Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes April 2016 by Lifestyles & Homes Magazines/Fort Bend Publishing

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CY-FAIR LifeStyles & Homes

T E X A

S April 2016

COMING UP: BAYOU CITY

ART FESTIVAL Meet Featured Artist APRIL MURPHY Lone Star Chapter of the American

HIBISCUS Society

SHOW & SALE ART BY APRIL MURPHY | PHOTO BY TIM MURPHY 10707 Corporate Dr Ste. 170 Stafford, TX. 77477-4092

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ROOM ADDITIONS • CONVENTIONAL PATIO PORCH WINDOWS • HARDI PLANK SIDING • ROOF • SUNROOMS Celebrating Over 28 Years Serving Houston and the Surrounding Communities

BEFORE

APRIL SPECIALS

30% OFF

ALL WINDOWS

ALL PATIO COVERS

Not valid with other offers. Must present this Lifestyle offer. Exp 4/30/16.

1000 OFF

Not valid with other offers. Must present this Lifestyle offer. Exp 4/30/16.

713-272-6224

3000 OFF 30% OFF

ROOM ADDITIONS OR SUNROOMS

Not valid with other offers. Must present this Lifestyle offer. Exp 4/30/16.

COLONY BUILDERS, INC.

JAMES HARDIE SIDING Not valid with other offers. Must present this Lifestyle offer. Exp 4/30/16.

WWW.COLONYBUILDERSINC.COM FREE Architectural Drawing & Engineering Seal with Every Room Addition Purchased. (a $1200 value)

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SPRING

PROMOTION

You don’t need three in a row — just one. One new home, that’s it. Buy a new home in Bridgeland from March 1 - April 30 and get FREE tolls for a year.* Take advantage of your toll tag on the Grand Parkway, bisecting Bridgeland and now connecting 290 to The Woodlands — making it easier getting to and from home. Homes from $220s to $1million+.

Visit Bridgeland.com

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Contents

CY FAIR

APRIL 2016

Established 2007 NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER

DIRECT-MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 39,000 PREMIER HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN CY-FAIR Reaches trade professionals (ASID and GHBA members), area realtors, business, doctors, trade events (home-related trade shows and community events) and the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

founder and publisher Bill and Linda Anderson

Editor Linda Vaughan Anderson editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

Office Manager Linda Peterson

Contributing Editors Cheryl Alexander • Mara Soloway Kelly Foss • Cathy Gordon Dr. Lori • Judy Latta Melanie Saxton • Cindy Ziervogel

Wine Editor Denman Moody

Photographers J. Pamela Photography, Inc.

Production Manager Michael Ogrodowicz

Graphic Designers Todd Anderson • Lettie Rudel

Account Executives

{30}

Bayou City Art Festival is Coming! Featured artist April Murphy brings an upbeat, colorful vibe.

Marita Pratt • Kim Zeiner Amy Barker Richards Amy Ahlbrand Robinson Tracy Ray • Joe Welch Donna Sommer • Lisa Adams

ADVERTISING INFORMATION cy-fairlifestylesandhomes.com 281.240.2445 Ext. 128 REACH OUR FULL CIRCULATION: Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Houston Lifestyles & Homes

{8}

UPCOMING HAPPENINGS IN CY-FAIR! Mark your calendars for upcoming concerts, community activities and charitable events.

Katy-Fulshear Lifestyles & Homes The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $18 per year cy-fairlifestylesandhomes.com FORT BEND PUBLISHING GROUP 10707 Corporate Drive, Suite 170 • Stafford, TX 77477 Tel: 281.240.2445 ext. 128 E: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

facebook.com/CyFairLifestylesandHomesMagazine cy-fairlifestylesandhomes.com

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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Come on over. Texas Children’s is ranked fourth in the nation and best in the southwest. Lucky for you, we’re right here in northwest Houston. Our Health Centers and Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices offer convenient access to expert pediatricians, subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic services. At Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus, your child can get emergency services at a hospital 100% dedicated to pediatric care. We also partner with Methodist Willowbrook Hospital to offer newborn care from Texas Children’s specialists. Whenever you need us, remember, we’re just down the way. For maps and information, visit texaschildrens.org/northwest.

Texas Children’s Health Center Cy-Fair

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus

11777 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77065 281-469-4688

18200 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 832-227-1000

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Contents APRIL 2016

In Store Now {20 DISCOVERIES} New and unique finds for your home and lifestyle.

{22 BOOKS} New releases on decorat-

The Good Life

ing, cooking, health and more. {24 FASHION} What to wear now and a look at new styles for the upcoming season. {28 NEW AUTOS} Reviews of the Toyota Tundra 1794 and Acura ILX.

{62 WINE} Duckhorn Wine Estate Producing Some of the Best in the World. {64 MEMORABLE WEDDINGS} Couples share their special memories of their special day.

Home Inspirations Inside &Out {40} INTERIOR DETAILS Specialty Materials Add Interest and Vibrancy

More Features

{44} HOME IMPROVEMENT Plan for the Right Pool

Fusion brings pizzazz to your home.

Consider the options before making your backyard investment.

{43}

{46}

INTERIOR DETAIL

HOME IMPROVEMENT

RESOURCES

Dramatic tropical flower will be featured at local events.

Health & Well-Being {56} What is IBS?

{34} Go Red for Women Luncheon Benefits American Heart Association

Learn the symptoms, causes and treatments.

Northwest Harris County division event set for April 1..

{60} Family Health

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

{70 BUSINESS BRIEFS} Keep up with the local business climate and its leaders. {73 CAMPUS} Achievements and activities of area schools and students.

Columns

{50} Springtime Kicks Off Hibiscus Show Season

Community News

{38} ARTS & ANTIQUES BY DR. LORI Spring Clean Your Art and Antiques Carefully.

{80} Historical The Wild West was Right Here in Cypress.

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schedule is as follows: 8 a.m. – Breakfast, check in, registration 9 a.m. – Tournament starts 11:30 a.m. – Lunch and awards All proceeds benefit the nonprofit CyHope whose mission is to help at-risk children in CyFair ISD. Email questions to cy-hope@cy-hope.org.

2016 Featured Artist Julia Gilmore.

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, April 8-10

tHe trt preSentS world premiere of hair like the sun, tHrougH april 10

The 11th annual Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival offers a weekend escape for art and music enthusiasts of all ages and is scheduled for April 8-10. Located at Town Green Park along The Woodlands Waterway, this festival is one of the premier and most highly anticipated events of its kind in the area. Ranked in the top 10 of America’s Best Art Fairs by ArtFairCalendar.com, The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival (WWAF) features 225 artists from a juried competition of artists nationwide and as far abroad as Israel and Hungary. The featured artist for 2016 is the whimsical painter Julia Gilmore and her work is featured in all event graphics. In addition to being a favorite among buyers and sellers of fine art, the festival’s popularity also comes from the communityoriented and family-friendly experience of the event. Eclectic music performed by local, national and international artists, culinary demonstrations, and a variety of local performing artists take place in a natural setting. “We have new features that we are very excited about, such as the ability to attend the festival for all three days with one $15 ticket, The Terrace VIP Club presented by Glade Gallery, the Art of Food demonstration stage and 3 stages of music, and the Art of Craft Beer area,” said WWAF Director Jenny Wright. “We are very pleased to offer “MD

The Texas Repertory Theatre Co. (TRT), Houston’s Uptown Classic Theatre, continues its 11th Anniversary “Emerging Visions” Season with a world premiere dramatization of true life events in Charles French's Hair Like the Sun, through April 10. On February 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, designating certain areas of the United States West coast as military zones. This order paved the way for the unlawful imprisonment of 120,000 Japanese Americans in internment camps. Hair Like the Sun is the story of one family’s efforts to find kindness and dignity amidst the harsh reality of a nation at war. Based on true events, this inspirational play tells a unique story from this oft-forgotten period, of a young girl who witnessed the deplorable conditions, and struggled firsthand with the fear and indifference of a nation only to find redemption and life-changing friendship in the most unlikely of places. The TRT production of Hair Like the Sun features Jenna Malisheski, Sally Burtenshaw, Susan Ly, Regina Ohashi, Nathan Wilson, Asia Kreitz and New York guest artist Jackson Perrin under the direction of Texas Repertory artistic director Steven Fenley. For tickets or more information, call 281-583-7573, or log onto texreptheatre.org.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Anderson Cancer Center First Look Friday,” which is a great opportunity to be among the first to view this year’s artists.” The WWAF is produced by The Woodlands Arts Council, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide regional cultural enrichment opportunities to inspire, encourage, support and promote visual and performing arts. For more information on sponsorships, call 713-504-6432. For event information, visit woodlandsartsfestival.com.

Cy-Hope Clay SHoot, april 6 Join Cy-Hope for its first annual Clay Shoot on Wednesday, April 6 at the Westside Sport Grounds,10120 Pattison Rd, Katy. Register a team now through March 31 for a reduced entry fee of $800 per 4-person team (normally $900), which includes 100 clays, ammunition, breakfast and lunch. The contest is limited to the first 80 shooters. No alcohol will be allowed on the premises. The

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(L-R): Mandy Kolbaba (Lola), Larry Luck (Joe Hardy), and Mark Mendelsohn (Applegate).

Damn Yankees Opens on the HFAC Garza Mainstage, April 22-May 15 Damn Yankees, the Broadway mega-hit and winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, hits it out of the park! This award-winning musical comedy “plays” on the Houston Family Arts Center Garza Mainstage,10760 Grant Road, April 22 - May 15. The Washington Senators are a bad baseball team, and fan Joe Boyd just wants them to beat the “damn” Yankees. He wants a win so badly that he’s willing to sell his soul to the devil. When Applegate, otherwise known as the Devil, offers Boyd this exact deal, a Faustian legend comes to life. Based on the novel The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant, with a winning score by Adler and Ross, and a devilish book by George Abbott, this sporty musical comedy is a true American classic. Managing this team of talented players is Michael Montgomery (Director), Jennifer Stewart (Music Director), Barbara Terry (Costume Design), Amelia Templeton (Scenic Design), Ron Putterman (Lighting Design), David Dean (Sound Design) and Emily Toothman (Stage Manager). Montgomery explained, “We are bringing the 1950s back with big, bold dance numbers that will draw on musical theatre standards set by choreography legend, Bob Fosse. Careful attention is being paid to the period look with costumes, set, props, choreography and acting. It will be visually stunning and closely designed to the 1950 period. The strong dance numbers in this show also allowed us to draw on some of the city’s best dancers and some larger-than-life actors. We spent time working closely with the styling of baseball played during the period, which included professional baseball instruction and coaching as part of our rehearsal process.” Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at houstonfac.com, or by phone at 281- 587-6100.

The Shield Bearer 5K Family Fun Run and Walk, April 9 Reliant, an NRG company, presents the Shield Bearer 5K Family Fun Run and Walk on April 9 from 7-11 a.m., at The Met Church on 13000 Jones Road in Houston. This family friendly event will feature a 5K Fun Run, a 1 Mile Walk, games, t-shirts, food, giveaways, and lots of fun for all ages. Matthew Miller, event co-chair, stated, “We at Thrivent Financial are so excited to be a part of this inaugural event and to support a ministry that brings hope to so many hurting people in our community. We think families will enjoy making lasting memories at this family-strengthening event.” Shield Bearer, a nonprofit counseling and community resource center, has four locations in Northwest Houston and is expanding to Katy and The Woodlands in 2016. All support provides critical services and programs for victims of crime and abuse, veterans and active military and their families,

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

human trafficking survivors, homeless women and children, and individuals, couples, and families struggling with addiction, depression, loss, intimate partner violence, self-injury, broken relationships and more. Shield Bearer is passionate about building strong and healthy individuals, families, and communities. More information available at shieldbearer.org or 281-894-7222. Tickets are $7 per walker/runner at the website. The event is supported by community partners Reliant, Thrivent Financial and Chick-fil-A. Additional partnership opportunities are also available on the website.

adult/Senior gameS, wedneSdayS Senior citizens can take a mid-week break at the Bush Library to enjoy games and conversation. Adult Game Mornings are held in the Robin Bush Children’s Activity Room from 10 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays. Rummikube and Domino games are ongoing, or bring your own games. Meet new friends or bring a friend. The library is

located at 6817 Cypresswood Dr. in Spring. For more information, call 281-376-4610.

red potato market dayS , april 22-23 Red Potato Market Days returns Friday, April 22 and Saturday, April 23 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at 9114 FM 1489, in Simonton. There will be a Preview Party on Thursday, April 21 from 4 -7 p.m. Over 70 vendors participate, bringing vintage, antiques and painted furniture, lighting, eclectic finds, art, jewelry, clothing, pottery and handmade soaps and crafts. It’s the perfect place to relax in the country only 35 miles west of Houston and 15 miles west of Katy. Local Farmers also bring fresh produce and home made goods. Food trucks and a live band combine to make this a fun event. The event takes place under a covered area, rain or shine. The $5 admission supports Young Life & Simonton Christian Academy. Children under 12 are free. The cost to attend the Preview Party is $20. For more information visit the website, redpotatomarket.com, or call 281-533-9863.

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THE ECLECTIC

MIX & MATCH

For those of us who’d rather create anew than follow a formula, now there’s The Dump. A five-acre treasure hunt of one-of-a-kind, handmade home furnishings—at 40 to 70% off. New finds arrive every Friday.

America’s furniture outlet thedump.com 10251 North Freeway Houston, Texas 77037 (281) 447-2250

$895 at The Dump

$1,800 at high-end stores Miranda queen upholstered bed

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The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles headline the Houston Children’s Festival this year.

Waterways

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Return to Children’s Festival, April 23-24 The McDonald’s Houston Children’s Festival, celebrating its 28th year, has raised more than $5.2 million over the past 27 years for Child Advocates, Inc. (childadvocates.org). The festival will take place in Downtown Houston in the area surrounding City Hall, Houston Public Library Plaza, Tranquility Park and upper Sam Houston Park on Saturday, April 23 and Sunday, April 24 from 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit houstonchildrensfestival.com.

Fifth Annual Wine Fair Cy-Fair, April 23

Fairways

The Resort Rediscovered. woodlandsresort.com | 866.882.9996

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

The fifth annual Wine Fair Cy-Fair presented by H-E-B and The Lippincott Team hits Cypress Village Station on Saturday, April 23, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A sell-out in past years, Wine Fair welcomes more than 3,000 participants who partake in more than 30 culinary tasting stations provided by Cy-Fair’s restaurant scene, over 250 wines and over 40 craft beer selections in the Backyard Grill Beer Garden. Saturday’s pre-event “All That Sparkles” is an effervescent party held at Hanan’s Café from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for guests to enjoy French champagnes, sparkling wines and nibbles. The luxurious VIP Premium Lounge opens at 5 p.m. offering relaxing seating, restroom facilities and food from Churrasco’s and Black Market Table along with premium selections of wine. VIPs also receive a keepsake swag bag. Wine Fair Cy-Fair is a collaboration between the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce and Food & Vine Time Productions. The community event celebrates Cy-Fair businesses and residents, bringing all together for this signature event with interaction anchor areas, sponsor displays, vendor village, local artisans and live music. Sponsorship, restaurant and vendor opportunities are available. General admission tickets are $25. For tickets or more information, visit winecyfair.com. Must be 21 years or older to purchase tickets.

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Patricia Lopez of ABC 13 will be the keynote speaker at the Cy-Fair Women’s Expo.

Cy-fair women’S expo, april 28 The 8th Annual Cy-Fair Women’s Expo will be April 28 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Sterling Country Club, 16500 Houston National Boulevard. This year’s event, sponsored by Three20Three and Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital, invites attendees to connect, learn, and give back to the Cy-Fair community. The keynote presentation by Patricia Lopez of ABC 13 will be “Balancing Career and Home Life, How to Have It All, (well almost!).” Lopez focuses on saving you money through her daily "Stretch Your Dollar" segments on ABC13. Her stories can be seen Monday through Friday on Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. as well as Eyewitness News at 5 a.m. Lopez researches her own stories, tests products, checks out services and lets her viewers in on her findings. From start to finish, she sets up, writes and executes each story. Her presentation is scheduled for noon. The goal for the expo is to get the community more involved and show the Cy-Fair area what American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) and Cy-Fair Express Network (CYFEN) are all about. There will be round table workshop discussions focusing on health and wellness, communication, relationships and personal finance. Free workshops include “Thrive and Flourish! - Boost Your Emotional Wellness” by Judith Richey, wellness coach, author and public speaker; “Life Style Challenge” by Linda Buford of Living Health Now; “Power Up! -The Endless Power of Building Others Up” by Melissa Rotholz of Shield Bearer; “The Art of Communications” by Pat Durham of Diversity Unlimited; and “What Is Your Dream?” by Rick Skinner of Edward Jones. This event is hosted by CYFEN, a local network of the ABWA. Cy-Fair Express Network funds numerous local scholarships. For more information, visit CYFEN.org or email expochair@cyfen.org. Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Live Outdoors!

Bridgeland will host the Ninth Annual Nature Fest at the community’s Oak Meadow Park, featuring educational wildlife shows and entertainment for kids.

Bridgeland Hosts 9th Annual Nature Fest, April 30 Patio Covers Gazebos Sunrooms Screened Porches Outdoor Kitchens Decorative Patios and More

Call today to schedule a free design consultation 281-265-1994 See more ideas on our website

www.texascustompatios.com

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Plans are in full swing for “One Wild Adventure” on Saturday, April 30 as Bridgeland hosts its ninth Annual Nature Fest, an annual event that showcases a lively menagerie of creatures, characters and cuisines. Nature Fest will be held from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the community’s Oak Meadow Park at 17730 House Hahl Road. Entry to Nature Fest and most activities are free, but a few will require tickets to participate. All proceeds raised will be donated to Habitat for Humanity Northwest Harris County, a non-profit organization that builds affordable housing for families in need within northwest Harris County. Renowned animal expert Grant Kemmerer and the Wild World of Animals will have three stage performances, showcasing a variety of exotic and endangered animals. Kemmerer will offer two meet-and-greet sessions. Grant Kemmerer and the Wild World of Animals are based in Southwest Pennsylvania and have more than 20 years of experience working with animals. Kemmerer and his team specialize in educational and entertaining wildlife shows for a variety of events. He has appeared on a number of TV shows, including the Today Show, Late Night with David Letterman and the Meredith Vieira Show. At Nature Fest, animal acts will take the stage throughout the day and offer a chance to get up close and personal with some amazing creatures. The kids’ zone will have inflatables, a rock wall, train rides and outdoor laser tag. Pony rides and a petting zoo will be a favorite among the wee ones, and kids will have an opportunity to get creative in the arts and craft area. Keep hunger growls at bay with a variety of gourmet food trucks or take a spin in a whimsical butterfly with the Austin Bike Zoo. Austin Bike Zoo is an assembly that combines puppetry and mechanics to create pedal-powered animal art. The cycling clan will showcase two of its butterfly bikes, one of which comes in at 15 feet tall, making it the ‘monarch’ of the duo. Visitors who take a stroll through the nature exhibitor area might get a glimpse of some of the community’s world-renowned roaming entertainment. They will also have a chance to enjoy the lakes in a paddle boat, canoe or kayak and participate in a fly fishing demonstration. Keep up-to-date on activities at this year’s Nature Fest and other Bridgeland events on facebook.com/Bridgelandcommunity, twitter.com/BridgelandTX or instagram.com/Bridgelandbalance.

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New homebuyers receive free Grand Parkway tolls for one year plus builder incentives this spring.

Northwest Assistance Ministries hopes to raise $200,000 in cash or canned goods by April 30 for its summer program to help local families in need.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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LYNDA BENTLEY, PC ATTORNEY AT LAW

Frank Sinatra

Haa HoStS an intimate evening with sinatra's iconic music, april 28 On Thursday, April 28, Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) will host its third annual fundraising dinner, An Intimate Evening with Sinatra's Iconic Music, at Hotel Zaza. In celebration of Frank Sinatra’s 100th birthday, this special evening of dining and entertainment will be reminiscent of a ‘50’s supper club showcasing “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” For more information, contact Kate Yadan at 713-581-6118 or kate@haatx.com.

eleventH annual HouSton namiwalkS, april 30 Join others who care about mental health at the 11th annual Houston NAMIWalks, benefitting the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Greater Houston. The familyfriendly April 30 event will bring together an expected 3,000 participants for a 5K walk at Sam Houston Park. “NAMIWalks is the one place every year where thousands of people from across the Greater Houston area come together to say that mental illnesses can and should be treated instead of stigmatized, and to celebrate the recovery that is possible,” said Glenn Urbach, executive director of NAMI Greater Houston. “At the same time, we honor the lives lost to mental illness and show our commitment to preventing these needless deaths in the future.” Walk proceeds will fund NAMI Greater Houston’s education classes, support groups and community outreach programs. The event begins and ends at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby Street. On-site registration opens at 7:30 a.m.; walk start is 8:30 a.m. Individual and team advance registration is open at namiwalks.org/greaterhouston. For more information, call 713-970-4419.

Family Law Former Judge 33 Years Experience

Divorce Modification Enforcement Adoption Paternity Corporate Mediation Wills Probate

281.955.2408 • 281.257.2500 5515 Louetta Rd, Ste. C • Spring, Texas 77379 www.attorneylyndabentley.com Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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CY-FAIR KIWANIS CLUb MEETINGS The Cy-Fair Kiwanis Club meets on the first, second and third Tuesday of each month at 12:15 p.m. for lunch and informative programs at Hearthstone Country Club. The group sponsors children’s activities that develop leadership and good citizenship in the youth of the community. Membership is open to persons of good character who adhere to the standards of good conduct in their community and believe in and subscribe to the objectives of Kiwanis International. Visit kiwanishoustoncyfair.com, or call John Carroll (Copperfield and Hearthstone areas) at 281-463-0373 or George Crowl (Jersey Village area) at 832-467-1998.

business leaders, best-selling authors, leading sales professionals, successful entrepreneurs, and world-class athletes while at the same time creating balanced, fulfilling and healthy lives. Tickets are $250 per person, with tables starting at $2,500. For reservations, contact Ryan Barnes at 281-885-4608 or rbarnes@namonline.org.

NORTH CYPRESS MEDICAL CENTER HOSTS GOLF TOURNAMENT, MAY 13 North Cypress Medical Center will host its 9th annual Spring Classic Golf Tournament on Friday, May 13 at Blackhorse Golf Club. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Lone Survivor Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell.

The Foundation works with wounded service members and their families through health, wellness, and therapeutic support by helping them adjust to the effects of their experiences and assisting them with transition into what may be looked at as their “new normal.” North Cypress has donated $135,000 in tournament proceeds from the previous three years. “We are honored to continue to support this organization that does so much to serve the men and women of our military,” said hospital CEO and chairman of the board Dr. Robert A. Behar. Sponsorship and player opportunities can be found at ncmcgolf.com or by calling Kaci Hancock at 832-912-3692. For more information about The Lone Survivor Foundation, visit lonesurvivorfoundation.org.

Many wounded veterans participate in the 5K Walk, Run and Wheel, which will be held at Cinco Ranch HIgh School on May 21.

12th Annual Impact A Hero Weekend, May 21-23 Jack Canfield, author of Chicken Soup for the Soul.

NAM ENDOWMENT DINNER TO FEATURE AUTHOR OF “CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL,” MAY 4 Northwest Assistance Ministries has announced that Jack Canfield, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Chicken Soup for the Soul, will be the speaker at its 2016 Endowment Dinner. The event will take place Wednesday, May 4 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. Canfield is an award-winning speaker and internationally recognized leader in personal development and peak performance strategies. For 40 years he has been teaching entrepreneurs, educators, corporate leaders, and people from all walks of life how to create the life they desire. Canfield has published more than 250 books, including Chicken Soup for the Soul series which has sold more than 500 million copies in 47 languages, and The Success Principles: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. He has personally helped hundreds of thousands of people on six continents become multi- millionaires,

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

The 12th Annual Impact A Hero Weekend is a three-day event from Saturday, May 21 through Monday, May 23. The event is hopsted by Impact A Hero, a non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization that provides immediate and ongoing emotional and financial support to severely wounded, post-9/11 combat veterans and their families. The weekend begins Saturday from 7:30 -10 a.m. with the 5K Walk, Run and Wheel, which will be held at Cinco Ranch High School. Participants should arrive at 6:30 a.m. Impact A Hero anticipates that more than 2,500 runners, including 50 wounded heroes and their families, will participate in the event. There will be a Family Focus with activities for kids. The cost per person is $35 until May 14, then $40 until race day. The Kids 1K race will also take place during the 5K event. The cost for the Kids 1K (age 10 and under) is $12 until May 14, then $18 until race day. The Impact a Hero Hall of Fame Gala dinner, “Diamonds & Denim,” will be held at NRG Stadium on the 50-yard line on Sunday, May 22 starting at 5 p.m. A standard single gala ticket is $250. On Monday, May 23, the Impact a Hero Golf Challenge will be held at Shadow Hawk Golf Club & Black Hawk Country Club. The Individual Champions golf play is $1,250. For more information on any of the events and to buy tickets, visit impactahero.org.

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ANTICATO TILES SPIDER TABLE Part of the Spider Collection, due to the shape of its feet, this table by Neapolitan designer Francesco Della Femina features a rusted iron frame handcrafted by Italian artisans, and is protected with a varnish layer making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. artemest.com

DOUBLE-SIDED NEON EAT SIGN This neon sign with unique, streamline character is the holy grail of vintage signs. It proudly advertises EAT for the no-nonsense blue-collar Joe, instantly evoking an entire vanished era in that one brief word. This sign is all original but for the tubes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; finish and construction are all in place. It is estimated to be in the mid to late 1930s. rejuvenation.com

AMANDA BRISBANE BLUE POPPY BOWL The Blue Poppy Bowl is perfectly proportioned decorative glass bowl handcrafted of sand-cast glass. Amanda Brisbane has been hailed as the United Kingdom's foremost sand-casted-glass artist. Different from kiln casting, sand casting involves casting hot molten glass from a furnace and casting the molten liquid glass into a specially created sand mold. neimanmarcus.com

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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REDUCE CARBS/ INCREASE VEGGIES 150 Best Spiralizer Recipes, by Marilyn Haugen and Jennifer Williams, provides a new, refreshing, fun way to introduce more vegetables into dishes and reduce carbohydrates. There are options for vegetarians, gluten-free diets and low-carb diets, along with a wide variety of dishes for meat, poultry and fish lovers. Expanding the boundaries of traditional vegetable dishes by spiralizing gives cooks so many more choices. Find creative main dishes, extraordinary side dishes, and updated versions of classic favorites in this cookbook.

PRIZE WINNING VEGGIES

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Whether you want to grow the biggest onion, the tastiest tomato or the perfectly shaped eggplant, you’ll gain the winning edge with Blue Ribbon Vegetable Gardening, by blue ribbon winner Jodi Torpey. This fun, colorful and practial book is loaded with tips and techniques for taking the home gardener from backyard anonymity to statewide fame. You’ll learn to grow the best veggies in the state, essential storage practices, how to transport your entries and just what judges are looking for. Perfect for those who want that extra taste of victory.

In High-Yield Vegetable Gardening, authors Brad Halm and Colin McCrate teach gardeners how to get the most out of any size garden using methods they developed as CSA farmers. The authors encourage gardeners to think like farmers by showing how to map your property, make your own plant calendar, rotate crops, source seeds and manage pests and disease. This book helps gardeners reap the benefits of the authors’ years of experience and enjoy a fruit and vegetable harvest custom-tailored to their needs, whether your goal is a year-round yield, a supplement to the grocery store or to feed others in your community. Enjoy foolproof, practical ways to maximize your garden.

Send US yoUr pet photoS PHOTOS TO BE PUBLISHED IN OUR JULY ISSUE!

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SEND BY EMAIL... editor@lifestyles-magazines.com Important: When uploading pictures on your email, be sure to click on full size, or large. Email browsers automatically reduce pixel sizes making the image unusable. OR SEND BY MAIL TO... Fort Bend Publishing Group 10707 Corporate Dr., Ste. 170 Stafford, TX 77477

Include your name, the pet’s name, (and other names of people in the picture if you wish), a brief description on why your pet is unique or special, and phone number.

Deadline: MAY 1, 2016 22

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

MMMMMM, SWEET! Originally published in 1989 and updated in 2001, Maple Syrup Cookbook is one of the best cookbooks on the subject, with 113,000 copies in print. In addition to new photography, the cookbook now includes a dozen new, easy-to-follow recipes by author and Julia Child Cookbook Award winner, Ken Haedrich. With both sweet and savory dishes to choose from, cooks will appreciate the timeless versatility of maple. Even salad dressings, relishes, breads and soups are elevated by the unique, sweet flavor. Haedrich also includes maple-related history lessons, famous quotes, sugaring tips and farmer profiles. Great for new ideas for how to use this natural and delicious element.

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GARDENS ADAPTABLE TO SPACE Transform your backyard into a romantic retreat; make your balcony a modern-day Utopia; create a family garden or grow culinary herbs; or utilize minimalist design with easy-to-care-for plants. Whatever your desire, the Garden Design Bible, by Tim Newbury, has a plan that you can adapt to your own space. Choose from 40 off-the-peg designs, or mix and match elements from several to create your ideal garden. Each design is fully illustrated with a comprehensive plant list and planting diagram. It’s the next best thing to hiring a gardener.

SIMPLY DAZZLING In Vogue: The Jewellery, Carol Woolton, British Vogue’s jewelry editor, has curated a collection of more than 300 fabulous images that showcase the best jewelry shots from British Vogue’s vast archives, grouping them into five thematic chapters: Show-stoppers, Rock Chick, Minimalist, Exotic and Classical. From fantastical diamond-encrusted tiaras and intricate jet chokers to sculptural silver cuffs and the purity of a simple string of pearls, Woolton provides an evocative celebration of a century of magical jewelry, while also showcasing the work of British Vogue’s very best photographers. This book will no doubt delight and dazzle those who love fashion as well as jewelry. Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Style } file

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store now.

From the Spring 2016

Oscar DelaRenta Collection

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Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store now.

Lanvin- Floral pendant necklace features crystal embellishments. farfetch.com

Sachin & Babi NoirLeft, Strapless floral-print high-low Midi Dress. Sleeveless Floral Jacquard High-Low Gown has floral embroidery along top. neimanmarcus.com

Gucci- Leather platform pump in green leather. gucci.com

Dolce & GabbanaBucket Bag in Printed Dauphine Leather from the Claudia line has a Sicilian cartwheel print.

Alexis Bittar- Golden SwarovskiÂŽ Crystal-Encrusted Mosaic Cuff Bracelet is 14k goldplated brass with turquoisecolored howlite doublets. neimanmarcus.com

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Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

sive Swiss Ice Crystal Complex, the concoction at the core of these new innovations, which helps skin defend itself against environmental aggressions and defy the first assaults of age.

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La Prairie Introduces New Innovations Miles high in the Swiss Alps, in a world of sheer ice crystals, beauty transcends time. The scientists at La Prairie unlocked the secrets of thee exceptional plants from the Swiss Alps, each able to survive in extreme conditions. This led to the creation of the exclu-

Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Transforming Cream SPF 30 ($195); Designed to help your skin defy the first signs of aging, it combines advanced anti-aging science with colour-correcting pigments that intuitively balance your skin tone. A lavish cream, it will instantly refresh your complexion with a delicate veil of natural colour. A powerful age-delaying fortifier, it will help protect your skin against sundamage on a daily basis. Available in: Rose, Nude, Beige, Tan. La Prairie is available at fine cosmetic counters including Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. laprairie.com

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La Prairie Introduces Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil Sunscreen Broad Spetrum SPF 50 The most luxurious, light-as-air and fastabsorbing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Cellular Swiss UV protection veil sunscreen broad spectrum spf 50 ($185) combines powerful UVA/UVB protection with an exclusive, highly effective complex to help improve skin tone. so lightweight it can be applied over any moisturizer, yet lush enough to deliver outstanding hydration its unique formula makes it the ideal complement to your daily skincare ritual. Bonus: it’s the ultimate finisher; sheer enough for use over moisturizer with brightening and hydrating properties. La Prairie is available at fine cosmetic counters including Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. laprairie.com

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| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Clinique Introduces NEW Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam Introducing the newest additions to Clinique’s award winning 3-Step Skin Care System with sensitive skins in mind. New Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam is a plush velvety foam that provides a thorough, yet gentle cleanse to remove dirt, external irritants and excess sebum from the skin. The mild formula leaves skin feeling fresh and clean, yet soft and comfortable. For an enhanced yet super soft cleaning, pair up with the Clinique Sonic System Extra Gentle Cleansing Brush Head. clinique.com

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Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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ç By Kelly Foss mycardata.com

Toyota Tundra 1794 and Acura ILX

Toyota Tundra 1794 | Starting price: $46,000

he Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition is the flagship of Tundras. Both luxurious and capable, this Tundra has a proud heritage that Toyota won’t let you soon forget. The Tundra got a major remodel a couple of years ago, and for 2016 it gets a few minor touch-ups. All Tundras have an upgraded electronics interface this year, while the 1794 gets a larger gas tank and a standard integrated trailer brake control. The 1794 also gets a slight face lift on the front, and can also be equipped with the TRD Off-Road package. First, a little history. The date of 1794 pays homage to the founding year of the ranch that the San Antonio Toyota Plant calls home. With special badging, 20-inch wheels, and Lexus-quality leather, the 1794 Edition

is a workhorse in show horse clothing. The Tundra is designed, engineered, and built entirely in the U.S. and is mostly made from American-made components. Its styling is certainly bold enough, with that huge chrome grille and tight design lines. Inside, the cabin is a study in refinement and feels equally at home off road or at a country club. The Crew Max cab is roomy and comfortable for adults both up front and in the back seat. Copious amounts of legroom and a reclining rear seat are major contributors. Unique stitching in soft, supple leather, trimmed with wood and just a touch of shine make the interior as luxurious as any Lexus out there. The 1794 is equipped with abundant and user friendly tech that will appeal to many

Acura ILX

Starting price: $27,000

hirty thousand seems to be the magic number for an entry-level luxury car. The Acura ILX is proof of that, with a base price just north of $27,000 and ranging up to about $35,000. So, the question becomes, what does $30,000 get you these days? Well, from Acura, you will get a mighty fine ILX. First of all, the ILX has a nice, design aesthetic. The front end is crowned with 5 jewel-like LED lights in each headlamp. Its stance is proud, as if eager to please its owner. The optional 18-inch diamond-cut wheels add some more sparkle and yet at the same time, give this compact vehicle a sportier, more aggressive feel.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

consumers. Toyota’s Entune system features a premium JBL sound system with integrated navigation and an app suite. Bluetooth, aux jacks and USB ports are standard, as are satellite radio, hands free phone capability, and a rear backup camera. Automatic dual zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable. The Tundra 1794 is powered by a very hefty 5.7-liter V8 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It produces 381 horsepower and a brawny 401 lb-ft of torque. This truck is capable of towing 10,500 pounds. Fuel economy averages 13 city/17 highway for a 4WD. The TRD package adds even more capability, with 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels with P275/65R18 off-road tires, tow hooks (standard on 4x4), off-road-tuned suspension, Bilstein® shock absorbers, engine and fuel tank skid plates, and exclusive TRD graphics on bed quarter panels. There’s no mistaking that driving this truck gives you a commanding presence. It’s big and brawny and you have to watch yourself in narrow places because its burliness makes everything around you seem much smaller. However, it handles quite well despite its truckiness. Steering and braking feel accurate and offer good feedback. Outside noise is minimal — including the roar from the big engine up front. Overall, this is truck can go anywhere, do anything, and keep everyone pampered while doing it.

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The Acura ILX is definitely the flashier cousin to the Honda Civic, and that is evidenced all throughout the sport-inspired interior. From aluminum gas and brake pedals to the classic stitching on the three-spoke, leather steering wheel, the ILX has a flair for attitude. The center stack has a nice, symmetrical appearance, starting with the navigation screen above, audio screen below that, and control buttons beneath, finally cascading down to the stitched-leather gear shifter. The cockpit hugs without feeling too cramped. The ILX comes in three trim levels: Standard, Premium, and Technology Plus. Notable features include Navigation with 3D View, premium surround sound, and rear cross traffic monitoring. New this year is an all-new power train. Gone is the old 150-horsepower 2.0-liter engine matched to the 5-speed automatic. Taking its place is a more modern, more efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that yields 201 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission is also new: a unique torque-converter equipped dual-clutch 8speed automatic. I believe the power train makes for a smarter, faster ILX. It measures 0-60 in 6.2 seconds, which shaves two full seconds off the previous model. And even with all that power, fuel economy is rated at 25 city/36 highway. Driving the ILX is also much improved over the previous model. New calibrations were made to the electronic-assisted steering which improves road feedback and gives you a more engaged driving experience. Braking is laser sharp and feels accurate to the amount of pressure you put on the pedal. Overall, the ILX is fun to drive and rewards those who like to drive. In fact, even for those who feel that driving is a bother, the ILX will make your commute much more enjoyable. Competitors in this category include the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz CLA class, BMW 2-series, and Buick Verano. The good news for Acura shoppers is that an ILX tops out at $35,000 while others can range into the low fifties. So, what does $30,000 get you these days? In the case of the Acura ILX, you can get a fun-to-drive, sophisticated, car that offers a touch of class in the entry-level luxury category. For information on these and other vehicles, please visit mycardata.com. l

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Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Bayou City Art Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Featured Artist Brings an Upbeat, Colorful Vibe April Murphy uses color and whimsy to create joy

April Murphy with her paintings.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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Home Sweet Home on the Range

First Caturday Bark Market

Blue Moo Light

Text by Cheryl Alexander Art photography by Tim Murphy

F The Night Watchman

or years, April Murphy, who is this year’s featured artist at Houston’s prestigious and fun Bayou City Art Festival (BCAF), made a solid living as a artist doing marketing and graphic design for a local bank. In January 2009 that bank was bought by BBBA, and Murphy was part of the 25 percent of employees who lost their jobs. “Nothing like that had ever happened to me before,” she said. “I was stunned, and for about 15 minutes I had a pity party.” After that quick indulgence, she decided to go get a canvas and paint. She continued, “I had received a severance, so I thought it would be great to just have some fun and play for a little while.” When Murphy had enough paintings to sell, she approached the manager at the neighborhood coffee shop where she stopped every morning and with whom she had a friendly relationship. He allowed her to hang her art, and for the first year of

Kissing Booths

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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White Linen Nighthounds

A Tall Drink of Water

Date Night

what was now her new career, she sold exclusively there. “I switched out the paintings every few months, and it was lucrative enough that I didn’t have to get a job.” After building up her confidence and her portfolio, Murphy began to shop for other avenues to display her art. She began with small shows like the First Saturday Art Market in the Heights and JoMar Visions. These venues allowed her to gain valuable experience and taught her important lessons like what kind of art to bring to a show (e.g., originals or prints), how to price her show selections and how to hang her pieces in the space to best attract interest. “Setting up my booth at a show is proba-

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Looking on the Bright Side

The Treat Seat

Life is But a Dream

bly the most fun I have because I love watching how people respond,” she said. Crediting her background in marketing and design, Murphy shared some important details she employs for prepping her booth. She makes sure people have space to move about, including a nice egress so that shoppers don’t feel trapped. She also makes herself approachable and engages with visitors by having stories to tell about her art and by demonstrating something they can’t discern simply by looking at her art, which is that all of her paintings glow under black light. “When I see someone observing a painting, many times I will stand behind them and simply shine a black light on the piece

Whatever Floats Your Goat

they are studying,” she said. “It never fails to bring a huge smile to their face and spark a new conversation about my work.” Murphy said that even with the mild success she was enjoying, for a couple of years she felt like there was something more; she would sit and wonder just what she needed to do to really make a name for herself. She acknowledges three distinct turning points in her career. The first was in 2010 when she joined a Facebook group called SNArt, or Sticky Note Art, which gave its members an opportunity to create with reckless abandon. “Because not everything is worthy of painting,” Murphy said, “doing work on threeinch square sticky notes gets it out of your

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“I think people are ready for a shot of ‘feel good.’ I can honestly say that my art provides just that.”

robyn arouty photography

– April Murphy

April Murphy with her cat, Isaac.

system and also gives the artists tons of drawing experience.” She admits she became obsessed with this idea and every morning would finish two pieces. She began to experiment with color during this process, and her current style today was essentially born on her sticky note art. What was formerly a geometric style became more fluid and life-like on the sticky notes she created. Additionally, this process generated hundreds of templates from which she could select the ones she wanted to actually transfer to canvas. The second turning point was in 2013 when Murphy moved into a studio space at Winter Street, which she describes as “the coolest place on Earth,” where more than 90 artists in 60 studios create, show and sell their art on every second Saturday each month and at five bigger shows annually. “Now I can say, ‘Meet me at my studio,’ which to me equates success,” she said. The third turning point for Murphy also occurred in 2013 when a veterinary group, the American Association of Feline Practitioners, searched the Internet for cat artists to feature at their annual conference, and Murphy’s name came up. She went to the event, set up her booth and in the first breakout session sold four paintings to one veterinarian. “The guy in the booth next to me — not an artist — said I looked like a deer in head-

lights,” Murphy said. Armed with the knowledge of a new arena where she could show and sell her work, Murphy attended five vet conferences in 2014 and 10 in 2015. Needless to say, her name and art are now very well known in the veterinary community. And now, another milestone in her career is Murphy’s selection as the 2016 Featured Artist at the BCAF. Her success here has been a gradual and hard-earned as each of her other milestones. She first applied in 2014, when she was selected as part of the second wave of artists whose work was admitted to the show in a section at the back of the event. Then last year, she applied, and didn’t even get placed on the wait list. She admits that with that setback, she was hesitant to even apply this year. “I’m still pinching myself,” she said. “When they called to tell me I was selected to be the featured artist, I was in total shock and my voice sounded completely deadpan when I think back on it. But then I ran upstairs and practically had a fit telling my husband. I don’t think he could even comprehend what I was saying at first.” She attributes her newfound acceptance to a shift in attitudes. “I think people are ready for a shot of ‘feel good,’ ” Murphy said. “I can honestly say that my art provides just that. When people enter my space and look at my art, they start smiling.” She is also profusely grateful to the BCAF board for giving her the opportunity to deliver her unique brand of happiness at this show. Murphy’s mission through art is to bring joy, which she accomplishes through her use of color and whimsical subject matter. “I see amazing things on people’s faces when they look at my work, and I just love that.” To learn more about Murphy and her work, visit AEM Gallery at 2101 Winter Street Studios #33, aprilmurphy.com and AEM Gallery on Facebook. l

Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park April 29-May 1 This year, Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA) will celebrate 45 years of fine art as it spotlights more than 350 artists during its annual Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park on April 29-May 1. Festival patrons will enjoy a vibrant walk through Memorial Park as they take in the sights of artwork from 19 different disciplines and enjoy an array of delicious, local foods. Bridget Anderson recently joined ACA as the executive director, with more than 25 years of professional fundraising experience and a degree in the arts. Anderson’s training will undoubtedly help the Bayou City Art Festival continue to achieve national recognition as one of top outdoor festivals in the country. “It’s an amazing opportunity to be a part of the Bayou City Art Festival. I’m excited about what’s ahead in the 45th year of spotlighting talented artists, with a dedicated staff, and thousands of art lovers,” said Anderson. The ACA also welcomes new board president, Michael Piana, an art enthusiast who has served as a board member for the past 18 years. “My passion for art grows with each Bayou City Art Festival, and this year our artists will share in an important milestone celebration,” says Piana. The Memorial Park Festival is the perfect setting for families to enjoy the spring weather, arts and crafts and unique bites from local food vendors. Shuttle busses will run from Northwest Mall for easy access to festival grounds in front of the admission gates. Shuttle tickets are $3. For more information, visit artcolonyassociation.org and social media with the event hashtag #HouArtFest, Twitter and Instagram @houstonartfest and facebook.com/houstonartfest.

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Go Red For Women Luncheon to Again Benefit American Heart Association Kick-off party already raises $11K for April 1 event

(L-R): Go Red for Women Luncheon Chair Darcy Mingoia and Beth Eaton at the February kick-off party. Beth will be honored at the April 1 Go Red for Women luncheon.

(L-R): Leslie Martone, Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce; Leslie Francis, Cy-Fair ISD; Nicole Ray, Cy-Fair ISD; and Jennifer Pittman, Amegy Bank of Cy-Fair at the kick-off party.

he American Heart Association (AHA) and Go Red for Women will honor Beth Eaton, a long-time AHA volunteer and supporter, at the 2016 Northwest Harris County Go Red for Women Luncheon to be held on Friday, April 1 at the Norris Conference Centers, Red Oak Ballroom at CityCentre from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Eaton’s commitment to the AHA began more than 16 years ago and includes a wide variety of roles, including Heart Ball auction chair and committee member, AHA board member, Circle of Red member, four-time co-chair for the Heart Ball and a co-chair for the Go Red for Women Luncheon in the Northwest Harris County division. Her passion for the AHA’s mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke grew after her mother suffered two strokes – one in 2006 and another in 2015. “My mother and many younger, healthy women in our area have survived and recovered from heart attacks and strokes due to the research funded by the money raised at events like Go Red for Women,” said Eaton. “I’m grateful and flattered to be the honoree and hope to inspire more women to join the cause and the AHA’s mission to fight the leading killer of all women.” Due to her passion for the AHA’s mission, the Northwest Harris County Go Red

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

ABC 13 Consumer Reporter Patricia Lopez will be emcee at the April 1 luncheon.

for Women Honorary Committee is dedicated to raising $25,000 in Eaton’s name. The funds will help the AHA provide the research necessary for stroke education, and the funds needed to implement Check.Change.Control, a four-month proactive health monitoring program that focuses on high blood pressure and hypertension, in an organization of Eaton’s choice. Known as the silent killer or hypertension, high blood pressure typically has no symptoms, but can lead to deadly consequences such as heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. ABC 13’s Consumer Reporter Patricia Lopez will be joining the luncheon as the event emcee. At age 35, Lopez’s brother suf-

fered a stroke. Since then, she has become an advocate for stroke education including the ASA’s F.A.S.T. messaging, which stands for the signs and symptoms of stroke – Face. Arm. Speech. Time. The AHA also has a program called Heart360 that aims to help track health factors like blood pressure and connect patients to volunteers and healthcare providers as they improve their numbers. Sponsors of Go Red for Women include Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, North Cypress Medical Center, Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center, GHA/USAP, Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest, Memorial Hermann Cypress, Allegiance Bank of Texas and Bob and Darcy Mingoia. Cypress Creek Mirror is a media partner. More women die of heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. Go Red for Women brings attention to the effects of heart disease and stroke, which claim the lives of 1 in 3 women every year. Funds raised at the Go Red for Women luncheons fund research specifically geared towards women, education and legislative advocacy programs. Preliminary events for Go Red for Women took place on Feb. 18 as dozens of Northwest area volunteers gathered for the 2016 Northwest Harris County Go Red for Women Luncheon Circle of Red and Men Go Red kickoff party at

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(L-R): Debbie Godbold, survivor, and Luncheon Chair Darcy Mingoia at the kick-off party.

Champions Forest Golf Club. The group, led by Darcy Mingoia who is the Northwest Harris County’s Go Red for Women Luncheon Chair and a Cy-Fair Independent School District Board of Trustees member, helped raise $11,030 towards the AHA Northwest Harris County Go Red for Women Luncheon’s $175,000 goal. “I made a challenge in the room to

(L-R): Victoria Herman, auction chair, and Lauren Taylor of the American Heart Association at the kick-off party.

raise close to $200,000 this year, which is more than our goal,” said Mingoia. “American Heart Association and its critical mission is important to me. I’ve volunteered with the organization for 26 years, and I guarantee the funds we raise at the Northwest Harris County Luncheon will greatly benefit our community by funding the lifesaving research and technologies nec-

essary to fight heart disease and stroke.” This year’s Circle of Red and Men Go Red groups, which are groups of men and women who personally donate $1,000 to the AHA’s cause, has already grown from 14 to 22 members, which is the largest growth in the luncheon’s history. Men Go Red chair, Kevin Roberts of Lanier Law Firm, also challenged the room to make this year’s luncheon the best to date. “We are so inspired by the impact made through our individuals who give to the Circle of Red and Men Go Red movements,” said Kim Koehn, vice president of development for the Gulf Coast Division of the AHA. “Year after year, Darcy’s passion enables her to be a fantastic champion in our community. I know with her leadership and Kevin Roberts’ dedication to our cause, this year will be our most successful luncheon to date in our Northwest Harris County division.” For additional information or to make a donation in honor of Beth Eaton, call Lauren Taylor at 704-618-4566 or email lauren.taylor@heart.org. l

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Cy Woods Recognizes Key Influencers in ‘The Defining 10’Celebration Zoie Cline, Cypress Woods hs

Honorees spotlighted as part of the school’s 10th anniversary

Honorees of Cypress Woods High School’s “The Defining 10” celebration included (l-r): Kelly Ellis, Lucy Gooden, Dirk Heath, David Jones, Risha Dozark and Sue McGown.

By Bennett Richardson, Cypress Woods HS n honor of the 10-year anniversary of Cypress Woods High School, Principal Gary Kinninger hosted “The Defining 10” celebration on Jan. 19 to recognize 10 adults who shaped the culture and climate of the campus. The 10 honorees were Sue McGown, former principal; Candace Tannous, retired English department chair; Dirk Heath, associate principal; Kelly Ellis, director of instruction and former assistant principal; George Villamagna, social studies department chair; Kim Sempe, former associate principal and current Hamilton Middle School principal; David Jones, former athletic coordinator and head football coach; Lucy Gooden, head custodian; Walter Kase, late Holocaust survivor and No Place for Hate advocate; and Laura Stivers, campus secretary. CyWoods students took part in all aspects of the ceremony: industrial technology students created the honorees’ acrylic and glass keepsakes; culinary students created and served the meal; and interior design and floral design students made table arrange-

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

ments and decorations. The agricultural department donated food, and the symphony orchestra and numerous clubs and organizations also participated. Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) and community members also made generous donations. After Kinninger praised each honoree’s contributions, each of “The Defining 10” members addressed the audience. McGown, who opened CyWoods in 2006, returned with a heart full of nostalgia. “It really is wonderful when people take the time to say ‘thank you,’ so I would like to say ‘thank you’ to the community because it was a team effort,” said McGown, affectionately known as Mama Wildcat. Tannous taught English until her 2015 retirement. “I feel spectacularly honored to be here tonight in this beautiful celebration,” she said. “Cy Woods has made my life rich and full and fun. Working with students is just the greatest joy. High school students work harder than many people do who are out there in careers. I love being in the trenches rooting them on.” Dirk Heath, the current associate principal, was referred to as Papa Wildcat by

Kinninger for embodying the “212” spirit. “I have such great pride in Cy Woods High School and all that it stands for.” Heath said. Gooden has been the head custodian at CyWoods since 2006. “Now I know that all the hard work I’ve done has paid off. This one night means so much to me,” he said. Villamagna, a history teacher, worked alongside Tannous for many years. He said, “I did quite a bit of teaching before I came here, and I have enjoyed every place I have been, but this is a very special place for me.” Stivers was the inaugural secretary to the principal. “I have the best job in the world,” she said. “There are so many awesome teachers here, and so I feel humbled that they would give me this honor.” Sempe, the inaugural associate principal at CyWoods, thanked her colleagues. “Whatever task was put in our way while putting together the school,” Sempe said, “[the AP staff] will always be my heart and soul because they quietly smiled and nodded and made things happen.” Kase, a Holocaust survivor who spoke at Cypress Woods for many years, influenced countless people at the school. His daughter, Risha Dozark, accepted the award on his behalf. “I accept this in my father's name, honor and memory. My father would be extremely proud today,” Dozark said. “He said to us: ‘I am here to tell my story so that no one will forget.’ The ultimate success for any person is to make an impact in the world around us. I hope that we can all benefit from his wisdom.” Jones was the athletic coordinator at Cypress Woods before accepting the head coaching position at Tivy High School in Kerrville. He told the audience, “This is probably the greatest honor I’ve ever received in my life. It was great being here, and I appreciate everything.” Ellis mirrored the way the honorees felt about Cypress Woods. “I now look at these kids and realize that each student has a story. I’ve learned to always look beneath the surface and try to see all sides. It’s made me a better human being,” she said. l

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ç By Lori Verderame

Spring Cleaning Tips Art and antiques need special treatment

pring cleaning has its drawbacks and its ad vantages. The drawbacks are obvious: nobody really likes to clean. Once the task is complete, the advantages to spring cleaning include gaining additional storage space, discovering items that you thought you had lost, and netting some quick cash if you work to sell some of your unwanted stuff online. In the world of art and antiques, spring cleaning is a great opportunity to review the condition of objects, repurpose items, sort out what to keep and what to sell, and reconsider a collection’s display options within your home. Here are some tips for your spring cleaning your valuable art and antiques: • Don’t be too hasty to clean paintings. Many people automatically want to clean old paintings, but some just don’t need to be cleaned. If a painting only has minor evidence of surface dirt but no evidence of yellowing varnish, consider leaving the painting alone. Never clean a painting using soap and water as this will dry out the pigment and the canvas, and can lead to pigment flaking and damage over time. • Glass jars and bottles require special care when cleaning. For cloudy glass jars and bottles, use equal parts of white vinegar and distilled water, and wash

Silver and silver plate items have to be cleaned very carefully.

rough places. Cloths that do not leave textile or cotton residue behind are also the desirable cleaning choice when it comes to antiques and art. And don’t forget to do your spring cleaning of fragile collectibles while seated at a table and when you are not tired or in a hurry. Take care with these tasks so that you don’t damage your valuables, whether you plan to keep them or pass them on. Happy spring cleaning! l gently. Try to avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaning agents on your antique items. Do not submerge any glass item into standing water that is too cold or too hot as this “shock to the system” may result in cracking your antique or vintage glass item. • Don’t be overzealous when cleaning silver pieces including silver plate. Basically, as you clean or polish sterling silver or silver plate, you rub off a layer of the metal’s sheen. Try to polish silver and silver plate items,

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

such as tea trays, water pitchers and frames, no more than once or twice a year. Use appropriate white cotton cloths and recommended polish. Be gentle when polishing silver plate so you don’t rub the silver off to the point where the under metal — usually copper — shows through the silver. The tools that you use during spring cleaning of your art or antiques are just as important as the cleaning supplies and techniques. Q-tips or cotton swabs can be very helpful to get into those tight or

Dr. Lori Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, Lori Verderame on Google+ or call (888) 431-1010.

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Specialty Materials Add Interest and Vibrancy Fusion of attractive pieces brings pizzazz to your home By Mara Soloway o make your home’s interior spaces be dynamic, balanced and infused with your individuality, think Spring. The interior furnishings that are part of this Spring’s designer collections will add the feel of visual beauty to your home. Start with a foundation of harmony and elegance – one with classic and organic designs with pastel and more colorful elements. To bring a touch of added Spring’s pizzazz to your rooms, complement these furnishings with the latest trends as shown at the renown furnishing trade show, High Point Market, and in its Winter/Spring 2015-16 Style Report. The distinctive trends that will show off your home include interesting geometrics and pieces crafted with metal, wood, plexiglass and other iconic materials. At a minimum, they will be conversation starters and ultimately will contribute visual beauty to your decor for many years. We’re sharing the thoughts of some of the well-known interior professionals who contributed to the Style Report. Beth Dotolo, co-owner and principal interior designer of Pulp Design Studios, attended the Market. She has branded the mix of materials as “Ethereal Glam” and feels we’re trending toward a more glamorous approach to a new simplified look. “Earthy neutrals and flat whites crave a bit of sparkle and luxury. Whites, brass and acrylics are trending, and our interiors are beginning to take on an ethereal feel,” she said.

The Luxe chair from Bernhardt show its flair with interlocking metal squares as side supports and arm rests.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

For the Love of Wood Known for her contemporary interior makeovers, designer Lori Gilder is aware that incorporating modern and elegant wood furnishings into our designs says “welcome” in any space. She saw numerous pieces at the Market crafted of wood that will bring a natural sophistication into

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The Antiquarian round dining table by Bernhardt is an elegant piece that is a building block for a formal dining room or even an eat-in kitchen.

Flexsteel living room pieces add a minimal yet beautiful wood presence.

Jonathan Charles’ Octagon Limed Acacia Coffee Table is a stunning wood design and beautiful from any angle.

The Moderne platform bed by Thomas Pheasant for Baker Furniture is outlined in wood with a dark, rich finish.

Alden Parke’s Monaco end table has a walnut-stained top and brass-look frame supports.

the home, with detailing that shows a handcrafted texture and intricacy. The Antiquarian round dining table by Bernhardt is an elegant piece that is a building block for a formal dining room or even an eat-in kitchen. Depending on the design of the room and the homeowner’s style, the table can be dressed up with formal dining chairs and a buffet, or it could be given a more casual look depending on the chairs and interior accents used. As always, Jonathan Charles plays with form and function to create whimsical designs. The Emperor Red chest of drawers blends Asian and mid-century motifs in an eclectic yet sophisticated look. The line’s Octagon Limed Acacia coffee table is a stunning design and beautiful from any angle, even from above. What is available for those who like a minimum amount of wood? It can be kept simple, as in Flexsteel living room pieces. The restrained wooden legs of the several tables and the living room sofa, love seat and recliner blend well with the furniture fabrics and the tabletops. The Moderne platform bed by Thomas Pheasant for Baker Furniture is outlined

An everyday ‘building block’ accent table, the Emperor Red Chest of Drawers blends Asian and mid-century motifs in gold leaf, Chinese red lacquer, and black paint.

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The Jessica Charles collection incorporates large, repeating pattern on numerous furniture items, including settees. The simplicity of Alden Parkes’ Glacial cocktail table framework and the soothing tone of the tabletop will bring you a sense of relaxation.

Accent tables with bold geometry include the Jonathan Charles Dark Santos console table.

Kincaid’s Fitzgerald swivel chair has strong rectangularity and comes in plain and patterned fabrics.

The movement of an ocean wave is captured in Alden Parkes’ Oceana console table.

Add the Neue Sofa from Laura Kirar-Baker in a matching tone for a cohesive look to transparent and opaque tables. The sofa is available in more than 700 fabric options.

in wood with a dark, rich finish. It is understated and still luxurious, reminiscent of 1940s Hollywood Modern. The bed can be integrated into any color scheme. Metals of Honor Patti Johnson seeks out new and innovative products for her interior design aesthetic. Metals fit the mold this season as seen at the Market. She found that polished nickel and brushed brass were more dominant than other metals; however the more

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

The Antiquarian dining room set by Bernhardt makes the basic rectangle a thing of beauty.

rustic metals were also evident for a less formal look. Metal accents on furniture and lighting add a certain crispness to a room, as well as a sparkle here and there. “Truly there was a metal for every taste and style debuting at the Market. Metal adds an additional layer to the design of a piece of furniture as well as the design aesthetic,” she said. The Luxe chair from Bernhardt shows its flair with interlocking metal squares as side supports and arm rests. Another

interesting Bernhardt chair, the Headon, is more simplified in its use of metal but just as eclectic as the Luxe. Many accent tables are available, including Alden Parkes’ Monaco end table that has a walnut-stained top and a brass-look frame supports. Geometrics Geometrics continue to be up near the top of everyone’s list of must-haves, thanks to their many patterns, including chevron, trellis and honeycomb. These will work with any

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING

decorating style – mid-century modern, classic, contemporary and more. Geometrics with a clean, simplified aesthetic shone all over the Market. The Jessica Charles collection incorporates large, repeating patterns on their settees, gliders, swivel rockers, Lexi slipper chairs and Lexi vanity chairs. Accent tables with bold geometry include the Jonathan Charles Dark Santos console table with its octagonal support. The Antiquarian dining room set by Bernhardt makes the basic rectangle a thing of function and beauty. Kincaid’s Fitzgerald swivel chair has strong rectangularity and comes in plain and patterned fabrics. Plexiperfect and Opaque According to luxury interior designer Leslie Hendrix Wood, there is certainly power in the transparency of plexiglas and acrylic furnishings. She finds that transparency works well in rooms dominated by color and pattern because it does not take up visual space. “This medium reflects light and can inject any space with renewed energy. The clear, reflective quality of plexiglas makes it a perfect candidate for small spaces,” said the Midland, Texas-based professional. “Updating traditional design with plexiglas adds a contemporary touch and can produce stunning results.” Alden Parkes furnishings have several tables with inspired uses of transparent tops in beautiful turquoise tones. The top of the Oceana console table gives a cascading effect of waves; a clear glass top is also available. The soothing tone of the company’s Glacial cocktail table will bring you a sense of relaxation. Add the Neue Sofa from Laura Kirar-Baker in a matching tone for a cohesive look. The sofa is available in more than 700 fabric options. Combinations As these trending furniture items show, no piece is an island unto itself. Wood is mixed with plexiglass, geometry with metals, etcetera. The results are vibrant, sometimes eclectic and always appealing furnishings that will add beauty, form and function to your home. l

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PLANTATION FURNITURE Plantation Furniture's showroom includes a variety of spaces, styles and furniture to help you visualize a look that would fit your personal home. Stop by and they will help you determine what furniture you need that will best fit the space and function of the room. The staff at Plantation Furniture can help you select and customize fabrics, finishes, and accessories that complete and personalize your space. 281-341-7788 plantationfurniture.com 1247 FM 359, Richmond

furniture, handmade mattresses and fine oriental rugs is right here in Houston. The outlet opens at 10 a.m. every Friday with an ever-changing selection of closeouts, overstocks, design samples and one-of-a-kind opportunity buys from top designers. They Dump the frills, pretense and costs of regular stores, and voila! You get high-end home furnishings at 30 to 70% off price. 281-447-2250 Thedump.com 10251 North Freeway, Houston

CHAMPIONS LIGHTING Established in 1976 and located in the Barnes & Noble/Randall’s Center, this showroom offers some of the most unique lighting around. Along with one-of-a-kind restored antique lighting, they have chandeliers, lamps and home accessories to fit any budget. They offer a great selection for consumers who don’t want to be “average,” and a very personalized, white glove builder and retail experience. Stop by and see what makes them different! 281-440-5339 championslighting.com 5211 Cypress Creek Parkway, Houston

LEATHER SHOPPES Started in 1988, Leather Shoppes is family owned and the oldest leather specialty store in Houston. They offer the highest quality leather furniture or theater seating for your home from some of the best names in the business, American made companies who take pride in their leather furniture. Leather Shoppes continually strives to offer the best products for the best price and still give the level of service you expect. They also custom size. Come visit their 10,000-square-foot showroom. 713.690.9400 leathershoppes.com 10784 Kempwood Dr. (1-10/Beltway 8)

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Plan the Right Pool for Your Living Style Consider many options before making your backyard investment

By Merry Wise lanning a custom swimming pool and/or spa for your specific environment and style of living is similar to planning your home and fashion styles â&#x20AC;&#x201D; you want to analyze how you plan to use it as much as how you want it to look. Just as people choose fashion to suit different activities, different design considerations for your custom pool will be based on what activities you and your family enjoy. Of course, safety is your first consideration. Proper enclosures and constant supervision are a must to ensure the safety of children, pets and wildlife that may go near the pool. Many specialty safety products are

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| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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available, including water alarms, laser technologies, safety covers and personal accessories such as life jackets and pool floats. Next, you begin considering all the other aspects of your pool’s design. Think about the current ages of your family members, and plan for the future as your family grows and changes. Think about how many years you plan to stay in your home, and plan the pool to be as suitable to your future situation as your present one. Are you a young family with growing children? How many children? How many relatives, friends and neighbors might you be entertaining in the pool? Are you a family with teenagers? Are you an older couple building a pool primarily for the grandkids to enjoy when they visit? Is your family primarily adults who will be doing

more sophisticated entertaining? Or will your pool just be a relaxing getaway for you as an individual or couple? These parameters will mostly affect the size, configuration and materials you select, as well as addition of items such as a spa,

Adding a spa and heater to the pool is a great way to create your very own relaxing “resort” right in your own backyard. slide, diving board, shallow kiddie area, tanning bench, etc. Ask yourself what features might provide the most enjoyment for your individual needs, such as whether your family will

use the pool primarily for exercise, sports activities such as volleyball or basketball, entertaining adult friends and parties for kids or teens. After you’ve considered the family uses and activities, next you will want to carefully analyze the custom features you can add to a basic pool to perfect it for maximum function and fun. This would include selection of equipment, high-tech additions that can make the pool easy to operate and maintain, and visual design elements that create the wow factor you might wish for. The average pool size is 16 feet by 32 feet, or about 20,000 gallons of pool water. If you have a large site, big family, lots of teenagers, want a diving pool, or plan to have big pool parties, you may want to

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EZ FLOORS EZ Floors has the flooring and countertops to finish any remodeling project. Luxurious carpet in the bedroom. Elegant hardwood flooring in the living and dining rooms. And timeless tile in the kitchen, bath and entry. They highly value your complete satisfaction with their products and service. Their philosophy is very simple; if you are pleased with your shopping experience, they are confident you will share it with others and continue to use EZ Floors for all your floor covering needs. ezfloorsonline.com 1557 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N, #110 713-465-6741 24150 Hwy. 290, #270 281-758-2980 16945 N. Eldridge Parkway, #100 281-257-5955 17111 West Road, #105 281-656-2224 5015 FM 2920, Suite A 281-288-2300 20680 Westheimer Parkway, #150 281-647-0777

COLONY BUILDERS Their combined years of field, technical and management experience in the all aspects of the construction industry, along with our in-depth knowledge and application of the design-build method for project management, make Colony Builders your choice as the general contractor for your next home renovation, addition, or restoration construction project. 713-272-6624 colonybuildersinc.com

THE POOL MAN TEXAS CUSTOM PATIOS They custom design and build patio covers (attached and freestanding), outdoor kitchens, screened porches, room additions, decorative patios, decks and more. The latest trends and products will transform your backyard but maintain your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original architecture and add value, beauty and function all year. Well known for their exceptional professionalism, seamless construction and excellent workmanship. Texas Custom Patios is a BBB Gold Star winner. Call for a free consultation or view their project portfolio online. 281-265-1994 texascustompatios.com

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

The Pool Man was established in 1981 to provide quality swimming pool service and new pool construction to customers in the Houston, Tomball, Magnolia and Cypress areas. They are a family owned business that strives to give each customer what they deserve...the very best. Custom Designed Pool and Service. Visit the Pool Man on Facebook. 19111 Cypress Rosehill Rd., Tomball 281-351-2577 phone; 281-351-2565 fax poolmaninc.com

DROPSHADE.COM From the smallest solar shade to giant patio drop shade systems, Dropshade has what it takes to create innovative and effective shade products. Our crews manufacture thousands of shades every year! Dropshade is family owned and operated, and our tradition, integrity and superior customer service have made us a leading manufacturer of sun control systems. We are continuously the No. 1 choice of both contractors and homeowners when it comes to their shading needs. Visit our website for more details or call for a free quote! 281-407-0830 dropshade.com

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design a larger pool. For safety reasons, if you choose to have a diving board, you need a length of at least 20 feet just for the deep end diving-well area of the pool. If you have a smaller site, or don’t have divers in the family, you could opt for a shallower “play pool” design, with a smaller overall size. Most families find themselves spending more time in the shallow water, and for many, this type of pool is the better choice. If your family enjoys volleyball, a good choice is a pool designed with a shallow end at each end and the deeper part in the middle and equipped with built-in anchors for a durable volleyball net. Many other quality games are available, including basketball and badminton. If your family will use the pool for a vigorous fitness program, then a lap pool might fit your style. Obviously a pool can be designed in a long, slender configuration, but sometimes the site is not really suitable for a long lap design. This issue can be easily solved in several ways. First, a swim jet can be fitted into the end of any size pool — even a large spa — and then equipped with a very powerful pump that allows you to “swim in place” against its strong current. Portable stationary swimmers

also allow you to swim in place with straps that attach to your body and to the deck. The maintenance factor is also an impor-

tant consideration when equipping your pool. An automatic pool cleaner or in-floor cleaning system is as essential to most people as a dishwasher in the kitchen. Pool design, plumbing characteristics, proper equipment size and choice of sanitizing method and equipment also are important. With the right selections, your pool will be a pleasure to maintain. Adding a spa and heater to the pool is a great way to create your very own relaxing “resort” right in your own backyard. A spa is great for entertaining, especially for teenagers who love to chill out and visit with their friends. And best of all, you know exactly where they are! The latest in technology will add to your enjoyment of your pool. Equip it with an automatic controller, and with a few keystrokes on your smartphone while you’re out, you can arrive home to a soothing

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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CY-FAIR ADVERTISING

MIRROR LAKE Remember this!!! Hoping that a pool contractor can give your family a fun backyard resort is a bit like hoping the cattle rancher can plan your daughter’s wedding. Your reception plans may include beef but this guy is not qualified to orchestrate your daughter’s big day. It’s the same for your backyard. Get a landscape architect, someone who knows all facets of pool, patio and planting design. Then you’ll be living the Garden Lifestyle! Find out more at the website. 281-350-0515 MirrorLakeDesigns.com

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Houston Home Improvement Construction has been building patio covers for more than 20 years. This company will transform any backyard into a cool, shady retreat while adding value to any home. This entertaining addition will be designed to keep the home’s original architecture and made to look like it was in the original planning of the home. Fully insured and a member of the BBB. Katy-Fulshear Home Improvement Construction was awarded the Gold Star Award in 2005. Rated A1+. 281-686-9059 hhipatiocovers.com

Cypress Custom Pools is dedicated to upholding the highest quality standards in the Pool and Spa industry. Their motto, “Built to the Highest Standard,” exemplifies an approach to doing business that has built a sterling reputation over the past 17 years with clients and the area’s leading builders. Call Cypress Custom Pools for information or to schedule an appointment to visit their showroom and display pool. 281-351-6113 cypresscustompools.com

ABA POOL SERVICE AND REPAIR MC CONSTRUCTION, LLC Since 2003, MC Construction has specialized in turning the dreams of its clients into reality. They bring personal attention, creativity and professionalism to every job. With several years of experience, quality and customer satisfaction is their #1 priority; they are committed to making your dreams come true as a registered, insured contractor. Call today for a consultation! 281-391-8090 mcconstructionllc.com

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

For over 15 years, ABA Pool Service and Repair has provided the highest quality service and repairs to The Woodlands and CyFair areas.They specialize in Tile Cleaning, Plaster, Heaters, Pumps, Filters, Lights, Salt Systems and Weekly Maintenance. ABA Pool Service and Repair always provides professional, prompt and affordable services. Call today to schedule an appointment for all of your pool needs. 281-924-7724 abapools.com

BACKYARD POOL SPECIALISTS Backyard Pool Specialists has been designing and constructing beautiful swimming pools, patio covers, summer kitchens, fireplaces and landscaping for over 30 years. The owners believe in a hands-on approach to creating a beautiful backyard living area for you to enjoy year round. Their personalized customer attention from design to completion has earned them hundreds of loyal, satisfied customers. Call for a complimentary in-home consultation or visit their website. 281-890-3040 bpspoolshouston.com 11115 Mills Rd., Suite 102, Cypress

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To reserve space, contact your sales representative or call 281.240.2445 ext. 128 www.cy-fairlifestylesandhomes.com

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Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes is looking for energetic Sales Associates to sell advertising in the Cy-Fair area. Applicant must have sales experience and the ability to manage his/her hours. Great earning potential! Send Resume to: Linda Anderson

Linda@lifestyles-magazines.com

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Springtime Kicks off Hibiscus Show Season Dramatic tropical flower will be featured at local events

A kaleidoscope of blooms plucked from Gloria Mikulenka’s hibiscus collection.

By Judy Latta Photos by Pat Merritt and Linda Anderson

pring is upon us, and as warm weather blossoms begin to burst, few are as stunning and impressive as the eye-catching exotic hibiscus. Also known as “the Queen of the Tropics,” hibiscus colors range from snowy white to yellow, orange, peach, pink, red, purple, lavender, blue and brown. Hybrid varieties include all sorts of color blends and multicolor combinations. With massive vibrant blooms set against dark green foliage on sizeable shrubs, these flowers are a striking element of any southern garden.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Show and Sale Events Whether you are an enthusiast of the beautiful hibiscus or just a casual gardener, be sure to check out the Lone Star Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society’s (AHS) annual show and sale events coming up in April and May. On Sunday, April 17, growers will gather at the Bellaire Community Center for the Houston Hibiscus event, and on Saturday, May 7 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Sugar Land for the Fort Bend event. The shows will open in the morning to

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Lone Star Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society’s

Annual Show & Sale Open to Public 1:00-4:00 pm

Sunday, April 17 Bellaire Community Center 7008 S. Rice Blvd, Bellaire 77401

Saturday, May 7 Knights of Columbus Hall 702 Burney Road, Sugar Land, Tx., 77498

There will be between 200-300 different bloom varieties on display at this year’s show.

Copper Moon

Gloria Mikulenka shows off a few of her early spring blooms in one of her greenhouses.

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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“My first question upon seeing all of the magnificent exotic blooms was ‘Are they real?’ ” – Gloria Mikulenka

Nitro Xpress

Grand Hyatt Electric Pizzazz

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competitors and AHS members with competitions among four categories of exhibitors: Amateur, Collector, Open Collector and Commercial. Exhibitors will enter single, double or miniature hibiscus blooms to be inspected by a panel of judges, who will evaluate as many as 500 blooms based on their form, size, color, substance and condition. There will also be a competition for seedlings. Judges will award gold seal prizes, as well as blue and red ribbon awards. After the initial awards are given, the gold seal blooms will be grouped according to class for final judging for head table honors, the highest distinction at the show. The facilities will then open free to the public from 1-4 p.m., when patrons are invited to come and view the competition blooms and purchase plants. According to Ottmar Schimek, President of the Lone Star Chapter of AHS, this is an event you’ll want to see. “If you miss our shows, you miss the convenience of buying quality plants that cannot be found in local nurseries. You will also miss the opportunity to meet with experienced growers to ask fertilization, insect control, or any other hibiscus question that you may have. We will have 200 to 300 different bloom varieties on display.” A Wide Range of Exhibitors Will Show Many Variations of the Flower Exhibitors will come from all over the area and beyond, some with a wealth of experience growing hibiscus plants and some new to the hobby. Retired teacher Gloria Mikulenka, second vice president of the Lone Star chapter, will be an open collector exhibitor and a judge for the shows. She currently grows around 450 different varieties of exotic hibiscus, along with many common garden varieties. “I have mostly singles, but also have many doubles and minis,” which are blooms under five inches, she explains. “I have all colors, but really love the blues, browns and especially the multi-colored.” In 2015, her plants earned ten head table awards.

Tahitian Princess

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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Gloria, who now has three backyard greenhouses full of hibiscus shrubs and seedlings, and is often seen wearing clothing with hibiscus prints and a silver necklace in the shape of the flower she loves, got her start at an American Hibiscus Society event. “I attended a Lone Star Hibiscus show in Sugar Land with my daughter about seven years ago. I couldn’t believe my eyes,” she says. “My first question upon seeing all of the magnificent exotic blooms was ‘Are they real?’ I laugh now because I hear that same question from all of the newcomers at our shows.” She ended up buying several plants at that show and became obsessed. Cindy Wilson, the Lone Star chapter secretary, will also both exhibit and judge the show. She hasn’t been around the show circuit as long as some of the other society members, but she is no less devoted. “A friend took me to a hibiscus show five years ago. I saw all of the incredible blooms on display and I was hooked. I started buying plants that day and at one time had over 1,500 varieties in my collection,” she explains. “With the youngest of my four children graduating from Cy-Fair High School and heading to Rice University in the fall, I have downsized my house, yard and hibiscus collection. I currently have approximately 75 different varieties.” In addition to the actual growing, Cindy enjoys the frantic pace of planning and participating with the shows. “We begin picking blooms two to three days before the show and food becomes unnecessary as our refrigerators fill up with boxes of blooms that we hope will be winners,” she says. The day of the event, “we gently open the blooms that are completely ready to open and place semi-closed blooms outside in the sun while we pray to the hibiscus gods that they will open. If you arrive early you will see exhibitors

The hibiscus bloom is beautiful to display. At the show you can meet experienced growers to answer your questions on fertilization, insect control, and more.

Angel’s Wings

Black Rainbow

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Pat Merritt's Tips for Growing Healthy Hibiscus in Houston Feeding: Tropical Hibiscus are heavy feeders. Fertilize at least every two weeks with a fertilizer labeled for hibiscus. This will be one with an N-P-K formula of 2-1-2, such as 2010-20 or 18-10-28. N-P-K = NitrogenPhosphorous-Potassium. Hibiscus like more nitrogen and potassium (potash) than phosphorous. Keep the middle number of your fertilizer low. Space City water-soluble hibiscus fertilizer, 18-10-28, makes an excellent foliar spray for tropical hibiscus. Mix organics such as fish emulsion with water-soluble hibiscus fertilizer. Apply Epsom salts at a rate of one tablespoon per gallon once a month for more abundant blooms. Epsom salts may be sprinkled on top of the soil in pots or inground plants and watered in, or mixed with water or fertilizer and applied once each month. Pruning: Tropical hibiscus are tropical evergreens. As such, they do not HAVE to be pruned. However, hibiscus bloom on new growth. Pruning causes branching, and branching means new growth. Prune hibiscus to shape and to suit yourself. It takes from 60 to 90 days for a pruned hibiscus to begin blooming again on the pruned branches. Some growers will prune their hibiscus plants in three stages: one-third of the branches at one time, then another third a month later, with the final one-third pruned a month after that. When pruning, make each cut just above an outward and upwardfacing eye, which is where a leaf is growing or will grow. This causes new growth to be directed up and away from the interior of the plant. Make sure pruning is done at a time of year when the new growth it stimulates will not be affected by freezes. In the

Houston area, this means pruning can begin about mid-February. Root Pruning: Potted hibiscus plants will benefit from root-pruning about every second or third growing season. Remove the plant from the pot and scrape off the outside oneinch of soil from the sides and bottom. The plant may be returned to the same pot with fresh potting mixture, or moved up one pot size. Repotting: When repotting hibiscus, it is better to move them up only one pot size at a time. Placing a onegallon hibiscus into a five-gallon pot may produce a plant that spends a long time growing new roots instead of blooming. Mulching: Mulching potted hibiscus plants will aid in retaining moisture and discouraging weeds. Using a product such as Cedarcide’s shredded cedar mulch will help keep snail and slug populations under control. Staking: Stake tall plants to prevent wind damage to roots. Spent Blooms and Leaves: Picking and disposing of spent blooms will cut down on fungus from soggy blossoms falling on leaves and into the pots. Keeping spent blooms plucked will not necessarily cause more blooming. It’s just good plant hygiene. Hibiscus get yellow leaves for a living. If new, green leaves are pushing out, don’t worry about a few yellow leaves. Yellow leaves will not green up again. If they bother you, pluck them off. Share your blooms. They can bring great joy to those unable to grow and care for their own plants. Hibiscus pollen is not airborne, so it’s very unlikely that even highly allergyprone people will be affected by it.

This hibiscus, purchased at the show, produced these beautiful triplets one summer morning.

rushing outside every few minutes, trying to wait for the perfect moment to bring their bloom inside for judging.” According to Cindy, the highlight of the show is when the winning blooms are placed on the head table, and the public is admitted to view the winners and to shop for flowers to take home. A more experienced exhibitor and member of the Lone Star chapter, Pat Merritt, has been growing hibiscus for more than 30 years. Her late husband, Roz, was an award winning hybridizer. Hybridizing is the process of cross-breeding flowers to create new variety seedlings that grow into flowers with unique color combinations and patterns. Over the years, Pat has grown more than 1,000 different varieties of hibiscus in her garden and has earned many awards for her plants. In addition to growing hibiscus, Pat also photographs the flowers and she, along with the late Barry Schleuter, one of foremost hibiscus hybridizers in the country, revised the The Tropical Hibiscus Handbook, a comprehensive guide on caring for the plant. She is also a contributor to YourHoustonGarden.com, which offers practical advice and information from local experts on gardening in this area. For more information on the Lone Star Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society or the upcoming Hibiscus Show and Sale events, visit lonestarahs.org. l

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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rritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects up to 10-15 percent of adults. It has a significant worldwide prevalence. Although IBS is not associated with an increased risk for life-threatening illness, it is associated with a significant health care and economic burden. Studies have shown that IBS patients have an increased number of outpatient health care visits, diagnostic tests and surgeries. IBS can also severely compromise a person’s quality of life. IBS is second only to the common cold as a cause of absenteeism from work. Understanding IBS IBS is best understood as a long-term or recurrent disorder of gastrointestinal (GI) functioning. It usually involves the

large intestine (colon) and small intestine with disturbances of intestinal/bowel (gut) motor function (motility) and sensation. These gut related activities are regulated by the brain. This may also be impaired, which is why IBS is often called a brain-gut disorder. Symptoms of IBS Individuals with IBS may either have mostly diarrhea, mostly constipation, or both diarrhea and constipation (mixed pattern). The pain is often relieved by having a bowel movement and can at times be worsened after eating. Symptoms can change over time. There can be periods when symptoms flare up as well as periods of remission when they diminish or disappear.

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In addition, the main bowel habit can vary over time. For example, some people that suffer mainly from constipation (or diarrhea) may later experience a change to constipation alternating with diarrhea. Other common symptoms of IBS include: • bloating (a sensation of fullness in the belly), • urgency (the need to use a restroom in a hurry), • mucus (white or yellow liquid) in the stool, and • the sensation of incompletely passing stools. The typical features of IBS are generally recognizable by a physician. Usually the physician will examine the abdomen of a

patient with IBS and it will be normal or have tenderness. A rectal examination is also done to evaluate the functioning of the rectal floor muscles, particularly if there is incontinence or severe constipation with straining. The most important first step is to confidently recognize the diagnosis of IBS and remove the suspicion of other diseases. Causes of IBS The cause of irritable bowel syndrome is not completely understood. There are possible factors like genetics and prior adverse life experiences (e.g., infection, trauma) that can predispose someone to get IBS. The symptoms appear to result from disturbances in colonic motility (muscle con-

tractions) and increased sensitivity to food, gas, or stool in the bowel. Finally, there is a tendency for the bowel to be overly reactive to various factors, which can amplify or bring about the symptoms. Examples include eating, stress, emotional arousal, GI infections, menstrual period or gaseous distension. Brain-gut interactions: The altered patterns of colonic motility and sensation appear to be due to disruptions in the communication between the brain and gut. This interaction is known as the brain-gut axis. These interactions between the brain and gut are important in maintaining normal bowel function. They also respond to any potential disturbance or stressor. In IBS, normal regulation of the brain-

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A strong partnership between a knowledgeable patient and an empathetic, knowledgeable health care provider can produce significant improvement and control over symptoms. gut interactions become altered, which leads to changes in motility and sensation within the bowel. There are a number of factors that may play a role in the alteration in the brain-gut axis, including: • A genetic predisposition (e.g., family history) to developing IBS • An intestinal infection prior to symptom onset • Chronic stressful life events, or other psychosocial factors Some of these factors may be more relevant in one individual with IBS, while other factors may be more important in another. What are treatment options for IBS? The key to achieving relief for IBS is to

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

embrace the understanding that it is a complex motility (motor) and sensory disorder. It may have physical and stress-related dimensions. A strong partnership between a knowledgeable patient and an empathetic, knowledgeable health care provider can produce significant improvement and control over symptoms for individuals with IBS. The first line of treatment for IBS includes general measures such as: • establishing an effective patientphysician relationship, • obtaining education about IBS, and • implementing lifestyle changes, which may be associated with symptoms Lifestyle changes: The term lifestyle

refers to things in your life you have control over. For example, evaluate any dietary or stress-related factors that may be related to symptoms and discuss these with a health care provider. If certain foods set off or worsen symptoms, reduce or avoid them. If the abdominal discomfort or pain occurs after eating, it may be helpful to eat smaller and more frequent meals. Increased stress may result in the onset or worsening of IBS symptoms and associated non-bowel symptoms such as fatigue or low energy. Proper rest and exercise can help reduce stress levels and positively influence IBS. Remember that having IBS is also a stress and learning more about the disorder, communicating effectively with your health care

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Reshape Your Body in 20 Minutes! When Diane Rand reached age 50, she got concerned that her weight was slowly creeping higher and her clothes were feeling too tight. As a practicing physician in San Diego, she knew the diagnosis. “Your muscles atrophy as you age, and this slows down the metabolism,” says Rand. “I knew it would keep getting worse if I didn’t correct it.” The antidote? Effective weight training. But, she’d never lifted weights before. Plus, her full-time job as a physician as well as her family life left little time in her schedule for exercise.

Fortunately, Diane read an article about “slow-motion” strength training, a revolutionary new exercise method promising a firmer, stronger, more shapely body from just two 20-minute training sessions per week. Even though the time efficiency and results sounded almost too good to be true, she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout, a local company with 56 private fitness studios throughout the United States specializing in this unique approach.

In 3 months Laura Retana Shelp lost 23.4 pounds and 10½ inches off her waist with improved nutrition and two 20-minute training sessions a week at The Perfect Workout.

Right away she noticed immediate increases in her muscle tone and energy. After several months she’d also dropped 1 to 2 clothing sizes and was fitting into clothes which used to be too small. “My trainer pushes me in a safe way, and I walk away feeling great after each session,” says Diane. “This is the wave of the future.”

LEAN MUSCLES – THE KEY TO RESHAPING YOUR BODY

The Perfect Workout’s trainers encourage clients to build lean muscle tissue which increases the body’s metabolism, burning extra calories even while you’re sleeping. Not only does the extra muscle help burn fat and calories, muscle takes up 20% less space than fat. So a fit 140-pound person can wear clothes several sizes smaller than an out of shape 140-pound person. Adding muscle and losing fat will make your body firmer, smaller, and more shapely. Slow-motion strength training involves brief and demanding workouts to get great results. The basic concept? Lift relatively heavy weights excruciatingly slowly (10 seconds to lift, another 10 seconds to lower) for as many repetitions as you can until you’re unable to move the weights anymore. And when you learn to challenge your muscles as deeply as a skilled trainer can teach, it’s impossible to workout much longer than 20 minutes, even if you try. Dr. Philip Alexander, physician and Chief of Medicine Services at College Station Medical Center, explains that it’s the intensity of exercise that stimulates greatest changes. “A slower repetition loads the muscles more effectively and efficiently. It’s harder!” exclaims Alexander. “That’s why it stimulates such a great total response from the body.” Dr. Alexander has tracked hundreds of subjects using slow-motion strength training, noting significant improvements in muscular strength, HDL cholesterol profiles, bone

density, and glucose tolerance. Other research adds more supporting data. Two separate studies by Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., and one study by Ellington Darden, Ph.D., demonstrate that slow-motion strength training produces 50% to 59% faster improvements than regular weight training.

JOYCE RECLAIMS HER YOUTHFUL FIGURE

54-year-old Joyce Magnuson had always been slim and slender when she was younger. But in her mid 40’s life’s stresses caught up with her, and she began gaining weight. “During the next few years, I kept getting heavier, until I was thoroughly broken and disgusted with myself,” says Joyce. Fortunately, she happened to read an article about slow-motion strength training and how it would reshape her body with just two 20-minute training sessions per week. The effectiveness of the method made sense to Joyce, and she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout. After five months of combining an effective nutrition plan with two 20-minute training sessions each week, not only had she gotten stronger, she’d lost 43 pounds and dropped from a size 16 to a size 10. She was also able to get completely off the blood pressure medications that she’d previously needed to take. She adds, “The perk is looking good in the current styles. Even Macy’s keeps me motivated to stay fit!” The Perfect Workout has 56 private studios that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these Houston area locations: Clear Lake (281) 456-3380, Cypress/N. Houston (832) 497-1121, Kingwood (281) 241-1628, Memorial (281) 724-5147, River Oaks (713) 999-5182, Sugar Land (281) 201-5309, and The Woodlands (281) 245-0478. www.ThePerfectWorkout.com

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Many people – especially women – have a fear of “bulking up” like a bodybuilder if they were to start strength training. In reality, if you’re older than 25, it’s much more likely that too little muscle is the problem rather

• Designated ambulance entrance

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strength train lose an average of a half pound of lean muscle tissue each

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year starting at age 25. Over time, this results in arms and thighs that are

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softer and less firm, a slower metabolism, and buying larger clothing sizes.

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Effective strength training changes all of this. It increases your metabolism,

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as well as sculpts your legs and arms. And since muscle is denser than fat, strength training helps make your body smaller, firmer, and more shapely. The Perfect Workout has 56 private studios that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these Houston locations: Sugar Land 281-201-5309 Memorial 281-724-5147 River Oaks 713-999-5182 The Woodlands 281-245-0478 Cypress/N. Houston 832-497-1121 Clear Lake 281-456-3380 Kingwood 281-241-1628

• 10 large, private exam rooms • Board-certified emergency physicians and specially trained staff

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Willowbrook Hospital, if needed Houston Methodist Spring Emergency Care Center is a department of Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital. 713-441-2424 houstonmethodist.org/ER 5303 FM 2920, Spring

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AURORA GONZALEZ, M.D. AND ASSOCIATES Their medical team offers personalized obstetrical and gynecological services for women and adolescents. They strive to stay abreast of the latest developments, so that patients receive the most advanced medical care. Their physicians are here to care for your medical needs: Dr. Aurora Gonzalez, Dr. Vijaya Mandalapu, Dr. Sharon Vila-Wright, Dr. Stacey Coombes and Dr. Stacey Thomas. Their physicians are trained laparoscopic and vaginal surgeons who manage a majority of surgical issues ranging from endometriosis, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, uterine fibroids, and heavy uterine bleeding. They offer urinary incontinence treatment and surgery, robotic assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy, vaginal prolapse repair and reconstruction, vaginal atrophy treatment with the MonaLisa Touch laser and infertility evaluation. For the convenience of their patients, they provide minimally invasive outpatient procedures for the diagnoses and treatment of heavy uterine bleeding (Thermachoice endometrial ablation and hysteroscopy) and abnormal pap smears (LEEP and cervical cryotherapy). For patients desiring permanent contraceptive options, they also offer Essure. Their obstetrical services include prenatal counseling, routine prenatal care, high risk prenatal care, and full obstetrical ultrasounds. 713-757-9905

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provider, and taking more of a role in your self-care can reduce that stress. Medicines: If lifestyle changes do not completely relieve IBS symptoms, a number of medications may be helpful, including antispasmodics, anti-diarrheal agents, laxatives and anti-anxiety medications. A thorough evaluation by a physician is an important step toward selecting the treatment that is most appropriate for your individual circumstances. Regardless of the treatment therapy, always discuss it thoroughly with your doctor so you are familiar with the therapy or method, are aware of alternatives, understand the risks as well as benefits and know what to do if side effects occur or symptoms return. Individuals who have not responded to lifestyle changes and careful use of medications should consider being evaluated by a physician who specializes in functional GI and motility or stress-related GI disorders. More complex medication regimens and specialized screening can reveal specific conditions which may respond to treatment. Learn More To learn much more about IBS, visit aboutibs.org. l Courtesy of the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Denman Moody was the Editor and Publisher of Moody’s Wine Review for six years and Contributing Editor on Rare Wine for International Wine Review in New York for six years. He has published or had published over 400 articles on wine, including The International Wine and Food Society Journal in London, Revue du Vin de France in Paris and The Robb Report in Malibu. He is or has been a member of The International Wine and Food Society, Confrerie SaintEtienne d’Alsace, The German Wine Society, Commanderie de Bordeaux, Chaine des Rotisseurs, Les Amis d’Escoffier and The Knights of the Vine. Several of the Duckhorn Winery products.

Duckhorn Wine Estate — the Best of the Best! Young winemakers producing some of the best wines on the planet

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

DAN MILLS PRODUCTIONS

n 1976, Margaret and Dan Duckhorn, along with a number of investors, started Duckhorn Winery, with the first production in 1978 being 800 cases of Merlot and 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the years until 2007, Dan not only vastly improved the quality and quantityof the wines, but also added the following: Decoy; Migration; Goldeneye and Paraduxx — all now with their own wineries He also added enough estate properties in Napa Valley and Anderson Valley to assure a continuous supply of the best estate fruit possible. Dan is already one of the legends of the California wine industry, with his persistent and successful work on branding one of the great names in California winedom, but also in his roles as a Director of The Wine Institute, former President of the Napa Valley Vintners’ Association, past Chair of the Napa Valley Wine Auction and as a primary instigator of the Premier Napa Valley Trade Barrel Auction. In 2007, Margaret and Dan sold a majority interest in the winery to GI Partners, a private equity firm in California and London, for an estimated $250,000,000, making, among other things, 80 investor families very happy. Dan remained Chairman of the Board. There was some skepticism about the sale. You know, corporate bottom line each quarter instead of increased quality? To the dismay of many, Duckhorn has improved

(L-R): Duckhorn Wine Company winemakers Michael Fay, Goldeneye; Dana Epperson, Decoy; Bo Felton, Migration; Brian Rudin, Canvasback; Renée Ary, Duckhorn Vineyards; and Don LaBorde, Paraduxx.

so dramatically that it now ranks among the top wineries in the world! GI has provided, among other things: 1— over $40,000,000 in upgrades 2— state-of-the-art LEED-gold certified winery for Goldeneye 3— a fabled Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyard for Migration in Russian River Valley 4— coveted land on the iconic Red Mountain in Washington State for Canvassback

5— the purchase of Three Palms Vineyard, probably the best Merlot vineyard in California. Under the direction of the highly talented and well-respected President Alex Ryan, who actually started his career with Duckhorn during high school, along with his 300-plus employees and hand-picked winemakers and vineyard managers, Duckhorn is now sold in 46 countries and has a wine club approaching 10,000 members.

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

A General Description of the Wines Decoy — There are seven wines in the Decoy stable: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Decoy Red Wine. Although considered super-premium, this line is the introduction to the Duckhorn Wine Company. The prices range from $20 to $25, and all provide delicious drinking and great value. Goldeneye — After years of searching for the perfect spot for Pinot Noir, the Duckhorns found what they sought in the Anderson Valley — vineyards “that could express varietal purity and an intimate sense of place.” From the first Goldeneye Anderson Valley Pinot Noir in the ’90s, the stable has burgeoned dramatically in quality and quantity to an additional seven allAnderson Valley Pinot Noirs: Confluence Vineyard; Confluence Lower Bench; Confluence Hillside; The Narrows vineyard; Split Rail vineyard; Gowan Creek Vineyard; and Ten Degrees. The prices run from $55 to $115, with most around $80. All are world-class renditions of Pinot Noir. Paraduxx — The first vintage of Paraduxx that I tasted — possibly in the mid-’90s — was a blend of mostly Zinfandel with some Cabernet Sauvignon, and I remember not being too impressed. It seems like every year, Paraduxx has improved. Today, the original Paraduxx is vastly improved, and sells for around $40 a bottle. I have recently noticed a monumental change. Paraduxx now makes a Richter Creek Red Wine, Howell Mountain Mountain Red Wine, Atlas Peak Red Wine, Winemaker Series Red Wine, Proprietary Red Wine and an X2 Red Wine in addition to the M Blend and the Z Blend! The prices range from $40 for the M and Z Blends to $95 for the X2 Red. Three are $80: Rector Creek; Howell Mountain; and Atlas Peak. I have tasted them all. Some are limited, but all are fabulous! Duckhorn Merlot — The original Napa Valley Merlot now has five sister wines — all Napa Valley: Atlas Peak; Rector Creek Vineyard; Carneros; Stout Vineyard; and Three Palms Vineyard. The NAPA Valley Merlot is $54, and the rest are in the $70 to $95 range. Once again, world-class Merlots, and all great values.

I once served the least expensive of these blind with a $250 Saint-Emilion (primarily Merlot) from a great vintage, and three out of five tasters preferred the Duckhorn and one had them at a tie. And to make it a realistic comparison, the Saint-Emilion had three additional years of age and was from a great vintage. Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon — From the original 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon in 1978, another enormous and successful undertaking has given us an additional seven other-worldly Cabernets priced at between $72 and $135 — the latter for Duckhorn’s Discussion. Most are in the $95 price range: Rector Creek Vineyard; Three Palms Vineyard Rutherford; Howell Mountain; and Monitor Lodge Vineyard. Fabulous ultra-premium Cabernets, and like the entire Duckhorn line, luscious drinking and an easy choice for birthday and Christmas presents. When I first visited the California wine country as a wine writer in 1977, most of

the winemakers of great wines were in their early 60s — Andre Tchelistcheff, the most famous of all, was 77, and Robert Mondavi, Joe Heitz, Louis Martini, Warren Winiarski and others were in their early 60s. A recent phenomena of young winemakers making some of the best wines on the planet is highlighted at Duckhorn, with the average age of the winemakers at the five pillars of the Duckhorn dynasty being about 34! I can’t imagine any advancement by Duckhorn over the next nine years that could possibly equal what has transpired since the GI Partners purchase nine years ago, but if I had to bet on it, I’d place my bet on them, along with Alex Ryan, Renée Ary (Duckhorn’s incredibly impressive but understated winemaker), her five sister winery winemakers and J. P. Alviso, the talented Duckhorn Vineyard manager, to find a way! I believe that Duckhorn is possibly the best winery in the world in the 250,000 t0 500,000 case range! l

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Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Nicole

Jan-Oliver

Text by Melanie Saxton Engagement photography by Moore Life Media, Garrett Moore Wedding photography by New Image Photography, Jonathan Koslen Shower photography by Angelique Cook Photography, Angelique Cook

A lovely bride and handsome groom pose at their wedding venue. • Stunning on a stairwell.

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

icole Brende and Jan-Oliver Schmidt are living proof that blind dates really do work. They were introduced by mutual friends during a “chaperoned” dinner at UP restaurant in Highland Village and have been together ever since. Nicole studied broadcast journalism at Southern Methodist University and is active in the SMU Houston alumni chapter. Prior to her career in real estate, Nicole was a television host and producer for 10 years. Her programs included Hot On! Homes for KPRC Local 2, Designing America on HDNet and Designing Texas. Jan-Oliver is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario and Huron University College in Canada, earning an Honors BA degree in philosophy/economics. He is senior vice president of Stahlschmidt Incorporated. The happy couple tied the knot on Oct. 3, 2015 at The Country Club in Pepper Pike in Gates Mills, Ohio. They originally planned an outdoor wedding at Jan-Oliver’s brother’s historic Tudor estate, but hurricane Joachim swept through Ohio. Thank heavens they had a back-up plan!

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A beautiful reflection of a beautiful bride. • The happy couple dance at a water wall. • Soles announce: “He stole my heart” and “I stole his last name.” • An exquisite invitation. • Proud parents stand with their daughter before the walk down the aisle. • Three little future brides.

First Solo Date After a month of group get-togethers, Jan-Oliver invited Nicole on their first solo date at Kiran’s. He had no idea if she liked Indian cuisine, but the gamble paid off. They dined four hours, nearly ordering the whole menu! The restaurant became the future venue for their engagement party of 150 guests.

Courtship The couple, dubbed “The JaNic” by a close friend, love antiquing together and embarked on road trips to Brenham and San Antonio. They visited family in California and Ohio and enjoyed adventurous travels to Puerto Vallarta, Hawaii and Spain. They spent a week yachting to the British Virgin Islands with a captain, cook and plenty of the famous local “Pain Killer” tropical drinks.

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A happy groom-to-be. • Bottoms up! • The couple poses with bridesmaids, groomsmen and flower girls. • The perfect pair say “I do.” • The ring bearer lets the groom know, “Jan-Oliver, here comes your bride!”

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

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Proposal Nicole and Jan-Oliver became officially engaged on Jan. 3, 2015 on Maui. Jan-Oliver had carefully pre-planned their last morning in paradise and opened one remaining bottle of Veuve Cliquot on the beach. As he popped the champagne, a rainbow, which he of course had ordered from Mother Nature, appeared over the water. Holding Nicole’s champagne flute, he asked her to take a photo of the rainbow while his remaining free hand attempted to extract an engagement ring from his backpack. It took several tries, but finally Jan-Oliver was able to drop the ring into his beloved’s champagne flute. A surprisingly intense swell of bubbles camouflaged the diamonds, so Nicole noticed neither the sparkly addition to her glass nor the volcanic eruption taking place. To draw her attention to the ring, JanOliver told his bride-to-be that a bug had just flown into her glass. At last he had her attention, but by now was somewhat flustered and forgot the words to his eloquent proposal. Improvising on bended knee, he asked, “Can you tolerate me for the rest of your life?” Luckily, Nicole answered in the affirmative.

Engagement The engagement lasted nine months to the day and involved to trips to Cleveland, Ohio for wedding planning. A bachelorette party weekend in San Francisco at The Ritz Carlton Hotel enabled the bride and her friends to spend one day in Napa and Russian River valleys for private wine tastings. The bachelor party took place over a week on board a 46foot Catamaran sailboat in the British Virgin Islands hosted by the groom’s best man.

Say CHEESE! • Chocolate favors and "JaNic Rocks" — spin off of "Cleveland Rocks” at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. • A welcoming chalkboard sign captures a sentiment. • A lavish — and luscious — cake. • The bride’s favorite drink is champagne, which inspired parting gifts for guests. • Fun and festive popcorn bags for guests.

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The sweetheart table is adorned with gold sequin-accented cloth. • Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt strike a pose in a lovely garden. • The couple exited to a flurry of sparklers.

The Wedding The aftermath of Hurricane Joaquin caused the wedding to be moved indoors at The Country Club, but the bride and groom were cheered by the saying “Rain brings good luck and fertility.” A string trio and a singer performed a rendition of Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars as the bride came down the aisle with her father. The couple customized their ceremony with help of their officiant and literally “tied the knot” with a fisherman’s knot of black and white satin cords. The exit song for the newly married couple was Marry You by Bruno Mars. Bridal Party: Rev. Darwin L. Huartson officiated; he had previously married the bride’s father and stepmother, as well as the bride’s twin brother. Parents of the bride, Vicki and Al Brende and Ann Bayless, were in attendance with parents of the groom, Hans-Joachim Schmidt and Sigrid E. Schmidt. Michelle Brende Evrard (the bride’s sister) and Lori Lemon-Geshay served as maids of honor. Bridesmaids included Lyndsey McCall Rice and Laura Elizabeth Cernock. Flower girls Hadden Charlotte Brinegarm, Shaylie Lynn Rice, and Chloe Chanel Elise Evrard (the bride’s niece) were absolutely adorable. The groom’s brothers Uwe Thomas Schmidt and Kai-Roger Schmidt served as best men. Groomsmen included Willard Chace Brinegar and Richard Alan Brende (the bride’s twin brother). Quentin Leo Evrard served as ring bearer. Attire: The bride’s Pronovias Atelier ivory all-lace gown featured an open-back floating flower applique and train. Her custom extra length lace veil was crowned with a Swarovski crystal tiara. She wore emerald green Manolo Blahnik pumps with a crystal brooch, and a second pair of shoes by Joyce Echols of white snake skin and gold barbed wire

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

stilettos. Bridesmaids wore Alvina Valenta strapless black dresses with peplum and trains, paired with Enzo Angiolini sandals in black satin with crystals. The groom wore a custom tuxedo with bowtie, cummerbund and Mont Blanc cufflinks, as well as green socks to amuse his bride and maintain the color scheme of the wedding. Groomsmen wore tuxes in classic black and white and were gifted with Mont Blanc cufflinks. Floral and Décor: Floral arrangements in all shades of white filled the venue. The altar was decorated with birch trees and pomanders hanging from the branches. The bridal bouquet featured a selection of roses, stephanotis and subtle crystals. The bridesmaids’ bouquets were arranged with white mini calla lilies interspersed with camellia foliage. The groom wore a cluster of white roses and stephanotis with silver brunia and grey foliage. The ring bearer’s sign heralded “Jan-Oliver, here comes the love of your life.” Wedding ceremony signs said “Pick a seat, not a side.”

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Top Wedding Moments: A wardrobe mix-up occurred while the groom and groomsmen were getting ready in the locker room of The Country Club. The bride’s twin brother inadvertently wore the groom’s custom-fitted jacket, while the groom wore the groomsman’s tux jacket for all the festivities. Since the bride’s brother is 6’4” and the groom is shorter, his sleeves were too short and the groom’s were a bit too long. No one realized this until the bride and groom were packing at the Ritz-Carlton a few days later!

The Reception The classically elegant black tie affair was themed in black, white, gold and emerald green (the bride’s birthstone). A huge black and white umbrella sat center stage on the dance floor to symbolize a rainy wedding day. The dance floor was checkered in black and white in a nod to the bride’s mother’s love of MacKenzie-Childs designs. The couple performed a custom choreographed number to Michael Buble’s Feeling Good,

thanks to dance lessons in Houston at Beginner’s Only. Father and daughter danced to Wonderful World by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. Bridesmaids danced to Girls Just Want To Have Fun by Cindi Lauper; groomsmen to Who Let The Dogs Out by Baha Men. Music of the 1980s/90s entertained partygoers, as well as glo sticks, glo sunglasses, a smoke machine, and props such as frames and mustaches, lips and hats. Floral and Décor: The exterior was lit with coach lamps and decorated with hydrangea, white roses, alegrian ivy and camelia. Tables were adorned with a floral palette of hydrangea, phalaenopsis, roses, dahlias and mini calla lilies, complete with candles, gold votives, gold chargers and black napkins. As a special touch, tables were named after the couple’s beloved pets (displayed in gold frames), including the sweetheart table with a gold sequin table topper and photo of the bride’s Persian cat, Chako. Custom lighting changed from blue to green to pink and amber to create the

ultimate party atmosphere, and guests lounged on white couches. A bar sign stated “No good story started with a salad.” The guest book was an ensemble of polaroid guest selfies. Favors of JaNic Bacon Habenero vodka were a huge hit, as well as mini bottles of bubbly with green ribbon holding black/white straws, JaNic Rocks chocolates and a popcorn bar. Cake: A stunning four-tiered white cake included different flavors of butter cream, peanut butter cup with chocolate and hazelnut with raspberry swirl, all previously taste-tested and approved by the bride’s father! Top Reception Moment: A speech by both of the couple’s fathers included such entertaining banter that the first dance didn’t occur until 11 p.m.! The Exit: “The JaNic” exited to sparklers and a black Rolls Royce. The night ended in the concierge private level at the Ritz Carlton Cleveland hotel with friends and family celebrating over a night cap “recap” before the newlyweds retired to their suite. l

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‹Cypress Creek Publications Adviser Wins JEA Rising Star Award

Dr. Tonya Goree

Ralph Funk

Samantha Berry

Reginald Lillie

‹CFISD Names 2015-2016 Principals of the Year CFISD principals selected Francone Elementary School Principal Dr. Tonya Goree and Jersey Village High School Principal Ralph Funk as district representatives for the 2015-2016 Region 4 Principal of the Year award last week. Goree, the elementary winner, and Funk, the secondary winner, will be recognized at the Region 4 Education Service Center Principal Recognition Ceremony on April 6 at the Hotel ZaZa. Goree has 25 years of experience in classroom and administrative education, including six years as a principal in CFISD. This was her first year as principal at Francone. “Being named CFISD’s Elementary Principal of the Year is truly an honor,” Goree said. “I have the privilege of working with a wonderful staff and remarkable students who bring out the very best in me. I share this recognition with each of them.” Funk has served 38 years in education, including 32 years in administration and 16 with CFISD—all of them at Jersey Village. “It is a humbling experience to be selected by my fellow CFISD secondary principals as Principal of the Year,” Funk said. “Principals do not seek recognition and awards but work for the teachers and students in their building. I am flattered by this honor and thank my friends for having faith in me to represent them.”

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

The Journalism Education Association (JEA) announced that Cypress Creek High School publications adviser Samantha Berry is one of 13 journalism teachers and media advisers to receive the Rising Star Award in 2016. The award honors scholastic student media advisers who have completed five or fewer years in the profession. Established in 2006, it honors new advisers who have shown a commitment to involvement and improvement for themselves and their students, according to the JEA release. Berry, a third-year teacher at Cypress Creek, was named the school’s 2014-2015 Spotlight Teacher and earned the Texas Association of Journalism Educators (TAJE) Pathfinder Award last fall. “I am so honored to be among the recipients for the Rising Star Award,” Berry said. “To be recognized by leaders in your professional field is an incredible feeling. I truly love this job and enjoy coming to work every day because of the dedication and heart my students put into their work. I’m thankful to work in CFISD with administrators and colleagues who support and celebrate each other. Berry and her fellow 2016 Rising Star Award recipients will be honored at the JEA/NSPA Spring National High School Convention in Los Angeles April 14-17.

‹Reginald Lillie Named Chair of Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Board of Trustees Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has announced Reginald Lillie as the Chair of the Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Board of Trustees. Lillie has been a trustee for the past seven years and active in the Greater Houston community since 1997. He resides and works in the Cypress-Fairbanks area. Among Lillie’s notable accomplishments are his efforts to help bring Houston Methodist care to the Cy-Fair community with the opening of the Houston Methodist Cypress Emergency Care Center. “We are truly blessed to have a leader and community advocate of Reginald’s caliber serving as the chair of our Board of Trustees,” said Keith Barber, chief executive officer,

Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital & senior vice president, Houston Methodist. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience regarding community development to this role.” Lillie was born and raised in Northeast Houston and educated in Houston and North Forest independent school districts. He also studied at the University of Houston-Downtown. Lillie is a Northwest Corridor community leader and supporter. He has been asked to lend his support and community influence to organizations across the city of Houston because of his experience in business and community involvement. His professional work experience includes careers with the Grocer’s Supply Company, Southwestern Bell Corporation and MCI Corporation, Independent Life Insurance Company, Mutual of Omaha and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. In 1984 he became an independent insurance broker and sole proprietor of Reginald Lillie Insurance Service. Lillie also an associate minister at Greater True Faith Missionary Baptist Church, where his father, Rev. Ben Roy Lillie, Sr. is pastor.

Frankie Jackson

‹Chief Technology Officer Wins TASBO’s Top Individual Award Frankie Jackson, chief technology officer in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, has been named the 2016 winner of the highest individual honor awarded by the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) –– the Commitment to Excellence award. Jackson received the award during the second general session of the TASBO Annual Conference in Dallas on March 3. The annual award, sponsored by TASBO strategic partner AXA, recognizes an outstanding TASBO member who best distinguishes themselves within their profession, their community and TASBO. TASBO evaluates each nominee’s past accomplishments, volunteerism, leadership and contributions at the district level—including impact on student achievement.

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The 45,000-square-foot facility provides one-stopshop healthcare in local community.

‹Memorial Hermann Opens Convenient Care Center in Cypress Memorial Hermann officially opened its 45,000-square-foot Convenient Care Center today in Cypress. The facility provides highly coordinated access to adult and pediatric primary care via Memorial Hermann Medical Group, as well as specialty physicians, sports medicine and rehabilitation, lab services, outpatient imaging – including The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Breast Care with Memorial Hermann – and a 24-hour emergency center. “Bringing access to quality healthcare in Houston’s communities is priority for Memorial Hermann,” said Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System. “The opening of our Convenient Care Center in Cypress is the first step to giving the growing community the ability to receive specialty care close-to-home.” Located at 27700 Northwest Freeway near the Grand Parkway, the Convenient Care Center is designed to take the stress out of scheduling appointments for routine health needs by offering families options such as walk-in access and extended evening and weekend hours for primary care – Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For added convenience, appointments also can be scheduled online by visiting www.memorialhermann.org/cypress-ccc. “Today marks a major milestone in our phased approach to bring unparalleled healthcare access to this community,” said Scott Barbe, CEO, Memorial Hermann Cypress. “Our Convenient Care Center offers flexibility to complement today’s busy lifestyles in a single location, and we are

honored to become a trusted partner for the residents of Cypress.” The Convenient Care Center, housed on the first floor of the newly opened Medical Plaza, is the first phase of Memorial Hermann’s $168 million medical campus in Cypress, which will be anchored by an 81bed acute care hospital that is currently under construction. This development is part of Memorial Hermann’s growth initiative – Breaking New Ground – created to meet current and future healthcare needs in the greater Houston region. Slated for completion in Spring 2017, the hospital will house eight operating rooms, a 16-bed intensive care unit, a neonatal intensive care unit, a cardiac catheterization lab, and a dedicated Memorial Hermann Life Flight® helipad, with room to expand. Houston’s 12-county region has a projected five-year (2015-2020) population growth rate of 7.6 percent. The Cypress area alone has a projected population growth rate of more than 11 percent in the same time

New homebuyers receive free Grand Parkway tolls for one year plus builder incentives this spring.

period. Cypress also is home to the three largest growing zip codes (77433, 77377, and 77499) as well as the three largest populated zip codes (77429, 77095, and 77433). “As Cypress continues to grow so will Memorial Hermann,” added Barbe. The campus has the footprint to accommodate significant future growth, including two additional medical plazas and two additional patient bed towers, bringing the total bed count to more than 400 beds. The economic impact also will serve the local community, as the new Convenient Care Center brings with it 50+ job opportunities, both clinical and administrative. More than 250 additional job opportunities will become available when the hospital opens next year. Qualified candidates can learn more at memorialhermann.org/careers/. The Cypress Convenient Care Center joins sister facilities in Summer Creek, Sienna Plantation, Pearland and South Katy. For more information, call 832-658-3100 or visit memorialhermann.org/cypress-ccc.

‹Bridgeland and The Woodlands Offer New Tic Tag Toll Promotion

Bridgeland and The Woodlands have announced the launch of their latest springtime promotion –– Tic Tag Toll. Following the recent opening of the Grand Parkway segments that connect the two award-winning master planned communities, the Tic Tag Toll promotion urges new homeowners to take advantage of a toll tag on the Grand Parkway, bisecting Bridgeland and now connecting US 290 to The Woodlands. When homebuyers purchase a new home through April 30 in Bridgeland or The Woodlands, they can receive free tolls for one year or can choose a $2,000 gift card. Along with the toll promotion, select builders in both communities are offering incentives such as appliance packages, discounts on closing costs, Visa gift cards, up to $40,000 in free Design Center options and more. Participating builders in Bridgeland who are offering incentives include Beazer, Chesmar, Coventry, Darling, J. Kyle, Meritage, Perry, Ryland, Taylor Morrison and Westin Homes. In The Woodlands, builders who are offering incentives include Connor Davis, Coventry, Darling, David Weekley, Gracepoint, J. Kyle, J. Patrick, M/I Homes, Pulte, Ryland, Shea, Taylor Morrison, Trendmaker Homes, Toll Brothers and Village Builders. The Grand Parkway is now open for traffic between US 59 South and I-45 North and has been extended to 59 North. The newest segment between US 290 and I-45 substantially reduced commuting time between The Woodlands and Bridgeland and improved access to major employment centers. Both Bridgeland.com and TheWoodlands.com include information on the toll promotion. For homebuilder promotions, see builders for details. Some restrictions may apply. Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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Greg Rogers

‹Rogers Named Cypress Park Campus Athletic Coordinator, Coach Greg Rogers, assistant coach for the Cypress Falls High School football team, has been named the inaugural campus athletic coordinator and head football coach for Cypress Park High School. Cypress Park, CFISD’s 11th traditional high school, will open in August and begin competing in varsity athletics in the 2018-2019 school year. Rogers has coached and taught at Cypress Falls since 2005. He has served as offensive coordinator since 2009, specializing in receivers (20092011) and quarterbacks (2011-present). Rogers has also served as the head girls’ track and field coach since 2009. Prior to Cypress Falls, Rogers coached and taught at Pflugerville High School from 1999-2005. Rogers earned his Bachelor of Science in kinesiology and his Master of Education in mid-management from Stephen F. Austin State University, where he also played free safety and special teams for the Lumberjacks’ football team. “I am extremely blessed for this opportunity. I am honored and humbled by the responsibility to not only become a campus athletic coordinator and head football coach in this district, but to also start up a new school and new athletic program,” Rogers said. “I am looking forward to working alongside [Principal] Mr. [Chris] Hecker to create an atmosphere of excellence at Cypress Park. I can’t wait to get to work, start meeting the kids and developing our traditions. It is an exciting time!”

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(L-R): Zoe Miller, Kayleigh Buckley, Taylor Seibel and Araceli De Los Reyes won blue ribbons at the TAFE Teach Tomorrow Summit. Langham Creek High School sophomore Cristian Garay displays his President’s Volunteer Service Award with Principal David Hughes.

Cy-FaiR, CyPReSS RanCh STuDenTS Win aWaRDS aT TaFe ConFeRenCeStudents from Cy-Fair and Cypress Ranch High Schools brought home several state awards from the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) Teach Tomorrow Summit, held Jan. 30-Feb. 1 at the University of Houston. The 2016 summit, with the theme “Find the Treasure in Teaching,” was held over four days and included breakout sessions, national guest speakers, competitive events and testing. Cy-Fair sent 23 students to the competition who won 10 state placements. Some students earned multiple state awards in categories including Teacher Created Materials, Professional Portfolios, Project Visualize and the Education Learning and Fundamentals (ELF) exam. “All students in attendance gained valuable experience and represented CFISD very well,” said Sue Silhanek, Cy-Fair education and training department instructor. Cypress Ranch’s 13 students in attendance competed in nine events. Two students earned silver medals for their ELF tests, and Cypress Ranch was nominated as the Region 4 Vice President school. Student Zoe miller won a blue ribbon in Teacher Created Materials and araceli De Los Reyes, Taylor Seibel, Kayleigh Buckley and Sam Badeaux won blue ribbons for Chapter Scrapbook.

Black Elementary School students and staff display the banner honoring their $26,200 raised for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

BLaCK eS STuDenTS CommemoRaTe FunDRaiSinG miLeSTone WiTh BanneR - Black Elementary School students and staff celebrated a successful Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) fundraising campaign by hanging a banner in the school gymnasium recognizing more than $26,000 donated to the cause in 2015. The students generated $26,200 in donations from the school’s JDRF Walk to a Cure on April 24 to fund promising, life-changing Type 1 Diabetes research. Students presented the check to JDRF representatives on May 14, and capped the 2014-2015 school year with a May 22 celebration for multiple-year fundraising efforts. Students at Black Elementary have generated more than $80,000 in funds for the JDRF in five years of participation. Black Elementary’s 2016 JDRF activities will kick off with the JDRF Walk to a Cure on April 8.

LanGham CReeK STuDenT WinS PReSiDenT’S VoLunTeeR SeRViCe aWaRD - Langham Creek High School sophomore Cristian Garay has been honored for his exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program on behalf of President Barack obama. Langham Creek High School nominated Cristian for national honors this fall in recognition of his volunteer service. Garay has volunteered for many school and community organizations including the Houston Food Bank and the Houston Livestock and Rodeo. “When I give to the community, I feel a sense of accomplishment. In this relation, I’m not only giving to the community, I’m also giving to myself,” Garay said. Langham Creek Principal David Hughes credited Garay for always having a smile on his face. “Cristian is a fine young man. He naturally wants to help others and make other people feel good. Helping others brings him great satisfaction,” he said.

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The Langham Creek High School girls’ wrestling team placed third in the state at the UIL Class 6A Wrestling State Tournament.

Cypress Falls High School senior Allissa Maldonado celebrates after pinning her opponent to win the 102 division state championship.

Ijoma in the 165 division and a state championship from senior Allissa Maldonado in the 102 division. Maldonado, who placed third in the state as a junior, went undefeated in her senior season and pinned every opponent at state on the way to the title. “This is a pretty big deal,” Maldonado said. “My whole goal throughout the tournament was to just keep scoring and have my offense on. My plan wasn’t to pin them, but I took advantage of those situations when they came. [Being at the Berry Center] I felt like I had the ‘H’ on my back and I was represent-

ing Houston. I felt proud.” Cypress Falls Head Coach James Miller said he was proud of Maldonado and the entire girls’ team. “Allissa has put in the time and the hard work and she really deserves it,” he said. “We brought three girls to state and all three placed. They wrestled great. I couldn’t be more proud of them.” The following girls’ wrestlers placed among the top six in the state: Allissa Maldonado, Cypress Falls – first place, 102 pounds; Kristyn Granat, Langham Creek – second place, 185 pounds; Jennifer Landaverde, Jersey Village – third place, 138 pounds; Augustina Ijoma, Cypress Falls – third place, 165 pounds; Rachel Doolittle, Langham Creek – third place, 215 pounds; Alexa Garcia, Langham Creek – fourth place, 102 pounds; Kaitlyn Banas, Cypress Ranch – fifth place, 95 pounds; Kayla Concepción, Cypress Falls – fifth place, 119 pounds; Esthela Trevino, Cypress Ridge – sixth place, 95 pounds; and Cecilia Ramos, Cypress Ranch – sixth place, 110 pounds.

DIsTRICT wREsTLERs IMPREss In FIRsT sTATE TOuRnAMEnT AT BERRY CEnTER - Two girls’ wrestling teams placed among the top five and one wrestler clinched a state championship in the UIL Wrestling State Tournament, held for the first time at CFISD’s Berry Center, Feb. 19-20. The Langham Creek High School girls placed third overall with 69 points behind winner Cinco Ranch (87) and runner-up Amarillo Tascosa (71). The Lobos were led by senior Kristyn Granat’s second-place finish in the 185 division, senior Rachel Doolittle’s third-place finish in the 215 division and senior Alexa Garcia’s fourth-place finish in the 102 division. “Going into state, we weren’t even really focused on team scores,” said Jason Trahan, Langham Creek head wrestling coach. “We just wanted each girl to wrestle as best as they could. For the team score not to be the focus and to come out with a thirdplace finish in state, obviously that’s very special. Having two teams from this district in the top four in state shows that we definitely have one of best districts in the state.” The Cypress Falls High School girls placed fourth with 58 points. The Eagles had a fifth-place finish from junior Kayla Concepción in the 119 division, a thirdplace finish from sophomore Augustina

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

Members of the Young Ladies for Positive Action (YLPA) organization at Dean Middle School pose in front of bottled water donations at the Annual Leadership Conference.

YMPA/YLPA/HOLA LEADERs DOnATE wATER TO FLInT AT AnnuAL COnFEREnCE - Approximately 550 CFISD student members of the Young Men for Positive Action (YMPA), Young Ladies for Positive Action (YLPA) and Hispanic Organization for Leaders of America (HOLA) used their Annual Leadership Conference on Feb. 13 as an opportunity to give back. Amid a day of engaging educational sessions at the Berry Center, the session “#FlintMatters” was a collaborative community service project in which members of all three groups donated water bottles for residents in Flint, Mich. The city’s water supply has faced a lead contamination crisis that began in April 2014. The donated water filled a 17-foot truck and was delivered to the Houston Food Bank, which will transport the water to Flint. According to Houston Food Bank volunteer production lead Kimberli wright, the total donations amounted to 6,065 pounds of water.

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The Cy-Fair High School girls’ basketball team honors its head coach, Ann Roubique with flowers and a 600-win plaque.

very positive. She has high expectations but a kind heart that helps people reach those expectations. Her athletes work hard to please her. We’ve had great athletes but they come and go. Programs maintain consistency, and she’s been that consistent factor.”

aBC 13 anChoR, CFiSD GRaD GiVeS TiPS To STuDenT meDia memBeRS - ABC Channel 13 anchor and

DiSTRiCT ReCoGniZeS Cy-FaiR’S RouBique FoR 600 CaReeR ViCToRieS - Cy-Fair High School head girls’ basketball coach ann Roubique was honored for achieving the 600-career-win milestone prior to the Lady Bobcat’s District 17-6A matchup against Langham Creek High School on Jan. 29 at Cy-Fair High School. Roubique earned career victory No. 600 on Jan. 8 as the Lady Bobcats defeated Cypress Lakes High School, 64-44. She was recognized on Jan. 29 as CFISD director of athletics ed Warken and associate athletic director Sharon Farrah presented Roubique with a commemorative 600-win plaque. “I’ve been around many young ladies who have put their uniform on every single day and dedicated themselves to me, the school and the Bobcat program. It’s meant everything to me,” Roubique said after her team completed a 69-56 win over Langham Creek. “The coaching staff I’ve been surrounded by all these years has everything to do with it. This is one of those ‘we’ awards, those ‘us’ awards.” Roubique has clinched two state championships, made four state tournament appearances and 10 regional tournament appearances. She has led the Lady Bobcats to nine district championships and has been named Coach of the Year by both the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches and Texas Girls Coaches Association. Most recently Roubique and Cypress Woods Head Coach Virginia Flores were named Co-Coaches of the Year for District 17-6A. Roubique has coached 15 NCAA Division I

players and three future WNBA No. 1 draft picks. She was a two-sport standout in basketball and softball at McNeese State University, where she was inducted into the McNeese Athletics Hall of Fame in 2001. “She’s a legend,” said Cypress Woods High School girls’ basketball coach Virginia Flores, who served as Roubique’s assistant from 1999-2002. “She would never say that because she’s a humble person. The 600 wins are a testament to her tenacity and her spirit. She’s put Cy-Fair ISD on the map for girls’ basketball.” Roubique is also an effective leader off the court. She was named the Spotlight Teacher for Cy-Fair High School in 2012. “Out of 240 staff members we put her up on the pedestal and said this is how we want all our teachers to act and treat kids and honor the profession,” said michael Smith, Cy-Fair principal. “She works in our adaptive PE program with LIFE Skills students and is

reporter natasha Barrett, a 1996 graduate of Cypress Falls High School, returned to her alma mater on Jan. 20 to speak to student journalists from throughout the district during the high school press conference. Barrett reminisced on her teenage years while sharing experiences from her career as a journalist. Joking about racing the tardy bell each morning and explaining how her high school drill team prepared her for life, Barrett gave advice and insight to the aspiring journalists as they asked questions regarding her upbringing, schooling and everyday life as a successful reporter. Barrett, who stepped foot on campus for the first time since graduating 20 years ago, shared that she was an officer on the Sky Dancers drill team. She still views her first drill team instructor, retired Wilson Elementary School principal Pam Link, as one of the most influential people in her life. Barrett said the drill team taught her to be held to a standard of discipline, which then prepared for her career. “That really changed me moving forward,” she said. “You had to know what was going on at all times and to be responsible. Even though they weren’t journalism-based, even to this day I will tell a story and it comes back to that.” Contributed by Kamryn Kobal, Cypress Ranch HS.

Cypress Falls graduate Natasha Barrett of ABC 13 meets current Cypress Falls students during the high school press conference. Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

Karen Smith

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SWimmeRS ComPLeTe SeaSon aT STaTe ChamPionShiPS - CFISD swimmers captured one medal and several top-10 finishes at the UIL Swimming and Diving State Meet, held Feb. 19-20 at the Texas Swim Center in Austin. Cypress Woods High School’s 200 freestyle relay team of sophomore Faith Kitzman, freshman Sydney Stanford, senior Katelyn Klewitz and freshman mikayla Schnibben won CFISD’s lone medal with a third-place time of 1:37.58. “[Winning bronze] is very hard to do as the state meet is very fast,” said Chris Pease, Cypress Woods head coach. “Getting on the podium for us was great, not only for our program, but for CFISD. Adjusting our relays paid off for us.” The Wildcats’ 400 freestyle relay team of Faith Kitzman, Sydney Stanford, sophomore Claire Smith and mikayla Schnibben placed fourth with a time of 3:30.08, narrowly missing the podium by 0.42 seconds. The Cypress Woods girls placed ninth overall in the state with 93 points, one position better than 2015. It marked the Wildcats’ third top-10 finish in four years. Cypress Woods’ other state-qualifying girls finished as follows: Sydney Stanford – ninth place, 100 freestyle (52.09) and13th place, 200 freestyle (1:53.91); Claire Smith – 10th place, 100 butterfly (56.67) and 12th place, 100 backstroke (57.58); and isabelle Decker – 11th place, 1-meter diving (334.35). The Cypress Ranch High School girls’ swim team placed 13th overall at the state meet with 56 points. State-qualifying Mustang girls’ swimmers placed as fol-

| Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016

lows: madison Kinsey – eighth place, 100 butterfly (56.00); Beth mcneese – 12th place, 500 freestyle (5:06.18); 400 freestyle relay team (madison Kinsey, Lauren Wall, Beth mcneese and abigail Jones) – eighth place, 3:35.37; and 200 freestyle relay team (madison Kinsey, Beth mcneese, ivani Kamidoi and abigail Jones) – ninth place, 1:38.82. In the boys’ tournament, Cypress Ranch placed 10th overall with 66 points. The Mustang boys were led by their 400 freestyle relay team, which placed fifth with a time of 3:07.98. Team members are juniors John Sowell, Dylan neumann, Sean morey and Luke Bowman.

Cypress Woods High School’s girls’ 200 freestyle relay team of (L-R) Sydney Stanford, Faith Kitzman, Mikayla Schnibben and Katelyn Klewitz earned bronze medals at the UIL Swimming and Diving State Meet.

The Mustangs had two other top-10 finishes: 200 freestyle relay team (John Sowell, Dylan neumann, Sean morey and Luke Bowman) – sixth place, 1:26.24; and Sean morey – seventh place, 50 freestyle (21.08). The Cypress Creek High School boys placed 29th overall with 21 points. The Cougars had a 10th-place finish in the 100 backstroke from junior Zac hawes (59.06), an 11th-place finish in the 100 backstroke from junior Jared Wallace (51.64) and a 13th-place finish in the 200 medley relay from team members Jared Wallace, Zac hawes, Riley o’hara and Chase Gonzales (1:37.43). The Cypress Woods and Langham Creek boys tied for 39th place overall with 14 points apiece. Langham Creek’s 200 freestyle relay team of sophomores Brandon quinteros and Jacob Swain and seniors Connor Ferguson and Robert Jordan placed 10th overall with a time of 1:26.71. It was the team’s secondfastest time ever, and the Lobos’ first relay to make state in five years. Cypress Woods senior Danny Silva broke the school record in the 50 freestyle, finishing 12th with a time of 21.31. Junior Grant norgan placed ninth in the 500 freestyle with a time of 4:32.76.

Langham Creek High School won third place in the Armed Exhibition event at the CFISD Military Drill Competition, held Feb. 6 at the Berry Center.

aFJRoTC uniTS PLaCe aT miLiTaRy DRiLL ComPeTiTion - CFISD Air Force Junior ROTC units placed among the top three in several Open events at the CFISD Military Drill Competition, held Feb. 6 at the Berry Center. Langham Creek High School placed third overall out of more than 25 AFJROTC programs and 1,000 cadets from across the state, who were evaluated by military training instructors from Lackland Air Force Base’s 737th Training Group and CFISD staff.

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Ryan Simon

Cy RanCh JunioR WinS TexaS TheSPianS muSiCaLWoRKS ComPeTiTion - Cypress Ranch High School junior Ryan Simon has been named the winner of the 2016 Texas Thespians Musicalworks competition, which promotes original musical writing by high school students and is open to members of the International Thespian Society. The MusicalWorks honor is the second consecutive for Cypress Ranch, after graduate Cat Reynolds won in 2014-2015. “We are ‘over the moon’ happy and proud for Ryan,” said Cheryl Bradford, Cypress Ranch theatre director. “Ryan is a true treasure and turns out he also has a true gift for writing, performing and singing. We are so thrilled for him!” Ryan’s original musical “Chrysalis,” will be featured in a workshop by theatre professionals and the opening number will be showcased on the main stage at the International Thespian Festival, set for June 20-25 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Cypress Lakes High School junior Jesse Serpas.

CyPReSS LaKeS CeLLiST WinS SChoLaRShiP aT ConCeRTo ComPeTiTion - Cypress Lakes High School junior Jesse Serpas won a $1,500 scholarship on Jan. 23 after placing second in the string division of the Virtuosi of Houston

Young Artists Chamber Orchestra 17th Annual Immanuel and Helen B. Olshan Foundation Concerto Competition. After seeing his brother dominate the violin, Serpas decided that he wanted to do the same. When trying out instruments his first year of middle school, Serpas quickly realized that the violin was not for him and his orchestra teacher at that time, Kevin Pierce, led him toward the cello. “The first year was difficult because you have to learn everything from how to read notes to the parts of your instrument, as well as how to play it,” Serpas said. With constant practice it became easier for Serpas. No longer was he focused on whether he could or couldn’t perform well, but how he was going to perfect his performance. It was not long before his orchestra teacher, natalie Purdy, was contacted by Virtuosi of Houston, which was in need of cellists. Purdy then wrote a letter of recommendation for Serpas. “The members of the group are in the

same age range as me, and they have helped me with my growth as a person and a musician,” Serpas said. The Virtuosi is a group of young musicians who aspire to be better at performing intense chamber music. They meet twice a week at Memorial City Mall for rehearsals with their conductors, Franz anton Krager and andrzej Grabiec. “My hopes weren’t high going into the competition because every person that went before me had a pianist,” Serpas said. Serpas performed in his string division, playing Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor for the five judges. The top five performers in each category were rewarded for their performance. Serpas placed second in his division and third in the region. “This has given me a confidence boost because I now know that I can do any and everything I set my mind to, no matter who I’m up against,” he said. Contributed by Lauren axel, Cypress Lakes HS.

KPRC Channel 2 sports reporter Simone Eli presents Cypress Springs High School senior track and field athlete Samiyah Samuels with a Star Furniture Star Athlete of the Week award.

CyPReSS SPRinGS TRaCK STanDouT WinS STaR aThLeTe aWaRD Channel 2 sports reporter Simone eli visited Cypress Springs High School girls’ track and field practice on Jan. 28 to present senior long jumper and sprinter Samiyah Samuels with the KPRC Star Furniture Star Athlete of the Week award. Samuels won first place at two recent indoor track meets. Her jump of 19 feet, 9 ½ inches at the Texas A&M High School Indoor Classic on Jan. 8 was good for a gold medal. She then jumped 20 feet, ¼ inches at the Carl Lewis Invitational on Jan. 16 to break the prior meet record of 18 feet, 8 ¾ inches. The University of Houston track signee earned Athlete of the Meet at both meets. “I feel like all my hard work is paying off with rewards on and off the track,” Samuels said. “I’m really proud and really excited for my future.” Samuels won a gold medal in the long jump, as well as bronze medals in the 100-meter dash and 400-meter relay events at the 2015 UIL State Track and Field Championships, and is eyeing Olympic qualification and the national long jump record. Her head coach, Ruqayya Gibson, said the goals are within reach. “Samiyah is putting in the work, and the results can be hers if she wants them,” Gibson said. “She’s starting off this year so much further than where she started last year, so I’m expecting great things from her.” Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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perseverance, and a true artist’s eye for composition,” Quintavalle said. “Her reference for the drawing was a photo that really didn’t seem interesting enough to develop into a strong piece. Her drawing, however, brought the nest to life, capturing all of the beauty found in nature that is often overlooked. “As her teacher, I feel very fortunate to have her in my class. While I am amazed by Laura’s talent, I am more impressed by her character. She is an all-around fantastic student that deserves all the accolades.” For more information, visit rodeohouston.com/Events/SchoolArt.aspx.

Gonzalez’s artwork, “Nature’s Beauty.”

Thornton Middle School eighth-grade student Laura Gonzalez won the Junior High Division Champion Award in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Student Art Contest.

ThoRnTon mS STuDenT WinS ToP aWaRD in houSTon RoDeo aRT ConTeST - Thornton Middle School eighth-grade student Laura Gonzalez was named Junior High Division Champion at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) Student Art Contest on March 5. The contest began with more than 21,000 student-produced works of art from more

than 90 school districts in Texas. Judges select winners from each participating district and those winning artworks are brought to the rodeo to compete for top prizes. A total of 718 works received Best of Show, Gold Medals or Special Merit awards from the district shows competing for the top awards at the rodeo. Only two awards are given at the Junior High level –– Champion and Reserve Champion. “The competition at this level is daunting,” said Jennifer quintavalle, Thornton art teacher. “Winning the top award is very difficult because every piece in the competition has already been selected as a winner at the district level.” In addition to receiving the Champion award, Gonzalez was also selected as a recipient of a scholarship to attend a workshop offered by the Glassell Junior School of Art. Gonzalez’s artwork, titled “Nature’s Beauty,” featured a bird’s nest with eggs that she created using Prismacolor colored pencils. Her work incorporated a level of detail that captured every subtle color change, and shadows and highlights reflecting a range of depth and texture that emphasized the intricate pieces of the bird’s nest as well as the smoothness of the eggs. “Her finished product shows an extremely high skill level, determination, patience and

(L-R): Students Tyler, Margaret, and Zach show off the prizes they won from First Service Credit Union in Houston. Students with a Discovery Youth Account that receive good grades each semester are entered into a drawing.

FSCu aWaRDS PRiZeS To STuDenTS - First Service Credit Union of Houston awarded prizes to its youngest members who earned good grades the first semester of school. Members with a Discovery Youth Account with good grades are entered into a drawing each semester. Tyler, a second-grade student from Katy with an Adventure account, won a $100 Visa gift card. The Voyager account winner was margaret, a sixth-grade student from Cy-Fair, who won a bike and helmet. And Zach, a ninth-grade student with a Navigator account, won a GoPro and Fitbit. Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes | April 2016 |

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OR ICA L T S I H — BY FRED COLLINS —