H Texas Magazine - Top Lawyers 2017

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TE X A S

THE BEST OF

H TEX AS ES S, N IT F , D O O F !

7 1 2 0 FUN & FABULOSITY

HOUSTON’S PREMIERE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

P O T S ’ Y T I C R U O L AW Y ERS. CASE CLOSED.

ESCAPE THGEETAHWAEYSAFOTR THE FAMILY OR JUST YOU TWO

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP DENTISTS

Table of Contents FEATURES 32 Houston: The Melting Pot In short order, our city is one of the most diverse places on the planet.

Although it can cause quite the stir at times, it’s also what keeps us so undeniably delicious.

36 Retreat at the Ranch Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico, is the ultimate wellness resort—and the key to restoring your mind, body and spirit.

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40 The Best of H Texas 2017 Thanks in part to this year’s Super Bowl, H Town has stepped up its game like never before. Don’t miss our picks for the city’s top restaurants, trips, family fun and entertainment, fitness and beauty, and more.

52 Orange Crush For a family vacation the kids will be talking about for a lifetime, head to Karisma Hotels and Resorts’ new Nickelodeon property in the Dominican Republic.

(There’s even a pineapple-shaped Spongebob suite!)

COLUMNS 4 Editor’s Letter This is the best tequila in Texas.

24 Fashion Show off your patriotism with red, white and blue looks, plus Houston Texans’ JJ Watt’s comfy new clothing line.

6 Inside Journalist Lynn Ashby on the UT health-care system: It’s in need of a checkup.

26 Beauty For flawless, glowing skin this summer, follow these nine (totally doable) rules.

8 In the Heart of Houston How to make the most of your summer in the city.

DEPARTMENTS

28 Destination Head to Mobile, Alabama, for a dose of Southern charm, complete with down-home cooking, retail therapy, the arts and more.

57 Houston’s Top Lawyers 2017 These are the attorneys that rule the courtroom—and are available at your beck and call almost 24/7.

10 Health & Wellness What to do when you can’t fall asleep, plus our favorite pillow, sheets and more; Your best defense against ticks; Six things you don’t know about sun protection; The scientific new way to beat a summer cold; When you’re exhausted mid-afternoon, do this

30 Resorts and Spas De-stress while getting your sun on in Mexico. Don’t want to fly? Chill out in Colorado.

98 Restaurant Review FM Kitchen + Bar brings the farmto-market concept roadside.

100 On the Menu 14 Society The scoop on the latest fundraisers and events around town.

Whether or not you have baby dreams, take inspiration from ABC-13’s Miya’s Shay’s shower with savory small bites on the menu.

18 Culture What you need to do now: Escape Hunt Houston; Add these to your summer reading list.

20 Community

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How Golden Globe-nominated actress Allison Tolman went from Sugar Land to La La Land; Three Houston-bred sisters bring their fashion line home.

104 H Marks the Spot Jefferson Davis Hospital has a story to tell.

Š 2017 Latham Pools, Inc. All rights reserved.

Concrete pools take a lot of work.

Fiberglass pools don’t. See why Latham in-ground fiberglass pools are the more modern, durable and smarter choice.

BEST OF 2017

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Editor’s Letter Worth its Salt

R

ECENTLY, AT PERRY ’S STE AKHOUSE AND GRILL , I WAS LUCK Y ENOUGH TO SAMPLE THEIR NEW SIGNATURE COCK TAIL: THE STR AIT PALOMA . This refreshing drink was named for country music legend George Strait in collaboration with the launch of his new tequila, Código 1530. There are five varieties of Código 1530—the Strait Paloma is made with the Blanco. The name Código, honors “Los Códigos,” the time-honored codes and Mexican family traditions used for generations to create this one-of-a-kind sipping tequila.

Dinner was unforgettable. Not only did we taste Strait’s new drink, but two seats away, Strait and his wife Norma were in attendance, spotlighting this new incarnation of an iconic Mexican spirit. He spoke briefly of his love for this drink and his desire to share it with others. Next, cofounder Federico Vaughan guided our group through a flight of the five varieties of Códigos 1530. Until recently, the tequila was only privately available in Mexico, but you can now find the Blanco ($49), Reposado ($69), Añejo ($119) and “Origen,” an Extra Añejo ($250), as well as the newly released Rosa ($65), in Texas.

My favorite is Rosa served on the rocks with an orange wedge.

Don’t miss our annual “Best of H Texas” list (page 40), where Código 1530 takes top honors as Best Tequila.

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TE X A S PUBLISHER Sir McMillen EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Laurette M. Veres Managing Editor Bambi Abernathy Senior Editor Tom Flynn Executive Editor Lynn Ashby Contributing Editor Warner Roberts Profile & Copy Editor Amanda Altman Research Editor/CSR Jackie Magana Food & Wine Editor Matthew Abernathy Contributing Writers Amanda Altman Tom Flynn Rima Jean Carla Menendez Karyn Repinski

FASHION Stylist Robin Villalobos

ART Sr. Creative Director Rick McMillen Creative Director Nicholas Nguyen Graphic Designers Rima Jean Kristin Liu SALES

Editor-in-Chief

Executive Marketing Matthew Abernathy Advertising Director Heather Chancellor Advertising Coord. Bambi Abernathy

Follow me @HTexas CORPORATE President Sir McMillen Vice President Bambi Abernathy Finance Manager Marna McMillen Consultant Rick McMillen

H Texas magazine, Issue #2, Summer 2017, Volume 25, is published quarterly for a total of four issues for $18.95 per year

by Bayou City Publishing, 12829 Trinity Street, Stafford, TX. Subscriptions $18.95 per year. Single copies $4.95 plus $3.00 postage and handling. All payments must be in US funds. Visa, MasterCard and Discover accepted. The contents of this magazine may not be reprinted in any manner without permission from the publisher. Opinions of contributing authors do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Articles and photographs are welcome, but cannot be considered unless exclusive publishing rights are given, affording the publisher full ownership of content. Publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of unsolicited manuscripts and any material accepted is subject to possible revision at the discretion of the publisher. Please allow 6-8 weeks for an adderss change to take effect. H Texas is not responsible for missed issues due to an address change. Sales/Management 832-886-1120 • Fax 281-261-5999 • Toll Free Subscription/ Inquires 886-418-5548 • www.htexas.com

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H Texas magazine is published by Bayou City Publishing, LLC 12829 Trinity Street Stafford, TX 77477 832-886-1120 www.htexas.com

Serving Houstonians for 50 Years!

“The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience.”

—Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

FOUNDED BY MICHAEL "MIKE" MORIARTY, THE MORIARTY LAW FIRM ("MLF") CELEBRATES ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR. As we look back on our shared accomplishments

with our clients, we move forward with excitement about what the next 50 years will bring. In addition to a diverse general plaintiff's practice, attorneys and staff at MLF have extensive experience in personal injury law, commercial and business litigation, and business brokering.

The Red Zone Lawyers®

Erren L. Chen and Michael A. Moriarty

The Red Zone Lawyers is a name that Mike has adopted from football. In football, the "Red Zone" is the part of the field from one opponent's 20-yard line to the other opponent's goal line. It becomes harder to score a toucehdown in the Red Zone. How well a team performs in the Red Zone often determines the outcome of a game. The Litigation Red Zone is when it gets tough to deal with a legal claim or a case. In this zone, one needs a legal professional to call the right plays in order to be successful.

The Moriarty Law Firm has been making the right calls for its clients for 50 years and will continue to do so. The lawyers and staff of the firm strive to work hard for their clients. The Moriarty Law Firm takes pride in offering sound legal representation to their clients in what is often a stressful situation. Most importantly, Mike and Erren treat their clients like family. If you need help with a case, you can trust that Mike and Erren will do their best for you.

404 Heights Blvd.

Houston, TX 77007

www.redzonelawyers.com mlf@redzonelawyers.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS BEST OF 2017

2017

MORIARTY LAW FIRM 713-651-9600

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Inside Just Be Patient, Patient

T You might have to give your arm and leg at your next doctor’s appointment.

by Lynn Ashby

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HE CLINIC . This is one of those places where everything is quiet, orderly, efficient.

No, it’s not a Republican precinct meeting. It’s a UT health facility: The University of Texas Warts and Confederate Statue Removal Center. I am here because, as a taxpayer, maybe this state institution will treat me right, as long as I don’t want an abortion.

Then the Legislature would have me go someplace else—like Mexico. There’s this little bump on my face, and I just want a dermatologist to take it off.

No big deal. Well, my mistake.

This is absolutely true: When I called to make an appointment, I had to show proof that I would pay: insurance company, policy number, everything but my federal tax returns.

A few days later, I was e-mailed an 18-page (honest) form to fill out. The usual name, address and so on. Then my medical history. (“Who was the obstetrician who delivered you?”) And my family medical history. (“Any member of your family ever been scalped?

Refused to pay a medical bill?”)

By the time I was through, I felt really sick. The day came for my appointment, which I figured would take 10 minutes. The clinic is in a 12-story building with five parking spaces. I guess the doctors want to see if the patient is healthy enough to park two blocks away in a 10-story parking garage and walk here.

I come to this really fancy clinic, with a nice lobby, free coffee, beautiful furniture, lots of clerks and nurses in booths and offices, and one patient: me. “Looks like a slow day,” I say to one of the receptionists.

“The usual. We don’t get much business here,” she says. Note to Gov. Gregg Abbott: “I have found a way for the state to save

money, besides cutting funds for education, roads, women’s health, the environment, millions of dollars for legal fees to oppose redistricting and voter ID laws.” The good news is that, being the only patient, I don’t have to wait while reading one of those dog-eared magazines left in doctors’ offices. Terrible about the Hindenburg.

A staff member escorts me into an office where a person at a computer asks: “Name?

Address? Age?” I explain that I’ve already given all that information over the phone and again on The Form From Hell.

Smile, we need a photo. I might be an imposter sneaking in for a facelift or a tummy tuck.

They take my blood pressure (can you fail a blood pressure test?), measure my height and weight (the scale is off by 10 pounds). Then I’m fitted with a wristband. Okay, if I were getting an appendectomy or a new left kidney, maybe I would need a wristband asking whoever found me, wandering the hospital halls, to please return me to the ICU. But this is getting ridiculous.

Somewhere along the line, I’m handed a beautiful, full-color folder. “Welcome,” it reads on the cover. No doubt this will tell me about medical science breakthroughs in skin cancer, how UT is the cutting edge, so to speak, in dermatology and how to find a parking space. No. Inside is a pamphlet, “Patient Advocacy” and another: “Medical Identify Theft Prevention.” Is this a medical clinic or a law office?

A staff member takes me to a room and hands me clothing.

“Take off your clothes and put this on. It’s open in the back.” Do you ever feel you’ve lost control of the situation? I come here to have a doctor, or maybe even a medic, a semi-sober intern, an EMS driver, snip this bump off

my face, or drill it, burn it. I’ve been to dermatologists before and know what they do. My father was a pediatrician, and told me he should have been a dermatologist. “Their patients never die and never get well.”

That’s probably an old medical school joke, but I was only a pre-med and was tossed out of biology lab when my fetal pig survived. I continue to wait, wearing the wrist bracelet and not much else.

This is not a complaint, because I begin thinking about all the people who don’t have a doctor, can’t afford to go to a clinic like this. Who get sick and die early. We constantly hear in the debate over Obamacare and Trumpcare: “We have the best medical care in the world.” Don’t put a period there, put a comma and finish the sentence: “if you can afford it.” For example, Houston has the largest and best medical center on earth: the Texas Medical Center. People come from everywhere to die in Houston. But, like cars and cancer, it depends on what you can afford.

The doctor arrives and he’s a she. Great. She proceeds to examine me from head to foot, which actually is kind of fun.

“Spread your toes,” she says.

Have you ever tried to spread your toes? It’s like trying to arch your pancreas. She leaves, returns with a bottle of dry ice or something similar, sprays the bump and says, “That’s it.” Huh? She could have met me at the elevator and done that. It’s now a few days later, and I receive an email from the clinic. It’s a follow-up survey: 35 questions.

Note to Gov. Abbott… H Ashby is recovering at ashby2@comcast.net

WINDS OF CHANGE COSMETIC SURGERY SPECIALISTS DR. KRISTI SUMPTER,

of Winds of Change Cosmetic Surgery, remains dedicated to the trust her patients place in her. “Cosmetic surgery is an important, personal decision. I’m working with their appearance, part of their identity, their body, their before and after. It’s a tremendous responsibility that I take seriously. ”

AD

A talented and experienced surgeon, Sumpter feels strongly about making a connection with her patients.

“You should like your surgeon,” Sumpter says. “A cosmetic surgeon should be approachable, have clear, open communication with a patient and build a relationship with each. Patients are great at telling a doctor what they want. A doctor has to listen. When all this is done right, the results and impact on the patient are phenomenal; what both the patient and I want them to be.”

Dr. Sumpter often spends 45 minutes or more with an initial consultation. The Winds of Change office emphasizes a relaxed, compassionate approach to cosmetic surgery.

KRISTI SUMPTER, DO, FACOS, FA ACS

HOUSTON’S TOP DOCTORS

2017

Sumpter’s credentials include multiple board certifications and being a Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery.

She has full plastic and general surgery privileges at two northwest Houston hospitals and a certified ambulatory surgery center.

12827 Jones Road • Houston, TX 77070 • 281-894-9990 • www.drsumpter.com BEST OF 2017

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Heart of Houston Have a Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight

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T ’S HERE—I KNOW IT, YOU KNOW IT, EVERYONE KNOWS IT. It’s summer! So, what are you gonna do about it?

Belly ache, bitch, complain, curse, whine, whimper, sweat, spit?

Here’s how to ring in the summer season in H Town.

by Warner Roberts

WHY NOT SING? “Hot Stuff,” Donna Summer; “Drop it Like it’s Hot,” Snoop Dog; “Hot in Herre,” Nelly; “Hot Blooded,” Foreigner; “Hot N Cold,” Katy Perry; “Hot Legs,” Rod Stewart; “Hot Child in the City,” Billy Idol; “Heat of the Night,” Phil Collins; “Heat Wave, “Martha and The Vandellas.

OR PULL UP A MOVIE. Hot to Trot; Hot Shots; Hot Pursuit; Hot Dog; Some Like it Hot; Hot Tub Time Machine; Hot Fuzz; The Hot Chick; The Hot Rock; Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; Wet Hot American Summer; Hot Rod; Hot Wheels; The Long, Hot Summer; Too Hot to Handle.

OR DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR SOMEBODY! Clean that closet you’ve been meaning to get to for months.

Take what you don’t need to: Bluebird Circle; Dress for Success; Houston Children’s Charity Closet; The Mission of Yahweh homeless shelter for women and children; Open Door Mission for Men; The Salvation Army.

THERE ARE SO MANY WONDERFUL, EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN HOUSTON, BUT…HERE ARE A FEW THINGS ON MY LIST: 1. I want to try the canoe ride around the city.

2. There are parts of the zoo I intend to see.

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3. I want to spend a day touring all the Houston parks.

4. I’m probably the only person that has not been in the tunnels downtown…shame on me.

DO YOUR SUMMER READING. It’s not just for school kids mandated to read every summer. Recently, at a ladies luncheon, I asked a table of friends what they were reading this summer and got some great suggestions: “Right now, The Partner by John Grisham,” Grace Givens told me. And she has just finished A Cake and the Rain by Jimmy Webb and ordered two of Fannie Flagg’s books, I Can’t Wait to Get to Heaven and I Still Dream About You. I was happy to hear that because Fannie is a friend of mine. The late public relations wiz, Jonni Hartman Rogers, introduced us in Los Angeles, and what an absolute delight she is—so warm, witty and wise. I hosted a dinner party for her at the Four Seasons downtown and invited Paul Hope, the accomplished Alley Theatre actor and the director of Bayou City Musicals, to surprise her with a reading from her first best-selling book, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe. Now I am reading Fannie’s latest book, The Whole Town’s Talking. She’s at her best as she tells us what it means to be truly alive.

Joyce Frassinito is reading Niv by Graham Lord, the authorized biography of David

Niven. I began to talk about “the meaning of life,” and she mentioned this passage from Niven’s book: “He always gave more to it than he got back and expected everyone to do the same.”

MY MAIN FOCUS THIS SUMMER IS… A new luncheon fund-raising event for The Mission of Yahweh: Women of Substance, which will star Barbara Taylor Bradford, one of the bestselling authors of all time who wrote A Woman of Substance, which has sold 30 million copies in 90 countries. A friend of Paul-David Van Atta, the well-known event planner, Barbara will attend this premier event on November 3 at the River Oaks Country Club, which will honor 12 Houston Woman of Substance. For tickets, contact paul-david@pdvspecialevents.com.

It’s summer!

So, what are you gonna do about it?

Have you done something good for somebody today?

January 6-7

George R Brown • Houston

Two fun-filled Days!

Major Prizes Formal Fashion Shows Educational Seminars

Brides Register Online for Free Gift BridalExtravaganzaShow.com photo: ANA&IVAN photography c gown: Ventura’s Bridal Fashions c hair and makeup: Simple Beauty BEST OFArtistry 2017 9

Health What to Do When You Can’t Fall Asleep You’re under the covers obsessing over tomorrow’s endless to-do list, and before you know it, an hour has passed. Then another hour. Before you start to panic about the prospect of pulling an all-nighter, heed this advice from Dr. Benjamin Smarr, a NIH research fellow in neurobiology and behavior at UC Berkeley and a Reverie sleep research expert.

DRINK SOME MILK AND HONEY. It really does work,

insists Smarr. “Turns out the warmed sugar and fat—in moderation—do combine to promote sleep.”

DON’T LOOK AT YOUR PHONE MID-SNOOZE.

“Sleep is supposed to happen when it’s dark, and you feel calm and safe. As tempting as it may be to grab your phone when you wake up in the middle of the night, don’t! Switching on bright lights sends your melatonin levels racing, and can make it much harder to get back to sleep,” says Smarr.

MOVE MORE DURING THE DAY. “The first part of sleep is mostly about refreshing your body. If your body didn’t get much use, it won’t generate much sleep pressure, and falling asleep will be more difficult.”

WATCH NETFLIX IF YOU MUST. “Stress and anxiety impair sleep, and that includes anxiety about sleep. If it’s an off-night (we all have them), then do watch something light and funny, not scary.

Distract yourself so you’re not an anxiety ball. When the adrenaline runs its course while you’re too distracted to care, then sleeping will suddenly be much easier.”—Amanda Altman

The Makings of the Perfect Bed If you feel uncomfortable between the sheets, no amount of milk ’n honey is going to help. Here, some of our favorite cozy sleep gear to transport you to cloud nine, stat.

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MAGIC PILL(OW)

A CUTTING-EDGE MATTRESS

SUSTAINABLE SHEETS

The Reverie Dual Slumber Pillow is two-sided—one side is memory foam and the other plush micro-fill—so you can change your pillow depending on your mood. Both sides are covered with cooling fabric ($120; reverie.com).

The Kala Mattress is designed to mimic zero gravity, allowing your weight to be distributed evenly, relieving painful pressure points and helping speed recovery after even the toughest workout. An innovative top layer that’s 90 percent air regulates your body temperature. Not sure it’s for you? Try the 100-night sleep trial (from $1,195 for a queen; kalasleep.com).

Coyuchi for Life is a new subscription service that allows you to get Fair Trade Certified organic sheets for 15 percent less than the retail price for a monthly fee. Select your plan—six, 12 or 24 months—and 300-thread-count style and color; when you’re ready for new ones, send yours back and Coyuchi will not only send you a fresh set, but also renew, upcycle or recycle the old ones (starts at $7 per month; coyuchi.com).

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That’s the amount of Americans that report having “excellent” sleep quality, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Twenty-four percent of women and 16 percent of men said they woke up feeling well-rested zero days for the past four days. Talk about a freakin’ nightmare.

DO DENTAL IMPLANTS LOOK NATUR AL? When it comes to replacing a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, dental implants can provide the most natural-looking results. Implant-anchored ceramic restorations, including crowns, bridges, or dentures, are fully customized to blend beautifully with your surrounding teeth. Because they are secured in the jawbone, dental implants feel and function much like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dr. Fawcett integrates CEREC® and GALILEOS® 3D technology for precise surgical planning and full implant design, which helps him to consistently achieve superior outcomes for his patients.

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS RIGHT FOR ME?

If you are missing one tooth, several teeth, or even all of your teeth, dental implants may be able to provide you with the freedom, confidence, and outstanding smile aesthetics that so many of our patients already enjoy.

During a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Fawcett, you can find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants. He will perform a full oral examination to establish the status of your dental health and review your medical history to determine if dental implants are the best tooth replacement option for you.

WHY CHOOSE DR. FAWCETT FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?

In addition to his many impressive credentials, Dr. Fawcett has received extensive training specifically in dental implants. His knowledge and valuable experience allow him to plan and perform every stage of the procedure—including placing implants and creating/ securing final restorations—all within our office using the most advanced technology available. This process is not only convenient and efficient, it helps improve precision,

ACCREDITED BUSINESS

HOUSTON’S TOP DENTISTS

2017

Dr. Fawcett has been providing a wide range of services in general dentistry in his hometown for more than 30 years, with a special focus on cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and full smile makeovers.

13956 Cutten Road • Houston, TX 77069 281-440-6648

www.DrFawcett.com

predictability and quality from start to finish.

From porcelain veneers and dental implants to periodontal care, All-on-4 (“teeth-in-a-day”), and complex full mouth rehabilitation cases, Dr. Fawcett utilizes his expertise in combination with innovative technology and superior materials to create healthy, beautiful smiles for his patients. His attention to detail and dedication to quality are evident in the custom treatment plans he designs to meet the unique dental needs and cosmetic goals of each individual.

BEST OF 2017

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Health

L

YME DISE ASE HAS BEEN IN WELL , THE LIMELIGHT, L ATELY, AND

UNFORTUNATELY, IT ’S GOING TO STAY THAT WAY THIS SUMMER , when experts predict disease-causing ticks might be on the rise. Blame it on global warming—and a longer summer season—plus an overall good habitat for mice, which are known to carry ticks. To make matters worse, researchers at Columbia University recently found that some ticks carry the Powassan virus, which can cause encephalitis. “Although the Northeast, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin have always been tick-heavy, we keep finding pockets all over the South, on the West Coast and in Texas,” says Dr. Daniel Cameron, MD, a Lyme disease expert in Mt. Kisco, NY. Here’s how to stay safe this season, no matter where life takes you.

PRE-TREAT YOUR STUFF. Spray clothes, shoes and

socks with a product containing .5 percent permethrin.

Or buy clothes already pre-treated with the insecticide at REI and L.L. Bean.

SPRAY ON THE REPELLENT. The CDC recommends

using one that contains at least 20 percent DEET on exposed skin. “The higher concentration of DEET seems to help, but it’s not as helpful as staying on the asphalt,” cautions Dr. Cameron.

DO SOME YARD WORK. “If you have children, move

the playground to an area with sun, because sun helps dry out the ticks,” recommends Dr. Cameron. Also, clear out any leaves and tall grass.

BUT FIRST, CHECK. “When you get home, do a tick

check before showering,” says Dr. Cameron, who believes it’s the most important measure you can take to stay disease free. “Run your hands all over your body, look at your kids very carefully, and check your dog.” Pay attention to the area behind your knees, waist, back, neck and hair, places ticks like to stick to.

HANG ’EM OUT TO DRY. Tumble dry clothes on high

for 10 minutes to kill ticks, before washing them in hot water.

STAY ALERT WHEN SUMMER’S OVER. “Ticks

come out even when it’s not hot and humid,” notes Dr. Cameron. In Mississippi, they’re present from November through March, he says.­—A.A.

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Feel a summer cold coming on?

Forget staying in—the best way to keep the tissues at bay might be to go out, suggests a new study from Rice University. Psychologists monitored 159 men and women ages 18 to 55 after they were induced with the common cold, and found that symptoms were more aggravated for those who reported feelings of loneliness pre-sniffles. But before you turn to Facebook for “friends,” researchers warn that it’s not about the quantity of your relationships—it’s about the quality.

TRUE OR FALSE:

To beat a midday slump at the office, you should drink some green tea.

FALSE. Researchers at the University at Georgia found that 10 minutes of lowintensity stair walking—about 30 flights—gave female study participants more of a boost, both in energy and in motivation, than 50 milligrams of caffeine. Catch ya later, second cup.

TICK ILLUSTRATION AND HANDS PHOTO BY BIGSTOCK

STICK IT TO THE TICKS

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Things You Don’t Know About Sun Protection

1.

SUNSCREEN LABELS ARE SERIOUSLY MISLEADING. “If you look at the studies of how [manufacturers] get an SPF of 30 or 15, they do it in a laboratory setting, where the person doesn’t move, there’s no wind, no towel, no rustling of anything,” says Dr. Lewis. “An SPF of 30 in the real world is more like a 15; an SPF of 15 acts like a five.”

2.

UVA RAYS CAN PENETRATE GLASS. Think you’re protected in the car? How about in your office? “Basal or squamous skin cancer cells are more associated with chronic sun exposure of UVA,” says Dr. Lewis, who applies sunblock 365 days a year. “We see it a lot in drivers because people don’t realize that UVA [the damaging rays that lead to skin cancer and aging] goes right through glass. If you’re somebody with an office window, UVA is coming straight

Dermatologist Amy B. Lewis, MD, delivers some mind-blowing rays of truth.

through.” The good news is that you can add UVA-protective coating to your windows, she says.

3.

SPF FACTOR ONLY ACCOUNTS FOR UVB. Unlike in Europe, U.S. sunscreen companies don’t have to list the UVA content, Dr. Lewis explains. “If something says ‘broad spectrum,’ the UVA part could be equivalent to a two, and you’re not really protected. You have a false sense of security because you’re not getting burnt,” since you’re protected from burn-causing UVB rays. Dr. Lewis recommends using the highest SPF factor you can find.

4.

YOU SHOULD REAPPLY DURING OFFICE HOURS, TOO. “If you’re not out in the sun, after two or three hours, your sunblock isn’t working well,” explains Dr. Lewis, so she recommends reapplying at lunchtime.

5.

YOU NEED TO LAY IT ON THICK. “If you look at the studies that give you the SPF numbers, researchers put [the product] on thick. But most people don’t usually put it on that thick, so they don’t get the SPF number that’s on the bottle because they’re not using it correctly.”

6.

THE CREAMS AND LOTIONS YOU CHOOSE MATTER. According to Dr. Lewis, “people who use an antioxidant on their skin [such as a moisturizer with anti-aging benefits] routinely will increase the effectiveness of their SPF.” We love Elf Beauty Shield SPF 50 Skin Shielding Moisturizer, with carrot and sunflower seed oils plus a subtle tint that works for just about everyone ($12 for 1.6 fluid ounces; elfcosmetics.com).—A.A.

Benefiting from two generations of dental experience and knowledge, Tilger Center for Dentistry provides quality care that is customized for each patient’s desires and needs.

Being a father-daughter team practice, the doctors enjoy treating entire families, from small children to seniors. TILGER CENTER FOR DENTISTRY prides itself on providing comprehensive quality care, ranging from routine checkups and cleanings to complete smile makeovers and wisdom teeth extractions. All of this can be done under

IV sedation, as both DR. LARRY TILGER and DR. LINDSAY TILGER are certified to perform IV sedation themselves. The doctors have extensive training in dental implants, including both the surgical placement and the many restoration options for them. Call them for an opportunity to enhance your beauty with a new smile!

Doctors Larry and Lindsay Tilger would be delighted to help you discover the smile of your dreams!

HOUSTON’S TOP DENTISTS

2017

Dr. Larry Tilger & Dr. Lindsay Tilger

tilgercenter4dentistry.com 938 Gemini Ave, Houston, TX 77058 • 281-480-6600 13

Society

A strong bond was created for child abuse prevention and awareness at The Thread Alliance's Blue Plate Special Kickoff Party on March 29. The Thread Alliance Founder Sheila Aron welcomed more than 50 attendees eager to end the cycle of child abuse at Taverna in the River Oaks District.

The Thread Alliance is dedicated to ending the cycle of child abuse. The Blue Plate Special is their citywide public awareness and education campaign encouraging Houstonians to take action against child abuse and toward healing.

Local restaurants support the cause by offering a “blue plate special” throughout the month of April, donating a flat dollar amount or percentage of the proceeds to The Thread Alliance.

LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: CAROLYN SOLAR WITH VIVIAN AND STANLEY LIPMAN; A. DAVID SCHWARZ, LYNN

KAMIN AND MARCEL GREMILLION; LARRY AND KAKI BUCK WITH AVRIL AND JULIUS DANZINGER

23rd Annual A Celebration of Reading Nearly 1,800 guests attended the 23rd annual A Celebration of Reading. This special event celebrated the importance of reading, garnering more than $2.2 million to advance literacy.

Proceeds support the work of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation and the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

LEFT TO RIGHT: NEIL AND MARIA BUSH WITH

BARBARA BUSH AND GEORGE W. BUSH

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THREAD ALLIANCE PHOTO BY DANIEL ORTIZ; CELEBRATION OF READING PHOTO BY MICHELLE WATSON, CATCHLIGHT GROUP

The Thread Alliance’s Blue Plate Special Kickoff Party

ESCAPE EVENT PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESCAPE; AIDS FOUNDATION HOUSTON PHOTOS BY MORRIS MALAKOFF; THE CAC PHOTOS BY MIKE BOWLIN

ESCAPE Family Resource Center Celebrity Serve Benefit ESCAPE Family Resource Center hosted their annual Celebrity Serve Benefit, Champions for Children, with co-chairs Joan Schnitzer Levy and Gerald Franklin, raising more than $272,000 to fund ESCAPE’s mission to prevent child abuse and neglect. This unique sports-themed event, held during National Child Abuse Prevention Month, provided a place where influential local and national celebrities and individuals to come together for a fun, intimate dining experience at Tony’s Restaurant, while supporting an important cause.

AIDS Foundation Houston Dining Out for Life AIDS Foundation Houston (AFH), together with event chairs Michael Pearce, Jessica Rossman and Travis Torrence, hosted the annual fundraiser, Dining Out for Life, sponsored by Gillman Subaru at restaurants around Houston. The event drew guests from around the city to support AIDS Foundation Houston's goal of “Getting to Zero”—as in zero new infections, AIDS-related deaths and stigma. Guests dined out for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner throughout the day with a percentage of sales supporting the AIDS Foundation Houston.

LEFT TO RIGHT: STEFANIE POWERS, GERALD AND

LEFT TO RIGHT: EVENT CHAIRS JESSICA ROSSMAN,

BARBARA HINES WITH CO-CHAIR JOAN SCHNITZER LEVY

TRAVIS TORRENCE AND MICHAEL PEARCE

The Children’s Assessment Center’s Annual Spirit of Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show

De Boulle in the River Oaks District hosted the KickOff Party for The Children’s Assessment Center’s Annual Spirit of Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show. Guests enjoyed a celebratory evening with spirits sponsored by On the Rocks, along with hors d’oeuvres and an abundance of jewels. Funds raised at this event supported direct service programs that The CAC offers, such as forensic interviews, medical services and therapy programs critical to the hope and healing of young victims of sexual abuse.

LEFT TO RIGHT: THE IMPRESSIVE JEWELS AT DE BOULLE; ELAINE STOLTE, THE CAC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WITH

EVENT CHAIRS AND BOARD MEMBERS DIANE CAPLAN, ERICKA BAGWELL AND URSALINE HAMILTON BEST OF 2017

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Society The Ensemble Theatre Black Tie Gala and Kick-Off JDRF Houston Gulf Coast Chapter Promise Ball The JDRF Houston Gulf Coast Chapter hosted their annual Promise Ball on May 13th at the Hilton Americas, where guests enjoyed a colorful and festive evening supporting an important cause that raised upwards of $1.6 million to help end type 1 diabetes. The blacktie event was emceed by Drew Dougherty, host of Texans TV, and featured a seated dinner of Cuban-inspired dishes. The silent and live auctions included unique experiences like a trip to the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, a stay at La Pietra Villa in Italy, a yellow labrador retriever named Emmi, and a golf vacation at The Fairmont, St. Andrews. Music from high-energy band, Skyrocket! kept the crowd dancing late into the evening as partygoers were mesmerized by magician Ben Jackson and tested their luck playing casino games.

Young professionals also joined the Young Leadership Committee After-Party that included a champagne reception and open bar.

LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: THE 2017

HONOREES WERE ERIN FEENEY DYER, ALISON GRAGE

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LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: DR. NICOLE

FLEMING, MALLORY WILLIAMS, REBECCA BROWN,

WALTERS, BRANDON MCCLENDON, MYRTLE JONES

ANNIE MARSHALL, BROOKE BUSBY AND ROCHELLE

AND ROSALYN BOYD; LEON AND JACQUELINE

BULLOCK; THE NIGHT WAS FULL OF FUN AT THE

KINLOCH WITH KELLI AND MARTIN FEIN

HAVANA NIGHTS-THEMED PARTY.

ENSEMBLE GALA PHOTOS BY ANTHONY HYNES; JDRF PHOTOS BY DANIEL ORTIZ

The Ensemble Theatre celebrated the conclusion of its 40th Anniversary season, with its annual fund-raiser, Black Tie Gala and KickOff, on April 27. A host of theater sponsors and supporters joined the Kick-Off chair, the Gala co-chairs, board and staff in announcing the details of this year’s endeavors. The Gala serves as the theater’s major fund-raiser, supporting its annual $2 million operating budget that includes six main-stage season productions, and its educational initiatives directed toward youth.

Eighth Annual Keels and Wheels Uncorked

TUTS PHOTOS COURTESY OF TUTS; UNCORKED PHOTOS BY KIM COFFMAN; ROBERTS PHOTOS BY DANIELLE TRENT

Theatre Under The Stars One Night Only 2017 Gala

Philanthropy went into overdrive at the eighth-annual Keels and Wheels Uncorked event benefitting The Boys and Girls Harbor at Mercedes-Benz of Houston-Greenway.

Legendary news anchor and guest of honor, Dave Ward, alongside the Master of Ceremonies, Sam Malone, joined more than 200 guests to help raise funds for children and families in crisis while enjoying a variety of classic car- and boatinspired hors d’oeurves and exceptional wines.

The Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) One Night Only 2017 Gala, which honored Margaret Alkek Williams for her many contributions to the arts community in Houston, was held on March 25th at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

Becky and Bart McAndrews and Paul-David Van Atta co-chaired the event, raising nearly $700,000 benefiting the TUTS Education and Community Outreach Programs. Guests of the gala were transported back to the 1960s as they enjoyed a Dreamgirls theme, cocktails and dinner inside Sarofim Hall.

LEFT TO RIGHT: AMBER ELLIOT; NELLY AND

LEFT TO RIGHT: BILL KING, BOB FULLER AND THE

DOUG DAWSON

GUEST OF HONOR, DAVE WARD

The Warner Roberts Building Dedication About 100 people crowded into the dining facility at The Mission of Yahweh homeless shelter for women and children to participate in the naming of The Mission’s first dormitory, The Warner Roberts Building. After opening words from Executive Director Richard Hill and Chairman of the Board Joyce Pankonien, Mark Eichenbaum from Mayor Sylvester Turner’s office presented Roberts with a proclamation to designate May 31st as Warner Roberts Day. Following the presentation, guests enjoyed Barbara McKnight’s Culinarian luncheon.

AT RIGHT: WARNER ROBERTS IS ALL SMILES AS THE

PLAQUE IN HER HONOR IS UNVEILED; THE ROBERTS FAMILY GATHERS FOR THE CEREMONY. BEST OF 2017

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The Escape Hunt Experience Houston, the city’s largest escape room experience, is anything but child’s play.

by Rima Jean

W

HETHER YOU ’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FAMILYORIENTED TO DO ON A L A Z Y SUNDAY AF TERNOON OR PL ANNING A COMPANY EVENT, THE ESCAPE HUNT EXPERIENCE HOUSTON IS A PERFECT SOLUTION. The 5,000-square-foot space smack in the middle of Midtown is the largest escape room in the city, not to mention the second largest in the state of Texas, boasting three immersive, complex games to keep its players enthralled.

If you’re wondering what, exactly, an escape room is, you’re not alone. James Barcz, the owner of The Escape Hunt Experience Houston, describes how he discovered the thrill of escape rooms by chance, while looking for things to do with his wife, Jan, on vacation in Nashville. They decided to give the experience a whirl. “I was surprised to

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see 30 people in the lobby on a Tuesday morning, waiting to be ‘locked’ in a room. I thought, There’s something to this.” This—putting 10 people in a themed room and giving them 60 minutes to “escape” by way of various puzzles, problems and clues—is, in fact, the new group experience.

It’s part game, part show and part team-building exercise, and it’s caught on like wildfire worldwide.

What makes The Escape Hunt Experience Houston unique, however, is the immersive and cerebral nature of the rooms: Barcz spared no expense in ensuring his rooms transport players to another time or place, making them feel as though the games are real life. The well-plotted rooms include: Theft of the Texas Lone Star, in which players are Texas Rangers who must track down a missing museum artifact; Murder in Marylebone, a murder mystery set in 1910 London; and the newest addition, Houston We’ve Had a Problem, which recreates the crisis of Apollo 13 lunar mission.

The Apollo 13 room is, without question, one of the most realistic escape rooms in the country.

Barcz commissioned prop makers and spacecraft exhibit experts to recreate the NASA Mission Control consoles and equipment. The result is an unbelievably immersive and thought-provoking escape room that leaves players satisfied, whether or not they successfully “escaped.”

ESCAPE ROOM PHOTOS BY GORDON PRODUCTIONS; SILVERWARE BY BIGSTOCK

Culture

Summer Reading Barcz spared no expense in ensuring his rooms transport players to another time or place, making them feel as though the games are real life.

Two reads—one for the kids and one for the grown-ups—will warm the heart.

PRINCESS TRULY IN I AM TRULY

by Kelly Greenawalt, illustrated by Amariah Rauscher (Hardcover, $14.65; Kindle edition, $10.99; amazon.com) The books we read as children can impact the adults we become, and Houston author Kelly Greenawalt gets it. The adoptive mother of Calista and Kaia, Greenawalt saw a void in children’s books that empower little girls between the ages of three and eight—particularly little girls of color—so she wrote her own.

Beautifully illustrated with Amariah Rauscher’s whimsical artwork, I Am Truly is about a princess who is everything and anything she sets her mind to—beautiful, brave, confident and smart. The picture book’s positive message is clearly conveyed through its words and images, not only reassuring little girls that they can accomplish major feats like becoming astronauts or engineers, but also smaller goals, such as learning to swim and tie their shoes. No task is too small or too big for Princess Truly, who is every little girl in the world.

SWABBED AND FOUND

by Frank Billingsley (Hardcover, $17.76; amazon.com)

Companies have been turning to escape rooms more and more to foster teamwork skills among their employees, and their efforts have not been in vain. Escape room games as complex and realistic as the ones at The Escape Hunt Experience Houston encourage camaraderie and communication, skills that are essential for any team to succeed.

Anyone, however, can play the games, Barcz explains. “We find that our escape rooms appeal to a wide range of people, including Millennials, Generation Xers, coworkers, families of all ages, travelers and, of course, businesses. You must be at least 10 years old to play, but there is no upper age limit.”

After a game, players can enjoy refreshments in the lobby, a replica of Sherlock Holmes’ 221B Baker Street study, and discuss their experience. They can even dress up and take pictures in front of a photo wall to memorialize the fun. For more information, visit houston.escapehunt.com. H

If you’ve lived in Houston for the past 20 years, you’ll recognize Frank Billingsley’s warm smile from KPRC 2’s weather reports—Billingsley is, in fact, the chief meteorologist. In addition to helping Houstonians prepare for hurricanes and navigate the city’s sometimes unpredictable weather on television, Billingsley has been on the hunt for his family’s genealogical history and captured his journey on paper.

Having been adopted as a child, Billingsley’s curiosity about his birth parents had been lifelong—until he delved deep into the world of DNA testing and genealogical research and pieced together his family tree. Written with Billingsley’s much-loved sense of humor and wit, Swabbed and Found is much more than a record of his findings; it’s a touching story of one man’s discovery that we are all part of the same big family.—R.J.

Houston Restaurant Weeks 2017 It’s that time of year again! Starting August 1, award-winning restaurants throughout Houston—from the Woodlands all the way down to Galveston—will offer specially priced lunches, brunches and dinners to diners, with up to 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting the Houston Food Bank. Costs at participating eateries will be set at $22 for brunch, $20 for lunch, and either $35 or $45 for dinner. The 2017 Restaurant List includes H Town favorites like Benjy’s, Harold’s in the Heights and Brennan’s of Houston. The fund-raiser will run for five weeks, through September 4. For a complete list of participating restaurants and their menus, visit houstonrestaurantweeks.com.—R.J. BEST OF 2017

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Community From

Sugar Land to La La Land Houston native Allison Tolman’s journey to Golden Globe and Emmy nominations had humble beginnings.

G

ROWING UP IN THE HOUSTON ARE A , THERE WASN’ T A TIME WHEN ALLISON TOLMAN WASN’ T PERFORMING . If there was a chance to act, be it at summer camp, in community theater or while enrolled at high school in Sugar Land, she was there.

Now with a hit television show on her resume and the new ABC sitcom Downward Dog under her belt, Tolman’s career is on roll—yet just three years ago she was a far cry from being on Hollywood’s radar.

As a child, Tolman’s family moved around quite a bit. Her father was in the oil business, and Sugar Land was the place that became permanent.

“Sugar Land is the first place that we really stayed,” Tolman recalls. “My parents still live there.

It was the first place that I got to really put down some roots. It was like my first real home. I always tell everyone I’m really this suburban girl. I say I’m from Houston, but I’m really from Sugar Land. I was really happy there.”

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Tolman began taking theater classes at Fort Bend Community Theatre at age 10. At Sugar Land’s Clements High School, she jumped into the theater department, acting in numerous performances until graduating in 2000. Baylor University was her next stop, and not surprisingly, she joined the ranks of the theater majors.

After graduating from Baylor, she toiled away in Dallas at jobs ranging from receptionist at a veterinarian’s office and dog walking to teaching acting classes. All the while, Tolman auditioned for small parts and worked in theater productions hoping for a break.

“I was always looking for other jobs, sort of stringing side jobs together to make enough money,” says Tolman. “In Dallas, I also had a commercial agent for the first time, so I started doing commercials and television auditions, [getting] little bit parts in things. That’s when I first started to make some money.”

In 2009, Tolman moved to Chicago to study with the famous Second City comedy troupe, continuing to work side jobs in sales and at an

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ABC

by Sean Chaffin

IT firm. The commercial work was tougher in Chicago, but she continued, hoping for a foot in the door.

Auditioning constantly and trying to find more commercial work, Tolman’s big break came in fall 2013, when she landed the lead role of Molly Solverson on FX’s Fargo television series. The show was a hit and earned Tolman Golden Globe and Emmy nominations and a Critic’s Choice Award. The part solidified her career.

“I wasn’t auditioning on the level that Fargo was,” she says. “It was such a lightning strike that there was no precedent before booking that role. I had an agent in Chicago I worked with that I would go out for commercials and things. I was with him for five years, and in that time, I auditioned for maybe five TV shows.

When you act for a living or are trying to act for a living, you go to all these auditions and put yourself on tape and forget about them.

You never know what happens to them. It’s not like other jobs where you hear back if you don’t get [them].”

Her role ended after a season, and Tolman began taking small parts in television and movies, including the Amazon hit Mad Dogs.

Now she’s back on television, starring in Downward Dog, which premiered this past May. It’s based on a web series following the daily life

of Nan, as told by her increasingly lonely and philosophical dog Martin.

In the series, Tolman’s character, Nan, attempts to juggle her tumultuous personal life with a stressful career, supervised by her selfobsessed boss. There’s no laugh track—instead, the show features subtle, understated comedy with scenes that play out awkwardly for laughs.

“I was skeptical at first because it had a talking dog, which is kind of a goofy low-brow concept,” she says. “But when you read the script and watch the shorts that this series is based on, there’s a very understated, very real tone to the show.

I really understood what they were going for. I felt like, this is something that I’m interested in being part of. Artistically, I can stand behind this.”

Tolman, who now lives in Los Angeles, was captivated with the relationship between pet and pet owner. “I’m really proud of [the show],” she says. “I really think it’s a funny, interesting, different show. I’m not a dog owner, but an owner of a cat that I’ve had for 16 years. I think the love of animals, the bond of a pet and an owner, is a very real thing, and it’s something a lot of people will identify with. I certainly do.”

Downward Dog airs on ABC on Tuesday nights throughout the summer. We can’t wait to see what our Sugar Land star lands next. H

OPPOSITE PAGE AND BELOW: STILLS AND

PROMOTIONAL IMAGES OF TOLMAN ON HER NEW SHOW, DOWNWARD DOG

“Sugar Land is the first place that we really stayed. My parents still live there. It was the first place that I got to really put down some roots.”

BEST OF 2017

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Community

Wear Have They Been?

The fashion-forward clothing line Chris Gramer, designed by three Houston-bred sisters, finally hits H Town.

by Rima Jean ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT:

CHRISTINE, MERRIE AND GRACE LEE; LOOKS FROM THE LINE’S UPCOMING FALL COLLECTION

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Christine, Grace and Merrie Lee are three Houston sisters who combined their skills—and names—to create the highquality, ready-to-wear clothing line, Chris Gramer. Since its debut in 2011, Chris Gramer has put out four collections a year with great success in East Coast boutiques and on major online retailers such as Intermix.

The siblings became interested in fashion while growing up in Houston, and using a connection with a denim manufacturer, started a jeans company while in high school. Their fashion aspirations were put on hold while they attended the University of Texas, but they knew they would someday return to the world

of fashion. “We knew we had to go out in the real world and get practical experience before starting our own business,” Grace relates.

Christine worked in accounting, and Grace became a merchandiser for Gucci.

Eventually, the sisters decided they were ready to embark on their own and quit their respective jobs. Christine enrolled in an accelerated program at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and went on to become the company’s head designer at their own factory in China.

Meanwhile, Grace manages sales in Houston, and Merrie is in charge of social media from New York.

“What makes Chris Gramer unique is our commitment to 360-degree design, which means that our pieces are designed from every angle,” explains Grace. “Chris designs by constantly turning the mannequin around to make sure there are details that draw

interest in the front, the side and the back. Also, there are no seam lines on the sides—she works from one piece of material.”

The result is very high-end fashion that’s still practical for everyday wear. Moreover, all three women contribute to the design process, cycling through several rounds of edits to the original sketches. “We each have different styles, and we want our pieces to be seen from different perspectives,” says Grace.

In addition to being carefully and beautifully structured, the clothes are machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant and reasonably priced—pieces range from $70 to $500.

The next step? “It’s time for our hometown to know about us,” Grace says with a smile.

Starting at the end of summer/ early fall, Chris Gramer will have officially come to Houston when Muse, an upscale boutique in River Oaks, will carry their fall/winter collection.

For more information, visit chrisgramer.com. H

HIGH SCHOOL WILL NEVER BE THE SAME

SEPT 8 8 7C

Join the biggest stars in entertainment for an unforgettable, live special, as we come together to rethink American high schools. Visit XQSuperSchool.org/live to get a sneak peek at the future of education.

XQ Institute and the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) are 501(c)(3) organizations.

BEST OF 2017

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Fashion Get into the

Spirit

FOR MOM

Whether you’re poolside or digging your toes in the sand this Labor Day, show off your red, white and blue pride.

FOR DAD

HAT Brixton Joanna Hat; $44, backcountry.com.

EARRINGS Bibi Marini Red Beaded Blossom Earrings; $300, modaoperandi.com. DRESS Edun Beaded Macrame Midi Dress; $1,500, modaoperandi.com. SUNGLASSES RAEN

SUNGLASSES ASOS Square Sunglasses in Crystal Burgundy; $16, asos.com. JACKET Starter Snap Front Athletic Jacket; $89, urbanoutfitters.com. T-SHIRT J.Crew Cotton T-shirt in Wide Stripe; $45, jcrew.com. SWIM SHORTS Coquillages et

x Alex Knost Luxury Wig Ashtray 53mm Sunglasses; $150, nordstrom.com. SWIMSUIT Solid and Striped The Whitney Color-Block Bandeau Bikini; $155, net-a-porter.com.

SANDALS Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA; $35, birkenstock.com. BAG Diane Von Furstenberg Fringe Raffia Tote; $598, dvf.com. TOWEL Celebrate Summer Together American Beach Towel For Two; $50, www.kohls.com.

BIKE SixThreeZero Be Bike; $400, sixthreezero.com.

Crustacés Swim Shorts; $120, vilebrequin.com.

TOWEL American Dreamer Round Towel; $22, vagabondbeach.com WATCH Citizen DRIVE CTO Mens Chronograph, Blue Dial, Rubber Strap, 100m; $188, princetonwatches.com. SANDALS Thom Browne Red Leather Sandals; $440, ssense.com. BIKE Columbia Adult 1952 Deluxe Beach Cruiser Bike; $175, dickssportinggoods.com.

BAG Études Embroidered Star Tote; $75, farfetch.com.

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FOR THE KIDS

TEXANS BOY’S GIFT SET Baby Aspen Fun in The Sun 4 Piece Nautical Gift Set with Canvas Tote for Mom; $42, amazon.com.

BOY’S SHARK SHOES Cat & Jack Baby Boy’s Shark Slip On Sneakers; $9, target.com. SHARK POOL FLOAT SwimSchool Sparky The Shark Canopy BabyBoat; $31, walmart.com.

GOGGLES Speedo Jr. Hydrospex Print Goggle; $17, zappos.com.

SUNGLASSES Winkniks Hazel Sunglasses; $48, barneys.com.

GIRL’S HEADBAND Cara Star Mesh Headband; $12, nordstrom.com.

GIRL’S ONE-PIECE Little Me Girls’ Stars and Stripes Swimsuit; $15, bloomingdales.com.

POPSICLE POOL FLOAT Smallable Toys Ice Pop Pool Float Multicolored; $54, smallable.com.

GIRL’S SANDALS Walker & Toddler Aranha Mary Jane Sandal; $59, nordstrom.com.

DO IT

BETTER In collaboration with men’s clothing brand Mizzen+Main, Houston Texans’ star JJ Watt designed a collection of comfortable and fitted shirts to get any stylish guy from the office to happy hour. The American-made shirts feature moisture-wicking fabric, and as an added bonus, there’s no ironing required.

Choose from six button-downs and two polos, all with four-way stretch and a patriotic color scheme. We love the Lake Street red dress shirt and the Steeplechase navy blue polo, shown here on JJ. While the tops may not improve your game, they’ll definitely score you a major style touchdown ($145 for dress shirts, $80 for polos; mizzenandmain.com).—Robin Villalobos

BEST OF 2017

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Beauty

9

r u o Y r o f s Rule s u o e g r o G Most Summer

Ever!

1.

School’s out, but to get good grades in the beauty department, follow these guidelines.

2.

1.

MAKE YOURSELF CLEAR. Vitamin C’s an “it” ingredient in the beauty world for good reason—it’s the ultmate brightener. Try clay-based Georgette Klinger Vitamin C Mask, which also contains nourishing argan and avocado oils, to give your skin that summer glow. In between masks, gently clear clogged pores and buildup with the brand’s aloe- and coconut-infused Bamboo Exfoliating Scrub ($28 and $36, respectively; georgetteklinger.com).

3.

2.

TAKE COVER. Shield your skin from harmful rays while minimizing pores and covering up any unwanted spots with Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream SPF 25.

The velvety cream performs and covers like foundation ($48; janeiredale.com).

3.

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE. Line those beautiful eyes with MAC Rollerwheel Liquid Liner Roller in Royale. It works almost like a ball-point pen but better, and lasts all day long ($21; maccosmetics.com).

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4.

5.

4.

DO POUT. Hard Candy Lip Artiste Lip Contouring Wand does double duty: One side has a matte liner to contour, and the other a highlighter, to give you the illusion of a pouty lip ($7; walmart.com).

6.

5.

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD. Avoid those blisters on your tender feet by rubbing on Body Glide Foot Anti Blister Balm, which features sole-softening vitamins A and C ($8; target.com).

6.

LASH OUT. If you don’t have the money—or the time—for lash extensions, just give your own set a boost with Lashx Pro Line Treatment.

Formulated with a proprietary blend of peptides, the paraben- and oil-free product also helps grow your brows ($120; lashx.shop).

7.

7.

GO BARE. Smooth, hairless skin can be yours without leaving the privacy of your own bedroom with Silk’n Jewel. The at-home device uses a Home PulseLight (HPL) to permanently remove unwanted hair ($199; silkn.com).

9.

8.

DE-STRESS YOUR TRESSES. For shiny, healthy strands, take care of your scalp. Klorane Peony Collection, which includes Shampoo, Gel Conditioner and SOS Serum, is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin and won’t weigh hair down (each $20; kloraneusa.com).

9.

SMELL LIKE THE SEASON. Tous Bonjour Senorita is the perfect summer fragrance. With notes of bergamot, raspberry, coconut milk, jasmine tea, wood and vanilla, it’s French chic meets the Cuban Caribbean ($80; tous.com).

—Carla Menendez

8.

BEST OF 2017

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Destination

Pops of NEW and Glimmers of OLD Southern charm, retail therapy and more are alive and well in Mobile, Alabama.

by Stephanie DiCiro

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LIVING HISTORY Recent revitalization of Mobile’s many historical districts provides a picture window to the past.

The steeple on St. Francis is one of old Mobile’s most inspired new event venues that has emerged from the hallowed halls of an old Methodist church.

This vintage space holds history within its timeworn walls, though it has been renovated and repurposed to host concerts, parties and weddings. Couples are drawn to this space because it tells an interesting story while also providing the exceptional aesthetic of immaculate stainedglass windows and intricate wood-working details.

If you visit during the spring, be sure to hit the Mobile Historic Homes tour. Ancestral homes, churches and house museums are open to the public for this two-day event to benefit the Historic Mobile Preservation Society.

DOWNTOWN AND SAENGER THEATER PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT MOBILE; STREET ART PHOTO BY STEPANIE DICIRO

T

HE CHARMING PORT CIT Y OF MOBILE , AL , HAS A CHAR ACTER ALL ITS OWN, deeply rooted within its rich history, azalea- and live-oak-lined streets, nostalgic buildings, time-honored traditions, and remarkable, enduring spirit all wrapped up in a big dose of Southern hospitality. When you step into Mobile, it always feels like a celebration.

With more than 300 years of history brimming with countless stories and traditions, Mobile can be described as: historic, cultured, celebratory and above all, unique. Once known as the “Paris of the South,” Mobile has long been the cultural focal point of the Gulf Coast. Even a short visit will provide you with a memorable, one-of-akind experience you won’t find anywhere else in the Southern United States.

Mobile’s many historical districts provides a picture window to the past.

PARTY ON Mobile holds the distinction of being the original and unsung home to the infamous Mardi Gras parade and celebration.

Each spring the parade rolls through the historic streets of downtown with elaborate and vibrant floats, flooding the streets with beads and pelting the townspeople with moon pies.

This parade is a grandiose finish to the revelry of a two-and-ahalf-week citywide celebration called Carnival. Carnival time in Mobile is a family-friendly time, in which participants attend balls, parties and parades filled with nonstop celebration.

In Mobile, the fun doesn’t stop on Fat Tuesday; the Mobile Carnival Museum captures the essence of the Mardi Gras legacy year round, with stunning displays of parade floats, elaborate, century-old costumes and a wonderful history lesson.

CULTURE SHOCK Mobile is buzzing with creative souls everywhere you turn, displaying their amazing expressions of art. Much of Downtown Mobile and in particular, Lower Dauphin Street or LoDa, as it’s known, is a creative hub for artists to express their talents with studios, galleries and art centers showcasing everything from dramatic murals, contemporary sculptures and abstract paintings, to endless other types of artful creations. The Mobile Arts Council, located in the heart of LoDa, is an agency that partners with art organizations to bring events like the LoDa Artwalk to the public.

Outrageously popular, it brings thousands of people together to appreciate the latest in local art,

music, food and culture.

If carefully curated art is more your style, The Mobile Museum of Art showcases approximately 10,000 eclectic pieces from around the world, and hosts exhibits, classes, programs and special events for the community.

The Saenger Theatre brings performance art to life in a historical theater experience; prestige, poise, presentation, and pizazz describe this glorious concert hall that has played host to local, national and international performers. From classical and contemporary art, music and dance to luxury handmade furnishings and crafts, visiting these diverse local galleries and pop-up markets will be an unforgettable experience and leave you with an enduring appreciation for the southern charm this quaint town has to offer.

EAT, PLAY, SLEEP, REPEAT. Hit the streets of Downtown Mobile for some retail therapy— you’re sure to find a hidden treasure or two in one of the local boutiques. After a busy day of shopping, you can choose from a variety of delicious cuisine sure to satisfy your taste buds. From the award-winning seafood gumbo at Wintzell’s Oyster House to the locally sourced ingredients from the esteemed Kitchen on George, you won’t be disappointed with Mobile’s restaurant scene.

If you’re seeking adventure, whether you take a Delta Safari for an up-close view of local wildlife or take an Airboat tour across the picturesque MobileTensaw Delta, Mobile is the perfect place for those who love the outdoor life. From boating, kayaking and duck tours to

a guided tour of the famous Bellingrath Gardens, this town is the total package.

Located in the heart of downtown, the Admiral Hotel Mobile offers a lavish setting and modern conveniences for guests to return to after a leisurely day of shopping and dining. The Admiral has it all: deluxe guest room suites and two delightful dining options on-site, and it’s just walking distance from everything.

Perfect for a family weekend getaway, a romantic escape for two, or even a group of festivalgoers, Mobile attracts a variety of visitors because it provides an authentic experience you can’t find anywhere else. H

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: OLD AND NEW

BUILDINGS IN DOWNTOWN MOBILE; ONE OF THE MANY STREET ART PROJECTS ON LOWER DAPHIN STREET BELOW: THE HISTORIC

SAENGER THEATER

ESSENTIALS: mobile.org theadmiralhotelmobile.curiocollection.com mobilecarnivalmuseum.com mobilesaenger.com mobilemusuemofart.com mobilearts.org thesteeplemobile.com wintzellsoysterhouse.com kitchenongeorge.com

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Spa The Magic of

Mexico Hop on a plane to de-stress your body and mind. Don’t want to fly? Chill out in Colorado.

CABO’S CALLING GRAND VELAS CABO

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico loscabos.grandvelas.com To begin your spa adventure, you’re guided through a hydrotherapy journey. This tranquil area has an expansive pool with several small coves within it. Each area has a different type of water pressure to massage your muscles and de-stress your body. There are waterbeds that elevate you with hydro pressure, and knead your joints and muscles, as well as hot and cool tubs. After

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that peaceful experience, head into the traditional spa amenities like the sauna, steam room, another hot tub, ice room and a series of different showers. The steam room is a favorite—the ceiling is lined with delicate lights that dim and change colors to impart a feeling of serenity.

H TEXAS RECOMMENDS:

The Blue Agave Candle Massage harnesses the anti-inflammatory, ultra-hydrating and destressing powers of the indigenous blue agave plant. —Vicki Dill

ANCIENT RITUALS OHTLI SPA

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico marriott.com Marriott CasaMagna Resort, located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta and minutes from the international airport, offers guests unique spa rituals unlike any other in the resort town on the Pacific Ocean. The resort’s spa, Ohtli, integrates the healing traditions of the ancestral Huichol culture in the treatments. Guests can purify in the dry sauna and eucalyptus steam room, whirlpools, and hot and cold plunge pools as they sip on “Love Water,” a detoxifying beverage made with chlorophyll. While the spa offers traditional services like manicures, pedicures, scrubs, facials and massages, try the Fire Opal Balancing Stone Massage for stress relief and relaxation, or the Thai Massage, which is performed on a mat with pillows to work pressure points, energy lines and stretching.

MEXICO PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRAND VELAS CABO, OHTLI SPA; JW MARRIOT CANCUN; COLORADO PHOTO BY LAURETTE M. VERES

H TEXAS RECOMMENDS: For adventurous

guests looking for something new, the spa offers the Jantzu Rebirth Therapy, a treatment in a small pool of warm water with a therapist that guides a meditation and rhythmic choreographed sequence for a rebirthing experience. —Kim Padgett

HEALING FLOW JW MARRIOTT CANCUN RESORT AND SPA AND CASAMAGNA MARRIOTT CANCUN RESORT

Cancun, Mexico marriott.com Enjoy two properties for the price of one. After an adventurous day exploring Cancun, or if you just want a little bit of heaven, escape to the luxurious spa experience at the JW Marriott.

This three-story Mayan-themed spa offers 17 treatment rooms, plus a steam room, sauna and lounge all dedicated to guests’ health and relaxation. Customized facial, massage and body treatment packages are available.

H TEXAS RECOMMENDS: The Hunab Ku, a

mixture of unconventional healing movements and energy flow rituals based on traditional Mayan beliefs. —Jade Lewis

OH, BEAUTIFUL, FOR GRACIOUS SKIES GATEWAY CANYONS COLORADO RESORT AND SPA

Gateway, CO gatewaycanyons.com John Hendricks, founder of the Discovery Channel, regards Western Colorado as some of the most awe-inspiring, scenic terrain in all of creation. His vision is to share it with others. As you might expect at a Colorado resort, outdoor activities reign supreme at Gateway Canyons.

When you’re finished mountain biking, hiking, riding ATVs or horseback riding, unwind at the full-service spa. Enjoy an outdoor Jacuzzi and panoramic views of the Red Rocks from the treatment rooms.

H TEXAS RECOMMENDS: Their signature treatment, the Desert Flower

Poultice Therapy, is a twist on a hot stone massage. As you enter the room, fragrant sage, lavender and other herbs simmer in muslin sachets similar to large tea bags. A deep-tissue massage is administered using the aromatic packet. —Laurette M. Veres

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HOUSTON: THE MELTING POT Not to mention the humidity.

by Lynn Ashby

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T

AN TAN, DYNAST Y PL A Z A , FU FU, LOTS OF SIGNS IN CHINESE THAT I CAN’ T RE AD. No, this is not downtown Hong Kong or Shanghai. It’s that wild and exotic bastion of mystery, noted for its international intrigue, crossroads of the world and multi-dialects: Bellaire Boulevard. In other neighborhoods you can see signs and hear languages in Vietnamese, Spanish, Arabic and even English. Austin may host the University of Texas. Houston hosts the Diversity of Texas, and the world. We have heard so much about our city’s diversity, maybe it’s getting to be old hat—or sombrero, yarmulke, Stetson. We have almost 12,000 Indians and Eskimos. Okay, to be PC, they’re Native-Americans and Alaska Natives, plus 304 Hispanic Hawaiians and Hispanic Pacific Islanders. Eleven of our 32 skyscrapers are fully or partially owned, or financed by foreign investors.

We have more Muslims than Jews; at home 5,895 of us speak Tagalog (Filipinos).

Not to get bogged down by statistics, but Houston leads the Southwest with 19 foreign banks from nine nations. In addition, 14 foreign nations maintain trade and commercial offices here. We have 32 active foreign chambers of commerce and trade associations. Almost a quarter (24 percent) of Harris County residents were born not in a different Texas county, not in a different state, but in a different country. In this eight-county region, almost half of the foreign residents are relative newcomers, having entered the U.S. in the 1990s.

They have to live somewhere, so our new arrivals can search the Houston Assn. of Realtors’ properties database (har.com) in English, Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Italian and Vietnamese. The association’s more than 5,600 multilingual members can even tell you that if the house is dry, it’s underwater, a fixer-upper or on a fault line, and tell you that in 99 different languages. Students in the Houston school district speak 124 native languages at home, and at Bellaire High School, a language magnet school, the students can be taught any of 11 languages from Arabic to Hebrew, from Japanese to Mandarin Chinese. The main campus of UH last fall had 3,995 temporary foreign students. Of the total enrollment, 25 percent were white and 31 percent were Hispanic, and although Houston is 6 percent Asian-American, they make up 20 percent of the UH student body. Another good example of Houston’s role in the international scene is the Texas Medical Center. People come from all over the world to die in Houston. And most of them need translators to say, “Yes, I have health insurance.”

One reason for so many foreigners coming to Houston is that refugees like it here, and have for a long time. They arrive from everywhere: Syria, Nigeria, Brooklyn, Buffalo. Some 75,000 refugees have come to Houston in the past 35 years, which makes Houston the number-one city in the nation for these newcomers. Among BEST OF 2017

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Some items of interest on our

World City with Class: • In a store, a nice-looking young man wearing a Rice University gimme cap and a Rice T-shirt is perusing the aisles looking for something. Unable to find his quarry, he pulls out a cell phone and makes a call, probably to Mom. The only unusual part of this tale is that he’s speaking Russian. That makes sense as the store is called “Moscow.” We have 50,000 Russians here. There’s even a Russian language newspaper and a “Russian Cultural Center–Our Texas.” As in the state song—love it!

• Nearly three-quarters of our newcomers arrive from other U.S. states.

Houston is still the number-one destination city in the nation, according to U-Haul, which notes that our town has finished in that slot for eight consecutive years.

• Once I spoke to an association of South Asian doctors (yes, there is one), and was introduced by the president: “With all these Indians here tonight, I thought we should have at least one cowboy.” Everybody’s a comedian.

• The Houston Restaurant Association may have some new arrivals.

Membership application on its website reads: “Please summit First and Last Name.”

• The original name for the Houston soccer team was Houston 1836.

(Soccer teams have funny names, like FC Dallas, Real Salt Lake and Sporting Kansas City.) Houston’s Mexican-Americans objected mightily, noting that 1836 is the year Mexico lost to Texas. So we have the Houston Dynamo, a totally meaningless title. Wonder who really won that war?

the States, Texas leads the nation in refugee resettlement. It is home to 2,677 refugees who have been settled in the state since October 2015. Of these, a third were settled in Houston.

Indeed, Houston is the U.N. General Assembly South. During a visit here in early June, Kelly T. Clements, of the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, called Houston’s open-arms approach, “a testament to the diversity and progressive nature of Houston.”

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, Harris County received refugees from 40 different countries in the fiscal year of 2014. We don’t have any current data, since Texas ended its participation in the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program in 2016 due to Gov. Greg Abbott’s fear that the feds couldn’t adequately guarantee that none of the newcomers would pose a security threat. To our surprise, the number of terrorist suicide bombings, lethal truck drivers and nightclub shootings within the Loop has been held to a relative minimum. Gov. Abbott released his statement withdrawing from the refugee program with a financial plea: “Will you support my campaign with a contribution to help fight the attacks on me coming from Washington?” So much for the state motto: friendship. One aspect of all this internationalism that’s especially appealing is the restaurant scene. It used to be the closest we 34

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could get to foreign food was the International House of Pancakes. Now in the Houston area there are 10,286 eating and drinking establishments, with 70 national categories. Houston is not so much a melting pot as a cafeteria.

LICENSED TO PARK FREE What with the Port of Houston, NASA, the Texas Medical Center and the awl bidness, Houston hosts the nation’s third-largest consular corps— behind New York City and Los Angeles—with 94 nations represented. The diplomats deal with their worried fellow citizens, more so now that the Trump Immigration Doctrine is in play.

Some nations have full-time, career diplomats, and 43 are represented by noncareer, or honorary, diplomats. This brings us to all those consular license plates we see on cars around town. If the owner of the vehicle is a career diplomat then he or she files the proper papers with the U.S. State Dept., which authorizes the plate. Honorary consuls go through the Texas Dept. of Transportation. In either case, they pay what our diplomats pay in the country the consul represents. It’s called reciprocity.

Sporting theses license plates does not give the consuls immunity from traffic tickets, but one benefit is they can park free at the short-term airport parking lots.

Over the years foreign counsels have said that Houston is considered good duty, although the job is mostly commercial work. There had long been a rumor that the British government considered Houston to be a hardship post because the city’s temperatures were similar to those of Bombay (now Mumbai), India, and Accra, Ghana. Actually, the diplomats here did not get hardship pay, but three years in Houston counted as four toward retirement. I broached this matter some time ago with the British consul general who said, “That’s true until I called Whitehall and said, ‘My, God. Haven’t you people ever heard of air conditioning?’”

Incidentally, the British consulate here would put up a little sign in late June each year, “Due to circumstances beyond our control, we will be closed on the Fourth of July.”

Finally on this international matter, adopt a consul. You may need the protection.

When Houston was the capital of the Republic of Texas, across from where the Rice Lofts now stands was the U.S. Embassy. On Christmas Eve 1837, the town received a bulletin: 1,500 Mexican soldiers had retaken Bexar.

Invasion was imminent.

Mrs. Mary Austin Holly wrote: “We were at the house of Mr. Labranche (the U.S. minister), a good cabin—he promised us the protection of the flag if necessary.” The invaders never appeared, but you never know when you’ll need to flee to the safety of a foreign consulate, as I was telling Julian Assange.

Closer to home, it’s estimated that 250,000 Katrinians fled to Texas, mostly to the Houston area. Today, 40,000 of them are still here.

Meanwhile, immigrants from south of the border have always come—and stayed. But Texas holds a particularly warm spot for youngsters from ravaged lands. They have fled the gangs, the drug lords, extortion, the midnight shootings and kidnappings, to ford the river and arrive in Texas. I wouldn’t want to live in Chicago, either. Youngsters also poured in from Central America, and of the estimated 58,000 who came to the U.S. in recent years, 40 percent arrived in Texas.

national day, or the birthday of your spouse from Croatia or maybe a visiting Saudi sheik? Daily fee rental is $10 per flag, or you can rent all of them for $500. “Please treat the flags with respect and courtesy,” the mayor warns, otherwise you will be hunted down by the French Foreign Legion, Scotland Yard or Canadian Mounties, depending on which nation you offend. When you drive along Will Clayton Parkway to the George H.W. Bush Intercontinental Airport and Trans-Galactic Star Terminal, can you spot the speed limit signs: “50 mph,” and below that, “80 km.” A nice touch for that visiting sheik anxious to make the last Emirate flight to Dubai.

WHO WAS THAT MOSQUE MAN? An interesting sideshow of our changing population is our religions. Stephen L. Klineberg, founding director of The Kinder Institute for Urban Research, reports in his latest survey: “In all of the 35 consecutive surveys, the percentage of Protestants in the Harris County population has dropped from almost two thirds (63 percent) in 1982 to less than half (46 percent) in the most recent years.” Our Catholic percentage— bolstered by the influx of Hispanics, Filipinos and Vietnamese—has grown from 25 percent in the early 1980s to 31 percent.

In recent years, Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus have also grown. Despite these many different sounds, smells and religions, we tend to get along. Sometime after World War I Houston Post columnist Hubert Mewhinney wrote, “Houston is a whiskey and trombone town.” Today Houston is more like a full bar and a multiethnic orchestra, all playing the same song. H

Houston hosts the Diversity of Texas, and the world. We have heard so much about our city’s diversity, maybe it’s getting to be old hat— or sombrero, yarmulke, Stetson.

Sources: Kinder Houston Area Survey, U.S. Census, Houston Facts and my own ethnic restaurant hopping.

Ashby is 100 percent at ashby2@comcast.net.

COWBOYS AND INDIANS We like to call this sleepy fishing village on the bayou a “World Class City,” but maybe a “World City with Class” is better. Where else does the mayor’s office rent out flags for another country’s BEST OF 2017

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Retreat at the

Ranch A

OPPOSITE PAGE: THE

CENTRAL POOL NEAR THE MAIN LOUNGE AT SUNSET ENVELOPED BY THE HILLS.

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F TER MONTHS OF BACKTO -BACK DE ADLINES, YOU COULD SAY THAT I NEEDED A VACATION. Badly. So when I got an invitation to visit Rancho La Puerta, a resort nestled in the hills and valleys in Tecate, Mexico, it was just the ticket I was hoping for.

Little did I know just how different Rancho La Puerta was from the average Mexican getaway.

Instead of the usual crowded pools and long buffet lines, the intimate resort is dedicated to wellness, to helping guests relax and recharge through a variety of classes and workshops (that of course, includes plenty of spa time and delicious cuisine). Lovingly dubbed by guests as “the Ranch,” Rancho La Puerta attracts visitors from all across the country, and from Houston, it’s a short flight to San Diego and a quick bus ride across the border.

I would never have known that the city existed around the Ranch unless I hadn’t passed through on the drive in. The lush, green grounds house hacienda-style villas, which are newly renovated and complete with gorgeous views of the hills or one of the resort’s four pools. Immediately, I was truly able to unplug from the rest of the world, especially since the resort only offers Wi-Fi and television in a few select lounges and the lobby.

On that first day, I received a folder that detailed the week’s activities and events; I had chosen to visit during a special Pilates Week. Every single day, there were activities from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; there were so many options that often I wished I had a time machine so I could try them all. Since science hasn’t made my Back to the Future dreams a reality yet, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that I was also supposed to take this time to slow down.

Here’s how I reinvigorated my mind, body and spirit in just one week.

Rancho la Puerta, a luxury wellness resort in the Baja region of Mexico, revives and reboots the mind, body and spirit, making for an unforgettable getaway with memories that will last a lifetime.

by Nicholas Nguyen

MIND

It’s always hard for me to shut my mind off, but at the Ranch I only had myself to focus on—and no smartphone in sight— so it felt a little easier to let go. Being an artist by nature, I loved the creative outlets at the ranch, which complemented all of the physical activity.

MEDITATION AND HEALING At Rancho La

Puerta, there’s no shortage of activities for decompressing and clearing your head. Guided meditation and yoga are obvious choices, but for a unique and tranquil experience, try Sound Healing.

A guide plays sounds from large, resonant crystal bowls to help you completely relax and lull you into a stress-free state. At least half of the class participants dozed off midway through the session (which is fine as long as you have a friend who will poke you if you start snoring), but everyone came out of it feeling rejuvenated.

ARTISTIC ENDEAVORS The ranch invites artists and writers to help guests flex their creative muscles. Take a watercolor, sketch, jewelrymaking or sculpture class to create your own custom souvenir, which is a nice break from physical activities midday or a good way to unwind after dinner. While I visited, memoirist Larry Grobel (known for his books Conversations with Capote, Al Pacino and The Art of the Interview), led writing workshops that helped attendees dig deep and jot down short, but poignant pieces about their lives.

LIFESTYLE LECTURES During my stay, a few

other special guests gave talks on a variety of health-related subjects. Dr. Rubin Naiman, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University

The lush, green grounds house hacienda-style villas, which are newly renovated and complete with gorgeous views of the hills or one of the resort’s four pools.

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EARLY MORNING RELAXING IN YOUR ROOM BEFORE TAKING OFF FOR SOME EXERCISE; THE RANCH’S LABRYNTH CAN BE MOVING MEDITATION; DINNER TIME IS A JOYOUS OCCASION EVERY NIGHT; ON THE TRAIL FOR THE BREAKFAST HIKE, WHICH LEADS TO THE RANCH’S ORGANIC FARM AND BREAKFAST TO BOOT

of Arizona, lectured on how to overcome sleep problems and opened our minds on the science and psychology of dreams. Professor Emerita Beverly Whipple spoke about sexual health and intimacy in a really relatable way.

BODY

In 2016, I started a fitness journey that included learning Pilates to stay healthy and prevent any issues that may come up as I age. Choosing to visit during Rancho La Puerta’s Pilates Week—offered several times throughout the year—was a no-brainer. In addition to the numerous Pilates classes offered, there were so many other workout options—some of which I’d never even heard before! To fuel my active schedule, I ate delicious food, and didn’t skip breakfast once (like I’m guilty of doing at home).

SWEAT SESSIONS There are too many cardiocentered classes to name, but if you want to get your heart rate pumping, Zumba, Cycling or Cardio Drum Dance—where you work your entire body while banging on giant barrels to energizing music—are some great options. After all of that action, cool off in the pools for a few laps, or take it further with a challenging water aerobics class. Even though I had trouble staying afloat and splashed around quite a bit, it was fun because I had taken it with a new friend, Ann Eshabarr, a dance teacher from San Francisco. She summed the exercise program up at the Ranch quite nicely: “The Ranch is like a well-oiled machine. They have made it very easy to navigate the classes even though the property is huge. I learned to take off in the morning with clothing for hiking,

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swimming, dance and Pilates so I was prepared for everything. I would be walking around and see a class I liked and drop right in!”

MIND/BODY BLISS Jennifer Lee Ho, a teacher

trained in many different movement modalities from the Bay Area, led Pilates Week. I took two mat classes from her every morning—she, like many of the instructors at the Ranch, exuded a motivating, warm energy—and learned a lot about pelvic stability. (The Pilates studio at the Ranch also offers classes on the Pilates Reformer and other equipment.) A lot of my fellow Ranch-goers attended classes dedicated to stretching and tried Feldenkrais, which, similar to Pilates reinforces the mind-body connection.

ON THE MENU The Ranch’s all-inclusive

program provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, all made with fresh, local ingredients; they even offer cooking classes. Like me, Jennifer has a love for food: “Though fitness is a priority in my life, eating properly (most of the time) is my other joy,” she told me. “It was fantastic to sit down for three organic and tasty meals a day with other interesting guests from all over the world.” Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, while dinner has service. At dinner, Ranch veterans let us in on a secret—you can sample both of the entrée options instead of choosing just one.

I’m still dreaming about the fresh fish tacos we had for lunch one day and an amazing eggplant parmesan that was served for dinner.

SPA SERVICES There are separate spas for both women and men, along with two other treatment centers, so there’s no excuse not to treat yourself after a couple days of working out. The spa offers

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RANCHO LA PUERTA

LEFT TO RIGHT: SPEND THE

a wide range of massages and facials; I tried the classic Ranch massage with some aromatherapy one late afternoon, a perfect prelude to dinner.

The women’s and men’s centers also have lockers for reservation so you can stash your belongings instead of lugging things around or having to return to your room.

SPIRIT

I think the reason the Ranch has been thriving for so long is because of its lingering effect on you, even long after you’ve left. I met so many people who make it a tradition to visit every few years, and even make it a spot for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries and reunions.

Mothers who visited the Ranch decades ago return with their daughters to relive the magic all over again. Here’s why.

THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY I think all the classes, from creative to fitness, help people open up. There isn’t a feeling like you’re being judged or a reason to feel self-conscious, like the way you might feel at a large gym, for example. Everyone is there to learn and share. Ann agrees: “I loved the sense of community with my fellow Ranchers. This took place mostly at mealtime, and I found it very interesting and humorous how most guests would tell you how many years they've been coming. It was a source of pride. Just for the record, five was a low number. Since I was a rookie, everybody was happy to help me acclimate.”

BONDS THAT LAST I traveled alone, but it was easy to make fast friends like I did with Ann and Jennifer. Many visitors travel with a friend or spouse, but I also met some larger groups, like 13

women who came together to celebrate a friend’s 50th. What was most surprising to me at first was meeting people who first met at the Ranch and now make it their tradition to come back together.

Now that I’ve experienced what Rancho la Puerta offers, I understand it better—it’s an experience unlike any other that can tie you to strangers, and together, you forge something new. I will never forget all the laughter with Ann and trying so many new classes with her, nor will I forget the wisdom Jennifer generously imparted. See you soon at the Ranch, Ann and Jennifer! H

Plan Your Stay GETTING THERE There are several ways to get to the Ranch, but you can fly into the San Diego International Airport (don’t forget your passport!) and catch a Rancho La Puerta bus to cross the border, which takes about an hour.

ACCOMODATIONS The lush, green space features hacienda-style casitas, complete with gorgeous views of the hills or one of the four pools that dot the Ranch. I relaxed most afternoons on the patio outside my Ranchera Solo room, soaking up the sun and the hills.

Inside the recently renovated room, there’s a spacious seating area, wet bar and desk; you can lounge in a robe and take a break from activities on a daybed. Rooms and villas for larger groups are also available.

HOW IT WORKS The Ranch offers weeklong programs, from Saturday to the following Saturday, though you can opt for a halfweek stay. Booking includes meals at the Ranch and nearly all of the activities on the schedule. Private Pilates classes or cooking classes, for example, incur an extra charge. For rates and more information on how to plan your stay, visit rancholapuerta.com.

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Congratulations, Houston! We took centerstage during Super Bowl week. Like the Astros, we stepped up to the plate—and hit the ball out of the park. Selecting these winners was just a little easier this year, perhaps because we all brought our A game. Let’s keep the momentum going. (And oh, yeah, Lady Gaga rocks!)

by Laurette Veres, Shelby Reininger, Marian Jacobs, Candace Miller and Stephanie DiCiro 40

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Eat & Drink BEST STEAKHOUSE: Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille Check out the Texas steakhouse champion!

Perry’s award-winning menu and satisfying service makes it perfect for both business meetings and private events. With Perry’s, you’ll never worry where to take her for a romantic dinner. Make the night special with a selection of world-class wines or one of their flaming desserts. perryssteakhouse.com

BEST TEX-MEX: The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation Craving real Tex-Mex? You can’t get more authentic than The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation. Dig into sizzling favorites like Mama Ninfa’s Original Tacos Al Carbon, Queso Flameado or Navigation’s Famous Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Diablo. In 1973 when Mama Ninfa first created her famous fajitas from this very location, Ninfa’s own Alex Padilla was there, and in 2006 he returned to continue the tradition of serving up what’s known as “The best Mexican food in Texas.” Make no mistake, “There is only one original Ninfa’s on Navigation, and this is it!” ninfas.com

BEST JUICE BAR: Nourish Juice and Smoothie Bar You can always find your favorite veg on Nourish’s kaleidoscopic list of targeted juices. Each juice combination features vitamins and nutrients that provide different health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, to drop some pounds or just to drink some groovy juice, check out Nourish today. ilovenourishjuicebar.com

STEAK PHOTO COURTESY OF PERRY’S; CUPCAKE PHOTO BY TK TK TK

BEST WAY TO BUY A CUPCAKE: Sprinkles Cupcake ATM What could be more satisfying than being able to purchase a cupcake all hours of the day? At Sprinkles Cupcake ATM, with just a touch of the screen and swipe of your card, you can do just that. If you just can’t get enough, come back during business hours, when, in addition to a variety of unique cupcake flavors, Sprinkles Highland Village location offers cookies, ice cream and other frozen treats. Located on Westheimer, just a mile east of the Galleria, this cupcake stop can easily gratify your sweet tooth 24/7. sprinkles.com

BEST SALAD: Bubba Lump Salad at BB’s Café Looking for a place to spend a summer Saturday night with old friends, good food and plenty of beer? The answer is BB’s Café! There are tons of authentic Cajun favorites on the menu, but if you want to lighten things up, go with the Bubba Lump. This signature salad combines boiled shrimp, lump crab meat, fresh tomato and avocado with refreshing lemon wedges and parmesan-garlic dressing. It’s perfect alone or alongside a cup of gumbo! bbscafe.com

BEST SUSHI: Uchi Houston James Beard Award–winning Chef Tyson Cole brings his signature brand of Japanese and modern French fusion to Houston with Uchi, a contemporary Japanese restaurant and sushi bar located at the corner of Westheimer and Montrose. The menu will refresh your idea of sushi as it combines traditional Japanese offerings with new textures and flavors and tapas-sized servings, making Uchi a one-of-a-kind experience not to be missed. uchihouston.com

BEST DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT: Empire Café The Empire Café’s warm service, fabulous food and ample indoor and outdoor seating have made it a popular spot for years. With two pet-friendly patios, the Empire often attracts people walking their dogs. In fact, you’re likely to find several pooches there at any time, so feel free to bring your “best friend” to brunch. It’s also a great spot to sip your morning coffee, have a light lunch or dinner, or even a great glass of wine. empirecafe.com BEST OF 2017

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BEST BRUNCH: Tiny Boxwoods This elegant hidden brunch spot is the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a beautiful meal with friends or family, or to host an unforgettable event. Nestled in the lush surroundings of a nursery, this modern space has a rustic-chic feel and a menu focused on food made from scratch. Their mission is to offer good food from good places and elegant service in an inviting atmosphere. Don’t miss their most popular item, their legendary chocolate chip cookies, hot from the oven every 20 minutes. You won’t be disappointed. tinyboxwoods.com

Biggio’s is located in the fabulous new Marriott Marquis in Downtown Houston. Named after Houston Astros legend Craig Biggio, this new bi-level venue offers an exciting atmosphere, a menu full of Texas favorites and nonstop sports entertainment.

Watch live games on two 30-foot HD screens while you browse their bar food Hall of Fame menu, which includes everything from pretzels, hot dogs and nachos to salmon nicoise and filet mignon. Biggio’s also serves up a wide selection of draft beers and unique signature cocktails. Win or lose, catching a game here will be an unforgettable night. biggioshouston.com

BEST TACOS: Torchy’s Tacos Originating in Austin in 2006, one man’s street-food taco dream became a reality with a trendy food trailer and some “damn good” tacos. Using locally and responsibly sourced ingredients, Torchy’s now has 30 locations and a trailer park dedicated to creating edgy tacos that will keep you coming back for more, from a.m. to p.m. Be sure to wash them down with a Main Root soda and finish with some Lil’ Nookies, aka their devilish, deep-fried chocolate chip cookies. Their Taco of the Month just might turn you into a “Taco Junkie!” torchystacos.com

BEST CASUAL LUNCH: The Black Walnut Cafe

BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT: Le Colonial

The Black Walnut Café is the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with friends, a business chat, a drink and an appetizer, or a special occasion. With zero wait time, you can even make it a habit to stop in for freshly prepared comfort food. With menu items like The Litigator Salad, Anderson’s ‘Bout Time Chicken Sandwich, Lobster Tacos and Pot Roast Grilled Cheese, you’re bound to find something that caters to your every craving. blackwalnutcafe.com

Vietnamese has never been so French!

Reminiscent of 1920s French Colonial Southeast Asia, this famed Vietnamese dining spot is located in the prestigious River Oaks District off Westheimer.

Serving classic and upscale Vietnamese comfort food and unique French-Asian cuisine, Le Colonial features classic, upscale tropical Asian décor. Here in Houston, Le Colonial is the only place to have a Vietnamese royal dining experience among the thousands of Viet-Pho noodle cafes. lecolonialhouston.com

BEST MACARONS: Bite Macarons

BEST BREAKFAST: The Breakfast Klub

Bonjour from Houston’s top French dessert spot! When you enter the Bite Macarons bakery, it feels like you’ve been transported to Tokyo… wait, why Tokyo? Isn’t this a French patisserie? Yes, but once you take in the immaculately clean, white interior, soft ambient lighting and bright contrasting colors of the exquisite macarons, Bite brings you to a French café on Tokyo’s petite street.

Nevertheless, you’ll find the best macarons in the city! teambite.com

Recognized as one of the “best breakfast restaurants in the nation,” The Breakfast Klub is a casual, familystyle dining destination in Houston and a well-known hot spot for countrysoul food. Houstonians and visitors alike have been lining up for 15 years to savor southern specialties like their fluffy, buttery Biskits and Gravy and signature Wings and Waffles. Open for breakfast and lunch, they even have a heart-healthy menu, but we suggest saving the diet for another day. thebreakfastklub.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TINY BOXWOODS; BIGGIO’S; THE BREAKFAST KLUB, BEAULIEU VINEYARD; CREAMISTRY; COUSINS MAINE LOBSTER TRUCK; MO´ËT AND CHANDO

BEST NEW SPORTS BAR: Biggio’s Sports Bar

BEST WINE PRESENTATION: Beaulieu Vineyard BEST NEW HOTEL BAR: Bayou and Bottle, Four Seasons Hotel, Houston This highly anticipated lobby bar opened to rave reviews just in time for the Super Bowl. With Four Seasons flair, the Bayou and Bottle is focused on introducing patrons to new bourbons and whiskeys with features like their Bourbon Steward and personalized bourbon lockers.

Other features include a grab-andgo counter, the Angel’s Share private dining room and the first-ever Topgolf simulation experience. Best of all, the food is top-notch; choose from candied bacon, pimiento cheese crudités, sashimi, bone marrow and more. fourseasons.com/houston

BEST BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE: Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse You’re sure to leave content after a meal at Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse in the Galleria. Carnivores can’t get enough of the unlimited flame-roasted meats served tableside. The recent launch of the à la carte menu offers lighter fare with the same succulent flavor. On a recent visit, we couldn’t resist the shrimp ceviche and jumbo bacon-wrapped asparagus. The new menu, which allows guests to select their favorite USDA Prime cut of meat, along with two sides and a choice of homemade soup or salad, also features appetizers like a gourmet cheese platter.

As soon as the summer heat subsides, be sure to check out the new covered patio—it’s perfect for al fresco dining. chamagaucha.com

BEST TEQUILA: Código 1530 Privately available only in Mexico for many years, Código 1530 Tequila launched in Texas in 2016 with the help of country music legend George Strait as one of its investors.

Strait had enjoyed this authentic Mexican tequila many times on his frequent visits to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, so he jumped at the chance to share it. Its moniker honors “Los Códigos,” the time-honored codes and Mexican family traditions used for generations to create this oneof-a-kind sipping tequila. codigo1530.com

Beaulieu Vineyards recently released Rarity 2013, a limited-edition high-quality vintage that’s been produced only four times in the winery’s 117-year history. Only 1,500 1.5-liter magnums were produced at $1,000 per bottle. Rarity 2013 is a blend of cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot from the finest vineyard blocks on Beaulieu’s famed Rutherford ranches. The Rarity Collection remains a tribute to the cabernet produced by winemaking legend Andre Tchelistcheff. Winemaker Jeffrey Stambor, who joined the Beaulieu winemaking team in 1989, has presided over the most recent vintage of Rarity to ensure it maintains its legendary quality. bvwines.com

BEST ICE CREAM: Creamistry This unique ice cream shop uses only high-quality, all-natural, organic ingredients and a liquid nitrogen process to prepare fresh ice cream instantly. With more than 70 flavors and toppings, this rich and creamy frozen dessert can be both healthy and indulgent. Customizing your own ice cream has never been more fun! creamistry.com

BEST FOOD TRUCK: Cousins Maine Lobster Truck As the “#1 food truck in the nation,” Cousins Maine Lobster offers up authentic Maine seafood throughout the U.S., and since 2015, in Houston. What started out in 2012 as two cousins selling lobster rolls from a truck in L.A. has led to a nationwide brand with 20 food trucks, a brand-new restaurant and feature appearances on several TV shows, including Shark Tank. cousinsmainelobster.com

BEST CELEBRATORY DRINK: Moët and Chandon Elise Losfelt, winemaker and oenologist at Moët and Chandon, visited Houston recently to discuss the magical process of creating the world’s most famous champagne. Her visit was timed to the summer release of the brand’s new Grand Vintage Brut 2006. This is one of the Champagne region’s most prestigious and valuable collections of vintage wines dating back to 1842. The Grand Vintage Collection, among the finest of the Maison’s fine wines, celebrates winemaking excellence and savoir-faire. Surprisingly, we drank out of wine glasses, not champagne flutes; better for technical tastings. moet.com

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Getaways BEST BED AND BREAKFAST: La Maison

BEST ADVENTURE GOLF HOLE: Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown, New Zealand Just above Lake Wakatipu in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, golf goes to the extreme! Fly in with Over the Top Helicopters, and then tee off from 4,500 feet at the world’s most picturesque golf course, and enjoy a wine-andcheese basket to celebrate! matakaurilodge.com BEST WEEKEND GETAWAY: South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center The resort at South Shore Harbour may be just a quick 30-minute drive south of Houston, but it seems like worlds away.

Relax and float for hours in the marinaside pool, and sip drinks from the swimup bar as stately yachts glide by. Or dine and shop at Kemah Boardwalk. This weekend getaway is so close you can wait until Monday to return home. sshr.com 44

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BEST TROPICAL BACHELORETTE PARTY LOCATION: Aruba Planning a bachelorette trip to the island of Aruba is an exciting way to kick off the wedding festivities. Find all sorts of fun activities like snorkeling, kitesurfing and parasailing, and new twists on some others, like beach tennis and stand-up paddleboard yoga classes. When the sun sets, there are just as many nighttime events and entertainment to be found. Start the evening with a toast to the bride-tobe at super-swanky newcomer, +297 Restaurant (named for the island’s area code). You’ll feel like a Miami celebrity as you enjoy exciting flavor fusions from Europe, Asia and the Caribbean.

Enjoy a bar-hopping bus tour, or hit a casino or one of the live shows to make it a truly memorable night. aruba.com 297restaurant.com

BEST POOL: Marriott Marquis Houston Located on the rooftop of the new Marriott Marquis, the Parkview Terrace brings all the amenities of a resort experience to a downtown hotel. Kick back and relax as you float in the oneof-a-kind Texas-shaped lazy river, or enjoy the view from the rooftop infinity pool and whirlpool. Spend a peaceful day in the sun enjoying a cocktail with the warm breeze at the High Dive Bar and Grill. At the Marriott Marquis, your next getaway could be just an elevator ride away! marriott.com

BEST BEACH CLUB: Pointe West Beach Club Since 2006, Pointe West Resort has become one of Galveston Island’s favorite vacation retreats. Pointe West is a 1,000-acre master-planned complex of condos, cottages and homes, located on the last three and a half miles of the island’s west end. The Pointe West Beach Club offers resort guests exclusive access to an infinity pool, a large hot tub and a kiddie pool for families. Rent a cabana or grill out while you unwind.

Guests can also enjoy the fitness center, a game room and more than a mile of private beach. pointewestbeachclub.com

LA MAISON PHOTO BY CHRISITAN GIANELLI; POOL PHOTO BY SHELBY REININGER; MARINA PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR RESORT

La Maison in Midtown is an urban bed and breakfast with seven elegant guestrooms featuring the luxury amenities you’d find in a five-star hotel.

Each uniquely designed, well-appointed room sleeps two guests in a king or queen, but two rooms have an adjacent living room option and one is equipped with a unique king-to-twin sleeping arrangement, making La Maison a very versatile alternative to the average hotel.

This European-inspired B&B could be your perfect weekend getaway in the heart of the city. lamaisonmidtown.com

Family BEST CHILDREN’S STORY TIME: Discovery Green Located in Downtown Houston, the 12-acre park is designed as an engaging, family-friendly spot for all ages and pets.

Explore and enjoy Kinder Lake, the John P. McGovern playground, refreshing water features, public art displays, dining options and more! The open lawns and amphitheater stage make for a great community space to host both private and public events. Make sure to check out the online calendar for scheduled programs all year round, including Toddler Tuesday, with interactive storytimes and activities for kids. discoverygreen.com; bigkidsmallcity.com

BEST WAY TO OCCUPY KIDS ON A ROAD TRIP: Wipenote Reusable Whiteboard Notebooks

STORYTIME PHOTO BY KATYA HORNER; MUSEUM PHOTO COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF HOUSTON

On your next road trip, develop your child’s imagination and avoid hearing “Are we there yet?” every few minutes by giving your kiddo something he or she will enjoy. Get your child curious about new destinations while nurturing a love for art with an accessory that’s great for long trips. Kids can write, draw and erase as many times as they want on this fun, reusable notebook. wipenote.com

BEST MOMMY AND ME CLASS: Conmigo Spanish Program

BEST WATERSLIDE WONDERLAND: Typhoon Texas

Conmigo is a Mommy-and-me-style Spanish language class for children and their parents or caregivers. Literally translated to “with me,” Conmigo is a fun introduction to Spanish for ages 15 months to three years, made interactive by the use of puppets, song, movement and games. Enrollment is limited to eight per class, but siblings under 15 months attend at no charge; classes are 45 minutes. conmigospanish.net

Located in Katy, TX, the Typhoon Texas waterpark is a great place to bring family, friends, campers or students.

Don’t miss out on featured attractions like The Gully Washer or Howdy Hollow for the little ones. If you’re up for a thrill ride, try the Monster Storm Typhoon, or just relax and float on the Lazy T River.

There’s also live entertainment and a variety of eateries, including the famous Smokehouse BBQ. typhoontexas.com

BEST STADIUM FOR KIDS: Constellation Field

BEST FUN DAY FOR KIDS: Children’s Museum of Houston Located in the Museum District, the Children’s Museum features new activities and exhibits every day to facilitate learning with a big dose of fun! Standouts include Kidtropolis, an interactive, kid-powered, mini city designed to teach children life skills, and Invention Convention, a hands-on technology workshop where kids are encouraged to design and build their own inventions. With 12 other interactive exhibits, kids can discover a whole new world with every visit. cmhouston.org

Constellation Field is home to the Sugar Land Skeeters Baseball team.

With five different venue options, The stadium can host any affair from sporting events and concerts to weddings, corporate events and much more. For the kids, the Memorial Hermann Play Land is a playground complete with a jungle gym, carousel and splash pad. The Astros Buddies Kids Club, baseball camp and summer reading programs are great ways for your kids to stay active all year round. sugarlandskeeters.com

BEST NATURAL BATH PRODUCTS FOR KIDS: Hip Peas Hip Peas is a new line of natural hair and skincare products for babies’ sensitive skin. Great care has been taken to create products that are not only effective, but safe. Icing on the cake: 10 percent of all profits go to children-focused charities. hip-peas.com BEST OF 2017

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Culture & More BEST RANCH: George Ranch Historical Park Visit an authentic Texas cattle ranch from the 1830s just 30 miles southwest of Houston in Richmond, TX. Having passed through four generations, this 20,000acre ranch has become a living history site, showcasing the rich heritage of American pioneers. Travel back in time to explore the original “Home Place” of the George family, the 1830s Jones Stock Farm, 1860s Ryon Prairie Home and the historic 1890s Davis Victorian Mansion. The George Ranch books school, youth group and adult tours, and is even available for private events like reunions, anniversaries and weddings. georgeranch.org

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Houston’s premier performing arts facility, is located in Downtown Houston’s Theater District. With convenient access by the Metro Rail, catch Broadway Across America shows such as Cats, Wicked or Hamilton (coming in 2018!), or experience one of the Broadway-quality musical theater performances by Houston’s own Theater Under the Stars. The Hobby Center’s stunning grand lobby and two brilliantly designed theaters offer the ultimate theatrical viewing experience. Inside The Hobby Center you’ll also find another award-winning Andrew Cordua restaurant, Artista, offering first-class dining before or after performances. thehobbycenter.org

BEST NEW ARTS INSTITUTION: The Moody Center for the Arts Located on the 300-acre historic campus of Rice University, this contemporary arts center brings together arts, humanities and science innovations. The art gallery, studio, theater, classrooms and library offer visitors, students and international artists an experimental space for learning and creativity, while presenting art from all disciplines. moody.rice.edu

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BEST ARRAY OF LOCAL ARTISANAL GIFTS: Space Montrose Located in the heart of Montrose, this unique gift shop is home to thousands of handcrafted pieces of jewelry, art, accessories and home goods made by artists and artisans in the U.S. Several collections are only available here, so you are sure to find a one-of-a-kind gift for any occasion. spacemontrose.com

BEST FUTURISTIC OFFICE: DesignHive by Brookfield DesignHive is a collaboration between four leading architectural firms to design four distinctively styled, cuttingedge, adaptive office suites. Now leasing in downtown at 1600 Smith, each suite is a new interpretation of the “next generation” work environment with an eye toward the future. This new vision of uncommon workspaces is sure to make DesignHive the brand to watch in the workplace solutions market. designhivebybrookfield.com

RANCH PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FORT BEND HISTORY ASSOCIATION; HOBBY PHOTO BY MARION JACOB

BEST THEATER: The Hobby Center

BEST EVENT TURNOUT: 2017 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

RODEO AND WINE FESTIVAL PHOTOS BY LAURETTE M. VERES; BRAZOS PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAZOS BOOKSTORE; KITCHEN PHOTO COURTESY OF MAIN COURSE COOKING SCHOOL

With a record 2.6 million in attendance this year, our own Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has the world’s largest rodeo attendance to date. Each year the show is kicked off with a historic trail ride, a downtown parade and the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, followed by 21 days and nights of rodeo and concert performances. People flock to NRG Park and the Rodeo Houston fairgrounds year after year to root for their favorite cowhands, see superstar performers, go on their favorite rides, eat carnival foods, attend the livestock shows and shop until they drop. The proceeds from Rodeo Houston are devoted to educational funding to encourage and promote better livestock and agricultural practices, which also create more than 7,000 jobs locally. rodeohouston.com

BEST CHURCH: Lakewood Church As the largest church in the U.S., averaging about 52,000 attendees per week, Lakewood Church is committed to providing Houstonians with infinite opportunities to worship, learn and participate in the church’s inspirational work. Joel Osteen carries on his father’s work, serving as senior pastor, alongside his wife Victoria Osteen. With great worship and fellowship opportunities and consistent, positive messages, the Osteens and Lakewood Church provide more than seven services a week, including a Young Adult Worship Service and two in Spanish. lakewoodchurch.com

BEST MUSEUM: Houston Museum of Natural Science Dinosaurs, butterflies, planets and more! Learn about life sciences and more at the Houston Museum of Natural Science located in the Museum District. Take your family to the Burke Baker Planetarium, the Cockrell Butterfly Center or any of the 16 permanent and featured exhibitions for even more educational fun. Don’t forget to get a ticket to the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre to see amazing wildlife and stories come to life in 3D. hmns.org

BEST WINE FESTIVAL: Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair We were transported to Italy on the opening night of the annual Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair. Bold and vigorous Italian wines were served alongside exhilarating international imports. Tasting and pairing were delicious and entertaining with master sommeliers Craig Collins and Drew Hendricks. The outdoor kitchen was no hindrance for Chef Andrew Curren as we dined al fresco in the Piazza (aka Sugar Land Town Square). sugarlandfoodandwineaffair.com

BEST COOKING CLASS: Main Course Cooking School

BEST BOOKSTORE: Brazos Bookstore Just minutes away from Rice Village, this classic bookstore has long been a hub for Houston’s most engaged readers and creative writers. From children’s books to classic literature, Brazos will not only have the right book for you, but with frequent book signings, film screenings, the Writer’s Ball and other literary events, Brazos can connect you to a whole new world of knowledge, inspiration and imagination. brazosbookstore.com

Lost in the kitchen? Or maybe you just need to refine your cooking skills? The cooking classes at Main Course Cooking School, located inside the Main Street America show home park just north of Houston in Spring, has something for everyone.

Accommodating up to 24 students per class, the school offers a variety of sessions that cover everything from basic cooking skills to date-night events to explorations in international cuisine. mccooking.com

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Beauty & Fashion Nestled in the heart of downtown Richmond, TX, the Backwater is a charming boutique partially housed in a historic red caboose.

The Backwater Boutique offers chic designer collections, versatile jewelry and accessories. Unlike some shops, the Backwater carries junior’s, women’s, and plus-size clothing so anyone can create a one-of-a-kind outfit for a fabulous night out. The welcoming staff greets you by name and offers a personalized shopping experience. Don’t miss their exciting Facebook Live sales and weekly events that are sure to make each experience something memorable. Like their Facebook Page at Backwater Boutique to receive exclusive updates. facebook.com/Backwater-Boutique

BEST EYE CREAM: Parry Botanicals Restorative Cream At Parry Botanicals, the mission is to “offer products that make you feel good inside and out.” One of their top-rated products is the Restorative Cream, two ounces of highly emollient, long-lasting ointment that works on even the driest skin. Made from only natural botanicals, it’s great for all the rough spots but gentle enough for the entire body. Use as a heavy-duty restorative treatment for eczema, to minimize stretch marks, as a baby diaper ointment, or even as an ultra-moisturizing eye cream. parrybotanicals.com

BEST MAKEUP: Thalio Beckham Makeup Artistry Looking for that flawless look? Thalio and his talented team of makeup artists and stylists, aka The Glam Squad, are experts at creating a stunning look for any special occasion.

Using only the highest-grade products and suppliers, they offer airbrush makeup and traditional makeup, sunless tanning and hairstyling. thaliobeckham.com

BEST NAIL SALON: Akyish Japanese Retreat and Spa BEST FACIAL: The Houstonian Hotel Trellis Spa Ready for a luxurious escape? Indulge in a visit to the Trellis Spa at The Houstonian Hotel. Relax in Mediterraneaninspired surroundings and take in the 80-minute Diamond Life Infusion facial, using a Youth Elixir that provides unrivaled skin-reviving effects. This intensive treatment brings out brighter, firmer, noticeably younger-looking skin. The result is an overall rejuvenation, restoring facial contouring, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles instantly. houstonian.com/thespa 48

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Akyish is Houston’s premiere Japanese nailart destination—and the best choice for unique trends for your tips and toes. Marbled nails, glass nails, mermaid nails, 3D custom crystals, chrome nails, you name it! Akyish accepts walk-ins, but it’s better to book ahead of time. akyish.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BACKWATER BOUTIQUE; THE HOUSTONIAN HOTEL; THALIO BECKHAM MAKEUP ARTISTRY; AKYISH JAPANESE RETREAT AND SPA

BEST BOUTIQUE: Backwater Boutique

POD PHOTO COURTESY OF MIZU INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE CLINIC AND FLOAT CENTER; TRIATHLON PHOTO COURTESY OF IRON MAN; PARK PHOTO BY JONNU SINGLETON, COURTESY OF BUFFALO BAYOU PARTNERSHIP

BEST VINTAGE BOUTIQUE: Cheeky Vintage Touted as “modern couture with a past,” Cheeky Vintage is loaded with classic fashion from high-caliber brands from a time when designer clothes stayed in style for decades.

This store can turn the modern shopaholic into a vintage junkie overnight! Located off Richmond at the Shepherd intersection, you can find just the right ensemble or statement piece that will make you stand out in a crowd. cheeky-vintage.myshopify.com

BEST SPRAY TAN: A Tropical Haven For that bronze goddess glow without the sun, A Tropical Haven in historic Downtown Rosenberg is the ultimate tanning and skin-care salon, offering everything you need to get that glow in no time. With a friendly staff, topof-the-line tanning beds, California Tan spray tanning and only the best products, this salon will make you look simply luminous. atropicalhaven.com

Health & Fitness BEST THERAPY: MIZU Integrative Medicine Clinic and Float Center MIZU Integrative Medicine Clinic and Float Center is the first luxury clinic in Houston to offer Floatation Therapy via three state-of-the-art floatation pods. Floatation Therapy leads to deep relaxation, and can help relieve joint and muscle pain. (It’s a favorite of JJ Watt.) Each pod, resembling a sleek, futuristic spaceship, is filled with a solution of magnesium sulfate salt and water, allowing the body to naturally float and the musculoskeletal system to decompress and stop fighting gravity. www.mizumed.com

BEST TRIATHLON: IronMan Texas North American Championship The IronMan Texas North American Championship is held annually just north of Houston in The Woodlands.

Consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, 112mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run, it’s regarded as one of the most rigorous triathlons in the world. The race starts in The Woodlands, continues through the countryside of East Texas, and returns to The Woodlands Waterway finish line. The IronMan is designed to test the limits of human capabilities and the determination to accomplish the unimaginable. ironman.com

BEST LASER HAIR REMOVAL: LaserAway If you dream of being free from unwanted body hair but you’re scared of traditional painful treatments, fear not. LaserAway recently opened in the Houston area, bringing painless laser hair removal with them. LaserAway uses a unique process in which the laser equipment blows cold air onto the skin to minimize pain. Any time is the perfect time to get your skin smooth and beach-ready. laseraway.com

BEST MEN’S CLOTHES COMPANY: Balani Custom Clothiers Balani was established in 1961 by Master Tailor Peter Balani with a mission to unwind the uptight image of custom clothing. Initially inspired by Cary Grant and Gregory Peck’s custom wardrobes, Balani epitomizes the highest level of customer experience and quality by collaborating with clients to forge a fully customized experience. balanicustom.com

BEST TRAILS: The Sandy Reed Memorial Trail (Buffalo Bayou Trail) With 20 miles of trails from Shepherd Drive to the Turning Basin, Houstonians and visitors can run, walk and bike along the Buffalo Bayou. The new asphalt footpath is designed to accommodate both walkers and joggers for a safer journey along the waterway. Be sure to download the Buffalo Bayou Guide, and take some time to explore the beauty and history of the bayou along the way. buffalobayou.org BEST OF 2017

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BEST NEW PARK: Levy Park This once-forgotten, recently renovated, premium park land has become a space that the people of Houston are embracing. Located in the Upper Kirby District, the park now offers a family-friendly splash pad, a putting green, an event pavilion and a dog-friendly park. levyparkhouston.org

Editor’s Choice

BEST MEDITATION SPOT: Body and Brain Relax—this is not a gym! Body and Brain teaches holistic health and wellness with a five-step approach to activate the brain and create a deep mind-body connection. Whether you’re just searching for somewhere to relax after work that’s not a bar, or for inner healing and strength, you can find it at here. bodynbrain.com

BEST SPIN CLASS: Ryde Ryde is an exceptional, high-intensity and results-driven indoor-cycling experience in a cool glow-in-the-dark studio.

You can “ryde” to the beat of the music while working your heart and toning your core, legs, arms and back. You even receive an email with your performance metrics after each class. What’s even more exciting, Ryde has donated more than $50,000 to a variety of incredible causes. #rydeon letsryde.com

Once you see it, you will know. The Waterwall in the Uptown/ Galleria District is the perfect backdrop for your engagement photos. Surrounded by 186 live oak trees, this 64-foot tall, u-shaped fountain cascades water over its towering, sculptural walls day and night. The Waterwall has been a Houston landmark for 25 years, drawing visitors, couples, ceremonies, weddings and photographers to its stunning urban beauty. uptown-houston.com

BEST NEW COOKBOOK: Houston Soups and Sips

BEST BARRE CLASS: Trilogy Barre at Equinox This unique barre class employs an innovative triple-barre anchoring system and resistance bands that elevate the typical ballet-inspired muscle-training techniques to a new level. Use fine-tuned resistance bands to sculpt and shape muscle tone by switching anchor points from barre to barre to challenge your entire body. equinox.com

BEST SPORTS COMPLEX: O Athletik Everyone in Houston is talking about this new super-charged sporting complex. O Atheltik combines the quality and service of several boutique fitness studios under a 35,000-square-foot roof. Every one of your workouts can be unique! Devotees can pull up the floor plan and schedules on their phones. Enjoy martial arts, swimming, boxing, sand volleyball, yoga and so much more in this massive workout facility. oathletik.com 50

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Bayou City foodie Erin Hicks, author of the popular Houston Classic cookbook series and Houston Small Plates and Sips, gets Houstonians ready for cooler temperatures with Houston Soups and Sips, pairing the best of H Town’s soups with wine and beer. From entrée to dessert soups, Hick’s 60 recipes promise delicious results. The book also makes for a fantastic gift idea for culinary-inclined friends, family or coworkers. erinhickscooks.com

BARRE PHOTO COURTESY OF EQUINOX; WATERWALL PHOTO BY BIGSTOCK; SOUP PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIN HICKS

BEST ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOT LOCATION: Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park

BEST HONKY TONK VENUE: The Redneck Country Club

CONCERT PHOTO COURTESY OF RCC; FLYING PHOTO COURTESY OF IFLY; HERITAGE PLAZA PHOTO BY MARIAN JACOB; CISTERN PHOTO BY KATYA HORNER; FRAME PHOTO COURTESY OF FRAMEBRIDGE

The RCC, or Redneck Country Club, is more than just a membersonly dance hall; it’s a community for rednecks, honored veterans and welcoming people. Located in Stafford, The RCC attracts top live music acts and serves up some of the best homemade southern cooking around. It’s is also a great place to host your next event, or to just to relax with a drink in hand. theredneckcountryclub.com

BEST INDOOR AMUSEMENT: iFly Indoor Skydiving Afraid of jumping from an airplane? iFly can give you that true free-fall experience through a wind tunnel flight simulation. iFly has locations in Memorial and The Woodlands. Their First Time Flyers flight packages include pre-flight training, the necessary flight gear, a certified flight guide and a personalized certificate to commemorate your thrilling adventure. iflyworld.com

BEST PHOTO BOOTH: iHeart Flipbooks

BEST HIDDEN SPACE: Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern

iHeart flipbooks is a unique new way to capture life’s most memorable moments and cherish them forever.

Their mobile studio is equipped with professional lighting, cameras, photo backdrops and fun props for your guests. These animated flipbooks are great keepsakes for your wedding or special event. iheartflipbooks.com

What was once Houston’s drinking water reservoir located underground below Buffalo Bayou Park has now been restored to a remarkable historical space featuring changing art installations. Peer into the Down Periscope, which sits atop the cistern to view 87,500 square feet of vastness, dubbed an “ancient ruin” of Houston. buffalobayou.org

BEST BREWERY: 8th Wonder Brewery Located in EaDo and named after Houston’s original eighth wonder, the Houston Astrodome, the 8th Wonder Brewery offers unique and flavorful beer selections in a fun, casual environment. From signature brews like Dome Faux’m and Hopston, to good eats from the Eatsie Boys Food truck, to the Yoga & Hops course, have a fun night out at one of the best spots in Houston.

8thwonderbrew.com

BEST BUILDING: Heritage Plaza Known as the gem of the downtown business district, the Heritage Plaza houses several offices in the heart of Downtown Houston. Inspired

by Mayan architecture, the granite features at the top and the interior lobby design make for a unique, historic building. Heritage Plaza is one of the most visually distinct skyscrapers in the city’s skyline. brookfieldproperties.com

BEST ONLINE FRAMING: Framebridge Need to frame those family photos to display in your home? Framebridge is an online framing service that offers custom framing delivered right to your door. After you send them your images, the Framebridge designers will work with you to choose the right size, frame and mat for your project, and then deliver the final product direct to your door free of charge. In just three easy steps, you will have a beautifully framed photo for your home or the perfect gift for your loved one. framebridge.com BEST OF 2017

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For family fun at every turn, it’s hard to beat Karisma Hotels and Resorts first-ever gourmet, inclusive Nickelodeon property in the Dominican Republic.

by Laurette M. Veres

ICKELODEON IS KNOWN FOR PUT TING KIDS AT THE CENTER OF EVERY THING . Now the popular children’s TV cable network has partnered with Karisma Hotels and Resorts and Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) to bring families Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana. Combining Nick’s flair for entertaining with Karisma’s renowned Gourmet Inclusive experience, the five-star property delivers beyond imagination—for kids and their parents alike.

Guests can experience as much (or as little) Nickelodeon as desired. For starters, basking in the sun is easy, thanks to the ocean, pools and sands of Uvero Alto beach. The Dominican Republic’s sugary, sandy beaches offer hours of sandcastle building, beach volleyball, kayaking, snorkeling and more. The main infinity pool has a swim-up bar, and is flanked by two full-service restaurants, Zest and The Lighthouse. The activity pool is also nonstop entertainment for everyone. Nickelodeon’s brand of fun shines through with whimsical character silhouettes on buildings, family slimings and unexpected visits from Dora the Explorer or SpongeBob. CHILD’S PLAY The fun begins at check-in when children, and adults, are slimed with a slime shooter. But fear not—it’s a drink!. Good times continue at Nickelodeon Place, a children’s wonderland with a waterpark, lazy river and pop-up character meetBEST OF 2017

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BLUE WATERS OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC WRAP AROUND THE ACTIVITY POOL. BELOW: THE MASSIVE

2.2-POUND BURGER AT BHRGRS.PH FEEDS UP TO SIX PEOPLE!

and-greets. Just Kiddin’ is an indoor playroom with daily supervised activities and programs for children four to 12 years old. As a major perk, they also offer nightly drop off from 7 to 9 p.m. so parents can enjoy intimate dinners; nanny service is available for children under four. Plaza Orange hosts evening fire shows and dance glow parties the entire family will love. Also, make sure to check the activity schedule for “mass slimings,” character visits and more. For the tweens and teens, the Sports Hub has ageappropriate activities, including tennis, archery and soccer.

During breakfast, Nickelodeon characters perform and visit every family for autographs and photos (for an additional fee).

Nickelodeon wants to keep your family busy!

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? You and your family can! The Pineapple suite is a replica of Sponge Bob’s house, the first and only villa of its kind. The two-bedroom/threebath playful suite allows guests to step inside SpongeBob’s world. With 2,292 square feet of incredible indoor and outdoor living areas, including a garden, patio, infinity pool and private butlers to take care of your every need, the Pineapple is sure to become your children’s favorite vacation spot.

NOT KIDDING ABOUT THE FOOD The Gourmet Inclusive village features several dining options (two require an additional fee). WokWok Far East Fusion combines the world’s best Asian fare from China, Japan and Vietnam. Dark wood paneling and the gentle sound of running water give a relaxed feel to this authentic Asian experience. At Verdello, the bold flavors and aromas of Sicilian cuisine get POOL AND RESTAURANT PHOTOS COURTESY OF PUNTA CANA; BALLPIT AND PINEAPPLE PHOTOS BY LAURETTE M. VERES

A FIVE-STAR STAY Poolside rooms create a unique ambiance day and night; all firstfloor rooms have pool access via a patio. The pool area is lively

with guests congregating at the swim-up bars and at Fresco, an authentic beach shack right behind the swim-up bar, where you can enjoy casual fare like ceviche, crispy Asian noodle salad, a pulled-pork sandwich and more.

The stunning beachfront resort features 208 oversized suites in seven styles designed from intimate Pad Suites and Flats to exquisite Swim-Up Suites. Each room’s mini bar is stocked with beer, soft drinks and water, which are replenished as often as necessary. The freestanding bathtub seems to float near a window dividing the sleeping area; a pull-down shade offers complete boudoir privacy.

Products by Calais continue the five-star experience. Just in case you forget where you’re at, Nick’s signature orange hue adorns a wall and the Iconic Nick Blimp sits at the foot of the bed. There are also four Super Villas, providing upwards of 2,200 square feet of space and a private infinity pool.

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your mouth watering. So Italian, it’s common for waitstaff to burst out into song—opera, of course. Guests can choose from the attractively appointed dining room or to enjoy the bustle of the Gourmet Village plaza from the outdoor terrace.

Diners at BRGRS.ph artisan burgers watch their patties being prepared in the indoor food truck at this casual eatery. Pretending to drive the truck makes for a great photo opportunity. Speaking of photo ops, the Machete Burger literally has to be cut with a machete!

This giant, 2.2-pound burger serves eight. Sugarcane offers a marketplace atmosphere; the Gourmet Inclusive program doesn’t follow the buffet model.

Instead, freshly made items are on display, and chefs are on-hand to replenish the food (which happens on the regular).

Breakfast combines absolutely everything you’d expect— omelets, pancakes, fresh fruit, etc.—but it’s infused with flavors of the Dominican Republic.

Some standouts: torrejas de berenjenas (fried eggplant), guineitos encebollados (green bananas with onions), mangú Dominicano (Dominican green plantain mash) and papas (potatoes). The Venezuelan cachapas were especially unique and delish—they’re like a blend of a crepe, pancake and blintz in one. Sugarcane also has a private dining room for weddings and events. For adults seeking a stronger beverage, Vino Vino specializes in a quality selection of wines, sangria and other wine-based creations.

PARTY WITH NICK For guests celebrating something special, Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Punta Cana will bring a little character to your vacation with meetand-greets, character dining, cake and ice cream, to make the experience unforgettable.

Karisma is renowned for its exquisite Gourmet Inclusive wedding events—and the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? You and your family can!

The Pineapple suite is a replica of Sponge Bob’s house, the first and only villa of its kind.

Punta Cana is no exception.

Couples can choose from an array of romantic spots, including a beachfront gazebo and signature Sky Wedding location, featuring stunning 360-degree views from the private rooftop terrace.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-844-SEE-NICK, or visit nickresortpuntacana.com or karismahotels.com. For more of my trip details, check out #NickResortPuntaCana on Instagram. H

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2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

Houston’s TOP LAWYERS

A lawyer’s job is to relentlessly work the legal system to get the best possible results for their clients. Whether it’s a personal matter or a business-related issue, we all seek the counsel of an attorney at some point in life. The good news is that our metropolis is brimming with highly specialized lawyers to tackle your every obstacle, from complex litigation and intellectual property to family and personal-injury law. By nominations from clients and peers as well as rigorous background checks, we proudly present our annual list of Top Lawyers. Congratulations to this year’s honorees.

Every effort has been made to verify information for the professionals listed. Any omissions or inaccuracies are unintentional, and H Texas magazine cannot be held liable. If your health-care professional does not appear on the list, that does not mean that he or she is not the best professional for you.

B E ST O F 2 017 //

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

MARCELA HALMAGEAN

M Halmagean PLLC | Family Law

MARCELA HALMAGEAN M HALMAGEAN PLLC 1800 Bering Dr., Ste. 280 Houston, TX 77057 713-975-1202 www.halmagean.com

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the University of Houston in 1988 with her Bachelors of Science in accounting. Then, she went on to earn a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of St. Thomas in 1992, and securing her Doctorate of Jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law in May of 1997. Before she graduated law school, she passed the Bar Exam under the Rule of 86, which allowed her to sit for the Bar Exam before she graduated law school.

While attending law school, Halmagean clerked with Harris County District Attorney’s office in the Special Crimes Division, assisting with the prosecution of white-collar crime cases.

Later, she worked on the criminal defense side as a law clerk for a Houston criminaldefense law firm.

After she passed the Bar Exam in May of 1997, she acted as Project Counsel in Zurich, Switzerland, for one of the “Big Five” Accounting Firms on what today, is largely referred to as the “Holocaust Project.” During this period, Halmagean served as the legal liaison on banking and privacylaw issues while supervising the risk-management and compliance functions for the project. In 2002, she decided to leave the corporate arena and start her own practice. She never looked back.

Currently, Halmagean is a member of The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, The State Bar of Texas, Houston Bar Association and an Alumnae of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston–Business & Professional Women’s Association. “I’m one of the few attorneys out there who love their work. I wake up every morning grateful for the opportunity I have been given to help people,” she says.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Marcela Halmagean focuses her law practice on the individual needs of each one of her clients. “I’m innovative, creative, daring and I do my homework,” she says. Her commitment to learning the law and endorsing close client communication, full availability and aggressive representation has earned her clients’ respect.

Her general practice revolves around business and family law, whether such practice involves litigation, mediation, or “collaborative law” and she is committed to bringing high-quality legal services to each sector.

During her professional tenure, Halmagean has worked for large corporations, representing corporate entities in legal matters, including white-collar crime cases, breach of contract and partnership disputes.

However, because of her background, her passion lies with family law cases, especially representing fathers in custody modifications and divisions of complex estates.

Marcela Halmagean is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) but has practiced law for almost 19 years during which period, she has built a bond with each and every one of her clients. “I work with them directly as opposed to assigning them to an associate attorney or a legal assistant,” she says. “Especially in family law, clients need a whole lot of support and a periodic reality check to complement the legal advice for which they are paying. When you combine that with full access and availability, it makes for long-lasting relationships.”

Trained right here in Houston, Halmagean immigrated to the United States from Romania in 1983 at the age of 19, where she quickly learned English and graduated from

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

CHARLES ARGENTO Personal Injury

When you or a family member have suffered an injury that requires legal action, you don’t have the time not to have an attorney that has your best interest at heart—and most importantly, will deliver the best possible outcome. The team of highly experienced attorneys at Charles J. Argento & Associates have dealt with all matters of personal injury and accidents for client upon and client, and know exactly how to get you the compensation that you deserve. At the helm of the firm, with nearly three decades of experience in the field, is Charles J. Argento, who’s known for providing aggressive, cost-efficient and responsive representation.

“I’ve always been interested in trying to help people. I wanted to learn what it took for insurance companies to pay top money on cases,” says Mr. Argento, of how he came to be one of Houston’s most sought-after personal injury attorneys. After graduating from State University of New York at Buffalo, he earned his juris doctorate from South Texas College of Law. Mr. Argento got his start in law by working directly with insurance companies for a wide range of personal injury cases.

“During my first 10 years of practice, I represented people who were sued, so I learned the ins and outs of insurance companies: what their thinking was, how they evaluated a case, and what a case was worth,” he recalls. This experience ended up being deeply instrumental to Mr. Argento’s success today—and his ace in the hole. “I now have inside knowledge on what makes these companies pay, what information they need, and also the things that they’re looking for to prevent you from getting any kind of money. It is just invaluable in trying to get people the maximum money they deserve.”

At Charles J. Argento & Associates, Mr. Argento serves as lead counsel, and together with his staff of highly trained and efficient, bilingual paralegals, secretaries and clerks, works on cases involving car and truck accidents, defective products, medical device lawsuits, bad drugs, wrongful death and more.

Their goal as a firm is to provide each and every client with the highest quality of legal services available.

Throughout his career, Mr. Argento has continually received recognition for his excellence by his clients, colleagues and the press. He holds two of the most prestigious ratings: “AV” by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory—the highest rating worldwide for legal ability and ethical standard, awarded to less than 5 percent of attorneys in the U.S.—for the past 20 consecutive years, and 10/10 by Avvo, reflecting his superb professional conduct and experience in the legal community, and providing an unmatched level of transparency, information and guidance.

On top of those honors, Mr. Argento was distinguished as the “National Top 100 Trial Attorneys” in the country; the “10 Best” in client satisfaction by the American Institute of Personal Injury attorneys; the “Top 3 Personal Injury Lawyers in Houston” by Three Best Rated; and “Houstonia Top Lawyers in Houston.” He also holds a Distinguished Justice Advocates certificate, awarded to only the top 1 percent of attorneys in America.

“Helping people that have been taken advantage of from insurance companies and big corporations is, without a doubt, the part of my job I love,” says Mr. Argento.

CHARLES J. ARGENTO CHARLES J. ARGENTO & ASSOCIATES 1111 North Loop West, Ste. 715 Houston, TX 77008 713-225-5050 www.charlesargento.com

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2017

“Helping people that have been taken advantage of from insurance companies and big corporations is, without a doubt, the part of my job I love.”

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

G. SCOTT FIDDLER Employment Litigation G. Scott Fiddler’s practice is focused on representing businesses and executives in employment and commercial litigation, including wrongful termination, wage and hour, non-compete, and trade secret cases.

Fiddler is Board Certified in Labor and Employment Law and in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, making him one of only approximately twenty-five attorneys in Texas with both board certifications.

Fiddler, who has also been named by Texas Super Lawyers ® magazine as one of the top attorneys in Texas in employment litigation, believes experience and skill in a specialized practice benefits his clients through cost-effective, proven results.

“We try cases, and we believe our track record in the courtroom benefits all of our clients,” says Fiddler. Because Fiddler routinely represents both employees and employers in the courtroom, he is in a unique position to understand employment cases from both sides.

Running a highly specialized practice means carefully selecting cases. “We don’t believe a law practice should be run like an assembly line. We limit the number of cases we take to ensure we can devote the time each case deserves to obtain the best possible results for our clients,” Fiddler says.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

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FIDDLER & ASSOCIATES, PC 1004 Congress, 3rd Floor Houston, TX 77002 713-228-0070 www.fiddlerlaw.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

JAMES R. "JIM" BUTLER The Butler Law Firm DWI Defense

"My life completely changed in October when I was charged with a DWI. I had never been in trouble with the law, so you could imagine how terrified I was.

After my first court date, I knew I needed to hire a lawyer that could help me with my case because my BAC [Blood Alcohol Content] number was so high! I only met with a few lawyers, and when I had my first consultation with Mr. Butler, I could feel his passion and determination for

JAMES R. "JIM" BUTLER THE BUTLER LAW FIRM 11500 Northwest Freeway, Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77092 713-236-8744 www.thehoustondwilawyer.com

me and my case. I immediately hired him and started the court process. After months and months of court resets, I did my best to patiently wait for us to go to trial by jury, and Mr. Butler never faulted or gave up on me or my case.

"He reassured me that we were not going to give in to any pleas, and we were going to keep pushing through to take my case to trial because the state would not dismiss my case with my BAC being over a .15. Finally, it came to my jury trial and after the two-day process

and waiting for the verdict, I was found not guilty! I can only express how extremely grateful I am for Mr. Butler and Christin for everything they have done for me to help me get my life back.

I truly want to thank the both of you for continuously fighting for me for so long, and I could not be any happier with the outcome and gaining my life back!

"If you are looking for the best, then you have found it with Jim and Christin!"

—Submitted by Leina R. , client of the Butler Law Firm

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

"I was found not guilty!"

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 ADMIRALTY Marcus Matthews Phelps Dunbar, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 2600 Houston, TX 77002 ADMIRALTY, MARITIME & ENERGY F. Daniel Knight Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St. Fl 14 Houston, TX 77002 ADMIRALTY, MARITIME PERSONAL INJURY Matthew D. Shaffer Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006 ANTITRUST LITIGATION Russell A. Chorush Heim, Payne & Chorush, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 6710 Houston, TX 77002

Dylan Russell Hoover Slovacek LLP 5051 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 Reagan Simpson Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 APPELLATE, CIVIL LITIGATION David A. Polsinelli 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 APPELLATE, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, PERSONAL INJURY Michael Watson Michael C. Watson, Attorney at Law 4309 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 3000 Houston, TX 77006 APPELLATE, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, REAL ESTATE

Scott M Clearman The Clearman Law Firm, PLLC 815 Walker St., Ste. 1040 Houston, TX 77002

David A. Mcdougald Attorney at Law 4309 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 3000 Houston, TX 77006

ANTITRUST LITIGATION, BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION

APPELLATE, CIVIL LITIGATION, CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Paul Yetter Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Paul C. Looney Looney & Conrad, PC 11767 Katy Fwy Ste. 740 Houston, TX 77079

APPELLATE

APPELLATE, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Terry Adams 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77056 Murry Cohen Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld 1111 Louisiana St., Ste. 4400 Houston, TX 77002 Claudia W. Frost Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77010 Dori Kornfeld Goldman Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 David W. Holman The Holman Law Firm, PC 24 Greenway Plz Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77046 Warren Huang Fulbright & Jaworski, LLP 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 Byron C. Keeling Keeling & Downes, PC 1500 McGowen St., Ste. 220 Houston, TX 77004 Lynne Liberato 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77010 Connie Pfeiffer Beck Redden 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 4500 Houston, TX 77010 Kent Rutter 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77010 Marc Tabolsky Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 Stephen G. Tipps 910 Louisiana St., Ste. 3000 Houston, TX 77002 Thomas Wright 1 Riverway Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77056 Marie Yeates 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002

Rich Farrer Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 Mindy M. Riseden Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 APPELLATE, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, PERSONAL INJURY

Bruce Wallace Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002

Myron M. Sheinfeld King & Spalding, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002

Kenneth R. Breitbeil McFall Breitbeil & Shults, PC 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1254 Houston, TX 77010

BANKING, BANKRUPTCY & WORKOUT

Ronald J. Sommers Nathan Sommers Jacobs, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056

W. Montgomery Briscoe Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002

Eric S. Southward Busby & Associates, PC 2909 Hillcroft St., Ste. 350 Houston, TX 77057

Robert R. Burford Burford Perry LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4545 Houston, TX 77002

Randy W. Williams Thompson & Knight, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002

Amy M. Burgert Zabel Freeman 420 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Rusty Woolley Carrigan McCloskey & Roberson, LLP 945 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77008

Collin J. Cox Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Susan Mathews Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Neil A. Wasserstrom Mayer Brown Rowe & Maw LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77002 BANKING, BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Kari Robinson Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 BANKING, REAL ESTATE George Craft, Jr. Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Cassandra Smith Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Julie Koenig Tow & Koenig, PLLC 26219 Oak Ridge Dr Spring, TX 77380

Jonathan Simon Simon Law Firm 5271 Memorial Dr., Ste. 108 Houston, TX 77007

Matthew Foytlin Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Heather Potts McFall Breitbeil & Smith 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1250 Houston, TX 77010

BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Allison H. Gabbert 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1560 Houston, TX 77010

John E. Smith John E Smith And Associates 907 S Friendswood Dr., Ste. 204 Friendswood, TX 77546 BANKRUPTCY & WORKOUT

H. Miles Cohn Sheiness Scott Grossman & Cohn, LLP 1001 McKinney St., Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77002 Sean B. Davis Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Ryan Dove Dove Law Firm, PLLC 1111 North Loop W Ste. 1115 Houston, TX 77008

APPELLATE, ESTATE PLANNING

Joseph Epstein Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Julia Dean The Dean Law Firm PLLC 1650 Highway 6 Ste. 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478

Liza A. Greene Laura Dale & Associates, PC 1800 Saint James Pl Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77056

APPELLATE, IMMIGRATION

Tye C. Hancock Thompson & Knight, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002

Sheridan Green Gonzalez Olivieri LLC 2200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77098 BANKING Nelson Block Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Michael Hilliard Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Demetra L. Liggins Thompson & Knight, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002 Gretchen G. Mccord Nathan Sommers Jacobs, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056 Chris Morrison 1306 Dorothy St Houston, TX 77008

Robert A. York 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1665 Houston, TX 77010

Paul Leblanc Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Alfredo R. Perez Weil Gotshal & Manges, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002

APPELLATE, BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Michael E. Niebruegge Mayer Brown, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3400 Houston, TX 77002

Craig Power Cokinos Bosien & Young 1221 Lamar St. Fl 16 Houston, TX 77010

Scott D. Cunningham The Cunningham Law Firm 7670 Woodway Dr., Ste. 110 Houston, TX 77063

Kathryn Oakes Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Randall A. Rios Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, PC 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4600 Houston, TX 77002

Seth A. Miller Nathan Sommers Jacobs, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056

Doug Stewart Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Misty Segura Cokinos Bosien & Young 1221 Lamar St. Fl 16 Houston, TX 77010

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Dax O. Faubus Faubus & Scarborough, LLP 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 1020 Houston, TX 77002

BANKRUPTCY

APPELLATE, CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Clay S. Conrad Looney & Conrad, PC 11767 Katy Fwy Ste. 740 Houston, TX 77079

Bernard G. Johnson III Fisher, Boyd, Johnson & Huguenard, LLP 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77019

Ada I. Ferrer Burford Perry, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4545 Houston, TX 77002

Rhett G. Campbell Thompson & Knight, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002

APPELLATE, CRIMINAL DEFENSE, CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

BUSINESS & CIVIL LITIGATION

Andrew Edelman Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Benjamin K. Sanchez Sanchez Law Firm 1521 Green Oak Pl., Ste. 103 Kingwood, TX 77339

Andrew Bender The Bender Firm 1911 Southwest Fwy Houston, TX 77098

Terri Zimmermann Zimmermann Lavine & Zimmermann 770 S Post Oak Ln Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77056

Nicholas Zugaro McCathern, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027

Richard D. Daly Richard Daly Law Firm 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77002

Elizabeth D. Alvarado Shannon, Martin, Finkelstein, Alvarado & Dunne 1001 McKinney St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Simon Hendershot III Kerr, Hendershot & Cannon, PC 1800 Bering Dr., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77057 Andrew Hicks Schiffer Odom Hicks & Johnson, PLLC 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 Sean Milligan Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Scott Upchurch Schiffer Odom Hicks & Johnson, PLLC 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT Lionel Martin Garcia Martin & Martin, PC 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 220 Sugar Land, TX 77478 BUSINESS LAW Toni Pham 5525 Louetta Rd Spring, TX 77379 Kiren B. Wheeler Rapp & Krock 1980 Post Oak Blvd, Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 BUSINESS LITIGATION Brandon T. Allen Reynolds Frizzell Black Doyle Allen & Oldham, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77002 M. Lucille Anderson Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 C. Dennis Barrow, Jr. Ware Jackson Lee & Chambers, LLP 2929 Allen Pkwy Fl 42 Houston, TX 77019 Kathleen Boll Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 Josh Bowlin Walston & Bowlin 920 Memorial City Way, Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024

Robin Gibbs Gibbs & Bruns 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 5300 Houston, TX 77002 Raymond L. Gregory II Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 Erica Harris 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Daniel K. Hedges Porter & Hedges, LLP 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002 Charlie Henke Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 Jonathan M. Hyman Looper Reed & McGraw, PC 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77056 John Kinchen Hughes, Arrell, Kinchen, LLP 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 3150 Houston, TX 77010 Ken Krock Nelkin, Nelkin & Krock, PC 5417 Chaucer Dr Houston, TX 77005 Patrick B. Larkin The Larkin Law Firm 11200 Broadway St., Ste. 2705 Pearland, TX 77584 Mary-Olga Lovett Greenberg Traurig 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77002 William Maines 2800 Post Oak Blvd Houston, TX 77056 Neal S. Manne Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Christopher W. Martin Martin, Disiere, Jefferson & Wisdom, LLP 808 Travis St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 Randy J Mcclanahan McClanahan Myers Espey, LLP 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77098 Donald B. Mcfall McFall, Breitbeil & Smith 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1250 Houston, TX 77010 Todd Mensing 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 3460 Houston, TX 77010

Michael Oldham 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77002 Robert L. Paddock Thompson & Knight, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002 Kent J. Pagel Pagel Davis & Hill, PC 1415 Louisiana St. Fl 22 Houston, TX 77002 Brent Perry Burford Perry, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4545 Houston, TX 77002 Shawn Raymond 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Harry Reasoner Vinson & Elkins 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002 Stephanie Roman Roman Law Firm 4141 Southwest Fwy Ste. 250 Houston, TX 77027 Trent D. Stephens Strasburger & Price, LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77010 John Sullivan Iii 1000 Main St., Ste. 2550 Houston, TX 77002 Harry P. Susman Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Jack E Vestal 13201 Northwest Fwy Ste. 512 Houston, TX 77040 Cliff Walston Walston & Bowlin 920 Memorial City Way, Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024 Mark A. White 1500 McGowen St., Ste. 220 Houston, TX 77004 Jett Williams Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 William Wood 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 John Zavitsanos 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 3460 Houston, TX 77010 BUSINESS LITIGATION, David Smith Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Julia Cook Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 Rodney Drinnon McCathern, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027 William J. Eggleston Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 Rob Ellis Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 William Engelhaupt Alston & Engelhaupt 12926 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 176 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Andrew Green McCathern, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027 Lori Hood Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Emily Landry McCathern, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027 Charles Parker Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

RAED GONZALEZ, JD LLM Immigration Law

Raed Gonzalez is the Chairman of Gonzalez Olivieri LLC. His firm developed into an immigration powerhouse, celebrating a legacy of success in difficult and complicated cases. In recent years, among many accolades, he had his third Supreme Court victory in Mata v. Lynch.

Mr. Gonzalez and his firm are making a real difference in immigration law. His firm has experienced significant growth, and is currently 13 attorneys strong.

Each attorney is a generalist and an expert in their niche of immigration law. In addition to Mr. Gonzalez, the firm's litigation team includes Naimeh Salem, Noel Zuniga, Daniel Ottaviano, Jorge Arias and Roberto Quijano, all experts in removal or deportation defense. The appellate team includes Alexander Afanassiev, who is certified in immigration and nationality law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, with more than a decade of experience, as well as Aaron Prahbu and Eric Brown, who handle appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals, Circuit Courts and the U.S. Supreme Court. The Business and Investment team includes Michael Dominguez (previously with Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy) and Mario Gonzalez, who work on all types of employment and investmentbased matters. Mr. Gonzalez and Ms. Salem also handle all family law cases with attorney Ricardo Tapia and Roberto Zavaleta.

Under the leadership of Mr. Gonzalez, Gonzalez Olivieri LLC provides tactical solutions and expert knowledge to each client’s case.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

RAED GONZALEZ GONZALEZ OLIVIERI LLC 2200 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77098 713-481-3040 www.gonzalezolivierillc.com

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

MARY E. RAMOS Family Law

Fighting for you and your family while minimizing tension and anxiety is what the Ramos Law Group, PLLC, does exceptionally well. From adoptions, divorce litigation and child custody to high-asset property division and more, Mary Ramos and her team of experienced attorneys will do whatever it takes to protect and advocate for their every client in all aspects of family law.

Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Ramos has more than 12 years of experience in a field she’s passionate about. “From the first time I stepped into a family courtroom, my role as a family law attorney was clarified. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else with my life.

Few people get the opportunity to do what they love every day, and I am blessed in being able to pursue my dreams as an advocate,” she says.

Ramos and her highly skilled associates, Julie Rosete and Lindsay Lewis, also H Texas Top Lawyers, are firm believers in continuing education. To that end, the team is active in various legal organizations, with Ramos maintaining membership in the Texas Bar College, which warrants four times the education requirement for all attorneys. Membership is an honor bestowed to less than 10 percent of Texas attorneys.

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MARY E. RAMOS RAMOS LAW GROUP PLLC 1214 Miramar St. Houston, TX 77006 713-225-6200 www.ramosfamilylaw.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

TYRONE C. MONCRIFFE Attorney at Law

TYRONE C. MONCRIFFE MONCRIFFE, KNOWLES, MUHARIB & ASSOCIATES 1314 Texas Ave., Ste. 1112 Houston, TX 77002 713-224-6628 www.attymoncriffe.com

Chantel for constant support. His brothers Randy, Errol, Brian, and Burford and best friend Alvin Hubert have provided years of encouragement. He thanks his grandparents, Mary Moncriffe, Morris and Annie Conner and also his father Richard and Uncle Charles Moncriffe for never allowing him to give up his dreams, and the loving memory of his beloved mother Lois Moncriffe, who told him to, “always reach for the sky and even if you fail you will be among the stars.”

Moncriffe gives acknowledgement to Sandra Zimmer of Self Expression Center; she taught him the importance of, “being with the audience and not performing for them.”

Moncriffe has dedicated himself to constant selfimprovement and providing the best representation possible for his clients.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Tyrone C. Moncriffe is board certified in criminal law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, and certified first chair in death penalty cases in Harris County. Currently, he is a faculty member of the Criminal Law Institute. Moncriffe handles serious felony cases and always strives for excellence in the courtroom.

He graduated from Texas Southern University Magna Cum Laude and received his Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1982. Texas Super Lawyers ® in Texas Monthly magazine voted Moncriffe as one of the best in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 and Top Lawyers in H Texas magazine from 2008 to 2016.

He always believed that no goal is accomplished by one person. He acknowledges his wife Brenda and his daughter

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 Matthew E. Parks Burford Perry, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4545 Houston, TX 77002

Wendie Childress Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Christopher Porter Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Wyatt Dowling Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Keshia L. Rodriguez Sedgwick, LLP 1200 Smith St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002

Doug Griffith Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Isaac Villareal McCathern, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027

Pamela Hohensee Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

James Zucker Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Rebecca Phelps Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Chris Reynolds Reynolds Frizzell LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77002

Eric Chenoweth Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Nicolas Thompson Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Wesley Lotz Fulkerson Lotz, LLP 4511 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77006

Elizabeth Wyman Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

Veronica Montemayor MCCATHERN, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027

BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, CONSTRUCTION

BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Karen Smith Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, MASS TORT/ TOXIC TORT Jeffrey Hastings Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Eddy De Los Santos Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, OIL AND GAS Kenneth Mckay Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Carter Williams Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, CONSUMER LAW, PERSONAL INJURY

Cody N. Schneider Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams, & Aughtry 1200 Smith St. Fl 14 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, OIL AND GAS Christine Carbo Marziotti Energy litigation 3010 Briarpark Dr, Pwc 8122 Houston, TX 77042 BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW, OIL AND GAS James E. Doyle Doyle Restrepo Harvin & Robbins, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 4700 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, INSURANCE Montgomery Briscoe Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, OIL AND GAS, PERSONAL INJURY John H. Kim The Kim Law Firm 4309 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77006 BUSINESS LITIGATION, PERSONAL INJURY

Robert L. Collins Robert L. Collins & Associates PO Box 7726 Houston, TX 77270

Jesus Garcia, Jr. Gacia De La Garza LLP 712 Main St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002

BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, INSURANCE, LEGAL MALPRACTICE

BUSINESS LITIGATION, REAL ESTATE

Dale Jefferson Martin, Desiere, Jefferson & Wisdom 808 Travis St. Fl 20 Houston, TX 77002 BUSINESS LITIGATION, CIVIL LITIGATION, LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Melissa Martin Garcia-Martin & Martin, PC 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 220 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Josh Verde The Verde Law Firm, PLLC 2100 West Loop S Houston, TX 77027 BUSINESS LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Bryce Callahan Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010

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Andrew Weisblatt The Weisblatt Law Firm, LLC 2312 Katy Fort Bend Rd Katy, TX 77493 BUSINESS LITIGATION/ FAMILY LAW Charlotte A Drew Drew & McCallum 25231 Grogans Mill Rd., Ste. 350 Spring, TX 77380 Patric P Mccallum Drew & McCallum 25231 Grogans Mill Rd., Ste. 350 Spring, TX 77380 BUSINESS LITIGATION/ PERSONAL INJURY Tony Malley Malley Law Firm 24 Greenway Plz Ste. 790 Houston, TX 77046

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BUSINESS, CIVIL & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Bradley Chambers Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Nathan Graham Graham Firm 5005 Woodway Dr., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77056 Adam Green Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Joseph Kennedy Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Bruce D. Oakley Hogan Lovells US, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4300 Houston, TX 77002 CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES CASES Bobbie Young The Law Office of Bobbie Young, RN, JD 6161 Savoy Dr., Ste. 1019 Houston, TX 77036 CIVIL & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Jay Brown Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Kevin Long Oldenettel & McCabe 510 Bering Dr., Ste. 675 Houston, TX 77057 Collin Warren Sedgwick, Detert, Moran & Arnold 1111 Bagby St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002 Alan York Godwin Ronquillo, PC 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1665 Houston, TX 77010 CIVIL & CRIMINAL LAW Clement Aldridge, Jr. 7529 Olympia Dr Houston, TX 77063 CIVIL LITIGATION

Robert H. Espey II 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77098 Jan Woodward Fox 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 Kevin H. George 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1130 Houston, TX 77002

Andrew J. Sarne Kane Russell Coleman & Logan, PC 919 Milam St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77002

Joel R. Glover Jackson Walker L.L.P. 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1900 Houston, TX 77010

Craig W. Saunders Barlow Jones, LLP 17225 El Camino Real Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77058

Fred Hagans Hagans Burdine Montgomery & Rustay, PC 3200 Travis St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77006

Corey Seel Mehaffyweber, PC 500 Dallas St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002

Paul Heyburn Mehaffyweber, PC 500 Dallas St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 Richard M. Kaplan Weycer Kaplan Pulaski & Zuber, PC 11 Greenway Plz Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77046 H. Miles Klaff Brown Sims, PC 1177 West Loop S Ste. 1000 Houston, TX 77027 Harry M. Klaff Brown Sims 1177 West Loop S Houston, TX 77027 Matthew Kornhauser Hoover Slovacek LLP 5051 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 Ken Krock Rapp & Krock, PC 3050 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1425 Houston, TX 77056 Scott D. Lassetter The Lassetter Law Firm, PC 708 Main St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77002 Dana Lejune Lejune Law Firm 6525 Washington Ave Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77007 Michael Lowenberg The Oquinn Law Firm 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002

Walker Beavers 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77010

Clive Markland Markland Law Firm 5450 NW Central Dr., Ste. 330 Houston, TX 77092

Allison Beckham Litigation 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

James Martingano Mehaffyweber, PC 500 Dallas St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002

Peter J. Bennett Law Office of Peter J Bennett 917 Franklin St., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77002

Robert Medina 7575 Gulf Fwy Houston, TX 77017

Jason Bernhardt Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Peter C. Blomquist Shannon Gracey Ratliff & Miller, LLP 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 2920 Houston, TX 77010 Jorge Borunda The Soliz Law Firm, PLLC 2500 Citywest Blvd Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77042 Brittany Bouette McCathern PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027

Amanda Miller-Key Sprott Rigby Newsom Robbins Lunceford And Bell, PC 2211 Norfolk St., Ste. 1150 Houston, TX 77098 Kevin Murray 5075 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 980 Houston, TX 77056 Jacks C. Nickens McGuire Woods, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 7500 Houston, TX 77002 Rick L. Oldenettel Oldenettel & McCabe 1360 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2350 Houston, TX 77056

Berry Bowen Civil Litigation 3014 Brazos St Houston, TX 77006

Chris C. Pappas Kane Russell Coleman & Logan, PC 919 Milam St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77002

Darren Braun Mahendru, PC 639 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Bain Pearson Pearson & Pearson, LLP 2900 Weslayan St., Ste. 580 Houston, TX 77027

Misty Cone Godwin Lewis 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1665 Houston, TX 77010

Craig Ribbeck The Ribbeck Law Firm 6363 Woodway Dr., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77057

Jeffrey Diamond J Diamond & Associates, PLLC 1010 N San Jacinto St Houston, TX 77002

Tim Riley Riley Law Firm 112 E 4th St Houston, TX 77007

Stephen Dillard Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010

Nathan Rymer Rymer, Moore, Jackson & Echols 2801 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 250 Houston, TX 77056

Robert "Randy" M. Roach, Jr. Roach & Newton, LLP 1111 Bagby St., Ste. 2650 Houston, TX 77002

Jeffery W. Steidley Steidley & Kelly 3000 Weslayan St., Ste. 350 Houston, TX 77027 James "Jimmy" T. Sunosky Donato, Minx, Brown & Pool, PC 3200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77027 David R. Thrasher Kane Russell Coleman & Logan, PC 919 Milam St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77002 Marc Tittlebaum Tittlebaum Law Firm 10680 Royal Cavins Dr Conroe, TX 77303 Bruce Tough Tough Law Firm 819 Crossbridge Dr Spring, TX 77373 Dick Watt Watt Beckworth Thompson & Henneman, LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 H. Ronald Welsh Welsh & Chapoton, LLP 8 Greenway Plz Ste. 1120 Houston, TX 77046 Brian Zimmerman Zimmerman, Axelran, Meyer, Stern & Wise, PC 3040 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056 CIVIL LITIGATION & CRIMINAL DEFENSE Frederick D. Williams II 7915 Cypress Creek Pkwy Ste. 225 Houston, TX 77070 CIVIL LITIGATION & INSURANCE Barbara J. Barron Mehaffyweber, PC 500 Dallas St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 Kevin T. Dossett Preis Plc 24 Greenway Plz Ste. 2050 Houston, TX 77046 Robert J. Killeen, Jr. Killeen & Stern, PC 1770 Saint James Pl Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77056 Robert Mccabe Oldenettel & McCabe 510 Bering Dr., Ste. 675 Houston, TX 77057

Graham Sutliff Sutliff & Stout 550 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 530 Houston, TX 77027 L. Lee Thweatt Terry & Thweatt, PC 1 Greenway Plz Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77046 CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Miles Klaff Brown Sims 1177 West Loop S Fl 10 Houston, TX 77027 Paul Pilibosian Hoover Slovacek LLP 5051 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, CRIMINAL DEFENSE Rusty Hardin Rusty Hardin & Associates 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 2250 Houston, TX 77010 CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, FAMILY LAW Amos Pardo The Selesky Law Firm 1023 Prince St Houston, TX 77008 CIVIL LITIGATION, COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, MEDICAL MALPRACTICE W. Mark Lanier The Lanier Law Firm 6810 Fm 1960 Rd. W Houston, TX 77069 CIVIL LITIGATION, CONSTRUCTION, CONSUMER LAW, INSURANCE Donna Thomisee Thomisee & Thomisee, PC 806 Austin St Richmond, TX 77469 CIVIL LITIGATION, CORPORATE Madison Hagopian Sponsel Miller Greenberg PLLC 50 Briar Hollow Ln Ste. 370W Houston, TX 77027 CIVIL LITIGATION, ELDER LAW, OIL AND GAS, REAL ESTATE, WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES F. Nan Wagoner Wagoner Burgert LLP 5202 Spruce St Bellaire, TX 77401 CIVIL LITIGATION, EMINENT DOMAIN W. Allyn Hoaglund Hoaglund Law 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77010 CIVIL LITIGATION, FAMILY LAW Paul Savinov The Huynh Law Firm, PLLC 10333 Harwin Dr., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77036 CIVIL LITIGATION, FAMILY LAW, MEDIATION

Stephen R. Wedemeyer Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Robert S. Clark, Sr. Clark & Jordan, LP 9225 Katy Fwy Ste. 314 Houston, TX 77024

CIVIL LITIGATION & INTELLECTUAL

CIVIL LITIGATION, FAMILY LAW, PERSONAL INJURY

Charles Babcock 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1900 Houston, TX 77010

G. Michael Carnahan Carnahan Law Firm, PLLC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 2080 Houston, TX 77002

CIVIL LITIGATION & PERSONAL INJURY Jose Lopez II Law Office of Jose Lopez, II 4601 Washington Ave Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77007 Kelly Siegler Kelly Siegler & Assoc.

1200 Binz St., Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77004 Hank Stout Sutliff & Stout 550 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 530 Houston, TX 77027 William H Stout Sutliff & Stout 550 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 530 Houston, TX 77027

CIVIL LITIGATION, INSURANCE, LEGAL MALPRACTICE, PERSONAL INJURY John Davis Brown Sims 1177 West Loop S Houston, TX 77027 CIVIL LITIGATION, LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT J. Daniel Long Crady, Jewett & McCulley, LLP 2727 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77019

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

GOLDA R. JACOB Family Law

Golda R. Jacob has successfully practiced family law in the Houston area for over 20 years. Her strong commitment and dedication to clients has consistently produced outstanding results. Jacob and her staff have a reputation for providing personal attention to each and every client they represent. “We treat every case as a priority,” Ms. Jacob states. “We care about our clients, their children and their problems. We want clients to make it through the divorce process as unscathed as possible.”

Golda R. Jacob, PC, is experienced in every aspect of family law including adoption, divorce, property division and creative solutions, child custody, child support, child protective services cases, modifications, visitation rights, grandparent access, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and paternity suits. The combination of real-life experience and extensive legal knowledge ensure that the firm always provides outstanding legal guidance. Over the years, Ms. Jacob has maintained a relationship with many of her clients who often seek her counsel regarding many kinds of legal issues including business law, estate planning, wills, trusts, bankruptcy, guardianship and probate.

Ms. Jacob was named to the Super Lawyer® list through 2011–2017. She is board certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Law Examiners, a member of the State Bar College of Texas, a member of the Gulf Coast Legal Foundation, and a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

“I take the time to understand the unique situation of each client in order to act in their best interest,” says Ms. Jacob. “While our firm understands that litigation is not always the way to settle issues, sometimes it is necessary and when that happens preparation is everything.”

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

GOLDA R. JACOB GOLDA R. JACOB & ASSOCIATES, PC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1500 Houston, TX 77002 713-227-7383 www.goldajacob.com

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JERRY D. PATCHEN

Attorney at Law | Criminal & Civil Litigation Jerry D. Patchen brings four decades of experience and wisdom to the trial practice of criminal, civil and family cases.

For over 25 years he has earned very high peer review ratings in legal ability and ethical standards. Representing clients in more than 25 states, his ability to litigate cases in State and Federal Courts is remarkable. “Not Guilty” in criminal trials including capital murder, possession and delivery of drugs, robbery, assault, theft and DWI. His victories include defense of a federal conspiracy indictment with one million pounds of marijuana.

Civil recoveries include $8.5 million in business litigation and million dollar recoveries involving wrongful

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R R BA AWA E T TAT EN S S VEM A E X TE ACHI E T IM

death, automobile and truck accidents, rollovers, gunshot victims and malpractice. Civil cases range from divorces, will contest, toxic exposure, Jones Act claims and products liability. Jerry Patchen was awarded the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award by the State Bar of Texas for his tireless pro bono efforts on behalf of the American Indians. He worked to secure their religious freedom, land rights and recovery of ancestral remains and sacred objects.

Uniquely devoting his skill to a broad range of cases he says, “It’s all about proving facts.”

JERRY D. PATCHEN THE PATCHEN LAW FIRM 1400 Congress Houston, TX 77002 713-222-2000

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

ROBERT WOODS

Personal Injury–­Criminal

As a retired police lieutenant and a graduate of the FBI National Academy, attorney Robert Woods of Woods Law Firm has an advantage over most criminal and personal injury attorneys. With more than 20 years of experience in investigation and law enforcement, he knows how to build and defend cases.

“I’ve dedicated my life to protecting Texans and upholding the law. As your attorney, I will investigate and process your case with the utmost integrity and zeal,” says Woods.

The Woods Law Firm represents individuals and families facing personal-injury crises as well as those facing criminal charges. The primary focus of the firm has been representing victims injured in 18-wheeler, auto and motorcycle accidents, DUI accidents, commercial vehicle accidents and animal bites and attacks. Woods is wellknown among his peers for his quick recognition of liability and aggressive pursuit of justice.

“At the Woods Law Firm, you get personal attention regarding your case. Our firm is small enough to give you the personal attention you deserve, but large enough to go against the big insurance companies,” explains Woods.

Attorney Woods holds a degree in criminal justice from Sam Houston University and a law degree from South Texas College of Law.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

ROBERT WOODS WOODS LAW FIRM, PC 2016 Main St., Ste. 111 Houston, TX 77002 713-651-1115 www.attorneyrobertwoods.com

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

LACY LAFOUR Family Law

For more than a decade, Lacy LaFour has practiced solely in the area of family law. Prior to opening her own office, Ms. LaFour worked in a family law firm that marketed exclusively to high net-worth clientele. When asked why she decided to go out on her own, she said, “I knew that I could take what I had learned from years of working on some of the most complicated property and child related issues that family lawyers face and provide that experience to a broader range of clients, and do so in a much more personalized manner.”

Ms. LaFour combines her psychology and legal backgrounds into a client centered law practice that focuses on honest advice and efficient case management, where clients benefit from her personable approach. “I get people. I have been through difficult times, I know what a crisis feels like, and I know how to help clients maneuver through the process emotionally.”

Ms. LaFour is certified in collaborative law and is a certified mediator. She is a graduate of the National Institute of Trial Advocacy and, in addition to being a member of several bar organizations, she serves on the Board of Directors of the Family Law Section of the Houston Bar Association.

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

LACY LAFOUR LAFOUR LAW FIRM PC 515 Post Oak Boulevard, Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77027 713-223-7700 www.lafourlaw.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

STACEY A. LAFITTE Family Law

Stacey Lafitte knows family law, and her clients benefit from her extensive experience in all facets of litigation. Ms. Lafitte handles cases dealing with estates of all sizes, and custody issues ranging from the simple to the complex.

When asked why she chose family law, Ms. Lafitte said, “Helping clients through periods of personal transition is uniquely challenging and very rewarding. Family law requires a certain temperament, and I pride myself in remaining calm in the chaos.

Fighting over the custody of a child or dismantling a lifetime of asset accumulation often stresses clients to the breaking point. I prepare them for the rigors of litigation, and help them cope with the daily emotional and sometimes physical toll the legal process can take on them and their children. When my clients are at their worst, they can count on me to be at my best. I can’t imagine practicing in any other area of the law.”

Ms. Lafitte is a graduate of Baylor University and South Texas College of Law. She is a certified family law mediator, is certified in collaborative law, and is a member of the HBA Family Law Section and the Burta Rhoads Raborn Family Law Inn of Court.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

STACEY A. LAFITTE LAW OFFICES OF STACEY A. LAFITTE, PC 515 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77027 713-623-2500 www.lafittelaw.com

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

THE KAHN LAW FIRM, PC Personal Injury & Criminal Defense

THE KAHN LAW FIRM, PC 2225 County Road 90, Ste. 109 Pearland, TX 77584 713-226-9900 1-844-301-KAHN www.KahnLawyers.com www.ThePearlandLawyers.com

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

The husband and wife legal team of John J. Kahn, Jr. and Jennifer Hodges Kahn handle all types of Personal Injury and Criminal Defense cases in Harris County, Brazoria County and the general Southeast Texas area. They provide a unique team effort as a married couple and represent clients with utmost respect and Christian values.

The Kahn Law Firm handles a wide variety of personal injury cases from auto and trucking accidents to child injuries and premises liability cases, and all types of criminal cases including DWI, drug cases, thefts, robberies and juvenile cases. In all cases, John and Jennifer represent their clients with diligence, compassion and professionalism.

Jennifer graduated from Texas A&M University and both are graduates of South Texas College of Law. John and Jennifer are members of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Christian Trial Lawyers Association and the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association. The couple have five children: Carson, Cody, Carolyn, Corey and Colton and are very involved with the children’s sports and extracurricular activities including volunteering as a Little League Coach and serving as past President and Vice President on various Boards of Directors.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

JONATHAN AMDUR

Immigration & Nationality Law

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Since 1982, Amdur Law has helped both employers and individuals navigate the complex immigration system. With Jonathan Amdur at the firm's helm, their focus isn’t just on getting a case approved, but also on counseling and guiding their clients through the process and making it as easy for them as possible.

The firm’s clients range from individual investors to large multinational companies. They assist workers and students seeking temporary work authorization, as well as those seeking to immigrate permanently into the United States and become American citizens. The practice specializes in employment-based immigration and nonimmigrant employment authorization, with years of experience representing business professionals, scientists, offshore petroleum workers and other highly skilled workers.

A testament to the firm’s attention to the attorneyclient relationship, many of their clients have stuck with them throughout their 35 years of service. “Connecting with clients—building a partnership, establishing trust and having an ongoing relationship—and then getting them the desired results,” is what Amdur says has kept him motivated to succeed. “Many of our clients have been with us for a long time, although we certainly welcome new clients and look forward to growing with them.”

JONATHAN AMDUR THE AMDUR LAW FIRM, PLLC 5909 West Loop South, Ste. 300 Bellaire, TX 77401 713-268-1000 www.amdurlaw.com

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

KEVIN MURRAY Civil Litigation

KEVIN A. MURRAY LLC 5075 Westheimer Road, Ste. 980 Houston, TX 77056 713-355-5500 www.murrlaw.com

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Murray is a real estate developer and is currently working on projects in the inner loop of Houston. His real estate expertise originates from his experiences as a former owner of a mortgage company and former fee attorney for a title company.

Further, Murray’s diverse real estate experiences allow him to assist the following clients: property owners and property managers; developers, builders and contractors; realtors and title companies; real estate investment trusts (REITS); residential and commercial property associations; and buyers and sellers in varied transactions and disputes, ranging from multi-million dollar commercial properties to single-family residences.

Also, Murray is the executive producer of independent plays and films. Murray currently has several projects in various stages of production.

Murray received his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey and his law degree from Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Houston, Texas. Murray is affiliated with the following organizations: The World Affairs Council (Council Cabinet Member), Central Care Integrated Health Services (Chairman of the Board) National Bar Association, National Lawyers Association, National Employment Lawyers Association, Houston Lawyers Association, Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Bar Association, Texas Young Professionals, Houston Young Professionals, The Quillian Center, National Association of Home Builders, Texas Association of Builders, Greater Houston Builder’s Association, Producers Guild of America and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Kevin Murray practices in all areas of civil litigation with a high concentration in personal injury, employment and real estate law. In the past, Murray formed a strategic relationship with KPRC Channel 2 Houston in an effort to inform the general public regarding employment law. Murray is admitted to practice law in the United States Supreme Court, United States Tax Court, The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, The United States District Court for the Southern, Northern, Eastern and Western Districts of Texas and all Texas State Courts.

Murray represents individuals who have been seriously injured, as well as the families of individuals who have been killed because of someone else's negligence. Specifically, Murray represents individuals in the areas of auto accidents, defective drugs, defective products, workplace accidents, maritime accidents, OSHA refinery process safety management compliance, petrochemical and refinery accidents.

Murray represents clients in matters involving Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and Chapter 451 of the Texas Labor Code (workers' compensation retaliation).

Murray also provides advice to clients regarding severance agreements, covenants not to compete, non-solicitation agreements, and confidentiality agreement. In addition, he represents clients before administrative agencies, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Department of Labor, and the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

CRAIN, CATON & JAMES, PC Wills, Trusts & Estates

Crain, Caton & James’ Sarah Patel Pacheco and her team of H Texas “Top Lawyers” focus their practice on representing trustees, executors, beneficiaries and other individuals in complex estate, trust and fiduciary matters, including litigation and administration. Sarah is Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and the co-author of three legal treatises regarding estate, trust and guardianship matters. She is repeatedly recognized for her expertise, including being named as one of the “Top 50 Female Attorneys in Texas” by Texas Monthly magazine and Best Lawyers’ Houston Litigation – Trust & Estates “Lawyer of the Year” in 2014 and 2017. Regarded as an authority in her field, Sarah is frequently called upon to give lectures and presentations to her peers. Sarah believes that her success

is attributable to her passion for this area of the law, and to assembling a team of outstanding professionals who are committed to old-fashioned hard work.

Senior Associate Chasity W. Cooper is Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law, and concentrates on estate planning, administration and related tax issues, while Senior Associate Kathleen Tanner Beduze advises clients in all aspects of fiduciary, estate and trust litigation, as well as guardianship proceedings. Kathleen was named a Texas Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2016 and 2017, as well as a Top Attorney in Texas by Texas Monthly in 2016 and 2017. Associate Joshua R. Flores focuses his practice on all aspects of estate, trust and fiduciary litigation, along with business and commercial litigation. Josh was named a Texas Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2017.

CRAIN, CATON & JAMES, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 713-752-8630 www.craincaton.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

SEATED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: JOSHUA R. FLORES AND SARAH PATEL PACHECO. STANDING FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: CHASITY W. COOPER AND KATHLEEN TANNER BEDUZE

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 CIVIL LITIGATION, MASS TORT/ TOXIC TORT, PERSONAL INJURY Paul Griffin Bunnell Williams Kherkher Hart & Boundas, LLP 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 CIVIL LITIGATION, PERSONAL INJURY Joseph Alexander 500 Dallas St., Ste. 3450 Houston, TX 77002 Sherie Beckman 500 Dallas St., Ste. 3450 Houston, TX 77002 Chad Dunn Brazil & Dunn 4201 Cypress Creek Pkwy Ste. 530 Houston, TX 77068 Janie Jordan 500 Dallas St., Ste. 3450 Houston, TX 77002 CIVIL LITIGATION: DEFENSE Reagan Brown Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 CIVIL TRIAL LAW Keith M. Remels Dow Golub Remels & Beverly, LLP 9 Greenway Plz Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77046 CLASS ACTION LITIGATION Sharla Frost 5847 San Felipe St Houston, TX 77057 COMMERCAIL LITIGATION Richard L. Fason Patterson, Boyd & Lowery, PC 2101 Louisiana St Houston, TX 77002 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LITIGATION Mary Frazier Gardere Wynne Sewell 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77002 COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Fields Alexander 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 4500 Houston, TX 77010 Zach Allie Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Kent Altsuler 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056 John B Beckworth Watt Beckworth Thompson & Henneman, LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 John G. Bissell Strong Pipkin Bissell Ledyard 4900 Woodway Dr., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 John G. Bissell Strong Pipkin Bissell & Ledyard, LLP 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77010 Hilary Borow Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Kiwi Camara Camara & Sibley, LLP 2800 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 5220 Houston, TX 77056 Ricardo G. Cedillo Davis Cedillo & Mendoza Inc 755 E Mulberry Ave Ste. 500 San Antonio, TX 78212 Armando S. Chiu Phillips & Akers, PC 3200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 3200 Houston, TX 77027 C. Vance Christopher Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Rachel G Clingman Sutherland Asbill & Brennan, LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77010 Mark Counts Counts Bonacci & Smith 4177 Louetta Rd., Ste. 1 Spring, TX 77388

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Juvie A. Cruz Pagel, Davis & Hill, PC 1415 Louisiana St. Fl 22 Houston, TX 77002

Courtney Palm Kane Russell Coleman & Logan, PC 919 Milam St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77002

Dan D'Acquisto D'Acquisto, PLLC 9219 Katy Fwy Ste. 120 Houston, TX 77024

Kent Radford Camara & Sibley 2800 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 5220 Houston, TX 77056

E. F. Mano Deayala Buck Keenan, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002

Christopher M. Raney Zimmerman Axelrad Meyer Stern & Wise, PC 3040 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056

Brannon C. Dillard Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Paul Dobrowski 4601 Washington Ave Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77007 Ty Doyle Smyser Kaplan Veselka LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002 John F. Easton 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77010 Charles R. Eskridge III Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Cory S. Fein 712 Main St., Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77002 Janet G. Garza Schirrmeister Diaz Arrastia Brehm, LLP 700 Milam St. Fl 10 Houston, TX 77002 George R. Gibson Nathan Sommers Jacobs, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056 H. Lee Godfrey Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Darrell R. Greer Kane Russell Coleman & Logan, PC 919 Milam St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77002 Geoffrey L. Harrison Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Kenneth H. Holt The Holt Law Firm 7322 Southwest Fwy Ste. 1818 Houston, TX 77074 Dean D. Hunt Baker & Hostetler, LLP 811 Main St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Caroline E. Jacobs Buck Keenan, LLP 2229 San Felipe St., Ste. 1000 Houston, TX 77019 Jerry K. Johnson II Fleming & Associates, LLP 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77056 Christopher Jordan Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr PC 700 Milam St., Ste. 2700 Houston, TX 77002 Kristin Kruse Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Claire S. Kugler Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 Michael A. Lee Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002

Robert Rivera, Jr. Susman Godfrey, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77002 Rocky Robinson Andrews Kurth, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 4200 Houston, TX 77002 Anna Rotman Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 William W. Russell 700 Milam St. Fl 10 Houston, TX 77002 Edgar Saldivar Boyar Miller 4265 San Felipe St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77027 Adam Schiffer 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 Charles W. Schwartz 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 6800 Houston, TX 77002 Colin Sherrod Henke Law Firm LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 George T Shipley Shipley Snell Montgomery, LLP 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 4600 Houston, TX 77002 Joe Sibley Camara & Sibley, LLP 2800 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 5220 Houston, TX 77056 Paul Simon Simon Herbert McClelland & Stiles, LLP 3411 Richmond Ave Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77046 Russell Smith Ware Jackson Lee Chambers 2929 Allen Pkwy Ste. 39 Houston, TX 77019 Amy L. Snell Shipley Snell Montgomery, LLP 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 4600 Houston, TX 77002 Thane Tyler "Ty" Sponsel III Sponsel Miller Greenberg 50 Briar Hollow Ln Ste. 370W Houston, TX 77027 Clay M. Steely Porter & Hedges, LLP 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002 John Stevenson Stevenson & Murray 24 Greenway Plz Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77046 Bruce R. Wilkin Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 David Wynne Wynne & Wynne Law Firm 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 2010 Houston, TX 77002 COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, CONSTRUCTION

Richard L Macon Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, LLP 300 Convent St., Ste. 1500 San Antonio, TX 78205

Shannon Quadros Kilmer Crosby & Walker PLLC 5100 Westheimer Rd. Fl 2 Houston, TX 77056

Diana E. Marshall Marshall & Lewis, LLP 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 450 Houston, TX 77002

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, OIL AND GAS

Michael D. Myers McClanahan Myers Espey, LLP 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77098 D. John Neese, Jr. Hawash Meade Gaston Neese & Cicack, LLP 2118 Smith St Houston, TX 77002 Eileen O'Neill Ware Jackson Lee Chambers 2929 Allen Pkwy Ste. 39 Houston, TX 77019

Robert Woods Yetter Coleman LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77010 COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW Robert E. Morse, III Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, OIL AND GAS, PERSONAL INJURY Ernest "Butch" Boyd Butch Boyd Law Firm 2905 Sackett St Houston, TX 77098 COMMERCIAL LITIGATION, PERSONAL INJURY Scott G Burdine Hagans Burdine Montgomery & Rustay, PC 3200 Travis St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77006 William G Hagans Hagans Burdine Montgomery & Rustay, PC 3200 Travis St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77006 Jennifer B Rustay Hagans Burdine Montgomery & Rustay, PC 3200 Travis St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77006 COMMERICAL CIVIL AND APPELLATE LITIGATION Godwin Lewis 1331 Lamar St., Ste. 1665 Houston, TX 77010 CONDEMNATION & IMMINENT DOMAIN Charles B. Mcfarland Joyce & McFarland, LLP 910 Louisiana St., Ste. 5000 Houston, TX 77002

Bill Mcdonald Thompson & Knight LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002 Bob Rapfogel Rap Firm 4200 Montrose Blvd Ste. 430 Houston, TX 77006 CORPORATE FINANCE & SECURITIES David Loev The Loev Law Firm, PC 6300 West Loop S Ste. 280 Bellaire, TX 77401 Walter J. Smith Baker Botts, LLP 910 Louisiana St., Ste. 3000 Houston, TX 77002 CORPORATE FINANCE; MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS Thomas Brandt Latham & Watkins 811 Main St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77002 Mark Hughes Corporate 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 4145 Houston, TX 77010 CORPORATE LAW Marc H. Folladori Mayer Brown, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3400 Houston, TX 77002

CONSTRUCTION

Jason L. Fowell 1298 N Post Oak Rd Houston, TX 77055

Heather Asselin Coats Rose, PC 9 Greenway Plz Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77046

Ben Leibman Baker Hughes 2929 Allen Pkwy Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77019

Jason L. Davis Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

Saeed Tellawi AMARAL TELLAWI LAW 2519 South Blvd # 2 Houston, TX 77098

John Engvall Engvall & York, LLP 1811 Bering Dr., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77057

CORPORATE, CORPORATE FINANCE; MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

William K. Luyties Lorance & Thompson, PC 2900 North Loop W Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77092 Debra Norris 4306 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 205 Houston, TX 77006 Allison J. Snyder Porter & Hedges, LLP 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002

Marissa Arreola Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 Stuart Miller Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 CORPORATE, CORPORATE FINANCE; MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS, MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS

William Sudela Crady, Jewett & McCulley, LLP 2727 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77019

Bryan W. Baker Baker Williams Matthiesen LLP 1177 West Loop S Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77027

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

CORPORATE, CORPORATE FINANCE; MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS, REAL ESTATE

William "Bill" Andrews Andrews Myers, PC 3900 Essex Ln Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77027 Gregory Cokinos Cokinos Bosien & Young 1221 Lamar St. Fl 16 Houston, TX 77010 CONSTRUCTION, CONSUMER LAW, CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI, INSURANCE, PERSONAL INJURY Ronald Desimone DeSimone Law Office 3120 Southwest Fwy Ste. 555 Houston, TX 77098 CONSTRUCTION, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, HEALTH LAW, INSURANCE, MASS TORT/ TOXIC TORT Michael Williams Brown Sims, PC 1177 West Loop S Fl 10 Houston, TX 77027 CONSUMER LAW Dana Karni Karni Law Firm, PC 4635 Southwest Fwy Ste. 645 Houston, TX 77027 Richard Tomlinson Law Office of Richard Tomlinson 3100 Timmons Ln Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77027 CORPORATE Will Anderson Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002

Ronald Wright MCCATHERN, PLLC 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77027 CORPORATE, ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, OIL AND GAS Paula Johnson Phillips 66 3010 Briarpark Dr Houston, TX 77042 CORPORATE, FRANCHISE AND DEVELOPMENT Michael J. Longoria International Center For Entrepreneurial Development, Inc. 12715 Telge Rd Cypress, TX 77429 CORPORATE, REAL ESTATE F. Maxwell Evans Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 Jeffrey I. Horowitz Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 CORPORATE, REAL ESTATE, TAX LAW Charles D. Maynard, Jr. Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

Personal Injury/Business LEFT TO RIGHT: NICK C. NICHOLS, BRANT J. STOGNER,

RANDALL O. SORRELS, MUHAMMAD S. AZIZ, BENNY AGOSTO, JR.

ABRAHAM, WATKINS, NICHOLS, SORRELS, AGOSTO & AZIZ 800 Commerce Street Houston, TX 77002 713-222-7211 www.abrahamwatkins.com

Partners with 132 Years of Experience Abraham Watkins - 66 Years Old Abraham Watkins continues to provide outstanding representation to their clients, achieving successful results in cases involving everything from wrongful death in motor vehicle and 18-wheeler crashes, workplace and maritime injuries, explosions, fires, defective products, and medical malpractice cases to business disputes.

Call them today for a free consultation.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

ABRAHAM, WATKINS, NICHOLS, SORRELS, AGOSTO & AZIZ

More than $1 Billion in Settlements and Verdicts

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 CORPORATE, TAX LAW, WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES David M. Washburn PO Box 25250 Houston, TX 77265 CRIMINAL DEFENSE Brian Ayson Ayson Law Firm 2200 North Loop W Ste. 304 Houston, TX 77018 Matthew B. Alford Stradley, Chernoff & Alford, LLP 917 Franklin St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002 Keith Allen Law Office of Keith G. Allen 2360 County Road 94 Ste. 106 Pearland, TX 77584 Alan J. Baer Johnson, Johnson, & Baer Law Firm, PC 1018 Preston St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77002 Tom Berg 600 Travis St., Ste. 1900 Houston, TX 77002 J.L. Carpenter 1506 Winding Way, Ste. 504 Friendswood, TX 77546 Wilvin J. Carter Law Office of Wilvin Carter 7324 Southwst Fwy. Ste. 985 Houston, TX 77074 Edward M. Chernoff 917 Franklin St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002 Myron G. Davis 723 Main St., Ste. 704 Houston, TX 77002 Danny Easterling Easterling & Easterling P.C. 1018 Preston St. Fl 6 Houston, TX 77002 Collin Evans Houston Criminal Lawyer 917 Franklin St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002 John T. Floyd III John T. Floyd Law Firm 2000 Smith St Houston, TX 77002 Matthew Gallagher 917 Franklin St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77002 Charles T. Ganz 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77007 Kurt S. Hopke Kurt S. Hopke, Attorney At Law 8303 Southwest Fwy Ste. 545 Houston, TX 77074 Charles Johnson 815 Walker St., Ste. 1047 Houston, TX 77002 L. Jeth Jones II The Jones Law Firm 1 Greenway Plz Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77046 Robert Alton Jones 2211 Norfolk St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77098

Phil J. Morin The Morin Law Firm 118 W Sealy St Alvin, TX 77511 Robert Pelton Pelton Law Offices 4001 N Shepherd Dr., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77018 Charles H. Portz Portz & Portz 1314 Texas St., Ste. 1001 Houston, TX 77002 David Reddell 800 Sawyer St Houston, TX 77007 Joe Ray Rodriguez Rodriguez & Associates, PC 1512 Alabama St Houston, TX 77004 David Michael Ryan Ryan & Associates 6161 Savoy Dr., Ste. 1116 Houston, TX 77036 Catherine Samaan Gill, Revack, Samaan & Muller 6575 West Loop S Ste. 600 Bellaire, TX 77401

Alexander M. Gurevich The Law Offices of Alexander M. Gurevich 3401 Houston Ave Houston, TX 77009 Brittany Carroll Lacayo Law Office of Brittany Carroll Lacayo 212 Stratford St Houston, TX 77006 David R. Lee David R. Lee And Associates 515 Louisiana St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77002 Herman Martinez Madrid, Martinez & Associates 2800 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 6030 Houston, TX 77056 John P. Papantonakis The Law Offices of Johnny P. Papantonakis 1201 S Shepherd Dr Houston, TX 77019

Kyle R. Sampson 770 S Post Oak Ln Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77056

Jim Peacock Peacock Law Firm 112 E 4th St Houston, TX 77007

Gus A. Saper Mallett, Saper, & Berg, LLP 4306 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 400B Houston, TX 77006

Anthony R. Segura 77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste. 565 Sugar Land, TX 77478

Randy Schaffer 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3100 Houston, TX 77010

Mark Thiessen The Thiessen Law Firm 1221 Studewood St Houston, TX 77008

Paul A. Schiffer 2211 Norfolk St., Ste. 610 Houston, TX 77098 Helen Simotas Law Office of Helen Simotas 929 Preston St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77002 Ronald H. Tonkin Law Offices of Ronald Tonkin 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1080 Houston, TX 77019 Lloyd Van Oostenrijk 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 Mekisha Jane Walker Walker Law Houston 1714 Sunset Blvd Houston, TX 77005 Todd Ward 1018 Preston St. Fl 7 Houston, TX 77002 Michael F. Westbrook II The Westbrook Firm, PC 3730 Kirby Dr., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77098 John Zaid Criminal Defense 1350 Nasa Pkwy Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77058 Joe I. Zaid John K. Zaid & Associates, PLLC 1350 Nasa Pkwy Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77058 CRIMINAL DEFENSE, CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

John J. Kahn The Kahn Law Firm, PC 2225 County Road 90, Ste. 109 Pearland, TX 77584

Jim E. Lavine Zimmermann, Lavine, Zimmermann, & Sampson, PC 770 S Post Oak Ln Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77056

Ibrahim E Khawaja Khawaja Law Firm PLLC 202 Travis St., Ste. 400A Houston, TX 77002

Edward Mallett Mallett Saper Berg, LLP 4306 Yoakum Blvd Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77006

Tom Martin Law Offices of Thomas A. Martin 1018 Preston St., Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77002

Guy Womack Guy L. Womack & Associates, PC 609 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Linda M. Mazzagatti 6750 West Loop S Ste. 235 Bellaire, TX 77401

CRIMINAL DEFENSE, FAMILY LAW

Larry P Mcdougal, Sr. Law Office of Larry McDougal 809 Houston St Richmond, TX 77469

Jay Cohen 917 Franklin St., Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77002

Cruz Cervantes Cervantes & Cervantes, PC 8400 Howard Dr Houston, TX 77017 Rachel Fraser 4119 Montrose Blvd Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77006

Charles Thompson Thompson And De Leef 4119 Montrose Blvd Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77006 George Tyson Tyson Law Firm 1714 Sunset Blvd Houston, TX 77005 Geoff Womack Guy L. Womack & Associates, PC 609 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007 Terry W. Yates Terry W. Yates & Associates 6750 West Loop S Ste. 845 Bellaire, TX 77401 Shahin Zamir The Law Office of Shahin Zamir, PLLC 405 Main St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002 Jonathan A. Zendeh Del 1813 61st St., Ste. 101 Galveston, TX 77551 CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/ DWI & WHITE COLLAR Sam Adamo, Jr. 3200 Travis St. Fl 4 Houston, TX 77006 Dustin King Law Office of Dustin King 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77007 Brent Mayr Law Office of Brent Mayr, PC 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77007 Todd Overstreet Law Office of Todd Overstreet 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77007 Robert A. Scardino Scardino & Fazel, PLLC 1004 Congress St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002 James Randall Smith 1201 S Shepherd Dr Houston, TX 77019 CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR Colin B. Amann Ketterman & Amann, PLLC 2000 Smith St Houston, TX 77002

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

Catherine Baen Catherine Bean Law Firm 1018 Preston St. Fl 7 Houston, TX 77002

David Mitcham 1314 Texas St., Ste. 1314 Houston, TX 77002

Keith Allen Law Offices of Keith G. Allen 7924 Broadway St., Ste. 108 Pearland, TX 77581

Dane Ball Smyser Kaplan Veselka LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002

G Patrick Monks Monks Law Firm, PC 4615 Southwest Fwy Ste. 520 Houston, TX 77027

James "Jim" Butler The Butler Law Firm 11500 Northwest Frwy, Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77092

Christopher J. Downey The Downey Law Firm 2814 Hamilton St Houston, TX 77004

Gary S. Miller Miller Law Group, PLLC 412 Main St., Ste. 360 Houston, TX 77002

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Paul H. Doyle The Law Offices of Paul Doyle 600 Travis St., Ste. 4700 Houston, TX 77002 Sadiyah Evangelista Law Office of Sadiyah Evangelista 3402 Dowling St., Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77004 R. Trent Gaither Law Offices of Trent Gaither 314 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77024 Matt Hennessy Deguerin, Dickson, Hennessy & Ward 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77002 Edward A. Mallett Mallett Saper, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 1900 Houston, TX 77002 Gerardo S. Montalvo Montalvo Law Firm, PLLC 1111 North Loop W Ste. 820 Houston, TX 77008 Heather Peterson Nugent & Peterson 402 Main St., Ste. 8 Houston, TX 77002 Grant M. Scheiner Law Office of Grant M. Scheiner, PC 2211 Norfolk St., Ste. 735 Houston, TX 77098 George Tyson Law Office of George H. Tyson, Jr 2120 Welch St Houston, TX 77019 Jack B. Zimmermann Zimmermann Lavine & Zimmermann, PC 770 S Post Oak Ln Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77056 CRIMINAL LAW Tyrone C. Moncriffe Moncriffe, Knowles, Muharib & Associates 1314 Texas St., Ste. 1112 Houston, TX 77002 CRIMINAL/CIVIL LITIGATION Jerry The Patchen Law Firm 1400 Congress St Houston, TX 77002 DISPUTE RESOLUTION

ENERGY & NATURAL RESOURCES John C. Ale Skadden Arps Slate Meagher Flom, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 6800 Houston, TX 77002 Christine Z. Carbo Strasburger & Price, LLP 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77010 James Freeman Zabel Freeman 1135 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77008 Ronald Lewis 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 450 Houston, TX 77002 Paul B. Turner 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77010 ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW William Jackson Jackson Gilmour & Dobbs, PC 3900 Essex Ln Ste. 700 Houston, TX 77027 ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES, OIL AND GAS Julie Pradel Phillips 66 3010 Briarpark Dr Houston, TX 77042 ENERGY LITIGATION James Leahy 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77002 ENVIRONMENTAL Kelly Brown Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Nicholas Deutsch Shook, Hardy & Bacon L L P 600 Travis St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002 Carol E. Dinkins Vinson & Elkins, LLP 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002 Mary W. Koks 700 Milam St., Ste. 2700 Houston, TX 77002

Timothy Fjeldal 333 T C Jester Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Timothy Wilkins Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 2900 Houston, TX 77002

EDUCATION LAW

ESTATE PLANNING

Susan H. Soto 6300 West Loop S Ste. 405 Bellaire, TX 77401

Brett Berly Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St. Fl 14 Houston, TX 77002

ELDER LAW R. Scott Smith Law Office of R. Scott Smith 711 W Bay Area Blvd Ste. 540 Webster, TX 77598 Sharon C. Stodghill Law Office of Sharon C. Stodghill 952 Echo Ln Ste. 330 Houston, TX 77024 Wesley E. Wright Wright Abshire, Attorneys 4949 Bissonnet St Bellaire, TX 77401 ELDER LAW, WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES Sidney J. Braquet BRAQUET LAW FIRM 1324 Cortlandt St. Apt 1 Houston, TX 77008 EMPLOYMENT & LABOR

Stephanie Donaho 600 Travis St., Ste. 2800 Houston, TX 77002 Mary Galligan Galligan & Manning 802 W Alabama St Houston, TX 77006 Ronald Lipman Lipman & Associates, PC 2719 Colquitt St Houston, TX 77098 FAMILY LAW Amy Allen 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77056 Susan G. Alston Alston & Engelhaupt 1100 Nasa Pkwy Ste. 201 Houston, TX 77058

Shauna Clark Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010

Tony Alvarez 10497 Town And Country Way Ste. 700 Houston, TX 77024

Carter Crow Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010

Reagan Armstrong 12777 Jones Rd., Ste. 245 Houston, TX 77070

G. Scott Fiddler Fiddler & Associates, PC 1004 Congress St., 3rd Fl. Houston, TX 77002 A. Martin Wickliff 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 2900 Houston, TX 77010

Maisie Barringer 2 Greenway Plz Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77046 Andrew J Bolton Bolton & Bolton 21 Waterway Ave Ste. 300 Spring, TX 77380 Scott Brown Scott M. Brown & Associates 121 E Myrtle St Angleton, TX 77515

Paul Calzada Garza & Associates 4545 Bissonnet St., Ste. 230 Bellaire, TX 77401 Patricia Cantu 8433 Katy Fwy Ste. 230 Houston, TX 77024 Jennifer Caras 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 Christopher Carmona The Fulton Law Group PLLC 2855 Mangum Rd., Ste. 413 Houston, TX 77092 Lorraine Cervantes 8400 Howard Dr Houston, TX 77017 Larry Chamberlin 3724 FM 1960 Road W., Ste. 222 Houston, TX 77068 George Clifton 500 W Main St Tomball, TX 77375 George M. Clifton 500 Main St Houston, TX 77002 Maisha Colter 1001 Texas St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002 Vonda Covington The Covington Law Firm 905 Front St Richmond, TX 77469 Melissa A. Dennis 2770 N. FM 565, Ste. 6 Mont Belvieu, TX 77523 Papa M. Dieye 1201 Prince St Houston, TX 77008 Stefanie Drew Holmes Diggs & Eames 5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77007 Lauren Durso 1445 North Loop WeSt., Ste. 840 Houston, TX 77008 Gardner Eastland 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 444 Houston, TX 77098 Susan Edmonson 2833 Nasa Pkwy Ste. A Seabrook, TX 77586 Tiffany Elkins Elkins Law, PC 5225 Katy Fwy Ste. 605 Houston, TX 77007 Jack H. Emmott III Gray Reed & McGraw 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77056 Sherri Evans Koonsfuller, PC 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024 Thea M. Fabio Fabio & Merrill 12 Greenway Plz Ste. 101 Houston, TX 77046 Leonel "Leo" Farias II The Farias Law Firm 2060 North Loop W Ste. 150 Houston, TX 77018 Karleana Farias The Farias Law Firm 2060 North Loop W Ste. 150 Houston, TX 77018 A. Michelle Fulton 319 South Austin St. Webster, TX 77598 Anna Frase 1415 North Loop W Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77008 Scott Frase 1415 North Loop W Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77008 Gina Gilstrap 1908 N Memorial Way Houston, TX 77007 Daniel N. Gray Law Office of Daniel N. Gray 1720 Bissonnet St Houston, TX 77005 John K. Grubb 4600 Post Oak Place Dr., Ste. 301 Houston, TX 77027 Shailey Gupta-Brietzke 112 E Forrest Ln Deer Park, TX 77536 Frank A. Hale Law Office of Frank A. Hale 3668 Burke Rd Pasadena, TX 77504

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

NAIMEH SALEM

Immigration Law

NAIMEH SALEM GONZALEZ OLIVIERI LLC 2200 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77098 713-481-3040 www.gonzalezolivierillc.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Mrs. Salem is an immigration expert and Managing Shareholder of Gonzalez Olivieri, LLC law firm. She earned her JD degree from the Interamerican University School of Law, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She ranked in the top 10 students of her law school and graduated magna cum laude. Mrs. Salem is a member of the State Bar of Texas, and she is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, ABA and AILA. She is well-versed in all aspects of immigration. She recently won several groundbreaking asylum cases, defending victims of religious persecution and human exploitation, and many other victories, both before the Immigration Courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals. She has received notoriety for her innovative litigation and appellate victories. Mrs. Salem states, "I take pride in tackling the most challenging immigration matters—even those deemed impossible." As an attorney, Mrs. Salem’s compassion for others and dedication to the field shines through in all aspects of her work.

BRIAN AYSON

Criminal Defense

BRIAN AYSON AYSON LAW FIRM 2200 N. Loop W., Ste. 304 Houston, TX 77018 832-304-2176 www.aysonlaw.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

“In addition to knowing the law and being well-prepared, you also have to be able to listen to your clients,” argues Brian Ayson, the founder of Ayson Law Firm. “We are attorneys and counselors. Fighting for your clients while helping them through a difficult time is what attorneys should strive for.”

It is Ayson’s devotion to his clients, combined with his tenacity in the courtroom, that has catapulted the firm into one of the city’s up-and-coming practices for personal injury and criminal defense. The firm handles criminal cases, ranging from DWI to murder, and personal injury matters, including automobile and 18-wheeler accidents.

For Ayson, no case is too big—or too small. “I have helped many people charged with a variety of misdemeanor and felony cases,” he says. Not surprisingly, Ayson holds a Superb rating on Avvo, and has a peer-review rating of 4.5/5 on Martindale Law Directory.

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

ALTON TODD & JEFFREY TODD Personal Injury

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

We are trial lawyers that get results where it matters the most: the courtroom. For more than 40 years, we have represented individuals and families that have been greatly affected by serious car, boating, and tractor-trailer accidents, medical malpractice, product and premises liability, and on-the-job accidents, including those at construction sites, refineries, factories, or on the railroad.

Alton C. Todd was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1971 after earning his law degree at Southern Methodist University.

He is among the fewer than two percent of Texas attorneys Board Certified in both Personal Injury and Civil Trial Law. He is a member and Diplomate of the American Board of Trial Advocates and admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals, the U.S. District Court for the Northern and Southern Districts of Texas and Georgia.

Jeffrey N. Todd earned his law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1999, is admitted to practice law in Texas, New York, New Jersey and Georgia, and has also obtained several verdicts on behalf of injured individuals.

LAW FIRM OF ALTON C. TODD 312 Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546 281-992-8633 www.altontodd.com

TRAVERS & TRAVERS

Family Law, Appellate Law, Mediation "Our goal is to help clients through the most difficult times of their lives," says Sherrie Haussner Travers.

Providing superior legal representation in divorce and family law matters, Travers & Travers is a family of family lawyers.

These dynamic lawyers are family law leaders throughout Harris and Fort Bend Counties. From divorce, complex property cases, and custody disputes to mediation and appellate practice, Travers & Travers is experienced in all aspects of family law.

Travers & Travers is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell.

Both Mack and Sherrie are Martindale-Hubbell Preeminent Lawyers. Sherrie is board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

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MACK & SHERRIE TRAVERS TRAVERS & TRAVERS 20501 I-10 West, Ste. 124 Katy, TX 77450 281-492-2166 www.katylawyer.com // HT EX AS.COM

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ANNILEE TRAVERS REED, SHERRIE HAUSSNER TRAVERS, ALLISON TRAVERS HAMILTON, MACK J. TRAVERS

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

OSHA LIANG LLP

Intellectual Property Law Osha Liang congratulates its H Texas “Top Lawyers”!

ADVOCATES OF INNOVATION. Founded in 1998, Osha Liang is a Houston-based intellectual property firm assisting companies with legal and technical services involving patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. The firm also provides consulting services such as IP valuation and IP due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcies, and venture capital financing. With attorneys, engineers, and scientists who collectively speak more than 14 languages, and with four domestic offices as well as offices in France, Japan, and China, Osha Liang brings technical expertise, legal experience, and a global perspective to any IP matter. A list of industries and technologies served is available at oshaliang.com.

OSHA LIANG LLP 909 Fannin Street, Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 713-228-8600 www.oshaliang.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: JOHN MONTGOMERY, KEELIN HARGADON, CARLYN BURTON, AND ARON GRIFFITH FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: JEFF BERGMAN, SEEMA MEHTA, JOHN OSHA, TAMMY DUNN, AND TOM SCHERER

JIMMY WILLIAMSON Personal Injury

JIMMY WILLIAMSON WILLIAMSON & RUSNAK 4310 Yoakum Boulevard Houston, TX 77006 713-223-3330 www.williamsonrusnak.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

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2017

Congratulations to Jimmy Williamson for being selected

by H Texas magazine to its 2017 Houston’s Top Lawyers List.

Williamson & Rusnak handles serious personal injury, complex commercial litigation and breach of fiduciary duty cases.

Jimmy Williamson is a graduate of Rice University and the University of Houston Law Center. Mr. Williamson was honored to be one of ten lawyers asked to act as plaintiffs’ trial counsel in the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill liability case. He is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, as well as, the HTLA, the TTLA, and the AAJ. Mr. Williamson has been Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Personal Injury Trial Law since 1984.

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 Marcela Halmagean M Halmagean, PLLC 1800 Bering Dr., Ste. 280 Houston, TX 77057

Adam Morris Short carter morris 1177 West Loop S Houston, TX 77027

Allison Travers Hamilton Travers & Travers 20501 I-10 West, Ste. 124 Katy, TX 77450

John F. Nichols, Sr. Nichols Law, PLLC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 2975 Houston, TX 77010

Brendan J. Hammer KoonsFuller, PC 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024

George Oglesby The Oglesby Law Firm, PLLC 405 Main St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002

Robyn Harlin Pelton Law Offices 1610 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77006

Dora Olivo 515 S 5th St Richmond, TX 77469

Richard J. Tholstrup The Tholstrup Law Firm, LP 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002

Siomara Ramirez Pitre Kalish Law Office 26009 Budde Rd., Ste. A100 Spring, TX 77380

Robert L. Thomas The Thomas Law Firm 807 Houston St Richmond, TX 77469

Virginia Portz Law Office of Virginia L. Portz 212 Stratford St Houston, TX 77006

Caitlin Thorpe Skillern Law, PLLC 701 N Post Oak Rd., Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77024

John Powell III Powell Law Firm 2734 Sunrise Blvd Ste. 202 Pearland, TX 77584

Michael D. Tracton 12920 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 140 Sugar Land, TX 77478

Jimmie P. Price Price & Price 101 Simonton St Conroe, TX 77301

Mack J. Travers Travers & Travers 20501 I-10 West, Ste. 124 Katy, TX 77450

Mary K. Quinn The Law Office of Mary K. Quinn 1314 Texas St., Ste. 1515 Houston, TX 77002

Sherrie Haussner Travers Travers & Travers 20501 I-10 West, Ste. 124 Katy, TX 77450

Janet Heppard University of Houston Law Center 100 Law Ctr Houston, TX 77204 Heather M. Hughes Law Office of Heather M. Hughes 952 Echo Ln Ste. 475 Houston, TX 77024 Alex Hunt Hunt Law Firm, PLLC 24630 Kingsland Blvd Katy, TX 77494 Taylor Imel KoonsFuller, PC 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024 Golda R. Jacob Golda R. Jacob & Associates, PC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1500 Houston, TX 77002 Bob Kalish Kalish Law Office 25907 Oak Ridge Dr Spring, TX 77380 Dan Kirby 2015 Crocker St Houston, TX 77006 Marion Kruse Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 W. Marion Kruse Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 Stacey A. Lafitte Law Offices of Stacey A. Lafitte, PC 515 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 600 Houston, Texas 77027 Lacy LaFour LaFour Law Firm, PC 515 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77027 TC Langford Langford Law Office 4313 Milam St Bryan, TX 77801 Diana Larson Larson Law Office, PLLC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 Erik Larson Larson Law Office, PLLC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 Daniel Chung Lee Family Law and Personal injury 1305 Prairie St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002 Lindsey Lewis Ramos Law Group, PLLC 1214 Miramar St Houston, TX 77006 Robert L. Lewis 5625 Fm 1960 Rd. W Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77069 Betty J. Luke South Texas College of Law 1303 San Jacinto St Houston, TX 77002 Richard A Lybarger Lybarger Law Firm 3 Riverway Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77056 Douglas "Woody" Lyons Lyons & Marek 14505 Torrey Chase Blvd Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77014 Jeanne C. Mcdowell 511 Lovett Blvd Houston, TX 77006 Richard Mintz Law Offices of Richard Mintz 17 S Briar Hollow Ln Ste. 404 Houston, TX 77027

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Dannielle Sims 112 E Forrest Ln Deer Park, TX 77536 Dennis M. Slate 112 E Forrest Ln. Deer Park, TX 77536 Jacqueline Smith Jacqueline Smith & Associates, PC 735 Yale St Houston, TX 77007

Barry K. Radcliffe Schwab & Radcliffe, PC 700 Gemini St., Ste. 210 Houston, TX 77058

Sam Veenstra The Veenstra Law Firm P.L.L.C 1350 Nasa Pkwy Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77058

Mary E. Ramos Ramos Law Firm 1214 Miramar St Houston, TX 77006

Ruth Vernier Vernier & Associates 2441 High Timbers Dr., Ste. 110 The Woodlands, TX 77380

Annilee Travers Reed Travers & Travers 20501 I-10 West, Ste. 124 Katy, TX 77450

Truett Vestal Easterling & Easterling, PC 1018 Preston St. Fl 6 Houston, TX 77002

Pat Regnier Paul Regnier 770 S Post Oak Ln Ste. 340 Houston, TX 77056

Nicole Voyles Tindall England, PC 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1550 Houston, TX 77056

William C. Rice, Jr. Rice & Webb 28250 Fm 2978 Rd., Ste. 324 Magnolia, TX 77354

Lauren Waddell Fullenweider Wilhite 4265 San Felipe St., Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77027

Gregory Rincon Rincon Law Firm, PLLC 2947 Broadway St., Ste. 200 Pearland, TX 77581

Patricia Wicoff Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024

Marian S. Rosen 5065 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 840 Houston, TX 77056 Julie Rosete Ramos Law Group, PLLC 1214 Miramar St Houston, TX 77006 Shawn Rudisel Rudisel Law Firm 1415 North Loop W Ste. 910 Houston, TX 77008 Barbara K. Runge Barbara K. Runge 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 920 Houston, TX 77005 George A. Rustay Looper Reed & McGraw, PC 1300 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77056 Ryan Salfiti Ryan G. Salfiti 131 Brooks St., Ste. 400 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Katherine Scardino 3730 Kirby Dr., Ste. 1120 Houston, TX 77098 Barbara Lynch Schnack 1310 Prairie St., Ste. 700 Houston, TX 77002 Cali Schwarz 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 825 Houston, TX 77098 Carl J Selesky 5225 Katy Fwy Ste. 605 Houston, TX 77007 Stefani Shapiro 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 J. Lindsey Short, Jr. Short Carter Morris, LLP 1177 West Loop S Ste. 700 Houston, TX 77027

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Randall Wilhite Fullenweider Wilhite, PC 4265 San Felipe St., Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77027 Tasha Mcinnis Wilson Jacqueline Smith & Associates, PC 735 Yale St Houston, TX 77007 Douglas Ray York The York Law Firm 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77098 Gary J. Zimmerman Zimmerman Axelrad Meyer Stern & Wise, PC 3040 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056

Qiana S. Manns Manns Law Office PLLC 3402 Dowling St., Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77004 Matthew Skillern Skillern Law PLLC 701 N Post Oak Rd., Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77024 FAMILY LAW, MEDIATION, WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES Shirley A Mitchell Shirley Mitchell Law PC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 FAMILY LAW, TRAFFIC TICKET DEFENSE Michael Villasana VILLASANA LAW FIRM 2016 Main St., Ste. 102 Houston, TX 77002 FAMILY LAW, WILLS, TRUSTS AND ESTATES George E. Thompson 1700 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77056 FINANCIAL RESTRUCTURING Mickey Sheinfeld King & Spalding, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002

Fran Brochstein Fran Brochstein LLC 8978 Kirby Dr Houston, TX 77054 Rose Cardenas 8978 Kirby Dr Houston, TX 77054

William Fong Fong & Associates, LLP 6588 Corporate Dr., Ste. 350 Houston, TX 77036

Camille Espey White Espey, PLLC PO Box 152949 Austin, TX 78715 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY Jeff Bergman Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010

Charles Foster 600 Travis St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77002

Carlyn A. Burton Osha Liang, LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010

Raed Gonzalez Gonzalez Olivieri, LLC 2200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77098

Tracy W. Druce Novak Druce & Quigg, LLP 1000 Louisiana St. Fl 53 Houston, TX 77002

Kathryn Karam Law Office of Kathryn N. Karam, PC 2200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77098

Tammy Dunn Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010

Carlos E Kepke Law Office of Carlos E Kepke 149 Sage Rd Houston, TX 77056

John W. Meyer Fosterquan, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77002

Henry "Bud" Ehrlich Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

GENERAL PRACTICE

Quynh H. Nguyen The Nguyen Law Group 10200 Richmond Ave Ste. 252 Houston, TX 77042

Richard D. Fladung Strasburger & Price, LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77010

D. Ferguson Mcniel 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002

Ruby Powers The Law Office of Ruby L. Powers 5225 Katy Fwy Ste. 202 Houston, TX 77007

Claudia Wilson Frost 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 2800 Houston, TX 77002

William Soffar 8006 Twin Hills Dr Houston, TX 77071

Paola Romero 17041 El Camino Real, Ste. 209 Houston, TX 77058

HEALTH CARE

Naimeh Salem Gonzalez Olivieri, LLC 2200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77098

Jason Hawks Hawks Law Firm 8625 Fm 2920 Rd Spring, TX 77379

Debbi Johnstone 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 HEALTH LAW Mark Armstrong Epstein Becker & Green 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3838 Houston, TX 77010 Gary W. Eiland King & Spalding, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 James A. Passamano Sufian & Passamano, LLP 712 Main St., Ste. 2130 Houston, TX 77002 Adam Robison King & Spalding LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 Ivan Wood Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010 HOMEOWNER ASSN LAW

Stephen C. Barth 2450 Louisiana St., Ste. 400 PMB 416 Houston, TX 77006

FAMILY LAW, MEDIATION

Tiaral's Figueroa-Kelly 7324 Southwest Fwy Ste. 925 Houston, TX 77074

INSURANCE, WORKERS COMPENSATION

FOREIGN TRUST PLANNING

FAMILY LAW, ADOPTION

Anne E. Kennedy Law Office of Anne E. Kennedy 539 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Oralia De Luna De Luna Law Offices 1627 Dunlavy St Houston, TX 77006

Karen Alvarado 820 Gessner Rd., Ste. 1075 Houston, TX 77024

Robb D. Edmonds Edmonds& Nolte, PC 2625 Bay Area Blvd Ste. 530 Houston, TX 77058

Tamara Lynne Simich 2500 Citywest Blvd Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77042

FAMILY LAW, IMMIGRATION

Shakira Cruz The Cruz Law Firm, PLLC 800 Commerce St., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77002

INSURANCE, PERSONAL INJURY

Hector J. Lopez 2401 Fountain View Dr., Ste. 910 Houston, TX 77057

Alvin L. Zimmerman Zimmerman Axelrad Meyer Stern & Wise, PC 3040 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056

Lennea Cannon Kerr, Hendershot & Cannon, PC 1800 Bering Dr., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77057

Magali Suarez Candler 600 Travis St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77002

HOSPITALITY LAW

Denis Braham Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Sebastian Simon 2500 E TC Jester Blvd Ste. 335 Houston, TX 77008 Adan G. Vega 122 Tuam St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77006 INSURANCE Steve D. Bain Bain & Barkley 14090 Southwest Fwy Ste. 450 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Robert Cunningham Roach & Newton, L L P 1111 Bagby St., Ste. 2650 Houston, TX 77002 Robert D. Green 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1930 Houston, TX 77002 Scott Hunziker 26619 Interstate 45 Spring, TX 77380 Loren Jackson Williams Kherkher Hart & Boundas, LLP 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 Michael Johnston Johnston Legal Group 7838 Hillmont St Houston, TX 77040 Robert "Chip" Lane 6200 Savoy Dr., Ste. 1150 Houston, TX 77036

IMMIGRATION

John Michael Raborn Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002

Jonathan Amdur The Amdur Law Firm 5909 West Loop S Ste. 300 Bellaire, TX 77401

Ronald J. Restrepo 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002

Annie Banerjee 131 Brooks St., Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478

G. Byron Sims 1177 West Loop S Ste. 1000 Houston, TX 77027

Pamelia Barnett 7880 San Felipe St., Ste. 115 Houston, TX 77063

Justin Vandenbout Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St., Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77002

Brian K Bates 6260 Westpark Dr., Ste. 110 Houston, TX 77057

Aron Griffith Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 Keelin Hargadon Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 Greg Hasley Hasley Scarano, LLP 5252 Westchester St., Ste. 125 Houston, TX 77005 Gregory Hasley Hasley Scarano, LLP PO Box 25371 Houston, TX 77265 Lavonne Burke Hopkins Vinson & Elkins 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002 Sharon A. Israel Mayer Brown, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3400 Houston, TX 77002 John Keville 1111 Louisiana St. Fl 25 Houston, TX 77002 Robert J Mcaughan, Jr. 600 Travis St., Ste. 2800 Houston, TX 77002 Seema Mehta Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 John Montgomery Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 John Osha Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 Rajesh D. Patel 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 Collin Rose Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St. Fl 14 Houston, TX 77002 Tom Scherer Osha Liang LLP 909 Fannin St., Ste. 3500 Houston, TX 77010 Robert C. Shaddox Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

CHAMBERLAIN, HRDLICKA, WHITE, WILLIAMS & AUGHTRY The diversity of our Top Lawyers’ practice areas exemplifies the breadth, depth, and quality of legal services offered by Chamberlain Hrdlicka. Whether your needs are locally concentrated or extend internationally, our Firm has the necessary expertise to make your goals our mission.

BACK ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: RYAN CANTRELL (WILLS, TRUSTS, AND ESTATES); COLLIN ROSE (INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY); AND HABEEB I. GNAIM (TAX LAW) SEATED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: BRETT BERLY (ESTATE PLANNING); JUSTIN VANDENBOUT (INSURANCE); AND F. DANIEL KNIGHT (ADMIRALTY, MARITIME AND ENERGY)

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

CHAMBERLAIN, HRDLICKA, WHITE, WILLIAMS & AUGHTRY 1200 Smith St.,14 th Floor Houston, TX 77002 713-658-1818 www.chamberlainlaw.com

ROBERT NORTH

Property Litigation

ROBERT NORTH NORTH LAW, P.C. 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 1500 Houston, TX 77002 713-844-8030 www.northlawpc.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Engineer-turned-attorney Robert North combines his 20 years of legal and technical training with a practical approach to problem solving to provide effective solutions for the obstacles impacting his clients’ businesses. From traditional real estate transactions to litigation, North and his firm counsel land developers, community associations and other landowners on all issues affecting real property, including: title conveyances; easements and land encumbrances; contract, warranty, fair housing, restrictive covenant enforcement, real property finance and security agreements; lien priority and foreclosure; landlord/tenant disputes; and legislation affecting landowner rights. “I always look at the impact of my client’s decisions not just in the short-term, but also in the long-term, so that today’s decisions don’t become tomorrow’s disasters,” says North.

Among Robert North’s many distinctions include being selected as an H Texas Top Lawyer in Real Estate for 2014–2017, as well as being named to the Texas Rising Stars list from 2015-2017.

NORTHLAW a professional corporation

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

LOREN KLITSAS

KLITSAS, VERCHER & CAPPS, PC 550 Westcott, Ste. 570 Houston, TX 77007 713-862-1365 www.kv-law.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Personal Injury

Loren Klitsas, the managing partner of Klitsas, Vercher & Capps, has practiced law for 24 years, representing only victims. He and his team are proud to have settled over $200 million in cases in the history of the firm. Mr. Klitsas has worked on high profile cases such as the BP Oil Spill in 2010, the nationwide lawsuit versus Starbucks for labor violations, and has represented thousands of seriously injured people involved in catastrophic accidents. Mr. Klitsas is a member of the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates, the Multi Million Dollar Advocates, Texas Super Lawyer, and is AV rated, the highest rating a lawyer can receive from his peers. In addition, he is past President of Texas Trial Lawyer Advocates and was Vice President of Houston Trial Lawyers.

JAY COHEN

Criminal Defense | DWI Jay Cohen is a criminal defense attorney focusing on DWI and drug charges. Jay—a certified practitioner and instructor in standardized field sobriety testing—continually gets excellent results for his clients by knowing more than the state's experts, investigating every witness and staying current on the law. Jay is committed to staying one step ahead of the prosecutors. Certified in forensic chromatography for both alcohol and drugs, he can scrutinize every step in the crime lab’s analysis of the evidence. Jay analyzes his clients' cases from all angles to ensure the best outcome… Keeping innocent people innocent.

FOUNDING MEMBER: DUI Defense Lawyers Association. MEMBER: The College of the State Bar of Texas; National College for DUI Defense; Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association; Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association; National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers;

JAY COHEN CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY 917 Franklin St., Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77002 713-225-1900 www.cohendwilawyer.com

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2017

American Chemical Society.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

JOHN T. FLOYD

JULIA DEAN

Appellate Law | Estate Planning In the legal profession, the trust built between attorney and client is just as important as the legal expertise the attorney possesses. Julia Dean is an attorney who values each client and takes the time to ensure their concerns are addressed. Ms. Dean designs custom Estate Plans to suit the needs of each individual client. Not only are the practical elements of the Estate Plan addressed, Ms. Dean incorporates planning which focuses on the legacy of the individual or family. Ms. Dean explains, “We are unique in that we strive to not only create excellent legal work, but to care for and truly listen to our clients.”

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

THE DEAN LAW FIRM, PLLC 1650 Highway 6 South, Ste. 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-277-DEAN (3326) www.juliadeanlaw.com

WALSTON BOWLIN, LLP Trial Lawyers

Walston Bowlin, LLP is one of Houston’s top litigation boutiques, handling matters in Houston and across the country in places like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The firm represents individuals and some of the nation’s most respected international corporations alike, going toe-to-toe with the largest law firms in the United States. The firm often handles commercial litigation cases on contingency or hybrid fee arrangements. This flexibility, along with the depth and experience of the firm, makes Walston Bowlin an attractive option for clients large and small. In addition to its formidable commercial practice, the firm devotes itself to fighting for individuals injured by the negligence of others, whether in automobile accidents, workplace injuries, or products liability claims.

WALSTON BOWLIN, LLP 920 Memorial City Way, Ste. 425 Houston, TX 77024 713-300-8700 www.walstonbowlin.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: CLIFF WALSTON AND JOSH BOWLIN

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 Jennifer Sickler Thompson & Knight LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002

Melissa A. Moore Moore And Associates 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 675 Houston, TX 77002

Anastassios "Tasso" Triantaphy Triantaphyllis Law Firm 112 E 4th St Houston, TX 77007

Michael J. Muskat 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 590 Houston, TX 77002

Michael E. Wilson Slusser Wilson & Partridge, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4720 Houston, TX 77002 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION Michael F. Heim Heim, Payne & Chorush, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 6710 Houston, TX 77002 Miranda Y. Jones Heim, Payne & Chorush, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 6710 Houston, TX 77002 Douglas R. Wilson Heim, Payne & Chorush, LLP 9442 N Capital Of Texas Hwy Austin, TX 78759 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT LAW Tristan C. Robinson Law Offices of Tristan C. Robinson, PLLC 21411 Fossil Trails Dr Spring, TX 77388 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS Mark Baker Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 Jonathan T. Bickham Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Kevin O'Gorman 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010 LABOR & EMPLOYMENT Jospeh Y. Ahmad Ahmad Zavitsanos 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 3460 Houston, TX 77010 Lucy Anderson Henke Law Firm, LLP 3200 Southwest Fwy Fl 34 Houston, TX 77027 Fyodor D. Clay Ogletree Abbott Clay And Reed, LLP 12600 N Featherwood Dr., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77034 Charles A. Daughtry Daughtry & Jordan, PC 17044 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77058 Anne M. Finch Zimmerman Axelrad Meyer Stern & Wise, PC 3040 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056 Kevin Fulton The Fulton Law Office 2500 E Tc Jester Blvd Ste. 101 Houston, TX 77008 Melissa Garcia-Martin Garcia-Martin & Martin, PC 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 220 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Anne Gbenjo Gbenjo Law Group 8449 W Bellfort St., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77071 Dennis G. Herlong Law Office of Dennis Herlong 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 Ken Hughes The Hughes Law Firm 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 1950 Houston, TX 77002 Mark G. Lazarz Shellist Lazarz Slobin 11 Greenway Plz Ste. 1515 Houston, TX 77046 Mark J. Levine Levine & Associates, PC 4747 Bellaire Blvd Ste. 500 Bellaire, TX 77401 Jacob M. Monty Monty Partners, LLP 150 W Parker Rd., Ste. 301 Houston, TX 77076

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Eric H. Nelson Law Offices of Eric H. Nelson 3303 Main St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002 David Noll Hagan Noll & Boyle, LLC 820 Gessner Rd., Ste. 940 Houston, TX 77024 Erin E. O'Driscoll Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 Charles H. Peckham Peckham, PLLC 800 Bering Dr., Ste. 220 Houston, TX 77057 Stephen J. Roppolo Fisher & Phillips, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002

MARITIME Patrick Dennis Doyle Raizner 2402 Dunlavy St Houston, TX 77006 Dennis Mcelwee Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006 MASS & TOXIC TORT Karen Beyea-Schroeder Heard Robins Cloud LLP 2000 West Loop S Ste. 2200 Houston, TX 77027 John Boundas Williams Kherkher Hart & Boundas, LLP 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 Sejal K Brahmbhatt Williams Kherkher Hart & Boundas, LLP 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017

Tommy Proctor W. Thomas Proctor, PC 3555 Timmons Ln Ste. 950 Houston, TX 77027

Tiffany Melchers Cokinos Bosien & Young 1221 Lamar St. Fl 16 Houston, TX 77010

Jeff Befort Befort Law Firm, PC 2603 Augusta Dr., Ste. 810 Houston, TX 77057

Susan S. Soussan 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 2880 Houston, TX 77056

Dana F. Murphy Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

Robert J. Bench Fleming & Associates, LLP 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77056

Felix Phillips Baker Botts, LLP 910 Louisiana St Houston, TX 77002

Mark T. Berry Sammons & Berry, PC 4606 Cypress Creek Pkwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77069

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE Scott Brann The Brann Law Firm 1770 Saint James Pl Houston, TX 77056 John Brothers McIver Brown Law Firm 712 Main St., Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77002 Charles Brown McIver Brown Law Firm 712 Main St., Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77002 Dale Burrus Kroger Burrus 3100 Weslayan St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77027

Brady S. Edwards Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002

Curry L. Cooksey Orgain Bell & Tucker, LLP 10077 Grogans Mill Rd., Ste. 500 Spring, TX 77380

Michael Gallagher Clark, Love & Hutson 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002

James Ferrell Ferrell Law Group 4119 Montrose Blvd Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77006

Keith A. Jefferson Germer Attorneys at Law, LLP 550 Fannin St., Ste. 400 Beaumont, TX 77701

Kristina Frankel McIver Brown Law Firm 712 Main St., Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77002

Cristina Portela Solomon 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77002

Richard N. Laminack Laminack Pirtle Martines, LLP 5020 Montrose Blvd Fl 9 Houston, TX 77006

G. Sean Jez Fleming & Associates, LLP 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77056

Elliot P. Tucker Tucker, Vaughan, Gardner & Barnes, PC 712 Main St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002

Erin Murphy Lee Murphy Law Firm 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77002

Edward J. Kroger Jr, M.D. Kroger Burns 3100 Weslayan St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77027

Ray Panneton The Talaska Law Firm 442 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

Jack E. Mcgehee McGehee, Chang & Barnes 1250 Wood Branch Park Dr., Ste. 625 Houston, TX 77079

Ian Scharfman The Scharfman Law Firm, PLLC 3120 Southwest Fwy Ste. 450 Houston, TX 77098 Stephen Schueler Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Daryl J. Sinkule 11 Greenway Plz Ste. 1515 Houston, TX 77046

Joanne M. Vorpahl Porter & Hedges, LLP 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002 Jack Wisdom Martin, Disiere, Jefferson & Wisdom 808 Travis St. Fl 20 Houston, TX 77002 W. Jack Wisdom Martin, Disierre, Jeffersonn & Wisdom 818 Travis St Houston, TX 77002 LEGAL MALPRACTICE Jennifer Hasley Hasley Scarano, LLP PO Box 25371 Houston, TX 77265 LITIGATION Jim Aycock Porter & Hedges L L P 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002 Ben Hall The Hall Law Firm 530 Lovett Blvd Houston, TX 77006 Lee L. Kaplan Smyser Kaplan & Veselka, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002

Ricky Ravin Thompson Knight 1722 Routh St., Ste. 1500 Dallas, TX 75201 Jason Webster The Webster Law Firm 6200 Savoy Dr., Ste. 515 Houston, TX 77036 Allison Whitten Williams Kherkher Hart & Boundas, LLP 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 MASS & TOXIC TORT, PERSONAL INJURY Steve Kherkher 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 John Eddie Williams 8441 Gulf Fwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77017 MASS TORT, PHARMACEUTICAL LITIGATION Aimee M. Robert Johnson Law Group 2925 Richmond Ave Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77098

Lauren Nelson Kroger Burrus 3100 Weslayan St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77027 Robert Painter Painter Law Firm 12750 Champion Forest Dr Houston, TX 77066 Linda Thomas Thomas & Wan, LLP 1710 Sunset Blvd Houston, TX 77005 Robert Wharton McIver Brown Law Firm 712 Main St., Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77002 MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS Todd Chen Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Andrew Fertitta Porter & Hedges, LLP 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002

MEDIATION

Robin Fredrickson Vinson & Elkins 1001 Fannin St Houston, TX 77002

Tammy Manning Galligan & Manning 802 W Alabama St Houston, TX 77006

Andrew Tolchin Tolchin Law Firm, PLLC 124 W Myrtle St Angleton, TX 77515

Warren Hoffman Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Reginald Smith King & Spalding, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002

MEDIATION & ARBITRATION

Paige Ingram Castaneda Corporate, Securities/ Mergers & Acquisitions 600 Travis St Houston, TX 77002

Bill Voss Voss Law Firm 26619 Interstate 45 Spring, TX 77380 Michael Youtt King & Spalding, LLP 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002 MALPRACTICE James B. Edwards Edwards and Associates 12603 Southwest Fwy Ste. 200 Stafford, TX 77477 Paul S. Jacobs The Jacobs Law Firm 10000 Memorial Dr., Ste. 320 Houston, TX 77024

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Robert Black Mehaffyweber, PC 500 Dallas St., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77002 Charles Jordan Daughtry & Jordan, PC 17044 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77058

Kajani Kajani & Associates, PC 7322 Southwest Fwy Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77074

Katie Kennedy Mediation 2310 Richton St Houston, TX 77098

Greg Krafka Winstead PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Alan F. Levin The Levin Law Group, PC 11 Greenway Plz Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77046

Mark Mathews Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 3700 Houston, TX 77010

Gary V. Mcgowan McGowan Dispute Resolution 5009 Caroline St., Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77004

Gail J. Mcdonald Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

William Rohrlich Winstead, PC 24 Waterway Ave Ste. 500 Spring, TX 77380 Margaret B. Symonds Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 2900 Houston, TX 77002 Carlos Treistman Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP 1000 Louisiana St., Ste. 4000 Houston, TX 77002 OIL & GAS Caroline Musa Dwairy Bestway Oilfield 16030 Market St Channelview, TX 77530 William P. Hall Streit, Peterson, Hall & Keeney 2401 Fountain View Dr., Ste. 350 Houston, TX 77057 Michael Jones Jones Gill LLP 6363 Woodway Dr., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77057 William D Morris Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld 1111 Louisiana St., Ste. 4400 Houston, TX 77002 Kathleen Cynthia Pickett Doyle Restrepo Harvin & Robbins, LLP 600 Travis St., Ste. 4700 Houston, TX 77002 Donald G. Sinex Zukowski Bresenhan & Sinex, LLP 1177 West Loop S Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77027 Joe Thompson 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 James Taylor Thompson Watt Beckworth Thompson & Henneman LLP 711 Louisiana St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 Barry L. Wertz McGinnis Lochridge & Kilgore, LLP 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 3200 Houston, TX 77010 Hunter H. White Thompson & Knight LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002 PATENTS Danny Williams Williams Morgan & Amerson 10333 Richmond Ave Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77042 PERSONAL INJURY Will Adams Adams Law Firm 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste. H205 Katy, TX 77494 Benny Agosto, Jr. Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz 800 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002 Reshard Alexander Rj Alexander Law PLLC 9800 Northwest Fwy Ste. 316 Houston, TX 77092

John C. Boudreaux Boudreaux And Boudreaux 8 N Main St Kingwood, TX 77339 Gerald Bourque 24 Waterway Ave Ste. 660 Spring, TX 77380 Larry P. Boyd Fisher, Boyd, Johnson & Huguenard, LLP 2777 Allen Pkwy Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77019 John W. Bridger Strong Pipkin Bissell & Ledyard, LLP 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77010 Michael T. Bridwell Strong Pipkin Bissell & Ledyard, LLP 595 Orleans St., Ste. 1400 Beaumont, TX 77701 Thomas Brown 3 Riverway Ste. 1775 Houston, TX 77056 Terry Bryant Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, PLLC 8584 Katy Fwy Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77024 Anthony "Tony" G. Buzbee The Buzbee Law Firm 600 Travis St., Ste. 7300 Houston, TX 77002 Roy Camberg The Camberg Law Firm, PC 17225 El Camino Real Ste. 444 Houston, TX 77058 Joshua Chambers The Crim Law Firm 4900 Travis St Houston, TX 77002 Erren L. Chen Moriarty Law Firm 404 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007 Nadim I. Cook Midtown Law 5433 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 700 Houston, TX 77056 Scott J. Davenport Lewis Davenport & Hildebrand, PC 1500 McGowen St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77004 Thomas Dewitt 235 W Sealy St Alvin, TX 77511 Orville Dunk Dunk Law Firm., LLP 4505 Caroline St Houston, TX 77004 William H. Farell Cotton Farell, PC 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 860 Houston, TX 77002 Joe J. Fisher II 490 Park St Beaumont, TX 77701 Jerome O. Fjeld 5902 Irvington Blvd Houston, TX 77009 George Fleming 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 40 Houston, TX 77056 Michael P Fleming 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1920 Houston, TX 77002

Christy Amuny Bain & Barkley 550 Fannin St., Ste. 1330 Beaumont, TX 77701

Christopher K. Fletcher Simmons & Fletcher, PC 9821 Katy Fwy Ste. 924 Houston, TX 77024

Charles J. Argento Charles J Argento & Associates 1111 North Loop W Ste. 715 Houston, TX 77008

Keith M. Fletcher Simmons And Fletcher 9821 Katy Fwy Ste. 925 Houston, TX 77024

Muhammad S. Aziz Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz 800 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002

Christopher J. Fonville Fleming & Associates, LLP 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77056

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

CRAIG RIBBECK Civil Litigation

CRAIG RIBBECK THE RIBBECK LAW FIRM 713-621-5220 6363 Woodway Dr., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77057

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Since its inception over a decade ago, The Ribbeck Law Firm has emphasized getting positive results for their clients— whether individuals or businesses. Craig Ribbeck has spent his career representing both defendants and plaintiffs in a wide range of areas which include complex commercial disputes, shareholder oppression suits, corporate disputes, partnership disputes, contract disputes, consumer and TDTPA disputes, protecting creditor’s rights, employment disputes and personal injury cases. Craig Ribbeck is regularly in the courtroom in front of Judges and juries. He has handled and tried numerous cases in Texas District and County Courts, Texas Appellate Courts, The Supreme Court of the State of Texas, Federal Courts in Texas as well as the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Court of Federal Claims. Craig Ribbeck remains dedicated to providing his clients a high level of direct access and availability, maintaining strong client relationships, and obtaining efficient and positive results for his clients.

1221 Studewood St. Houston, TX77008

KEITH MORRIS

Wills, Trusts, Estates & Contracts

KEITH MORRIS OSTROM MORRIS PLLC 6363 Woodway, Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77057 713-863-8891 www.ostrommorris.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

A widely respected attorney, Keith, along with his partner Jason Ostrom, formed Ostrom Morris PLLC to assist individuals and businesses with a wide variety of legal needs. Keith has experience in a variety of probate, estate planning/guardianship administration, bankruptcy, creditor prosecution/defense, sports/entertainment law, and business litigation. He has also been hired by Harris County and many other counties in Texas to serve in a fiduciary capacity as Ad Litem, Administrator and Guardian.

Keith has the trial experience, specialized knowledge and personal connections to counsel his clients in order to achieve the most positive outcomes, both in and out of the courtroom.

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STEWART J. GUSS Personal Injury

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Stewart J. Guss, founder of the firm, has been practicing personal injury law for over 20 years. His focus on results and a “Client First” mentality toward customer service has helped earn him an excellent reputation in the community. He and his team of over 60 employees, including attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and support staff handle a wide variety of personal injury matters from car accidents to catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims. Recognized as a “Texas Super Lawyer” this year by Texas Monthly magazine, Stewart and his team are known for bringing their passion and dedication to every case for every client of the firm.

STEWART J. GUSS 12777 Jones Rd., Ste. 297 Houston, TX 77070 281-954-3799 www.attorneyguss.com

Pictured are attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, managers and staff of the firm.

LARRY CHAMBERLIN

Family Law & Mediation

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Family law pits loved ones and sometimes whole families against each other, yet children must have these same people coparent them.

Larry Chamberlin is known for his effective skills, handling contested cases since 1988. Board Certified in Family Law, he is also seasoned in probate, estate planning, criminal defense and civil litigation. Experienced assistants take great pains to assure clients’ needs are being met.

"I explain my clients' legal options and their consequences.

I listen to understand their needs and desires. If they’re unrealistic, we formulate a reasonable alternative. I help articulate their experience."

Earning his JD from Tulane Law School, he was elected to the national Order of Barristers in 1988; Larry received a Masters in International Business Management at UT Dallas.

He was accepted into Mensa over 30 years ago; in 2006, while attending a Juvenile Forensic Psychology program, he was elected to Psi Chi, the prestigious psychology honor society. Chamberlin Law & Mediation is certified by the BBB. CHAMBERLIN LAW & MEDIATION 3724 FM 1960 Road W., Ste. 222 Houston, TX 77068 281-580-2222 larry@chamberlin.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

ORALIA DE LUNA

Immigration & Nationality Law

ORALIA DE LUNA DE LUNA LAW OFFICES, P.C. 713-589-5269 www.delunafirm.com PRINCIPAL OFFICE 1627 Dunlavy St., Houston, TX 77006

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Being the daughter of immigrants and a first-generation American, Oralia De Luna understands the needs of her clients.

Due to her zealous representation in immigration matters and having been chosen as one of Houston’s top immigration lawyers since 2010, individual and corporate clients worldwide have sought out Ms. De Luna for business-based, family-based and employment-based matters, both domestically and abroad. She has been a leader within the profession, having held positions in the State Bar of Texas Hispanic Issues Section and the Mexican American Bar Association of Houston.

Ms. De Luna can handle all your immigration-related matters. Whether you need legal representation, advice in the green card and naturalization processes or federal litigation in immigration courts, she has the experience to handle and answer your most complex questions.

Ms. De Luna’s firm maintains direct communication with clients and provides utmost reliability enabling clients to stay well informed of their case status. Their motto: “Clients First. Excellence Always!”

RIO GRANDE VALLEY 320 W. McIntyre St., Edinburg, TX 78541

HECTOR J. LOPEZ, JD, LL.M

Immigration & Nationality Law

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

For the fifth year in a row, Hector J. Lopez, has earned recognition as a TOP LAWYER in immigration.

Attorney Lopez’s unparalleled commitment to clients and his diverse background in business structures solve clients’ complex needs—from businesses seeking to secure permanent resident status for foreign employees to families staying together.

With over 20 years of experience, Attorney Lopez specializes in business, employment and investment immigration. He’s licensed to practice before all courts in Texas, all U.S. immigration courts, and a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

As a community leader, he writes on immigration topics for a local paper (EV-Houston), and has been invited to answer immigration questions at Univision-45.

His contributions to the Houston community are invaluable—particularly for the Venezuelan community.

LAW OFFICES OF HECTOR J. LOPEZ, PLLC 2401 Fountain View Dr., Ste. 910 Houston, TX 77057 713-532-2110 www.hjlopezlaw.com B E ST O F 2 017 //

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

VERNIER & ASSOCIATES, PLLC Family Law

VERNIER & ASSOCIATES, PLLC 2441 High Timbers, Ste. 110 The Woodlands, TX 77380 281-364-1187 www.vernierlawfirm.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

Vernier & Associates, PLLC, is fully devoted to the practice of family law, and has successfully tried numerous cases involving complex custody battles and property divisions. Our attorneys assist clients in achieving the most positive “restructuring” of their families through compassionate communication, zealous representation and expert navigation of complex legal issues. Ruth Lavada Vernier is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the State Bar of Michigan, the State Bar of Ohio, the College of the State Bar of Texas, the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals and Texas Lawyers for Children. She’s also a charter member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas and a certified mediator and arbitrator. Associate Sebastian “Skip” Lanz, who concentrates his practice on criminal and family law, is a member of Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.

Vernier & Associates, PLLC Michael T. Gallagher The Gallagher Law Firm 2905 Sackett St Houston, TX 77098 Johnny Garza ADAME GARZA 1322 Yale St Houston, TX 77008 Dax F Garza Dax F. Garza, PC 3730 Kirby Dr., Ste. 250 Houston, TX 77098 Keith Grady The Grady Law Firm 801 Congress St., Ste. 250 Houston, TX 77002 Marilyn Griffin Griffin & Griffin 3003 S Loop W Ste. 206 Houston, TX 77054 Richard M. Grimes Grimes & Fertitta, PC 2203 Timberloch Pl Ste. 231 Spring, TX 77380 Kerry Guidry The Guidry Law Firm 800 Commerce St Houston, TX 77002 Stewart Guss 12777 Jones Rd., Ste. 297 Houston, TX 77070 Jonathan S. Harris Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris, LLP 3200 Travis St., Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77006

Cynthia Huerta Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006

Dan Linebaugh The Linebaugh Law Firm 1300 Rollingbrook St., Ste. 601 Baytown, TX 77521

Sarah Huynh The Huynh Law Firm, PLLC 10333 Harwin Dr., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77036

Charles W. Lyman Hartline Dacus Barger Dryer 1980 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77056

Jack Todd Ivey 11111 Katy Fwy Ste. 580 Houston, TX 77079

Doug Matthews 3200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77027

Joseph Jaworski 305 21st St Galveston, TX 77550 Joe Jones Sloan Firm 8000 Smith St. Ste. 4 Houston 77006 Cathy Herrington Hale 10190 Katy Freeway, Ste. 440 Houston, TX 77043 Jennifer Hodges The Kahn Law Firm, PC 2225 County Road 90, Ste. 109 Pearland, TX 77584 Allen H. Kline, Jr. The Kline Law Firm 363 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77060 Loren Klitsas Klitsas, Vercher & Capps PC 550 Westcott St., Ste. 570 Houston, TX 77007

Gregg S. Harrison 1 Greenway Plz Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77046

Kevin D. Krist The Law Office of Kevin Krist 3401 Allen Pkwy Ste. 102 Houston, TX 77019

Kevin C. Haynes Zehl & Associates, PC 2700 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 1120 Houston, TX 77056

Scott C. Krist The Krist Law Firm, PC 2600 S Shore Blvd Ste. 120 League City, TX 77573

Catherine H. Herrington The Herrington Law Firm, PC 405 Main St., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77002

Mark Lanier Lanier Law Firm 6810 Fm 1960 Rd. W Houston, TX 77069

Robert W. Hildebrand 7930 Broadway St., Ste. 122 Pearland, TX 77581

Carlos A. Leon The Leon Law Firm 1 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste. 980 Sugar Land, TX 77478

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Frederick L. Mcguire 2500 E TC Jester Blvd Ste. 285 Houston, TX 77008 David I. Middleman Pulaski & Middleman, LLC 6800 West Loop S Ste. 200 Bellaire, TX 77401

Mark Oehl Oehl Law Firm 16422 Pelican Beach Ln Houston, TX 77044

Russell B. Serafin The Gallagher Law Firm 2905 Sackett St Houston, TX 77098

Jose Orihuela 1350 Nasa Pkwy Ste. 214 Houston, TX 77058

Robert S. Simmons Simmons And Fletcher 9821 Katy Fwy Ste. 925 Houston, TX 77024

Mary Alice Parsons Hext & Parsons, LLP 2014 Bissonnet St Houston, TX 77005 Jim M. Perdue, Jr. Perdue & Kidd, LLP 2727 Allen Pkwy Ste. 800 Houston, TX 77019 James V. Pianelli Pianelli Law Firm 112 E 4th St Houston, TX 77007

Richard W. Mithoff Mithoff Law Firm 500 Dallas St., Ste. 3450 Houston, TX 77002

Rick Plezia Richard J. Plezia & Associates 11200 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 620 Houston, TX 77042

Michael A. Moriarty Moriarty Law Firm 404 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007

James Plummer Plummer & Kuykendall 4203 Montrose Blvd Ste. 270 Houston, TX 77006

Chris Morrell 3730 Kirby Dr., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77098

Richard J. Presutti 525 N Sam Houston Pkwy E Ste. 255 Houston, TX 77060

Craig Muessig 3500 N Main St Baytown, TX 77521 Mark Murray 24 Greenway Plz Ste. 750 Houston, TX 77046 Nick C. Nichols Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz 800 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002 Rand P. Nolen Fleming & Associates, LLP 1330 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 3030 Houston, TX 77056 Robert W. Oberholtzer Law Office of Robert Oberholtzer 1803 Pease St., Ste. 200 Houston, TX 77003

John Ramsey Ramsey Hill, LLP 8584 Katy Fwy Ste. 105 Houston, TX 77024 Sarnie A. Randle, Jr. 5177 Richmond Ave Ste. 635 Houston, TX 77056 Lyle R. Rathwell 25511 Budde Rd., Ste. 601 Spring, TX 77380 Adam J Rosenfeld Schechter, McElwee, Shaffer & Harris 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006 J. Kirkland Sammons Sammons & Berry, PC 4606 Cypress Creek Pkwy Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77069

Sharon Simmons-Cantrell Simmons And Fletcher 9821 Katy Fwy Ste. 925 Houston, TX 77024 Randall O. Sorrels Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz 800 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002 Andrew E. Steinberg Steinberg Law Firm, PC 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006 Trey Stiles Simon Herbert McClelland & Stiles, LLP 3411 Richmond Ave Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77046 Brant J. Stogner Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz 800 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002 Norman L. Straub Mestemaker, Straub & Zumwalt 3355 W Alabama St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77098 Jimmy Sunosky Donato, Minx, Brown & Pool, PC 3200 Southwest Fwy Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77027 Kenneth Tekell, Jr. Tekell Book Allen & Morris, LLP 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 4300 Houston, TX 77010 Joseph Terry Terry & Thweatt, PC 1 Greenway Plz Ste. 100 Houston, TX 77046

Alton C. Todd 312 Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546 Jeffrey Todd 312 Friendswood Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546 Sue E West The West Law Firm, PC 810 Highway 6 S Ste. 215 Houston, TX 77079 Mark Weycer The Weycer Law Firm, PC 4545 Bissonnet St., Ste. 294 Bellaire, TX 77401 Jimmy Williamson Williamson & Rusnak 4310 Yoakum Blvd Houston, TX 77006 J. Daniel Wilson 7930 Broadway St., Ste. 122 Pearland, TX 77581 Robert Woods Woods Law Firm, PC 2016 Main St., Ste. 111 Houston, TX 77002 Michael Wright 6363 Woodway Dr., Ste. 820 Houston, TX 77057 Brad Wyly 4101 Washington Ave Houston, TX 77007 Nicholas E. Zito Ramey, Chandler, McKinley & Zito, PC 750 Bering Dr., Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77057 PERSONAL INJURY, AVIATION Rick Mcguire 2500 E T C Jester Blvd Ste. 285 Houston, TX 77008 PERSONAL INJURY, MARITIME Laura De La Cruz 3200 Travis St. Fl 3 Houston, TX 77006 Arthur Schechter 3200 Travis St Houston, TX 77006

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

MELISSA A. DENNIS

BARBARA K. RUNGE Family Law

Business and Civil Litigation

Solving difficult issues in the best possible way is why clients routinely seek out the services of Melissa A. Dennis, an attorney and certified mediator specializing in family law. “I care about my client and want to work with them face to face—not have a paralegal do all the work. I want to talk to them, help them with their issue in the best way possible so they can get through this time in their life," she says.

At her practice, the small staff goes the extra mile to ensure every client receive full-service, one-on-one care.

“Being with people and helping them through difficult times is what I enjoy most about my job,” Melissa says.

Board certified in family law since 1981, Barbara handles divorce cases, complex property cases, custody cases, modifications and premarital and marital agreements. She is also a mediator and arbitrator. Additionally, Barbara represents clients using the collaborative method or litigation as determined by the case and the client’s desires. Her individual practice is only enhanced by her active participation in and dedication to many top legal organizations. Barbara has received numerous awards and honors, including the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Texas Tech School of Law, the Gulf Coast Family Law Specialists’ David Gibson Award for Professionalism and Excellence in Family Law and the Outstanding Service Award for Texas Tech School of Law.

Benjamin K. Sanchez, a 20-year attorney, is consistently rated as one of Houston’s Top Lawyers in Business and Civil Litigation. Born in The Heights, Benjamin graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Houston Law Center. He is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of his firm’s opening and continues to serve a variety of clients in various litigation matters. Benjamin is also a dual-certified (John Maxwell and Les Brown) speaker, trainer, and coach.

Family Law

MELISSA A. DENNIS ATTORNEY AT LAW 2770 N. FM 565, Ste. 6 Mont Belvieu, TX 77523 832-483-8204 madennislaw gmail.com

BENJAMIN K. SANCHEZ SANCHEZ LAW FIRM 1521 Green Oak Pl., Ste. 103 Kingwood, TX 77339 713-780-7745 www.sanchezlawfirm.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

BARBARA K. RUNGE FAMILY LAW 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 920 Houston, TX 77005 713-523-5363 www.barbarakrunge.com

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

BENJAMIN K. SANCHEZ

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

MEKISHA JANE WALKER

SHAWN M. RUDISEL

PAOLA ROMERO

Criminal Defense

Family & Divorce Law

Immigration Law

Mekisha Jane Walker is a criminal defense attorney who specializes in aggressive and zealous representation.

Ms. Walker handles all types of criminal matters from domestic violence to DWI and drug possession, including both misdemeanor and felony cases. Ms. Walker provides an extraordinary level of service to her clients while remaining committed to delivering the best possible results.

As a former Assistant District Attorney and Chief Prosecutor for Harris County, Ms. Walker is a seasoned trial attorney with excellent communication skills and a necessary understanding of the law and criminal justice system.

When searching for a family law attorney, there is no doubt that education and experience are both vital criteria. But personal, first-hand knowledge is a valuable and rare asset. Attorney Shawn Rudisel has lived through the pain of divorce.

The Rudisel Law Firm, PC, focuses solely on family law and divorce and has successfully litigated hundreds of divorces with the best possible outcomes for their clients. With an office in central Houston, the team has created a warm and compassionate environment.

“We know what divorce feels like and we believe that our experiences bring an added benefit to the table for our clients,” says Shawn M. Rudisel.

Call for a consultation.

Paola Romero is a founding shareholder with the Romero Law Firm where she has been helping families and corporations navigate the complex U.S. Immigration system. Paola’s critical eye for details and preparation has benefited her clients in obtaining Temporary and Permanent Visas, Permanent Residency, Labor Certification, Deferred Action, and Citizenship. Helping companies and families to share in opportunities our great country has to offer, Paola and the firm also provide exceptional representation in modest to complex litigation in family and probate cases.

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

THE ROMERO LAW FIRM PAOLA ROMERO THE ROMERO LAW FIRM, PC 17041 El Camino Real, Ste. 209 Houston, TX 77058 281-220-1067 www.attorneyromero.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

SHAWN M. RUDISEL THE RUDISEL LAW FIRM, PC 1415 North Loop West, Ste. 910 Houston, TX 77008 713-781-7775 www.houstondivorcesource.com

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

MEKISHA JANE WALKER WALKER LAW OFFICE 1714 Sunset Blvd.

Houston, TX 77005 713-228-2611 www.walkerlawhouston.com

PC

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

J.L. CARPENTER

Construction Law

Criminal Defense

Heather is a Director and has broad experience in the Construction/Surety and Litigation sections of Coats Rose.

Heather’s practice includes all aspects of construction law, as well as general commercial litigation. Heather is a Fellow in the Litigation Counsel of America and has been named to the Texas Super Lawyer Rising Stars list published by Thomson Reuters in Texas Monthly magazine (20062010). She has also been named one of “Texas’ Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by National Trial Lawyers (2011-2017), and a “Top Professional on the Fast Track” and “Top Lawyer” in Houston’s H Texas magazine (2010-2017). Heather has also been admitted as a member of the National Women Trial Lawyers.

In 2016, she was selected as a Charter Fellow in the CLSA.

J.L. Carpenter is a determined and dedicated criminal defense attorney who protects the rights and freedom of people accused of criminal offenses.

Having first practiced as a prosecutor, J.L. Carpenter has worked both sides of the aisle, prosecuting and defending people facing criminal charges. In addition to gaining trial experience as a prosecutor, Attorney Carpenter has trained under highly skilled defense lawyers, including the Honorable Craig A. Washington and well-respected attorney Chip B. Lewis. The Law Office of J.L. Carpenter is announcing the opening of their Friendswood, TX location, now covering Harris, Galveston and Brazoria Counties.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

HEATHER ASSELIN COATS ROSE, P.C. 9 Greenway Plaza, Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77046 713-653-7386 www.coatsrose.com

J.L. CARPENTER J.L. CARPENTER LAW & ASSOCIATES 1506 Winding Way, Ste. 504 Friendswood, TX 77546 713-201-6767 www.jlcarpenterlaw.com

ALVIN L. ZIMMERMAN GARY J. ZIMMERMAN Family Law

Dealing in divorce, custody modifications, traditional and collaborative divorce, and premarital agreements.

Alvin L. Zimmerman (J.D. – University of Houston Law Center) Former district judge: 269th (Civil), 309th (Family). Past Chair Houston Bar Association: Family Law, ADR Sections.

Board Certified Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Gary J. Zimmerman (Fluent Spanish, J.D. – University of Texas Law School) Volunteer for Child Advocates, Inc. Honors graduate: St. John’s School and Claremont McKenna College.

ZIMMERMAN, AXELRAD, MEYER, STERN & WISE, PC 3040 Post Oak Boulevard, Ste. 1300 Houston, TX 77056 713-552-1234 www.zimmerlaw.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

HEATHER ASSELIN

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HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017 Ms. Hunter Ahern 600 Travis St., Ste. 1600 Houston, TX 77002 Adam D. Peavy Bailey Perrin Bailey, LLP 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 2100 Houston, TX 77002 PROBATE & ESTATE Carol Bartlett 3555 Timmons Ln Ste. 1020 Houston, TX 77027 Jeannine C. Flynn 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 925 Houston, TX 77005 Erin Eggleston Salisbury Eggleston & Briscoe, LLP 333 Clay St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 PROBATE, GUARDIANSHIP AND FIDUCIARY LITIGATION Robert Keith Morris III Jones, Morris, Klevenhagen 6363 Woodway Dr., Ste. 570 Houston, TX 77057 PRODUCT LIABILITY Paula H. Blazek 550 Fannin St., Ste. 400 Beaumont, TX 77701 PROPERTY AND FINANCE Ephraim Del Pozo Porter & Hedges 1000 Main St. Fl 36 Houston, TX 77002 REAL ESTATE Joe D. Barlow Barlow Jones, LLP 17225 El Camino Real Ste. 400 Houston, TX 77058 Barry M. Barnes Barnes & Turner 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1880 Houston, TX 77002 Sipra S. Boyd Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 57 Houston, TX 77056 Charles Boyd Boyd Munoz & Piper 804 W Dallas St., Ste. 7 Conroe, TX 77301 Tyler Brochstein Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 John G. Cannon Coats Rose 3 Greenway Plz Ste. 2000 Houston, TX 77046 Larry Chapman 9525 Katy Fwy Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77024 E. Scot Dixon Vinson & Elkins, LLP 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002 Sanford L. Dow Dow Golub Remels & Beverly, LLP 9 Greenway Plz Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77046 Melvin A. Dow Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 K. Gregory Erwin Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 James Evans 2103 Commonwealth St Houston, TX 77006 Trisha Farine Daughtry & Jordan, PC 17044 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77058 Debra Levy Gilbreath 9 Greenway Plz Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77046 Jennifer Hardegree Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Russel T. Holt Holt & Young, PC 9821 Katy Fwy Ste. 350 Houston, TX 77024 Bradford Irelan Irelan Hargis PLLC 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 1800 Houston, TX 77002 Margaret Maddox Daughtry & Jordan, PC 17044 El Camino Real Houston, TX 77058 Marc D. Markel Roberts Markel, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 57 Houston, TX 77056 Jason M. Medley O?Donnell, Ferebee, Medley & Keiser, PC 450 Gears Rd. Fl 8 Houston, TX 77067 David Morrell Hoover Slovacek LLP 5051 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 1200 Houston, TX 77056 Marvin D. Nathan Nathan Sommers Jacobs, PC 2800 Post Oak Blvd Fl 61 Houston, TX 77056 Robert North North Law, PC 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 1500 Houston, TX 77002 Randall S. Perrier Law Office of Randall S. Perrier 4606 Fm 1960 Rd. W Ste. 101 Houston, TX 77069 Barry E Putterman 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 David M Robins 333 Clay St., Ste. 3300 Houston, TX 77002

William S. Shepherd, Jr. Shepherd Smith Edwards & Kantas, LLP 1010 Lamar St., Ste. 900 Houston, TX 77002 SECURITIES LITIGATION AND ARBITRATION Andrew R. Harvin Doyle Restpro Harvin & Robbins 440 Louisiana St., Ste. 2300 Houston, TX 77002 Kathy Patrick 1100 Louisiana St., Ste. 5300 Houston, TX 77002 SEX OFFENSES Pheobe Smith Law Office of Pheobe S. Smith, PC 802 W Alabama St Houston, TX 77006 SOCIAL SECURITY/ DISABILITY Paul B. Burkhalter Morgan & Weisbrod, LLP 6800 West Loop S Ste. 450 Bellaire, TX 77401 SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW Karri Axtell The Law Office of Karri Axtell 11601 Shadow Creek Pkwy Ste. 229 Pearland, TX 77584 SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT LAW R. C. Markland Powers & Frost, LLP 1221 McKinney St., Ste. 2400 Houston, TX 77010 TAX LAW

Laura Davidson Fowell Joe R Davidson, PC 446 Heights Blvd Houston, TX 77007 Michael L Fuqua Fuqua & Associates, PC 5005 Riverway Dr., Ste. 250 Houston, TX 77056 Olivia Garcia Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 Larry D. George Crain Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Karen S. Gerstner Karen S Gerstner & Associates, PC 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 306 Houston, TX 77005 Joseph Horrigan Horrigan & Goehrs, LLP 5020 Montrose Blvd Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77006 Debra Hunt 3608 Audubon Pl Houston, TX 77006 Dianne W. Lawter Lawter & Lawter 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 930 Houston, TX 77005 Jack W. Lawter, Jr. 5615 Kirby Dr., Ste. 930 Houston, TX 77005 Stephen A. Mendel The Mendel Law Firm, LP 1155 Dairy Ashford Rd., Ste. 104 Houston, TX 77079 Keith Morris Ostrom Morris PLLC 6363 Woodway, Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77057

Lee Schlanger Schlanger Silver 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024

Kaye Brouse Law Office!

103 W Phillips St Conroe, TX 77301

Ronald Shoss Mayer Brown, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77002

Jay Chadha Norton Rose Fulbright 1301 McKinney St., Ste. 5100 Houston, TX 77010

Louis Silver Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024

Habeeb I. Gnaim Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St., Ste. 1400 Houston, TX 77002

Brett Slobin Slobin & Slobin, PC 2500 Tanglewilde St., Ste. 275 Houston, TX 77063

Shawn R. O'Brien Mayer Brown LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 3600 Houston, TX 77002

Diane V. Perrin Farner & Perrin, LLP 2801 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 260 Houston, TX 77056

WILLS, TRUSTS & ESTATES

Michael C. Riddle Riddle, Butts & Akiens, LLP 4201 Fm 1960 Rd. W Ste. 550 Houston, TX 77068

Richard L. Spencer Dow Golub Remels & Beverly 9 Greenway Plz Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77046 David Staas Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Julie Stephenson Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Daniel Trachtenberg Bernstein Radoff Trachtenberg & Serafin LLP 4615 Southwest Fwy Ste. 730 Houston, TX 77027 Sanford A. Weiner Vinson & Elkins, LLP 1001 Fannin St., Ste. 2500 Houston, TX 77002 Bryon Wilems Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002 Reid C. Wilson Wilson, Cribbs & Goren, PC 2500 Fannin St Houston, TX 77002 Millen Zemo The Fulton Law Group PLLC 2855 Mangum Rd., Ste. 413 Houston, TX 77092 Jamie Zimmer Winstead, PC 600 Travis St., Ste. 1100 Houston, TX 77002

Timothy J. Heinrich The Heinrich Law Firm, PLLC 5858 Westheimer Rd., Ste. 845 Houston, TX 77057

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Kathleen Tanner Beduze Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Ray J. Black, Jr. Law Offices of Ray J. Black, Jr 4301 Yoakum Blvd Houston, TX 77006 Michell Bradie Bradie, Bradie, & Bradie 6606 Fm 1488 Rd., Ste. 148-363 Magnolia, TX 77354 Ryan Cantrell Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Aughtry 1200 Smith St. Fl 14 Houston, TX 77002 Olivia Carbajal Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024

Bridget O'Toole Purdie Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLP 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 Jason B. Ostrom Ostrom/Sain, LLP 3100 Weslayan St., Ste. 360 Houston, TX 77027 Sarah Patel Pacheco Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

Michael Rubenstein Schlanger, Silver, Barg & Paine, LLC 109 N Post Oak Ln Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77024 Anthony T. Sortino 500 W Main St Tomball, TX 77375

CATHY HERRINGTON HALE

Personal Injury & Family Law Cathy is the founder of The Herrington Law Firm and has represented hundreds of clients in the last 19 years in personal injury and family law disputes. She is committed to providing quality legal representation to her clients and obtaining the best outcome through trial or mediation. Clients of ten note her passion for the law, respect in the legal community and accessibility of her firm. At The Herrington Law Firm, you will receive personal service and experienced advocates in the courtroom.

CATHERINE HERRINGTON HALE THE HERRINGTON LAW FIRM, PC 10190 Katy Freeway, Ste. 440 Houston, TX 77043 713-227-0050 www.herringtonlawfirm.com

Chasity W. Cooper Crain, Caton & James, PC 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010 Joe Davidson Joe R Davidson, PC 5315 Golden Wings Ct Houston, TX 77041 T. Aaron Dobbs Ford & Bergner, LLP 700 Louisiana St., Ste. 4800 Houston, TX 77002 Wendy M. Farner Farner & Perrin, LLP 2801 Post Oak Blvd Ste. 260 Houston, TX 77056 Joshua R. Flores Crain Caton & James 1401 McKinney St., Ste. 1700 Houston, TX 77010

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

PHARMACEUTICAL LITIGATION

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS 2017

A. MICHELLE FULTON Family Law

Personal Injury Will Adams and his team represent plaintiffs in serious personal injury matters and commercial litigation. He is Double Board Certified in Personal Injury by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and Civil Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocates.

Will has been recognized by numerous groups and publications as a leader in his field and was recently recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Texas for the year 2011 by the National Trial Lawyers. Will has also been selected as a Texas Super Lawyer ® in Texas Monthly every year since 2010 and as one of the 'Top Lawyers for Personal Injury' every year since 2006.

Will is a life member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and serves on the Board of Directors of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.

WILL ADAMS ADAMS LAW FIRM 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Ste. H205 Katy, TX 77494 281-391-9237 www.adamslawpersonalinjury.com

Family Law

Values are the heart of The Fulton Law Firm, PLLC, which prides itself on being Christian. Specializing in divorce and family law, A. Michelle Fulton, who knows firsthand how devastating a divorce can be, believes these sensitive matters are best resolved outside the courtroom, through mediation. “We treat our clients like family. Our motto is ‘Providing and Protecting Your Peace of Mind is Our Number One Goal,’ and we truly strive to achieve that,” says Fulton.

Throughout her career, Fulton, a fellow of Texas State Bar College, has received numerous awards, having been voted Top Family Lawyer by Houstonia Magazine and AVVO Top Choice Rated Family Lawyer.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University, Fulton graduated cum laude from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

A. MICHELLE FULTON THE FULTON LAW FIRM, PLLC 319 South Austin St. Webster, TX 77598 281-316-0166 www.fultonlawfirm.com

2017

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

DENNIS M. SLATE Dennis M. Slate is one of a select few attorneys board-certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction given to less than 3 percent of Texas lawyers. Recognized for his dedication and commitment to his clients, Slate prides himself on preparing his every case to the fullest and makes himself available to clients, sometimes even on weekends. “We are truly able to provide a very high quality of legal service, and more affordably than many downtown firms,” he says.

DENNIS M. SLATE ATTORNEY AT LAW PC DEER PARK OFFICE 112 E. Forrest Ln. Deer Park, TX 77536 281-407-9254 www.deerparkdivorcelawyers.com PEARLAND OFFICE 1920 Country Place Pkwy., Ste. 354 Pearland, TX 77584 281-410-5780 www.pearlanddivorceattorney.com

HOUSTON’S TOP LAWYERS

2017

WILL ADAMS

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Eat Out

… O T M FAR ?

N O I T A T S S GA 98

HTEXAS.COM

FM Kitchen + Bar proves to be a unique—and best of all, delicious— roadside experience.

by Tom Flynn

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FM KITCHEN + BAR

B

ACK IN 1949, T XDOT BEG AN BUILDING ROADS TO CONNECT FARMERS TO MARKET TOWNS WHERE THEY COULD SELL THEIR PRODUCTS. Consumers went to the markets where they bought the freshest ingredients for their culinary creations. Today Farm to Market roads crisscross our great state of Texas—and “farm to market” restaurants build their meals with fresh, local ingredients.

FM Kitchen + Bar is the latest in the growing category. The restaurant resembles an old gas station: Large garage doors, cement floors and car parts hang on the walls to enhance the vibe. It’s like the food didn’t make it to market, but instead was dropped off at a roadside station where it’s somehow even fresher.

Chef Ryan Hildebrand, of Triniti fame, knows what to do with fresh ingredients, and has created a gourmet, casual menu: burgers, ribs, wings, fried chicken and steak, and salads to boot. Diners can enjoy their meal inside the garage or on the huge patio while they can play yard games. All you have to do is take one look at the big crowd to know the concept is a hit!

The burger is the most popular item on the menu. It’s simply prepared with freshly ground beef, lettuce, onions, tomatoes and Shhh sauce (a blend of mayo, mustard and ketchup).

The ribs are smoky and tender; the chicken fried steak is sinful. The food is delicious, the ambiance is laidback, and the service is topnotch. On your next road trip through Rice Military, make a pit stop at FM Kitchen + Bar for a unique roadside experience. H

The food is delicious, the ambiance is laidback, and the service is topnotch.

1112 Shepherd, 77007 fmkitchenandbar.com

BEST OF 2017

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On the Menu PRIME RIB SANDWICHES CURED SALMON ON CUCUMBERS PECAN-SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD ON TORTILLA CRISPS

Showered with

SEARED TUNA BITES CAPRESE SALAD SKEWERS Makes 16–20 servings

ABC-13’s Miya Shay’s second baby shower in Memorial offers savory bite-size food that you can make, too.

By Tom Flynn Photography by Qui Tran and Anthony Rathbun Décor and coordination by Ashley Lewis with Stephanie DiCiro, Kyley Kornegay and Bianca Vertil

W

HEN MIYA SHAY, AN ABC-13 NEWS REPORTER , AND STATE REP. GENE WU WERE EXPECTING THEIR SECOND SON, close friends gathered to celebrate “BabyWu2” and so much more. The Memorial-area home hosting the event inspired an elegant, all-white shower theme. Even the cake, created by Miya’s friend Laura Louis, was white and topped with a pair of old-fashioned baby booties made of chocolate.

Adorned by crisp, white linens and balloons, the shower décor included a cake pop stand and a wooden train spraypainted white. It was an elegant, monochromatic take on the baby boy shower without going for the routine all-blue theme.

Passed hors d’oeuvres pleased the palates of more than 50 guests, three of whom were also mothers-to-be. The lively crowd was entertained by a live pianist throughout the night. In lieu of gifts, donations were collected for Interfaith Ministries.

At peak party time, the skies opened up and a torrential downpour ensued. Luckily, local ABC-13 meteorologist Casey Curry was on-hand, reassuring guests, “It’s going to be okay!” Hostesses were certainly glad they didn’t run out of champagne for this “sprinkle” that turned into a downpour.

Whether or not you’re planning a shower, make these tantalizing pass-around bites the talk of your next party. H

TOP TO BOTTOM: MIYA AND GENE CELEBRATE NEW BABY; TWO

HOSTESSES TAMMY TRAN NGUYEN AND BRIDGITTE LEE WELCOME GUESTS TO THE DESSERT BAR; BRIDGITTE LEE, ROSE CHEN, ALICE MAO BRAMS, TAMMY TRAN NGUYEN AND CYNTHIA XUE SURROUND MIYA.

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CURED SALMON ON CUCUMBERS For the salmon: 1 (3-POUND) SALMON FILLET ¾ CUP SOY SAUCE ¾ CUP MAPLE SYRUP 1 LIME, JUICED 2 GARLIC CLOVES, MINCED

PRIME RIB SANDWICHES Although most sources recommend 15 minutes per pound for a medium-rare roast, cooking times can vary based on the shape of the roast and starting temperature. For this party, we cooked two 20-pound roasts in two different ovens; they cooked in three hours (nine minutes per pound). Be sure to use a meat thermometer and check the temperature often.

For the prime rib: 1½ CUPS KOSHER SALT 2 TEASPOONS FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER 6 TABLESPOONS STEAK SEASONING (LIKE MCCORMICK GRILL MATES) 1 (20-POUND) PRIME RIB ROAST, AT ROOM TEMPERATURE OLIVE OIL FOR COATING

For the tartar sauce: ½ CUP MAYONNAISE ½ CUP FINELY CHOPPED CELERY SLICED CUCUMBERS FOR SERVING DILL FOR SERVING CAVIAR FOR SERVING 1. Make the salmon: Place the salmon in a large resealable bag.

2. Combine the remaining ingredients in a bowl, and pour over the salmon. Remove the air from the bag, seal, and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for 24–48 hours with a heavy object on top. (We used a gallon of milk.)

3. Preheat a smoker to 150°F. Remove the salmon from the marinade and pat dry. Smoke for 2 hours, 45 minutes. Increase the heat to 300°F, and smoke for an additional 15 minutes.

4. Make the tartar sauce: Flake the salmon in a bowl. Add the mayonnaise and celery, and mix to combine.

5. To serve, place a dollop of the salmon mixture on each cucumber slice, and top with some dill and caviar for a salty pop.

For the sandwiches: 1 STICK BUTTER 2 CUPS RED WINE 2 CUPS SOY SAUCE 2 LARGE RED ONIONS, SLICED 1 TABLESPOON DRIED BASIL 1 TABLESPOON DRIED SAGE 1 (1-OUNCE) PACKAGE AU JUS GRAVY MIX BUNS FOR SERVING MUSTARD OR HORSERADISH FOR SERVING (OPTIONAL) 1. Preheat the oven to 500°F. 2. Make the prime rib: Combine the salt, pepper and steak seasoning in bowl.

3. Rinse the roast, pat dry and coat with olive oil. Rub the seasoning mix into the meat, and place bone side down in a large foil-lined baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes.

4. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F, and roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (for medium-rare). Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and let rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

5. Make the sandwiches: In a saucepan over medium-high, melt the butter. Add the wine, soy sauce, onions, basil and sage and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, make the au jus per package instructions, but use 1½ cups water instead of 3.

7. To serve, slice the buns lengthwise, and top each bottom with some prime rib and onions. To add a kick, add a dollop of mustard or horseradish. Dip the top buns in the au jus, and then sandwich with the bottom buns. Cut the sandwiches into easy-to-eat pieces.

ABOVE: SONIA SOTO, LAURETTE VERES, BRIDGITTE LEE AND TOM

FLYNN GET READY TO CIRCULATE THE PRIME RIB SANDWICHES. BEST OF 2017

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PECAN-SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE ON TORTILLA CRISPS To make your own balsamic glaze, heed Chef Jason Hauck’s advice: “Start with a good balsamic vinegar, and reduce the quantity by twothirds—strain and cool. This works best if you do not allow the vinegar to boil; instead, let it reduce at less than a simmer. This way, the flavors do not muddy and the glaze maintains good clarity and sheen.”

PECAN WOOD CHIPS (ESSENTIAL FOR IMPARTING THAT PECAN FLAVOR) 6 BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS, FAT REMOVED KOSHER SALT TO TASTE FRESHLY CRACKED WHITE PEPPER TO TASTE 1 QUART HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM 3 LARGE SHALLOTS, MINCED ½ CUP MASCARPONE CHEESE, AT ROOM TEMPERATURE 1 TABLESPOON TOASTED CRACKED PEPPERCORN MÉLANGE (AVAILABLE AT MOST GROCERY STORES) TORTILLA CHIPS FOR SERVING BALSAMIC GLAZE FOR SERVING CHOPPED CHIVES FOR SERVING

1. Place the wood chips in a smoker preheated to about 200°F–225°F. 2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and place in the smoker, making sure the breasts aren’t touching. Smoke for about 2–2½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Set aside to rest for 5–10 minutes, then dice.

3. Place the cream in a heavy, stainless-steel pot. Stir in the shallots, peppercorns and a dash of salt, and then bring to a simmer (don’t allow to boil), cooking until the cream reduces by about two-thirds.

4. Place the diced chicken in a mixing bowl and add the mascarpone. Pour the reduced cream mixture over the chicken a little at a time. Stir until it you achieve a slightly loose consistency.

5. Serve warm or cold on tortilla crisps, drizzled with balsamic glaze and garnished with a sprinkle of chopped chives.

TOP TO BOTTOM: CULINARY CONFECTION

BY LAURA LOUIS; CHRIS CANONICO (LEFT), LAUREN SOLIS AND CAYLEE CANONICO WITH GENE AND MIYA

102 HTEXAS.COM

SEARED-TUNA BITES ½ JALAPEÑO, SEEDED AND MINCED 1 GARLIC CLOVE, MINCED 1 TABLESPOON GRATED GINGER 2 LIMES, JUICED 1 TABLESPOON SOY SAUCE PINCH SUGAR 2 HANDFULS CILANTRO, FINELY CHOPPED 1 (6-OUNCE) TUNA STEAK SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE BLACK AND WHITE SESAME SEEDS 2 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL 2 LOAVES MINI BREAD, SLICED 4 AVOCADOS, SLICED 1. Combine the jalapeños, garlic, ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, sugar and cilantro in a bowl. Set aside.

2. Warm the oil in a skillet over medium-high until smoking.

Season the tuna with salt and pepper and roll in the sesame seeds. Sear the tuna on each side for about 2–2 ½ minutes, until medium-rare. Slice into 1/3-inch pieces.

3. To serve, place 1 tuna slice on each bread slice, and then top with the avocado and sauce.

CAPRESE SALAD SKEWERS 20 CHERRY TOMATOES, HALVED 4 (8-OUNCE) MOZZARELLA BALLS, SLICED FRESH BASIL LEAVES 2/3 CUP OLIVE OIL 1/3 BALSAMIC VINEGAR SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE 1. Thread 1 piece tomato, 1 basil leave and 1 slice mozzarella on a skewer. Repeat the process, finishing with 1 more tomato.

Continue with the remaining ingredients.

2. Whisk together the oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper in a bowl, or combine in a salad dressing bottle. Drizzle over the skewers and serve.

LEFT TO RIGHT: GENE AND MIYA WITH RANDY SORRELS AND ALEX FARIAS; MIYA WITH NATALIE WALL

BEST OF 2017

103

H Marks the Spot

Circa 1924

104 HTEXAS.COM

W

HEN IT OPENED ITS DOORS IN 1924, THE JEFFERSON DAVIS HOSPITAL ON ELDER STREET WAS THE FIRST PERMANENT, PUBLICLY OWNED HOSPITAL IN HOUSTON TO OFFER MEDICAL SERVICES TO INDIGENT PATIENTS. It also happened to be built on a lot that had previously been used as a city cemetery and—as early as 1840—burial grounds for more than 6,000 Confederate soldiers, former slaves and cholera epidemic victims. It’s little wonder then that the site has long been rumored haunted by the ghosts of Houston’s Civil War past.

Designed by W. A. Dowdy, architect for the City of Houston, the hospital is iconic of the Classical Revival style that was so popular in the 1920s. The four-story, red-brick structure incorporates many architectural elements ubiquitous in hospitals of the era, including a beautifully detailed facade, with a square, cast-stone portico entrance framed

by Ionic fluted columns. The 240-bed interior was left bare and undecorated in contrast. The building’s high ceilings and rows of windows emphasize the need for sunlight and ventilation, appropriate for hospital use. It was named after the former president of the Confederacy,

Jefferson Davis, in honor of the soldiers who had been buried there.

However, in 1938, the city relocated the hospital facilities to a location on what is now Allen Parkway, leaving the original building behind. It quickly cycled through tenants—serving as a record storage facility, venereal disease clinic and probation office, among other things—before it was abandoned, sitting empty and in disrepair for two decades. This, in turn, gave credence to the paranormal aura of the site, attracting a criminal element until the City of Houston Archeological and Historical Commission proclaimed it a historic landmark in 2002.

Soon thereafter, the property was bought

by Avenue CDC and its partner, Artspace of Minneapolis, with the promise of rehabilitating it. Under the vigilant supervision of the Texas Historical Commission, the building was preserved and given a historically accurate restoration that culminated in 2013. Today it’s home to the Elder Street Artists Lofts, a 34-unit mixed-use structure open to both artists and the community at large.

Between its tumultuous history, careful restoration and spectacular view of the Houston skyline, the Jefferson Davis Hospital is an integral piece of Bayou City’s rich culture.—Rima Jean

PHOTO BY NICHOLAS NGUYEN

Jefferson Davis Hospital

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