Hampton’s Diet

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The Hampton’s Diet is another entrant to the low carb diet craze. In this one, you focus on whole foods and nothing processed. Dr. Pescatore also includes meal plans with macadamia nut oil. He says it’s his secret ingredient to success. Special thanks to Benny Ferrel catering for making some of the dishes.

Method – Fashion in The Village

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Method in The Village, is a locally owned boutiques with clothing manufactured in L.A. If you see something you like here, you’d better jump on it, they only stock five of each item. We’ll see trends such as bohemian colors, eighties layering and Barbara Eden pants. Get them while they’re hot.

Models: Sara Temple and Teresa Merchant, Page.713. Styling: Carlos Stafford, Make up: Gigi Vega.

Best Lawyers

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John Zavitsanos and Joseph Ahmad have amassed an impressive string of victories in employment cases and business litigation. Many of their cases have appeared in national publications such as the Wall Street Journal, National Law Journal, New York Times, Houston Chronicle and many others. In employment cases alone, the firm has recovered more than $100 million for its clients. The firm accepts only a fraction of cases from the hundreds of inquiries it receives each month.

Ahmad, a board-certified employment lawyer, is recognized nationally as one of the best lawyers in America in employment law. He has been at the forefront in the areas of sexual harassment and employment discrimination. Ahmad also regularly speaks at seminars, training other lawyers on all aspects of employment law.

Zavitsanos, board certified in civil trial law, has successfully tried many large business cases. He employs cutting-edge trial technology and frequently speaks on trial tactics and strategy. Zavitsanos regularly handles cases involving noncompetition agreements, trademark disputes, contract and tortious interference disputes and employment contracts. Many of his cases are on behalf of senior executives with some of the largest companies in Houston. Ahmad, Zavitsanos &Anaipakos, P.C. represents individuals and numerous Fortune 500 companies.

(713) 655-1101 ? (800) 856-8153
1221 McKinney, Ste. 3460, Houston, TX 77010
www.azalaw.com

Ray L. Cox, Jr. is devoted to assisting parties in resolving disputes through the processes of mediation and arbitration.

?I?ve always been a firm believer in our judicial system, and I am proud to be a part of the process,? Cox says. ?I?ve learned over the years that my legal skills are best utilized as a neutral rather than as an advocate.?

Cox regularly serves as a mediator on pending litigation matters. Although he routinely and successfully mediates business and interpersonal disputes, Cox is uniquely qualified to mediate in the areas of securities, tax matters and accounting disputes. Additionally, Cox frequently serves in the quasi-judicial role of an arbitrator, often in the area of securities law. He currently serves on the mediation and arbitration panels for the National Association of Securities Dealer and the New York Stock Exchange.

Cox is a Certified Public Accountant and serves as adjunct professor of business law at Houston Baptist University. Cox has also received the designation of Certified Christian Conciliator by Peacemaker Ministries and he frequently speaks on the subject of the biblical approach to conflict resolution.

Cox is a member of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Sections of the American Bar Association and State Bar of Texas, the Securities Litigation and Arbitration Section of the State Bar of Texas, the College of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Society of CPA?s and the Christian Legal Society.

Emphasis: Mediation and Arbitration
Education: Houston Baptist University, B.S.; South Texas College of Law, J.D.

(713) 862-7772 5300 Memorial Drive, Ste. 890, Houston, TX 77007
Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
www.raycoxlaw.com

Brady Edwards and David George left one of the nation?s largest law firms to form a more flexible organization ? one that could service clients who want the traditional ?big firm? level of representation without having to pay the premium fees. This flexibility allows Edwards &George to represent Fortune 500 companies as well as small ?mom and pop? shops throughout Texas.

As with any firm, the key to Edwards &George?s success lies with its lawyers. Edwards &George puts a premium on hiring top talent from some of the most prestigious law firms and law schools. In fact, all of Edwards &George?s partners (and even one of its associates) have been designated by Texas Monthly magazine as either a Texas Super Lawyer or a Rising Star.

Edwards &George?s smaller size is purposeful, effective and efficient. Edwards &George can respond quickly to its clients? needs, particularly in times of crisis. Let Edwards &George help you through your next litigation crisis.

Brady Edwards and David George are not board certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Specialty: Business litigation

(713) 339-3233 ? Fax: (713) 339-2233
1000 Louisiana, Ste. 1300, Houston, TX 77002
www.edwards-george.com

Gibbs &Bruns, L.L.P. prides itself on its ability to handle all types of complex and high-stakes commercial litigation. Founded in 1983, this boutique firm has gained growing national recognition as a leading litigation outfit. Chambers &Partners has for the last two years ranked it at the top of all Texas law firms for commercial litigation. The National Law Journal also included it among the 25 exemplary litigation firms on its ?Plaintiff?s Hot List: go-to teams for when the going gets tough.? Six of its partners have been named Super Lawyers, and many of its attorneys were cited as Rising Stars.

Gibbs &Bruns? reputation rests on the skill and expertise of its people. Gibbs &Bruns attorneys are superb and experienced litigators with wide-ranging backgrounds and proven success in trial work. They handle every aspect of the most complicated commercial disputes, from discovery through trials and on to appeal; and they are committed to winning.

Specialty: Commercial litigation

(713) 650-8805
1100 Louisiana, Ste. 5300, Houston, TX 77002
www.gibbs-bruns.com

Board certified in both civil trial and personal injury law, Fred Hagans has more than 30 years of legal experience. After serving as a partner at Bracewell &Patterson, Hagans began his own practice in 1986. Hagans’ work on behalf of his clients has resulted in more than 100 settlements or verdicts in excess of $1 million. Hagans has also successfully defended multi-million dollar cases.

Hagans, Bobb &Burdine, P.C. is a firm of ten lawyers with a vast amount of experience in all types of litigation, including commercial litigation, insurance coverage and bad faith, intellectual property, legal and medical malpractice, products liability, employment matters, wrongful death, and personal injury. The firm has extensive experience with high profile cases representing plaintiffs and defendants, Fortune 500 companies, and individuals. It is one of the few firms willing to undertake commercial litigation on a contingency basis.

Hagans is very involved in promoting ethics and professionalism within the legal profession, having authored and delivered numerous speeches on the subject. Hagans served as the co-chairman of the Supreme Court Professionalism Committee that wrote the Professionalism Creed ultimately adopted by the Texas Supreme Court. He stresses that attorneys must embrace the truth while providing context and perspective for the facts. Hagans also devotes time to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Gulf Coast Chapter, having served as both chairman of the board and president.

(713) 222-2700
3200 Travis, 4th Floor, Houston, TX 77006
www.hbb-law.com

With more than 20 years in the patent industry, experience working with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a scientific background and engineering degree, Michael Heim is uniquely and aptly suited for intellectual property and technology-related litigation. Heim has successfully prosecuted several high-profile antitrust lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies misusing intellectual property laws to maintain exclusive rights to brand-name drugs in order to keep generic products from entering the market, recently winning a $220 million settlement against Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Heim feels that there are multiple factors in reaching success, especially maintaining integrity, morality and honesty. He also stresses setting and reaching goals with his clients. Heim enjoys working on high-tech, complex cases and has created a team atmosphere within the practice, working with as many professionals as needed to get the best results for his clients. In addition to being a member of the American Bar Association, American Intellectual Property Law Association and Federal Circuit Bar Association, Heim has served as chairman of both the Texas Intellectual Property Law Section and Houston Intellectual Property Law Association.

Specialty: Intellectual property and technology-related litigation
Education: University of Missouri, B.S.; The George Washington University Law School, J.D.

(713) 238-8000
JP Morgan Chase Tower, 600 Travis St., Ste. 7100
Houston, TX 77002 www.conleyrose.com

Nominated as one of the top trial lawyers in his area, Dan King received the National Defense Counsel Continuing Excellence Award and has been named a National Defense Counsel Star of the Year.

His practice primarily focuses in the areas of medical malpractice, fraud and abuse matters, coverage disputes, bad faith insurance law and credentialling issues. At his former law firm, King served as head of the Medical Malpractice/Health Law Section, and he currently serves as oversight counsel for regional and national health care organizations. He as well has successfully prosecuted environmental ground contamination cases and significant oil and gas disputes. Additionally, King has been active in his community by providing free legal services to the underprivileged and by helping found the TIRR Emily Foundation, an organization committed to groundbreaking research regarding spinal cord injuries.

With an interest in improving the civil justice system, King served on the Texas Pattern Jury Charge Committee; the International Association of Defense Counsel Class Action, Advocacy and Substantive Law Committees; the American Bar Association Tort and Insurance Practice Section Trial Techniques Committee; and as a participant in the American Academy of Hospital Attorneys. He is also a life fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation.

Specialty: Trial law
Education: Trinity University, B.S.; South Texas College of Law, J.D.

(713) 425-7400
5 Houston Center
1401 McKinney, Ste. 2700
Houston, Texas 77010
dking@godwingruber.com www.godwingruber.com

With nearly 25 years of experience as a trial lawyer and an AV rating (highest legal/ethical ability) by Martindale-Hubbell, Anthony F. Montgomery represents victims of nursing home neglect, medical malpractice, products liability, general negligence, commercial torts and civil matters involving catastrophic injury, death or significant money damages. He has obtained numerous verdicts and settlements in excess of $2 million to $5 million.

Montgomery is a leader and pioneer in nursing home abuse and neglect cases winning Harris County?s largest nursing home verdict ($39.4 million), which was the largest in the nation at the time it was rendered. This verdict received extensive media attention and Montgomery was featured in ?Top Ten Largest Damage Verdicts in Nation: 1990,? multiple newspaper articles and television interviews as well as in the Wall Street Journal.

Montgomery is also a frequent author and lecturer in nursing home litigation and civil trial techniques. Prior to becoming a plaintiff?s lawyer, Montgomery was a defense lawyer and partner in a well-established Houston firm. He was known for handling high-profile defense cases, and winning multiple defense verdicts in large damage cases against many of the best plaintiffs? lawyers in Texas.

Montgomery is one of a small percentage of Texas lawyers who are board certified in both personal injury and civil trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is also board certified as a civil trial specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

He has been married over 37 years to Ruth L. Montgomery, whom he credits as the stabilizing force in his career. The couple has four children. The oldest, April Montgomery, practiced law with her father from 1997 until 2003.

Results obtained depend on facts of each case.

Specialty: Personal injury trial law and civil trial law
Education: University of Houston, B.A. (magna cum laude); M.A. (summa cum laude); and J.D. (cum laude)

(713) 651-1719 ? (713) 651-1524
1221 McKinney, Ste. 3840, Houston, Texas 77010
www.afmpc@flash.net

Todd Patterson and Doug Elliott are partners at Moser, Patterson &Sheridan, L.L.P., a patent boutique firm recently identified by Intellectual Property Today magazine as the second fastest growing patent firm in the top 100 patent firms in the country. The firm specializes in a comprehensive patent practice for a wide array of technologies, including patent application preparation and prosecution, freedom-to-operate opinions, prior art searches, pre-litigation evaluations, licensing strategies, portfolio management, due diligence evaluations and patent litigation.

The firm?s recipe for success is simple: Take care of the client. This requires visiting personally with the client, finding out what the client needs and getting that done effectively and efficiently.

For a firm that files and prosecutes more than 1,000 patent applications annually, taking care of clients requires a dedicated contribution by the entire firm. ?It is definitely a team effort,? comments Todd Patterson, managing partner of the firm?s Houston office. The firm has more than 45 registered patent attorneys and agents spread out over three interconnected offices (Houston; Palo Alto, Calif.; and Shewsbury, N.J.).

In addition to patent law, the firm also represents clients in the areas of trademarks, copyrights (primarily software), e-commerce, trade secrets and technology transfer agreements.

Specialty: Intellectual property law

(713) 623-4844
3040 Post Oak Blvd., Ste. 1500, Houston, TX 77056
www.mpsllp.com

At the age of 32, Emily Munoz Detoto has done more with her legal career than most lawyers do in a lifetime. She has exclusively dedicated her entire career to the practice of criminal law. After graduating from St. Mary?s University School of Law, Detoto accepted a prestigious position as a briefing attorney at the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. She is a former assistant district attorney for Harris County and a former associate of the high-profile criminal defense firm of Schneider &McKinney, P.C.

Now, owner and operator of The Law Office of Emily Munoz, she has earned the distinction of criminal law specialist by becoming board certified in criminal law. Detoto represents individuals accused in both State and Federal courts at both trial and appeal. She is a graduate of the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College and a faculty member of the Criminal Trial Advocacy Institute. In 2003, Detoto was co-counsel in the nationally televised case, The State of Texas v. Clara Harris, otherwise known as ?The Mercedes Benz Murder.?

Detoto has served as treasurer and vice president of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association. She also was named a Texas Rising Star for 2004 by Texas Monthy magazine, is a member of the United Who?s Who Registry and has appeared on ?Inside Edition,? ?Primetime Live? and ?Celebrity Justice.?

Specialty: Criminal law
Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; St. Mary?s University School of Law, J.D.

(713) 227-2244 ? Fax (713) 227-5840 ? Cell (832) 660-5514
The Commercial Bank Building, 917 Franklin, Ste. 250 Houston, Texas 77002
emdefense@aol.com

With 25 years of experience, board-certified criminal lawyer David Mitcham has served as lead counsel in more than 200 jury trials. He was an Assistant District Attorney of Harris County from 1980 to 1984 and was elected president of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association in 1988-1989. Judges and prosecutors have ranked Mitcham among the top 12 criminal defense lawyers in the Houston Chronicle; and after successfully defending clients in 10 consecutive jury trials, the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association honored him as Attorney of the Year of 2001 for ?dedication to the principles and ideals of American justice.?

Specialty: Criminal law
Education: University of Texas, B.A.; University of Texas Law School, J.D.

Jerry Patchen, a general practice trial lawyer litigating civil, family, and criminal cases in state and federal courts, has handled cases in more than 25 states. In his varied and diverse practice, he has won an $8.5 million recovery in commercial litigation, a not guilty in a capital murder trial and a successful defense of federal conspiracy indictment involving more than 1 million pounds of marijuana. With a broad base of litigation experience, Patchen has several million-dollar-plus recoveries involving automobile and large truck accidents, SUV rollover, oil field injuries, gun shot victim, lottery ticket dispute and legal malpractice. Despite decades of legal success, Patchem remains true to the basics. ?It?s all about proving the facts,? he says.

Education: University of Houston College of Law, J.D.
Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

(713) 222-2000 ? Fax: (713) 222-2329
1400 Congress, Houston, TX 77002
jpatchen@texas.net dmitcham@texas.net www.patchen-mitcham.com

Robert Pelton arrived in Houston with $75 from his brother, no job and no housing. A friend recommended that he work for an insurance company, due to their close connection with legal matters. Pelton sat down with a phone book and started dialing. ?I got to the Fs and Firemans Fund hired me. ? reminisces Pelton.

Pelton has been a champion of the underdog in criminal defense proceedings his entire career. ?I realized as a child that people are taken advantage of,? he explains, ?and the best way to help them is to educate yourself.?

The former president of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association worked his way through law school. ?Nothing is impossible. ?No? doesn?t exist in my vocabulary,? he says. As would befit a man who fights for the underdog, one of Pelton?s closest allies is consumer affairs news personality Marvin Zindler. Another close friend is former Harris County district judge Ted Poe, currently running for U.S. Congress in District Two. ?His courtroom style is a mix of country preacher and west Texas farm boy,? says Poe. ?The juries just loved him.?

The firm includes Robyn Harlin, Laura Kennedy, and Joe Pelton, who heads the Abilene office. The firm has been closely associated with Marvin Zindler. Harlin, one of ?Marvin?s Angels?, was recently named one of the best Houston family law attorneys.

Primary Area of Practice: Criminal law Education: McMurry College, B.B.A.; South Texas College of Law, J.D.

(713) 524-8471 1610 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77006
Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
www.houstonpeltlaw.com

Reigning Spain

In books from my youth, Spain is described as a colorful place anyone would want to visit: flamenco dancers in red and yellow skirts, natty bullfighters, long-running beaches and whitewashed villages by the sea. Recently, I encountered the modern Spain, which proved to be everything I read about and so much more.

On a 10-day tour, I crisscrossed the countryside – soaking up the fierce sun, a little rain and some choice wines. In the months since my last visit, some of Spain’s elite wines have become available in Houston. Spain’s romance lasts a little longer when you linger over a glass and tell stories with a friend. Indulge in some of these Spanish wines and cavas tonight to invoke some of the country’s vibrant tradition and history.

The heart of Old Castile
A rural region two hours north of Madrid, full of rolling hills and sleepy villages still protected by their medieval fortresses, Ribera del Duero (ree-BEAR-a del DWEAR- o) is one of the hottest wine regions in Spain. Vineyards stretch from the banks of the Duero River to slopes high above the valley floor. Temperatures widely vary (from below freezing to as high as 90 degrees), as do altitudes (1,700-2,400 feet) and soil (from chalky clay to sand to limestone and gravel). Despite the harsh climate, the region has been churning out some of the most internationally sought-after wines, whose hallmarks are deep color, good power and concentration, and a nice edge of spice. Unlike other wines from this region that are sometimes blended with merlot, malbec and cabernet sauvignon, wines from Bodegas Valdubón are made exclusively from the indigenous tempranillo grape. A favorite from this estate is Valdubón Cosecha Tempranillo ($14), a young yet versatile wine that’s a great partner to roasted turkey or a juicy steak. With a light nose of berries tinged with spice, this structured wine reveals flavors of black plum and cherry with a chocolate finish.

The rain in Spain
A surprise to many travelers is the area of Galicia, a cool, rainy northwestern coastal region colloquially known as España Verde, or Green Spain. Here the landscape, with its abundant vegetation and rocky coastline, recalls more the verdant pastures of Ireland than the sun-drenched dry plains common to Spain. Known best for its charming white wines, the Rías Baixas (REE-us BUY-shus) region consists of a small number of low-yielding vineyards whose vines are dramatically trellised up stone pergolas to escape the heavy ground moisture. Wines here are produced almost exclusively from the albariño grape, which yields bright, citrusy wines with a crisp acidity that makes for exquisite pairings with seafood. Vionta Albariño ($15), is a classic example from Rías Baixas. This beautiful white wine is full of vivid grapefruit and green apple notes and can be paired with clams, oysters, grilled fish or roasted chicken.

A vinous legacy
The Mediterranean appellation of the Penedès, located 20 miles south of Barcelona, has been producing wine since pre-Roman times. The region runs down the scenic coast of the Western Mediterranean for 30 miles and extends inland about 25 miles. Regarded as some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain, the Penedès is the traditional home of cava, the country’s delightful sparkling wine. Cava, produced in the same exacting manner as French champagne by using the native grapes of Macabeo (mok-a-BAY-oh), Xarel-lo (shar-REL-lo) and Parellada (par-el-LA-da), is a natural aperitif but also a great companion to all manner of food. Segura Viudas Aria Estate Brut, with its nose of fresh pineapple and almonds and palate of honey, nuts and hints of pear, will far exceed your expectations of a $12 bottle of bubbly. If you’d like to sample a red wine from this house, try Segura Viudas Mas d’Aranyo Reserva ($15), a rich garnet-colored tempranillo that opens with notes of red cherry, a slight touch of oak and cocoa, and ends with a velvet finish.

Worth the trip alone
Wines from the Priorat, a region dating back to the 12th century and located 100 miles south of Barcelona, are arguably some of Spain’s best. In this mountainous and rugged region of haunting beauty, the terraced vineyards that climb the stony hillsides in Priorat are capable of producing superior, world-class wines for which demand seems to be exceeding supply and whose price tags reflect their growing notoriety. The traditional red grapes of the region, cariñena and garnacha, are often harvested from vines as old as 80 years. Thriving in harsh soil and difficult weather conditions, these grapes make wine that is famous for its inky color, powerful bouquet and delicious flavors. Morlanda Criança ($48), is a voluptuous priorat with touches of raspberry and cherry with earthy undertones, black pepper and spice. Pair it with hearty roasted lamb or spice-encrusted ribeyes, with portobello mushrooms and grilled eggplant on the side. H

Ball Stars

On July 13, rain or shine, Houston will host the 75th All-Star Game in a contest “nobody likes but the fans.” And the fans do love this annual baseball game between the best players in the American and National Leagues. From all over the world, they vote by the millions (as luck would have it, the one-millionth vote cast online this year was done by an Aggie: James Leggett, 18, of Houston), and they flock to the stadiums and watch the game on TV.

This is the third time Houston has hosted this annual classic, and the city is rolling out the Reds carpet (and the Pirates, Yankees, etc.), making the game almost as big a deal as the Super Bowl. To celebrate the event, 33 sets of Texas-size cowboy boots have been placed around the downtown area. The name of the street Avenida de las Americas, which runs into Minute Maid Park, has been temporarily changed to All-Star Avenue.

The game is on a Tuesday night, but the partying starts the Friday before. In the George R. Brown Convention Center there will be a Fanfest, sort of like the NFL Experience, where the fans can test their baseball skills. Plus, there will be players, baseball officials and other VIPs hanging around to talk baseball talk and sign autographs, or so the hype says. On Monday, the day before the game, the best sluggers in baseball will go to the park for a Home Run Contest. For fans who can’t get into the actual All-Star Game, this pre-game hit-fest will be a chance to see many of the players in person.

Money taken in from the Fanfest and the Home Run Contest are going to charities, but income from the game itself, including broadcasting rights, goes to Major League Baseball, which, in turn, puts some of the money into the players’ pension funds.

Speaking of money, there are estimates that the game will have an “economic impact” in Texas of $85.6 million. This is a shadowy number. For the Super Bowl, the NFL paraded a $300 million figure, but when you peeled it down, the take for Houston was nothing like that. State Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn came up with that $85.6 million figure for the All-Star Game. She says 30,000 out-of-state baseball fans will spend an average of $316 per day during their stay. That totals $30.5 million, with the organizing committee’s expenses, promotion and other expenses associated with hosting the event adding another $6.3 million in direct “economic impact.”

This breaks down to lodging ($9.1 million), restaurants ($6.2 million), merchandise and retail sales ($7.7 million), bars and entertainment ($5.7 million), and local transportation expenses ($1.8 million). Out-of-state visitor and support spending will result in a total direct economic benefit of $36.8 million for Texas. Secondary or “multiplier” effects on visitor-related industries, local earnings and “induced” household spending will bring total economic impact up to $85.6 million.

Counting fans coming to the Houston area from other parts of Texas, the local area economy will see 67,000 visitors for the All-Star Week activities. The city of Houston has put up $590,000 on game-related costs, and under a new Texas law the state could contribute up to $3.7 million. Then Trees for Houston came up with $78,000 for beautification, which makes the state pay as much as $4.18 million. The mayor’s office figures a six-to-one return, so for every $100,000 the city spends it will get back $600,000. Suffice it to say that Houston is better off hosting the All-Star Game than having it in, say, Milwaukee, but don’t get too greedy about the elusive Big Bux. As for “You can’t buy that kind of publicity” – yes, you can.

This most interesting July contest has been played every year since 1933 (with the exception of the war year of 1945, although there were three years, 1959-61, in which they played two games). But the game almost didn’t come about since the concept was thought up by someone outside of baseball.

Arch Ward, a sports editor at the Chicago Tribune, hatched the idea as an added attraction to the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. According to “The Midsummer Classic” by David Vincent, Lyle Spatz and David W. Smith, Ward suggested to his bosses at the Tribune that he enlist 55 sports reporters at 55 other newspapers scattered about the country to help fans vote for the best players. The players receiving the most votes in each position would meet in Chicago’s Comiskey Park, with all gate receipts going to a charity – the Association of Professional Baseball Players of America.

The Tribune bosses thought that was an absurd idea, since in the competitive world of journalism no paper would want to help publicize another paper. Every one of the 55 reporters accepted the idea, showing once again that newspaper publishers know nothing about journalism. Ward’s idea was unique: Stopping play for several days in the middle of a sport’s season so that the very best players could gather to get tired and maybe hurt and be out for the rest of the year. For this reason, virtually all of baseball’s owners and managers were against holding an All-Star Game.

Sam Breadon of St. Louis said what all the other owners thought: Staging such an event with all the money going to charity “might set a precedent.” Sam was told not to worry since it was a one-time event.

Since then, the All-Star Game has seen its share of ups and downs. The second All-Star Game will be remembered for the Giants’ Carl Hubbell successively striking out five of the most feared hitters in the history of baseball including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmy Foxx in one-two-three order. The crowd went wild.

Conversely, the 2002 game in Milwaukee went down in ignominy when, after 11 innings, Commissioner Bud Selig (who, ironically, owned the Milwaukee team) called an end to a 7-7 tie only to be met by booing fans chanting, “Let them play! After the game Selig told reporters, “This is not the way I wanted this to end. It’s the first time it’s ever happened. It’s very regrettable and very sad.”

The latest notable change was inaugurated last year to answer criticism that the game is still meaningless and managers are still afraid their very best players will be hurt. What’s more, their best pitchers, instead of getting a few needed days of rest in the pennant race, were traveling to some other city to pitch an inning or so and were too tired to take their spot in their team’s pitching rotation when the season resumed. Selig announced that whichever league won the All-Star Game would host the first games of that year’s World Series, thus giving the winning league a slight advantage.

That’s where the Midsummer Classic stands now, so play ball!

Reigning Spain

In books from my youth, Spain is described as a colorful place anyone would want to visit: flamenco dancers in red and yellow skirts, natty bullfighters, long-running beaches and whitewashed villages by the sea. Recently, I encountered the modern Spain, which proved to be everything I read about and so much more.

On a 10-day tour, I crisscrossed the countryside – soaking up the fierce sun, a little rain and some choice wines. In the months since my last visit, some of Spain’s elite wines have become available in Houston. Spain’s romance lasts a little longer when you linger over a glass and tell stories with a friend. Indulge in some of these Spanish wines and cavas tonight to invoke some of the country’s vibrant tradition and history.

The heart of Old Castile
A rural region two hours north of Madrid, full of rolling hills and sleepy villages still protected by their medieval fortresses, Ribera del Duero (ree-BEAR-a del DWEAR- o) is one of the hottest wine regions in Spain. Vineyards stretch from the banks of the Duero River to slopes high above the valley floor. Temperatures widely vary (from below freezing to as high as 90 degrees), as do altitudes (1,700-2,400 feet) and soil (from chalky clay to sand to limestone and gravel). Despite the harsh climate, the region has been churning out some of the most internationally sought-after wines, whose hallmarks are deep color, good power and concentration, and a nice edge of spice. Unlike other wines from this region that are sometimes blended with merlot, malbec and cabernet sauvignon, wines from Bodegas Valdubón are made exclusively from the indigenous tempranillo grape. A favorite from this estate is Valdubón Cosecha Tempranillo ($14), a young yet versatile wine that’s a great partner to roasted turkey or a juicy steak. With a light nose of berries tinged with spice, this structured wine reveals flavors of black plum and cherry with a chocolate finish.

The rain in Spain
A surprise to many travelers is the area of Galicia, a cool, rainy northwestern coastal region colloquially known as España Verde, or Green Spain. Here the landscape, with its abundant vegetation and rocky coastline, recalls more the verdant pastures of Ireland than the sun-drenched dry plains common to Spain. Known best for its charming white wines, the Rías Baixas (REE-us BUY-shus) region consists of a small number of low-yielding vineyards whose vines are dramatically trellised up stone pergolas to escape the heavy ground moisture. Wines here are produced almost exclusively from the albariño grape, which yields bright, citrusy wines with a crisp acidity that makes for exquisite pairings with seafood. Vionta Albariño ($15), is a classic example from Rías Baixas. This beautiful white wine is full of vivid grapefruit and green apple notes and can be paired with clams, oysters, grilled fish or roasted chicken.

A vinous legacy
The Mediterranean appellation of the Penedès, located 20 miles south of Barcelona, has been producing wine since pre-Roman times. The region runs down the scenic coast of the Western Mediterranean for 30 miles and extends inland about 25 miles. Regarded as some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain, the Penedès is the traditional home of cava, the country’s delightful sparkling wine. Cava, produced in the same exacting manner as French champagne by using the native grapes of Macabeo (mok-a-BAY-oh), Xarel-lo (shar-REL-lo) and Parellada (par-el-LA-da), is a natural aperitif but also a great companion to all manner of food. Segura Viudas Aria Estate Brut, with its nose of fresh pineapple and almonds and palate of honey, nuts and hints of pear, will far exceed your expectations of a $12 bottle of bubbly. If you’d like to sample a red wine from this house, try Segura Viudas Mas d’Aranyo Reserva ($15), a rich garnet-colored tempranillo that opens with notes of red cherry, a slight touch of oak and cocoa, and ends with a velvet finish.

Worth the trip alone
Wines from the Priorat, a region dating back to the 12th century and located 100 miles south of Barcelona, are arguably some of Spain’s best. In this mountainous and rugged region of haunting beauty, the terraced vineyards that climb the stony hillsides in Priorat are capable of producing superior, world-class wines for which demand seems to be exceeding supply and whose price tags reflect their growing notoriety. The traditional red grapes of the region, cariñena and garnacha, are often harvested from vines as old as 80 years. Thriving in harsh soil and difficult weather conditions, these grapes make wine that is famous for its inky color, powerful bouquet and delicious flavors. Morlanda Criança ($48), is a voluptuous priorat with touches of raspberry and cherry with earthy undertones, black pepper and spice. Pair it with hearty roasted lamb or spice-encrusted ribeyes, with portobello mushrooms and grilled eggplant on the side.

Bright Lights, 1988 Style

Dreams of stardom and fame, glitz and glamour, and stars on walkways are not uncommon for those filing onto a movie set. Attempting to attain these perks while wearing big, curly hairstyles with claw bangs, acid-washed jeans and faded Converse sneakers? That was a different story.

Despite working in television for most of the past decade, I had only participated in a few independent films and shorts, so upon arriving at the 1988-era set of “Friday Night Lights,” a new Billy Bob Thornton film, I was surprised. My notions of eight-hour days proved to be entirely incorrect, as I often spent more than 12 hours at the literal camp of trailers, trucks, tents, go-carts, people scurrying everywhere, security barriers and horses.

“Friday Night Lights” is based on the H.G. Bissinger book of the same name, detailing the economically disadvantaged town of Odessa, Texas and how their Friday night football love of the Permian High Panthers holds them together across generations. For most of my time on the set, I was part of re-enacting the 1988 state football championship game between Permian and the Dallas Carter Cowboys. The re-enactment took place in the Astrodome, filled with hundreds of extras, and around 800 blow-up dolls. Through the miracles of computer animation, it will appear that 20,000 people were in attendance.

I played a local sports reporter (imagine that) and was given the task of rushing the field after Permian’s victory to interview the combatants. Having covered title victories by the Rockets and Comets, I was pretty sure I could sell the believability of this moment to the audience. The adrenaline was surging on the first take as I sprinted across the field to my spot; by the time we had done the same scene about 20 times, my sprint had been reduced to a jog.

Thornton was cast as Permian High coach Gary Gaines, a fiery leader capable of barking out a slew of commands without once slipping into profanity. Those on the set who had worked with Gaines commented on the excellence of Thornton’s performance; he was an excellent guy to have around the set as well. On breaks, Thornton was always joking around with extras and crew members; kicking field goals became one of his favorite hobbies.

Periodically, as I stood around for 15 hours in the Astrodome awaiting another chance to streak across the field, I let myself really become part of the moment: This is a project that millions will see, and I had something to do with it. I wasn’t the star, but it didn’t matter; having a small part was just as impressive to me. Then, I heard “Action!” and I breathed deeply and burst out across that field again, hoping that when you see it in October, you believe in the moment occurring. H

After nine years at “Fox 26 News,” Darian Ward Nichols launched Joy in Motion, a public relations/video production company. Her debut book, “How to Catch a Mate – With the Right Bait” is coming out soon. The book was co-written by her husband, KPRC-TV’s Byron Nichols. Contact them at www.howtocatchamate.com

Ready Reader

A decade ago, a makeover merely included a new wardrobe, a different hairstyle and professionally applied makeup. However, in an era of cosmetic surgery and reality shows, society has become accustomed to medical procedures as a means to enhance one’s natural beauty and perfect bodily imperfections. Now makeovers span the spectrum from new shoes to new smiles. Noting the popularity of these makeovers, H Texas magazine decided to jump on the Ultimate Makeover bandwagon and offer one to our readers. For two months, information was available to readers on the website and in the magazine.

During this period, we received numerous nominations from husbands, family, friends and the contestants themselves. The contest’s popularity came as no surprise as the staff shifted through an onslaught of entries from the Ultimate Makeover contestants. From this large group of applicants, H Texas narrowed the selection down to four final nominees. The four candidates chosen for the Ultimate Makeover are Nikki, Bevin, Sarah and Robin. Each woman hopes to receive the makeover for a different reason, but all hope to accomplish the same goal: improving their self-confidence.

For Nikki, her husband’s nomination came as a request to reward his wife for her role as caregiver to their three daughters. “I want it for my wife because she has given herself to this family so selflessly,” her husband Scott said.

Bevin entered herself into the contest, but friends seconded the nomination with letters of their own. Bevin hopes to receive the makeover as a means to look her best and celebrate recently overcoming obstacles in her life. “I’m realistic. I’m not looking for a major transformation; I just want to be my best,” Bevin wrote to us.

Sarah, a mother of three, wants to renew the confidence she had in her appearance earlier in life and erase the self-consciousness she adopted as a young model. And Robin’s goal is to “stop looking like a new mother, and start looking like a hot momma.” She feels that with all of the attention she gives her son she has neglected her appearance and wants to change that.

Ready to accomplish the task is the Ultimate Makeover team, a talented and skilled staff that includes cosmetic dentist John H. Krell, D.D.S. of Houston Cosmetic Dental and plastic surgeon Donna C. Rich, M.D. of Bayview Plastic Surgery. Both doctors gladly agreed to provide their services, as both expressed an interest in helping their patients gain confidence in their appearance and raise self-esteem.

Dr. Rich believes that cosmetic surgery increases esteem and confidence, as noted in her patients. She signed on to this project in order to “make a difference in someone’s life that may not have had the opportunity to otherwise have plastic surgery.” Dr. Krell agrees that cosmetic surgery can change people’s lives. “A confident, beautiful smile makes a positive statement,” he says. After a procedure Dr. Krell gives the patient a mirror, and immediately he/she sees a transformation, “At their next visit our team usually gets two ultimate compliments, one is a “Thank you, I love my smile” and second is referring us to their friends and family.”

In addition to the cosmetic surgery, the recipient receives a manicure and pedicure from Roula’s Nail Salon, and Avant Garde Hair Salon will provide a new hairstyle and makeup. The final candidate will be chosen this fall. Keep checking www.htexas.com and reading the magazine for updates on the Ultimate Makeover.

Fall Fashion at Hemline

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We took a look behind the curtain at Hemline, a new boutique in The Village. From dressy to casual, you’re sure to find something you like here. Special thanks to Brooke Stadler, Page 713, Elroy McDaniel Make up, and Carlos Stafford stylist.

Best Doctors for Children

Shu Chin Kuan may be one of the few multilingual doctor practicing in the greater Houston area who attended medical school in Brazil, followed by 3 years residency in Pediatrics in New York City and fellowship in Pediatric Nephrology at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA. And yet, her bi-coastal and bi-continental journey through medicine isn?t even the most important thing that sets her apart from professional peers.

Dr. Kuan is a Katy-based pediatrician who prides herself on communication with parents and children alike; to this end, she returns all her own phone calls dealing with lab results and clinical questions from parents. ?I prefer to hear and discuss medical issues from and with my own doctor? Kuan explains, ? that is the way I feel most comfortable when dealing with medical questions and calls from my patients?

Initially practicing Internal Medicine in Brazil, Dr. Kuan switched over to working with children. Within three or four months, she admits that she fell in love with pediatrics. She utilizes a philosophy of healthy children becoming healthy adults and thus providing for healthy futures. Dr. Kuan who believes her practice differs from others in how ?up-front, honest, caring and ready to listen? they are, is Board Certified by American Board of Pediatrics, a Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as member of Harris County Medical Society, Texas Medical Association and International Pediatric Nephrology Association. She also enjoys teaching and is a faculty of American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Houston as well as serving in various roles as clinical preceptor with Baylor College of Medicine and has been in practice in Houston for eight years.

Specialty: Pediatrics/Pediatric Nephrology
Education: School of Medicine Sta Casa Misericordia de Vitoria, Brazil, M.D.

(713) 771-3575 430 S. Mason Road, Ste. 101, Katy, TX 77450
http.doctor.medscape.com/shuchinkuan