Champion ForestMemorial Northwest

Memorial Creek EstatesGleannloch Farms

April-May, 2012

The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival

Vol. 1, No. 5

see page 20

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DISCLAIMER: All articles, information, website addresses and cartoons in this publication express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Neighborhood Publications LLC or its employees. Neighborhood Publications LLC is not responsible for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles, information website address and cartoons submitted by others. The Publisher Neighborhood Publications also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content with this publication and ad warranties, representations and endorsements made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding it’s content should be taken up with the advertiser. Neighborhood Publications LLC disclaims and denies any and all liability, therefore The publisher Neighborhood Publications LLC assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and /or misprints in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes. Under no circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish on a timely manner. This is not an official publication of your particular subdivision, (although we print more interesting information and take better photos) and your particular subdivision does not endorse, affiliate or associate itself or its affiliates with this publication. Neighborhood Publications and it’s Associate Publications/Business Interest, whether business or person, do not accept any assumed benefit of the QR Bar Code Readers/ Bar Codes, etc. published in any of Neighborhood Publications/GLF-Style Magazine /Tomball Style Magazine or it’s affiliate publications whether in print or electronic. The publisher is not liable for ANY DAMAGES for failure of the Post Office to deliver the magazine in a timely manner, so long as the publisher has delivered the magazine to said delivery point by the contracted date. All articles and photos in this publication are copyrighted. PUBLISHED BY: Neighborhood Publications, 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite 205, Spring, Texas 77379.

Neighborhood Publications LLC9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite #205, Spring, Texas 77379

Editor & ChiefLeanne Donelson

WritersCarla Hoch

GraphicsMike Reeves

PublisherNeighborhood Publications

Table of Contents Seeing Double 5 Words of Wisdom from the Weary 6 What is Functional Medicine? 10 Frank Flyers Warm Up With Project Linus 11 It’s Prom Time! 14 College? Retirement? What to do? 16 A Bathtub Built For Comfort 18 26th Anniversary of The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival In Old Town Spring 20 HERO is a Hit! 22 Um Yay! 24 The Cupcake Lady 26 I Heart Zombies 29 Centenarian Who Broke Gender Barrier In Horse Training To Celebrate Her “First Century” Of Bold Leadership 33 Recycled Wine Bottle Torch 34 Neighborhood News 36 Red Roots 44 One Man’s Trash is Another Man’s Treasure 46

If you would like to advertise or want information about us, please call (281) 251-2867 or cell: (713) 504-9789 or email: Leanne@GLF-Style.com. Thank You, Leanne Donelson

Get your photos and articles published!If you would like to be reconized in a local magazine and be published, this may be the place. I am looking for local stories of family and people in the area. Champion Forest, Memorial Northwest, Memorial Creek Estates and Gleannloch Farms.

Submit articles and photo to: Leanne@GLF-Style.com

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PHOTOS: Photos for print should be (300 dpi). Do not embed photos into the article file; please submit as separate jpg files.

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Word content should not exceed 350-400 words. Articles will be edited to meet our guidelines or space constraints. If you have a story idea, just send us an email and we may be able to use it in one of our future publications.

Letter From the Editor

If this is the first time that you have received GLF-Style in your mailbox, then welcome.

GLF-Style started out a little over one year ago mailing into one subdivsion and now we are growing into your local neighborhood.

GLF-Style will feature articles, photographs and information about what your neighborhood has to offer. Here in Champion Forest, Memorial Northwest, Gleannloch Farms and Memorial Chase Estates you have so many fascinating characters and wonderful happenings, we would like to help spread the word about your local families and businesses within our area. Please feel free to contact us with any of your ideas. Thank you for letting us into your home. I would also like to ask that you support the advertisers in our publication that enable this magazine with local information to reach out into the community.

Have a great day!Leanne DonelsonEditor of GLF-Style Magazine

GLF stands for Great Local Families-Style.

If you also would like to publish your story or photos, we credit the photographer and author.

What a better way to get your name out the public!

characteristics are no more alike than siblings born years apart however, can be strikingly similar. Mary-Kate and Ashly Olsen are Fraternal Twins.

Fraternals do run in families because it involves a woman producing more than one egg at a time which is influenced by your heredity. The birthrate for Frater-nals is about 32.2 in 1,000 and is heavily impacted by all the things that don’t impact Identical Twinning.

Then, there are Semi-Identical. They share the mother’s identical DNA but not father’s. In other words, two sperm fertilize a single egg that in turn splits, which sounds like it should be an HBO show.

The highest incidence of Fraternal Twins occurs in African Americans and in fact, Africans. A small town in Nigeria consistently has the highest rate at 4.5% and

has reported as many as one in twenty. If you are a woman of West African decent, you are more likely to have fraternal twins.

The lowest occur-rence of twins is in the Asian culture and if you are a Vegan, you are less likely as well, 1/5 less likely. Some experts believe growth hormones in dairy pro-ducts increase likeli-hood of women releasing multiple eggs and because vegans don’t eat animal products, they are not impacted by those hormones.

Some fun facts about twins: 25% are mirror

image twins. For example, one has a mole under the right eye, the other has it under the left. Full term for twins is 36 weeks because they develop faster in the womb. And, 22% of twins are left-handed whereas in singletons (one baby) only 10% are south paws.

April/May 2012 5

If you think you are seeing double more these days, you are right. Twins are everywhere. According to the Centers for Disease Control (no, twins aren’t a result of disease), the number of twin births have doubled in the past thirty years, the majority of which are fraternal. Why? Well, not just because of fertility therapy, of course that is a major contributor, but also because women are waiting to have children later in life. Women between thirty and forty are more likely to suffer infertility but ironically, also a twin pregnancy. In fact, the closer a woman comes to menopause, the higher her chance of having a multiple birth specifically, fraternal twins, because the body starts “cleaning house” and releasing multiple eggs at the time.

There are three types of twins: identical, fraternal and semi-identical. Identical Twins are the result of a single embryo dividing into two. The DNA within the two are the same but, they may not look exactly the same. They are not clones. The term Identical Twin just refers to a single embryo being the origin of the children. There is no hereditary trait that influences a predisposition to having Identical Twins. You may have a lot of Identicals in your family but it is not because it runs in your family. It is also not a result of fertility treatment, race, geography or maternal age. It’s just a wonderful, freakish blessing. The birthrate for Identicals hasn’t changed throughout the years.

Fraternal Twins are the result of two eggs being fertilized by two different sperm. Their physical

SeeingDoubleBy Carla Hoch

When people find out I am a mother of twins, one of the first things they say is, “How you do it?” Well, for starters, I don’t have a choice. Just like every mom, I get up and do what needs to be done . . . just twice. Is being a mom of twins harder than being a singleton mom? Well, being a mom is hard period. No matter what. I for one can’t imagine having a toddler at home and new baby as well. Yikes. But, moms of twins have a peculiar set of issues. One being, you are having to figure things out twice as fast or you will hear crying for

twice as long, twice as loud. What works for one baby may not work for the other and you don’t have time to ponder it or second guess yourself too much. You just take a leap of faith, adapt and deal! It is a baptism by fire to be sure.

That being said, I have found there are some things twin moms learn faster than new moms of singletons. Not because we are better moms, but well, it’s kind of like learning to drive on 45 versus Spring Cypress. You will learn to drive on either road but if you are on 45, you learn

Words of Wisdom from the WearyBy Carla Hoch

faster out of sheer terror and desperation!I asked the North Houston Area Parents of Multiples

for some advice for new moms of any kind. Furthermore, I asked them what baby items they found indispensable. Here are some things they and other twin moms offered:

1. Find a support group whether it be family, friends or folks at your place of worship.

2. Breathe deeply. The ridiculously hard part doesn’t last forever and the good stuff is coming.

3. Do what works for you. If you pump 100 times a day and it is working for you, pump away. That being said, breast milk isn’t best, a healthy baby is. If for some reason you are unable to breast feed, it’s ok.

4. No mom is perfect. My husband and I changed baby A’s diaper all day thinking the other was changing baby B. Nope. Forgive yourself and learn to laugh at your mistakes.

5. Let people help you and never be too proud to ask for help when you need it.

6. Get on a schedule ASAP and write things down. 7. Just get through today. 8. Sleep when your baby is sleeping!!!!!

9. Pray. All the time.

Indispensable Baby Items1. Automatic swing.2. Bouncy seat. Great for sleeping, feeding and enter- taining.3. The book: Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child (I second that!)4. High chair. Not just for feeding. It can be taken all over the house or outside and is a great

entertainment station.5. Those plastic toy chains. I connected toys to them and hung them from the stroller, bouncy seat and high chair. If the baby throws it, the toys don’t land on the floor or get left behind.6. Bumbo seat.7. In-crib activity station/ soother.

continued

6 April/May 2012

REALTORS®

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8. Snap and Go Stroller. It is much lighter than a conventional stroller.

Motherhood is hard. That’s just how it is. But the payoff is in direction proportion to the struggle. New mom, you can do it. If God blesses you with a job, He

will bless you with the tools to do it. That isn’t to say He expects you to use those tools alone. If He did, you would give birth on a deserted island and even then, I think He would have monkeys bring you bananas. Accept help, sleep all you can and everyday pat yourself on the back. Nobody said blessings were easy but they are always and forever, blessings.

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Empower Yourself 2012!

(281) 257-2900www.optimalhealthofhouston.com

8515 Spring Cypress #101, Spring, Texas 77379

About CarlaListen to our head writer, Carla Hoch, on Blog Radio’s Gate Beautiful show the third Thursday of each month from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

She, along with three other hosts, interview Christian writers as well as others in the writing industry.

If you are interested in a writing career, this show is for you.

You can also listen to the show in the Blog Radio archives at your convenience.

8 April/May 2012

See article on page 10

Personalized Service, Innovative Marketing andMost Importantly, Results!

Personalized Service, Innovative Marketing andMost Importantly, Results!

Personalized Service, Innovative Marketing andMost Importantly, Results!

713.898.5087vanessa.muse@garygreene.comwww.GleannlochFarmsHomes.com

Vanessa MuseYour Neighbor, Your Realtor®, Your Muse.

713.898.5087vanessa.muse@garygreene.comwww.GleannlochFarmsHomes.com

Vanessa MuseYour Neighbor, Your Realtor®, Your Muse.

SALE PENDING!

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April/May 2012 9

Newborn to 18 years old!Open House Saturday, May 12th

9:00 a.m. – NoonHelp us decorate our new office

with your child’s handprint. Face painting, games!

Dr. Tad Shirley, M.D.Glennloch Resident

Dr. Susan Reed, M.D.

281-374-8882 8714 Spring Cypress Rd.

Suite 170(Corner of Champions Forest & Spring Cypress)

Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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What is Functional Medicine?It’s a science-based, natural way to become healthy again.

continued on 12

10 April/May 2012

DISEASESDiabetes Heart Disease ObesityCancer Fibromyalgia Arthritis

Auto-immune Diseases

Hormonal Imbalances

UNDERLYING CAUSES

Inflammatory Imbalances

Detoxification Imbalances

Structural Imbalances

Immune Imbalances

Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Digestive, Absorptive and Microbiological Imbalances

Toxic Chemical Exposure

Toxic Emotions(anger, fear, resentment, etc.)

Functional Medicine is based on the separate systems of the body and how they all work together in unison. When working together, the body functions like a well-oiled machine. When one or more systems are dysfunctional, it affects the entire machine. We utilize the same diag-nostic testing as practitioners of conven-tional medicine as well as specialized test-ing. It is based on a therapeutic partner-ship between the patient and the provider. Functional Medicine looks at the whole patient, not just an isolated set of symp-toms. What is seen above the surface may not be the same as what is seen be-low the surface.

Our goal is to empower patients through education based on their individual needs. For those of you who are leading healthy lifestyles, we can give you the tools to con-tinue to be healthy and maintain quality of life as you age.

Call Optimal Health of Houston at (281) 257-2900 to become pro-active in your health care.

Happiness Is a Warm Blanket is the most recent Charlie Brown installment and although not written by Charles Schultz, I am certain the cartoon’s creator would agree with the title’s sentiment. After all, it was he that put the iconic blanket in Linus Van Pelt’s hand and that blanket, well, it had enough happiness to grow a majestic Christmas tree from a tiny twig. The moment we all saw that Evergreen grow, we discovered what Schultz, and Linus, had known all along: when you put a blanket on something, you do a whole lot more than cover it up.

Operation Linus was created from that notion. The organization strives to provide comfort, warmth and a sense of security for children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need. How do they do that? Just ask the folks at Frank Elementary. For Valentine’s Day the Flyers put love into action by creating blankets for Operation Linus.

Frank Flyers Warm Up With

The PTO marked and cut the cozy fabric into squares, grades one through five knotted them together and Pre-K and the Kindergartners created a customized tag for each. After all was said and done, 800 blankets and lovies (smaller blankets for babies) were created for Operation Linus to give to children who, like Charlie Brown’s tiny Christmas twig, need a little warmth to help them become the Evergreens they are destined to be.

Frank Elementary and its PTO, on behalf of the children who may never know you but will find warmth under your handiwork, I say, thank you. Sometimes, happiness really is as simple as a warm blanket.

For more information on Operation Linus, visit projectlinus.org.

Project Linus

April/May 2012 11

By Carla Hoch

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Stop by for the Open House on May 5, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.for more imformation call (281) 257-2900

Optimal Health of Houston offers evaluation and many methods of testing in order to optimize your health. Your body wants to be healthy, why don’t you let Optimal Health of Houston help you.

12 April/May 2012

OPTIMAL HEALTH OF HOUSTON

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April-MayUp-do and Make-up

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PROM SPECIAL

It’s Prom Time!Remember the night when you got all dressed up and your parents took a

thousand photos of you and your date? Well it’s just around the corner for prom for Klein High School. There are several style patterns which you can follow and bring your own taste to make it appear unique. We asked a couple of Klein girls here to show us their prom style and some advice for the perfect night.

What is your best advice for having fun at the dance?

Try to Relax. This is a big celebration of the end of your senior year and you want to creat memories that will last a lifetime.

What goes into picking out the right dress?

Many of us spend a lot of time finding the perfect dress for prom. But after all the shopping and trying on the dress should match your personality and should not overpower you. The right dress is what makes you feel beautiful and confident and don’t just stand in the mirror when you’re trying on the dress. Jump around and move in it. You don’t want to have a wardrobe malfunction at the event. Also safety pins are also a good backup plan. Put some in your purse. Make plans for alterations also. Break in your prom shoes. Wear them around the house and break them in.

What are your plans for Dinner?

If you have a large group make restaurant reservations. This year quite a few proms fall on the same day so everything will be just crazy.

Klein High School PromMay 5th at the Marriott Woodlands WaterwayAfter prom is APE – After Prom Extravaganza

Klein Oak High School PromMay 5th at the Greenspoint Hilton followed by SNAPP – Senior Night After-Prom

Katie Frost, light blue dress, Allison Grosch, black dress and Abbey Kaiser, purple dress.

Madeline Mataya, white dress, Mary Agan, pink dress and Katherine Hodgins, black dress.

continued

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April/May 2012 15

The Vintage Park has so many wonderful restaurants, so we plan to eat local in the area.

What are your plans for after prom?

We are going to the after school events SNAP or APE. All my friends will be there and it’s a great time because there are games, prizes, senior gifts.

Kira Willimann.

281.799.0203Rebecca.Nelson@garygreene.comwww.RebeccaNelsonHomes.com

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The school year is coming to a close, which means that if you have young children, you are now one year closer to college days – and college bills. At the same time, you are moving nearer to your own retirement. Can you save for college while putting money away for retirement? YES, but it will take planning, patience, and discipline.

Your first step is to be aware of the challenges you will face. As you know, the financial crisis of 2008 and 2009 took a bite out of everyone’s portfolio. Even though the markets have bounced back, you might still have some ground to make up in your 401k or IRA.

To deal with these challenges and help yourself make progress toward your college/retirement goals, consider the following moves:

• Establish priorities. How much should you save for retirement vs. college? How much of the college costs would you like to cover: 100% or 50%? There’s no one “right” answer. You’ll have to set priorities based on your family situation.

• Put time on your side. The earlier you start saving for retirement and your children’s education, the better chances of reaching your goals.

• Choose the right investment vehicles. You may want to work with a financial advisor to choose the appropriate mix of investments for your needs. In general, it’s a good idea to put as much in your 401k as you can afford. Then think about a Traditional/Roth IRA. To save for college, you may want to explore a 529 plan, which provides tax-free earnings, provided they are used for qualified higher education expenses.*

• Keep investing. The financial markets will always move up and down, so in some months, you might not like what you see. But the most successful investors keep investing in good times and bad. If you decide to take a “timeout” and move to the sidelines during a market slump, you could miss out on the next rally.

By following these suggestions, you can keep moving forward toward two special times in your life: when your

College? Retirement? What to do?children attain their higher education that can help them succeed in life and when you can enjoy the retirement for which you’ve worked so hard.

Call my office today to find your appropriate balance or to get a second opinion on your current strategy. All it will cost you is 30 minutes of your time.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. *Withdrawals used for expenses other than qualified education expenses may be subject to federal and state taxes, plus a 10% penalty. There may be state tax incentives available to in-state residents who invest in their home state’s 529 plan. Student and parental assets and income are considered when applying for financial aid. Generally, a 529 plan is considered an asset of the parent, which may be an advantage over saving in the student’s name. Make sure you discuss the potential financial aid impacts with a financial aid professional. Tax issues for 529 plans can be complex. Please consult your tax advisor about your situation. Edward Jones, its financial advisors and employees cannot provide tax or legal advice. With personal service,

Lucas P. Sealy, AAMSFinancial Advisor, Edward Jones8515 Spring Cypress Rd Ste 106Spring, TX, 77379Office: (281)257-6801Fax: (877)836-7692www.edwardjones.com

Roll over your 401k today!

16 April/May 2012

April/May 2012 17

Gleannloch Farms

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1339 Bishops Place Dr30 Highclere Park18702 Cypress Loch9503 Gramond Hall19927 Astilbe Court1211 Pinsonfork Drive

19918 Tidy Tips Lane22 Dusk Valley Court18719 Cypress Loch Dr9610 Kirkstone19919 Standing Cypress Dr

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20006 Leithcrest Way8218 Scoresby Manor Ct19923 Astilbe Court20103 Standing Cypress Dr1515 Noble Pointe Dr1026 Bringewood Chase Dr

1339 Bishops Place Dr30 Highclere Park18702 Cypress Loch9503 Gramond Hall19927 Astilbe Court1211 Pinsonfork Drive

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Classic cinema fans will remember Audrey Hepburn lounging on a bathtub-couch in the movie Breakfast At Tiffany’s. Inspired by the idea, Ruff House Art takes the furniture novelty to the next level by adding their own twist and revitalizing an otherwise discarded item.

Ruff House Art’s bathtub couches start as cast iron,

claw-foot tubs, which were once found in nearly every home at the start of the 20th century. Now, the defunct bathroom fixtures are considered impractical for modern home design. However, when repurposed, these antiques have not only a contemporary practicality but also a soul and character that you just don’t find in modern

furniture. And, don’t doubt their functionality. These couches are as comfortable as the warm and sudsy tub from whence they are born.

Each of the couches are handmade to order and nearly every aspect is customizable. From the color of the tub to the cushion fabric, you can mix and match to accentuate your home’s style. And, when all is said and done, you will have not only a piece of comfy art that is unique but uniquely yours as well. If you can dream it, they can build it. Ready to add some vintage inspired, modern yet contemporary, heavy-metal, comfy, cozy flair to your décor? If so, Ruff House Art is the place for you.

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18 April/May 2012

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April/May 2012 19

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The 26th Anniversary of The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival, www.texascrawfishfestival.com, the largest and most established crawfish festival in the South, returns for TWO WEEKENDS of family-friendly fun featuring live music on three stages, tons of bands, hundreds of vendors, karaoke contests, carnival rides, interactive games and activities for kids of all ages, as well as 25 TONS of the best Cajun crawfish in the South!

The highly-anticipated outdoor event will take place Friday through Sunday in Preservation Park in Historic Old Town Spring on April 20-22 and 27-29, 2012. General admission tickets, as well as entertainment, food and shopping details, are available online. FREE

admission with military I.D. (active or inactive). The 2012 Texas Crawfish & Music Festival is sponsored by Bud Light and the Houston Press.

The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival is the lar-gest and most established crawfish festival in the South and a favorite annual event for Houstonians and tourists alike. The festival features live entertainment on three stages from some of the top country and Texas country bands, zydeco, indie and rock acts along with carnival rides, midway games, exhibitions and interactive educa-tional stations and activities for kids of all ages, plus the best Southern Louisiana food, Cajun-style crawfish and the spiciest fixings in the land!

The 26th Annual festival benefits the Spring Preser-vation League organization, a non-profit foundation which is dedicated to the preservation and beautification of Old Town Spring, community projects and maintains contributions to a variety of service organizations.

Largest Crawfish Festival in the South Features 2 Weekends of Live Music, Family Fun and 25 Tons of Texas’ Best Crawfish

April 20-22 & 27-29, 2012

26th Anniversary 0f The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival In Historic Old Town Spring

On the cover of GLF Style is Michelle and Rich Hastings and their two children, Haley and Cole who always find time to make it out to the Old Town Spring Crawfish Festival.

April/May 2012 21

Local spring resident Connie Santiago and her husband Jerry “The Cajun Portican” have already started to eat crawfish and can’t wait for the festival.

Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 22Friday, April 27 through Sunday, April 29

Fridays – 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.Saturdays – 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.Sundays – 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Preservation Park in Historic Old Town Spring

130 Spring School RoadSpring, Texas 77373

(800) 653-8696

TICKETS: $8 Advance Discounted General Admission Tickets (plus service fees) are on sale now and available at www.texascrawfishfestival.com.

$6 Online Group Tickets (25 people or more), plus service fees, are on sale now and available online at www.texascrawfishfestival.com.

$12 General Admission Tickets; Ages 12 and under are FREE when accompanied by an adult; FREE admission with current military ID (active & inactive); Event is open to all ages; Rain or Shine.

$25 Unlimited Carnival Ride Wristband (valid for participating carnival rides/games) available on-site only.

PARKING: $7 cash only; benefiting the Knights of Columbus. Parking is available in the field next to Preservation Park.

Directions to the 2012 Texas Crawfish & Music Festival available at www.texascrawfishfestival.com.

If you live in Spring, I would venture to guess you are no more than four houses away from a family that goes to HERO. There is a good reason for that. It’s a great place. But, for those of you who don’t know much about it, I sat down with its owner and Master Instructor, Jason Arcemont and asked him a few questions.

What is Taekwondo and how is it different from other types of martial arts? Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that focuses on using the legs as weapons which makes it unique.

How is HERO different from other programs? At HERO, we don’t just teach Taekwondo but also character development through the practice of it. We teach things like how to make new friends, team work, how to deal with conflict without violence, as well as self-discipline and respect for self and others. And, all that adds up to a kid with healthy confidence. Yea, I have seen that firsthand and love it!

What age groups do you teach? We teach ages 3 and up and are known for our kids programs. But we also have great adult classes as well that are more than just Taekwondo. We have several families, parents included, that all take classes at HERO. And, we have family discounts for just that reason. There is a $20 discount for the first family member and half off for each thereafter.

Are all ages taught together? No,we separate the classes into specific age groups because we understand each one learns in its own way. Also, when people are with their peers, it gives them the opportunity to form friendships and makes for a more energetic class.

Do you teach special needs kids? Absolutely. We have much experience working with special needs children. Some of these children benefit from our private training program while other are enrolled in our group classes and a child can go start with private lessons and transition to a group class as well. I recently saw one of your awesome special needs kids that was in private training in my kid’s group class. She broke a board! It was great.

So, you do offer private training? Sure. We offer private training sessions at specific times throughout the week and anyone can enroll in them. The students in them range from young kids who need special attention to our martial arts hot shots.

What qualifications do your instructors have? Our instructors have on-going training in the martial arts and how to teach the martial arts. They are trained twice a week on how to teach class and lead groups of students. And, on top of that, we also have quarterly training from out of town instructors who are the best in the industry at teaching.

What do you offer outside of martial arts? We offer Martial Arts Birthday parties for kids. These parties have been a huge hit with kids and parents alike. We host special events such as monthly Parents Night Out events where parents can drop of their child at our facility and go have fun by themselves with the security of knowing their kids will be watched over by great role

HERO is a Hit!

models and excellent instructors. We also do our own Inner School Tournaments, special seminars as well as summer camps, and holiday camps. And, we also do on site self defense courses at schools, businesses, churches etc.

What is the Leadership program? Our Leadership Program is a course we designed to teach kids leadership skills that they will need in life. These students are hand picked from our advanced training programs and are taught over a six month period things such as public speaking, goal setting, how to be a leader among their peers, money management, and much more. They get hands on training in class and get to apply these skills by assisting one of our Black Belt Instructors in one class per week. At the end of the six month course, our leadership students come away more confident, and ready to lead! We usually have a waiting list for entering this course.

How does one earn a belt? Belts are earned by learning age specific curriculum such as strikes, kicks, blocks, and stances. Students also are taught how to properly break boards for their test. The best part is that students are also help accountable for their actions at home and at school. We check report cards and send home “word of the month” papers that have to be filled out by the student and the parent signifying that they’ve master the word. The words of the month are words like respect, discipline, teamwork, loyalty and so on. They even have to get their “Intent to Promote” paper filled out by their parents and teacher at school. It’s a great tool for letting the kids know that the positive messages we teach in class have to be put into practice at home and at school in order to pass to the next belt level.

Why do you have to break a board? Breaking a board signifies breaking through your limitations and following through on your goals. We teach it as a way to overcome fear and frustration. The thickness of the board is age appropriate. We are careful to give students a good challenge but not make is so hard that they experience defeat or worse yet, injury. I saw one of your three year old students break one. His face was priceless.

And finally, my daughter has asked me a hundred times so I will ask you, how long does it take to earn a black belt? Depending on the age of the students when they enter their training, it can take anywhere from 3-6 years to earn the 1st degree Black Belt

Even if you don’t see yourself as a martial arts family, give HERO a try. Introductory lessons are free. I think you will be impressed.

By Carla Hoch

22 April/May 2012

One stop for all your party needs! • Party Supplies • Balloon Bouquets • Party Favors • Pinatas

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Um Yay!Come see what the Houston Chronicle called, “Elicious Day!” It’s Um Yay,

Houston’s first Pig Latin restaurant. Join us for unchlay and innerday seven days a week. Feel free to enjoy spicy Latin cuisine in our main area or our special pig latin only area where everything is, you guessed it, in pig latin

except the food of course which is just fabulous any way you say it. Sink your teeth into our signature ibeyeray, aladsay and essertday for one low ricepay.

Don’t forget about our karaoke night every Ondaymay. Sing your favorite tune completely in pig latin without a

mistake and your meal is reefay! Visit us online and take a look at our menu atwww.piglatincuisine.com or www.doyoureallybelievethis.com

Anybody can fool you on April 1st, folks. Only GLF Style is smart enough to wait until well after to put one over on ya!

24 April/May 2012

April/May 2012 25

The clinic is July 23-26 and is open to all students K-8th grade.

For more information go to the website:

www.BearKadettes.com.

Make plans for your little dancers to attend the Klein Bearkadette Dance Clinic

26 April/May 2012

By Casey Landes

Many of you may recognize me as the owner of Texas Cupcake Co. (a.k.a. “The Cupcake Lady”) And for many of the residents who know me on a personal level, they know that my love of food doesn’t stop at cupcakes. I am by all definitions of the word a self proclaimed “Foodie.”

I don’t just like cooking and baking. I LOVE IT! Especially the eating part. So it with great excitement that I bring to you what I hope will be the first of many columns related to seasonal recipes and creative treats.

In this month’s column, we will be focusing on what many young teens, and parents have been dreaming about for the past 18 years. GRADUATION!! And what better way to celebrate our right of passage into adulthood than with a Graduation Party. Here are a few fun ideas, and easy recipes to help get you in the spirit of Graduation.

Fun Graduation TreatsTry serving some of these fun treats at your next Graduation Celebration.

Wise Owl Cupcakes

What you’ll need:• One dozen chocolate cupcakes (made from scratch or use your favorite box brand)• Chocolate frosting (canned frosting or homemade)• 1 package Oreo Cookies• 1 package of Reese’s Pieces Bake cupcakes according to your own recipe or by following box instructions. Once cooled, frost with chocolate frostingTwist Oreos apart, keeping the frosted portions onlyPlace a brown or yellow Reese’s Pieces candy on the frosted side of the Oreo for the owl eyes. Place eyes side by side on top of cupcakesFinish by placing a Reese’s Pieces sideways for the owl nose.

Reese’s Cup Graduation Pops

What you’ll need:• Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups• Chocolate squares (can also use mint wafers, or chocolate graham cracker squares)• 2 oz melted chocolate (used as glue)• Pull and peel thin licorice• Sucker sticks (optional)

Place unwrapped mini peanut butter cups flat side up on a cookie sheet covered with wax paper.

Melt 2oz of chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl (30 second intervals and stirring in between until chocolate is melted and smooth.)

Brush Reese’s tops with melted chocolate (glue) and top with a chocolate square.

For the tassel, cut licorice to size and attach each tassel with a drop of chocolate glue.

Let caps harden at room temperature for at least 2 hoursCaps can be served as are, or by carefully inserting a lollipop stick in the bottom of the cap. (Do not attempt inserting sticks before the caps have dried for at least 2 hours).

To display the lollipops, place sticks in decorated jars filled with rice, M&M’s, jelly beans, or floral foam.

continued

April/May 2012 27

21st Annual Epicurean Evening A Taste of Northwest Houston

Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce 3920 Cypress Creek Pkwy (FM 1960 W) Suite 120, Houston, TX 77068

Phone: 281-440-4160, Fax: 281-440-5302 E-mail: ChamberInfo@HoustonNWChamber.org www.HoustonNWChamber.org

Sam Houston Race Park 7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway W. Houston, TX 77064

Thursday, April 12, 2012 6:00 — 9:00 p.m.

1252 Tapas Bar

April's Tasty Treats Babin's

Beyond Espresso Boston's

Boudreaux's Bullritos

Clementine's Dickey's Barbecue

Gringo's Hasta La Pasta

HEB - Vintage Park Hooter's

Paul's Pizza Shop Qdoba

Ruby Tequila's Saltgrass

Shirley Acre's Soto's Cantina

Sweet Tomatoes Willie's Ice House

Zaxby's

Buy your tickets Today! HoustonNWChamber.org or call the Chamber 281-440-4160

Participating Restaurants

Chad Hedrick Olympic Gold Medalist

$15 for adults and $5 for children under 12

Raffle Tickets 1 for $5 or 3 for $10 Dan Pastorini

QB for the Houston Oilers

Admission

Celebrity Food Judges

Thank you Sponsors

Epicurean Events Live Racing

Exquisite Food Exciting Raffle Prizes Food Competition

Gifts for the GraduateCold hard cash seems to be the standard when it comes

to graduation gifts. It always fits, and you know it will definitely be put to use. But the latest trend in graduation giving is utilizing sites such as Deposit a Gift where graduates create an online gift registry that allows them to register for the items they’ll be needing most for college, including cash. It’s safe, easy and fun. Plus the person registering can include a bio of what his or her plans after high school include, and how your monetary gift will be used. (www.depositagift.com)

However, if you like to arrive with a gift in hand, try gifting one of these ideas, or maybe you’ll be inspired to create your own.

• Fill a plastic shower caddy with flip flops, towels and wash cloths and a few shower essentials. (A must have for anyone living in a dorm). Wrap in a large cello- phane bag with a bow.• A themed gift basket made with notebooks, pens, t-shirts or anything with the name of the college they will be attending.• Fill a small laundry basket with detergent, dryer sheets and a few rolls of quarters for those dreaded laundry days.• A USB drive, highlighters, 3x5 note cards all packaged nicely together.• A luggage set.• A nice umbrella.• Mini-fridge or microwave along with corresponding snacks like microwave popcorn. Great as a group gift.• Gift Cards to places like Target and Best Buy are always essential• Gas Cards• A Gift Certificate to their on campus book store. (Many have on-line sites that you can easily order and have sent directly to you.)• A book with a handwritten inscription from you such as Dr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You Will Go.

Resting on His Word Pillow Cases $16.00 each years available 2012, 2013, 2014

A unique line of decorative pillow cases with inspirational art on a 180 percale white, oversized standard/queen pillow case. Wording on the pillow cases:

“Blessed is he who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

“May he give you the desires of your heart and make all of your plans succeed.” – Psalm 20:4

Available from Kelly Hansen, 281-536-25364402 Lavell Houston, TX 77018

info@inspirationalarts.org

…and what is on everyone’s mind? What to do? What a better way to spend your summer than getting your son or daughter ready for a brighter, stronger upcoming school year.

Over 80% of learning and reading problems are due to a cognitive skills weakness. Weak cognitive skills result in homework hassles, difficulty focusing on tasks, poor memory and lack of motivation.

If your son or daughter has weak cognitive skills, no amount of tutoring, medication or trying harder will achieve the results that LearningRx Brain Training can. Rather than tutoring, LearningRx focuses of improving cognitive skills, the foundation for all learning.

Brain training is also for those wanting to gain that competitive

edge over their peers. It is never too early or late to begin thinking about your child’s vast future possibilities.

Brain training is a system of highly targeted exercises used to change your brains capacity to think and learn. Science has proven that brain training can strengthen learning and reading skills to increase IQ.

So whether you have a child who is struggling or is achieving at or above grade level; brain training can help them become more successful. Calling today and scheduling an assessment is the first step to unleashing your child’s full potential.

Other Area Locations:Cinco Ranch (281) 394-5533Houston Central (713) 839-8885Huntsville (936) 295-4579

Sugar Land (832) 886-5878The Woodlands (832) 482-3082

832-698-24508610 Louetta Road Suite E, Spring, Texas 77379

www.learningrx.com/spring-champions

Stop by for a tour and a FREE book, Unlock the Einstein Inside

“The LearningRx program has helped turn my granddaughter around. She has gone from dragging her feet about homework, not finishing it and falling behind at school to just the opposite. Now she gets her homework finished, works hard at school and is very proud of her school record.” Ann – Grandmother of 11-year old girl

“Last summer, LearningRx changed my son . . . forever. How much difference can three months in time make? It could end your child’s learning struggle by the next school year!”

Peggy S. – Mother of Aaron

Summer is almost here…

I am not a fan of scary stuff. You will not see me Red-boxing or sitting at a horror movie. Unless it a black and white Hitchcock sort of classic. But otherwise, I don’t watch ‘em. However, I have found myself addicted to a zombie show, which comes on Sunday nights but I can’t watch until Monday morning because it scares me so much.

The show isn’t just about zombies though. (This is where I try to justify liking it.) It is also a post-apoca-lyptic deal, which is basically always the case where zombies are involved. Think about it, if dead humans are roaming around, you can basically assume things have, are or are about to hit the fan. And, as horrible a scenario as that is, it has its pluses. You see what really matters in life and the everyday problems and ills of society kind of fade away. For example, if you are a racist and the only other person left that isn’t a zombie is the race you hate, you’ll get over that prejudice. You also don’t have to worry about your credit rating, cellu-lite, or if the HOA has approved the steel bars you have put over your windows. Now, I am not saying it isn’t a horrible situation to be in. You may have to eat your kid’s gerbil. But, it does make you embrace what is really important in life and that’s always a good thing.

IHowever, I’m also a fan of the show because of the

zombies. I just like them. They are very en vogue in the publishing world and a staple in cinema. Brad Pitt has a zombie movie coming out soon. (Insert Angelina joke here.) And do you know why? Because, when you get down to it, as emissaries of doom, zombies are far superior to vampires, werewolves and all that gobbledy-gook. And, maybe after you read why I feel that way, you will agree.

1. They aren’t conflicted. You won’t see a zombie questioning the curse of his state or the eternal consequences of it. They are simple creatures and need no support group to help them flesh out their feelings. Pun intended.

2. You don’t have to worry about a zombie putting gel in his hair, sporting a tight t-shirt and dating your daughter. Won’t happen. And, you don’t have to worry about your kid wanting to be one either. There are actual clinical disorders where people believe they are vampires and werewolves. But not zombies.

3. They are not smarter than you. In fact, they are down right stupid. They do not consort with a pack or coven to plot against you and don’t have any strategy at all beyond moving faster.

4. With that said, they are surprisingly fast. Even with half a leg, they can really go. But, if you have a bike of any kind, you are good. The same cannot be said about werewolves and vampires.

5. And speaking of conveyance, if zombies take over, you can officially quit feeling guilty for buying a huge, all terrain, gas guzzler. In fact, they seem kind of essential. You will not make it through a zombie mob in a smart car.

6. They are really persistent and I admire that in anybody. Yes, they don’t give up but you also don’t have to wonder what they will do next. Zombies will do what they have been doing. Period.

7. And finally, in comparison to zombies, I am gorgeous. And if George Clooney and I are the only non-zombies left, I give him a month of seeing decaying supermodels before he feels the same.

Zombies

April/May 2012 29

By Carla Hoch

30 April/May 2012

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32 April/May 2012

Imagine what life was like 100 years ago. Margaret Karsner doesn’t have to wonder about it, she lived it – and set her own pace along the way! Back in the 1930’s, Margaret was one of the first women to get a thoroughbred horse trainer’s license – which had been held exclusively by men. But her skill and determination were undeniable. Those traits followed her through life, and she still “leads the field” as a proud mother of four, grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of nine. She celebrated her fascinating life and great family at her 100-year birthday party April 1, 2012, hosted by The Village at Gleannloch Farms.

Margaret’s daughter, Pegi Ivancevich, fondly recalls the stories her mother told her over the years. Margaret travelled all over the country with her father as he trained thoroughbred horses, yet, women weren’t allowed to train. But, when Margaret’s father passed away, she took over those duties. If one of her horses won a race, she had to pay a man to go into the winner’s circle for her. Women were

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Centenarian Who Broke Gender Barrier In Horse Training To Celebrate Her “First Century” Of Bold Leadership

simply not allowed. Margaret was forced to split the profits with men who were the “face” of her operation.

Finally, others in the industry took notice and fought for her to become one of the first women to receive a trainer’s license. She led the way for countless women to break into the sport. Margaret later married and left training to breed thoroughbred horses. Margaret’s daughter describes her as an “active leader” in everything she did including the Women’s Club, Daughters of the American Revolution and Historical Society. She also was an elder in church even though men predominately held those positions.

Margaret always gave back to the community and mentored many women throughout her lifetime.

Margaret now lives in a skilled nursing suite at The Village at Gleannloch Farms. Her daughter says that she “enjoys being surrounded by caregivers who love her and care very well for her.” That’s why her 100th birthday party will took place at The Village at Gleannloch Farms.

Klein Oak Tennis ExtravaganaApril 21, 2012Northgate Country Clubwww.KleinOakTennis.net

By Amy Jones

34 April/May 2012

This clever outdoor DIY idea comes from Erik Ander-son of Gerardot & Co. – a creative branding and design agency in Indianapolis. Erik was kind enough to share a fantastic project that turns an everyday bottle into a modern backyard tiki torch. All the parts listed are available at the local Ace Hardware of Champions, 9001 Spring Cypress Rd., Spring, Texas 77359.

SAFETY NOTE: This is for outdoor use only. Tiki brand recommends that the wick never be set higher than 1-inch, and I recommend that you exercise the same discretion and common sense that you would with any small open flame.

Recycled Wine Bottle Torch

In any of my design work, whether for clients or for myself, I’m most proud when I can find a solution that’s highly creative and effective while keeping resources to a minimum. This is totally inexpensive plus it’s a great way to recycle a wine bottle.

It’s been a record year for mosquitoes here in Indianap-olis, Indiana and I’d been wanting to add some Tiki-esque torches to the patio to combat the little buggers, as well as provide some ambiance in the evenings. After searching the world over to find a torch that was affordable and atypical, I came to the conclusion that unless I wanted

Recycled Wine Bottle Torchwicker or bamboo, I would need to become a bit more resourceful. A glance into my recycling bin and an aim-less stroll through the local hardware store provided me with this clear solution.

1. Empty Wine Bottle (You can use any bottle you like as long as it’s glass and the neck is 1” in diameter. Be clever!) 2. Teflon Tape 1/2” 3. Copper Top Plate Connector (threaded for 3/8”-16 thread rod) 4. 1” Split Ring Hanger (threaded for 3/8”-16 thread rod) 5. 1/2” x 3/8” Copper Coupling 6. 1/2” Copper Cap 7. Two Hex Nuts (threaded for 3/8”-16 thread rod) 8. Two #10 x 1” Zinc Plated Wood Screws (if your mounting it to wood) 9. 3/8”-16 Zinc Plated Threaded Rod (I bought a 3’ rod and cut it down to 8, 4-1/2” rods with a hacksaw.)10. Tiki Replacement Wick11. Torch Fuel (For safety reasons, only use fuel made specifically for outdoor torches. i.e. Tiki brand)

HELPFUL TOOLS: Channellocks, adjustable wrench, hacksaw, power screwdriver and a funnel.

SAFETY NOTE: This is for outdoor use only. Tiki brand recommends that the wick never be set higher than 1-inch, and I recommend that you exercise the same discretion and common sense that you would with any small open flame.

BUILDING INSTRUCTIONS

The Hanger

1. Decide where you want to mount your recycled bottle torch. Position the Top Plate Connector on your mounting surface and mark the holes for where the screws will go. It’s easier to keep it level if you pre-drill your screws first.

continued

What you’ll need!1.

2. 3. 4. 5.

6.

7. 8. 9.

10.

April/May 2012 35

2. Once you have your Top Plate Connector mounted you can screw in the 3/8”-16 Rod until it stops. Channellocks are helpful for this part.3. Thread the two Hex Nuts on to the Rod and tighten one all the way down at the point where the Rod meets the Top Connector Plate. Leave the other Hex Nut at the front end so it can be used to secure the Split Ring Hanger.4. Thread on the Split Ring Hanger just enough so that the Rod is flush with the inside of the ring. Turn the 2nd Hex Nut counter-clockwise to snug it up against the Split Ring Hanger.

If you’d prefer your hardware to keep its shiny, un-weathered look you can always give it several coats of clear polyurethane before you mount it. Personally, I thinka weathered patina will add a nice element of character.

You can also use a metal spray paint to color the holders also.

The Bottle

1. Carefully and tightly wrap the 1/2” end of the Coupling with your Teflon Tape. You’ll want to keep each wrap nice and clean so that it creates a smooth, even surface. Continue building up the tape until it fits very snugly into the open- ing of your bottle. You obviously don’t want it to fall in.2. Insert the Wick into the Coupling until it sticks out about 1/4”. The Tiki brand replacement wicks are about 3/8” in

diameter so they fit really well. Once they absorb the torch oil they’re even tighter.3. Unscrew the Split Ring Hanger on one side and position the bottle neck into the ring.4. Flip the front half of the ring back into place and tighten down the Hanger evenly on both sides. You may need to loosen the other side to make sure both sides are an even tightness. (Don’t over tighten the Hanger. You don’t want to break the glass.)5. Use a funnel to fill the bottle with your favorite torch oil. (I use Tiki’s BiteFighter because it’s clear and seems to do a good job of keeping the mosquitoes away.)6. Insert the Coupling & Wick into the top of the bottle and twist it snugly into place. Give the Wick a few minutes to absorb the oil before you try to light it.7. I typically just blow my torches out. Use the Copper Cap to keep the Wick dry when you’re not using your torch.

Our thanks to Gerardot & Com, which has evolved from a oneman design firm to a collaborative team of branding, marketing and design professionals whose passion is to help organizations create and nurture successful brands.

Please do not contact them for the parts. Your local hardware will have the products. This project was made for a client and to help bring awareness to please recycle. If you would like to contact them about brand develop-ment and creative marketing, the website is www.Gerardotandco.com.

36 April/May 2012

Neighborhood News

Memorial Creek Estates

Memorial Creek Estates is in the planning stages of a May Spring Fling for their subdivision. If you would like to volunteer or Sponsor. Please contact Marina Griffiths who lives in the neighborhood. She is looking for some help to put this event together for the community. She can be reached at (832) 257-6363 or by email: MarinaGriffiths5@gmail.com.

Memorial Northwest Playgroup

If you are a mom of a little one, join the Memorial Northwest Playgroup. Planned meetings are every other week. A time for little ones to play and the moms to socialize and get to know others in the community.Contact Kim Rittenhouse by email at: KScaliserittenhouse@yahoo.com.

Women’s Club of Champion Forest

The Women’s Club of Champion Forest has a tradition to award scholarship money to selected female Klein High School graduates each year. They make the awards based upon leadership, academics, community service and how the applicants respond to application questions. This year, they will solicit the assistance of the Klein High School counselors.

Scholarship Committee to review the applicant’s responses and make the selection based upon criteria provided by the Champion Forest Women’s Club. This scholarship money is open to all female graduates of Klein High School, and they need not be a resident of Champion Forest. If your daughter is interested in applying for this scholarship, please check with the Klein counselors office for application information.

Gleannloch FarmsChampion ForestMemorial NorthwestMemorial Creek Estates

April/May 2012 37

AIR SERVICESAir Conditioning

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Gleannloch Gators Summer Swim Team

The Gleannloch Gators Summer Swim team is open to all residents in the Gleannloch Farms Homeowners’ Association and is a great community event for swim-mers and families.

Consider becoming a Gator Sponsor by calling Bill Brown at (281) 387-0574 or Barbara Brown at (832) 423-1572; Email is TeamBrown@entouch.net.

The Gators Summer Swim Team is a wonderful family activity, including not only the youth but parents, who provide volunteer services to manage and run the meets. Over the years, the Gators have seen may swimmers pass through their organization, many having gone on to swim at the middle school, high school and college levels.

38 April/May 2012

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281-257-9045April/May 2012 39

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Hairston & AssociatesINSURANCE SERVICES, INC8701 Spring Cypress Rd. Suite BSpring, TX 77379281.257.0252 - Fax 281.257.9473(Near Kroger Shopping Center)WWW.HAIRSTONASSOCIATES.COM

Sharon Hairston, Agentsharon@hairstonassociates.com

40 April/May 2012

Klein Oak Baseball Golf Tournament

Monday April 23, 10121:00 pm

Shotgun Start

WindRose Golf Club6235 Pine Lakes Blvd

Spring,TX 77379281-370-8900

All Proceeds go to the Klein Oak High School Baseball Booster Club

Register now at:www.Tournevents.com/kobbc

or call

281-615-1499Email: Kalarue@comcast.net

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April/May 2012 41

Save the date!Thursday April 26th 9:30-5:30

Held at the Gleannloch Pines Golf Club19393 Champion Forest Drive, Spring

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42 April/May 2012

There has never been a better time to buy

the house of your dreams.Terri Osborne Realtor, Sales Associate, GRI, ABR, CNS, CHMS

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April/May 2012 43

Koenig Dance School

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44 April/May 2012

St. Patti’s day and all it’s green wonder have come and gone and as usual I saw a leprechaun in a kilt. And, like every other Saint Patti’s Day, somebody told me I was Irish based on my red hair color. Well, I, like the kilt, am not Irish. We both are Scottish. Yes, there is a lot of plaid and red hair as well in Ireland but, they can’t lay claim to the origin of either. On one of those points, I got into a bit of an argument. A woman I once worked with told me I was Irish, which is a fine thing to be. Except, I am not

Red Rootsand she about burst a blood vessel asserting I was. Her reasoning? I had red hair and according to her, Ireland’s the origin of red hair.

To set the record straight, it isn’t. Yes, that is where the second highest concentration is and there is even a color known as Irish Red but it is not a genetic trait that began in the Emerald Isle. Now, you are going to read a lot of theories on the beginnings of what Shakespeare called the “dissembling color”. But this is the one that makes the most sense to me (for what that’s worth). And, yes, I have researched it. The Young Adult series I am working on is about red haired people. They are assumed to carry plague on their red haired gene and the government puts them all in internment camps. (My husband loves that idea.)

The earliest written record we have of red hair is in the Hebrew myth of Lilith as recorded in the Sumerian King List. The Sumers, one of the first great civilizations that emerged a bit before the Egyptians, started pressing symbols into clay to keep written record long after they had heavily intermingled, both genetically and socially, with the people from whom the legend of Lilith came. Later, red hair slowly emerged in the history and literature of the Egyptian, Babylonian, Assyrian, Grecian and Roman cultures all of which were also impacted genetically and otherwise by the Hebrew people that would later be known as the Jews. The genetic trait was taken to Europe by both the Greeks and Romans and from there, the Vikings, whose light hair was easily conquered by the gene, took over. (Thor originally had red hair, Hollywood!)

So, if the trait was so widely disseminated why does it comprise only 2% of the world population? The gene

responsible, a mutated form of MC1R, is a little tricky on how it travels. Genetically, it is fascinating. An “incomplete dominant” they are now calling it but I won’t go into the science because I can tell you why it isn’t so widespread from a sociological standpoint. Simply and sadly put, our hair color just wasn’t embraced in some societies. In Africa it was and maybe still is considered down right ugly so folks aren’t lining up to pass the gene along. (Yes, people of African decent can have red hair.) And throughout history, red hair hasn’t had a reputation that would make it a thing of pride worthy of being reproduced. Aristotle said, “We were emotionally unhousebroken.” Several cultures sacrificed us which would make me not want to a have red haired child! In Puritan society we were assumed to be witches. Hitler forbid marriages between red heads as the offspring would be “deviant”. Red wigs were used in early plays to

By Carla Hoch

continued

April/May 2012 45

Red Rootsmark the untrustworthy characters. And folks, there is a reason clowns traditionally have red hair and it’s not to match the nose. It’s because the trait was associated with being a boob.

However, in Britannia (That name came from the Romans who occupied the place and remember, they had the mutated variant of MC1R from who? The Jews.) the gene was embraced and ran rampant in the royal family, that still has the greatest concentration in their lineage. They had a thing with marrying their close relatives so it stands to reason. Through Roman conquest and the spread of the British royals, the gene made its way to Scotland and Ireland both of which still carry the highest number of red heads at around 13% of the population. The trait has thrived there for sociological as well as genetic reasons. It’s also done pretty darn well in my family. My sister, dad, maternal grandpa, paternal grandma, two second cousins and me of course all have it. That’s enough mutated genes to give the X-Men a run for their money.

The history of ginger heads is an interesting one and biologically, we are just as fascinating. If you display the MC1R variant, not just carry but display it, you have peculiarities that impact you biologically in a way other hair colors don’t. Red heads bleed worse, we have a higher pain threshold and we require more anesthesia. (That last one I can attest to. I have awakened twice during surgery.)

However, the majority of what you read about us red heads just isn’t so. We are not predisposed to hostility (my husband disagrees). We are not the descendants of witches nor emissaries of evil (husband again disagrees). We are not bearers of bad fortune (again, he pipes up). We don’t all have light eyes and fair skin nor did we, as I said from the start, begin in Ireland. (And for the record, leprechauns don’t wear kilts either!)

46 April/May 2012

It’s the start of garage sale season. So, you found a neat old bike at a yard sale in Champion Forest. You already have a bike, but you’re dying to use it around your home. Why not put in in the bathroom?

I ran across New Orleans artist Benjamin Bullins and we had a chance to interview him.

Benjamin, so how did you get started?

At one of my very first shows a woman named Sandy Seruntine came by and bought a small piece of my art. She continued to keep up with me as I began to grow as an artist. About a year later she came to see me at another show and wanted to introduce her son, Nick

Rauber to my work. Nick fell in love with my work and started buying and commissioning my art. He is a dentist by trade and has a tremen-dous passion for art. We forged a strong friendship and began hang-ing out always talking about art.

Nick had been thinking of remodel-ing his guest bathroom and decided to let me incorporate some of my design into the room. Nick designed the shell of the bathroom with an

old claw foot tub, a pull chain toilet, and the black and white tile flooring.

He had no specific theme in mind, so he gave me total creativity on designing the vanity. I often tell people that I’m grateful for Nick, because he believes in my talent enough, that he allows me to express my creativity without worrying about the end product, which always comes out better than expected.

For the vanity, I decided to go with the bicycle theme, because who else besides Nick would let me put a bicycle in their bathroom? I love bicycles and had always wanted to design a table using one, so this was my opportunity. Deciding to go with the bike was the easy part, convert-ing it into a vanity and making it all functional was the tricky part. I had to do some custom fabrication to the bike to make it the correct height for a vanity.

One of the major hurdles was figuring out how to keep the tires from going flat. I solved that problem by using a foam tire that was made in a mold, which I ordered from an online company. The bike worked out perfect for the space, and I used some of the left over parts from

the bike in other parts of the design.The handle-bars became a towel and robe hook that

mounts to the wall. Overall the design was a success and we continue to work throughout Nick’s house designing cool, functional art. We just finished working on what used to be a formal dining room and turned it into a unique sitting room that showcases Benjamin Collection design, with elements we salvaged from a trip to Canton, Texas. Eventually the entire house will become a showcase for The Benjamin Collection. For more infor-mation the web site is www.TheBenjaminCollection.com.

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