PR LUXURY MEDIA
LAKE CONROE | MONTGOMERY
JULY 2017 I S S U E 117
MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROOTS Born out of innovation and commitment, Quadvest has been a part of the Montgomery County community for nearly 40 years. PA G E 0 8
POSTMASTER—Requested in-home delivery date: JULY 2–6, 2017 A L S O
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Find Your Freedom Whether you’re headed to the beach to celebrate Independence Day or to the boardwalk for some summer family fun, Mercedes can get you there.
“At Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands, we are driven by our commitment to excellent customer service that doesn’t stop after the sale. It has always been our mission to provide the very best service possible. Come see our certified technicians for any problem, big or small, so you never have to leave the driver’s seat again.”
BOB MILNER, Co-Owner of Mercedes-Benz of The Woodlands
16917 Interstate 45 South The Woodlands, Texas 77385
(855) 516-2689 | www.MBOTW.com
of The Woodlands
THE BEST OF
L AK E C ON ROE | MON T G OM ERY
SUMMER Summer opens up a world of fun with family vacations, entertainment, travel and relaxed schedules. It’s when memories are made, experiences are shared, and fantastic getaways are planned. I love the summer and the family looks forward to the center stage of seasonal tradition. As the weather changes, so does our lifestyle! The backyard pool becomes our living room and the patio our kitchen. The family welcomes the shift into summer mode. Want to get away this summer? Skip the plane ride or long car trip, and let reviewit share some benefits of vacations spots at your convenience, closer to home, and with comfort and appeal. Some people spend the whole year planning the ideal vacation while others take off for a week-end trip on a whim, so whatever you plan, let reviewit show you fantastic places to enjoy your family travel. Check it out!
MONETTE SMITH CEO & Publisher DOUG SMITH President EDITORIAL
AYLA DEHGHANPOOR Managing Editor LINDA BAUER Travel Editor BUSINESS OPER ATIONS
DEBBY SANCHEZ Accounting Manager
MARI MOORE Office Manager SALES
TONYA BUTLER Senior Marketing Consultant AMANDA DEGEER Marketing Consultant AR T/PRODUC TION
JAMIE BOES Graphic Designer
Summer is the home to many of the season’s warm weather, so look out for flattering summer fashion and accessories to keep you looking stylish and glamorous all summertime. Pops of color can bring energy to your look and mixing patterns and bright colors are always on trend for the season’s chic blend. Don’t forget that warm weather also means it is time to change our skincare. Read our helpful tips to follow this season!
SARAH HARDIN Graphic Designer
STEPHEN GUTIERREZ Photographer
Lastly, our annual Lawyer’s Profile is featured in this month’s issue. This resourceful section highlights the stellar reputation of local lawyers in our communities who are known as experts of litigation and legal prowess. With the combination of experience and a high level of commitment to their work, these masters of legal advice are a phone call away!
JAMIE POGUE Photographer
Now, get ready to enjoy the wonders of summer, but remember to stay cool and hydrated. So, go on and grab your favorite reviewit Magazine, find the shade and quench your thirst with that sparkling, refreshing water!
SHARLA GRAYSON Advertising Customer Service Coordinator PHOTOGR APH Y
BRIAN FISHER Society Photographer
SARAH BROWNING Society Photographer
All art and images are copyright by reviewit Magazine, Shutterstock, or their respective owners.
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FOOD& ENTERTA
INING
WHERE THERE’S SMOKE re v i e w i t t a k e s yo u o n a t o u r of f i ve of t h e h ot t e st B BQ jo i nt s i n t ow n .
From hidden gems to the most popular tables in town, if world-class barbecue you’re looking for , you don’t need to travel far. Spices, sauce recipes form smoke and secret the cornerstone of great Texas barbeque better than our local , and no one does chefs. If you think it that all meat tastes haven’t tried enough the same, you simply barbeque. Nothing goes together better barbeque and there’s than summer and no better time to find your favorite new lunch spot.
COVER STORY
MONTGOMERY COUNTY ROOTS
F O O D & E N T E R TA I N I N G
8
Get to know the third-generation leaders at Quadvest
BBQ SEASON
TEJAS CHOCOLA TE CRAFTORY & BBQ
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Showcasing the hottest BBQ joints in town
200 N. Elm Street in Tomball We’ve (somehow) managed to narrow down our favorites must-visit restaurants. to five Tejas Chocolate Craftory & BBQ at Elm Street in Tomball 200 N. serves with a twist in a family-friend up authentic, classic Texas barbeque ly atmosphere that’s for a big family lunch just as perfect as it is for an adventurous forms early and gets first date. The line long, but with two lines (one for chocolate and one for barbeque, of course) it moves quickly. The brisket is some of the best in town, smoked in a repurposed tank named Black propane October and features a rub of salt, pepper something Co-Owner and Scott Moore likes to call pit master dust. While the meat pixie is strong on its own, our favorite dish menu is the Brisket on the & Blues Sandwich with sliced brisket. cheese adds creaminess The blue and just the right amount of tang, the red onions and while tomatoes balance the flavor profile Order it with a side perfectly. of their (soon-to-be ) famous carrot souffl cornbread pudding é and for a meal that’s pretty hard to beat.
F A M I LY F U N
FAMILY STYLE
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Luxury and family go hand-in-hand at these exotic escapes
E XCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
VACATION INSIDER
MC BARBEQUE & SOUTHERN KITCHEN
18750 I-45 #700 in
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The pros at La Torretta share behind-the-scenes tips to make your next vacation a hit
GL AMOUR & B E AUT Y
EXOTIC BEAUTY
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Gorgeous innovations from around the world E XC L U S I V E F E AT U R E
TOP LAWYER PORTFOLIOS
15
STAYCATION
22
Explore the fascinating San Jacinto Battleship Monument and Museum HOME & LEISURE
ALL NATURAL OASIS
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Going green has never been so chic S P E C I A L F E AT U R E
PASSPORT TO THE WORLD Your guide to visiting all seven continents
reviewitmagazine.com
49
PET OF THE MONTH
T R AV E L
6
SOCIAL C ALENDAR
JULY EVENTS
Discover some of the most respected lawyers in the community
/// JULY 2017
30
MOLLY
Spring
If you’re looking to impress, bring your friends and Barbeque & Southern family to MC Kitchen at 18750 I-45 #700 in Spring. tucked away in Main It’s Street America, but as soon as you cross the threshold you’ll know a great barbeque restaurant is close Serving up lunch every day of the by. week except Sunday, chef Lawrence Fogarty gourmet takes elevates it for a mind-blowin traditional southern barbeque and g dining experience. tender with a classic His brisket is salt and pepper rub, smoked for over post oak. Locally 15 hours sourced produce makes dishes sing; enjoyed roasted we Padron Peppers that had been picked evening before. the Their smoked turkey is a sell-out hit, and enjoyed a smoked we pork loin with a Chinese-ins is easily one of our pired glaze that favorite dishes of all time. Their homemade house sauce paired with custom-blen d sausage steals though. Just spicy the show, enough to feel the heat, the sausage masterfully blended is and the addition of the sauce brings the right amount in just of sweetness. If you want to experience the best-kept barbeque one of secrets in town, look Barbeque & Southern no further than MC Kitchen.
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This is our home, and these are our neighbors. Fighting for our community is a part of who we are. Simon Sequeira, President of Quadvest
Montgomery
COUNTY ROOTS Founded in 1978 by Gary Sequeira and his father-in-law Odell Vaught, Quadvest has been a part of the community for nearly 40 years. The company was born out of innovation and commitment to providing reliable, quality water and wastewater utility services to the place their family had called home since the 1860s. Today, Simon leads the thirdgeneration of the family-owned and operated utility, alongside siblings Mandi Brown and Yvette Castro.
C O V E R STORY
Hard work, dedication and a commitment to doing the right thing for their neighbors and customers continue to Quadvest Management Team
be the driving forces behind the utility’s operations. With a background in real estate and development, Quadvest works with developers to build necessary infrastructure and provide essential
Yvette Castro, Mandi Brown & Simon Sequeira, Quadvest’s third generation
services to community members. For the past 39 years, the company has worked to bring their Montgomery County values to their neighbors and customers. Simon Sequeira grew up in the utility business. As a kid he was out in the field helping to dig lines in exchange for pocket money. When he left to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Houston his plan was to work in the oil and gas industry, however he found himself yearning to return to Quadvest and joined the leadership team in 1997. As President of the utility, he has continued to invest in technology and innovation that benefits Quadvest customers. Quadvest has become the fastest growing, privately owned water company in Texas, but to them, the focus remains here at home. Ensuring that community members are educated, involved and taken care of is at the forefront of everything that they do. Sequeira and Brown explained some common misconceptions about the utility, insight into making sense of your water bill and a behind the scenes look at the company.
How can Y O U Conserve? Top-loading washing machines can use up to 12 gallons per load, a front-loading washing machine only uses
10
At home, the average American family uses
300 gallons per day without irrigation.
A duel-flush toilet can save several gallons per flush.
Installing a low-flow shower head and limiting showers to five minutes can save 1,000 s of gallons per month.
C O V E R STORY
reviewit: Quadvest isn’t a typical MUD district. What services appear on your customers’ bills?
SS: Our customers are billed for the cost of water, and their bill is based solely on the services provided to their community. reviewit: If a customer is moving into a Quadvestserviced neighborhood, what kind of difference will they see in their bill?
SS: Their monthly bill will be higher, but because we don’t tax customers like a MUD district or city does, their annual costs will be significantly lower. reviewit: What daily operations and services does Quadvest provide?
SS: We build out all of the infrastructure in our communities and provide day-to-day services including home visits to address any issues. Home services are always free for our customers.
reviewit: You’re dedicated to advocating for water users, even those outside of your domain. Why is that important to you?
SS: It’s just the right thing to do. We don’t believe that water should be expensive. Quadvest has a long history of keeping water prices low, and because of certain government actions our customers have seen their water rates rise astonishingly. This is our home, and these are our neighbors. Fighting for our community is a part of who we are. reviewit: How does the community influence Quadvest? SS: Our business is about people, and culture. If we can
reviewit: What is the most common way that people waste water? SS: Irrigation is the number one cause of waste. Having an expert come out and look at your irrigation system is one of the best things you’ll ever do. Irrigation can sometimes account for as much as 50 percent of your water bill. MB: People just don’t realize how much water they’re losing with an ineffective irrigation system. We can see the difference during dry months and how over watering can affect bills. reviewit: How does keeping customers involved benefit the company?
SS: Our Customer Advisory Board is important to us because we always want to know whether or not our customers are happy. We want to hear if they think we’re doing something right, and we want to hear from them if they think there are areas we can improve upon. People are our business, so hearing from the people is very important to us. We think of our customers as being a part of the family, so giving them a voice is just the right thing to do. reviewit: What is your favorite thing about Montgomery County? SS: Well my kids love Tyler’s, and I really enjoy going out to Hughes Landing with our team. MB: We love the water, too! SS: I also love the deep-rooted history that Montgomery County has.
get that right, everything else will fall into place.
reviewit: How do you work to give back to the community?
reviewit: What are some common misconceptions that you hear frequently?
SS: One percent of our net income is given back to charitable causes. We believe that if we can’t take time out to support our community, we don’t have any business doing business here.
SS: A lot of people think that Quadvest is more expensive than other water companies, but we’re really very cheap when you look at MUD rates. Quadvest has not increased water rates in seven years.
QUA DVES T.COM | (281) 356-5347
Emergency Preparedness Plan Emergency Response Plans are a requirement of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The Quadvest plan covers many different natural disaster scenarios; however, this summary only cover the hurricane portion of the plan.
STAGE
1 2 3 4 5
As hurricane season starts we will: • Stage fuel tanks across service territory • Remove loose debris from our plants • Make sure all of our generators are tested & ready
STAGE
If a storm’s path is projected towards the Gulf, we will: • Setup an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) • Stock the EOC with non-perishable food & emergency supplies • Track the storm every 8 hours
STAGE
Once a hurricane watch is posted anywhere in Texas we will: • Convene the Emergency Response Team (ERT) every 4 hours • Move staff to alert mode • Keep plants full of water • Top off fleet fuel daily • Test our generators one more time
STAGE
If a hurricane warning is declared anywhere between Corpus Christi and Sabine Pass, we will assume a storm is imminent and: • Issue a heightened alert • The Emergency Response Team in place at the Emergency Operations Center to begin the process of providing shelter
STAGE
Once local authorities have given the all clear, we will then begin assessing the damage and prioritizing repairs.
Fuel Supply
Generators
Interconnects
Fuel tanks are scattered throughout the service area for fleet and generator fueling. These sites include the main office, Lake Windcrest, Benders Landing, Indigo Lakes and Lone Star.
Extra mobile generators are rented during hurricane season. Mobile generators are available to power plants without onsite backup.
Some systems are interconnected with systems with backup generators.
HURRI CANE SE A SO N L A STS F ROM JUN E 1S T T O N OVEM BER 1ST
E X C L U S I V E interview
THE VA C A T I O N
I N S I DE R
We all know someone who has mastered the art of the vacation. They always manage to get an upgraded room, find the best hotels and know all of the tricks to make any trip phenomenal. reviewit makes becoming a vacation insider easy with some hot summer vacation tips from Traci Colangelo, Reservations Manager at the gorgeous La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa. Planning a summer vacation has become more difficult than ever. Between balancing schedules for the entire family and choosing a hotel that has something for everyone, your choices become pretty limited. Do a little preliminary research about your destination to ease the stress – does the city have a fantastic nightlife scene you don’t want to miss out on? Are there any world-class museums where you can sneak a little learning into the kids’ summer brains? Start by making yourself a checklist of must-haves. “One of the most important things to consider is whether or not there is something available for the whole family to enjoy,” Colangelo said. “Check-in with the resort’s Social Media. We really try to utilize Facebook and engage with current guests and future guests. We often post kids activity schedules and special events coming up that we wouldn’t want you to miss.” Don’t rule out a staycation! Local hotels are often overlooked because they don’t feel like much of an adventure, but you could be missing out on some of the coolest amenities your city has to offer. Hotels are in the business of making their property fun, and often carry out multi-million dollar renovations to keep the property fresh. Plus, with a staycation you’ll save money on travel costs meaning you can spend more time in the spa (or at the waterpark or in the five-star restaurant). “Our most popular amenity is of course our 3.5 acre Aqua Park,” Colangelo shared. “As we know, it’s hot
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reviewitmagazine.com
/// JULY 2017
E X C L U S I V E interview
in Texas and La Torretta is the prefect escape, and the Aqua Park truly does offer something for everyone in the family. Adult Jacuzzis, a heated adult infinity pool and our large Mediterranean pool where we even do “DIVE-IN” movie screenings some evenings during the summer. Our CoCo Cove Bar & Grill has excellent bites and fun summer drinks to keep you cool. You’re allowed to be lazy on our Lay-Z River Rapids and for the thrill seekers, our Breeze Buster pool and slides are hours of fun. For the little ones, we have our famous Splash Bucket pool and on our Pollywogs pool.” Scoring free nights and upgrades isn’t just for elite travelers, either. Booking directly through the hotel will usually give you first dibs on complimentary upgrades and perks. You should also try to add on any amenities or extras when you book – you could save some serious dough! So go ahead, take a spontaneous girl’s trip or romantic getaway! There’s nothing worse than getting to a beautiful hotel in an exciting city and being stuffed into a tiny room. Keeping the peace on family vacations is one of the biggest challenges that most travellers face. A quick and easy fix is to book a room with enough space to breathe. The same goes for girls’ trips and even romantic getaways. “The best room for a family to book would be either Two Bedroom Cottage or Two Bedroom Villa, which will give the parents privacy and the kids an area to hang out in,” Colangelo said. “Our Lake View King Suites give couples beautiful sunset views of the lake, and our Villas and Cottages are great for girls’ trips they can sleep up to 6 guests and have oversized living room areas for everyone to hang out in.” When you’re ready to pack your bags and get away, be sure to keep an eye on the calendar for big events happening in the city you’re travelling to – this can help you to find the best deals. Booking on the offseason will usually get you a better rate. With a little advanced planning you can become the queen of the weekend escape.
TYPICALLY, THE EARLIER YOU CA N BOOK THE BETTER. YOU CA N USUALLY GET A BETTER ROOM RATE THE FURTHER OUT YOU BOOK; THE HOTEL NEEDS TO BUILD UP OCCUPA NCY BEFORE THEY START TO ASK FOR A HIGHER ROOM RATE!
STYLE. LUXURY. OPULENCE. CLOSE TO HOME. PR Luxury Media brings the world of grandeur and sophistication directly to you through our carefully curated stories, products and interviews each month,
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because when lifestyle matters, we’re there.
No matter how things change, or how complicated the world becomes, PEOPLE will still set aside a moment in each day for something REAL.
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LAWYER P O R T F O L I O S Tr u stwor th y • Experi enced • Int egri ty
reviewit is proud to announce the return of this exclusive feature showcasing the elite and most trusted lawyers serving our communities. R E V I E W I T M A G A Z I N E . C O M / L AW Y E R S
At Daniel J. Hoffman & Associates, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses with their accounting, tax, and legal issues. Because we have licensed attorneys and CPAs on staff, there is no need to see and pay for two professionals when you can get two for the price of one.
LAWYER P
O R T F O L I O S
We are QuickBooks Pro Advisors and can help you set up and maintain QuickBooks. We prepare all kinds of tax returns including individual, entity (corporate, partnership, and Sub S), payroll, sales tax, and property tax. At Daniel J. Hoffman & Associates, we can help you resolve your IRS, State Comptroller, and condemnation issues and have experience litigating these issues if the need arises. We can help you prepare installment agreements and offers in compromise as well. We can also help you with a wide range of transactional issues. We can negotiate, draft, and review contracts including agency, buy/sell, employment, independent contractor, HUB applications, lease, non compete, non disclosure, partnership, purchase, real estate, sales, and termination contracts. We can help you form, buy, sell, or dissolve a business including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, S corporations, limited liability companies, professional associations, and limited partnerships. We can help you plan your estate and prepare wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate your wills.
DANIEL J. HOFFMAN & ASSOCIATES
And should things go badly, we can help you mediate, arbitrate, or litigate your disputes in federal, state, tax, and other forms; however we don’t generally do tort or criminal law.
Legal and Accounting Services
Our practice has been established in The Woodlands for over 20 years. All of our professional staff have been with us for over 10 years.
719 Sawdust Road, Suite 117 The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Dan not only has extensive experience as a CPA and attorney, but has also assisted in running two 40+ employee/5 million dollar a year in sales businesses: J&B Products and Hand Surgery Centers of Texas. Dan knows what it feels like to be a client and has written checks to attorneys and CPAs.
p: (281) 367-9550
[email protected]
dhoffman.com
Put Daniel J. Hoffman & Associates’ experience to work for you. For more information please give us a call or visit our website at www.dhoffman.com. MEET THE PROFESSIONAL STAFF:
Fallon
ACCOUNTANT
Jeanie
ACCOUNTANT
Samantha ATTORNEY
The Strong Firm’s services include:
• Mergers, acquisitions and sales • Corporations, LLCs and partnerships • Real estate
• Wills, probate, trusts and estate planning
• Lending and borrowing • Trademarks
• Commercial disputes • Oil, gas and energy
• International business investments • Mediation
Founded in The Woodlands, Texas, in 2004 by Bret L. Strong, The Strong Firm was built out of the desire to provide a high-touch and cost effective approach to the providing legal services. The firm specializes in business law, oil and gas, real estate, commercial litigation and estate planning including trusts and probate.
Bret L. Strong Founder and Managing Shareholder
THE STRONG FIRM, P.C. The Business Law Firm You Need to Succeed Two Hughes Landing 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77380
p: (281) 367-1222
[email protected]
TheStrongFirm.com
The Strong Firm’s dedicated multilingual staff comes from all walks of life and with diverse business, cultural and educational backgrounds. They bring those experiences together to creatively solve legal problems for individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses. Strong in Community. Strong in Knowledge. Strong in Results. With a strong belief in community, the firm and its people take great pride in actively volunteering, sponsoring and giving to various charitable, civic and social causes and events throughout the local area. It is through the building of relationships and trust of their clients, associates, adversaries and community that they excel in the providing of superior legal solutions.
Contact Us Today
to schedule an initial consultation.
O R T F O L I O S
Catering to clients, from individual entrepreneurs, start-ups and sole proprietorships, to multi-national and Fortune 500 corporations, partnerships and LLCs, this powerhouse legal team possesses decades of legal and business experience on a local, regional, national and international level working on legal matters from a few thousand to billions of dollars.
LAWYER P
• Business law and contracts
LAWYER P
O R T F O L I O S
ONE OF AMERICA’S TOP TRIAL LAWYERS Benny Agosto, Jr. is a partner at the Houston personal injury law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto, & Aziz. He has been practicing law since 1995 and is board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Over the course of Mr. Agosto’s legal career, he has represented hundreds of individuals who have been seriously injured or families who have lost loved ones due to negligence. His areas of practice include, but are not limited to, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, motor vehicle and 18-wheeler accidents, wrongful death, business litigation, environmental law, explosions, electrocutions, and admiralty and maritime accidents. In addition to practicing law, Mr. Agosto is active in the community. He is a past President of both the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Mexican American Bar Association of Texas. He is the Founder and President of the Mexican American Bar Association of Texas Foundation and is the Co-Founder of the HNBA Legal Education Fund. He is currently the Treasurer of the Houston Bar Association.
Benny Agosto, Jr.
ABRAHAM, WATKINS, NICHOLS, SORRELS, AGOSTO & AZIZ Real Trial Lawyers. Real Results. 800 Commerce Street Houston, Texas 77002
p: (713) 226-5141
[email protected]
AbrahamWatkins.com
His involvement in the legal profession and community has earned him honors locally and nationally. He has received the President’s Award from both the State Bar of Texas and Houston Bar Association, the Civil Rights Medal from the Anti-Defamation League, the Peter Torres, Jr. Community Service Award from the Hispanic Issues Section of the State Bar of Texas, and the Peter Perlman Service Award from the Litigation Counsel of America. He has also been named one of the 25 Most Influential Hispanic Lawyers by Latino Leaders Magazine, the Trailblazer Outside Counsel of the Year by the Texas Minority Counsel Program, and the Hispanic Male Executive of the Year by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. He has been named to the Texas Super Lawyers list for 12 years, which indicates that an attorney is in the top five percent of lawyers in Texas. Most recently, he received the Humanitarian Award from the Latino Learning Center. Continuing on the trend of community outreach, Mr. Agosto has been credited for rewriting a Texas law concerning police officers assisting one another regardless of on-duty/off-duty status. In his landmark case (Hinojosa v. Harris County), Agosto’s client had previously been denied workman’s compensation benefits after being injured because he was deemed off duty when he responded to an officer’s call for assistance. Notably, the case, which resulted in a million-dollar award in benefits in favor of the client, was taken by Mr. Agosto on a pro bono basis. Additionally, his victory in the historic ruling in Republic Waste Services, Ltd. v. Martinez set a new standard in Texas law by preventing the immigration status of a plaintiff from prejudicing a jury, and secured the ability of undocumented workers and their families to have a fair day in court.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST LAWYER FOR YOUR NEEDS
CONSULT MARTINDALE-HUBBELL LAW DIRECTORY Found online at Martindale.com and at your local public and law libraries, Martindale-Hubbell is a great resource for information about a law firm and its lawyers.
THANK YOU Thank you to all of the lawyers and f irms that help to make our community a stronger and more resilient place to live. We recognize the tireless work and contributions that law professionals make each day. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to the community!
Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz www.abrahamwatkins.com
Daniel J. Hoffman & Associates www.dhoffman.com
CONDUCT A BACKGROUND CHECK Before hiring any lawyer, contact the lawyer disciplinary agency in your state to confirm that the lawyer is in good standing as a member of the bar.
719 Sawdust Road, Suite 117 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (281) 367-9550
[email protected]
The Strong Firm, P.C. www.thestrongfirm.com
TOUR THE LAWYER’S LAW OFFICE You can tell a lot about an attorney from his law office. Request a brief tour of his office, beyond the office or conference room where you met with the lawyer. source: thebalance.com
1790 Hughes Landing Boulevard Suite 200 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 (281) 367-1222
[email protected]
O R T F O L I O S
ASK OTHER ATTORNEYS Lawyers know the skill and reputation of other lawyers. Attorneys may be able to provide information about a fellow lawyer that you may not find in a book or online.
800 Commerce Street Houston, Texas 77002 (713) 226-5141
[email protected]
LAWYER P
CONDUCT CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS One of the best ways to assess a lawyer’s legal ability is by interviewing the lawyer.
A S P E C I A L
8th Annual
TOP DOCS 2017 Health, Dental & Wellness
#TOPDOCS
reviewit Magazine is proud to announce the return of our elite 8th Annual Top Docs insert profiling top professionals to be featured in the pages of the October 2017 issue.
Returning
October
Includes 1 Full Page in all 3 markets:
2017
The Woodlands Lake Conroe | Montgomery | Magnolia Spring | Champions | Tomball | Vintage Park
Call 281.419.4471 to Reserve Your Space Now! Emailed to our Exclusive VIP List
Featured Online at reviewitmagazine.com
Will be featured on all social media platforms
Top Doc Logo so you can share with the world
A L WA Y S
ON CA LL
From left to right: Timothy Chen, DO , Leonardo Palau, MD, Hamilton Leonard Cessac, RN, NP-C, Bernadette C. Brown, AGNP-C, Vipul Desai, MD, FACP & Rahat Vohra, MD
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SERVICES
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HCID
Houston Center for Infectious Diseases
1111 Medical Plaza Drive Suite #170 The Woodlands, Texas 77380
P: 281.444.1303 | F: 281.444.5161 THE WOODLANDS
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houstoncenterforinfectiousdiseases.com
T R AVEL
STAYCATION
By Linda Bauer, author of Recipes from Historic Texas Photos by Steve Bauer, author of Recipes from Historic Louisiana
Six thousand men in Santa Anna’s army ruthlessly attacked the rebels and did not display any mercy for them. The Alamo fell on March 6th, 1836 and Texas soldiers at Goliad surrendered two weeks later. General Sam Houston retreated before the Mexican army’s advance. With three columns of troops, Santa Anna pursued the Texas army while they were enroute to Galveston and thus the battle ensued near the area where Buffalo Bayou meets the San Jacinto River. At dawn on April 21, Mexican General Martin Perfecto do Cos brought five hundred troops to join his leader. Sam Houston entreated his scout to destroy the bridge that Cos had traversed and now they were isolated thus changing the battle. After noon, Houston attacked by marching across the prairie while another regiment lined the northern flank of Santa Anna.
If you wish to save some time and money by enjoying our area and staying home for your vacation try some of the wonderful historic, enlightening and enjoyable opportunities right here in Texas. Did you know that Texas is the home to the tallest masonry structure in the entire world? One of the most interesting and nearby historic sites is the San Jacinto Battleground Monument and Museum which is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m..The museum is free with a small charge to visit the 489 foot tall observation deck to observe the internationally famed Battle of San Jacinto grounds - and yes the world record for the tallest masonry monument! Texas won its independence though outnumbered by defeating Mexican forces on the plains of San Jacinto. Over 1,200 acres of meadows and plains encompass the Battleship Texas and the Monument. Nature trails and boardwalks with marshlands are lovely, and picnic areas entice family and friends to stay for a day and learn about nature and our history. The decisive battle not only won the independence for Texas but also led to the 28th state of the union. The Mexican War of 1846-1848 resulted in the growth of our country with the addition of California, New Mexico, Arizona and some of Nevada, Colorado and Utah. By the fall of 1835 many of the Tejanos and Anglo- Americans in Texas had been reticent to receive Santa Anna’s dictatorship and by resisting, the Texans sent the Mexican army from Texas soil.
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The Mexicans were told that the battle would be the next day, thus the men of Sherman’s army came out screaming,“Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad.” Within twenty minutes the skirmish was over with nine Texans dead and six hundred Mexican troops killed and many others captured. The next day Santa Anna signed the treaty.
OVER
26
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
WHEN YOU SUFFER, SO DOES YOUR SWING D O N ’ T L E T YO U R SW I N G S U F F E R
PATIENT-CENTERED, STATE-OF-THE-ART CARE
Just a short walk from the monument and museum, the Battleship Texas is permanently moored. Amazingly this battleship is the only surviving one in the world that fought in both world wars. She is dedicated to the fine American sailors who defended liberty through her journey.
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She was commissioned in 1914, being praised as the most powerful ship or weapon in the world. In World War II she was the flagship of the U.S. Atlantic fleet. In 1942 she was involved in North Africa, Normandy in 1944 and also the invasions of the Japanese islands in Okinawa and Iwo Jima in the Pacific arena. After her service the Battleship Texas was to be used as a bombing target, but due to the outcry and effort to raise funds to save her by the Texans, she serves as a fantastic way for young and old alike to enjoy her history and spend time climbing her decks, watching a fine video onboard and seeing the Navy at its best.
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She was commissioned in 1948 as a flagship of the Texas Navy and is forevermore moored at the San Jacinto National Historic Landmark. She is open seven days a week from ten to five and information may be obtained by calling (281) 479-2431. Enjoy your staycation!
Call or visit us online to schedule an appointment
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ALL NATURAL
OASIS
t a k e a t r i p t o t h e t ro p i cs w i t h o u t l e a v i n g h o m e .
HO ME& LEI SURE
GREEN LIVING
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Paying tribute to the Arusha Forest, this luxurious candle from Baobab Collection is a great addition to any interior space.
This unique, gorgeously beaded table runner adds a pop of tropical flair to any table.
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HO ME& LEI SURE
Home Grown
e ve r yt h i n g yo u n e e d t o k n o w t o c ul t i va t e yo u r ow n i n d oo r ga rd e n . Going green has never been so trendy, and embracing your inner gardener has never been easier. There are a plethora of plants that are perfect for indoor gardens. Building a forest of indoor plants will also help to naturally purify air and add some gorgeous boho flair to your décor. Even if you’re just trying to update your home’s look, you may just find yourself becoming an amateur botanist. Plus, you’ll be able to add some interesting trivia to your small talk repertoire. Learning about plants can seem daunting, but it really comes down to basic techniques and a broad knowledge base that you can build upon as you add new plants to your garden. Starting with low-maintenance plants is a must. Spider plants and snake plants may have lessthan-appealing names, but they’re some of the best indoor plants for beginners around. Spider plants, or Chlorophytum comosum for you Latin buffs, make beautiful hanging additions due to the dangling growths that emerge from the mother plant. Give them welldrained soil, indirect sunlight, and a moderate amount of water in the summer months, and they’ll thrive. Snake plants (also sometimes called Mother-in-Law’s tongue) do best as potted plants resting on the floor or a shelf. They’re similar to succulents, in that they do not need to be watered every day. When soil is completely dry, give them a little love with room-temperature water. Snake plants hold water in their leaves, so you’ll see a pretty variation of colors from white to dark green.
TIP: Water spider plants until water drains from the bottom of the pot. When the complete root system doesn’t receive enough water the ends of leaves will begin to brown (a.k.a. brown tips).
If you’re ready to move up a level, or just want something a bit trendier, go for a rubber plant or fiddle leaf fig. The fiddle leaf fig has become one of the hottest indoor plants – if you’ve seen a tall, tree-like plant with wide, medium- to dark-green leaves on social media, it’s probably a fiddle leaf fig. Aside from being really fun to say, they’re tropical plants, so Houston’s humidity works in your favor with this indoor beauty. You will need to position the plant next to a big, bright window, because it needs lots of sunlight, and water only when the soil is completely dry. The acclimation period will be the most difficult, and you’ll want to monitor your fiddle leaf fig closely during this time to ensure it doesn’t die on you. Peace lilies, English ivy, Boston ferns, string of pearl plants, jade plants and bamboo are also great indoor additions. For a magazine-worthy look, group plants on stands of varying heights and pair with hanging plants. Be sure to include as many shades of green as possible. You can spice up the look with flowers for a fun pop of color, or go for a lush, all green look. You’ll create an amazing floor-to-ceiling statement area, and become the envy of all of your friends. Trés chic. If air purification and awe-inspiring décor aren’t quite enough for you, an edible indoor garden will be right up your alley. Herbs are a great tabletop decoration, and with the right TLC, they can grow to be as large as your heart desires within reason, of course. All starter herb gardens should begin with basil. Not only is it delicious (try pairing with strawberry-based dishes), it’s also incredibly easy for
beginners to keep alive, and by transplanting it to a large pot, your basil plant can grow exponentially. Round out your new herb garden with rosemary, thyme, sage, lavender, oregano and mint. Certain varieties of thyme will drape similarly to string of pearl plants, and as your lavender begins to bloom you’ll be greeted by a subtle, earthy scent in the air. Don’t even think about lining your kitchen windowsills with herbs; this is not your mother’s herb collection! Pick up copper pots and a few wooden cake stands and create a stunning centerpiece for your dining room table or coffee table. You can even accent your garden by placing raw stones like quartz or amethyst atop soil if you’re feeling edgy. Be sure to choose a location that gets some sun – those rays are key for healthy growth!
GET FIT
FOR LIFE. NOT JUST FOR
SUMMER.
Regardless of which indoor oasis option you choose, being surrounded by plants that you’ve grown and nurtured will help you escape daily stress, and you’ll feel a surprising amount of accomplishment as your little green pets flourish. So embrace your inner crazy plant lady. Pretty soon you’ll be proud to be known as the woman who talks to her plants.
WILLIE VILLARREAL, FNP-C KAT VILLARREAL, RN Local Owners & Practitioners
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HEALTH • WELLNESS • SPORTS RECOVERY
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S P E C I A L feature
CONTINENTAL CONQUEROR be co m e a gl obe-t rot t i n g p ro a n d v i s i t a ll se ve n co nt i n e nt s .
Photo: projectinspo.com
Photo: kuoni.co.uk
ASIA Why not head off the beaten path during your next trip to Asia? While glittering cities like Tokyo and Seoul should make your itinerary, don’t miss out on gorgeous (sometimes forgotten) destinations like Thailand and Indonesia.
BALI, INDONESIA photo: qantas.com.au
BANGKOK, THAILAND
AFRICA
Photo: thesafaricollection.com
Travelling through Africa can seem daunting, but the continent offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and experiences in the world. South Africa should be your first stop, but consider visiting Kenya and Morocco, too.
NAIROBI, KENYA
Photo: savannainafrica.wordpress.com
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PREMIERING SEPTEMBER
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MUSIC & P H OTO S
S P E C I A L feature Photo: countryliving.com
MONTREAL, QUEBEC
NORTH AMERICA When it comes to world travel, North America can feel like a staycation. The wilds of Canada and history-filled cities of the East Coast, United States are great places to start. For a change of pace, try adding Quebec and North Carolina to your itinerary.
Photo: lovelolablog.com
CHARLESTON, NORTH CAROLINA
Photo: tripsavvy.com
SOUTH AMERICA
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
South America has long been a vacation favorite of Texans due to its relative close proximity and budget friendly travel options. For a more authentic experience, try heading to countries not typically featured on cruise ship itineraries. Argentina and Peru are fabulous options!
Photo: upscapetravel.com
Photo: mbaworld.com
LIMA, PERU
Photo: southamericatoursblog.com
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S P E C I A L feature Photo: therussianabroad.com
EUROPE Arguably the most popular tourist destination in the world, Europe has no shortage of history, museums and culture to see and experience. Even if you’ve already visited major cities like London, Paris, and Madrid, you’ve probably neglected Eastern European hubs. Next time you’re headed to Europe, consider the Czech Republic or Hungary.
Photo: indiaeducation.net
AUSTRALIA You probably equate Australia with kangaroos, koalas and the outback, but this sprawling country across the sea has so much more to offer than just wildlife (though the wildlife, really, can’t be missed). Major cities are spread out, so you’ll need to take multiple trips to see everything. Start with Sydney and work your way through the country!
ANTARCTICA Admittedly the most difficult continent to visit, Antarctica could probably be considered a bonus to top off your continental adventure – it’s a true final frontier. You’ll need to book an expedition on a ship, and most companies only run tours from November to March. It’s an outback trip with a luxury price tag, but you’ll get to experience nature and wildlife that will make the journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Photo: naturalworldsafaris.com
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BBQ SEASON the best meats & eats in town
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FO OD& ENTERTAI N I NG
WHERE THERE’S SMOKE re v i e w i t t a k e s yo u o n a t o u r of f i ve of t h e h ot t e st B BQ jo i nt s i n t ow n .
From hidden gems to the most popular tables in town, if you’re looking for world-class barbecue, you don’t need to travel far. Spices, smoke and secret sauce recipes form the cornerstone of great Texas barbeque, and no one does it better than our local chefs. If you think that all meat tastes the same, you simply haven’t tried enough barbeque. Nothing goes better together than summer and barbeque and there’s no better time to find your favorite new lunch spot.
TEJAS CHOCOLATE CRAFTORY & BBQ
200 N. Elm Street in Tomball We’ve (somehow) managed to narrow down our favorites to five must-visit restaurants. Tejas Chocolate Craftory & BBQ at 200 N. Elm Street in Tomball serves up authentic, classic Texas barbeque with a twist in a family-friendly atmosphere that’s just as perfect for a big family lunch as it is for an adventurous first date. The line forms early and gets long, but with two lines (one for chocolate and one for barbeque, of course) it moves quickly. The brisket is some of the best in town, smoked in a repurposed propane tank named Black October and features a rub of salt, pepper and something Co-Owner Scott Moore likes to call pit master pixie dust. While the meat is strong on its own, our favorite dish on the menu is the Brisket & Blues Sandwich with sliced brisket. The blue cheese adds creaminess and just the right amount of tang, while the red onions and tomatoes balance the flavor profile perfectly. Order it with a side of their (soon-to-be) famous carrot soufflé and cornbread pudding for a meal that’s pretty hard to beat.
MC BARBEQUE & SOUTHERN KITCHEN 18750 I-45 #700 in Spring
If you’re looking to impress, bring your friends and family to MC Barbeque & Southern Kitchen at 18750 I-45 #700 in Spring. It’s tucked away in Main Street America, but as soon as you cross the threshold you’ll know a great barbeque restaurant is close by. Serving up lunch every day of the week except Sunday, gourmet chef Lawrence Fogarty takes traditional southern barbeque and elevates it for a mind-blowing dining experience. His brisket is tender with a classic salt and pepper rub, smoked for 15 hours over post oak. Locally sourced produce makes dishes sing; we enjoyed roasted Padron Peppers that had been picked the evening before. Their smoked turkey is a sell-out hit, and we enjoyed a smoked pork loin with a Chinese-inspired glaze that is easily one of our favorite dishes of all time. Their homemade house sauce paired with custom-blend sausage steals the show, though. Just spicy enough to feel the heat, the sausage is masterfully blended and the addition of the sauce brings in just the right amount of sweetness. If you want to experience one of the best-kept barbeque secrets in town, look no further than MC Barbeque & Southern Kitchen.
F O O D & EN T ERTAIN IN G
Phil’s today. While all of their offerings are amazing (the brisket is smoked for 24 hours on a Southern Pride Smoker and the pulled pork is a classic apple cider based recipe), the smoked turkey has our vote for best dish on the menu. Tender and flavorful, the smoke is able to penetrate the meat without drying or affecting the texture. Delicious on its own or paired with their signature blackberry barbeque sauce, if you only order one item, make it the smoked turkey.
DOSEY DOE BREAKFAST & BBQ 2626 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands
Another hidden gem that packs a punch is Dosey Doe Breakfast & BBQ at 2626 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands. The newest addition to the Dosey Doe family, chef Will Gilchriest and the Dosey Doe team have crafted one of the best barbeque menus we’ve ever tasted. Each dish is perfectly balanced and you’ll be hard pressed to choose a favorite. Their brisket is smoked over a mix of red oak and hickory and is some of the most tender brisket out there. The brown sugar and sea salt rub penetrates the meat with just the right amount of flavor and smoke without being overwhelming. Everything is made from scratch, down to the pickled red onions, jalepeños, carrots, and kosher & icebox pickles (which, in our humble opinion, are the best kosher pickles on the face of the planet). Brisket topped mac and cheese is another menu star, while the white cheddar grits are a subtle and creamy addition to any meal. The pickle-brined chicken is without a doubt the most flavorful and moist chicken we’ve ever experienced. Paired with their sharp, bacon braised collard greens, and crab and cream cheese fritters, this home style restaurant will become your new regular hangout.
PHIL’S ROADHOUSE & GRILL 14075 Liberty Street in Montgomery
Phil’s Roadhouse & Grill at 14075 Liberty Street in Montgomery may look unassuming from the outside, but the barbeque served here is out of this world. Every spice rub, sauce and condiment is made in house, developed from family recipes and years of testing. All of their recipes were developed by namesake Phil Philipello whose daughters Angel and Marissa own and operate
CORKSCREW BBQ
26608 Keith Streeet in Spring
Rounding out our list is CorkScrew BBQ located at 26608 Keith Street in Spring. Any barbeque buff worth their salt knows that no list is complete if CorkScrew isn’t mentioned. This local favorite lives up to the hype in the best way possible. With a line around the building daily, it feels exclusive with a welcoming, homey atmosphere where people from all walks of life unite over a plate of simple, traditional barbeque. They’re known for their brisket, which is smoked perfectly, but if you’re looking for something a little different, order the ribs. The spice rub is pleasantly warm without being too spicy thanks to a sprinkling of red pepper flakes, and the meat literally falls off the bone. There’s a hint of smoke that pairs beautifully with the spices and sauce. They consistently sell out within four to five hours, so show up early, grab a number, and get ready for some of the best barbeque Texas has to offer.
FO OD& ENTERTAI N I NG
CLASSIC COMFORTS t r y yo u r h a n d a t t h e se se r i o u sly e a s y s i d e s .
EASY ALL-AMERICAN POTATO SALAD RECIPE INGREDIENTS 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cut into ¾ inch cubes 1 tablespoon kosher salt for cooking potatoes 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar ½ cup celery ¹∕8 -inch dice ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup dill pickle relish
2 tablespoons red onions ¹∕8 -inch dice 2 tablespoons minced parsley 1 ½ teaspoons dijon mustard ¾ teaspoons kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon onion powder 2 hard boiled eggs diced into ¼”cubes
DIRECTIONS 1. Immediately after dicing the potatoes place them in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover by 1 inch. 2. Boil water over medium-high heat. 3. Add 1 tablespoon salt, reduce heat to medium, and simmer. Stir a few times, until potatoes are fork tender, about 8 minutes. 4. Drain potatoes and transfer back to the pot. 5. Add vinegar. Using a rubber spatula, toss gently to combine. Let stand for 20 minutes, the potatoes will still be warm. 6. In a medium sized bowl, gently stir together potatoes, celery, mayonnaise, relish, onion, parsley, mustard, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, onion powder and chopped eggs. Add more salt and pepper to taste. 7. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour before serving. Garnish with more parsley, celery, and onion if desired. Photo and recipe from jessicagavin.com
SOUTHERN BAKED BEANS INGREDIENTS 2 cans plain baked beans ½ pound ground beef 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ½ cup dark brown sugar ½ small sweet onion, diced in small pieces – cooked
1 medium green bell pepper, diced in small pieces – cooked ¼ cup ketchup 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard 1 tablespoon olive oil
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 325˚F. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Set meat aside. 2. Chop onion and green bell pepper in very small pieces. 3. Cook onion and green bell pepper over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil for 4-5 minutes. 4. In a medium baking dish combine the cooked ground beef, onion and green bell pepper with all remaining ingredients. Stir until ingredients are thoroughly combined. 5. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring half way through the baking time. 6. Let stand for 5 minutes and enjoy! Photo and recipe adapted from layersofhappiness.com
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F O O D & EN T ERTAIN IN G
BETTER THAN THE BLUE BOX MACARONI & CHEESE INGREDIENTS 1 pound of elbow macaroni pasta 1 ½ cups milk 2 tablespoon all purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt Pinch ground mustard 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice) 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
DIRECTIONS 1. Cook macaroni noodles according to package directions to al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In a medium sauce pan, add milk and heat over low heat until it begins to have steam come up and bubble slightly around the edges, stirring often. Add in flour, a tablespoon at a time, and stir or whisk together until fully incorporated and no lumps remain. Cook until milk begins to thicken. 3. Add in the salt and pinch mustard and stir to incorporate. Add in the cheese, one cup at a time, stirring in between each addition. Stir together to incorporate. Add in butter and stir until butter and cheese have melted completely, begin to bubble, and are completely smooth. 4. Pour cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni noodles and gently stir to coat. Taste and add additional salt if necessary. Photo and recipe from macaroniandcheesecake.com
NOW
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If you lived here, Y OU’ D B E HOME NOW !
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Visit u s o n lin e at Wo o d h ave n Village.com 336
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w h e re l u x u r y ge t a w a ys a n d t i m e w i t h t h e fa m i ly go h a n d- i n-h a n d .
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FA MI LY fun
THE PERFECT FIT photo: skiingbc.com
f i n d yo u r fa m i ly’s n e w fa vo r i t e sp ot .
MARTINHAL BEACH RESORT & HOTEL
SAGRES, PORTUGAL
photo: kuoni.co.uk
Understated luxury and genuine hospitality distinguish this excellent family resort which lies within a protected natural park on the unspoilt Western Algarve. Rooms in this stylish beachfront hotel – all with ocean views - are complemented by a selection of spacious, twofloor family houses with floor-to-ceiling windows and front or back lawns, some with their own private swimming pool. Fussy eaters will love the children’s menus offered in each of the resort’s four eateries which boast children’s corners to keep little ones entertained whilst you dine. carrier.co.uk
FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES
WHISTLER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA If you’re looking to plan an unforgettable family ski vacation, head to British Columbia for Whistler’s famed slopes and outdoor activities. The ski-town also features a lively Europeanesque village and Alpine meadows. You can find adventure, shopping and more! fourseasons.com
photo: gogo-vacations.com
GRAND VELAS RIVIERA MAYA
RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO For something a little closer to home, families won’t be able to beat this luxurious resort. Their tagline, “Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare”, describes the breathtaking Playa del Carmen resort, which is the only family-friendly all inclusive resort in the Mexican Caribbean to be rated Five Diamonds by AAA. This breathtaking resort features exquisite suites with native artwork, spa-like bathrooms, whirlpool tubs and private terraces with plunge pools and views of the jungle and crystalline sea. rivieramaya.grandvelas.com
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photo: buravi.com
FAMILY fun
SONEVA KIRI
KOH KODD, THAILAND Located on the idyllic beach or sunny slopes in the rainforest, all villas at Soneva Kiri have stunning infinity pools, impossibly chic furnishings, personal electric buggies and impeccable service courtesy of private butlers. Highlights include the open air Cinema Paradiso, Benz’ mangrove restaurant, the Chocolate and Ice cream parlor, the Observatory, The Den and the spectacular Treetop Dining Pod. soneva.com
WEQUASSETT RESORT AND GOLF CLUB
HARWICH, MASSACHUSETTS Nestled on the elbow of Cape Cod, this meticulously landscaped hideaway features 120 lavish guest rooms and suites, four acclaimed restaurants, two magnificent pools, two extraordinary beaches, boating and water sports, four Har Tru tennis courts and eighteen holes of exclusive championship golf. Wequassett’s children’s program creates a vacation that fulfills every child’s wildest dream. Kids can explore the state-of-the art pirate ship playground, play games and more. The opportunity is there for every child to learn, grow and discover.
photo: hotel-r.net
wequassett.com
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E X OBeauty TIC t a k e yo u r l o ok t o t h e n e xt l e vel .
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G L A MO U R & B E AUT Y
INTERNATIONAL INNOVATIONS From sheet masks to bubbling carbonated clay, Asian skincare has become one of the hottest trends on the market. Many products promise to cleanse and tighten pores, smooth skin and even skin tone. Be sure to stick to reputable brands for the best results!
If you don’t already have a skincare routine, or if you’re new to adding in serums, masks and lotions, the easiest way to get started is to purchase a few sheet masks and go to town! Sheet masks are a go-to for any skincare buff for a few reasons, the most important being that they’re not messy! All of the skin-transforming ingredients are packaged in a neat, soft cloth or paper mask. Pop it on, pull it off, enjoy! Knowing your skin goals is key. Are you dealing with dry patches? Are the pores on your nose getting larger by the day? Do you have an uneven skin tone thanks to years of sunbathing on the shores of Galveston? A sheet mask that moisturizes, tightens and evens tone will be your Holy Grail product. TONY MOLY SHEET MASKS starting at $6 /// tonymoly.us
Clay-based masks are another product that the Asian beauty market has perfected, and our favorites are the Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask and Imagine Dermatology Bubbling Charcoal Clay Face Mask. Be prepared for 15-20 minutes of fun – you can feel the mask bubbling up on your face. It takes a ton of willpower not to scratch, but when it’s time to wash it off (you’ll know because you won’t hear the bubbles popping any more), your skin will be incredibly soft and clear.
SON & PARK BEAUTY WATER $30 /// sokoglam.com
ELIZAVECCA MILKY PIGGY CARBONATED BUBBLE CLAY MASK $10.45 /// amazon.com
IMAGINE DERMATOLOGY BUBBLING CHARCOAL CLAY FACE MASK $17.87 /// amazon.com
MIZON SNAIL REPAIR INTENSIVE AMPOULE $38 /// peachandlily.com
Of course, we can’t leave out cleansing waters and serums. These breakthrough formulas are made for every skin type around and really do work wonders. You’ll see a lot of products labeled ampoule, the word is simply defined as “a hermetically sealed small bulbous glass vessel that is used to hold a solution for hypodermic injection” (thanks Merriam-Webster!), but when it comes to skincare, ampoules are basically a highly-concentrated serum. Serums are usually oil based, and tend to absorb more quickly and deeply into the skin than other products. Cleansing waters are fabulous, because you can wash and tone your face at once on busy mornings when you hit snooze one too many times. You can also add cleansing water as another step in your usual skincare routine for added benefit and most are great for sensitive skin. So pick up a few fun new products and discover your best skin yet!
GL AMOUR & BEAUTY
GLOW & GO qu i ck a n d e a s y be a u t y & sk i n ca re st a rs . 1
3 Enjoy a shine-free glow with a touch of 23-karat gold by using this water cream infused with Japanese nutrients.
Get this 3-in-1 naturally grown Argan Oil to hydrate skin, hair, and nails.
2 Treat your natural or color-treated-hair to this amazing intensive care hair mask.
This Japanese mascara might look bright and innocent on the outside, but don’t be fooled by this durable waterproof product.
4
5
Stay tan all year long with this natural glowing body bronzer. 1. TATCHA THE WATER CREAM $68 /// tatcha.com 2. CHRISTOPHE ROBIN REGENERATING MASK WITH RARE PRICKLY PEAR SEED OIL $71 /// christophe-robin.com 3. JOSIE MARAN 100% PURE ARGAN OIL $48 /// josiemarancosmetics.com 4. KISS ME HEROINE VOLUME AND CURL MASCARA $15 /// amazon.com 5. BEST BRONZE SELF-TANNING SPRAY 150ML $39 /// bestbronze.com 6. LANCÔME ‘L’ABSOLU’ ROUGE $31 /// nordstrom.com
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6 Apply this creamy lipstick to saturate your lips in beautiful color all day long.
SOCIAL CALENDAR & EVENTS LEGO FUN
JUL
06
Thursday, July 6th 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library
Children ages 5 – 12 years of age are invited to get creative and build anything they choose with lots of Legos. This event is a come and go activity and children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
HOUSTON SYMPHONY: SYMPHONIC SIGHTS & SOUNDS
JUL
08
Saturday, July 8th 8:00 p.m. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion
countylibrary.org
Enjoy the free Mezzanine & Lawn seating, or splurge and sit in the Orchestra for only $20. The performance will be conducted by Francesco Lecce-Chong. Don’t miss out on this amazing performance by the Houston Symphony.
FOURTH OF JULY MICE!
woodlandscenter.org
JUL
06
Thursday, July 6th 11:00 a.m. The Woodlands Children’s Museum
Four little patriotic rodents celebrate America’s birthday with all the traditional festivities! Children of all ages are welcome to enjoy an introduction to storytelling elements which allows readers and audience members to interact directly with each other.
woodlandschildrensmuseum.org DIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT LEGO BATMAN
JUL
08
Saturday, July 8th 8:30 p.m. Ridgewood Pool
Enjoy a fun night for the whole family with The Woodlands Township. Event includes swimming and showing of the Lego Batman movie. Tickets $5 per person, children 3 and under are free.
thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
YMCA KIDS TRIATHLON
JUL
22
Saturday, July 22nd 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. The Woodlands Family YMCA at Shadowbend
Come enjoy an exciting triathlon featuring swimming, biking and running. Open to all levels. Children must be 6 - 12 years of age.
ymcahouston.org
BALLET SUMMER INTENSIVE
JUL
10
July 10th - 13th 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Texas Academy of Dance Arts
Receive instruction from some of the Houston Ballet and Houston MET’s best and brightest dancers. Scholarships and other special awards will be given by teacher choice, with performances by faculty on the last day! For ages 6 – 18. Advanced reservations can be made online. Tickets $350
danceTATA.com THIRD EYE BLIND: SUMMER GODS TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUESTS SILVERSUN PICKUPS
JUL
14
Friday, July 14th 7:00 p.m. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion
Enjoy Third Eye Blind with very special guest Silversun Pickups. Tickets $20 General Admission.
woodlandscenter.org
PETER PAN
AUG
03
August 3rd - 6th Times Vary Crighton Theatre
The students of Crighton Theatre Foundation’s Summer Camp are ready to take you on the adventure of a lifetime! Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. The travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, a fierce Indian tribe, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Come join us! Just follow the Second Star To The Right And Straight On ‘Til Morning!
crightontheatre.org
SHARE YOUR EVENT! Send us your event announcements to
[email protected] for editorial consideration in our next issue.
JULY 2017 ///
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IN THE COMMUNITY
RUMOR HAS
TONY’S SEAFOOD SHACK
The new 2,200-square-foot restaurant is now open at 13080 Highway 105 W., Suite 102 in Conroe. The menu features authentic Thai cuisine including curry soup, pineapple fried rice, sweet and sour vegetables and more.
The Original Tony’s Seafood Shack is now open at 17099 Walden Road, Suite 110 in Montgomery. The menu features appetizers, and fried and seared platters including haddock, catfish, sea scallops, and jumbo shrimp. Dishes also including shack rolls, sandwiches on toasted brioche buns, tossed salads and desserts.
minethairestaurantconroe.com
facebook.com
MINE THAI CUISINE
The inside scoop on the latest and greatest businesses, developments, and happenings in the North Houston area.
THIRD GEN COFFEE
The first U.S. location of Third Gen Coffee is now open at 25136 Grogans Park Drive. The shop offers coffee, espresso, teas, frappes, smoothies and food. thirdgencof fee.com
PE T O F T H E M O N T H
MOLLY Your pet could be featured in the pages of our magazine! Send your photo to
[email protected] with your pet’s name and LAKE CONROE/ MONTGOMERY PET in the subject line of the email.
Good Luck!
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