August 2010 Issue

Connect

AUGUST 2010

INSPIRE

on

E D U C AT E

E M P O W E R

Women

THE GRAND SOIREE a Collection of Stylish Events Featuring Fashion, Design and Artists $3.95

www.FOWmag.com

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(281) 751-8192 ANNOUNCING OUR BRAND NEW LOCATION NEXT TO ST. LUKE’S HOSPITAL IN SUGAR LAND

1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 301, Sugar Land, TX 77478 462 South Mason Road, Suite 300, Katy, TX 77450

Contents

August 2010 l Volume 2 l Number 2

The Grand Soiree: A Collection of Stylish Events Stylish, trendy and upscale all define The Grand Soiree: A collection of events featuring Houston and Fort Bend’s finest in art, fashion, design and luxury lifestyle. From home décor exhibits to fashion shows to fine art, The Grand Soiree will keep you stepping out in style.

Features Not About Size, It’s About Style 20 It’s A Houston designer who has found her niche designing fashionable clothes for the modern American woman – stylish fashions for plus-sized women – Gayla Bentley is living her dream. Melinda Wood talks with the fashionista about pursuing her dreams with style, grace and always, red lipstick.

26 Giving Homeless Families a Helping Hand

A unique homeless assistance program that operates out of a small house is making great strides by calling on their neighbors: area churches. Nancy Olson takes an in depth look at Fort Bend Family Promise, the misconception about where homelessness exists and the success of a family who lost it all.

32 Women Playing Hard for the Love of the Game

Whoever said girls can’t play football hasn’t met the members of the Houston Energy football team. The first all-female tackle football team in Texas, Melinda Wood takes a look at these ordinary women – moms, students and professionals – who are anything but ordinary as they tackle stereotypes in a football stadium in Pearland. And boys, do they mean business.

with the Vampires 40 Interview One of the biggest films to hit Hollywood this year, Photos courtesy of Tracy Lee Stum, Kathy Womack and TOOTSIES.

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Twilight: Eclipse has it all: romance, intrigue, conflict, and of course, Taylor Lautner’s abs. Nick Nicholson sits down with the young cast of this blockbuster and talks about vampires, silver bullets and of course, the price of fame.

Feel ctly e f r e p d e r e p pam Introduce your new baby to the world in our comprehensive Birthing Center.

At Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Birthing Center, we want to make your childbirth experience as memorable and positive as possible. That’s why we provide specialized medical care, from the time you learn you are pregnant until well after your child is born.

We’re prepared for both routine and high-risk pregnancies through our onsite Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic affiliated with The University of Texas Medical School at Houston. We offer physician-administered anesthesiology 24/7, and our Lactation Center provides breastfeeding support before, during and after birth. Our Level II-B Neonatal Intensive Care Unit provides advanced care for preemies and babies with special medical needs, and we offer immediate access to Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital if necessary.

You will feel perfectly pampered in our private birthing suites with flat-screen televisions, DVD players and more. So, if you’re searching for the ideal place to welcome in your new bundle of joy, come to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Birthing Center. We’ll treat the two of you just right.

memorialhermann.org

August 2010 l

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Contents stepping out with focus on women

pg

49 The Women’s Resource of Greater Houston Annual Luncheon

47 Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

86 J Loggins

Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend

Salon Gity

5th Annual Fashion Show

Southern Sister Designs

health & wellness

87 Bullying…It’s More than Sticks and Stones Bullying gone viral – a look at how technology has made victims more accessible.

style

24 The List: Things We Love Fabulous must haves.

64 Flirty Fifties-Inspired Fashion

Are you a higher roller or a safety player? Don’t know? Then let this guide to determining your money personality help define your money matters.

39 Leave It To Beaver – Complete Series The perfect way to reminisce about those childhood days, you can now have the entire series of this iconic television series. So get out your pearls and your apron like June and enjoy!

42 Girls Just Want to Have Funds

career

44 Food on Your Plate or Just Desserts?

A look at the how – and why – seasonal employment might be right for you.

relationship

50 Launching Your Child into the Future Tips on staying connected when your children leave the nest.

58 10 Dates for Under $10

No, it’s not New York, but it’s a week of fashionable events to bring out the fashionista in you!

The ultimate cheap date…when you absolutely need a reasonable night out.

girlfriend getaways

82 Beating the Summer Heat . . .

In Style

52 Beauty and the Book Girlfriend Weekend

Cool looks for those long, hot days – and nights.

pg l August 2010

A look at this summer’s hot new film that gives the term “family dynamics” a whole new meaning.

This steel-magnolia-with-a-badge is scattered, ditsy and thoroughly entertaining. With an ensemble cast, these classic tales of good vs. evil are great feel good t.v.

80 Sugar Land Town Square Presents Fashion Week

focus on women

76 The Kids Are All Right

financial savvy

From bobby socks to pony tails, the 50’s are back, and they’re fabulous!

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One villain with an army of minions, a few good guys and three orphaned kids – the perfect recipe for a summer flick.

chick flicks

25 The Closer – Season Five

64

Whimsical, spirited and just plain fun describes this animated film where it literally rains cheeseburgers.

Cheeseburgers, falling from the sky?

How can you go wrong with this flick?

74 Despicable Me

Christmas in July

pg

74

24

How can you go wrong attending anything created by a woman who owns the only hair salon and book store in the world? And, best of all, tiaras are encouraged!

Maintain your youth!

Blending Beauty & Technology

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Azul Plastic Surgery Cosmetic Surgery • Skin Care • Laser Rejuvenation • 3531 Town Center Blvd. Ste 102, Sugar Land

281.980.8111 Complimentary Cosmetic Consultations

azulplasticsurgery.com

columns

Contents

88 Woman to Woman

By Alisa Murray Mom has a favorite? A look at how parents love their children unconditionally…and differently.

entertaining

68 Easy Home Entertaining

How to keep your party simple yet chic.

90 The Sophisticated BBQ

pearls of wisdom

between the lines

By Kelly S. Dempsey, MD, FACS

17 Breast Cancer Risk Reduction

A simple model for managing your money to get the most of what you want.

68

53 Shopping for a Cause

A weekend in Fredericksburg with the girls and shopping to benefit the Boys & Girls Club? Count us in, literally. Focus on Women’s ‘Ultimate Girls’ Club’ will be there!

inspiring women

56 What Would Your Personal Refrigerator Magnets Say?

“Keep Calm and Carry On” or “When Your Dreams Turn to Dust, Vacuum.” An insightful look at what your refrigerator says about you.

A guide for middle school girls as they begin their journey toward fabulosity.

77 Fort Bend Focus Magazine Hosts the JEWELS of Fort Bend

94 Be a Friend, Bring a Friend

By Afreen Pappa, MD

46 Pain, A Simple Word . . . That Can Change Everything

By Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic

48 Are You Ready to Rejuvenate Your Skin After Too Much Fun in the Sun?

home

84 Bright Ideas

By Shelena C. Lalji, MD

54 Your Dream of Building a Family Will Come True

By James Chuong, MD

62 Groundbreaking Genetic Advances in Fertility

By George M. Grunert, MD

72 Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates, P.A. – Nearly 50 Years of Excellence in Women’s Health Care

travel

60 Off-Season Travel Tips

How to make the most of your departing dollars and skip the crowds.

By Chantal Nguyen-Tran, MD and Reena Tharappel-Jacob, MD

fow feedback

75 Genie in the Bottle for Dieters

19, 23 & 67 Heard Through the Grapevine

l August 2010

38 How Does She (or He) Do It?

Join Focus on Women as we “Step Out For a Cause” for literacy.

Who says we can’t learn from adversity?

A look at two remarkable women sharing their wealth of knowledge.

focus on women

By Riverstone and Sienna Plantation Custom Home Sales Team

By Kimberly Cress, MD

A preview of this jewel of an event honoring five joyous, extraordinary women enriching lives.

73 What I Learned About Life When My Husband Got Fired!

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By Randy Kaiser, M.Ed.

36 Magnets: Providing CuttingEdge Therapy for Depression

community

An intimate look at life lessons from mother to daughter.

Who’s saying what about Focus on Women.

18 Exercise, Metabolism and Women!

30 Custom Homes vs. Production Homes: What’s the Difference?

95 Become a First Style Fashionista!

Tips on getting lighting basics right.

70 “Mommyisms”

By Beth Newman Great Expectations

A look at how to take your next BBQ from casual to classy.

94 Frugal is the New Posh

pg

96 The Last Word

By Kelly Dickinson and Christie Lawrence

pg

94

You discovered her favorite restaurant.

She introduced you to your husband.

Now, you could save her life.

STATE-OF-THE-ART BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSTICS: Digital Mammography Breast Ultrasound Breast MRI MRI Guided Biopsy Ultrasound Biopsy Stereotactic Biopsy A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.

Reminding a friend to schedule a mammogram could save her life. According to The National Cancer Institute, the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early are getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis.

You can rest assured that at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital you and your friend will receive the high-quality mammogram you need. It is the only full-service center of its kind in Fort Bend County that women can rely on for dedicated breast radiology expertise, state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.

Call 281-242-PINK (7465) to schedule a mammogram with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

LEADING MEDICINEÂŽ Spine BreastCenter Center

16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-242-PINK (7465)

editor’s point of view I

Patti Parish-Kaminski, Editor in Chief

You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby

F

or those of you in my age bracket, mid-something or other, you’re familiar with this phrase touting women’s liberation or equal rights for women.

For our daughters, women’s suffrage and the 19th amendment are ancient history. Not that we personally can recall the fight, but through our grandmothers, great grandmothers and great aunts, we can recount the stories – the paramount importance of a woman’s right to be all that she can be. It’s part of our history, and it’s my fear that as generations become farther removed from the fight, they will neglect to recognize the importance of our battle for equality, which unfortunately, isn’t over.

In 1955, Housekeeping Monthly Magazine featured an article entitled “The Good Wife’s Guide.” Let me share some excerpts with you:

Patti and Tim in Mazatlan.

• Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready, on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal (especially his favorite dish) is part of the warm welcome needed.

• Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so you’ll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people.

• Be a little gay and a little more interesting for him.

His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.

• Don’t complain if he’s late home for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through that day.

The tips go on and on, but this is where you lost me. Don’t complain if he stays out all night?

According to the March 2010 issue of the Harvard Business Review, “Women represent just 3% of Fortune 500 CEOs and less than 15% of corporate executives at top companies worldwide.” That’s 170 years since women began realizing the inequity in our society. With that mind-boggling statistic, “You’ve come a long way, baby,” just doesn’t pack the intended punch.

Fortunately, by supporting one another, we are making great strides. The women featured in this issue of Focus on Women have come a long way. From playing on a woman’s football team to a talented designer creating clothes for what she terms “the modern woman,” these women are trailblazers following their dreams and doing what they love. And then, there are the women who overcome obstacles like Felicia whose husband left her homeless, penniless and with an insurmountable debt load. With a little help from a wonderful organization, Felicia started over by educating herself and making a life and home for her and her three children.

Inspiring women are what makes Focus on Women unique, and none are more inspiring than breast cancer survivors and those who are still in the fight. Focus on Women is proud to serve as a sponsor of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure October 2nd in Houston to show our steadfast support of women and women’s health issues. We’ll be there race day in pink regalia, Stepping Out for a Cause. We invite you to join our team, FOW’s Stepping Out for a Cause, at www.Komen-Houston.org and step out with us. After all, we have come a long way, baby.

Stay focused!

editor@FOWmag.com

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Proud Sponsor

contributors Nick Nicholson is the Entertainment Editor for Focus on Women and the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star newspaper, Fort Bend Focus and Pearland Focus magazines. He is the co-founder of the Houston film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization. In “Twilight: Eclipse – Interview with the Vampires” on page 40, Nick sits down with the young cast of this blockbuster series and talks about all things tween and Twilight. Nick and his wife, Mikki, reside in Sugar Land, Texas.

A third generation Baylor Bear, Melinda Wood graduated from Baylor University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. Currently, she works in nonprofit communications and spends her free time writing for Pearland Focus, Fort Bend Focus and Focus on Women magazines. In “It’s Not About Size, It’s About Style” on page 20, Melinda visits with fashion phenom Gayla Bentley about her new line of clothing for the “modern woman,” her experience on ABC’s “Shark Tank” and her inspiration for style. On page 32 in “Women Playing Hard for the Love of the Game,” Melinda tackles the females blazing trails on the football field. Melinda and her husband, Justin, live in Pearland, Texas.

Nancy Olson, former broadcast journalist and wife of Congressman Pete Olson, District 22, introduces readers to a woman and an organization making a difference in the lives of the homeless. In “Giving Homeless Families a Helping Hand” on page 26, Nancy shares the story of a mother of three left homeless and penniless, and her road to success with a little help from a friend. While Pete works in Washington during the week, Nancy resides in Sugar Land, Texas with their two children, Kate and Grant, and dog, Riley.

Wife and mother of three, Tanya Sterling is the founder and director of the JOY Ministries, a special needs ministry at First Methodist Houston, and a freelance writer.

In “What Would Your Personal Refrigerator Magnets Say?” on page 56, Tanya takes an insightful – and humorous – look at people and their personal mantras. She then explores life lessons, or “Mommyisms,” on page 70 by sharing her summer experiences with her daughter. Tanya and her family reside in Missouri City.

Mariviv Scrogin shows us how to stay fashionable in the sweltering Texas summer in “Beating the Summer Heat…In Style” on page 83. From jeweled sandals to sexy sundresses, Marviv shines the spotlight on the must-haves to beat the heat. A Visual Manager at Dillard’s First Colony Mall in Sugar Land, Texas for the past ten years, Mariviv’s keen sense of style will keep you moving fashionably forward in any kind of weather.

Owner and personal stylist at Emmanuel Salon, Brian Benoit shares his style sense and passion for photography in “Flirty Fifties-Inspired Fashion” on page 64. From ankle socks to flirty skirts, Brian showcases the 1950’s vintage looks that are hitting the stores for fall.

Brian and his wife, Stevie, live in Sugar Land, Texas with their four children.

August 2010 l

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guest columnists DeAnne Pearson, M. Ed. Career Coach Page 44

44

Janine J. Sherman, RN MSN WHNP-BC Southwest Ob/Gyn

50

Page 50

Lauren Dante Freelance Writer Page 52

52

Jennifer Babisak Freelance Writer

58

Page 58

Nancy Mills, APR The Mills Agency Page 87

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography 87

Page 88

88

Chef Reynold Darthard Chef Rey’s Restaurant & Catering Page 90

Beth Newman Newman Image 90

Page 96

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August 2010 Vol. 2 l No. 2 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 • Stafford, TX 77477 www.FOWmag.com To advertise call 281-690-4242 • TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469 Direct mailed to every physician in the county and to Focus Magazine subscribers, and available at demand distribution locations.

PUBLISHERS EDITOR IN CHIEF ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

ON THE COVER Art by Kathy Womack

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OFFICE MANAGER ART DIRECTOR ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER WEB DESIGNER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Michael Fredrickson & Lisa Fredrickson Patti Parish-Kaminski Nick Nicholson Barbara McNeil Jessica Kij Dena Perry April Lambert Norma Loredo Grace Belleza Joey Belleza Elizabeth Pace JOBpageGraphics.com - Joey Belleza Lauren Dante

The views and opinions expressed by our advertisers and columnists do not necessarily reflect those of the Publishers and its staff.

2010 Focus on Women Magazine. No material from this publication may be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publishers.

August 2010 l

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cover story

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

Photos courtesy of TOOTSIES, rtran photography and Tracy Lee Strum.

a Collection of Stylish Events Featuring Fashion, Design and Artists

A

n evening party or other gathering given usually at a private house, especially where guests are invited to participate, oftentimes by listening to, playing or dancing to music. According to the dictionary, that’s the definition of the word “soiree.” But add the word “grand,” and the meaning becomes so much more. The Grand Soiree, a collection of stylish events scheduled for September 25th through October 27th, takes the meaning of the word “soiree” to a whole new level. Created by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, along with title sponsors Sienna Plantation and Riverstone, The Grand Soiree is the ultimate collection of stylish events designed to deliver excitement, luxury and elegance.

The Birth of The Grand Soiree With the success of The Grand Wine & Food Affair, now in its seventh year, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce felt compelled to create a fall event of equal magnitude focusing not on food and wine, but on fashion, design, art and luxury lifestyle. The collection of stylish events, designed to provide entertainment, excitement and exposure for Houston and surrounding cities, was a natural fit for the chamber’s role promoting the community. “With the enthusiastic support from our founding sponsors, Sienna Plantation and Riverstone, we knew that together, we could provide a showcase of

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luxurious events highlighting our quality of life,” said Keri Schmidt, Vice President of the Fort Bend Chamber.

With the concept firmly in place, Schmidt, along with The Grand Soiree’s founding sponsors, began the collaborative effort of laying the groundwork for a unique collection of festivities featuring home and clothing designers, entertainment, exhibits of art and home design, VIP receptions and exclusive dinners in Houston and Sugar Land. For the two Johnson Development Corporation communities, the creation of a signature series of events was an easy sell. “Both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone have enjoyed a productive, long-standing relationship with the Fort Bend Chamber,” said Susie Goff, Marketing Director for Sienna Plantation.

“Six years ago, we co-developed the Sienna Sip & Stroll, which takes place in our community as one of the feature events of The Grand Wine & Food Affair. It’s a unique and extremely well-attended event that we enjoy hosting so it was easy for us to see the potential and play a major role in The Grand Soiree.”

The collection of events spotlighting Houston and Fort Bend’s finest include art exhibits, fashion shows, a famous 3D chalk artist showcase, a champagne bus tour to the Houston Design Center’s Fall Market, The International Risotto Festival, a Women and Wine Art Dinner with artist Kathy Womack, a Fire and Ice themed dinner at The Post

THE GRAND SOIREE Oak Grill in Sugar Land and a bartender’s challenge at the new M Lounge. Ten stylish events – The Grand Soiree – featuring fashion, designers and artists. Just how does one kick off such an impressive collection of posh fall events? With a pirate-themed, over-the-top event benefiting an incredible organization: The American Cancer Society.

High Seas and High Fashion The Grand Soiree kicks off on September 25th with Couture for the Cause, a treasure trove of fashion, food and fun where guests are encouraged to fashion themselves in pirate couture. The event, themed Escape to Treasure Island and presented by Sterling McCall Lexus, features a couture style show with fashions provided by TOOTSIES. Exotic models will walk the gang plank-style runway suspended over a pool at Sienna Plantation’s newest resort-style water park – The Resort at Sienna Springs. Noted fashion show coordinator Lenny Matuszewski will choreograph the crew of local celebrity and professional models along with cancer survivors in the lush, tropical setting. Some of the event’s survivor models include CEO of Johnson Development Larry Johnson and his wife, Suzie; local Realtors Barbara Montgomery and Brenda Pullen; former Harris County District Attorney Dennis Cain; top-selling romance novelist Jan Freed, and Houston attorney Joe B. Allen.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for those who wish to join the pirate crew ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, and individual tickets are available for $100. Memorial opportunities also begin at $100.

Chalk It Up to Fabulous Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras and interact with the work of internationally acclaimed 3D chalk artist Tracy Lee Stum, the focal point for The Grand Soiree’s first October event. Considered one of the world’s foremost street artists, Stum will create a new 3D masterpiece inside a newly completed, multi-million dollar custom estate

by Sterling Classic Homes in Riverstone.

Stum’s work launches a two-week showcase of the home where visitors will be able to watch the artist create her work of grand illusion October 6th through 8th. The artwork will be on display as the showcase continues October 9th through 17th. Tickets for both periods are $5 each with a portion of the proceeds benefitting various local charities.

Stum’s work has been featured on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and in the BBC documentary “King of the Strip” about the making of the Venetian Hotel and Casino for which she created an over 11,000-squarefoot trompe l’oeil ceiling mural. Currently, Stum holds the Guiness World Record for the largest street painting by an individual for her interpretation of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Continued on page 16

10 EVENTS Sept.25-Oct.27

Indulge in jewelry, dining, shopping, art & parties!!

THE GRAND SOIREE

The area’s finest restaurants will feature an array of delectable delicacies for guests to enjoy throughout the evening. Participating restaurants include Amici’s, Aura, Berryhill Baja Grill, Candelari’s, Chef Rey’s Restaurant and Catering, Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill, Meat & Greet, Pier 36 and Post Oak Grill. A special memorial honoring cancer survivors and those who have lost the fight will be a focal point of the evening. The memorial will feature hundreds of candles placed up the tower wall at The Resort at Sienna Springs.

Kicking off The Grand Soiree with a benefit was a natural for the Escape to Treasure Island committee led by Honorary Chairmen Marvin and Debbie Marcell and Michael and Molly Cooper. “Escape to Treasure Island will be both a meaningful and fun event,” said Marvin Marcell. “It’s the perfect way to support an organization who does so much for those battling cancer, and it’s a perfect start to an extraordinary month of festivities.”

The Gulf Coast Region American Cancer Society (ACS) provides hope and support to cancer patients and their families every day by providing patients with temporary housing during their treatment process in Houston.

In 2009, 421 women received a weighted prosthesis and two bras from ACS after their breast cancer surgery. Through ACS’s Reach to Recovery program, those recently diagnosed with breast cancer receive a one-onone visit from a breast cancer survivor. The net proceeds from Couture for the Cause will support ACS’s mission of saving lives and eliminating cancer.

EVENT! KICK OFF Couture for the Cause

benefiting American Cancer Society Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon Sat., Sept. 25 l 8pm l $100

Internationally Renowned 3D Chalk Artist: Tracy Lee Stum

in Riverstone Oct. 6-8 l Watch Her Work l $5 Oct. 9-17 l View The Masterpiece l $5

Artful Living with Neiman Marcus in Riverstone Special guest Tracy Lee Stum Fri., Oct. 8 l 7pm l $75

Fort Bend Goes to the Fall Design Market

Wed., Oct. 13 l 9:30am-1:30pm Champagne Bus Tours l $40

Vineyard Style

Vineyard on the Square Fri., Oct. 15 l 11:30am-1:30pm l $40

International Risotto Festival Houston Design Center Sun., Oct. 17 l 1-6pm l $65

Women & Wine art dinner with Kathy Womack Aura Restaurant Mon., Oct. 18 l 6:30pm l $75

Fire & Ice Wine and Jewelry dinner

Post Oak Grill—Sugar Land Thurs., Oct. 21 l 6:30pm l $150

Internationally acclaimed 3D chalk artist Tracy Lee Stum with one of her illusionary masterpieces depicting a scene from “Alice in Wonderland.” Stum will be creating an original masterpiece during The Grand Soiree in October in a multimillion dollar custom estate home by Sterling Classic Homes in Riverstone.

Mix It Up at the M Lounge

Bartender’s Challenge Wed., Oct. 27 l 6:30pm l $40

Continued from page 15

Last Supper,” commissioned for the DVD release of the film “The Da Vinci Code.”

Dedicated to bring her art form to a wider audience, Stum has created her masterpieces worldwide and is enthusiastic about her Texas project. “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to bring my vision of street art to the Houston area,” said Stum. “I love to entertain by creating worlds that are intriguing to the viewer – that seem as though you can step right into them.”

For The Grand Soiree, Stum will be creating a waterfall and cliff illusion inside the Riverstone custom home, and while countless visitors will be able to view the masterpiece October 9th through 17th, only 250 tickets will be available for an exclusive VIP preview with the artist, Artful Living with Neiman Marcus. During Artful Living on Friday, October 8th, Stum will be on hand to visit with guests, and Neiman Marcus will showcase a sampling of the latest home décor design trends. Guests attending the VIP event will also receive a copy of “The Book,” Neiman Marcus’ signature catalogue. Tickets to the VIP event are $75.

Fall Market, Fashion and Fare Mid October brings three additional events spotlighting the area’s finest in home design, fashion and food. Touted as the complete source for the best in home and commercial design, guests will have the opportunity to visit The Houston Design Center’s exclusive Fall Design Market via a champagne bus tour departing from Fort Bend. The event celebrates the newest in design trends with 30 exciting showrooms featuring furniture, antiques, rugs, art, lighting, fabrics and more.

Guests can mingle with some of the area’s top designers in the 15-acre design center. The

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event is scheduled from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, October 13th, and tickets are $40.

Vineyard Style, scheduled for Friday, October 15th, features lunch at Sugar Land Town Square’s The Vineyard. With a lounge, bistro, tasting room and wine shop, the bistro offers an array of gourmet dishes that pair nicely with the restaurant’s wines. A featured fashion speaker will showcase the latest trends and designs while guests enjoy lunch and wine. Tickets are $40.

Perfect for a Sunday afternoon, October 17th features The International Risotto Festival at the Houston Design Center.

Enjoy a delicious afternoon of food, fun and festivities with some of the area’s finest chefs competing with one another in a risotto challenge. Participating restaurants to date include Carmelo’s Branch Water Tavern, Grotto, Mockingbird Bistro, Pesce and Trevisio. Guests will be able to sample the risotto creations and enjoy live music, tours of the Houston Design Center’s designer showrooms, tastings of award-winning wines and family entertainment. The event is 2 to 6 pm and tickets are $65.

Kathy Womack’s art from her original Women and Wine® series will be displayed at her Gallery Showing during The Grand Soiree.

Women, Wine and Womack Artist Kathy Womack, best known for her original Women and Wine® series paintings, travels to Fort Bend for an exclusive art gallery showing in a custom home in Riverstone, a Johnson Development community. The showing will feature an array of Womack’s work including paintings from her Women and Wine® series. A mother of three from Austin, Womack “lives vicariously through her paintings” and describes her inspiration for her well-known series. “My life is very full, just not glamorous. So, there’s this little piece of me that screams to put on some strappy sandals, an evening frock and hit the town. See the

girls, have a glass of wine . . . or two!”

Womack’s Gallery Showing is scheduled for Monday, October 18th from 4 to 6 pm, and tickets are $15. Immediately following the showing, guests can attend the Women & Wine Art Dinner with Womack at Aura Restaurant at 6:30 pm. Tickets for dinner with the artist are $75 and include dinner and wine.

Fire & Ice Great food, fabulous wine and sparkling jewels are the perfect collaboration for the Fire & Ice Vintner Dinner at the The Post Oak Grill in Sugar Land. Scheduled for Thursday, October 21st, the evening will feature a gourmet meal and wines from Alexander Valley Vineyard and Dry Creek. A special “jeweled” dessert created by Courtney Goff, recently from Washington DC’s number one rated restaurant, Kumi, will finish off the meal.

Renowned for their culinary skills and service for over twenty years, The Post Oak Grill’s newest location provides the perfect setting for Fire & Ice: elegance and good taste. To add some sparkle to the night, fabulous jewels will be on display. Tickets for the evening are $150.

The final event in The Grand Soiree lets you mix it up. The newly opened, posh M Lounge in Sugar Land is the setting for an evening of creative libations. Mix It Up at the M Lounge features a bartender’s challenge where guests are judges. David Allan, bartender and writer of the blog “Tipsy Texan,” is collaborating with the region’s top mixologists at this cocktail challenge. Sample original cocktails and vote for your favorite in Fort Bend’s newest hot spot. Tickets are $40.

Tickets for The Grand Soiree events are limited, and they are available at www.

TheGrandSoiree.com. Facebook fans will receive the latest updates, and event photos are posted regularly. Indulge yourself in this incredible showcase of luxury and extravagance celebrating good taste: The Grand Soiree.

The posh M Lounge is the scene for Mix It Up at the M Lounge on October 27th. Photo by rtran photography.

Pearls of Wisdom

By Kelly S. Dempsey, MD, FACS

Breast Cancer Risk Reduction

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veryone is aware these days that mammograms can detect breast cancer at its earliest, curable stages, but are there any ways to prevent it? There are no simple methods of avoiding breast cancer. Certain factors increase overall risk and others decrease it. Some can be changed and others cannot. The best strategies involve knowing an individual’s risk factors and modifying the ones that can be.

Lifetime estrogen exposure is the most recognized risk factor linked to breast cancer. The total number of years of exposure over a woman’s reproductive life directly relates to her overall risk. First menstrual period, starting at age 12 or younger, and menopause, starting after age 55, are well-established risk factors for breast cancer. We cannot change when a woman first starts her menstruation or

when it stops, but minimizing hormone use beyond the natural menopause can reduce a woman’s overall risk. A maximum of no more than 5 to 10 years of hormone replacement is recommended, and avoidance is preferable.

Having more than two children, your first child birth at an age less than 24 years old and breastfeeding for a total of at least two years, have been shown to be protective against breast cancer; however, these factors are often beyond a woman’s control. Modern birth controls pills and fertility treatments have been proven not to increase the risk of breast cancer.

Exercise and avoiding obesity can reduce overall risk, as well as avoiding tobacco and heavy alcohol consumption (less than two drinks per day). Women with a strong family history or abnormal biopsies are candidates for estrogen blocking therapy

for risk reduction, but this should be decided with a physician on a case-bycase basis.

Several tools are available to your physician for calculating your chances of developing breast cancer. These tools can indicate if you are at a substantially increased risk. Many of these rely heavily on family history, and it is important to remember that 80% of newly diagnosed breast cancer occurs in women with NO family history. If you do have a parent, sibling or child with breast cancer, this well-established factor justifies increased surveillance. Talk with your physician about your personal risk at your next visit.

Kelly S. Dempsey, MD, FACS Specializing in Breast Care and Diseases of the Breast.

Southwest Surgical

Breast Center

of Fort Bend

Specializing In: • Oncoplastic Surgery • Alternative state-of-the-art radiation therapy • Minimally invasive breast care • High-risk breast surveillance program

Compassionate Care You Can Trust KELLY S. DEMPSEY, MD, FACS Specializing in Breast Care and Diseases of the Breast

16651 Southwest Freeway, Suite 360 281-491-6200

17510 W. Grand Parkway South, Suite 490 281-342-8932

www.SouthwestSurgical.com August 2010 l

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Pearls of Wisdom

By Randy Kaiser, M.Ed.

Exercise, Metabolism and Women!

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our basal metabolic rate, or BMR, is the minimum caloric requirement to sustain life during rest. This caloric requirement is vital for normal bodily processes such as respiration, blood circulation, temperature regulation, etc. Our BMR is responsible for 60-75% of our daily caloric needs and is often referred to as our maintenance level. In order for our bodies to properly function, it is important to know and understand our individual BMR. Different levels of testing can be done by most medical providers so ask your primary care physician for more details.

From birth, there are many factors affecting your BMR, and as we grow older, these factors play an ever increasing role in determining how many calories we need to sustain life. Some factors can be controlled, and others are encoded to us by our parents.

Genetics is one factor that we cannot control.

It is thought that our genes may have as much

as 60-70% of a role in what we weigh. At first glance, this may seem somewhat discouraging but upon further analysis, it is clear that despite our genetic predispositions, positive changes can still be made. For example, take a 250 pound female with a history of obesity in her family. According to current research, genetics may explain up to 60-70% of her weight struggle. However, if she was able to change only the remaining 30-40%, she could still lose up to 100 pounds. Losing up to 100 pounds would be sufficient for this person to reduce most if not all obesity-related risk factors.

Age is another factor we cannot control; however, the effects of aging on our BMR can be decreased with a proper exercise program.

Current research has found that the average weight gain for women between the ages of 25-60 is around 20 pounds. There are several explanations for this weight gain but the most prominent seems to be the loss of

lean muscle mass with a subsequent decrease in metabolism. It is suggested that we lose 3 pounds of lean mass every decade starting at age 30. Inactivity and the loss of lean mass can decrease our BMR by up to 10-15% and contribute to an increased fat mass of 20 pounds or more per year. To offset the loss of fat free mass, we need to begin, and continue, a properly progressed exercise program which includes resistance training. Regular intervalstyle training and a proper resistance training program can help reduce the affects of aging on metabolism.

To learn more about exercise, metabolism and women, please contact our highly trained staff at 281.341.2045.

Randy Kaiser has a Masters of Education in Exercise Science and is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine. He was voted the top Personal Trainer in Fort Bend County in 2006, currently teaches for Exercise Etc., a national continuing education company, and is the Program Director at Lifestyles at OakBend.

Lifestyles at OakBend offers the Eleet Program™ • A cutting-edge fitness program designed to increase the overall mental and physical health of each member.

• Proper and SAFE exercise progressions.

• EFFICIENT 30-45 minute workouts.

• CONTINUAL Exercise Specialist support.

• The Eleet Program™ teaches the physical and mental modifications needed to reach all of your fitness, post-rehab and extreme sport goals.

The next Biggest Winner Competition will begin Monday, September 6th. Call for more details.

Lifestyles at OakBend offers many types of fitness programs including pre-surgical strengthening, post-rehab maintenance, pregnancy exercise programs, general fitness programs, athlete strength and conditioning programs, The Road to Wellness Program (in conjunction with the MD Anderson Cancer Center) and much more.

To find out more about the perfect program for you, call 281-341-2045 or email at rkaiser@obmc.org.

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Heard Through the Grapevine

1.65% APY*

11 Month CD Promotion $5,000 min - $99,000 max * APY=Annual Percentage Yield.

Rates effective July 26, 2010. Limited time offer. Rates subject to change.

Early withdrawal penalty may apply. New money only.

Patti, I wanted to thank you for the feature story about me and my ministry in your Focus on Women, May edition. It was not only a very nice article by Nancy, but it has caught the eye of many in our community. It seems that everywhere I go I run into someone who has seen the magazine.

As a result of the article, “Mary’s Ministry,” we have had many women go to our website and sign up online to attend our classes this fall. As a non-profit (and low budget) organization, most of our members have joined as a result of word-of-mouth. This article reaches well beyond our membership to women who have never heard of Merry Ministries and many who have never attended a Bible study.

Our purpose is show women how the Bible is applicable and helpful to our everyday lives in the 21st century. Thank you for helping us spread that positive message.

Folks you know. Right here.

12946 Dairy Ashford | Sugar Land | 77478 281.276.1800 | www.BankofFortBend.com Loans are subject to credit approval.

Very sincerely, Mary Willis

For more information contact Callie Shields at 713-818-4148 callieshields@mac.com

For questions and comments, please email: editor@FOWmag.com August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

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feature

By Melinda Wood

It’s Not About Size, It’s About Style

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Gayla Bentley

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isten up, fashionistas! Gayla Bentley is launching a new label for the modern woman, and best of all, it’s at a wallet-friendly price.

The Houston-based fashion designer grabbed the attention of Stage Stores with her passion for designing fashionable clothes for plus-sized women – a demographic she refers to as the “modern woman.” Gayla’s mission: “We design modern clothes for the modern woman. Sixty percent of American women are above size 12, but it shouldn’t be about size. It should be about style. Women of all sizes want style.”

LUXURY LOOK, AFFORDABLE PRICE Stage Stores, a Houston-based company that includes Palais Royal, Beall’s, Goody’s, Peeble’s and Stage, will have Gayla’s new collection called Gayla by Gayla Bentley in stores starting in August. The collection will be available in size 1 to 3X and will boast a luxury look promising to be free of sticker shock.

“Everything is made with comfortable fabrics and designer detailing,” said Gayla. “It’s European meets American style. It’s the luxury look for the affordable price.”

For Gayla, this new collection with Stage Stores is a dream come true and the first time one of her collections will be featured on the floor of the women’s department at a nationwide department store.

In October of 2009, Gayla won ABC’s “Shark Tank.” On the show, Gayla had to pitch her idea for her clothing line to business investors. Gayla made quite the impression on not only the judges but on the entire nation including Stage Stores. “I went on the show because I wanted to find an investor who would want style regardless of size,” Gayla shared. “We were number one on Google the next day. There are so many women who want beautiful clothes of all sizes.”

Her appearance on “Shark Tank” was only the beginning.

“Stage Stores saw me on television, and they liked the designs that were highlighted. I had a meeting with them, showed them my ideas, and now, we’re launching this fall. ” Gayla’s luxury collection, Luxe, is available at NeimanMarcus. com, as well as small boutiques worldwide, but she is excited about what an affordable collection will do for her label and for modern women everywhere. “I think this will make Gayla Bentley more of a global brand,” she said. “The way the economy is right now, there are a lot of women whose economic status has changed.

They need something that’s under $50, but still gets the $300 look. I think it will be a growth spurt for our company, and this collection will allow me to dress women throughout the country.”

In addition to her new venture with Stage Stores, Gayla has also garnered attention on the small screen as her clothes have been featured on HGTV’s “Design Star,” KHOU’s “Great Day Houston,” and on an upcoming episode of Lifetime’s “Drop Dead Diva” scheduled to air on August 29th. Her styles have also been recognized by O, the Oprah Magazine and countless other magazines and newspapers.

Continued on page 22 August 2010 l

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Continued from page 21

SIGNATURE STYLE In her own words, Gayla’s company is a “fusion of fashion design and style education.” Her signature red lips found in her logo is actually an acronym for her persona mantra: Live In Personal Style – LIPS. “I think women are looking for style.

And, that’s what we’re in the business of – helping women find their personal style,” Gayla said. “That’s what makes us different. We like to educate as well as dress.”

Her passion for educating women on personal style comes from years as a fashion consultant. “My past is dressing women from head to toe,” Gayla said. “When you dress women for that amount a time, you know what will look good on them.

So many women get frustrated, and they just don’t shop anymore. Their clothes are just coverage.”

As a fashion consultant, Gayla dressed the best to impress. “I’ve dressed a first lady of the United States and a queen before. I don’t care who it is. I see her beauty first, and I dress it to her lifestyle.

When you enter a room, it shouldn’t be about what size you are, it should be about your style.”

Gayla’s Guide to Personal Style Buy better and buy less.

Try clothes on. A lot of people don’t try clothes on!

Buy clothes that fit you.

Look in a full-length mirror.

Shop with a friend, so you can be each other’s consultants.

Find a designer that works for you.

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Focus on Women publisher, Lisa Fredrickson, Gayla Bentley and Focus on Women Editor in Chief, Patti Parish-Kaminski.

Gayla also believes women should be “chic and classic.” That’s why she worked hard on perfecting her signature neckline and her pants. “The first thing I tackled was designing pants,” she said. “I wanted to take that fear away from women. So my pants have been my best sellers. I also love our necklines. They are feminine and flirty.”

As far as her inspiration, Gayla says she finds it in Paris and in everyday life.

“I’ve really enjoyed working in Houston, and I really enjoy the peace and tranquility down here. I find my inspiration everyday.” She added with a laugh, “When I see people in something they shouldn’t be wearing, I get inspired. A lot of people just follow the trend because they don’t know any better. They think that’s what fashion is. Just because it’s a trend doesn’t mean that everybody should be wearing it.

If it doesn’t work for you, put your trend into an accessory.”

FASHION FORWARD Planning for her fashion future is at the top of Gayla’s priorities, and she has

several ideas to expand the Gayla Bentley line within the next five years. “I’m proud of my past, but I’m excited to grow as a designer.”

According to Gayla, “There’s so much growth for the modern woman. I want to focus on the modern woman and give her clothes with style that fit. The next item I want to launch is braziers. The next thing after that will be kitten heels and flats. Trying to find an attractive flat is not easy.”

But, it doesn’t stop there for this Texas businesswoman. “After shoes, bathing suits will be next,” Gayla said.

When asked why she thinks her company has been so successful, Gayla response is succinct – “God”. “I pray a lot. God is very important in my life,” she said. “I’ve also been persistent. You make it happen by trying everyday. It’s a constant perseverance, and you have to be quite prepared to take a lot of rejection. It’s taken a long time to break into a department store, but it’s happening. This makes me the happiest – that women will have an affordable, luxurious look.”

Look for Gayla by Gayla Bentley in a Stage Store near you this August.

Heard Through the Grapevine

Hi Patti, Thank you for the article!

We have already received a volunteer from someone who read the article.

LaTanya Flix Executive Director The Women’s Resource of Greater Houston

Dear Tanya, I just read your article in the May ‘10 Focus on Women.

Great words of inspiration! So much so, it moved me to tell you “thank you” for sharing your appreciation of friendships!

Wishing you all the best!

God Bless, Laurie Cutcher

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Tanya, Thank you for such a wonderful tribute to my Mom. It was well written, very touching and a great honor to her.

It makes me proud to be her son thank you so much for sharing.

Sincerely, William Hill For questions and comments, please email: editor@FOWmag.com

Eric Humble, MD

Call for your personal complimentary consultation today!!

281-313-0555

www.beautybecomesyou.com

16525 Lexington Blvd. Suite #150

Sugar Land, TX 77479

August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

23

style

The List: Things We Love Do we need it? No, but we gotta have it!

Check out these fabulous finds.

Hat Divas

Animal Instincts

Release your inner animal with these fabulous leopard and zebra print glasses by Designs by Lolita.

Available in wine and martini glasses, each glass comes in a festive container and best of all, there’s a recipe for a cool cocktail hand-painted on the bottom. Our fav? The Chocolate Zebra. www.accents-gifts.com

Guilty Pleasures

You can’t go wrong with this delectable treat. After all, it incorporates two of our favorite words: butter and brownies. With flavors like “Hot Lips” featuring walnuts, chocolate and habanero chilis and “Mental Julip” boasting a unique chocolate and mind combination, you just can’t go wrong with this gourmet treat.

All wrapped up in vintage packaging, Mary Louise Butters Brownies helps you “live life more sweetly.” www.buttersbrownies.com

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Here’s the dilemma: Perhaps once, maybe twice a year, you get invited to a tea, outdoor event or luncheon where hats are the main attraction. But finding a fabulous hat isn’t as easy as it sounds. Here’s the answer: Ultimate Divas Designer Hats. Stylish, sophisticated head apparel is only a mouse-click away! Peruse the “Hattitude Catalog” featuring a multitude of fabulous – and fanciful – choices. Hats off to the divas! www.hatdivas.com

Skinny Dipping

There’s no need to worry about double dipping with these individual fondue pots.

Melt your favorite decadent chocolate or sassy Swiss and dip to your heart’s content in the Fondue for You, Fondue for Me personal fondue pots by Bliss. Complete with skewers, this set of two pots is heated by candlelight and sets the perfect ambience for an intimate evening of personal dipping. www.accents-gifts.com

chick flicks DVD Release THE CLOSER: Season Five Warner

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he Southern drawl and mild exasperation are by now familiar to TV crime buffs: Kyra Sedgwick’s steel-magnoliawith-a-badge, Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson. The fourth season of The Closer finds Sedgwick in super form, as the scattered, ditsy, mama’s girl with a weakness for junk food and a singular focus when it comes to getting perps to talk.

Yet the strength of The Closer goes far beyond just Sedgwick, as formidable as she is.

The ensemble cast is also stellar and very human and believable. Johnson’s fellow cops (among whom Johnson is, finally, one of the boys, albeit in frilly skirts) are fleshed-out and battle their own demons.

By Nick Nicholson

August 2010 l

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feature

By Nancy Olson

Giving Homeless Families a Helping Hand

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Former Fort Bend Family Promise kids having some fun.

Fort Bend Family Promise’s headquarters located at New Hope Lutheran Church in Missouri City.

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elicia and her children had nowhere to turn. The 45-year-old Nigerian born mother of three recalls the shock almost five years ago at learning that she and her children - then ages 16, 12, and 10 - would have to move out of their Quail Valley townhouse. The spirited, strong-willed woman said, “I didn’t understand. How could this happen?”

Then, the story began to unfold. Her estranged husband, who was a teacher, handled all the bills. Felicia learned from her landlord that the rent hadn’t been paid in three months. Additionally, thousands of dollars had been charged to credit cards in her name. “I felt like someone had kicked me in the stomach. I was so worried for my children. I didn’t know what we were going to do.”

With no family or friends to take them, Felicia and her daughter and two sons were destitute. “We were completely homeless,” she said. And then, a friend told her about a unique homeless assistance program called Fort Bend Family Promise (FBFP) that headquarters out of a small house provided by New Hope Lutheran Church in Missouri City.

“There’s a misconception that homelessness doesn’t exist in Fort Bend County, but it does. We are here to help families with children who have fallen on hard times get back on their feet,” said FBFP Director Lyn Storm. But, she is quick to add that the program, which is part of a large network of similar programs operating in 41 states with 10 affiliates in Texas, is not a shelter. “We can only help clients who truly want to improve their lives and help themselves.”

Partners in Progress: Fort Bend Family Promise and Churches The Thornton family, clients of Fort Bend Family Promise, proudly displays the life-changing gift awarded to them by the nonprofit organization: a vehicle.

Adults applying for assistance with FBFP must pass drug and alcohol tests and sign a contract of commitment. After being accepted into the program, families receive food and shelter from a network of local churches. The organization can accommodate a maximum of 14 people at a time for one week about every three months. Each church hosts the families, and they are transported each evening by a FBFP driver to the host church where volunteers prepare their temporary sleeping quarters, feed them a homecooked meal, and provide fellowship.

Early the next morning after eating breakfast, the families are driven back to the Family Service Center at New Hope to shower and prepare for the day. Schoolaged children are picked up by FBISD buses and transported from the service center to school and back again. Adults also have a busy day. Storm said most

If a family hits a rough patch, FBFP steps in when they can to help with utilities, gas cards, donated cars, and groceries.

Storm, who spent forty years working in the corporate world before finding her “calling” with FBFP, says the job is 24/7 and can be very draining, but worth it.

clients not only need help looking for employment, they also need help learning how to better manage their lives. “We teach them the basics. How to balance a check book, pay bills on time, and budget their money. We even tutor clients who don’t have a high school diploma prepare for the GED exam. We will help our clients in any way we can get back on track, but they have to stay focused and show us they really want to be self-sufficient. If not, we have to ask them to leave the program in order to make room for someone more committed.”

Storm wishes all of the clients were like Felicia. Of the hundreds of adults who have passed through FBFP’s doors since the program began in 2005, this determined mother is one of her favorites.

Felicia believes her family’s success is the result of lots of hard work. “At first, it was very hard for us to adjust to our new living conditions. After a while, we got used to things mainly because of all of the wonderful things the volunteers did for us.

They made us feel very welcomed and not so ashamed of our situation.” She and her children stayed with FBFP for 237 days, a little longer than the recommended six month limit. The average length of stay is three or four months. At the time of her “graduation,” Felicia left the program with a donated car, debt-free, and $3,000 in the bank.

Today, while life is not easy, Felicia and her children are flourishing. She has never seen her husband again, and she works two jobs as a nurse’s assistant while taking classes to prepare for her nursing exam.

Continued on page 28

An integral part of the success of Fort Bend Family Promise’s (FBFP) program is local congregations. Two categories of support exist for area churches: hosting congregations and support congregations.

Hosting congregations feed and house families on a rotational schedule approximately every three months for one week. Participating hosting congregations include:

First United Methodist Missouri City

New Hope Lutheran Missouri City

Southminster Presbyterian Missouri City

All Saints Episcopal Stafford

First Presbyterian Sugar Land

Christ United Methodist Sugar Land

Parkway United Methodist Sugar Land

St. Martin’s Lutheran Sugar Land

Covenant Glen UMC Missouri City

Colony Creek Community Missouri City

Support congregations contribute financially to FBFP, and they include:

St. Lawrence Parish Sugar Land

Joy Lutheran Richmond

Sugar Grove Church of Christ Stafford

Thoreau Unitarian Stafford

August 2010 l

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Continued from page 27

Her daughter is entering her third year at Lamar State University, and like her mom, is planning a career in the nursing field.

The younger boys are both in high school in Fort Bend County.

While helping families regain independence and be successful members in the community is the mission of FBFP, Storm admits that it’s difficult to watch many of them —some even take to calling her “Mom” – walk out the door. “It’s hard not to become emotionally attached to many of the families because we go through so much with them.”

Oftentimes, however, the relationship doesn’t end once the family moves out.

Storm remains in contact with many of the families. Some periodically stop by or leave messages to let her know how they

are doing. If a family hits a rough patch, FBFP steps in when they can to help with utilities, gas cards, donated cars, and groceries. Storm, who spent forty years working in the corporate world before finding her “calling” with FBFP, says the job is 24/7 and can be very draining, but worth it. “I keep those encouraging messages on my machine and listen to them when I have a tough day. They are the reason we are all so committed,” she said.

Like any non-profit organization, FBFP struggles to keep the funds coming through the door. The program relies on grants from charitable organizations and private donations. Another critical component to the interfaith network’s success is having enough partnering

congregations and volunteers to host the families. Currently, there are ten host churches in the network. An additional four churches support the program with donations, but they are not able to provide temporary housing. The ideal number of churches is fourteen which would complete the rotation allowing each church to only host every three months. FBFP is forced to put families up in hotels during weeks when no church is available. According to FBFP Board President Jim Uschkrat, the need is great. “We need more churches, more money, and more volunteers to help Fort Bend families in crisis.

If you would like to learn more about Fort Bend Family Promise and how you or your congregation can help, contact them at 281.403.3923.

Helping Homeless Youth in Fort Bend County

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An architectural rendering of the Parks Youth Ranch scheduled to open in September.

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onstruction of The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch, a much-needed emergency youth shelter and counseling center, is underway in rural Fort Bend County. It will provide services to homeless, abused and at-risk youth between 13 and 17 years of age.

In October 2008, the Fred & Mabel R. Parks Foundation awarded Parks Youth Ranch, Inc. a $500,000 capital campaign challenge grant. The George Foundation approved a $300,000 capital grant towards the match, and as result in January 2009, an 8-acre site was purchased. The ranch, located at 11614 FM 361 in Richmond, Texas, is expected to open in September 2010.

The shelter and counseling center will allow community agencies to refer homeless and at-risk youth for counseling and/or shelter services. Youth will be able to stay at the shelter for up to 90 days. Services will focus on creating a stable living environment, continuing education and connecting to the community based social services that will enable them to become healthy, productive adults.

For more information on the Parks Youth Ranch, Inc., visit www.parksyouthranch.org.

Southern Sister Designs

817 Third Street 281.232.7737

H

H

Historic Downtown Rosenberg

www.southernsisterdesigns.com

Miss Me Jeans

Old Gringo Boots

Yellow Box Shoes

Women’s Apparel & Accessories

Infant & Children’s Apparel & Accessories Home Décor & Gifts

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Monogramming Available

ocated in Historic Downtown Rosenberg, Southern Sister Designs is an eclectic boutique committed to providing our customers with merchandise that is decidedly unique in both quality and design. We carry a wide variety of jewelry, apparel, home décor and gifts that appeal to those with a flair for style ranging from cowgirl chic to trendy mom and everyone in between. Let us help you create a unique and timeless style for you and your home!

Open Wed-Sat 10:00-5:00 & Sun 12:00-5:00

Sienna Plantation Beautiful Two-Story Home Features Hardwood Flrs Thruout 1st Flr; Plantation Shutters; Private Study w/French Doors; Formal Dining Rm w/ Coffered Lighting; Spacious Island Kitchen w/ Granite Counters, Stainless Appls, & Double Wide Refrig; 1st Flr Master Suite offers Sitting Rm w/Fireplace + Master Bath w/Garden Whirlpool Tub & Separate Vanities. 2nd Flr offers Theater Rm, Huge Game Rm w/Computer Niche & Secret Texas Size Closet Behind Bookshelves; Secluded Backyard has Sparkling Pool & Covered Patio.

Arlene R. Rolsen, CRS

Brazos Landing Beautiful Two-Story Ashton Woods Designed Home Features Elegant Dining Rm w/Faux Paint & Neutral Carpet; Formal Living Rm; Curved Stairs, Tile Flrs, & High Ceiling in Foyer; Spacious 2-Story Family Rm w/Wood Flrs; Island Kitchen w/Tile Flrs & Silestone Counters; Breakfast Area & Adjacent Sun Rm; 1st Flr Master Suite w/Sitting Area & Bay Windows; 2nd Flr offers Game Rm, Computer Area, 2nd Master Suite + 3 Bedrms, & 3 Full Baths. Saltwater Pool/Spa with Dolphin Fountains & Summer Kitchen in Backyard.

Zoned to Excellent Schools!

August 2010 l

“Selling Fort Bend’s Finest Homes since 1985”

281-414-8400 arrolsen@windstream.net www.arlenerolsen.com

www.FOWmag.com

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Pearls of Wisdom

Custom Homes vs. Production Homes: What’s the Difference?

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ith so many types of homes on the market, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between a custom home and a production home.

However, there are many distinctions between the two. Here’s a few useful tips to help you determine if the home you are looking at is a custom home or a production home, and more importantly, which one is right for you.

Custom homes: • Are typically one-of-a-kind homes designed for a specific client and for a particular location.

• May be based on plans created by an architect or by a professional home designer.

• Tend to be high-end containing many custom features.

Production homes: • Are usually built in all price ranges.

• Tend to be based on the use of stock blue prints that are not custom designed, but usually offer a variety of plan choices and options.

• Are commonly built by large-volume builders.

Production homes can be customized to a certain level, depending on the production builder. They can be finished with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, Berber carpet and many other amenities. However, if you wish to hand select the granite for your kitchen countertops, design your kitchen cabinets down to the last drawer, or have a floor plan that isn’t repeated throughout the neighborhood, then you

are in the market for a custom home.

Are custom homes worth the extra time and money? That’s a question you will have to answer for yourself. Home building is a labor of love, and custom home buyers derive deep satisfaction from the experience of choosing the site and planning the design and finishes for their home exactly as they wish. Custom home owners believe the results are worth the effort and expense.

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feature

By Melinda Wood

I

Photos by Eddy Matchette and Erik Williams

Women Playing Hard for the Love of the Game Houston Energy football team

Brandy Jones (2) takes an end around as Laura Cantu (4) looks on.

W

hoever said “it’s a man’s world” never met Julia Long, Laura Cantu or any of their Houston Energy teammates. These ladies left their pompoms at home, grabbed a helmet and became a part of the first all-female tackle football team

in Texas.

Moms, teachers, nurses, engineers and former beauty pageant contestants by day, these women play hard for the love of the game. “These women are ordinary women who compete for the love of the game of football and the absolute joy of competing to become crowned champions,” Long, who plays defensive tackle, said. “They work and have jobs, take care of their families all the while pursuing a dream of competing. Not an easy task, but so worth it.”

Unlike their male counterparts, these ladies do not receive compensation for playing time, so in addition to rigorous practices and tough games, they must also find a way to make ends meet. For example, Cantu, Houston Energy’s quarterback, is currently a student at Texas Southern University majoring in Sports Management with a minor in Marketing.

She also works for Pearland ISD during the school year as a substitute teacher and for

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l August 2010

the Houston Rockets during the season as an inside sales representative and marketing associate.

But, Cantu wouldn’t trade it for a second.

Laura Cantu In fact, she encourages # 4, QB girls to work hard for what they want in life. “I would tell young girls to follow their dream no matter what others think or say,” Cantu said. “Work hard for the things you want to accomplish and stay focused.”

To join the team, women go through try-outs in the fall and players are recruited mostly through word of mouth. “Most of the players know somebody who knows somebody who may want to give it a chance,” Head Coach Brian Wiggins said.

Most players, like Cantu, share a love for the game as well as all sports. “I have played sports all my life and when I graduated high school I wanted to continue doing something, so I chose football,” Cantu said. “I grew up around it and always wished I played. I tried out for the team and loved it. The team used to practice out at the Dad’s Club [in Pearland], and I would go out there to watch them when I had free time. I knew that I was going to do what I needed to do so that I could be part of the team when I turned 18.”

Long, a self-proclaimed “tomboy” and mother of three, also enjoys the camaraderie the game offers. “The idea

“We bring a familyoriented team that will put on a great show and make your time spent watching well worth it. We do as much as we can to make your experience the best it can be.”

Laura Cantu, QB

of just competing and meeting a diverse group of ladies who share the same dream is my favorite part,” Long said.

The team plays other football squads from across the United States including the Chicago Force, the Kansas City Tribe and the neighboring Dallas Diamonds.

With so many teams popping up around the nation, women’s football is becoming more popular.

“It’s not what most probably think.

We don’t get paid to play so everyone out there plays with heart,” Cantu said.

“We are women, but we love the game of football and we play a very intense game every time we step on the field.” Intense is right. Houston Energy, which plays at Pearland High School’s stadium, is part of the Independent Women’s Football League – one of the world’s only full tackle women’s football leagues.

“When I tell people I play football, they ask, ‘Are you serious? Is it flag or real tackle football?’” said Long. “I always say, ‘no powder puff here; we go hard.’”

In fact, according to Wiggins, the only difference between women’s and men’s football is that men are “bigger.”

Cantu, a 2003 graduate of Pearland High School, has played football for eight years and is no stranger to injury. “I’ve been hurt plenty of times,” she shared.

“I’ve had two knee surgeries for a torn meniscus. I’ve also had a few concussions.”

But, as Cantu says, it’s all a part of the game she and her teammates love. “It’s inspiring because we play for the pure love of the game,” Long added. “No glitz and glam here. There are exceptional athletes playing women’s football. Some of the men in football should take notes.”

Wiggins agrees. “Houston Energy is a bunch of dedicated ladies that come from many different walks of life and are brought together through their love of football,” Wiggins said. “These ladies truly play for the love of the game.”

However, as with anything traditionally male-dominated, women’s football does have its critics. “Sometimes people don’t believe me that I play football. Some women are like, you’re absolutely crazy and question why I play,” Cantu said.

“Some people are also against it because they don’t feel that women should be playing a sport that was created for men.”

Continued on page 34

August 2010 l

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33

Continued from page 33

Julia Long #45, DL/OL

Houston Energy Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator Brian Wiggins.

Julia Long, aka “Sunshine,” says she “brightens things up.” “Sunshine” is a proud mother of 3 wonderful children: Shalayne, 5; Chazz, 10; and Thaddeus, 19, who currently plays defensive tackle for the University of Nebraska.

Despite the criticism, there is no doubt that these female athletes empower women and serve as role models for young girls in the Greater Houston community.

“I think Houston Energy brings the idea that women are doing something different,” Long said. “They are looking for something different and trying to be a positive and motivating force to all women. Do something you love to do, despite what people say or how they feel about you playing. Be empowered and give it your all.” Cantu added, “My favorite part about playing is being a role model for other women or young girls that have the same dream we have, which is to play football.”

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l August 2010

Fan or not, though, Wiggins encourages everyone to “put away any preconceived ideas and come check them out.” “No matter who I come across, I still tell them to at least come watch one game before they make their decision about what they think about women’s football,” Cantu said. “We bring a family-oriented team that will put on a great show and make your time spent watching well worth it.

We do as much as we can to make your experience the best it can be.”

Though Houston Energy’s season wrapped up in June, visit www. houstonenergyfootball.com for information on upcoming recruiting dates as well as next year’s schedule.

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35

Pearls of Wisdom

By Kimberly Cress, MD

Magnets: Providing Cutting-Edge Therapy for Depression

M

any people who struggle with depression now have an option that can help them lead a more productive and successful life. Serenity Center for Depression, under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Cress, now offers an innovative and effective treatment for depression.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) was FDA approved for treatment of depression in October 2008.

TMS is a safe alternative for those who have not found relief from other anti-depressant therapies or have experienced side effects from medications.

TMS uses a magnet similar in strength to the one used in an MRI. It is placed on the left front portion of the head. This magnet turns on and off rapidly, generating a highly concentrated magnetic field. The pulsed magnetic field stimulates nerve cells within the area of the brain thought to control mood. When these nerve cells are activated,

they release chemicals (neurotransmitters) that are naturally found in the brain, ie. serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

These are the same chemicals provided by anti-depressant medications, but with TMS, there is not the risk of side effects seen in anti-depressants. Individuals stop medication due to side effects such as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and nausea compared to little to no side effects with TMS. Dramatic improvements have been seen as a result of TMS. After TMS therapy, Gail said, “I have had depression a number of years and have taken several different medications. Some did not work at all, some worked for awhile, and some did have an impact. However, none have had the impact that TMS has had. I no longer wake up in the morning wondering if I’ll be able to push myself enough to get one thing done or will it be another day of languishing around the house. Now, I wake up and plan what I’ll

get done and what I will do for myself as a reward. I do not look at each day as just another one to get through. I look at it as a new beginning. I am no longer a person just surviving my depression. I’m a happy person with the motivation to make a life for myself. That is what six weeks of TMS has given to me.”

TMS was ranked by CNN as one of the top 10 health innovations of 2009. We at the Serenity Center for Depression are proud to be the first in our area to provide this alternative treatment for depression.

For more information, please contact Dr. Cress at 281.240.4322 or visit her website at myserenitycenter.com.

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37

Pearls of Wisdom

By Afreen Pappa, MD

How Does She (or He) Do It?

E

ver wonder how it is that some people seem to have energy, drive, focus, a positive outlook on life, excellent decision making skills, and a metabolism that allows them to eat food without worrying about weight gain while others do not? More likely than not, these individuals are metabolically balanced having the appropriate levels of hormones, brain neurotransmitters, and micronutrients to allow optimal cellular functioning. In this article, I review the effects of hormone imbalance, the three most important hormones necessary to balance our bodies, and the steps we can take to achieve hormonal balance.

What are the effects of hormone imbalance?

We constantly demand more of our body than we do of anything else, driving it to perform better and faster every single day. The results can be devastating for many individuals suffering from metabolic disturbances due to hormonal imbalance. Symptoms can range from fatigue, excess weight, lack of mental clarity, severe PMS/ menopausal symptoms, decreased libido and

depression to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

What are the three most important hormones to balance?

Unfortunately, we live in a world where as much as ten percent of the general population and up to 25% of menopausal women suffer from a metabolic imbalance. The majority of these imbalances are due to declining hormone levels as we age, the most important of which are: • Thyroid hormones • Adrenal hormones • Sex hormones Each of these hormones works together like legs on a three-legged stool. Throw any one leg off balance, and the entire stool becomes unstable.

In addition to hormonal imbalances, alterations in brain neurotransmitters as well as vitamin and mineral deficiencies affect the homeostasis of our bodies.

How can we achieve balance?

Achieving hormone balance is not difficult and requires a common sense approach to how you live

your life. You can achieve hormonal balance by: • Eating a healthy diet • Engaging in regular exercise (both aerobic and strength training) • Taking pharmaceutical grade nutritional supplementation • Being prescribed bio-identical hormone replacement therapy to correct deficiencies • Minimizing exposure to xenoestrogens (man-made products that impact hormone balance such as pesticides, plastics and more) and other toxins So, don’t wonder the next time you think: “How does she (or he) do it?” By correcting the hormonal imbalances of the thyroid, adrenal and sex glands, these individuals are able be able to live a more energetic, focused, joyful and healthier life and SO CAN YOU! Dr. Afreen Pappa is a member of the American Academy of Family Medicine and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. She was named one of Houston’s Top Docs 2009 by H Texas Magazine.

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chick flicks DVD Release LEAVE IT TO BEAVER: Complete Series Shout Factory

T

his is a dream come true for fans of the classic Leave It To Beaver series. All six seasons of the series are included in this set. The set is completely re-mastered and looks outstanding! This is reason to celebrate for all the fans of this classic 1950’s television series. Available at a great price, this set is for anyone and everyone that loved the show.

Wholesome entertainment for the entire family, they simply don’t make shows like this anymore. It will be a welcome addition to my classic television library.

By Nick Nicholson

Friday, September 10, 2010 ~ 7 pm ~ The Parador www.atwh.org

August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

39

feature

By Nick Nicholson

Twilight: Eclipse Interview with the vampires

I

nterview opportunities exist around every corner, but not like this one! For a couple of days this summer, I had the opportunity to interview the young up and coming stars of the third installment and blockbuster hit, Twilight: Eclipse.

Many of the cast members were available to help promote the second film which released June 30th.

The buzz leading up this film has attracted the most interest in the middle and high school, as well as college aged demographics, but according to the stars, this film is for everyone who enjoys suspense in movies. “This film has the tenacity to keep the interest of viewers of all ages,” said Alex Meraz. “Not only that, but the film isn’t rated R so it isn’t just for adults.”

Taylor Lautner agreed with his costar adding, “We hope it survives the test of time as so many people have followed all four books and the first two films with keen interest.” Lautner went on to comment that the books are so good, the cast has a responsibility to bring them to life in the best way possible, otherwise theatergoers familiar with the books would be disappointed.

Because of the huge following of the book series by Stephenie Meyer, the cast felt it necessary to truly ingratiate themselves in order to fully absorb their characters. The stars, most of them quite young, felt it crucial because of the fans intense following of the series. Any changes to the story or the characters would be easily identified by the fans of the books. The actors took their roles so seriously, they actually took the description of their characters to heart. When Stephenie Meyer described the vampire hunters that these actors portray, she simply stated that, “Yhey are catlike in their movements and hunting skills.” So what did the cast do?

“We watched You Tube videos of lions walking, hunting and eating,” remarked

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The stars of Twilight: Eclipse with Focus On Women’s Entertainment Editor Nick Nicholson: Taylor Lautner, Rachelle Lefavre and Edi Gathegi.

Ashley Greene, Nikki Reed, Elizabeth Reaser, Jackson Rathbone and Peter Facinelli in Twilight: Eclipse.

Photos are courtesy of Summit Entertainment

Kristin Stewart, pictured with Robert Pattinson, is part of a love triangle in the third film in the Twilight series: Twilight: Eclipse.

Teen super star Taylor Lautner and Kristin Stewart.

Werewolf Den in Twilight: Eclipse

Exiting the Lake in Twilight: Eclipse

Rachelle Lefevre. “It was important to mimic the big cats in every way possible.”

The Twilight series has definitely grown into something more than just a soon to be series of four epic tales. Already, young actors such as Taylor Lautner need constant security. I asked him if the popularity of the film has affected him in terms of his fan base. “Of course it has. I mean, there is one thing about somebody being a serious fan and wanting an autograph, but it is something totally different when someone stalks you and tries to follow you everywhere you go.” Many of the cast agree since, aside from Robert Pattinson, there is no question that this series really put them on the map in terms of their star status.

I joked with Taylor a bit and asked him if it was possible it was his abs, not just his talent, that has elevated him to star status. “I am sure it didn’t hurt,” he said while smiling wryly. The press screening I attended to view the film was an Imax presentation. Since I arrived a little late, my seat was close to the screen. Do you know how large an Imax screen can be?

Now, imagine if you saw a close up of somebody’s abs on the screen. Yes, that’s right. Huge isn’t an accurate enough term for what I saw. I have but one suggestion.

I know every female tweener on the face of earth will hate me for this, but can somebody please get Jacob a t-shirt?

I inquired amongst the group of young actors as to what drew them to this project, as it was so off the beaten path from their other projects. Kiowa Gordon commented, “This isn’t your normal vampire fare. Had it been, I definitely wouldn’t have been interested.”

Alex Meraz went on to comment about how this series breaks the stereotypes that seem to plague all other vampire films.

He added, “There are elements to these vampires that the audience won’t expect.

For instance, imagine a vampire film without crosses, silver bullets, coffins and no fangs.”

This movie is going to continue to open the door into the vampire dimension, and I believe it to be a very interesting one at that! Until the fourth and final installment comes to theaters next year, the masses will have to make due with this third film. There is no doubt they will still be hungry for the last one, too.

August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

41

financial savvy I

By RBC Wealth Management and H.H. “Will” Hardee - AWM - Financial Consultant

Girls just want to have fund$

What’s Your Money Per$onality??

“Dr.

Kathleen Gurney founded Financial Psychology Consulting as a result of her inability to make a financial commitment to a new investment strategy without having more of a personal understanding of her unique beliefs and needs” (FinancialPsychology. com, 2010). Dr. Gurney researched tens-ofthousands of individuals with a 28-question survey, which she developed over a six-year period. This research led to the creation of nine unique money personalities: Entrepreneurs, Hunters, High Rollers, Safety Players, Achievers, Perfectionists, Money Masters, Producers, and Optimists.

Below are some of the top characteristics of each personality. No one personality is better than the other- that’s what makes them unique! Remember, these characteristics are generalities; they have been assembled by Dr. Gurney through her research and may vary from person to person.

Entrepreneurs • Consider career achievements a top priority, even over their financial matters.

• Will take risks in order to achieve a business and financial goal.

• Like to be involved in financial decisions but will delegate money management to someone they trust.

Hunters • Find it easier to make financial decisions if they can rely on someone else’s advice.

• Spend their money impulsively, according to how they are feeling at the time.

• Find they spend as much as they make, and save very little.

High Rollers • Enjoy the thrill associated with taking risks with their money.

• Get greater enjoyment in spending rather than saving their money.

• Often experience anxiety in dealing with their money management.

Safety Players • Are skeptical of whether financial success can be attributed to hard work.

• Don’t often feel in control of their financial security but don’t particularly worry about it.

• Have a tendency to be more passive with their money than to actively take charge of their money management.

Achievers • Want and need to be integrally involved in their money management and investing.

• Prefer conservative, low-risk investments.

• Are highly reflective and analytical in their financial decision-making.

Perfectionists • Often become too critical in the way they make financial decisions and manage their money.

• Unwillingly allow their skeptical nature to

impede their financial progress.

• Are frustrated and discontented with their financial status in life.

Money Masters • Are successful in accumulating assets.

• Are confident of their future financial security.

• Life to be highly involved in managing their money.

Producers • Have high degree of trust in the integrity of others when handling money.

• Are frustrated that hard work has not brought them greater financial rewards.

• Are not particularly proud of their current financial condition- their earning power or assets.

Optimists • Feel quite content with their current financial situation.

• Are not very analytical to thorough in the way they approach making financial decisions.

• Experience little stress and worry when making decisions with their money.

So what’s your money personality?

For additional information about the Hardee Investment Group and the services we offer, visit us as www.HardeeInvestmentGroup.com. You may also listen live every Thursday from 11 – 12 pm on “The Price of Business” CNN650 AM Radio Houston for Will’s most current commentary!

This article provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM of the Hardee Investment Group and a Financial Consultant and Senior Vice President at RBC Wealth Management in Houston, and was prepared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Management. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security. RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication. Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance. RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.* H

Did you know?

There is a financial services firm in your backyard with a world of resources at its fingertips.

RBC Wealth Management supports an open architecture to provide the comprehensive wealth management services and global resources you demand.

Did you know RBC Wealth Management:

Has dedicated trading platforms & resources for:

n Is the 8th largest financial services firm in the U.S. n Employs 1,700 financial consultants in 149 offices across 40 states n Offers best of class lending solutions

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Corporate, Municipal, Government & Agency Bonds Asset & Mortgage Backed Securities Investment Advisor Services Insurance

If you are interested in learning more about what the Hardee Investment Group offers, call H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM, Senior Vice President – Financial Consultant at (713) 853-0879. © 2008 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved.

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43

career I

By DeAnne Pearson, M. Ed.

Food on Your Plate or Just Desserts: Is seasonal employment right for you?

Add New Skills or Updating Skills: Spicing Up Your Professional Plate

‘T

is the season to seek seasonal jobs! According to the American Consumer Credit Council, the average American family of four spends $935 on gifts each year, and most of that spending occurs during the winter holidays. There is a tremendous increase in the number of people out shopping, eating out at restaurants, seeking entertainment venues, participating in winter sports and requiring additional childcare. This creates a need for companies and organizations to hire temporary workers to handle the high volume and provides a great opportunity for women to accumulate some positive cash flow.

So, think of your career as restaurant operation.

Depending on your circumstances, a temporary or seasonal position could: • Act as a stopgap and to put food on the table.

• Add new skills or update skills that spice up your professional plate.

• Fund the extras or desserts that make life a little sweeter.

• Build skills that set the table for the next course of your career.

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Stopgap: Putting Food on the Table Seasonal work can be a stopgap, a temporary solution, for a family in an emergency financial situation. Job loss is affecting 9.3% of the individuals in the US, leaving many households struggling to cover the basics. Due to this high rate of unemployment, people are out of work longer and are relocating more often, garnering smaller relocation packages and fewer benefits. Depending on the balance of child care, severance and federal benefits, a temporary job may be a necessity to keep your head above the treacherous financial waters. If you take a “get by job”, one that does not thrill you or is not founded solidly in the field that you prefer, it may also serve later to fill the hard to explain employment gap on your resume’ or diversify a narrow skill set.

Women who are out of the workforce for an extended period of time may find that many expectations and requirements have changed. While the earnings can be high, money is not the primary motivator for many of the stay-at-home moms seeking flexible work. Some simply want to stay plugged into their industries and use their skills. Employers are beginning to recognize moms as rich resources for temporary professional workers according to a recent CNN article, “Moms Find Balance as High Skilled Temps.” (http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/ worklife/07/17/skilled.temp.work/index. html) However, some women are looking to add variety and excitement to their lives through temp positions.

According to Barbara Sher, best-selling author of the new career book, Refuse to Choose, not everyone is built to keep the same job, day in and day out, for their entire career. Sher explains that some people are “divers” and can dive into a career field and are quite content there, while “scanners” are happier with several projects making up a career. Let’s say you are a “scanner” working in a high tech job that offers you very few opportunities to interface with people and this is taking a toll on your frame of mind. Taking a part-time or seasonal position at a coffee house or book store could help you get your “people fix” and “spice up” your professional life. Therefore, seasonal work could be just what a “scanner” needs to prevent burn out.

Funding the Extras in Life: The Desserts Another reason to acquire a seasonal position is to cover the extras to your life, the desserts, like funding a weekend trip or additional music lessons for a child.

A seasonal position could be as easy as assisting local florists during major holidays, like Valentine’s Day. In addition to funding the desserts, temporary jobs can be quite flexible and, if flexibility is your goal, landscapers and teachers have heavy and light seasons to their professions that may appeal to you now or in the future.

Creating a part-time job to remain flexible is always a possibility. You may establish a dog walking service or shopping for elderly neighbors that works around your current job or family’s schedule. One source for part-time positions and to locate job-share partners is http://www.womans-work.com.

Building Skills: Setting the Table for the Next Course Career exploration can be another reason to seek temporary work and gain the skills and experience you need for the next course on your career menu. So, maybe you have always wanted to try your hand at sculpture, nursing or working for a non-profit. Possibly the job you have currently does not fulfill your every need, but provides the financial support you require. According to Sher, you could consider your primary job as your own “funding for the arts” while you explore other options on the weekend, in off-hours or during vacations. Currently, I have a client, Camden Bobek, who is combining the skills for sailing she picked up on weekends and over vacations along with her project management skills from her “regular” job, as a new business venture providing sailing experiences for women. Camden stands out as a great example of the “funding the arts” approach to career balance and preparing for the next course.

If money is not your primary concern, volunteering or developing a specialized skill to share for free may serve you well. Years ago, when Cindy Barron was fresh out of court reporting school and was investing money into the dream of owning her own court reporting agencies in Texas, she had little money for trendy professional attire. So, she combined her gift for smart shopping and putting outfits together using of a limited number of items and freely shared that expertise with colleagues and staff members. Recently, Cindy launched a professional image consulting business. (http://www.barronimageconsulting.com/ index.php.) Now, she enjoys helping women save money, space and time, while looking their best every day.

Finding Seasonal Positions: Getting Down to Business Think about it, someone has to sell all those tickets to the “Nutcracker” or coax children into smiling for the photos sent to the grandparents. So, many companies and organizations will take on additional hires for these peak times of the year with the understanding that the positions are temporary. So, how do you find these positions?

You can certainly apply directly or ask your professional network, but some online resources specialize in helping people find a seasonal work. For example two online resources, http://www. seasonalemployment.com/ and http:// www.snagajob.com/seasonal-jobs/, narrow your search for this type of position by zip code. Whether you are interested in getting out on the ski slopes or getting a job working in retail or in a restaurant, there are a great number of opportunities to look for jobs in the winter. Another online resource, Back Door Jobs, claims to be a resource that provides links to adventurous jobs and can be found at http://www.backdoorjobs.com. Who can ignore the banner on their homepage that states “Are you looking for opportunities to Work, Travel, Play, Live, Learn, Help, Create, Experience and Grow in the U.S. or abroad? Come explore, dream, discover and do with Backdoorjobs.com: ShortTerm Job Adventures!”

Whatever hunger a temporary job can fill, whether it is financial or the desire for new experiences, or even adventure, this is a great time to get out there and land that seasonal job!

August 2010 l

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45

Pearls of Wisdom

Pain, A Simple Word ….That Can Change Everything Dr. Candice Burnette Brings a New Approach in Pain Management to Fort Bend County

P

ain, as defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain, is “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage.” To a chronic pain sufferer, it changes who you are. It’s amazing that a simple four-letter word encompasses so much and has such an impact on life. It takes a toll on physical and mental well-being, affecting overall quality of life.

Addressing pain while diagnosing and managing associated conditions is vitally important in overall health. It’s a multi-step process and takes a partnership. No one knows better what hurts than the patient. Physicians must then trace pain to its source, providing both relief and treatment.

Dr. Candice Burnette, the newest member of Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic (RBJC), specializes in interventional pain management of spinal and musculoskeletal disorders and is committed to this quest. Fellowship-trained in

pain medicine and board certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, she brings the latest technology to Fort Bend.

“To successfully manage pain, it’s important to examine the whole person, in order to gain an understanding of specific needs - assessing pain as well as the functional, physical, and emotional limitations. A multidisciplinary approach best accomplishes this; a collaborate effort of specialized healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Burnette.

Among the valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tools she offers include electromyography, peripheral joint and trigger point injections, fluoroscopic-guided epidural steroid injections, spinal cord stimulators, discography, and nerve blocks.

Linda’s Story Linda Tucci, 41, suffered with myofascial pain syndrome and the painful symptoms and related conditions for seven years before meeting Dr. Burnette. Linda received treatment every three months and lived in constant pain until

the day she was introduced to Dr. Burnette.

“Pain changes you…you know? Dr. Burnette took the time to really figure out what worked. She gave me hope. She gave me my life back,” said Tucci.

Dr. Burnette increased the frequency of Linda’s visits to monthly, used injection therapy, and addressed associated conditions. The more frequent treatments produced immediate results. Linda then began Radiofrequency Neuroablation (RFA) for sacroiliac joint-related pain, something no other physician had offered.

“This treatment made a huge difference.

Dr. Burnette doesn’t just leave you hanging out there. She talked to my other doctors, and she talked to me about everything we were doing.

When you deal with pain it can be emotional.

You can feel like you have no hope whatsoever.

She changed everything for me,” added Tucci.

To learn, visit www.rbjc.com or call (281) 238-1313.

Are you Suffering from Pain?

Candice Burnette, M.D. Pain Management / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation RICHMOND

Call Today: 281.344.1715 46

focus on women

l August 2010

BONE & JOINT CLINIC

www.rbjc.com

chick flicks DVD Release CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS: Sony

SUGAR LAND VEIN SPECIALISTS 4660 Sweetwater Blvd. Ste 130 Sugar Land, TX, 77479 Tel: 281 240 8400 Fax: 281 240 8405

J

udi and Ron Barrett’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs is a much-loved, whimsical book about a tiny island where food falls from the sky like rain. The book serves as a jumping-off point for Sony’s animated, digital 3-D Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs which is not so much a retelling of the book as an exploration of what makes food rain from the sky on a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Flint (Bill Hader), a clever young inventor with a reputation for creations gone awry, has recently completed a machine that he claims will turn water into food. Like his past failed inventions, Flint’s new foodconverting machine doesn’t work as planned, and on its initial test run, it ends up getting launched into the sky where clouds form, and it begins to rain cheeseburgers. The falling burgers destroy the Swallow Falls community’s latest attempt to bolster its failing, sardinedependent economy, but the Mayor’s (Bruce Campbell) initial fury quickly turns to greedy anticipation as he begins to realize that food falling from the sky could serve as an innovative tourist draw. The story takes off from there. Available in the brilliant Blu-ray 3D format, you will be amazed and in awe of the clarity and brilliance of this presentation!

By Nick Nicholson

Ulises Baltazar is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Registered Vascular Technologist, Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation.

Sugar Land Vein Specialists The practice is dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency that can cause painful visible varicose veins, leg swelling and even venous stasis ulcers. We are the vein clinic of choice in Fort Bend County. We dedicate 30 to 45 minutes during the first visit, which includes a detailed interview, physical examination and an ultrasound. Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and safe, allowing plenty of time for questions. When compared to large practices with multiple physicians, there is no need to reintroduce yourself to the doctor on call as you will always be taken care of by the same physician.

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FREE VEIN SCREENING AVAILABLE call for an appointment 281 240 8400

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And special thanks to all of our participating retailers!

August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

47

Pearls of Wisdom

By Shelena C. Lalji, MD

Are You Ready to Rejuvenate Your Skin After Too Much Fun in the Sun?

S

ummer is one of the most enjoyable times of year with plenty of barbecues, playing at the pool, family vacations and relaxing in the sun. Even though sunny summer days may fade, the sun damage that is caused by the endless days doesn’t fade so easily. Dr. Shel’s goal is to help you look your absolute best by providing the latest advancements in laser rejuvenation to restore your skin to its healthy, youthful pre-summer state. Dr. Shel has developed a protocol that combines skin tightening, as sun exposure over the years can cause breakdown of collagen, along with skin resurfacing to give your face a lifted appearance and flawless complexion.

Sun exposure combined with the natural process of aging can cause your skin to lose its elasticity. Previously, the only way to restore tightness to skin was to undergo a facelift. The

surgical option is becoming less popular as the consumer is becoming less likely to desire the risks of surgery, downtime, cost, and looking “done”. Titan laser skin tightening is a perfect option for anyone who feels their skin is becoming thin, lax, and wants to rebuild lost collagen. Titan utilizes infrared light to heat the water within the dermis to the point of collagen contraction. Skin is noticeably tighter immediately but also improves over time as new collagen is integrated within the dermis.

While Titan can tighten and strengthen your skin within the deeper layers, it doesn’t address more superficial concerns such as sun spots, fine lines and wrinkles. It can, however, be combined with laser resurfacing procedures, such as Pearl and Pearl Fractional, to regain your youthful glow.

Pearl and Pearl Fractional are ideal for patients who want to rid their face, neck, and

chest of hyper pigmentation, acne scarring, large pores, fine lines, and deep wrinkles in one single treatment with little social downtime. A minimum of 72 hours of social downtime is needed, but shortly thereafter, patients are able to reveal their incredible results and unbelievably fresh skin that is sundamage free.

As the kids return to school, allow yourself to return to your youthful skin by calling today for your complimentary consultation.

Dr. Shel and her team are eager to help you restore your beauty and look your absolute BEST! 281.313.7435/www.drshel.com.

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l August 2010

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49

relationship I

By Janine J. Sherman, RN MSN WHNP-BC

Launching Your Child into the Future Tips on staying connected

A

s I prepare to send my second child to college, I feel somewhat more prepared than when I sent my oldest child. Thinking back to when I dropped my daughter off at New York University three years ago, I believed that walking out of the dorm without falling apart would probably be the hardest part. WRONG!!! The most difficult part of taking my child to college came after several weeks and months at home, when I realized how different our relationship was evolving with my daughter on her own in the Big Apple!

While she was in high school, my daughter and I had a wonderful relationship marked by great communication, and I had felt that it would continue unchanged.

What I did not understand was that she

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was setting out on her own new adventure, trying to separate from her parents and becoming independent in her new role as a college freshman. Because in the past I had been “up” on everything going on in her world, I was sure that she would call me about every new experience and with a description of every person she had met.

When that didn’t happen, I was sad and confused. Now the only way I talked to her was if I made the call, and then only if she answered the phone. When we did talk, I got very little information about the big new world she had entered. I realized that her lack of communication was her way of breaking away from home, and she needed me to back off a bit. On top of adjusting to setting one less plate for dinner and walking past her vacant

room, I recognized that this was going to be much more difficult than I anticipated.

While this is normal and healthy for a child entering college, this separation can be very difficult emotionally for the mom.

She can feel like she has been let go from a job she’s done for the past eighteen years Here are five ways I used to help stay connected with my daughter and plan on using the same approach with my son.

Let your child know how you feel about staying in touch.

Instead of letting my daughter know how I was feeling about our new relationship, our conversations would just become argumentative, and we would both hang the phone up feeling upset. I finally explained to my daughter that it was okay if she did not want to give me every little

1.

detail about her life. After all, she was now an adult living on her own, and I respected that. However, for my own piece of mind, I needed to know that she was adjusting to her new life, and she was doing well. This could be accomplished in many different ways, but I wanted to hear her voice at least once a week. We also communicated through email and text messages. Once she understood my needs, we were better able to keep the lines of communication open.

Use social media channels.

Although sending your child to school with a nanny cam or a GPS tracking system on their phone or car is a tempting thought, it would be a very bad idea. But, you could try to be friends on Facebook. My daughter had set up my Facebook page months before, but I rarely ever looked at it. But after she left for college, this became a great way to feel connected. We would write messages on each other’s wall, and she would direct me to her pictures so I could see her new friends.

Write letters letting your child know you are thinking of them and you miss them. I usually add a little gift card or some fun goody.

Once, I sent her a Halloween garland to hang on her door. My favorite thing to enclose is self-addressed stamped post cards with a series of questions so that all my child has to do is check a box or fill in a word. They will love this because all students love mail, and the postcard will make them laugh. You will love it because the responses are often very humorous.

Set up specific phone dates.

For instance, a friend of mine told me every Tuesday, she and her daughter would talk on the phone at 8 am over a cup of coffee. This gave them a predictable time to connect one-on-one.

When I gave my daughter more space, her calls home came more frequently, and the conversations became more detailed.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Plan a visit. You cannot go every weekend nor should you but most schools have a parent’s weekend and that should get on the calendar as soon as you have the date. Parent’s weekend for us was a real learning experience of what her world had evolved into, and we had a great time. Most schools schedule them early in the first semester, after your child has adjusted to college life but soon enough that you can see that your child is thriving.

The good news is that this transition is the beginning of a new phase in both of your lives and the start of your child becoming

an independent adult. When I gave my daughter more space, her calls home came more frequently, and the conversations became more detailed. Now, we rarely go a day without talking to each other. Although our relationship is different, we are still very bonded and when we are together we have a great time.

When I leave my son at school in just a few short weeks, I hopefully will be a bit more prepared for this new phase in his life as well as mine. It is a reminder that our lives are always changing and my role as a mom will be ever evolving.

August 2010 l

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girlfriend getaways I

By Lauren Dante

Beauty and the Book Girlfriend Weekend Hosted by the Pulpwood Queen and Timber Guy Book Club

The Pulpwood Queens of Tyler, Texas with author, Deanne Gist, all dressed-up as “Glenda” for 2010’s Great Big Ball of Hair Ball’s theme of Somewhere Over the Rainbow from the Wizard of Oz!

L

ooking for a bookish weekend getaway for you and your girlfriends? Then the 11th Anniversary Beauty and the Book Author Extravaganza and Book Club Convention hosted by the Pulpwood Queen and Timber Guy Book Club is for you! The annual event is scheduled for January 13-16, 2011 in historic Jefferson, Texas where avid readers will be able to experience a book club convention full of glam, glitz and books galore.

Keynote speakers for this year’s event are best-selling authors Fannie Flagg, Pat Conroy and Rick Bragg. In addition, Robert Leleux, author of The Memoir of a Beautiful Day, has been chosen to co-host the event with Kathy Patrick, owner and founder of Beauty and the Book salon and store and Girlfriend Weekend.

“I have invited some of the best authors in the country to come to Jefferson for this event,” said Kathy. “If you have never attended, be prepared for an experience to last a lifetime!“ The weekend hosts several unique opportunities for readers to meet and interact with their favorite authors and fellow

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Pat Conroy, a New York Time’s Bestselling Author, will be a Keynote Speaker for the 11th Anniversary Beauty and the Book Author Extravaganza and Book Club Convention.

readers. Guests of the Girlfriend Weekend will be treated to an Author Dinner Theatre where an author, who happens to be a chef, prepares dinner. Playwright/Author Michael Listor will perform a play with his fellow authors, and the rest of the authors will fill in as the wait staff. Who knew that your favorite author would someday be serving you sweet tea!?

The theme for this year’s convention is It’s All About the Story. Guests are urged to dress like their favorite book author, character or as the entire “slew” of characters from their favorite novel.

According to Kathy, Beauty and the Book is the only hair salon and book store in the world. Kathy began her venture in January of 2000, and in the last 10 years, the salon and book store has rolled out their leopard print carpet for numerous authors and salon divas.

In addition to owning her own book store and hair salon, Kathy has started her own book club; one for girls and one for guys in Jefferson.

Pulpwood Queens and Timber Guys Book Clubs have grown to 300 different chapters across the United States with 10 chapters in foreign nations. The Pulpwood Queens live by the motto: “Where tiaras are mandatory and reading good books is the RULE!” This book club is unlike any other book club (ummm… can I please wear a tiara?!), but their mission is simple: promote books, literacy, reading, and great authors. “When I started this book club, I threw out all of the rules! My book club was going to be fun, not homework. As I always say since turning the BIG FIVE O, if it isn’t big time fun, then why do it,” said Kathy.

By becoming a member of a Pulpwood Queen or Timber Guy Book Club Chapter, you will be able to join in on the Early Bird Specials for the Girlfriend Getaway since most of the events in 2010 were sold out. In addition, there will be a Pulpwood Queen V.I.P. room for Head Queens and Authors. Head Queens are those who start a Pulpwood Queen Chapter in their community. In the V.I.P room, Head Queens will be provided refreshments, treats and individual time with the authors at the event.

The combination price for the weekend is $150. It includes entry into all of the Friday and Saturday panels and Friday and Saturday night entertainment. The weekend will end with the annual Great Big Ball of Hair Ball.

To join in on the fun and become an official member of the Pulpwood Queen or Timber Guy Book Club or to reserve your tickets for Beauty and the Book Girlfriend Weekend, call 903.665.7520 or visit www.

BeautyandtheBook.com.

girlfriend getaways

Shopping for a Cause

Boys & Girls Club

Tournament provides shoppers excuse to shop, guilt free

Shopping Tournament

of the Texas Hill Country Presents the 7th Annual

September 10-11, 2010 Fredericksburg, Texas

Featuring: eWay Furniture Garden of Beaden Haberdashery Heirlooms house. wine.

Jabberwocky James Avery Leathers with Style Parts Unknown red Skye & Henry’s The Secret Garden Zertz

The “Sharp Shootin’ Shoppers” ready to hit the stores in Shopping For a Cause in historic Fredericksburg, Texas.

A

rmed with pink plastic pistols, pink cowboy hats, and burlap chaps, the four “Sharp Shootin’ Shoppers” hit the streets just in time for store opening.

Up against 17 other teams, including the camouflaged Think “Bargaingolf Hunters” and the tournament “Olympic Shoppers,” “Sharp Shooters” with a the shopping twist! were out to get a big bang for their buck.

Billed as an above-par girlfriends’ escape—a mostly ladies’ answer to the mostly men’s charity golf tournament— Fredericksburg’s Boys & Girls Club Shopping Tournament is held every September. The homegrown event, set for September 10-11 this year, began in 2004 to benefit the Boys & Girls Club (BGC) of the Texas Hill Country.

It’s also intended to provide an economic stimulus for Fredericksburg merchants at a traditionally slow period in one of the state’s top shopping destinations.

With the state of the economy recently, the tournament is setting out to also provide a good excuse for groups of girlfriends to do what they really want to do, but might have more trouble rationalizing these days: shop.

And, these shoppers are shopping for a cause.

The event benefits the BGC which provides local youth and children an affordable, supervised place to go during out-of-school hours.

www.ShoppingTournament.org 830.333.9394 4.75 x 7.25 COLOR_BCG Shopping T1 1

“We applaud the efforts of the Shopping for a Cause committee in creating such a unique, fun-filled opportunity to support not only the BGC but the Fredericksburg community as well,” said Patti ParishKaminski, Editor in Chief, Focus on Women.

“Our ‘Ultimate Girls’ Club’ team will be there in full pink regalia – ready to shop – in support of this incredible event.”

The tournament sparks competition not only among shoppers. Merchants contend not only to attract the big spenders but also

7/14/2010 9:50:38 AM

for Shoppers’ Choice awards, seeking to outdo each other in providing an over-the-top shopping experience. The shopkeepers can ply shoppers with food and drink, coupons and gifts in hopes of votes.

While players traditionally vie for topscoring places in tournaments, Shopping for a Cause is one tournament where everybody comes out winners. For more information or to register your team, contact Shopping for a Cause at 830.333.9394 or www.

ShoppingTournament.org.

August 2010 l

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53

Pearls of Wisdom

By James Chuong, MD

Your Dream of Building a Family Will Come True

H

aving a child is the natural desire of almost all couples.

Unfortunately, as many as 15 percent of all married couples are infertile.

Sixty-five percent of the problems could be attributed to females, 25 percent to males, while 10 percent to both partners.

Common reasons for female infertility are ovulation problems, tubal blockage, endometriosis, etc.; for male infertility are low sperm count and motility, decreased ability of sperms to penetrate the eggs, sperm antibodies, etc.

Due to recent advances in reproductive technologies, many couples are turning to fertility clinics. Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine offers the cutting edge of infertility treatment, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic injection of sperm (ICSI), testicular aspiration of sperms (TESE), and

has achieved among the highest pregnancy rates. C. James Chuong, M.D., a Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist, is the Medical Director and Dr. Lynn Farmer is the IVF Coordinator. As its sister facility in New Jersey (www.ccivf. com) led by Dr. Jerome H. Check, a world renowned infertility specialist, Cooper is specialized in patients with advanced age and high FSH. Strictly following the guidelines of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, Cooper’s most comprehensive IVF laboratory offers all the state-of-the-art technologies with the finest equipment available. It is supervised

by Dr. Li-Wen Yang, a highly regarded senior embryologist. Recent addition of preimplantation genetics diagnosis (PGD) service allows the embryos to be tested for specific chromosomal or genetic

problems before the pregnancy begins.

As a collateral result of PGD, prospective parents may find out the gender of the embryos before they are transferred.

Unfortunately, infertility and IVF are not a standard benefit in many health plans. Cooper has developed an extremely efficient and reasonable cost approach for its IVF services. To discover how Cooper’s highly experienced team can make your dream of building families come true, visit www.cooperinstitutearm.com. or call (713)-771-9771.

Dr. Chuong and Cooper Institute’s highly experienced team.

Your Dream of Building a Family Will Come True Couples can achieve pregnancy in even the most difficult cases • IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) • IUI

• Donor Egg/Sperm • Surrogate • PGD (Preimplantation Diagnosis of Genetic Disorders)

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54

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l August 2010

www.cooperinstitutearm.com

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55

inspiring women I

By Tanya Sterling

What Would Your Personal Refrigerator Magnets Say?

O

ne of my favorite things to do when I go to someone’s home (if I’m comfortable enough!) is to check out the magnets on their refrigerator. It somewhat gives you an idea of the vibe or tone of the home. A few years ago, I had a magnet of a cross on my fridge, and one of my son’s therapists was over. After chitchatting for a few minutes at my kitchen table, she said, “I see you all are Christians.” I acknowledged her comment and asked how she knew. She responded, “I saw the cross on your fridge.”

As my family is originally from Jamaica, we have magnets of a Rastafarian playing the drums and a bottle cap opener magnet bathed in Jamaican colors. My husband and I honeymooned years ago on Martha’s Vineyard. Thus, I have a magnet that shouts, “Martha’s Vineyard.” I also have a magnet with the name of our pediatrician emblazoned on it - you never know when I’m going to need it.

Over the years, I have seen numerous magnets with phrases that makes you giggle and with phrases that makes you think. One that especially stands out to me is, “Women are like tea bags - they never know how strong they are until they get into hot water.”

How true. Another neat one is, “When your dreams turn to dust, vacuum.” We all need to vacuum every now and then.

I once visited with a mom who has five children and her personal refrigerator magnet, placed prominently in the middle of the fridge, exclaimed, “I like hugs, I like kisses, but what I love is help with the dishes!” An-

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other mom who had a hard time disciplining her daughters posted a magnet stating, “Women are angels. When someone breaks our wings, we can still fly…on our broomsticks.”

The magnet business is booming these days. Maybe, due to hard economic times, everyone needs a relatively inexpensive giggle or a flash of inspiration. Magnets are also a great way to set the tone of your home. An older lady I visited with had a magnet that matter-of-factly stated, “My get up and go, got up and left.” We had a good laugh over that statement, and she enjoyed our lighthearted conversation about aging.

A woman, whose husband was always asking when supper would be ready, got two magnets for him. One said, “Dinner is ready when the smoke alarm goes off ! ” He got the idea. The second magnet succinctly stated, “Happy Wife. Happy Life.”

As someone who is always striving to lose a few pounds, these two magnets stood out to me. One factually says, “I have the heart of a skinny person….in a freezer bag, second shelf, behind the Rocky Road!” The other one lets you know that, “If you’ve lost weight recently, don’t worry, I think I found it!”

Now that we’ve perused a variety of refrigerator magnets, what do you think your personal magnet would say? How might it reflect your personality, the rough patches you have been through, your family’s culture or your personal faith and inspirations?

My friend and Editor In Chief of Focus on Women, Patti Parish-Kaminski, says one of

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her magnets would say, “If you don’t want my peaches, don’t shake my tree!” Another one, would accurately say, “Precious until Pushed.” Love it!

Magnets are small, trivial, inexpensive items which makes it even more fun to think about the various phrases and thoughts which we could create. It’s a great way to permanently capture vacation spots, various phases in our lives and instantly can set the tone of your home or office.

What would my personal refrigerator magnets say? They would say several things. As I have a group of close friends who are with me through thick and thin, one of my magnets would jokingly say, “A good friend will come and bail you out of jail, but a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, ‘Wow, that was fun!’” As I have had my share of good days and bad days, another of my magnets would ask, “Is that the light at the end of the tunnel or a train coming at me from the other end?” Finally, the magnet that would sum up my entire life philosophy, and I hope yours as well, simply says, “Nothing left to do but smile, smile, smile!”

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57

relationship I

By Jennifer Babisak

10 Dates for Under W

ith today’s tough economy forcing couples to squeeze every nickel and dime out of their budgets, it’s often difficult to justify the expense of a date night. My husband and I know this all too well. But, we also know that quality time together is vital for a healthy relationship, and so we enjoy cheap date opportunities. To help you jump onto the cheap date bandwagon, here are 10 date ideas that each cost $10 or less:

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relationship

1.

Cozy up to your sweetie over a steaming cup of joe at Minuti Coffee. With its urban-hip décor and extensive menu offerings (they serve wine too!), it makes for a great getaway. And, if you share our nerdlike inclination, you’ll appreciate that Minuti has a Scrabble game ready and waiting.

Feed your brains as well as your relationship by touring one of the spectacular museums in Houston’s Museum District. Each of the museums is free during at least one day of the week. Call your museum of choice or check out their websites to get the scoop.

2.

8.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries garnered national attention last year when President Obama dropped in for a bite at the Washington D.C. location. And, you can dine like the Commander in Chief without shelling out big bucks. Five Guys offers a whole host of burgers, hot dogs, and veggie sandwiches priced at under $5. And the bonus – they use no trans fat!

3.

For a more active date, load up your bikes and hit the trail. The Justin P. Brindley Mountain Bike Trail just opened this past October at Sugar Land Memorial Park. The trail is suitable for beginner to experienced riders. The great thing about this date is that you can enjoy spending time together while getting in a workout as well.

4.

When hot summer days make you feel like you’re melting, it’s time to find the speediest route to Ben & Jerry’s.

This famed ice cream chain tempts even the most regimented diet with it scrumptious flavor combinations such as Boston Cream Pie and Chubby Hubby.

5.

My husband and I haven’t been to a movie in ages due to the ever-rising cost of admission. But, I just learned a valuable little secret – AMC offers an A.M. Cinema ticket price of only $5 for all show times before noon (excluding IMAX and 3D). Now, we can watch those summer blockbusters without breaking the bank!

7.

That refreshing, relaxing beverage known as the margarita is the perfect antidote for steamy Texas summers.

You and your date can enjoy 99 cent bullritas on Fridays and Saturdays at Bullritos.

While you’re at it, nab some of their chips and fresh-made guacamole.

9.

Pack a picnic and enjoy an evening at one of Houston’s true cultural gems: Miller Outdoor Theater. The Theater puts on an array of plays (I’ve got my eye on A Midsummer Night’s Dream in August), as well as musical and cinematic productions, all for free.

10.

Looking for cheap date paradise? Then head straight to Whole Foods. With a bounty of affordable food options - brick oven-fired pizza, sushi, sandwiches, wine, beer, gourmet desserts - and a lovely patio seating area, Whole Foods is a sure bet for a great meal.

But wait – it gets better. And, I’m afraid I’ll have to shout this next part – THEY HAVE FREE CHILDCARE! (Available at the Sugar Land location only.)

So, don’t let tight finances hinder your quality time together. Give one of these $10 date ideas a try - or better yet, try them all - and enjoy reconnecting with your man. The small investment will yield a stronger, healthier relationship.

6.

Give me a starlit evening filled with the mellow chords of a jazz quartet, and I’m one happy gal. Charge me nothing for the experience, and I’m even giddier. You too can relax to live music, gratis, at Thursday Night Jazz in the Plaza at Sugar Land Town Square, held every Thursday night through September.

August 2010 l

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travel I

By Family Features

Off-Season Travel Tips How to skip the crowds and save money

O

ff-season, low season, off-peak – whatever you call it, visiting a popular vacation spot when most people stay home can save you money. Lower cost, smaller crowds, what’s not to like? If you’re not careful, plenty.

Many off-season travelers have stories of idyllic vacations ruined by unforeseen circumstances. But with helpful tips and good planning, you can have a budget trip with priceless memories.

What to Look Out For It’s called off-season for a reason – and weather is often the main one. The tropics have a monsoon season and winter wonderlands can be too frigid to enjoy. Plants and wildlife are affected by seasonal changes that leave rainforests seemingly lifeless or beaches teeming with stinging jellyfish.

Your best bet is to check with the national weather service for your destination and find the average monthly temperatures and precipitation. Travel brochures won’t highlight just how much it rains or how cold it really gets. Hot or cold temperatures may not be an issue for you, but serious weather problems could rule out a destination.

Smartertravel.com recommends going online to check the local tourist bureaus to find out when the off-season travel periods

are – and why. There are links to tourism bureaus in all 50 states, many cities, regions and countries around the world at The Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory, www.towd.com.

Off-season is also prime time for hotels and resorts to refurbish facilities. There’s nothing like construction noise to ruin a peaceful stay, so when investigating accommodations, call and find out if any construction is planned on or near the property during your visit.

Attractions and restaurants make adjustments for off-season as well. If you’re interested in a particular museum or activity, go online or call to find out if or when it’s open, as well as if any renovations will limit visitor access.

Where to Go If you’re not sure where to take an off-season trip, there are plenty of online resources to help.

• At www.away.com you’ll find monthly trip guides organized by interest.

There are ideas for family trips, romantic getaways, beach vacations, national park visits, adventurous outings and more.

• Smartertravel.com has a series of articles on the best off-season travel destinations for each season.

• At budgettravel.com, you’ll find offseason recommendations such as visiting one of Utah’s five national parks in May. Early spring means snow and mud, while summer means big crowds. In May you can hike along beautiful trails and see mule deer, elk and dozens of bird species at Bryce Canyon.

At Zion, hike up to Weeping Rock, a grotto where water weeps down tall sandstone walls overgrown with hanging gardens. Before hiking the Zion Narrows along the Virgin River, however, ask a park ranger about flash flood dangers and water conditions.

Whether it’s the mountains in summer or the beach in winter, taking a little time to find out the pros and cons of off-season travel can pay off with a great trip that doesn’t cost a fortune.

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for a

Cause

Komen Houston Race for the Cure Saturday, October 2, 2010 Downtown Houston Race registration starts 6 am Join our team, FOW Stepping Out for a Cause Easy Steps to join our team: • Go to www.komen-houston.org • Click Race for the Cure • Click Join a Team • Search team name: FOW Stepping Out for a Cause • Join our team

August 2010 l

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61

Pearls of Wisdom

By George M. Grunert, MD

Groundbreaking Genetic Advances in Fertility

T

he chances are when you undergo chemotherapy, it very often results in a loss of ovarian function, essentially creating early menopause. However, one young patient who received a diagnosis of breast cancer, had her dreams of having a child come true, thanks to the amazing advances in the fields of fertility and genetics and the dedication of Dr. George Grunert and our team at Fertility Specialists of Houston.

Forethought and planning is the secret behind this success story. Should you receive a diagnosis of breast cancer, prior to completing or even starting your family, I urge you to consider ‘banking’ your fertility.

If you are able to make the time before your treatment protocol begins (and this decision must be made in partnership with the treating oncologist) due to the advances in fertility research and treatment, we can now offer several options. In this instance, we liaised with the oncology experts at MD Anderson and were able to taking the time prior to the

start of the treatment protocol to harvest and freeze the young couple’s embryos. Just two years after she completed chemotherapy, her oncologist gave her the go-ahead to begin the process of working toward a successful pregnancy.

An added complication with this young patient’s diagnosis was the knowledge that she was a carrier of BRCA-1, a genetic mutation that drastically increases the risks of developing breast and ovarian cancer, which meant that as an identified ‘carrier,’ this gene could be passed on to her children. Armed with this information, we were able to screen her embryos for gene mutation, implanting only the unaffected embryos. She conceived and is currently enjoying the blessing of a healthy pregnancy. Advances in the field of genetic testing eliminate the agony of passing on a mutated gene to a child and that is added peace of mind.

Currently, we’ve been able to identify almost 20,000 genetic diseases (not ALL fatal),

and with this knowledge, we screen and only transfer embryos that will result in a healthy child. In fact, a simple saliva test will allow us to determine if you are a carrier for any of the 100 most common genetic diseases-cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, sickle cell and Tay-Sachs-all of which can be passed on in pregnancy.

Helping patients who otherwise could not have a child conceive is one of the most gratifying experiences of my life, and I’d like every young cancer patient to be aware, that with a little advance planning, your dreams of having a family can also come true.

George M. Grunert, MD Director, Fertility Specialists of Houston, 7900 Fannin Street, Houston 77054 Tel. 713.512.7900 www.fshivf.com Email: grunert@ivfhouston.com

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63

style I

By Brian Benoit & Tim Runyon

Flirty Fifties-Inspired Fashion E

verything old is new again, and it’s no different in the world of fashion. Vintage is in, retro is hot and style elements from the 1950’s are in vogue. Designers today are incorporating the retro stylings of the 1950’s in many of today’s looks. Knee length dresses in plaids and florals, open-toe shoes with ankle socks, belted waists, full, flirty skirts and pony tails – all vintage looks from the fifties – and all part of this fall’s fashion lineup.

White Square Fringe Tank Dress from Em & Lee: $79.90 Pink Dutchess Shoes from Em & Lee: $47.90 Pink and Gold Ring from Em & Lee: $15.60

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Gold Multi-Print Dress by Nine West from Macy’s: $134 Jewel Ring from Em & Lee: $15.60

style

Black and White Sheath Dress by Intrique from Macy’s: $99 Pink and Grey Open-Toe Show from Em & Lee: $47.90 Jewel Ring from Em & Lee: $15.60

Hair and make-up by Emmanuel Salon.

Fashions available at: Em & Lee - www.emandlee.com Macy’s - www.macys.com JoAnn’s - 281.242.0202 August 2010 l

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style I

Brian Benoit & Tim Runyon

Black and Purple Sheath Dress from JoAnn’s: $163 Brown Criss-Cross Wedge Show from Em & Lee: $58.90 Multi-Colored Print Dress from Macy’s: $98 Black Rosette Shoes by Dollhouse from Em & Lee: $65.90

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Heard Through the Grapevine

A sincere thanks to Focus on Women magazine for choosing Southern Sister Designs to host their Stepping Out event. Our Christmas in July was a HUGE success! The evening was a perfect “ladies night out” full of shopping, cocktails, delicious appetizers and great giveaways. Thanks again to Focus on Women and to our wonderful customers!

Tracey Satterwhite Southern Sister Designs Patti, Thank you so much for the wonderful write up on my book in the Focus on Women magazine! I am so grateful that you liked the book and included in your beautiful magazine!

I am looking forward to attending your FOW events and bringing my girlfriends with me!

Thank you again!

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67

entertaining I

By Family Features

Easy Home Entertaining Keep your party simple yet chic with these hostess hints

H

osting get-togethers at home can often be stressful with all of the elements to consider — the invitation, the décor, and most importantly, the food and beverages.

Planning the perfect party can overwhelm even the most seasoned hostess, but there are easy solutions for making your event memorable without becoming inundated. Jen Isham, entertaining expert and finalist on The Next Food Network Star, offers her suggestions for hosting a hassle-free social gathering.

• Chances are that your guests won’t recall the design of your invitations or the color of your cocktail napkins, so use an eco-friendly electronic invitation with an appropriate theme and stick with matching monochrome plates and flatware. That leaves you time to focus on the factors that will stick in their minds most — the cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

• If you’re not exactly a master mixologist but still want to wow your guests with drinks, try serving Godiva Liqueur on the rocks. Isham notes, “This simple drink can be pre-poured before guests arrive so that they have a beverage in hand within minutes of arriving. Try chilling the bottle beforehand, then just add ice when they enter the party.” Your visitors will undoubtedly be grateful for the warm (or cool) welcome.

Once guests have arrived and mingling has commenced, you’ll have a bit of time to use your creativity behind the bar. Your arrival drink can easily become the beverage du jour with some festive garnishes.

“Try using melted chocolate or different colored sugars to rim glasses of Godiva Liqueur over ice,” suggests Isham.

• Moisten the rim of the glass and fill a shallow bowl or plate with your garnish of choice.

• Hold the glass sideways and dab the rim into the garnish while slowly turning so that only the outer edge is covered.

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• Then simply add ice, using tongs, and pour Godiva Liqueur into the glass for a tempting and festive drink!

Consider stocking up on all varieties so your guests can have their pick of Chocolate, White Chocolate, Mocha and Caramel flavors. For those who are looking to go above and beyond in delivering the perfect cocktail presentation, use different forms of ice and glassware to provide variety.

When it comes to planning party food, the trick is to keep it simple.

• No-cook appetizers are a perfect no-fuss option for entertaining, which leaves more time for socializing with guests.

Isham says, “Assorted nuts, cheeses, olives and preserved fruits in silver or gold bowls make for a lovely and chic appetizer spread with no time wasted slaving away

in the kitchen.” For an upscale hors d’oeuvre that still saves time, try Isham’s Bruschetta Bar with Toppings Trio recipes.

• Rather than serving buffet-style in your dining room, Isham suggests utilizing all areas of the house with food and beverage stations. This will lead to your guests mingling and moving about so no one has the chance to be a wallflower.

• Another way to encourage guests to get to know each other is to organize carpools according to neighborhood. This not only will forge new friendships but also promotes having designated drivers so everyone will get home safely.

It is, in fact, possible to entertain with ease and still keep it chic — just remember to focus your energy and creativity where it matters and keep the rest simple.

Bruschetta Bar with Toppings Trio

By Jen Isham

Toast slices of baguette in the oven.

Toppings can be added to bruschetta before serving or can be displayed in bowls for guests to top themselves.

Kalamata Tapenade Topping 1 jar kalamata olives (drained and pitted) 1 jar capers (drained) 2 cloves of garlic 3 anchovies 1. Blend to a rough paste.

2. Top toasted baguette slices with mixture and serve on decorative plate.

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Herbed Mushroom Topping 1/2 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cups sliced mushrooms (any variety will work, mix varieties if you choose) 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 small shallot, chopped 3 sprigs fresh thyme Crumbled goat cheese Salt and pepper to taste 1. Heat butter and olive oil in sauté pan and sear sliced mushroom, garlic, shallots and thyme sprigs until browned on each side.

2. Top toasted baguette slices with warm mushrooms and crumble goat cheese on top.

Balsamic Red Onion Topping 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 red onions, sliced thinly 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/2 cup granulated sugar Coarse black pepper 1. Heat olive oil in sauté pan and cook onions down over medium high heat until soft.

2. Turn down heat to medium, add balsamic vinegar and sugar.

3. Stir constantly until vinegar is thickened.

4. Top toasted baguettes with onion mixture and garnish with coarse ground black pepper.

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August 2010 l

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69

inspiring women I

By Tanya Sterling

“Mommyisms” “I

am so proud of how you took out your clothes from last night for today’s activities, Leah!” I exclaimed to my six-year-old daughter, a few summer mornings ago. “Thanks mommy!” she proudly replied. I walked downstairs with a lift in my step as I reflected that maybe, just maybe my summer “experiment” was working.

For the first time in two to three years, my husband and I decided not to enroll Leah in 10 weeks of summer camps and activities. I strongly felt that I needed to spend some time with her and teach her a few “mommyisms.”

“Mommyisms,” for me, are life lessons, daily tips and small pieces of advice or wisdom that I choose to pass on to my daughter as the relevant situation arises. Leah will be seven years old this year and as I watch her slowly blossom into a little lady, as I watch her start to carry herself with grace and poise, as I watch her happily interact with her friends on play dates, have her tantrums, play with her little brother, protect her older brother who has autism and dance like its nobody’s business to the latest Disney hit song, I feel an overwhelming need to share as much as I can with her so that her life may chug along on a less rocky road than mine sometimes did. I say “may” because nothing is guaranteed. Whatever life choices my Leah makes determines her life road, but I sure think I can influence her thinking!

My goal this summer was to teach her the small things in life.....she’ll get the big things. So far, I have taught her that when

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“Mommyisms,” for me, are life lessons, daily tips and small pieces of advice or wisdom that I choose to pass on to my daughter as the relevant situation arises.

she’s changing her clothes, don’t just walk out of them. Pick them up, and put them in the dirty laundry. When unwrapping a chocolate bar, don’t just throw down the empty wrapper on the floor. Discard it in the trash can.

As a matter of fact, if you happen to see any trash on the floor, regardless of if you put it there, pick it up. When we are bouncing around Fort Bend County and we run into friends, turn off the ipod, look him or her in the eye and pleasantly greet them. Try not to leave a pile of clean clothes in your room.

Fold and put them away. I have taught Leah that if she is at school, church or at a social event and sees another little girl or boy that looks a bit lonely, walk up and introduce herself. I could go on and on, but you get the picture.

When school initially let out for the summer, I was a bit nervous about executing my

Tanya with daughter Leah

season of “mommyisms.” I figured she would have more fun hanging out with kids her age for the next few weeks. However, our time together has been invigorating and rewarding.

As she now goes everywhere I go, (errands, hairdresser, my office, grocery shopping, etc.) we are becoming more than mother and daughter; we are becoming friends as well. I can tell that my daughter is becoming more attached to me, and she now looks to me for more than simply taking care of her. Usually, my husband puts Leah to bed at night; however, I decided that I wanted to become a part of this nightly routine as well. So, when its my turn to put her to bed, we have a ritual.

We are not reading books and then going to bed. We are chatting ourselves to sleep. I tell my child that she can tell me anything that’s on her mind and so, she does until she falls asleep.

Now how do I know that Leah appreciates her time with me and our summer of “mommyisms?” I watch her actions, and I watch her execute some of the tidbits I have taught her. I observe her arranging her clothes for the next day. I watch her pleasantly and articulately greet a friend we bumped into at the supermarket. I listen to her tell me how she befriended a new girl at Vacation Bible School, and I heard her tell her dad that he must help her put away the pile of clean clothes that sits in her room. A recent memory that especially stands out is when, at bedtime, she grabbed my hand and asked if we could, “Chat ourselves to sleep like we normally do.”

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Jeffery Gubbels, M.D. • Karyn Cumberbatch, M.D. • Greg Keffer, M.D. • Marc Sangalli, M.D.

Of course, not all of us are able to dedicate an entire summer to “mommyisms.” The good news is that we don’t have to. We can teach our sons and daughter all the tidbits, wisdom, and life lessons that we deem important as we interact with them while making breakfast, zooming them from one activity to another, at bedtime, through athletics and other extracurricular activities, and even as we laze around on a Sunday afternoon. I have seen my father and my husband turn mundane activities into memorable teaching moments.

Take a moment and think about all the “mommyisms” that your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and close family friends have taught you. I bet you remember quite a few of them and have lived your life according to more than enough of them. My father always said, “Everyone has a story.” I now know that is so true. My mother repeatedly says, “It’s better to tell the truth-you sleep better at night.” One that has always stuck in my mind and which I have tried to live accordingly is, “Never burn your bridges.” As a youngster, these life lessons were simply words. Now, as an adult, these phrases are simply real life.

One day, my two year-old son, Ryan, will get his summer (or two or three!) of “mommyisms.” Eric, my thirteen-year-old with autism, learns differently, and so we find creative, consistent and vivid ways to teach him his life lessons and social skills. It works.

He’s one of the most polite thirteen-year-olds you’ll ever meet, with or without a disability.

As we plunge into our daily routine, as we care for and nurture ourselves and our children, think back to all those “mommyisms” that you picked up along the way, and try to teach them, model them, and most importantly, live them. After all, that’s how the next generation will learn, and that’s how the next generation holds on to the past as they dive into their future. We did!

STMC’s OB/Gyn team is now closer to your home!

We’re ready to keep you healthy or work with you to solve your health issues.

Appointments now available in the Rosenberg Clinic for all women’s services: Pregnancy Well-Women Visits Women’s Health Problems Speciality Care for Women of all ages

2520 B.F. Terry Blvd. (FM 2218) Rosenberg 77471

281-342-6006

Guadalupe

RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

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832-788-2294

Friday, September 10, 2010 ~ 7 pm ~ The Parador www.atwh.org

August 2010 l

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Pearls of Wisdom

By Chantal Nguyen-Tran, MD & Reena Tharappel-Jacob, MD

Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates, P.A. Nearly 50 Years of Excellence In Women’s Health Care

C

ompassion, respect, personalized care and patient convenience have been OGA’s hallmark for nearly half a century. OGA has been a champion in providing cutting-edge medical services and placing women first since it’s inception in 1962.

Chantal Nguyen-Tran, MD and Reena Tharappel-Jacob, MD of OGA-Southwest (Sugar Land) have dedicated themselves to providing compassionate care to women of all ages and place an emphasis on patient education and minimally-invasive health care options. Dr. Nguyen-Tran and Dr. Tharappel-Jacob care for patients

from pre-pubescence through menopause.

Together, with their caring staff, Dr. Tran and Dr. Jacob provide Obstetric and Gynecologic Care, Well-Woman Exams, Family Planning, Menopause/ Peri-Menopause Management, Infertility/ Hormone Issue diagnosis, Incontinence – all close to home.

OGA-Southwest also has an in-office lab and is conveniently located in Medical Plaza One adjacent to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital for easy access to mammogram and ultrasound technology.

Aesthetic services are also available at OGA-Southwest for patients who seek

skin care solutions in a medical setting.

To schedule an appointment, please call OGA-SW: 713-578-3820.

(English, Spanish) or 713-578-3827 (Vietnamese). Visit OGA-Southwest at www.obgynassociates.com for driving directions and to learn more.

Chantal Nguyen-Tran, MD, FACOG

Reena Tharappel Jacob, MD

Comprehensive Care for Women... from Women who Care

SOUTHWEST Specializing In: • Obstetrics • Gynecology • Menopause/ Hormonal Disorders • Adolescent Gynecology/ HPV Vaccine • Laparoscopic/Minimally Invasive Surgery

Chau (Chantal) Nguyen-Tran, M.D. & Reena Tharappel-Jacob, M.D.

MEMORIAL HERMANN SUGAR LAND MEDICAL PLAZA ONE

17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite 430 (Hwy 59 & Grand Parkway) Sugar Land, Texas 77479

713-578-3820 or 713-512-7500

www.obgynassociates.com

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inspiring women

What I Learned About Life When My Husband Got Fired!

Unlikely book becomes text book at KIPP Houston High School

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ho would think two baby boomer women – a stay-at-home Sugar Land, Texas mom (“Red”) and a retired corporate executive who races Ferraris and Porsches (“Black”) – would be the developers of a pilot financial literacy program being introduced at KIPP Houston High School this semester? And who would think a book titled ‘What I Learned About Life When My Husband Got Fired!’ would be used as a textbook?

KIPP Houston High School, recently ranked #16 by U.S. News and World Report, is dedicated to preparing students for college, and for life, and strongly believes financial literacy is critical to the success of their students. Although the Texas Education Agency requires essential knowledge and skills in personal financial literacy be incorporated into various courses and grade levels, KIPP felt financial literacy is such a critical component of college and life readiness for seniors, soon to be college freshmen, that it should have its own curriculum that aligns with personal values and guides financial decision making.

The “Red & Black Financial Literacy Program”, which is part of the KIPP Houston High School College Connections course, is a real-world approach to personal finances and prioritizing your life and is based on the recently self-published book ‘What I Learned About Life When My Husband Got Fired!’ by Red & Black. The book, as well as the program, teaches specific financial topics such as assets and liabilities, credit cards, budgets, long-term financial planning and insurance, as well as more fundamental concepts such as values, priorities, and time and stress management. In addition, the program covers the college selection process – especially the financial implications – as well as transitional life lessons.

The book was launched by Neiman Marcus in August 2009 and less than five months later, it was introduced to the KIPP Houston Class of 2010, which consists of approxi-

Unlikely teachers: Authors of “What I Learned About Life When My Husband Got Fired!”

Tina Pennington (aka Red) and Mandy Williams (aka Black) teach a groundbreaking course at KIPP Houston High School.

Photograph courtesy of KIPP Houston Art School.

mately 90 students. Mike Feinberg, KIPP Co-Founder, says “The KIPPsters’ initial reactions to the program have been very enthusiastic. Not only have they told us they feel more confident about financial matters, but more importantly, they understand how their values align with their financial decisions. We look forward to continuing to work with Red & Black to develop ways to incorporate this program into other areas of our schools.”

KIPP measures success not only by test scores but also by the positive change students bring to the world and the kinds of citizens they become, believing that their overall personal development is the key to their success.

Although there is no question of the importance of offering a financial literacy course to high school seniors, what makes the Red & Black program unique, and potentially offers students long-term benefits, is its underlying focus on “teaching” kids how ones values and priorities should be intertwined with personal financial decisions. “When Red and I were asked to develop and teach a course in financial literacy, we knew it had to be more than just teaching kids how to balance a checkbook.

After all, that’s just math. It had to be about teaching them how to question what they are spending their money on, and then make sure it is a smart, conscious decision,” says Mandy Williams, aka Black.

The credentials of Red (Tina Pennington)

and Black are not what you would expect of developers of a financial literacy program.

Neither are experts, but as the disclaimer on their book states “We are real people. We are not claiming to be experts in any given field, but rather are becoming experts of our own lives.” Each admits to making financial mistakes and are consistent with the signs displayed at KIPP: Mistakes are ok, as long as we learn from them. After reviewing an informal survey of the students, Feinberg said, “Our students apparently are learning from Red & Black’s mistakes, too. We realize it’s critical that our students not only understand the mechanics of financial literacy, but more importantly how to make intelligent financial decisions that are consistent with their values, priorities, and long-term goals. If we can instill that element of financial literacy in our students, then we are working towards lasting, positive change.”

In addition to teaching at KIPP, Red & Black speak to groups of all ages regarding financial literacy. They will be featured speakers at the 3rd annual Care 2 Chat (C2C) About Teen Health held at the University of Houston-Sugar Land on Saturday, November 13th presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Focus on Women. To register for the free event, call 713.222.CARE (2273) or for more information on Red & Black, visit www.redandblackbooks.com August 2010 l

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73

chick flicks I

By Nick Nicholson

I

n a happy, suburban neighborhood surrounded by white picket fences with flowering rose bushes, sits a black house with a dead lawn.

Unbeknownst to the neighbors, hidden deep beneath this home is a vast secret hideout. Surrounded by an army of tireless, little yellow minions, we discover Gru (Steve Carell) planning the biggest heist in the history of the world. He is going to steal the moon in Universal’s new 3-D CGI feature, Despicable Me. Gru delights in all things wicked. Armed with his arsenal of shrink rays, freeze rays and battle-ready vehicles for land and air, he vanquishes all who stand in his way. Until the day he encounters the immense will of three little orphaned girls who look at him and see something that no one else has ever seen: a potential dad.

There is no better clichĂŠ to use that represents this film than opposites attract.

Strong-willed orphans with the fortitude to tell it like it is versus a megalomaniacal super villain who loves to tease, yet has feelings that

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are easy to bruise. Who would have figured?

In this film, the super villain, Gru, is really wishy-washy and lacks the substance with which to consistently wield his bad side. As a business owner, he is bankrupt before he leaves the bank. This drives Gru nuts and sends the film into overdrive.

Steve Carell is brilliant in everything he does and was an excellent choice for the enigmatic Gru. He clearly carries the film from beginning to end. What really is special about his performance is that he provides the soul of the character - more so than many other animated film performances I have seen.

Other performances by Miranda Cosgrove, Jason Siegel and the brilliant Russell Brand provide a solid foundation for a wonderful animated film that is sure to please the entire family. The story arcs will both create and maintain the interest of the audience, regardless of the age. Lessons will be learned by all in this wonderful animated feature.

Despicable Me Starring: Steve Carell, Jason Siegel and Russell Brand Director: Chris Renaud and Pierre Coffin Company: Universal Now Showing: In Theatres MPAA Rating: PG Grade: A Photos courtesy of Universal Pictures.

Pearls of Wisdom

By Kelly Dickinson and Christie Lawrence

Genie in the Bottle for Dieters

W

e have all been looking for the “diet program” that really works.

How many years have you been wishing to get off the “yo-yo diet” roller coaster? What if I told you that we could make that roller coaster stop? I can give you the genie in the bottle, and for the three wishes, take away the three things that keep us from reaching our weight loss goals.

For your first wish, I will grant you the ability to take away the abnormal stored fat in your body that never seems to go away.

Before your very eyes, in less than 40 days, you will see and feel your body reshape itself like never before.

Your second wish will be to eliminate your fat cells from your body forever. You will not have to worry about the dreaded cost, pain, and recovery of undergoing liposuction surgery.

Your third and final wish will be the best of all. You skin will not succumb to the “sag” effect that seems to haunt us when large quantities of weight are lost. As the fat cells are eliminated, you will see the body that you dream of emerge. What will occur is the waist line that has been hidden for years will appear. The toned arms and legs of yester year will rise again, and say goodbye to the dreaded “turkey” neck.

Now to introduce myself: Yes, I am the genie. My name is hCG, and I’m sure that you have all heard of me. I come to you from the hypothalamus. This gland in the brain is what tells you when you are hungry.

When a woman is pregnant, I am released into the body to make sure that the baby is fed adequately by internally metabolized calories. When I am introduced into a non-pregnant individual, whether male or

female, the same effect occurs. The body does not have a baby to feed, so the calories are released back into the body. When this happens, the body feels as if it is consuming the calories, without eating the first bite!

Paired with a low-calorie diet, the magic occurs: instant long-term weight loss.

Your three wishes have now been granted, and the road to success is in front of you. Now you can take that increased energy, and the lack of cravings, and enjoy your new life.

Kelly Dickinson is a certified weight loss specialist and hCG weight loss specialist.

Christie Lawrence is a certified F.A., kinesiologist, personal trainer, nutritionist, weight loss specialist, hCG weight loss specialist, and dietitian.

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chick flicks I

By Nick Nicholson

Annette Bening and Julianne Moore star as Nic and Jules in Lisa Cholodenko’s The Kids Are All Right, a Focus Features release.

Mia Wasikowska and Josh Hutcherson star as Joni and Laser.

T

he Kids Are All Right is the heartfelt new comedy from acclaimed director Lisa Cholodenko, starring Annette Bening, Julianne Moore, and Mark Ruffalo.

Two teenaged children (Mia Wasikowska and Josh Hutcherson) get the notion to seek out their biological father and introduce him into the family life that their two mothers (Bening and Moore) have built for them. Once the donor (Ruffalo) is found, the household will never be the same as family ties are defined, redefined, and completely re-examined in terms of right, wrong and what is in between.

Chemistry is absolutely critical in any film endeavor, particularly when it comes to two of the primary characters. Annette Bening and Julianne Moore are absolutely perfect together as the modern day partnered couple. Similar to Felix Unger and Oscar Madison from the odd couple, Bening portrays the cross your t’s and dot your i’s tactician while Moore is the more laid back and let things roll perspective.

The timing of the two, aided by a brilliantly composed script, is undeniably without peer.

One of the strongest aspects of this film is that it is such a departure from the roles these two actresses generally portray. Bening is staring an Oscar nomination square in the face, and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if Moore achieved the same level of success.

Mark Ruffalo shows a very compassionate, albeit magnetic, side to his character. As the recently discovered father of the two children, his entering the picture could have caused

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Mark Ruffalo, Annette Bening and Julianne Moore.

tremendous stress and consternation within the household. He adds balance to the film up until the last handful of minutes. This leads the viewer to wonder where he went? You can’t help but pull for the guy, but, I digress.

Don’t want to give away the story, now do I? Without question, The Kids Are All Right is a brilliant film that dances back and forth between characters in the same manner sections of an orchestra pass the melody around. Although clearly not for everyone, if you are of an open mind and not blind to the relationships that exist today, you will find this an enjoyable comedy that takes a very close look inside one family that just as easily could be right down the street from yours.

The Kids Are All Right Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Julianne Moore and Annette Bening Director: Lisa Cholodenko Company: Focus Features Now Showing: In Theaters MPAA Rating: R Grade: APhotos courtesy of Focus Features.

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

I community

Fort Bend Focus Magazine Hosts The JEWELS of Fort Bend Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

F

ort Bend Focus Magazine, One hundred percent of the the county’s premier proceeds from the raffle will magazine showcasing people, benefit Fort Bend Seniors. places and happenings, is Tickets for the raffle are $20 pleased to announce their each and are available for prethird annual event honoring purchase or for purchase at the five extraordinary women event. The raffle will feature at whose contributions to our least 12 items including a three community make them real day/two night Hill Country gems.

Getaway donated by Steve Fort Bend Focus Honors and Susan Host; a bus trip to the JEWELS of Fort Bend Coushatta Casino Resort for is scheduled for Thursday, you and 54 guests donated September 23, 2010 with

by Coushatta Casino Resort; The 2010 Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives: Lynn Halford, Carolyn Banfield, Peggy Duggan, Brigit Engleman and Cassandra a premier Luncheon and a one-month membership Wen. Join the JEWELS at Fort Bend Focus Magazine Honors the JEWELS Style Show honoring this to Lifestyles at OakBend to of Fort Bend on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at Safari Texas Ranch. year’s Fort Bend JEWELs – increase your overall mental five Joyous, Extraordinary and physical health donated Women Enriching Lives.

The five Fort Bend Focus Magazine. “Fort Bend

by Lifestyles at OakBend; and an array JEWELs for 2010 are Carolyn Banfield, Seniors Meals on Wheels program expects of unique and fabulous jewelry such as a Peggy Duggan, Brigit Engleman, Lynn to serve over 230,000 meals this year, and sterling silver and jade bracelet donated Halford and Cassandra Wen. From the we are honored to assist with this muchby Dianne Wilson.

Fort Bend Junior Service League to the needed and worthwhile program.”

Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS Lamar Consolidated Independent School While the event will be the highlight of of Fort Bend is open to the public and District to the Tri Cities Resale Shop, Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort will be held at Safari Texas Ranch in these women are all committed to making Bend, the September magazine will feature Richmond from 11:30 am to 1:30 our community the best place to live, a beautiful spread showcasing photos and pm on Thursday, September 23rd. In work and raise our families. Fort Bend biographies of the five JEWELS along addition to the Luncheon and Style Focus Magazine is pleased to recognize with sponsors of the event. Distributed Show, featuring fashions from Dillard’s, their efforts while doing something that directly to Fort Bend homes each month, event sponsors will be treated to a private they all feel passionate about: supporting as well as in rack distribution at businesses Champagne Reception with the JEWELS our community. and retailers throughout the county, the prior to the event sponsored by Will Proceeds from Fort Bend Focus Honors special Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS and Lena Hardee/Hardee Investment the JEWELS of Fort Bend will be invested of Fort Bend section will pay homage to Group. Sponsors to date include Emerald back into our community by supporting these special women and their community Sponsor Safari Texas Ranch; Ruby a vital organization: Fort Bend Seniors. service.

Sponsors Alisa Murray Photography, J This non-profit organization provides “Because of the efforts of the Loggins Jewelers, Methodist Sugar Land services and resources dedicated to wonderful, caring individuals who devote Hospital, Pamela Printing and Salon enhancing seniors’ lives in Fort Bend so much of their time and talent to our Eben and Day Spa; Corporate Gems Neil County. Regardless of income, Fort Bend philanthropies, especially these five & Carolyn Banfield, PB & J Pavement Seniors provides Meals on Wheels to all women – Carolyn, Peggy, Brigit, Lynn and Marketing, Inc., May W. Tape, DDS and persons 60 years of age and over. EightyCassandra – our community is a better Texas Direct Auto; and Sapphire Sponsors five percent of Fort Bend Seniors’ clients place,” said Fredrickson. “Fort Bend Adbright Healthcare Services Inc., and live at or below the poverty line.

Focus Magazine is proud to honor their Mr. & Mrs. Jack Wendt. Sponsorships “Because Fort Bend County has a commitment to Fort Bend County and be range from $1,000 to $7,500 and include large population 60 years of age or older, able to give back to the community that magazine advertising. Individual tickets we felt compelled to work with this has so graciously supported us.” are available for $65. For sponsorship organization to help fund programs for This year, Fort Bend Focus Honors the information or to purchase tickets, contact our seniors with the JEWELS event this JEWELS of Fort Bend will include a raffle Fort Bend Focus Magazine at 281-690-4242 year,” said Lisa Fredrickson, publisher of to further benefit Fort Bend Seniors. or visit www.FortBendFocus.com.

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fine arts

september 2010

MAGIC

September 1-6: Explore Magic! at the Houston Museum of Natural Science before it disappears on September 6th!

With a touch of hocus-pocus and a dash of abracadabra, this extraordinary show examines how science and magic are intertwined, tapping into our universal desire to know “How does that work?” Magic! is the perfect subject to inspire people of all ages to learn about the science behind the magic, and the world around them.

Monday & Wednesday - Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm Tuesday: 9 am – 8 pm Houston Museum of Natural Science www.hmns.org

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

POETRY & DESSERT

Thursdays: Enjoy the original prose of KJ Poetry Thursday nights at Poetry and Dessert at Chef Rey’s.

Thursday: 7:30 p.m.

2865 Dulles Avenue, Missouri City. www.chefreynold.com Dear Mama Dear Mama, dear to plenty, But not nearly enough as it should be, ‘Cause you should be dear to any and every, For we all have called those three letters.

In bad weather, whether you’re in ear shot or not, just saying your name, Mama, brings on a calm just the same.

You’re the architect of self respect.

You prefer excess for offspring, and for you??

Not a thing.

It’s that joy of giving that separates Mama, That willingness to forgive, No matter what we did.

Don’t get me wrong, you’re not just a sweet song.

Let me not be home when the street lights came on, You didn’t spare the rod. In fact, You didn’t spare the shoe, switch or belt, or whatever tool you felt, or was in reach.

But I guarantee when the tears subsided and the punishment decided, You took time to teach.

The lesson that should be learned To help my soul’s progression, Alarm clock..nurturer..teacher..chauffeur.. chef..seamstress..caregiver..nurse.

Dryer of weepy eyes, babysitter..security..entertainer..mentor..matchmaker.

There are tons of professions you perfected, and managed not to neglect one.

I see your face, I feel safe. Your voice soothes my heart and an embrace..hmmm..

It brings tears of joy to my soul to know, in a world so cold, I have a familiar face, That will always be proud, that will accept me for me, as crazy as I may be.

That source of comfort can’t be seen, Can’t be put into rhyme or reason.

It’s not visible but in principal.

Love, truly God’s gift to man, A woman to bare children and always hold our hand.

-KJ Poetry

fine arts

october 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY

October 1-31: Doors to Heaven Portrait artist Alisa Murray has captured the beauty and intrigue of one of the world’s best known cemeteries with her photography exhibit Doors to Heaven. Shot at Père Lachaise, the largest cemetery in Paris and famous for housing the tomb of the Door’s Jim Morrison and poet Oscar Wilde, Murray captures the ancient doors to family tombs.

Many of the doors were created by local artisans. and Murray’s interpretation through a colored filter allows her to capture the art and the spirits of the ancient artifacts. Doors to Heaven is on exhibit at Amici.

Amici 16089 City Walk Town Square Sugar Land, Texas www.amicitownsquare.com www.alisamurray.com

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THEATRE

October 5-17: Hairspray It’s 1962, and pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad has only one desire - to dance on the Corny Collins Show. When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star, but she must use her newfound power to vanquish the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin and integrate a TV network - all without denting her ‘do!

Rated: PG Theatre Under The Stars www.tuts.com EXHIBIT

October 1-24: ROBOTS Enter the world of fascinating machines in ROBOTS: The Interactive Exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land. ROBOTS, based on the 20th Century Fox animated feature, depicts a world populated entirely by mechanical beings, including genius inventor Rodney Copperbottom and his friends, the Rusties, who seek to make the world a better place through innovation and determination. Enter The World of Robotics and explore both “reel and real” science of robotics.

Monday – Friday: 9 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land www.hmns.org

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style

Sugar Land Town Square Presents Fashion Week

R

The Catwalk on City Walk 10SLTS247_Fashion Wk_Focus_Edit Icon.indd 1

8/2/10

etailers at Sugar Land Town Square are teaming up to bring a week of fashionfilled fun to the Square from September 9th through 18th. During this time, visitors to Town Square will be able to enjoy a variety of special events and sales.

Fashion Week kicks off with “Catwalk on City Walk” on Thursday, September 9th. The event will take place in the Plaza beginning with a reception at 7 p.m. and followed by a fashion show at 8 p.m. featuring models displaying clothing and accessories provided by select Town Square retailers. Advanced tickets are available online at SugarLandTownSquare.com, with proceeds benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Beginning that evening, and throughout the week, visitors are encouraged to bring gently-used clothing, which will also be donated to the Women’s Center.

Throughout Fashion Week, select stores will host an array of activities ranging from designer trunk shows and outfit design competitions to personalized fitting consultations and free yoga classes. A Progressive Shopping Night will take place on Thursday, September 16th, where Jazz artist Joe Carmouche will provide live music in the Plaza while shoppers enjoy special in-store savings and receive fashion tips from experts.

Visitors will also be able to participate in a passport-style game for a chance to win prizes. Passport game cards will be available at any of the participating retailers in Town Square during Fashion Week, and game participants must visit retailers to receive a stamp, and then turn in their completed game card to be entered into a 2:05:40 PM drawing. Five winners will be announced on Monday, September 20th. Participating retailers include Awakened Yoga, Em&Lee Boutique, Eye Trends, Luggage & Leather, Kiss Kiss, Charming Charlie, A Dog’s Life! Luxury Dog Boutique, JoAnn’s, JoS. A. Bank Menswear, Motherhood Maternity, Strasburg Children and Wardrobe – the Boutique.

As always, free parking is available in any of the three parking garages.

For more details on Fashion Week including a full list of events, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com.

Sugar Land Town Square Fashion Week Progressive Shopping Night Thursday, September 16th • 6 to 9 p.m.

One of the many activities during Fashion Week, the Progressive Shopping Night features incentives from several Sugar Land Town Square Retailers including: • Receive 15 percent off all purchases at Luggage & Leather.

• A Dog’s Life! Luxury Dog Boutique will hold a Trunk Show where visitors will receive a free gift bag with food and treats, a 20 percent off coupon valid thru 9/30/2010 and can sign up to win a gift basket and free entry for the Bark For a Cure Walk on October 16th.

• Motherhood Maternity Presents: > What to Purchase in Your 1st Trimester > 10 Reasons Why You Should Breast Feed Your Baby > Prevent Stretch Marks by Caring for Your Skin During your Pregnancy > Free Bra Fittings for your Every Day and Nursing needs • Charming Charlie Presents Fall Trends with 20 percent off all purchases.

• Walk, Pop, Pose! How to Live and Look Like A Model presented by Wardrobe – the Boutique with 20 percent off last season items and 20 percent off accessories and shoes with purchase of special orders or dress.

• Private Showing of the David Yurman line at Eye Trends.

• Vote For the Best Transition Look From Summer to Fall at Em&Lee Boutique. Winner will be announced at 8:45 pm.

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t s u J

Click to

Win!

Free Subscription Offer and Sweepstakes Entry Help us learn more about you and what you want to see in Focus on Women by completing our online survey at www.FOWmag.com.

Simply for completing the survey, you will receive a one year subscription to Focus on Women – that’s four issues absolutely FREE! And, you will be automatically entered in our Focus on Women Sweepstakes for a chance to win a

Girlfriends Galveston Getaway!

Galveston accommodations for two nights.

Four Schlitterbahn Galveston Tickets.

$100 Landry’s Gift Certificate.

Go to www.FOWmag.com today and complete the survey. Survey must be completed in order to receive your FREE One Year Subscription and to be eligible to win the Sweepstakes!

Official Rules: 1. Offer expires October 15, 2010. 2. No purchase necessary. 3. Employees and families of Focus on Women are not eligible to win. 4. Entrants must be 21 years old or over to win. 5. You need not be present to win. 6. To enter, simply complete the survey at www.FOWmag.com. A random drawing of all completed entries will be held on August 15, 2010. Only one entry per person is allowed. 7. If you cannot complete the survey online, you may request a copy by calling 281.690.4242 and an official survey will be mailed to you. You must complete the mailed survey and return it via US postal service to: Focus on Women, 4655 Techniplex Drive, Suite 400, Stafford, Texas 77477. No photocopies of surveys will be accepted. 8. Winner will be notified by registered mail. 9. Odds of winning are based on the number of entries received. 10. Grand prize will consist of Galveston accommodations for two nights, four Schlitterbahn Galveston tickets, and $100 Landry’s Gift Certificate. Estimated retail value $500. 11. Void where prohibited by law. 12. Focus on Women assumes no responsibility for lost, incomplete or misdirected entries.

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81

style I

By Mariviv Scrogin

ummer in Texas brings sun and fun, but when the temperature stays in the high 90’s and beyond, summer brings a few wardrobe challenges. Couple the heat with the fact that Texas’ summer temperatures can last well into September and October, being stylish and cool can be a challenge.

With that in mind, here are some fast and easy hot weather solutions to those dog days of summer that seem to never end!

If the weather feels too hot to achieve a “pulled together” look, there is a solution. Cotton or linen will not stick to the skin and can look sophisticated with simple statement pieces. Lightweight sundresses and rompers are great options with an added necklace and wedge sandal or flat.

Going from the pool to a party doesn’t have to be a challenge. Summer shirt- dresses have great looks as a casual dress, worn open over swimwear, or paired with skinny denim. The maxi dress is a must for the summer! The maxi can be casual on the beach or dressed up with a belt, accessories and jeweled flats to top off the look for a special evening.

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The weather is so hot outside, but once inside the air conditioner has the opposite effect. A lightweight, versatile cardigan is the perfect add on to keep handy. Cardigans can be found in short cozy wraps, three-quarter and long sleeve styles. Many have added embellishments to add to a summer ensemble.

White dresses are a trend this season giving a crisp summer look. The trick for keeping whites crisp is washing frequently in hot water. Wearing undergarments that match skin tone, rather than the white garment, will alleviate some of the sheer factor.

It’s easy to feel cool with the addition of fun accessories for the summer. Add great looking summer sandals, fun stretch rings, bright summer watches, or sizzling neon sunglasses...and enjoy the Texas sun in style!

Fashions available at Dillard’s. www.dillards.com August 2010 l

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By Family Features

Lighting experts recommend using three layers of light to make a room look its best: ambient, task and accent lighting.

BRIGHT IDEAS Getting Lighting Basics Right F

urniture, fabric and accessories aren’t the only things to think about when decorating.

Lighting makes a big difference in the home. It adds beauty and drama as well as functionality. It can make a small room look bigger and a large room more intimate. Done right, it can have a significant impact — and for far less money then other decoration options.

The Layered Look When it comes to illuminating a room, lighting pros recommend thinking in terms of layers. In general, every room should have three basic layers of light: general or ambient lighting, task lighting and accent lighting.

Ambient Lighting Ambient lighting provides overall lighting for the whole room. Typical lighting fixtures for this layer include

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recessed fixtures, pendants, chandeliers and surface-mounted fixtures.

Recessed Fixtures: A basic recessed fixture, typically housing a reflector floodlight, throws light downward in a cone shape. Placing recessed fixtures in an evenly spaced grid pattern lets those pools of light overlap and provide even lighting. In a room with eightfoot ceilings, place the fixtures in a grid from four to six feet apart.

Chandeliers: A chandelier that’s too big will overpower a room. One that’s too small will seem out of proportion. One trick to calculating a chandelier’s size is to measure the width of the room in feet. Double that number and you’ll get the diameter of the ideal chandelier in inches. For example, a room that’s 12 feet wide should have a chandelier no wider than 24 inches in diameter.

Surface Mounted Fixtures: Surface mounted fixtures can be very functional

Task lighting focuses light on a specific area in which an activity takes place. In a kitchen, for example, undercabinet lighting makes it easier to do food prep on the counters.

Connect

I N S P I R E

E D U C AT E

E M P O W E R

BUY 1 YEAR, GET 1 YEAR FREE Don’t miss out on our charter subscription offer! For a limited time, you can subscribe to 1 year of Focus on Women and get the second year FREE! That’s only $9.95 for 2 years – $1.25 per issue!

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fluorescent types with white diffusing plastic covers or decorative crystal designs that can add sparkle and drama to foyers and hallways.

Like chandeliers, they tend to distribute light more broadly than downlights, and are useful in delivering light to wall surfaces.

Tips and Tricks • The bottom of a hanging fixture should generally be seven feet above the floor. If a fixture hangs above a dining table in a room with an eight-foot ceiling, the bottom of the fixture should hang about 30 inches above the table.

• The minimum chandelier diameter for most dining rooms should be 20 inches. It should be no greater than the length of the table minus 12 inches.

• For higher ceiling applications, consider using spotlights to add more “punch” to objects below.

Task Lighting Task lighting focuses on a specific area of the room where activities like reading, cooking or sewing require additional light. It can be as simple as a pendant light over a kitchen counter, undercabinet lighting, mirror lighting

or a reading lamp by a chair.

To achieve multiple task lighting levels that accommodate simple to more difficult activities, try using GE Reveal® 3-way bulbs, which provide clean, white light at three different levels.

Tips and Tricks • As a general rule, task lighting should be no more than three times as bright as the ambient light.

• Fluorescents under a kitchen cabinet provide energy-efficient light for food preparation.

• For floor lamps next to a reading chair, the base of the lamp shade should be 40 to 42 inches off the floor.

• Lighting fixtures at least 16 inches long, placed on both sides of a mirror, can work best for grooming activities.

Accent Lighting Accent lighting creates drama in a room by revealing pleasing architectural features in a room and highlighting artwork, plants and other decorative items.

Track lighting and recessed adjustable fixtures are typically used for accent lighting.

Downlights over tables and counters can provide visual interest and highlight decorative items. For paintings and other decorative items displayed on walls, lighting fixtures are usually 2 to 3 feet from the wall (for ceiling heights of 8 to 9 feet). Halogen reflector lamps in various sizes and beam spreads are popular light source choices.

Tips and Tricks • Accent light should typically cast about five times more light on a target than the general light of the room. It should be aimed carefully to prevent glare or unwanted reflections.

• To highlight the texture of wall surfaces like stone or brick, graze the wall with light.

However, if there are imperfections in the wall surface, then place lighting fixtures away from the wall to avoid grazing light.

• Three dimensional objects like sculpture are often better revealed with more than one light source.

Carefully chosen and well-placed lighting fixtures will help put your home in the very best light. For more lighting ideas, visit www.gelighting.com.

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with

on

J Loggins • Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend • June 17th

Heather Gobert, Lena Hardee, Lauren Dante and Sarah Griggs.

Lisa Giesler, Bonny Stevenson and Britt Caffarena.

Heather and Mark Gobert and Jan Loggins, owner of J Loggins Jewelers.

Jessica Kij, Patty Martin-Duhon and Focus on Women Publisher Lisa Fredrickson.

Louisia Ogletree, Namita Asthana and Stephanie Saa.

Dottie Childs, Alan and Sharon Hilburn.

Salon Gity • 5th Annual Fashion Show Benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center • May 16th

Salon Gity’s Shelly Tabor, William Chow, Ana Aleman and Valerie Munoz.

Fox 26 Meteorologist and Emcee Kristi Powers with 1st place winner of $250 Sylvia Arguijo.

Salon Gity’s Rohan Haji and Focus on Women Editor In Chief Patti Parish-Kaminski.

Fox 26 Meteorologist and Emcee Kristi Powers with 2nd place winner of $150 Alice Yanez.

Fox 26 Meteorologist and Emcee Kristi Powers with 3rd place winner of $100 Maria Isabel Alarcon.

Southern Sister Designs • Christmas In July • July 22nd

Elizabeth Duff Drozd and Susan Sillavan.

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Leslie Preston, Liz Engleking and Ginny Scherperee.

Jenny Cervantes and Mandi Bronsell.

Cherie Loran and Christen Johnson.

l August 2010

Julie Wells and Katrina Nutt.

By Nancy V. Mills, APR

I health & wellness

Bullying…It’s More than Sticks and Stones Care 2 Chat About Teen Health

N

ational speaker, author and popular psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini, LPC, will present Bullying…it’s More than Sticks and Stones during the 3rd annual Care 2 Chat (C2C) About Teen Health on Saturday, November 13th.

C2C is a free, half-day health symposium featuring short, informational talks and inspirational messages.

Always a sellout, the event presents teen health topics in a fun and informative way to girls – ages 12-18 – and their mothers or other key women in their lives.

Rapini says bullying can lead to low self-esteem and other destructive behaviors. Today’s digital technologies make it easy to deliver a barrage of hateful words, threats and torments. With teens tied to their cell phones and spending hours online, it’s nearly impossible for them to escape the constant harassment.

“Cyber attacks leave kids feeling defeated, fearful and alone,” said Rapini. “Young victims look to their

parents and other adults in their lives for validation, appreciation and protection.”

Rapini will discuss the warning signs and what parents need to do if their child is being bullied.

She will also talk about when your child is the bully, noting that children mimic bully behavior if they learn it from their parents and siblings.

C2C also features Erika D. Gentry, M.D., a family practice physician with Affinity Family Medicine. Her informative talk focuses on body image and eating disorders. Kelli Burroughs, M.D., an obstetrician and gynecologist with Sweetwater OB-GYN, will address when it’s appropriate to undergo the first well-woman exam. Other high energy sessions include financial management and teen fashion.

Seating is to the free event is limited to 300.

For more information or to pre-register, contact Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital at 713.222.CARE (2273).

National speaker, author and popular psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini, LPC will be a featured speaker at the 3rd annual Care 2 Chat About Teen Health on Saturday, November 13th.

Care 2 Chat about teen health?

Information, Inspiration and Insights for teen girls and their moms Saturday, November 13th 8 am to Noon UH System Sugar Land 14000 University Blvd @ Hwy 59 Presented by

and

Seating is limited to 300. Please pre-register at 713.222.CARE August 2010 l

(2271)

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By Alisa Murray

Woman Woman Who’s Favorite Were You, and Who’s Your Favorite Now?

A

hh…the never ending question that always lurks in children’s minds. Am I the favorite, or is it my brother or sister? Clearly the explicit display of favoritism by a parent towards a sibling has a lasting effect on the child well into adulthood, as well as in the way that child feels about and relates to their siblings. I know for a fact that I was my Granny and Big Daddy’s favorite. Walter was Nana’s favorite and Elizabeth was Daddy’s.

This was not even questionable but rather a fact, just as the sun would rise and set each day.

Usually, it is the mother that is constantly worried that she has in some conscious or unconscious way harmed her children by treating each of them differently. My childhood equation was obviously missing that link since our mother had been killed while we were young, and we were not lacking adult attention…just that from our mother.

Looking back on those childhood years filled with angst, it was quite clear that the rules would shift between the appropriate rites of passage, and the gifts that were bestowed once the milestones had past. Take for example when I left for college. I left a year early, and I was not given a car. I was loaned a care to use.

My sister was issued a car as a gift at graduation, and by the time our brother got to be old enough to drive, there was a car ready for him to use and essentially call his own. Once I married, I was asked to turn in my car and Alisa Murray is a nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist, business woman, wife and mother of two. Her creative talents and spirit are reflective in everything she does. Her philosophy is above all else, to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Experience the difference an artist can make - visit Alisa at www. alisamurray.com.

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Big Daddy and Alisa.

return any furniture that I had taken from the house for college. When my sister married, she already had her car from graduation and was also given several substantial pieces of furniture from the house to start her own. My brother was given a business, his house co-signed for by our father and his paychecks written at a salary that our father deemed appropriate once he was married. Completely different parenting with each child and completely inconsistent. As a result, some resentment still remains, but oddly enough, not at the parent or grandparents but towards the recipient of all of their affections.

Many studies have shown that favoring a child does have an impact not only on the child but also the siblings. According to an article in USA Today, “Being favored may also be problematic contributing to an increase in aggressive behavior as an adult. Experts say that it is not realistic to say everyone should be treated equally, because no two people are the same and they relate differently with others.”

(USA Today, May 3, 2010 by Sharon Jayson) This is true. Daddy probably related better to my sister who, like him, was a scientific and math genius. Both of them were programmed

with the same brain. They got along perfectly because they were so similar. Today, some of the things that drive me crazy about my sister are the exact same things that used to drive me crazy when our father was alive.

Nana was the protector of all of us but because she had only had a son, our father, and our brother was the namesake for her husband, it was destiny that she would latch onto him and treat him like the golden prince that could do no wrong. He could come in from a date after midnight, and she would be waiting for him but say nothing. If my sister or I ever came in past curfew, we were greeted with accusations of having sex and doing bad things.

Ahhh, the joys of remembering one’s teenage years! The rules were definitely different for the boys and the girls and that was aggravating at the time.

Now, as I parent my two children, I have strong feelings for each of them in different ways. I am beginning to understand.

One of the best books I ever read to my children was “I Love You the Purplest.” It is about a mother with two sons and each of them ask her the dreaded question, “Who do you love the most?” She answers with a

Daddy and Elizabeth.

Presented by Fort Bend Junior Service League and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital y nniversar 10th A

Walter and Nana.

color, and then explains to each of her boys how they are deeply loved because of who they are as individuals and that it is not possible to compare the love for one child to another. It made sense to me. It helped me forgive a little and parent a lot better.

I go round and round with my sister about what I call blanket parenting. To me, blanket parenting is when you just set up a bunch of house rules and enforce them for all the exact same way. The outcome, she thinks, is that the lesson will be learned, and it’s just that easy.

Maybe she does this because that’s how Daddy would have done it. Maybe she thinks it will work because she has two boys. I think you have to set up a relationship with each child, and in doing so, you learn what makes them tick and then choose the best way to parent them. Some have to be spanked. Sorry for those who hate corporal punishment. Others only have to be talked to sternly, and they obey.

There is no need to try to pretend that each child can be parented the same way, at least not from what I have learned from my degree in psychology and my experience mothering for the past 12 years. What works for one absolutely will not always work for another, just as in life working with adults.

I propose that sometimes the difference in the parenting can be misconstrued as being favored by a parent. And, almost always, the difference has to do with personality compatibility, or the lack thereof, between the parent and the child. So, if you’re asked the dreaded question by your children, “Who’s your favorite,” the only response is, “You all are!”

Take Care of You!

“A Holly Jolly Christmas”

Shopping Experience Debuting Preview Night! Featuring Three Fashion Shows!

Fashion Show Contributors include Macy’s, Bobbi Brown for Macy’s, Beauty Indulgence Day Spa and Salon, and Sweet & Sassy Fashion Show Catered by Ray’s Grill/Watercress Catering

Thursday, November 4th, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday, November 5th, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday, November 6th, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center 10505 Cash Rd. in Stafford, Texas

Benefiting

Fort Bend County Charities Fashion Show tickets are $65 each. Preview Night Tickets are $50 each.

General Admission Tickets are $10 each.

For tickets, contact tickets@sugarplummarket.com.

Beginning October 1st, general admission tickets available at Fort Bend County Randalls stores.

www.sugarplummarket.com

Guadalupe

RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

More pictures at

RioRatonDuplex.com book at

832-788-2294

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entertaining I

By Chef Rey

Photos by Al Torres

The Sophisticated BBQ

T

he summer months are the time of year that we get together for grilling out and sharing those great BBQ secrets with family and friends. I am often challenged by my clients to create something fresh and new when they request my catering services for summer dinner parties. One of my favorite clients recently called and requested a Sophisticated BBQ. My first thought was how could I make a BBQ classy and elegant?

After meeting with my client, I came up with an awesome menu along with plating details to take her average BBQ cookout to another level. I also decided to incorporate art in the form of some original poetry by KJ Poetry to add to the ambience of the evening.

You can enjoy KJ Poetry every Thursday night at Chef Rey’s beginning at 7:30 pm.

Creating something new and different is what I really love about my job because it allows my creative forces to take over and give my clients more than they ever expected. The great thing about the Sophisticated BBQ was that the guests did not have to worry about the outdoor elements because the grilling was all done in advance. Therefore, for your next BBQ cookout, you can add a touch of sophistication by grilling your protein prior to your guests arriving and displaying the BBQ in a plated or buffet style. Oh, and by the way, the client also added an acoustic guitar player which gave the party an ole Texas BBQ flavor. What a great evening of artistry – phenomenal food, good friends and fine art for a Sophisticated BBQ. Happy Grilling!

Wine Pairings by Phillip Smith

Frescobaldi “Pater” Sangiovese, Tuscany, Italy ‘07

BBQ Shrimp 2.5 pounds of Shrimp (13/15) Marinade Sauce: Cracked Black Pepper ½ clove of Garlic, finely diced, ¼ tsp of Allspice ¼ cup of Olive Oil “Sweet Baby Ray’s” Gourmet Honey BBQ Sauce 6 Stainless Skewers Directions: 1. Clean and devein shrimp. Split shrimp down the back.

2. Place shrimp in marinade for 30 minutes.

3. Place shrimp on stainless skewers.

4. Heat grill to 375 degrees F. 5. Grill shrimp on both side for 3 to 5 minutes while brushing with “Sweet Baby Ray’s” BBQ Sauce.

6. Remove from grill and brush with BBQ Sauce before serving.

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Sangiovese is the primary grape grown in the Tuscany region of Italy . The region has paired wine with food for centuries, especially shellfish that is grilled and roasted outside over an open flame and wine that is crafted to pair with the smoked flavors of those dishes. Try this Sangiovese with the BBQ Shrimp appetizer. The wine is of a lighter style, more like that of a Pinot Noir than a Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it perfect with grilled shellfish. Pater exemplifies aromas of dark cherries and tanned leather. Flavors of dried cherry and earthy overtones finish like silk on the palate.

Price: $8 to $10.

entertaining

Smoked Cornish Hen 4 Cornish Game Hens 2 tbsp Poultry Seasoning 2 tsp Garlic Powder Cracked Black Pepper 4 oz of Butter 1 medium Onion, finely diced 1 clove of Garlic, finely diced Directions: 1. Wash hens thoroughly in water and vinegar.

2. Combine all ingredients in a small stainless bowl.

3. Rub hens liberally with seasoning mixture, and marinate overnight.

4. Pre-heat grill to medium heat, and place hens away from direct heat. Cook with hen’s breast side up for about 1-1/2 hours or until cooked through. Turn hens to allow back side to brown as well. Allow hens to rest for 10 to 15 minutes prior to serving.

Clos de los Siete, Mendoza 2007 This gem, produced by renowned winemaker and consultant Michel Rolland, exhibits the best of what Argentina can provide without breaking the bank! This wine is deep and rich in color and full of the aroma of dark berries.

Hints of vanilla, smoke and oak fill the glass. On the palate, the wine notes of ripe black berries, licorice and hints of cocoa backed up with some nice cigar box notes. This wine pairs perfectly with smoked game meats. Blend: 48% Malbec, 28% Merlot, 12% Syrah, and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Price: $15 to $20.

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By Chef Rey

Photos by Al Torres

Sautéed Asparagus 1 bundle of Asparagus 1 cup of Chicken Stock 1 small ice bath White Truffle Oil Cracked Black Pepper Directions: 1. Pre-wash asparagus and cut base of asparagus at an angle.

2. Bring 1 cup of chicken broth to broil.

3. Blanche asparagus in chicken stock for 1-1/2 to 3 minutes. Remove quickly and place in small ice bath to stop the cooking process.

4. In medium sauté pan, add white truffle oil on low heat. Place asparagus in pan and sauté until warm.

5. Remove asparagus from heat.

Add cracked Black Pepper when serving.

Southern Potato Salad 10 lbs. of Red New Potatoes 3 cups of Chicken Stock 1 dozen of Eggs (boiled) 1 cup of Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 1 cup of Kraft Salad Dressing Sandwich Spread ¼ cup of White Wine Mustard 12 oz. of Sweet Relish ½ cup of diced Green Onions ¾ cup of diced Celery 4 oz. of diced Pimientos ¼ cup of Sugar Cracked Black Pepper Directions: 1. Peel potatoes and place in cold water to retain white color. After peeling potatoes, cut into 2 inch cubes.

2. Place potatoes in cold chicken stock along with black pepper and place on stove top. Bring to a boil and reduce heat.

3. Cook until potatoes are tender. Note: You can test with a fork; do not overcook or you will have mashed potatoes.

4. Place eggs on stove top and boil while potatoes are boiling.

5. Drain potatoes and let them rest and cool. Place in refrigerator when cool.

6. Drain and peel eggs.

7. Finely chop eggs and place in potatoes.

8. Blend in Mayo, Salad Dressing and Mustard.

9. Add Celery, Green Onion and Pimientos.

10. Add Sugar and Cracked Black Pepper to taste.

Note: It is always best to make your Potato Salad a day in advance so that seasonings can marry each other overnight for added flavor.

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Cajun Risotto 1-1/2 cup of Arrezzio Rice 1 medium Onion, finely diced 3 Shallots, finely diced 2 tbsp of Olive Oil 4 tbsp of Butter ½ cup of White Wine 5 cups of Chicken Broth 2 Tomatoes, diced 1 cup Bell Peppers (Green, Red Orange and Yellow), Finely Diced 1 clove of Garlic Finely Diced ¼ cup Carrots, finely diced ¼ cup of Celery, finely diced Ginger, Turmeric, Tamarind, Paprika and Cayenne Pepper to taste Directions: 1. Sauté onions and shallots in butter and olive oil.

2. Add Arrezzio Rice to mixture, and sauté for a couple of minutes.

3. Deglaze pan with white wine.

4. Add chicken stock, just enough to cover rice, simmer and continue to stir constantly.

5. As the rice absorbs the stock, add the remainder of stock ¼ cup at a time until rice is cooked through.

6. Let rice cool and refrigerate.

7. To complete Cajun blend, sauté tomatoes, bell pepper, garlic, carrots and celery until translucent.

8. Add in cold Risotto to mixture.

9. Add Ginger, Turmeric, Tamarind, Paprika and Cayenne Pepper to taste.

entertaining

Chef Rey’s Sunday Banana Pudding For Pudding: 1 cup of Sugar 4 tbsp of All Purpose Flour 1 can of Carnation Milk ¾ cup of Water 1 stick of Butter (4 oz.)

4 Egg Yolks (Save the White for the Meringue Topping) 1 tsp of Watkins Pure Vanilla Extract 3 medium Bananas sliced 12 oz. of Vanilla Wafers (1 Box) For Meringue Topping: 4 Egg Whites ¼ tsp of Cream of Tartar ¼ cup of Sugar Directions: 1. Mix together sugar and flour.

2. Add milk and water slowly.

3. For best results, cook pudding in a double boiler.

4. Add butter to mixture along with vanilla extract.

5. For richer flavor, allow pudding to cook over double boiler for at least 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

6. Temper egg yolks with some of the hot pudding in separate bowl.

7. Add egg yolks to pudding and continue to cook until pudding thickens.

8. Remove from stove top and allow pudding to cool prior to assembling.

9. In a 9 inch by 2 inch oven proof baking dish, assemble pudding, alternating pudding, bananas and wafers, beginning with wafers and ending with wafers.

Directions for Meringue: 1. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form, and then spread on top of pudding mixture. Bake at 375 degrees until golden brown.

Toasted Head Chardonnay, California 2008 Who says we have to follow the rules and pair a sweet wine with desert? Cabernet Sauvignon goes great with many chocolate dishes, so why can’t we try full-bodied white wines with our favorite course of a meal dessert? Try this creamy and quite complex Chardonnay with bananas and cream or banana pudding. Chardonnays ,like Toasted Head, typically have tasting notes of butterscotch, ripe bananas, and ripe tree fruit but usually finish crisp and oaky.

The acidity in the wine should cut through this creamy desert quite nicely, opening the wine to exhibit its best fruit forward characteristics.

Price: $10 to $15.

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between the lines

A simple model for managing your money to get the most of what you want

Basic Financial Savvy in Less Than An Hour!

J

ay Clancy takes a new approach to money management in his how-to handbook Frugal is the New Posh. Clancy gives us a new take on frugality as he defines it in a positive fashion: Getting the most of what you want from the resources you have.

Where traditionally frugal conjures up descriptions like “tightwad” and “cheap,” this book redefines frugality to mean a healthy approach to money management that allows you to get more of what you want over the long term.

While money management is traditionally a heady topic, Clancy boils down the process with a five point model that asks five simple questions to ensure all of your financial bases are covered. And best of all, the model applies to money management at any point in your life from teens to seniors.

Clancy’s point with frugality is to give you financial freedom and control, and his Thrive Financial Health Model is a succinct and easy to follow guide toward achieving frugality that’s posh. To learn more about Jay or order Frugal is the New Posh, visit www.clancylearning.com.

Jay Clancy has over 15 years of experience designing and facilitating performance solutions in a variety of industries. With a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and a Master of Science in training and development, he has taught undergraduate and continuing education courses for the University of Houston and currently serves as a consultant and professional trainer for many organizations. Jay is the President of Clancy Learning and founder of Thrive Global, and he has served on the local board for the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) and as President of the local chapter of the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). He currently serves of the board for the University of Houston Human Resource Development department. Jay lives in Sugar Land, Texas with his wife and three children.

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for a

Cause

Be a Friend, Bring a Friend to the Literacy Council’s Fall Friend-Raiser We’ve all heard of a fundraiser and likely have attended one. But, what about a “friend-raiser?” The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County (LCFBC) is hosting it’s Fall FriendRaiser to – you guessed it – honor old friends and make some new ones.

The community is invited to this free event to learn more about how this important organization impacts the lives of so many.

The LCFBC’s Fall Friend-Raiser is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th from 8:30 to 9:30 am at their offices located at 12530 Emily Court in Sugar Land. Friends can tour the facility, enjoy breakfast, meet supporters and staff, and most importantly, learn about this vital organization. The event will also honor LCFBC’s donors and sponsors for the past year.

The LCFBC is a nonprofit educational program dedicated to helping adults of all ages improve their lives and their communities by learning reading, writing, math and problem-solving skills. The organization is committed to ending inter-generational cycles of illiteracy in Fort Bend County by improving adult literacy skills and generating community-wide literacy awareness.

Well-trained and supported volunteers work one-on-one with adults needing to strengthen their basic literacy skills and on a small group basis with those learning to speak English as a second language.

Attendance to the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County’s Fall FriendRaiser is free; however, reservations are required. To reserve your friendly spot, call 281.240.8181.

between the lines

Become a First Style Fashionista!

B

ecome a First Style Fashionista! by Image Consultant and Life Coach Beth Newman is designed for middle school girls as they begin their journey toward fabulosity! Scheduled for release in August through Amazon, the book touches on topics including appropriate fashion choices, etiquette, wellness, and success strategies.

As a former teacher and school administrator, part of Beth’s mission with her new book is to help young women become the absolute best they can be.

Developed in 2007, Beth’s First Style program promotes “the total package.” Its focus is not only on the image we as women project, but on discovering strategies that will help us live life authentically. Geared toward pre-teens and teens, Become A First Style Fashionista! provides young women

with valuable knowledge and success strategies that will empower them for the rest of their lives.

Through her First Style program, Beth has worked on-on-one with countless young women in Greater Houston in the areas of fashion, etiquette, and in making healthy lifestyle choices. She travels to local schools presenting etiquette courses, leadership workshops, and motivational seminars. She also offers online First Style tutoring, assisting pre-teen and teen-aged girls in the areas of confidence, poise, wellness, and more.

For more information about Become a First Style Fashionista! and Beth, visit www. newmanimage.info.

Excerpts from Become A First Style Fashionista!

Idol Chat Sara’s favorite celebrity is Mary McRockstar. Mary sings, dances, and stars in her own TV show.

Because Mary McRockstar does, in fact, rock, Sara wants to be just like her. She envisions herself on stage in front of cheering crowds, of winning every award there is to win, and wearing those wonderfully tiny little outfits Mary wears…..

Wait a minute. Mary McRockstar is much older than Sara and has a right to wear those tiny little outfits. Sara is only 12. What works for Mary McRockstar is not going to work favorably for Sara.

Clothes send a message about us. If we dress appropriately for our age, that tells the world that we’re confident and that we respect ourselves. If we copy what our scantily-clad idols are wearing, that also sends a message: that we’ve little self-respect and we’ll go to certain lengths to get attention (trust me, dears, this is negative attention you’ll be getting, and it could follow you around for a long time) Copying someone never works. The great Judy Garland (you know, Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz) once said, “Why not be a first rate version of yourself rather than a second rate version of someone else?”

Who Cares?

Daisy hates to dress up. She prefers to wear old, oversized sweat pants and flip flops everywhere. Often, she’ll wear the same shirt three days in a row. She simply isn’t interested in fashion. Her mother buys her nice things to wear, but Daisy feels that it’s what’s on the inside that matters. Daisy’s right….to a degree.

What we carry on the inside – things like kindness, generosity, empathy, respect – are far more important that the clothes on our backs. However, we can better relay our wonderful traits if our outward appearance is at its best. It’s hard to set a good example if your clothes just aren’t working for you. We live in a visual society. Think about it: how does your favorite teacher measure up physically compared to your least favorite teacher? Most likely, your fave favors a sleek, put-together look while in the classroom.

Remember, what we choose to wear tells the world an awful lot about us. Let your wardrobe positively reflect the oh-so-fabulous you!

August 2010 l

www.FOWmag.com

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the last word I

By Beth Newman

Great Expectations

Y

Beth Newman is a fashion, etiquette, and lifestyle advisor based out of Sugar Land, Texas. She conducts one-onone consultations, seminars, and workshops throughout the greater Houston area. Beth works with women, men, and children of all ages. For more information, visit her website at www.newmanimage.info.

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focus on women

l August 2010

ears ago, as a middle school teacher, I had the great fortune to work alongside one awesome mentor. As the principal of our school, she graciously and gracefully challenged each of us – students and teachers – to strive for our personal best.

One year, we noticed a drop, behaviorwise, with a particular group of students.

This was one of ‘those groups’ whose reputation preceded them long before they made it into the middle school hall. It seemed as if nothing could get through to these kiddos. Threats of after-school detention or calls home to mom and dad didn’t faze them too much. They came to party, and we teachers felt absolutely lost as to what to do.

Of course, our fearless leader offered some advice. “Raise the bar for these students. If you expect great things from them, I believe they’ll rise to the occasion.

Don’t be afraid to hold them personally responsible for their success.”

Half of the staff bought into that idea; the other half – not so much. Although a bit pessimistic about it (come on, I thought, it can’t be that easy), I gave it a shot.

Day 1: “Okay, boys and girls, I expect you all to have your homework completed and ready to hand in first thing in the morning. If not, you can expect to spend a silent lunch with me right here in the class room.”

Day 2: All but five students brought in their assignments. Those five ate quietly with me in my classroom that day. Before departing, I informed them that yesterday’s assignment was still due. They could hand it in the next day, but the highest they could expect was a low B. “Oh,” I reminded them, “I expect you to have today’s assignment handed in as well.”

Day 3: Every student but one handed in his homework. Those who had ‘doubleduty’ from the day before got both assignments in. The lone ranger and I sat down for a heart-to-heart after school, and I explained to him that I expected him to do his work, do it well, and to show me just what he was capable of.

Day 4: Every student brought in their assignment. And these weren’t merely halfhearted ‘git-r-done’ attempts. The work was thoughtful, neat, and astounded doesn’t even begin to describe what I felt, for I’d never seen them perform this well before.

The teachers who joined me for this little experiment experienced the same thing.

Those who continued not expecting much from the students got just that.

I learned then to expect nothing but the best from my students, and year after year, I got it. Today, I expect nothing but the best from my clients and the girls working though my First Style program, and I get it.

I expect the best from myself, and trust me when I tell you, I work hard to get it.

It’s a great lesson for us all, really. When we expect great things from others, they’ll respond accordingly. Yeah, we may have to force a silent lunch on them from time to time, but they’ll learn to rise to the occasion, and probably sooner than we could ever imagine. If we expect great things from ourselves, we’ll rise to any occasion, too.

I really believe it’s about being specific in what we desire from others and from ourselves. If we don’t possess some sort of vision for how things should occur, we’ll surely wind up disappointed.

We owe it ourselves to stop settling for mediocrity. Let’s set a few high standards for our children and for ourselves. Great expectations really do pay off in a big, beautiful way!

Who are the Jewels of Fort Bend?

Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

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proudly announces the 2010

Brigit Engleman

Lynn Halford

Luncheon & Style Show

Safari Texas Ranch Thursday, September Twenty Three, Two Thousand and Ten ◆ 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch ◆ 11627 FM 1464 ◆ Richmond, Texas BENEFITING

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES

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