volume 2 issue 4 | NovemBeR 2009 | theVIPmag.com VOLUME 6 ISSUE 5 | March 2013 | theVIPmag.com

of southeast texas

lounge Meet Marc McDonald Leather as looks home decor Themed Fashion — bedrooms head to toe Grandma AND floor to Suites ceiling Building a home bar 2013’s hottest home trends

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contents

Editorial Editor DAVID CONSTANTINE 06 vip adviser [email protected] 0f The top SE Texas inside march home trends of 2013 Contributing Writers CATHLEEN COLE AmANDA COrbELL 09 vip home mEg gArDNEr 09 Front doors: The soul LArENA HEAD grACE mATHIS to your home jANE mCbrIDE 14 Hot bedroom themes HOLLI pETErSEN CHEryL rOSE

18 vipersonality Editorial Assistant 18 Real estate agent LAurEN mCgEE Marc McDonald Photography Contributing Photographers 22 vip worthy SCOTT ESLINgEr 22 Grandma suites 29 LACIE grANT rENé SHEppArD 24 Urban farmers and LEE E. STINSON backyard chickens Graphic Designer 29 vip style DAVID CONSTANTINE 29 Leather as home decor Advertising 31 Lounge looks for you To advertise in VIP, and your home 409.880.0700 Contact Us 34 vip spotlight VIP of Southeast Texas 380 main Street 34 SE Texas events beaumont, TX 77701

39 food&drink to sUbsCribE 18 pLEASE CALL 409.838.2821 Or SubSCrIbE 39 Recipe: Doughnuts ONLINE AT www.THEVIpmAg.COm 40 Everything you need to create a home bar to disPlAy thE mAgAzinE AT yOur buSINESS LOCATION, 43 vip leisure pLEASE CALL 409.838.2821 43 5 great dates this month 09 sUbmissions TO SubmIT AN EVENT, OrgANIzATION Or pErSON 44 Calendar fOr CONSIDErATION IN AN upCOmINg ISSuE, 45 Crossword puzzle SubmIT ONLINE AT www.THEVIpmAg.COm Or TO [email protected] 46 vip voices Or by uSpS AT ADDrESS AbOVE. 46 Living amidst a home renovation A division of hearst newspapers Publisher 39 bILL OffILL

jOIN uS ON fACEbOOK! on the cover www.facebook.com/thevipmag Model Jillian Green of Orange conjured her inner Bohemian in clothing provided by Splash of Karma in Nederland and shot on location at Urban Habitat in Beaumont. This is one of several home furnishing-inspired looks captured by new VIP photographer Lacie Grant on pages 31-33. Photography: Lacie Grant; Styling: Grace Mathis and Larena Head; Hair and makeup: Grace Mathis, Beauty with Grace

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home trends HOME TRENDS 2013 What the fashionable Southeast Texas home is showing this year text by Cheryl roSe hough rising fuel costs and environmental options are on the minds of many homeowners, they aren’t ready to trade the cost of these efficiencies at the expense Tof their desired amenities. Some are consider- ing smaller square footage in order to invest in nicer upgrades. What are these hot features? Here is a list of some of the most desirable custom-home styles and materials in our area.

OutdoorOutd Kitchens The hottest trend is outdoor fireplaces, firepits and fully-stocked kitchens with stainless steel appli- ances, grills and granite or quartz composite countertops.

Tankless Water Heaters An efficient supply of instantaneous hot water that takes up less space and can be placed on the exterior of the house.

Texture Texture is big, from the ceilings to the furnishings. Exterior facades are using textured slurries or stuccoes to create visual focal points. Walls are dressed in Venetian plaster and faux finishes.

Ceilings Quartz Composite The ceiling is now the fifth wall and Granite is being replaced by is rarely white or low. Trays, coffers, maintenance-free quartz composite. stomped patterns, beams and Sinks are also being replaced with stacked wood trims all accent and quartz composite and with one big texturize the ceilings. one, not two or divided

Travertine Tiles Composite Mosaics Under-cabinet LED Tile is the top flooring of choice for The sparkle and variety of hand- Though expensive, it adds a layer foyers in Southeast Texas with the glazed or glass tiles are lighting up of task lighting that never needs a large 18” to 20” size travertine tiles kitchen backsplashes. Mixtures and new bulb. in a variety of styles and layouts the composites of glass/stone/tile mosa- most popular selection. ics add visual interest and texture. 6 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com Contributors to this article: Brad Downs, B&B Plumbing; Wireless and Mounted Custom Range Hood Clara Downs, Just Construction & Nickolina’s Interiors; Taryn Hebert, REMAX/Beaumont; Summer Lydick, The Painted Large flat-panel televisions are front Designs in stainless steel, copper, Wall; James Rippeon, Classic Homes; Jeremy Schmitt, and center on walls with hidden brass and painted, glazed and Alyson Jon Interiors; Douglas Winfrey, Douglas Winfrey wires. Homeowners want wireless stained woods customize a kitchen Custom Homes; Jeannette Winfrey, American Real Estate networking throughout for all elec- style. tronics, including televisions.

Integrated Sound Cabinet Finishes Surround sound and integrated Painting, glazing and glass fronts sound systems support home are in vogue. theaters and gaming.

PaintPa Colors BigBi and Open Family Room The trend for SE Texas is more color- Large, open spaces that transi- ful neutrals; not beige, but tan, not tion smoothly between functional white, but gray. Most are choosing spaces. soft colors from nature, not bold col- ors. Grays and greens are on the rise, with purples and eggplants next. Easy Upholstery Homeowners desire a high-end look with easy cleaning. Sunbrella fabrics, originally for outdoor furniture, are making their way indoors for the simplicity of care and pattern options.

Hotel-like Suites Master bedrooms are expansive, almost a home-within-a-home. Can include a sitting area and spaces for coffee machines, mini-fridges, exer- cise equipment, fireplaces and TVs.

Specialty Closets His-and-her closets with special features including chests of drawers, shoe bins, sitting space, shelves, multi-height racks, jewelry drawers and even hidden cabinets.

Vessel Sinks Raised bowls in glass, metals, ceramics and stone are stunning.

Toto Toilets High efficiency flushing power that maximizes water conservation while eliminating the need for plungers. One variety is wall-mounted with a hidden tank.

Calacatta Marble For bathrooms, Calacatta is whiter with bolder, more dramatic veining than Carrara.

Warming Room Entertainment Space Walk-in Showers Revisiting an old concept, families From man caves to extended patio Generous size, with glass/stone are requesting this cozy nook or kitchens, giant TVs to fitness equip- tiles. den space off the kitchen instead ment, people are staying home of formal living rooms, often with a more for entertainment. Game and fireplace. multipurpose rooms are required. theVIPmag.com | March 2013 7 2013 CHRISTUS Presented by: LiveWell Women’s CHRISTUS LiveWell Conference Women’s Network

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Presented by: vip home front doors text by Jane McBride

ou’ve done have them everything you can to make your beating home warm and beauti- Yful, choosing the perfect wall colors, seating, lighting, art and accessories that a path reflect your interests. Inside, all is well. But what about the most important factor for the outside? Even an expensive to your home in a desirable neighborhood can fall short with a lackluster front door and entryway. “It’s called point of destination, which brings your eye to one point as you enter a designated area, then see another point that draws you door into the space,” said Rette Browning, owner of Rette Browning Architec- tural Landscape Design. “With >>

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 9 any entrance, you want to make it appealing. You want to see what’s behind it.” In addition to balance and proportion, front entries should begin with a walkway that clearly establishes the path to the front door. As a rule, curved paths are visually more appealing than those with straight lines or right angles. The doorway should be well-lit and beautifully maintained. The Ritters During her 20 years as co- owner of American Real Estate, Yvonne Ritter walked through too many front doors to count. What she saw influenced the design of her home in Oakleigh. “Any first impression is critical, and curb appeal is one of the most important enhancements to any home. That entry gives the first impression that our family and friends have. When we custom built our home, there was no part of it more important to me than the front. I told my builder I wanted an inviting entry.” Yvonne and Ken designed a 12-foot-wide porch reminiscent of her country home upbringing. She added six large columns and a 12- foot door with custom leaded bev- eled glass, flanked by the dramatic, flickering gas lights that were on Ken’s must-have list. The pair- ing was perfect for their colonial home, Yvonne said. “I don’t think the glass would be nearly as interesting if it didn’t have those lights.” The porch is as functional as it is beautiful. The Ritters have hosted parties that seat 30 people comfortably on the porch’s wide, deep expanse. Two large concrete lions flank the front steps, backed with giant liriope that reflects the restrained and elegant green palate of the landscaping. The Wadills The entry focal points of Russ and Elizabeth Wadill’s Calder Place home perfectly reflect their per- sonalities and lifestyle. When they The Ritter home bought the Federal-style house 12 photography by renÉ sheppard years ago, Elizabeth painted the brick a soft yellow that provides the backdrop for the greenery and seasonal color that always is on way. The eyes are drawn to two and have people over as much To one side of the porch, a display. cherished concrete urns that Eliza- as possible. We like to laugh and stained wooden fence and gate A small porch of Pennsylva- beth inherited from her mother. have fun. Nothing pretentious or crowned with ironwork designed nia bluestone leads to an olive Elizabeth changes out the flowers formal, but casual elegance that is by Alfonso’s Extreme Metal Works green front door accented by a periodically to add seasonal color warm and inviting.” to match the balcony and front custom-designed iron grille that and interest. Right now, rose im- Much to her delight, many of door grilles provide a second point complements balcony ironwork patients add a pop of color. her friends are drawn to a large of entry. The privacy-inducing original to the house. A carriage “We want our entryways to be swing in one of the ancient oaks gate opens to a small courtyard light suspended from the bead- relaxed and welcoming. We love that has become the go-to setting paved with blue slate and a garden board porch ceiling helps light the our friends and family so much for fun, casual portraits. that reflects Elizabeth’s love of

10 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com color and diversity in plantings. Mary Astor referred to in “Hush, Architectural details Hush Sweet Charlotte” as “ruined finery,” which reflect a grand old Both homes have chosen to ac- era of elegance now past. cent entryways with architectural “With an entry point, such pieces, something Rette Browning pieces let you know what is still views as highly desirable. to come. You wear your jewelry “With design, we look for old for others, not for yourself,” Rette statuary or broken pieces. Perhaps said. “It reflects your lifestyle and a beautiful piece of ironwork, the level of care you give to the a grand old cast iron piece, old place where you live.” column or capital base. Old Don’t forget the “don’ts.” architectural pieces provide more Instead of fake flowers or cutesy interest in a garden or home. They plastic signs, choose natural are beautiful ruins that can be ap- materials like clay, cast limestone preciated.” or good quality cement urns or The Wadill home Those accents are what actress statuary. VIP

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SeepaintingsbySouthwestern mastersthatexplorethe extraordinaryNew Mexico environment. Theseworksfrom theearly twentieth centuryportray thepowerfullandscape andits dramaticcontrasts,aswellasthe culturalsettings that affectlives of thepeople. This exhibitiontakes inspirationfromthe novel Bless Me, Ultima by RudolfoAnaya andisanevent of the SoutheastTexas BigRead. TheNew Mexico Setting On displayMarch 16 –June8,2013 at StarkMuseumofArt in Orange,Texas.

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theVIPmag.com | March 2013 13 vip homes

bedrooms

rest easy or trendy Themed bedrooms — but much more subtle

text by MaRgaRet gaRdneR

heme bedrooms were big for a while, a while back. Housewives wanted to rekindle the flames of desire in their marriage by turning their boudoirs into passion Tpits; and workaholics sought that “vacation I don’t have Retro Vintage time to take” feel by bringing a breezy, relaxed ambi- ence to their sleeping quarters. odolak admits that as far as home-décor trends go, Southeast Texas tends to But bedroom “themes,” per se — heavy-handed, uber-concep- trail behind the pack. So if you want to go against the grain and create one of tualized treatments like the Jungle Room or Seaside Cottage, for the hottest looks in bedrooms this year, think retro with a twist on the vintage example — aren’t so hot anymore. The trend now is more toward Slook. According to Sodolak, fabrics should be woven, quilted or patchwork but simply creating an individualized space that fulfills the owner’s need for comfort, slumber and retreat. And if it also plays to his or with bolder colors than in a traditionally vintage motif. Skip the faded, muted colors her sense of whimsy or tradition or exotic tastes, well, all the better. and go for pops of the hot-right-now colors. “It’s more about personal space. I guess you could call that a “Orange was the hot color last year, so we’re seeing a lot of that in this area this theme,” said Latisha Sodolak, owner of Nickolina’s, 1257 W. Lucas year because people here tend to get stuck in what they know,” Sodolak said. “But Drive in Beaumont. “It’s just more individualized. Much more coming onto the scene as the hot color is emerald green.”

14 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com photography by Lee e. StinSon customized. And more about function. Designs are changing based more on function and what people are actually using the bedroom for.” That might manifest itself in higher bedside lamps to ac- commodate sitting up in bed to work or read, for example, and lower bureaus to accommodate flat-screen, wall-mounted TVs. And as people’s sched- ules get more crowded, what that means more and more is a place to work that is also comfortable, personal and way different from where one normally works (the office, whether at home or in the workplace). So, one design trend people are looking into is incorporating a separate work- space or sitting area in their bedrooms — no matter how large or small they are. “Lifestyles are changing,” Sodolak said. “Most people are bringing work home, bring- ing their computer into the bedroom. They don’t want to sit in bed or at some little table. They want to be more comfort- able.” By creating a special sitting area (whether it be for work- ing, reading or just putting on your shoes), you can combine functionality with comfort. To accomplish that, fit the area with a comfortable chair, a desk (if space allows) or nice table, perhaps a footstool. Lighting is also important and can range anywhere from a chandelier to a cool, new hang- ing drum lamp (hanging is bet- ter than a table lamp, as it frees up tabletop space, especially in small areas) — as long is it separates the space from the rest of the room. Area rugs can also help create the sense of a separate space. Redoing your bedroom can be a big investment. But it doesn’t have to be. The key, Classical Romance according to Sodolak, is to start small and look for inexpensive or a traditionally romantic bedroom, Sodolak said the look is gauzy, lots of ways to create the feel you’re lighter-weight fabrics, including washable silks. Instead of a quilt, comforter or going for. Before you invest in duvet on the bed, this look calls for a bedspread with ruffled edges that hang painting the walls or buy- Fall the way to the floor. Bed crowns with fabric draped over them and cascad- ing new window treatments, ing around the bed also contribute to the romantic feel. experiment with throw pillows As for colors, stick with subtle tones — greys and ivories — accented with hues and area rugs, for example. of rose and steel blue. Lighting, of course, calls for a chandelier. “These things can give For a sexier take on the romantic bedroom, stick with lots of layers, but go a little you that ‘wow’ look, that big impression, without mak- heavier on the colors and fabrics. “The idea is the same, but pull in more dramatic ing a big change,” she said. colors like dark reds, purples, and instead of gauzy linens, pull in silks and brocades,” “Gradually, you can draw from Sodolak said. that and then start looking at window treatments. Start with little accents and ease your way into it.”

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 15 The Tween Room t’s pretty easy to decorate a room for kids, but once they get a little older it can become more of a challenge. The feel has to stay playful, but the pastels probably Ishould go. Pre-teens like blasts of bold colors, as well as layers and a variety of fabrics. “They don’t want a simple, puffy quilt,” Sodolak said. “They want layers, with pieces that work together, like blending in prints, for example, or offsetting small prints with big, bold artwork.” The key is letting them grow up and out of their kiddie rooms but not hurry them along to something romantic or grown-up trendy. Stick with bright, youthful colors. As for lighting, there are lots of fun options. Just be sure to include a well-lighted area for study and reading. Get rid of stuffy bedside lamps and consider funky chan- deliers that come in a variety of styles, even metallic, sequined or fur-covered.

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theVIPmag.com | March 2013 17 vipersonality

marc mcdonald

Finding His “Maison” d’Etre A house renovation led Marc McDonald to a new career

text by ChEryl rosE ife took a U-turn for Marc McDonald when he fell in love with a house. It was a big, dilapidated, old house with ceilings fallen in. However, it also had a grand staircase and 4-foot wide front doors with leaded glass sidelights. L Plus, it was designed by Henry Conrad Mauer, the same architect who built the McFaddin-Ward house. McDonald’s future RE/MAX Beaumont colleague, Sally Bundy, took him to see the house in Beaumont’s Old Town. Then a flight attendant for Continental Airlines, McDonald at first thought he photography by sCott EslingEr and DAvE ryAn

18 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com 2013 Promising

hen McDonald started in real estate in Beaumont in the ’90s, he was the only man in residential real estate, a field predominantly led by women. W That has changed, and has nearly so everything else except the core goal of match- ing the people to the house. “The Internet has changed real estate used totally,” McDonald said. “I to have someone come in and I and multiple would show them 15 houses neighborhoods. Now, people have pictures looked online, seen of the insides, and have narrowed houses. I it down to maybe five have mixed emotions about it. It’ want and s good they know what they it takes less time, but you can a bad picture.” cut a house out that just has With the national economic downturn, has been the real estate business slow.“In 2011, we had a 12-month for sale, inventory of houses ” he said. “Now we are down inventor to nine months of residential y. It’s been much harder to get mortgage someone a loan because of meltdown, but we are seeing the a bit of loosening. I think this year is going to be a great year.”

couldn’t afford the old house, but once he walked through the door, there was no question. He had to buy it. After 10 years with the airlines, McDonald had seen the world, but he didn’t know much about fixing up broken-down houses. With his partner, Vic Reyna, the two banded together with a few other hardy souls that had recently purchased crumbling architec- tural beauties in the area and learned house restoration together. Then this small group of motivated residents petitioned the city to create the Oaks Historic District in 1993. One of McDonald’s new neighbors was Barbara Carville, a real estate agent who owned Old Town Realty. She encouraged Mc- Donald to take the real estate exam. McDonald passed the exam in December 1994, beginning work as a real estate agent in January 1995. “In my first week and half, I sold four houses,” McDonald remembered. “I thought, ‘This is easy and fun.’ I do enjoy it. If you do something you enjoy, you are usually good at it.” A smooth landing in real estate Born in Orange to travel-agent parents, McDonald spent some of his youth in Houston and some in Beaumont. McDonald started with Continental Airlines in 1982, flying around the United States and to London and Paris. He was tapped to work in the airlines training program, leading an intense course with strong people- evaluation skills. “That was an invaluable experience,” he said. “I can’t say enough about what I learned.” However, after three airline mergers and constant corporate change, 18 years of service was enough. “The only thing I miss about the airlines is my friends and my layovers,” he added. “I don’t miss those airplanes.” He had already embarked on his real estate career before he left Continental. Though he started with Old Town Realty, he soon moved to his current home of RE/MAX Beaumont. In 2010, he was chosen as the Beaumont Board of Realtors’ Salesperson of the Year and he also received his Lifetime Achievement award from RE/MAX, one the highest honors available through the company. Currently a member of the Beaumont Board of Realtors, he serves on the MLS committee and is also a board member of the Oaks Historic District Neighborhood Association, though he no longer lives in the district. Having worked in real estate for 18 years now, McDonald de- scribes the industry as having “the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.” It’s also an industry where experience matters. “The longer you’re in it is invaluable,” he said. “You can problem-solve on your feet. You learn so much. It’s ever-changing, which makes it interest- ing. It’s not an 8-to-5, tied-to-a-desk job. Being self-employed, >>

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 19 your average agent works 60 a staff to cook for you and there’s a hours a week, but if you enjoy it, it pool and you do whatever you feel doesn’t seem like work.” like each day,” he said. RE/MAX by the pool On ordinary days back in Beau- mont, he might read a biography When your phone is always or watch an episode of “Downton on, you have to learn to incorpo- Abbey,” “Antiques Roadshow” or rate business with pleasure. For one of his reality TV addictions. He McDonald, relaxing on his float in occasionally goes antiquing with his swimming pool with his cell his stepbrother, Barry Behannon, phone at the ready on his chest is and his wife, Carla. one compromise. His colleagues Often, he’s working on his teasingly call his office “RE/MAX by the pool.” current home, which always needs “My friends tell me to turn paint, fix-ups or yard work, he my phone off, but it’s hard to do said. But one of his favorite pas- that when working a deal because times is driving around town, look- people have to do their personal ing at houses. “I’ve always been business after work and on week- interested in houses and history,” ends,” he said. “So you do it when he explained. “I still ride around a you have to, and your friends and lot on the weekends, looking at old family just have to be understand- houses to see what’s there and who ing.” built it. Over in Old Town, I can Bike Rack with Flair In addition to his family of go almost block for block and tell Design a the Oaks Historic District three dogs, McDonald has a strong you who lived there and who lives cDonald is helping to promote to design artistic bike social network of longtime friends there now. I’ve been in 90 percent Neighborhood Association’s contest with the ultimate plan who pop in and out of his home of the houses.” racks. Four designs will be selected, Though it hasn’t been as easy Calder Avenue in conjunction and plan occasions and vacations. Mof installing the racks along receive McDonald still enjoys travel- as that first week on the job, Association. Winning entrants the Lower Calder Merchants ing and prefers relaxing, relatively McDonald still enjoys his chosen with For contest guidelines and creative and artistic designs. unscheduled vacations. “I like profession, getting a strong feeling $250 for their The John Berube at [email protected]. to rent a house in the old part of of satisfaction in finding people a an application, contact 1, 2013. Puerto Vallarta with other friends, house they really love. “I love to submission deadline is May the kind of house that comes with sell a house,” he said. VIP

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grandma suites

HOME SUITE HOME (for grandma) Eschewing assisted-living residences, some adult children choose to keep aging parents at home with them

text by CATHLEEN COLE

or some people, moving elderly or ill parents into a nursing home is not an option for financial or emo- tional reasons, or both. Instead, they choose to move their aging parents into their own homes to Fprovide the care they need. That’s just what Helen Landry did about 24 years ago. Her father, W.I. Bryan, had Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease. “It was killing my mother trying to take care of my father by herself,” Landry said of her mother, Lois Bryan. Landry offered to help and took turns with her mother caring for him. Landry’s mother had no intention of putting him in a nursing home. “We just did it ourselves,” she remembered. But the time at her parents’ house took time away from Landry’s own family and household. Af- ter discussing the situation with her husband, Jim, she finally told her mother that it would be easier if her parents moved into the Landry house in Groves. They eventually built a bigger house with more room to accommodate Landry’s parents. “It was about family,” she explained. “It was never about Ronnie Anderson of Anderson finances. We never even thought about not taking Homes in his “flex” suite (guest care of our family.” now, could be mother-in-law When Landry’s father died about 10 years ago, suite later). her mother said it was time to move out. “You can’t

22 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com leave!” Landry fretted. “I can’t live without photography by renÉ sheppard you!” So the Landrys sold their big house in Groves and moved to Beaumont while their new smaller house is being built in the Crescent subdivision off Walden Road. At 91, Bryan’s health is good and she gets around pretty well. “Right now she’s very mobile,” Landry said. Jimmy Rippeon of Classic Homes in Beau- mont is building the Landry’s 2,200-square- foot house with a large bedroom and a full bathroom in the back for Landry’s mother. There will be wide doorways and hallways with room enough for wheelchairs and walk- ers. Tile flooring will be laid throughout the home, which will make using wheelchairs and walkers easier should they someday be needed. Grab bars will be everywhere in the bathroom, including in the walk-in shower. For new construction, the average cost of including a suite with a bedroom, full bathroom, kitchenette and living area under the same roof is in the $50,000 range “if you kept it simple,” Rippeon noted. The builder believes adding a specially designed area in a home is a good way of taking care of elderly parents without the cost of putting them in an assisted-living facility. “I think our country has an issue with long-term care,” he said, adding that people are living longer, medical costs are higher and these are tough economic times for many. Ronnie Anderson of Anderson Homes in Beaumont agrees. He builds suites in both new construction and as additions to existing homes. With some of his new-construction projects, about five clients have asked for two master bedrooms, one for themselves upstairs and one for an aging parent or parents downstairs. He’s talking with a customer now to design a 3,000-square-foot, one-story house with one regular bedroom and two master bedrooms with full bath- rooms in anticipation of his mother coming to live with him. In his own home, Anderson built a guest suite attached to the main house through a breezeway and off the garage. It has a sitting area, bedroom, full bathroom and a coffee bar with a refrigerator. He built it as a “flex area,” he said. For now, it’s a guest suite. But with its wide doorways and walk-in shower with no curb to stop a wheelchair from entering, it could easily be made into a mother-in-law suite. Besides adding extra space for an elderly parent, some middle-aged and older people who are having homes built are asking for design details including wheelchair-accessi- ble entries, wider hallways and hard-surface flooring such as tile or wood for easier ma- neuverability with wheelchairs and walkers. In the bathrooms, they want lots of grab bars and big walk-in showers that can accommo- date bench seats and include handheld show- erheads. “We get baby boomers who want to design the whole house like that,” Anderson said. “Every year, baby boomers become a bigger part of the market share.” For Landry, having her mother in the same house gives her peace of mind. “It’s worked out wonderfully for us,” she said. VIP

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 23 vip worthy

yard chickens

Local urban farmers welcome city chickens into their backyards chicks

text by CATHLEEN COLE photography by sCOTT EsLiNgEr

ogs, cats and kids romp around the fenced- in backyard of the home in Beaumont’s West End. What seems like a child’s playhouse lies behind the swing set, but a closer look reveals the abode’s actual Dresidents — chickens. Dawn Henson-Farley and her husband, Jeff, have five kids plus assorted pets including a white German shepherd named Kaiser whom they rescued. Kaiser had numerous health problems includ- ing heartworms and a broken foot. To help pay for his extensive vet Dawn Henson-Farley bills, Henson-Farley came up with the idea of making and selling

24 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com organic dog treats and called them Cookies for Kaiser. The entrepreneur soon discovered that using organic applesauce as a binding ingredient was expen- sive. She thought of organic eggs, but they’re relatively expensive too, so she decided to get a few backyard chickens. At the end of 2011, Henson- Farley ordered six chicks from MyPetChicken.com. It was more expensive than picking up some chicks at a local feed store or farm because they are checked for diseases and only healthy ones are shipped. Using this source also ensured that she got only females. The total cost was about $85. Chickens like to scratch. When the chicks arrived, How’s that working out for her the animal lover kept them in a yard? “I have a Great Dane,” plastic kiddie pool in the house she explained. “The dog’s more until they were old enough for destructive than the hens.” their coop, which is why they The Beaumont urban farmer still think they are house pets ordered plans for her coop and and sneak in whenever someone built it to be very sturdy and vi- forgets to shut the back door. The sually pleasing. She estimates she micro flock currently consists spent about $1,000 on the 9-foot of four bantams — a variety of by 5-foot henhouse that has sand chicken that is about half the size as bedding that can be scooped of a standard chicken breed. Big like cat litter. Bertha, Squishy and Lucy are The hens are easy keepers buff Brahma bantams while Lady and are fed an organic pellet feed Gaga is a black frizzle bantam. and the family’s leftover fruits It’s a girls-only group since and vegetables. They also help Beaumont’s ordinance regard- themselves to all the bugs in the ing backyard chickens prohibits yard they can eat. Henson-Farley roosters due to their crowing. spends about $3 a month for City chicken owners don’t need a chicken feed. It’s the initial ex- permit but must follow noise and pense that’s high, she observed. odor regulations to make sure the Although the hens were neighbors aren’t bothered by the purchased for the fresh eggs they small backyard farms. The hens produce — about three a day from are quiet, according to Henson- the flock — the family thinks of Farley, and sound like little birds. them as pets. When the dogs She keeps them in the henhouse come in the house, the chickens at night, but during the day they want to come in too. And like wander through the grass and the dogs, they come when they shrubbery searching for insects. are called. “They’re hilarious,”

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 25 Henson-Farley said. “They’re the coolest chickens.” Eggstra And they are very friendly. Once Henson-Farley looked out the • For more information on backyard window to the backyard and saw chickens, visit BackyardChickens.com one of her daughters gently sway- and MyPetChicken.com. ing on a swing with a chicken in • Check your city’s code of ordinances her lap. “They don’t realize they’re for regulations regarding backyard chickens,” she said. “They’re very chickens. sweet chickens.” That’s the same sentiment Kim • To see more photos of Dawn Wesberry has for her chickens. Henson-Farley’s hens or to ask her “They’re pets,” the Lamar Univer- a chicken question, go to www.face- sity graduate student said of her book.com/CookiesforKaiser. flock that she keeps in her family’s backyard in Buna. They all have names and she can pick them up and pet them. Wesberry bought her first chickens as chicks about two years ago from a local farmer and was soon enjoying fresh eggs. “Fresh yard eggs taste much better than store-bought eggs,” she noted. According to BackyardChick- ens.com, most hens start to lay around 4 months to 6 months pen and buying supplies. After main cost is getting started,” she feed, which cleared up his throat old. However, for various reasons that, the cost is chicken feed. Her emphasized. problem and got his correct cock- including the time of year and tem- two roosters and 13 hens — mostly If any of Wesberry’s chick- a-doodle-doo back. “It’s really not perature, they may wait until the bantams — go through a $15 bag of ens look sick, she researches the that hard to take care of chickens,” next spring to start laying eggs. corn in a month and a $13 sack of symptoms online and administers she believes. Like Henson-Farley, Wesberry chicken feed in about two weeks. a suggested remedy. One of her The student-farmer recom- says the main cost associated with A large bag of shavings that she roosters once developed a funny- mends starting with a small flock, keeping chickens is the initial uses as bedding costs about $10 sounding crow. She gave him advising, “Start with a few chick- expense of building a coop and a and lasts several weeks. “The garlic and cayenne pepper in his ens and work up from there.” VIP

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28 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com vip style

leather upsaddle

Leather pushes the decorative envelope

text by Mary Beth Breckenridge ove the look of leather? Leather is charging into home décor going beyond couches, chairs and table tops. It’s upholstering walls and covering floors, and manufactured materials made from recycled leather are broadening the design possibilities even further. L Imagine a door covered in faux crocodile, a bathroom vanity with a cowhide insert or a closet with leather-wrapped shelves. Leather produces a sophisticated look suitable for contemporary, rustic or club-like settings, “but not your traditional Colonial home,” said Christian Nadeau, president of EcoDomo, a Quebec manufacturer of leather surfacing materials. He said he often sees leather flooring used in media rooms to give a feel of richness and intimacy, but some types can be tough enough for a kitchen or a well-traveled staircase. Nadeau said leather surfaces have become more popular as interest in natural materials has grown. “Leather is just one more product that goes in that direction to put nature back in homes,” he said. Leather on surfaces is hardly mainstream, and genu- ine leather is a home-decorating luxury. But technology is bringing prices down and making this high-end look accessible to customers with bigger design aspirations than budgets. That’s true even with real leather, an option that un- til now has been prohibitively pricey for most consum- ers. Kaleen Leathers in Westchester, Ill., for example, is developing genuine-leather panels that manager Frank Mullen said will reduce the cost of leather walls and floors by making them easier and cheaper to install. >>

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 29 The die-cut panels are applied to a floor — vacuum without a beater bar to rubber backing and then adhered to a remove dust and damp mop using a floor wall or floor with a releasable adhesive, cleaner, Dearing said. much like carpet squares, Mullen said. “But people don’t buy it for its wear, The backing and the precise die cuts honestly,” he said. More often, consum- simplify installation, he said, and the ers fall in love first with the look, he said, low-tack adhesive means you can even and then durability becomes the deciding take the panels with you if you move. factor. A 12-by-12-inch panel in an average- Torlys’ bonded leather flooring sells range leather might cost $25 to $30, he for $10 to $13 a square foot; EcoDomo’s, said — not exactly bargain-basement for about $12 to $14. Those prices don’t stuff, but reasonable in comparison to include installation. leather-tile prices that can approach or EcoDomo also makes 4-by-8-foot even exceed $100 a square foot. sheets of bonded leather for the wood in- Finer leathers would cost consider- dustry, for applications such as a veneer ably more, he said. So would larger on kitchen cabinets, Nadeau said. panels, because they produce less yield One of his favorite uses for bonded from a hide. leather is in stitched walls, custom fit- Where design inroads really are being ted to a room. Leather panels are cut made, though, is in surfacing products to fit around doors, switches and other using recycled or bonded leather, a features, and panels are top-stitched for a manufactured product made from leather finished look. scraps. Remnants from the manufacture “It looks like your wall was sewn in of leather goods are pulverized, and the place,” he said. resulting fibers are mixed with other EcoDomo also makes floor tiles from materials and pressed into sheets that are genuine leather — from the tough leather colored and textured to look like genuine made from a thin layer of bonded leather from the necks of cattle in order to stand leather. A coating protects the product. applied to high-density fiberboard and up to foot traffic. The process produces a Bonded leather can go wherever backed by cork, so Dearing said it’s com- lot of waste, so the product is expensive wood can — even below grade, in some fortable underfoot but not spongy. It’s a — around $80 a square foot, he said. instances. It’s not recommended for wet feel much like walking on a wood floor, Nadeau sees almost limitless possibili- environments such as full bathrooms. he said. ties for leather in the home. He’s seen Flooring company Torlys uses a EcoDomo’s floors veha a 25-year leather-wrapped chandeliers and leather- proprietary protective coating that gives residential warranty, and Nadeau said the covered bathroom vanities, and his its bonded leather floors a life span of 25 company has put them in kitchens, on company has even wrapped toilet seats in to 30 years with normal wear, said E.C. staircases, in hotel lobbies and in other leather for yachts and hotels. “Bill” Dearing, its national manager of high-traffic areas. “It’s always a conversation piece for market development. Torlys’ flooring is Maintenance is the same as a wood the homeowner,” he said. MCT

30 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com vip style

home fashion

text and styling by Larena Head and Grace MatHis photography by Lacie Grant hair and makeup by Grace MatHis, Beauty witH Grace model JiLLian Green of Orange lounge looks

rue style is reflected not only in what you wear but in how you furnish your T home. This month, VIP paired with three home furnishing stores to prove individual aesthetic is head to toe AND floor to ceiling. Shot at Nickolina’s: Leather and chenille armchair, $789; Indoor/ outdoor artwork, $239; Italian voile throw, $89; Antler candlestick set, $299; Copper planter, $109; Floor lamp, $379; Accent pillow, $39. From Simply Chic, Nederland: Crème button-up, $58; Black metallic TOMS, $69; Geode ring, $10. From Splash of Karma, Nederland: Long striped car- digan, $68; Amber drop earrings, $17. From Vintage Republic, Port Arthur: Ruched khaki legging, $103

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 31 pdate your inner Bohemian in beautiful, soothing tones Uand a variety of fabrics. Stay true to your eclectic vision by creating a harmonious flow among elements that projects a calming sense of warmth.

Shot at Urban Habitat: Linen covered wingback chair, $350; Burlap pillow, $65; Kilm pillow, $45; Velveteen prayer bench, $65; Garden statue, $60; Silver teapot, $20; Italian sconce, $400; Music cabinet, $140; Twig basket, $40. From Splash of Karma, Nederland: Ruffle-trimmed slip, $54; Sheer polka dot tunic, $84; Striped flats, $34; Gold hammered choker, $20; Crystal and turquoise necklace, $198; Copper pendant necklace, $40; Rhinestone bow bracelet, $11; Animal print bracelet, $23; Beaded Buddha bracelet, $15; Braided chain bracelet, $22; Metal coin bracelet, $110; Beaded rhinestone bracelet, 4 shown at $21 each; Wooden ring, $8; Handmade flower pin, $53.

32 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com dramatic silhouette with luxurious sheen makes a Abold statement. Elegance is ensured when looks are uniquely refined.

Shot at McManus & Co.: Gold pew- ter emperor-style armchair, 2 shown at $1,535 each From Two & Co., Port Arthur: 2-piece taffeta, Black leather ankle boots (prices available upon request)

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 33 vip spotlight

setx events Symphony League Ball

Tonya and Charles Moses Judge Thad Heartfield, Stuart Yoes

Kristen Batte, Samantha Penning, Theresa Figari, Makenzie Rising

Lizzie Baldo and Dani Moses

Val and Dicky Rayzor Dr. Shawn and Stephanie Figari

Pedro and Lucia Dallstella,Miriam and Isabela Anawate

Jan Hayes and Beth Yoes

Bill and Becky Yoes, Mattie Yoes, Dianne and Haywood Walker Kimberly McAtee, Craig and Celia Messer

Daniel Sherar and Jordan Frank

Suzanne Werner, Kris McLemore and Lori Duplissey Kelli, Anne Katherine and Paul Trevino renÉ sheppard

34 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com La Soiree Gala

Eliot and Bethany New, Kyle and Laural Peterson Dr. Gene and Dawn Isabell

Dan and Liz Karnicki Lana Cosby, Austin Williams, Patrice Seelke

Gayle Pugh P. A.

Pam Caldwell, Jaylene Carr, Laci Giroir, Health &Beauty Deborah Smith and Rhonda Rubel Debbie and Steve Verret from the Inside out.... Botox/Collagen Fillers Laser Skin Rejuvenation Weight Management

Dr. Darrella Cooper, Latania Bill Tom and Becky Henry Hormone/Age Intervention Hair Salon/Massage Therapy Hormona Replacement Therapy Buna Skin Center

Chris and Stephanie Garsea (409) 994-9323 scott eslinger Dr. Scott and Crystal Peplinski, Wyatt and Scarlett Snider

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 35 Port Arthur Chamber Banquet

Bill and Nellie McCoy

Callie Summerlin, Bart Bragg Roosevelt Jr. and Marlene PetryTanya Lewis, Andrea Parker, Marlene Petry

Beverly and Carl A. Parker

Becky and Mike Tschirhart Regina Rogers and Carl A. Parker Mitch Osborne, Barbara Phillips and Dan Duncan Ken Moncla, Nigel Tranter lacie grant

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36 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com Compro Gala

Saturday,April 13, 2013 Adventure Kingdom 2952 Highway 69 S Joyce Perry, Vicki Green and Dolores Fulton Patricia and Joe Brown Lumberton, TX

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Etta Young and Dianne Taylor Kindrie Everfield, Lakisha Doucette, Latasha Nero

Lanis McWilliams, Sjolander Holder and Eleanor Johnson Carla Bassett and Linda Valyan

Ralpheal and Wayne Guilbeau Chinita Seastrunk and Margie Mays

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Johnnie McDaniel renÉ sheppard Erma Thomas, Glenn and Debra Holmes

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 37 Bridal Traditions Show

Nel Barry, Linda Leday

Samantha Cardenas, Korri Norwood, Elena Fontenot, Danese Fondren Bayleigh Shelton, Joette Jeanise

Leanna and Holly Stringer, Colleen Campbell

Kendal Simmons, Annie Schaeffer

Kim and Lindsay Begnaud, Stephanie Bowman

Tyson Hidalgo, Tricia Clement Adrienne Grantland, Ginny Dotson Connie Berry, Kay and Mary Jansens, Sarah Morrison Misti and Danielle Jacobs lacie grant Hot Hearts Conference

Rachel Ferguson, Victoria Brackin Madison Sowell, Karie Hutchinson, Sarah Ebert

Shelby McMillan, Olivia Day and Tiara Kelley

Clara DeHoog, Brooklyn Gau

Brandon Day, Tanner Tullos, Ryan Casey, Canyon Casidy

Mindy Conway, Elizabeth and Cody Lain Laney Tullos, Jasmine Ybanez, Tori Drake, Crystal Sonnier, Sean Griffin Amanda Kilgore, Kindra Armagh Bristyn Willey and Kaylee Kaufman scott eslinger

38 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com food dining

recipes

homemade Cake Doughnuts text by Lauren Chattman ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted few months into 2013, and my New ½ cup sour cream, room temperature Year’s resolution to eat oatmeal every 2 tablespoons milk morning has already gone out the 1 large egg, room temperature A 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (optional) window. But since my other resolu- tion is to live without regrets, I’m certainly not going to punish myself for frying up a Directions delicious batch of cardamom-spiced cake 1. Pour 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep doughnuts over the weekend. pot or large Dutch oven. The oil shouldn’t fill Although I’ll never turn down a yeast- more than half of the pot. Attach a thermom- raised doughnut, I prefer doughnuts leavened eter to the side of the pan so it dips into the with baking powder and baking soda. Cake oil. Heat over medium until it reaches 375 doughnuts are dense, sweet and a little bit degrees. Set wire rack over a rimmed baking crumbly — just like cake. It doesn’t hurt that sheet. Place two layers of paper towels on cake doughnuts can be made on impulse top of rack. and cooked off right away, while yeast-raised 2. While the oil heats, combine the flour, doughnuts can take hours to rise. What sugar, cardamom, salt, baking powder, real doughnuts, whether yeast-raised or baking soda and cinnamon in a large mixing cake-style, have in common: They’re always bowl. Add the butter and mix on low with an deep-fried, never baked. electric mixer until the mixture resembles Making cake doughnut dough is as simple coarse meal. Add sour cream, milk and egg, as mixing dry and wet ingredients. For a Cook only a few at a time, checking the oil Cardamom-spiced and mix until a dough forms. tender result, take care not to overmix the temperature during cooking and before you 3. Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use dough, and roll it out quickly and gently. add a new batch, and adjusting the flame as Sour Cream Cake doughnut cutter to cut into 12 doughnuts To shape cake doughnuts, you’ll need a necessary. and 12 doughnut holes. Fry doughnuts in oil, doughnut cutter, which you can find near the Finishing your cake doughnuts is a matter Doughnuts 3 or 4 at a time, turning once, until golden cookie cutters at a housewares shop. You’ll of preference. Nothing is more delicious on both sides. Transfer cooked doughnuts also need a deep pot and the courage to fry. than a naked doughnut fresh from the fryer Ingredients to rack to drain and cool. Repeat with Choose a bland vegetable oil with a high (wait 5 minutes). If you like some crunchy Vegetable oil for frying remaining doughnuts and holes, monitoring smoking point, the temperature at which oil sweetness, coat your doughnuts in sugar 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour oil carefully and adjusting heat to maintain a begins to break down. Safflower and canola while they are still warm, let them cool, then ½ cup sugar cooking temperature of 360 degrees. oil are both good picks. For safety’s sake, coat them again. Or, glaze doughnuts (use 1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom 4. Place confectioners’ sugar in a brown make sure your pot is no more than halfway 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar mixed with 2 1 teaspoon salt paper bag. Add 2 doughnuts, shake gently full of oil. Lower the doughnuts carefully with tablespoons milk) only after they have come 1 teaspoon baking powder and transfer to a platter. Repeat with remain- tongs or a slotted spoon to avoid spattering. to room temperature. ½ teaspoon baking soda ing doughnuts and doughnut holes. MCT

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 39 food dining

home bars text by AmAndA Corbell

dding a bar to your home can provide a space to en- raise tertain guests or to have Aa fun place in your own home built around relaxation. It can add an element of the extravagance to the most boring of spaces and can be an investment in the value of your home. However, without the right accessories, it can also be just another piece of bar furniture collecting dust. Choosing the right home bar ac- cessories can be almost as intimi- dating as choosing the right liquor. There are countless items you can buy to make your bar whatever you want it to be. But since the bar, itself, is the key item, let’s start with that. If you decide you want to add a bar to your home, there are a number of options for types of bars, but picking the right space should be first and foremost. Do you want a bar inside your home or in a covered space outdoors? If indoors, would you like it as an add-on to the kitchen or in a game room, or even build a new nook for the bar space? Build or buy? According to James Rippeon, owner of Classic Homes in Beau- mont, the type of bar or entertain- ment area built basically boils down to the budget for the project. For some, having a bar built into a new construction home is a no- brainer, but it can also be easily incorporated for those who live in a previously-owned home. New bar areas can range from as low as a few thousand dollars, to more than ten thousand dollars. “I recently converted an exist- ing garage into a game room and bar area,” said Rippeon, “and the bar portion of the add-on was about $15,000.” Adding a bar into an existing home may be easy, but sometimes challenges arise such as plumbing for sinks and electrical circuits, things that most of us forget to take into consideration. Rippeon Outdoor entertaiment area with bar built says having to work around these by James Rippeon of Classic Homes. issues or add electricity or plumb- ing can more than double the price photography by Chris roACh because other areas have to be torn

40 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com out to add these items. However, he says the most and coolers can be built free standing or can be built important thing for home owners to consider when into the cabinets or wall space, but it will affect the planning a bar installation is the type of drinks they overall price of the installation.” will be storing. When it comes to building home bars, Rippeon “Storing cold beer, wine or hard liquor all require says the best ones are built in rooms dedicated to various storage methods because of the different serving as a place to gather and have access to cook- temperature environment the drinks require,” said ing, television and drinks. The bar may not be the Rippeon. “For wine to be stored properly, it has to be focal point, but is part of a larger entertainment area chilled at approximately 52 degrees, and beer is best or game room. And that way, guests (or you!) do not at about 34 degrees, so two separate refrigerators will have to leave the room for refills. be required which takes up more room. Refrigerators “I recently built an outdoor entertainment area

Home bar and man cave built by Richard and Benjamin Guseman of Guseman Enterprises.

photography by Lee e. StinSon behind a home that was about 1,000 can bring the bar to your square feet in size and has a large home, in any room you fireplace, full cooking kitchen, bar would like and can even area with a storage pantry, pizza oven move it when not using it. and seating for up to 30 people,” said Of course, refrigeration, Rippeon. “The complete project was cooling and such would be up $125,000 and was built to match to you and not the bar, but it the existing home’s architectural is an option. features, colors and style.” Basically, he says he gets fewer It’s all about the drinks requests to simply just add a bar Regardless of what type area, and instead gets requests to of bar you decide on, you still add an area that serves as a media VIP tip need the right tools to get it room or space, with a bar area Bar guides started, including the right can be incredibly spirits for serving. Liquor stores incorporated into the design. helpful when entertaining, such as Specs carry all of the If you’re reading this and you to make drinks allowing thinking there’s no way you that you have to order (given items you would need to get a could add on a room to your home bar up and running. Wheth- ingredients). all of the necessar home to accommodate a bar y er you want to entertain a group guide will An up-to-date atmosphere at this time, you’re have recipes bar of guests, or just have enough on shots and not alone. And that is why it is mixed drinks, for popular hand for a relaxing evening for two, rather easy to find a portable as well you can easily buy anything you bar at any furniture store for the classics. as would need to make for a good time. as low as $500 to $800. You Jim Francis, a liquor specialist >>

theVIPmag.com | March 2013 41 Trying to create a bar from scratch? Spec’s in Beaumont recommends starting with a higher grade (for sipping) and a lower grade (for mixing) of tequila, vodka, gin, rum, bourbons and Scotch. Add your favorite wine, mixers and some basic bar tools and you are on your way.

at Spec’s in Beaumont, says you can begin with the basics when starting up a home bar. He says every bar has a standard list of needed ingredients, including your basic liquors, but the brand name is left up to you. Begin with your preferences of tequila, vodka, gin, rum, bourbons, Scotch, and mixers. “When setting up your home bar it is always wise to have two different kinds of liquor,” said Francis. “You want a liquor of higher grade or age for sipping, and a liquor of standards for mixing and blending.” This way, he says, you also ensure that you have enough on hand to accommodate at least two more guests. Mixers include everything from orange juice for Screw- drivers, to Bloody Mary mixes, tonic water or ginger ale, to grenadine and even sodas. Garnishes can be a fun way to dress up a drink, especially when hosting a social gathering. Examples include sugar and salt for the rims of glasses, fruit or vegetables for decoration (like celery or a lemon twist) for certain recipes, or even whipped cream. Don’t forget the tools keep it the perfect temperature for you. is mainly what’s going to be on tap, then If you’re a wine fan, you need to make Of course, glasses, shakers and mixing just ensure you have plenty of ice to keep sure you have things like a wine aerator to sticks to mix ingredients to perfection, are things cold and a set of pilsner glasses or allow the darker wines to breathe, as well all equally important when enjoying any large mugs to serve it in. as an efficient wine opener. The days of drink, and can be purchased for cheap. Every home bar has one thing in com- opening wine bottles with an old-school Other tools home bar owners should con- mon, and that’s that it is custom built to its corkscrew are over. Purchase an automatic sider owning include a strainer for drinks owner’s taste and preference. Make it your wine opener, complete with foil cutter, like martinis, a muddler for perfected own, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and save your nails, teeth and a headache. mojitos, and a bar guide. when shopping at places like Spec’s. Their If your wine is required to be chilled A blender is most certainly a necessity, expertise can help you find just the right and you have no refrigeration at your especially for summer days and nights, to liquor or tool you need to run a successful bar, purchase a one-bottle wine cooler to mix your favorite frozen drinks. If beer bar. VIP

42 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com South Texas State Fair March 21-31 great dates in march The biggest event of the Southeast Texas festival season is here! With a rodeo, livestock show, carnival, live entertainment and more food than you could possibly eat, the Le Grand Bal: South Texas State Fair at Ford Park Cardinal Express promises to be another must-attend March 23 event. For complete event schedules 7 p.m.-midnight, at the Dishman visit www.ymbl.org. Art Museum and the Montagne Center at Lamar University, Art in the Park Beaumont. The black-tie event March 16 includes a reception and silent art Area and regional artists auction, 7-9 p.m. at the Dishman gather in Stark Park to display, Art Museum, with a gourmet demonstrate and sell their buffet, entertainment and dancing artwork. Listen to light jazz and to the music of the Night and blues music as you stroll through Day Orchestra, 8 p.m.-midnight the park. Kids’ Alley will have in the Montagne Center. Tickets hands-on activities for all the $150 per person; $300 per children. This fun-filled festival couple; underwriting opportunities has something everyone can available. For reservations, enjoy. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Stark Park, call (409) 880-8137 or go to Orange. (409) 883-1011 or (409) fineartscomm.lamar.edu 883-1010. Blowout 2013 with Jeb Bush Gusher Marathon March 21 March 9 The former governor of Florida Whether you’re a runner or just enjoy will speak at “Blowout 2013,” the cheering on the masses, you don’t Texas Energy Museum’s annual want to miss the fourth annual Gusher fund raising dinner, at 6:30 p.m., Marathon/half marathon/5K race. Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. Race starts at 7:30 a.m. at Lamar Seating available by reservation University in Beaumont. Marathon only. Individual seats $100. Table $95; half marathon $85; 5K $35. (409) contribution levels are $1,000, 781-2932 or thegushermarathon. $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000. For com. Full details and map of course at reservations, call (409) 833-5100. thegushermarathon.com

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theVIPmag.com | March 2013 43 { March } p.m., Holy Cross Lutheran Church, www.beaumontcommunityplayers. MARCH 18 Nederland. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. com. Tickets $20. (409) 722-1609. “One Night of Queen” MARCH 8 Featuring Gary Mullen and the Works, “Curling for the Community” MARCH 1 7:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater for the Hair show and battle, 6-9 p.m., L.L. George Lopez Performing Arts, Orange. Tickets “Biloxi Blues” Melton Family Life Center, Beaumont. 8 p.m., Julie Rogers Theatre, $40-$55. (409) 886-5535 or www. 7:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater for the Guest performers are gospel rapper Beaumont. Doors open at 7 p.m. lutcher.org. Performing Arts, Orange. Tickets Christclear, ANBC Steppers leader Tickets $39.50 and $59.50. (800) 745- $20-$35. (409) 886-5535 or www. Keith Harris and special guest Russel 3000 or www.ticketmaster.com MARCH 22-23 lutcher.org. Chew. (409) 553-9341. MARCH 8-10 MARCH 1-2 “A Party to Murder” “Cinderella” Annual Kirby-Hill House Murder Sesame Street Live! 7:30 p.m. March 22, 6 p.m. March “The Importance of Being Earnest” Mystery Dinner Theater by the Kirby- 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. March 8; 23, Julie Rogers Theater, Beaumont. 7:30 p.m. March 1 and March Hill House Players, 7 p.m. March 2, 8, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. March 9; and Tickets at Ticketmaster outlets 7-9, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. March 2, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23, Kirby-Hill House 2 p.m. March 10, Ford Park Arena, including H-E-B, 3025 Dowlen Road, Betty Greenberg Center for the Museum, Kountze. Tickets $55 plus Beaumont. (800) 745-3000, (409) Beaumont, the Beaumont Civic Center Performing Arts, Beaumont. Tickets tax per person. (409) 246-8000 or 951-5400 or www.ticketmaster.com Box Office, 701 Main St., online at $10, $16 and $18. For reservations, email [email protected]. www.ticketmaster.com or call (800) call (409) 833-4664 or www. MARCH 9 745-3000. beaumontcommunityplayers.com. Beaumont Art League Portrait Show Reception 7-9 p.m. in the Brown Billy Currington Liberty Jubilee MARCH 1-3 Gallery at the Beaumont Art League, Special guest Walker Hayes, Nutty Noon-midnight March 22; 9 a.m.- Beaumont. Free. (409) 833-4179 or Jerry’s, Winnie. Doors open at 7 p.m. “9 to 5: The Musical” 6 p.m. March 23, Liberty County www.beaumontartleague.org. Tickets $35, $55, $65. (877) 643-7508 7:30 p.m. March 1-2, and 2:30 p.m. Courthouse and City Hall, Liberty. or www.nuttyjerrys.com. March 3, Port Arthur Little Theatre MARCH 3 (936) 336-3684. Playhouse, Port Arthur. Adults Texas Country Music Show $12, seniors $10, students or PALT The Beaumont Civic Ballet presents 7:30 p.m., Palace Theater, Kirbyville. MARCH 23 Spring into Dance members $6. For reservations, call Adults $7, children 7-12 $3, free for Taste of Gumbo (409) 727-7258 or www.palt.org. “Graduation Ball” and “Snow White children younger than 6. (409) 423- and the Seven Dwarfs,” 5 p.m., Julie 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Robert A. “Bob” 3319. “Macbeth” Rogers Theatre, Beaumont. Tickets at Bowers Civic Center, Port Arthur. 1 and 7:30 p.m. March 1, 7:30 the Beaumont Civic Center Box Office MARCH 12-17 The event a sampling of gumbo and p.m. March 2, and 2 p.m. March or online at www.ticketmaster.com or other foods from area restaurants, a 3, University Theatre at Lamar (800) 745-3000. Nederland Heritage Festival silent auction, door prizes and more. University, Beaumont. General Boston Avenue and 17th Street, Tickets $8, children younger than 5 admission $15, seniors, students and MARCH 7 Nederland. Carnival hours: 4-11 p.m. free. Proceeds benefit local charitable LU faculty/staff $10, Lamar University March 12; 5-11 p.m. March 13-15; 10 Go for the Gold Party organizations. students $7. For reservations, call a.m.-11 p.m. March 16; and noon-6 6:30 p.m., Art Museum of Southeast (409) 880-2250. www.lamar.edu/ p.m. March 17. (409) 724-2269 or MARCH 23 Texas, Beaumont. The event features theatre. www.nederlandhf.org. dinner and cocktails for two along Cinderella’s Wedding Feast Lagniappe Film and Music Festival with one entry into the drawing for MARCH 15 4 p.m., Julie Rogers Theater, Concerts and film screenings a chance to win $10,000 in gold. Beaumont. Tickets $10. (409) 892- at various locations, downtown Tickets $100. (409) 832-3432 or www. Goodwill 40th Anniversary Gala 0169. Beaumont. Tickets range from $25 for amset.org. Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites, students to $45 for all-venues access First Thursdays on Calder Avenue Beaumont. Cocktails and silent MARCH 29 and may be purchased in advance at auction, 6 p.m., dinner and program 5-9 p.m., Mildred Building, downtown www.thelagniappefestival.com. (409) at 7 p.m. “Dreamgirls” Beaumont. 422-3378. 7:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater for the The Lamar University Wind Ensemble MARCH 16 Performing Arts, Orange. Tickets MARCH 2 and Concert Band $40-$65. (409) 886-5535 or www. Firefighter Memorial Golf Tournament 7:30 p.m., Julie Rogers Theatre, lutcher.org. “Standing Ovation” Four-man scramble sponsored Beaumont. Part of the Lamarissimo! Retiring Lamar University President by the Beaumont Professional concert series. Adults $18, students “Matthew Neil Gehring: Brilliant Jimmy Simmons and his wife, Susan, $12. (409) 880-8144 or www.lamar. Firefighters Local 399, youat Ba Din Corners” will be honored during the Lamar edu/music/ Golf Club, Beaumont. Registration Reception 7 p.m., Dishman Art Cardinals basketball game, 6 p.m., 7 a.m., shotgun start 8 a.m. www. Museum at Lamar University, Montagne Center at Lamar University, MARCH 7-9 firemuseumoftexas.org Beaumont. Free. (409) 880-8959 or Beaumont. Golden Eagles of Oral Roberts University. Guests are asked Buna Redbud Festival Big Thicket Bike Tour www.lamar.edu/dishman. to wear rubber-soled shoes to the Buna High School, Buna. Carnival Family-oriented bicycle ride with five MARCH 29-30 post-game reception. Admission will hours 5-10 p.m. March 7-8, and 10 routes of varying distances, 8 a.m.-4 be by season tickets or single-game a.m.-midnight March 9. (409) 994- p.m. March 16 at the Big Thicket “Rabbit Hole” tickets for March 2 only, available 5586. National Preserve, Kountze. (409) 7:30 p.m., Betty Greenberg Center for $1 on a first-come, first-served 781-5872. “The Importance of Being Earnest” for the Performing Arts, Beaumont. basis at LamarCardinals.com or (409) 7:30 p.m., Betty Greenberg Center Azalea Festival Tickets $10, $16 and $18. For 880-1715. for the Performing Arts, Beaumont. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Jasper County reservations, call (409) 833-4664 or “Guys, Dolls and Spicy Meatballs” Tickets $10, $16 and $18. For Courthouse Square, Jasper. (409) www.beaumontcommunityplayers. Dinner, show and silent auction, 6 reservations, call (409) 833-4664 or 384-2762. com.

44 March 2013 | theVIPmag.com vip magazine crossword

Across Down 1 “American Idol” host 1 Country star and SNL host, Taylor 5 Event presenter _____ 8 Former Mrs. Trump 2 Singer, Bryan ____ 9 Legendary golfer, Tiger 3 Legible 10 She played Sharpay Evans in “High 4 Finn’s friend School Musical 3,” Ashley _____ 6 “I Walk the Line” singer, Johnny 12 Hair arrangement ____ 14 Singer, ____ Streisand 7 Bulls great basketball player, 16 “Predator” star, first name Michael ____ 18 Lane, for short 11 Young guy 19 South America, for short 13 Alternative word 21 Nickname for David Beckham’s wife 15 Golden Glove winner in each of 22 Actress who played Latika in the Orioles 3 consecutive World “Slumdog Millionaire,” Freida ____ Series seasons: Paul ____ 23 Sweetie 16 “Criminal” singer, Fiona ____ 25 “Red Dragon” star, ___ Norton 17 “Live at the BBQ’s” singer 26 Honey-boo___ 19 Relaxation center 20 QB who dated Jessica Simpson 23 A famous Pepper? 24 Environmental activist, Begley

Find answers on page 4

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theVIPmag.com | March 2013 45 vip voices

guest column Honey, I Shrunk the Savings Account

text by Holli Petersen pipe will burst, flooding everything in sight. Maybe you’ll unearth some unexpected f you’ve ever wondered what it’s termite damage or accidentally demolish a like to live in a hell of your own load-bearing wall. creation, then I suggest you find a And, undoubtedly that imported tile you room in your house to renovate. ordered will be the wrong size and the wrong It can be any room, really — a color altogether. small bathroom, maybe a bedroom Trust me. I’ve been there. Ior, if you really want to jump in At some point, you will suspect your with both feet, go for the kitchen. spouse is plotting against you and randomly Oh sure, it’s fun at first. start sobbing like it’s the end of the world. You can browse Pinterest for hours, The renovation process may make you cataloging fantastically creative and efficient question your own innate preferences. After ideas. You can spend your afternoons at the all, who’s to say that blue gingham wallpaper hardware store, painstakingly considering and yellow shag carpet aren’t your own, unique a world of options. Feel free to consult with style aesthetic? Did your home really even need any number of contractors who will promise updating? speedy-quick timelines with infinitesimal Somehow, you’ll find the strength to press budgets. Or, if you are feeling particularly forward because, let’s be honest, you have to adventurous, then why not save a buck if you want ever want to cook in your kitchen and do it yourself? After all, pretty much or use the spare bathroom, again. Somehow, anything you need to know can be found on you’ll find a way to scrounge up a few more the Internet. dollars for the budget and muster up the Yes, you can start out with the best of in- intestinal fortitude required to finish the job. tentions, but — fair warning — at some point Yes, maybe you will have to cut a few you’re probably going to lose your mind. corners, make a few compromises. Maybe the The strangest of phenomenon will begin final project won’t meet your initial expecta- occurring. tions. But, it’s amazing how a few hellacious You’ll begin thinking you hear power months of renovating will alter what you will tools in the middle of the night. The inces- and will not settle for. sant buzzing and hammering in your head You’ll rip off the last of that painter’s tape never seems to subside. and pack up those tools, vowing to never, You’ll neurotically start viewing the world ever repeat the same mistake again. in terms of paint colors. What particular hue But, that’s the weird part. is the moss on that rock? Or, how can I coerce Home renovation is a little like child- that stranger into standing still while I match birth in the way that, over the years, painful paint samples to their perfectly petal pink memories fade into false recollections of it sweater? really not being so very bad. Eventually, you’ll discover that the And, then you’ll see one of those falsely evidence of your labors will follow you every- endearing Home Depot commercials (likely where, haunting reminders of the ever-loom- produced by the same folks that advertise ing project left at your home. There’s the Pampers) and you’ll start thinking you might cabinet stain that just won’t wash off your want to give it one last shot. cuticles. And, is that dandruff in your hair I mean, how difficult would it be to just or just another layer of the same sheetrock freshen up the paint in the hallway? dust that covers every square inch of every... A little crown molding would certainly add single... thing… in… your… entire… house!? some sophistication. Your life will feel arrested somehow. Your Oh, and you’ve always wanted wood floor- original goal dampened by an increasing ing in the entryway. desire to just return to normal. That’s how it starts — just the smallest And, that’s about when the real problems of ideas and the next thing you know, you’re start. knee deep in sheetrock and creating your There will be the weeks upon weeks of own curse words because the old ones have rain that seems to halt all progress. Then a become too pedestrian. But, if you naively enter in the turbulent waters of renovation, or even if you find yourself already drowning in the whirlpool, I can impart the only bit of wisdom that ever got me through the same woeful experience. Repeat after me. This, too, shall pass. And, when it’s all over, don’t be surprised if you decide it was actually all worth it. VIP

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