The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes Oct 2015 by Lifestyles & Homes Magazines/Fort Bend Publishing

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OCTOBER 2015

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We are pleased to announce Dr. Rivela and his wife will be the honorees at the Masquerade Gala Friday, November 6th at 6 p.m. at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott for their support of Montgomery County Youth Services. Come and see The special pre-gala performance by The John Cooper School Aerial Dance Company in support of MCYSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crisis counseling and youth shelter programs. For ticket and sponsorship information please contact kelly.reffett@youthmc.org or 281-292-6471. Rivela Plastic Surgery donates 10% of the skin care profits to local charities.

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DIRECT-MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 39,000 PREMIER HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN THE WOODLANDS Reaches trade professionals (ASID and GHBA members), area realtors, business, doctors, trade events (home-related trade shows and community events) and The Woodlands Chamber of Commerce

facebook.com/WoodlandsLifestylesandHomesMagazine woodlandslifestylesandhomes.com 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 • Judy Latta Dr. Lori • Denman Moody • Tish Raymond Melanie Saxton • Cindy Ziervogel

Social Editor Missy Herndon

Photographers J. Pamela Photography, Inc.

Production Manager Michael Ogrodowicz

Graphic Designers Todd Anderson • Lettie Rudel

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

ADVERTISING INFORMATION woodlandslifestylesandhomes.com 281.240.2445 Ext. 128 REACH OUR FULL CIRCULATION: Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Houston Lifestyles & Homes Katy/Fulshear Lifestyles & Homes The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes SUBSCRIPTIONS: $18 per year woodlandslifestylesandhomes.com FORT BEND PUBLISHING GROUP 10707 Corporate Drive, Suite 170 • Stafford, TX 77477 Tel: 281.240.2445 ext. 128 E: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

281.955.2408 • 281.257.2500 5515 Louetta Rd, Ste. C • Spring, Texas 77379 www.attorneylyndabentley.com 18

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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Baker Fall Sale In-Stock and SpecIal orderS

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Contents OCTOBER 2015

{72}

Hill Country Style With a French Twist Couple works with construction and design experts in their circle of friends, resulting in an elegant and comfortable home. Interview by: Cheryl Alexander Photography by: Miro Dvorscak

{40}

Scene in The Woodlands Parties, galas and celebrations. See what The Woodlandsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; movers and shakers are doing!

{24}

The Woodlands Events! Mark your calendars for upcoming events and activities.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

{102}

Memorable Weddings Cody and Chloe share their special day.

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Contents OCTOBER 2015

In Store Now The Good Life

{44 DISCOVERIES} New and unique finds for your home and lifestyle. {46 BOOKS}

{102 MEMORABLE WEDDINGS} Couples share their special memories. {108 TRAVEL} Incredible destinations for you to experience. {110 WINE} Winning wines come in a great range of prices. {112 DINING GUIDE} A listing of The Woodlands area restaurants. {114 RECIPE} Party Perfect Carvings for Halloween.

New releases on decorating, cooking, health and more. {50 FASHION} What to wear now and a look at new styles for the upcoming season. {52 NEW AUTOS} Reviews of the GMC Canyon and Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Home Inspirations Inside &Out

More Features {54} Halloween and Fall Festivals Come to The Woodlands Cool and creepy fun abounds!

{82} INTERIOR DETAILS Furniture and Interior Design Trends

{90} HOME IMPROVEMENT Your Dream Outdoor Living Space

Eclectic, modern vibe in 2015.

Trends to transform your backyard.

{84}

{92}

INTERIOR DETAIL

HOME IMPROVEMENT

RESOURCES

{58} Human Rights Walk and Festival Pablo Flower will help promote annual event.

{60} Woodforest Charitable Foundation Donates $1 Million

Health & Well-Being

Funds help 31 organizations.

{96} Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

{62} 2015 Hometown Heroes

{98} Family Health Resources

A look at the possible concerns.

Contributions to community honored.

{117 BUSINESS BRIEFS} Keep up with the local business climate and its leaders. {124 AROUND TOWN} Community groups and people making local news. {125 CAMPUS} Achievements and activities of area schools and students.

Columns {70} ARTS & ANTIQUES BY DR. LORI

Because art matters.

PROMOTIONS

Play Dumpster or No Dumpster with back -to-school items.

{122} Artwork Draws Attention

{116} Professional Resources

{128} Historical George Bell Ma-

{68} Young Artists on the Fast Draw

Jesse Lane finds success in art world.

Community News

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

(Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law)

deley, the “King of Egypt.”

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BICYCLING IN THE WOODLANDS: SAFETY, HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT, OCT. 2

Fall Fine Arts Show at Market Street–The Woodlands, Oct. 3 Professional and amateur artists will display paintings, photography, metal-works, sculptures, pottery and more at Market Street’s popular outdoor Fall Fine Arts Show scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free and open to the public, the Fall Fine Arts Show at Market Street is one of the most popular gatherings for artists in The Woodlands where families can browse for great buys, enjoy live music and participate in artist demonstrations. Market Street is at 9595 Six Pines Drive. Visit marketstreet-thewoodlands.com for additional information.

On Thursday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at Montgomery County South Regional Library, 2101 Lake Robbins Dr., the public is invited to The Going Green program where cyclists can learn more and share experiences with cycling in order to add to a more sustainable community. The program, sponsored by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., will focus on the "whys" and "how to" of riding. Cycling is in the news in The Woodlands as well as many other cities due to its rapid growth as a way to get around the community, to get to work and for recreation. It helps with traffic, air pollution, human health and well-being. It adds to the community’s goals as a sustainable community. The Woodlands is officially a “Bicycle Friendly Community” as designated by the League of American Bicyclists. October in The Woodlands includes several community bicycling activities including le Tour de Woodlands, bike/walk to school month, bike safety classes, a bike to worship day, organized bike rides for all levels, a new bicycle master plan under way and more. This event is free and is not sponsored or endorsed by Montgomery County Memorial Library System. For more information, email info@thewoodlandsgreen.org.

WOAMTEC MEETING, FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAYS

TWHS Theater Presents Our Town, Oct. 8-10; 15-17 The Woodlands High School Theater Department proudly presents Our Town in The Woodlands High School Black Box on Oct. 8-10 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 15-17 at 7 p.m., with matinee shows on Oct. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the door. Our Town is a play about the residents of Grover's Corner, New Hampshire and their personal afflictions in daily life, love, and death. For the first time ever the students will be performing in The Woodlands High School Black Box. This style of theater is great for audiences because it is an immersive experience with the actors. Because this show will be presented in a minimalist style, it will rely upon the actors to bring it to life, catching the attention of their audience and engulfing their hearts. For more information, visit twhstheater.com.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Women on a Mission to Earn Commission (WOAMTEC), a networking organization geared towards businesswomen, meet at Amerigo’s Grille in The Woodlands from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. every first and third Wednesday. The cost for lunch is $20, all inclusive. All local business professionals are invited to attend. WOAMTEC was created in 2007 to provide a supportive environment for women who are committed to faith, family and career. Visit woamtec.com or call 866-757-2611 for information.

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food products from Go Texans vendors and more. General admission to the festival is free on Saturday and Sunday and provides access to viewing original art and the Go Texan vendors. Wine tasting tickets are $30 and include one commemorative wine glass and seven tastings; additional wine tasting tickets are available for $1 each. Tickets are available at winefesttexas.com. Parking costs $7 per car, of which a portion will benefit the Knights of Columbus. The festival is sponsored by Puffabellys Old Depot Restaurant in Historic Old Town Spring and Saint Arnold Brewing Company.

SIXTH ANNUAL CASA SUPERHERO RUN, OCT. 3

Klein Oak High School student Thomas Wenglinski will perform in a jazz concert to raise donations for the Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries.

Eagle Scout Project Jazz Concert to Benefit T.E.A.M., Oct. 10 To complete his Eagle Scout project, Klein Oak High School senior Thomas Wenglinski is using music to benefit the Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries (T.E.A.M.). A jazz concert, performed by students from the Klein and Spring school districts, will be held at the Tomball United Methodist Church located at 1603 Baker Drive, on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 7-9 p.m. The price of concert admission is a perperson donation of new items for teens in the 13-16-age range, including gift cards (WalMart, Ross, Academy, Marshall’s), school supply sets, watches, wallets, makeup sets and advanced Lego sets. T.E.A.M. is a nonprofit organization serving clients in the Tomball area with a food pantry, clothing distribution facility and counseling services. T.E.A.M. assists over 12,000 people each year. In addition to the targeted donations for concert admission, T.E.A.M accepts new or gently used clothing, furniture and household items, as well as monetary donations. T.E.A.M. is located at 300 West Main, Tomball. Donations can be mailed or dropped off and should reference the Thomas Wenglinski Eagle project. Visit facebook.com/jazzforTEAM or teamtomball.com for more information.

AUTUMN ART & TEXAS WINE FESTIVAL IN OLD TOWN SPRING, OCT 3-4 The 2015 Autumn Art & Texas Wine & Festival returns to Historic Old Town Spring featuring two days of Texas-based wineries showcasing local white, red and sweet wines and southern-style blends along with craft beers, regional hand-crafted art, photography, crafts, fashion and more. The event takes place on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m and Sunday, Oct. 4 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Entrance to Old Town Spring, 427 Gentry. Texas is home to some of the best wines, each with their own distinctive personality and style of wine-making, offering wine enthusiasts the chance to savor the many flavors of Texas. This weekend will feature more than 10 local and regional wineries showcasing a variety of award-winning Texas wines. Participating vineyards include Griffin Meadery, Landon Winery, Clear Creek Vineyard, Pleasant Hill Winery, Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards, Perrine Winery, Bernhardt Winery, Red Road Vineyard, Dionisio Winery, Texas South Wind Vineyard & Winery and more. The event is open to all ages and is a familyfriendly event; rain or shine. In addition to wine-tasting opportunities, patrons can sample craft beer selections from Saint Arnold Brewing Company, as well as enjoy live entertainment, a variety of local and regional original art work and exhibitions, local

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County is hosting the sixth annual CASA Superhero Run through W.G. Jones State Forest on Saturday, Oct. 3. This year's event will be held on The Woodlands Christian Academy's campus and features 10K and 5K trail runs, as well as a 1K Kids’ Fun Run. The event offers complimentary food and drinks for all participants, awards for top runners in each event, finisher medals for all participants, and most importantly, lots of Superhero-themed fun for a good cause. Montgomery County native and NBC Nightly News correspondent, Jacob Rascon, will serve as the event's MC. All proceeds from the CASA Superhero Run benefit CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County and support its mission of providing an advocate for every abused child in need. Visit CASASpeaks4Kids.com, email CASARun@CASASpeaks4Kids.com or call 936-441-5437 for more information.

CONROE ISD TO HOST YOUTH ACTIVITY FAIR, OCT. 3 Conroe ISD is sponsoring a Youth Activity Fair to offer "one-stop" shopping for families and community members to learn about and/or sign up for community activities designed for students from grades K-12 — including sports teams, recreational activities, social and service clubs and activities related to the fine arts of dancing, music, art and drama. The Fair will be held at Irons Junior High School on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. - noon. Up-to-date information regarding participating organizations is posted on the CISD website (conroeisd.net) under the Youth Activity Fair link under Newest Updates. Parents and their children are encouraged to attend.

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BRADEN BAILESS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT, OCT. 5 The 10th Annual Braden Bailess Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Monday, Oct. 5 at The Woodlands Country Club Palmer Course. Registration and lunch begins at 11 a.m., opening ceremonies at noon followed by a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start. Dinner with cash bar, awards and live/silent auctions will immediately follow tournament play. The event highlight will be the awarding of two mortgage-free homes to two combatwounded heroes and their families. Special guests will include Major Ed Pulido, author of Warrior For Freedom, and local veterans. Team foursome entry is $700, individual player is $200 and veterans play for $125. Event dinner tickets are available for $50. This event benefits the Military Warriors Support Foundation and Birdies For The Brave.

The Braden Bailess Memorial Golf Tournament began in 2006 as a way to honor the life of USMC PFC Braden Bailess, son of Doug and Claudia Bailess, who tragically died in an automobile accident in 2002. For further details or to register, contact Lisa Davidson at 832-259-2394 or visit bailess.org.

MOPS FALL MARKETPLACE, OCT. 24, AND MEETINGS, OCT. 5 AND 9 On Oct. 24 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., the nonprofit group MOPS invites the public to enjoy its MOPS Fall Marketplace to be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 5201 Spring Cypress Road in Spring. The market will offer a variety of booths with crafts, gift items, yard sale deals, baked goods and much more. Proceeds help fund MOPS, a ministry outreach to moms with preschoolaged children. Call or email Leah Gaide at 832-593-589 or leah@gaide.net with any questions. Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring has openings in the MOPS Group, a moms group that meets twice a month on Monday mornings to

share in a hot meal, encourage friendships, listen to speakers and even complete a craft. Child care is provided and registration is open. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Oct. 5 and Oct. 9. Interested moms are asked to email the group prior to attending the meetings at MOPS@trinityklein.org.

MARKET STREET WELCOMES NEW DANVILLE STORE ON OCT. 1 The debut of the New Danville Store at Market Street makes it convenient to shop for a good cause. The New Danville Store opens Thursday, Oct. 1, offering products beautifully packaged by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Handcrafted gifts for the home and garden will be showcased. New Danville is a nonprofit, self-sustaining master-planned integrated community in Willis where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live, learn, work and grow emotionally, socially, and spiritually with their non-disabled peers. For more information, visit newdanville.org.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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2015 WISE CONFERENCE, OCT. 16 The WISE (Women Inspiring, Supporting, Empowering) 2015 WISE Conference will be held on Friday, Oct. 16, from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott and Convention Center. The event is a one-day women's conference focused on personal, professional and community growth. It will include networking, breakout sessions, a sit-down luncheon and international motivational speakers. Sponsorships of the event are also still available. Conference sponsors include Donna Wick Public Relations – Presenting Sponsor; Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands – VIP Party Sponsor; The Seiler Law Firm – WISE Luncheon Sponsor; Joseph M. Perlman – Attendee Bag Sponsor; The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes and MD Anderson Cancer Center – WISE Sponsors; and Woodforest National Bank – Mentor Sponsor. Additionally, this year the conference will feature a local business expo to support and grow local business, as well as an exciting new electronic expo game with lots of prizes given for visiting the vendors. The expo is free to the general public. This year’s theme is Growing With Gratitude. The conference will feature keynote speaker Cynthia Kersey of the Unstoppable Foundation, and international leadership expert Dr. John Demartini. There will also be breakout speakers covering content-rich topics ranging from health and wellness to growing your business with social media. The Woodlands Waterway Marriott and Convention Center is located at 1601 Lake Robbins Drive. Ticket prices for the conference are $99 per person or $900 for a table of 10. For more information on ticket pricing and available sponsorships, visit thewiseconference.com or contact Glenda Minshew at 315-430-8749.

TOM COX SCHOOL HOSTS ZOMBIE ELECTRIC 3K RUN/WALK, OCT. 16 Join your friends, family, and community in the school’s First Annual Zombie Electric 3K Run/Walk on Friday, Oct. 16 from 7-8:30 p.m. There will be glow-in-the-dark necklaces/ bracelets, face painting, music, and prizes. Electric markers will be on the path and there will be water stops. Wear comfortable clothing, costumes, or anything that glows! Registration is $10 per family (students/parents/community members). The Tom Cox Intermediate School is located at 3333 Waterbend Cove, Spring. For more information, visit the website, cox.conroeisd.net.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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We can help you retain as much of your assets as the law allows.

(L-R): Michael Hayles – Coat of Many Colors Minstries (executive director); Billy Ray Duncan – Montgomery Historical Society (board member); Allison Hewlett – Meals on Wheels (executive director); Wayne Keller-Caiden’s Hope (executive director); and Larry Daspit – Fernland Historical Park (board member).

TEXIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL, OCT. 17

Wright Abshire, Attorneys has dedicated its practice to helping families finance long-term care for their loved ones without losing their life savings. Additionally, the firm coordinates governmental benefits, administers guardianships, prepares wills, trusts and advance directives, probates wills and administers estates.

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FAYETTE COUNTY OFFICE

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By Appointment Only – Saturday Appointments Available

Wesley E. Wright and Molly Dear Abshire are Certified as Elder Law Attorneys by the National Elder Law Foundation and Accredited Attorneys by the Veterans Administration. They are both Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Five Montgomery County nonprofit organizations were recently selected as beneficiaries of the 2015 Texian Heritage Festival to be held Saturday, Oct. 17, 10am-5pm. In 2014, $14,000 was given to three charitable organizations serving Montgomery County. This year, five nonprofit organizations will each receive 20 percent of the proceeds, including Caiden’s Hope Foundation; Coat of Many Colors Ministries, Inc.; Meals on Wheels Montgomery County; Fernland Historical Park; and Montgomery Historical Society. The festival is a family fun, outdoor event that depicts the era of the 1800s with shoot-outs, cannons, reenactments, Chikawa dancers and much more. Old-fashioned children’s activities, depiction of lifestyles typical of early Texas, demonstrations of pioneer crafts, pioneer/frontier musical entertainers and other events show guests what it was like for the Texians in the 1830-40s. Various dedicated groups of historic reenactors, including Daughters & Sons of the Republic of Texas, the Sons of the Confederate Veterans, the Texas Army and Texas Navy set up an encampment and perform military skirmishes and an equestrian riding demonstration, Visitors also enjoy the wares of craft and food vendors. Sponsor, vendor and volunteer opportunities and more information can be found at TexianHeritage.org.

2015 LE TOUR DE WOODLANDS, OCT. 17 Online registration is now open for the fourth annual Le Tour de Woodlands cycling event presented by Repsol USA and hosted by Interfaith of The Woodlands. More than 500 cyclists are expected to participate in the ride and space is limited. The cycling event, slated for Saturday, Oct. 17, will feature both a long course and short course to provide cycling opportunities for individuals and families. The bike ride will begin at 7 a.m. at The Woodlands Township. Participants may register online until Oct. 14, after which registration will only be available the morning of the event. For more information, contact Aimee Newsom at 832-615-8221 or anewsom@woodlandsinterfaith.org. To register for the bike ride, visit wdlndsif.ejoinme.org/?tabid=697496.

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TRY TO LEAVE YOUR MARK

SIRE riders improve their balance, communication, social skills, coordination and confidence.

SADDLE UP FOR SIRE RIDE-A-THON, OCT. 17 SIRE's special needs riders bond with community trail riders from all over the region through the experience of a traditional Texas trail ride. The Saddle Up for SIRE Ride-a-thon has been SIRE Therapeutic Horsemanship's premier fall fundraiser for 22 years. The Ride-a-thon is held at 7iL Ranch, Cat Spring, Texas on Oct. 17 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 7iL Ranch and Trails, 5389 Mill Creek Rd, Cat Spring. Bring your own horse to ride or simply come out and enjoy the music, family activities and barbecue. This special event provides funding for the nearly 300 special needs clients who ride with SIRE on a weekly basis as well as military veterans and their families who attend SIRE's family days. Many of the collaborating partners benefiting from the funds raised at Saddle Up for SIRE include: Avondale House, Houston ISD, the Wounded Warrior Project and the Richmond State Supported Living Center. The mission of SIRE is to improve the quality of life for people with special needs through therapeutic horsemanship activities, therapies and educational outreach. SIRE is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) International premier accredited center serving nearly 300 weekly riders at three sites in the greater Houston area: Hockley, Richmond, and Spring. SIRE is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Visit SIREHouston.org for information regarding enrollment, volunteering and donations.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

COOKBOOK CLASSES AT WILLIAMS-SONOMA, WOODLANDS MALL For those who love cookbooks and enjoy new recipes, the Cookbook Club classes at Williams-Sonoma at The Woodlands Mall are showcasing recipes from the latest cookbooks on the market. On Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. attendees at the October Cookbook Club class will learn recipes from Food Network Celebrity Chef Bobby Flay’s newest book, Brunch at Bobby’s. Each Cookbook Club class features cooking tips, techniques and recipes from one of the favorite new cookbooks of the year. Cost is $75 per person and the 1.5 to two-hour class includes a three-course tasting menu from the book’s recipes, a copy of the cookbook and a 10% discount on purchases made after the class. Reservations are required; call 281-298-6915 or stop by the Williams-Sonoma store located outside in The Courtyard.

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COOPER PRESENTATION TO ADDRESS PEER PRESSURE, OCT. 21 The John Cooper School is sponsoring informative and relevant presentations on topics relating to parenting adolescents and teenagers today. The public is invited to attend "The Courage to Have Difficult Conversations" on Oct. 21. The presentation will begin at 7 p.m. in the school's Performing Arts Center. A representative from Teen and Family Services-Woodlands campus will present the workshop that focuses on how to help students find the courage to question peer pressure and make smart decisions. Information about current alcohol and drug trends in The Woodlands area will be presented, and parents will be given ideas to encourage students to avoid being in an uncomfortable situation. The John Cooper School is an independent, college preparatory school for students in grades PK-12. The school is located at One John Cooper Drive. For more information go to johncooper.org.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

FOURTH ANNUAL WOODLANDS JDRF ONE WALK, NOV. 7 The public is invited to participate in the fourth annual JDRF One Walk on Saturday, Nov. 7 at The Woodlands United Methodist Church, 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive. Check-in is at 7:30 a.m., and the event begins at 9 a.m. The length of the walk is 5K. JDRF One Walk has a single goal: creating a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D). Help JDRF continue to fund life-changing research for the millions of children, adults and families affected by T1D by joining in the walk. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which a person's pancreas loses the ability to produce insulin – a hormone essential to turning food into energy. It strikes both children and adults suddenly and is unrelated to diet and lifestyle. It requires constant carbohydrate counting, blood-glucose testing and lifelong dependence on injected insulin. With T1D, there are no days off, and there is no cure. That's why JDRF holds more than 200 walks across the country every year to raise money for JDRF – the only global organization with a strategic research plan to end T1D. For more information, call Clara Utley at 713-334-4400. To register or donate, search on “JDRF The Woodlands.”

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Acme Brick Is Your Source for Quality Outdoor Living Products.

You know that fire pits, fireplaces and kitchens are among homeowners most sought-after features for outdoor spaces. You know the right outdoor amenities can help you enjoy your home to the fullest. But do you know just how well your local Acme Brick showroom can fulfill your outdoor product needs? From top-quality outdoor kitchen grill units and full kitchens to stand alone systems, Acme is your source. And, for beautiful custom outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and accessories count on Acme to have the products you need. We are your convenient, single source for a full range of quality outdoor products in many price ranges. The expertise of our sales professionals is a bonus. We sell the products that help you complete your home. Please visit your local showroom soon and see for yourself just how great an outdoor resource Acme Brick can be. For more information about Acme Brick Tile & Stone please visit www.brick.com or call 1-713-681-4651.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

JUNIOR LEAGUE HOLIDAY MARKET, NOV. 20-22 The Junior League of The Woodlands, Inc. (JLTW, Inc.) will present the 13th annual Junior League Holiday Market on Nov. 20-22 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center in The Woodlands Town Center. The Market will feature over 100 unique merchants from across the country that will be selling specialty holiday items, home accessories, clothing, gourmet foods, jewelry and much more. Ticket prices are $15 for a one-day admission ticket. Holiday Market hours are Friday, Nov. 20 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Holiday Market will kick-off with a “Merry Christmas Y’all” Preview Party on Thursday, Nov. 19 from 7:30-10:30 p.m. The preview is a shopping event that will feature a live band and silent auction. Tickets are $90 per person and include a one-day admission ticket to the Holiday Market. The Holiday Market will feature photos with Santa on Saturday and Sunday that will be open to the public with no ticket purchase necessary. Photos are $10 per printed picture. Proceeds from the Junior League Holiday Market help JLTW, Inc. support the organization’s mission and the immediate community through its dynamic training and community programs. For more information, visit JLHolidayMarket.org.

2015 MONTGOMERY COUNTY HEART WALK, NOV. 7 The American Heart Association (AHA) welcomes the public to the 2015 Montgomery County Heart Walk on Saturday, Nov. 7 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Aon-The Woodlands. The annual event, chaired by Chris Payne, executive vice president of outsourcing for Aon–The Woodlands, and Jeff Gordon, the vice president of Kiewit Energy Group, is expected to raise over $410,000 for the research and education needed to fight cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Participants can either run or walk the 5K course located on the Aon–The Woodlands campus, 9500 Lakeside Blvd. Following the walk, festivities for the entire family will take place in the parking lot of the campus. Learn nutritional ways to stay healthy; head over to the Kids’ Zone to hula hoop and get your face painted; commemorate the Walk with team and family photos; and hear inspiring stories of survivors. This year, the walk will welcome a new challenge made just for kids. “We are so excited to include the Kids Heart Health Challenge during the Heart Walk. We know that healthy habits start young, and we are excited to bring a family-fun obstacle course for kids to enjoy,” Payne said. The Kid’s Heart Health Challenge is a fun, 5K obstacle course for kids ages 7 through 12. The challenge will feature fun physical challenges for the kids, and an opportunity to learn important ways to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. The event is free and open to the public. To participate, register at montgomerycountyheartwalk.org. There is no registration fee, but donations are appreciated.

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Elegant Consignment, New Home Furnishing and Accessories, & Fine Antiques

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Anita Joyce will be signing her book

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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20680 Westheimer Pkwy. #150 — 281.647.0777

Scene in

The Woodlands by Missy Herndon FOR GALAS, PARTIES, LUNCHEONS Email: missyherndon@yahoo.com

FOR SCHOOL & STUDENT NEWS AND OTHER HAPPENINGS: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

Montgomery County Women’s Center Awards Scholarships

Dear Readers,

Each October, our social calendars are packed with some of the most anticipated events of the year! I am looking forward to one of the most exciting evenings in The Woodlands — The Celebration of Excellence Gala honoring our Hometown Heroes. What an amazing event honoring individuals and corporations in our community who go above and beyond to give back and make a difference to so many of our neighbors. It is fitting that the event benefits Interfaith of The Woodlands, an organization created by Mr. George Mitchell, who has a mission of “building a more loving and caring community.” Themed a “Fire and Ice Ball,” Honorary Chairs Mr. and Mrs. Paul Layne and event co-chairs Elvira Cauthen, Amy Young and DeAnn Guidry have a beautiful and inspirational evening planned. Speaking of inspirational, The In The Pink Luncheon is hosting another SOLDOUT crowd on October 9 featuring guest speaker Joan Lunden. An amazing event for a wonderful cause! Hope to see you out and about this month, so you too can be Scene in The Woodlands!

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Jimmy Choo comes to The Woodlands 3

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Montgomery County Women’s Center Awards Scholarships The Montgomery Women’s County Center recently held its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony during which 18 higher education scholarships were awarded to their clients. Lone Star College-Montgomery graciously provided the venue, catering and decorations. Each woman gave a moving and often emotional testimonial about their journey and expressed their gratitude for the scholarship as well as the counselors, volunteers and staff from the Women’s Center who helped them take the steps toward re-building their life. 1) (L-R) Marion Fischer, MCWC cochair of the Education and Scholarship Committee and MCWC Board Chair and scholarship donor; scholarship recipient Joanne Tinnin; and Sarah Raleigh, MCWCpresident and CEO. 2) Judge Craig Doyal with scholarship recipient Lindsey Weinzettle. 3) Scholarship recipient Srilatha Vangavolu (center) with her son Srimahesh Vangavolu (left) and Judge Craig Doyal 4) (L-R) Judge Craig Doyal with his wife, Amy Doyal, and MCWC Board Vice-Chair and scholarship donor Tom Cox. 5) (L-R) Dana Garcia, MCWC community relations manager, with Marion Fischer and Sarah Raleigh

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0680 Westheimer Pkwy. #150 — 281.647.0777

Jimmy Choo comes to The Woodlands 4

Superheroes at The Woodlands Children’s Museum

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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Jimmy Choo Comes to The Woodlands Jimmy Choo brought their exquisite line of shoes and purses to a local residence for a “Shopping Party” benefitting the Celebration of Excellence Gala for Interfaith of The Woodlands. Ladies of the committee and Interfaith supporters enjoyed bites from Lawrence and LeBlanc catering while raising money for the many programs and services of Interfaith of The Woodlands. 1) (L-R) DeAnn Guidry, Elvira Cauthen and Amy Young, co-chairs of the Celebration of Excellence Gala 2) (L-R) Laura Ludtke, Janine Jones and Haley Garcia 3) Jimmy Choo shoes displayed at the event. 4) Brandi Melton, Karen Falterman, Debbie Newtell and Tammy Schroder 5) Kathy Rifaat, Aimee Newsom and Velta Worley

Superheroes at The Woodlands Children’s Museum Superheroes recently gathered for a celebration of caped crusaders at The Woodlands Children's Museum. Young guests came dressed as their favorite protector of justice and enjoyed a day of creative play at the museum. The event was sponsored by Texas Children's Urgent Care, superheroes for children’s health and wellness.l

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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RESTAURANT NEON SIGN C1040s Bonjour! Salvaged from a restaurant in Oakland, CA, this incredible, two-toned neon sign features a fantastically fun and mischievous-looking chef, complete with hat and mustache. In addition to the original paint and construction, this sign even boasts its original neon tubing, which shows its 70 years in the character and inconsistency of its glow – a good thing to any lover of authenticity. rejuvenation.com

MULTI HAZARD BARGELLO THROW PILLOW Colorful Bargello throw pillows are 100 percent wool and hand embroidered using long stitches to form elaborate geometric patterns. Velvet-backed pillow cover has hidden zipper and feather/down insert. jonathanadler.com

COURTLY STRIPE GOURD It only makes sense that the MacKenzie-Childs pumpkin patch would produce black and white pumpkins and squash! These autumn accents are beautiful additions to your table and home. Get out your cozy sweaters, warm the apple cider, and add a Large Courtly Stripe Gourd to your fall vignette. mackenzie-childs.com

FRIENDLY PHEASANTS These colorful Friendly Pheasants add a festival feel to this season. This fuzzy duo features a colorful, detailed felt physique with a real feathered tail. Bendable wire feet allow you to perch these festive pheasants on a console, mantel, or tabletop. wisteria.com

FIERCE SKELETON DOGS SCENE Guard your haunted house with the two ferocious-looking fidos of this Fierce Skeleton Dog Scene Kit. These wickedly detailed dogs are simply begging to stay at your house. Nothing says “beware of frightful fun” quite like their crocodile-style teeth, spiked ears, and long snouts. Each dog is posable. grandinroad.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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UPCOMING PREVIEWS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

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Gift Guide Ask about FREE ADVERTORIAL OFFER with Ad Purchase For Advertising Information, contact your sales representative or call 281.240.2445 ext. 128 www.woodlandslifestylesandhomes.com

REPURPOSING CARDBOARD

PLANT, PICK AND PRESERVE CHILIS

Though paper and cardboard seem common and humble materials, in The Art of Cardboard readers will discover totally unexpected, beautiful and intricate art that can be created using this repurposed and up-cycled resource. Find jaw-dropping cardboard creations from around the world, as well as the process of each art form and tricks of the trade from small clever projects to huge art installations. Lori Zimmer guides readers through amazing art productions – this is much more than a book about “neat” cardboard designs.

From “Hungarian Hot Wax” to “Red Savina” and from “Scotch Bonnet” to “Elephant’s Trunk,” chilis come in dozens of shapes, colors and degrees of spiciness. Red Hot Chili Grower provides everything you need to grow your own chilis from scratch, with step-by-step instructions for sowing seeds, caring for the plants, harvesting the fruit and troubleshooting common problems. Award-winning gardening writer Kay Maguire guides readers through different types of chilis, explaining origin, appearance, heat level, sowing, growing, cooking and eating.

UPCOMING PREVIEWS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

DINING ON A FOOD STAMP BUDGET

RUGS FROM RAGS

When Leanne Brown moved to New York to earn a master’s degree in food studies, she learned that 46 million Americans have to survive on only $4 a day, the amount provided through SNAP (the U.S. government’s food stamps program). Millions of others, too, live under similar constraints – from students, to grads entering the job market, to young families and retirees. To determine how well one can actually eat on this budget, she took to her kitchen. The result was Good and Cheap, her book of recipes that demonstrates why kitchen skill, not budget, is the key to great food. It’s a resource for those who want to learn, or anyone in need of stretching a tight budget.

Knitting Fabric Rugs introduces an innovative technique for creating stunning designs using large knitting needles and recycled fabrics, such as T-shirts and other garments. Author Karen Tiede came to this art form through her background as a knitter, but was inspired by handwoven rag rugs and bags made from thrift shop clothes. Tiede created her own method of using recycled fabrics that utilized her love of knitting. This book features directions for making 25 rugs, including how-tos for color blending, spiral patterns, freeform designs and more.

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Fine Leather Furniture for Living Rooms, Family Rooms and Home Theatre townandcountryleather.com

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Style }file

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

Lulu Frost NecklaceOrtiga Mosaic Statement necklace is antiqued and has shiny golden brass, Swarovski crystals and mosaic stations with amazonite, jade, and pyrite tiles. neimanmarcus.com

Fendi- Thierry Lasry oval sunglasses with wide square acetate frames. fendi.com

Valentino- Valentino Garavani chain shoulder bag in black and light ivory striped nappa. valentino.com

Dolce & Gabbana Skirt- Printed silksatin midi skirt is from the Fall ‘15 runway collection.The print is based on drawings by the designers’ nieces and nephews. Missoni- Long dress with plunging neckline in front and back, in Missoni exclusive lamé wave fabric. missoni.com

net-a-porter.com

Burakuyan-Bold geometric shapes are taken into a third dimension through contrasted materials. burakuyan.com

Oscar de la Renta- Striking Painted Rosebud fil Coupe gown has full skirt with intricate rosebud appliques. oscardelarenta.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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

The Accident Over forty years ago, aerospace physicist Dr. Max Huber suffered a terrible accident when a routine experiment exploded in his face, resulting in severe chemical burns. Neither science nor medicine could offer sufficient promise of help, so Huber decided to help himself. Twelve years and some 6,000 experiments later — Crème de la Mer was born.

The Formula At the heart of Crème de la Mer is a nutrient-rich, highly potent Miracle Broth™. There is nothing unusual about its ingredients — a blend of sea kelp, vitamins and minerals. It's the way Huber distilled them that made the difference between a good moisturizer and a small miracle, borrowing from the ancient science of fermentation. This intensive, 3 to 4 month process released vital energies, transforming the ingredients into a whole far greater than the sum of its parts.

The Miracle There are those who insist Crème de la Mer has produced astonishing results. Some might even call it miraculous. In a short time, skin becomes softer, firmer, looks virtually creaseless. Even the driest of complexions are healed.

The Secret Crème de la Mer's Miracle Broth™ is suspended within its extraordinary formula. To activate the broth and release its key ingredients, warm a small amount between your fingertips. As you pat onto clean, dry skin, you will instantly feel the soothing effects of the broth. Smooth over your face, neck, even under the fragile eye area. Apply day and night — for a lifetime. neimanmarcus.com The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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SHOP SMALL

Style }file

SHOP SMALL BUSINESS DAY

Paul Smith Coat-Women’s Beige Herringbone-Wool Coat has shearling collar. lyst.com

Saturday, Nov.28 ONE

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

Stella McCartney Camel CoatOversized Camel Renee Coat in caramel and chestnut tones. stellamccartney.com

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Dolce & Gabbana Wood Bag- Textured leather-trimmed wood shoulder bag references Sicily’s Spanish heritage. net-a-porter.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Balenciaga Coat– Wool-blend coat is detailed with the label’s spray painteffect stripes in pink. net-a-porter.com

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

COOBIE Fights For Breast Cancer Awareness COOBIE SEAMLESS BRA, the widely popular bra line designed as a 'One-Size-Fits-All' comfort garment for women sized 32A to 36D, joins the struggle against breast cancer by promoting awareness and education to finding a cure. For the entire month of October, 10 percent of sales from all "pink" bras on the site will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, whose mission is to save lives by increasing awareness through education and providing mammograms for those in need. Coobie is also ideal for women who are recovering from reconstructive breast augmentation. During the sensitive post-operative healing process, you need a bra that molds to your body that won't pinch or bind. Because it is a one-size-fits-all garment, it gently hugs the body giving snug support without constriction during this delicate period. Comfortable, stylish, supportive and inexpensive, Coobie Seamless Bra is the most versatile cami/bra as it blends the right fusion of style and function to give you support that is natural and flattering. It also has the flexibility to work in tandem with any wardrobe from day to night, when traveling, during your daily fitness routines, yoga or just simply lounging around the house. Each style has the capability to seamlessly work with anything from elaborate tops and dresses to casual tanks, side-out tops and T's. With accessible price points, on-trend colors, all on top of its comfortable integrated support design–the label brings a definitive sense of the timeless and the timely value for the consumer dollar. Coobie Seamless Bra is available from $18 to $24 at shopcoobie.com and at specialty boutiques nationwide.

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www.cheneinteriors.com 281-364-1744 • 281-660-0703 The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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GMC Canyon and Land Rover Discovery Sport

GMC Canyon | STarTING prIcE: $21,000

uying a small pickup truck these days is a lot like walking into your favorite movie theater and ordering a small soda. “Small” doesn’t exist and you’re going to pay more for it than you would like. On the upside, 10 or 12 extra ounces of carbonated goodness is always a plus. Realistically speaking, small pickups are actually mid-size pickups, and deliver more carbonated goodness than compact trucks of the past ever did. Case in point: the new 2015 GMC Canyon. The Canyon is the flashier cousin to the Chevy Colorado. Its beefy design reflects power and confidence, not unlike the Colorado, but features more chrome and upscale touches. Ingress does require step-

ping up and in, and that’s where running boards come in handy. The 16-inch aluminum wheels come standard, while the SLT trim gets outfitted with 18-inch polished aluminum wheels. A number of configurations are available, making it easy to customize the Canyon to your needs. Extended cab or crew cab with either the short or long bed options allow customers to get exactly what they want. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter I-4 with 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a 305-horsepower V6, which allows the Canyon to tow up to 7,000 pounds. Overall ride quality is quite good. It definitely feels “trucky,” but the cabin is comfortable and quiet. Steering feels about

Land Rover Discovery Sport | STarTING prIcE: $37,995

here’s one thing that’s certain about the Land Rover/Range Rover family of vehicles: they represent status. Drive past any country club and you’ll find an array of Evoques and LR4s stabled in the parking lot. Most of them never see any real off-road action, opting instead for polo jaunts in the country and urban streets lined with upscale dining venues. However, Land Rover’s newest crossover is harkening back to its heritage, with real-world, off-road capability, and taking back its name: Discovery Sport. This entry-level Land Rover is both competent and luxurious. Status and practicality come together in the Discovery Sport. This mashup of style and ruggedness should turn the heads of everyone who scoffed at the LR2.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

as you would expect in a pickup — not too sluggish, but not that sharp, either. And make no mistake: the Canyon is still somewhat of a beast when it comes to maneuvering in and out of tight parking spaces. The V6 gets an EPA rating of 17/24 city/highway. This upscale pickup is nicely appointed on the inside. All finishes feel refined and of high quality. Tech features like a built-in wifi hotspot and a host of apps keep you connected. Connect to your devices via USB and/or Bluetooth. Control everything with steering wheel-mounted controls or with the clean and simple touchscreen. Another nice feature is the standard rear vision camera, helpful in so many ways. The SLT features very comfortable leather seats with contrasting red stitching. These seats maintain a level of comfort that will leave you with fewer reasons to stop and stretch on long road trips. As full-size pickups get more costly to manufacture, midsize trucks fill a nice gap for those who want or need a runabout-type of truck. The question then becomes, do you load it with so many options that you approach full-size territory as far as price is concerned? I suppose that’s where you can opt to supersize your drink, er, pickup, but that’s for another discussion. So, if you’re in the market for a nicer truck with a nicer price (as compared to, say, a GMC Sierra) the Canyon may fit the bill. Starting at about $21K, it’s certainly worth a look.

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Why? For starters, there’s the entry price point of $37,995 — less than the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Also, the Discovery Sport looks good. It has an athletic stance. Its lines are slick, giving the overall exterior design a very clean, crisp look. Powered by Ford’s turbocharged 2.0liter engine and mated to a 9-speed ZF automatic transmission, this combination delivers 240 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. As a true four-wheel drive, this hatchback can scale mountains and wade through 23.6 inches of water. It has 8.3 inches of axle clearance up front and 9.4 inches out back. Of course, under normal driving conditions, the Discovery Sport’s handling is smooth, solid, and quiet. For city/highway/on road driving, the Discovery sport offers good steering wheel feedback and minimized noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) - not an easy balance to maintain with its rugged capabilities. This vehicle reaches 0-60 in just over seven seconds, which is a tad slower than some of its competitors, but not really a surprise when you consider this compact crossover weighs a beefy 4,400+ pounds. It rides on a suspension tuned to handle a variety of terrains, aptly named Terrain Response. The driver simply selects the type of surface that they’re driving on, such as gravel, sand or snow, and the suspension adjusts. Inside, the cabin is generously appointed with Land Rover luxury. Three trim levels are available: SE, HSE, and HSE Luxury. Standard features include partial leather seats, rear view camera, and a rear parking aid. Scale up to the HSE Luxury model and you’ll get heated and cooled Windsor leather seats, an 11-speaker sound system, and navigation, among other comforts. You’ll also move into the low $50K range with this model. The third row is a $1,700 option, and is best suited to the little ones. The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport offers both status and capability that come together in one very nice, very affordable package. For information on these and other vehicles, visit mycardata.com.l

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Sig 4 50-67 Wood Oct 15_Layout 1 9/21/15 5:35 PM Page 54

y p e e r C Cool &

ber fun abouHnadllsowineeOn cFto all Festivals

ds come to The Woodlan

By Kerry Duncan cary and not-so-scary fun is on its way to The Woodlands to celebrate autumn and Halloween. Did you know

that Halloween has its roots deep in the old country? Samhain was likely a pre-Christian festival, celebrated in the Celtic lands of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Brittany. The date was around the time of the autumnal

equinox, and it marked the passing of the lighter nights into the dark of winter. Celts have always been superstitious and believed that otherworldly creatures, such as fairies and spirits, were visible on Halloween or All Hallow’s Eve. The spirits could also see us, which is why we dress up in costumes to disguise ourselves. Over the years, the dates of Celtic festivities have changed, usually to mesh with the Roman calendar. It is a similar story with the Mexican and Latin American festival Dia de Los Muertes — Day of the Dead. Originally the festival, which may have its roots in Aztec history, took place in the summer and was a commemoration of the souls that had passed on. After the Spanish invasion, the date was moved to coincide with All Saints Day. So let’s take a moment to honor our ancestors and then enjoy the many events in and around The Woodlands. We have perfect fall weather, still warm with less humidity. Go out there and have fun! Check websites for admission fees, more details and weather updates.

Happy Haunting! Trick or Treat Trail. Follow the trail along the Woodlands Waterway from 3-6 p.m., Oct. 25. Trick or treating, vendor booths, children’s activities, costume contests, games and more. Free admission. Location: Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands. Contact: 281-363-2447, thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Hocus Pocus Pops. The Houston Symphony returns Oct. 23 with a night of bone-chilling music and spooky sounds. Gates open at 6 p.m. with the concert at 7:30 p.m. Orchestra seating is $20. Free mezzanine and lawn seating, courtesy of H-EB. Why not wear your favorite Halloween costume or jump on the Great Pumpkin Express? Location: Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 281-363-3300, woodlandscenter.org

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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Halloween at the Y. From 4.30 – 7 p.m., Oct. 24, Free Family Frightful Fun features trick or treat stops on the trails, carnival type games and more! Free admission with a non-perishable food item for the local food pantry. Please wear a friendly costume. Location: Creekside YMCA, 6464 Creekside Forest Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 281-367-9622, ymcahouston.org/smc-creekside/

A unique family Day of the Dead ensemble at Halloween Renfest 2014.

Texas Renaissance Festival It is the nation’s largest Renaissance-themed park. On Oct. 10 - Nov. 29, walk through the gates into the magical 16th century New Market Village set in 55 acres. There are over 400 shoppes and performers from all over the world. You can listen to Celtic music, enjoy hilarious sketches and feast like a lord or lady. Each weekend is themed and All Hallow’s Eve is on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Buy tickets at local Walgreens, Costco and Sam’s Club, online or at the gates; kids are free on Sundays. Contact: 800-4583435. Visit texrenfest.com to get directions to Plantersville, tickets and information.

The Haunting at Bear Branch The Forest of Phobias. Fun for older children (recommended over 9 years) – tickets $8 per person. Ticket sales stop at 9:30 p.m. Open from 8-10 p.m. on Oct. 17, 23, 24, 30 and 31. Location: The Woodlands Township Rec reation Center, 5310 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 281-210-3950, thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Pumpkins and Maize Cornucopia Corn Maze and Fall Festival. Enjoy the maze, cow train, water cannon and jumping pillow. Open weekends from Sept. 26-Nov. 14, times vary. Location: P6 farms, 9963 Poole’s Rd., Montgomery. Contact: 936-597-6062, p-6farms.com

Old Time Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pick your pumpkin. Have fun on the train ride, hay ride, giant slide, moon bounce, obstacle course and new jump pad from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday through the month of October. Location: 7632 Spring Cypress Rd., Spring. Contact: 281370-9141, oldtimechristmastree.com

2nd Annual Jack-O-Lantern Challenge. Who can carve the best pumpkin on Oct. 11? Carving commences at 5:30 p.m. until judging at 6:30 p.m. during the concert intermission. Arrive early and visit the Township tent to sign up (free admission). Location: Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Dr., The Woodlands. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov Contact: 281-210-3950 The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Pumpkin Fest, Faith United Methodist Church. Free family fun on Oct. 17 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with food, games, bake sale, vendors and concessions. Pumpkin patch open from Sept. 28 daily. Location: 2403 Rayford Rd., Spring. Contact: 281-367-7776, faithumcspring.org

Pumpkin Patch, The First Christian Church Conroe. Purchase your pumpkins from noon Oct. 17 through Halloween or until they are gone! Free family fun and photographs. Open daily from noon-6 p.m. Location: 3500 West Loop 336W, Conroe. Contact: 936-756-3554, firstchristianchurchconroe.org

Feature Topics: Human interest, golf, high school sports, Interior decorating, outstanding students, human interest.

Fall Festivals Send resume and writing samples to: Linda Anderson

Autumn Art and Wine Festival.

email Linda@lifestyles-magazines.com

Come visit Old Town Spring and sample wine from Texas wineries, as you browse the booths of Texas artists. Wine can be purchased at the Autumn Art Wine store open Oct. 3-4. Contact: 281-288-2355, shopspringtexas.com

Second Annual Oak Ridge North Fall Festival.

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Indian Springs 11th Annual Taste of the Village. Open from noon-3 p.m. on Oct. 17. Delicious free food samples, entertainers, live music, inflatables, balloon artist and face painting. Location: Kuykendahl Rd./Woodlands Parkway intersection. Contact: indianspringsvillage.com

13th Annual Fall Craft Show.

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Have fun on Oct. 10 with a pumpkin patch, games and prizes, face-painting and more. Open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., free admission. Location: Marilyn Edgar Park, 26531 Hillside Drive, Oak Ridge North. Contact:832-381-3215, oakridgenorth.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

More than 50 vendors selling fall and winter themed arts and crafts at this event to benefit various outreach projects. Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Oct. 17. Location: Timber Lakes Baptist Church, 1540 Sawdust Rd., Spring. Contact: 281-363-9358, tlbctx.org

40th Annual Oktoberfest. Starts at 6 p.m., Oct. 17. Enjoy polka dancing, singa-along and wunderbar German food. Location: Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 3801 S. Panther Creek Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 281-367-7016 for more information, reservations or volunteering, or lolonline.org/oktoberfest

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The Cochranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossing Village Association annual Fall Festival.

Visitors enjoyed the 2014 Fall Festival by the Cochran's Crossing Village Association.

The Woodlands Fall Market and Fair. Free admission gets you and your family a petting zoo, carnival games, silent auction, BBQ lunch, vendors, bake sale and bounce houses. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 24. Location: Christ Church United Methodist, 6363 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 936-273-2030, cc-um.org/thewoodlandsfallmarket

This free event Sunday Oct. 18 from 1-4 p.m. is open to all and includes hot dogs, music, pony rides, petting zoo, fortune teller, photo booth, games for children of all ages, bounce houses and a rock climbing wall. The Fall Festival has been held annually for more than 20 years. Last year over 1,500 people attended the Festival. Location: Shadowbend Park on Lake Woodlands Dr. Contact: cochranscrossing.com and Village of Cochran's Crossing on Facebook.

Wicked Wonderland Family Carnival. Open Oct. 16 from 4-8 p.m. with a family friendly movie at 8 p.m. Performances, contest participation, trick or treat stations and movie are free! Tickets on sale for games, concessions and glow in the dark trail. Location: Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Dr., The Woodlands. Contact: 281-210-3950 (call for inclement weather updates and possible change of venue), thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

WoodsEdge Fall Festival 2015. Following the 5K Trail Race, Oct. 31, enjoy the free Fall Festival from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bounce houses, trunk-ortreating, games, food, music and more! Location: WoodsEdge Community Church,25333 Gosling Rd., Spring. Contact: woodsedge.org

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Human Rights Walk and Festival Gets Eighth-Grader as Student Director Pablo Flower will help promote annual event Dec. 12

uman Rights Walk and Festival, a community event created in 2011 to raise awareness about human rights education, has appointed Pablo Flower, an eighth-grader at the John Cooper School in The Woodlands, as its student director effective August 1. In his role, Flower will be responsible for building and executing the fundraising and sponsorship strategy for the event, leading the Youth For Human Rights Club in The Woodlands, and overall successfully managing, promoting and protecting the legacy of the Human Rights Walk and Festival. The event will take place on Dec. 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Town Green Park. “I am very happy to welcome Pablo to our team,” said Demme Durrett, founder and current director of the Human Rights Walk and Festival. “He is an amazingly mature and compassionate teen who will continue to help build on our work for our event held in The Woodlands.” Durrett started this event in 2011 as part of her project for the Gold Award in the Girl Scouts organization, the highest achievement one can earn. She wanted to help raise awareness about human rights education to create more peace and tolerance in the world and help reduce human rights violations. The Human Rights Walk and Festival has become the largest Human Rights Day celebration in the United States thanks to the strong and continuous support of the local community. “Human rights are fundamental for a peaceful and prosperous society,” said Flower. “In our country, human rights violations are perceived as a foreign issue, occurring only in faraway lands. Sadly, it is

(L-R): Pablo Flower with Human Rights Walk and Festival founder Demme Durrett.

right here in our own backyard, in our communities, affecting children, teens, adults. Human trafficking, discrimination, intolerance and bullying are just a few examples of violations that occur every day in America.”

The Human Rights Walk and Festival in The Woodlands has become the largest Human Rights Day celebration in the U.S. Flower just took part in the Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Maryland, a conference for middle school students aimed at developing their leader-

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

ship strategies through an indepth exploration of critical periods in American history: the Civil War Reconstruction, World War II, the Great Depression and the Civil Rights Movement, among others. He also met with leaders in the nation’s capital and exchanged experiences with students from around the country. “I am confident to have gained invaluable skills to help me lead Human Rights Walk and Festival and make a positive impact in our community and schools,” said Flower. “This is a unique opportunity to encourage The Woodlands and greater Houston communities to become advocates for tolerance and peace through awareness about human rights.” Flower has been a member of the student council the last two years as well as a counselor in training at Cooper. In 2011, he led a Pennies for Peace campaign to build a school in Pakistan, and in 2013 he raised funds to build a school in India with Free The Children. He currently serves with the Montgomery Food Bank. A black belt in taekwondo, Flower enjoys tap dancing, aerial arts and singing. During the last four years, he has performed with the Texas Private School Music Educators Association choir. Raised in a bicultural ColombianAmerican home, Pablo lives in The Woodlands with his parents, Adriana and Rod, and his dog Sammy. For more information about the Human Rights Walk and Festival or to donate, you can visit humanrightswalk.org or email info@humanrightswalk.org.l

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Woodforest Charitable Foundation Donates $1Million to Local Charities Helping 31 organizations that help the community

ontinuing its legacy of commitment to those in need and enriching lives and communities, the Woodforest Charitable Foundation (WCF) distributed $1 million in donations among 31 local charities in Montgomery and Harris Counties during a recent Charity Partnership Breakfast. The charitable categories included crisis, health care, hunger relief, special needs, and youth intervention. “Demonstrating our mission of enriching lives through the art of giving, the Woodforest Charitable Foundation was honored to distribute a significant amount of donations to these local charities during our Charity Partnership Breakfast,” said Kim Marling, vice president of the board of directors of the Woodforest Charitable Foundation. “Each of these organizations provides such important work to help improve our community. We look forward to continuing our support.” The charities serving those in crisis included Emergency Ministries, Grief Resource Center, Healing Species Texas, Helping a Hero, Humble Area Assistance Ministries, Montgomery County Emergency Assistance, Montgomery County Women's Center, North Channel Assistance Ministries, and Northwest Area Assistance Ministries. The health care charities included Children's Miracle Network , Interfaith Community Clinic, Lone Star Family Health Center, The Rose,

At the Charity Partnership Breakfast were (l-r): Amy Hegemeyer, office manager, WCF; Estelle McLaughlin, executive director, WCF; David Gottlieb, board of directors, WCF; Charlie Marling, board of directors, WCF; Robert Marling, president, board of directors, WCF; Kim Marling, vice president, board of directors, WCF; and Vicki Richmond, treasurer/secretary, board of directors, WCF.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

and TOMAGWA Health Care Ministries. The hunger relief charities included Houston Food Bank, Interfaith of The Woodlands, Montgomery County Food Bank, and The Friendship Center. Charities serving special needs included Panther Creek Inspiration Ranch, Special Angels of The Woodlands, and Texas New Community Alliance, dba New Danville. The youth intervention charities included Angel Reach, Boys & Girls Country, CASA Children's Advocate of Montgomery County, Children’s Safe Harbor, Conroe Family YMCA, Family Promise of Lake Houston, Family Promise of Montgomery County, Montgomery County Youth Services, Tamina Community Center, and YouthReach Houston. The Woodforest Charitable Foundation is creating a legacy of commitment to those in need, enriching lives and communities by providing funding to qualifying 501(c)(3) charities. WCF was created by Woodforest National Bank in 2005 as a direct result of its desire to support and invest in the communities in which it serves. For additional information, visit WoodforestCharitableFoundation.org or call 832-375-CARE (2273).l

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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The Woodlands 2015 Hometown Heroes Selected Contributions to be recognized at Celebration of Excellence Gala, Oct. 3

our individuals and one business

tual fabric of the community. The annual

have been selected as the 2015

tradition of honoring Hometown Heroes

Hometown Heroes. Mario M. Coll,

began in 1999 as a part of The Woodlands

III, Lisa Koetting, Linda Nelson, Allyson

25th Anniversary Celebration and has con-

Seder and Waste Connections, Inc. are the

tinued ever since.

honorees that will be recognized for their

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are excited to recognize the 2015

many contributions to the community at

Hometown Heroes for their dedication, vol-

The Woodlands Celebration of Excellence

unteerism and compassion that they

Gala, benefiting Interfaith of The

demonstrate in the community. We appre-

Woodlands.

ciate all of the wonderful nominations we

The gala will be held on Saturday, Oct.

had this year which speaks to the true value

3, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott

and essence of The Woodlands,â&#x20AC;? said Dr.

Hotel and Convention Center. The 2015

Ann Snyder, president and CEO of

Hometown Heroes were chosen by a

Interfaith of The Woodlands.

Selection Committee composed of

Mario M. Coll III and his wife, Sarah,

Hometown Heroes alumni, a group which

have been residents of The Woodlands

includes 101 residents of The Woodlands

since 1998 and have raised their three sons

and 12 businesses that have contributed to

here. Although Mario has a demanding

the educational, civic, cultural and spiri-

position as CIO at Anadarko Petroleum

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

(L-R): John Urban, senior VP & CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital; Linda Nelson, 2015 Hometown Hero; Dr. Ann Snyder; and Steve Sanders, former (retired) CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital.

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Mario M. Coll III (second from the right) is applauded for being named a 2015 Hometown Hero by Dr. Ann Snyder (second from left), Mario’s wife Sarah and two of their sons, Jake (left) and Joey.

Corporation, he believes in giving back to

Team Foundation.

the community. The first-born son to

“Mario is a man of strong faith and values

Cuban immigrants, Coll learned from a

as demonstrated over his lifetime through

young age that family, faith and service are

his selfless commitment to his family, his

important responsibilities. He shows this

work and his community,” said resident of

through volunteering with the United Way,

The Woodlands and colleague, Larry

Junior Achievement (helping bilingual stu-

Abston. “He is a great role model of volun-

dents at Runyan Elementary in Conroe

teering for the benefit of The Woodlands

ISD), Habitat for Humanity, the Gulf Coast

and its numerous worthy causes. He is a

Blood Drives and March of Dimes.

passionate, natural born leader with the

Coll serves as chairman of the board of directors at Interfaith of The Woodlands

heart of a servant and an outstanding citizen of The Woodlands.”

and also chairman of Interfaith Community

Lisa Koetting, her husband Fred and

Clinic. Coll has served on the board of direc-

their three children moved to The

tors for several years and most recently as

Woodlands in 1991. While her children

president of The Woodlands High School

were in school, she served as PTO and PTA

Quarterback Club. The Colls have estab-

president at Mitchell Intermediate and

lished an Endowed Century Club

Branch Crossing Junior High. Koetting also

Scholarship at Texas A&M University.

served for seven years on the Board of

Mario is a member of The Champions

Conroe ISD Academy of Science and

Council for The 12th Man Foundation at

Technology. Continuing her volunteerism

Texas A&M and is an active supporter of

in education, she co-chaired the Lone Star

Coach Jackie Sherrill’s 12th Man Kickoff

College System’s Star Gala in 2009. ➝ The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

Sig 4 50-67 Wood Oct 15_Layout 1 9/21/15 5:36 PM Page 64

Koetting volunteers with The Cynthia

lands in 1992. Nelson has been with

Woods Mitchell Pavilion Partners where

Memorial Hermann The Woodlands

she has served on the board for six years;

Hospital for 18 years and is director of mar-

co-chaired the Fine Arts Scholarship pro-

keting. She is instrumental in helping with

gram for five years; and most recently co-

community programs for the hospital

chaired the Pavilion Partners Wine Dinner.

including Memorial Hermann The

The Pavilion Partners named her “Woman

Woodlands In the Pink of Health Luncheon

of Distinction” in 2015. Koetting also vol-

and the Memorial Hermann Ironman

unteers for Habitat for Humanity’s

North American Championship Texas,

“Building Hope” Gala, where she served as

which she was named Team Captain of the

co-chair for three years, along with serv-

Year 2015.

ing as past co-chair for the American Heart Association Heart Ball. “Lisa is a positive role model, setting new

the board of directors and as vice president,

goals for each area of her involvement and

government affairs. She is also on the board

encouraging others to participate to help

of directors for the Greater Conroe/Lake

achieve these goals,” said 2008 Hometown

Conroe Area Chamber of Commerce.

Hero Tommy Williams and his wife

Nelson is a board member for Leadership

Marsha. “Her values reflect those of The

Montgomery County and was named a

Woodlands community and her efforts

2014 Distinguished Alumnus. She is cur-

have helped enhance the reputation of our

rently on the Conroe ISD Site Based

hometown.”

Committee and served on the Community

Linda Nelson, her husband Gordon and their three children moved to The Wood-

Nelson is active with The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, serving on

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Well Being Strategic Investment Panel for the United Way for six years. ➝

(L-R): Executives of Waste Connections are Worthing Jackman, executive vice president and CFO; Steve Bouck, president; David Hall, senior vice president – sales and marketing; and Ron Mittelstaedt, along with Dr. Ann Snyder.

Sig 4 50-67 Wood Oct 15_Layout 1 9/21/15 5:36 PM Page 65

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

Sig 4 50-67 Wood Oct 15_Layout 1 9/21/15 5:36 PM Page 66

2015 Hometown Hero Lisa Koetting v Allyson “Ally” Seder (center) shares the news of being named a 2015 Hometown Hero with her husband Mike and their daughter Maddie while Dr. Ann Snyder congratulates her accomplishment.

“In a community blessed with so many

past two years. Also for the last two years,

she did not give 100 percent and did not

remarkable volunteers and caring organi-

Seder started and chaired the “Open Your

make a difference.”

zations, Linda always seems to find a way to

Purse for Change” fundraiser for the

Waste Connections, Inc., an inte-

help our community groups succeed. She is

Center. Seder has chaired The Children’s

grated solid waste services company, moved

tireless, energetic and a positive force in so

Miracle Network event, benefiting Texas

its corporate headquarters to The Wood-

many local efforts that define the charac-

Children’s Hospital along with planning

lands in 2012. Since moving here, Waste

ter of The Woodlands,” commented U.S.

the Wings, Wheels & Heels Gala at Lone

Connections has made a significant

Representative, 8th District of Texas and

Star Executive Airport, benefiting the non-

contribution to the community. For the

1999 Hometown Hero, Kevin Brady.

profit organization, Angel Reach.

Allyson “Ally” Seder, her husband Mike and family are longtime residents of The Woodlands. Together Ally and Mike own Mike Seder Real Estate Company. Seder has dedicated her life to volunteerism and philanthropy. She has volunteered with New Danville, serving on the board and

third consecutive year, the company hosted Waste Connections Golf Classic for Kids at

The annual tradition of honoring Hometown Heroes began in 1999 as a part of The Woodlands 25th Anniversary Celebration and has continued ever since.

auction committee, and was past chair of

The Woodlands Country Club, raising as cumulative total of over $1 million to support local nonprofit organizations. Led by CEO and chairman, Ron Mittelstaedt, and senior executives, employees from Waste Connections are active volunteers with The Woodlands Area Chamber

the organization’s Tea on the Lawn. She

1999 Hometown Hero Tom Cox said this

of Commerce, Montgomery County Food

has volunteered as auction chair for The

about Seder: “She is one of the most giving

Bank and other organizations. In addition,

John Cooper School and chaired The

people that I know. The difference that

Waste Connections holds a Bike Build each

Woodlands Young Learners Academy Gala.

sets Ally apart from others is that she gen-

year to provide bikes to youths through 16

Seder serves on the board of directors

uinely gives from her heart. Allyson has

nonprofit agencies including CASA, Family

for the Montgomery County Women’s

so much compassion for helping others –

Promise, Interfaith of The Woodlands,

Center and chaired its Wine Fest for the

the only thing that would bother her is if

Montgomery County Youth Services and

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Sig 4 50-67 Wood Oct 15_Layout 1 9/21/15 5:36 PM Page 67

the YMCA. During the holiday season in 2014, Waste Connections and its staff donated and assembled 663 bikes to be distributed to youth. “The heart and soul of Waste Connections is to give back to the community which is why the company immediately began volunteering in The Woodlands,” said Jerri Hunt, who recently retired as the company’s vice president of employee relations. “Ever since Waste Connections was established, it has been a goal to serve the local nonprofit charities. Waste Connections hopes to inspire other corporations to join in the volunteer efforts in The Woodlands.” Criteria for the selection of the Hometown Heroes included, but were not limited to: •Positive role model •History of volunteerism

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•Sacrificing personal gain to achieve noble goals •Leadership and courage

Serving The Woodlands & Spring (Creekside, Timarron Park, Auburn Lakes and Panther Creek)

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•Embodies the values of The Woodlands community; family values, importance of education, the arts and culture, environmental consciousness •Dedication to public service The Celebration of Excellence Honoring Hometown Heroes is the largest annual fundraiser for Interfaith

CATHY SALYERS

JENNIFER JONES

services organization in the commu-

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nity. The event is sponsored by many

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of The Woodlands, the primary social

businesses and organizations in The Woodlands. To purchase a table or make a donation, contact Lisa Baeckel, development manager at Interfaith of The Woodlands at 832-615-8230 or lbaeckel@woodlandsinterfaith.org.l

Each franchise independently owned and operated

www.DecoratingDen.com The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Young Artists Compete in 2015 Fast Draw Event Because art really does matter

eady, set, draw! At the fourth annual Fast Draw Competition held in September, students had 50-minutes to draw an artistic “still-life” display featuring items from Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands. The 2015 Fast Draw Event was put on by The Woodlands Waterway Arts Council and its Because Art Matters outreach progam, and sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands and The Woodlands Mall. The 2015 Fast Draw hosted 48 talented seventh and eighth grade student artists from local schools. Congratulations to the winners! First place — Rylee Hollis, eighth grade, Knox Jr. High Second place — Spencer Johnson, eighth grade, McCullough Jr. High Third place — Bradley Rice,

(above) Students got ready to compete in the fourth annual 2015 Fast Draw Competition at The Woodlands Mall. v (top right) A snapshot of artwork from seventh and eighth grade students in the 2015 Fast Draw Competition. v (right) Students competing.

A student participant focused on drawing a still-life display.

eighth grade, homeschool Honorable Mention — Crystal Scott, eighth grade, McCullough Jr. High “We were thrilled to see the outstanding artistic talent and creativity of local seventh and eighth grade students at this year at the 2015 Fast Draw Competition,” said Kayleen Barton, community education and outreach director for The Woodlands Waterway Arts Council. “The arts can have such a powerful impact on youth, and the creative outlet of this type is a great way for local youth to spark their imagination, build their self-confidence and grow their love for the arts in all its forms.” l

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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ç By Lori Verderame

Dumpster or No Dumpster™? The back-to-school items edition

umpster or No Dumpster™ is a game I developed and play with folks during my TV appearances, at my antiques appraisal events and on my Facebook page. It’s a fun way to help guide them through the process of figuring out what to trash and what’s worth cash! When you are cleaning out an attic, basement, storage unit or vacant home, and you come across old items that you don’t know the worth of, remember they could have significant monetary value. Get an inhome appraisal first if you have a whole houseful of stuff. Get ready to play using the five back-to-school items below. Which items would you toss in the dumpster? 1. A Munsters TV show lunchbox, circa 1970s 2. A classroom set of instructional cursive writing panels, circa 1960s 3. A macaroni picture frame, circa 1980s 4. Pokemon trading cards, circa 1990-2000s 5. A United States history textbook, circa 1965 1. Lunchboxes have been highly recognizable collectibles since the early 1930s. When cartoon characters, celebrities and athletes appeared on lunchboxes in the 1950s, they became widely desirable. The Munsters TV show lunchbox from the 1970s featuring characters Herman, Lily and Eddie is a keeper. Value: $175-$250 2. You are cleaning out your Aunt Christine’s house. She was an elementary school

A Munsters lunchbox from the 1970s can be worth from $175 to $250.

teacher and has some of the instructional cursive writing panels that were once posted above chalkboards in American classrooms. Do these items get relegated to the dumpster? These teaching aids helped children learn to write in cursive letters. Some of you may remember them, but there is a generation of millennials who were never taught cursive writing. With the introduction of personal computers, teaching cursive writing became a thing of the past. Unlike other valuable classroom items, these cardboard alphabet letter forms can go to the dumpster. They aren’t worth much! 3. You have to keep the macaroni picture frame because a child in your life made it with love. Store it for the long term in a plastic storage bag within a plastic tub to prevent insects from it. Value: Sentimental and priceless!

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

4. Some Pokemon trading cards, circa 1999-2000s, are valuable today, and some perpetuate a longstanding myth. Here is the real deal: Most Pokemon cards are worth $5 to $50 each. Some Pokemon cards, like the holographic version of Charizard from the first edition printed in 1999, bring big bucks from collectors. This card in excellent condition can command several hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Another Pokemon card that gets a lot of press is the famous Pikachu Illustrator card. Important to know: this card was purportedly never released in English and never sold. It was a contest prize in Japan. It is believed that fewer than five such cards exist worldwide, and some say that each one is worth $20,000. In my expert opinion, it is not worth $20,000 because no comparable card has ever been sold. If another card like it

hasn’t sold for $20,000 then the illusive Pikachu Illustrator card isn’t worth $20,000. Don’t buy the hype. Generally, if you find good condition Pokemon cards, keep them from the dumpster. 5. What about the old United States history textbook full of out-of-date information? Like outdated encyclopedias, old history textbooks aren’t worth much to collectors unless they are special editions, series, etc. Most are best used for DIY or interior design projects, scrapbooking, etc. I’ve seen DIY bookcases made out of a wooden frame and gluedtogether old textbooks and a DIY table base of vintage books with a glass top, too. The colorful maps from these books can be used as a wall display with a vintage look. Keep playing Dumpster or No Dumpster™ to discover which items are worth holding on to for the long term. l

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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“Conroe Legends”Increase to Three PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GREATER CONROE ARTS ALLIANCE

Superbike Champion Colin Edwards II is honored with a mural

he third Conroe Legends mural recognizing the accomplishments of yet another hometown hero was unveiled to great fanfare in downtown Conroe on Sept. 3. World Superbike Champion Colin Edwards II, known in road-racing circles as The Texas Tornado, was honored with the mural for his national and international success as an AMA 250cc Grand Prix champion in 1992; a Suzuka 8 hours champion in 1996, 2001 and 2002; a World Superbike champion in 2000 and 2002; a member on the U.S. team which took the Nations Cup at the Michelin Race of Champions in 2002; and reaching the podium at MotoGP 12 times from 2003-2014. “It's been a long journey for me,” Edwards said. “I’d go out and do my thing, but when I came back to Conroe I could walk around and not many people would recognize me, no one knew who I was. It’s really something to see so many friends and family here for this and to know the community appreciates me. I’m touched.” The unveiling date was selected to coincide with Conroe’s First Thursday Market and the First Thursday Concert, according to Annette Spikes, president of the Greater Conroe Arts Alliance. “Holding the events together shows the cooperation of three entities – the Conroe Downtown Area Association, The Greater Conroe Arts Alliance and the City of Conroe Parks and Recreation – with the same goal of promoting our loved city and the people who call it home.” Edwards joins Conroe Legends Mary McCoy, Texas broadcasting legend, and Roy Harris, the Barefoot Boxer from Cut and Shoot who served as the county clerk for Montgomery County for 28 years. The subjects for the Legends Wall are individuals who have received statewide, national, or international recognition for their achievement in arts and entertainment and in doing so brought attention to the Conroe area. “The mural project has been funded totally by donors who responded enthusiastically to paying tribute and honor to the selected ‘Legends.’” Spikes said. “Sincere

The newest Conroe Legend, Colin Edwards II, in front of his mural.

thanks to all who have made this project possible.” Located on the south side of 202 N. Main St. in downtown Conroe, the murals were created by artist Theresa Thornhill of Digital Accents. “A ‘Legends’ committee made up of local citizens submits names, researches and determines who to honor,” Thornhill said. “I then do a lot of my own research on the individual selected to come up with the visual. I get a lot of enjoyment from sharing this with the community.” For more information on the mural series contact Annette Spikes, at 936756-5347 or aspikes123@consolidated.net. Donations to complete the wall can be made to The Greater Conroe Arts Alliance, PO Box 1415, Conroe, TX 77305. To learn more about the Alliance, visit Artsinconroe.org. l

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Text by Cheryl Alexander | Photography by Miro Dvorscak | Design by Diana S. Walker ASID, Diana S. Walker Interior Design Architecture by Mark Swenson, Bunker Hill Design Co. | Construction by McCollum Custom Homes

Hill Country Style With a French Twist Award-winning home showcases the outdoors with a fusion of style

couple married for 30 years who had lived in their house for 23 years felt that they and their teenage sons had outgrown their 50-yearold ranch-style home. After a year of searching the housing market in their neighborhood, they found the perfect spot only two streets away to create an

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

elegant and comfortable home. The couple wanted to stay in the area — they liked the neighborhood, especially the large trees, the public schools, and the proximity to the husband’s work and the family’s church. They were open to remodeling an existing home or building new. They finally

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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PREVIOUS PAGES: An abundance of light flows throughout the home creating slightly different hues as the day passes. A cathedral ceiling with exposed wood beams gives the room dimension while the room’s interior color adds a calm feel of being surrounded by the outdoors. Over the fireplace, an ornate mirror and a custom TV cabinet provide a focal point. The artwork on right wall is by Edgar Medina. | In the dining room, existing furnishings were combined with newly purchased antiques and lighting to update the space. THESE PAGES: The wood countertop anchors the 10-foot island that provides additional storage, a second dishwasher and prep sink. A stone column and beam provides a minimal transition from the kitchen/breakfast to the family room. | A passthrough from the bar to the family room and dining room makes for easy entertaining. The space is handy for wine storage and has an icemaker and pull-out trash. Antique glass was selected to display a collection of glassware and crystal. A pull out shelf in a larger cabinet below holds linen tablecloths. RIGHT PAGE: The kitchen was designed to support their love of family gatherings and entertaining. The custom stove hood has storage above it and below the stove. This ASID award-winning kitchen was also a home design winner for Diana S. Walker Interior Design as a Baldwin Hardware 2015 Top 10 Design Finalist.

found a home in their neighborhood on the creek where their boys had gone fishing and exploring while growing up. Inspection showed the existing home had significant foundation issues. But because they loved the lot, the view and the sentiment attached to the ravine and creek below, they decided to build a new home there. They assembled their team of construction and design experts from their own circle of friends. They’ve known the builder, Schacht McCollum, since their kids were in grade school, and have seen several of his custom homes. They were additionally impressed by the ideas and suggestions McCollum made early in the process. The architect, Mark Swenson, understood what the couple wanted from their first meeting where they handed him their initial sketch of a floor plan. “Throughout the process, Mark was able to take our ideas and seamlessly trans-

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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late them onto the blueprint, even when we presented changes,” the wife said. Diana Walker, the project designer, has worked with the family for almost 20 years on a variety of projects, from buying furniture to a major remodel on their previous home, so they felt secure that she would remain true to their style and budget. Her understanding of their lifestyle and tastes was invaluable. Walker worked from the wife’s idea file — a collection of images that they wanted to incorporate into the new home design.

“Over the years, I've looked through design/decor magazines and saved pictures of things that I liked. I put them in a binder and referenced them while we designed and decorated our home. I had pictures of everything — windows, doors, flooring, countertops, cabinets, paint colors, furniture, fabric.” Walker worked with her clients to select and detail each area and fine-tune the floor plan to contain unique areas while allowing for the best use of space specific to the homeowners’ needs. The wife expressed the couple’s faith in Walker: “We've

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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always been happy with Diana’s work, and she’s saved me from some costly design mistakes.” Having every room easily accessible to the kitchen — the heart of this home — was the driving force behind the couple’s design choices. Significant outdoor views to provide natural light and minimal separation between the downstairs rooms were also a must. Comfort, along with a timeless aesthetic, was also an essential element. Because the couple loves to entertain friends and family, they also wanted to expand upon the professional cooking capabilities in their previous home. The range of available products was explored. A butler’s pantry and wet bar were also included in the design. Too, the family’s entertainment areas extend into the out-

odoor spaces of this new home, with its large yard, mature trees and views afforded in the back. To keep the living areas uncluttered, significant storage space was also a design priority. Out-of-the-way spaces were cleverly used, such as under the stairs and at the back entrance and in the laundry room, where individual lockers for each family member make dirty clothes or game gear easy to deposit. Both spouses wanted individual office spaces with natural light. Her work area looks out the back of the house; his out the front. To enhance the flow of the open floor plan, the interior design plan includes a combination of materials and finishes throughout that reflects the couple’s love

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

THESE PAGES : The office was designed to incorporate the homeowner’s various interests and allow him to work efficiently from home. Lots of outdoor lighting was essential to the design. Leather chairs set a masculine tone. Sumak rug. | The game room is a perfect hang out for family members and their friends. Art from Native Citizen. Tuxedo hide rug.

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The driving force behind the couple’s design choices was to create space to live and entertain where every room is easily accessible to the kitchen, the heart of this home.

of traditional Texas Limestone farmhouses blended with touches of French country styling. “These clients purchased items from their travels and shopping trips to bring to their new home,” Walker said. “We incorporated all of their art and collectibles, and then added some accents. We were able to include details such as lighting or niches for these special features. The result was a seamless installation.” During the framing, details such as the stained interior touches on an old pantry door and gray weathered finishes to the wood were added. Ceiling beams and paneling throughout the home were incorporated and helped set the visual lines of sight

from the entrance, to the office and along the length of the main areas, even into other spaces. Because of the house’s abundant natural light and outside views, the desire to bring the outdoors inside influenced the home’s color palette. Earthy gray-greens are paired with neutrals and natural walnut to create a warm interior palette that mimics the stone used on the exterior walls. Window treatments and wall colors follow the same tones found in the slate and exterior tile accents. The wife’s favorite rooms are the kitchen, great room and game room because of the view along the back of the house. She says that looking out and seeing

the trees with the creek below affords her the chance to relax and breathe. “Plus it makes cooking so much more fun!” The husband’s favorite room is his functional and enjoyable study. He loves listening to music while working on the computer, and he enjoys the view of the front yard and trees. His workspace is also very personalized, reflecting his passions — hunting, gardening and exercise. The designer’s favorite is the living room with its new and old furnishings, “which combined make the perfect balance of colors with the finishes.” She also appreciates the way the entire first floor flows, allowing the family to live in and enjoy all aspects of their house.

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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THIS PAGE : Instead of a garage entry, a side entry near the back staircase was preferred to provide easy access to the upstairs and to the outdoor area. Built-in locker spaces under the staircase allow convenient storage for each family member. Art by Richard Fluhr. | In the laundry room, vintage metal gym lockers provide a space for the two active boys to air their jerseys and store equipment. The family cat has easy access to the litter box cleverly concealed behind linen panels.

Challenges to the project included working within the limitations of the lot due to the ravine, creek and trees, and providing everything that the family wanted on the main floor. Patience and creativity were required. “For example,” said the husband, “because the house had to be situated ‘just so’ on the lot, there was only so much space allowed for the ground floor. We ended up taking six inches from one room here and put it in another room there a couple of times.” The kitchen and breakfast area were a top priority for space. “What made this project work was that the clients relied on the expertise of the team to guide them and were patient with the process of building something from the ground up,” Walker said. “They really appreciated the work it takes to make a dream come to life, to give the client what the team has to offer.” Simple and functional elegance along with a blend of styles make this awardwinning home a comfortable, livable space. It offers the family a cohesive environment bathed in natural light that showcases the view and the careful attention to every detail. l

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}

by Michael Shawn Kelly ASLA www.MirrorLakeDesigns.com

Small Pool, Large Fun pool depth to a maximum of five feet, and you’ll have a great place to cool off and not worry about spilling your drink. Include a spa, some type of outdoor kitchen and lighting and you may find that you spend more time in your livable garden than in your home. See examples of small pool design at www.MirrorLakeDesigns.com

Above: a small backyard design with pool and spa Most folks tend to think that a small backyard prohibits building a pool. But with the right amount of planning and a small attitude adjustment (you won’t be training to compete in the 2016 Olympics), you can have a beautiful courtyard pool to complement your livable garden space. First, think of your pool as a beautiful water feature. Surround it with patio space for seating and entertaining. Incorporate planters and seating walls as part of the pool construction. This will allow your small space to become one integrated design and not seem chopped up. Second, use elevation changes to create interest. Fountain walls, planters and even a step up to the pool itself can lend to the creation of that courtyard feel which extends your living area from inside of your home. Third, soften the construction with plantings, pots and even small patch of zoysia grass (used as a throw rug).

Not only will this soften the hardness of the construction but the color, fragrance, and birds and butterflies attracted by the plantings will animate the garden. Besides, what could be more Southern than snipping fresh mint for your guests’ sweetened ice tea? Finally, don’t worry about size (you can go there, I won’t). Remember that you’ll be spending 90% of your time around the pool, not in the pool. Keep your

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Against All Odds Over the last 20 years, many “homeimprovement” companies have come and gone in the Houston area, One landscape architectural design/build company, Mirror Lake Designs, has flourished for over 33 years. I caught up with the owner and award-winning designer, Michael Shawn Kelly, and asked him a few questions about the success of his company and what makes Mirror Lake different. -Rob Trisolini RT: Shawn, you’ve seen your share of ups and downs in the economy over the years and still Mirror Lake seems to be thriving. What seems to be your secret? MSK: Well, we have been very blessed over the years with great clients and unbelievably great employees. But one of the main differences with Mirror Lake is that we are not just a company about stuff — we don’t just sell pools, we don’t just sell plantings and we don’t just sell patios. We design places. RT: But I thought you designed and built all those things. That is what you do isn’t it? MSK: Yes, but we don’t go into our first meeting with the client with that in mind. We aren’t hoping to sell a pool or deck or planting. RT: That sounds like a plan for going out of business in 3 months, not building a track record of 33 years. MSK: Well the point is this: we don’t meet with the client and tell them what they need. We meet and chat about their lives, their families and how they hope to bring the area around their house (their yards so to speak) into a design that allows for greater living space – what we call The Livable Garden. Only after we help our clients understand and delineate their goals can we start to develop a pool or patio design that answers these goals. There are

Above: a complete backyard design by Mirror Lake Designs many types of pool designs and sometimes a pool is not the best answer to their needs and desires, even if that is why they called us in the first place. RT: So you actually talk people out of building a pool? MSK: Sometimes, yes, we actually do. Many times when we look at the site, the client’s goals, and the budget, we’ll suggest a different path. The owner’s budget may only allow for a simple pool with no other amenities, and often being in the water is not even the main objective. But if that same budget is spent developing multi-level patios, raised planters, seating walls, and a pergola with nightlighting, then the

client will come away with a well developed livable backyard that can be used throughout the year while staying within their budget. RT: So your success is in not selling what your client is asking for. MSK: No, actually our success is in asking enough questions to make sure our clients have clearly thought about their family’s goals and lifestyle and making sure our design captures those goals in a comprehensive design that allows them to live and entertain in their garden.

See more designs at www.MirrorLakeDesigns.com

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Furniture and Interior Design Trends — A Fusion of Styles Inspiring ideas to create interesting living spaces By Melanie Saxton ach year, we are treated to a host of trends, many based on offerings from elite brands and top design experts. Here are some defining furniture and interior accents that can be incorporated into our living spaces.

Vanguard’s Brendle Bench in Ripley Crimson makes a statement at the foot of a bed. Finished in Langdon with a Valentino Graphite contrast welt and optional brushed nickel ferrules, it complements the antler accent on the wall.

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Trending, Then and Now As for specific furniture and interior design trends, you’ll find a variety of opinions and a fusion of styles, materials and décor. According to Zillow Digs design expert Kerrie Kelly, "Unexpected textures and an eclectic, modern vibe found their way in 2015. Expect to see a more sophisticated look that incorporates gold hardware, natural textures, and a subtle mid-century modern undertone." The latter part of her statement refers to the mid-20th century design movement ranging from the 1930s through the 1960s that influenced architecture, furniture and home interiors for generations. The popularity of mid-century modern experienced a renaissance after the publication of Cara Greenberg’s 1983 book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s (Random House). Now it has resurfaced again, thanks in part to the television show Mad Men. Since airing in 2007, weekly broadcasts have romanticized the simplicity of that nostalgic era. Check your local showroom floor for the clean lines and classic tapered legs of midcentury modern. We can count on additional

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trends, as well — including the use of Pantone’s Color of the Year, Marsala. According to Marie Wood, Director of Design, Meridien, “Due to the underlying brown tones in the color, it works very well with neutrals, animal prints, golds and warm tones.” We see this rich, pleasing tone in established furniture collections that have been on showroom floors for years – and are still available. We also find it in exciting new collections available in 2015, including the neutral hues, animal influences, gold tones and overall warmth mentioned by Wood. The following details may help homeowners incorporate these trending ideas into upholstery selections, accents and furniture style options. A Nod to Neutrals Neutrals provide the blank canvases on which interior designers create living spaces. Beige, in fact, is confirmed as an ongoing favorite according Michael Boodro, editor-inchief of Elle Décor. Earlier this year he tweeted, “With all the color in Paris this week, beige isn't going away as #Farrow&Ball make clear.” Wallpaper continues to trend and can provide a neutral backdrop for an entire room. Many sofas on today’s showroom floors are available in neutrals and look splendid against a solid or patterned rug. Accent pillows and decorative throws can infuse a contrasting pop of color. Animal Inspirations Animal influences continue to trend. Exciting splashes of zebra, leopard and cheetah can be found in pillows, throws, rugs and upholstery, often adding an

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING

WOODLANDS UNIQUE MELANIE KING DESIGNS MEREDITH O'DONNELL FINE FURNITURE The Alexandra Chair features one of the most renowned architectural motifs — the quatrefoil. It is a perfect accent addition to any room in the house. On display at Meredith O'Donnell Fine Furniture. 713-526-7332 meredithodonnell.com 1751 Post Oak Boulevard

Creating your dream home begins like most — on the back of a napkin, or if you are further down the road, with your builder and architect. This can be streamlined with a designer and architectural designer on hand. Melanie King Designs provides full-service interior design including residential, commercial, and remodeling. 832-647-9203 hello@melaniekingdesigns.com melaniekingdesigns.com 18 Augusta Pines Drive, Ste. 133E, Spring

Woodlands Unique is the third service-oriented home décor store opened by the Harkey family. The store provides an amazing selection of clocks and gifts like those offered at Woodlands Clocks and Gifts, (WCG) which opened in 2000. That store was followed by Southern Home Furnishings (SHF) in 2004 and became the go-to place for unique quality furniture. The success of WCG and SHF prompted the opening of Woodlands Unique in November 2014. In addition to designer-inspired gifts, home furnishings and décor, Woodlands Unique offers shoppers a creative selection of women’s apparel and accessories. 832-246-8848 woodlandsunique.com 26211 I-45 N, The Woodlands

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Woodlands Fabrics & Interiors’ new design studio is now open, and their design team is ready to help you cover your windows in style! From Hunter Douglas window coverings to roman shades, shutters, custom draperies and more, they work with any budget to help turn your house into the home you deserve. 281-419-0419 woodlandsfabrics.com 11133 Interstate 45 S. #150, Conroe

Now in its 12th year, Eclectic Home has become one of Houston’s destinations for affordable home furnishing, accessories and great gift ideas. Eclectic Home carries an assortment of lamps, wall décor, accent furniture and decorative accessories, all from traditional to contemporary styles. Open every day. 713-869-1414 eclectichome.ws 345 W. 19th Street, Houston

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Let Chene Interiors transform your worn out spaces into functioning, inviting spaces. They offer free initial in home consultation. You supply the problems; they supply the ideas and solutions. Thirty-two years of design experience is at your disposal.They can supply any of your needs from a simple wood blind to a complete kitchen or bath remodel. Their licensed and insured contractors will be expertly supervised to accomplish your goals in a timely manner. Their service is completely turn key. They are there with you from start to finish. Your complete satisfaction is their goal. So call today for an in home consultation. 281-364-1744 or 281-660-0703 cheneinteriors.com sue.chene@gmail.com

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(Left) “Paula’s Table” is from the Paula Deen Home collection, shown in Tobacco. Also shown is the Upholstered Side Chair and four of “Mike’s Side Chair.” This furniture has been inspired by Paula's life in the South and her home in Savannah. It's all about feeling good, safe and comfortable in one's home. • The Wrigley occasional chair from Klaussner Home Furnishings reinvents the notion of style with a look that is urbane and sophisticated. The sleek profile, tight seat and back cushions, roll arms plus tall tapered fluted legs create a welcoming feel.

The Salon Upholstered Panel Bed by Bernhardt has beautifully upholstered button-tufted headboard, footboard and side rails, with an alabaster finish on feet and a three slat support system with adjustable center support. Also available in standard ivory leather.

exotic component to a room. Rustic nature elements are also popular – you might be tempted to hang an artful rack of antlers on a wall! Leather sofas and chairs are a perennial favorite, now available from many manufacturers in a variety of colors and textures. Cow prints in classic black and white are also finding more interior use, along with brown and white, and even dappled real hides. More commonly utilized as rugs, “hair on hide” is also an upholstery choice found on sofas, chairs and ottomans. ➝

Baker Furniture’s Lola Chaise from the Laura Kirar Collection represents the ultimate in modern elegance, with its angular and multi-faceted design. Its form speaks to the elegance of the Deco Era, while its geometric and complex lines allude to contemporary design. The chaise is an ideal complement for a boudoir or living room.

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING

THE WOODLANDS DRAPERIES & DESIGN

DECORATING DEN Let Decorating Den Interiors design your dream room in the comfort of your own home! From design to product selection through installation, they’re with you every step of the way. Jennifer Jones – Serving The Woodlands (Sterling Ridge, Carlton Woods, Alden Bridge, College Park, Indian Springs), Jacob's Reserve, Conroe. Cathy Salyers – Serving Spring and The Woodlands (Glennloch Farms, Windrose, Woodforest, Creekside Park, Panther Creek).281-353-0133 Cathy Salyers 281-357-0511 Jennifer Jones decoratingden.com

MILSTEAD GLASS & HOME DECOR Fall is in the air and Milstead Glass & Home Decor has beautiful seasonal accessories plus many new Uttermost mirrors. They are celebrating October with 25 percent off storewide. Their shop changes constantly with new items; visit to see their beautiful lamps, linens, quilts, home accessories and unique gifts throughout the home décor area. There is something to delight everyone. No matter what your need — a quick gift, a bottle of local wine or just the right home accessory, you will want to make time to shop at “Your full service glass shop.” 936-321-3300 milsteadglass.com

The Woodlands Draperies & Design is a full service design firm specializing in designing and providing the most fashionable draperies and custom window treatments for your home or office. They also provide professional remodeling services, additions/add ons and customizing of your home, patio and exterior features. Every design project and window treatment is exquisitely made-to-order and they don’t start working until they've discussed all design details with you. They want to bring your ideas to life in a way that's convenient, efficient, and suitable to your budget. Let them help you explore the possibilities and express your individual style. 281-617-6713 WoodlandsDraperies.com

TOWN AND COUNTRY LEATHER

FRENCH COURTYARD French Courtyard is brimming with holiday accessories, ornaments and gorgeous gift items. Delectable foods will be available for tasting and purchase. French Courtyard is a treasure trove of beautiful new furnishings, accessories, gift items and quality consignments. One visit to French Courtyard and you will make it your “go to shop” for the holidays and every day! Be sure to stop by for Fall Open House and book signing, Oct. 17. Like them on Facebook. 281-363-1800 frenchcourtyard.com 27326 Robinson Rd., Ste. 101, Oak Ridge North

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Located at Post Oak and San Felipe, Town and Country Leather has Houston's finest selection of leather furniture, occasional tables, area rugs and accessories. Choose from in-stock styles for immediate delivery or custom order the configuration and color to suit your home. Check out the curated selection from quality brands like Natuzzi Editions, Bernhardt, Flexsteel and Palliser. 713-6213366 townandcountryleather.com 1749 Post Oak Blvd at San Felipe

MOTHER'S AFFORDABLE MAIDS Mother's Affordable Maids offers a wide range of cleaning services. They proudly clean with environmentally-friendly products that are safe for you and your family and pets. Bonded and Insured, also an Anglies List Service Award Winner, rest assured you will be happy you trusted your home or apartment with Mother's Affordable Maids. Order online and type in LIFESTYLE25 to save $25 off your first cleaning. 832-696-6243 mothersafforablemaids.com

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Three distinctive chairs from Jessica Charles: (left) The Mamie Chair has a classic silhouette. The sophisticated details, including Geo print and ivory wood legs, make this a favorite accent for living spaces. (center) The Hollans Chair features a muted floral print which lends a romantic touch. A deep diamond tufted back adds depth while the soft Bisque wood finish complements the dusted mauve fabric. Its narrow width is ideal for fitting in apartments or small houses. (right) The Estate Chair lends understated elegance with its button tufted back and slim tapered legs. An eyecatching graphic print in a muted color complements the medium oak wood finish on the legs.

Hooker Furniture’s Dining Room Sanctuary Rectangle Dining Table, shown in Dune finish on the base and Amber Sands finish on top , offers a neutral creamy, cottage feel. Create your own personal sanctuary where you can experience comfort.

The Woodbury Console Table from Bernhardt Furniture features a fancy face diamond pattern top with metal center inset, metal corner brackets and carved leg posts.

Mixed Metals Last year saw a resurgence of gold touches throughout homes, and this year is no exception. Gold-inspired sheens have appeared in everything from upholstered panel beds to lamps. Also this year, a luxurious ambiance of mixed metals such as iron, steel and even gunmetal are trending, as well as the more common brass. Michael Boodro announced via Twitter: “Copper continues its strong presence.”

hues with neutral, pastel and cool tones to avoid overwhelming a room. In fact, Benjamin Moore’s 2015 color trends features four color families that encompass this principle – green, blue, blush and berry paints. As always, fireplace accents on decorated mantels and hearths can provide a focal point. Mirrors, especially oversized, capture and reflect warmth. Candles, window treatments, chandeliers, artwork and flooring are also effective accents that help wrap a living space in a warm embrace.

Warm, Saturated Tones Homeowners seldom go wrong when utilizing upholstery options in warm tones, but careful balance creates a pleasing aesthetic. Interior designers often intersperse warm

Elegance & Whimsy Luxurious textures and sophisticated accents add to the beauty of home interiors, especially when combined with “just the right” furniture. Showrooms offer options

that are not only functional, but also invite homeowners to discover their own personal aesthetic. But there is also an element of fun and caprice on showroom floors today, and 2015 is an opportunity to see alluring design potential through a new lens. A kaleidoscope of wood tones, a virtually unlimited amount of upholstery choices and striking decorative pieces allow homeowners to experiment with style. It never hurts to consult with an expert who can help separate fads from truly sustainable design. These interior design specialists take into account your personal tastes and blend exquisite – and sometimes surprising – décor into your home environment. l

The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING

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America’s off-price outlet for high-end furniture, handmade mattresses and fine oriental rugs is right here in Houston. The outlet opens at 10 a.m. every Friday with an everchanging 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

TEXAS TUSCAN FURNITURE DESIGNS Texas Tuscan Furniture Designs offers furniture collections made exclusively with exotic, recycled and repurposed hardwoods to create beautiful conversation pieces for your home, office or commercial project. The furniture is inspired by nature, the grandness of Texas and the charm of Tuscany, all rolled into one unique look. If you are looking for furniture and home accessories that tell a story, that fills your room with comfort, then you will love the warm collections of Texas Tuscan Furniture Designs, where living authentically begins. 713-426-5556 281-292-5536 texastuscanfurniture.com 26207 Oak Ridge Dr. Suite A, The Woodlands

THE LIGHTING GALLERY The Lighting Gallery has been providing custom lighting to the Discriminating Homeowner, Designer, and Builder for over 40 years. The Lighting Gallery boasts a superb selection of chandeliers, exterior light fixtures, ceiling fans, lamps artwork and decorative mirrors. They invite you to visit their 10,000- square-foot showroom and see for yourself the difference The Lighting Gallery can make in illuminating your home. 281-444-9299 lightinghouston.com 6265 Cypress Creek Pkwy.

Located in Historic Downtown Conroe, Homestead House is Houston’s major resource for TOP BRAND NAME furniture and accessories, such as the newly added Chelsea House, Henredon, Hancock & Moore, Taylor King, Tommy Bahama and more. Their “In Home Design Service” assists clients in choosing pieces that best suit their needs. Beautiful accessories, rugs, and large selection of mattresses make them a one-stop shopping experience! Visit their website for additional resources and map. 936-756-3360 homesteadhousetx.com 201 N. Pacific Street, Conroe

THE WOODLANDS DRAPERIES & DESIGN The Woodlands Draperies & Design is a full service design firm specializing in designing and providing the most fashionable draperies and custom window treatments for your home or office. They also provide professional remodeling services, additions/add ons and customizing of your home, patio and exterior features. Every design project and window treatment is exquisitely made-to-order and they don’t start working until they've discussed all design details with you. They want to bring your ideas to life in a way that's convenient, efficient, and suitable to your budget. Let them help you explore the possibilities and express your individual style. 281-617-6713 WoodlandsDraperies.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

GLADE GALLERY It’s said that art is being free from all world’s heaviness. For Dragos Tapu, art has always been an escape from the hectic, stressful everydayness and nevertheless a constant interest because of his artistic background. Art is a reason to travel and at the same time it has the capacity to bring the world to you. And this is what he intends to do at Glade: bring high quality European/international art to Texas. 832-557-8781 gladegallery.com dragos@gladegallery.com

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THE BILLIARD FACTORY The Billiard Factory is a family owned company that remains committed to offering customers a large, diverse product line from the top manufacturers in the home game room industry. They continually search for ways to best serve the needs of their customers through diversity and quality products, as well as superior service. Save 20% on service. 281-444-5740 billiardfactory.com

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ANTHOLOGY LIGHTING Anthology Lighting is a new and exciting lighting showroom serving Magnolia, The Woodlands, Tomball and Conroe. With a large selection of gas and electric lanterns, crystal chandeliers, vintage and modern style lighting, lamps, ceiling fans, lamp shades and much more, Anthology Lighting has all of your decorative lighting needs covered. Showroom now open. 281-298-5200 AnthologyLighting.com 32411-A FM 2978 at Eygpt Lane

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Your Dream Outdoor Living Space Follow the trends to transform your backyard

By Merry Wise rends in swimming pools, spas and the entire outdoor living scene have changed. What used to be considered “just a backyard” has been transforming to an outdoor room space for total enjoyment. From sophisticated sleek to wooded retreat, the trends in design, updates in technology and a plethora of spectacular new materials now combine to create a complete experience. Zen is in. One of the most elegant trends in pool and spa design is the minimalist, mirrored effect of still water that appears to slip silently into a surrounding deck or vanish

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

over an edge. These effects can be achieved in a number of ways — from a raised perimeter with the water sheeting down on all sides, to a flat “wetted edge” effect achieved with water slipping into a slot into the deck into piping that is hidden under the deck. There are some edgy ways to incorporate a spa into this design as well — the spa can appear to float within the pool, or the wetted edge can continue over to the spa and around the edge of the spa. Simple materials in dark or muted colors usually complement this look best, keeping the theme neutral and classy. However, a completely different ambience

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can take your outdoor fun space from zen to zowie with water movement! When space for a pool is not an issue, especially in a country place, some families are opting for their own lazy river water park right in their own backyard! Waterfalls, grottoes, elaborate slides, caves and even rope swings add to the fun of a personal water park. Misting systems add to the atmosphere of a rustic design. And adding fire features elevate the wow factor at night! Whether tucked into waterfalls or added as a cozy fire pit surrounded by seating, fire and water together are magic. Another trend is a bridge across the pool, and this can be fitted with a rain shower splashing water down from hidden piping with tiny holes on either side

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Fire and water together are magic, whether tucked into waterfalls or added as a cozy fire pit surrounded by seating. of the bridge. A pool and spa emphasizing the movement of water, and the joy of moving in water, definitely creates a fun and satisfying environment! Some homes lend themselves best to classic styles, but even these have updates that can be more exciting with newer special water effects. Laminar fountains lend themselves especially well to these pools. A laminar water feature is usually placed at the corners of the pool and shoots a narrow arch of water into the center of the pool, often meeting in the middle from all four corners. These now have color changing light effects that can be gorgeous at night. Other classic sheer descent fountains, bubbler fountains and water cascading down a stepped fountain or from a high columnar arch add the right touch to the classic pool, and all can now be fitted with the light effects. Fire bowls are another dramatic effect to update the classic pool design.

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING ADVERTISING

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 20680 Westheimer Parkway, #150 281-647-0777 1557 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N, #110 713-465-6741 See website for other locations.

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

ABA POOL SERVICE AND REPAIR

CLOSET FACTORY Put the experts to work for you and create a space specific to your needs and lifestyle. From simple storage solutions to spectacular room improvements, Closet Factory can enhance your closet, office, media center, pantry, garage and more. Make arrangements for a free in-home consultation with a Professional Design Consultant and be on your way to making life easier and more organized. 281-886-8777 closetfactory.com

ATHOOME ATHOOME is an integral remodeling company with a European, modern contemporary style, offering its services for both residential and commercial, interior or exterior. We have many years of professional experience, adapting ourselves perfectly to fit your needs and life style, offering the best solution for your style and budget. Request a free quote with no obligations. 936-444-8433 athoome.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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

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The choices of materials and addition of outdoor kitchens, outdoor television sets, game areas and al fresco dining arrangements also completely transform the standard backyard into the outdoor room. Glass tile in lush colors — some that glow in the dark and special pebble interior materials for pools and spas — add both beauty and durability to today’s pools. Decking materials run a wide gamut to create just the right effect for the trend you wish to create. With the wide variety of cooking accoutrements available now for outdoor use, you may find yourself cooking in your regular kitchen less and less and enjoying the outdoors more and more! Everything from BBQ grills to pizza ovens has become standard for today’s summer kitchen, which in our climate becomes a good year-round investment. Elegant outdoor furniture completes the comfort zone, and now a wide variety of game trends are available. One clever addition is an outdoor billiards table that converts to a dining table! Some even convert to ping pong tables. But one of the most innovative changes in the backyard environment is the electronic equipment available for “touch of a button” convenience. You can monitor the pool operation and condition while away on vaction, or turn on the spa to be ready for a relaxing evening when the car pulls into the driveway. Similar electronics are available for the other equipment, lighting, etc., around the yard. The ideal times to create the backyard environment of your dreams, utilizing as many of the trends as your imagination and budget can incorporate, are the fall and winter months. Designers, craftsmen and builders are able to devote their full attention to your project, and you can take your time and truly create an outdoor paradise. So, picture yourself in the pool of your dreams, and get started making that dream a reality, surrounding it with a space to make your backyard into a trendsetter! l

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THE WOODLANDS ADVERTISING ADVERTISING

TOPCRET STEWART LAND DESIGNS A full-service company with a staff of degreed landscape designers and horticulturists, Stewart Land Designs has built a reputation based on impeccable client service. They are a complete Design/Build company offering a turn-key operation. From design consult to construction commence they work with clients to create an outdoor living environment which meets the clients’ needs and desires. The Stewart Team has years of combined experience in creating distinctive environments that unite practical function with aesthetic appeal. 281-251-1725 stewartlanddesigns.com

AMAZING SIDING & WINDOWS At Amazing Siding, they offer Infinity by Marvin Replacement windows for both residential and commercial properties. Infinity windows are 800% stronger than vinyl windows. Inexpensive vinyl windows are more expensive than you realize because they are really just plastic. Isn’t your home worth a quality replacement window investment? 713-588-0440 InfinityWindows.com/Retailers/ Amazing-Houston

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Topcret is the world’s leading company in production and installation of high quality cement-based coverings on floors, walls, bathrooms, countertops, pools, stairs and walls commercially called Microcement and Baxab. Topcret was born in Spain in 2003 when concrete specialist engineers solved the problem of cracks and low adherence to walls and ceilings. They mixed cement products with some chemicals and called the new product Microcement. In 2014, the product family is completed with Baxab, very similar to Microcement, but with a stronger surface and better durability that makes it almost indestructible. 832-797-0374 topcrethouston.com

GOLD STAR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION At Gold Star Design and Construction customer service and quality craftsmanship is their biggest priority. From the smallest project to the largest and most complex remodel, Gold Star will provide professional and sincere customer service. Gold Star specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodels, room additions, home repair, complete interior design and remodels as well as custom cabinets. Call today for your free consultation and estimate. 281-206-7274 or 281-832-5163 goldstardesignandconstruction.com 10815 Warwana Road, Suite 302, Houston

DONE RIGHT CARPET & TILE With over 40 years experience in floor cleaning, Done Right is able to provide you with the best cleaning services available. Their success is based on a few solid principles that they enthusiastically endorse: - Consistant, quality service experiences with guaranteed satisfaction - Responsive and reputable cleaning services available 24/7 - Superior equipment - Highly trained staff DoneRightCarpetandTile.com 832-267-7399

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The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer? A look at lifestyle choices and other possible concerns slightly higher breast cancer risk overall. Having many pregnancies and becoming pregnant at a young age reduce breast cancer risk overall. Birth Control Oral contraceptives: Studies have found that women using birth control pills have a slightly greater risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. This risk seems to go back to normal over time once the pills are stopped. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. When considering the use of oral contraceptives, women should discuss their other risk factors for breast cancer with their health care team.

risk factor is anything that affects your chance of getting a disease, such as cancer. Different cancers have different risk factors. For example, exposing skin to strong sunlight is a risk factor for skin cancer. Smoking is a risk factor for cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx, bladder, kidney, and several other organs. But risk factors don’t tell us everything. Having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get the disease. Most women who have one or more breast cancer risk factors never develop the disease, while many women with breast cancer have no apparent risk factors (other than being a woman and growing older). Some risk factors, like a person’s age or race or gender, can’t be changed. Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer — it is about 100 times more common among women than men. And the risk of developing breast cancer increases as you age. About one out of eight invasive breast cancers are found in women under 45, while about two of three invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older. Then there are genetic risk factors. About 5

to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene defects (called mutations) inherited from a parent. The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In normal cells, these genes help prevent cancer by making proteins that keep the cells from growing abnormally. If you have inherited a mutated copy of either gene, you have a high risk of developing breast cancer in your lifetime. Other risk factors are linked to cancercausing factors in the environment. Still others are related to personal behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and diet. Some factors influence risk more than others. Here is an overview of breast cancer risk factors related to lifestyle choices, as well as those factors that are considered unclear or controversial, courtesy of the American Cancer Society. LIFESTYLE-RELATED FACTORS Having Children Women who have had no children or who had their first child after age 30 have a

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Hormone Therapy After Menopause Hormone therapy with estrogen (often combined with progesterone) has been used for many years to help relieve symptoms of menopause and to help prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). Earlier studies suggested it might have other health benefits as well, but these benefits have not been found in more recent, better-designed studies. This treatment goes by many names: postmenopausal hormone therapy (PHT), hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). There are two main types of hormone therapy. For women who still have their uterus, doctors generally prescribe both estrogen and progesterone (known as combined hormone therapy or HT). Progesterone is needed because estrogen alone can increase the risk of uterine cancer. For women who’ve had a hysterectomy, estrogen alone can be prescribed. This is known as estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or just estrogen therapy (ET). Studies have shown that using combined hormone therapy after menopause increases the risk of getting breast cancer. It may also increase the chances of dying from breast

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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 39 private fitness studios throughout the United States specializing in this unique approach. 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 140pound 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

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. 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. So you’ll not only save time, you’re going to get great results too. The Perfect Workout has 44 private studios that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these Houston 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, The Woodlands (281) 245-0478

www.ThePerfectWorkout.com

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Family

Health

A D V E R T I S I N G

TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Texas Children’s Hospital is a not-for-profit organi-

medicine, and offer a corporate wellness program. For the 10th year in a row, Houston Methodist has

one time with a doctor – usually about an hour. Everything takes place in an elegant (yet cozy) private

zation committed to creating a community of healthy

been named to FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best

environment with the added convenience of a full-

children through excellence in patient care, education

Companies to Work For" list and is one of only four

service business center. There’s even a chef who will

and research. Consistently ranked among the top

Houston companies ranked.

prepare a catered breakfast or lunch for you – all con-

For more information or to schedule an appoint-

veniently located at their multispecialty clinic in

World Report, Texas Children’s has recognized

ment at one of Houston Methodist’s locations, call or

Shenandoah. So schedule an Executive Health

Centers of Excellence in multiple pediatric subspe-

visit the website. 713-790-3333

Assessment today. It just might be the most impor-

cialties including the Cancer and Heart Centers, and

houstonmethodist.org

tant appointment you have all year.

children’s hospitals in the nation by U.S. News &

Call for more information or to schedule an

operates the largest primary pediatric care network in the country. For more than 50 years, Texas Children’s Heart Center, ranked #2 by U.S. News & World Report, has

DR. SUGENE KIM SGK PLASTIC SURGERY October is all about Pink. Dr. Sugene Kim specializes

appointment. 713-442-EXEC (3932) kelsey-seybold.com/woodlands 106 Vision Park Blvd., Shenandoah

been a pioneering leader in cardiac care, treating

in breast reconstruction and is the only MD Anderson

more than 17,000 children with congenital heart

fellowship-trained plastic surgeon in North Houston

defects and performing more than 800 surgeries

and The Woodlands. She and her staff will be celebrat-

annually. Cardiologists and surgeons are world-

ing National Breast Cancer Awareness month and want

“bulking up” like a bodybuilder if they were to start

renowned leaders in pediatric cardiology, congenital

to share some important information with you.

strength training. In reality, if you’re older than 25, it’s

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cancer. The use of estrogen alone after menopause does not appear to increase the risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding Some studies suggest that breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if it is continued for 1½ to two years. But this has been a difficult area to study, especially in countries such as the U.S. where breastfeeding for that long is uncommon. One explanation for this possible effect may be that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s total number of lifetime menstrual cycles. Women who have had more menstrual cycles because they started having periods early (before age 12) and/or went through menopause late (after age 55) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. The increase in risk may be due to a longer lifetime exposure to the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Drinking Alcohol The use of alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Compared with non-drinkers, women who consume one alcoholic drink a day have a very small increase in risk. Those who have two to five drinks daily have about 1½ times the risk of women who don’t drink alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is also known to increase the risk of developing several other types of cancer.

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Some factors influence breast cancer risk more than others, and your risk can change over time due to aging or lifestyle. Being Overweight or Obese Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Before menopause, your ovaries produce most of your estrogen, and fat tissue produces a small amount of estrogen. After menopause (when the ovaries stop making estrogen), most of a woman’s estrogen comes from fat tissue. Having more fat tissue after menopause can increase your chance of getting breast cancer by raising estrogen levels. Also, women who are overweight tend to have higher blood insulin levels, which have also been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer. Physical Activity Evidence is growing that physical activity in the form of exercise reduces breast cancer risk. The main question is how much exercise is needed. In one study from the Women’s Health Initiative, as little as 1.25 to 2.5 hours per week of brisk walking reduced a woman’s risk by 18 percent. Walking 10 hours a week reduced the risk a little more. UNCLEAR RISK FACTORS Diet and Vitamin Intake Many studies have looked for a link between what women eat

THE PLACE TO HEAL 832-660-4838 25222 Grogan’s Mill Rd. The Woodlands, TX 77380 www.REDACU.com The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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in humans is difficult. More research is needed to better define the possible health effects of these and similar substances. Tobacco Smoke For a long time, studies found no link between cigarette smoking and breast cancer. In recent years, however, more studies have found that long-term heavy smoking is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Some studies have found that the risk is highest in certain groups, such as women who started smoking before they had their first child. The 2014 U.S. Surgeon General’s report on smoking concluded that there is “suggestive but not sufficient” evidence that smoking increases the risk of breast cancer.

and breast cancer risk, but so far the results have been conflicting. Some studies have indicated that diet may play a role, while others found no evidence that diet influences breast cancer risk. For example, a recent study found a higher risk of breast cancer in women who ate more red meat. Studies have also looked at vitamin levels, again with inconsistent results. Some studies actually found an increased risk of breast cancer in women with higher levels of certain nutrients. So far, no study has shown that taking vitamins reduces breast cancer risk. This is not to say that there is no point in eating a healthy diet. A diet low in fat, low in red meat and processed meat, and high in fruits and vegetables might have other health benefits. Most studies have found that breast cancer is less common in countries where the typical diet is low in total fat, low in polyunsaturated fat, and low in saturated fat. But many studies of women in the U.S. have not linked breast cancer risk to dietary fat intake. Researchers are still not sure how to explain this apparent disagreement. It may be at least partly due to the effect of diet on body weight. Also, studies comparing diet and breast cancer risk in different countries are complicated by other differences (like activity level, intake

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of other nutrients, and genetic factors) that might also affect breast cancer risk. More research is needed to understand the effect of the types of fat eaten on breast cancer risk. But it is clear that calories do count, and fat is a major source of calories. High-fat diets can lead to being overweight or obese, which is a breast cancer risk factor. A diet high in fat has also been shown to influence the risk of developing several other types of cancer, and the intake of certain types of fat is clearly related to heart disease risk. Chemicals in the Environment A great deal of research has been reported and more is being done to understand possible environmental influences on breast cancer risk. Compounds in the environment that have estrogen-like properties are of special interest. For example, substances found in some plastics, certain cosmetics and personal care products, pesticides (such as DDE), and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) seem to have such properties. These could in theory affect breast cancer risk. This issue understandably invokes a great deal of public concern, but at this time research does not show a clear link between breast cancer risk and exposure to these substances. Unfortunately, studying such effects

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Night Work Several studies have suggested that women who work at night — for example, nurses on a night shift — may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This is a fairly recent finding, and more studies are looking at this issue. Some researchers think the effect may be due to changes in levels of melatonin, a hormone whose production is affected by the body’s exposure to light, but other hormones are also being studied. CONTROVERSIAL OR DISPROVEN FACTORS As with any topic, Internet and e-mail rumors and misinterpretation of studies lead to the spreading of false information about the breast cancer risks of various factors. Based on the available evidence, little if any reason exists to believe that an increased risk of breast cancer is due to antiperspirants, bras, abortion and miscarriage, and breast implants. Breast implants may be linked to a rare type of lymphoma called anaplastic large cell lymphoma that has rarely been found in the breast tissue around the implants. So far, though, too few cases exist to know if the risk of this lymphoma is really higher in women who have implants. For more details on any of these factors, visit the American Cancer Society website,cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detail ed-guide/breast-cancer-risk-factors. l

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Chloe

Cody

Text by Melanie Saxton Engagement photos by Nancy Abby Wedding photos by Leslie Cervantez

A sweet sign for the sweethearts. • The groom devised a creative sailboat proposal. • Arrangements of cream hydrangeas, coral carnations, quicksand and amnesia colored roses, green amaranthus, and variegated pittosporum adorn the church.

hloe Potter and Cody Duffy grew up 30 minutes from each other, but didn’t meet until a mutual friend introduced them at Texas A&M University. Bonded through their mutual admiration of Aggie traditions, the hometown sweethearts began a journey that culminated at the altar of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in The Woodlands — amidst military regalia and a sword arch! Cody attended Montgomery High School and Texas A&M, earning a degree in nuclear engineering. He proudly serves the nation as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. At his side is Chloe, who attended The Woodlands High School and Texas A&M, earning a degree in biomedical science. She’s taking graduate coursework in Jacksonville, Florida, where the couple is currently stationed.

Introduction and First Date The same day Chloe and Cody were introduced, they joined mutual friends at Sbisa, a dining hall. Sophomore Cody showed freshman Chloe around the A&M campus. That night they saw The Lion King at a College Station movie theater, and a few days later Cody invited Chloe to the Grill (a place to eat on campus). They exchanged sports passes for an Aggie football game, and Cody asked Chloe to midnight yell at the game as his date.

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The bride’s bouquet includes soft hues of nude, coral, and blush. • Stained glass frames the gorgeous bride in the church sanctuary. • The mother of the bride uses a hook to close buttons on the gown. • The couple steals a romantic kiss as wind billows the bride’s veil.

Courtship They became a couple in October 2011 and dated for more than two years, filling the days with studies, church, dining and attending Aggie football games. They enjoyed all of the A&M traditions, such as walking under the century tree, pond hopping and receiving their Aggie rings, which happened on the same day! They also camped and hiked at Pedernales Falls near Austin, and drove to west Texas to summit Guadalupe Peak, the highest natural point in Texas. Cody introduced Chloe to sailing and bought a catamaran for weekends on Lake Conroe and Galveston’s waters. Notably, they participated in many regattas and once came in first place.

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Proposal Cody planned an elaborate proposal, giving Chloe riddles and clues to solve that pinpointed the location of special dates! One clue involved the place where Cody first told Chloe he loved her. Another commemorated a special Valentine’s Day dinner. One clue involved stones… and Chloe had to search her memory back to the time Cody was hospitalized with kidney stones! Finally, Cody asked her to pack for a trip to his grandparents’ beach house the weekend before her 21st birthday. They sailed into the middle of Galveston Bay, and suddenly Cody’s grandfather let out a sail that read, “Chloe, will you marry me?” Cody dropped to one knee and proposed. She said yes, of course, as he slid a beautiful ring on her finger. They called family, took some pictures and eventually docked at Moody Gardens (rainforest on the beach had been another clue). The couple toured the rainforest pyramid and went to dinner at Shearns, the restaurant overlooking Moody Gardens and the bay. To Chloe’s surprise, her family and Cody’s family joined them for a celebration dinner. Cody took her to Mardi Gras in Galveston that night. Chloe could not have asked for a more fun and perfect engagement!

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The groom is surrounded by bridesmaids. • The handsome groom dons his Naval uniform. • Holy oils: the wedding included a full mass. • The newlyweds walk back down the aisle under a sword arch.

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Engagement The couple became engaged in March 2014, which gave them about a year and three months to plan their wedding and coordinate coursework and graduation. Cody left for Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island at the beginning of June, and they made all of the major wedding decisions beforehand. Fortunately, he had month off in August before attending additional Naval training in Virginia. Over Christmas break, the couple went house hunting in Jacksonville, where Cody was being stationed, and found a perfect condo just five minutes from the beach! Cody began moved into their new home in January while Chloe finished her last semester at A&M. She graduated May 15, 2015 — with the wedding just one week away!

A stunning cake perches atop glass over florals. • Fun beneath a “Whoop!” sign. • The bride envisioned a reception that would glow and feel inviting. • Paper cones were filled with petals to toss at the grand exit.

The Wedding On May 23, Father Tom Rafferty officiated as Chloe’s parents, Mark and Laura Potter, and Cody’s parents, Joe and Jenifer Duffy, witnessed the union of their children. Attire: The bride wore an ivory droppedwaist Dabra ball gown by Enzoani with a cathedral train, sweetheart neckline, tulle skirt with lace appliqué, ruched waist, pearl beaded belt, and a lace portrait neckline jacket with elbow-length sleeves. The ensemble was completed with a cathedral length sheer veil trimmed in lace and ivory, and peep-toe lace heels. She fulfilled her something old, something new, something bor-

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A beautiful couple underneath a beautiful chandelier • The cake was topped with a single rose alluding to “Beauty and the Beast." • The groom dips his bride amidst a floral cascade.

rowed, something blue items with one blue and gold brooch worn in her hair that had belonged to her Aunt Cheri, who passed away from ovarian cancer. The same brooch had adorned the bouquet at the wedding of one of her cousins. The bride also wore her mother’s blue lace garter that had been worn previously by her grandmother. Bridesmaids wore floor-length chiffon strapless dresses by Watters, all in the same style with various hues of coral, stone, buff, French vanilla and blush. The groom wore his Navy dress whites and naval officer sword. Groomsmen wore Vera Wang suits in dark grey with grey vests and ties that matched the color of their coordinating bridesmaid, with black tux shoes. Bridal Party: Catherine Potter (the bride’s sister) served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Kristen Anderson, Sacha Garvin, Collin Baird and Caitlin Conway (all friends since high school). Abby Batula served as flower girl. Austin Woods stood as best man, with groomsmen Daniel Deyo, Hanniel Honang, Kendal Carnley and Sawyer Duffy (friends from high school and college, and his younger brother). Merrick Russell served as ring bearer.

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Floral and Décor: Arrangements of cream hydrangeas, coral carnations, quicksand and amnesia-colored roses, green amaranthus and variegated pittosporum adorned the church. The bride’s bouquet included blush peonies, coral carnations, cream hydrangeas, quicksand spray roses, green amaranthus and dusty miller. The bridesmaid bouquets were a smaller version of the bride’s. Groomsmen, fathers and grandfathers wore a single quicksand rose boutonniere. Mothers and grandmothers held a single quicksand rose. The bride’s grandmother made buff colored pew bows to adorn the aisle. Top Wedding Moments: “I was excited and only a little bit nervous to walk down the aisle with my dad. I had been waiting for this moment my entire life!” says the bride. Seeing her groom for the first time was exactly how she pictured it would be. “He looked just as in awe to see me as well,” she notes. Traditional Catholic vows, a first kiss at the altar and their kiss below a sword arch went off without a hitch. The bride also recalls the beautiful music during communion kneeling next to her husband. “The violinist and pianist were wonderful!”

The Reception Augusta Pines Golf Club in The Woodlands was the perfect venue for the bride’s vision of traditional elegance. She wanted everything to glow and feel warm and inviting — no bold stand-out colors, but rather soft, elegant tones of nude, coral and blush. Floral and Décor: Sheer chiffon curtains made by the bride’s grandmother framed the dance floor. The sign-in table décor included framed photos of the couple’s parents’ and grandparents’ wedding photos placed around the guest book. A black and white poster of the A&M century tree served as the seating chart with table names and photos significant to the couple (instead of table numbers). “If you walk under it with your significant other, you will be together forever, so it was significant to us,” says the bride.

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Flower arrangements from the church were placed at the bottom of the stairs in the reception area. Centerpieces of cream hydrangea, peach and amnesia roses, blush carnations, green amaranthus, variegated pittosporum and eucalyptus also adorned the tables, as well as sandstone linens, mercury-glass pedestal vases at different heights filled with flowers drooping onto the table, and cylinder vases with rose petals and a pillar candle inside. Table tops also included a round mirror in front of each place setting with a votive candle on top. Guests’ place cards were tied onto the back of each chair with a nude colored sash and mirrored frames filled with decorative paper. Each guest’s frame had their printed name in a coordinating color with their food choice — allowing the wait staff to know what was ordered without being obvious. The Cake: “Our cake table was one of my favorite pieces!” says the bride. The cake was placed on round glass on top of square vases filled with wickless candles to create a glow, as well as flowers in the same soft colors.” The four-tiered confection of classic French vanilla, almond and spice cake had amaretto filling and buttercream icing. The topper was a subtle tribute to Beauty and the Beast (the bride’s favorite movie) with a single blush rose under a glass dome. Notably, the groom’s nickname in high school happened to be Beast! The couple

cut the cake with his naval officer sword, which caused a few “oohs” and “ahhs" from the guests. Top Reception Moments: The couple’s first dance was to I Cross My Heart by George Strait, played on a guitar and sung by a groomsman. The bride danced with her father to I Wish I Could by Collin Raye, mixed with the Barney theme song! “I think the dance lessons we took when I was home from college paid off!” says the bride. The groom and his mother danced to Mom by Garth Brooks. The best man surprised the couple by singing Brown Eyed Girl with the help of some of the groom’s friends. In tribute to their A&M roots, there were plenty of line dances. The A&M fight song was played near the end of the reception for all of the Aggies in attendance. The Exit: Guests were provided patterned paper cones filled with rose petals for the them to toss. As they exited, the groom dipped the bride before whisking her away in his decorated truck.

The Honeymoon The newlyweds went “glamping” (glamorous camping) at Paws Up Resort in Missoula, Montana for six days of breathtaking outdoor scenery, hiking, white water rafting and mountain biking. Then it was off to military duties and their new life in Jacksonville with their new puppy Brinkley!l

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Hill Country Getaway Lakeway Resort and Spa provides relaxation, rejuvenation and recreation

Pool

By Elizabeth Anthony akeway Resort and Spa is nestled in the Texas Hill Country just 30 minutes west of downtown Austin and along the shoreline of beautiful Lake Travis. The award-winning, AAA Four Diamond venue is the perfect location for a successful and invigorating meeting or family time to relax and rejuvenate. With commanding views of the Texas Hill Country from the shores of Lake Travis, Lakeway Resort and Spa is an elegant destination with contemporary resort amenities. The resort features 175 guest rooms, including spacious 2- and 3-bedroom condominiums. Most rooms feature private balconies allowing guests to enjoy the gorgeous views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Lakeway Resort and Spa’s featured amenity is the beautiful San Saba Spa with a 24-hour fitness center. The Spa is the ideal retreat for re-energizing while on vacation, enjoying a romantic getaway or unwinding from daily stress. The spacious spa includes nine indoor treatment areas, separate men’s and women’s locker rooms each with a dry sauna, separate elegant men’s and women’s lounges with a private outdoor spa terrace, a couple’s massage room with shower and a spa boutique. The 24-hour fitness center features strength training, cardiovascular stations and free weights. San Saba Spa offers a complimentary 8 a.m. yoga class every Saturday for hotel guests.

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Lakeway Resort and Spa guests love its swimming complex featuring a pool and slide area especially for kids, heated whirlpool overlooking Lake Travis and the swim-up bar. All pools are located outdoors; select pools are heated during the fall and winter months. THREE POOL COMPLEX (Heated) The Sunset Pool is the resort’s three-tiered infinity edge pool that cascades toward and overlooks Lake Travis. One of the tiers has a swim-up bar. Five U-shaped areas along one side of the pool let guests sit in the water with friends and enjoy a drink, the cool water and the view. The large kid-friendly pool features wading area, water features and a looping water slide. The whirlpool with its constant 103-degree temperature is the place to soak a tired body, enjoy a refreshing drink, socialize with friends or meet new ones, and enjoy the view of Lake Travis. Plenty of comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas surround the pool. For more privacy or shade, consider renting a cabana by the pool that includes cushioned lounges, ceiling fan, TV, fruit plate, chilled bottled water and WiFi access. KID ZONE The Kid Zone is one reason why Lakeway Resort and Spa is unlike any other Texas Hill Country resort. It provides a variety of

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Masterson’s Bar

fun kids’ activities, including movies, games, toys, books and arts and crafts. The large inflatable bounce houses with an obstacle course and dual slide are a big hit. A ping pong and pool table, air hockey and pinball machine and a basketball arcade round out the fun options. GOLF Four championship Golf Courses offer the golfer a variety of challenges. Yaupon Rolling fairways take the game past limestone outcroppings, serene water features and picturesque vistas. The front nine is characterized by elevated tee boxes that seem to carry the shot on forever. The back nine is slightly lower in elevation and more secluded with strategically placed water features. Live Oak The Live Oak Course derives its name from the trees that frame its meandering fairways and shade its tees and ample greens. But no sand here; this course is void of sand traps and bunkers.

Sunset

Condo

Flintrock Falls This gem is the area’s first collaborative design by Jack Nicklaus and Jack “Jackie” Nicklaus II. Opened in 2002, Flintrock Falls is recognized as one of their classic efforts. The signature Waterfall hole #11 is already giving The Hills hole #7 a run for its money as most beautiful hole in the state. Falconhead Designed to fit carefully into the gently rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country, Falconhead can be enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels and features four to six sets of tees per hole so the player can select the appropriate challenge that fits their game. MARINA A full-service marina is adjacent to Lakeway Resort and Spa. It features a wide range of facilities and water recreation activities, including private charter yachts for groups, seasonal public sunset cruises, ski boats with or without drivers, pontoon and deck boats, wave runners and bass boats with or without fishing guides, and the Texas Sailing Academy.

THE RESTAURANT Lakeway Resort and Spa’s restaurant boasts a sophisticated yet rustic atmosphere with pristine views of Lake Travis. Guests enjoy the impressive marble-topped bar with abundant seating and high-definition televisions. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant features the finest ingredients that guarantee delicious food for everyone. Restaurant hours are SundayThursday 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and FridaySaturday 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Reservations 901-609-3017 lakewayresortandspa.com

Repeat customers and guests visiting for the first time find that the friendly staff and customized programs are what makes Lakeway Resort and Spa the best place to relax, rejuvenate and recreate. The venue is also the ultimate choice for a Destination Wedding with the Vistas Glass Ballroom overlooking the lake. Visit lakewayresortandspa.com or call 512-261-6600 to learn more. l

Women’s Spa Lounge The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Winning Wines All varieties and a great range of prices

SPARKLING:

WHITE:

Bisol “Crede” Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Spumante Brut — Made from Pinot Bianco and two relatively unknown grapes, Glera and Verdiso, this is one of my favorite Proseccos. Brilliant light straw color with a bouquet of wild flowers. Fresh and elegant, and simply transcends most of the Proseccos on the market. I know the name is a mouthful, but it’s worth it, as the wine is a mouthful of pleasure! $25 Kim Crawford Fizz Small Parcels Sparkling Wine 2009 — A relatively new wine from this winery known for its excellent Sauvignon Blancs. Crisp and toasty with apple and peach aromas from a blend of 60 percent Pinot Noir and 40 percent Chardonnay. Aged 42 months prior to disgorgement. $27 Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvee Brut Carneros Late Disgorged 2006 — The Royal Cuvee was first served to King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain during their first visit to California in 1987. Made in the Champagne method and only in noble vintages. A noticeable step up from the delightful Sonoma County Brut — which is always a good value — and competitive with the big boys. $35

Les Dauphins Cotes du Rhone Reserve White Wine 2013 — “Clean, crisp and fresh” nails this wine. For sipping, with hors d’oeuvres or light appetizers. Pretty label and surprisingly refreshing. $12 Schreckbichl Colterenzio Pinot Grigio Suditol Alto Adige 2014 — From the highest, coolest wine-growing area in Italy, this wine sings, “The hills are alive…” Attractive peach and honeydew, with rich texture and balancing acidity all the way through the finish. Try with grilled sea bass or chicken pasta. $14 Sequoia Grove Chardonnay Napa Valley 2013 — Eureka! An almost perfect Napa Chardonnay. No malolactic fermentation since the natural acidity is stunning. Citrus and guava with a creamy middle taste and luscious finish. A gem and a bargain. $26 MacRostie Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2013 — A perennial best value, this wine came from numerous cool-climate vineyards offering distinct complex characteristics. Mostly barrel fermented and aged on the lees for 6 months. To emphasize the gorgeous 2013 fruit, select lots were fermented in stainless steel. For a 32,000case production, this seems like something from a boutique! This winery just gets better and better. $26

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Capensis Chardonnay Stellenbosch Fijnbosch Vineyard 2013 — Certainly the best wine I’ve tasted from South Africa. This seems to be similar to what Jess Jackson and French winemaker Pierre Seilan put together at Verite — producer of some of the best red wines in the world — in Sonoma County. Here, however, it is Jackson’s widow Barbara Banke and South African icon Antony Beck with Chardonnay. Winemaker Graham Weerts worked at Verite and Stonestreet in California and Mulderbosch in South Africa. The aromatics include peach, apple and pear, and the middle taste exhibits beautiful fruit, luscious complexity and subtle minerality. Competitive with the best Chardonnays the world has to offer. Only 1,000 cases produced. capensiswines.com $80

RED: Besieged Sonoma County 2012 — A blend of 35 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Petite Sirah, 18 percent Zinfandel, 12 percent Merlot, 9 percent Alicante and 5 percent Barbera. Joel Peterson of Ravenswood has produced a winner here. Bold plum and blackberry fruit. Rich and extremely happy with a cheeseburger! $12

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Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Claret Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 — Perhaps it’s the vintage, and perhaps it’s that this is the flagship of the Coppola Diamond Collection, but whatever the reason, this is the best offering from the Diamond Collection I have experienced. Tasted at a “Diamonds on the Diamond” outing with winemakers from Coppola at a recent Astros/Dodgers game, all of the wines were good, but this was the best. And to top it off, the Astros won in a no hitter!!! Beautiful purple color with aromas of chocolate-covered black cherries, this is a greatly underpriced claret (the early British name for imported wines from Bordeaux). Could be twice the price and still be a good value! $13.99 Educated Guess Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2013 — Isn’t everyone looking for a good, affordable Napa Valley Cab? Well, you don’t need to guess on this one! Aged 12 months in French oak, this wine has ripe black currant and chocolate flavors. “Fun, approachable and foodfriendly.” $20 Kunde Zinfandel Sonoma Valley 2013 — From one of the best wineries still slightly under the radar, this super-sustainable family winery, established in 1904, has produced the best Zin I’ve tasted this year! “A broad tapestry of blackberry and raspberry are seamlessly woven with spicy notes of black pepper.” The winery recommends barbequed ribs or a fancy risotto; for me, burgers and pizzas. 6,000 cases produced. $22 Head High Red Wine 2013 — A very successful blend of 36 percent Malbec, 20 percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 13 percent Zinfandel and 11 percent Grenache from carefully selected sites in Sonoma county (74 percent), Lake County (14 percent) and the rest Napa County. No thoughts of a specific terroir here, but no matter. This nice, rich, medium- to full-bodied red is a winner.

fermented in native yeasts. Aged in French oak (33 percent new). Aromas of cherry fruit, spice and earth. The winery recommends a truffle mushroom risotto or roasted pork with herbs and fennel. $35 Goldeneye Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Gowan Creek Vineyard 2012 — If you’re up for one of the best Pinot Noirs available at any price, seek this one out and buy it. Deep purple color with aromas of lavender and flavors of wild blackberry and dark cherries. “It is the richest and most abundantly fruit-driven of any of our Pinots,” says winemaker Michael Faye. Will just blow you away, especially with something like roasted duck with a dark cherry sauce. $82 Clos Abella Priorat 2009 — Out of over 1,000 wines blind-tasted in Hong Kong for Wine in China magazine, this amazing wine, tasted by a panel of 14 including Anthony Hanson MW and Jancis Robinson MW, was awarded 97 points and proclaimed “Best Wine in the World” for 2014. The Marco families have been winegrowers in Priorat since the 15th century. It is a blend of 50 percent Carignan, 39 percent Grenache and 11 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. This was an “Aha” moment for me regarding Carignan, just as the approximately 50 percent Cabernet Franc was, in the first, almost-perfect Maya (Napa Valley) I tasted. I could only find it in Houston at Truluck’s! $90

Grilled flank steak sounds just about right! $30 Davis Bynum Pinot Noir Jane’s Vineyard Russian River Valley 2013 — Davis Bynum produced the first Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley in 1973 from the Rochioli Vineyard! An unusually hot August and early September accelerated the ripening, and the harvest was completed by mid-September. All blocks were hand-picked in early a.m., cold soaked and

Denman Moody is the former publisher of Moody’s Wine Review, which the Washington Post said was “...certainly the best publication in this country for tracking the state of rare and exotic wines.” He was also the contributing editor on rare wines for the International Wine Review in New York from 1984-1990. He is an author, freelance wine writer and wine consultant. Denman is the Texas broker for the wines of Dr. Konstantin Frank, Finger Lakes, N.Y. TheAdvancedOenophile.com.

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DINING GUIDE AmericAn

BArBecue

19th Hole Grill & Bar 202 Sawdust Rd. Spring • 281-363-2574

Corkscrew BBQ 24930 Budde Rd. Spring • 832-592-1184

3B's Restaurant 466 Rayford Rd. #107 Spring • 281-419-3553

Country Time BBQ & Fixins 25330 Richards Rd. Spring • 281-298-7455

Baker Street Pub & Grill 25 Waterway Ave. #100 The Woodlands • 281-362-7431

Dickey's Barbecue Pit 10700 Kuykendahl Rd. The Woodlands • 281-298-8422

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse 19075 I-45 #600 Shenandoah • 936-273-7100

Mama J's BBQ & Grill 26710 I-45 Spring • 936-273-9444

Black Walnut Cafe 2520 Research Forest Dr. #150 The Woodlands • 281-362-1678

Pappas Barbecue 27752 Interstate 45 N. Conroe • 281-363- 2647

Black-Eyed Pea 1330 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-367-7143

Pit Master BBQ Cafe 343 Sawdust Rd. Spring • 281-419-3644

Buffalo Wild Wings 19075 I-45 #100 Shenandoah • 936-273-7777

Spring Creek BBQ 19099 I-45 Shenandoah • 936-271-0251

Cafe Express 9595 Six Pines Dr. #150 The Woodlands • 281.298.2556 Fuddruckers 2290 Buckthorne Place The Woodlands • 281-367-1343 Hubbell & Hudson Market & Bistro 24 Waterway Ave. #125 The Woodlands • 281-203-5600 IHOP 25619 I-45 Spring • 281-367-6626 Jasper's 9595 Six Pines Dr. #900 The Woodlands • 281-298-6600 Jerry Built Burgers 1335 Lake Woodlands Dr. #B The Woodlands • 281-367-2874 Panera Bread 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-363-1056 Rookies Sports Bar & Grill 305 Sawdust Rd. #B Spring • 281-362-9610 Salata 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-465-0775 Skeeter's Mesquite Grill 4747 Research Forest Dr. #420 The Woodlands • 281-364-1094

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Stadia Sports Grill 9595 Six Pines Dr. # 1110 The Woodlands • 281-298-1818

Fukuda Sushi 25701 I-45 N. #3 Spring • 281-419-8980

TGI Friday's 1105 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-296-8252

Genghis Grill 9300 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-363-4745

The Counter 9595 Six Pines Dr. # 1000 The Woodlands • 281-231-2147

Kim Son Cafe 1701 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-9444

The Egg & I 1644 Research Forest Dr. #100 The Woodlands • 281-419-8333

Tsukiji Japanese Cuisine 24 Water Way Ave. #100 The Woodlands • 281-298-1888

The Woodlands Dining Room 2301 North Millbend Dr. The Woodlands • 281-364-6292

Masa's Sushi & Robata Bar 4775 W. Panther Creek Dr. The Woodlands • 281-298-5688

Tommy Bahama 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-292-8669

Pei Wei Asian Diner 19075 I-45 S. Shenandoah • 936-271-9217

AsiAn/cHinese/ susHi

Pho Be 314 Sawdust Rd. The Woodlands • 281-465-9598

Bei Jing Chinese Restaurant 409 Sawdust Rd. The Woodlands • 281-363-2308

Shogun Japanese Grill & Sushi Bar 9420 College Park Dr. The Woodlands • 936-273-0023

Benihana 1720 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-292-0061

Thai Cottage 3105 College Park Dr. The Woodlands • 936-271-0771

Chi Japanese 27100 I-45 N. Oak Ridge N. The Woodlands • 281-419-1166

UNI Sushi 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-298-7177

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Thomas Barbecue 25312 I-45 Spring • 281-364-1177

FrencH/cAJun La Madeleine 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-5826 Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen 18165 Interstate 45 S. Conroe • 936-321-4200 Schilleci's New Orleans Kitchen 9595 Six Pines Dr. #1120 The Woodlands • 281-419-4242 Tewbeleaux's Sports Bar & Grill 2907 Rayford Rd. #101 Spring • 281-292-3600

mediterrAneAn/ europeAn/ lAtin AmericAn Américas 21 Waterway Ave. The Woodlands • 281-367-1492 Bombay Sizzler 202 Sawdust Rd. Spring • 281-465-8383 Euro Bakery & Cafe 5010 Louetta Rd. Spring • 281-257-3023

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Guri do Sul Brazilian Steakhouse 1400 Research Forest Dr. Shenandoah • 281-907-4146 Sitar Cuisine Of India 25701 I-45 N. Spring • 281-364-0200 The Goose's Acre Bistro & Irish Pub 21 Waterway Ave. #140 The Woodlands • 281-466-1502 Yucatan Taco Stand 24 Waterway Ave. #160 The Woodlands • 281-419-6300

itAliAn/greek

Via Emilia 10700 Kuykendahl The Woodlands • 281-465-9555

mexicAn/tex mex 1252 Tapas Bar 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-1260 Alfonso Mexican Restaurant 3126 Sawdust Rd. The Woodlands • 281-298-8032 Chipotle 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-296-2772

Amerigo's Grille 25250 Grogans Park Dr. The Woodlands • 281-362-0808

Chuy's Restaurant 18035 I-45 Shenandoah • 936-321-4440

Brio Tuscan Grill 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-465-8993

El Bosque 19073 I-45 Shenandoah • 936-321-9860

Buca di Beppo 19075 I-45 S. Shenandoah • 936-321-6262

Freebirds World Burritos 1640 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-8011

Carrabba’s Italian Grill 25665 I-45 N. Spring • 281-367-9423

La Lupita 20 Waterway Ave. The Woodlands • 832-510-2111

Greek Tony's Pizza & Sub Shop 432 Sawdust Rd. Spring • 281-292-4313

Los Cucos Mexican Cafe 4775 W. Panther Creek Dr. The Woodlands • 281-296-2303

Grotto 9595 Six Pines Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-4252

Lupe Tortilla 19437 I-45 S. The Woodlands • 281-298-5274

La Trattoria Tuscano 4223 Research Forest Dr. Spring • 281-419-2252

Mama Juanita’s Mexican Restaurant 8000 Hwy. 242 Conroe • 936-273-3220

Luca & Leonardo 20 Waterway Ave. The Woodlands • 832-510-2110

Pallotta's Mexican Grill 2211 Rayford Rd. Spring • 281-362-1114

Olive Garden Italian Restaurant 3041 I-45 N. Conroe • 936-539-5200

Taqueria Arandas 25598 I-45 N. Spring• 281-419-3582

Pallotta's Italian Grill 27606 I-45 N. Conroe • 281-364-9555 Ristorante Tuscany 1601 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands • 281-367-9797 Russo's New York Pizzeria 3335 College Park Dr. The Woodlands • 281-273-6060 The Olive Oil Greek Restaurant 373 Sawdust Rd. The Woodlands • 281-367-0114

dessert/teA/ coFFee Chocolate Passion 1520 N. Frazier St. Conroe • 936-539-6585 Cheesecake Factory 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. #302 The Woodlands • 281-419-3400 Gigi's Cupcakes 4747 Research Forest Dr. #150 The Woodlands • 281-651-5637

Pie Town Dessert Shop & Cafe 19075 I-45 Frontage Rd. Shenandoah • 936-321-3336

Philly Cheesesteaks 19153 I-45 #A Shenandoah • 281-465-0311

Rao's Bakery & Coffee Cafe 6915 Cypresswood Dr. Spring • 281-251-7267

Potbelly Sandwich Works 9595 Six Pines Dr. #930 The Woodlands • 281-292-6652

Teavana 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. (The Woodlands Mall) The Woodlands • 281-298-1127

WingStop 1510 Sawdust Rd. The Woodlands • 281-363-9464

steAkHouses The Woodlands Gourmet Bakery & Cafe 9950 Woodlands Pkwy. The Woodlands • 281-298-9684

seAFood Babin's Seafood House 19529 I-45 Shenandoah • 281-296-8829 Crabby Daddy Seafood & Steakhouse 25186 I-45 The Woodlands • 281-296-2722 Landry's 1212 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands • 281-362-9696 Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen 18165 I-45 S. Conroe • 936-321-4200

sAndwicHes/ deli/wings Black Walnut Cafe 2520 Research Forest Dr. #150 The Woodlands • 281-362-1678 Charley's Grilled Subs 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. #2162 The Woodlands • 281-465-4333 Honey Bee Ham & Deli 4747 Research Forest Dr. The Woodlands • 281-364-9200 Jason's Deli 1340 Lake Woodlands Dr. The Woodlands • 281-419-0100 Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches 1508 Research Forest Dr. The Woodlands • 832-585-0610

Bob’s Steak & Chop House 1700 Research Forest Dr. Shenandoah •281-292-2627 Fleming's Prime Steakhouse 1201 Lake Woodlands Dr. #305 The Woodlands • 281-362-0103 Kirby's Prime Steakhouse 1111 Timberloch Place The Woodlands • 281-362-1121 Perry's Steakhouse 6700 Woodlands Pkwy. The Woodlands • 281-362-0569 Robard’s Steakhouse 125 Autumnwood Way The Woodlands • 281-364-6400

Beer / wine Acqua Lounge Waterway Marriott 1601 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands • 281-367-9797 Crescent Moon Wine Bar 440 Rayford Rd. #115A Spring • 281-364-9463 Cru Wine Bar 9595 Six Pines Dr. #650 The Woodlands • 281-465-9463 Crush Wine Lounge 20 Waterway Ave. #200 The Woodlands • 281-362-7874 GenuWine Tasting Room 6503 FM 1488 #401 Magnolia • 832-934-2675 (CORK) Wolfies 25550 I-45 Spring • 281-298-9653

Katz's Express 19075 I-45 #116A Conroe • 936-321-1880 McAlister's Deli 3335 College Park Dr. The Woodlands • 936-271-1888

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Party Perfect Carvings for It’s that time of year – jack-omelon carving time! Watermelon carvings are a fun and different way to show off your spookiest Halloween faces. Throwing a Monster Mash has never been more fun, and this watermelon carving makes the ultimate centerpiece as the head of Frankenstein. Then round out your party menu with these kidfriendly Watermelon Glazed Meatballs and let the spooktacular celebrating begin. Before you start carving, check out a few helpful carving tips and tricks: • The whole watermelon should be at room temperate when you carve to make cutting and slicing easier. Then chill the watermelon after cutting and before serving. • Cut a small, thin, flat piece from the bottom of the watermelon before carving. This will provide a flat base, making the watermelon more stable when carving. • Draw the design on the watermelon rind with a fine/medium point waterproof marker or a sharp pencil before you cut. • Use a sharp knife with a pointed tip – the sharper the knife, the easier and cleaner the cuts will be. For more wicked watermelon carving inspiration, visit www.watermelon.org/Carvings.

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| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

tba a e M d e z a n Gl o l e m r e t Wa Serves: 6 to 8 2 tbsp 24-36 1 cup

1 cup

vegetable oil frozen prepared mini meatballs watermelon puree (instructions on the right) prepared barbecue sauce

l ls

Heat oil in large heavy saute pan over medium high heat or electric skillet set on 325°F. Saute meatballs until browned and hot. Reduce heat to low. To make the watermelon puree, remove seeds from fresh watermelon and cut into large chunks. Place in a blender and process until smooth and well pureed. Mix together barbecue sauce and watermelon puree. Pour over meatballs and simmer for a few minutes. Serve hot.

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• • • • • • • • • • • •

Oblong shaped seedless or seeded watermelon Large kitchen and paring knives Melon baller Honeydew Green dry erase marker Straight pins or toothpicks Chocolate wafer cookies, large and mini sizes Black edible sugar sheets or construction paper Black licorice strings Pair of chop sticks Chocolate covered mini donuts Spooky decorations

Head Frankof enste in

Wash watermelon under cool running water and pat dry. On cutting board, place watermelon on its side and cut 1/2 to 3/4 inch from each end, creating a sturdy base and top portion of carving. Stand watermelon upright. Scoop out a good amount of red fruit from top of watermelon with melon baller, also using a melon baller scoop a generous portion of honeydew to make fruit salad. Refill top portion of watermelon with balls of watermelon and honeydew. From ends that were cut off, draw nose with dry erase marker and use paring knife to cut it out. Attach to watermelon using straight pins or toothpicks. For eyes peel two large and two small chocolate wafer cookies in half. Using sturdy toothpicks or straight pins, attach large cookies with white icing facing out from watermelon and attach small black cookie portion to white icing to create Frankenstein's pupils. Cut black edible sugar sheets or construction paper half length wise then make zig zag cuts to create hair; attach this to top of watermelon using straight pins. Use straight pins to attach black licorice to create mouth and stitches randomly on face. Three-quarters down watermelon on each side of face, insert a chopstick and attach a chocolate covered mini donut to each chopstick to resemble screws in Frankenstein's neck. Complete carving with additional spooky decorations. l Family Features

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

GRACEPOINT STILLWATER Stillwater, a new development minutes from Interstate 45 just north of The Woodlands, has opened an information center at 15601 Koenig Lane in Conroe. The center will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, offering details on the various neighborhoods and conceptual plans of the Lowcountry home designs that will be available in the 188-acre development. Residents will enjoy The Woodlands schools and proximity to W.G. Jones State Forest, which borders Stillwater. For details, please visit the website. stillwatertx.com

JUSTIN MCCLUNG, REALTOR® THE MCCLUNG GROUP The McClung Group wants to be your “Realtors for Life” by exceeding expectations and building lasting relationships. Their team has over 50 combined years of experience, with a strong background in marketing and negotiating in their clients’ best interests. Their comprehensive marketing plan maximizes exposure with professional staging and photography, print media, digital marketing and a strong online presence. They strive for 100% customer satisfaction and look forward to working with you and your referrals! 281-656-5750 team@themcclunggroup.com Keller Williams Realty 8111 Ashlane Way, The Woodlands

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COMANCHE TRACE The first all-energy-efficiency neighborhood in the Texas Hill Country is under way, and two specs homes will be open for tours in early summer 2015 at Comanche Trace. On 1,300 acres, with 27 holes of championship golf and abundant amenities for gracious living, Comanche Trace is a master-planned community located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country that is continually ranked as one of the best in the country. Homes from $250k to $2mil+, Lots from $69k to $200k+. For Stay & Play booking, available listings, and property tours, visit the website. 877-467-6282 comanchetrace.com

WESTIN HOMES For 20 years, Westin Homes has been a leader among Houston homebuilders offering the very best in quality and design. They have earned a reputation for building elegant, high-quality homes in some of the most desirable communities in Houston. With both distinct and refined details, they create the perfect balance of beauty and function. They take pride in delivering the highest levels of satisfaction to every customer. Whether their homeowners are moving to Houston from another country or from a neighborhood nearby, they are looking for a home that is comfortable, timeless, and affordable. Westin-Homes.com

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

LYNDA F. BENTLEY, P.C. ATTORNEY AT LAW For more than 27 years, Lynda Bentley’s office has handled family law cases in the courtrooms of Houston and surrounding areas. Her experience is critical, because judges have a great deal of discretion when making decisions. She understand the judges she works with and how judges think, because she was one. She knows their habits in terms of making decisions. This allows her to present her cases based on each client’s needs. but also emphasizing the issues important to the judges who will determine the final outcome. Her knowledge of all the factors in play allows her to do what is right for you in your divorce or family law case. 281-955-2408 attorneylyndabentley.com 5515 Louetta Rd., Ste. C, Spring

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cialized care in cancer treatment, cardiology, neurology, women’s health, and sports medicine. Currently under construction, the medical office building will open in 2016 and the hospital in 2017. Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital, a 193-bed facility, is slated to open in Spring 2017. Located at the intersection of TX-242 and I-45, the medical campus also includes a 150,000 square-foot medical office building scheduled to open in early 2016. The new hospital, which will be the eighth in the Houston Methodist system, will offer The Woodlands and Montgomery County a full service, acute care hospital capable of delivering the level of service and care for which Houston Methodist is known.

‹Students Benefit From David Weekley Homes Back To School Supply Drive

Amanda Murphy with Woodforest’s marketing department at the new sign announcing Christine Allen Nature Park in Woodforest.

‹New Woodforest Sign Makes Artistic Impression A recent installation in Woodforest noting a new amenity is more a work of art than a “coming soon” announcement. Measuring 11 feet by 9 feet, the oversized placard depicts a colorful, impressionist rendering of Christine Allen Nature Park. The sign is mounted on a custom-built easel, and a gold frame completes the art gallery imagery. “Planning for the park is still underway, but this artistic sign is our vision for the area — a space where the beauty of nature takes center stage,” said Shannon League, marketing director of Woodforest. Until construction of the park begins, Woodforest residents and visitors are welcome to use the sign as a backdrop for photos, League said. The 33-acre parcel is located in Woodforest’s “South District” across from the Christine Manor neighborhood. Part of the parkland is designed as a detention pond to manage water in the community. Woodforest is located five miles north of The Woodlands and offers homes priced from the $200,000s to the millions. For more information, visit woodforesttx.com.

(L-R): Debbie Sukin, Jeffery H. Shipley and Catherine Del Paggio, senior director of development, Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation.

‹Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Luncheon Hosted by Jeffrey H. Shipley Jeffrey H. Shipley, regional managing director with Wells Fargo Private Bank, hosted a luncheon for local corporate and community leaders to learn more about the Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. At the Sept. 8 event, Debbie Sukin, CEO of Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital and regional senior vice president, Houston Methodist, spoke about the benefits the new hospital will bring to The Woodlands and Montgomery County. In addition to a Breast Care Center, the hospital will also provide spe-

David Weekley Homes hosted a Back to School Supply Drive benefiting the YMCA of Greater Houston. Thousands of items, valued at $14,000, were collected during the twoweek drive, which benefited 1,440 children. After collecting the donations, team members sorted the supplies and delivered them to the organization to ensure the supplies would be distributed in time for the students to begin school with the tools needed to be successful. “The school supply drive was such an easy way for our team members and community to support students, teachers and our local schools,” said Cindy Miller, marketing director for David Weekley Homes. “I opened one of the boxes and the donor’s child had written a personal note wishing the students a great school year, hoping they enjoyed the items he had picked out just for them.” The drive was an initiative of the company’s CARE program, which is a charitable and volunteer program that partners team members with homeowners, homebuyers and community partners with nonprofits to make a positive impact in the lives of everyone it touches and in all the communities it builds through its purpose, Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives. This is accomplished by company team members volunteering many hours to different organizations in their communities, and the Weekley Family Foundation donating more than $100 million to a variety of organizations in the U.S. and abroad over the past 20 years.

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

THE WOODLANDS DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

HARMONY Fabulous new townhomes are coming to the Spring master-planned community of Harmony. Nestled in the exclusive gated neighborhood of Solstice at Harmony, new luxury lifestyle homes by CastleRock Communities starting in the $250s will be available with eight different living alternatives from 2,8003,900 square feet. Landscaping and exterior maintenance also will be provided for Harmony’s townhome residents, perfect for busy professionals seeking a high-end residence without the upkeep of a traditional home. To learn more about Harmony, visit the website, or visit its collection of fully furnished model homes, open daily. Harmony-Houston.com

When you purchase a new home in The Woodlands or its sister community, Bridgeland, between October 1 and December 31, 2015 and close by January 31, 2016, you will receive a $2,000 gift card through its Harvest of Homes’ promotion. Certain restrictions may apply. The Woodlands is one of the best-selling master planned communities in Texas, situated 27 miles north of downtown Houston. Stop by The Woodlands Information Center located at 2000 Woodlands Parkway, or visit the website. Thewoodlands.com

PELICAN BUILDERS Pelican Builders, Inc. is a residential development company based in Houston. The principals and management of Pelican Builders have extensive experience in single family, townhome and high-rise residential building and development and have been active in the Houston area for more than 30 years. Trademarks of this team are excellence in concept, quality construction and careful attention to the needs and desires of its buyers. With current projects in Houston, The Woodlands Area,The Texas Medical Center and Sugar Land, Pelican Builders offers a combination of elegance and affordability in each of its communities. To learn more please visit the website or call Barbara Fredricksen or Becky Shannonhouse. Barbara: 281-528-5638 Becky: 281-433-8361 pelicanbuilders.com

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WOODFOREST CHJ WEALTH MANAGEMENT Investing seems to be more complicated each day. Trying to determine what makes markets move can drive you crazy. All the noise can distract you from focusing on your goals. At CHJ Wealth Management their role is to deal with the nuances of today’s markets while you focus on enjoying your life. Stop by for a visit to discover how being independent allows them to focus on your goals. Please contact them at the number below. 281-298-2700 chjwealthmanagement.com 10200 Grogan's Mill Road, Suite 340, The Woodlands

| The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Woodforest is celebrating important milestones this fall — the opening of its first retail and the start of the first church services in the community. CVS Pharmacy opens this month at Fish Creek Thoroughfare and Woodforest Parkway. The store is on a 2.29-acre parcel that is part of a larger retail site under development. Plus, The Woodlands First United Methodist Church starts services in November with the Rev. Brent Parker at Stewart Elementary in Woodforest. The church will begin construction of a new campus once a self-sustaining congregation has been established. For details, visit the website. woodforesttx.com

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THE KINK TEAM From starter homes to luxury estates, The Kink Team has been dedicated to delivering world class real estate service in The Woodlands area for almost a decade. Their use of advanced technology, top notch customer service, attention to detail, and a national real estate referral network second to none through Keller Williams Realty Mastermind Groups keep The Kink Team as one of the top producing real estate teams in the industry. They ranked No. 1 in Keller Williams Woodlands Market Center and have been recognized by Houston Business Journal as one of the Top 10 Houston Residential Realtors®. 281-364-4828 TheKinkTeam.com

TDECU In 1955, a group of 10 founded TDECU with $5 each. They then made their first loan – for a $35 refrigerator. Sixty years later, their mission hasn’t changed. They recognized their 200,000th member and made over $1.3 billion in new loans in 2014, while continuing to provide their members with access to affordable, convenient credit. They’re proud to continue the founders’ legacy and look forward to serving TDECU members for the next 60 years. 808-839-1154 x 4614 TDECU.org/mortgage

The Leadership Montgomery Class of 2016.

‹Leadership Montgomery Class of 2016 Enjoys Opening Retreat The Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) Class of 2016 kicked off its year with the opening retreat Sept. 3- 4. The Retreat, sponsored by Entergy Texas, Milstead Automotive, The Nina Marino Team – Keller Williams Realty, and Woodforest National Bank, was held at Camp Allen in Navasota. Class members arrived at Camp Allen on Thursday, Sept. 3 to a day of team-building activities. LMC Board Chairman Rob Koester and Executive Director Sarah Rhea welcomed the class before they began their day with retreat facilitator Kent Hutchison.. After lunch, the class members got to know each other and bond over afternoon teambuilding activities at the Challenge Course sponsored by James and Janet Stilwell. In the evening, the class heard potential project presentations from three local nonprofit organizations. After small group and overall class discussion, the class selected to assist Montgomery County Youth Services with their project. On Friday, the 45 class members explored various learning and leadership styles, followed by class project discussion, an introduction to their leadership series, and reflection. “The retreat was a great success,” said Rhea. “This is a wonderful group of leaders and we are excited about the year ahead as they begin their journey.” Leadership Montgomery County (LMC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to cultivating the future leaders of Montgomery County. The LMC mission is to prepare emerging and existing leaders to understand local issues, grow their leadership skills and

connect with others to better serve Montgomery County. The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Magnolia Chamber of Commerce, the Community Chamber of East Montgomery County, the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber, and the Magnolia Parkway Chamber of Commerce are all partner Chambers in the LMC program. Participants are chosen by application process in June of each year. For more information, visit LMCTX.org.

The winning table at The Chairman’s Ball was decorated by Market Street – The Woodlands.

‹Market Street Wins Best Overall Table Decoration at Chairman's Ball Market Street – The Woodlands recently won Best Overall Table Decoration at the 37th Annual Woodlands Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Ball held at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. The stylish Market Street Monopoly-themed decorations beat more than 40 other tabletop decorating contest participants and included gift bags from Market Street retailers.

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

CHRISTINE HALE RE/MAX THE WOODLANDS & SPRING A longtime resident of The Woodlands and native Houstonian, Christine and her team of experienced agents provide their clients with the highest level of service when helping them sell or purchase a home. Her team of professionals consistently earn awards for being in the Top 20 in the State of Texas. They pride themselves on superior customer service and go above and beyond to make sure every client is completely satisfied long after the transaction is completed. Christine’s team stands true to their slogan, “We Sell More Because We Do More.” Cell: 281-772-6337 Direct: 281-362-2514 WeSellTheWoodlands.com 6620 Woodlands Parkway, The Woodlands

GRAND CENTRAL PARK

GRACEPOINT HOMES - LILY

Two impressive monument signs for Conroe’s Grand Central Park have been installed on I-45 and Loop 336, providing an inspiring arrival experience while reinforcing the natural elements within the property. Grand Central Park currently is under development to include luxury, single-family homes on wooded sites, parks, open green spaces and the regional shopping, dining and entertainment destination 336 MARKETPLACE, all part of the masterplanned community’s first phase. For details and to view a new, three-dimensional concept video presenting the sights and sounds of Conroe’s Grand Central Park, go to the website, and also join the VIP email list for up-to-date information. GrandCentralParkTX.com

Gracepoint Homes has luxurious homes designed around inviting courtyards ready now in Lily, a new gated development near The Woodlands and less than a minute from Interstate 45. Located off Wellman Road in Shenandoah, Lily features homes from the low $500,000s. Besides the signature courtyards, the designs boast open-concept great rooms, generous porches and balconies. Buyers can choose from street-served and alleyserved properties. A model is open now at 132 McKinley Landing. For details, see the website.

WRIGHT ABSHIRE, ATTORNEYS, P.C.

MIKE SEDER REAL ESTATE Nobody knows the real estate market like Mike! He lists and sells homes in every price range, works with multiple relocation companies as well as international clientele. Mike is bilingual (English and Spanish) and has been selling real estate in The Woodlands for 37 years. He's been the No. 1 Re/Max Agent in Texas for 9 years and is the No. 1 Re/Max Agent in the world! He recently became a team, The Mike Seder Group, and attributes his success to surrounding himself with great agents and repeat business from satisfied clients. Call Mike for an exceptional home buying/selling experience! 281-602-8823 mikeseder. com Seder@mikeseder.com 26113 Oakridge Drive, Suite A, The Woodlands

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gracepointhomes.com

HERITAGE TEXAS PROPERTIES Heritage Texas Properties is a company deeply entrenched in upscale markets, with 16 office locations throughout greater Houston, the surrounding counties, and the Texas Hill Country, each representing a multitude of luxury lifestyle choices. The expertise of their team crosses every threshold, from close-in luxury markets like River Oaks, Southampton, West University, Tanglewood, and Memorial, to far reaching country properties – and the ultimate in luxury, The Woodlands. Wherever life takes you, call on them. Haley Garcia: 936-447-9625 heritagetexas.com 8505 Technology Forest Place, Ste. 803

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Wright Abshire is an award-winning team of elder law attorneys led by Wesley E. Wright and Molly Dear Abshire. For two decades, the firm has dedicated its efforts to the legal needs of senior citizens and people with disabilities: helping seniors obtain nursing home Medicaid eligibility to preserve assets and income; assisting disabled family members with special needs trusts to attain or maintain public benefits after receiving an inheritance or personal injury settlement; and attaining VA Aid & Attendance for veterans. The firm has the expertise and empathy to accommodate the unique needs of its clients. Both Wright and Abshire are Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. 936-273-2773 3117 College Park Dr., Suite 240 The Woodlands wrightabshire.com

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Rendering of the new fire station in Harmony.

‹South Montgomery County Fire Department to Add New Fire Station in Harmony Community The South Montgomery County Fire Department has announced plans for a new fire station, its first since 2012, at the corner of Discovery Creek Blvd. and Tara Springs Drive in the Spring master-planned community of Harmony. Construction of Station #6 is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2016 with an opening planned for a year later when the new facility is expected to help the department maintain its coveted ISO Class 1 rating for performance, staffing, training and water supplies. The ISO Class 1 rating, earned by fewer than 100 of the nation’s fire departments, is

based on statistical information provided by the for-profit Insurance Service Office. As a result, Harmony residents could realize the lowest possible rates on the fire protection portion of their homeowner’s insurance policy, according to Deputy Chief Clint Cook of the South Montgomery County Fire Department. The new, 9,000-square-foot facility will house two bays, a fitness center for department personnel, kitchen and sleeping quarters for five.

‹Conroe ISD ACT Composite Score Highest in Over Two Decades Conroe ISD continues to exceed the State and National averages in ACT scores, and the 2015 District composite average is at the

highest level in at least 20 years. The District had 1,406 seniors from the 2015 graduating class take the exam. “We have much to celebrate,” said Dr. Chris Hines, deputy superintendent. “We are very proud of our ACT results. These high scores reflect that more students are taking more rigorous curriculum. We commend both our students and teachers.” The District composite average is 24.1, with the State and National averages being 20.9 and 21.0 respectively. Conroe ISD’s average increased by 0.6 percentage points, while the State and Nation remained the same as last year. Dr. Curtis Null, assistant superintendent of secondary education notes, “These results are the product of the hard work of our students and teachers. CISD’s focus on producing students who are prepared for college and postsecondary success contributes to our continued improvement in ACT scores.” For more information on college readiness, visit ready.conroeisd.net.

Join us on campus for this enchanting musical that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

‘Gone Girl’ Author

GILLIAN FLYNN

NOVEMBER 12-15

WWW.COOPERTICKETS.ORG

JCS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

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Color Pencil Artwork Drawing Attention photo by Jerry Lane

The Woodlands’ Jesse Lane is finding success in art world Jesse Lane at work.

esse Lane is drawn to art, and his many successes at the age of 25 show that his work is definitely drawing attention, from national juried art shows to art book authors who include his work. This summer, The Woodlands’ artist earned two awards from the Colored Pencil Society of America (CPSA). At the the 23rd Conference of the CPSA held in Atlanta, Lane won one of the top honors: the “Derwent/Conte a Paris - ColArt Americas Award for Exceptional Merit” for his

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arresting painting “Gravity,” which was featured at the CPSA International Exhibition at Atlanta’s Oglethorpe Museum of Art. Lane is the youngest artist honored at the exhibit. His drawing “Resolve” won a “Best of Show” award in the CPSA online competition, Fall ArtSpectations 2015-16. Lane’s drawing “Surrender” has been accepted into the 31st Juried National Show of the National Society of Artists. This exhibition will be at the Center for the

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Arts and Sciences in Clute, Texas, Sept. 19 - Oct. 12. “Gravity” and “Resolve” will also be exhibited at the Richeson75 Figure /Portrait International Art Exhibition at the Richeson Gallery in Kimberly, Wisconsin, Oct. 20 - Dec. 5. Fortunately, local art enthusiasts can see his piece “Pause” at the 33rd Juried Membership Exhibition of the Visual Arts Alliance from Sept. 23 - Nov. 22 at the 1600 Smith Street Gallery in Houston.

photo by Jerry Lane

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“Using light and composition, I work to design and capture the emotion of that instant.” — Jesse Lane

is featuring Jesse’s work in a book to be published in February, Draw Portraits in Colored Pencil. Lane is currently working on a series of portraits called “Anatomy of Light” that explore the intensity of intimate moments. “I paint my images with colored pencil, applying layer upon layer, blending them to create the smoothness and richness of an oil painting,” he says. “Because flesh is so organic, there are many colors found within it. This fascinates me. Each color becomes richest in it’s own small area. I often allow my figures to emerge into the light and disappear into darkness. This is my way of enhancing the mood or emotion of the piece.” Lane plans to offer prints on his website JesseLaneArt.com soon. He can also be found on Facebook and Instagram. l

“Resolve” won a “Best in Show” award at the Fall ArtSpections competition and also will be exhibited at an international exhibit this fall in Wisconsin.

photo by Jerry Lane

Lane started drawing as a freshman at The Woodlands High School. While working on a degree in animation at Texas A&M University, he spent a semester studying at the Santa Chiara Art Center in Castiglion Fiorentino, Italy, where he was inspired by the Renaissance painter Caravaggio and his use of dramatic lighting. “I try to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary,” Lane says. “I’m always looking for the easily missed moments of everyday life. Using light and composition, I work to design and capture the emotion of that instant.” Judges are enthusiastic about his talents. “Jesse Lane is tomorrow’s grand name in the visual arts,” says Bernard Poulin, author of The Complete Colored Pencil Book and keynote speaker at the Atlanta CPSA conference. “He’s young enough to know he has yet to learn a lot, skilled enough to raise eyebrows, storytelling enough to awe and humble enough to be a professional well into his old age.” Judge John Smolko of the Fall Art Spections said of “Resolve,” “This is a real master work for Jesse. I just can’t take my eyes off the portrait! What a dynamic work of art. Bravo, Mr. Lane!” Lane is also gaining recognition in the print world. His work will be on the cover of Colored Pencil magazine later this year, including a four-page article showcasing his drawings. He’s also been asked to write an article for another national art magazine, Ann Kullberg’s Color, and Kullberg

photo by Jerry Lane

“Surrender” was accepted into the 31st Juried National Show of the National Society of Artists.

“Gravity” won one of the top honors at this summer’s national conference of the Colored Pencil Society of America and will be exhibited at an international exhibit this fall in Wisconsin.

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Volunteers helped to provide 6,000 jars of peanut butter to the Houston and Montgomery county Food Banks.

Kevin Brady presents Carol Gooch with the Congressional Record for MCABW.

KEVIN BRADY HELPS CELEBRATE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF MCABW Montgomery County Association of Business Women celebrated its 10th anniversary on Aug. 25, with over 100 people in attendance at the monthly lunch meeting. The Honorable Kevin Brady presented MCABW’s founder and executive director, Carol Gooch, with an autographed copy of the Congressional Record dated July 29, 2015, of the Proceedings and Debates of the 114th Congress, First Session, whereby he honored MCABW on the floor of the Congress for 10 years of excellence in serving Montgomery County. After graduating from Leadership Montgomery County in 2003, Gooch decided to form a group so that women could network their business. The group was one of the first women’s networking associations in Montgomery County and its success has spurred the creation of many similar groups. MCABW provides a forum for business women to develop and enhance professional and personal relationships with their peers and also actively works to improve Montgomery County. MCABW has helped many non-profit organizations in Montgomery County and they award college scholarships to Montgomery County High School females. The women of MCABW represent all walks of life. There are members returning to the world of work, young members who are just starting their careers and seasoned professionals willing to pass on their wisdom and knowledge. MCABW also offers a complimentary mentoring program for its members. As Brady stated in the Congressional Record, “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the Montgomery County Association of Business Women.” For more information, visit mcabw.org.

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CYPRESS-WOODLANDS JUNIOR FORUM HUMANITARIAN PEANUT BUTTER CANNING PROJECT Cypress-Woodlands Junior Forum volunteers filled 6,000 peanut butter jars and boxed them for distribution to the Houston and Montgomery County Food banks. The peanuts are Texas grown and processed locally at Houston Peanut Butter Cannery, one of only six remaining canneries in the United States. The Humanitarian Peanut Butter project and cannery are part of an outreach program of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Cypress-Woodlands Junior Forum is a nonprofit assistance organization and recognized chapter of Junior Forum, INC. This growing women’s group is dedicated to providing volunteer services and philanthropy to enrich the communities in North Harris and South Montgomery counties. For more information on joining or donating, call 281-379-1391 or visit cwjuniorforum.org/.

The Cooper School Dragons welcome first responders to their game on Sept. 11.

COOPER HONORS MONTGOMERY COUNTY FIRST RESPONDERS AT HOME FOOTBALL GAME The John Cooper School Dragon Booster Club sponsored a tribute on Sept. 11 to the first responders in our community who work to keep us safe on a daily basis. Booster Club President-elect Kara Teuscher organized the tribute. Emergency response vehicles were on hand and officers gave demonstrations before the game. The evening began with a moment of silence in recognition of the lives lost on 9/11/2001, followed by the singing of the national anthem by senior Natalie Holley. Sixteen officers from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Montgomery County Precinct 3, The Woodlands Fire Department, the Cypresswood Fire Department, Montgomery County Hospital District EMS and the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, were in attendance. Representatives from each division joined the players, coaches and referees on the field for the coin toss. At halftime, all first responders in attendance were invited to join Head of School Mike Maher and Athletic Director Mike Cooper at midfield to be recognized. Announcer Rae Moses said the following: "Here in Montgomery County, these emergency responders set examples on a daily basis — of service, duty, loyalty, love and self-sacrifice; 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This evening we offer our sincere thanks." The recognition concluded with junior Emily Moses singing "God Bless America" and the cheerleaders greeting the emergency officers as they left the field. The Cooper Dragons finished the game with a 14-0 victory over Rosehill Christian.

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As part of the Middle School “Cooper Connects” program, students volunteer to assist those who are new to the school to help them assimilate into the life of the school. Seventh-graders (l-r) Kirthi Chandra, Sarah Lalani, Melissa Chow and Jenna Braun.

COOPER OPENS NEW YEAR WITH 1201 STUDENTS; NEW BUILDING UNDER WAY The John Cooper School began the 2015-16 school year breaking yet another enrollment record for the 16th consecutive year. Established in 1988, the school began classes on Aug. 20 with a total enrollment of 1,201 students. That includes 512 students in Lower School (grades PK-5), 284 students in Middle School (grades 6-8) and 405 students in Upper School (grades 9-12). “We are beginning this school year with energy and enthusiasm, especially as we see

our new Rock Center for Math and Science emerge in the heart of our campus,” said Michael F. Maher, who is beginning his 16th year as Cooper’s Head of School. “It is a very exciting time for us as we anticipate transitioning into our new facility this time next year. This is the most significant academic improvement Cooper has made since the school opened its original Mitchell Lower School and the Middle/Upper School classroom buildings in 1988 and 1993, respectively.” The Center will

span three stories and include 50,000 square feet of classrooms and laboratories for Middle and Upper School science and mathematics. The Center will also house a computer lab, robotics classroom, outdoor roof garden and the 135-seat Ramirez Family Lecture Hall. The number of faculty continues to expand in conjunction with enrollment growth. Stephen Popp has joined the administrative team as Head of Upper School. He joins Cooper after 12 years at St. John’s School in Houston as a social studies teacher and Upper School Dean of Students. Popp earned an undergraduate degree in history from Baylor University and a Master of Arts in history as a James Madison Fellow at The University of Houston. He graduated last May with a Masters of Education and Independent School Leadership from the Teachers College at Columbia University. Faculty members who are new to Cooper’s Upper School include James Stancil (history), and Jonathan Thomas and Cathy Martinez (science). Dr. Robert Jing joins the Middle School math faculty. Joining the Lower School faculty are Breann Edelman, Therese Keller, Cristina Orjuela, Alesia Patterson and Jenette Phillips and new teaching assistants are Jennifer Alger, Brittany Nevlud, Sharon Padamada and Christine Rigia. BJ Feuerhelm joins the faculty as a physical education teacher and varsity girls’ basketball coach.

CONROE ISD CELEBRATES THE START OF A NEW SCHOOL YEAR The Conroe Independent School District celebrated the beginning of the 2015-16 school year on Thursday, August 20, at the annual “Celebrate Our Schools” assemblies. The morning session began with the Elementary Teacher of the Year, Jamie Straughan, and the Secondary Teacher of the Year, Sabrina Pomales, leading the pledges followed by Conroe ISD music and choir teachers singing the “National Anthem.” A musical performance comprised of over 100 students representing all Conroe ISD feeder zones entertained the crowd. As in previous years, Superintendent Dr. Don Stockton shared facts, assessment results, and exciting news from each feeder zone in his State of the District address. He concluded his presentation with an interview from a teacher, Sheri Broughton, whose life

Music was provided by more than 100 students from all over Conroe ISD.

has been positively impacted by her first grade teacher, Susan Frankson, whom she had not seen since. The two were reunited on stage to resounding applause. In addition to celebrating the new school

year, everyone who attended had the opportunity to donate to the Montgomery County Food Bank. Every dollar raised will allow the Montgomery Country Food Bank to purchase 11 pounds of food.

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varsity

football scheDule caney creek Date

8/27

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