Weathering the Bayou City

THE CAFÉ – Clear skies, low humidity, a slight breeze and a wonderful temperature. For Houstonians, it’s a good time for driving around with the convertible top down or dining al fresco. Yes, it’s perfect on both days of the year. That’s because we seem to go from winter to summer and back again with a 24-hour turnaround between the seasons. Maybe I’m overstating the obvious just a bit, but our springs and falls don’t last long here. In April, we had some chilly nights. Now it is May, and the a/c is on.

As we sit here in the outdoor café to sip our wine and watch the trains hit the cars, we should look at our local weather. Why not? Everyone else does. When you are out of town, whenever you mention that you are from Houston, the listener inevitably asks: “How do you stand the heat?” That is followed by, “How do you stand Tom DeLay?” and finally, “How does Tom DeLay stand the heat in the kitchen?”

Let’s stick with the weather. On average, we have 21 days a year when it freezes, which I don’t believe. Isn’t it more like six? The record low around here was 5 degrees set on Jan. 23, 1940, at Hobby Airport. The record low at Bush Intercontinental is 7 degrees set on Dec. 23, 1989. Looking at the high side, on average we have 95 days a year when the thermometer reaches 90 degrees or more. We rarely get to 100, nevertheless the record high temperature is 109 degrees set at Bush on Sept. 4, 2000.

We must agree that on rare occasions we have a little rain. Actually, we receive rain of some measure 103 days a year on average and thunderstorms on 64 days. Our heavy dews usually total 47.84 inches a year. That’s more rain than falls on Seattle. June 2001 was our wettest month (19 inches). Why? In a soggy word: Allison. Our wettest single day? On Aug. 27, 1945, 14.58 inches of rain fell on Hobby Airport, and the official one-day record still stands. We have had 14 measurable snowfalls since 1939, which is something to appreciate. Even under normal weather conditions, Houston drivers are suicidal. Add a snowfall, and our streets become one big destruction derby. Some cities can tell when the seasons change because, well, they really change and stay changed. But not in Houston. How many times have you cleaned out your wood-burning fireplace because winter has gone only to light another fire when the thermometer drops from 80 to freezing? There are some years when I’ve closed the flue and hauled out the ashes half a dozen times. Then there are the marches down the hall to turn off the a/c when ice forms on the widows or turn off the heater after you notice the backyard birdbath is boiling over. Were you here when it froze on an April 2? The weather can get cold when it should be warm. By the same token, in the dead of winter we often see the clouds part, the sun come out, and there is a window of a couple of days in January when the trees are fooled into budding only to be caught defenselessly exposed by the next blue norther. (Note to newcomers: The word is, indeed, “norther.” You are a “northerner;” a quick cold front is a “blue norther.”)

The problem with comparing temperatures and such is that Houston first started collecting weather data in 1882 but didn’t have a full year’s worth until 1889. Also, the official measuring station has moved, going from several different buildings downtown to Hobby in 1960. Then in June 1969 the weather instruments were moved 23 miles to the north to Bush (or Intercontinental as it was then known).

This brings us to our humidity. Dermatologists say the heavy, wet air is good for our skin, which is why we have nine huge machines scattered around town pumping moisture into the air. These Houston Humidifiers are the envy of Third World countries, including Dallas. Yet visitors continually ask us how we stand the summer’s heat and humidity. The proper answer (write this down) is, “I don’t. I go from my air-conditioned house to my air-conditioned car to my air-conditioned office. After work I either play on my air-conditioned tennis court or watch the Astros in an air-conditioned stadium.”

If I do go outside in the summer, it is to float in my neighbor’s pool with a cold beer – when they invite me. Once I took a ride in the Goodyear blimp and asked the pilot to go over my neighborhood. I was shocked by the number of backyard swimming pools on my block that no one told me about.

Houston has been called “the most air-conditioned city in the world,” which is just as hard to substantiate as being called “the fattest city in America.” But we do love our a/c. You have to special order a car without air conditioning. The Houston Yellow Pages has 36 pages listing air conditioning compared to 19 pages for churches. This matter of priorities is because Houstonians already know what hell is like: an August afternoon without air conditioning. Heaven is when the repairman says the burned-out compressor is covered by warranty. All of this cold air causes an odd situation. When people elsewhere say, with fear and awe, they are going to visit Houston in the summer, I tell them to bring a sweater. “Huh?” Our restaurants and theaters are freezing in the summer. I keep a jacket in my car year-round.

Finally, in our weather report there was an urban legend for years that the British Foreign Office authorized hardship pay for its staff in the Houston consulate because of our horrid weather, which was compared to that of Accra, Ghana, and Calcutta, India. It was a glorious put-down, so I asked the British consul general at that time if the story was true. He shook his head. “What we received was three years in Houston counted as four years toward retirement. That stopped after I told Whitehall, ‘My God. Haven’t you people ever heard of air conditioning?'” Incidentally, I was kidding about the humidifiers, but not about Tom DeLay. H

Molly Smyth: The Ultimate Public Relations Pofessional

The city recently lost one of the greatest public relations professionals in the country when Molly Smyth passed away on March 2. She was the ultimate public relations professional, working for more than 40 years with the media, theatre and all types of businesses.

Molly’s journey into this very special field sprung from her sincere love of people. From Mineola, Texas, she was blessed with a warm, outgoing personality that served her well throughout her lifetime. In Dallas, she attended Hockaday and later Southern Methodist University, where she pledged the Tri Delta sorority and studied theology and journalism. Her showbiz career started here when she hosted a top 10 music show similar to Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. Even then, she possessed an incredibly adventurous spirit, reflected in her favorite hobby, flying. For many years, she was a pilot, aviation enthusiast and occasional sky diver.

It was during this time that Molly embraced the Civil Rights Movement actively by joining the Road to Freedom Bus and marching with Martin Lther King Jr. Her eldest son, Gene Bartholomew proudly recalls her academic years when she was a protégé of the Objectivist Movement started by Ayn Rand and Nathaniel Branden. “They were friends of the family,” Gene says. Molly’s younger son, Harry Branden Bartholomew, was actually named for the prominent philosopher.

When Molly moved to Houston in 1964, she continued her career in television with KPRC Channel 2, working in publicity and marketing. These skills and her unwavering generosity of spirit led her to befriend and mentor many Houston media personalities and publicists, such as Cissy Segall, Dayna Steele, Toni Navarre and Lanny Griffith.

When she became a publicist with PACE, now Clear Channel Entertainment, she primarily promoted motor sports and concerts. Soon Molly’s job assignment evolved into promoting PACE theatrical productions, as well as promoting many other national touring shows, including the first touring company of “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” in 1978.

During the ’70s, Molly was a 20th Century Fox press representative for such movies as, The Omen, The Rose and Silverstreak. Her son Harry fondly recalls her stories of Studio 54 each time she went on press junkets to New York. It was there that she met many of the celebrities who remained friends throughout the years. Later, Molly and her late husband, publicist Art Katzen owned the Windmill Dinner Theatre where, again, she was surrounded by celebrities.

Molly truly loved the people she worked with, luminaries of yesterday and today, such as Jack Benny, Ginger Rogers, Tom Jones, Milton Berle and members of the Rat Pack. While the list of stars and celebrities she worked with is lengthy, a few were exceptionally important to her, such as Carol Channing, Phyllis Diller, Tommy Tune, Sammy Davis Jr., Jaston Williams and Joe Sears. Marie Osmond demonstrated her admiration for Molly by creating a “Molly Doll” to include in her famous doll collection.

The following quotes tell the story:
Tommy Tune: “Oh, Molly Smyth! What a great dame she was – always up, surrounded by an aura of fun and damned good at her job! I will remember her in silk dresses, perfumed and laughing. Always laughing!”

Marie Osmond: “I first met my dear friend, Molly, when she was doing national PR for our Sound of Music tour, and I knew right away that she was an absolutely darling woman, full of love, warmth and compassion. Her professionalism, talent, creativity and incredible ability to solve problems quickly earned her the accolades of her peers and a highly deserved reputation as one of the country’s top public relations executives. She’ll always be close to my heart, and I’ll miss her dearly; but I know we’ll see her again, feel her love and enjoy that cute sense of humor that endeared her to all of us.”

Clint Black: “We were fortunate to know Molly and have some of that wonderful spirit shine on us, and her spirit will never stop shining. We love you, Molly, and we’ll be seeing you at the next big benefit!”

Lisa Hartman Black: “I knew Molly as one of Mom’s closest friends. With her kind heart and generosity, she was a great influence on the Houston community. We love you, Molly!”

Jonni Hartman Rogers: “I met Molly in 1969 and knew instantly we would be friends forever. Opening shows across the country for PACE Management gained Molly national recognition. As a Hollywood publicist, when our company had celebrity clients, we called upon the capable and loving hands of Molly to take care of them during their Houston stint. Between her visits to L.A. and my visits to Houston, we shared and built loving memories. Houston’s loss is heaven’s gain. I love you, Molly!”

Ray Rogers of Bojangles fame: “I was fortunate enough to partake of Molly’s PR genius when I opened Backstage in Houston. I was even more fortunate to get to know the beauty in her soul by seeing her through the eyes of my dear wife, Jonni. Everyone loved Molly, including me!”

Jaston Williams of Greater Tuna: “I would agree to take on press assignments for Molly that I wouldn’t have considered for other press agents, partly due to her impeccable standards and work ethics, but even more so because she cared about your health, your problems and your life.”

Dave Ward, news anchor ABC 13: “Molly and I go back 35 years or so. She was from Mineola, and my parents were there. Every time she called me, which was all the time, she would say, “This is your Mineola buddy.” Then, she’d proceed to tell me what she wanted me to do, either emcee something or another, cut a ribbon somewhere, open a grocery store. Whatever, she knew I’d do anything for her. I can’t count how many times I burned my fingers at Benihana’s Restaurant at her Escape Center fundraiser. She really hit a home run when she started that event. Molly was a home-run hitter.”

Kim Nordt Jackson, program director
ABC 13: “Molly was a dear friend of ABC 13 and played a key role in many of our local productions. Once a television producer herself, Molly’s incredible, creative vision, tireless passion for the entertainment industry and unconditional love of people has been an inspiration to all of us. Like so many others, I consider myself fortunate to not only work side-by-side with Molly but to be blessed with her friendship.”

Brian Becker, chairman/CEO Clear Channel Entertainment: “Molly was that rare individual who was equally loved by her friends and business associates alike. Her influence reached well beyond Houston, since she had such close relationships with creative people in the arts across the U.S. She was a true pioneer – a successful woman in a dynamic industry, a working mother and an innovator. She gave me my first job, taught me by counsel and example, always looked out for my family and me, and I will always remember her for her humor, compassion, enthusiasm and friendship.”

Allen Becker, founder PACE: “What a doll – a major force in building PACE Theatrical in the early days.”

Marvin Zindler, ABC 13: “Molly was the sweetest person and extremely thoughtful of her clients. She will be sorely missed.”

Kari Short, Short Communications: “Most people are fortunate to have a few close friends – the kind who can love you unconditionally, laugh with you until you cry, raise your spirits when they are low, simply sit with you in quite reflection, or even raise a little hell. Molly was that kind of friend, not to a few, but to many. She had an uncanny ability to place you on center stage, to make you feel on top of the world. She understood what people needed, when they needed it. Be it mother, sister, mentor, friend or confidant, she would fill that role.”

Joan Schnitzer, philanthropist who worked with Molly on the Celebrity Chef Escape Benefit for more than 20 years: “Molly was a very special lady who did special things with her life and in the process made everyone feel special!”

Scott Evans, “The Social Book” editor: “I got to know Molly when I was organizing musicians and performers to produce the Voices for Life CD to raise funds for HIV research. She was immensely helpful. I grew to love her more than I can say.”

Dayna Steele Justis. radio/television:
“Molly was so vibrant, so alive, so positive. She gave me so much. I know I could never have achieved the things I did without her. She even managed to have Jason Williams and Joe Sears, in the middle of a Greater Tuna performance, propose to me for my husband. She was at the birth of both my children. She was the queen of public relations and marketing, but she was also the queen of loyalty and friendship. There is a hole in my life without her.”

Cissy Segall Davis, Publicity Specialties:
“Molly was one of the most positive persons I’ve ever met. No matter what the situation, she had a smile on her face and her arms open wide to embrace the world. She epitomized the famous line from the Broadway musical “Mame,” “Life is a banquet, and most poor sons of bitches are starving to death.” Molly enjoyed the banquet and absolutely lived life to its fullest. She knew what being a friend meant: She listened, counseled wisely and championed your causes. She was a nurturer – that earth mother that everyone needs. Her home was always open to anyone who needed a safe haven. Being a press agent and dealing with personalities may sound glamorous, but it isn’t. Molly put up with more ego maniacal stars and producers than anyone will ever know! But, she endured their harangues with grace and patience. She knew how to coddle those egos; she was a master at it! She will be missed by all of us who loved her.”

Mark Hanna, Customer First: “When I came here in 1985 as Arts & Entertainment Editor for the Houston Post, Molly was one of the first public relations people I worked with. She set a standard of professionalism that was rare for anyone in any occupation; but beyond that, she made it all fun. A decade later, I was out of a job, trying to create my own business, and Molly was the first to offer help. What a friend she became! Even as much as I treasured all she was, I never really understood how full she had made life for all of us around her. At least not until being forced all too soon to witness how empty the world is without her.”

Sylvia Froman, actress who worked in Molly’s office for seven years: “Molly had the ability to have those she worked with absolutely adore her. She taught me how to handle celebrities. Whether it was Jerry Lewis or Ann-Margaret, they felt secure with Molly. When a photographer got on a ladder to get a shot of Carol Channing, Molly jumped up saying, ‘No, No, no. No shots of Ms. Channing from above!’ Once she sent me to San Antonio to open “Lend Me a Tenor.” The press conference with cast members was called for 2:00. Time came and went: 3:00, 4:00, 5:00 no cast. Finally, the call came telling me that the actors were stuck on a runway in Atlanta with no hope of making the 8:00 curtain that night with 1,500 seats sold. I called Molly, who proceeded to get all the television stations to lead with “Lend Me a Show.” It worked! Molly was remarkably resourceful and creative; more importantly, she had an innate goodness about her that was extraordinary.”

Ann Hodges, retired television editor and critic of the Houston Chronicle: “In her 41 years in business in Houston, she opened more Broadway road shows around the country than many Broadway impresarios can boast of – 50, by last count. And for years, as a board member of the Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers, she cast her vote in Broadway’s annual Tony Awards. Molly was my friend, and I loved her for many reasons: her consummate professionalism in business, her wisdom and her wonderful sense of humor, her remarkable courage through a long and truly terrible illness, her luminous spirit and her enormous generosity. To her friends, she was unfailingly thoughtful and always there to help when help was needed. Her gifts were great, and she had great respect for the gifts of others. She dealt with all kinds of clients, including top artists, actors and Broadway queens; and she treated them all equally. She was respectful of talent and celebrity, but she was never awed. To Molly, everyone was a star. God bless her.” And, on a personal note, my friendship with Molly began when she brought celebrity guests to “The Warner Roberts Show” on Channel 26 throughout much of the ’80s. I knew I could count on her to arrive at the station on time with the appointed guest. She worked with me when I did the “Famous Texans” series for KHOU, Channel 11 in 1995. We were together in Austin when I interviewed Sen. Kay Baily Hutchison, Liz Carpenter and Cactus Pryor. She and Liz were friends and had on many occasions “Howled at the Moon” together. She helped produce some of the other shows in the series: Aaron Spelling, Clint Black, Lisa Hartman Black, Jaclyn Smith, Barbara Jordan, Mac Davis, Debbie Reynolds, Nolan Ryan and others. Again, she was by my side when I started “The Social Book” in 1996.

I admired her for being such a wonderful mother and for trying to help everyone in any way that she possibly could. Her contributions were varied, and I can’t list the multitude of charities, causes and individuals who benefited from her open-hearted generosity. Her favorite event and her creation, the Celebrity Chef Benefit at Benihana’s Restaurant for the Escape Family Resource Center, celebrated 24 years in April 2005. She served as a board of directors for the Escape Center, the Houston Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and the late Chris Wilson’s Studio 7.

How very grateful I am for the years we spent as great friends, confidants and soul sisters. As I wrote in her obituary, “Now Molly is bringing Broadway to Heaven.”

Thank you, Kari Short for this most fitting quotation from the Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, 20th century Syrian-born mystic, poet, philosopher and artist, “And ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation.”

Crawfish

Some people say that Houston has only one season – hot. I beg to differ.
My favorite season is crawfish season. Crawfish are little crustaceans that live in virtually every creek and bayou. Lucky for us, here in the South they’re big enough to eat.
Crawfish, or mud bugs, are a great excuse to party and add an extra element to city life. Restaurants and parties alike boil these babies up and serve them with a bunch of potatoes, corn and spice.
This is one time when it is acceptable to say, “Squeeze the tail and suck the head!”

Active Adults

Have you been jogging around Memorial Park lately, huffing and puffing away, only to be passed by someone at least twice your age? Surprised? You shouldn’t be. According to the United States Census Bureau, the average life expectancy was up to 77.4 in 2002, and it continues to rise. These are a new breed of adults that are surpassing the odds, living longer and having a great time all at the same time.

Active lifestyle
Who are these active adults? They are a growing collection of individuals age 55 and older, many retired, but still young at heart. They like to keep in shape, and many live in beautifully developed communities created just for them. The World Health Organization describes active living as “a way of life in which physical, social, mental, emotional and spiritual activities are valued and are integrated into daily living.”

With the increase in technology, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle have become serious problems for the majority of Americans today. Not only are kids at risk, but so are inactive adults and older persons. The organization believes that when individuals have reached middle age, it becomes even more important to keep fit and in shape to reduce or even prevent physical ailments that often go hand in hand with advancing age.

Independent versus assisted
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a driving force behind the active lifestyles around the nation. It is an organization dedicated “to serve, not to be served.” With this in mind, they try to facilitate older persons by providing links and information for those that would like to consider living with or without help. According to AARP, “Assisted living residents can get as much help as they wish, but not more than they want.” For instance, if someone would like to skip cooking a meal, or would like a little help getting to the store, then people are available to lend a hand.

There are, however, a few differences between active or independent living and assisted living. Independent living is designed for the senior who is healthy, can take care of himself or herself and would like to live on their own without aid. Generally, these individuals can be found in communities that have been created with them in mind. These people do not require the need for onsite staff, and generally like to live among their peers.

Assisted living is for people who need assistance with a few everyday activities. These individuals are not able to live completely on their own, but would still like to live as independently as possible. The facilities include helping with eating, dressing in the mornings, bathing, housekeeping and medications. While this may sound like a nursing home, assisted living is more of the intermediary point between the two.

Nursing homes are designed for those who can no longer take care of themselves, require help with all activities of their daily lives and may have several health issues. On the other hand, the assisted living arrangements provide as much help as needed by the clients without being too intrusive.

Neighborhood life
Several facilities around the Houston area have been developed to accommodate the active adult by offering living arrangements as well as unbeatable amenities. The Woodlands and Cinco Ranch, to name a couple, both offer neighborhoods in master-planned communities with hiking trails, tennis courts, fitness centers and swimming facilities exclusively for the use of older individuals. Houston’s own RidgeLake Shores even provides private beaches and extensive land and lakefront properties for their older residents. These planned neighborhoods are limited to individuals age 55 and older and must have someone within that age group occupying the home in order to qualify to live in the area.

The best part for many of these individuals is the opportunity to mix and mingle with others of their own age and outlook. Not only are they stimulated mentally, but now they also have the opportunity to try new things that may not have been available prior to community living. These are not people that are sitting around and playing a game of bingo, they want to experience nature and enjoy themselves.

Luckily, these neighborhoods thrive with activities like fishing, horseback riding, golf and hiking trails for their residents to enjoy. Singles also have the chance to develop new relationships and create lasting friendships in a comfortable environment surrounded by their peers.

Active choices
As the number of active adults continues its steady rise, so too do the number of individuals interested in communities that offer an upbeat lifestyle rather than completely assisted living arrangements. With so many choices now available, people can choose their best fit and decide, on their own, what amount of assistance they want. Besides, with people like Mick Jagger, Meryl Streep, Sir Paul McCartney and Martha Stewart (age 56 and older) leading vivacious lives, its no wonder there are so many others who would like to do the same.

Interpretation of a Face Lift

If you have a saggy neck and a huge sense of humor, you could be an excellent candidate for a face lift. The sense of humor is necessary to get you through the first two weeks following the surgery. You will be uglier during those two weeks than you have ever been in your life. But after that, when you look in the mirror, you won?t believe the gorgeous creature looking back at you could possibly be your old saggy self. Last year, I finally got tired of looking old and tired while I still felt young and energetic, so I decided to do something about it. I had recently lost 25 pounds, and although I was thrilled with the weight loss, the droopy neck had to go. Of course, my wonderful husband, Jim, insisted, “I think you look good just the way you are.” He is a wise man. I had consultations with two plastic surgeons – neither of which made much of an impression on me. Then I went to see my new best friend, Dr. Christopher Patronella. I immediately felt a connection with him and knew that I had found the man for the job. He told me that he would restore my neck and jaw line to its original non-saggy condition and that I would never feel any pain. And he was right – my turkey neck is gone, and I never had a single minute of pain.

Dr. P had explained to me that he would only cut the skin along the front of my ears and around the bottom of my ears to about one-third up behind my ears, and then about an inch straight back into my scalp. He would also make a small incision under my chin so that he could maneuver the tightening of my neck and face. It’s amazing to me that he achieved such wonderful results with only these small incisions, which are now totally invisible.

Several weeks before the surgery, I stopped taking any aspirin or ibuprofen (to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery) and started taking the vitamins given to me by the doctor. I was so excited that the weeks seemed to drag by. Then, the day I had been looking forward to for years finally arrived.

I had been given the choice of going home the same day of the surgery or staying overnight with my own private nurse to check on me all night long and bring me anything I wanted. Well, of course, I chose to stay the night. I arrived at the clinic all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and ready to go. The anesthesiologist came to get the IV started. He actually numbed my hand before he inserted the needle, and I never felt a thing. Well, so far so good. The doctor had said the whole procedure would be pain-free, but this was the first time I had ever had a totally painless IV.

Dr. P came in to ask me if I was ready. (Are you kidding? I’d been ready for about five years.) He took out his magic marker and drew lines all over my face and neck and told me that we would be starting in a few minutes. Then I went into the operating room where the anesthesiologist put me to sleep, and the next thing I knew, it was about five hours later, I was awake, and it was all over.

I had tubes everywhere – IV in my hand, oxygen in my nose, drain tubes in the back of my head, blood pressure band on my arm and a catheter – but I felt wonderful. There were compressors on my lower legs that would squeeze and release to prevent blood clots. I also had a blood pressure patch on my arm to keep my blood pressure steady. And, oh yeah, my head was totally bandaged and felt huge.

I had been told that I would have a nurse available all night, but I actually had two. I was their only patient, and I got totally pampered and taken care of. I would sleep a couple of hours and then wake up and have a cold drink or juice or gelatin and then sleep a couple of hours and have another drink or snack. This was the life.

I noticed a dozen beautiful platinum pink roses in a silver vase and asked the nurse about them. She told me Dr. P had left them for me. Wow, first he makes me beautiful and then he gives me flowers.

The next morning, the nurses took off all the bandages. I would still have to wear an elastic wrap around my face for several days to help keep the swelling down, but I wouldn’t have to be bandaged.

After I got home that morning, I looked in the mirror for the first time. Oh my gosh – it was awful. I was swollen so much that my eyes were just little slits. My face was totally round and huge. I was slightly bruised and still had the magic marker lines all over my face. I thought I looked terrible, but it was going to get worse.

I had to sleep on my back for two weeks, which I consider to be the only really bad thing about this adventure called a face lift. I stayed on the couch downstairs for the two weeks, and it was so narrow that sleeping on my back was the only option; I couldn’t have turned over without falling off the couch. My little Shih Tzu, Jamie Anne, knew that I “wasn’t right” so she stayed on the couch with me, making it even more difficult to move. The only discomfort I felt was having to sleep on the staples in the back of my head.

Brushing my teeth proved to be challenging. I could open my mouth just fine, but the inside of my mouth was also swollen. I could barely get the toothbrush in my mouth, and moving it to brush my teeth was almost impossible. The second day after the surgery, a nurse came to my house to take the drains out and told me that I was looking good. What? I don’t think so. I was even more bruised at that point, and I still had the magic marker lines on my face and dried blood in my hair. She told me I could shower and wash my hair, and she couldn’t have made me happier if she had told me I had won the lottery.

When I washed my hair I noticed that strands of hair kept falling out. Hmmm, that was interesting. Dr. P had cut small sections of my hair during surgery. He had told me that he was going to cut portions of my hair, but I had forgotten about it until it started coming out in my hands. But I didn’t care – it had been three days since my last shower, and my hair would grow back. Four days after surgery I went back to see Dr. P. He removed the stitches in front of my ears and told me that I had severe bruising. No kidding. My face, neck and chest were totally black and blue. And I had two black eyes that looked like I had been the loser in a prizefight. Thank goodness I had taken three weeks off from my job to recover. I felt wonderful, but I looked really bad. Up to this point I had been totally numb, but I was starting to feel little electrical flashes in my face. The nerves were starting to reconnect. Five days after surgery I started feeling like worms were crawling under the skin at my temples. Ah – more healing. Also, in addition to bruises and swelling, I had developed a rash on my back from the antibiotics. Yep, I was really looking good. I just kept telling myself that soon this ugly duckling would be a beautiful swan.

On the sixth day, I woke up feeling bad for the first time since the surgery. My neck was hard and extremely swollen, but an ice pack made it feel much better. This proved to be the only day that I had any discomfort caused by the face lift, and this was not pain, just a slight discomfort.

Eight days after surgery Dr. P took out the remainder of my stitches and some of the staples out of my scalp. He also removed the blood pressure patch because I had been a little lightheaded. My bruises were worse, and my black eyes were even darker.

The next day, I awoke to find scabs in my scalp and behind my ears. I had also developed a small lump in my neck. Dr. P had told me that lumps would come and go throughout my recovery period so I was not alarmed. I was still totally numb and feeling no pain.

Two weeks after surgery Dr. P aspirated a lump on my temple that was filled with blood. He also removed a forgotten stitch above my ear. I was still swollen and bruised, and I still had two black eyes that I was beginning to think were never going to go away. Dr. P assured me that they would. At this point I was still staying “under cover” at home, leaving only to go to the doctor. I was beginning to wonder if I would always be too ugly to leave the house.

I noticed that the oil glands in my T-zone were functioning again like they did when I was a teenager. I guess that is a good thing, but I wondered how a face lift could have caused that. Maybe the surgery had actually made me younger.

Of course, the best way to recover from a face lift is to go on a cruise. So that’s what I did. My daughter took my mother and me on a week-long cruise to Bermuda. We spent three days in New York before the cruise, going to plays and museums and shopping. Nobody stared at me like I was from another planet, so I guess at that point I was starting to look normal.

Three weeks after surgery I went back to work. My fellow employees told me I looked wonderful, and I did look better than I did before the surgery, but I was still bruised under my eyes, and the healing bruises had left yellow areas all over my jaw line.

During the fourth week after surgery, the numbness started to disappear and the feeling started to come back. It was uncomfortable to touch my temples and under my jaw. Dr. P said that the dark circles under my eyes would eventually fade away, but I was beginning to have my doubts. My eyebrows started to feel tender, and a dark bruise came up by my left eyebrow. Just when I thought my bruises had faded away – here was a new one. Most of the numbness had gone except in front of my ears and under my chin.

During the next couple of weeks, I once again felt like worms were crawling under my skin at my temples. It was amazing to realize that I could actually feel my face healing. I also felt like there were needles sticking in my scalp. More nerves must be connecting. As more feeling came back, it felt like pins were sticking in my neck when I turned my head. The sides of my face and in front of my ears were still numb. On the fifty-fifth day, just when I thought I was about back to normal, the itching started. Everything itched – temples, scalp, incisions behind my ears and even the bruises under my eyes – obviously, more healing.

It has been eight months since my surgery, and I am extremely pleased with the results. I can still occasionally feel “healing” taking place in my face, jaw and neck, and I actually think that every week I look better than the week before. I have also noticed that my hair appears to be curlier, which I suppose is a result of the tightening of my hair follicles – another pleasant surprise. And Dr. P was right – the dark circles under my eyes really did go away. I have to remember to put moisturizer around and behind my ears because the skin is a little tighter than it used to be – but hey, that’s the point.

Would I do it again? You betcha; if I ever look in the mirror and see that the old turkey neck has come back, I’m calling for an appointment the same day.

And, of course, my wonderful husband is happy that I am happy, but he is also extremely pleased with the results. He is always telling me that he thinks I am beautiful and how proud he is that I am his wife. Now, in my opinion, that is the best compliment I have had since the face lift. Several days after my procedure, I received a handwritten note from Dr. P thanking me for allowing him to be my doctor. Well, you are very welcome, Dr. P, but I definitely am the one who should be saying thank you. So, thank you very much, Dr. P. H

Singer Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins

With Mother’s Day this month, consider for a moment how life might be with a celebrity mom: paparazzi pictures … Hollywood parties – unlimited spoiling – designer clothes – but, most importantly, an enormous department store-style closet. At least that’s how it is for 4-year-old Chase. Her mom, Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins, of the multi-platinum R & B group TLC, recently opened a River Oaks children’s boutique in her name, Chase’s Closet.

The Grammy-winning singer is only in Houston for two days for the store’s debut party – she pushed back this interview twice to spend more time with her daughter in Atlanta. Afterward, she flies to Los Angeles for the semifinals of her UPN reality show, “R U That Girl,” in which contestants audition to record a song with TLC in place of group member Lisa ‘Left-Eye’ Lopez, who died in a 2002 car accident. And then, Tionne will finally get to head home.

In fact, this is the longest period of time she’s ever been away from Chase: five days. Inside the store she seems perfectly comfortable while surrounded by a giant, pink teddy bear and a ‘time-out’ rocking chair for this month’s cover – she even soothes a stranger’s crying baby who had been brought in to model clothes. When the shoot is over, we begin to walk to la Madeleine for a quick lunch, but as she nears the store’s front door, something in the display window catches her eye. It’s a Hullabaloo sundress that she must remember to purchase for Chase before leaving town.

“I tend to over buy for her,” she confesses, “but nothing is cuter than dressing kids like little grown-ups. I could go broke buying all of Chase’s clothes.” Probably so, considering the store is a reflection of Chase’s actual closet – D & G Junior tennis shoes, Moschino blouses, Miss Blumarine swimsuits – not the average buy-them-cheap-because-kids-grow-fast children’s clothes. Tionne’s tastes lean toward designer, but she says such finds can be a rarity in the South.

“I wanted to raise my daughter in a southern environment, without all of the cameras, but there are hardly any good, designer children’s stores in Atlanta,” she says.

That dilemma and the fact her friends said Chase’s closet looked like a store motivated her to open a children’s boutique that would send the fashion-forward styles of New York and Hollywood southbound. Originally considering locating it in her hometown of Atlanta, she knew who she wanted as a partner: Chase’s personal shopper, Tara Brivic-Rowntree. Tara has shopped for Chase from the time she was 6 months old and had collaborated with Tionne on selecting clothes that suited her style – nothing too lacy or with too many flowers.

Chase, however, was not Tara’s only client. The New York celebrity stylist also shopped for Demi Moore and her three girls, the Duchess of York and her daughters, and Diane Sawyer, to name a few. Tara’s waiting list was long, so she initially hesitated about adding Tionne to it, fearing she might be a ‘diva.’ However, once the two went shopping together, she says they became ‘instant friends.’ When Tara’s husband, A.D. Rowntree, was offered a DJ position with Houston’s rock channel 94.5 the Buzz, it made sense that they should open the store here. Getting it ready, however, was no celebrity picnic. Both Tionne and Tara spent an entire night opening boxes and hanging clothes, so its January opening came as quite a relief.

“When everything was finally done, it was all worth it because I think of the store as a gift I can give my daughter,” Tionne says.

When the majority of the store was complete, Tionne flew back to Atlanta, where she would remain and continue to buy for the store. Tara, now living in Houston, would serve as its manager and as a personal shopper for its customers.

“Tara is good at what she does,” Tionne says. “She remembered what I liked and didn’t like for Chase. She would send me items from a store, and I would buy what I wanted, which was usually almost everything. I wanted (our) store to offer that kind of service.”

Having someone who remembers exactly what a customer likes can sometimes be dangerous. Eventually, Chase’s closet grew so large that a ladder was required for hard-to-reach pieces. Each season, Tionne always made sure to keep it fully stocked with the latest styles that weren’t yet mainstream.

“When Juicy [Couture] jogging suits were the ‘in’ thing, Chase had them,” she says. “But she is always on to the next thing before it gets big. I don’t care if it’s made by a famous designer or by someone selling clothes out of the back of their car; if it’s something new and different, I make sure she has it. I was always a trendsetter, and that’s something that I want to transfer to her.” Trend-setting for Tionne began somewhat differently than it did for her daughter. Remembering the days before TLC became the highest-selling female group, she recalls having to act as the group’s stylist.

“I chose most of our clothes, and Lisa painted and airbrushed them,” she says with a smirk and holds back a laugh. “Keep in mind that airbrushing was the style at that time.”

And when it comes to knowing today’s fashion and trends, Tionne might be considered more ‘with it’ than most moms, but, like most children, Chase doesn’t always want her advice.

“Starting from about the time she was 2, she would tell me, ‘Mommy, today I want to wear pink and yellow,'” Tionne says. “So I let her express herself and wear what she wanted, as long as it wasn’t tacky.”

With Chase quickly becoming a fashion diva in her own right, she developed her own opinions of what constituted stylish attire, which could sometimes lead to embarrassing moments. “When she was learning her colors, she saw a woman wearing brown and purple and [loudly] said to me, ‘She doesn’t match,'” Tionne recalls. “The woman really didn’t match, and I found it interesting that [Chase] would associate learning her colors with fashion, but I had to teach her to be quiet and keep some of her thoughts to herself.” Chase’s fashion sense continues to mature, but inevitably so does her clothing size.

“Chase will outgrow [Chase’s Closet] in a second,” Tionne says. The solution: Tionne’s next project, a tween clothing store in Atlanta. Will it be a women’s boutique after that? Maybe. Some might think Tionne spoils Chase, but is giving her daughter a new store with each passing stage really that different from what most moms do for their children? Whether they’re celebrities or housewives, moms usually want to give their children the best of what they can offer. Although it might not always be a new store, a new pair of shoes is always nice. H

Creative Baby Showers

With all the expectant mothers around, it’s time to think of throwing a great baby shower to get them ready for their new bundles of joy.

High tea
Perfect for the traditional mom (think Charlotte from “Sex and the City”) is an English tea or garden party with a menu of finger sandwiches (without the crusts, mind you) and tiny fruit tarts. Be sure to remember the lemonade and fruit juices for the lovely ladies as well. Fill the area with fresh flowers to set the atmosphere, and give mom the quintessential silver baby spoon from Tiffany’s.

Rock revival
For an expectant mom who’s looking for something a bit different, a rock ‘n’ roll-themed party is the way to go. This is sure to allow a casual atmosphere and encourage the guests to talk without having to play games involving baby food. Rather than bother with perfect pastries and sandwiches, build your own burgers for a laid-back treat. Give gifts with a little edge as well, and present the mother-to-be with vintage concert Ts and Rolling Stones or Madonna CDs to play for the little tyke while he/she is still in her belly.

Meat and potatoes
Still reminiscing about the rodeo? Why not bring out your cowboy hat and boots just one more time? Living in Houston, one of the best options for a baby shower is one centered on barbecue and sides. Hold an outdoor party in the early evening, just as the sun is setting to enjoy the best weather. Consider even inviting the men to this event, since everyone will surely enjoy the spread. (Besides, what man would miss the chance to fire up the grill?) A teething ring and bib would be perfect gifts so the little one is ready to have some of his/her own barbecue one day. (Baby boots are a special treat!)

Bon voyage
Just right for any jet-setting family is an “Around the World in 80 Days” party. Dish out samosas and mini egg rolls, or maybe even a little curry for everyone to try. A bit of jasmine tea would also be a great accompaniment for the dishes. For decoration, use streamers and postcards collected from the family’s travels. Encourage guests to give gifts based on travel, like a selection of teas from China and India, a nice kimono or a quilt for the baby made from soft saris.

Spa-tacular
Finally, for the mom on the go, get out of the house and center the shower on relaxation. This way, you can pamper her and she can enjoy a wonderful, relaxing day out with her girlfriends at the spa. The Trellis Spa at the Houstonian Hotel offers spa packages specifically designed for the mother-to-be. Roula’s Nail Spa also offers a package called Pickles and Ice Cream that any mother is sure to love. Give presents focusing on well-being and comfort, so consider massage treatments and spa facials. H

Astros Manager: Phil Garner

Two of Kingwood’s most recognizable residents, Carol and Phil Garner were comfortable with their foreseeable path, forging a life ahead by taking a step back to enjoy the proverbial trees. Retirement seemed eminent, with their marriage moving into the fourth decade and their children now adults with families of their own. Phil Garner enjoyed a satisfying and successful professional baseball career, and the couple looked forward to exploring the luxury of both time and finances.

“I’ve always been a beach person,” Carol says, sitting at ease side-by-side with her husband in their spacious home. “And he’s always been the mountain person.”

“We were skiing these two weeks, I think, right?” chimes in Phil.

“Right, these were the two weeks we would have been skiing.” But the snowcapped slopes must wait for now, as well as the sun-setting nights beside the beach, because at their collective heart the Garners are baseball people. And those two weeks of February, and the many others that follow until the days of fall, are reserved for when the rhythm of the calendar calls “Play ball.” Phil Garner has been awarded the position of manager for the Astros in 2005.

Yet, on the eve of Phil launching his first full season of managing the Astros, the Garners gather their collective thoughts and confess they were comfortable if the game’s next opportunity had never surfaced. A recent year-and-a-half separation from the game – the Garner’s first interruption after 30-plus years of playing, coaching and managing – was the real eye-opener.

“I really came to understand that we could enjoy life outside of baseball, and it was a little hard to give up, I have to admit,” Carol says. “But I was willing to share him.”

Phil Garner experienced a “Michael Corleone” moment – “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” The game’s gravitational pull proved too irresistible after Phil’s critical role in the Astros heart-stopping, against-all-odds, one-win-from-the-World-Series 2004 season.

“For example, going into a grocery store at 11:30 at night, the ladies behind the bakery counter would say how awesome it was that their families would come together to watch this game or that game,” Carol says, referring to any of a half-dozen cardiac moments from the most memorable season in Astros history. “It was gratitude. It wasn’t a ‘Yea, way to go!’ It was ‘Thank you, so much.'”

“It was at least several hundred people,” Phil interrupts. “Ten to 15 a day would say that.”

Carol adds, “It was wonderful to hear that.”

Phil Garner took interim control of the lethargic and underachieving team at last summer’s All-Star break, and the Astros’ winning resurrection was definitely worth cheering. Left for dead in the standings with a 56-60 record in mid-August, Garner’s leadership ignited an inferno finish. In fact, it was the best in baseball in more than a half century – 36 wins in the team’s final 46 games. This secured a wild-card entry to the playoffs, punctuated with a first-ever playoff series win in franchise history.

Because of this, Phil Garner, the ex-Astro who had earned the moniker “Scrap Iron” from his hard-charging 16-year major-league playing tour, was given permanent control. On Nov. 3, he accepted a two-year contract with an option for a third season as the team’s manager.

The Garners’ sense of pride swells beyond the backslaps of a job well done. Houstonians since 1981, they now officially represent the hometown team. Carol, in fact, was much more than a mere unabashed fan last September. Regularly fixed in her seat in section 119 behind home plate, she diligently kept score in the manner taught at the knees of her grandmother.

“Serving on the (Harris County) Sports Authority, I was at that building from the time the first shovel went into the ground and then all the way up,” Carol says. “And it was a tremendous feeling for me to be able to come back and Phil be managing in the stadium that I feel I really gave a lot of community effort to help build.”

Phil is determined to now mold and motivate a consistent playoff winner for that downtown hardball palace and, at the same time, remove the only unsightly blemish from his big league resume -nine consecutive losing seasons managing under-manned and cash-strapped teams first in Milwaukee and then Detroit.

“I had success as a player,” says Phil, owner of a World Series ring from Pittsburgh’s 1979 championship season. “And I had one good year (92-70 with the Brewers in 1992) as a manager, and we played well. But I didn’t feel like I had really had the kind of success that I wanted as a manager. Inside you always felt kind of undone or that there was a better ending or some more chapters to that story.”

Phil would like to believe his recent hardball hiatus would serve up a softer approach to the day-to-day win/loss roller coaster. But he is honest enough with himself and his lifelong battery mate to recognize that’s likely not the case.

“Carol would probably say, ‘no,'” Phil says with a laugh. “And that’s probably true. I would just like to be a little more on the even keel and take the losses a little less hard and in the wins not be so jubilant. I haven’t been able to reel it in and keep a handle on it.”

Then with the slightest of pauses and with a smile that raises the hint of white whiskers of his signature mustache, “But, boy, it sure is fun to win.” H

Cooking with H Texas

Quick and easy … and delicious: Is there anything better? When it comes to cooking, you don’t have to be a full-blown chef (or even a part-time sous chef) to serve up some scrumptious bites – you just have to learn a couple tricks of the trade.
These yummy appetizers will appease even the harshest of critics (even if that is you).

Rosemary Roasted New Potatoes
10-minute prep time
40-minute cooking time
Ingredients
2 1/2 lbs. small new potatoes (class c)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
sea salt (to taste)
freshly cracked black pepper
6-7 sprigs of fresh rosemary
8-ounce package of cream cheese (softened)
8-ounce package of sour cream
1 package of ranch dip mix (powder)
chopped chives, red onion or caviar for garnish
What to do
Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees. Rinse the potatoes thoroughly and pat dry. On a sheet pan, toss potatoes with the oil, salt, pepper and rosemary (still on sprig). Cook the potatoes for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. (Cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes.) When you can insert a knife easily into the potatoes, they are done. Set them aside to cool.
In the mean time, you can mix the filling. Mix the cream cheese, sour cream and ranch together, and fill a pastry bag with a star tip with the mixture. (You can use a gallon-size sealable plastic bag by cutting one bottom corner at an angle.) Refrigerate the mixture while potatoes cool (10 minutes or so).
When you are ready to serve, transfer the potatoes to the serving tray. Squeeze the filling on the tops of the potatoes, and add topping of your choice (chives, caviar, or minced red onion).
Voila!

Ask the Experts

Steven Wolfson, D.D.S.
Dr. Steven Wolfson offers expert dental
advice that will make you smile

A graduate of The Pankey Institute, The Las Vegas Institute for Aesthetic Dentistry, as well as the Baylor College of Dentistry Aesthetic Continuums, Dr. Steven Wolfson offers his patients the latest in aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry, as well as all facets of general dentistry. Dr. Wolfson has created a practice that is recognized for world-class dentistry, exceptional personalized care and the most up-to-date procedures.

What is the difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry?
Actually, both go hand in hand. A great cosmetic dentist needs to also be a great general dentist, and vice versa. This ensures that not only will the final result be beautiful, but it will also be long lasting and functional, with the health of the mouth and supporting structures the primary importance. The main difference is that a dentist who has studied and focused his practice on cosmetic dentistry, as we have, is going to be more adept at smile design and complete aesthetics.

What are the most sought-after cosmetic dentistry procedures?
Well, since there is such a wide variety of needs, it is hard to isolate one or two procedures as being more popular or sought after, but I would say most patients that see us want their smiles rejuvenated with either porcelain veneers, Invisalign orthodontics, single-visit whitening procedures and/or cosmetic silver filling replacements.

What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are beautifully sculpted and shaped to fit over the front surface of the tooth. Then they are chemically bonded to the tooth. Of all the procedures available today for changing and improving the look of your smile, porcelain veneers are the most popular and successful for our patients.

What is instant orthodontics, and how quickly will I see the results?
Instant orthodontics is the term that is used for straightening teeth using some type of cosmetic porcelain-bonded procedure instead of braces. Depending on the case, most smiles are completed very quickly, usually within two to three visits.

What if I am interested in teeth whitening or bleaching?
There are many whitening options available today. Some whitening procedures are completed in a single office visit, while some take several weeks to complete. We use the Zoom, single-visit office whitening system, as seen on the ?Extreme Makeover? program. It gives us the most dramatic whitening results that I have seen among the bleaching systems out there.

Is cosmetic dentistry purely aesthetic, or is there an emphasis on functionality and durability?
Cosmetic dentistry, when designed properly, always has an extreme emphasis on functionality and durability. Your smile should not only look fantastic, but it should feel natural, as if it grew there. This way, everything is balanced according to your muscles and jaw joints, ensuring durability.

What is smile design, and how could it help me?
A smile design should always be performed prior to any cosmetic makeover procedure. It involves taking into consideration the shape of the face, skin color, shape and color of the teeth, the smile form, the lips, tooth position and gum position, etc. Smile design also requires an artistic eye in order to design a beautiful look that enhances and rejuvenates the smile.

What do you offer for patients that fear going to the dentist?
Unfortunately, many people fear going to the dentist. For these people, we offer sedation dentistry. Our patients take a pill and snooze while we erase years of neglect, often in a single visit. It is safe and comfortable.

Dr. Steven Wolfson
The Tanglewood Center for Aesthetic Dentistry
510 Bering Drive, Ste. 450
Houston, TX 77057
(713) 789-1225
www.tanglewoodsmiles.com

Jim Medley
Jim Medley offers a unique perspective as
a police officer turned criminal defense attorney

Jim Medley is a Houston-based attorney who focuses his law practice exclusively on the defense of those accused of crimes. Mr. Medley has 15 years of experience in the criminal justice field, including experience as a police officer, professor of criminal justice and attorney. He is uniquely qualified to effectively defend anyone accused of a crime, being one of the only defense lawyers in Houston with a masters degree in criminal justice, in addition to a doctorate degree in law. His office has represented nearly 2,000 people and has had almost 200 criminal cases dismissed or found not guilty by juries. Mr. Medley is a certified instructor and expert in sobriety testing and a certified operator of the breath test machine. He has been published regarding breath testing and was nominated one of Houston?s top lawyers in H Texas magazine in 2004.

How can the police or prosecution ?pick up? a charge if the victim doesn?t want to file criminal charges?
When a criminal law is violated, the state is legally the victim. The penal code is the list of society?s forbidden behaviors. When a law is violated, it is society?s rule that is broken, not the victim?s rule. We usually only hear the term used in the context of domestic violence cases, but the principle applies to every crime. The human ?victim? of a crime is, in a legal sense, only a witness.

If someone is arrested, don?t the police have to read them their rights in order for the arrest to be legal?
Not at all. The Miranda warnings that we?ve all heard on television are not ?magic words? required to make an arrest legal. Miranda warnings are only required in order for answers to police interrogation to be admissible later in court. If the police don?t have any questions after an arrest, no warnings are needed.

What happens if the police ask me for consent to search my car?
Your rights are only yours to give up. A refusal may make the police suspicious, but it is your right to do that. If you toss your rights away, the police may inspect the contents of your car and all containers inside of it. If anything illegal is found, you will be arrested and charged with a crime.

Can a person give consent to the police to search their spouse?s room or container?
Yes, if the consenting spouse has access to the room or container to be searched. If the nonconsenting spouse has an expectation of privacy in a place that the consenting spouse does not have access to, then the consent will not be valid.

If drugs are found in my car or home, am I automatically guilty?
All possession offenses require a guilty mind to accompany the possession. In order to be convicted of possessing something illegal, the government must prove you intended to possess or at least knew about the possession. Unfortunately, those accused are most often forced to try to prove they didn?t know the drugs were where they were found.

Do I have to participate in police sobriety exercises on the side of the road if I?m stopped?
No. There are no legal requirements to participate in police roadside exercises. A police officer may choose to arrest a driver after they refuse the tests, but that arrest will not be lawful unless the officer had enough evidence without the tests to justify probable cause (PC) for arrest. In such a case where the police already have PC, participating in the tests even successfully would not necessarily prevent an arrest.

Should I take the police breath test if I?m accused of DWI?
If you?ve had nothing to drink, you can generally trust the breath test machine to clear your name. If you have had any alcohol that evening, you cannot trust the breath test machine to measure that amount accurately. Even if the machine says you?re under the limit, the police will often accuse you of being impaired anyway, or just on some other ?unknown? drug. You will not be automatically released for passing the breath test.

If my license has been suspended, how can I keep my job?
In most cases, a person will be eligible to receive court-ordered permission to drive for work or school from a judge. This permission is generally limited for the purpose of work/school only, and will usually be limited to a number of hours per day.

What qualifications are important to look for in a DWI defense lawyer?
Any criminal defense lawyer will take money to represent a DWI. Caution should be used in rushing to the cheapest lawyer in town, though. These cases require special knowledge and understanding of pharmacological, medical, chemical and many legal issues unique to DWI cases. Qualifications to look for include: police experience, sobriety testing expertise, breath testing expertise and, of course, a history of winning case results!

Jim Medley
Attorney Jim Medley
and Associates, P.C.
3401 Louisiana, Ste. 275
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 779-5004
www.jimmedley.com www.dwihoustonlawyers.com

Digestive Health Center
?Specialists who help you feel your best?

Chosen by referring physicians and patients throughout Southeast Harris County, the physicians at Digestive Health Center earn their reputation every day by providing exceptional and compassionate care for people with digestive disorders. The physicians and staff specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of digestive diseases. Medical directors Steven A. Fein, M.D., F.A.C.G. and Sezen A. Altug, M.D. are both board-certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine. The physicians take pride in being up-to-date on the latest medical technologies and advances while maintaining their focus on prevention and wellness practices.

The physicians of DHC are recognized for their achievements in gastroenterology and for their comprehensive approach to total digestive wellness. For four consecutive years, our physicians have been selected by the Consumers? Research Council of America as ?America?s Top Physicians? in gastroenterology. Dr. Fein has also been recognized as a Top Doc and a Top Doc for Women by H Texas magazine.

What is a gastroenterologist?
A physician with specialized training in understanding and treating the diseases of the digestive system (the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, rectum, liver, pancreas and gallbladder ? also called the gastrointestinal tract, or GI system). Some of the most common conditions treated include IBS, GERD, colorectal cancer and liver disease.

What is a digestive disease?
Digestive diseases range from the occasional upset stomach to the more life-threatening colorectal cancer and encompass disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, gallbladder, rectum and the pancreas. A digestive disease may be acute and self-limiting, chronic and debilitating, or sudden and devastating.

What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or the rectum. Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It is also one of the most preventable cancers. While colorectal cancer is a serious disease, if it is found and treated early, the prognosis is excellent.

Who should be screened for colorectal cancer?
Men and women at average risk for colorectal cancer should begin routine screening tests starting at the age of 50, unless there are other risk factors. Individuals with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease may need to be tested earlier or more frequently.

How are digestive diseases diagnosed?
Some of the procedures used to diagnose and treat digestive diseases include an upper endoscopy, performed to evaluate symptoms of persistent heartburn, upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, ulcers or bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract; a colonoscopy, performed to detect possible causes for chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, anemia, bleeding and removal of polyps; an ECRP, performed to treat bile duct tumors and gallstones; a PillCam Capsule Endoscopy of the small bowel or esophagus, performed to obtain a complete picture of your GI tract; and Stretta, a new diagnostic procedure used in the treatment of GERD.

What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal condition whose hallmarks include chronic or recurrent alternating bowel habits, and lower abdominal pain and cramping associated with bowel movements. In IBS, digestion and absorption of nutrients is not disturbed. X-rays or medical tests do not offer a definitive diagnosis for IBS; it is typically diagnosed after obtaining a detailed patient history and physical exam.

What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be thought of as chronic heartburn. The term refers to the frequent backing up (reflux) of stomach contents (food, acid and/or bile) into the esophagus. GERD also refers to the array of medical complications, some serious, that can arise from this reflux. Though it causes discomfort, occasional heartburn is not harmful. But if you have frequent heartburn, your stomach?s acid may inflame the lining of your esophagus, narrowing it. Stomach acid may also change the cells of your esophagus resulting in Barrett?s esophagus, increasing the likelihood of cancer from 1 in 100,000 to 1 in 100. Your stomach?s contents can also move into your throat past your vocal cords directly into your lungs, causing damage, as well as hoarseness, a chronic dry cough or asthma.

What causes a digestive disease?
The cause and natural history of many digestive diseases remain unknown, but it may develop congenitally or from multiple factors such as stress, fatigue, diet or smoking. Abusing alcohol imposes the greatest risk for digestive diseases, particularly increasing the risk of esophageal, colorectal and liver cancers.

Who develops a digestive disease?
Each year 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder. The incidence and prevalence of most digestive diseases increase with age, with the exception of intestinal infections such as gastroenteritis and appendicitis. Other exceptions include hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease and chronic liver disease, which occur more commonly among young and middle-aged adults. Women are more likely to report a digestive condition, particularly nonulcer dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. We invite you to visit our website, www.digestivehealth.cc, to learn more about digestive diseases and how Digestive Health Center can ?help you feel your best.?

Digestive Health Center
Pasadena
3315 Burke Road, Ste. 202
Pasadena, TX 77504
(713) 946-9513

Clear Lake
2060 Space Park Drive, Ste. 306
Nassau Bay, TX 77058
(281) 333-4155

Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements
Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements and Parenting Options
offers loving parents alternatives for starting their families

Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements and Parenting Options is the oldest and most experienced surrogate and egg donor reproductive agency in Texas. Offering support, counseling, legal services and matching, founders Greg and Kathy Stern have both personal and extensive professional experience in third-party reproduction. Through compassionate understanding and exceptional services, the goal of Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements and Parenting Options is to make happy endings for all their clients.

What is third-party reproduction?
Third-party reproduction simply means that a couple needs the help of a third party to become parents. This may be through egg, sperm or embryo donation. It may also involve the help of a surrogate mother (gestational carrier) to carry the child. The right choice depends on the circumstances.

Why would someone be interested in surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a wonderful option when a woman cannot carry a child herself. The couple can have a child that may be biologically related to one or both of them, and they can be very involved in the pregnancy. This offers the couples comfort and assurance that sometimes may not be found in an adoption arrangement.

What is the process for matching a couple with a surrogate mother?
Couples and surrogates are matched based on compatible values, philosophies and personalities. A mediated group meeting is held with a licensed counselor to assure that all issues are discussed and that everyone is in agreement and comfortable with the match. A Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements counselor will then guide the couple and surrogate throughout the arrangement.

Do surrogate mothers remain close with the family once the baby is born?
Every arrangement is different. Expectations of long-term relationships are discussed in the first meeting. Relationships evolve naturally and become whatever makes the parties comfortable. Some arrangements end in lifelong friendships.

How are surrogates screened?
All SSA surrogates undergo an extensive multilevel screening based on both objective and subjective standards to meet our proprietary criteria developed over many years of experience. This includes a phone screening, application process, clinical interview, objective psychological assessment and a home visit. Surrogates are evaluated on factors such as emotional stability, life stability, available support systems and proper motivation.

What legal aspects are involved in third-party reproduction?
Texas has the best law in the country for surrogacy. Contracts are approved by the court before the pregnancy and are enforceable. The names of the parents go directly on the birth certificate, and there is no need for an adoption. In egg, sperm or embryo donation, courts are not involved and parenthood is established based on written consent of the couple.

Why would someone be interested in egg donation?
An egg donor is necessary if a woman can carry but cannot provide the eggs for a pregnancy due to a medical condition, loss of her ovaries, or age-related factors. Egg donation gives the woman the opportunity to experience pregnancy. She is the one who provides the prenatal nurturing and who gives life to the child.

How does a couple choose an egg donor?
We have a large number of available donors and provide pictures and extensive biographical background information. The couple meets with the counselor, and they discuss their criteria for a donor. Usually couples choose a donor who closely matches the physical appearance, talents and interests of the intended mother.

How are donors screened?
All Parenting Options donors undergo an extensive multilevel screening based on both objective and subjective standards designed to satisfy both the egg donation guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and our own criteria based on years of experience.

Are there emotional hurdles that a couple must overcome before considering third-party reproduction?
The inability to have a child through natural means is a loss similar to that of a miscarriage or the loss of a loved one. The couple needs to grieve this loss. This takes time and may require the help of a mental health professional.

How common is third-party reproduction?
According to the latest government statistics, in 2002 there were more than 13,000 IVF cycles in the United States using donor eggs or embryos. Although there are no national statistics on surrogacy, the Organization of Parents through Surrogacy estimates that there are about 1,500 surrogate births per year in the United States.

How does a couple know that they are ready to start third-party reproduction?
Many couples have been trying to achieve their dream of parenthood for a very long time. The couple is ready when the desire to parent outweighs the desire to be pregnant and/or provide the genetics for their child. At that point, it is our job to help them create their own ?happy ending.? n

Southwest Surrogacy Arrangements LLC and Parenting Options LLC
10777 Westheimer, Ste. 350
Houston, TX 77042
(713) 952-4772
www.ssa-agency.com

Christian Hill
Christian Hill is recognized as one of Houston?s best personal injury lawyers ? by both his legal peers and the TV-watching public

Christian Hill has been practicing personal injury law for nearly 15 years, recovering more than $100 million in medical and income benefits for his clients. Consistently voted one of Houston?s best lawyers in H Texas magazine and named one of Texas? best lawyers by Texas Monthly magazine, Hill won numerous awards in law school for his exceptional legal skills and has since been named to Who?s Who in America.

What is personal injury law?
This term is generally used to describe the type of legal case in which a person suffers an injury as a result of the act or omission (failure to act) of another person. Common examples of a personal injury case include automobile accidents and medical malpractice.

Does time play a factor in personal injury cases?
Absolutely. Most states have a statute of limitations ? a specific period in which a lawsuit must be filed or it is forever barred. In Texas, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the occurrence or injury. In some very limited circumstances, this statute of limitations can be extended. However, it is never a good idea to wait until the last minute to seek advice about a potential case. The sooner you consult an attorney, the better.

What if I require extensive medical treatment due to a personal injury, but am denied services?
Texas and federal law both require a hospital to provide emergency medical treatment to an injured person, whether or not the person has health insurance. Emergency treatment is considered to be the treatment necessary to stabilize the patient. Subsequent medical treatment, however, may be more difficult to obtain. Some health care providers will provide medical treatment if they are provided a letter of protection from an attorney that is representing the injured person. The letter of protection assures the health care provider that fees for medical treatment will be paid out of any settlement or judgment of the injured person?s case. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

What if I have been injured in a car wreck? How soon must I act? What if the pain only becomes evident after some time has passed?
First of all, do not say to anyone at the time of the accident that you are not injured. While you might not think you are injured at the time of the accident, it is not at all unusual for muscle stiffness and pain to begin several hours after an accident. Do not wait to obtain appropriate medical care. It is a good idea to contact an attorney as soon as possible to obtain legal advice regarding your potential case.

What if I am injured in a car wreck, but the other person does not have insurance?
Although Texas law requires everyone to have at least minimal automobile liability insurance, many people still do not have insurance. When you purchase your automobile insurance, the insurance company must offer you uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage ? often called UM/UIM coverage. UM/UIM coverage is insurance that you purchase for yourself that will pay you if you are in a car wreck and the driver that was at fault either has no insurance or does not have enough insurance to compensate you for your injuries. UM/UIM coverage is generally not extremely expensive. If the other driver does not have liability insurance and you do not have UM/UIM insurance, there is, unfortunately, very little you can do. You should check your insurance policy to see if you have UM/UIM insurance.

Are work-related injuries considered personal injury cases? Can I sue my employer?
In general, work-related injuries are handled differently than other personal injury cases. If your employer has worker?s compensation insurance, every aspect of the work-related injury (including medical treatment and income benefits) is handled through the Texas Worker?s Compensation system. The worker?s compensation system provides medical treatment and income compensation for on-the-job injuries, whether or not another person caused the injury (for example, if you slip and fall at your workplace). If your employer has worker?s compensation insurance, then you cannot sue your employer. Your sole remedy is to file the worker?s compensation claim. There are, of course, variations to these general rules; for example: if your employer does not have worker?s compensation insurance or if you are injured in a car wreck while on the job. There are very strict time limits on different aspects of worker?s compensation claims. Contact an attorney as soon as possible so that you know your rights and responsibilities.

What can I do if I am experiencing adverse reactions to prescribed drugs that have since been taken off the market?
If you experience any adverse reaction to any medication, you should immediately contact your physician, whether or not the drug has been removed from the market. If a medication you are taking is removed from the market, you should stop taking the medication and contact your physician immediately. Most drugs have at least some known adverse reactions that can occur in some or all persons taking the medication. Consult an attorney to determine your legal rights.

What is product liability?
Product liability describes a type of case where a person is injured as a result of a product that is unreasonably dangerous due to a defect in the product. The defect can be a manufacturing defect, a design defect or a marketing defect. Product liability cases are very different from most other types of personal injury cases. The law regarding product liability is very complex. You should consult an attorney as soon as possible if you think you have been injured as a result of a defective product.

Christian Hill
Ivey, Kadlec & Hill, P.L.L.C.
1445 N. Loop West, Ste. 900
Houston, TX 77008
(713) 862-9990
www.christianhill.net

Local Organization: SEARCH

What do you do when a homeless person approaches you? How do you react? Do you spare a dollar? Do you think it will help get them off the streets? Everyone has been in this situation and come across the same questions. Most people are never quite sure how to help, but one organization, SEARCH, is taking the initiative and making a difference to end the cycle of homelessness.

SEARCH, Service of the Emergency Aid Resource Center for the Homeless, was founded in 1989 by several religious congregations. They pinpointed the need to address the growing homeless population in Houston by trying to empower the homeless to live independently and off the streets. Rather than simply help them to live based on survival, SEARCH is equipping these people with the skills to lead happy, prosperous lives without the need of outside assistance.

The mission of the organization is to focus on the needs of each individual; then, after identifying the problem, assist them by providing programs and classes to restore their self-esteem and help them create and achieve their goals. The organization has become the leading service provider in Houston for homeless persons and their families. Each month, the staff at SEARCH improves the lives of more than 2,300 men, women and children.

There is an abundance of programs available through the organization, including The House of Tiny Treasures. Intended for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age, the program is open to SEARCH children that would otherwise not have the opportunity to receive early developmental education. The children are offered speech and language therapy, as well as enrichment services, to prepare them for kindergarten and grade school. Even food and transportation services are provided to and from the center.

For the adults involved with SEARCH, a Company Kitchen was created to provide job experience and training in a catering environment. Founded in 1999, it has grown to cater nearly 1,200 meetings and events around Houston last year. They also have a Cookie House program that allows anyone to purchase a box of 16 freshly baked cookies. With so many flavors (chocolate chunk, white macadamia chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and peanut butter), you can pick your favorite, and all the proceeds go directly to SEARCH.

Among the other services is an Employment Education Center that includes a plethora of opportunities for SEARCH members to find and hold a job long after their time with the program. They also have an on-site health care system that provides primary care, dentistry, mental health counseling and a mobile outreach unit that offers services to all homeless individuals across the Houston area. H

Weathering the Bayou City It’s not the heat … it’s the futility

THE CAFÉ – Clear skies, low humidity, a slight breeze and a wonderful temperature. For Houstonians, it’s a good time for driving around with the convertible top down or dining al fresco. Yes, it’s perfect on both days of the year. That’s because we seem to go from winter to summer and back again with a 24-hour turnaround between the seasons. Maybe I’m overstating the obvious just a bit, but our springs and falls don’t last long here. In April, we had some chilly nights. Now it is May, and the a/c is on.

As we sit here in the outdoor café to sip our wine and watch the trains hit the cars, we should look at our local weather. Why not? Everyone else does. When you are out of town, whenever you mention that you are from Houston, the listener inevitably asks: “How do you stand the heat?” That is followed by, “How do you stand Tom DeLay?” and finally, “How does Tom DeLay stand the heat in the kitchen?”

Let’s stick with the weather. On average, we have 21 days a year when it freezes, which I don’t believe. Isn’t it more like six? The record low around here was 5 degrees set on Jan. 23, 1940, at Hobby Airport. The record low at Bush Intercontinental is 7 degrees set on Dec. 23, 1989. Looking at the high side, on average we have 95 days a year when the thermometer reaches 90 degrees or more. We rarely get to 100, nevertheless the record high temperature is 109 degrees set at Bush on Sept. 4, 2000.

We must agree that on rare occasions we have a little rain. Actually, we receive rain of some measure 103 days a year on average and thunderstorms on 64 days. Our heavy dews usually total 47.84 inches a year. That’s more rain than falls on Seattle. June 2001 was our wettest month (19 inches). Why? In a soggy word: Allison. Our wettest single day? On Aug. 27, 1945, 14.58 inches of rain fell on Hobby Airport, and the official one-day record still stands. We have had 14 measurable snowfalls since 1939, which is something to appreciate. Even under normal weather conditions, Houston drivers are suicidal. Add a snowfall, and our streets become one big destruction derby. Some cities can tell when the seasons change because, well, they really change and stay changed. But not in Houston. How many times have you cleaned out your wood-burning fireplace because winter has gone only to light another fire when the thermometer drops from 80 to freezing? There are some years when I’ve closed the flue and hauled out the ashes half a dozen times. Then there are the marches down the hall to turn off the a/c when ice forms on the widows or turn off the heater after you notice the backyard birdbath is boiling over. Were you here when it froze on an April 2? The weather can get cold when it should be warm. By the same token, in the dead of winter we often see the clouds part, the sun come out, and there is a window of a couple of days in January when the trees are fooled into budding only to be caught defenselessly exposed by the next blue norther. (Note to newcomers: The word is, indeed, “norther.” You are a “northerner;” a quick cold front is a “blue norther.”)

The problem with comparing temperatures and such is that Houston first started collecting weather data in 1882 but didn’t have a full year’s worth until 1889. Also, the official measuring station has moved, going from several different buildings downtown to Hobby in 1960. Then in June 1969 the weather instruments were moved 23 miles to the north to Bush (or Intercontinental as it was then known).

This brings us to our humidity. Dermatologists say the heavy, wet air is good for our skin, which is why we have nine huge machines scattered around town pumping moisture into the air. These Houston Humidifiers are the envy of Third World countries, including Dallas. Yet visitors continually ask us how we stand the summer’s heat and humidity. The proper answer (write this down) is, “I don’t. I go from my air-conditioned house to my air-conditioned car to my air-conditioned office. After work I either play on my air-conditioned tennis court or watch the Astros in an air-conditioned stadium.”

If I do go outside in the summer, it is to float in my neighbor’s pool with a cold beer – when they invite me. Once I took a ride in the Goodyear blimp and asked the pilot to go over my neighborhood. I was shocked by the number of backyard swimming pools on my block that no one told me about.

Houston has been called “the most air-conditioned city in the world,” which is just as hard to substantiate as being called “the fattest city in America.” But we do love our a/c. You have to special order a car without air conditioning. The Houston Yellow Pages has 36 pages listing air conditioning compared to 19 pages for churches. This matter of priorities is because Houstonians already know what hell is like: an August afternoon without air conditioning. Heaven is when the repairman says the burned-out compressor is covered by warranty. All of this cold air causes an odd situation. When people elsewhere say, with fear and awe, they are going to visit Houston in the summer, I tell them to bring a sweater. “Huh?” Our restaurants and theaters are freezing in the summer. I keep a jacket in my car year-round.

Finally, in our weather report there was an urban legend for years that the British Foreign Office authorized hardship pay for its staff in the Houston consulate because of our horrid weather, which was compared to that of Accra, Ghana, and Calcutta, India. It was a glorious put-down, so I asked the British consul general at that time if the story was true. He shook his head. “What we received was three years in Houston counted as four years toward retirement. That stopped after I told Whitehall, ‘My God. Haven’t you people ever heard of air conditioning?'” Incidentally, I was kidding about the humidifiers, but not about Tom DeLay. H