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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
VIPersonality: Katharine Carmichael 5 new cruise ships departing from Galveston the costumes of Cirque du soleil's Dralion
complimentary
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
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
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.
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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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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
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Retailers we love and their merchandise we love to have!
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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
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t h a n k s g i v i n g c e n t e r p i e c e s
www.broussardscentre.com
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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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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.
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
Leslie Greene
Now Available
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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 |
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food drink
n e w r e s t a u r a n t s
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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. >>
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November 2011 13
Cyber Cafe
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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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! >>
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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
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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
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16 November 2011
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uadalajara G Mexican
Restaurant & Cantina
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
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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! >>
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.
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
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food dining
p i e s
W
text by amanda corbell
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.
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.
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
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 >>
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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.
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.
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Political Dedicated Service Award Life Member Award for Political Action Committee
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November 2011 23
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.
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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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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.
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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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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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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.
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.
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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!
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
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vip spotlight
s e t e x a s e v e n t s
Judge Randy Shelton, Kay Miller and Bob and Judy Powell
Amanda Turner, Leo Danna, Jr., Pam Danna and Leo Danna, Sr.
Scott Ali
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November 2011 37
Lamar football
scott eslinger
Kayla Kay, Callie Gentry, Jordyn Bodden, Resa Pletcher and Elizabeth Drago
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
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
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.
Melissa Evans
RN, MSN, FNP
www.drwilgers.com
3282 College St., Beaumont (409) 832-8600
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
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November 2011 41
vip adviser
h o l i d a y p l a n n i n g
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.
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 |
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Tip
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
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
A Time to Be Thankful!
BBQ CRABS
DRINK & BUCKET BEER
Join Floyds for Happy Hour Specials M-F 4PM-7PM 2290 IH 10 South at Washington (409) 842-0686
(409) 722-2228
|
theVIPmag.com
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
November 2011 45
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.
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
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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.
Nutty Jerrys, Winnie. Tickets $25, $45, $65, $100. (877) 643-7508 or www.nuttyjerrys.com.
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
NOVEMBER 6
Shrek: The Musical
1:30 and 6:30 p.m., Lutcher Theater, www.lutcher.org or (409) 886-5535.
NOVEMBER 3-5
Beaumont Community Players, at the Betty Greenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beaumont. (409) 833-4664 or www. beaumontcommunityplayers.com
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.
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.
NOVEMBER 11-12
Amahl and the Night Visitors
Lamar Opera Studio, 7:30 p.m., Rothwell Recital Hall, (409) 880-8144
Willie Nelson
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.
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.
NOVEMBER 18-20
Beaumont Civic Center, Beaumont. (214) 635-2009.
Josh Turner
NOVEMBER 19
Beaumont Civic Ballet fundraiser, 10 a.m., Beaumont Country Club, Beaumont. (409) 838-4397.
The Highwaymen
NOVEMBER 13
3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, Beaumont.
Happy Days
Lamar football
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
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
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
DECEMBER 9-11
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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
Regina Rogers, Becky Ames, Marcia Crone, Nancy Beaulieu, Gisela Houseman, Delores Prince, Evelyn Lord, Pat Avery, + 20 other amazing leading ladies
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The Yeast Priests and Beaumonts beer scene Great things to do in this October! Is Halloween in your blood?
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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
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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
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g u e s t c o l u m n
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
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