VOLUME 2 VOLUME

ISSUE 43 |ISSUE
NOVEMBER 2009 | [Link]
6 | April 2010 | [Link]

O F S O

art & architecture

U T H E A S T T E X A S

Vital
The Kyle Building

3CG
is in the Outstanding
Texas
house
Physicians
how to
SHAPE
UPfor +Best blooms
for spring
shorts +Guest columnist
season Ginger Robinson
+VIPersonality
where is the care?
RICHARD JAMES III
Ubi Caritas +scenes from the
BEST EVENTS
scrubs on the floor!
looks for
spring
COMPLIMENTARY
 The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Beaumont Plaza
Let us share in planning your next event!

3950 I 10 South @ Walden Road

Beaumont, TX 77705
Phone: (409) 842-5995 Fax: (409) 842-7810
[Link]
NEVER
UNDERESTIMATE
THE POWER OF A LITTLE “ME TIME”
Thursday, May 6, 2010 | 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
LiveWell Ford Park Beaumont, Texas

Registration opens this month!

WOMEN’S CONFERENCE $ 50 Early Bird Registration ends April 17th $ 75 Registration April 18th – April 30th

Keynote Speaker, Joan Lunden

Ever wondered why you’re always feeling tired or why you just can’t juggle all the balls in the air?
Not sure how to talk to your kids about peer pressure or need to get a better grip on your finances?
Curious about the latest medical advancements? Then this event is perfect for you. Make plans to
attend the LiveWell Women’s Conference presented by CHRISTUS Hospital. While you’re there,
browse through the Market Square shopping area and check out our health screenings.

For more information about the 2010 LiveWell Women’s Conference, visit the official web site at [Link]/conference.
 inside april
vip magazine
c o n t e n t s

08 starters 36 totally social

Letter from the Editor 36 Celebrating the best
of events
11 vip shelter
11 The recycling of a 37 vip worthy
building: the Art Deco 37 Three physicians
Kyle Building we admire
15 Make the bed for 42 Ubi Caritas: What it
spring flowers means and who they are
44 The marathon man
18 vip style shows perseverance
18 Five local health
professionals model 47 vip guide
sassy spring fashion 47 5 great dates in
21 Doctor, doctor give me April, plus a preview of
the news – when is 3CG May events!
playing again? 50 Pass it on,
advises columnist
23 health&beauty Ginger Robinson

23
23 Shaping up moves for
spring

21

4 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

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 4
fabulous finds
Retailers we love and their
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Flirty Spring Designs by SPY

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Editorial
Executive Editor
cheRYL RoSe

Contributing Writers
cathLeeN coLe
aShLeY gReeN
mIcheLLe mccaLoPe
hoLLI PeteRSeN
gINgeR RoBINSoN
haLeY StRahaN

Photography
Contributing Photographers
SILVIa mccLaIN
KYLe PeteRSeN
JeRRY PoWeRS
JoY PRUItt
Lee StINSoN
JUDY StoKeLY

Art
Director, Digital Solutions
teD FISheR

Manager, Creative Media

BLaNche BoND
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6 April 2010 | theViP[Link]

Antonio Melani “Valor” dress in buttercup, $159.
 vip magazine
e d i t o r ’ s l e t t e r

Cover Story

spring anew
Photography: Silvia C. McClain

U
Model: Gwendolyn Lavalais, M.D.
Fashion: Styled by Jackie’s
H OH. IT’S SHORTS SEASON. We asked Dr. Gwendolyn Lavalais to do
With Southeast Texas heat and humidity, keeping your something radically different from her normal
body layered in comfy and concealing clothing isn’t an op-
tion. It’s time to strip down and let your skin out into the routine as an oncologist – trade the lab coat
light again. It’s enough to send some of us cringing back for an afternoon of modeling spring fashion!
to the gym and searching through our bathroom drawers Gwendolyn wears very trendy neutral colors:
to see if that self-tanning lotion from last year is still good. A knit tank and natural linen top by Planet
Personal trainer Xochitl Garza has some tips for those over black Sympli palazzo pants. On this soft
of us who need a tone-up before bathing suit season gets
seriously underway. Find her recommendations begin- palette, throw in the WOW factor of dramatic
ning on p. 23. I’ve already started trying to follow her program, including drinking two turquoise and wood necklace and earrings
cups of green tea a day. from Viktoria Hayman, a jewelry designer
Need a goal to keep you on track? Sign up for the first-ever Gusher Marathon, who uses natural elements and describes
Half-Marathon and 5K — it’s just a month away. This inaugural event is igniting a lot pieces as “wearable art.” Turquoise is the “IT”
of excitement. Though many individuals and businesses are contributing to the event,
the man behind the marathon is fitness advocate and all-around-fascinating individual color for Spring this year. The finishing touch
Richard James III, our VIPersonality of the month. is a smooth wooden cuff bracelet by Monies.
If we have one thing in common as human beings, it is that our amazing bodies Available at Jackie’s, 409.861.5762.
will at some point malfunction. Recently, I was talking with a group of women and
discovered that all of us were coping with a health worry. In this small group, the
concerns ranged from mysterious lumps, cardio and blood pressure issues, hormones
out of balance, severe headaches and arthritis. All of us in this group, no matter how
concerning the problem, are still very fortunate — we have health insurance. We are
among the shrinking pool of those with access to doctors, tests and medicine.
Layoffs and recession have made health care a luxury to many. We are blessed in
our area to have a wonderful organization called Ubi Caritas that serves the medical
needs of the uninsured. Please read about this special and vital community resource
on p. 42.
We have a substantial health care community in our area. This month we are
highlighting a number of those individuals who serve us when we are sick or hurt.
Some we asked to toss off the scrubs and model the latest spring fashion found in our
local boutiques. Some show us how they have fun outside of work playing in a garage
band — the 3 Car Garage band (they are doctors) to be precise. We also selected three
physicians to highlight for their up-to-the-moment work.
There are so many dedicated professionals in our area and interesting health topics.
We could only touch on a few in this issue of VIP, but look for our new publication,
BE healthy – Healthy Living in Southeast Texas. We will bring you a new issue of BE
healthy every other month, highlighting local stories and experts on such topics as fit-
ness, nutrition, self-improvement, responding to ailments
and medical conditions.
Be healthy, be well and be seeing you,

BE
Your
BOOST Power!
Smile
etic denti
stry
Cosm to add
options attage
mega-wgrin
to your M
MUSEUUT
WITHO S
WALL
Cheryl Rose,
Executive Editor
health od
ing go Pre-K set
Teachto the
habits

the stuff gaocoted?

good ria b TICS AR
E
PROBIO FUL AIDS
POWER
LonginiRngun and spirit
Look for our new magazine!
TS FOR
The ho n tra
for body BEST BE ERERS
Y SUFF
Marat
ppy ALLERG
Hug a pu good! ss
and fe el s happine
rapy share
Pet the

P.S. As we were going to print with this issue, a beloved friend of our community,
Paula “Torchy” Salter died at the far too youthful age of 54. A fashion maven and
involved volunteer, she will be greatly missed. As one of our Facebook friends, Dana
Johnson, said, “Heaven just got a little more style.”

8 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 Cocktails and Iced-Tea Re-imagined at
Hammonds Backyard Living!
To heat up the night our new
Cocktail Mixology Set
will give you the tools you
need to infuse the perfect
cocktail in your home.
Place an infuser into one of
our Infusion Chambers, pour your choice of alcohol over the
infuser and watch the color swirl as the delicious flavors are
released. Add the rest of the cocktail ingredients and enjoy.
To cool off the day use the signature piece
The Antique Emporium will LURE you right in. Over of our Tea-Over-Ice™ line, these
a thousand collectible lures, hand carved antique sculpturally designed pitchers are
Serving our community since 1918 with elegant to
decoys, rods, reels, nets, and even tackle boxes made from hand-blown heat-resistant
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8
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[Link] | April 2010 9

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 vip shelter
r e j u v e n a t i o n

F
text by CATHLEEN COLE

or years the Kyle Building sat vacant in downtown

Beaumont, its Art Deco accoutrement crumbling,
its past grandeur almost forgotten. Almost. Attor-
ney Brent Coon knew the Kyle’s history and, as
a former builder, knew he could renovate it. To-
day the block-long landmark on Orleans Street is
home to the administrative offices of Brent Coon
& Associates and Coondog Productions, his con-
cert and event production company. >>
photography by LEE E. STINSON

[Link] | April 2010 11

 Downtown revival
In 1901, W. W. Kyle opened the Kyle Opera House — a longtime
mainstay of Beaumont culture. Nevertheless in 1931, it was razed
to make way for an extension of Orleans Street. The Kyle Building
was soon constructed on the site and was home to various retail
shops for decades in the once-bustling downtown business district.
But in the 1980s, the oil industry, to which Beaumont was and still
is heavily tied, crashed and downtown Beaumont languished. The
Kyle Building had tenants come and go but eventually its doors
were locked. It was left alone to suffer the same fate as other down-
town historic buildings.
A new millennium brought new interest in reviving the down-
town district. Investors bought and renovated the San Jacinto
Building, the Mildred Building, the Coale Building and the former
Petroleum Building, now called Century Tower. The Kyle Building
was added to that list when Coon purchased the structure in 2006
for about $1 million and officially opened its doors for business in a
celebration last December.
For Coon, housing his staff in a newer building in the suburbs
wouldn’t do. The Vidor native wanted to be downtown near the
courts and he wanted an old building. The Kyle sits across from the
Jack Brooks Federal Building that houses the U.S. District Courts
and, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, definitely
qualifies as an old building. He even acted as the architect for the
redesign, something he felt confident in doing because he was a
builder before he became a lawyer.

Building a new career

After graduating from Vidor High School with honors in 1978,
he decided to forgo college and forge ahead as an entrepreneur. He
started a construction company and worked on new construction as
well as renovating old buildings. But just as downtown Beaumont
was a victim of the oil bust in the 1980s, so was Coon’s construction
company. Business dried up and he knew he needed to retool. He
headed to Lamar University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree
in political science in 1984. From there, he headed to the Univer-
sity of Houston and graduated with a law degree in 1986. He came
back to Beaumont and, although his law firm has offices around the
Brent Coon, who in addition to being a builder and attorney also country, he has been here ever since. That’s a good thing for the
moonlights in a rock band, stands in the new foyer of the Kyle Building. Kyle Building. Coon also bought and renovated the Pillot Building
in downtown Houston. “I love saving these old buildings,” he said.

photography by lee e. stinson

“Beaumont looks prettier now than it has in 50 years.”

— Brent Coon
12 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]
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(Top) Off the central room hangs a portrait made in the early 1900s of the Kyle
family: William Wesley “W. W.” Kyle, his wife, Clyde “Clydie” Wiess Kyle, and
sons, Wesley Wiess Kyle and Everett S. “Brudge” Kyle. (Bottom) A view of the
Kyle Building in the 1930s. ‡˜‡”›–Š‹‰ ‡Ž•‡ ‹• Œ—•–
Grand again
His renovation goals for the Kyle were “to restore as best we could
the original style of the building.” There was much to do. Old vinyl
—†‡”™‡ƒ”
flooring and carpet covered beautiful terrazzo floors. The limestone
façade was crumbling and needed repair. The center of the building
had never been finished. And that was just scratching the surface.
Today, the building, with its bold symmetry, stands much prouder
amongst the cityscape. The limestone blocks and black glazed tiles of
its façade gleam brighter. The terra-cotta friezes adorning the build-
ing are no longer crumbling. Terrazzo entries lead to grand black
doors, the inset glass decorated with cast aluminum designs. Above,
the windows reflect the same design with matching cast aluminum
décor gracing the glass.
Inside, the central room with its high-polished tile floor and black
iron staircase leads to a conference area upstairs and to Coon’s pri-
vate office downstairs. Etched glass over interior office doors mimics
the cast aluminum decorations on the exterior windows. Light fix-
tures include brushed aluminum discs hanging from the ceiling and
art deco wall sconces. Skylights add more brightness to the interior.
The details are even carried into the restrooms with etched mirrors
and wall treatments made with thousands of small oval glass pieces
that shimmer with a mother-of-pearl finish. Photographs of the
building’s former glory days line the hallway walls. Off the central
room hangs a portrait made in the early 1900s of the Kyle family:
William Wesley “W. W.” Kyle, his wife, Clyde “Clydie” Wiess Kyle, —„‡” ‘‡ ‹ ˆƒ–ƒ•› ƒ† ˆ—Ǩ
and sons, Wesley Wiess Kyle and Everett S. “Brudge” Kyle. They
seem to be watching the progress of the building’s rebirth.
With all the recent renovation, Beaumont’s downtown is on a roll.
“Beaumont looks prettier now than it has in 50 years,” Coon said. VIP
ͺ͵ͺǦ͸ͺͲͲ
[Link] | April 2010 13
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14 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 vip shelter
t h e e a r t h l a u g h s

bl m time
W
text by ASHLEY GREEN

ith a harsh winter behind us, it’s time Ohmstede said Mexican Heather and Pentas are popular tropi-
to start focusing on our yards and cal annuals. Bluebonnets, coreopsis and Indian Paintbrush are
gardens. It’s out with the dead and in great for wildflower selections.
with the new!
Pointers from the Pros
The Last Freeze According to Krechel, fertilizing will be key this spring. “Due
The last freeze of the year is the “green light” on spring plant- to the wet winter, weeds will thrive,” he warned. “Putting a pre-
ing, according to Kit Ohmstede, Down to Earth Landscaping vice emergent herbicide down after planting and mulching will be
president and general manager. “It’s usually safe to begin planting crucial.”
by early April,” she said.
Cory Krechel of Landscapes Unlimited agrees that April is a
good month for planting. “You should be able to mulch, fertilize
and replace dead plants that died in the hard winter,” he said. wedding
Spring Cleaning trends
The same goes for your yard and garden as for your home and James Perrio, owner of Twigs,
closets — out with the old, and in with the new! gave us the scoop on 2010
trends in wedding flowers.
Ohmstede recommends clearing flower beds of all dead plant
material, and tilling in composted fertilizer or mulch to fortify
your beds for planting. “This is a great time to work Color
on beds,” she advised. “Purple and yellow are
hot. I’m seeing shades of purple,
Spring Flowers such as lilac, rich lavenders and
eggplant. The yellows are a softer,
Although the options for spring flowers are vast, Ohmstede and
daisy shade. Greens are still in.”
Krechel offered up this list of favorites for spring:

• Begonias • Phlox
Bouquet Style
• Daisies • Sweet Alyssum “The bridal flowers are much looser and not as formal. The
• Dusty Miller • Sweet Peas girls want a softer, more feminine bouquet, with flowers arranged
• Periwinkle • Violas more loosely, versus a tight ball.”
• Petunias
Flowers
“Roses and orchids will always be in, but I’m seeing some daf-
Viola fodils and wildflower styles as well. People are trying to capture
the traditional colors, but through less expensive flowers. They’re
Petunias still getting the look, without the price tag.”

Centerpieces
Periwinkle “Brides are beginning to use local things, like beans and rice in
centerpiece containers for texture, instead of marbles and beads.
I’m seeing more natural types of trends, like potted plants or
hanging baskets. Put a hanging basket in the right container and it
makes a beautiful centerpiece.”

Brides Be Aware – Free Advice!

“When looking through images in bridal magazines or web-
sites, keep in mind that pictures are taken at different times of
year or in different regions. Simply be aware of your environment
and try to use what’s natural to our area. You’ll get more mileage
out of your money.” VIP

[Link] | April 2010 15

16 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]
 vip style
s p r i n g c o l l e c t i o n

u bb ed
Scr MONA NORMAN

Down ed
You won’t find Nurse Practitioner Mona
Norman wearing scrubs to work. Her uniform

Po lis h of choice is a dress and high heels. It doesn’t

and
matter that she spends the whole time on her
feet. This Vidor native, who has two master
E
CALOP degrees, wouldn’t have it any other way. “I
LLE MC

S
MICHE love heels; they’re fun and girly and make
text by
me taller,” said the 5’2” mother of a 14-year-
old son. In fact, Norman who works at the
Folsom Medical Group with Dr. Bodo Brauer,
has become known around the office for her
fashion sense. When her patients walk in the
wing your head room, the first thing they do is check out what
over a little bit shoes she’s wearing that day. “I don’t think
this way,” instructs the pho- I’ve ever worn a pair of flats to work,” said the
petite Norman, who is currently working on
tographer. The woman tries
her doctorate degree.
to follow his instructions Styled by La Tee Da in Beaumont,
as best as she can without 409.835.0202
looking awkward so she
photography by JERRY POWERS
strikes the pose, holds very
still, and smiles. “I have to
think like a model,” she tells
You don’t have to do much
herself. Clearly, she and the more than put on this Uncle
other four healthcare pro- Frank dress. The rest speaks
for itself. $119
fessionals participating in
this fashion shoot are more
This colorful Jimmy Crystal
comfortable giving instruc- watch provides glitz. $69
tions than taking them,
whether in the operating
room or delivering a baby or
talking with patients during
office visits. But on this day,
the bunch which includes
a nurse practitioner, two
registered nurses, a physi-
cal therapist and a surgical A magnificent
consultant, are turning in big ring makes
everything fun.
their scrubs to show off the $19
latest spring fashions from
colorful dresses to nice linen These awesome turquoise
and brown Yellow Box
suits and, of course, the You don’t have to thongs go well with any
perfect pair of jeans. VIP go to Paris to see outfit. $54
the Eiffel Tower. You
can get it in this
miniature purse.
This autographed
Timmy Woods purse
was featured in “Sex
in the City.” $350

[Link] | April 2010 17

 Add a unique touch with this Talk about bling, bling! This
dazzling gold flower ring. $19 gorgeous Jimmy Crystal gold
watch certainly delivers. $119

This light, Ivy

These gold Yellow Box
Jane linen top
“Allison” shoes will take
can be paired
you anywhere in style. $41
with a skirt
or pants. $169

This handsome blue and

white shirt says trendy in
a very cool way.
Robert Graham
shirt, $228

This colorful Mary Frances purse

will make any outfit sing. $165

PRUDENCE GAMBRAH
Look up the word busy and you’ll find
a picture of Prudence Gambrah, a
registered nurse. In addition to
running her own business, PruCare
Home Health Agency, the mother of
four also manages her husband’s (Dr.
Anthony Gambrah) internal medicine
practice. “I don’t know how I do it,” said the
Ghana native who has lived in Beaumont for
the past 15 years. She also volunteers at St.
Anne Catholic School and St. Jude Thaddeus
Catholic Church where she attends services.
That’s why when it comes to fashion, her
motto is to keep it simple. “I always tell
my kids there’s beauty in simplicity,” said You can’t
Gambrah, who has been married for 22 go wrong
with the
years. When she’s not busy (whenever comfort and
that is), she and her husband enjoy simplicity of
going to movies. They also take black linen
the kids back to Ghana every pants by
other year to visit family. Match Point.
$65
Styled by La Tee Da in
Beaumont, 409.835.0202
photography by JERRY POWERS

Go Hollywood with these

glamorous shades. Maui Jim
sunglasses, $209

Nothing says
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doctorate in physical therapy. Now with doctorate in hand, the physical therapist is back
Sperry leather in town working at the Medical Center of Southeast Texas. It’s a job he loves to do. “I
thong flip-flops enjoy helping people accomplish their goals,” said the Vidor native. When he’s not helping
are a must-have.
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people, the married father of a two-year-old daughter enjoys playing volleyball and surfing
in Galveston. He hopes to pass on his hobbies to his daughter. When it comes to fashion,
he has a simple philosophy: “Whatever my wife picks out is what I wear.”
Styled by Butch Hoffer’s in Beaumont, 409.892.9311 photography by JERRY POWERS

18 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

GIna HeInleIn
Gina Heinlein, a registered nurse for 27 years, admits she
is fashion challenged. “I’m not always in fashion,” said the
operating room nurse at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital.
“It’s hard dressing for my age,” she said, explaining that she
doesn’t want to dress too young or too old, either. Despite the
challenge, she does enjoy dressing up occasionally, wearing Cognac leather belt
a nice age-appropriate dress and some strappy sandals. completes the outfit. $45
However, most of this single mom’s time is spent taking care
of her three children, including a special needs child. “I have Say “ciao” to soft Italian
Zelli “rust rugby”
a good family life, good extended family and friends,” said the shoes. $335
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Astros games (she’s a former softball mom). be cool in this Haspel
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myself,” said the surgical consultant for Medtronic Spinal
and Biologics who boasts of owning a red “more like Merlot”
velvet jacket. Lemus’ job is to help train hospital staff on
the latest spinal surgery equipment and assist them during
surgery to make sure it’s working correctly. The University of
Arkansas MBA graduate admits he’s a workaholic. However,
in his spare time, he likes to golf, study international
business, and spend time with family and friends. Lemus,
who moved to Beaumont in 2006, also enjoys giving back to
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[Link] | April 2010 19

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 text by HALEY STRAHAN

n
ha
Tra
Jody
SONS
photography by TAMMY PAR

by
Ro
nW
hitney

De
bbie
P a ll o n e

M
Ro

an e rt
Kevin De
b

Kram
er
wi
Er

nL and former professional singer,

o
irez

dropped by to watch one night,

em

everything changed.
P. R

ost people wouldn’t expect “Robyn listened to us play and

said, ‘If we’re going to do this,
J.

their doctor to moonlight

as a working musician in a we’re going to do it right,” said
garage band. But the 3CG Kramer. With her direction, the
Band (short for three-car band expanded its repertoire,
garage where its members practice) proves that some docs learning new and more difficult songs, and the members
can definitely rock. worked to develop their individual skills. “Everyone com-
When Kevin Dean, a general surgeon, had the idea to mitted themselves to growing musically,” said Whitney. “I’m
host weekly jam-sessions over his garage, he couldn’t have really proud of how much they have grown as musicians.”
imagined that six years later, he would be playing drums in This is high praise from a woman who spent years in the
a popular local band. Dean, Robert Kramer, a hand surgeon, country music industry, playing with some of the most respect-
J.P. Remirez, an internist, Erwin Lo, a neurosurgeon, and Jody ed musicians in the world. Originally from Beaumont, Whitney
Trahan, an OR nurse, got together to play music as a way to began her singing career while living in Oklahoma, when she
blow off steam after a hectic day. But when Robyn Whitney, a sang at the Oklahoma Opry. After a stint as talent coordina-
teacher of radiology at Baptist Hospital School of Radiology tor for the Opry, booking big names like Garth Brooks, she >>

[Link] | April 2010 21

formed the Robyn Whitney Band and
toured the state performing gigs.
When she opened for country su-
One of Beaumont’s whose wife is an OR nurse, Whitney
performs vocals in the 3CG Band
with her sister Debbie Pallone, a
perstar Vince Gill to an audience
of 10,000, her powerful vocals
caught Gill’s attention and she
most in-demand pharmaceutical representative.
“Debbie and I sang together
in Nashville, and now, all
followed his advice to move to
Nashville. musical acts can these years later, we are back
on stage together,” Whitney

get your pulse racing.

Whitney quickly had suc- marveled.
cess breaking into the music Now in its sixth year, the
business, playing shows around 3CG Band has played benefits,
town and cutting demos for song-
writers. She worked with many
well-known musicians in the industry,
And then check it. weddings, private parties and
even a biker rally. “We’re pretty
choosy about the gigs that we do,”
and even made friends with Johnny Cash. said Whitney. “No more smoky bars for
“Johnny helped me get some appointments me. Been there, done that.” They do occa-
with record labels,” Whitney said. He was so sionally play local restaurants like the Logon
impressed with her talent, he asked her for an Cafe and The Bistro, but a band made up
autographed headshot, which hung in his of- of doctors and medical professionals has a
fice. After several years in Nashville, howev- busier schedule than most. “We have to book
er, the dream of a record deal never material- pretty far in advance, because we have to plan
ized. “It was never the right time or the right around who will be on call,” Dean explained.
situation,” Whitney explained. “It just wasn’t Those who do get to see the 3CG Band in
meant to be.” After the loss of her teenage action will enjoy a delightfully varied music
daughter in an automobile accident, followed sampling, featuring rock ‘n’ roll standards,
by news that her mother was ill, Whitney bluesy ballads, ‘80s covers and Top 40 smash
knew that the time had come to go home. hits. “We try to play complex stuff that
“When I came back home, my focus had pushes our own envelope. We don’t want to
changed,” she said. “For two years, I couldn’t do the same stuff as everyone else,” Kramer
even sing. I just needed to heal.” Falling band play and knew that the time had come explained.
back on the radiology degree she received in for her to get back on stage. If you have the pleasure of attending a 3CG
Beaumont after high school, Whitney began “I think that we all do it for the same rea- Band show, you’re in for a good time. Get out
teaching radiology and eventually came into son,” Whitney said. “For us, music does what there and bust your best moves. Don’t worry
contact with many of the members of the 3CG we believe it is supposed to do. It helps us about throwing out your back. There’s a doc-

L�ndscapes
band. At Kramer’s invitation, she watched the find joy.” Now, along with Kenneth Babino, tor in the house. VIP

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Kathy Pitre 409.860.3170 Susan Ohler

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22 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 health beauty
t o n e t h e z o n e

Your L ay e rs a
nd G e t F i t Fast! )
e d
( It’s Ti m e to Sh

text by ASHLEY GREEN

ayered clothes, bulky sweaters, knee-high

boots and stretch pants may have offered
comfy coverage for winter weight gain, but
those parts of your body that have been in hiding
will soon be bare.
It’s time to shed those winter clothes and firm up
photography by JUDY STOKELY

holiday flab!

target areas
People tend to indulge during the holidays and overeat because they’re covered up, according
to certified personal trainer Xochitl Garza. “The legs, arms and abs are the most prone to bulking
up and showing winter weight gain,” she said. Garza, who works at Exygön Health and Fitness Club in Beaumont,
also works with athletes as a performance enhancement specialist. >>

[Link] | April 2010 23

get FIt you eat it also makes a potent
impact. “People typically take core moves to help
FaSt You Brace for:
in the most carbs at dinner
by eating bread and dessert,”
Garza said. “You should intake
the most carbs at breakfast to Bare Arms & Shoulders
move It For 90! Shoulder presses strengthen your
Consistent exercise and a diet jumpstart your metabolism and
give your body energy. Then entire upper body by pressing
revamp will get you fit in time weights overhead.
for shorts and sleeveless attire. taper-off, by lowering your carb
“For someone who’s been intake at lunch, and sticking to Abs
non-active, it’s going to take a complex carbs at night, such Mix up your midsection
total body workout, integrating as fruits and dark green veg- exercises to target all abdominal
gies. This change-up will boost areas. Perform crunches and leg
lots of reps with weights, cardio
metabolism and help burn that lifts to tone lower abs. Try the
and abs,” Garza said. “I recom- bicycle or twisting ab exercise
mend working out for an hour stored winter fat.”
to tighten obliques. Rely on
and a half, three times a week, old-fashioned sit-ups for
focusing on strength training for make it your mantra – overall strengthening.
30-45 minutes and cardio for 30- Drink more Water!
45 minutes.” Consistent consumption Legs
throughout the day will hydrate Squats are an excellent strength
training move to target thighs,
Fat Blasting classes and keep things moving. Garza
hips and glutes.
Most fitness facilities offer recommends drinking 3-4 liters
more than twenty different exer- of water per day, avoiding sug-
cise classes, but which one will ary, concentrated fruit juices,
help firm up that winter flab? and supplementing with green
According to Garza, it’s all tea.
about a popular aerobic exercise “Warm green tea in the
class that integrates dancing and morning helps kick-start your
burns 600 calories per hour — metabolism, and it’s full of anti-
Zumba. “Women tire of walk- oxidants,” Garza said. “I recom-
ing on the treadmill every day,” mend drinking two to three cups
Garza said. “If you’re looking each day.”
for a different kind of workout
that’s going to burn calories the Waiting game
while having a lot of fun — I
suggest Zumba. If you want to
strengthen, I recommend a Body
For some, the worst part
about getting fit for the warm
and sunny season is waiting for
Rules of three
Keep it simple, and practice these rules of three:
Blast or Body Pump class, which the results. Garza said if you • Focus on arms, abs and legs.
involves weights.” start now, eat right and work out • Firm up with cardio, weight reps and ab work.
two to three times each week, • Eat three small meals the first half of the day, then three small
meals the second half.
It’s Not all about you should start seeing results in
• Drink three liters of water.
the exercise six to eight weeks.
Getting fit fast doesn’t solely “I tell clients to allow them- Recommended Reps
depend on exercise, but chang- selves four weeks for their body 3 sets of 15 reps for toning
ing your nutrition regimen as to adapt to a new nutrition and 3 sets of 8-10 reps for strengthening
well. workout regimen,” she said. “It For the best outcome, vary your reps and weights biweekly.
That trite cliché about break- can be discouraging at first, es-
pecially for daily scale-weighers. Quick Tips
fast will never go away. Garza • Don’t skip breakfast.
says breakfast truly is the most You have to be consistent and
• Heavy carbs in the morning.
important meal of the day. To give yourself time to start chang- • Taper carbs throughout the day, ending with lots of fruits and veggies.
the coffee-for-breakfast masses ing.” • Six small meals per day.
— you’re going to have to change Sound tough? Well, whether • Think green at night and lighter colors during the day.
your ways in order to burn the you like it or not, spring is here • Get a partner for accountability.
bulge. and summer’s coming, and • Put on some sunny weather attire to see where you
no one needs to spend sunny “stand” in the shedding game.
“Skipping breakfast starts a
vicious cycle of overeating at months in SETX in long pants
lunch and dinner,” Garza said. and sleeved shirts. Bring your
“When you feed your body body out of hibernation, and
with substantial choices such start shedding those layers! VIP
as oatmeal, fruit and protein in
the morning, you’ll curb your
hunger during the day.”
What you eat and when

24 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

Celebrate
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You.
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[Link] | April 2010 25

 totally social
e v e n t s

Beaumont Symphony League Ball 2

1. Amanda Cantu, Lauren Powers and Robert 1

Cantu. 2. Frederick Montes and Donavie
Crawford. 3. Bridget Trawhon, Mandy
Mazzola and Christina Delgadillo.
4. Jennifer and Gerald Condon.
5. Lexie Mouton and Jennifer Nichols.
6. Chris and Yolanda Dowdy. [Link] and
Julie Theobald, Kerri and Shaheen Farah.
8. Ray, Brock and Robin Troy.
9. Charlie and Tara Holder.

3 4 5 6

SILVIA C. MCCLAIN
7 6 8 9

Symphony BELLES
1. Miss Lauren Olivia Powers, daughter of Robert and Amanda
Cantu and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Powers. 2. Miss Mary Margaret
Roane, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Christopher Roane.
3. Miss Marissa Diandra Dolores Robinson, daughter of Dr. and 1 2 3 4
Mrs. Robert O. Robinson. 4. Miss Jillian Nicole Ryall, daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ryall. 5. Miss Emily Malain Sherman,
daughter of Mr. Chris and Dr. Deborah Sherman. 6. Miss
Hannah Rochelle Strawser, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew
Edwin Strawser. 7. Miss Mary-Caroline Trevino, daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Matthew Trevino. 8. Miss Katherine Elizabeth
Werner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Gerard Werner 9. Miss
Se’Mour De’Shawn Wince, daughter of Mr. Leo Paul Wince and
Mrs. Tiffany Lyn Parker.

26 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 NAACP 27th Annual Freedom Fund 2
& Award Banquet
1
1. Linda Aplon and Judy
Rufus. 2. Dr. Carroll
Thomas and Maxine
Moye. 3. Lana Henry
and Shirley Cooper.
4. Jamie Smith and
Wilford Lee. 5. Judy
Bettis and Melody
Chappell.

3 4 5

KYlE PETERSEn
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[Link] | April 2010 27

 1
Different 22nd Annual Lamar
Sizes
University Baseball Banquet
1. Anthony Moore and Clayton Farhat. 2. Angela and Allen
Harrington. 3. Lamar Baseball Players: Quentin Luquette, Ricky
Testa and Taylor McInnis. [Link] Squires and Wade Mathis.
5. Pat Tubbs, Billy Tubbs (L.U. Athletic Director), Larry Tidwell (L.U.
Women’s Head Basketball Coach), Morris Keene and Greg Tremel.
Different
Shapes
2 3

SILVIA C. MCCLAIN
Hand
Painted

High 4 5
Quality

Many
Colors

Junior League Mr. Habitat for

Anne
Done in a Day Humanity 2010
Artist 1. Tammy and Mike Hentrich.
Designer 2. L-R: Erica Hatcher, Scott Hatcher, Bilalah Turner,
Jessica Cruse, Justin Cruse. 3. Sarah Gutierrez and
Johnny Denison. 4. Marty and Tana Fisher.
5. Bryan Denison – Mr. Habitat for Humanity 2010.
Design your own 6. Daylyn Turner.

to match your
CourteSy of JuNIor LeAGue

3
Office or Home.
ONLY ONE VASES
1455 Calder Ave
“The Mildred Building”
L-R: Chrisa Atkins, Kathryn Honsberger, Shannon Cope-
Beaumont, TX 77701
Judy StokeLy

land, Kaley Wilk, and (seated) Gladys Thomas (Beaumont

Community Players Volunteer) assisting the Beaumont
409.454.2216 Community Players with organizing their Costume Shop.
[Link]

28 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 Celebrate Families Luncheon
1. L - R: Family Advocate of the Year recipient Bill Leger and Tecoo,
Tori and Tatum Leger. 2. Angeliqueca Avery, Regina Rogers, Keven J. Roy,
Karen Fontenot. 3. Family of the Year: Steve, Annie and Jeanette Foreman.
4. Linda Domino, Bob Pollard, Marty Craig.

1 2

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769-4845
842-8280
[Link] | April 2010 29
 Seafood Italian Style, Perfect For The Lent Season!

For the Seasoned Diner

Celebrate
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D.J.’s is your hometown supplier
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commen
P Re ded
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nd

IP
them

me
ov e

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We l
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1. Martin Walker and Mike Berryhill

(Texas Top Team). 2. Becca and
Johnny Travis. 3. Dee Foreman and
Kristen Terrell. 4. Beaux Daville,
Danielle LeBlanc, Alicia Wright and
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Karen Leger, Tommy Hurlburt and
Laura Ozan.

4 5

LEE E. STINSON
Groovaloo at the Lutcher A Lesson
1

Before Dying
[Link] Fontana. 2. Bryan Johnson
and Joe Fontana. 3. Cheryl Hawthorne.

2
Groovaloo creator,
Bradley “Shooz”
Rapier and “who
can dance in SETX?”
contestant winner Ty
Riley of Port Neches.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LUTCHER THEATER

3
LEE E. STINSON

Groovaloo cast members. “Life is not always choreographed, and

sometimes we have to freestyle.”

[Link] | April 2010 31

 Enjoy chef prepared
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32 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

Taste of the Golden Triangle Heart Ball
Triangle 1. Rick and Catherine Tyler. 2. Bryan and
31
1. Jason Richards, Lisa Bennick and Nick Robyn Chandler. 3. Pam Truax, Starla
Dauriec. 2. Terri Harley, Mike Simpson, Christine Foust, Lori Verde. 4. Rhonda Carroll and
Warner. 3. Marilyn and Wesley Mouton. 4. Slate Teresa Barbay. 5. Nancy and Larry Beau-
Babineaux, Lance Arnaud, Holly Chance. lieu. 6. William and Betty Cash.
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Jason Morris and Devin Keller.
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[Link] | April 2010 33

 Cattle Barons’ Party at D’Vine Wine 1

This favorite community event supporting the American Cancer Society will hoe-down on April 10. Tickets
are on sale now! “The best little party with a purpose” has a delicious menu of Tex-Mex, seafood and dessert
stations, along with top-draw entertainment.

1. Jacki Burleson, Mike Simpson and Cassie Fiorenza. 2. Bobby and Jerry Flowers and Kristin Godwin.
3. Gay Lynne Jones and Kirk Smith. 4. Dee Lane and Jacquetta Walker. 5. Nicole Clark and Jennifer Lyons.
6. Carolyn and Dale Oliver.

2
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34 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]
Ubi Caritas
Mardi Gras
1. Jean and Dennis Moncla. 2. Jim
Heart for the Arts
1. Jason, Chase and Debbie Bridgeman. 2. Sue Bard and
Rush and Elisabeth Miller. 3. John JoAnna Clark . 3. Outstanding Achievement by an Artist recipient 3
and Sara McElroy. 4. State Repre- Bonnie Cokinos.
sentative Allan Ritter, Pat Ritchie and
Peggy Ritter.

1 2
1

SYLVIA C. MCCLAIN
2
Gift of Life
1. Olivia and Morgan Sellers. 2. Sandy Drake and
1

Nell McCallum Morris. 3. The “Gift of Life’s” 16,000th free

mammogram recipient, Gloria Renfro, with Jerri Williams and
Siarra Haynes. 4. Georgie Volz and Kim McKinnis.
5. Charline Dauphin and Robin Dauphin.

3 3

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JULIE ROGERS

“GIFT OF LIFE” PROGRAM
4

4 5
PAT RITCHIE

[Link] | April 2010 35

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36 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 vip worthy
p h y s i c i a n p r o f i l e s

The needs
of the
patient
come
first

AIN
C. MCCL
Garrett

VIA
phy by SIL
Peel

photogra
W
text by CATHLEEN COLE

hen Garrett
Peel was
chief resident
in general
surgery at the
Mayo Clinic
in Rochester,
Minn., he
learned the
philosophy that
shaped the doctor he was to become. In his practice
of medicine, seven simple words guide him: The
needs of the patient come first.
Peel completed his residency last June and moved to
Beaumont with his family to open his first practice —
Previty, a word he concocted to mean “where preven-
tion and longevity meet.” A few days after their arrival,
Mandie Peel, his wife and chief operating officer of the
practice, had their third child, Emsley.

attention to detail
When Peel and his wife were designing the office last summer, they wanted
to instill the message that the patients are special. And it’s definitely not the
standard doctor’s office. The “patient lounge” offers comfortable seating,
refreshments and a television. A small library of information from the Mayo
PEEL CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

[Link] | April 2010 37

 The Front Line
Gwendolyn Lavalais
text by HaLey STraHan

T
he first question people ask
Dr. Gwendolyn Lavalais
is always the same. “Isn’t
it depressing?” they ask,
referring to her work as
an oncologist at Memorial
Herman Baptist Hospital
in Beaumont. The reality,
she insists, is just the
opposite. “My job isn’t
depressing at all,” she said. “Of course, there are
sad things that happen, but overall, the bravery
and tenacity that I see in my patients is inspiring
to me.”

a nurse becomes a doctor

As an oncologist and medical director of
Beaumont’s Dauphin Center, a cancer screen-
ain

ing and prevention clinic, Lavalais is on

C. MCCL

the front lines, preventing and fighting

cancer in Southeast Texas. Originally
from Lousiana, Lavalais moved to
Texas to begin her career as a nurse
via

in Houston. She soon realized that

phy by SiL

she wanted to become a physician, so

she entered medical school with the
intention of becoming a primary care
physician. “I did primary care for a
photogra

year and then realized that it wasn’t

for me.” After seeing her mother and
father deal with cancer, Lavalais found
herself drawn to the field of oncology.
“I like knowing what’s wrong with
people and figuring out how to deal with
it, where to go from there,” she explained.
Lavalais moved to Beaumont five years
ago with her husband, also a physician,
and her daughter. She took the position
as medical oncologist at the Julie and
Ben Rogers Cancer Institute at Memorial
Herman Baptist Hospital. “I love working
with these patients,” she said. “They are
the bravest, most grateful, warm people.
They’re just willing to do anything we
ask of them to get better.”

educating and treating

As medical director of the Dauphin
Center, Lavalais focuses on the early
detection of cancers and educating the
public about them. The Dauphin Center has the area’s only
digital mammography system as well as an extensive library that any-
one can use to research their disease. “We have physicians available to talk
about options for people recently diagnosed with cancer, or to give a second
opinion,” Lavalais explained. The Dauphin Center also offers genetic counsel-
LAVALAIS CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

38 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 Paging the Daring

A
Dr. Dean bout three years ago, Kevin Dean,
M.D., F.A.C.S., embarked on a
wintry vacation to the resort city
of Keystone, Colo. Having never

Kevin Dean participated in winter sports, he

asked locals about the advantages
of skiing and snowboarding. Some
well-meaning young men explained
text by Holli Petersen to him that, at his age (early
forties), he should stick with skiing.
Dean has snowboarded ever since.
It is this unique breed of daring which has propelled Dean
across the dips and slopes of life’s challenges and closer towards
his dreams.

a different path
Growing up in a rural Arkansas town, with a gradu-
ating class of approximately 25, few classmates had
lofty ambitions of trading their quiet, austere lives
for the rigors of medical school. Even Dean, a popu-
lar football player, anticipated becoming a hometown
coach. However, after a knee injury landed him in
the hospital during his senior year, Dean made a
personal, yet determined decision to become a
surgeon. And, just as with snowboarding, he
never varied.
“I like the idea of a person coming to
me with a problem,” Dean explained. “I
like the idea of being able to take care
of their problem and help them move
forward with their life.”
The straightforward, problem-solu-
tion nature of surgery agreed with Dean’s
similarly candid character.

a pattern of excellence
It also did not hurt that Dean is incredibly
intelligent. As the valedictorian of Redwater
High School and Stephen F. Austin State Uni-
versity, he easily went forward with medical school
sen

at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at

San Antonio, where he graduated in the top half of
e Peter

his class. During his general surgery residency at the

University of Missouri at Kansas City, he continued
receiving many awards and accolades for his out-
Kyl

standing ability.
aphy by

In 1996, Dean was recruited by Southeast Texas

Surgical Associates, settling him in Beaumont and
an established medical practice.
photogr

home in the heart of texas

When Dean decided to move to Southeast
Texas, he brought along with him two personal
goals — to marry Amy, a young dietician he had
fallen in love with as a resident student, and to
get a big, 90-pound mutt named Boudreaux. The
new family later expanded to include the Dean’s
two sons, Benjamin, 9, and Matthew, 6, and
another huge, 90-pound mutt, Clyde.
From the outset, the entire family fell in love
with the accessibility of Southeast Texas.
“The [Southeast Texas] medical community is
close knit and provides excellent care for patients,” Dean said.
DEAN CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

[Link] | April 2010 39

PEEL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37 ship and resident position at the University while everyone else was playing kickball,”
of Texas Health Science Center at San Anto- he said. He comes from a family of teach-
nio and finished his training with doctors at ers and blue-collar workers, but in seventh
the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. grade he knew he wanted to be a doctor — a
“When time heart surgeon to be exact.
coming home
and expertise count, Patient first, innovation, wellness
Not that Beaumont isn’t a wonderful
I am there for place, but why would a surgeon with this Today, he’s a surgeon, but hearts are not
much expertise from this many prestigious his specialty. His expertise lies in advanced
the patient.” institutions want to start a practice and laparoscopic, cancer, hernia, gastroin-
settle down here? “It’s a community where testinal, endocrine, colon and rectal, and
we thought we could give back,” Peel said. emergency/trauma surgeries. He divides his
“Go where you’re needed.” Also, because the practice into help centers: the Breast Help
Clinic is situated in a corner with a tele- Peels both grew up in San Antonio where Center, Hemorrhoid Help Center, Cancer
phone and a computer with internet access. they met in seventh grade, they wanted to Help Center, Vein Help Center, Gastro-
Hand-blown glass art pieces by native Texan move back to Texas to be closer to family. esophageal Reflux Disease Help Center and
Gini Garcia adorn the walls. If patients need Back in middle school, the classmates Weight-Management Help Center. Applying
to freshen up, they can go to the “refresh were just friends. Peel was the studious nerd to all, his tenets: patient first, innovation,
and rest room” with its complimentary sam- and his wife-to-be was the social butterfly. wellness. “We put the patient first in all
ple-size bottles of mouthwash and lotion and “I was the one in first grade collecting rocks that we do,” Peel said, adding that he gives
the television screen that scrolls health mes- and leaves to put under the microscope patients his personal phone number in case
sages. The procedure and consultation they need him. He uses the newest
rooms, large and bright, are named for approaches to surgery. And he focuses
Peel’s mentors at the Mayo Clinic and on the patient’s overall wellness, not
their photographs and biographies just the sick part that might need to
are prominently displayed. When be cut out.
patients are leaving, they are offered He knows what so many Southeast
an antioxidant treat: Ghirardelli dark Texas residents advise their family
members and friends who become
photography by Silvia C. MCClain

chocolate squares and fresh apples.

“It’s his attention to detail that critically ill: Get medical treatment
really sets him apart, and his compas- in Houston. He believes they don’t
sion,” Mandie Peel said, holding her have to. “We can have comprehensive
baby daughter in her “mommy office” medical care here,” he said. It can take
complete with crib, television and months to get appointments in Hous-
toys. “The patients adore him.” ton, he said, but just days to see him.
It doesn’t hurt that he received And the quicker the patient is seen,
his education from some of the best the quicker treatment can begin. From
schools in the country: The George diagnosis to cure can be a matter of
Washington University and Johns weeks instead of a matter of months.
Hopkins University. He had an intern- “When time and expertise count,” he
said, “I am there for the patient.” VIP

DEAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

“There is really a cohesive camarade- some surgeon who happens to know

rie within the area.” how to do Lap Bands,” Dean described.
photography by Kyle PeterSen

“These patients are carefully screened,

addressing the epidemic counseled and educated. And, then
post operatively, I provide a true close-
While performing general surgical ness of follow up treatment.”
procedures with Southeast Texas Sur-
gical Associates, Dean stumbled upon a regular guy
a new area which appealed to him —
bariatric surgery. Joining with Chris- Outside of the operating room,
tus Southeast Texas Bariatric Center, Dean lives an unconventional lifestyle,
a separate and distinct practice, Dean playing drums for his band, 3CG, or
performs gastric bypass, gastric sleeve Three Car Garage. (The name alludes
and Lap Band surgery. to the “man cave” he created. Read
“Obesity is an epidemic in Amer- about the band on p. 21). He also
ica,” Dean said. “Some individuals, Prior to such a drastic procedure, he advises enjoys spending time with his family,
engaged in a vicious cycle of weight loss and interested patients to keep an open mind particularly sneaking away for a weekend of
weight gain, find it necessary to undergo when consulting medical professionals. In water sports at their local lake house.
surgical procedures. I find it extremely grati- fact, he exclusively offers these surgeries to “Making people feel better is gratify-
fying to see these patients come in on heavy Christus Southeast Texas Bariatric Center ing work and I truly enjoy helping people,”
doses of medication (for obesity-related ill- because patients are provided with pre- Dean summed up. “But it’s my job. It’s what
nesses) and, within months, they’re off their operative evaluations and counseling and I do. Just like anyone, I look forward to going
meds or on lower doses.” are then given extensive post-operative care, home at the end of the day and spending
However, Dean reiterates the fact that counseling and education. time with my family or playing some tunes
weight-loss surgery is not for everyone. “It is important to note that I’m not just with my buddies.” VIP

40 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

 LAVALAIS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

ing for those with a family history of certain cancers. “We

would discuss the risk factors that a certain person may
have and give them recommendations for how to proceed,”
she said.
In order to make cancer screening more accessible, the
Dauphin Center offers innovative programs like “mam-
mogram parties,” in which groups of women can come
together to be tested. “We want to encourage people who
may never have been screened to come and have it done,”
Lavalais explained. The Dauphin Center also presents
quarterly tobacco cessation workshops, as well as seminars
pertaining to cancer prevention and research. “We really
strive to be another resource to the community to educate
people about cancer,” Lavalais said.
To further service citizens of Southeast Texas, Lavalais
photography by Silvia C. MCClain

hopes to oversee a future expansion of the Dauphin Center

into a fully operating breast care center, where women can
have mammograms, biopsies and other procedures done in
one place. The availability of these services is a huge boon
to patients in this area, who previously would have traveled
to Houston for many of these procedures.
By working to educate people about cancer, encouraging
screening and overseeing treatments, Lavalais is fighting to
beat cancer in Southeast Texas. But her heroes are the can-
cer patients that she sees every day. “People who survive
cancer have a great understanding of what life is and how
to live it,” she said. “It’s a wonderful thing to be able to
know those kinds of people.” VIP

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[Link] | April 2010 41

 vip worthy
a s t h e g e n t l e r a i n

Ubi Caritas et Amor Deus Ibi Est

Where Mercy and Love Dwell, God is there

U
text by HOLLI PETERSEN

bi Caritas might have an unusual- With more than 30 years of nonprofit experience, Moore
sounding name, but these Latin recounted memories of poignant patient stories. There was
words hold great meaning. the newlywed college student who ignored serious symp-
Translated, Ubi Caritas means toms because he didn’t have health insurance. After turning
“Place of Mercy.” And, more to Ubi Caritas, he was diagnosed and provided treatment for
than prescription medications testicular cancer. While building Ubi Caritas’s new, on-site
or medical advice, mercy is the clinic, a laborer suffered a back injury. Refusing treatment, he
number one item dispensed at confessed to never having seen a doctor in his entire adult life
this nonprofit Beaumont health for fear of expensive medical bills. After much hesitation, he
clinic. finally sought treatment through Ubi Caritas. Weeks later, he
Founded in 1998 by a local congregation of the Episcopal returned a new man, anxious to show his gratitude by volun-
Diocese of Texas, Ubi Caritas cared about healthcare for the teering his time to the cause.
uninsured before it became a popular, highly debated hook With 89 percent of their patients belonging to working
for politicians to hang their hat upon. Without much fanfare, households, these are far from the stereotype of lazy individu-
the clinic enlisted the support of local medical professionals, als looking for handouts. Most are grateful for the services,
charitable organizations, church congregations and generous and willing to contribute however they can.
sponsors to provide quality healthcare for the one in three Though the easy answer to address this vast need appears
Beaumont residents without access to medical insurance. to be universal healthcare, Moore confessed that there are
Initially, the care specifically addressed the needs of Beau-
mont’s South Park community, a neighborhood of hard work-
ers who typically sought treatment for non-emergency health
issues at local hospitals. Over time, the clinic has expanded to feeling merciful?
care for all Beaumont residents in need. Make an impact! Donating your time and talents to the clinic expands
“Access to healthcare is so important in any community,”
explained Clark Moore, executive director and founding its reach. Medical professionals: Your skills are in high demand. Call
member. “Most people don’t mind paying a fair amount for 409.832.1924 ext. 102 or visit [Link] for more information.
healthcare. Unfortunately, they just didn’t have a place to go.”

42 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

many more issues that must be factored into the final decision. lamented. “We are desperate for more staff, particularly the re-
“I would love to go out of business,” Moore explained. “But sources to sustain another nurse. Additionally, we could really use
with all my nonprofit experience, I’ve learned that there will al- the help of a pediatrician willing to volunteer some time.”
ways be people who fall through the cracks.” In the meantime, the clinic hopes to be able to modify a file
While the nation continues to banter about the pros and cons room into another exam room by spring, thereby expanding their
of universal healthcare, Ubi Caritas quietly carries on — seeing ability to accept more patients.
an average of 350 patients a week in their six-exam room clinic. Mercifully, this “place of mercy” refuses to give up. Somehow,
Certainly, the depressed economy has increased the community’s they attest, they will provide. VIP
need for their services. Unfortunately, it is a demand which they
currently can’t supply.
“We still don’t fully meet the needs of our community,” Moore
facts for thought
•Communities where residents are provided affordable access to medi-
Jay Doyle, a nurse practitioner with the clinic cal care have increased workplace productivity, school attendance and
and nursing colleague Mary Crittenden an overall higher quality of life.
•Hospital wait time is significantly decreased when non-emergency
patients are provided affordable access to medical care at separate
facilities like Ubi Caritas.
•60 percent of medical problems are preventable with health education.
•Not factored into the universal healthcare debate are the 1,200 chari-
photography by kyle petersen

table clinics, like Ubi Caritas, which exist across the nation. Each year,
they provide $5 billion worth of healthcare to 5 percent of the American
population.
• Though it costs Ubi Caritas an average of $57 to treat one patient, Med-
icaid and Medicare will only reimburse approximately $11 per patient.
• 70 percent of Ubi Caritas patients qualify for sliding scale pay, meaning
they pay according to their income and are at or below the poverty level.
• For every $1 donated to the clinic, Ubi Caritas can provide $5 of service.
- Provided by Ubi Caritas

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[Link] | April 2010 43

 vip worthy
v i p e r s o n a l i t y

A
text by CHERYL ROSE

ffable, boyish Rich- His leg was shattered;

ard James seems like
just about anybody doctors thought

For the marathon man, perseverance pays off

you’d meet, but hang initially that they
on — valedictorian at
Central High School in might have
Beaumont, Eagle Scout,
Coca-Cola Scholarship
to amputate.
recipient, Louisiana
Tech grad in biomedical engineering, scientist for
NASA, Olympic torchbearer, published author,
Junior Olympic-level speedskater, marathon run-
ner… (and this is just the first paragraph!)
Suffice it to say, Richard James is NOT just like
anyone you’d meet at the coffee shop. It’s kind of
like meeting Peter Parker or Clark Kent. He seems
like a regular guy, but the cape must be hiding
someplace. If James has an idea, you’d better hop
on board because he is a man not just of ideas but
action.
Through the nonprofit agency Sports Society
for American Health that he co-founded with Ray
Solis in 2000, James is bringing Southeast Texas
its first marathon. James, along with squads of
volunteers and sponsors, is responsible for the
gazillion details that a major public event like this
entails. Fortunately, he’s a master multi-tasker,
because this is just his volunteer job.
Meanwhile, he is jetting back and forth to
California, maneuvering through the process of
bringing his children’s books about science into
multi-media — possibly a video game, movie and
television series. He published his first of three
“Adventures of the Elements” book in 1997. James
likens the process of writing the first story to ulti-
mately arriving on the big screen to a marathon, an
arduous process that requires perseverance.
His “Adventure of the Elements” science-packed
action stories are like sneaking spinach into the
pizza sauce for kids — full of nutrition disguised
as fast food. The books follow the adventures
of a family of five ordinary siblings who can see
and interact with the elements — transformed into
superheroes and villains such as Xerxes Xenon and
Ozzie Ozone — through magic glasses. The books,
board game and trading cards teach natural science
and chemistry disguised as fun.
Though obviously a brainy guy, James feels

44 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

equally passionate about healthy in triathlons and I in speed Do you have a favorite charac-
bodies. He’s a fan of fitness, skating) at the time and there ter in your books and why?
and is often found on his bike were no sporting events such
or skates or just running. He’s as triathlons, cycling races That is difficult because
on a mission to combat obesity and marathons in Southeast each is a unique character
and inspire fitness and health by Texas. study. I also based the kids
organizing public events like the in the books on my brother
What motivates you? and three sisters. However,
Gusher. He’s already brought us
the SETX Cycle Challenge, the Following God’s path. To Clifton Chlorine’s diabolical,
Boomtown Challenge Triathlon, make positive changes in psychologically-manipulative
and the Moonlight Madness Bike society from education to character is intriguing.
& Skate. health.
What is your philosophy
Not convinced he’s a super- Personal goals for The about teaching science to chil-
hero? Ten years ago, James was Gusher? dren?
in-line skating along a road
when he was hit by a car. His leg To witness average indi- I could write a book on this
was shattered; doctors thought viduals taking steps to fight question but to state it suc-
initially that they might have obesity and make positive, cinctly: My philosophy is to
to amputate. Three surgeries healthy changes in their life make science fun by invok-
and lots of rehabilitation later, by completing any of the ing the imagination, to make
James is still running marathons distances. science relevant to children’s
— with a rod and screws in his Favorite brand of running contemporary environment
lower left leg. shoes? of technology and entertain-
ment, and to make science
You’re an advocate for exer- I recently began wearing part of children’s daily lives
cise. What do you like to do for Vibram FiveFingers, which and vernacular.
exercise? are like gloves for your feet.
Cycling, inline skating, run- What kind of bike do you ride? Was it challenging to make the
ning, lifting weights, swim- Periodic Table an action story?
Trek Madone.
ming (although I’m terrible at Surprisingly, the science
it), and attempting any chal- Favorite meal?
creates the chemistry. Our
lenging physical activity from world and universe are so ex-
My wife Amie is an amazing
obstacle courses to playing plosive and there are so many
cook especially considering
most sports. chemical reactions occurring
how the meals are all-natural,
Hours spent exercising each healthy foods containing no around us every day, that in a
week? MSG, no trans-fats and no sense, the books write them-
high-fructose corn syrup. It’s selves.
Anywhere from ten to
hard for me to pick one favor-
twenty hours. What is it like to see your
ite. She will find this hard to
Personal bests? believe knowing how much I words and stories turned into
like pizza. animation?
Carrying the Olympic
Torch for the 2002 Salt Lake The craziest thing I’ve ever It brings the stories to life
City Winter Olympics for the done… and transforms a 13-year
U.S. This patriotic experience journey into the realization
Taking the entrepreneurial
surpassed the feeling of any of a childhood dream.
plunge to create the “Adven-
medals, trophies, awards or
tures of the Elements.” That What are you reading these
accolades I have ever re-
was riskier than flying down days?
ceived.
the side of a mountain on a
Why did you create the bicycle. Wired magazine at the
nonprofit Sports Society for moment. I recently finished
American Health? If I were a superhero, I would a novel by Dean Koontz and
be… completed the audiobook
Ray Solis and I co-founded
An element guardian from “Born to Run” by Chris Mc-
it while we were both re-
the “Adventures of the Ele- Dougall.
covering from surgeries

!
because we couldn’t race (he ments.” I’m grateful for…

Go for it
The Gusher Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K My faith, wife, family, close
May 1, 2010, 7:30a.m. friends, being an American
Lamar University’s Montagne Center and good health. VIP
Registration and information at [Link]
Funds raised will support children’s health and education.

[Link] | April 2010 45

46 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]
 vip guide
c a l e n d a r

Julie Rogers Gift of Life

“Champagne and Ribs”

great dates in april

April 22
A benefit for the “Gift of Life”
prostate cancer program. This year’s
honorees are Hal Clarke, M.D.,
and Joe Domino. Honorary chairs
are Linda and Joe Penland. Event
“Bob” Wortham, Chairs: The Babineaux Family
of the 58th Judicial (Charlene and Danny, Karen and
Court, and Karen Bret, Dana and Slate). Entertainment
Wortham. Chairman by Mid-Life Crisis. Cowboy Harley-
include Mike Simpson and Davidson. 7p.m. 409.833.366,
2010 Pat Anderson, Charlie and Tara [Link]
Cattle Barons’ Ball Holder. Entertainment includes country
superstar Aaron Tippin (“You’ve Got
April 10 To Stand For Something,” “Where The
The American Cancer Society’s Stars And Stripes And The Eagle Fly”). { April }
“Stetsons & Stilettos – Two Steppin’ Tickets $100. Mid-County Airport Hangar
for a Cause that Heals.” This year’s B. 7p.m.-12 midnight. 409.835.2139,
honorary chairman is Judge Robert [Link]
aPRIL 1
Neches River April Fools’ Day
Festival & Parade
Chris Botti Last Days of Christ Outdoor
April 13
April 17 Passion Drama
As one of Beaumont’s biggest celebrations, April 1-3. 409.466.2614,
there are several days of merriment and Grammy-award winning jazz
[Link]/[Link]
activities beginning with the king’s arrival instrumentalist Botti will perform at
at Riverfront Park. This festival brings the Lutcher Theater. Tickets $40-65. Blooms: Floral Art in the Stark
Beaumont’s largest parade downtown, and 7:30p.m. Collections
ends with the Queen’s Ball and Coronation. 800.828.5535, The flower as an inspiration for the
409.835.2443 [Link] visual arts. On exhibit through June 12.
Stark Museum of Art. 409.886.2787
Lobsterfest African-American Art: Highlights
April 26 from the Dr. Hervy Hiner Collection
The Lobsterfest golf tournament The Art Museum of Southeast Texas
will be held at the Beaumont Country presents an exhibit comprised of works
Club. The Lobsterfest dinner that in a variety of mediums by African-
evening will be at the Beaumont American artists of the 19th and 20th
Civic Center. 409.838.6581 centuries. Through April 11. [Link] >>

Event Submissions
Do you have an event you would like to promote? Do it with VIP for FREE! Please send us details—dates, times, location, contact phone,
web address and a brief description—to vipnews@[Link]. Information should arrive at least 60 days in advance of the event.

[Link] | April 2010 47

Hans Molzberger: RETURN / conservation. McFaddin-Ward House. aPRIL 13 “Charlotte’s Web,” “Singin’ in the
RÜCKKEHR 4-5p.m. Ages 6-12. Free. Call to Rain,” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”
The Art Museum of Southeast Texas reserve a spot. 409.832.1906 Neches River Festival & Parade April 16 & 17. Jefferson Theatre.
presents an exhibit featuring German As one of Beaumont’s biggest 409.838-2202
artist and Houston resident Hans aPRIL 9 celebrations, there are several days of
HealthSouth Stroke Classic Golf
Molzberger’s large-scale, ceramic merriment. 409.835.2443
BASF & Total Miracle Match for Life Tournament
sculpture installations. Exhibit runs April 13 – Kings’ Arrival & Media Party
Golf Tournament HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital
through April 11. [Link] 5:30p.m., Riverfront Park
Benefiting LifeShares Blood Centers, of Beaumont is hosting their second
Gulf Coast Marrow Donor Program and April 15 – Citizen of the Year annual tournament at Brentwood
Bluebonnet Season
the Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” Program. Presentation – 10a.m., MCM Elegante Country Club in Beaumont. Golf, food
The first two weeks of April are
Brentwood Country Club. 8a.m. April 17 – Parade 11a.m., Downtown and prizes. Registration at 11:30a.m.
typically peak season for viewing
Beaumont 409.839.3357
bluebonnets in the Hill Country and 40th Annual Spring Dinner - Silsbee
Washington County area. April 24 – Queen’s Coronation 7p.m.,
Little Theatre
Julie Rogers Theatre
aPRIL 17
Performance of “First Things First”
aPRIL 2 by Derek Benfield and directed by Lee Coronation Ball 9p.m., Beaumont The Third Annual Shoot-Out at the LIT
Ann Alpers. Social hour 6:30p.m., Civic Center Corral Pro-Am Sporting Clay Fun Shoot
First Friday’s on Lincoln Avenue
dinner 7p.m. and show 8p.m. (Jackets Presented by the LIT Foundation and Total.
Shopping, food and entertainment.
required.) Performance dates April 9, aPRIL 15 Proceeds benefit the LIT Foundation’s
6p.m.-9p.m. Groves. 409.962.3631
10, 15, 16, 17,22, 23, 24. 140 N 6th St., scholarship fund for LIT students. 1-in-100
Lamar Spring Dance Concert Gun Club in Lumberton. 409.880.7431
Silsbee. 409.385.5562
aPRIL 3 Lamar Theatre & Dance’s spring dance
concert features student and faculty Bizarre Bazaar 2
TASIMJAE aPRIL 10 performances in a variety of styles Beaumont Art League. 9a.m.-6p.m.
The Art Studio, Inc.’s Member Jurored including contemporary, jazz and ballet.
Empowering Women As Leaders 409.833.4179, [Link]
Art Exhibition. 7-10p.m. Exhibit runs Tickets $10 general admission; $7
7p.m. at The Barking Dog in Beaumont
through April 24. The Art Studio, Inc. senior citizens, students and LU faculty/ Chris Botti
featuring artist Vanessa White.
409.838.5393, [Link] staff. University Theatre 7:30p.m. Grammy-award winning jazz
Beaux Arts Ball 409.880.2250 instrumentalist Botti will perform at
Walk for Life 2010 A mock ball sponsored by The Art the Lutcher Theater. Tickets $40-65.
Sponsored by Hope Women’s Studio, Inc. with live Texas rockabilly Beaumont Heritage Society’s Mid- 7:30p.m. 800-828-5535, [Link]
Resource Clinic. Riverfront Park. music by John Evans Band. Dress is Century Modern Show
Registration 8a.m., walk begins at “Technicolor masquerade.” Tickets Episodes of “Mad Men” sparked your aPRIL 18
9a.m. [Link] $50. 8p.m. American Legion Hall, interest in the mid-century modern
aesthetic? The Beaumont Heritage Neches River Festival Show &
Anne Frank: A History for Today Beaumont. 409.838.5393
Society presents Frontiers and Fifties, Competition
Opening Reception 2010 Cattle Barons’ Ball a show featuring textiles, jewelry, glass Beaumont Art League hosts a
Temporary exhibit through May 31. Museum The American Cancer Society’s and furniture from the period. Vendors reception from 2-4p.m. 409.833.4179,
of the Gulf Coast. 409.982.7000 “Stetsons & Stilettos - Two will display their wares at the Chambers [Link]
Steppin’ for a Cause that Heals.” House Museum April 16 & 17. Tour of
aPRIL 4 Entertainment includes country some of Beaumont’s finest Mid-Century aPRIL 22
superstar Aaron Tippin. Tickets Modern Homes on April 18. Admission
Easter Sunday Earth Day
$100. Mid- County Airport Hangar charge good for all events. 409.832.4010
Port Neches Easter Sunrise Service B. 7p.m.-12 midnight. 409.835.2139, Golden Triangle American Heart
[Link] 20th Annual Village Creek Festival
7a.m. Port Neches Park Pavilion Association “Go Red For Women”
A celebration full of carnival rides, games,
Preservation Bash for Oaks Historic food, live entertainment, Miss Village Luncheon
aPRIL 8 District Creek Pageant, a classic car show, and the The event will honor Dorothy Ann
Romeo & Juliet Lynda Kay and James Makin will host Village Creek Parade. Lumberton Middle Conn. MCM Elegante. 11:30a.m.
The Guthrie Theater and The Acting the annual event. Silent auction and School. April 15-17, 5-10p.m. weeknights, 409.980.8800
Company present Shakespeare’s ultimate entertainment by The Rick Show. 10a.m.-11p.m. weekend. 409.755.0554, Julie Rogers Gift of Life
romantic tragedy of innocent young Proceeds to preservation/enhancements [Link]
in the Oaks Historic District. Tickets $30.
“Champagne and Ribs”
lovers. Tickets $40-$65. Lutcher Theater. A benefit for the “Gift of Life” prostate
7:30p.m. 800.828.5535, [Link]
409.835.0795 aPRIL 16 cancer program. Entertainment by Mid-
Chamber Mix & Mingle-Holiday Inn Symphony of Southeast Texas Concert Mercado Days Festival Life Crisis. Cowboy Harley-Davidson.
with the Southeast Texas Chorus 7p.m. 409.833.366, [Link]
& Suites Come join the party in downtown
Evelyn Lord and the orchestra chorus Port Arthur for activities for all ages
Visit the hotel on Walden Road Chamber Mix & Mingle-WineStyles
present an evening of music and and an amazing presentation of Come out to WineStyles and network
and network with other business
narration. Selections include Copland: talent celebrating the Hispanic and with other business professionals.
professionals. 4:30p.m. to 6:30p.m.
A Lincoln Portrait, Beethoven: Latino presence in Southeast Texas. 4:30p.m. to 6:30p.m.
Galveston FeatherFest Symphony No. 9 “Ode to Joy.” Julie 409.960.1699
Bird-watching and photography Rogers Theatre. 409.892.2257 [Link] aPRIL 23
excursions on buses, boats and kayaks 2010 Classic Film Festival
which visit local habitats at the height
46th Annual Bluebonnet Festival – Presented by Beaumont Main Street, ACS Relay for Life
of the avian spring migration. April 8-11.
Chappell Hill the 2010 Classic Film Festival celebrates The American Cancer Society’s Relay
An arts, music and crafts festival great movies and features a variety of for Life is a 24 hour event that begins
888.435.4753, [Link]
sponsored by the Chappell related events such as a Holly Golightly with a Survivors Lap and includes a
Green Thumbs for Children Hill Historical Society. Free party in the Skyroom of Hotel Beaumont Luminaria Ceremony to remember lost
Children’s program about gardening admission, $5 parking. April 10-11. and a Barnyard Bash for children. loved ones. Lumberton High School.
and developing a love for nature and [Link] Feature films are “The Natural,” Begins at 6:30p.m. [Link]

48 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]

The Annual Texas Bar-B-Q Festival Eco-Fest
The Texas Bar-B-Q Festival has Shangri La Botanical Gardens hosts an
carnival rides, a Doggie Pageant, Classic educational family event. Information
Car Show & Shine, live music and a booths about earth-friendly products,
scholarship pageant. Claiborne Park in services, and opportunities. Boat rides,
Vidor. April 23-25. Tickets $10 Friday/
Saturday, $5 Sunday. Friday 5p.m.-12
music, games, skits, face painting
and more! 9a.m.-4p.m. 409.670.9113,
The Discount Party Super Store
midnight, Saturday 10a.m.-12 midnight, [Link]
Sunday 10a.m.-5p.m. 409.769.6339

Ringling Brothers & Barnum & Bailey

Exotic Bird Expo
Vendors showcase birds, toys, food,
Complete Inventory
The greatest show on Earth comes to
Beaumont. April 23-25. Ford Arena.
[Link]
cages. Bob Bowers Civic Center, Port
Arthur. Children under 12 free, small
of Party Supplies
entry fee over 12. 409.656.0626

aPRIL 24 aPRIL 26 • Plastic & Paper • Catering Items• Pinatas

March for Babies 2010
A three mile walk around Lamar
Lobsterfest
The Lobsterfest golf tournament will
• Holiday Decorations • Birthday Supplies
University campus starting at the John
Gray Center. Enjoy picnic, games and
be held at the Beaumont Country Club.
The Lobsterfest dinner that evening
• Cards • Invitations • Wedding • Sport Items
children’s activities afterward. Event
chairman is Will Jackson of Wells Fargo.
will be at the Beaumont Civic Center.
409.838.6581
• Candy, Toys & Novelties • Balloons & Helium
9a.m. 409.835.7606

Art Exhibit: Virgil Grotfeldt, 274296 aPRIL 27 Tanks and Much More!
The Art Museum of Southeast Texas Lamar Civic Orchestra
presents an exhibit representing the final
body of work of one of Houston’s leading
7:30p.m. Setzer Student Center Ballroom
at Lamar University. Free. 409.880.8144
3970 Dowlen Rd.
artists, Virgil Grotfeldt, who lost his
16-year battle with cancer in February 53rd Annual Contraband Days (next to Hobby Lobby)
2009. Opening reception 6-8p.m.
Exhibit runs through July 11. [Link]
Venture down to the Lake Charles Civic
Center seawall and visit with the modern- Beaumont, TX
Art Exhibit: Rusty Scruby, Playing in
day “pirates,” in full regalia on boats out
on the lake. Two weeks, over 100 events, 409.892.1555
the Sand food, contests and fun. Lake Charles
The Art Museum of Southeast Texas Civic Center. Tickets $5. April 27-May 9.
presents an exhibit by Rusty Scruby 337.436.5508, [Link]
featuring his totally three-dimensional
sculpture that will be suspended from the aPRIL 30
gallery ceilings. Opening reception 6-8p.m.
Exhibit runs through July 11. [Link] Arbor Day

May Preview //////////////////////////

MAY 1

Crawfish are Back!

St. Michael’s Church Mediterranean Festival Opa! [Link].
Michael’s Church, 680 15th Street, Beaumont. 409-838-4951
The Gusher Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K Beaumont’s first marathon
will start at 7:30a.m. from the Lamar University Montagne Center.
409.781.2932, [Link] DRINK & BUCKET BEER SPECIALS!
Good Medicine Workshop and Meditation Retreat Golden Triangle Body, Mind,
Spirit Connection will host the retreat. Highlights include: meditation class,
Murda yoga class, chiropractic techniques class and a campfire drumming circle.
Tickets $50, including lunch. 9a.m.-9p.m. 409.963.9787, livewell@[Link]
“Playing in the Sand” Family Arts Day The Art Museum of Southeast
Texas offers a free family arts day. 10a.m.-2p.m. [Link]
MAY 3
Paul Hulsey Memorial 100 Club Golf Tournament Brentwood Country
Club. [Link]
MAY 6
Third Annual LiveWell Women’s Conference Sponsored
by CHRISTUS Hospital, seminars, health screenings,
a market square and special keynote speaker
Joan Lunden. Ford Park. 409.899.7700,
[Link]/conference VIP HAPPY HOUR: M-F 4PM-7PM
2290 IH 10 South at Washington Blvd. • (409) 842-0686

[Link] | April 2010 49

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

A“change”

photography by JERRY POWERS

is going to
come text by GINGER ROBINSON

S
crambling the night, stealing your youth, always older than somebody
ferociously and beauty, baby-making abilities and always younger. Being
taking a fleeting and anything else it can manage both an A and B woman means
moment to look to strip from you, leaving you that we all have information
back, I run. curled into the fetal position. that not only can be, but begs
Somehow this slow moving The first person I thought to be, shared. There’s no way
nemesis always seems too close, to take my questions to was my we all know everything, but if
emptily swiping at my extremi- momma, but she had long since we don’t pass on what we know,
ties. A couple of times, I slip, passed on when this issue came then we doom each other to fear
ripping the skin on my knees. up for me. People always tell and ignorance.
What am I running from? Time, you that whenever your mother As for me, I did some re-
and this awful thing they call entered “The Change,” ditto for search and found out that fried
“The Change.” you. Are they crazy? Nobody foods will make you sweat at
At the magical age of 37, I talks about that type of stuff. night. Oh, and the hot flash,
woke in the middle of the night I was almost 21 before I knew um, silly me, 100 degree weath-
with my nightgown so soaked that “The Change” is meno- er and no air conditioning. The
that I had to change. Petri- pause. The only thing I remem- mood swings — fear.
fied, I pulled the covers up to ber even resembling menopause I made a decision to change
my chin thinking, “It’s begun.” was Momma plucking the hairs my attitude, change my eating
The next morning I arose in from her chin, saying “Never habits for the better, exercise,
a surly mood and snapped at shave your facial hairs, always lose weight and be happy with
my husband. On the verge of pluck them or they’ll grow back the woman I have become and
tears, rage still not subsiding, I into a full beard or mustache.” will continue growing into. It
marked this as mood swings. “I’ll NEVER need that turns out those were the right
“Oooh! Are y’all hot?” Our information.” Thirteen at the choices. I also share what I’ve
older friend fanned herself and time, I tossed that tidbit as far learned with A and B category
turned on an overhead fan. away as I could. She divulged women. I’m not running any-
Refusing to meet her eyes other morsels of wisdom as I more. I’ve learned that crèmes
and hoping I didn’t have heat shut down all bodily listening and waxing are my friends, and
stroke, I said, “Nope.” devices. Now that I’m 39, I wish that if I eat foods that agree
I wasn’t sure what was I could do that thing Professor with me, my hormones will be
happening to me. All I knew Dumbledore does — pull it out even. I want to always accept
was that at 37, I felt old. In of my mind and stir it in a glass myself, be seasoned and able
the mirror I saw a gray-faced, of Kool-Aid for viewing. to confront the unknown with
tired, angry old woman. I was My husband says that knowledge, not fear.
depressed without cause and women fall into two different
always bloated. I was easily ir- categories: A and B. A be- Ginger Robinson is a freelance
ritated, constantly constipated, ing older women and B being writer and aspiring author who
and overly tired. younger women. No matter the gets most of her inspiration from
I was once told that “The age, all women fall into both her husband, three children and
Change” comes like a thief in categories, imagine that? You’re two dogs. VIP

50 April 2010 | theVIP[Link]