Intown jan 2015 web (1)

intown JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2015

Person of the Year

JJ Watt

The Tribute Issue Interview with Jose Altuve Profile on Yvonne Streit Best New Restaurants Music Tribute

YOUNG Realty Group

5th Generation Houstonian

HIGHLAND VILLAGE Resident

Longstanding Member of HOUSTONIAN CLUB

Previews International

Luxury Agent®

CrossFit & Cycling Enthusiast

Memorial High School

University University of Texas of Texas Lance Rosmarin REALTOR®®

Young Realty Group is a collaboration of top producing agents working together to provide the highest quality of service to buyers and sellers of residential real estate throught the Greater Houston Area.

This is who

We Are.

Houstonian

US Marine

Combat Veteran

Maplewood Resident HOUSTON FIREFIGHTER Military Relocation Specialist

Simeon Nichols REALTOR®

Billing�al English & Spanish

Houstonian Since 2001 12+ Years of Residential Real Estate Experience

CrossFit & Cycling Enthusiast

Kariliz Perez

Memorial Villages Specialist

Memorial High School University of Texas

UpperResident Kirby 12+ Years of Residential

Real Estate Experience

Tae Kwon Do Student

David M. Young REALTOR®

TEXAS A&M Kingsville

Resident

REALTOR®

Coldwell Banker International President’s Premier Agent®

4th Generation

Spring Branch

Young Realty Group 5111 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire TX 77401 832-819-0391 www.youngrealtyhouston.com

OAK FOREST Resident

Leasing Specialist Native

Houstonian SOCIAL MEDIA

MANAGER

Texas Ornithological Society Member Rosemary Gaswint REALTOR®

Filet Mignon “Oscar Style”

CONTENTS

14-15

24-25 16-19 26-27

intown JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2015

Person of the Year

J.J. Watt The Tribute Issue

ON COVER

Interview with Jose Altuve Profile on Yvonne Streit

J.J. Watt, Person of the Year

Best New Restaurants

Publisher’s Letter 6

Arts & Events 10 - 12

The Buzz 13

Person of the Year 14 - 15 JJ Watt

A Tribute to 16 - 19 Yvonne Streit

20-21

The Year in Dining 20 - 21

Sportsman 22 - 23 of the Year

Dueling Casinos 24 - 25

Top Interior Design 26 - 27 Trends Of 2015

Tax Planning Ideas For 2015 28 - 29

Music Tribute

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

intown houstonintown.com

PUBLISHER M.A. Haines EDITOR Lisa June

PRODUCTION Web Design: Melaroo Layout & Graphic Design: Cristian Paris Photographer: Wells Brown

CONTRIBUTORS Lindsay Mowad William Hanover Christopher mauer John Granato Maren Gustin Evans Attwell Sean Salisbury

For advertising rates and information: 713.525.8607 intownmagazine@gmail.com Space reservation deadline is 15 days prior to publication.

Intown Magazine is published bi-monthly by SNS Media. Articles are welcome and will be given careful consideration for possible publication. Intown Magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials.

Materials submitted will be returned if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Box 980757 Houston, TX 77098.

You can also e-mail intownmagazine@gmail.com Copyright 2014 by Intown Magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced with permission from Intown magazine.

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2643

Colquitt

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS? Nestled in the heart of Houston, just one block West of Kirby Drive between Richmond and Alabama, Thornwood Gallery has earned a reputation of providing high quality artwork by international, national and local artists for homes and businesses. Our extensive inventory represents a wide variety of styles from abstract to impressionism and realism.

We provide art consulting and advisory services for collectors of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, drawings, photography and sculpture. Whether you are an experienced art collector or just starting out, we can guide you with objective professional advice. We are pleased to work with individual collectors, corporations, architects, and interior designers.

Member ASID.

2643 Colquitt St., Houston, TX 77098 713.528.4278 w w w.t hor nwo o dga l ler y.com

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Looking back and forward Now in our sixth year of awarding a person of the year in

Watt in 2011. Before that, the nation’s first openly gay and

Houston, we still try not to always do the obvious. This year

female mayor, Annise Parker.The late great Peter Marzio of

was an exception. After trying hard to determine that there

MFAH fame in 2010. Our first in 2009 of course was a no

was someone else more impactful, or interesting, we ended up

brainer, Beyonce.

at the same conclusion, J. J. Watt. The only thing we suggest is to hold the salute and celebration after each magnificent play.

Our special tribute is to Mrs. Yvonne Streit, who many already

Aren’t you supposed to start acting like you have been there

know about for her long and fruitful career of leadership and

before when you have already. JJ Watt is a compelling story. A

education in very difficult circumstances.

tireless worker and one who inspires others and gives of his time to many people who are in need and want his attention.

It has been a tough year for the Houston Dynamo losing their

His charity is already doing good work.

longtime coach and goalkeeper, but the recent signing of Mexican sensation Erick Torres should be a big boost. Jose Altuve is our

Watt’s career in football was not always an illustrious one.

Sportsman of The Year and he continues to fly under the radar,

As a non-recruited freshman at Central Michigan it seemed

leading all of baseball in hits and batting average.

unlikely he would become a superstar in the NFL. Although maybe he did. Our previous selections were the late George

While 2014 has been be an indelible year for many reasons,

Mitchell of fracking fame last year. Rick Smith, GM for the

I’m looking forward to 2015 and wondering how and when

Texans, who brought us their first playoff win ever and drafted

can I get my first box of Cuban cigars.

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NOLA

STYLE

— MANDOLA HOSPITALITY — Enjoy the finer side of Creole and Cajun cuisine at the L.A. Bar, located next door to "The Original" Ragin' Cajun.

New Orleans-style dishes inspired by our Louisiana roots offer something for every taste, from our signature char-grilled oysters to new twists on classic seafood.

Come for a taste of the French Quarter, stay because you feel at home.

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KW Luxury Consultant, CLHMS, CRS Keller Williams Memorial

(713) 461-9393 www.bettybezemer.com

Broker Associate

ABR, CRS, ePro

RE/MAX 360 281-686-4444 Mobile Real Estate Bruce Kink

Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

713-621-2555 Dawn Gervais

www.weldonrigby.com REALTOR® Consultant, CLHMS, GRI, ALHS, ABR www.houstoncondosandtownhomes.com CEO / Team Leader Keller Williams Realty

KW Luxury Homes BOD Keller Williams Metropolitan

(832) 752-6114 www.dawngervais.com

(713) 621-8001 www.kwmet.com

Professionals the G David Michael Serving Young REALTOR®, CLHMS, GREEN, CNE Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

(713) 320-6453 www.davidyoungteam.com

Dawn Gervais

Mariana Saldana

Broker, CIPS UptownReal RealEstate Estate Group, Uptown Group,Inc. Inc. (713) 629-7771 (713) 629-7771 www.uptownhouston.com

www.uptownhouston.com

Beverly Smith Carrie Ousley CISR CLHMS, Lake Conroe CIC, Specialist Luxury Home and Condo Insurance Coldwell Banker United, Realtors HUB International Personal Insurance (713) 569-2113 Val Arbona (832) 681-5020 www.har.com/bevsmith REALTOR®, CLHMS, CRS www.hubousley.com RE/MAX Vintage

(713) 562-4903 www.valarbona.com

Members and

Shane KidwellRealty Keller Williams Ken Jacobson CMPS CLHMS, GRI, TRLP Vice President/Sr. Mortgage Planner (832) 752-6114 Keller Williams Metropolitan Hometrust Mortgage Company www.dawngervais.com (713)369-4040 303.1413 Betty Bezemer (713) www.har.com/TheKidwellTeam KW Luxury Consultant, CLHMS, CRS www.kenjacobson.com Keller Williams Memorial

(713) 461-9393 www.bettybezemer.com

of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing

Bruce Kink

Marilyn Arendt Broker - Owner Lane Mabray MarilynCRS Arendt Properties GRI CLHMS C: (281) 433-9113 Lane Mabray Home Team mma@castle2sell.com (281) 925-3023

www.lane2houston.com

RE/MAX 360

(713) 621-8001

(281) 686-4444 Weldon Rigby www.kwmet.com

www.houstonluxuryestates.com Founding Member KW Luxury

Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

(713) 621-2555 www.weldonrigby.com

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Visit our web site

W W W. G R E A T E R H O U S T O N L U X U R Y. C O M

Betty Bezemer KW Luxury Consultant, CLHMS, CRS Keller Williams Memorial (713) 461-9393 www.bettybezemer.com

www.

CEO / Team Leader Marlene Foad Homes BOD KW Luxury ABR, CRS, ePro, CLHMS Keller Williams Metropolitan

REALTOR® Consultant, CLHMS, GRI, ALHS, ABR

Mariana Broker,Saldana CIPS

REALT Ma

Val Arbona Val Arbona REALTOR, CLHMS, CRS Mariana Saldana RE/MAX Vintage CRS REALTOR®, Broker,CLHMS, CIPS (713)Estate 562-4903 RE/MAX Vintage Uptown Real Group, Inc. www.valarbona.com (713) 629-7771 (713) 562-4903

www.uptownhouston.com www.valarbona.com

Members and

Carrie Ousley Betty CIC, CISR Bezemer

Ke Carrie Ousley CIC, CISR Luxury Home and Consultant, Condo Insurance Vice Pres KW Luxury CR Luxury Home and Condo InsuranceCLHMS, HUB International Personal Insurance HUB International Insurance KellerPersonal Williams MemorialHomet (832) 681.5020 (832) 681-5020 (713) 461-9393 www( www.hubousley.com www.hubousley.com

www.bettybezemer.com

of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing

W W W. G R E A T E R H O U S T O N L U X U R Y. C O M

Lane Mabray

4822 Locust St | Bellaire List Price $925,000 | MLS# 44285948 3,750 sq ft 4 bed, 3.5 bath Mediterranean in Bellaire. Dining with wine closet. Island kit with Bosch range & convection oven & custom stacked cabs. Casual dining. Family room w 2 sided fireplace. 1st floor travertine tile. Private office w built-ins & fireplace.

Game room with built ins. Master suite w fireplace. Plantation shutters. Sprinkler, security & mosquito systems. Surround sound. Side & back yards.

Wendy Cline Properties Phone: 281-858-3451

CRS GRI CLHMS 40271 Wildlife Run |Home Ranches of Clear Creek Lane Mabray Team

Broker, CIPS Uptown Real Estate Group, Inc.

List Price $945,000 | MLS# 64350694 (281) 925-3023 (713) 629-7771 Barndomidium on 28 AC in exclusive equestrian community of Ranches of Clear www.lane2houston.com www.uptownhouston.com Creek. Home has 2 beds, 2 baths, combined Kit/Din & large living/game room with balcony overlook of barn interior. Deep covered porch overlooks nearby lake from gentle rise. Hard woods, granite, wood ceilings. Stone & Hardi exterior. 3 stall horse barn. Tack Rms. Storage. Loafing Sheds. Pastures & Turn Outs.

Wendy Cline Properties Phone: 281-858-3451

Members and affiliates of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing

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Mariana Saldana

Members and

Visit our Website

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W W W. G R E AT E R H O U S T O N L U X U R Y. C M W. G R E A T E R H O WOW

GreaterHouston HoustonLuxury LuxuryHome HomeCommunity Community Greater

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David Michael YoungYoung David Michael David Michael Young

Monica FosterKidwell Wendy Cline Shane Shane Kidwell Broker Associate,CLHMS, CRS, CLHMS, CLHMS, SRES, ABR, CPRES REALTOR速, CLHMS, GRI, CNE REALTOR速, GRI, CNE SRS,Martha ABR, CNE, CNHS, CDPE Wendy Cline Properties Martha Turner Properties Turner Properties RE/MAX Space Center Keller Williams Memorial (713) 303-1413 (713) 303-1413 (281) 387-8805 (281) 858-3451 www.thekidwellteam.com www.thekidwellteam.com RealtyByMonica.com www.wendyclineproperties.com

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Weldon Rigby

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Carol Ann FaKouri ASP ePRO GRI MCNE John Daugherty, Realtors (713) 553-7272 www.carolann-realtor.com

Moira Holden Marlene Foad CHMS, CNE, GRI,Foad CLHMS Marlene Better Homes and Gardens ABR, CRS, ePro, CLHMS ABR, CRS, ePro, CLHMS Real EstateRE/MAX GARY GREENE 360 RE/MAX 360 (281) 460-9402 (281) 686-4444 (281) 686-4444 www.MoiraHolden.com

West Oaks | Tanglewood Area List Price $2,495,000 | MLS # 81620748 www.houstoncondosandtownhomes.com www.houstoncondosandtownhomes.com Elegant Mediterranean retreat in Tanglewood area. Park-like setting with security gates at neighborhood and residence entries. Custom stonework, master suite with study, fireplace, large bath with his and her vanities. Balcony with views of beautiful patio.

Spacious island kitchen, Sub-Zero, and granite counters. Mosquito/sprinkler systems and elevator. Summer kitchen, pool and outdoor fireplace.

Weldon Rigby | Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan Phone: 713-621-2555

Ken Jacobson CMPS Ken Jacobson CMPS

Carrie Ousley CISR Carrie Ousley CIC,CIC, CISR

Vice President/Sr. Mortgage Planner Luxury Home Condo Insurance Vice President/Sr. Mortgage Planner Luxury Home andand Condo Insurance Hometrust Mortgage Company HUB International Personal Insurance Hometrust Mortgage Company HUB International Personal Insurance

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Main house has 4 beds, 3.5 baths & 2 car garage. Hand scrapped distressed wood floors, island kitchen w Jenn-Air appliances. Master down. Game room up. Large wrap around porch. Deep covered back patio with Sunsetter retractable awning.

Separate 1,200 SF Guest House with 1 bed, 1 bath, full kit, liv, din & game rm. Salt water pool. 2,000 SF equipment barn. 2 stall horse barn w tack room.

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5646 Briar Dr | Tanglewood Area List Price $1,975,000 | MLS# 54944423 3 story Tanglewood home on private drive has 6 beds, 6.5 baths, 3 car garage on 1/3 acre lot w wrap around yard. Salt water pool with slide & waterfall. Outdoor kitchen & wood burning stone fireplace. Custom island kitchen with Sub Zero frig, Viking cooktop, Thermador double convection ovens, Kitchenaid ice freezer & micro, Fisher Paytel DW. Private office, Wine & Media Rooms. Two covered patios.

Wendy Cline Properties Phone: 281-858-3451

Members and affiliates of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing

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Visit our Website

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THE MENIL COLLECTION Dario Robleto: The Boundary of Life is Quietly Crossed Ongoing through January 11, 2015 The sculpture inquires the history of the human heart with this site specific project.

MUSEUMS

Experiment with Truth: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence Opens October 2 through February 1, 2015 130 works from artists from Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe exploring the Gandhi’s ethics of “satyagraha,” or non-violence.

Rubens - The Triumph of the Church

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS HOUSTON

HOUSTON MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE

Arts of Islamic Lands: Selections from The al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait Ongoing through January 4, 2015 More than 60 examples from the 8th to 18th century culled from one of the largest Islamic art collections in the world.

Europe 1900 -1975: Selections from the Museum’s Collection Ongoing through January 2015 Highlights include works on paper from Pablo Picasso and first time exhibits in Houston from Anthony Caro and Judit Reigl.

Special Exhibits Battleship Texas Organized by Texas Parks and Wildlife it is anchored in the Houston Ship Channel in LaPorte

Rubens - The Victory of the Eucharist over Idolatry

Shark!

Ongoing through March 22, 2015 Special Exhibit Faberge; from A Snowflake To An Iceberg Opens September 19 500 jeweled treasures from the 1800’s with the Russian overview of their Russian history along with some of their stunning Easter eggs.

Silver: An American Art-Selections from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Opens August 30 through February 15, 2015 Works from American silversmiths and silver companies such as Gorham and Tiffany.

Fangs,Feathers, and Fins: Sacred Creatures in Ancient American Art Ongoing through January 25, 2015 Monet and the Seine: Impressions of a River Opens October 26 through February 1, 2015 Over 50 paintings from French Master Claude Monet on loan from locations around the world.

Treasures from Korea: Arts and Culture of the Joseon Dynasty, 1392-1910 Opens October 30 through January 11, 2015 Line: Making the Mark Ongoing through March 22, 2015 Selection from the Museum’s Collection: Modern and Contemporary Art Ongoing through May 3, 2015 Spectacular Rubens Opens February 15 through May 10, 2015

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Gemstone Carvings Masterworks of Harold Van Pelt Harold Van Pelt transforms solid quartz, rock crystal and agate gemstones into works of art.

Rubens - Tapestry - The Triumph of the Church

For a New world to Come: Experiments in Japanese Art and Photography, 1968-1979 Opens March 8 through July 12, 2015

CONTEMPORARY ARTS MUSEUM HOUSTON

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON Current Exhibits “Ground Zero 360: Never Forget” Ongoing through January 11, 2015

Art On The Lawn: Joseph Havel Ongoing through April 30, 2015 The third Installation from Joseph Havel includes an “endless column” of books in the center of the Museum’s lawn.

“Experiments with Truth: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence” Ongoing through February 1, 2015

Robert Hodge: Destroy and Rebuild Ongoing through January 4, 2015

“The Art of Gaman” Opens January, 2015 through September 20, 2015 A new exhibit curated from the works of internees from President Roosevelt’s incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans who sought solace in their art creations.

Double Life Ongoing through March 15, 2015 Mel Chin: Rematch Opens January 17 - April 19

“Birthrights Left Behind” Ongoing through June 15, 2015

Samurai: The Way Of The Warrior Opens November 21 through September 7, 2015

ASIA SOCIETY TEXAS CENTER Urban Asia: Kirk Pedersen Ongoing through January 4, 2015.

Although trained as a painter, Pedersen explores urban Asia through a camera lens.

Traditions Transfigured: The Noh Masks of Bidou Yamaguchi Opens October 25, 2014 – February 8, 2015.

Inspired by centuries of Japanese Noh theater, contemporary works by artist Bidou Yamaguchi.

Mel Chin: Rematch Opens January 17 through April 19 A homecoming for one of the city’s most renowned artists.

MUSIC & DANCE ARS LYRICA Love Lettres February 14

DA CAMERA CHAMBER MUSIC AND JAZZ The Romeros Guitar Quartet at Wortham Theater Center. Jan 24 From Dowland to Britten: Nicholas Phan, tenor; Eliot Fisk, guitar. Jan 27 The Rauschenberg Project, inspired by the works of legendary visual artist Robert Rauschenberg February 7 The Danish String Quartet Houston debut at Menil Collection February 10 Pianist Jonathan Biss first Houston solo recital at Stude Concert Hall, Beethoven and Beyond February 20 Houston Ballet Shen Yun Jones Hall December 28 through January 7

Houston Symphony Mozart And Shostakovich January 15 through 18 The piano sister duo Christina and Michelle Naughton share the stage at Jones Hall Sutton Foster January 3o through February 1 Two time Tony Award-winning vocalist and dancer will perform her Broadway hits at Jones hall Bernadette Peters February 13 Seven-time Tony award winner will perform some of Broadway’s best music

RIVER OAKS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA January 2 “Roco Annual Fund” 8 “Beer and Brass” at St. Arnold’s brewery 13 - 14 “Greater Roco: Mutual Affection - Conductorless!”

18 “Peter and the Wolf at the Houston Zoo” 22 ”Six Degrees of Tolstoy” 25 “Divas and Ballerinas”

10 S. Briar Hollow Lane #2 | Raintree Place List Price $2,495,000 | MLS # 90764639 Designed by O. Russell Worley and masterfully renovated by Ron Logan. Guardgated Raintree inner-loop enclave with first floor master and 3 walk-in closets.

Sub-Zero/Thermador chef’s kitchen and butler’s pantry. Guest house with full kitchen and bath. Exercise room with steam shower, silk-covered walls, heated pool, copper roof and 3 fireplaces.

Weldon Rigby | Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan Phone: 713-621-2555

TOYOTA CENTER Chris Brown with Trey Songz.

January 7

2207 Bancroft #1502 | Briar Hollow Offered at 878,400 | MLS #84645340 Stunning 15th floor unit w/Galleria views. Split floor plan,2 bedroom 2.5 bath w/ extra high ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/marble countertops/Upgraded stainless appliances and 3 plasma TV's/custom lighting and closets, 2 parking spaces w/24 hour concierge, infinity pool loggia/summer kitchen,fitness center, putting green & RIVER OAKS DISTRICT ACROSS THE STREET! Mariana Saldana | Uptown Real Estate Group, Inc. Phone: 713-629-7771

115 Club Island Way | Bentwater Golf Course home in the gated community of Bentwater on Lake Conroe. This home has wonderful views of if #18, #10, & #9 on the Weishkopf course. The wood finishes in this home are incredible. All counter tops are a beautiful granite and the home has stainless appliances along with plantation shutters. Screened in porch with remote to raise the screens & opens to the lap pool. Call now to see.

Beverly Smith | Coldwell Banker United 713-569-2113 Da Camera presents Houston's own Jason Moran and his trio, The Bandwagon. They will perform The Rauschenberg Project's world premier at the Wortham Center

Members and affiliates of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing

WWW.GREATERHOUSTONLUXURY.COM intown 11

Bob Seger. February 14 Maroon 5. February 17 Winter Jam 2015 Tour Spectacular January 28

THEATER A. D. PLAYERS THEATER Wedding Belles Opens January 21 through February 15

ALLEY THEATER All Shows at the University of Houston’s Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre.

As You Like it Opens February 4 through 22

THE ENSEMBLE THEATRE Fly Opens January 29 through February 27

STAGES REPERTORY THEATRE The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe Opens January 20 through February 15

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Character Man Opens January 24 through March 15 Girls Night: The Musical February 4 through March 15

THE HOBBY CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS Myths and Legends January 10 The Book of Mormon January 20 through 28 Waiting For Johnny Depp January 22 through 31 Rick Springfield February 6 Kinky Boots February 10 through 22 Jumping The Groove February 12

Live Thoughoughbred Racing Returns January 16 at Sam Houston Race Park

THE MUSIC BOX THEATER

10 Utah

8 Portland

Company Year in Review January 2 through 17

15 OK City

21 Toronto

17 Golden State

23 Minnesota

SPORTS

19 Indiana

25 L.A. Clippers

28 Dallas

27 Brooklyn

Home Games at Toyota Center January

February

3 Rockets

6 Milwaukee

Thoroughbred Horse Racing Sam Houston Race Park Meet Begins January 16 through March 10

HOUSTON ROCKETS

4 Chicago

The

BUZZ

By Lindsay Mowad

Tommy and Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger

Houston Forward Movers

Weezy and Saks Dees; Kate Stukenberg

Rafael Chavez and Carmina Zamorano; Trey Velasco

CANCER FORWARD AT SAKS A widely diverse, high energy crowd filled the aisles of Saks Fifth Avenue night to kick off Houston’s 16th Annual Key To The Cure Charity Shopping Weekend.

The event benefited CancerForward™: The Foundation For Cancer Survivors, and served as the backdrop for ceremonies toasting The 2014 Class of CancerForward Forward Movers.

Jayne and Bobby Kapur

Saks VP Bobby Dees presided over the awards presentation and a champagne reception. Celebrity appearances on stage and offering high praise for the mission of CancerForward were American classic prep designer Tommy Hilfiger and his wife Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger. They were joined at the podium by Kate Stukenberg, a CancerForward board member and the Executive Editor of PaperCity Magazine which sponsored the event.

Roswitha Vogler Kate and Peter Hays; Leigh and Robert Contreras

Robert Ivany, Michele Malloy, Lori Gallagher, Hon Lisa Miranda, Maureen Evans, Margo Geddie

Gayle and Bob Longmire

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS IRISH GALA RAISES OVER $380,000 More than 400 friends of the University of St. Thomas William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies attended the annual Irish Gala at The Houstonian Hotel in honor of Michele Malloy. The Gala was chaired by Maureen Evans, Margo P. Geddie and Lisa Miranda.

His Eminence Daniel N. Cardinal DiNardo of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston was the honorary chair.

Dorothy and Ray LeBlanc

The Gala provides scholarships and student support for University of St. Thomas students to study abroad in Ireland and Northern Ireland and at UST. Under the direction of Lori Gallagher J.D., prior to this event the Center has awarded study abroad scholarships to over 80 students. The Center also sponsors monthly cultural events open to the public related to all aspects of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Irish America.

For more information: www.stthom.edu/irishgala

Father Joseph Pilsner, Doris Rodriguez, Michael Stuart

The Tribute Issue

PERSON OF THE

YEAR j.j. watt

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Person of the Year

“Dream Big Work Hard” After awaking for many years at 5:30 to begin his workouts that he credits for his success, J. J. Watt maintains an even sharper focus despite becoming the Houston Texans first 100 million dollar man.

Watt’s contract makes him the highest paid defensive player in the history of the National Football League.

Under the microscope of all the national attention his focus has helped his team stay in playoff contention and put himself in position to win the NFL’s coveted Most Valuable Player Award, normally reserved for the quarterback position. He was also a Pro Bowl selection along with teammate Arian Foster. Watt has even caught passes for touchdowns on plays designed for him on offense.

Despite his recent success it was not always that way.

Born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, just west of Milwaukee he was told that he was “too skinny, too small, and not fast enough.” to be a football player in high school.

Not highly recruited by colleges, Watt was offered a scholarship to Central Michigan where he hoped to excel as a tight end. At the end of the year he was asked to move to offensive tackle.

first year there and was named Scout Team Player of The Year. His hard work finally paid off when in 2010 he was selected a second team All - American, and first team All - Big Ten. He also won the coveted Lott Impact Player Award that was given for personal character as well as athletic excellence.

The Houston Texans thought highly enough of him to make him their 1st pick in the 2011 draft and the 11th overall pick and it has certainly been their best decision in the franchise’s history.

Giving Back As a kid Watt’s dad told him, “I don’t expect you to be perfect, but I always expect you to try and be perfect.”

For many adoring fans, Watt goes out of his way in helping others and sharing his time with his fans and to those in need. He has over 1 million likes on Facebook and over 600 thousand followers on Twitter. His foundation is designed to help middle schools in Houston and Wisconsin who lack sufficient funding for afterschool programs that involve athletics in a safe and supervised setting. The programs are designed to encourage kids to dream big and to persevere under adversity.

Watt then decided to be closer to home and walkon at the University of Wisconsin. He redshirted his

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The Tribute Issue

Education and Leadership

Intown Salutes Yvonne Streit for 30 Years of Amazing Determination

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Many of our readers who have so generously gifted to this community over the years may know the story well. Those in Houston and all parts in between do or should know about an incredible woman and the special place she has created.

Yvonne Streit is a Godcentered person who has worked tirelessly and believes strongly in the many “paths“ that led to the development of Brookwood Community and her first creation, the Briarwood School.

Be prepared for whatever life throws your way Our unique Envision® process helps you identify your top priority goals and develop a plan designed to help you live your life the way you want. It also offers you the flexibility to adjust your priorities to account for any of life’s changes, such as: • Increasing medical costs • Helping a child or grandchild afford higher education • Caring for an elderly parent • And more To find out how the Envision process can help ensure your investment plan keeps pace with your life, please contact me today.

Envision is a registered service mark of Wells Fargo & Company and used under license.

Patricia Green, CFP® Financial Advisor Senior Vice President – Investments 1300 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 400 Houston, TX 77002 Direct: (713) 403-7331 p.green@wellsfargo.com www.wfadvisors.com/p.green 773481 Investment and Insurance Products:  NOT FDIC Insured  NO Bank Guarantee  MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo & Company. © Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.

Yvonne T. Streit grew up and attended River Oaks Elementary School and Lamar High School. She later attended SMU when one of those paths was a professor who convinced her to add education to her psychology major. Upon her graduation she went into teaching while her husband David, attended law school.

One of the other paths was her and her husband’s their third daughter Vickie who became ill. Due to being sick with encephalitis and meningitis before the age of 12 months, she developed severe brain damage. They were told by a number of leading doctors to ”put her away” due to the severity of the brain damage suffered.

After an exhaustive search for someone to help Vickie, and bound with determination, Mrs.Streit finally located a Dr. Newell Kephart at Purdue University. Dr. Kephart told her he would see her daughter because of the special challenge. Where many had

intown 17

The Tribute Issue

ABOUT BROOKWOOD COMMUNITY The Brookwood Community serves 110 residents and roughly 80 day guests as a home for disabled and handicapped adults. The range of disabilities include autism spectrum disorders, intellectual

There’s more to

life

AT THE GARDENS OF BELLAIRE!

developmental disabilities, brain injuries, dual diagnosis along with aging care needs.

Brookwood accepts no government funding and relies on tuition, donations and sales from their entrepreneurial enterprises. All of their equipment including the building, furnishings and vehicles were donated.

A few of the funding enterprises are the Horticulture and Handcrafts Enterprises and The Cafe at Brookwood. The Cafe is open seven days a week for lunch and serves hundreds of customers a week, providing jobs for the citizens of Brookwood. Chef Michael Fernandez was educated at The Culinary Institute of America in New York

Assisted Living & Skilled Nursing Community

CAREFREE LIVING STARTS HERE.

• •

Meals, Housekeeping and Linen Services

•

Healthy Generation Calendar of Events, Programs and Outings

•

and offers a gourmet dining experience. The facility is also available for weddings and parties and can handle up to 350 people. All

Scheduled transportation to doctors appointments

for a good cause.

Rehab & Wellness Center, with on-site Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy

and teachers and provide a feeling of

We’re Right in Your Neighborhood call today to schedule a visit

The teachers serve as friends, counselors independence for its’ members of the community. Sports and physical fitness play a huge part in the activity at Brookwood. The Brookwood Eagles participate in six Special Olympic sports, including basketball, bocce ball, bowling, cycling, golf, and swimming.

Brookwood

is

responsible

for

an

outreach program that shares innovative concepts and techniques with other professional caregivers throughout the

4620 Bellaire Boulevard • Bellaire, TX 77401

713-665-3888

www.GardensOfBellaire.com SNF #000233 • ALF #000579

Pet Friendly

intown 18

©2014 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.

nation and worldwide. Not far from Brookwood, the Willow River Farms was spawned through the Houston based Center Serving Persons with Mental Retardation, a United Way Agency.

The Tribute Issue

Education and Leadership

techniques and learning a lot about the doctor’s techniques, Mrs. Streit now wanted to improve the lives of others.

She was again led to a path that started at Memorial Drive Baptist Church. The amount of students soon outgrew Memorial Drive Baptist, when St. Philip Presbyterian Church stepped up with more space. She soon received her first donation of two hundred and fifty dollars. Not long after, a sorority friend stunned her with the news that The Fondren Foundation was gifting $100,000 to expand. She and her husband formed The Briarwood School for handicapped and disabled children, also children with special needs and learning disabilities. Thousands have graduated and her and her husband still sit on the school’s board of directors.

been unable to get her to respond at all, the doctor had Vicki sit on a trampoline and by bouncing her on the trampoline it generated a response. Upon seeing these

WHERE

TRADITION

&

In 1985 their path led them to Brookshire, Texas just west of Houston. Mrs. Streit opened the Brookwood Community for adults with handicaps. Thirty years later on a 475 acre campus is a thriving community where amazing things happen every day.

FULL SERVICE BANKING MEET

At Tradition Bank, we strive to provide the best banking experience possible.

We are a full service community bank that takes pride in serving our neighbors and supporting local businesses.

Please come by and meet our group of friendly, professional and experienced bankers willing to work hard to meet your banking needs!

Experience the true meaning of Tradition.

TraditionBank.com

|

713.666.2511

Alief | Bellaire | Fry Road | Grand Parkway | Pin Oak | The Plaza | The Woodlands

intown 19

The Tribute Issue

The Year in Dining

The Hottest New Restaurants

of 2014

Dosi

by Marene Gustin

Houston’s dining scene has rocketed to foodie acclaim in the past several years and 2014 showed no signs of slowing that trend, with several high profile openings from bakeries to Korean culinary spots.

And the Museum District benefitted most from the new openings, garnering three new hot spots.

With world-class museums and the beautiful Hermann Park, this area is already a draw for Houstonians and tourists alike.

Now it’s also a dining destination in its own right.

Take Museum Park Café, the airy new eatery inside the Parc Binz building brings together two stellar talents: Executive chef Jason White, formerly of Oxheart and Revival Market and Chris Leung of the acclaimed Cloud 10 Creamery now have the reins. At the café they combine their skills to create delicious bone marrow appetizers, cheddar biscuits, slabs intown 20

of prime rib and duck fat fries that marry with smooth seasonal mousses and beautiful chocolate truffles.

On the other side of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, just down Montrose Boulevard, you’ll find the latest from restaurateur Shepard Ross: Pax Americana. In this former home of Thai Sticks chef Adam Dorris serves a tightly curated menu of American dishes that include Gulf Coast golden tilefish, roasted bone marrow and braised Berkshire pork collar. It’s a small space, that can get loud during peak hours, but the food is worth the visit and, as befits a Museum District restaurant, there’s a real Warhol hanging on one wall.

The newest addition to the neighborhood is Bistro Menil, the café addition to The Menil Collection grounds. Run by chef Greg Martin, this charming, bright and artsy space offers growlers and wines on tap. The food is wonderful as well. Do try

60 Degrees Mastercrafted Cowboy Steak and Onion Rings

Museum Park Cafe Dosi

the eggplant “fries” with anchovy aioli and a black olive tapenade for dipping. Good entrées include the chicken Ballotine, stuffed and resting on a bed of wild mushroom duxelle and the grilled quail glazed with a Pomegranate molasses.

Another highlight of the year in eating was not in one area but in a niche: bakeries.

Common Bond Cafe & Bakery has been packed since it opened and has garnered rave reviews, from four-star ratings to winning

Mark Holley

Best New Restaurants in 2014

a spot on almost all the best of the year lists. Chef Roy Shvartzapel and team wow with everything from simple buttery croissants to Vietnamese style sandwiches offered at lunch and the perfectly fluffy scrambled eggs that are a breakfast staple.

Pondicheri Bake Lab + Shop is an extension of chef Anita Jaisinghani’s popular Indian eatery in the multi-use West Ave complex. The second floor bakery and shop offers the chef ’s sweet and savory pastries as well as jars of spices, chutneys and curries. There is an open kitchen so you can watch the baking in progress and also a juice bar with some tasty vegetable concoctions blended with turmeric and ginger.

And 2014 was a very good year for pizza, particularly with the addition of Coltivare Pizza & Garden in The Heights. The Italian-American eatery from Revival Market’s chef Ryan Pera and Morgan Weber boasts its own vegetable garden and woodburning pizza oven that combine to create some of the best pies in town. Versions range from simple to the duck pizza dressed with fresh basil from the garden.

They also serve a menu of rustic Italian staples like pastas, steamed mussels and flash fried cauliflower.

Be warned that it is small and they don’t take reservations.

Last year’s new Korean and sushi hot spot Nara underwent some retooling for it’s first birthday, paring down their Korean dishes and increasing their delicious fresh sushi

offerings. But there was another contender to the Korean crown that opened this year.

Dosi opened in the same Upper Kirby neighborhood and has been winning converts to Korean flavors since its April opening.

Besides chef Jordan Asher’s spicy tapas-style plates of Korean fried chicken and Wagyu beef jerky, this stylized late-night spot also offers soju, a traditional infused alcohol.

Certified Master Chef Fritz Gitschner opened 60 Degrees Mastercrafted in Upper Kirby.

Yes, the name may be a mouthful but not nearly as much as the delicious tastes of the Akaushi steaks and burgers chef creates here. While any meal here is special this restaurant boast one of the best Sunday brunch menus around. Come early and grab a table on the gorgeous patio and prepare to feast on such delicacies from the buffet as crawfish corn pancakes, tenderloin and country style pate.

And last summer saw the return of one of Houston’ favorite seafood wizards, Mark Holley, longtime head chef at the old Pesce.

Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Midtown can make a meal at the oyster bar, where you can watch the shucking and grilling of barbecued oysters. But don’t pass up such simple dishes as blackened grouper or the more complex muddled stew of pork belly, shrimp, clams, red snapper and tomato broth. And if money is no problem, go for the caviar service and enjoy.

The NEW Sanctuari Bar at Triniti

an Adult Haven for Imbibing & Socializing

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Open Tuesday - Sunday Happy Hour Tues - Fri 4pm - 7pm & all day Sunday intown 21

The Tribute Issue

Sportsman of the Year

SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR

JOSE ALTUVE Jose Altuve flew under the radar this year when it comes to accolades.

The talented second baseman for the Houston Astros led all Major League Baseball in total hits and batting average.

John Granato and Sean Salisbury recently sat down with Altuve upon his return from an all star game in Japan.

by Sean Salisbury and John Granato of Yahoo Sports radio

John Granato: Let’s talk about this year, man. You had one of the best years in Astros history?

Jose Altuve: I want to thank God for this great year, not only for me, but for the team too. I think we won like 20 more games than we have over the last couple of years. We are improving as a team and we’re going to keep getting better and keep working hard to get to the playoffs.

JG: Why did you play that last day when you would have been batting champ without playing? You wanted to be out there.

JA: I would rather lose the batting title playing than win it sitting on the bench…

It was something that I went to sleep thinking about and told myself that I was going to play that day. A couple things happened before the game, but I’m really happy and want to thank God for this opportunity to win the championship. Starting the season, I never thought that I would get 225 hits and win the batting title. After that, now, I sit in my house thinking I want to keep my level and keep playing hard, keep helping my team. intown 22

JG: We see some bright spots on this club now [Correa] going to be in the big leagues really with Springer and Fowler. Also, what about soon. I know his injuries are tough, but he’s a guy who likes to work hard every day and Correa? works the right way. Don’t be surprised if you JA: I mean those two guys that you just see him in the big leagues this year and the Allmentioned they are going to be the face of the Star game next year. team, Springer and Mr. Correa. I think he’s JG: How long until Mark Appel gets to the big leagues?

JA: For me, he's almost ready. He's ready. I would put him in the fire next year.

SS: Have you met your new manager yet? Have you had conversations with him?

JA: I talked to him once. He seems like he's a really aggressive guy. He wants everybody to go out and play hard and I think we are all on the same page. I think we are going to have a good relationship, play the game and make the fans happy this year.

JG: What is it like when you pull up to Minute Maid Stadium and seeing the giant picture of yourself?

JA: I mean, it feels great (light laughter follows).

I just try to stay away from those feelings, try

to stay humble and focus on what we need to do, which is play baseball. I come to the field early and do my workout. I have my routine. I go to the gym if I have to go, go to the cage, go to the video room. I don't look at the picture too much, because I might be thinking about it during the game.

who is the face of the Houston Astros, makes me work harder and get better.

JG: Jose Altuve, AL Batting champion. Good stuff, we appreciate you hanging with us, thanks for stopping by.

SS: It's an honor.

JG: If you wanted to, could you be more of a JA: No, thank you guys for having me here. power hitter during games?

JA: I think if you see me in bp you say this guy has some pop, but the way I swing in the game stays true, trying to hit the ball middle-away. I think if I had to choose my average or my home runs, I'm not going to get paid for my homers. I have Springer, Correa and Chris Carter behind me, so I just have to get on base.

JG: To that, how can you help Jonathan Singleton this offseason?

JA: I mean he's only 21-22 years old?

SS: Just a baby.

JA: I think we all put too many things in his mind and he had too much pressure. He just has to go outside and play the game. Play the game how he knows how to play and he'll be really good. He is really good. He's good at defense, I think he's going to be one of the best players in the franchise.

JG: Do you have to be a leader now if guys need help? Will you offer it or do they come to you?

JA: I'm kind of the guy who waits. But I’m only 24 years old and most of the guys on the team are older than you. I'm open to receiving a guy trying to give me advice and I'm open to giving advice to everybody. I think that we don't have only one leader, we have 25. That's why I like my team so much because we support each other and that's what I think we need to be to be a winning team.

JG: There's only one guy who has a batting title in that locker room. That's you. That's it.

SS: How much time do you take off to get away from baseball and enjoy just being a guy before you have to get back into the batting cage?

JA: Not too much because my normal days, baseball's on my mind. I'm always thinking how I can get better at my trade.

JG: Did you talk to Biggio about breaking his records?

JA: Yeah. He's a nice guy, I want to thank him for all the sport he has given me. He wanted me to break his record. He was always in the locker room telling me that I could play, that I could hit, to keep working hard and you'll have a successful career. To hear that from Biggio, intown 23

DUELING CA$INOS L’ auberge versus the newcomer Golden Nugget

Suite / Golden Nugget

Versailles Suites / L’ auberge

Houston’s casino playgrounds are just a few hours away in Lake Charles, Louisiana intown 24

OWNERSHIP L’ auberge is owned by the Pinnacle Entertainment Company, a casino and gaming company operating currently in eight states. They currently own and operate a total of 15 casino properties and are the majority owner of the Retama Race Park outside of San Antonio.They operate two L’ auberge properties the other being in Baton Rouge. They recently expanded their Boomtown Casino in New Orleans with a 20 million dollar hotel. Pinnacle is a public company that trades on the New York stock exchange under the symbol PNK.

Landry’s was once public, but in a long battle with shareholders became a private concern with local Houstonian Tilman Fertita taking control as majority owner. Fertita’s empire lists itself as a dining, hospitality, entertainment concern that also owns The Golden Nugget casinos. Among the 450 properties are Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Morton’s The Steakhouse and McCormick & Schmick’s. In addition to five Golden Nugget Hotels, they operate the Pleasure Pier, Downtown Aquarium and Kemah Boardwalk.

ROOMS L’auberge Due to their recent expansion they now have 1,000 rooms and a 26 story complex. Standard rooms are 340 to 400 square feet and have 42’ inch flat screens, coffee maker, bottled water, safes and access to fitness room.

Wi-fi is free.

Suites - They offer six types of suites. The Royal suites are slightly larger than a regular room. The Marquis is larger and has a golf course view. The Palais features a claw foot tub and floor to ceiling windows.The Versailles suites are located on the top floors and have marble showers. The Garden fronts an adults-only pool with cabanas and butler service.The Big Dog and Cool Cat Suites have a pool table and a 110 inch media wall.

Golden Nugget They have 740 rooms on 22 floors with the standard rooms at 500 square feet with 42” flat screens, and wi-fi is available.

Suites - They offer lake and pool views. The Corner suite is over 1,000 feet and has a stand-up shower and plush king size bed. The Loft is similar in size, but is on two floors and has one and a half baths. The Presidential has over 1,500 feet and extended balconies.

GAMING Both oddly have the exact number of slot machines at 1,600 and the same 70 table games. Table games include baccarat, craps, and blackjack. Both have high limit rooms. L’auberge features $100 slots.

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www.LosCucosSignature.com

DINING Golden Nugget boasts nine restaurants including local favorites Vic and Anthony’s, Grotto, and Saltgrass.

They even have a Starbuck’s for those addicted souls.

L’Auberge has six restaurants including the Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill, Asia and the fancy Ember Grille and Wine Bar and piano room.

AMENITIES L’ auberge The Contraband Golf Course designed by Tom Fazio is a main draw for this casino. The Spa du lac is a full service salon and spa that also has teeth whitening. For the men there is the old fashioned barber shop. The ballroom stretches to a total of 14,140 feet for your events.

Golden Nugget They have the plush Rush Lounge & Party Pit that has live entertainment. Also the Blue Martini Lounge with tapas food menu. There is a marina that can accommodate boats up to 100 feet. Their largest size room for meetings or events is 18,000 square feet.

The pool, spa and golf course have not opened so we will update later on our website www.houstointown.com intown 25

TOP INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS

OF 2015

By Marie Scanlin

The start of a New Year inspires us to change, to rid ourselves of the tired and uninspired and bring in the fresh and new.

This can be a daunting task when new furnishings can be out of the budget and all one really needs is a lift, a nod to new trends, perhaps a new paint color, a bit of wallpaper or the introduction of a new rug. "Refresh, Refine, Redesign" A review of the trends from home furnishings markets and well respected design sources reveal these top interior design trends for 2015.

THE MIX

Terrariums, plants, branches,

Mixing modern with existing styles is the geodes

corals, and

are mixed into interior spaces to

fresh, current approach to interior design. bring nature inside.

Recycled, reclaimed

The right mix creates soulful, sophisticated and repurposed materials are the stars of this interiors with individuality and personality. trend. Glass continues to be popular in 2015, Second hand furniture is huge in this trend! from glass tiles in the kitchen and bath to glass A French Provincial chest with a pale coat of floor tiles in vibrant, citrus colors. paint or stripped to naked wood looks fresh with contemporary furnishings and abstract METALS art. Recycled, repurposed, rustic, modern and A mix of metals is a strong continuing trend traditional can be mixed together for your in 2015. Soft gold, bronze or brushed nickel own unique look.

are used as table or chair bases or as details on Gilded antiques paired with transitional furniture. Nail heads are seen on upholstery, furniture creates a luxurious fusion of styles.

velvets and picture frames and mirrors. Copper is the Textured and embroidered We want healthy homes with natural materials newest metal in the mix. Copper pendant silks mixed with industrial metallic details in 2015. Stone , wood and glass dominate lights, table surfaces, and copper metallic wall look fresh and original. Ethnic accessories, NATURAL MATERIALS

this category as do exciting mixes of metal paint will be very popular this year. A glint of especially Moroccan, continue to be popular. , bone and leather . White marble is very metal in a space brings luxury into the mix. popular in both surfaces and bath accessories.

COLOR

Animal prints and woven textures are LUXURY

Matte pastels with shades of silver and gray

shown on ottomans, pillows and accessories. Understated luxury is the theme for 2015. are the perfect soft background colors for intown 26

a room with mixed styles. They create an big trend for 2015. Abstract art and large inviting and comfortable ambience

and graphic prints add a fresh, bold punch to

provide a backdrop for the introduction 2015 interiors. of the rich and bold colors in 2015. Blues, from cobalt to aquamarine will be very Refresh your space this year with the addition popular this year. Look for sapphire blue of some of these new trends. Remember, a and soft gold combinations. Blue, green and trend is not a fad. It is a new direction that turquoise teamed with hues of white will be will last for awhile. Investing in any of the the big trend for the summer. The Pantone trends for 2015 will put a modern groove color of the year, marsala , will be seen in into your space. Remember that what you many variations from the deep purple of love will always be in style.

Marie Scanlin Marie Scanlin managed Cierra Interiors for 15 years, from 1999 to its closing in June 2014.

Over the years she has worked with numerous Cierra clients to create personalized, interesting interiors... from mixing furnishings of different styles to complete remodels. Currently, she is working as an independent interior stylist. mscanlin1@gmail.com.

aubergine to brown- red chili. Purple, pink and plum are variations of this hue that will be popular. Black and white combinations will be strong this year as well as bold graphics in black and white.

FLOORS The big trend in overdyed rugs continues. This is when a patterned rug, usually an oriental, is stripped of multiple colors and one soft color is applied so the pattern peeks through a pale grey, pink or soft colored hue.

Cowhides,

usually in a pale or monochromatic hue or with a metallic splash, continue to be shown in all styles of rooms. The unexpected amorphous shape and texture can put an exciting punch into a traditional or contemporary space.

Creative variations of patchwork cowhide rugs are fresh and exciting as well. Lighter woods continue to be popular because they create a bright, clean look. We will see more honey colored floors and furniture as well as unstained reclaimed wood furniture in 2015.

WALLPAPER The wallpaper trend continues to be popular.

Strong graphics in metallic or bold colors are moving from the small powder room and accent wall to larger spaces. Wallpaper can add instant glamour and warmth to a room. Hang an antique mirror on graphic wallpaper to create a sexy vignette. One of the newest trends is wallpaper on the ceiling in a dining room.

This treatment creates intimacy and coziness and works best in a square dining room.

WALL ART Oversized

paintings on canvas are the intown 27

FINANCIAL FOCUS TAX PLANNING IDEAS FOR

2015

E

ven though 2014 is now in the rear view mirror, there are

a strategy known as loss harvesting. By selling positions that are

still some actions that can be taken now to potentially

at a loss, it’s possible to reduce your earned income by as much

reduce your 2014 taxes. Other ideas presented here, if

as $3,000 per year. Moreover, additional losses can be used to

done prior to December 21, 2015, can potentially reduce your

offset gains resulting from the sale of assets in 2015 and later

2015 taxes. Let’s remember that patriotism does not require any

years. These losses carry over from year to year. However, be

of us to pay more taxes than we are legally required to pay!

cognizant of the wash sales rule, which disallows losses if an

investment is repurchased within thirty days of sale.

urities and advisory services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered through Park Place Financial, ch is not affiliated with SagePoint Financial or registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. SagePoint Financial, Inc. does not offer tax or legal Contributions to IRAs can be made until April 15, 2015 and advice. Legal advice provided by Christopher J. Maurer. 6750 West Loop S, Suite 920, Bellaire, Texas 77401(713) 667-4884. deducted your 2014 income tax return. Contributions to a

On the other hand, you might also consider harvesting gains.

SEP-IRA or other self-employed retirement plan can be made

If you are in a 15% or lower income tax bracket, the tax rate on

until October 15, 2015 (if you file for an extension) and still be

long term capital gains is 0%! By intentionally harvesting gains

deducted on your 2014 taxes. However, related tax rules may

at a 0% rate, the taxed appreciation will forever escape income

limit or eliminate these deductions.

taxation. Plus the wash sales rule does not apply to gains so the

investment that was sold can be immediately repurchased!

Other actions to reduce your 2015 taxes should be considered now. Don’t wait till the last minute! With the recent volatility

If you are drawing social security, consider taking steps to

in the stock market and the plummeting price of oil, some

reduce the amount of your social security benefit that is

investments have declined in value. If these investments are

subject to income taxes. Tax advantaged investments and

held in taxable accounts, it may be a good idea to consider using

proper gain and loss harvesting, as well as proper planning

intown 28

with respect to distributions from IRAs and qualified plans can potentially reduce the income tax bite on social security benefits.

Paying two years of property taxes in one calendar year can potentially benefit some people. Doing so may enable a person who would normally only qualify for the standard deduction to take an itemized deduction every other year, thereby potentially paying less tax.

Consider making gifts of appreciated assets to charity instead of cash. By doing so, the gain in the asset forever escapes income taxation and in most cases the donor receives an itemized deduction equal to the fair market value of the donated asset. Also, hour, Congress just allowed people over 70.5 to make contributions to charity directly from their IRAs in 2014. If Congress extends this provision for 2015, consider taking advantage of this potentially tax-savings provision.

Christopher J. Maurer, J.D., CFPŽ is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in Bellaire, with over 20 years of experience. He can be reached at 713-667-4884 or cmaurer@parkplacefinancial.co. This material is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult your investment professional or tax advisor for specific information pertaining to your situation. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed to be reliable but cannot be guaranteed.

Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee or profit or protect against loss. Securities and advisory services offered through SagePoint Financial, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered through Park Place Financial, which is not affiliated with SagePoint Financial or registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. SagePoint Financial, Inc. does not offer tax or legal advice. Legal advice provided by Christopher J. Maurer. 6750 West Loop S, Suite 920, Bellaire, Texas 77401 (713) 667-4884.

intown 29

A CULTURAL TRIBUTE

Joe Sample and Little Joe Washington were two of Houston’s finest and most famous musicians who both left us in 2014.

Joe Sample was a musician and composer who played keyboard and piano. His body of work spanned six different decades and Sample was considered a pioneer of the Jazz-funk music genre.

He was most notable for his time in the jazz band the Crusaders which was originally the Jazz Crusaders. NPR called him “ a talent that bridged genres.” Born Joseph Leslie Sample in Houston’s Fifth Ward in 1939 he started playing piano at age 5 and studied music at Texas Southern University before heading west where he had a distinguished career with his band and as a solo artist. He collaborator with many mainstream acts such as Joni Mitchell, Marvin Gaye, and B. B. King. He was considered a pioneer of the electric keyboard. His style a funky jazz produced a collection of over 20 records. His song “Street Life” and the album by the same name were among his most famous. he spent his final years living near Clear Lake.

Little Joe Washington, one of Houston’s finest bluesman, could be seen riding his bike from The Third Ward in his trademark cowboy hat where he passed through many bars performing on guitar and keyboards. Sometimes homeless and many times broke, he nonetheless thrilled Houston audiences for some 40 years with his wild keyboard and teeth playing guitar antics. He was a regular in blues spots such as Boondocks, Big Easy and the Continental Club among others. Washington suffered from addiction that most likely limited his career, but for many that saw him they were most often not disappointed. Born as Marion Washington in 1939, he dropped out of Yates high school and joined Houston’s legendary third ward music scene. He had his biggest moment was in 2004 at the Fuji Rock Festival where he shared the stage with famous acts such as the late Lou Reed and the White Stripes. He finally released four albums all since 2003. One of his best songs ”Hard Way” very simply summed up his life.

intown 30

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