PRIME Living's 2014 "Home & Entertaining" issue

The Luxury Lifestyle Magazine of Texas

orchid Obsession 7 must-have styles in Pantone’s color of the year

Maserati Ghibli

entertain at HOME like a pro

MARCH/APRIL } $5.95 US

Savvy secrets on how to dazzle guests and throw an unforgettable party

Drive the sexy Italian car of your dreams

journey JAPAN

to

A destination longloved for its amplitude of charms

We love living along the Guadalupe River.

Cordova on Canyon Lake is the perfect place for us.� – Steve and Julie

Gentile

SCHEDULE A TOUR OF CORDOVA ON CANYON LAKE TODAY. Lots are going fast.

Come Home to Texas Waterfront Living.

1-800-400-0057 x233 www.CordovaOnCanyonLake.com info@CordovaOnCanyonLake.com

features

A fresh Take on

Old World Flavor

24

Home Design with Inspiration and Imagination

32 Entertain at Home Like a Pro

Savvy secrets from the experts—a Texas event planner, chef and sommelier

63 A Country For All Seasons

Journey to Japan, a destination long-loved for its amplitude of charms

march/april • 2014

3

alsoinside

12

Style Must Haves

9 • cocktails & conversation • keeping you in the know Buzz • Style • Look Who’s Talking • Point of Interest My Life • Nostalgia • Bucket List • Design 37 • connoisseur • Prime’s Guide to Discerning Taste Table Talk • Uncorked • Main Dish • Bragging Bites • Entertain

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Karyn Dean

kdean@prime-living.com

21

Hot Design Trends

Publisher Terry Dean

tdean@prime-living.com

Editorial Assistant Ginny McCord

49 • the gentlemen’s room • For the man who commands the very best Man Cave • Driver’s Seat • Wealth • High Tech • Outdoors

gmccord@srgserv.com

Art Direction & Design LuckyYou! Creative Erin Loukili

57 • escape • Greetings from destinations

near and far

Enlightened Explorer • Postcards

erin@luckyyoucreative.com

69 • live well • Feel Good, Look Good, be good Health Buzz • Feel Good • PRIME Finds Look Good • Be Good

director of marketing Jennifer Dean

jend@prime-living.com

76 • prime list • Events, Galas and Fundraisers 2014 Heart Ball

71

Healing Super Fruit

the

list

Circulation/ Distribution Brian Stavert

bstavert@prime-living.com

Contact 311 Julie Rivers Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77498 281.277.2333 Editorial Inquiries editor@prime-living.com Advertising Inquiries advertise@prime-living.com

78 The Luxury

LifesTyLe

Magazine

of Texas

on the cover

chid or ObsessiOn styles 7 must-have color in Pantone’s of the year

Maseratii Ghibl

entertain a pro at HOME like

dazzle gueStS S on how to Savvy Secret unforgettable party an and throw

MARCH/APRIL

4

79

italian drive the Sexy dreamS car of your

journey JAPAn

Martha Stewart shares her thoughts in “A Conversation with Martha Stewart” (page 13) Photo courtesy of Fadil Berisha

to

longa deStination loved for itS charmS amplitude of

} $5.95 US

prime-living.com

“Orchid Obsession” (page 12), “Entertain at Home Like a Pro” (page 32) “Maserati Ghibli” (page 52), “Journey to Japan” (page 63)

subscribe AT prime-living.com ©2014 Prime Living Magazine is a publication of SRG Services, Inc., published bi-monthly. Copies are mailed and handdelivered to households and businesses throughout Texas. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the position of the publication.

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publisher’s note

Purple, my long-time

signature color— has been selected

inthe shade of

‘Radiant

Orchid,’ asthe color

karyn dean Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

coming up Our annual Jet Set & Travel issue will introduce you to the world from a bird’s eye view.

Like something you read? want more?

Check out our Bonus Content Online on prime-living.com

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P

oftheyear.

urple—my long-time signature color—has been selected in the shade of “Radiant Orchid,” as the color of the year. I am in heaven—this finally gives me permission to cover everything in my favorite color and blame it on Pantone! We are already seeing the color’s influence in fashion and design. In “Purple Passion” (page 12), you’ll find our favorite styles in this radiant shade—in “Design Trends” (page 20), you’ll learn how to incorporate it with class into your home—we certainly have not left it out of our “PRIME Finds” (page 72) highlighting this year’s spring makeup trends.

In this, our Home & Entertaining issue, David and Cheryl Schott opened up their home to us and introduced us to their talented designer and friend, Bradley Weems. Our photographer Brian Bookwalter captured the old world charm of their home in breath-taking photos in our feature “A Fresh Take on Old World Flavor” (page 24).

Don’t miss our interview with the queen of hospitality herself, Martha Stewart, in “A Conversation with Martha Stewart” (page 13). If you’re ready to tackle your own gatherings and events this year, don’t miss the tips from our experts in “Entertain at Home Like a Pro” (page 32). We sat down with an event planner, a sommelier and a chef to learn tips and tricks that they use when hosting gatherings at home. I know our entertaining fanatics are already familiar with our “Entertain” section (pg 46)—don’t miss the fun Mad Hatter tea party put together by our friends at C & A Events. “Radiant Orchid” even made it onto the table!

We’re already working on one of our March/April features for 2015—a destination wedding experience in the Napa/Sonoma area. We visited the area in early February, during the week of the torrential rain they had—and needed—but that did not deter us from wine tasting and venue searching! If you’re planning a trip to Napa, we recommend staying at Auberge du Solei—a luxurious and tranquil haven in the heart of Napa. This May, the property will unveil another set of beautifully designed new rooms by interior design icon Suzanne Tucker. We can’t wait to see them on our next visit!

Viva la purple!

kdean@prime-living.com

Can Turkyilmaz

cocktails & conversation

cocktails & conversation the prime living guide to what's happening now

inside:

Carlyn Ray Design

10 12 13 14

• • • •

15 16 18 20

• • • •

The Buzz New around Texas Style Purple passion Look Who’s Talking Martha Stewart Point of Interest Spring into High Gear My Life Mad Hatter Nostalgia The Little Car that Could Bucket List Ups & Downs Design Design Trends march/april • 2014

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cocktails & conversation

buzz

>> For the Creative Eye

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et inspired at the Houston Design Center’s Spring Market with two days of interior design programs, product unveilings, luxury residential panel discussions, book signings, open houses and more! The event will be held April 1-2 at the Design Center, Houston. thehoustondesigncenter.com

>> For the Glass Art Lover

Unbreakable! arlyn Ray recently launched her design studio in the

>> For the Chelsea Handler Fan

Comedic Relief

S

uperstar comedian Chelsea Handler is embarking on a national stand-up comedy tour, “Uganda Be Kidding Me Live.”

I think we all know how much I love the sound of my own voice,” says Handler, the outspoken host of E!’s late-night talk show. “I’ve decided to go on tour and support my new book, Uganda Be Kidding Me.” Texas stops include Dallas, March 28; Houston, March 29; and Austin, March 30. chelsealately.com

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C

Dallas Design District—Carlyn Ray Designs.

Formerly a large warehouse, she uses the space to showcase not only completed pieces, but also as a workshop where anyone can drop in. Stop by the studio to partake in a glass-blowing lesson, watch Ray at work, or purchase a beautiful glass piece.

Ray invites guests to public shows the first Fridays and second Saturdays of every month to see the glass blowing process in action. carlynraydesigns.com

live Nation | Can Turkyilmaz | Daniel Ortiz

Student of Design

Odell Brewing | courtesy MetroNational | courtesy Bayou City Arts Fest

buzz

>> For the Craft Beer Groupie

Howdy Neighbor!

O

dell Brewing, a Fort Collins, Colo. company, is teaming up with distributor Ben E. Keith to launch their specialty brews in Texas. “There has been a long connection between Colorado and Texas,” says Eric Smith, director of sales and marketing at Odell, “and it is great to finally have our beers available in the Lone Star state, so our neighbors can experience some of the Colorado flavor.” Keep your eyes open for Odell’s launch events in Dallas, Austin, Houston and San Antonio. odellbrewing.com

cocktails & conversation

>> For the “About Towner”

Eat,ateway Drink and Be Merry!

Memorial City is now open, providing an innovative collection of restaurants and

G

retailers. The sampling of exclusive luxury boutiques, entertainment venues and unique dining experiences entices visitors from all parts of Houston. A big attraction for local foodies, there are four new chef-driven restaurants: Vallone’s, Churrascos, KUU Restaurant & Ogden’s Pour Society. The development is also home to numerous luxury retailers and service providers, including Charles Schwab, Markle Luxury Jewelers, Hanna Dental Implant Center and Brush & Blush Blow Dry Bar. Additional merchants are slated to open their doors throughout 2014. memorialcity.com >> For the equestrian minded

Pin Oak jumps high for charity

O

>> For the Festival Goers

State of The Art he Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park,

T

produced by the Art Colony Association is scheduled for March 28-30 in Houston. The Festival welcomes more than 300 fine juried artists from around the world—and touts 19 media formats this year, along with a creative zone for children and adults as well as live band performances. Returning this year is the highly anticipated one-of-a-kind area that allows local artists and craftsmen to spotlight their art. bayoucityartfestival.com

ne of the oldest and most prestigious charity horse shows in the nation, the 69th Pin Oak Charity Horse Show will run March 19-30 at The Great Southwest Equestrian Center. The Pin Oak Charity Horse Show has raised more than $5.5 million for children’s charities since 1945.

Admission is free; however general admission tickets for Pin Oak’s featured events and Grand Prix events are a $10 donation per adult. Ticket sales are only available beginning one hour before each Grand Prix event.

Register to win tickets to Pin Oak Charity Horse Show Grand Prix events, courtesy of PRIME Living magazine at prime-living.com.

march/april • 2014

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cocktails & conversation

Slake Lilac Bracelet, $70

By Swarovski Available at Dillard’s

style

purple passion

Lauren Ralph Lauren Cassady Driving Moccasins, $98

By Lauren Ralph Lauren Available at Dillard’s

2014 Color of the Year—Radiant Orchid Vera Bradley Suzanne Readers, $28

By Vera Bradley Available at Dillard’s

Nail Lacquer in Pamplona Purple, $9

By OPI Available at Beauty Brands

Looking for more radiant orchid items? visit prime-living.com

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prime-living.com

Phoenix Rising Bath Bomb, $6.95

By LUSH Available at LUSH

Dillard’s | LUSH | OPI

Hamilton North/South Saffiano Leather Tote, $358

By MICHAEL Michael Kors Available at Dillard’s

Spanx Active Contour Jacket, $128

By Sara Blakely Available at Dillard’s

Look Who’s talking

cocktails & conversation

courtesy of Living the Good Long Life. Copyright © 2013 by Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Published by Clarkson Potter/Publishers, a division of Random House, Inc.

a conversation with

martha stewart T

he queen of hospitality turned her name into a mega-brand that spans books, magazines, TV shows, home products and now even vitamin supplements.

Drawing on her personal success in maintaining a vigorous, vital and rich life, her new book, Living the Good Long Life, is the definitive handbook on staying well physically and mentally into and beyond middle age.

What are some of your tried and true entertaining tips?

Good entertaining has just as much to do with being in good company as it does making sure the cloth napkins are folded to precision. It’s all about that extra touch, that extra effort put forth to dazzle guests. That’s why you are entertaining, to do a little bit extra for your friends, your family, your colleagues.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life?

There have been so many! I have had the good fortune to know a number of people; some of them close friends, who have remained creative and productive well into their 90s. My grandparents and my mother were also hugely influential.

What was the last thing you Googled or looked up online?

Just this morning, I looked up racao, a delicious cilantro-like herb I was introduced to in St. Croix. I’ve already ordered seeds and look forward to growing this fragrant, pungent flavoring.

What is something that you would do every day if permitted?

I took up horseback riding about 10 years ago, and now it’s become one of my favorite activities.

Why launch a vitamin line?

I’ve taken supplements for years and really understand their benefits, so I was eager to help create something that could become an affordable part of every woman’s health routine. Partnering with Inergetics, a leading developer of nutritional supplements, we developed six formulas

guided by science and holistic medicine, and using natural, whole-food based ingredients such as fruits, vegetables and herbs. The formulas focus on specific needs and support overall health and wellness.

What advice would you give someone who is a first-time caregiver of someone who is aging?

Probably the most important single piece of advice I could give is to be prepared. There are a multitude of issues that arise with older people. Regardless of where you are on the aging spectrum, you should plan effectively—for your parents, when it’s your turn to be the caregiver, and for yourself, so that you can assist your own eventual caregivers in making these important decisions.

What is something still on your bucket list?

I want to go to Glacier National Park, Antarctica and the North Pole before global warming turns everything into the tropics.

What is one thing you always have on you?

I always carry a few Bobbi Brown lip glosses, and my Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery tablet case to hold my iPad.

march/april • 2014

13

point of interest

Spring into High Gear

oh, the places you could go

Story | jessica mebane

This time of year finds Texas in a glorious state, with wildflowers blooming and a crisp freshness in the air. Need an excuse to get out and enjoy it?

T

he dreadlock-sporting repair staff at Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop in the heart of downtown Austin is always hard at work turning and churning out gleaming bikes, perfectly tuned up for racers and cruisers alike. So, get in there and don’t be afraid to ask questions. “Our first priority is to listen to every person who enters the shop.

That way we know what you want, your level of skill, your lifestyle and your cycling goals,” brand director David Mider says.

Say you want a bike that’s been designed from frame to spokes with your specific bicycling skill set in mind, and you’re not afraid to spend a tad more—consider the Trek Project One program. “The Project One program offers several options, such as frame size, materials, paint scheme, components, bar tape, pedals and more customizable choices,” Mider says.

Now you’ve purchased the perfect bike to suit your lifestyle, but want to make sure

that you get the most out of this seriously fun investment. Try taking a class downstairs in the Pedal Hard Training Center. The coaching staff, which includes six-time Tour de France competitor Kevin Livingston, will develop customized workouts based on your fitness level and goals. “Anyone can benefit, whether you are a racer hoping to shave seconds off your time, or you are a casual rider wanting to lose weight,” Mider says.

The future looks bright for this specialty bike shop. Mellow Johnny’s has quickly become a community hub. Mider shared, “We want to be a place people want to hang out, whether you ride a bike fast or not. We also strive to be a part of the city culturally.

That’s why we have art shows, screen movies, and host music day shows during SXSW.” Follow the trail to ATX, and find your inner outdoorsy kid, the one that loves to ride fast and take in all the beauty that a lovely spring season in Texas has to offer!

For 10 great bike trails visit prime-living.com

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prime-living.com

The rental department at Mellow Johnny’s has a slew of recommended trails and routes to share. A big favorite among staff is the Austin Photo Op Route, wherein riders can take in all the local landmarks, including historical, artistic and funky one-offs for which Austin has become famous. mellowjohnnys.com If you’re not in Austin, fret not, for there are many other great spring rides to choose from. The Bluebonnet Express ride Sunday, March 23, starts at the Waller ISD stadium just outside of Houston, and is one of the oldest rides in Texas. northwestcyclingclub.org The Big Daddy of bike marathons is the BP MS 150. This widely participated two-day event in April is a ride from Houston to Austin, organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Meet the challenge of cycling across central Texas for this great cause, and take in some breathtaking scenery. biketxh.nationalmssociety.org

David Mead

cocktails & conversation

mad hatter laura del villaggio

Lindsey Lee

I loved the idea that this was preservation and conservation of traditional women’s work.

MY LIFE

cocktails & conversation

Story | holly beretto

W

hen Laura Del Villaggio was working on her master’s degree at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), her intent was to study the history of clothing and costumes, with the ambition of working in a museum. That’s not quite what happened.

“FIT is the only place in the U.S. that offers a two-year millinery program, and they let me take it as an elective,” she says. “It’s what stuck.”

Del Villaggio is the artist and founder behind Milli Starr, her Austin-based bespoke millinery studio, where she produces original custom hats for a number of occasions. You’ll find her collections in Austin at Hatbox and Spring Frost—and on Etsy.com. She began making hats full time 10 years ago. As her daughter turned age two, she felt compelled to open a place of her own.

“It was a creative outlet for me and, being a historian, I loved the idea that this was preservation and conservation of traditional women’s work,” says Del Villaggio, who handstitches each hat, using everything from felt to feathers.

She confesses a fondness for collecting late 19th- and early 20th-century hat blocks, the shapes milliners use to create headwear. She draws inspiration from old movies, as well as the material and the clients for whom she crafts.

“I look at face shapes, ask about the hair style they might be wearing for whatever event the hat is for, then figure in how veils or feathers or other materials will be used.”

This past year, Del Villaggio says she created hats harkening to the 1920s, thanks to popularity of “The Great Gatsby” movie.

She ships hats all over the world, and closely watches trends in fashion. Her busiest season is the run-up to the Kentucky Derby, and custom Derby hats are priced from $450.

While Del Villaggio doesn’t have a typical day, she relishes time spent in her studio— whether she’s creating something new or not.

She recently renovated a collection of hats that had been damaged in a fire for a client.

“I’d love to one day go to London and do a master’s course in millinery,” Del Villaggio says. In the meantime, you’ll find her in Austin, hand-stitching hats—as well as offering private and group lessons. “I love teaching,” she explains. “It helps hand down this art to a new generation.” march/april • 2014

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cocktails & conversation

nostalgia

the little car

that Could F

16

or 60 years, Matchbox toys have delighted kids and adults all over the world.

prime-living.com

The story of how Matchbox vehicles became both a legendary toy and a coveted collectors’ item is a fascinating one, with elements of masterful business “pluck” mixed in with some good oldfashioned luck.

The Matchbox line of toy vehicles was introduced in 1953 by its original owner, Lesney Products, a British-based diecasting company. Over the next several decades, following a series of business ups and downs, the Lesney company changed hands four times. Eventually, the Matchbox brand and all its rights ended up belonging to the famous U.S. toymaker, Mattel, which owns it today.

But how was the legend born?

It all began in the 1950s, when Lesney Products co-owner Jack Odell created a diminutive toy

car for his daughter, Anne. Her school had a rule that students could only bring toys that were small enough to fit in a matchbox. So Odell fashioned a scaled-down version of one of his company’s popular die-cast models, putting it in a matchboxsize package for Anne to take to school. Of course everyone in her class wanted one, too!

At first, Matchbox “cars” were only replicas of British models, but through the years the line was expanded to include a much more global assortment. Matchboxbrand die-casts have branched out into a vast array of segments, including airplanes, racing “slot” cars, scale-model soldiers and even action figures.

What always distinguished Matchbox cars—besides the clever matchbox-style

courtesy Mattel

Story | bruce farr

nostalgia

courtesy Mattel

Did you know?

It’s true: there’s actually a Matchbox car museum!

Everett Marshall III, the former mayor of Newfield, New Jersey, opened his Matchbox Road Museum in 1992, in a former three-car garage adjacent to his house. The collection has grown to include 50,000 miniature vehicles and other products from the company’s 60-year history. Marshall claims it’s one of the world’s largest collections. Needless to say, he’s considered a leading authority on all things Matchbox.

matchbox

trivia

1

Which of the following was the very first Matchbox toy vehicle ever manufactured?

A. 1952 Bentley B. Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation coach C. an MG Midget D. a 1953 British road roller

2

How long were the traditional Matchbox cars?

A. 6 inches B. 1 inch

Know your Matchbox models!

One of the vehicles in the following list of the most popular collectible Matchbox toys is not an actual Matchbox series vehicle. Can you pick it out?

C. 8 inches

London bus

D. 2 inches

quarry truck

3

What is the most popular Matchbox vehicle ever made?

A. Aveling Barford diesel road roller B. Ford Anglia C. Lamborghini Miura D. Ford Galaxie police car

4

How many Matchbox models of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation coach were originally sold when they first came out?

horse drawn milk float Caterpillar tractor John Deere Ride’em Lawn Mower road tanker boat & trailer Land Rover jumbo crane

A. 2,000 B. 10,000 C. 1 million D. 3,500

Trivia Answers: 1. (D), 2. (D), 3. (A), 4. (C) Know Your Matchbox Models Answes: John Deere Ride’em Lawn Mower

packaging—was the painstaking level of detail each vehicle possessed. This was made possible because the Matchbox people designed their dies using meticulous photographs of all the vehicles they were copying.

The transformation of Matchbox cars from mere toys to popular collectibles was partly due to the original manufacturers limiting the number of cars cast, as well as numbering them on the base plate of each vehicle.

Combine that with the fact that the metal cars were so sturdy and durable, and you have an instant collectors’ item.

Celebrating their 60th anniversary, Matchbox cars are permanently lodged in our national culture and consciousness—and are bought, sold and traded with the same passionate enthusiasm that collectors have for baseball cards or Barbie dolls. Visit Matchbox on eBay, for instance, and you’ll find no fewer than 10 subcategories of Matchbox, with thousands of the pint-size vehicles up for bid.

cocktails & conversation

march/april • 2014

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cocktails & conversation

Bucket list

&

ups downs Story | Jake Poinier

I

f you find yourself debating max height versus top speed, vertical drop versus track length, and the relative merits of giga versus strata, you might just be hooked on roller coasters. Here are a few to add to your bucket list this summer.

What Goes Up, Must Come Down

At 456 feet high—that’s 45 stories—Kingda Ka puts you on top of the world at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J. Ranking as the world’s tallest and second-fastest roller coaster, the ride rockets you out with a hydraulic launch mechanism to 128 mph in 3.5 seconds before ascending 90 degrees straight up to the top—then making the epic 418 foot plunge into a 270 degree spiral.

On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of

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Philadelphia and New York City.

Once your stomach returns to its rightful place and you heart rate recovers, you’ll also want to queue up for the park’s Zumanjaro— Drop of Doom, which debuts in 2014 and is built into the structure of Kingda Ka. The specs? You and seven gondola-mates are lifted 415 feet in the air before being released earthward at 90 miles an hour. While it’s not a roller coaster and the ride lasts only 10 seconds, the shakes might linger with you a while longer. sixflags.com/greatadventure

The minimum height to ride Kingda Ka is 54 inches. The ride is described as A.D.A. accessible for thrill-seekers with disabilities, but Equal Access Passes don’t allow you to bypass lines.

Check with the park for specific accessibility guidelines.

Six Flags Great Adventure

before you go

Bucket list

cocktails & conversation

Track Star

Since Kingda Ka came in second for speed and acceleration, world-record junkies are surely wondering who took first. That would be the Formula Rossa at Ferrari World— located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates which notches a top speed of 149 mph in just under five seconds.

The goal, as you might guess from the name, is to simulate the experience of driving a racecar. You’re strapped into a bright red, replica Ferrari F1 racecar, hitting a gut-wrenching G-force of 4.8 as you accelerate with a release velocity comparable to launching a jet off an aircraft carrier.

The track, whose shape was inspired by the famed Autodromo Nazionale Monza in Italy, launches you on a whirlwind ride, taking little more than 90 seconds to cover 1.4 miles from inside the amoeba-shaped indoor theme park, outside, and back to the loading station— complete with chicanes just like you’d experience on a real race course. While the top height is a modest 174 feet and maximum drop of 169 feet, the Formula Rossa more than makes up for it with pure adrenalinepumping speed. ferrariworldabudhabi.com

before you go In addition to a minimum height of 51.2 inches, there’s also a maximum height of 76.75 inches.

Safety goggles are required for the duration of the ride, since a bug or debris in the eye could be dangerous at high speeds.

Blast into the Past

From height and speed, we turn to a granddaddy wooden roller coaster that’s still dishing out the thrills after more than eight decades—The Comet, at Six Flags Great Escape in Lake George, N.Y. It’s a fast-paced ride with lots of negative G-force air time— the feeling where you liftoff your seat. While its 95-foot height and 60 mph top speed aren’t in the same realm as its steel brethren, it serves up more than its share of stomachchurning drops during a two-minute run. No surprise The Comet has earned a place in the hearts of coaster lovers as well as the American Coaster Enthusiasts organization, which named it a Landmark Coaster a few years ago.

On The Comet, you’re taking a ride on history. Originally named the Cyclone, it was first constructed in 1927 by legendary coaster builder Harry Traver and located in Crystal Beach Amusement Park in Ridgeway, Ontario, Canada. In 1946, it was dismantled, then salvaged, redesigned, and reopened two years later as the Crystal Beach Comet.

When the park closed in 1989, the ride was purchased by Great Escape and reconstructed before reopening to the public in 1994.

Six Flags Great Escape | Jazon88 wikimedia

before you go Riders must be 48 inches tall to ride The Comet. After your historical ride, switch gears to the future—this year, Great Escape launches the Extreme Supernova, a pendulumstyle ride that lifts passengers 50 feet in the air while simultaneously swinging and spinning. march/april • 2014

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design

design W

hat are going to be the hot trends this year? With the help of one of the design industry’s leading designers, we’ve highlighted a few for you.

For succulent arrangement ideas visit prime-living.com

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prime-living.com

Color It’s no secret, Pantone named radiant orchid (a vibrant shade of purple) the color of the year—but this doesn’t just apply to your wardrobe, be daring enough to bring it into your home. “Most people don’t think of purple as a neutral, but it really works in a lot of different palettes. Purple has both the warmth of reds and the coolness of blues, which makes it very versatile,” interior designer Caroline McDonald says.

Not ready to paint your walls radiant orchid? Then you might consider an Art Deco color palette, which is making a comeback

Pam Zundel, simpledetailsblog.blogspot.com

trends

design

cocktails & conversation

down to earth accessories Keep accessories minimal and bring an earthy element to your space with some of Caroline McDonald’s favorites from Made Goods (madegoods.com).

Faux Shagreen Box Set Shagreen is untanned leather marked by round granulations. This box set in turquoise and trimmed in wood is great for adding a pop of color to a room or different heights to a display.

Lily Pillow These decorative pillows made of soft baby alpaca fur are available in three sizes and a selection of colors that includes radiant orchid’s sister-shade, aubergine.

Succulents Succulents are a great way to add a natural element and color to a display. Balance the earthy element by planting them in a brass or antique silver container.

Pam Zundel | Made Goods

this year. “We are moving away from highly saturated palettes and are using faded, duller tones like camels and tans, dull emerald green, mint green, tangerine and salmon,” McDonald says. A splash of radiant orchid is a great complement to any of these colors.

Textiles Designers are moving from linens and prints to richer fuller fabrics this year. Think animal skins—cowhide, sheepskin and mohair— incorporated into rugs, upholstery, throws and accessories. “Variation of fabrics throughout a space gives it a rich, layered look. We are seeing a

lot of sheers on windows and luxe heavier fabrics on pillows and upholstery. You wouldn’t want to hear only one instrument in an orchestra, and same goes for fabrics,” McDonald says.

Furniture Sleek heavily glazed furniture has been the trend of the last few years. This year, styles are transitioning to simple finishes that bring out the natural elements in a piece. These pieces have a more authentic look and bring a calmer energy to the space—but McDonald cautions us to keep pieces refined and natural without getting too rustic.

Maude Real Horn Bowl Pieces that incorporate bone and horns are increasing in popularity as accent pieces. If you’re not ready to put an antler on your entry table, try this Maude Real Horn Bowl.

There is no shortage of antique markets this time of year. “Any home, whether modern or traditional, needs some antiques to give your space rich character and a timeless look,” McDonald says. For modern homes she recommends looking for pieces with clean lines—a midcentury modern look.

When updating your space this year, McDonald suggests starting with your entryway to give your guests an enticing first impression. But for any space she leaves us with this rule of thumb for 2014: “Don’t over think it. Have fun and be playful—do something unexpected.”

march/april • 2014

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A custom carved fireplace from MCA Stone anchors the living room, surrounded by elegant, yet comfortable furniture that invites lingering.

The television rests inside a custom made console with a lift to the right of the fireplace. Brick and reclaimed wood beams add interest and warmth. prime-living.com

Story | Cathy Gordon

Photography | Brian Bookwalter

A home is more than drywall and studs. Equally important is inspiration and imagination. This home by Jeff Paul Custom Homes in The Woodlands is flush with both, thanks to an intuitive relationship between designer and client. march/april • 2014

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S

“

ome houses can leave you emotionally cold,” says Houston designer Bradley Weems, who was intent on making this East Shore home a haven for longtime friends, David and Cheryl Schott. Like any intuitive professional who has collaborated with the same family over a span of years, he has learned to channel their tastes.

“There’s something profoundly moving about a house that tells the story of family and expresses how they want to live,” Weems says. “We especially warm to houses that have unique details and can incorporate materials that had a previous life. Houses like that speak to us.”

This one certainly does. Reclaimed wood beams, arched entryways in old Chicago brick, authentic, refurbished lighting from old Renaissance Europe and smooth wornlooking Venetian plaster walls in a soft ethereal palette with freehand flourishes—all come together to create a sense of place.

“There’s something profoundly moving about a house that tells the story of family and expresses how they want to live,” says Weems.

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Groin vault ceilings and the liberal use of hand-carved stone heighten interest while fostering a sense of intimacy. The rooms are spacious yet feel cozy.

“I’m wondering how many times I heard Brad say, ‘It’s all in the details,’” says homeowner David, chuckling and pointing to 100-year-old beams crossing the kitchen ceiling. “It’s hard to manufacture that big old crack up there. You can’t duplicate that.”

Judges with the Greater Houston Builders Association found the design nuances charming as well, awarding the house a coveted 2013 Houston’s Best PRISM Award.

“I don’t really have a ‘look.’ I go with my clients’ tastes and desires and just do things up the best I can,” Weems explains. “Take the kitchen, for example. It’s a cavernous space with high ceilings. It couldn’t be just drywall. That’s way too sterile. Cheryl had this idea that we should put wood up there.

So that ceiling is made of old wood planks that were originally flooring years ago. It makes the room.”

Weems is nothing if not methodical and, at times, a little obsessed when it comes to good design. He endured sleepless nights trying to figure out what to do about the home’s stairwell. “That was a real design challenge,” he says of its location in the middle of the house, not in the usual up front, look-at-me place of prominence. “I wanted to put importance on it since it didn’t get that attention at the front door. It needed a shock effect.”

The wine grotto resembles those throughout France with its fauxed arched opening that looks like aged wood. A barrel vault ceiling in old Chicago brick and custom limestone tile mural of a vineyard scene add authenticity. The chandelier is a genuine artifact from Europe that was refurbished for the space.

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A hand-drawn design does artful justice to the architecturally inspired ceiling in the master bathroom. Custom built vanities in dark wood contrast nicely with light Venetian plaster walls. prime-living.com

The master bedroom suite is a story of balance with dark woods counteracting certain feminine features such as the embroidered silk bedding. Two antique sconces from Italy adorn the wall above the hand-carved Peruvian travertine marble fireplace.

Weems may have lost sleep, but he created a dream of a staircase. It’s the unexpected jewel of the home, outfitted in gorgeous block paneling distressed to resemble wellworn walls the likes of which are seen in old French villas. Add to that a Flemish tapestry that adorns the landing, wall sconces made from pieces of old French iron balustrades and a Weems-designed iron railing that complements a regal runner, and it’s a real showstopper.

“It exceeded our expectations,” says Cheryl, who had the utter-most faith in her designer friend. “Brad knows what he’s doing and knows our tastes so it’s a great collaboration. I mean, who else would let their designer alter their grandfather clock?”

Yes, with every attention to detail, there was just one item in the house that drove Weems a bit batty and presented a design challenge.

It was an anniversary grandfather clock that was a present from David to Cheryl 20 years ago—so polished and perfect. “When we brought it in the house with all this brick and rich old texture, it stood out like a sore thumb. So with their blessing, we beat up their grandfather clock to make it look old,” Weems says. Design challenge solved.

Visitors to the home are plenty comfortable in this guest room outfitted in warm neutrals with faux walls that resemble grass cloth.

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Reclaimed wood beams and an antique tongue and groove ceiling adds a cozy feel to this cavernous kitchen. Transformations by Phyllis applied a unique paint technique to the refrigerator, making it appear as though it has inlayed-planked doors. A custom copper vent hood with soft curves offsets the straight-lined cabinetry. The large island is used in lieu of a breakfast room, allowing interaction with the cook in the kitchen.

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This outdoor kitchen and covered courtyard gets yearround use. A combination of stone gives it that cohesive connection to the outdoors. A tumbled travertine pattern follows the curved shape of the groin vault ceiling. The custom copper gas lantern is from Bevolo.

Coming up with good design can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be with these tips from Bradley Weems.

Add personality Infuse your space with things that mean something to you. Blend family pieces like pictures and accessories with favorite items from travels to give the home a soulful mix.

Blend old with new

Reclaimed wine barrels with tufted leather seats add charm in the game room wet bar.

Pendants were custom made with red silk shades. The underbar surface wall is a travertine stone mosaic tile.

Homes shouldn’t look like their furniture was lifted from a showroom. Mix antiques with new pieces and blend in organic textures like reclaimed wood and stone.

Color matters Stick to shades that aren’t too light or strong and pair with grays, sands and khaki to soften the look. Try painting the trim of a room rather than the entire wall and add bold colored pillows, a few large accessories or art in bold colors to add a touch of drama.

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entertain AT HOME LIKE A PRO Story | Robin Barr Sussman

Everyone wants to throw an unforgettable party whether it’s an intimate backyard barbecue or a social soiree for 100. So we asked three very busy entertainment professionals—an event planner, a chef and a sommelier—to share their savvy strategies.

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superhero guacamole (serves 3-4)

the event planner

Mary BairdWilcock

proprietor of The Simplifiers, a full service event planning and personal concierge firm in Austin.

Three Items to Always Have on Hand

1

Good Ziploc Twist ’n Loc storage containers—with matching screw on lids—for easy, stackable organization.

A colorful array of sliced bell peppers in water.

They’re great to sneak into any dish!

Hummus—It’s great for snacking and easy to dress up, if you have unexpected guests.

2

3

courtesy The Simplifiers

I

f there’s one common theme among scrambling-for-time professionals, it’s keep it simple. “The running joke in my office is: As we simplify for others, our lives become quite complex,” Baird-Wilcock says. With her fresh and contemporary style, she is masterful at planning a successful event, be it a destination wedding or a luxe corporate party.

Creative thinking is what she relies on when entertaining at home, too. Baird-Wilcock says, “For New Year’s Eve, we had a Mexican cook teach a small group of couples how to make tamales—it was fun and interactive.” She set up a pajama party upstairs to keep the kids entertained and out of the kitchen. At her series of “special guest star” brunches at home, couples with kids brought over a favorite dish to share.

Mary’s rule for hiring outside help: If it’s more than 20 guests, she doesn’t hesitate to outsource a chef, servers or event staff. “One little hire can take amazing pressure off of you,” she says. Because

(Baird-Wilcock’s disclaimer: “I’m not a professional chef, please note, this is how an event planner cooks!”)

Ingredients

1/2 sweet yellow onion, finely diced 3 tablespoons of diced fresh garlic 1 red bell pepper, finely diced 1 green bell pepper, finely diced 3 fresh Roma tomatoes, diced 3 ripe avocados (squishy, but not too squishy) Serrano pepper, finely diced, to taste healthy dash of Tears of Joy “Armadillo Rub” squirt of fresh lime juice dash plus a smidge of cumin powder healthy shake of black pepper salt, to taste

Method

In a large bowl, mix onions, garlic, bell peppers and tomatoes.

Pit and half the avocados. Cut avocado into squares in the skin and scoop out into the mixing bowl. Add in finely diced Serrano peppers, based on your level of bravery. Add remaining ingredients/spices and fold into avocado mixture, tasting as you go. Top it off with fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor and keep it from browning. POW! Superhero Guacamole to the rescue of your next dinner party!

she creates large lavish parties for her clients, she prefers intimate gatherings in her home simply decorated with fresh flowers from the farmers market. “Wine and food tastings with 10 to15 guests are ideal so we can have meaningful conversations,” Baird-Wilcock says.

A “taco gal,” she serves huge vats of freshly made guacamole and salsa with tacos and likes to prep in advance. She states that making things simple means doing chores in advance, like chopping a bunch of peppers to use all week long. You’ll always find cilantro, avocado, garlic, bell peppers, and tofu in her refrigerator. (Her husband just went vegan.)

For beverages, Mary considers the theme of the meal. At her tamale party, she served a light tequila-based cocktail. Baird-Wilcock is also a big fan of fizzy waters garnished with berries. Her approach to tableware is smart and simple. “Sometimes with a casual gathering, I’ll use attractive sustainable dinnerware, like VerTerra, that’s disposable so there’s no washing dishes,” Baird-Wilcock says.

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crispy camembert toasted brioche with jam &

(Makes a great appetizer, dessert or late night snack!)

the chef Soren Pedersen

founder of Currant Kitchen, a weekly video series in Houston that focuses on where to purchase and how to prepare fresh, local ingredients.

Ingredients

3 ounces Camembert Cheese 1 egg 1 cup flour 1 cup panko breadcrumbs salt and pepper 2 tablespoons butter 2 slices brioche

Method

Cut camembert in half and toss in flour. Coat it in egg and then bread crumbs. Heat pan to medium heat and add butter. Place brioche slices in pan and toast on both sides.

Place on paper towel until needed.

Place cheese in pan and toast until golden brown on both sides.

jam

to Always Have on Hand

1 2 3

large cutting board & sharp knife wooden spoon spice grinder (Toasting all your whole spices and grinding prior to use is a great way of getting the full flavor.)

D

anish-born Soren Pedersen stays swamped with his catering company, cooking show series Currant Kitchen, and a new restaurant in the works. But he still manages to throw a large Danish Christmas dinner party every year with a delectable menu.

“Traditionally, we serve a family style meal that includes liver pate with bacon and mushrooms, slow roasted duck with apples and prunes, and almond rice pudding with warm cherry sauce for dessert,” Pedersen says.

Beverages are important to him. “French pressed coffee is served with dessert and our signature cocktails are a ginger spiced martini and a peppermint cocktail.” With dinner, he serves a buttery chardonnay, Barolo-style reds and cabernets. Cognac is offered after dinner.

As far as table decor, Pedersen doesn’t want anything on the table

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Method

Bring water to a boil and add sugar.

Mix 2 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon add to simple syrup.

Bring to a boil and fold in berries.

Cook for 3 minutes, then set aside until needed.

presentation

Place brioche in center of plate.

Lay the cheese on top and pour jam over the cheese. Serve warm.

that competes with the guests’ conversations or interferes with the food. “For an upscale meal, we like table linens, bold glassware and always a bouquet of fresh picked herbs like thyme, sweet basil and lemongrass. We like to keep it simple and real,” he says.

Because of Pedersen’s profession, he never outsources the cooking regardless of the size of his gatherings. But he does believe in shortcuts like buying pre-chopped celery and onions to prepare volume recipes.

Pedersen says, “Home cooks should also try pre-making their stocks for soups and sauces. It saves time and takes the flavors to another level.” One of his favorite appetizer recipes—pan-fried Camembert cheese served with marmalade—is super quick and easy. You will always find a wide variety of cheeses, bacon, fresh breads and coffee beans in his fridge—and a good cabernet sauvignon in his wine cooler.

Brenlee McKnight

Three Items

1 cup blueberries or raspberries 1 cup water 1/2 cup sugar cinnamon and vanilla, to taste cornstarch

the sommelier

Drew Hendricks Master Sommelier; co-founder of the Texas Sommelier Association; Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Rudd Winery, Oakville, Napa Valley

the last word

(a gin cocktail originally created at the Detroit Athletic Club) Ingredients

Three Items to Always Have on Hand

1 2 3

Champagne Crystal Hot Sauce English Toffee

H

aving worked in some of the most wine-centric restaurants in the nation, including Charlie Palmer and Pappas Steakhouses for more than 10 years, Drew Hendricks knows his way around a wine cellar. He’s the co-founder and a board member of the Texas Sommelier Association and serves on the board of directors for both the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Guild of Sommeliers.

As a full-time traveling ambassador for Rudd Winery, Hendricks doesn’t have much time to entertain guests at his home in The Woodlands much less spend time with his wife and young kids. “But I always find time to make a special homemade chili recipe during the holidays because my friends and family enjoy it. It takes two days to prepare and I start with short rib meat,” he says.

3/4 ounce No. 2009 Gin 3/4 ounce fresh squeezed lime juice 3/4 ounce green Chartreuse 3/4 ounce Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur

Method

Pour ingredients over ice into shaker. Shake and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of lime.

Drew likes a casual, one dish meal prepared in advance and serves everything family style from the sides to the drinks. “I like to enjoy the party so I keep it hassle-free by letting my guests serve themselves. A group of 10 adults is best for us.”

Naturally, the beverage choices are a huge component of any entertaining in the Hendricks’ home but this sommelier doesn’t go wine geek with food pairings at home. “My theory is to give thought to my guests’ personal wine preferences rather than trying to pair the wine with the food.” Besides riesling, Champagne, Rudd Cabernet Sauvignon, and various labels of zinfandel, you’ll always find sparkling water. “From Soda Stream to canned, we’re addicted to sparkling water,” he says. Cheers to simplicity!

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ONE CARD. 10 DAYS. COUNTLESS LIVES SAVED. ORDER YOUR SHOP WITH HEART CARD TODAY.

Friday, April 25 thru Sunday, May 4. Don’t miss your exclusive 10-day opportunity for incredible savings at Houston’s finest retailers and restaurants, all while benefitting the American Heart Association.

Visit ShopWithHeart.org to purchase your Card for a minimum donation of $40 and receive: • A 20% discount off regular prices at participating retailers.

• A free appetizer or dessert with purchase of an entrée at participating restaurants.

See the full list of participating merchants at ShopWithHeart.org, or purchase your Card at participating retailers starting April 10.

It’s big savings, with a bigger benefit!

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connoisseur

Kelly Rucker

the prime living guide to discerning taste

inside: The Southern Bloody Lucy’s Fried Chicken

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• • • • •

Table Talk Dining News Uncorked blanket wine Main Dish sampling texas Bragging Bites hail mary Entertain gone mad hatter

march/april • 2014

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connoisseur table talk

>> FOR THE SANDWICH KING

DOUBLE NOBLE {AUSTIN}

>> FOR THE GRILLER

NEW AT NARA {HOUSTON}

N

ara offers Houston foodies an exotic one-of-a-kind dining experience with chef Donald Chang’s newly installed Korean grill room. Each of its three communal wooden tables has a built-in yakiniku grill designed for an authentic Korean grilling experience in an upscale setting. Chang takes it to the next level by using premium American Kobe-style beef and kurobuta pork and meat marinades from family recipes known only by Chang’s mother and sister. Chang’s sister and head chef, Esther Cho, prepares all the meat marinades, special sauces, and banchan (side dishes) in Nara’s kitchen. The semi-private grill room in the back of the restaurant seats 14 guests or up to 22 for a private party. Chef Chang has added a Chef ’s Table to the main dining room with seating for 10-13 guests. The sixcourse menu of Japanese and Korean items, available Wed-Sat only, will change monthly but will include main menu favorites like kimchi soup and Sake Samgyupsal (rice wine marinated pork belly). narahouston.com

K

nown for its amazing sandwiches and charcuterie, Noble Sandwiches (formerly Noble Pig) is planning a second more central location this fall on Burnet Road. The mouth-watering sandwiches are all served on house baked breads and topped with homemade condiments. Its seared beef tongue sandwich with red pepper relish and garlic aioli was a contender on the Travel Channel as one of the best sandwiches in America. Other favorites include the Creole catfish; pimento cheese with smoked scallions; and the Italian sausage with roasted tomato and herbs. Don’t miss the jalapeno slaw! noblesandwiches.com

>> FOR THE AVOCADO LOVER

THE GUACAMOLOGIST

L

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>> FOR THE ECO-conscious BEER LOVER

ONLY A HOP, SKIP & JUMP AWAY {AUSTIN}

S

pecializing in craft beer and sustainability, Hops & Grain Brewery has opened its new tap room, adjacent to the brewery with Greenhouse beers on tap and cans from its permanent lineup. Tours are offered daily and if guests take their beer with a side of Yahtzee, a variety of board games are available. The brewery is open Saturdays to give guests a more intimate look at the production facility. In addition, the space is available to rent Sunday through Tuesday for private events and charitable functions. hopsandgrain.com

Julie Soefer | Noble Sandwiches | Mark Wieland | Thomas Winslow

{DALLAS} ove guac? If you’re a guest at the Ritz Carlton in Dallas, you’re in luck. Stop off in the lobby each evening and visit the Guacamologist, from Fearing’s restaurant, who handcrafts a daily guacamole blend in a special presentation bowl. The lights are dimmed, candles are flickering, and fresh tortilla chips are loaded up with guacamole for sampling.

Meanwhile, mini-margaritas in tasting glasses are presented to adult guests. Welcome to Texas! ritzcarlton.com/dallas

connoisseur table talk

Side Sips Wine events you won’t want to miss AUSTIN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Don your finest drinking boots for the biggest little festival in Texas: the annual Austin Food & Wine Festival.

From April 25-27, indulge in a mix of food and wine tastings, Texas and international celebrity chef appearances, hands-on grilling demos, live music, cocktail seminars, parties and wine dinners in various locations around Austin. austinfoodandwinefestival.com

>> FOR THE FRANCOPHILE

SAY LaV {AUSTIN}

Buff Strickland | Austin Food and Wine Fest | 60Degrees Mastercrafted | Sugar Land Food and Wine affair

R

umored to be one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of the year, when LaV opens, expect a French and Mediterranean inspired eatery and wine bar with a seasonal menu of local ingredients. Chef Allison Jenkins, a CIA grad, and sommelier Vilma Mazaite met while working at the Little Nell in Aspen. Talented executive pastry chef Janina O’Leary has been recruited from TRACE and is spearheading plans for house baked boule and French desserts with a twist. The beautiful space full of natural light is warm and inviting with giant windows, a raw bar and a wall of wine. Mazaite’s wine list is serious and pairs immaculately with the menu including selections from the wood burning oven such as roasted chicken, a mixed grill with lamb, or whole fish. lavaustin.com >> FOR THE LOCAVORE

60 DEGREES MASTERCRAFTED

{HOUSTON} fter much anticipation, 60 Degrees Mastercrafted opened late last year in the bustling Upper Kirby district.

Master chef Fritz Gitschner crafts an array of ranch-to-table southwestern inflected dishes using all local ingredients. Menu selections range from elegant—like fried green tomatoes with jumbo lump crab or spiced rack of lamb with couscous, to the familiar—Tejas chili with pico de gallo and Mexican crema. The Vienna-trained chef is proud to serve only Texas Akaushi beef, the healthiest and naturally tastiest beef, from HeartBrand Beef Ranch in Yoakum.

For a decadent treat, try the $200 Bistro Burger (yes, it’s selling!) topped with seared foie gras, mushrooms, shaved white truffles and bordelaise sauce. It’s served with white truffle fries. 60degreesmastercrafted.com

A

SUGAR LAND FOOD & WINE AFFAIR Recognized as one of the most anticipated culinary attractions of the year: the annual Sugar Land Wine and Food Affair.

From April 2327, indulge in multiple tastings, dinners, cooking demonstrations and seminars. Where top chefs share secrets, sommeliers get uncorked and you have exclusive access to the best wine and food around! sugarlandwineandfoodaffair.com TASTE ALEXANDER VALLEY Head just an hour north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge to the bucolic Alexander Valley, May 17-18, for the perfect blend of sophistication and down-home charm. At the annual Taste, you’ll be served sought after wine samples and compatible small plates at hidden gem wineries including Stuhlmueller, garden-flocked Medlock Ames, and downtown Healdsburg’s Heart’s Desire. alexandervalley.org

robin barr sussman Robin Barr Sussman is a Houston-based freelance writer who specializes in food, wine and travel. Her work has appeared in Texas Monthly, My Table, and Private Clubs magazine.

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WINE DINNER April 23th | BARTENDERS CHALLENGE April 24th

SEMINARS April 25th | THE GRAND TASTING April 25th

SIP N始 STROLL April 26th |BISTRO BRUNCH April 27 th

23rd-27th

April

2014

www.SugarLandWineandFoodAffair.com 713-SIP-WINE

connoisseur uncorked

blanket

Wine Story | John DeMers

e

verybody in Texas knows what to do when the first bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and other wildflowers pop out of the ground with that initial breath of spring: sit in the middle of them and have somebody take your picture. But if you want to stick around longer, you can plan a wine picnic that’s the perfect celebration of the season. At least then you can toast Lady Bird Johnson, who made this beloved Texas tradition a floral reality.

Even in Texas, there are days when it’s neither too hot nor too cold, when the sun warms gently from the center of a blue sky. Whether your taste runs to fried chicken with potato salad or duck pate with cornichons, choose a perfect picnic wine to enjoy along side.

A few general notions apply. Affordable wines are best—it would be the rare picnic built around or able to handle that 1947 Bordeaux you acquired at an auction in London. It’s simply not the time or the place.

Since a picnic is different from a barbecue,

in Texas or anywhere else, the foods tend to be lighter than a heavy steak ripped sizzling from the grill. White wines, therefore, rule at picnics, along with a category I’ve become increasingly fond of lately, rosés.

Among the whites, sauvignon blancs provide a crisp and refreshing medley of citrus notes and minerality–and a brightness that will just make you happy to be outside.

Searching along the same lines for other grape varietals, you might try chenin blanc, pinot gris and pinot blanc with almost any popular picnic fare. Foods like cold fried chicken abandon their inner redneck when paired with such a wine, especially when there’s a crusty-chewy French loaf to tear from.

With warm winds across the Mediterranean, rosés are eternal in Provence.

If you feel like splurging, the famous rosés from Tavel should make a great impression, as should any up-and-comer from Bandol.

Whichever you choose, be sure to throw a wine key in the basket and enjoy the sights, the smells and the company.

For 5 items to accessorize your picnic visit prime-living.com

texas dining al fresco

Five primo picnic spots!

Mount Bonnell {Austin} austinparks.org Sabine to Bagby Waterfront Park {Houston} buffalobayou.org Founder’s Plaza {Dallas} dfwairport.com/founders Driftwood Estate Winery {Driftwood} driftwoodvineyards.com Magnolia Beach {Port Lavaca} texasnaturecoast.com

John DeMers Covering food and wine for more than 25 years, John DeMers hosts “Delicious Mischief” on NewsRadio 740 KTRH. He recently released Follow the Smoke: 14,783 Miles of Great Texas Barbecue.

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connoisseur main dish

Chef Ross Burtwell

sampling TEXAS one plate at a time c

Story | jessica mebane Photography | jennifer whitney

hef Ross Burtwell has single-handedly started a quiet locavore revolution at his Cabernet Grill at the Cotton Gin in Fredericksburg, with the finest local ingredients and wines from all corners of Texas.

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Walk up to this weathered lumber-clad building topped with metal roofs and artifacts from an earlier, more rural Texas epoch, and you might think you’re about to settle in for just another chicken-fried, sweet-tea meal. But once you step inside and see the floor-to-ceiling wine storage honeycomb and smell the earthy bouquet of complex sauces simmering nearby, suddenly you realize you’re not in small-town Texas anymore.

Settle in at a cozy table in the open-beamed dining room and navigate your way through some of the most delectable Texasinspired menu offerings to be found. Start off with a bright crisp Viognier, from McPherson Cellars in Lubbock. With its semisweet finish, this wine is a nice counterpoint to the spicy yet comforting curried chowder redolent with pheasant, jalapeño sausage and apples. This velvety starter will warm up your palate nicely for the next course, whether it’s the sinfully decadent Jumbo Lump Crab Gratin or the piquant Warm Texas Goat Cheese Crock served with olive tapenade, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic and toasted bread rounds.

If you want to step outside the norm, you must try the Spicy Steamed Pork Buns with braised pork belly finished on the grill, served with hoisin mayo, housemade pickles and Sriracha for an unusual yet addictive treat.

But pace yourself, Burtwell has transformed the usual entrée fare with the inclusion of fresh local foodstuffs from sources all over Texas. There’s something here for every Lone Star taste profile. So if you need a Tex-Mex fix try the buffalo enchiladas with mango slaw and double bacon black beans. However, it would be a crying shame if you missed out on the Rainbow Trout. Pan-seared to a turn, the spice-and-cornbread

dusted filet is moist and forktender and served with a tomato, pecan, bacon and breadcrumb stuffing with lemony undertones.

Burtwell adds a fragrant brown butter sauce that elevates the dish to something altogether elegant yet soulful. Commemorate this dish with a wine from Texas Hill Vineyards, full of depth and notes of raspberry.

Dessert is full of whimsical surprises that will bring your evening to a decadent end.

The local Clear River Pecan Company supplies fresh ice cream in flavors such as salted caramel and Jack Daniels to accompany many desserts, including the heavenly German Chocolate bread pudding.

Try the Ruby Red Grapefruit Buttermilk Pie, where your grandmother’s humble pastry of Sunday suppers long past has been dressed up for the new millennium with light elegant grapefruit flavors. And just for extra panache, the whole thing is presented on a dish coated with a delicate sheen of “polka-dot sauce,” a delightful mélange of grapefruit glace punctuated with pearly dots of white chocolate.

So if this spring finds you hankering for something that truly speaks to your Texas roots or you just want to see where the bluebonnets take you, head to the Texas Hill Country for a sophisticated yet utterly authentic meal at Cabernet Grill. Burtwell and his outstanding staff will make you a believer in Texas viogniers, sangiovese and tempranillo— wines made to enjoy with fresh local fare. In Burtwell’s words, “that’s how it’s supposed to be, don’t you think?”

cabernet grill 2805 s state highway 16 fredericksburg (830) 990-5734 cottonginlodging.com

connoisseur main dish

Ruby Red Grapefruit Buttermilk Pie Ingredients 1 9-inch pie crust 1 cup granulated sugar 3 eggs 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1½ cups buttermilk ¼ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 tablespoons Ruby Red grapefruit juice 1 tablespoon Ruby Red grapefruit zest, grated 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

Curried Pheasant, Sausage & Apple Chowder Pan-seared Rainbow Trout

Grilled Peaches and Shrimp with Cream

Jumbo Lump Crab Gratin

Warm Texas Goat Cheese

Preparation Preheat oven to 350 F. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom of the pie crust, about 1/2-inch apart. Pre-bake the crust until light brown. The holes will prevent the dough from rising up and forming bubbles. Beat eggs and sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture turns a light color and is fluffy. Add the flour and mix lightly. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour batter in pre-baked pie shell. Bake for 30 minutes, or until custard is set. Allow pie to rest before serving at room temperature.

Yeild: 9-inch pie Ruby Red Grapefruit Buttermilk Pie

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Stuffed Lockhart Quail

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connoisseur Bragging Bites

Hail

mary!

s

Story | Robin Barr Sussman

he’s been called the hair of the dog, the day drink, the weekend brunch musthave, and deemed the cocktail queen of the month for January. Rich, spicy and tomato punchy, the chilled and refreshing bloody mary is classy but a little sassy, with garnishes that have evolved from a celery stick to cheese, bacon, pickled okra and more. Here’s the sip on the finest in Texas.

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connoisseur Bragging Bites

Kelly Rucker | Andria Miles | Debora Smail

SLEEK SIP

Belvedere Bloody Mary vodka, a maceration of black pepper, horseradish, bell pepper, chili pepper, vinegar, tomato and lemon in premium vodka, is the star player at the Quattro bloody mary bar each weekend at the Four Seasons hotel in Houston. Its small yet elegant bar includes Texas-made Tito’s vodka plus every kind of seasoning spice you could dream up—smoked salt, cayenne, and a special black pepper mix.

Top your libation with bacon, celery sticks, assorted olives, Tabasco, horseradish, various hot sauces and Worcestershire. The best part is the spicy homemade tomato juice, so perfectly balanced it needs nothing.

Bloody marys are included in the most elaborate brunch in town. From crab legs and caviar, to prime roast, hot pasta, cheese and charcuterie, and salads galore, the food stations should all be experienced. Whatever you do, come thirsty.

QUATTRO FOUR SEASONS HOTEL HOUSTON 1300 LAMAR QUATTRORESTAURANTHOUSTON.COM

BLOODY MARY ZONE

Ozona Grill & Bar sports an incredible 24foot bloody mary bar every weekend. Many Dallasites leave their appetite at home and come solely for the custom-made bloody marys. The drill: a server brings your liquor of choice over ice. Belly up to the bar and choose from six different bottled mixers for your base, including a house made tomato juice blend. Spice that up with a selection of 30 hot sauces, fresh horseradish, cayenne, celery salt or the signature french fry spice.

Choose from a full buffet of aver 30 edibles including celery sticks, delicious pickled green beans or okra, carrots, avocado, pickles, bacon, pico de gallo, olives, cheese chunks and fresh cilantro. “Most guests choose Tito’s vodka and the ‘older folks’ like gin for their bloody marys,” says general manager Andria Miles. She prefers tequila in hers, topped with pico. Now that’s the spirit!

OZONA GRILL & BAR DALLAS 4615 GREENVILLE OZONAGRILL.COM

SOUTHERN CHARMER

The Southern Bloody at Lucy’s Fried Chicken is just what every southern gent and belle thirsts for. No need to make any decisions about tomato mix, spices or toppings. Lucy’s has a tried and true brew, fresh for the ready that keeps Austinites coming back for more. The secret is Clamato juice, a refreshing classic mix of tomato, celery, onion, spices, citrus and a touch of clam juice. The spiced up concoction fortified with Dripping Springs Texas Vodka is simply garnished with Lucy’s pickled okra and other veggies, fresh bell peppers, horseradish and a salt and spice rim for perfection in a big fat Pilsner glass. Add a fresh lime squeeze and pair it with woodgrilled oysters or a bucket of deluxe crispy fried chicken and Texas caviar—and you’re in brunch heaven.

LUCY’S FRIED CHICKEN AUSTIN 5408 BURNET RD 2218 COLLEGE AVE LUCYSFRIEDCHICKEN.COM

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connoisseur

entertain

Mad Hatter: Have I gone mad?

Alice: I’m afraid so. You’re entirely bonkers. But I’ll tell you a secret.

All of the best people are.

GONE MADhatter s

Coordinating | C & A Events

Photography | Melissa Arlena Photography

pring is the best time for outdoor entertaining in Texas. Take a cool, low humidity day, add bright spring flowers, fun hats, a mix-match of china, tea cakes—and of course we must have tea— mix in some merriment and whimsy and you’ve created the perfect Alice in Wonderland tea party!

Looking for more Mad Hatter party ideas? visit prime-living.com

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connoisseur

entertain

the goods Photographer Melissa Arlena Photography melissaarlena photography.com

Coordinator C & A Events Solid colored floral arrangements make a bold statement and a few feathers add a whimsical touch.

Don’t forget a stylish tea pot with a “Drink Me” note!

caeventplanning.com

Florist Anthomanic shopanthomanic.com

Invitations The Cordial Cricket thecordialcricket.com

Venue Stevenson Ridge stevensonridge.com

Catering I.K. Catering ikcatering.com

Place sandwiches, finger foods and cookies on multi-tiered stands to add height and interest to the tables.

Cake Fat Girl Cakes The white rabbit would insist on as many clocks as possible. Perfect use for those old clocks that no longer run.

fatgirlcakes.com

Linens Classic Party Rentals of VA classicpartyrentalsva.com

A hat-inspired cake makes delicious décor.

Pull out the old mismatched china—it’s perfect for the occasion!

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19TH ANNUAL KEELS & WHEELS CONCOURS D’ ELEGANCE

MAY 3-4, 2014 ANNOUNCING WAYNE CARINI OF “CHASING CLASSIC CARS” AS THE KEELS & WHEELS 2014 GRAND MARSHAL

Don’t miss Wayne and his film crew while they film an episode of “Chasing Classic Cars” at Keels & Wheels!

Join us for the premier Classic Car and Vintage Boat Concours in the country.

The event benefits Boys & Girls Harbor with over $1 Million donated to charity.

THE FEATURED MARQUES FOR THE 2014 SEASON ARE: AUTOMOBILE MARQUES AUBURN, CORD AND DUESENBERG, AND THE BOATING MARQUE “CLASSICS OF THE 40’s AND 50’s” VISIT WWW.KEELS-WHEELS.COM OR CALL 713-521-0105 FOR ENTRY INFORMATION OR ADVANCE PURCHASE DISCOUNT TICKETS.

gentlemen’s room West Elm

For the man who commands the very best

“Mad Men” inspired decor

inside:

50 52 53 54

• • • •

Man Cave Mad Style Driver’s Seat dream car Wealth Your Best Interest High Tech Ultra-High Tech Home

Entertainment 55 • Great Outdoors Friends of a Feather

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gentlemen’s room man cave

ith the new season of Mad Men coming out this spring, it’s time to take a page out of Don Draper’s style guide.

Story | Jake Poinier

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Were the 1960s the good old days? Setting aside the cultural turmoil, there’s no question that the styles have endured—and enhanced with the popularity of the award-winning TV show “Mad Men.” From a designer’s perspective, the midcentury trend was as much about rule-breaking as any other societal aspect. “Styles ranged from space-age to psychedelic, and everywhere in between,”

says Tabitha Evans, principal of Phoenix-based Tabitha Evans Design. “It can mean simple and clean or organic and natural, depending on which part of the ’60s you’re talking about.”

In general, the ’60s were heavy on texture, color, contrasting shapes, sculptural or abstract art and geometrics. Furniture touts clean lines and materials ranging from leather to metals to wood.

In a man cave you want structure

West Elm

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mad Style

gentlemen’s room man cave

MUST HAVES Bar cart While we can’t recommend quaffing vodka all day long like the fictional characters on “Mad Men,” a bar cart is perfect for cocktail hour—and the whimsical Foxed Mirror Bar Cart adds midcentury design materials to your space and will surely spark conversation. westelm.com Eames Lounge Chair What would a man cave be without a recliner? Make it 1960s style with the wood and leather Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. Not only will it bring comfort and style to your space, but the mixed materials and sleek lines almost make it a work of art. roveconcepts.com Pop art DB Artist creates reliefs and prints—music pop art, film pop art and even skylines. To make the piece truly pop off the wall, you can have it printed directly onto a sheet of 1/16-inch thick aluminum. dbartist.com

West Elm | Rove Concepts

Coffee table book Midcentury Modern Art in Texas by Katie Robinson Edwards, offers nearly 400 pages of insight into modernist activity in the Lone Star state, on bookshelves in July 2014. utpress.utexas.edu

and functionality to capture the masculinity of this era.

Think textured walls— wallpaper is seeing a comeback these days and as is textured paneling like the faux wood paneling sold at West Elm or two-dimensional geometric wall covering from Graham & Brown.

“There are tons of choices now, with some really fun geometric or abstract prints,” Evans says.

If you would rather not panel

your walls, add some shape with a geometric mirror or some abstract art. You won’t be surprised that in this era the details make the room—you can usher in a midcentury energy with something as simple as West Elm’s Geodesic Table Lamp, a rotary phone (functioning or just for show), or even by adding a few throw pillows with geometric patterns.

“It’s easy to overdo it, so keep it simple,” Evans says.

Embroidered Chevron Lattice Pillow Cover from West Elm

Geodesic Table Lamp from West Elm march/april • 2014

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gentlemen’s room driver's seat

dreamcar Story | jeff yip

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but don’t expect the opulence of the Quattroporte. Maserati’s attention to detail, however, is impressive and there’s no better example than delightful trident-inspired pointers on the tachometer and speedometer or the tasteful clock that’s centrally mounted in the dash. When the song of the unfettered engine exhaust in sport mode is reined in, an available 1,280-watt, 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo is more than ready to take over entertainment duties.

The Ghibli could afford many their first glimpse into Italian automobile design and performance.

Dreams do come true. jeff yip Jeff Yip’s work has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, San Jose Mercury News, Houston Chronicle and the New York Times, as well as consumer and trade magazines. He’s a second-generation car guy who still has the 1969 Chevy his dad loved.

Maserati

have every right to expect. Handling is balanced and responsive and the suspension is dialed in nicely, keeping you at the sweet spot of sport and civility.

Of course, there are performance aspects other than hardware and grand touring machine may be hile it might not exactly specs. This distinctive car triggers the new kid on the block, its be the Da Vinci Code, name is legendary. Ghibli, a term a fair share of double takes, stares Maserati has come up with an answer—the 2014 Ghibli. for a hot desert wind from North and grins, as you might expect because it’s inspired by its big This new midsize luxury sports Africa, first graced Maserati’s brother, the Quattroporte. Photos 1967-1973 two-door coupe, sedan starts at about $67,000. don’t really do the Ghibli justice, one of the most popular Italian That’s not a typo. We’re talking as we discovered when we spied supercars of all time. an exotic Maserati for about it for the first time among the Despite the addition of two the price of a four-wheel-drive doors, the Ghibli name has not been platinum alley of Aston Martins, Chevy Suburban. The Ghibli is Ferraris and McClarens at the squandered, as we learned when the tip of the spear in Maserati’s Miami International Auto Show. plan to sell 50,000 cars annually, Maserati of Houston generously provided us some quality time with The money shot is all about the worldwide. But while this curvy, the model’s range topper, the S Q4. front and the Gran Turismoinspired grille, cat-like headlights In addition to a 60-horsepower and athletic stance, nailed down at bump over the standard 345 ponies, the S Q4 features all-wheel- the corners by tires ranging up to 21-inches in diameter and forged drive. The Ghibli fires up with an alloy wheels. authoritative bark and the FerrariInside, driver and occupants designed turbocharged V6 packs enjoy a leather-appointed cocoon the punch that buyers in this space

It’s a dilemma that has vexed many: How to get into the sexy Italian car of your dreams.

gentlemen’s room wealth

Your Best Interest Specialty Asset Management & Mineral Rights Story | Samantha Kennedy, Managing Director, Private Client Advisor, U.S. Trust

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oday’s increasing energy needs could make investments in properties with known or suspected oil and gas reserves a valuable complement to a portfolio.

However, the basic issue of who owns what resources underground can be quite complex.

Some individuals struggle to understand which kind of rights they own. It is important to work with an expert who understands the nuances involved in managing this asset class and is able to incorporate one’s mineral rights into the overall wealth management strategy.

First of all, there are several different types of interests in oil, gas and other minerals: • Mineral Interest: Ownership of the right to mine or produce all minerals—including hydrocarbons—beneath the surface of a property.

• Royalty Interest: Ownership of a percentage of production, or production revenues, made from leased acreage, bearing no cost of exploration, drilling, etc.

• Working Interest: Owners are obligated to pay a percentage of the cost of leasing, drilling, producing and operating a well or unit. After royalties are paid, the working interest also entitles its owner to share in production revenues with other working interest owners, based on the percentage owned.

• Net Profit Interest: A share of net proceeds from production paid solely from the working interest owner’s share. It is sometimes granted in lieu of a royalty interest.

• Overriding Royalty Interest: Ownership in a percentage of production or production revenues, free of the cost of production, created by the lessee, company and/or working interest owner and paid by the lessee, company and/or working interest owner out of revenue from the well.

• Nonparticipating Royalty Interest: Ownership in a share of production, paid to an owner who does not share in the right to explore or develop

a lease or does not receive bonus or rental payments. It is free of the cost of production and is deducted from the royalty interest.

• Net Revenue Interest: A share of production after all burdens, such as royalty and overriding royalty, have been deducted from the working interest. It is the percentage of production that each party actually receives.

At U.S. Trust, the Specialty Asset Management (SAM) group offers distinctive capabilities focused on the unique requirements of different types of nonfinancial assets, including oil and gas. U.S. Trust recently hosted a roundtable event in Houston, which included a discussion with both local and national subject matter experts on SAM, particularly as it relates to oil and gas and mineral rights. The SAM group currently manages over 109,000 client assets with a total asset value of $12.3 billion.1 With oil and gas exploration continuing to rise, properly

managing complex specialty assets like mineral rights and property, whether individually owned or held in a corporation, are crucial to the local and global economy.

Working with an expert who understands how to properly manage mineral rights and the nuances involved in each step of the process, is essential to an overall wealth management strategy.

To start, here are some important questions to ask yourself: • Do you have a complete inventory of your interests?

• Are you getting paid for all the products from your producing properties?

• Are you getting a reasonable price for these products?

• What deductions are coming out of your royalty stream?

1. Source: Bank of America. As of June 30, 2013, U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management’s Specialty Asset Management Group advised a total asset value of $12.3 billion in nonfinancial assets. Total asset value consists of assets under management (AUM), assets in custody and client brokerage assets of Bank of America Private Wealth Management clients held at Bank of America, N.A. and Merrill Lynch Trust Company.

This article is designed to provide general information about ideas and strategies. It is for discussion purposes only since the availability and effectiveness of any strategy is dependent upon your individual facts and circumstances. Always consult with your independent attorney, tax advisor, investment manager, and insurance agent for final recommendations and before changing or implementing any financial, tax, or estate planning strategy.

U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management operates through Bank of America, N.A. and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Nonfinancial assets, such as closely-held businesses, real estate, oil, gas and mineral properties, and timber, farm and ranch land, are complex in nature and involve risks including total loss of value. Special risk considerations include natural events (for example, earthquakes or fires), complex tax considerations, and lack of liquidity. Nonfinancial assets are not suitable for all investors.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

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gentlemen’s room high tech

the latest & greatest Ultra High-Tech meets Home Entertainment Story | Michael Garfield

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t the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year, companies from all over the world displayed some of the newest home entertainment products that will make your eyes and ears pop.

HT’s App List Home Theater Glossary

IZON GLASSES-FREE 3D TV A company called IZON debuted its new range of 3D LED televisions that do not use any kind of glasses whatsoever—without losing the 3D effect that the movie studio worked so hard to produce. IZON uses a sub-pixel accurate alignment in the 3D display to create crisp 3D images. The TVs promise viewing angles of 150-degrees and supports 3D Blu-ray films, 3D broadcast content and 2D content. izontv.com

This app is a simple glossary of home theater keywords with each defined in layman’s terms, rather than in techy talk. Whether you’re trying to educate yourself before making a major purchase, or you want to impress your friends with your technical lexicon, this app is for you.

SAMSUNG ULTRA HDTV Meet the world’s biggest TV—the 110-inch Ultra HDTV from Samsung. The movie-screenlike set boasts an 800-megapixel display and has already sold well in China, the Middle East and Europe, despite its $150,000 price tag.

Ultra HDTVs have four times the resolution of typical HDTV sets. No worries if you aren’t ready for a 110-inch behemoth in your media room as they are available in much smaller sizes. samsung.com

AudioCalc & VideoCalc

A duo of apps that essentially function as one, these let you optimize your audio and video systems so that you hear every decibel and see every pixel properly.

Whether you’re trying to assess your amp power or figure out where to place your projector, these apps have you covered.

dB Level

To see more high-tech products from this year’s Consumer Electronics Show visit prime-living.com

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Michael Garfield Known as “The High-Tech Texan®” to audiences nationwide, Michael hosts technology and issue-oriented talk radio shows six days a week on The 9-5-0. See what he’s up to at HighTechTexan.com.

IZON | Samsung | LG

LG SOUND PLATE Sound bars continue to be popular but there’s a new product category in the one-box audio solutions: sound platforms—also known as sound plates, sound bases and sound pedestals. These devices sit flat on an entertainment stand or cabinet and function as a base for a television. Their increased cabinet volume allows for richer sound with more bass. The new LG Sound Plate looks sleek and sounds great but also boasts a wireless subwoofer for even richer sound. It even has a built-in Blu-ray player which makes it an attractive all-in-one option. lg.com

This app serves as a simple decibel meter, allowing you to calibrate your speaker levels manually. As an added bonus, those of you who are true audiophiles can use the app to measure the relative loudness of sporting events, concerts, and other loud events.

gentlemen’s room outdoors

friends ofa

feather

Story | doug pike

Riddle me this: What is it that we all do, although many won’t admit it, some of us do more often and enthusiastically than others, can be done well into seniority, and usually leaves us feeling content?

courtesy of Galveston.com

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f you didn’t answer “watch birds,” tsk-tsk.

None of us has any excuse not to enjoy an occasional peek into the trees and sky to see what might be overhead. In our state alone, more than 600 species have been documented. In fact, Texas is a premier birding destination, and spring is an outstanding time to grab the binoculars and hit the woods.

Or beach. Or prairie. Or backyard.

This month and next, hundreds of thousands of tiny and colorful migratory birds will cross the Gulf of Mexico on their way back from Central America. Many will make brief stops on Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula, where they’ll be caught by the eyes and cameras of traveling birders from as far away as Europe.

A little farther inland, on the marshes and prairies of the

upper Texas coast, a couple dozen species of waterfowl— representing more than a million birds in all—will lift off the region for the final time this spring and head to northern nesting grounds. They’ll be joined by raptors and hummingbirds and shorebirds and even those wretched grackles that haunt grocery-store parking lots.

There is room for them all on the roster of species kept by avid birders to know what they’ve seen and what’s left to see. I never kept an actual list but would guess my number to be somewhere between 200 and 300 species, about half of which I couldn’t name on a bet.

As a waterfowl hunting guide for 14 years, I recognized lots of “other” birds as my hunters and I passed time between flights of

ducks and geese. Bigger nongame birds were called “Don’t shoot!” and the teacup-sized ones were all chi-chi birds.

In my own backyard, I’ve tallied nearly 30 species. The usual suspects visited feeders, but more than half were identified (conclusively) during brief flyovers—I know a sandhill crane when I see and hear one, even if it’s at 2,000 feet.

One reason some of us so enjoy watching wild birds, I think, is that we carry a deepseated jealousy of their ability to fly. A coot and its fist-sized gizzard, rising to 30,000 feet, migrates thousands of miles; we can’t even flitter our fannies over a backyard fence.

Rather than actually fly, I’ll just continue to admire the creatures that can.

no lessons required Birding is stump-simple; anyone who recognizes colors and shapes can be good at it. Families can enjoy birding, certainly, but so can the single person who wants to do more outdoors than walk an asphalt exercise trail but isn’t up for a backcountry hike.

You needn’t even leave home, although you will see more birds if you get off the couch and actually go outside.

Invest in binoculars, no greater than 8-power magnification for beginners, and a quality regional field guide. And a pen, to circle the birds you see—in the book, of course.

doug pike Doug Pike has traveled the world to satisfy his passion for the outdoors.

During his career, he has won 100-plus state and national awards for writing, broadcast and photography.

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Hotel Saint Barth Isle de France

escape

escape Greetings from Destinations Near and Far

inside:

58 • enlightened explorer Travel Buzz 60 • postcards Big bend 63 • feature welcome to japan

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escape enlightened explorer >> For the Island Lover

Hidden Luxury

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>> For the fashion guru

Vividly Paris

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four-star boutique hotel designed by Christian Lacroix, the Hotel du Petit Moulin reflects the vibrant and eclectic character of its uniquely Parisian locale in the trendy and treasure-filled Haut Marais district. A nucleus for the latest in fashion, the area is famous for its boutiques, restaurants and cafés, and is also a stone’s throw from popular attractions like the Picasso and Carnavalet museums, Place des Vosges and Opéra Bastille.

From flowers and stripes to ceramic kaleidoscopes and panoramic wallpapers, the 17 rooms of Hotel du Petit Moulin are decorated in strikingly different styles, each with its own color scheme and unique atmosphere. hotelpetitmoulinparis.com

>> For the luxe beachgoer

Gulf Coast Gem

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xperience northwest Florida’s dazzling Emerald Coast—renowned for its idyllic sugar sand beaches—while enjoying luxury accommodations, the finest regional cuisine, a fullservice spa and a spectacular oceanfront location.

The Pearl is the hottest new luxury resort in Rosemary Beach, Fla. The Pearl’s 55 guestrooms feature private balconies, hand-selected furnishings and thoughtful amenities like signature Kerstin Florian spa products, as well as an interactive guest services platform that allows guests to book dinner reservations, request room service or place concierge requests via the iPad provided in each room.

Spend the afternoon in a poolside cabana or relax under an oversized umbrella on The Pearl’s private stretch of beach. This picture-perfect world is your oyster. thepearlrb.com

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The Chedi Sakala | Hotel du Petit Moulin | Tommy Crow

uxury hotel brand GHM has opened a new resort on the little-traveled Tanjung Benoa Peninsula in Bali. Relax in the luxurious suites of The Chedi Sakala, with ocean views and pool-side access.

The resort’s executive chef serves an array of Asian and European offerings that marry local fare with French culinary expertise. Visitors are sure to return rejuvenated. ghmhotels.com

enlightened explorer

escape

>> For the true adventurer >> For the all-elements photographer

Water-tight Camera Bag

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illed as the world’s first completely waterproof, soft-sided camera backpack, the Lowepro DryZone 200 keeps your valuable photography equipment dry in even the most extreme conditions.

Ideal for boating, hiking and other outdoor pursuits, this rugged backpack is comfortable and ergonomic as well as water-tight. The DryZone 200 can fit a Pro DSLR or pro video system, a flash, up to five extra lenses, a tripod and accessories—and floats even when fully loaded. store.lowepro.com

Exotic Ecolodge

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he Three Camel Lodge, an award-winning ecolodge in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia, combines a one-of-a-kind cultural adventure with superb service.

Sleep in one of the lodge’s 20 gers—the traditional felt tents of Mongolia’s nomadic herders—outfitted with amenities like a private bathroom, king-size bed and wood stove, along with locally produced camel milk lotions. The structures blend seamlessly with the remarkable desert landscape, providing unparalleled comfort along with an authentic experience. Like the accommodations, the cuisine embraces regional flavors, with ingredients that include locally grown produce and organic meats from Mongolia’s free-range livestock herds.

Guests at the Three Camel Lodge can choose to take part in a wide variety of customizable activities and excursions led by Mongolia’s most experienced and knowledgeable guides. threecamellodge.com

LowePro | Three Camel Loge | Hotel St. Barth | Mike Gardner

>> For the seaside dreamer

Enchanting Isle

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or beauty and elegance with a laid-back spirit, set your sights on the Caribbean island of Saint-Barthélemy.

Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France, situated on the popular Flamands Beach, is well known for its personalized service and utopian setting. The hotel recently completed its three-year renovation project, which included improvements to all 40 guestrooms and the main public areas, as well as the addition of beachside seating at restaurant La Case de l’Isle. Called “La Cabane de l’Isle,” this new beachfront cabana is perfect for a feet-in-the-sand lunch while staring out to sea. isle-de-france.com

>> For the eco-conscious jetsetter

Green Luxury

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he first in sustainability among Santa Monica’s luxury hotels and the only newly built Gold LEED certified hotel in the city, the chic Shore Hotel is worth a stop for any ecoconscious traveler. From its architecture to its day-to-day operation, the hotel strives to reduce the consumption of natural resources, utilizing many recycled and recyclable materials.

Guestrooms feature the latest in environmentally conscious amenities and technologies.

Along with a green experience, guests are treated to stunning views of the Pacific and an unbeatable location. The Shore Hotel boasts a prime beachfront locale on the famed Ocean Avenue, just blocks from the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade and other top attractions. shorehotel.com march/april • 2014

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escape postcards

Story | holly beretto

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world away from the Lone Star state’s eversprawling cities, the Big Bend region stretches out across West Texas desert and mountains in an endless tapestry of scrub and sky. It’s the kind of place where you can see the stars and discover places still untouched by anything but nature. Embracing a national and state park, as well as several small towns, the area offers a uniquely Texas blend of dusty outdoors and desert style.

Hike your way through more

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than 150 miles of trails in Big Bend National Park—venture out on one of the park’s marked trails or soak up some area history on a guided hike. If hiking’s not your speed, hop onto one of Big Bend Expeditions’ 4x4s (bigbendexpeditions.com) for an off-road adventure—or enjoy a smoother drive along the Rio Grande on the River Road (FM 170), 65 paved miles between Terlingua and Presidio, speckled with opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Be sure you visit historic Terlingua Ghost Town and plan to have dinner at the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon (thestarlighttheatre.com), where comfort food and live entertainment abound.

Over in town of Alpine, take up lodging at the historic Holland Hotel (thehollandhoteltexas.com), where you’ll find charming courtyards and great eats at The Century Grill. Down the street, have a drink at The Saddle Club (saddleclubalpine.com)

and explore the shops—Ivey’s Emporium is a hodgepodge of gifts, wine and accessories. Coffee lovers will particularly want to stop at Plaine for a cup of joe.

Don’t miss the jewel of Marathon, the Gage Hotel (gagehotel.com), an oasis of elegance in the west Texas desert. Lodging includes private casitas, rooms in the historic Trost-designed building, and accommodations in the Captain Shephard House. Dining at 12 Gage, the hotel’s restaurant, features extraordinary southwest fare. Explore the hotel’s stunning gardens or treat yourself to some down time at the luxurious spa.

In a region full of surprises, perhaps what city slickers find most surprising is how easy it is to imagine oneself there. Maybe it’s the vast sky and the gallant mountains or the fresh air and vibrant stars, but you’ll feel a pull to this wild, rugged country, where undisturbed nature sits comfortably alongside delightful civilization.

Take in a star party at the McDonald Observatory, located near Fort Davis.

The two-hour evening events offer discussions about constellations and views of celestial bodies through several of the observatory’s telescopes.

Reservations required. mcdonaldobservatory.org Explore the terrain from above with Rio Aviation, an air-tour company owned and operated by a retired Big Bend park ranger. Flights run year-round and include a bird’s eye view of the Rio Grande’s canyons, the Solitario, and the Dahlquist research site—known as the Devil’s Playground. rioaviation.com Alpine’s Museum of the Big Bend on the campus of Sul Ross State University provides a dynamic overview of the region, from its primitive past through its starring role in Hollywood Westerns, offering visitors permanent and changing exhibits that showcase life in West Texas. ww2.sulross.edu/ museum

Kenny Braun | Richard Reynolds

big bend

see & do

Where Luxury and Lifestyle Meet.

Nestled in a picturesque setting of lakes and trails is Avalon at Spring Green.

A gated reserve of only 200 prestigious homes by two of Houston’s leading builders Some of Katy’s only remaining waterfront homesites Exceptional schools within the highly-acclaimed Katy Independent School District Direct access to I-10, 1 mile away! Spring Green Boulevard connects the main entrance of the community directly to I-10. Easy access to the Westpark Tollway and The Grand Parkway Now is the time to make your move to Avalon at Spring Green.

281.207.9045

I-10 West Spring Green B lvd .

281.881.4785

New homes starting from the $400s 4 Model Homes Now Open Daily

Ka ty

Located 1 mile south of I-10 West in Katy, Texas

*Prices, plans, features, amenities and availability are subject to change without notice. Illustrations may differ from completed projects. Copyright © 2014 Avalon at Spring Green, Katy, Texas.

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escape

Nihon e Youkoso Welcome to

Japan

Story | Bruce Farr

winter, spring, Summer or fall, Japan surely is a country for all seasons.

A destination long-loved for its amplitude of charms, Japan has been cherished by western wayfarers long before steamships sailed and airplanes flew. In the Land of the Rising Sun, the sun rises above four spectacular seasons, offering something for everyone any time of the year. march/april • 2014

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mericans don’t often think of Japan when they imagine a wonderland of winter scenery and sports, but in fact, Japan houses a number of winter resorts.

Japan’s most popular winter destinations include Hakuba and Shiga Kogen, both in Nagano Prefecture—easily accessible by train from Tokyo.

Both areas tout luxury ski resorts for the winter sports lovers. For those who would rather relax in warmth, Japan is also speckled with hot springs. For a completely unique winter experience, think Sapporo (yes, where the famous Japanese beer is brewed). This city on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido transforms itself into a winter fantasy—hosting annual events such as White Illumination, a festival of winter lights, and the Snow Festival, which showcases elaborate sculptures of snow and ice.

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Snow sculpture at Sapporo’s 2013 Snow Festival

courtesy Niseko | Yasufumi Nishi | JNTO

winter

An onsen (hot spring) in Niseko, one of Japan's popular winter resorts on Hokkaido Island.

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Spa overlooking a lavander field at Furano Resort on Hokkaido Island

or most Americans, the mention of springtime cherry blossoms conjures up the impressive displays in our nation’s capital. But Japan’s cherry blossoms—known as Sakura—have a marvelous appeal all their own. In Tohoku, Hirosaki Park is famous for its fabulous springtime blooms. Each year in late April, the park commemorates its gorgeous flowering trees with Sakura Matsuri—a cherry blossom festival—attracting thousands of visitors.

A 3.5-hour train journey from Tokyo delivers travelers to Kakunodate, a village nestled in a cluster of precipitous mountains bordering the Hinokinaigawa River. In late April and early May, the gracefully meandering river is lined with a tunnel of cherry blossoms.

Designated a Japanese “national spot of beauty,” Kakunodate offers proof positive of the country’s manifold springtime charms.

Furano | Iwate Prefecture | JNTO

spring

Cherry blossom covered path in Kitakami City in Iwate Perfecture.

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Fireworks over Hiroshima

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Hiroshima Prefecture | Akira Okada | JNTO

anabi—fireworks—mark summer in Japan, with thousands of splendid displays throughout the country. Lake Toya, situated in in Shikotsu-Toya National Park in southwestern Hokkaido, features what might be the longest running fireworks extravaganza in the world. Every evening from late April through late October, the captivating display gets mirrored on the lake’s surface, doubling the enjoyment.

Gazing at a snow-capped peak is the perfect antidote for a hot summer afternoon, so why not feast your eyes on legendary splendor of Mt. Fuji? The perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone, located in the sprawling Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is one of Japan’s most familiar landmarks. At more than 12,000 feet, a mountain climb might best be left to professionals—but luckily for the rest of us, the network of trails at the mountain’s base are well-suited to a brisk hike any time of the year.

summer Mt. Fuji from Fujikawaguchiko town

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Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

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egend has it that the best fall foliage color in Japan is at Jingo-ji Temple, an ancient mountain retreat tucked into the hillside of Mt. Takao-san, northwest of Kyoto. Known as one of Japan’s ancient capital cities, Kyoto is where brightly burnished foliage complements historic buildings. Peak color runs a little later in Japan than in the States—in fact, some trees around Tokyo and Kyoto hold their color well into December.

Fall festivals paying homage to the harvest are everywhere during the autumn months. Hida Takayama is a frequent fall destination for travelers. Lined with period houses and shops, the village exudes an ancient air, and is especially breathtaking when the surrounding foliage is ablaze with color.

Yasufumi Nishi | JNTO

A boat ride down Hozu-kyo Ravine at Arashiyama

fall

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vitamins Healthy living

live well

budget

low carb relax Cardiovascular

Concierge medicine

Fitness health Active aging

yoga

flexibildance ity

organic

Firmness

Prevention

Burn calories

nourish zumba live well marriage allergies

Beauty bliss

endurance vitamin d

guilt free

hydrate

the prime living guide to better health

inside:

70 71 72 73 74

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Soothing massage

Health Buzz What’s New Feel Good Yellow Super Fruit Prime Finds 2014 Makeup Trends Look Good Grow Baby Grow Be Good Emotional Comfort march/april • 2014

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heal t h b u z z

Story | Sally j. Clasen

Download a New Attitude

I

f you’re having trouble seeing the world through rose-colored glasses, the Inner Balance app might help improve your field of optimism. Makers of the mood-measuring app, HeartMath, suggests it can improve well-being, vitality, clarity of thought, access to your heart’s intuition and create a more balanced response to stress. The free smartphone app requires the purchase of the Inner Balance Sensor, which records your heart rhythm pattern and includes a breathing pacer to monitor your heart rhythms. The app provides on-screen coaching and you can track your progress, journal your accomplishments and share your positive moods shifts with others.

Strike a Peaceful Pose

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Bon Appétit

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Meet the Gym Rats

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ondering where your friends are?

Perhaps you should check out the local fitness center. Contrary to the popular myth that gyms are only filled with the physiques and sweat of active youth, boomers are card-carrying members of health and fitness clubs too. Since 1997, health club members age 55 and older have increased by a whopping 519 percent—as compared to 52 percent growth in the 18 to 34 age group, according to the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association.

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Vitamin E on the Brain

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esults from a new study appearing in the Journal of the American Medical Association, revealed high doses of vitamin E slowed functional decline in patients diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease by about six months. The study which ran from 2007 to 2012, involved 613 patients who were already taking Alzheimer’s drugs. Researchers followed patients for an average of 2.3 years and found those receiving 2,000 international units of vitamin E daily showed less of a decline in daily functioning than patients in a placebo group. While researchers make it clear vitamin E can’t prevent the brain disorder, slowing the effects benefits both patients and caregivers.

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

ust off your mat and assume a relaxing position. It will probably come naturally since Yoga, a current health trend has been hanging around for centuries.

According to the investment bank Headwaters MB, the number of yoga and Pilates studios has grown 5.9 percent each year from 2007 to 2012 with 26,610 current U.S. studios in the U.S. Along with core fusion and body weight training, fitness experts say the spiritual, mental and physical practice is a hot trend among baby boomers because of its age-old health benefits: stress arch is National Nutrition Month, an annual nutrition reduction, improved balance and education and information campaign created by the flexibility, increased strength and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses reduced risk of chronic disease attention on the importance of making informed food choices, and and conditions such as depression, developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The theme of pain, anxiety and insomnia. this year’s campaign is “Enjoy the Taste of Eating Right.” Bon appétit!

feel g o o d

yellow super l

emons do more than add flavor to food and drinks or a fresh scent to your cleaning products. They provide powerful antioxidants that can help you build a stronger immune system and fight off diseases.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, citric acid, folate, potassium and fiber. For centuries, they have been used to treat scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C in the diet. Lemons are known for their natural healing powers and are used today in a wide range of health and beauty products.

Registered dietician Ali Miller, owner of Naturally Nourished in Houston, encourages her clients to consume lemons to detoxify their livers, rebalance electrolytes and stave off diseases. Miller suggests starting the day with a cup of warm or room temperature

fruit

Story | Angela Ambrose

water and two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This stimulates the liver to produce more bile which flushes out toxins, aids in the digestion of fats, and helps reduce cholesterol.

Add a pinch of sea salt to the lemon juice and water, and you have a natural electrolyte drink, free of the additives and sweeteners found in commercial products. “It’s a really nice electrolyte rebalance, especially for clients who are going through chemotherapy, or endurance athletes, whose electrolyte balance is at risk,” Miller says.

Whenever possible, choose organic lemons because they offer a higher concentration of vitamin C than conventional produce, especially if you are using the zest of the lemon, the colorful outer layer of the peel—which can be

grated and added to marinades, dressings or soups.

Lemons also have an anti-microbial and anti-viral component, so adding a spritz to your hot tea not only soothes a sore throat, but can also help fight off a cold and act as a natural expectorant by loosening phlegm.

When applied topically, lemons can be used to treat acne or eczema. Miller suggests mixing a teaspoon of raw, unfiltered honey with the juice of half a lemon to create a facial scrub that can exfoliate your skin and improve your overall complexion.

During the last decade, several studies have shown lemons to have some anti-cancer compounds, but more research is needed to confirm their role in the treatment of cancer.

live well

did you know?

When eating greens, try pairing them with an acid such as the ascorbic acid found in lemons.

This reduces minerals into a form that is more easily absorbed and used in the body. “When lemon juice is paired with a healthy fat such as olive oil, it enhances the ability to absorb fat soluble vitamins, such as A, E and K. It also promotes the release of emulsifying bile from the liver,” Miller says.

Try her Lemon Honey Dressing on your favorite greens:

Lemon Honey Dressing Ingredients 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon raw unfiltered honey pinch of sea salt Directions Whisk ingredients and toss in salad or drizzle over vegetables.

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prime finds Spring forward with these fresh new makeup trends

Color Tattoo Metal

Cream gel eye shadow.

Available at maybelline.com. {FOCUS} Maybelline brings metallic shades from the spring’s fashion runways to our eyes. {FUNCTION} A silky cream shadow, this Eye Studio collection can be worn alone for a light spring look, layered atop a dark color to make a statement, or as a liner to make your eyes pop. Fashioned with long-lasting ink technology, this shadow won’t smear with our rising Texas temperatures.

Joli Rouge

{FOCUS} The Joli Rouge formula leaves the lips feeling hydrated and smooth, with long-lasting color and shine. Known for a great selection of lip colors, the luxury French skincare line, Clarins introduces three new shades for spring: Tropical Pink (seen above), Coral Tulip and Pink Orchid. {FUNCTION} Ideal for creating the perfect lips— the Maxi Lip Complex helps plump and hydrate for full and supple lips.

Brighten up your makeup palette with this little color pop.

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Matte Eye Ink

Long-lasting liquid eye liner.

Available at Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. {FOCUS} With the return of the cat eye comes the need for a stellar liquid liner. Napoleon Perdis brings us the solution with Matte Eye Ink. {FUNCTION} Water resistant and proudly paraben-free, this liquid liner plays off the look of ink, drying to a modern matte finish. Thanks to the super-fine precision brush Matte Eye Ink is amazingly easy to apply—even if you shy away from the cat eye.

Love Birds Duo

Nail varnish and lip duo. Available at Dillard’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. {FOCUS} Capitalize on the color of the year with Love Birds in White Swan from Napoleon Perdis, resembling Pantone’s Radiant Orchid color choice. {FUNCTION} Give your lips a spring shimmer with the moisturizing Napoleon Perdis lip gloss, designed to coordinate with the nail polish in this set. Known for smooth application and true-to-the-bottle color, this polish will give your nails a lasting shine. The pair comes complete in a bag showcasing the art of Felicia Aroney, whose work inspired the Love Birds collection.

Clarins | Napoleon Perdis | Maybelline

Long-wearing moisturizing lipstick. Available at Dillard’s, Macy’s and Nordstrom.

L oo k g o o d

live well

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gROW baby gROW s

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Aveda | Viviscal | Theradome

Story | Jessica Mebane

o much of a woman’s identity is tied to her hair, whether it’s short and sassy, or long and wavy. It’s impossible to measure yourself against the female beauty standard without including one’s hairstyle as a major component of the overall package. From “good hair days” to “bad hair days” nothing gives a woman greater pause than the thought of a “no hair day” or the agonizing progression of thinning hair that seems inevitable with age.

So before you go fretting over those dozens of precious strands that slip down the shower drain every morning, take heart: we’ve brushed up on the best strategies to address the thinning hair dilemma.

your face, then why would you do that to your poor hair?” The fact of the matter is, if you don’t wash your hair and exfoliate the scalp, the follicles become clogged up with dander, oil and environmental pollutants, which can actually result in hair loss, not gain. Casler adds, “I like to compare hair care to gardening.

You’ve got to clean out the weeds, prune the dead stuff and mulch the area to support good growth and moisture.” Clean hair also appears fuller and denser than unwashed hair, so give Aveda’s Invati Exfoliating Shampoo a try to really get down to the nitty-gritty of good hair. invati.aveda.com

1. (Don’t) Talk Dirty to Me There are those celebrities with lush, glorious manes who attribute the thickness and healthy shine to going one or more days without washing their hair to increase the natural oils which ostensibly nourish the scalp and follicles. Angela Casler, board certified colorist and stylist at Austin’s Ritual Salon shakes her head in wonderment and asks, “If you wouldn’t go a day, or heaven forbid, a week without washing

did you know?

According to the American Hair Loss Association, women actually make up 40 percent of hair loss sufferers each year.

According to statisticsbrain.com, 60 percent of hair loss sufferers would rather have more hair than friends or money, and 30 percent would give up sex if it meant their hair would grow back!

2. Pump up the Iron (and Biotin, Omega 3…)

There are a lot more factors within your control than you may realize when it comes to sustaining good hair density and health, and chief among those are proper maintenance of your diet and stress level. Whenever the body suffers from stress, the hair begins to show it first with dullness and breakage, then eventually by falling out. Naturally within the hair’s growth cycle, women can expect to lose between 80-150 strands per day and as many as 200 strands after the age of 40.

You can supplement your diet with biotin, vitamin C, iron and omega 3 capsules to amp up hair vitality and thickness. Grape seed extract is also being touted for its restorative effects on hair because of its high levels of vitamin E and its OPC component (oligomeric proanthocyanidins), which stimulates hair growth.

Try Viviscal Extra Strength Supplements—its combination of vitamin C, iron, biotin and other ingredients are specially formulated to increase hair growth. viviscal.com

3. Helmet Hair is a Good Thing For really adventurous folks seeking follicular fortification, there is a laser technology emerging that promises to give you back some of what you’ve lost, in much less time than other hair loss therapies.

Theradome is the result of a biomedical engineer/NASA scientist’s development of the only FDA-approved hair therapy helmet. It uses clinical-strength laser diodes to emit wave energy that is absorbed by hair follicles, stimulating the thickening of the follicle and shaft and generating new hair growth and overall healthy hair appearance.

According to the company, after 26 weeks of twice-weekly, 20-minute treatments, 98 percent of users noticed significant (20 percent) increase in hair growth.

While this is one of the more expensive hair loss treatments out there, it’s significantly cheaper than the estimated $3,000 cost per year of visiting a laser hair restoration clinic, which offers virtually the same technology. theradome.com

For more hair loss answers visit prime-living.com march/april • 2014

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be Good

Need Emotional Comfort? Food is

Easier but Sex is better h

ave you ever caught yourself watching TV at night and feeling lonely, bored or sad?

Your partner may be sitting next to you or in their favorite chair, but you get up anyway; making the routine trip to the freezer to fix a bowl of ice cream, which will provide the comfort you are craving. It may not be ice cream; your comfort food may be a bag of Doritos, pizza or a can of coke and leftovers from dinner.

You aren’t really hungry, but the effort it would require to hug your partner, or become intimate with them doesn’t seem as easy or comforting as food. Eating for comfort may lead to more isolation. The more weight people gain, the less they want to mingle and the more they worry about what others will think or say.

Have we become a society of people medicating with food in order to feel better? Have we stopped turning to loved ones for support and comfort in lieu of food? Yes and no. Although overeating has always been a problem, the stress of technology speeding up our lives and that many of us bring home our work has us feeling less and less connected with those we love most. We arrive home feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.

Rewarding ourselves with food is a lot easier than becoming vulnerable and open to criticism from our partner or friends.

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A few reasons people turn to food for emotional comfort rather than a relationship are: You don’t have to leave your home to get comfort. Food delivery is available within blocks of our homes.

Food is easy; you don’t need to invest any effort or time.

You don’t have to get dressed to enjoy comfort food.

You don’t have to look desirable for food.

Food doesn’t judge you, leave you or criticize you.

Eating a delicious dinner is longer and more enjoyable for many people than sex (the average length of lovemaking is less than 10 minutes).

Food doesn’t cheat on you.

Food is available anywhere, anytime and for any reason.

Food may be tied to memories of love and childhood which makes you feel loved.

Food doesn’t require a partner.

We’ve all experienced having a bag of chips or a package of cookies nearby only to realize at the end of our task the bag or

package is completely gone. We were eating them mindlessly and eating to calm anxiety is common.

So is it bad if we indulge in gourmet truffle macaroni and cheese along with a filet mignon?

Is it bad to add chocolate mousse if you’ve had an especially rough day and need an additional reward?

It’s not a judgment call of right or wrong, but it can be adding to your unhappiness, making you unhealthy and you should be aware of what you’re doing.

Intimacy is exercise and exercise is good.

Intimacy won’t leave you feeling isolated.

Intimacy doesn’t take your mobility away.

Intimacy doesn’t cost anything.

Intimacy doesn’t make your hips, knees or ankles hurt.

Intimacy makes your brain work better.

The primary reason for relationships growing apart is due to couples choosing other vices to fill the void they feel.

Becoming aware of your behavior and what you are eating, as well Intimacy doesn’t leave you as writing down what you eat with guilt, feeling disgusted (we forget) is a good way to or body hate. begin eating less and becoming more in touch with the emotions Intimacy helps you lose you are repressing with food. weight, not gain.

A simple practice of not eating Intimacy lowers your heart rate. past 7 or 8 p.m. can help you lose weight, and give you time Intimacy lowers your blood to communicate more with pressure. your partner, family or friends.

Intimacy won’t cause diabetes.

Breaking the habit of turning to Intimacy is good for your heart. food is not easy, but with practice Intimacy improves your thinking. it does work. Intimacy and sex are better for you than food!

Benefits of finding comfort in one another rather than food.

Intimacy shared with another gives you a deeper connection.

mary jo rapini Mary Jo Rapini is a Houston-based psychotherapist specializing in sex and relationships. In addition to being a speaker, author and TV personality, she shares her expert advice Tuesday mornings on Mix 96.5 and Friday mornings on Fox 26 Houston. For information, visit maryjorapini.com.

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M ARCH 1 9 - MARCH 3 0 , 2 0 1 4 G R E A T S O U T H W E S T E Q U E S T R I A N C E N T E R , K A T Y, T E X A S

STEP UP AND STEP OUT FOR CHILDREN T H A N K YO U TO O U R G E N E R O U S S P O N S O R S F O R M A K I N G T H I S E V E N T P O S S I B L E :

SPECIAL T H A N K S TO :

The majesty of the 69th Pin Oak Charity Horse Show descends upon the heart of Texas, March 19-30, 2014 at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center.

As the first United States Equestrian Federation-designated Heritage Competition and as a NARG Top 25 Horse Show in North America, Pin Oak is a showcase of equestrian excellence steeped in warm hospitality to benefit the healing of sick children through our charities.

So much more than a

horse show!

Be part of the time-honored traditions, rich heritage and prestigious equestrian events of Pin Oak as a sponsor, exhibitor, spectator or volunteer – to find out more visit

pinoak.org or call 713 621 6290.

M AR CH 19 - MARCH 3 0 , 2 0 1 4 G R E A T S O U T H W E S T E Q U E S T R I A N C E N T E R , K A T Y, T E X A S

STEP UP AND STEP OUT FOR CHILDREN R O NA L D M C D O NA L D

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FA M I LY R O O M S A N D

PROCEEDS BENEFIT T E X A S C H I L D R E N ’ S H O S P I TA L ,

CA N D L E L I G H T E R S C H I L D H O O D CA N C E R FA M I LY A L L I A N C E .

T H E P I N O A K C H A R I T Y H O R S E S H O W I S A 5 0 1( C ) 3 N O N - P R O F I T E N T I T Y.

2014 Heart Ball

the

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts • 2.8.14

list

More than 580 business leaders, professionals, philanthropists, and other community members gathered at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts raising more than $1 million at the 2014 “Ignite the Night” Heart Ball presented by Lexus and benefiting the American Heart Association. The annual fundraising gala, chaired this year by Frank and Carolyn Grese of Group One Automotive, recognized Jan Carson, Tim Connolly, Marathon Oil Corporation and Dr. Igor Gregoric as event honorees. A highlight of the evening was when a white 2014 Lexus IS 250, which was perched on the theater stage, was raffled off by Emcee Deborah Duncan and Jan Carson. Before announcing the lucky winner, Duncan and Carson teased the crowd by asking everyone with a letter “M” in their last name to stand. In the end, Dr. David McPherson, former American Heart Association board member and board president, was pleasantly shocked when his name was called.

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Photographer | Alexander’s Fine Portrait Design

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6 get on the list at primelist@prime-living.com 1 Medical Honoree, Dr. Igor Gregoric 2 Dr. John P. Higgins and Catherine Higgins 3 Adam and Rosie Nightingale, Grace and Rocky Holmes 4 Frank and Carolyn Grese, Jan Carson and Tim Connolly 5 Margaret Alkek Williams and James Daniel 6 Lauren Baughman, Ali Gray and Elizabeth Suffield 7 Bill and Joann Crassas, Vanessa and Perry Sendukas

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20 See More photos at Prime-Living.com 8 Roseanne Leal, Mario Fazio, Amanda Barthlome 9 David Cordúa and Sylia Gallegos, Lucia and Michael Cordúa 10 Gail and Willie Wood, Julia Wood 11 Emcee Deborah Duncan 12 Marathon Oil Corporation CEO Lee and Ty Tillman 13 Joseph and Gina Cardello 14 Susan and Dick Hansen 15 Anita and Gerald Smith 16 Katy and Tanner Flood, Wanda and Tom Zimmerman 17 Jean and Kenny Chapman 18 Roz and Alan Pactor 19 Dr. Aashish Shah and Roseann Rogers 20 Doug and Brooke Coughlan

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is where home the heart is Find ways to incorporate your interests, travels and passions into your home. You’ll be reminded daily of the things you love and enjoy.

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak” Rachel Zoe

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Photo credit Brian Bookwalter prime-living.com

FULL pg 81

© 2014 Mount Gay Distilleries Ltd., Mount Gay® Black Barrel Barbados Rum, 43% Alc./Vol., Imported by Rémy Cointreau USA, Inc., New York, NY. Please Drink Responsibly.

DISCOVER

CROATIA with tailor made luxury

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Croatia is a luxury destinations newcomer, but already a big hit with locations such as Dubrovnik or the region of Istria, well established for their unique landscapes, care for traditional arts and crafts, natural food and the best accommodation facilities. But there is more to Croatia, like its countless islands, some of which, such as Hvar, are already well established luxury holiday settings.

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With its destination management Volo Luxury is able to offer you only the finest facilities and tailor made travel solutions in Croatia, including:  luxury villas rental  only five-star hotel accommodation  luxury yachts charter  private transportation  tailor made excursions  exclusive wine and food tastings

Whatever your destination of choice in Croatia, Volo Luxury will provide you with a memorable experience, taking care of all aspects of your journey.

www.vololuxury.com info@vololuxury.com

+385-91-2047383