volume 2 issue 4 | 1NovemBeR2011 | |theVIPmag.com 2009 theVIPmag.

com VOLUME 5 ISSUE | November

Southeast Texas
o f s o u t h e a s t t e x a s

Newest restaurants, best pies, top dishes, creative chefs and more

Holiday

EYE-POPPING

Centerpieces

survival guide

Your Thanksgiving

Pilgrims and Indians

FASHION FOR MODERN

VIPersonality: Katharine Carmichael 5 new cruise ships departing from Galveston the costumes of Cirque du soleil's Dralion
complimentary

at the Holiday Inn Beaumont Plaza

A time of reflection, a time of gathering. The time of year you and yours share in the spirit of this special time.

The Holidays

Thats why its so important that everything is perfect. Let the Holiday Inn Beaumont Plaza share in this exciting time. Rest assured our experienced staff will tend to every detail to ensure that your event is the one remembered as the event of the year. Space is filling fast, contact our sales department to reserve yours!

Beaumont Plaza
3950 I-10 South (@ Walden Road) Beaumont, TX 77705 Phone: 409.842.5995 Fax: 409.842.7810 www.holidayinn.com/beaumont-plaza

T u e s d ay,

N ove mbe r

1 ,

vip magazine
c o n t e n t s

07 vip home

inside november
42 vip adviser
42 A Thanksgiving itinerary to keep your guests busy and you sane 47 Five great dates in November 48 Calendar 49 Crossword puzzle 50 Why it's hard to behead key a turkey

dconstantine@thevipmag.com

Editorial Executive Editor DAVID CONSTANTINE

07 Thanksgiving table centerpieces that create a wow factor 13 11 new restaurants that opened in 2011 18 When it comes to food, it's all about presentation 20 Where to get the best pie in Southeast Texas

13 food&drink

Contributing Writers CATHLEEN COLE AmANDA COrbELL mArgArET b. gArDNEr LArENA HEAD grACE mATHIS HOLLI PETErSEN CHEryL rOSE Photography Contributing Photographers FArrAH CObb SCOTT ESLINgEr SILVIA C. mCCLAIN KyLE PETErSEN rEN SHEPPArD LEE E. STINSON Graphic Designer, Creative Media DAVID CONSTANTINE Advertising To advertise in VIP, 409.880.0700 Contact Us VIP of Southeast Texas 380 main Street beaumont, TX 77701

50 vip voices

24 vip style

24 Fall, winter fashion meets modern-day Pilgrims and Indians 30 The costumes of Cirque du Soleil's Dralion 34 The taste and heart of Katharine Carmichael 37 SE Texas events

07 18

34 vipersonality 37 vip spotlight 44 vip viewing

to sUbsCribE PLEASE CALL 409.838.2821 Or SubSCrIbE ONLINE AT www.THEVIPmAg.COm to disPlAy thE mAgAzinE AT yOur buSINESS LOCATION, PLEASE CALL 409.838.2821 sUbmissions TO SubmIT AN EVENT, OrgANIzATION Or PErSON FOr CONSIDErATION IN AN uPCOmINg ISSuE, SubmIT ONLINE AT www.THEVIPmAg.COm Or TO DCONSTANTINE@THEVIPmAg.COm Or by uSPS AT ADDrESS AbOVE.

44 5 new cruise ships prepare to call Galveston home

34
on the cover
How would modern and fashionable Pilgrims and Indians dress if the first Thanksgiving were held today? Using the latest in fall and winter fashion trends, VIP created our first high fashion photoshoot to answer that question. See the results on page 24. Cover models: Garrison Fuller and Brittany Castillo; Stylists: Grace Mathis and Larena Head; Photographer: Silvia C. McClain; Makeup: Grace Mathis; Hair: Haley Hardin, On Stage Hair; Location and furnishings: Burns Antik Haus; Assitants: Julie Burns, Judy Stokely
4 November 2011 |
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A division of hearst newspapers Publisher bILL OFFILL

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Say hello to our renovated Center for New Life. The renovation provides a more comfortable and inviting environment for parents and babies, while debuting a new level of technology in fetal monitoring. Modern, family-friendly delivery rooms Renovated waiting area and coffee bar New nurses station for improved workflow and patient care State-of-the-art electronic health record system Only Level IIIA Neonatal ICU in Southeast Texas

CHRISTUS Hospital St. Elizabeth has delivered thousands of babies through the decades. Join us as we deliver a higher standard of prenatal care unmatched in Southeast Texas. Call 409-899-8523 to register for Prepared Childbirth Classes.

www.christushospital.org/new-life

Sams Western Stores friendly staff is always eager to help you with getting the right product whether it is jeans, boots or a new hat. No matter the lifestyle or the occasion, we can help you find that perfect fit. We even hand shape the hat to fit your head. Sams Western Store... 5090 College St. 842-2625 Beaumont, TX

Serving our community since 1918 with elegant to casual catering from small to large businesses. Weddings, social, corporate catering and more. Our attention to detail makes your event memorable. Call our specialist at 409.840.9051 ext.1

fabulous nds
Retailers we love and their merchandise we love to have!

Monclas Catering. 2530 W. Cardinal Dr., Beaumont, TX 409.840.9051 ext.1. www.monclas.com

BEFORE AND AFTER THE GAMES AT THECAT5.COM

red on

get your

FIND OUT WHERE TO

Cave Interiors Antique & Design Company is a full service Interior Design Firm. From decorating on budget to designing an addition to your home we are here to help. We also design custom furniture, refinish antique furniture, and can custom paint Chic furnishings. Stop by our store and check out our Vintage Jewelry, Antiques, Collectibles and Art. Cave Interiors Antique & Design Company 1425 Calder Ave. (Mildred Building), Beaumont 409-833-CAVE (2283) FB-cave1425@gmail.com

First Thursdays at the Mildred Building 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. November 3rd. Join us for dinner, drinks, live music and shopping. Sidewalk vendors with clothing, jewelry and hats, art and photography, recycled and handmade stuff. Katherine & Co., Book Bazaar, Ella Scott, Finders Fayre, Only One Vases, John Roberts Consultants, Cave Interiors. Mildred Building in Downtown Beaumont Corner of Calder and MLK Beaumont, Texas 77701

vip home
t h a n k s g i v i n g c e n t e r p i e c e s

Turkey, What Turkey?

The centerpieces are the star of these Thanksgiving tables
hanksgiving may rightfully be called the oldest and most American of traditional holidays. And often, we take that feeling too far and find ourselves stuck in a rut when it comes to decorating for this day of celebration and thanks. Since the last thing we want in our lives is to be stuck in a rut, we decided to search for some design inspiration. We presented a challenge to three very different creative types in Southeast Texas John Roberts of the Book Bazaar, James Perrio of Twigs floral shop and Tamara Menges of Tamara Menges Designs. What was their goal? To create a unique, out-of-the-box Thanksgiving centerpiece. No cornucopias here, we wanted something memorable that would make up for even the driest of turkeys. We hope you agree with us that these centerpieces are definitely one more reason to give thanks. >>

text by grace maThis photography by lee e. sTinson

Where Business & Pleasure Meet

Business Meetings & Conferences Receptions & Luncheons State-of-the Art Communications Flexible Room Arrangements Exquisite Decor

1775 Calder Ave. Beaumont, Texas 409.832.1621

www.broussardscentre.com
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November 2011 7

Timeless and decayed

J
Johns tip: To make your own unique centerpiece, John says you dont have to spend a lot of money. All the china and crystal came from within the family and the flowers were all picked by hand. Take the things that you love and dont be afraid to express yourself.
ohn Roberts is an artist, designer and owner of the unique Book Bazaar in the Mildred Building in Beaumont. Ive always been creative. Ever since I was a child, I would draw houses and blueprints, designs like that I have an eye for composition and design work. Johns inspiration stems from his attention to the detail of historical architecture. I lived in New Orleans and Baton Rouge for a while, and of course Beaumont and Southeast Texas have great architecture that I draw inspiration from. What I like to do is create something that is timeless and will last forever and not go out of style. For this challenge John remembered, Ever since I was a child Thanksgiving and Christmas are where we set the table with china and crystal. Its about all the family getting together and eating, enjoying the atmosphere and making it special. He wanted his centerpiece to be elegant, traditional and with a touch of decay. To do so he incorporated elements such as tarnished silver, preserved flowers and his grandmothers china and crystal. I used my great grandmothers sterling silverware and a more casual tablecloth, not just lace, to kind of give it a more up-to date feel without being too formal. And, of course he used books. I think its one thing that people kind of disregard these days. The books that I chose for this are old German Bibles, The Last of the Mohicans, things that when you think of Thanksgiving come to mind poetry books. You know things that you could perhaps read at the table when youre finished. Pieces such as the brass cranes and mink skull are not traditional and yet still bring to mind the reference of the Thanksgiving meal. The pink-leafed rain tree is native to Beaumont and the found chandelier crystals hanging from it represent rain, another reason to give thanks.

8 November 2011

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James tip: Its up to the creator how full or elaborate they want their centerpiece to be. Its a matter of being creative with natural things and not trying to get too many gi-gaws [or trinkets] in it. Look at nature and its beauty and how simple it is. Take the cues and reproduce it in your home.

Natural charm

ames Perrio is a designer of 40+ years and owns the charming flower shop Twigs on Calder in Beaumont. Once you see his work and talk to him for more than 30 seconds, its obvious why he chose that name. The world is a wonderful place that people take for granted. When I look at the simplest things, Im in awe. The colors of a leaf how its formed, the nooks and crannies. I look at things and see the art in them, and it inspires me to do better. For this and all his work, James tried to emulate that creative thing that makes nature beautiful. As well, he wants all his creations to be comfortable, something that someone will like for a long time. In fact, this nature-inspired Thanksgiving centerpiece is what he deems a living centerpiece that it can be tweaked as the season progresses, by adding a brighter color or different element. This piece was crafted on top of a grapevine wreath. Pumpkins, fresh yellow and bronze daisies and acorn squash reflect the natural colors and traditional elements of the season in a fresh way. The contrast of brocade ribbon and gold chargers with the napkins tied with raffia keep the look from feeling too forced. James says, Mix artificial and fresh and it all looks real, if done in the right way. The unexpected element of Native American bookends gives a touch of quirk and charm, while a birds nest reinforces the nature theme.

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November 2011 9

Tamaras tip: Look around your house or your mothers house. Theres bound to be something unique that can be used to put a simple arrangement together. And grab some gourds and have a heyday.

Tamaras pumpkin mousse

1 15 oz can of pumpkin 3 cups heavy whipping cream 1 cup of sugar Pumpkin pie spice 1 tablespoon of vanilla Graham crackers, granola, or anything festive for garnish Heat pumpkin, 1 cup of cream, sugar and couple shakes of spice over medium on the stove, stirring until heated throughout. Place in fridge to cool completely. In separate bowl, add remaining cream and vanilla and whip on high until there are soft peaks Fold cooled pumpkin mixture into the whipped cream until fully mixed. Spoon mousse into your favorite dessert bowl or glass and top with your favorite garnish!
10 November 2011 |

Vintage white

amara Menges is a wedding and event designer as well as interior designer. My signature style that people know me for is my vintage style, she informs me. She goes on to explain that all the photo shoots she participates in have a vintage vibe and feel. I really enjoy finding specific inspiration from antique stores, flea markets and garage sales, she said. I like to incorporate vintage items in a new approach. Im really all about vintage right now. Tamara explains that she recently redid her dining room with a white distressed feel on the wood and that she really wanted to showcase that in her tablescape as she called it. She did so by keeping the white theme with a vintage undertone and classic interpretation. I really enjoy finding these very unique pieces that have a lot of character and interest, and I really like to tell a story through a simple little tablescape, she said. The fresh flowers re-interpret arrangements from 50 years ago and include such classics as tulips, seeded eucalyptus and dusty miller. Tamara then placed them inside timeless milk glass pieces. Painting real pumpkins with craft paint and applying studs and pearls to them was a very simple DIY project, Tamara says. The candlesticks are vintage sewing spools with a simple pillar candle on top. An antique doorknob, porcelain bird and skeleton keys add more retro charm. Tamara explained how to create the leaf name cards, I cut out paper leaves, tea-stained them, dried them, then burned the edges to give them an aged feel. She used gold, ornate style china to add the little touch of gold and add a little glamour to it. VIP

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1-800-345-5273 Dillards.com

Make Your List. Check It Twice.

Leslie Greene
Now Available

Now Available

126 Strickland Drive in Orange Tuscany Park, on Dowlen Rd. in Beaumont

www.mathewsjewelers.com

Grabers CrystalPleat Cellular Shades are a stylish way to boost the energy efficiency of your home. An attractive honeycomb design creates pockets of air that insulate windows from heat and cold to lower your energy bills year round. Cellular Shades also offer great sound absorption to quiet rooms with hard flooring.

7396 College St. Beaumont, TX 77707 409.866.4055 Toll Free 877.281.9717 12 November 2011 |

The Blind Factory

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food drink
n e w r e s t a u r a n t s

11 11
new eateries in

outheast Texas has its share of popular restaurants offering tasty dishes to please almost every palate. But, as with our attitude about dinner guests, theres always room for one more. Heres a sampling of some of the new eateries that have opened their doors in 2011 to hungry diners. >>

text by Cathleen Cole

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November 2011 13

photography by ren shepparD

anD BeaumonT enTerprise sTaff

Boomtown BBQ Company

5555 Calder, Beaumont 409.554.8432 Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. If youre hankering for some fingerlickin good barbecue, mosey on over to this casual establishment for smoked meats including beef brisket, pork loin, turkey breast and sausage. You can buy a sandwich or purchase by the pound. Or try the Taco Bomb pulled pork and cheesy potatoes on a flour tortilla with onions, jalapenos and barbecue sauce. You might like the Boomer a baked potato with pulled pork and shredded cheese. Add some sides such as pinto beans and potato salad, top it off with cobbler and youve got yourself a ribstickin meal.

Cyber Cafe

Chaba Thai Bistro

Daiquiri Bayou Bar & Grill

672 Orleans St., Beaumont 409.212.8181 Tues.-Sat. 5 p.m.-midnight For an intimate place to unwind, try this little get-away with New Orleans ambiance. The daiquiris are potent with several kinds to choose, so pace yourself. Hurricane Katrina is a customer favorite. But if daiquiris arent your style, the full bar surely has something to suit your taste. Its never a good idea to drink on an empty stomach, so perhaps a shrimp po boy and some boudin balls are in order. Thursday nights at the Bayou are tres cool with jazz/soul/funk jam sessions.

6434 Phelan Blvd., Beaumont 409.866.3388 Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Are you in the mood for some spicy food? This bistro offers traditional Thai cuisine with entrees including Pad Kee Mao, Pad Thai and Pad Kapow. Luckily, the dishes are explained in English, and the degree of spiciness is noted. Think shrimp, beef, chicken or pork with rice or rice noodles in an explosion of herbs and spices. Dont forget to order the spring rolls. This new location offers more seating and a fancier atmosphere than the original location on East Lucas Drive. And it has a full bar, so nows the time to try a Thai beer!

805 Hwy 69, Lumberton 409.751.5151 Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 10. a.m. - 10 p.m. Bring your laptop and your appetite to this caf that offers paninis, salads and plate lunches along with free Wi-Fi. Theres a different lunch special daily that might include chicken fettuccine alfredo, crawfish etouffee, lasagna or shredded chicken pesto quesadilla. For dessert, try the French press coffee with chicory served with sweetened condensed milk and a serving of homemade as in, made on site ice cream. There are usually about 26 flavors offered, but the chef has recipes for 72 varieties, so the flavors change regularly. Customer favorites include strawberry cheesecake, cinnamon and apple pie ice cream. Just dont drip it on your computer!

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Freebirds World Burrito

4438 Dowlen Road, Beaumont 409.898.2900 1629 Hwy. 69, Nederland 409.729.9022 Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Custom-made burritos are what this cafeteria-style restaurant serves up in a flash. Youll have a lot of choices to make, starting with the size of your burrito and what type of tortilla you want flour, wheat, spinach or cayenne. The meat options include chicken, pork and steak. Youre not limited to refried beans, either. Choose the black beans or pinto beans if youd like. Theres pico de gallo, sliced avocado and corn salsa along with the usual fare of rice, guacamole, sour cream and queso. Tacos, quesadillas and salads are also offered. Muy bueno!

Fuzzys Taco Shop

1039 Nederland Ave., Nederland 409.727.8226 Sun.-Thurs. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Baja-style Mexican food is what youll find at this taqueria, with fish and shrimp tacos the specialty of the casa. If seafood isnt what youre craving, you can go with beef, pork or vegetables in your soft or crispy taco. Try one of the garlic sauces or heat things up with a spicy habanero concoction. Looking for breakfast? Youre in luck. The shop opens early to serve the morning crowd breakfast tacos and huevos rancheros. For a break later in the day, patrons can enjoy beer, wine or margaritas. Partake on the patio for a relaxing change of pace. You wont want to say adios!

Guiseppes Sicilian Pasta Factory

1021 Magnolia Ave., Port Neches 409.727.5150 Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. This country Italian kitchen serves family recipes in a homey atmosphere. The signature dish is Grandma Savarinos lasagna, but there are many other entrees to choose. A customer favorite is the chicken tetrazzini a baked casserole of spaghetti and chicken with a white mushroom sauce. You might want to try the creamy fettuccine alfredo by its lonesome or with chicken or shrimp. The pastas and sauces are homemade, and so is the Italian sausage. Patrons can enjoy a glass of beer or vino with their meals too.

Lezet

617 Procter St., Port Arthur 409.812.1002 Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Bienvenue. Welcome to this classy yet cozy restaurant where Creole cuisine and down-home country cooking are the specialties on the newly refurbished second floor of the Golden Triangle Empowerment Center. The old-fashioned Southern dishes are made from the chefs family recipes. Enjoy boudin balls, hot wings stuffed with boudin, stuffed Creole shells, jambalaya, shrimp bisque, hoppin John and chunky chicken salad rolls. Every day offers a different special entree. Be sure to save room for the sweet peach pecan dessert! >>
| November 2011 15

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PKs Grill

9 10
Romanos 8.31 Italian
995 W. Round Bunch Road, Bridge City 409.792.0099 Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. The Orange restaurant was so popular that the owner opened a new one in Bridge City with the same extensive menu. Start your meal with an appetizer perhaps the stuffed mushrooms or fried calamari. Follow it with a bowl of tortellini or pasta fagioli soup. Theres a wide array of entrees but the Milanese Mama Mia breaded chicken with ziti pasta in a creamy sauce is a customer favorite. Hot and cold subs and pizza are available too. Save room for a dessert such as tiramisu, Italian crme cake and crme brulee. The establishment doesnt serve adult beverages, but you can BYOB.

1629 Strickland Dr., Orange 409.883.8900 Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. If youre craving seafood, this upscale eatery has a tasty selection including crawfish etouffee and char-grilled tilapia. The East Coast Sampler with shrimp brochette, skewered shrimp and butterflied shrimp stuffed with crabmeat dressing is a customer favorite. Try a steaming-hot bowl of gumbo along with scrumptious honey-buttered biscuits. If youre not in the mood for seafood, have a thick steak grilled to order. Sweet tea might be the best choice for lunch, but for dinner, you may want to relax with a glass of wine or beer. This place is a hit with the Lutcher Theater crowd.

Willy Burger

11

5535 Calder Ave., Beaumont 409.892.3400 Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. This burger joint has some retrodiner sizzle with its lunch counter and cozy booths. Patrons can eat in the main building, in a remodeled 1971 Airstream travel trailer or on the patio. The meat is ground fresh daily, and the onion rings are hand dipped and a customer favorite, but you might like to try the sweet potato fries. If youd rather have a hot dog, theyre charbroiled. You can enjoy your meal with a cold draft beer or savor the sweetness of a malt, float or shake. Finish it off with a funnel cake, and youll be in sugar heaven! An important note: Its cash only, so leave the plastic and checkbook at home. VIP

FIND. DINE. UNWIND.

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16 November 2011

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2010 For the Seasoned Diner

uadalajara G Mexican
Restaurant & Cantina

Celebrate Any Occasion with D.J.s Boudain!

D.J.s is your hometown supplier of boudain and rice dressing. Look for it at any one of your local grocery stores.

HAPPY HOUR 3-7 Mon - Fri

Gift Certificates Available!

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD

4414 Dowlen (Crossroad Center) 409-924-7718

Opening Soon
When it comes to your health, you now have more choices than ever.
Altus Healthcare offers Beaumont the highest levels of service, quality and convenience. Our state-of-the-art facility on 11th Street, between Broadway and Liberty, features a wide variety of imaging, sleep and surgical services in an attractive, friendly and comfortable environment. Our new Altus Cancer Center will open this Fall, offering the latest and most innovative cancer treatments by board-certified/board-eligible oncologists, right here in Beaumont. To learn more, talk to your physician or visit us at www.altushms.com.
390 N. 11th Street, Beaumont, Texas 77702 I 409.981.5500 I www.althushms.com
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November 2011 17

food dining
p r e s e n t a t i o n

Eating
Local chefs prepare their most appealing dishes for your viewing pleasure
18 November 2011 |
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1 2

eyes T
text by margarEt B. gardnEr

with your

hanksgiving is upon us. And just in case you werent under enough pressure to create some culinary magic for family and friends, weve rounded up chefs from some of Southeast Texas premier restaurants and asked them to create and chat up their favorite dishes. In some cases, theyve even shared their recipes. Perhaps these photos will inspire you. Or maybe theyll just give you something lovely to think about while youre elbow-deep in turkey giblets and picking cornbread stuffing out from under your finger nails. Either way, enjoy! And Happy Thanksgiving! >>

3 1. Chili-Rubbed Rack of Lamb 2. Combination Sushi Platter 3. Asian-Style Salmon

Chef Juan Mejia Tokyo, 1970 IH-10 South, 409.840.4255

Something to inspire you while you're elbow-deep in turkey giblets and picking cornbread stuffing out from under your finger nails.

Chef Terry Bell The Grill by Arfeen Smith & Payne, 6680 Calder Ave., 409.866.0039

Chef John Sipes Suga's Deep South Cuisine and Jazz Bar, 461 Bowie St., 409.813.1808

4. Pan-Seared Scallops
Chef Robert Gossette Bryans 797, 797 N. Fifth St., 409.832.3900

Chef Bell chose this dish because its elegant and looks pretty, and indeed it is and does. The lamb is rubbed with a chili rub, grilled and finished under the broiler. Its served with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, baby carrots and bok choy with a soy-ginger glaze. The most intriguing elements of the dish are the chimichurri sauce and jalapeno-mint jelly that accompany it. The overall effect is an artists palette of tastes, textures and colors so many you might think it impossible to bring them together in such a delicious way. Its a little bit southwestern, and the lamb is fairly elegant, Bell said. The chimichurri sauce is nice; its got a lot of herbs and lemon juice and olive oil, parsley, basil, cilantro, garlic. And the jalapeno-mint jelly gives it a little sweet and a little hot. To create the chili rub, Bell said: Dry roast 1 cup black pepper, 1 cup chili powder, cup chili flakes, 1 cup granulated garlic, cup kosher salt and cup cumin. Combine and then sprinkle liberally on the lamb and hand-rub the entire rack. Let rest for 25 minutes to 30 minutes before grilling.

To be honest, you wont find this particular combination platter on the Tokyo menu. The ever-gracious Chef Mejia created it just for VIP, choosing some of his most popular and visually appealing items. Those include peppered tuna sashimi, a Bonzai Roll and a Passion Roll, dappled all around with shrimp. Tokyo keeps its recipes pretty close to its vest, but its Bonzai Roll is an eclectic combination of fried jalapeno, smoked salmon, cucumber, cream cheese, green onion and kaiware (sprouted daikon radish seeds) that doesnt sound like it would work together but it sure does! The Passion Roll is equally complex, with spicy salmon topped with fresh salmon, avocado, green onion, lemon slices and hot sauce. Mejia has been with Tokyo for 15 years; he started at the Dowlen location and has headed up the kitchen at the I-10 restaurant for the past four years.

photography by lee e. StinSon

Twenty-six-year old Chef Sipes has been at Sugas for eight months. He and Chef Frank Panniti, who has been with Sugas since it opened in 2005, created this dish because they were looking for something with an Asian flair. Asian and salmon go very well together. This is one of the best dishes we serve, he said of the creation that he described as fruity, outgoing and very bold. And its a perfect description. The dark sesame seeds contrast beautifully with the pink flesh of the salmon, giving it a nutty bite. The salmon came served over a mound of moist, rich risotto with tender, spicy-sweet spinach on top. A sweet chili sauce adds visual and flavorful dimensions. To create this dish, Sipes said: Season 7 ounces fresh salmon with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with a combination of black and white sesame seeds. Pan sear in a hot skillet for 30 seconds, sesame side down. Flip and place in an oven for 6 minutes at 325 degrees (for medium). For the risotto, saut two diced Gulf shrimp in a hot pan. Add 1 ounce English peas and an egg. Cook for 30 seconds. Add 1 cup risotto or white rice, 1 ounce teriyaki sauce and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until hot, about a minute. For sweet-and-spicy spinach, saut 4 ounces of fresh spinach, then add chili sauce to taste.

Twenty-eightyear-old Chef Gossette has been with the venerable Bryans 797 for a little over a year. This scallop dish is one of the restaurants most popular evidenced by the fact that it was on its way out to a waiting customer as we photographed it! Gossette and Bryans 797 owner Bryan Lee created this dish to put a creative spin on pan-seared scallops, a common restaurant offering. We pair the scallops with a honey Dijon mustard cream sauce, shallots and a little bit of garlic, Gossette said. It pulls out the sweetness of the scallops. To create this dish, Gossette said: Start with fresh scallops, jumbo or miniature either is fine. Make sure theyre dry or they wont sear. Salt and pepper them, then bring a pan to heat over medium-high heat with a little olive oil in it. Once its almost at the smoking point and you can see a little shimmer in the oil, place the scallops in the pan a minute and a half on each side for jumbo scallops, 30 seconds each side for miniature scallops. Drain them on a paper towel. Meanwhile, sweat some garlic and shallots in olive oil to release the flavor. Add about a tablespoon of any brand of Dijon mustard you prefer, a little honey and about two tablespoons of heavy cream. Mix that together, heat it up and let it simmer until it boils down and comes to a creamy consistency. VIP
| November 2011 19

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food dining
p i e s

W
text by amanda corbell

Passion for Pie

Strawberry and crawfish pies, Lucys Bakery and Caf, Orange
Although one is technically not a dessert, there are two pies at Lucys Bakery and Caf in Orange that attract the lunch-time crowd and a high volume of to-go orders: the crawfish pie and the strawberry pie. At one time these two pies were offered only as a special, but quickly were added to the menu to keep the crowds under control. People were getting upset when they would come in and we didnt have any, said owner, Lucy Terry. We even have regulars that come in and as soon as they walk say You better reserve me a piece of strawberry pie! Dont let anyone else get it! Colorful and refreshing, the strawberry pie is one the best desserts that we came across. This most enviable recipe is her mothers own and is made by her mother who now works with Terry at the bakery. A flaky crust that falls apart in your mouth is topped with strawberry filling, whole strawberries and Lucys homemade whipped cream. Families with children really love our strawberry pie because it gives the kids another option besides what the old folks like, said Terry. I would know because my mom made it all the time for us and Im one of five children. Lucys crawfish pie is a recipe that she learned in a home cooking class and then altered to her liking, and clearly to the liking of her patrons. Preferably eaten warm, the crawfish pie is a fluffy crust that is stuffed full of crawfish, green onions, cheeses and lots of other

ith the holiday season just around the corner, women everywhere are beginning the arduous and overwhelming task of planning their menus for parties and family gatherings. Making it through the first two courses is difficult enough, so by the time you have to prepare delicious and festive pies, its okay to throw in the towel. Restaurants across Southeast Texas are ready to do the baking for you (and most wont even mind if you claim you made it yourself.) After roaming Southeast Texas and visiting a number of establishments to try their most popular desserts, weve compiled our favorite pies and are passing them on to you to help ease the burden of holiday baking.

Strawberry pie from Lucys Bakery and Caf in Orange.

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Clockwise from top left: Crawfish pie from Lucys Bakery and Caf in Orange, Coconut pie from The Grill in Beaumont, Tiramisu torta from LogOn Cafe in Beaumont and Buttermilk pie from Old Orange Caf in Orange.
secret goodies. A huge seller during the holidays, she says mothers love them because they can be purchased cooked, uncooked, frozen or refrigerated. This way, they can just stick the pie in the oven the night before dinner while busy doing something else. Its a great time saver for the cook with hungry families and out-of-town guests that are staying at the house, said Terry. simplest things he makes. All it is, is eggs, sugar, vanilla, self-rising flour, coconut and butter, he said. The caramel sauce that is drizzled over it sets off the flavor, and that, too, is made from scratch. Served with a scoop of homemade whipped cream and garnished with a mint leaf, the coconut pie is simply decadent and a perfect alternative to the old standby pies for the holidays. Tip: The forecast for holiday orders on this popular dessert is promising to be busy, so Bell asks that orders are placed at least three days in advance. Pie pans can also be purchased for $4.00, so no one has to know you didnt spend hours and hours slaving over such a rare and delicious recipe. Unpretentious and undecorated, their buttermilk pie is a thick slab of homemade pie crust that melts in your mouth, with a filling that is delicious whether eaten hot or cold. Other desserts offered year-round include a chocolate chess pie and coconut pie.

Tiramisu torta, Log-On Caf

Coconut pie, The Grill

The atmosphere at The Grill by Arfeen, Smith and Payne may exude more an air of sophistication than an order-out establishment. But dont be fooled. The Grill has several delicious desserts that can be called in and picked up at your convenience. With a menu boasting crme brule, bread pudding with rum sauce and the everpopular key lime pie, its a dessert that hasnt quite made it onto the menu that has patrons coming back. Since its debut more than a month ago, The Grills coconut pie special has been a hit as word spread among fans of The Grill who arent deterred that its not yet on the menu. The pie is made with a lot of TLC by head chef Terry Bell, who says its just about one of the

Buttermilk pie, Old Orange Caf

Its a rare day at the Old Orange Caf that the most ordered dessert isnt the buttermilk pie. While this treat is one that many Southeast Texans grew up on, owner David Claybar assures us that this slice will challenge even your grandmothers recipe. We get orders for this one every day, said Claybar. Its definitely our most popular during operating hours and at catering events.

The Log-On Caf in Beaumont is known best for their unique coffees and live music. What some may not know, though, is that the caf offers a fabulous tiramisu that is as distinct in recipe as it is exquisite in flavor. Most Italian restaurants offer a cake-type of tiramisu, said Log-On owner, Gytha Grissom, but ours is a torta. Its made with chocolate cookie crust, mascarpone cheese, Kahlua, whipped cream and chocolate-covered espresso beans. Grissom said that most patrons prefer their tiramisu with coffee, but that the tiramisu is also a special treat with the right glass of wine. The Log-On Caf offers a variety of wines, including their new espresso and chocolate wines. Other desserts that are offered at the caf include carrot cake, cheesecake, apple and lemon pies, and a crowdpleasing cinnamon streusel coffee >>

photography by scott eslinger

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November 2011 21

cake, the second most popular dessert item on their menu. Everyone that has eaten the tiramisu loves it, said Grissom. The espresso beans are shipped in on dry ice from Washington and add the perfect burst of flavor to the pie.

Peach cobbler, Sugas Deep South

Our last stop on the Tour De Pies, was at Sugas Deep South in downtown Beaumont. Looking at their menu, the standard and not-so-standard desserts were offered, including a pecan praline cheesecake and crme brule. However, it was the peach cobbler that caught our eye, knowing that the best cobblers come from the Deep South. Nothing could have prepared us for this decadent dessert, except maybe the enticing scent before the plate ever even made it to our table. Decadent would be a huge understatement to describe the presentation of the peach cobbler at Sugas. Its served warm and accompanied by two scoops of their homemade peach ice cream, along with two scoops of their homemade whipped cream, then topped with sprinkled cinnamon. While its technically a pie crust, the crust of the cobbler was so gooey and full of flavor that is was more reminiscent of a bread pudding. This treat is completely made from scratch, including the base of the ice cream, using the chefs own recipe.

Peach cobbler from Suga's Deep South in downtown Beaumont.

We get requests daily for peach cobbler and it is by far our most popular item on the dessert menu, said manager, Tyler Louviere. A lot of people call and order it for house parties and even just a piece to pick up and bring home some times. Louviere advises that if you would like Sugas homemade peach cobbler and ice cream for your event, that you place the order a couple of days in advance to ensure they can do it, as orders for the cobbler are abundant during the holidays. VIP

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November 2011 23

Feast for your eyes

24 November 2011

e all have an image of Americas first Thanksgiving at Plymouth burned in our mind. And lets be honest, the participants werent that fashionable. But this season, that original harvest feast has inspired us to present you with the hottest styles and most relevant trends for the fall and winter. Present-day Pilgrims are all about fashion-forward sleek mod looks while modern Natives are sumptuous with luxe fabrics and rich jewel tones. Feast your eyes as we come together to give thanks to God, friends, family ... and fashion.
|
theVIPmag.com

vip style
h i g h f a s h i o n

text and styling by GRACE MATHIS And LAREnA HEAd photography by SILvIA C. MCCLAIn hair by HALEy HARdIn/On STAGE HAIR dESIGn makeup by GRACE MATHIS shot on location at buRnS AnTIk HAuS shoot assistance by Judy STOkELy And JuLIE buRnS
All furniture and home furnishings available at Burns Antik Haus, including 10-foot reclaimed wood French farm table, $3600; Louis XVI Double buffet, circa 1880's, $1100; Black church candlabra, circa 1880's, $720; mid-19th century hand lathed bench with tapestry, $520; Vintage Louis XVI arm chair, France mid-century $330
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November 2011 25

Present-day pilgrims
Find your inner proper Pilgrim by taking inspiration from those early forefathers who landed so long ago. This season, a contemporary take on mod 60s gives us some bold graphics think stripes and polka dots as well as sleek, sometimes geometric silhouettes. Go for muted tones like gray and black with the bold addition of white, like a white belt or stripe. And stripes are your friend. Dont be afraid to mix textures and tones, just keep the overall feel modern and elegant. Accessorize with simple statement pieces and remember: clean tailoring.

Garrison Fuller (right) Extra slim fit shirt, Express, $60; Photographer pant, Express, $60; Leather reversible belt, Express, $40; Herringbone jacket, Express, $178; Silk skinny tie, Express, $40 ; Tie clip (worn on lapel), Roundtree & Yorke, Dillards, $25; Leather boots, Steve Madden, Dillards, $70. Chasity Bobino (above) Striped top, C. Luce, Ella + Scott, $50; Camel mini skirt, Express, $60; Striped tights, Express, $17; Ankle boots, Rampage, Act II Consignment Boutique, $26; Rhinestone earrings, Anna & Ava, Dillards, $16; Silver and black statement necklace, Act II, $24; Tri-metal mesh bracelet, Act II, $24; Charcoal mesh watch, Geneva, Act II, $32; Large sparkle cocktail ring, Act II, $9.
26 November 2011 |
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Burle Mahogoney armoire from France; circa 1920's, $2200; French continental chair upholstered in vintage velvet stripes; circa 1900, $1600 for pair

Brittany Castillo (left) Ruffle dress, Coveted clothing, Ella + Scott, $39; Fuchsia tights, Express, $15; Fur jacket, Express, $198; Cloche hat, Jessica Simpson, Dillards, $54; Vintage statement jewel necklace, Burns Antik Haus, $55; Chain belt, Act II, $10; Vintage inspired ring, Jan Michaels, Burns Antik Haus, $36; Wooden bangle, Roxi Bliss, $10; Yellow bangle, Burns Antik Haus, $49; Snake cuff, Roxi Bliss, $11; Color block heels, Jessica Simpson, Dillards, $90 French reproduction arm chair, $230; French Louis XVI buffet and hutch $1900

Modern natives
Layered looks with natural elements all on a base of luxurious jewel tones are what bring to life this season the essence of our Native fathers of this land. Tribal and ethnic prints and patterns create a backdrop to highlight furs, stone and leather (or faux if you will). A carefree mix of beautiful rich tones makes it easy to play with color and come out a winner. Be bold with hats and other brave accessories and dont be afraid to pile it on!!
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November 2011 27

Robin Wiebusch (left) Rust button up, Calvin Klein, Dillards, $80; Corduroy leggings, Hue, Dillards, $40; Striped poncho, Big Buddha, Dillards, $48; Jewel tone scarf, Act II Consignment Boutique, $7; Mink stole, Burns Antik Haus, $30; Dingo boots, Durango, Journeys, $120; Red leopard earrings, Roxi Bliss, $12; Jade necklace, Burns Antik Haus, $85; Elephant necklace, Burns Antik Haus, $40; Belt (worn on arm), Ella + Scott, $14; Chain bracelet, Kenneth Cole, Dillards, $50; Leather bracelet, Dillards, $45; Vintage inspired ring, Jan Michaels, Burns Antik Haus, $24; Wool hat, Stetson, Dillards, $68 Victoria Mason Striped dress, Everly, Ella + Scott, $36; Silver earrings, Erica Lyons, Dillards, $22; Silver statement necklace, Dillards, $48; Red wide belt, Hyde Collection, Act II, $26; Silver bracelet, Burns Antik Haus, $67; Polka dot knee sock, Hue, Dillards, $7; Platform glitter heels, Gianni Bini, Dillards, $80

Mix it up. This trend has been going on for a while now, and continues to evolve. It is possible to mix patterns and textures while keeping it chic and classy. Just keep them related, have fun, and practice.

Trend alert

28 November 2011

theVIPmag.com

Jewel tones. This is one of those perfectly timed trends that will have a huge impact. Everywhere you look on the runways, in the magazines, on the street a masterfully executed mix of varying jewel tones in even one outfit is a pleasure to behold.

Trend alert

Haley Hardin (right) Green flowy top, James & Joy, Ella + Scott, $52; Red suede skirt, Daniel Marcus, Act II, $36; Striped shawl, Act II, $16; Velvet belt, Act II, $10; Snakeskin tights, Preston & York, Dillards, $10; Brown heels, BCBGirls, Act II, $26; Turquoise earrings, Bella Dame Bijoux, Roxi Bliss, $20; Rabbit necklace, Roxi Bliss, $17; 1960s bollo necklace, Burns Antik Haus, $42; Red necklace, Burns Antik Haus, $75; Black horn necklace, Ella + Scott, $14; Brown bangle set, Ella + Scott, $12; Enamel bangle set, Ella + Scott, $12; Striped bangle, Roxi Bliss, $12; Vintage inspired ring, Jan Michaels, Burns Antik Haus, $44
| November 2011 29

theVIPmag.com

vip style
c o s t u m e s

Cirque

haute
A

couture
The acrobatics are only part of the spectacle of Cirque du Soleils Dralion
text by CaThleen Cole
zala, the goddess of air, floats in space draped in hues of blue. Gaya, the goddess of Earth, dances with vitality in garments of red, yellow and brown. Oceane, the goddess of water, flows with the tides in shades of green. Yao, the guide to the fiery demons, represents good and evil while adorned in red and gold. Among them are dralions mystical beasts that are half dragon from the East and half lion from the West prancing to the musical rhythms while shaking their golden, shaggy heads. The otherworldly beings set the stage for lithe athletes performing feats of skill and strength, their embellished apparel bright and sparkling in the light. Dralion, a production of Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil playing at Ford Park this month, fuses the 3,000-year-old tradition of Chinese acrobatic arts with a modern, multidisciplinary approach. Featuring 50 acrobats, gymnasts, musicians and singers, all the performers are enhanced by their extravagant costumes. In 1998, Canadian costume designer Franois Barbeau joined the team of designers behind Cirque du Soleils Dralion. His works earned him an Emmy in 2001, awarded by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for Outstanding Costumes for a Variety or Music Program. Cirque du Soleils costumes are vivid and add to the performances excitement, according to Kelly Draper, associate professor of theater at Lamar University. As a costume designer himself, he appreciates the difficulty of designing outfits for acrobats and gymnasts. They
30 November 2011 |
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Original costume sketches for Cirque du Soleils Dralion.

never impair the performer, he said of Cirque du Soleils costumes. The designer is always very body-conscious regarding what the performer has to do on stage. The Dralion wardrobe team, which is responsible for maintaining and repairing all the costumes, includes four permanent touring staff members and three local wardrobe employees in each city. Each performer might have between three to six costumes, depending on how many acts he or she is in. Each costume needs to have a backup, so the count is doubled. The show has about 1,500 costume pieces including shoes, hats and accessories. Melody Wood, head of wardrobe for the Dralion production, is in charge of them all. Our job is to do the maintenance repairing, washing, ironing, she said. The team travels with washers and dryers because most of the costume pieces are machine washable. Most of the outfits are custom-made for the performers, but sometimes some tweaking is needed. An acrobat might need extra padding at the knees and elbows, for example. Wood and her team will add to the costume to make the artist more comfortable while not changing the original look of the garment. We work more closely with the artist for the long-term in the show, she said. If the performers feel good in their costumes, they can concentrate on their performances. My aim is to make them as comfortable as possible, so they can give the best performance possible, she said. Backstage during a production is busy but not chaotic, Wood explained. Performers are hurrying off to change while others are warming up for their acts. Its not crazy, she said. Its a steady-paced show. All the while, she and her team keep in radio contact and stay alert for any problems with the costumes such as a torn seam or a ripped hem. So far, there have been no major wardrobe malfunctions. Nothing thats stopped the show, she noted. That would be the only time I would really panic. Wood praises the splendid array of costumes that add movement, color and character, but she is quick to point out that they are just one element adding to the pageantry. Lighting, special effects and music also make the incredible artists look more stunning. People come to be wowed, she explained. It takes all the staged elements to make the production as spectacular as it is. VIP
Cirque du Soleils Dralion, Ford Park, Beaumont, Nov. 23-27. Tickets: cirquedusoleil.com/dralion or 800.745.3000

Wardrobe wonders
More than 16,000 feet of fabric were used in creating the costumes. The fabrics come from around the world including China, the United States, Italy, France, England and Canada. Unusual materials that were used in creating costumes and accessories include horse hair, raffia, metal, window screen, emu feathers, crystals, bubble wrap, fun fur and an array of hardware items. The artisans at the Cirque du Soleil costume workshop in Montreal worked for more than three months fabricating the original costumes, hats, wigs and footwear required for Dralion. New costumes are continuously made. The majority of the Dralion costumes are custom-made for each artist including shoes and head pieces. Dralion has close to 1,500 costume pieces including shoes, hats and accessories. More than 300 pairs of shoes are cleaned and painted by hand every week.
Source: Cirque du Soleil | November 2011 31

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K a t h a r i n e C a r m i c h a e l

In Good

Taste

34 November 2011

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photography by sCoTT eslINGer

atharine Carmichaels simple pleasure became her calling

text by Cheryl rose

omeone once told Katharine Carmichael that her best talent is her ability to recognize when something is missing. On first hearing, it doesnt sound like much of a compliment. However, in cooking, that refined tasting judgment is just the talent that can define average from delectable.
Carmichaels attention to detail, coupled with her exquisite good taste in food and dcor, is well-known by patrons of her restaurant and catering business, Katharine & Company. During any busy lunch hour of the popular restaurant, Carmichael provides the calm and steady center of the business she built from her own joy of cooking.

fussed with a lot. I dont think food needs to be art. Though the food should be simple in Carmichaels philosophy, it should also be well-presented. I enjoy using old silver, linen napkins and seasonal flowers and greenery, she said.I love working with the details to create an ambiance that feeds the soul as well as the body.

ambiance. One day, the property manager for the building came to her asking if shed be interested in taking over the recently vacated restaurant. Carmichael hesitated, and then said no.

Reduction: Boiling down for richness and flavor

Garnish: Adding an edible item for attractiveness

Al Dente: Tender, but firm

The easy-going demeanor of the soft-spoken Carmichael reflects the quiet confidence of a woman who knows her mind and what she likes when it comes to food and presentation. Early on, Carmichael discovered her love for Mediterranean flavors and that has been her focus ever since. She enjoys experimenting with different foods and flavors, but has to really like a dish herself before offering it to others. Cooking is enormously creative, she said. Once you learn a few basic rules, you can make something delicious with a few fresh, simple ingredients, she said. I dont think food needs a lot of adornment or needs to be

Carmichael never intended to own a restaurant, though she always loved to cook. Her cooking education began as a young girl growing up in Beaumont, the daughter of a rice farmer. Her mother cooked solid, simple foods made with rice and gravy. However, her grandmother experimented with French cooking, baking crme brulee and cassoulets, and was well-known for her homemade mayonnaise. Cooking was just something Carmichael enjoyed, not a career plan. She was working as a bookkeeper in 1988 when a friend asked her to make a lunch for some volunteers involved in the Art Museum of Southeast Texas. The luncheon was such a success, Carmichael was invited to run the museums kitchen, which she did for five years. Afterward, she ventured out on her own, offering private catering. In 1997, she opened Katharine & Company on Calder Avenue when she noticed the need for gourmet to-go foods delicious, fresh and locally made foods that were ready to eat for lunch or dinner. Carmichael was having fun with the business, creating new menus each day. She lived in the historic Mildred Building, a place she loved for its unique architecture and Old World

I never wanted to have a restaurant, Carmichael remembered. However, the lure of the Mildred Building, with its details of stained glass and brass fittings, was too much for her. She changed her mind. In 2004, she created a bistro that feels organic to the historic building, with a huge bar salvaged from an old hotel and a unique mural painted free-hand by artist Clint Ray. The painting was actually done on the back of a large carpet with the goal of offering some sound insulation to the big open space. An antique shop owner acquaintance located the tables and benches. Carmichael steered clear of neon and other modern touches, conscious of the special setting and her own sense of art and antiques.

Resting: Allowing the juices to redistribute

The restaurant and catering business eats up the hours, which means working most nights and weekends, even though the restaurant is only open for lunch. When Carmichael has time to herself, she enjoys several quiet pastimes such as embroidery, gardening, movies and reading novels and whodunits. She loves decorating and is fond of antiques. Naturally, she also likes to cook. In her private kitchen, her nice-but-ordinary apartment kitchen, Carmichael experiments. She is always looking at new cookbooks and reading

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November 2011 35

ooking is enormously creative. Once you learn a few basic rules, you can make something delicious with a few fresh, simple ingredients. Katharine Carmichael
Carmichaels favorite cookbooks
biographies of chefs she admires. She has found that all of her hobbies inspire her in her business, but the most direct influence has come from her love of traveling. Carmichael has traveled extensively overseas and throughout the United States. She makes a point of visiting the most interesting restaurants wherever she happens to be. I dont travel anywhere that I dont get some inspiration about presentation or flavors, she said. For examples, she noted two menu favorites of the restaurant that developed from ideas she gleaned while traveling: The fish tacos are influenced by a variation she tasted in Colorado, and the mango and avocado salad is a spin on one she sampled in Mexico.

Alice Waters and Chez Panisse: The Romantic, Impractical, Often Eccentric, Ultimately Brilliant Making of a Food Revolution by Thomas McNamee Appetite by Nigel Slater The Best Thing Ive Ever Tasted: The Secret of Food by Sallie Tisdale Blood, Bones & Butter: The Inadvertent Education of a Reluctant Chef by Gabrielle Hamilton The Cook and the Gardener : A Year of Recipes and Writings for the French Countryside by Amanda Hesser Eat, Memory: Great Writers at the Table: A Collection of Essays from the New York Times by Amanda Hesser A Feast of Words: For Lovers of Food Fiction by Anna Shapiro Nobody Knows the Truffles Ive Seen by George Lang When French Women Cook: A Gastronomic Memoir by Madeleine Kamman and anything by or about M.F.K. Fisher!

Chef de cuisine: The leader in the kitchen

Though Carmichael has no formal training in cooking, she has taken classes at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and Tante Maries in San Francisco over the years, generally when a chef she admires is teaching. The & Company in the restaurant name means a great deal to the proprietor. Carmichael praised her staff,

a group of long-term employees, low on drama and high on loyalty. The group is a quasi-family for Carmichael but includes her blood relative too daughter Tessa, who also helps in the business. Carmichael supervises in the kitchen, but often spends the lunch hour among her customers, frequently behind the serving bar as a consistent presence. Though she has many

helpers, Carmichael remains the heart of the business, extending her nurturing nature to all through her skills. I love what I do, she said simply.
Katharine & Company, 1495 Calder Ave., Beaumont, 409.833.9919. Open for lunch on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Open the first Thursday of each month for dinner from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. as part of First Thursdays at the Mildred.

www.paintingwithatwist.com/beaumont
36 November 2011 |
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vip spotlight
s e t e x a s e v e n t s

Ubi Caritas Date Auction

Tara Folsom, Laken Hamilton Sarah Bolton, Traci Coleman Clark Baker, Fisher Maddox

Lauren Stewart, Kalie Desimond and Christina Sterling

Jason Nicks, Niq Hunter

Heath Thompson, Jessica Prince and David Thompson

Judge Randy Shelton, Kay Miller and Bob and Judy Powell

Will Celli, Seth Danna

Meagan Youngblood, Ayna Sehgal

Amanda Turner, Leo Danna, Jr., Pam Danna and Leo Danna, Sr.

Scott Ali
theVIPmag.com

November 2011 37

Lamar football
scott eslinger

Kaltrina Harbuzi, Czudek Helene, Alessandra Pennesi

Bark for Life

kyle peterson

Christian Contreras, Daniella Church and Martha Briseno

Jeff Ettenger, Chris Jones

Keith Siebenthall, Leslie Beard

Seth Dornak, Brad Picha and Stephen Seger

Wizard of Oz, Port Arthur Little Theater

Gwen Stelly and Mel Morrison Cheryl and Kiley Roebuck

Kayla Kay, Callie Gentry, Jordyn Bodden, Resa Pletcher and Elizabeth Drago

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Front: Jesse LaBouef, Jdynne Illa-Postel. Middle: Elise Bourque, Isabella Avila,Addison Kernen, Mia LeBouef, Marie Monteaux. Back: Brieleigh Smith, Maiya Bowden, Maggie Babineaux
ren sheppard

38 November 2011

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theVIPmag.com

November 2011 39

Cast off!
c r u i s i n g

vip travel

text by MarGaret Battistelli Gardner

5 new ships call Galveston home

olks who have never taken a cruise might find the cost offputting. But dig a little deeper and youll find that the almost-all-inclusive nature of cruising makes it a great vacation deal especially when compared with the cost of staying at a hotel and buying every meal, every day, plus activities. Generally, the base cost of a seven-night cruise runs roughly $1,000 per person, although savvy hunters can sometimes find deep discounts. Not bad considering all thats included. But theres one annoying hitch: the darned airfare to get cruisers to and from their departure points, which often adds an extra $300 to $500 per person to the cost of the trip.

However, southeast Texans have quite the advantage when it comes to cruising. Its called Galveston. Less than a two-hour drive from Beaumont, Galveston is the gateway to numerous ports of call. Though not yet as bustling cruise-wise as ports on the east and west coasts, Galveston is drawing more attention from cruise lines, and its cruise terminal is undergoing a $12 million enhancement to accommodate growing crowds. Changes include a new gangway and security-screening stations, as well as more seats, restroom facilities and crowd-control barriers. Cruise lines seem to be getting it that the third coast is home to plenty of potential travelers who are either shelling out lots for airfare to east or west coast departure ports or simply not cruising at all. Royal Caribbean, for example, is in the midst of expanding its Gulf strategy, according to Lyan Sierra-Caro, senior account executive, Brand Communications, for the line, which

also will be sailing out of New Orleans and Tampa, Fla. Were looking to attract the drive-to market, those people who can get to Galveston or New Orleans even, Sierra-Caro said. We leave right from their backyards. Within the year, five more ships will be leaving from Galveston, all with Caribbean itineraries. Heres what ships you can expect to see sailing away from the cruise terminal in Galveston in the coming months:

Royal Caribbean

Between November 2011 and April 2012, Royal Caribbeans Mariner of the Seas will offer two alternating seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries with stops in Mexico, Grand Cayman and Jamaica. It kicks off the season with a nine-night trip leaving Nov. 11. RCCL isnt new to Galveston. But its swapping out Voyager of the Seas for Mariner of the Seas in order to give folks who choose to sail from there a slightly different experience. The 138,279-ton, 3,114-passenger Mariner of the Seas is part of RCCLs Voyager class, which is heavy on on-board activities. They include ice-skating rinks, roller-blading,

40 November 2011

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KENNETH D. WILGERS
M.D. P.A.
Certified American Board of Family Practice Full Service Medical Clinic Treating Adults and Children Same Day Appointments Available Medical Weight Loss
miniature golf, rock-climbing walls and sports courts, as well as amenities for fans of alterna-sports such as relaxation, fine dining, Broadway-style theater productions and shopping. A big draw is the Royal Promenade, the ships main thoroughfare, which hosts shops and eateries and even elaborate parades. Guests can get cabins that overlook it, making it a perfect people-watching experience. Mariner is very family-friendly and includes a kid-exclusive outdoor deck space. is more casual than in Carnivals Dream class, which includes the Magic.

Disney Cruises

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnivals newest ship, the Carnival Magic, will operate seven-day Caribbean cruises from Galveston beginning Nov. 14 with ports of call in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel (western) and Nassau, Freeport and Key West (eastern). Carnival Triumph will reposition from New Orleans to Galveston to operate four- and five-day Western Caribbean cruises year-round with ports of call in Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico, beginning Oct. 6. Carnival offers a host of amenities to accommodate most types of cruisers. The 130,000ton, 3,690-passenger Magic has a wide range of activities for kids, including a huge water park with a 300-gallon dump bucket. But folks not into the kid thing can take refuge in the large adults-only Serenity area; fitness fans can sweat it out on the basketball and volleyball courts, as well as pump some iron on the first muscle beach at sea (offering outdoor weight machines and pull-up bars). For something completely different, true daredevils can harness up and flop around on the high-abovedeck rope course. The 102,000-ton, 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph still has loads of activities for kids and families, but the overall feel

Beginning Sept. 22, 2012, the 83,000-ton, 1,754-passenger Disney Magic, not to be confused with the Carnival Magic, will sail sevennight cruises from Galveston to the Western Caribbean, with ports of call that include Grand Cayman, Costa Maya and Cozumel. Prices for Disney cruises tend to run a little higher than those of its competitors, but it offers something the others simply cant: the Disney experience, including magical deck parties with an unmistakably Disney feel. Plus Disney tends to offer great rates for children traveling with two adults. Other family-friendly amenities include expanded kids club offerings, more stateroom choices to accommodate larger parties rooming together and even split bathrooms.

Botox & Restylane Treatments Lab & Xray Available on Site

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Princess Cruises

Princess hasnt sailed out of Texas since 2007. But starting next winter, the Crown Princess will move to Galveston for a series of seven-night sailings to the Western Caribbean with stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel; the Honduras and Belize. The voyages will kick off on Dec. 22, 2012, and continue through April 27, 2013. The 113,000-ton, 3,080-passenger Crown Princess offers something for just about every class of traveler. It makes a decided effort to accommodate those traveling sans children with its large, adults-only Sanctuary at the top of the ship, but there are plenty of activities for kids too, including Wii and Playstation competitions. Theres also a big-screen, poolside theater. Another fun offering and one that many cruise lines have done away with are behind-the-scenes ship tours. Bon voyage! VIP

CRUISE
call the Experts at

If you are looking for the right

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November 2011 41

vip adviser
h o l i d a y p l a n n i n g

An itinerary to keep your family entertained and your holidays stress-free

text by Cheryl rose

Now what?
hough the focus is the feast, there are many more hours to fill when you have company visiting or kids out of school. Here are our top suggestions to keep the crowd in your house happily occupied throughout the holiday.

The turkeys done. your guests are full.

Thanksgiving Day
21st Annual Turkey Trot 10k, 5k, Kids K, 8 a.m. Prepare your appetite with pre-feast exercise. Race begins at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24, at Tyrrell Park. To participate, you must register by Nov. 23. There will be no race day registration. Register by Nov. 11 and save $5 on the fee. About 1,000 entrants are expected so plan to arrive early. All kids will get finisher medals. Music, post-race food and drink and tech shirt are included. searimstriders.org
MORNING

62nd Annual HEB Holiday Parade Join the expected 400,000 parade-goers lining the streets of downtown Houston Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 24. The parade officially starts at 9 a.m., but youll need to secure your curb space early. holidayparadehouston.org/ The MCM Elegante Hotel is taking reservations now for their Thanksgiving extravaganza buffet and you definitely need a reservation. The hotel will serve nearly 1,000 people from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The buffet is 400 linear feet of traditional holiday fare including carving stations, pasta station, wine bar, soups, salads and about 80 different desserts. 409.842.3600
DINING

If youre concerned about your race cred, dont wear your Turkey Trot 2011 shirt to the race. Seasoned runners tell us this is a rookie mistake. Though it is cool to wear shirts from previous races, its a newbie look to wear the same shirt for the race you are running.
42 November 2011 |
theVIPmag.com

Tip

photography by BeAumonT enTerprise sTAff

Dont add anything to your tree water not aspirin, not 7UP, nada. Tree farmers tell us Texas A&M has done extensive research that indicates plain water and plenty of it are the best thing for the longevity of your tree.

Tip

AFTERNOON

Christmas Tree Farms Pulling out the Christmas decorations is often a tradition of Thanksgiving weekend. Selecting the Christmas tree is a great adventure for the whole family. >> K & K Evergreen Farms, 3154 rms, Pea Farm Rd., Orange, 409.746.2412. Open Thanksgiving Day at 2 p.m. Friday/Saturday, 9 a.m. to dark, Sunday 2 p.m. to dark. Virginia Pines and Fraser Firs. Choose and cut or choose and reserve. Trees range 4-10 feet, $25-$80. Picnic area, trails, livestock, complimentary coffee and cider. >> Bozeman Tree Farm, 7470 Hickory Hollow, Lumberton, 409.755.2706. Open Thanksgiving Day at 2 p.m. Friday/Saturday/Sunday 10 a.m. to dark, rain or shine. Virginia Pines and Fraser Firs. >> Reaves Christmas Tree Farm and Nursery, 132 CR-4199 (Hartburg exit), Orange, 409.746.2522. Closed Thanksgiving Day but open Friday/Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Virginia Pine and Leyland Cypress, 5-20 feet. Football Schedule (CST) Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions, 11:30 a.m. Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys, 3:15 p.m. Texas at Texas A&M, 7:00 p.m. S.F. 49ers at Baltimore Ravens, 7:20 p.m.
EVENING

Be of Service Nov. 21-22 Show your gratitude by assisting others during the holiday. Some Other Place, Inc. needs assistance early in the week to set up their Thanksgiving Store. Pre-selected low/no income families will get to select the foods they wish for their Thanksgiving meal. Volunteers can help with set-up, distribution and home delivery to shut-ins. Donations of non-perishable Thanksgiving foods or money to buy gift cards for meat and dairy products all very welcome. sopbmt.org

Pre-T hanksgiving Tip

Friday
Black Friday shopping >> Even with more discount deals beginning sooner, Black Friday is still a monster day for retail sales, online or brick and mortar. You can prepare like a general for battle by utilizing various Black Friday Web pages, apps and social media fan deals. Following current trends, the best deals will most likely be in electronics such as HDTVs, laptops, tablets, video games and appliances. >> If youre not into the crush and rush of Black Friday, browsing the local antique stores is a much calmer pastime. The unique stores and merchandise are perfect hunting grounds for Christmas presents. Antiquing also makes a good outing for those out-of-town visitors, who have plenty of box stores wherever they live. Burns Antik Haus, for example, will have a new European container shipment just arrived before the holiday weekend. >> Another option for the weekend away from
theVIPmag.com

MORNING

Dralion presented by Cirque du Soleil at Ford Park. 7:30 p.m, Nov. 23-25, 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m, Nov. 26, and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 27. Movie Openings Family shows are the order of the day with Arthur Christmas 3D, The Muppets and Hugo in wide release the day before the holiday. Adults with strong stomachs may want to try Piranha 3DD. The biggest opening of the month is Twilight: Breaking Dawn (Part One) on Nov. 18.

No need to stand in long lines and be disappointed by a sold-out movie. Buy your tickets in advance online at Fandango.com. Even if you secure your tickets online, arrive at theater 30 minutes early this busy weekend to ensure the seating you desire and to cope with concession lines.

Tip

November 2011 43

the malls and box stores is the Santas Gift Market at the Beaumont Civic Center. This vendor show has arts, crafts, antiques and unusual items for sale Friday to Sunday. Admission $4 for adults, discounted to $2 on Sunday. beaumont-tx-complex.com Nature Parks >> Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center will have fall leaf color in the woods and gardens. Out-oftown visitors will enjoy the experience of the bayou and peaceful boat rides to the Cypress Swamp. Shangri La will be closed Thanksgiving Day, b open for the weekend at normal hours. but shangrilagardens.org
AFTERNOON

The musical script for this stage production was actually written by Gary Marshall, who created the popular TV program. During this fun, fast-paced show, sharp-eyed audience members may catch a glimpse of the King and James Dean in addition to The Fonz and friends. Wylie Hubbard perform Nov. 26. Doors open at 7 p.m. 877.643.7508, nuttyjerrys.com Happy Days presented by the Port Arthur Little Theatre, Nov. 25-27, Dec. 1-4 and Dec. 8-11 at the Port Arthur Little Theatre Playhouse. 409.727.7258, palt.org. Club Salsa at The Gig on Crockett Street, 10 p.m.

Tip

Determined to get that high-demand item for chump change on Black Friday? Skip Beaumont and hit some of the rural chains. Last year, we scored big at the Walmarts in Silsbee and Jasper.

Tip

>> A favorite attraction for visitors is Gator Country, which will also be open for the weekend. Though winter is a dormant time for reptiles, there will still be the usual shows with alligators, snakes and turtles. gatorrescue.com Thank God for Texas Music Festival at Nutty Jerrys in Winnie. Pat Green, Hayes Carll and Kyle Park perform Nov. 25. Casey Donahew Band, Adam Hood and Ray
EVENING

Saturday
Nature Parks Catch a little fall color as maple and oaks turn red and yellow among the pines at Village Creek State Park. Take a day trip or book a tent or RV camping spot. There is a nature program at 10 a.m. Saturday, typically about wild turkeys on this holiday weekend. You dont need a license to fish within the park, so bring your pole to enjoy the peace and quiet.
MORNING

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Join Floyds for Happy Hour Specials M-F 4PM-7PM 2290 IH 10 South at Washington (409) 842-0686

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Sun - Thur 11am - 10pm Fri - Sat 11am - 11pm

(409) 722-2228
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44 November 2011

Art Exhibits >> Art Museum of Southeast Texas: Obsessive Worlds, amset.org >> Dishman Art Museum: Anandam: Collages by MG Raffic Ahamed, lamar.edu/dishman >> Museum of the Fine Arts, Houston: Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharoahs, mfah.org >> Museum of the Gulf Coast: Cruising the Fossil Freeway, museumofthegulfcoast.org >> Stark Museum of Art: Visions of the West, starkmuseum.org Art Activity Painting with a Twist is hosting a Family Day Christmas painting party on Nov. 26 from noon-2 p.m. Painters are led step by step through the painting and all art supplies and snacks are included. Take home a finished painting for $35/painter. There will be an adults-only session the day before on Nov. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. paintingwithatwist.com Scrooge presented by the Beaumont Community Players, Nov. 25-26, Dec. 2-3 and Dec. 9-10 at the Betty Greenberg Center for the Performing Arts. 409.833.4664, beaumontcommunityplayers.com
EVENING AFTERNOON

During the Thanksgiving weekend in 2009, the Texas Highway Patrol arrested 449 drunk drivers and wrote more than 10,000 speeding tickets. In addition, 820 seat belt and child restraint citations were issued. Buckle up and designate a driver!

Tip

Sunday
So often we overlook the interesting places in our own town, so use your visitors as an excuse to visit the local attractions. The Texas Energy Museum is open 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The McFaddinWard House Museum offers free tours of the first floor only and carriage house between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The Nutcracker presented by the Houston Ballet. Show times: 2 p.m: Nov. 26, 27, 7:30p.m.: Nov. 25, 26, 27. houstonballet. org VIP
EVENING AFTERNOON

Summer Place 2485 South Major Dr. Call Becca at 409-861-4611 Cypress Glen 7200 9th Ave. Call Lluvia at 409-729-8701

Hometown choices for skilled nursing care and individualized medical rehabilitation. Beaumont Orange
The Meadows 4201 FM 105 Call Lori at 409-883-8803

TRISUN Healthcare

Victorian Chic
LA-TEE-DA
4004 Dowlen next to Hobby Lobby
theVIPmag.com

Port Arthur

Cypress Glen East 4225 Lake Arthur Dr. Call Christina at 409-727-3193

Call for more information or stop by today for a tour!

Mens and Womens Boutique

November 2011 45

r ! aine nth ont Mo w C s This Ne ive Arr

Ellis Pottery is your one stop shop for all of your home dcor and gardening needs! We have a great selection of Christmas items: artificial trees, ornaments, ribbon, stocking stuffers, and more.

NEW LOCATION! Southeast Texas highest ranking Black Belt, 9th degree Grand Master Fred A. Simon, is now offering classes in his new studio. Study martial arts under a Texas Legends Hall of Fame and Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame Member. Call now to reserve a spot for you or your child! Classes are conveniently offered at noon and at night. *Member of the BBB

A direct importer of European Antiques, Burns Antik Haus, located on Calder at 6th Street, can help you bring old world charm to your home. Open Tues - Thurs 10 am to 5 pm and Fri - Sat 10 am to 3 pm. (409) 835-3080 Also follow Burns on Facebook! www.facebook.com/burnsantikhaus

Ellis Home Dcor & Garden 3737 Calder, Beaumont, TX 409-839-8473 www.ellispottery.com

Want to add a fancy twist to your seasonal dcor? Mark Roberts Christmas items have arrived just in time for the holiday season! Featured are the Holly Bell Elf, the Nutcracker Fairy, and the Gingerbread Stocking Holder. These items and many of their limited edition friends are all the rage this Christmas. Come by Nickolinas to check out our unique seasonal dcor and gift items! Nickolinas 1257 W. Lucas Beaumont, TX 77706 409.896.2543 www.nickolinas.com

fabulous nds
Retailers we love and their merchandise we love to have!
Cat5 is available to check out every Thursaday in the Beaumont Enterprise and it is distributed to the top locations in the Golden Triangle.

Fred A. Simons Tae Kwon Do 3965 Phelan Plaza, Suite 107 Beaumont, TX

409.860.5744

Two Magnolias is dedicated to bringing you the most reliable and delectable catering services in Southeast Texas. Whether its helping with those special extras for your Holiday Feast, or preparing and planning the entire menu, Two Magnolias can accommodate your needs. We are conveniently located inside the Art Museum of Southeast Texas . a perfect setting for your Special Occasion. Hot lunches served daily.

Two Magnolias Catering 500 Main Street Beaumont Located inside the Art Museum of Southeast Texas 409.833.5913

FABs Yard Signs. Get ready for the Holidays with our creative, high quality yard signs. We can also customize just for you! .... Decorate your yard for the Holidays. FABs Yard Signs Located inside the Rustic Door 1344 Boston Avenue - Nederland 409-790-8491 FB-fabsyardsigns@yahoo.com

VINTAGE REPUBLIC introduces Seasonal Whispers, a new collection that lets you change your mind and your mood without changing your jewelry. Made in the USA.
The best spot to find out what is going on with the latest trends in dining, night life, music, art, events, and fashion in the Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana areas. thecat5.com

Vintage Republic 8710 Central Mall Dr. 409-729-1197 Port Arthur, TX (beside Central Mall, next to Two & Co.)

Thanksgiving
November 24
If you dont feel like cooking and cleaning, enjoy the elegant Thanksgiving spread at the MCM Elegante. If youd rather be there then watch it on TV, catch the annual HEB Thanksgiving parade in downtown Houston. Find everything to do over the Thanksgiving weekend on page 42.

Harvest of Hope Gala benefiting Catholic Charities of SE Texas

November 10

great dates in november

Lamar's Bard on the Bayou Series: Fall Dance Concert and Gala TAN's Paint the Town Red: A Toast to Elizabeth Taylor
November 3
Friends of the Triangle AIDS Network host this elegant evening of art, auctions, entertainment, dancing and fine dining. This is the major annual fund-raiser to benefit TAN. The gala will recognize the late actress Elizabeth Taylor's pioneering efforts on behalf of people living with HIV/AIDS. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Beaumont Country Club with the red-carpet arrival of guests, a champagne reception, hors d'oeuvres and silent auction. Proceeds support client services and educational efforts of TAN. Reservations are $85 per person. Call 409.832.8338, ext. 225. The concert will include choreography inspired by the works of William Shakespeare, 7:30 p.m. at University Theatre, 4400 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. Tickets are $15 general admission; $10 for senior citizens, students and LU faculty/staff; and $7 for LU students. (409) 880-2250.

November 17-18

The gala is an annual event which raises funds for Catholic Charities of Southeast Texas, a nonprofit organization providing help for low income residents in a nine county area by the Diocese of Beaumont, regardless of faith or religious preference. The event takes place 6 to 9 p.m. at the MCM Elegante Hotel, Beaumont and includes cocktails, dinner and musical entertainment. Tickets $125 per person. (409) 924-4421 or email csidbury@ catholiccharitiesbmt.org

{ November }
NOVEMBER 3
St. Marks Chili Supper and Bazaar
St. Marks Episcopal Church, Beaumont. Bazaar hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; chili served 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. (409) 832-3405.

Mamie McFaddin Wards Birthday Tea at the McFaddin Ward House

November 5
In honor of Mamie McFaddin Wards s 116th birthday, all tours are free for the day! Start in the visitor center for complimentary refreshments and tea then tour the first floor of the museum. Tea and refreshments based on family recipes will be served. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 409.832.1906, mcfaddin-ward.org.

1257 W. Lucas Drive, Beaumont. 5 to 8 p.m. (409) 896-2543.

Nickolinas Holiday Open House

Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Tickets $25, $45, $65, $100. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.

Dwight Yoakam, with guest Aaron Watson

Lamarissimo! Faculty Artists Concert

7:30 p.m., Julie Rogers Theater, Beaumont. (409) 880-8144 or www. lamar.edu/music

Do you have an event you would like to promote? Do it with VIP for FREE! Please send us detailsdates, times, location, contact phone, web address and a brief descriptionto dconstantine@thevipmag.com. Information should arrive at least 60 days in advance of the event.
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Event Submissions

November 2011 47

Art of Dying, Emphatic and New Medicine, 8 p.m., SRO at Ford Park, Beaumont. Advance tickets $14; $17 day of show. www.ticketmaster.com or call (800) 745-3000.

Adelitas Way

Nov. 12-13; Barbarian Invasion, Nov. 19-20; and Celtic Christmas, Nov. 2527. For ticket information, go to www. texrenfest.com or (800) 458-3435.

Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Tickets $27, $32, $38, $48. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com. 7 p.m., Nederland High School Performing Arts Center, (409) 8808144

Jake Owen

NOVEMBER 23-27
7:30 p.m. Nov. 23-25, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 26, and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 27, Ford Arena, Beaumont. (800) 7453000 or www.ticketmaster.com

Cirque du Soleil Dralion

NOVEMBER 6
Shrek: The Musical
1:30 and 6:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater, www.lutcher.org or (409) 886-5535.

Lamar Band Concert

NOVEMBER 3-5
Beaumont Community Players, at the Betty Greenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beaumont. (409) 833-4664 or www. beaumontcommunityplayers.com

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)

NOVEMBER 24
Thanksgiving Day

NOVEMBER 11
Veterans Day Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Tickets $25, $35, $45, $55. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.

NOVEMBER 17-18
Bard on the Bayou Series: Fall Dance Concert and Gala
7:30 p.m., Lamar University. Beaumont. (409) 880-2250.

NOVEMBER 25-26
Scrooge
Betty Greenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beaumont. (409) 833-4664 or www. beaumontcommunityplayers.com Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Pat Green, Hayes Carll and Kyle Park perform Nov. 25; Casey Donahew Band, Adam Hood and Ray Wylie Hubbard perform Nov. 26. Tickets $25, $35, $45. (877) 643-7508 or www. nuttyjerrys.com.

The Guess Who

NOVEMBER 4
The B-52s perform, at the Houston Zoo, Houston. (713) 533-6713 or www. houstonzoo.org/feastfaq

NOVEMBER 18
Coushatta Casino Resort, Kinder, La. Tickets $61.75, $71.75, $82 and $92.35. (800) 745-3000 or www. ticketmaster.com.

Feast With the Beasts

NOVEMBER 11-12
Amahl and the Night Visitors
Lamar Opera Studio, 7:30 p.m., Rothwell Recital Hall, (409) 880-8144

Willie Nelson

Thank God for Texas Music Festival

NOVEMBER 5
Trade Days in the Park
8 a.m.-4 p.m., LaRousse Park and Community Center, Bevil Oaks. Crafts, antiques, food, handmade gifts and more. (409) 880-5526.

NOVEMBER 12
Rip the Red Carpet!
7 p.m., the Setzer Center Ballroom at Lamar University, Beaumo 5:30 p.m., Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. (409) 790-4506 or (409) 781-5824. Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Tickets $25, $35, $65, $80. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.

NOVEMBER 18-19
Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.

Frontier Rodeo and Jimmy Ray

NOVEMBER 25-27
Big Thicket Trade Days Grounds, Kountze. (409) 880-5667. 2-6 p.m. Nov. 25; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 26; and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 27, Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. (409) 225-2739. Port Arthur Little Theatre Playhouse, Port Arthur. (409) 727-7258 or www. palt.org.

10 a.m.- 4 p.m., McFaddin-Ward House, Beaumont. Museum tours, tea and refreshments. Free. Reservations: (409) 832-1906.

Mamie McFaddins Birthday Tea

India Fest 2011

NOVEMBER 18-20
Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. (214) 635-2009.

Big Thicket Trade Days

Lone Star Gun Shows

Santas Gift Market

Josh Turner

Symphony Debutante Ball

NOVEMBER 19
Beaumont Civic Ballet fundraiser, 10 a.m., Beaumont Country Club, Beaumont. (409) 838-4397.

Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. (409) 892-2257 or www.sost.org.

Sugar Plum Breakfast

Julie Rogers Theatre, Beaumont. Tickets $25. (409) 838-3435.

The Highwaymen

NOVEMBER 13
3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, Beaumont.

Happy Days

Beaumont Interfaith Choral Society Concert

Lamar football

Tribute to Johnny Preston

vs. McNeese State, 6 p.m., Provost Umphrey Stadium

Jivin Gene, Johnny Tillotson, Chris Montez and Dickie Lee perform, 7:30 p.m., Lamar State College-Port Arthur Theatre Performing Arts Center, Port Arthur. Tickets $20. (409) 982-7000.

NOVEMBER 29
Lamar Civic Orchestra
7:30 p.m., Setzer Student Center Ballroom. (409) 880-8144

Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.

Carson & Barnes Circus

NOVEMBER 20
1:30 and 6:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts, 707 Main St., Orange. (409) 745-5535, (800) 8285535 or www.lutcher.org.

South Pacific

NOVEMBER 14
Beaumont Country Club, Beaumont. Proceeds benefit the Beaumont Chapter of the American Red Cross. (409) 981-3829 or email crambin@ entergy.com

vs. Stephen F. Austin, 6 p.m., Provost Umphrey Stadium 7:30 p.m., Palace Theater, Kirbyville. (409) 423-3319.

Lamar football

Power to Play Charity Golf Classic

Country Music Show

NOVEMBER 5-6
Restless Heart headlines, 5 p.m. to midnight Nov. 5, 2 to 6 p.m. Nov. 6, Vidor. (409) 769-6339 or www. vidorchamber.com 21778 FM 1774, Plantersville. Roman Bacchanal, Nov. 5-6; Highland Fling,

NOVEMBER 17
Pour Les Enfants For The Children
6:30-10 p.m., at the Garth House, Beaumont. Gourmet dinning, live and silent auctions. Cost $75 per person. (409) 838-9084 or www.garthhouse. org.

December Preview
DECEMBER 2
In the Heights 7:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater, Orange Scrooge, The Musical Beaumont Community Players, Betty Greenberg Center

Texas Star Music Festival

DECEMBER 2-3, 9-10 DECEMBER 3

Texas Renaissance Festival

Beaumont Christmas Holiday Festival & Parade 6p.m., downtown Beaumont

DECEMBER 9-11

The Nutcracker Beaumont Civic Ballet, Julie Rogers Theatre

48 November 2011

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Dear VIP, I wanted to briefly contact you regarding the recent article that your magazine published concerning Southeast Texas Most Influential Women. In particular, I wanted to touch on the article written by Margaret Battistelli Gardner that featured my wife Becky Ames. I personally know many of the individuals featured and overall I felt that the articles were great. n Beckys situation, she has been in public service almost 20 years. During that period, there have been other articles written regarding Beckys efforts to help make our City better. In my opinion, none of the previous articles written have fully captured Beckys principled approach to both her profesMost sional and public service efforts. However, Influential how to the article that was written by Margaret Women rock pink nk did an excellent job in portraying the true this month story behind Beckys thinking and attitude stor regarding her responsibilities in life. No more As Becky often says in her public Little black comments; it is another great day in dress blues Beaumont and the VIP magazine just made my day a little better! B&B Thanks again to you and your staff for a this fall great publication. Regards, Rodney Ames
volume 2 issue 4 | VOLUME 4 ISSUE NovemBeR 2009 12 | October 2011 | theVIPmag .com | theVIPmag.com

Southeast Texas

+ Kids provide strength for Mom with cancer

Regina Rogers, Becky Ames, Marcia Crone, Nancy Beaulieu, Gisela Houseman, Delores Prince, Evelyn Lord, Pat Avery, + 20 other amazing leading ladies

Escape to a

The Yeast Priests and Beaumonts beer scene Great things to do in this October! Is Halloween in your blood?
complimentary

28

29

ACROSS
1 "Meet me Halfway" singers, last word in their band name 3 His 2007 album "Call me Irresponsible" was a big hit 6 Dude 7 "Confessions" singer 8 Scottish singer who shot to stardom with the song "I dreamed a dream" 9 "Scarface" star, Pacino 12 Actor and friend of Ben Affleck 14 Japanese soup 17 Seattle's state 18 "Beverley Hills ___" movie 20 Fiona and a Mac maker 22 "The Saints" QB 23 Matrix character 25 "Emancipation of Mimi" singer 26 Barack Obama won this peace prize 28 Exam 29 Famous doll

DOWN
1 Beatle first name 2 Nickname for Jessica Simpson's sister 3 Dylan or Marley 4 "Sweet Dreams" singer 5 ___ of the Tiger 6 "Ocean's 12" star, first name 10 First word of a very popular TV series 11 ___ Van Winkel 13 "Like a Virgin" singer 14 Elephant for the Crimson Tide 15 She sang "Battlefield," Jordin ____ 16 __ Miss college team 19 That hurts! 21 Lord of the Rings singer 24 1996 LeAnn Rimes tune 27 Baby protection when eating

Dear VIP, I am deeply touched by the wonderful article that you wrote about me and the nonprofit initiatives I hold so dear to my heart. Fortunately, you elevated me to sainthood and did not reveal any of my negative traits. Please know how much I enjoyed visiting with you and that your efforts are always appreciated. Best wishes and love, Regina Rogers Dear VIP, Your magazine is simply delightful!!! How wonderful it is to read about all the wonderful things that happen in our community!!! I have always known that Southeast Texas is a very special place with very special residents. We at Some Other Place appreciate so much the coverage you give to our annual fundraiser A Tasting for Some Other Place. We thank you for helping to make the event a huge success. And, we thank you for keeping us informed of the good news that occurs in our community. Thanks for including me as one of our areas influential womenWhat an VIP EXCLUSIVE honor to be in the company of these G.W. most wonderful women. Bailey In service, 4 proper playhouse Paula ONeal how outfits Nutty Director, Some Other Place Jerrys
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Dear VIP, G.W. Bailey loved the magazine. It was a very good article and love the cover. Thanks! Rita Suchma Sunshine Kids Foundation

remade our music scene

Beaumont

maestros tour with

Playboys

Golden Triangle Godiva

returns home

Sting

theater

2011-12 SE Texas

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Find answers on page 4 We want to hear from you! Letters to the editor should be sent via email to dconstantine@thevipmag.com or by mail to David Constantine, VIP of Southeast Texas, 380 Main Street, Beaumont, TX 77704. Please include your contact information and the city in which you live. Letters may be edited for space.
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November 2011 49

vip voice
g u e s t c o l u m n

Thanksgiving: A bad day for PETA

text by scoTT rEnick
hanksgiving, a day you can focus on increasing obesity statistics in the United States. Americans already eat too much, so we have a holiday where we can eat too much and remember why it is best to see some relatives only once or twice a year. Of course, as Americans, we think about the food, and we have a very Hallmark movie version of the first Thanksgiving. Most of us never appreciate what the Pilgrims endured to survive to that date in 1621, when the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn feast that was one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. (As that feast may have lasted three days, my prayer of Thanksgiving this year will include gratitude that this holiday was shortened to one day.) When the Mayflower first crossed into Massachusetts Bay and the colony of Plymouth was established, during the winter, most of the Pilgrims lived on the ship. They suffered from exposure, scurvy and outbreaks of contagious disease. It is believed that only half of them survived. In the spring, the remaining settlers moved ashore and the Indians taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn, catch fish and survive. This relationship between these colonists and this tribe lasted more than fifty years. It was one of the sole examples of harmony between European colonists and Native Americans. (Generally, when an indigenous people are enslaved and ravaged with smallpox, they are not as welcoming to their guests.) After being celebrated by various colonies and towns for two centuries,
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in 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. In the spirit of that first Thanksgiving, as a child, I had the pleasure of seeing a turkey decapitated prior to its Thanksgiving lunch preparation. Today, that may be considered gourmet. It always seemed peculiar to me that anyone would want to actually meet an animal prior to its murder. First of all, I am a carnivore, but would feel guilty about butchering the animal and would probably keep it as a pet. Eventually, children would point at my house and say, thats the crazy man who has the pet turkey he taught it to swim. Then, as the weather turned colder, out of guilt, the turkey would sleep inside at the foot of my bed because it still has nightmares of its near death experience. That event would create trust issues, an emotional barrier preventing us from ever being close.

Therapy for the turkey would be unsuccessful. Unfortunately, the turkey gobbles when it sleeps. The noise would disturb my family to such a degree that I would be forced to add a room to my home for Archie Manning Renick (yes, thats what we named the turkey do not judge me). At some point, I will sense that my wife does not really like Archie living with us, so I will get Archie his own apartment. Soon, we will realize that Archie needs to be around turkeys his own age. Unfortunately, there are not many turkeys in the area because they have all been murdered, stuffed and eaten. (This sounds similar to living in a Mexican border town run by a drug cartel.) We start researching if there any communes for turkeys run by vegans or PETA. Sooner or later, we will find the right commune for Archie, and, as he boards the bus for that long ride to Oregon, I will wonder if we made the right choice. We will receive occasional postcards from Archie on the latest Turk he is dating and how his pottery classes are going. Still, we will grow further apart until we completely lose touch. I will never be able to enjoy Thanksgiving or a Turkey Reuben again. The expense and emotional toll for me to even consider butchering my own turkey is too great. Therefore, I will happily buy my frozen turkey from the grocery store. The Pilgrims should not mind. This year, when I think about all the things for which I am grateful, I will take a moment and thank all of the passengers of the Mayflower for their courage and the Wampanoag Indians and Squanto for their compassion and tolerance. I would not be sitting at my Thanksgiving table if not for these amazing human beings who died almost four hundred years ago. What an amazing legacy they have left. VIP

50 November 2011

photography by silviA c. mcclAin

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