El Tiempo Cantina [mex] •3130 Richmond. 713.807.1600 •5602 Washington. 713.681.3645 •1308 Montrose. 713.807.8996 eltiempocantina.com

el tiempo

Escalante’s [mex] escalantes.net 4053 Westheimer.

713.623.4200

GUADALAJARA HACIENDA •1201 San Jacinto 713.650.0101 NEW •9799 Katy Freeway 713.461.5300 •2925 Southwest Freeway 713.942.0772 •27885 I 45 North 713.362.0774 guadalajarahacienda.com Irma’s [mex] •22 N. Chenevert. 713.222.0767 •1314 Texas. 713.247.9651

TILA’S [mex] tilas.com 1111 S. Sheperd. 713.522.7654 Lucio’s [new american latin] 905 Taft. 713.523.9958

Maria Selma [mex] mariaselma.com 1617 Richmond. 713.528.4920 Molina’s Cantina [mex] 4220 Washington. 713.862.0013 molinasrestaurants.com Ninfa's The Original 2704 Navigation Blvd. 713.228.1175

Picazo Restaurant Bar & Grill 1421 Preston. 713.236.1300 picazodowntown.com

Droubi Bros.

•507 Dallas. 713.625.0058 •919 Milam. 713.571.6800

Niko Niko’s nikonikos.com 2520 Montrose. 713.528.1308 Saffron Moroccan Cuisine 2006 Lexington. 713.522.3562 saffronhouston.com

pizza

Candelari’s candelaris.com 6002 Washington. 832.200.1474

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Dolce Vita Pizzeria y Enoteca 500 Westheimer. 713.520.8222 dolcevitahouston.com Frank’s Pizza frankspizza.com 417 Travis. 713.225.5656

Pink’s Pizza pinkspizza.com •710 West Gray. 713.521.7465 •1403 Heights Blvd. 713.864.7465 Romano’s Flying Pizza 1528 W. Gray. 713.526.1182

Star Pizza starpizza.net •77 Harvard. 713.869.1241 •2111 Norfolk. 713.523.0800

steak+chops Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House delfriscos.com 5061 Westheimer. 713.355.2600 Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse 2405 W. Alabama. 713.520.5999 flemingssteakhouse.com

Morton’s mortons.com •5000 Westheimer. 713.629.1946 •1001 McKinney. 713.659.3700

Pappas Bros Steakhouse pappasbros.com 5839 Westheimer Rd. 713.780.7352 Perry's Steakhouse & Grille 9827 Katy Freeway. 832.358.9000 perrysrestaurants.com Spencer’s Steaks & Chops 1600 Lamar. 713.577.8325 spencersforsteaksandchops.com

Strip House theglaziergroup.com 1200 McKinney. 713.659.6000 SHULA'S STEAKHOUSE Hyatt Regency Houston 1200 Louisiana St. Houston, TX 77002 Reservations: 713.375.4777 Private Dining: 713.375.4709 Shula's is known for serving premium steaks as well as an impressive roster of seafood and chops. Reserve one of three private dining rooms for business meetings or special occasions. shula’s

002houston April 09:002houston

DINE WRITE

3/19/09

4:06 PM

Page 70

By Jenny Wang of imneverfull.com Photography by Kim Coffman

COURSES | A LESSON IN FOOD

1. chef instructor michael holderfield, general manager stephen griffin and students 2. chocolate terrine 3. pan sauteed skate in creamed corn sabayon

At The Art Institute of Houston, 1900 Yorktown Houston, TX 7056 | 713.353.3644 www.artinstitutes.edu/houston/AboutUs/Restau rantDeli.aspx

HOURS:

Thu - Sat 6-8pm, Sun 11am - 1pm

sample menu selections soups • French Onion Soup $5.00 • Roasted Vegetable & Chicken $6.00

salads • Mezclun Salad; Baby lettuces, Granny Smith apple, dried cherries, goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette $5.00 • Courses Caesar: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, seasoned crouton, anchovy, creamy Caesar dressing $4.50

sandwiches • Mediterranean Tuna Wrap: Seared tuna, black olives, red onions, lettuce, tomato and Italian vinaigrette in a sun-dried tomato wrap $8.00 • Bistro Burger: 7oz burger of lean ground beef with leaf lettuce, tomato, pickle, & Cheddar on toasted bun $7.00

entrées • Sautéed Salmon, Sugar snap peas, rice pilaf, roasted tomato Beurre Blanc $8.00 • Roasted Chicken, Oven-roasted with caramelized potatoes and sautéed green beans $7.50

1

2

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atronizing the student-run restaurant aptly named “Courses” at The Art Institute of Houston isn’t nearly as painful or risky as, say, getting a root canal from dental students at UTDB. And there may be a certain philanthropic feeling you get from knowing you are contributing to the advancement of someone’s education, but I’m telling you the “I’m-happy-because-I-justhad-a-good-meal” feeling will be even more prominent.

The kitchen is led under the skillful instruction and sharp supervision of Chef Michael Holderfield whose résumé includes stints at Rainbow Lodge and the now defunct La Tour d’Argent. Culinary students spend eleven weeks at Courses to fulfill program requirements toward a degree in Culinary Arts. Therefore, the menu changes like clockwork every eleven weeks, but desserts and off-menu specials change daily. Students do a three-day rotation through each station in the kitchen – think sauté, grill, sauces, pastries, salads – and spend time on the floor serving diners. Some star chefs like Chris Shepherd of Catalan and Randy Evans from the late Brennan’s and chef/partner of Haven (the next big restaurant opening on my radar) have matriculated out of this operation.

The restaurant is modest and utilitarian with white tablecloths, dark wooden chairs and stone tile flooring.

Each table is set with a feng shui-friendly bamboo plant which adds a cheerful, organic touch. The dining room is L-shaped and wraps around the classroom-cum-kitchen which is in full-view behind a wall of windows. Is it entertaining watching a dozen or so students in chef’s whites and toques fussing and bustling about? Yes.

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Warm, freshly baked Italian parmesan rolls with chive and thyme compound butter arrived at the table first. I started with two soups: French onion and tomato basil, the soup du jour. French onion soup was served in a French soup bowl with nutty Gruyere melted over the top.

I’ve always loved the initial joy of slicing through that thick layer of gooey cheese to release the pool of beefy broth underneath. No complaints. The ubiquitous piece of bread and caramelized onions were all present in the slightly sweet and flavorful, dark broth. The sheer fun of composing the perfect bite of cheese, bread, onion and soup almost made me forget that I was supposed to be tasting the food, not filling up on the starter. Tomato basil soup was thick, creamy and satisfying even without any dairy present. The acid was well-balanced and again, I had to stop myself from overindulging.

Caesar salad was perfectly dressed and served with house-made croutons, shaved parmesan and a lone anchovy. The dressing had a slight kick to it that would be pleasing to any palate. Mesclun salad arrived with goat cheese, dried cherries, thinly sliced granny smiths and walnuts in balsamic vinaigrette. The combination of flavors was agreeable and the vinaigrette was spot-on.

The sandwiches on the lunch menu were reminiscent of hotel dining offerings. Gruyere panini was pressed long enough to result in a wonderfully crispy crust and was filled with warm, stringy gruyere and sweet, caramelized shallots. The bistro burger with cheddar cheese and fries was standard fare, but not the greasy mess the way I prefer them.

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3/19/09

4:07 PM

Page 71

3

The strong courses here were the main courses. The roasted chicken would have made Escoffier proud. The bone-in, half chicken, moist and perfectly seasoned, was propped up on a mound of new potatoes and sautéed green beans still al dente. Natural chicken jus added another layer of flavors although the chicken was perfect without it.

I was delighted to hear the special of the day was pan-sautéed skate on creamed corn sabayon. As far as I know, skate, or stingray, is only available at Brasserie Max & Julie and makes very rare appearances at other Houston restaurants as off-menu specials. The sweet, flaky white meat is delectable but spoils in a few days which makes it a difficult fish to carry. The skate – or raie “en français” as it is most frequently seen on French menus – was prepared in the classic style, lightly dredged in flour and sautéed in butter. It was served over a bed of corn in a thick, creamy sabayon – a sauce made by beating egg yolks with a liquid (in this case, fresh corn juice) over simmering water to thicken it. The natural sweetness of kernel corn brought out the same inherent characteristic of the skate and the sabayon added a lovely decadence to the dish.

Two triangles of chocolate “terrine” were silky-smooth and served with crème anglais, crushed pistachios and macerated berries. Also, a chilled lemon “soufflé,” which was more of an airy mousse, arrived in a sugar-rimmed martini glass with candied lemon and more macerated berries. Each dessert was creative in both marketing and execution. Each bite was enjoyed and savored.

Let’s face it. Times are tough, but gourmet meals can still be affordable if you know where to look. Courses is precisely where you should be looking.

Does Courses get a passing grade? YES.

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002houston April 09:002houston

NEW RESTAURANTS

3/19/09

4:07 PM

Page 72

By Jenny Wang Photography by Alexander Flenner

NEW RESTAURANT? EMAIL US AT LETTERS@002MAG.COM

GUADALAJARA DEL CENTRO

COLLIN’S CHOP HOUSE + WHISKEY BAR

PINK’S PIZZA

300 MAIN ST. | 713.229.9504 bellarestaurants.com

710 WEST GRAY | 713.521.7465 pinkspizza.com

CUISINE MEXICAN

CUISINE STEAKHOUSE

CUISINE PIZZA

CHEF CHRISTOPHER WHITTON

CHEF YOUSSEF NAFAA

CHEF N/A

1201 SAN JACINTO [HOUSTON PAVILIONS] | 713.650.0101 guadalajarahacienda.com

The newest resto in the burgeoning downtown Houston Pavilions fills a void of Mexican food and, more importantly, margaritas at this end of downtown. A lively, serpentine bar downstairs and an intimate lounge upstairs make this a great stop for after-work happy hour or a dinner meet-up to kick off a fun-filled night.

For starters, I enjoyed the Tex-Mex empanada appetizer filled with tasty chicken, cheese, corn and black beans. The creamy cilantro dipping sauce was terrific.

CHICKEN AND SPINACH QUESADILLAS WERE EXTRAORDINARY WITH HOMEMADE TORTILLAS AND A CREAMED SPINACH-ESQUE FILLING. Tortilla soup was a hearty, healthy choice with shredded chicken and veggies puréed into the broth to make a thick soup packed with heat. “Fried Green Tamales” – battered and deep fried pork tamales topped with tomatillo sauce – were too cute to pass up. Enchilada stack is reminiscent of King Ranch casserole and carne asada was cooked to medium temp with thick melted Chihuahua cheese and poblano strips on top. Seafood enchiladas were my favorite dish with a creamy avocado sauce and killer cilantro rice.

Enjoy happy hour with five $4 apps including yummy cumin-spiced shrimp “hush puppies” called diablitos with raspberry chipotle sauce. Wash it down with $2-off house ’ritas and $3-off mojitos and sangrias (four flavors!). Catch it 3-6 pm Monday through Friday.

Sharing adjoining turf (pun intended) with Cielo Mexican Bistro downtown in the old St. Pete’s spot is this gorgeous, sexy space evoking a modern boudoir with red leather banquettes and sleek, sparkling chandeliers. THIS TRENDY, CASUAL STEAKHOUSE – ANOTHER GREAT CONCEPT BY BELLA RESTAURANTS – HAS A BOLD AND CREATIVE MENU WITH DISHES SUCH AS “STEAK AND EGGS,” STEAK TARTARE TOPPED WITH A SUNNY SIDE UP QUAIL EGG AND TRUFFLED AIOLI. I found the addition of Collin’s steak sauce extraneous for an otherwise good tartare dish. Truffled wild mushroom bisque was tasty with dollops of crème fraiche and garlicky wild mushroom compote. Red meat is prime grade, wet-aged for 28 days. The kitchen seems to be working out some newbie jitters as bone-in NY Strip and braised beef short ribs were both overcooked, but a side of crispy cast-iron hash browns with wild mushrooms was stellar and artisan mac and cheese would warm any belly.

The long, handsome bar should soon be bumpin’ with the introduction of Prohibition-era drinks under the outside tutelage of Bobby Heugel (of the soon-to-beopen Anvil bar). Also coming soon, a happy hour menu with $4.99 appetizers.

72. april09 002houston

The search is over. The dearth of palatable pie – pizza pie, that is – inside the loop is finally over thanks to Pink’s. I like super-thin, crispy crust. Crust should primarily serve as a vessel for cheese and toppings, no?

When I met the first thin-crust, hand-tossed pie at Pink’s, we were besties immediately. EIGHT PIZZAS LATER, I WAS GIGGLING LIKE A SCHOOL GIRL AND HAD THEM ON SPEED DIAL. My favorites? The Santa Monica with prosciutto, pungent gorgonzola and tangy dried cranberries on dough brushed with basilinfused olive oil and garlic. The Deuce and Luigi were equally spectacular with a basil pesto sauce foundation and goat cheese, spinach, portabellas (The Deuce) or Canadian bacon, gorgonzola, portabellas and diced apples (The Luigi) on top. Pizza purists need not complain. Traditional pizza toppings and sauce are available too. In fact, one of the standouts was simply a (huge) slice of plain cheese pizza. The crust was crispy, the cheese stringy, the sauce wellbalanced – neither too sweet nor too tangy. The quality of ingredients was apparent because it was just damn good stuff.

Go to Pink’s. You can buy pizza by the pie or slice.

They’ll deliver it to you, but I recommend eating it straight out of their oven. They’re even do-gooders.

Just ask about pizza insurance. You won’t regret it.

002houston April 09:002houston

3/19/09

not

qui

te

Page 73

Photography by Kennon Evett

THE CHEF’S SPECIAL wel l

4:08 PM

GENERAL MANAGER LUDOVIC POIRIER + DIRECTOR OF WINE TODD LEVERITT | RESTAURANT VOICE this

mon

th!

cuisine modern american | private room yes | catering yes | attire business address 220 main street, houston, tx 77002 | phone 832.667.4470 | website hotelicon.com

Todd Leveritt A military man, Leveritt served in the Marine Corps from 1999 to 2003. The former Marine began his wine education when he launched his career in the fine dining industry at two of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, Aries and Gravitas. Studying under chefs Scott Tycer ( magazine Best New Chef recipient) and Jason Gould, Leveritt served as Aries’ fromagier until he later became the restaurant’s wine director.

Leveritt eventually moved on to take positions at various wine bars in Houston – a growing staple among the city’s bar scene.

Ludovic Poirier Poirier brings many years of international experience to his role with a focus on overseeing the signature restaurants of top hotels around the world. Following his graduation from catering school in Laval, France, he trained in Paris at the prestigious Residence Maxim’s and later at the famed Hotel Ritz’s L’Espadon, named “Best Hotel Restaurant in Paris.” He also served as butler to the Minister of Defense, rendering service in his residence, including private dinners and receptions. He first served as food and beverage manager for Deville restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel and later oversaw the transformation of the venue to Quattro. In 2002, he accepted the position of restaurant manager for the St. Regis Hotel. Under his guidance, Remington earned recognition as a Four Diamond restaurant. Locally, Poirier is best known for his role as director of operations for Bistro Moderne, the highly regarded French restaurant which he opened at Hotel Derek.

FAVORITE LATE NIGHT SPOT FOR A BITE? LP At home, cheese, bread and wine.

TL Define late night. Very little is available for the industry owl.

BEST BREAKFAST? LP It was somewhere, bed & breakfast in Australia, “great ocean road” with my spouse.

TL Freshly juiced fruits and vegetables at Cocina Leveritt.

BEST BRUNCH? LP In Brittany, France, family Sunday lunch for 4 hours.

TL Shade.

WHAT’S YOUR PET PEEVE? LP Slow drivers.

TL Tupperware. Don’t create what you know you won’t consume and don’t pass up a great opportunity for guests.

Beans and soup are an exception.

WHAT UTENSIL CAN YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT? LP Wine opener.

TLWhisk.

WHAT INGREDIENT CAN YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT IN THE KITCHEN AND WHY? LP Butter – just cannot cook without it.

TL Stock (vegetable, chicken, beef, fruit). The beginning of haute cuisine at home is the abolishment of box-kits and flavor packets. If all you have to do is add water, you are sustaining, not living.

FAVORITE AFFORDABLE WINE? LP French red Loire valley wines.

TL There’s really nowhere to start or end on this one. To name a few: Avalon Cabernet, anything from Trimbach, and Ramian Rose, if you can find it (insert Voice Restaurant plug here!).

Ludovic Poirier | Todd Leveritt

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DESSERT? LP Ice cream shop seating outside, beach view.

TL Toss-up between Crave Cupcakes in Uptown Park and the Pan Dulce case at Matamoros Meat Market on Washington.

WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE CHEF, RESTAURANT AND DISH? LP Michael Kramer, Voice.

TL Scott Tycer// Tomo Sushi (this answer changes weekly)// Jason Gould’s Smoked Pork Chop with Sweet Potato Puree and Green Beans.

VOICE

FAVORITES – TODD MIXER I’M NOT A BIG FAN OF MIXERS. I LOVE MAKING DRINKS FOR PEOPLE, WHICH IS ALONG THE SAME PRINCIPLE AS WHY I’M THE RESTAURANT WINE GUY, BUT UNLESS IT’S GIN AND PINEAPPLE JUICE (KEEP LAUGHING, STUART), I PREFER MY LIQUORS NEAT. SONG “O FORTUNA” CITY POHANG, KOREA SCENT COFFEE SHOE CHUCK TAYLORS FAVORITES – LUDOVIC MIXER NOT A COCKTAIL PERSON. SONG THE ONE I CAN SING. CITY SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA SCENT OCEAN SHOE FLIP-FLOP 73. april09 002houston

002houston April 09:002houston

SIP CODES

By Beatrice Valencia

3/19/09

4:11 PM

Restaurateurs, club/bar owners, pubbers, etc., if there is a special event or something you would like the public to know about, email me at bvalencia@002mag.com and I will help spread the word for you. See you out!

I HAVE A CONFESSION TO MAKE. I KNOW THIS IS SIPCODES AND I’M SUPPOSED TO BLANKET THE CITY AND FIND WHERE TO EAT AND WHERE TO DRINK, BUT TO BE HONEST, DURING THESE TIMES, GOING OUT TO EAT AND DRINK, WELL, IT’S BEEN SCALED BACK…A LOT. I ALWAYS EAT BREAKFAST AND TAKE MY LUNCH TO WORK. LEAVING DINNERS THE MOST PLAUSIBLE CHOICE TO EAT OUT SOMEWHERE. WHEN I DO GO OUT TO EAT, I’M NOT LIKE A CRITIC OF SORTS WHO LETS THE RESTAURANT KNOW THEY WILL BE THERE SO I GET EXTRA SPECIAL SERVICE OR A FREE MEAL. I GO WHERE I WANT, WHEN I WANT, UNANNOUNCED. AND I HAVE TO PAY FOR IT ALL…WITH MY PARTNER IN CRIME, MY BOYFRIEND. OK, SO HE USUALLY PICKS UP THE TAB. IT’S AWFUL. I KNOW! THE TABLES HAVE TURNED THOUGH AND NOW I’M GROCERY SHOPPING WITH HIM, FOR HIM AND EVEN ATTEMPTING TO MAKE DINNER. I’M NO PEOPLE. I HAVE TO ADMIT, I WAS JADED IN THE PAST GOING OUT FOR DINNERS AND SPENDING ENTIRELY TOO MUCH JUST BECAUSE I WANTED TO TASTE ONE OF EVERYTHING. ONE THAT REALIZES, WASTE NOT, WANT NOT.

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A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AND FIRST-TIME VISIT… Escalante’s Mexican Grille- 4053 Westheimer Rd. 713.623.4200 www.escalantes.net On my first visit ever to this location, I was flabbergasted at the reservations “rules.” Apparently, you have to arrive at least an hour early to start waiting for your reservation in hopes that you are seated at the time you scheduled it. Our party did just this and regardless we weren’t seated at the time we had requested. Please note that weekends are a madhouse. We went on Friday and there must have been at least 5 other large parties waiting as well. Imagine all of those tables taking up the bar space.

The bar area consists of booth tables along the one side of the wall with the bar along the other. When crowded, this space seems rather small although it’s pretty long and substantial. The dining area is a large open space with booth seating and tables. There’s also patio seating available. Once we were seated, the service was great and, more importantly, quick. We had drinks on the table immediately and appetizers already in the works. My Patron margarita came with its own shaker and was mixed at the table to pour. My favorite part is the tableside guacamole. It’s prepared just as you like it, right next to your table so you get a fresh batch! The queso is white queso but don’t be alarmed. It’s actually quite tasty full of meat and peppers. I ordered the spinach enchiladas but the way to go is the cheese enchiladas or the combo orders. The enchiladas come smothered in sauce and the combos are likely to come with at least one. Dessert was the obligatory piece of tres leches with a candle for the birthday girl. A sweet ending to a nearly perfect night.

ONCE IN AWHILE LUNCH OUT… Zoë’s Kitchen- 3701 S. Shepherd Dr. 713.522.7447 www.zoeskitchen.com Located in a shopping strip, don’t expect anything too fancy. In fact think more casual, whimsical and basic. Bright colors, golden wood and exposed metal make up the interior. Menu items are on metal dividers attached to metal beams all in a row before you get to the register to order. It forms a natural line to the register. You order at the register, pay and get a number for your order in return. Your options for seating

are wooden booths along the perimeter of the restaurant or wooden tables with bright orange chairs. Think contemporary seating. All meals are brought to you on a metal charger tray covered with a sheet of paper with a plastic fork and a napkin. Sides come in a small Styrofoam bowl on the tray as well. Should you choose to put dressing (a simple vinaigrette) on anything, squeeze bottles are located on each table for convenience, along with salt and pepper. Kids’ paintings, a la refrigerator style, decorate the walls along with specials. I’m a big fan of the slaw made with feta and vinaigrette. This, a healthier version of the classic mayo laden calorie buster! I’m currently addicted to the quesadillas with spinach, feta cheese and I add chicken. It comes with a small side of salsa and I can’t help but get sour cream too. Your food is brought out to you when ready and don’t be surprised if items are storebought like the bread or pita.

You’d be surprised how many places you frequent that use storebought not in-house made products. The food is still made to order, good and served relatively fast and isn’t that what you came for in the first place?

BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY TREAT… Saint Dane’s Bar & Grille- 502 Elgin St. 713.807.7040 www.saintdanes.com Located in the old Late Night Pie, a beautiful Houston Sunday is the perfect day to check it out. We stopped in around 2pm and found a spot outside at a picnic table. At first glance, the place seems small and quaint. A few high bar tables with stools and some picnic tables out front with a side patio that has several more picnic tables. A garage door with the Texas flag painted on it hides a whole other room full of tables and a large projection screen for more sports viewing.

Plasma’s adorn the rest of the bar for the patrons viewing pleasure.

Dogs are welcome to the bar but as we discovered not all dogs get along. One thing that everyone agreed on though is the food. It’s really, REALLY good. I mean we are talking bar food so get your head straight. The tacos a la carte were a favorite and I couldn’t resist but order fried Oreos. One word, WOW! They are delicious and you don’t have to wait for the Rodeo to be in town to get them. It’s served with 3 fried Oreos and ice cream. Obviously this isn’t the most waistline friendly treat but if you split, you get all the pleasure at a minimal cost. Next time, take yourself for a walk and head into Saint Dane’s for a treat of your own.

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HAPPY HOUR DESTINATION… Hugo’s- 1600 Westheimer Rd. 713.524.7744 www.hugosrestaurant.net Prepare to turn into a margarita snob after tasting these. I never in my alcohol desiring dreams thought I would be saying these words but it’s inevitable. The usual margarita has the margarita mix, triple sec, tequila, etc. That “etc.” is the sweet, weird taste that lingers in the back of your throat that you typically force down or sip more margarita so you can’t taste it anymore. Hugo’s eliminates that whole taste completely. Their margaritas are prepared tableside, meaning they

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74. april09 002houston

shake it up for you right there, and then poured to perfection. They only use fresh squeezed lime juice, the tequila of your choice and the rest is a secret. We’ve asked, we’ve experimented and we haven’t been able to re-create them.

They’re absolutely delicious. Accompany the margaritas with some chips, salsa and guacamole, an order of quesadillas and you’re set for happy hour. Grab a table on the patio during a beautiful afternoon and you just might get a bit nostalgic for Mexico. After a few, we usually end up leaving when the main dining room is full of patrons clamoring over early dinner. You can lose track of time just like if you were on vacation.

AN OLDIE BUT A GOODIE HEALTHY DINNER… Chatter’s Café & Bistro- 140 S Heights Blvd.

713.864.8080 More times than not I crave a healthy, well-balanced dinner. I mean fish or chicken, rice and vegetables. I did have a week where all I ate was pasta but that happens only on occasion. I think my mother formed this habit at an early age.

Most of our dinners at home consisted of these things plus a salad on the side. When I crave this sort of dinner, Chatter’s is my go-to place. I know I can get exactly this without fail.

Fellow diners pack the dining room and patio, if weather permits, to unwind over a glass of wine and no-fuss food. I like to order tilapia in light garlic lemon butter sauce with rice and vegetables or the chicken kabobs. Both come with the same sides and include a salad. The vegetables medley is made up of zucchini, bell peppers, some broccoli and if you’re lucky a bit of cauliflower. You get a pretty good serving size but I rarely polish off the whole plate. This meal is so well-balanced even your mother would approve!

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Photography by Bernard Bauri from lastnightpics.com

002houston April 09:002houston

3/19/09

4:13 PM

Page 75

EVENT COCKTAIL FOR A CAUSE WITH A LATIN FLAIR WHY TO SUPPORT PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF HOUSTON AND RAISE AWARENESS FOR THE ORGANIZATION WHERE PRAVADA WHEN FEBRUARY 18 A sea of people mingled inside the depths of PRAVADA to the tunes of DJ Hector with green bites from Ruggles Green all to help Planned Parenthood. Generous donations were given to the nonprofit throughout the evening. Drinks of choice included Bud Light Lime cerveza from Budweiser and margaritas made with Tequila Distinguido. The front entrance was flanked with the latest from Momentum Audi and Volkswagen – and so, cocktails for a cause was a stellar event, benefiting a stellar cause.

BL Lime Girls

Jared Lang, Stephanie O'Keefe

Amanda Cochran, Ingrid Graves

Will Chavez, Cynthia Miller, Jessica Rossman, Gordon Bethune, Roel Guerra

Hoda Sadighi, Rana Kashani, Negar Rowe, Roxanna Urdaneta

Michelle Reyna, Shein Armaan

Carolina Paneque, Nicole Gibson

Tequila Distinquido gal

Shari Okin, Lisa Benitez, Edward Sanchez, Graham Gemoets

Meredith Beaumont, Heather Domingue

75. april09 002houston

Audi A5

002houston April 09:002houston

3/19/09

CLUB+LOUNGE REVIEW

4:14 PM

Page 76

By Travis Jones Photography by Aaron M. Sprecher

UNION BAR | 2708 bagby st., houston, tx 77006 | 281.974.1916 | myspace.com/unionlounge

FROM 4 TO 8, THEY THROW FREE HOTDOGS AND HAMBURGERS ON THE GRILL, JUST LIKE YOU WOULD IF YOU WERE HOLDING THE REINS IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD.

L

Listen carefully to these instructions.

Ladies, wriggle into that slinky little $500 number from that posh boutique, put your nicest set of heels on and grab your bulkiest “I’m here to be seen” Gucci purse. Guys, follow suit. Hair immaculate, those jeans have to go and – flip-flops? Really? Come on. You’re better than that. Oh yeah, almost forgot – better head to the ATM while you’re at it.

You’re going to need to throw down some serious cash if you want to see a good time tonight. OK, now that you’re all gussied and cashed up, you ready for the next part? Here goes – stay out of Union Bar. You heard me – stay out.

Union Bar on 2708 Bagby isn’t trying to be cutting-edge. It’s not trying to please hoity-toity bar-hopping sheeple that feed on the trend du jour. Union Bar is here to party. Half dance-happy night club, half shot bar and half backyard kegger – what some may view as an identity crisis whose parts don’t really add up, Houston sees as a synergistic masterpiece.

When you walk into Union Bar, what you see is what you get. This isn’t some multilevel dance cathedral carved into a mountain or an enormous labyrinth full of crannies for you to sulk in. No, Union Bar is the kind of place you walk into knowing you’ll see your next ex staring right back at you, dancing it up on the perfectly partitioned dance floor.

Candle chandeliers flicker with ironic formality over a few tables and chairs and comfy benches line the walls, but don’t expect to make much use of them. Unlike a dozen other cookie-cutter dance clubs, Union Bar has caught on to something: people like to dance to music they recognize. So sorry to offend all the DJs out there spinning their homemade latinfunkhousetechnoelectronicpercussive infusion, but facts are facts. Union Bar DJs mix everything you’d find on your iPod with flawless-

ly fun transitional beats, as the corresponding music videos play on the surrounding flatscreens. And, yes, for you Tiesto junkies, they take requests so you can get your fix. With that much movin’, shakin’ and eye makin’, dress codes tend to monitor themselves. The crowd of 20to 30-somethings stays sexy and sophisticated, but with such danceable music, there are no promises that some jackets and heels won’t be coming off by night’s end.

At Union Bar the drinks are stiff, but the way they’re served is anything but. Even with a packed house, the tenders are still able to joke and put on a show, adding their own flare to the party. Whether they’re shaking up a signature 3 Olives cocktail or an Adults Only Root Beer off their happy hour menu, they are quick to share a laugh and a handshake. On top of happy hour, Union Bar also runs evening drink specials on Saturday. And Wednesday. Oh, and Thursday and Friday too. Truth be told, anytime you walk in to Union Bar, you can grab $2 beers or price-slashed cocktails and specialty shots. More-than-fairly-priced hooch certainly lends itself to Union Bar’s quickly growing rep as a place to hold your next party or shamelessly join someone else’s.

Containing a party like this with four walls is impossible, so Union Bar doesn’t. The outside patio is a great place to hang on any Houston night, but on Fridays, Union Bar gets downright philanthropic with the good times. From 4 to 8, they throw free hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill, just like you would if you were holding the reins in your own backyard. Unlike your parties though, they also throw in a chef that makes made-to-order pasta dishes while you stare and drool. Where you at on that one?

If you spend two hours on that hair but never have a chance to let it down, cram your feet into those expensive shoes but never get to kick up your heels, and empty your wallet but never get your fill, you’ve been hanging at all of the wrong places.

Meanwhile though, for Union Bar and Houston, the party has just begun.

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002NIGHT LIFE downtown

A+ BAR inside Alden Hotel 1117 Prairie. 832.200.8800 aldenhotels.com BANK BAR 220 Main. 832.667.4477 hotelicon.com

CABO 417 Travis. 713.225.2060 cabomixmex.com COPA CABANA 114 Main. 713.223.COPA copacabanalounge.com

C&F DRIVE INN 6714 N. Main. 713.861.0704 CHAR BAR 305 Travis. 713.222.8177 charbarhouston.com CLUB ICE/MANTRA 711 Main. 713.225.3500 mantrahouston.com

THE COTTON EXCHANGE 202 Travis. 713.213.1141 cottonexchangelounge.com

DEAN’S CREDIT CLOTHING 316 Main. 713.227.3326 myspace.com/deanscreditclothing

DIVE LOUNGE inside the Aquarium 410 Bagby. 713.223.3474 EIGHTEEN TWENTY 1820 Franklin. 713.224.5535 myspace.com/1820bar ETTA’S LOUNGE 5120 Scott. 713.528.2611 FLYING SAUCER 705 Main. 713.228.7468 beerknurd.com

GLO 505 Main. 713.223.3456 club-glo.com

HEAT 511 Main. 713.225.8020 myspace.com/clubheat_houston HOUSE OF BLUES 1204 Caroline. 1-888-40-BLUES hob.com/houston JAZZ AT THE MAGNOLIA 1100 Texas. 713.221.0011 magnoliahotels.com

BARS + CLUBS + LOUNGES + WINE BARS JET LOUNGE 1515 Pease. 713.659.2000 myspace.com/jetlounge

LA CARAFE 813 Congress. 713.229.9399 LEVEL 412 Main. 713.227.0410 myspace.com/levelhouston LIVE SPORTS CAFÉ 407 Main. 713.228.5483 livesportscafe.com

LONE STAR SALOON 1900 Travis. 713.757.1616 MOLLY’S PUB 509 Main. 713.222.1033 mollyspubs.com

NOTSUOH 314 Main. 713.237.8220 myspace.com/notsuohmusic

RED CAT JAZZ CAFÉ 924 Congress. 713.226.7870 redcatjazzcafe.com

RESERVE 101 1201 Caroline. 713.655.7101 reserve101.com

SAMBUCA JAZZ CAFÉ 909 Texas Ave. 713.224.5299 sambucarestaurant.com SHADOW BAR 213 Milam. 713.221.5483 theshadowbar.com

SHAY MCELROY’S 909-A Texas. 713.223.2444 mcelroyspub.com SKYLINE BAR & GRILL 1600 Lamar. 713.577.6139 (inside Hilton Americas)

STATE BAR & LOUNGE 909 #2-A Texas. 713.229.8888 thestatebar.com

THE TREEHOUSE Discovery Green 1611 Lamar. 713.337.7321 thegrovehouston.com THE VAULT 723 Main. 713.224.6891

TOC BAR 711 Franklin. 713.224.4862 myspace.com/tocbarhouston

VENUE 719 Main. 713.236.8150 venuehouston.com

FRONT PORCH PUB 217 Gray. 713.571.9571 frontporchpub.com

galleria + uptown

BAR 12•21 MORTON’S 5000 Westheimer. 713.629.1946 mortons.com

BLANCO’S 3406 W. Alabama. 713.439.0072 houstonredneck.com

BELVEDERE 1131 Uptown Park. 713.552.9271 belvedereinfo.com THE BLACK SWAN 4 Riverway. 713.871.8181 (inside the Omni Hotel)

UROPA 3302 Mercer. 713.627.1132 cluburopahouston.com

EL TIEMPO CANTINA 5602 Washington. 713.681.3645 eltiempocantina.com

heights + washington

MOLINA’S 4720 Washington. 713.862.0013 molinasrestaurants.com

WILD WEST 6101 Richmond. 713.266.3455 wildwesthouston.com

BLUE LABEL LOUNGE 4500 Washington. bluelabellounge.com

BLOCK 21 2420 Washington. 713.337.1410 BOOM BOOM ROOM 2518 Yale. 713.868.3740 myspace.com/ boomboomroomhouston

CHAISE LOUNGE 4219 Washington. 713.861.2300 chaiseloungehouston.net

CLUB 26 TEN 2610 Sage. 713.974.4000 myspace.com/club26ten

IDENTITY BAR 5959 Richmond. 713.785.0999 PLANETA BAR-RIO 6400 Richmond. 832.251.9600 bar-rio.com PAPARRUCHOS 3055 Sage. 713.212.3178 paparruchos.com

CITIZEN LOUNGE 4606 Washington. 713.862.4448 THE CORKSCREW 1919 Washington. 713.864.9463 houstoncorkscrew.com CORLEONE BAR & GRILL 813 Jackson. 713.863.8223 (behind Patrenella’s) patrenellas.net COSMOS CAFÉ 69 Heights. 713.802.2144 cosmoshouston.com

RA SUSHI 3908 Westheimer. 713.621.5800 rasushi.com

REMINGTON BAR 1919 Briar Oaks Ln. 713.403.2631 (inside St. Regis Hotel) theremingtonrestaurant.com ROXY 5851 W. Alabama. 713.850.ROXY myspace.com/roxyhouston

THE TASTING ROOM 1101-18 Uptown Park. 713.993.9800 114 Gray. 713.528.6402 2409 W. Alabama. 713.526.2242 tastingroomwines.com

DAN ELECTRO’S GUITAR BAR 1031 E. 24th St. 713.862.8707 danelectrosguitarbar.com

DARKHORSE TAVERN 2207 Washington. 713.426.2442 dhtavern.com THE DIRT 222 Yale. 713.426.4222 myspace.com/dirtbar

THE DRAKE 1902 Washington. 713.861.9600 thedrakebar.com

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KOBAIN 33 Waugh. 713.862.9911 kobain.net

ONION CREEK 3106 White Oak. 713.880.0706 onioncreekcafe.com

PEARL BAR 4216 Washington. 713.863.5337 pearlbarhouston.com

THE SOCIAL 3730 Washington. 713.426.5585 thesocialinfo.com

midtown

13 CELSIUS 3000 Caroline. 713.529.8466 13celsius.com

3RD BAR 2600 Travis. 713.526.8282 BLOCK 21 2420 Washington Ave.

BOND 2700 Milam. 713.529.2663 bond2700.com

HOWL AT THE MOON 612 Hadley. 713.658.9700 howlatthemoon.com

IBIZA LOUNGE NEXT DOOR 2450 Louisiana. 713.520.7300 ibizaloungenextdoor.com KOMODO’S 2004 Baldwin. 713.655.1501

LEON’S LOUNGE 1006 McGowen. 713.659.3052

THE MAPLE LEAF 514 Elgin. 713.520.6464 themapleleafpub.blogspot.com THE MINK/THE BACKROOM 3718 Main. 713.522.9985 themink.org

OPEN CITY 2416-A Brazos. 832.483.8357 ochouston.com RED DOOR 2416 Brazos. 713.225.0640 reddoorhouston.com

RICH’S 2401 San Jacinto. 713.759.9606 richshouston.com

COACHES 2204 Louisiana. 713.751.1970

SAMMY’S 2016 Main. 713.751.3101 sammysat2016main.com

DECO 510 Gray. 713.659.4900 decohouston.com

STATUS 2404 San Jacinto. 713.659.5400 myspace.com/statushouston

EPIC 3030 Travis. 713.862.4810

THE ROOF 2600 Travis. 713.522.4900 roofbarhouston.com

CHRISTIAN’S TAILGATE 2000 Bagby. 713.527.0261

SAINT DANE’S BAR + GRILL 502 Elgin. 713.807.7040

EL PATIO 2416 Brazos. 713.523.8181 elpatio.com

SWIVEL 2621 Milam. 713.222.2057 swivelhouston.com

FIX LOUNGE 2707 Milam. 832.281.2101 fixlounge.com

THE WET SPOT 160 W. Gray. 713.523.7768 wetspot-houston.com

002houston April 09:002houston

TIPSY CLOVER 2416 Brazos. 713.524.8782 UNION BAR 2708 Bagby. 281.974.1916 myspace.com/unionlounge WHISKEY CREEK 2905 Travis. 713.526.4225 whiskeycreekhouston.com

XO BAR & LOUNGE 2611 San Jacinto. 713.651.9900 myspace.com/xohouston

ZEPPELIN 3101 San Jacinto. 713.521.7300 myspace.com/zeppelin713

montrose + shepherd

ABSINTHE 609 Richmond. 713.528.7575 absinthelounge.com

AGORA 1717 Westheimer. 713.526.7212 agorahouston.com AVANTGARDEN 411 Westheimer. 832.519.1429 avantgardenhouston.com

BARTINI 1318 Westheimer. 713.526.2277 clubbartini.com BOHEME WINE & CAFÉ BAR 307 Fairview. 713.269.0859 barboheme.com

BOONDOCKS 1417 Westheimer. 713.522.8500 myspace.com/boondocksbar BYZANTIO 403 W. Gray. 713.520.6896 byzantiohouston.com

CATBIRDS 1336 Westheimer. 713.523.8000 catbirds.com CEZANNE JAZZ CLUB 4100 Montrose. 713.522.9321 blacklaboradorpub.com

GUAVA LAMP 570 Waugh. 713.524.3359 myspace.com/guavalamphouston THE DAVENPORT 2115 Richmond. 713.520.1140

3/19/09

4:15 PM

THE FLAT 1702 Commonwealth. 713.521.3528 ETRO 1424 Westheimer. 713.529.3449 myspace.com/etrohouston GRIFF’S 3416 Roseland. 713.528.9912 griffshouston.com

THE HARP 1625 Richmond. 713.528.7827 LOLA’S 2327 Grant. 713.528.8342

LZ PUB 2239 Richmond. 713.522.7118 MARFRELESS 2006 Peden. 713.528.0083

MCELROY’S PUB 3607 Sandman. 713.524.2444 mcelroyspub.com METEOR 2306 Genesee. 713.521.0123 meteorhouston.com

THE NEXT DOOR 2020 Waugh. 713.520.1712 myspace.com/thenextdoorgallery NUMBERS 300 Westheimer. 713.526.6551 numbersnightclub.com

PRAVADA 2815 S. Shepherd. 713.533.1200 pravadahouston.com PRIVE 910 Westheimer. 713.526.6551 privelounge.com

POISON GIRL 1641-B Westheimer. 713.527.9929 myspace.com/poisongirlbar.com SOUTH BEACH 810 Pacific. 713.529.7623 southbeachthenightclub.com

SLIDER’S BAR 1424 Westheimer. 713.528.2788 slidersbar.com

SCOTT GERTNER’S SKYBAR 3400 Westheimer. 713.520.9688 msypace.com/scottgertnersskybar

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THE STAG’S HEAD 2128 Portsmouth. 713.533.1199 stagsheadpub.com THE TAVERN 1340 W. Gray. 713.522.5159 thetavernongray.com

VELVET MELVIN 3303 Richmond. 713.522.6798 myspace.com/thevelvetmelvinpub VINTAGE 2108 Kipling. 713.522.4200

ZAKE LOUNGE 2943 S. Shepherd. 713.526.6888 zakerestaurant.com

museum district MONARCH LOUNGE 5701 Main (inside Hotel ZaZa).

713.526.1991 monarchrestauranthouston.com ZIMM’S MARTINI & WINE 4321 Montrose. 713.521.2002 zimsbar.com

outer loop

rice village

ARMADILLO PALACE 5015 Kirby. 713.526.9700 thearmadillopalace.com

BAKER STREET PUB 5510 Morningside. 713.942.9900 bakerstreetpub.com BAM BOU 2540 University. 713.521.7222 bambouhouston.com

BRIAN O’NEILL’S 5555 Morningside. 713.522.2603 brianoneills.com BRONX BAR 5555 Morningside. 713.520.9690 ERNIE’S ON BANKS 1010 Banks. 713.526.4566 erniesonbanks.com

THE GINGER MAN 5607 Morningside. 713.526.2770 gingermanpub.com JOHNNY’S SPORTS BAR 2511 Bissonnet. 713.521.9928 myspace.com/joialounge

KAY’S LOUNGE 2324 Bissonnet. 713.528.9858 300 HOUSTON BOWLING 925 Bunker Hill 713.461.2431 300houston.com DENIM BAR 16090 City Walk. 281.275.5925 (inside the Burning Pear) theburningpear.com THE DERRICK TAVERN 1127 Eldridge. 281.759.4922 thederricktavern.com

FIREHOUSE SALOON 5930 Southwest Frwy. 713.977.1962 firehousesaloon.com HUSH 15625 Katy Frwy. 713.330.4874 hushonline.com

VINE WINE ROOM 12420 Memorial Dr. 713.463.8463 vinewineroom.com VINO 100 11693 Westheimer. 281.759.4100

LITTLE WOODROW’S 5611 Morningside. 713.521.2337 littlewoodrows.com THE LOUNGE AT BENJI’S 2424 Dunstan. 713.522.7602 benjys.com

VOLCANO 2349 Bissonnet. 713.526.5282

river oaks + kirby

AZTECA’S BAR & GRILL 2207 Richmond. 713.526.1702 aztecasbarandgrill.com THE BIG EASY 5731 Kirby. 713.523.9999 bigeasyblues.com

COVA -5600 Kirby. 713.838.0700 -5555 Washington. 713.868.3366 covawine.com DOWNING STREET 2549 Kirby. 713.523.2291 downingstreetpub.com

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KENNEALLY’S IRISH PUB 2111 S. Shepherd. 713.630.0486 irishpubkenneallys.com LIZZARD’S PUB 2715 Sackett. 713.529.4610

MEZZANINE LOUNGE 2200 Southwest Frwy. 713.528.MEZZ mezzaninelounge.com MUGSY’S 3200 Kirby. 713.526.5595

RICKSHAW BAMBU 2810 Westheimer. 713.942.7272 rickshaw-bambu.com ROLL-N SALOON 4200 San Felipe. 713.622.7487 TACO MILAGRO 2555 Kirby. 713.522.1999 taco-milagro.com

THE WINE BUCKET 2311 W. Alabama. 713.942.9463 thewinebucket.com

warehouse district

EIGHTEEN TWENTY 1820 Franklin. 713.224.5535 1820bar.com

LUCKY’S PUB 801 St. Emanuel. 713.522.2010 luckyspub.com THE MERIDIAN 1503 Chartres. 713.225.1717 meridianhouston.com

NEXT 2020 McKinney. 713.221.8833 whatsnexthouston.com PASHAA ULTRA LOUNGE 2010 McKinney. 713.344.0305 myspace.com/pashaahouston

WAREHOUSE LIVE 813 St. Emanuel. 713.225.5483 warehouselive.com

002houston April 09:002houston

RECORDING

3/19/09

4:17 PM

Page 80

Interview by Lance Scott Walker Photography by Anthony Rathbun

SPITTEN KING SO THE GOLD ROOM HAS BEEN OUT A FEW MONTHS. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT IT NOW? Scottie Spitten: You know, we talked about putting a fulllength album together for such a long time and the EP actually came together pretty quick. It went by so fast… like when you’re recording and mixing and you’re putting stuff together and you’re putting it out the way we do it, bein’ that we have such good chemistry, bein’ that we’re brothers and all… time goes by so fast that it doesn’t even seem like it’s been that long, I guess.

King Midas: I work on a lot of different stuff, so I hate even having to… I don’t be tellin’ my brother this but I don’t even listen to it. And I do that because I was listening to it while I was mixing it and while I was making it and all of that stuff and once I start on other stuff… there’s so much other stuff that I don’t really take the time to listen to it that much.

But… I always go back and listen to it maybe a month or two later.

WHEN YOU APPROACH A PROJECT LIKE THAT, EVEN WHEN YOU KNOW YOU’RE BRINGING IN OTHER ARTISTS LIKE KAY AND EQUALITY, DO YOU PUT YOURSELF IN A DIFFERENT HEADSPACE? Midas: Definitely. I feel like that’s the beauty behind music, man, personality. When me and my brother are together, it doesn’t have to be with music. We act a certain way, we talk a certain way… so our vibe is different. If I’m with somebody else, our vibe should be different, too. Me and my brother, we like certain sounds and we like our music a certain way and I think it comes off like that.

DO YOU SEE HISD AS A SORT OF NUCLEUS OR IS IT SORT OF A POINT AT WHICH ALL OF ITS ARTISTS JUST CROSS PATHS? Scottie: I think at the beginning, when we first started HISD, when we first came together, it kind of felt like that… like a bunch of individual artists coming together to put out something, which was our first release, The District.

Basically to get our individual solo careers jumped off, but as we started recording The District and being together a lot, it became more than that. It became, in my opinion, it became a group. So I think it started off as that, but it has evolved into a nucleus.

I TALKED TO SAVVI ABOUT IT, AND HE MADE IT SOUND LIKE… NOT A COMPETITION, BUT SOMETHING WHERE YOU GUYS ALL PUSH EACH OTHER TO DO BETTER, TO CREATE THIS BIGGER MOVEMENT. Scottie: Yeah. I mean basically we have four MCs in HISD and we have three producers… and we do. We all push each other to write better lyrics, we all push each other to keep creatin’ better beats and so we do push ourselves a lot and we push each other. I think it makes the music better and makes the music come out the way it does. It’s part

Scottie Spitten and King Midas

of a movement out here in Houston. There’s a lot of MCs and a lot of groups in Houston that have been doing it a lot longer than we have. And we just hope we can put our name out there so we can get everybody else’s name out there so to speak. You know, when Kay’s doing his thing and K-otix and other groups out here that have a chance to be heard on a wider scale… we can put ourselves out there and then build a fan base for everybody else in this Houston area that hasn’t been heard.

“I’M ON FIRE” HAS A SORT OF QUALITY TO IT WHERE IT FADES IN AND OUT. ALMOST LIKE DIFFERENT THOUGHT PATTERNS. DID YOU HAVE THAT IN MIND WHEN YOU PRODUCED IT? Midas: I’m just always tryin’ different things, so at the time I probably thought it sounded smooth or whatever.

Scottie: With King, he really likes changes in his beats. He really doesn’t like repetitiveness a lot—to take a beat and loop it over and over again and add drums to it. He likes to put changes, kind of like peaks and valleys, into his beats, which gives it more life. It’s not just a repetitive beat to where, without lyrics over it, you can still listen to it. And then some beats come off like, you can only listen to it if there’s lyrics over it, and I think that his beats, the way he does it, with the different fades in and out or with the change here and there, gives it a fuller sound.

THAT’S MISSING FROM A LOT OF HIP-HOP. Midas: Most hip-hop can’t get with Duran Duran like that.

I DID GO BACK AND LISTEN TO SOME DURAN DURAN AFTER THAT, I’LL ADMIT. Scottie: You gotta go back and listen to it, man, because I 80. april09 002houston

remember at one point I was like ‘man, I would never sample no ’80s stuff.’ I guess there needs to be a 20-year gap.

You need to give it a 20-year gap first before you can go back and appreciate it… I don’t think I’m ever gonna appreciate some of this stuff, though…

SCOTTIE, IN RESPECT TO CURRENT EVENTS, DO YOU FIND YOURSELF AT A MIDPOINT LYRICALLY BECAUSE OF THIS RECESSION ON ONE HAND AND THE INAUGURATION ON ANOTHER? IS IT A TUG OF WAR OR IS IT FERTILE? Scottie: I don’t think it’s a tug of war for me lyrically… I write from a fun state of mind, whether it’s serious issues like the economy or stuff like that, I always try to put my own twist on it. Make it more creative… I think part of that is like perfect timing for what’s going on right now in our society with the economic problems that we’re having. And I think that… of the change, I think this is like the theme of the time right now… it’s change. What can we do to make it better? Because it hasn’t been good for a while. I think everything with Obama being elected, and that word ‘change,’ is just the perfect word for what’s about to happen. And we try to take that musically the same way.

Wherever he’s gonna take it as the president, we wanna do our part or whatever, to do the same thing with the music. To create that change, to create a voice for a lot of people who really enjoy our music, or our type of music, who don’t necessarily get to hear it because that’s not what’s hot in the industry right now. We wanna be able to help provide that change, to where we can get back to a lot of different voices bein’ heard and not just one particular type of music or one particular type of hip-hop bein’ out there. I think it all ties in together, man. www.myspace.com/spittenking | www.peaceuvmine.com

Photography by The Photo Boutique

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By Lance Scott Walker

EVENT CIRQUE DU RA WHY RA SUSHI THIRD ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WHERE RA SUSHI WHEN MARCH 12

YPPAH They Know What Ghost Know (Ninja Tune)

In a circus-themed evening celebrating 3 spectacular years, RA pulled out some stellar tricks out of the bag for their amazed “audience.” With magicians and stilt walkers making the rounds, guests enjoyed themed food and drink specials including High Wire Desires, Trapeze Squeezes and Ringmaster Rolls.

Kaitlin Stover, Kristin Miller, Adrian Amjadi

Anne Cooper, Audrey Collins

Local boy done good. If you could reason that Joe Corrales’ 2006 release, You Are Beautiful At All Times, was a little dry, it would be a statement of fact rather than criticism. But that ends up feeling like part of a greater picture Corrales was painting all the while. They Know… is huge, gargantuan by comparison. Where his previous release was tight and played close to the vest, this one walks out under the lights with open arms. That he is known as an electronic artist is misleading because, though the beats he creates do stand out, it is the warmth of his guitar and bass playing that gives his production work such depth. Combine that with a scattering of synths, ambient noise, flutes (“Shutter Speed”), hypnotic piano lines (“Son Saves the Rest”) and you’ve got a dense wall of sound that still warrants a close listen. Again, vocals are absent here save for a few melodic embellishments here and there, but they’re just used as another instrument where they do appear. And the beats. Oh, the beats… lest we not forget the inherent hip-hop influence. Be they computer-generated or live (Yppah does now perform as a live band), they are huge, raw, limitless—like everything wants to open up into much bigger arenas. Which is exactly what our local boy could be doing soon.

FEVER RAY Fever Ray (Rabid) Half of the Swedish duo The Knife comes unmasked (sort of). Karin Dreijer Andersson could take this opportunity, this solo project, to perhaps not creep us out as much as The Knife does. But no. And that’s good. I don’t know that you could ever use the term ‘accessible’ to refer to anything that is connected to the pair, but the pop sensibilities on this record are far brighter and more alive than anything by The Knife. It’s also more contained; it’s a lot les frenetic and the rhythms seem to be pulling from a multitude of sources.

The music itself is almost exclusively (if not completely) synth-based, with big, clean synths and beats that sound like they come from those very synths instead of drum machines holding it all together. But the rhythms in place seem to be quietly borrowing from everything from salsa and merengue to Japanese pop. It’s just cloaked in the fact that the ‘drums’ don’t really sound like drums. More just like synthesized sounds. Maybe a few handclaps here and there. Back to why it’s creepy: she slows down her voice in places. At its ‘normal’ speed, Andersson’s voice has a pained, pouty, almost desperate quality to it that echoes of Kate Bush, early Madonna and Siouxsie Sioux all at the same time. Slowed down, though, she still echoes of the 80s, but more like Michael Jackson from DJ Silent’s chopped and screwed version of Thriller. Get that, by the way.

Amanda Knox, Loren Dixon

Ana Arcia, Maria Zapater

CD REVIEWS

Manu Torre, Luisiana Lopez, Manu Oropeza

IDA MARIA Fortress Round My Heart (Nesna/Sony) Brilliant, iconic rock one could trace to the likes of Joan Jett, Dead Boys… actually, everything that seems to have inspired this 24-year-old Norwegian export had all but vanished by the time she was born. And yet her voice carries with it the raspy, road-weary authority of someone who’s been doing it twice that long. The real shame is that even with faultless rockers such as “Stella” and “Oh My God” on here, she’s still going to be known better for the lifeless pile of crap that is “I Like You So Much Better When You’re Naked.” Alright.

Jason Stewart, Chris Greenie, Megan Wright

Le Chau, Kory Hinton, Lainey Collum

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3/20/09

3:16 PM

Page 82

BEFORE WE GO...

A REUNION TOUR DOES NOT MAKE YOU COOL. INSTEAD, YOUR COOLNESS MAKES THE REUNION TOUR. SUCH EVENTS ARE LIMITED TO ONE TYPE OF BAND: THE ONE WE WANT TO SEE AGAIN. This is why The Police sold out tickets and banked over $340 million on their 20072008 reunion tour. They are, for lack of a better term, cool.

OO2CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. It might have lava or a genie in it 5. Word on a red sign 9. Steer clear of 14. Creative spark 15. Land of the Incas 16. Parts to play 17. “Pygmalion” playwright 18. Translucent gemstone 19. Little brooks

44. Black ball’s number

12. Tierra __ Fuego

39. To’s opposite

48. Source

13. Highway curve

40. Musical acuity

50. Winter woe 52. Stadium cheer

21. Basketball defenses 22. Makeshift shed

53. Skyscraper just east of city hall 57. Estate

26. Understand 27. Sycophant’s response

43. Like some stadiums 45. Scored the test papers

59. Eye layer in which the iris is situated

29. Like thrift shop buys

60. Economist Smith 61. Point the finger at

30. Groups of lawyers 31. Rich soil

62. Oilers or Texans 63. A ___ pittance

34. Acropolis locale 35. What banks used to offer

20. Twin towers in the Houston skyline

64. Felt poorly

23. Palindromic preposition

65. Bear in the sky 66. Finds the sum

24. Long in the tooth

DOWN 1. One who speaks like Daffy

25. Major industry in Space City 28. Many a summer TV show 30. Apartment, to Brits 32. Start to whiz?

33. Aquatic mammal 36. Allows 37. Alternative to demolition 39. Nourish 41. Swing for sleeping 42. Old cloth 43. Sawbucks

For this same reason, Def Leppard made a Hall-of-Fame mistake bringing Poison and Cheap Trick on its summer tour. Def Leppard? Cool. Pour some of that sugar on me. Poison? Look what the cat dragged in: bad hair, makeup and chintzy chorus lines. If hearing “Love Bites” live is worth the sight of middle-aged adults with sagging tattoos and bulging bellies, the bands perform August 19 at Woodlands Pavilion.

2. Cling 3. Less kind 4. Hock 5. Bobbin 6. Lukewarm 7. Spoken 8. ‘’__ Fiction’‘ 9. Straying 10. Express vocally 11. Like pollen to some

36. Prankster of Norse mythology 37. Pertaining to a location 38. What windows do in cold weather

46. Golf course obstacle 47. Parliament’s river

It seems passé pop-stars and rock-n-roll legends are reloading tour buses – even if they can barely make it up the stairs. Some, we encourage to stay home. Others, we welcome with open arms like a new “Seinfeld” episode. We didn’t get enough the first time around.

49. Lawn decoration No Doubt that’s the case with Gwen Stefani and her hella-good band. No Doubt shakes it, and the new juice from Paramore makes this reunion tour worth a visit on May 31 at Woodlands Pavilion. Michael Jackson can’t beat it, recently announcing his “This Is It” tour and promising: “When I say this is it, I really mean this is it.”

50. Canine pests 51. Andean animal 54. Tutsi foe 55. Penultimate fairy tale word 56. Tibetan monk 57. Degree for a CEO 58. Champ who could “sting like a bee”

Crossword by Scott Ward

MARCH ANSWERS

Reunited this summer, and it feels so good – but seemingly not good enough for a Houston appearance: Grateful Dead, Faith No More, Phish and, get this – Cheech and Chong.

Rumors that Led Zeppelin would reunite and tour this year swirled like a stairway to heaven, but reportedly, the band wouldn’t go without former lead singer Robert Plant, who’s busy with newfound fame beside Alison Krauss. A spokesperson for Rod Stewart recently denied rumors that he’s rejoining Ron Wood for a Faces resurrection, but that’s the buzz. More certain is the reunion of Creed, take it or leave it.

AND YOU MAY THINK THESE ARE REUNION CONCERTS, BUT THEY REALLY NEVER QUIT: Morrissey, 4/11 at Jones Hall Dave Matthews Band, 5/1 at Woodlands Pavilion Snoop Dog, 5/6 at House of Blues Styx and REO Speedwagon, 6/7 at Woodlands Pavilion Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood at 6/24 Toyota Center U2, 10/14 at Reliant Stadium

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