CHARM S O U T H E A S T T E X A S C U R AT E D

COVER

Cool Kids I am Every Woman

of Summer Story of Dr. Nicole Hancock

Neches River Festival Court CHARM 1

Inside
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CHARM
BEAUMONT ER
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CHARM 3

on the cover
Photo by Jessie Goodman
Photography
Cover Model: Hadley Stephenson and
Noah Harris
Clothing provided by
So Adorable Too
Children's Boutique
Photo shoot location at Tyrrell Park
and Cattail Marsh in Beaumont, Texas
Copyright © April 2021 by The Examiner
Corporation, all rights reserved. No portion
may be reproduced in whole in or in part by any
means, including electronic retrieval systems,
without permission of the publisher. Editorial
content does not necessarily reflect the opinions
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advertising does not constitute advice but is
considered informative.
Charm Magazine is published four times per
year with a suggested retail price of $7.95 an
issue. To subscribe, call (409) 832-1400.
4
THE
EXAMINER
CHARMThe Independent Voice of Southeast Texas
SOUTHEAST TEXAS HAS CHARM
Summer has officially arrived, complete with the sweltering heat,
but Southeast Texas is replete with wonderful ways and plenty of
places to cool off or chill out.
Whether your plan is to seek new adventure or keep it close to
home – or even a mixture of both – Charm has you covered. In this
edition of Charm, readers are sure to find some new favorites – a
posh place to shop and dine, a unique recipe of an old favorite, the
finest wines for tastings or get some pointers on a new and relaxing
hobby. Speaking of something new, check out page 8 for details on
finding the hidden charm within this issue for your chance to win a
gift certificate to the advertiser of your choice.
Meet Dr. Nicole Hancock, who saves lives and trains the next
generation of primary care physicians during the day, then transforms
into a super mom every evening. The mother of three young children
offers time-saving tips for parents on the go and shares her secret
to happiness – and baklava!
Destress and unwind! Learn about embroidery and the easiest
stiches to start your own needlework. Grab a hula hoop and take a
turn at twirling, while also burning away calories. Or hit the trails and
take a relaxing hike through the Big Thicket.
Missing the Mexican pizza Taco Bell took off their menu? Don’t
worry! Charm has a just the right recipe to fill that craving – and it
tastes even better than the original.
Looking for something to do around Southeast Texas? How about
a concert? Or maybe the South Texas State Fair? We’ve included
the summer’s upcoming events in the pages for your enjoyment and
entertainment.
Love parading your pets around town? Inside the pages, pet
owners will find adorable pet accessories and helpful tips to keep
your pooches and kitties cool during the summer.
Check out this year’s Queens and Duchesses of the 2021 Neches
River Festival, and learn a bit about the history of the long-running
celebration of the river that keeps Southeast Texas’ economy
flowing.
In this issue, readers will find all this and so much more celebrating
Southeast Texas and all its Charm. We hope you enjoy it!
Publisher
 capture the
important

Mom e n t s

JESSIE GOODMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSIEGOODMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
JESSIETGOODMAN@GMAIL.COM
832-492-6048
CHARM 5
 CHARM staff & contributors
1. Don Dodd is the CEO and Publisher of The Examiner Corporation
where he leads a team of local and nationally acclaimed talent in the
fields of journalism and marketing. This boss is hands-on and not afraid
to roll up his sleeves and do what needs to be done to make sure the
show goes on. Don’s dedication to his work and staff is parallel to the
loyalty he holds for his family – which is, on the good days, sometimes
one and the same.
2. Kristi Dodd is the Marketing Director of the Examiner Corporation
and has been married to the Publisher, Don Dodd, for 21 years. She
is the mother of 5 with 1 perfect grandson. In her leisure time, Kristi
enjoys reading, cooking and travel.
3. Jennifer Johnson is a nationally award winning author based in
Southeast Texas and has been with The Examiner for 15 years, where
she also serves on panels for several nonprofits and moonlights as a
dance mom. Catch her poolside, beachside – or wherever there’s a
puddle of water this summer – but you’ll never catch this consummate
writer without a pen and paper!
4. Harley Elkins is a Customer Service/Sales Representative for The
Examiner and Charm Southeast Texas. When she's not cooking or
playing outside with her son, Bryan, she's traveling and going on new
adventures.
5. Sharon Brooks is an awarding-winning journalist, editor for The
Southeast Texas Business Journal and business editor for The Examiner
newspaper for collectively 15 years. She graduated with honors from
Lamar University and holds a degree in Corporate Communications/
Public Relations. Sharon writes news, features and business and
personal profiles, takes photos and edits for The Examiner’s many
publications.
6. Dana Moore is an Advertising Sales Manager of The Examiner
Corp. She likes getting to know her clients and building long term
relationships. In her off time, she spends time with her family and
traveling. Her hobbies include flea markets, gardening, painting and
recreating vintage items.
7. Jessie Goodman, owner of Jessie Goodman Photography, loves
creating close relationships with the families she photographs. She
has been photographing some families from births through first
birthdays and then onward as they add siblings and fur siblings over
the years. When she’s not playing patty cake and peekaboo with all her
photography littles, she’s spending time with her babies on their land
and small little “farm” or out on the water fishing.
6 CHARM
8. Brittany Chaney has an eye for design and a penchant for
photography. As an award winning Graphic Designer based in Southeast
Texas, Brittany makes her bread and butter finding the ethereal in the
everyday – and makes her heart and soul smile while doing it! This
passionate picture-taker and rebel rocker is always on the go but tries
to carve out plenty of time to cuddle up with her computer or a couple
pounds of crawfish.
9. Chad Cooper is a Southeast Texas entertainment guru who attends
all the big events, taking photos and hearts in the process. Coop, a 19-
year nationally awared-winning staple of The Examiner, jetsets to Vegas
when possible, but is never too far from the local happenings.
10. Joette Reger, Master Gardener, writer and Volunteer to improve
National Civic Education; loving the process of research, travel and
writing about a wide variety of flora for nearly fifteen years. One of her
favorite quotes, Joyce Carol Oates, "The gardener is the quintessential
optimist. Not only does he believe that the future will bear out the fruits
of his efforts, he believes in the future." How can we leave our world just
a little better?
11. MacKenzie Harken-Hildago is a Beaumont native and Lamar
University alumni. Her lust for life competes with her love for cooking,
but doesn’t compare to her love for her husband and son. She also
enjoys photography, capturing timeless moments for others. Mac loves
to entertain and has yet to meet a stranger.
12. B. Scott McLendon earned a journalism degree in his native
Alabama, where he garnered an affinity for language and all who use it.
Spending his high school free time conjuring Latin and English poetry to
impress girls spurred his love for writing, an activity he found unappealing
beforehand. An insatiable curiosity and passion for storytelling has
propelled him to newspaper positions covering environmental issues
in the swamps of south Louisiana, education in the mountains of north
Alabama and now the stories of Southeast Texans.
13. Micah Leigh has been a writer for as long as she can remember.
She loves interviewing people, discovering their stories and sharing
them with readers. A Texas Master Naturalist and Master Gardener, she
is always learning about ways to improve the environment along with
serving the community.
 1
6 10

3
7 11

8 12

9 13

5
CHARM 7

see
Come
THE WORLD’S LARGEST
WORKING FIRE HYDRANT
at the
FIRE MUSEUM OF TEXAS
409-880-3927 @firemuseumtx
400 WALNUT ST, BEAUMONT, TX
FIND THE CHARM!
The charm hidden in the magazine is the same color and size as
the one shown here and you could win a $50 gift certificate to
the advertiser of your choice. Email us at charm@theexaminer.
com or write us at Charm c/o The Examiner, 795 Willow St.,
Beaumont, Texas 77701 with your name and phone number and
tell us where you found it. All correct entries will be entered
into a drawing. The lucky winner will be announced in our next Actual Size
issue.

8 CHARM
CONTENTS 47
20

14
Features LiFestyLe
14 I am Every Woman
20 Neches River Festival LXXIII
47 Cool Kids of Summer
Food & drink
30 The Charm of Charcuterie
32 Wine Tasting Close to Home
38 Mediterranean Market
12 Age Defying Myths
43 The Ultimate Expression of Freedom
54 Events
57 Natural Products for Your Pets
60 The Hula Hoop Grows Up
CHARM 9
10 CHARM
CHARM 11
 Age
Defying
Myths
We live in a culture that glorifies youth. We constantly
chase the latest anti-aging products in hopes of
staving off time a little longer. Some products work
to a point, but many are nothing more than empty
promises and creative marketing. Let’s look at some
common myths regarding anti-aging techniques:

12 CHARM
1 Using all the products in a skincare line
gives better results.
Even though products are touted to
complement each other, that is not always
the case. Too many products and ingredients
can cause irritation. The best thing to do is
try one at a time to see how your skin type
reacts. Also, skin product lines can get pricey.
More expensive does not automatically
mean more effective.

3 Skin creams can reverse aging.

There is no evidence that skin creams
reverse aging. They will, however, add
moisture which gives the skin a smooth
supple appearance.

2
Sunscreen isn’t needed if I am not out in
the sun.
Sunscreen is actually the best and
simplest thing you can do to prevent
aging. Avoiding sun damage prevents
wrinkles and brown spots, a telltale sign of
aging.

4
Aging is not related to diet.
Our choice of food plays a major role in how
we age. Inflammatory foods such as
sugar and refined carbohydrates

5
If I don’t smile, I won’t wrinkle.
wreak havoc on our internal Laughter and smiling will undoubtedly
organs which will eventually create lines on our faces, but those
show up on our skin. To slow lines are marks of happiness and isn’t
aging, eat your fruits and that much more important to a life
vegetables. well- lived than a flawless face?

CHARM 13
14 CHARM
I ’m Every
COVID hero doubles as multitalented mom

STORY BY SHARON BROOKS

Dr. Nicole “Nikki” Hancock of the Diagnostic Group is a local health

care hero who stood on the frontlines in the battle against the coronavirus
along with fellow health care champions, such as Dr. Qamar Arfeen, in
Southeast Texas. Now, she leads the only internal medicine residency
program in the area at Baptist Beaumont Hospital.
But, that’s just her day job. While not out saving lives or training our
future physicians in internal medicine, Nikki may be found at home cozied
up to her husband Clif, a local spine surgeon, and their three beautiful
children.
Or, she may be in the kitchen creating a culinary masterpiece.
Or perhaps, out on the slopes skiing with her family.
In fact, her social media photos make it clear that you never know where
you may see Nikki next because there’s much more to this doctor than the
medical miracles she performs.
According to Nikki, working moms know that balancing home life and
work isn’t always easy but, she says, “It’s worth it. I love medicine, and I

CHARM 15
 love my family.
“I have three kids. Their birthdays are coming up. My
kids were born May 1, May 8, June 2. Lucy is 8. Addy
is 3. And Robbie is turning 5. They’re wonderful!”
Nikki says she can’t wait to greet her children when
she gets home from a long day at the clinic/hospital/
nursing home. But, from time-to-time, things can
get pretty hectic as they might in any amply sized
household, so it’s important to find ways to destress and
still make time for the most important people in her life.
For her family, it seems she’s found the perfect
recipe for happiness.
“We all need an outlet, and family is one,” she
shared. “But I have three kids,
so things can get crazy.
“We love to be in the kitchen.
My husband and I really enjoy
it, and I’ve really gotten the
"Work-life balance
kids into it, too. Every Sunday,
we make homemade pizza. I’ll
make the dough. The kids will
is difficult, but it ’s
roll it out. They love it!”
If the smiles on their faces
are any indication, her children
worth it. "
have definitely inherited Nikki’s love of culinary
adventure. Many days, they can be found alongside
her in the kitchen preparing pizzas, happily shaping
cookies or cake balls, and generally helping out their
multitalented mom who is as much a hero in their eyes
as in her patients.
“My kids are young, and they’re full of energy, so it
can be hard to keep up with them around the house. But
when I can get them motivated about food, they tend
to eat better and their hands are busy so they’re not out
destroying things,” she said with a smile.
“We’ve made challah bread, and you can make
it into little snails and snakes. We’ve done Stromboli
and snake calzones, where you take pizza dough and
roll it out in the shape of a snake. Then, you fill it and
16 CHARM
roll it with whatever toppings. The kids like sausage,
so we’ll typically use sausage and cheese. We like to
make homemade ravioli a lot. I spend a lot of time in the
kitchen with my kids.”
Nikki grew up cooking for her siblings and
discovered her love for culinary crafts at an early age,
experimenting with whatever she would find in the
cupboards or fridge.
“Growing up, I was generally responsible for
cooking, laundry, et cetera,” she said. “I used to take the
Pillsbury biscuits and roll them out to make little pizzas
out of them, and things like that. I’ve always enjoyed
it.”
These days, she’s upped her
game quite a bit, making her
own pizza dough from scratch
and learning new recipes through
cooking shows, classes and
fellow foodie friends.
“I’m adding to my repertoire,”
said Nikki. “When Clif and I
started dating, we really enjoyed
watching Good Eats with Alton
Brown. I just really loved how he
was so scientific about it. It makes sense. I don’t want to
over-stir the risotto because then it’s going to get really
sticky and that gluten is going to do XYZ. It just made
sense, and I really enjoyed watching that show.
“I’ve taken a couple of cooking classes along the way,
but what I’ve really enjoyed doing, and it’s come up
more recently during the pandemic, is getting together
with close friends and sharing recipes. It’s basically an
afternoon in the kitchen where you can just have fun
with a very small group. It’s been really fun.”
Nikki lived in Colorado and Pennsylvania before
moving to Texas, so she had no experience making a
certain southern staple: gumbo. Now, she’s getting
kudos from hubby Clif and her kids for her delicious
stew complete with homemade roux.
CHARM 17
18 CHARM
 “Kristi Dodd makes really amazing gumbo, and so one day
I called her up and asked, ‘Hey, can you teach me how to make
gumbo?’ We spent five or six hours because we started with History repeats itself
the roux, and we just had such a great time,” she recalled. “My
husband is so happy I learned to make gumbo because I make
it practically every week now. My first few were chicken and
sausage. I made duck and sausage gumbo over the weekend, and
that was a big hit!”
She also recently learned to make baklava from a friend who
Nikki says makes “the world’s best baklava,” and paid back a
favor in flavor.
“A friend brought over some baklava, her name is Nawal
Dakour, and I was like, ‘This is the best baklava I’ve ever had.
You have to teach me how to make it.’ So I called Kristi on
the phone, and I was like, ‘Girl, we’re going to learn to make
baklava,’” said Nikki.
Now, she’s a baklava baking buff, and divulged the surprising
location of a secret stash of the best baklava pans in Beaumont.
“I can, in an hour probably, have a happy pan of baklava
ready. I love baklava! I’ve been making it at home, but it’s been
just a little off, so I asked my friend who taught me where she got
hers. When she did it, she had this perfect-sized pan. So, I got the
skinny on where to get the perfect-sized pans for baklava… She
gets hers at Ross,” she revealed. “Of all places, I never would Nikki and her husband Clif met on a bus at the
have thought about Ross. It’s like a casserole dish.” University of Colorado campus where they both
Nikki loves to make dinner for her family, but she doesn’t attended college. She says her now-husband shyly
always want to spend all night cooking. So, she has come up with sat next to her, and a budding romance ensued.
a time-saving solution that ensures she and her family can have a Nikki’s grandparents also met on a bus, she
hot, fresh meal at the end of the day. shared, although the circumstances were somewhat
“You know I work all day and then I come home and play different.
with my kids, get dinner ready. Yesterday, I made taco stuff so “My grandparents, funnily, met on a bus. That
the babysitter could set it all up so it would be ready when I got was during WWII,” she described. “He had just
home for Taco Tuesday," she shared. gotten done with a night of partying, and he was on
“The gumbo takes a little longer, but I spread it out. I’ll start the bus and had a drink in his hand. She was going
the bone broth, because I take it all the way from bone broth, to work, dressed in a skirt and heels and all that.
and I’ll make that one day. Then the next day, I’ll heat up the She gets on the bus, and he leans over and spills a
sausage. The next day, I’ll make the roux, and so forth. If I take drink all over her.
little increments of time at the end of the day where I start the “She was so angry that, the next day, she deliv-
roux or heat up the stock, I can just do that part of it and make it ered him the laundry bill for her outfit. They were
in stages. Then, it doesn’t seem so complicated.” married two weeks later.”
“Every day is different,” Nikki said, and while there will Nikki and Clif waited a little longer than that.
always be new challenges for working moms, the rewards are They dated for three years or so before also walk-
beyond measure. “Work-life balance is difficult, but it’s worth ing down the aisle.
it.”

CHARM 19
 Neches River Festival lxxii
It was 1947 when a group of Beaumont
citizens gathered together to talk about
ways to celebrate the city’s greatest
accomplishments. They knew the thriving
economy was a result of its location on the Neches River. So, on
May 1, 1949, the Neches River Festival was established to
recognize the importance of the Neches River and the youth of
Beaumont.
The Royal Court in 1949 was composed of 11 Duchesses and
six Princesses. Virginia Ruth Pivoto was named Queen and Ben
Jackson was King. Following the coronation, a street dance was
held surrounding City Hall and the first Neches River Festival
Regatta was held at the City Docks with 18 races, visiting yachts
and hundreds of spectators lining the docks. Seven decades later,
Photo by Jordan Gaspard
NRF ROYAL COURT
20 CHARM
the inaugural event has transformed into a two-week celebration.
The 73rd NRF season officially ended with the announcement
of the Royal Court. His Majesty, King Neches LXXIII, is
Beaumont City Manager Kyle Hayes, and Her Majesty Queen
Neches LXXIII is Cameron Michelle Phelan. Brooke Hill is
First Lady in Waiting; Emma Shoemaker is Second Lady in
Waiting; Lily Norman is Third Lady in Waiting; and Grand
Duchess is Bailey Junell of Houston.
Otho Plummer Scholarship recipients are Jordan Ward and
Mollie McLeod. The NRF Board Scholarships were awarded to
Averie Bonner, Lauren Eaves, Shaila Murphy, Justyce Redeau
and Emma Shoemaker.
Caroline Wilson was named Miss Congeniality and Caleb
Wilson was Best Escort.

Kameron Elizabeth Aaron Mazar Ahmed
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
Beaumont Alumnae Chapter
Madison Nicole Beckett Phoebe Elizabeth Bertrand
Beaumont Children’s Museum Texas Master Naturalist
Sabine Neches Chapter
Taylor Madison Davis Derrica Deshae Devault
Fire Museum of Texas International Spiritual Warfare
Network
Caroline Elizabeth Halbert Alexandra Jewel Hatfield
Symphony League of Beau- Alzheimer’s Association
mont Executive Committee
PRINCESSES
Karrygan Viola Anderson Gabrielle Brooke Augustine Isabella Lola Avila Jianna Maria Dayrit Bajar Devyn Nichole Baldwin
Gift of Life-Regina Rogers Jefferson County Bar Association Chambers House Museum Philippine Association of Jack and Jill of America
Beaumont
Cani La’Precious Bevil Blayne Elise Braneff Rayne Autumn Carpenter Brianna Danielle Carrierre Yasmine Maricela Castillo-Brown
Younglife Symphony League of Beaumont Arc of Greater Beaumont Beaumont NAACP Youth Council Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
Debutante Committee Alpha Omega Omega Chapter
Lauren Alexis Diaz Lauren Elisabeth Eaves Emma Cheree Frens Hevin Monique Gardiner Chloe Ane Griffith
Beaumont Art League Symphony of Southeast Texas Peace. Love. Serve. National Panhellenic Beaumont Country Club
Conference
Amiya Quinterria Henderson Brooke Nicole Hill Ciara Cymone Holland Kaylyn Marie Holmes Julianna Katherine Jordan
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Foundation for Southeast Texas Top Ladies of Distinction Doug’s Friends Anayat House
Beaumont Chapter General Board
CHARM 21
Photos provided by Neches River Festival
 PRINCESSES

Alexia Johnell Keller Tabitha Celeste Kiefer Catherine Ashley Kinsel Madelyn Grace Kirksey Grace Morgan Langston Indiyah Carolene Locke Emma Nakole Marks
Epsilon Theta Xinos Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Art Museum of Southeast Texas Humane Society of Southeast McFaddin-Ward House Big Thicket Association Cardiovascular Foundation of
Texas Texas Southeast Texas

Lauryn Trinee’ Marks Mollie Kim Hang McLeod Emmylie Raelyn Merrill-Harris Zoey Kathryn Moon Bria Danielle Moore Shaila Charisse Murphy Cadien Kennedy Myrick
Top Teens of America Beaumont Ballet Theatre Guild Junior League of Beaumont Beaumont Art League Top Teens of America Top Ladies of Distinction Beaumont Police Department

Lily Elizabeth Norman Cameron Michelle Phelan Madison Marie Plessala Yovanne Jonclaire Randall Justyce Patrece Redeau Karli Elizabeth Roberds Kelsea Paige Roberts
Symphony League of Magnolia Garden Club Garth House Plessala National Council of Negro Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Buckner Children and Family Jack and Jill of America
Beaumont Women Alpha Chi Zeta Chapter Services

Krista Michelle Roberts Shelby Madison Roberts Madisen Elyssa-Grace Segura Anna Paige Shoemaker Emma Grace Shoemaker Erianna Sade Smith Taylor Layne Smith
Southeast Texas Nonprofit North Point Community Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Beaumont Heritage Society Beaumont Heritage Society Alzheimer’s Association Texas Exes
Development Center Church Alpha Chi Zeta Chapter Southeast Texas Chapter
22 CHARM
 PRINCESSES

Kenderlyn Patrice Thierry Anna Elaine Thompson Camille Marie Thompson Brooklyn Ju’nae Turner Samora Jarmaine Williams Caroline Michelle Wilson Baleigh Michelle Woods
Top Teens of America Garth House Anayat House Beaumont Community Players Fire Museum of Texas Junior League of Beaumont Some Other Place
Beaumont Chapter

DUCHESSES

Lilly Grace Yoes

Jefferson County Bar
Association
Averie Renee Bonner Hailey Grace Bridges Allie Caroline Bruster Kelsey Madison Cadien Kyleigh Rachelle Carroll Ella Grace Coffey Camille Killian Harrell
Lumberton, Texas Lumberton, Texas Southlake, Texas Cypress, Texas Sour Lake, Texas Memphis, Tennessee Dallas, Texas

Katherine Grace James Bailey Elaine Junell Audrey Downing Leigh Isabella Rona Mast Ryann McKenna McAnelly Mary Caroline Nelson Ciera Nikole Pattie Molly Elizabeth Posey
Lumberton, Texas Houston, Texas Dallas, Texas Dallas, Texas Spring Branch, Texas Austin, Texas Hardin-Jefferson Georgetown, Texas

Isabell Lee Revere Charlotte Cook Seale Chloe Day Spears Catherine Suzanne Stiles Josephine Lee Thompson Jordan Faith Ward Katelyn Nichole Watson
Friendswood, Texas Dallas, Texas Houston, Texas Houston, Texas Richardson, Texas Lumberton, Texas Vidor, Texas
CHARM 23
 E S C O RT S

Seated L to R: Stafford Baber, Jordan Guidry, Parker Manriquez, Jordan Harris Seated L to R: Shawn Henery, Jaxson Haynes, Mathew Haynie, Joseph Tortorice
Standing L to R: Marcellus Fisher, Dominic Mennie, Mikael Carrier, Brailan Mark, Colin Hargis Standing L to R: Chase Arceneaux, Logan White, Will Saba, Cody Wulf, John Ridout

Seated L to R: Kenneth Coleman, Mark Velez, Sam Laine, Samuel Dickerson Seated L to R: Andre Dennis, Joseph Hayes, Jonathan Harris, Ben Featherston
Standing L to R: Jason Guidry, Pierce Levinthal, Joshua Davis, Ashton Janise, Alton Avery Standing L to R: Aidan Heartfeild, Coltin May, Bryant Slack, Brock Slack, Gavin Puckett

Seated L to R: Jay Foxworth, Christopher Hill, Cade Romero, Zachary Gillam

Standing L to R: Sam Hall, Ben Bennett, Jayden Davis, Ashton Ohmstede, Gage Peterson
24 CHARM
 E S C O RT S

Seated L to R: Jack Montalbano, Cole Cornwell, Kent Liu, Lance Henry Seated L to R: Jerron-Michael Arline, Connor Oliphant, Jayden Senegal, Sean Kelley
Standing L to R: Chandler Rivers, Raj Robison, Alex Sanders, Braylon Keys, Cody Caldwell Standing L to R: Jose Perez, Ike Nwaobi, Bryce Calcote, Malik Smith, Adam Brasher

Front row L to R: Hunter Gonzales, Haden Young, Alex Sanders Front row L to R: Lance Vaughn, Cristian Cisneros, Reece Austin
Back row L to R: Andrew Henges, Patrick Pritchard, Joe Penland, Gavin Kash Back row L to R: Landen Vaugh, Nate Nickum, Patrick Miller

Seated L to R: Anish Doshi, Roadie Rasa, Speed Rasa, Terry Ross

Standing L to R: Trey Harrington, Cade Danna, Jackson Novak, Trey Isabell, Caleb Wilson CHARM 25
28 CHARM
 TEAM hello
AWARD WINNERS
SPRING
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2021 is off to an excellent start!

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Melanie
CHARM 29
 The
CHARM
e r i e
of

Ch a r c u t
30 CHARM
 C
harcuterie is EVERYWHERE right now. Trays and boards laden with colorful
displays of meats, cheeses and other goodies are popping up at parties, outdoor
cookouts, restaurants and markets. It’s trending, but it’s not new.
“It has been around for a long time, but it’s all the rage right now,” Soirée and Vine owner
and charcuterie queen Carrie Hackbarth says. Custom orders and fan-favorites keep Carrie
busy, but she offers some tips for hostesses to try at home if you want to impress your guests
with a centerpiece to please even the fussiest of foodies.
“Presentation is everything,” Carrie points out as priority No. 1. “Make sure you have a
good balance of sweet and savory. Also, make sure it is colorful.”
Charcuterie is not limited to meat and cheese. Brunch boards with waffles, sausage and
fruit, taco boards, dessert boards with cakes and cookies – whatever the occasion, you can
create a board to fit.
An eye for design is a plus when it comes to setting up a board. Get creative or refer to
pictures on social media for ideas. It can be as simple as a few items, or as extravagant as
your budget allows. Choose a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts and olives and pickled
vegetables. Different types of the same meat can be used on one board – such as regular sa-
lami and peppered salami. Strong cheeses can be on the same board with milder ones. With
a wide array of stuffed olives to choose from, try several, including olives stuffed with feta
or jalapeno. Add different types of crackers, breads, and oils for dipping, jams and jellies.
“A lot of people don’t know
how to eat charcuterie. Remem-
ber, this is an appetizer, not the
meal. Charcuterie is for grazing,”
Carrie reminds. “Let your cheeses
come to room temperature before
indulging. Take a cracker, add a
meat, a cheese, jelly or jam, hon-
ey or spicy mustard. You take a
bite and taste everything at once.”
Visit Carrie at Soirée and Vine,
1229 Boston Ave. in Nederland,
for inspiration – or for an adult
lunchable to bring home for a
solo event! Call her to order your
own personal concoction or party
platter at (409) 853-1614.
STORY BY MICAH LEIGH

A Grand Box from Soirée & Vine CHARM 31

 Flavorful
Flights
Wine tasting close to home
As the days grow longer and warmer, and with
easing pandemic restrictions, Southeast Tex-
ans will no doubt be looking for excuses to gather. Wine
has been used to stoke social fires for thousands of years,
and area oenophiles have several local options to sate
myriad thirsts.
Local wineries like Cotton Creek Winery in Beaumont,
Bruno & George Winery in Sour Lake, Rollins Vine 2
Wine Vineyard & Winery in Winnie and Free State Cel-
lars in Orange all offer locally sourced wines and ciders,
and all are located within a half-hour drive of Beaumont.
Cotton Creek Winery is located at 6755 Phelan Bou-
levard and offers wine tastings of their house-made va-
rieties, as well as an assortment of wine gifts. Pop in for
happy hour between 5 and 6:30 p.m. for $5 wine-a-ritas
and more than a dozen options wines and ciders. This
wine-lover’s watering hole lets patrons pick three flavors
in a flight for $9, with options like pineapple, green apple,
orange moon, cherry limeade, mango habanero, root beer
and watermelon.
Their pineapple cider is a super-sweet, bubbly blend,
with a taste that calls to mind beachside bonfires and
32 CHARM
nighttime pool parties. Their green apple wine’s tart, sour
and sweet blend tasted as though its apples were picked
from a Candyland orchard. Those who prefer dour tastes
to sour and dry to sweet would enjoy the orange moon
cider – a stronger cider with a tinge of orange.
After a short drive to Sour Lake, wine enthusiasts can
visit Bruno & George Winery, located at 400 Messina
Road. This winery prides itself on raisin-based wines, but
also incorporates other fruits like cranberries, raspber-
ries, pears, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, blackber-
ries and plums. This winery offers award-winning blends
with interest-piquing names like “Yellowjacket Raspber-
ry,” “Cardinal Cranberry” and “Crystal Conch Sauvignon
Blanc.”
Appointments are required, so call (409) 963-8235
to schedule a visit, but Beaumonters actually don’t have
to leave the city to try this Sour Lake brand. Debb’s Li-
quor Store at 6666 Phelan offers several of the aforemen-
tioned varieties for $12. Also on offer at the family owned
Debb’s is a selection of other Texas-based wines for every
budget and palate.
Sour Lake-based vino vendors Bruno & George Winery Debb's Liquor sells a wide array of Texas wines

CHARM 33
34 CHARM
 LACUNA SKINNY SPICY

Margaritas
What you'll need:
• 2 ounces of 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila
• 1/2 ounce of lime juice
• 1/2 ounce of Agave syrup
• Jalapeños, sea salt for garnish

Here's what to do:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Pour the tequila with agave and jalapeño slices.
Tightly close and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
Dip the top of your drinking glass into sea salt at a 45-degree angle
and roll it from side to side.
Add ice cubs to your glass, then a jalapeño for garnish.
Pour your drink concoction into your glass and enjoy immediately.

RECIPE PROVIDED BY LACUNA TEQUILA BAR

CHARM 35
36 CHARM
Mexican Pizza
PHOTO & RECIPE BY MACKENZIE HARKEN-HILDAGO

What you'll need:

• 1/2 lbs. ground beef
• 1/2 package taco seasoning mix
• 2 tbsp water
• 8 white corn tortillas
• 16 oz refried beans
• 1/3 cup enchilada sauce
• 1/3 cup thick and chunky salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup slice green onion (green parts only)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• Vegetable oil for frying

Here's what to do:

Brown ground beef in a skillet.
Drain excess fat.
Add water and taco seasoning. Mix well.
Allow to simmer for 10 minutes on low.
Remove from heat.
Transfer taco meat to food processor and run until it is a fine consistency.
Heat oil to 375 degrees on stovetop.
Fry each tortilla for 30-45 seconds on each side and place on paper
towels or clean paper bag to drain.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Spread 1-2 tablespoons of beans on 4 tortillas.
Top beans with the meat mixture.
Top each of these with the remaining tortillas.
Top these tortillas with a blend of enchilada sauce and salsa.
Next add both cheeses.
Then top with tomatoes and olives.
Add green onion slices.
Bake in oven for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted. CHARM 37
 A taste for Adventure
B eaumont is now home to a new Mediterranean
market where shoppers can find freshly baked
bread, Turkish coffees, exotic cheeses, spiced
meats and other enticing items they may be seeking
to serve a delicious dish fit for family and friends. It
will even offer a hot breakfast for shoppers on the run.
Al Basha Mediterranean Restaurant owner Murad
Hraiz and Taz Juman have partnered to open the new
market right next door to the existing eatery, which
has become a Beaumont staple since opening its doors
seven years ago.
Though previous establishments saw little success
at the location, 2578 I-10 Frontage Road near 11th
Street in Beaumont, Al Basha has not only stayed
afloat but has flourished, inspiring Hraiz and Juman
to open the market that they say will satisfy a specific
hunger in Southeast Texas.
“Taz and I have been friends for a while, and we
came up with the idea to open a Mediterranean market
because there is no Mediterranean market nearby,”
Hraiz explained. “People who come into the restaurant
love our food, and they want to be able to make it at
home. We will be selling every type of Mediterranean
product.
“We’ll have a meat market and a bakery. I’m going
to be baking fresh breads. We’re going to have a dairy
with all kinds of cheese – goat cheese, cow cheese
– and yogurts. We want to introduce people to our
Mediterranean products and flavors. We use all the
spices. We have several blends and different types of
spices. We will have fresh pita bread for sale. We will
be making it, baking it and it will go straight from the
oven to the people.”
“People in our area, in Southeast Texas, they love to
be introduced to new cultures and new things,” Juman
added. “Especially in Beaumont and Port Arthur, this
area is on the rise. We get new people from different
places coming in every day, and the people who are
here get introduced to new, different cultures all the
time. It brings the entire area up and makes it a more
fun place to live. You can experience so many different
things here, so many different cultures from Mexican
38 CHARM
culture to Spanish, from Texan to Mediterranean.
“Our niche market is so supportive of us. That’s
why we thought the Mediterranean market was such a
good idea, because on top of people eating our food,
a lot of times they ask, ‘How do you make that?’ Or,
‘What do you use to make that?’ Or, ‘What are your
ingredients?’ Now, we have the opportunity to walk
next door and say, ‘You want to make this? This is
how we do it.’ We can introduce them to things we
don’t even offer in the restaurant, and we will also be
selling our seasoned meats over there.”
“We’re going to show people how to do everything
Mediterranean-style,” said Hraiz.
Besides baking breads for the store, a newly
installed oven at the market will also be used to
prepare fresh breakfast and baklava, as well as other
delicious desserts.
“We will have fresh, hot coffee every day,”
promised Hraiz, who recommends a Turkish blend
available at the new market. “We’re also going to
have a nice patio set up outside. People can order from
the bakery and come eat outside.”
Shoppers can peruse shelves upon shelves of
products for sale at the 3,000 square-foot market, and
they are sure to find something delicious around every
corner. Not only is the food flavorful, says Hraiz, it is
also healthy.
“Mediterranean food is healthy food,” he
described. “It’s all fresh and not frozen. All the meat
is fresh. The vegetables are fresh. We don’t use any
canned produce. We do everything step-by-step from
scratch, like the hummus. We make it with chickpeas,
boil it, blend it. It’s fresh and healthy.”
Hraiz is excited about the new market he shared.
The next step, he says, is expansion. Hraiz and Juman
are already making plans to open a large international
market alongside another new restaurant in Port
Arthur.
Visit Al Basha Mediterranean Market next door to
Al Basha Mediterranean Restaurant in Beaumont and
explore!
STORY BY SHARON BROOKS
CHARM 39
 Poke for you
Poke has become more than just a flash in the food
pan. Pronounced poh-kay (like OK), it is believed
that poke was first prepared by native Polynesians,
centuries before Western travelers arrived on the
Hawaiian Islands. Initially, it was made with raw reef
fish, seasoned with sea salt and seaweed, and
combined with crushed candlenut. Salting of the fish
was for both flavor and more importantly, preserving
the fish.
Around 2012, poke became increasingly popular
in North America with restaurants serving the
traditional poke dish (raw tuna with salt, candlenuts
and seaweed) and modern versions.
The newest poke to roll up in Southeast Texas is
Kikko Ramen and Poke, which specialize in Japanese
ramen and poke salads. Located at 3050 Dowlen Rd.
(formerly Pei Wei), Kikko is open Sunday-Thursday,
11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to
10 p.m.
Before we dive into the main dishes, Kikko offers
nearly two dozen appetizers and we were instantly
drawn to the Crab Puffs, which is a deep-fried
crabmeat cheese puff, and Kimchi Fries. The puffs
were perfect, filled with cream cheese and crab meat
and not too crispy on the outside. The Kimchi Fries
were delicious. We’ve had them at other restaurants,
but Kikko’s seem to be a notch above the competitors.
What are they? Well, a bed of fresh French fries
served with kimchi covered in a special homemade
sauce, which was sweet yet had a little spicy kick to
it.
Our first food selection was to build our own poke
bowl that comes with a six-step process – size of the
bowl, the base, protein, mix-ins, sauce, toppings and
crunch. We went with sushi rice, salmon, shrimp,
edamame, carrots, with wonton crisps and creamy
white sauce. The taste was fresh and the portions are
large so you have enough for later. It’s very light and
perfect for lunch.
40 CHARM
Ramen for me
Kikko also offers a Lunch Bento Box, Monday-
Friday, for $10. Bento boxes include broccoli,
zucchini, carrots, squash, onions and a Japanese
special sauce with rice, miso soup or house salad.
Your protein options are Teriyaki chicken, salmon,
shrimp, chicken Katsu, pork katsu, curry chicken,
sauteed slice beef, tempura and eel.
We tried the Teriyaki Chicken, which was tender
and moist on a bed of lettuce. The medley of
zucchini, squash, carrots and broccoli paired perfectly
with the tangy Teriyaki sauce.
Now, let’s get to the ramen. For those not familiar,
ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish and Kikko’s
has a variety to choose from. Our choices were the
Korean Seafood Ramen and Beef Ramen.
The Korean Seafood Ramen includes a spicy
noodle with shrimp, scallops, fishcake, seasoned
egg, crab meat, spinach with green onion. If that’s
not mouth-watering enough, pork broth is then
poured into your bowl to add even more layers of
flavor. Kikko’s broths are made in-house with special
recipes and usually takes 24-72 hours to make.
The second ramen dish was the Beef Ramen,
which features a generous selection of slow cooked
beef brisket, seasoned egg, bamboo shoots, sweet
corn and a green onion Kikurage, which is a popular
condiment in Japanese dishes. Once you add the beef
broth, you will forget all your problems (Well, at
least for 20 minutes or so).
For those with a bigger appetite, Kikko has a
dozen or so dinner specials, fried rice and Yaki Udon,
which is a stir fry dish consisting of thick, smooth,
white udon noodles mixed with a soy-based sauce,
meat and vegetables.
Don’t forget to wash your food down with a
bubble tea – tea, milk ice and chewy tapioca pearls
mixed together.
Kikko offers inside dining, order by phone (409)
554-8015 or online at kikkoramenpoke.com.
STORY BY CHAD COOPER
CHARM 41
 Simply Succulent
Wanting to grow some green but don't have the thumb for it?

Even the worst gardeners would have a hard time trying Pat down the soil so they don’t get uprooted easily.
to keep succulents from thriving. These beautiful, all-season Add decorative pebbles,
survivors need little care and little sunlight but bloom with rocks, pinecones or whatever
gusto. Succulents are known as delicate and petite, yet inspires a smile to make your
resilient and hardy – able to withstand Texas’ temperamental terrarium look like your own
ice storms as well as the sweltering sun of July and August. personal little garden world.
They also look AMAZING on a windowsill. Water the plants – but not too
The good folks at NASA have offered a quick and easy much – and place in indirect light.
guide to assist in making the perfect succulent terrarium to
spruce up your living area, too. It’s a beautiful complement
for any indoor space you’d like to brighten up with some low-
maintenance greenery.
Start with an open glass container – a fishbowl, cookie
jar or shallow dish, for example – and collect your favorite
succulents. Better Homes and Gardens offers up Burro’s
Tail, Christmas Cactus, Hens-and-Chicks, Jade Plant, Aloe
Vera, Panda Plant, Ponytail Palm and Snake Plant as planter
favorites for ease and aesthetic.
In your container, start with a layer of rocks, about one
inch or so, at the bottom to help the soil drain and keep your
plants from getting water-logged. On top of that, add a half-
inch-thick layer of activated charcoal. Fill the container up to
half-full with potting soil.
Add your plants. When you remove them from their little
pots, carefully tease the roots apart and remove some of the
old soil so they will fit nicely in the terrarium. Arrange them to
42 look
CHARMnice and leave some space for them to breathe and grow.
The Ultimate Expression of
Freedom
STORY BY JOETTE REGER

A few days before the big freeze I received a

book and put it on a shelf. Coffee in hand, I looked
out into the backyard and things looked alright,
but we had no idea what was about to hit us. Days
later, freezing weather caused havoc in our lives.
As temperatures dropped and I became
“housebound,” I spotted the book, “The Well-
Gardened Mind: The Restorative Power of Nature”
by Sue Stuart Smith. We have all experienced the
serendipity of relevant information arriving just
when we need it.
Drawing on her experience creating and tending
to her family’s garden, Smith, a psychiatrist who
is married to a landscape architect, has inspired

CHARM 43
me to see the effects of working in and living in
your own landscape. She talks about failures and
successes in our home landscape.
Working outside in your own soil can become a
prescription for improving your mental and physical
health. She relates the story of her grandfather’s
lifesaving turn to nature as a salve for physical and
existential wounds from World War I.
A basic idea that flows through the book: If we
accept that Mother Nature is in charge, we will be
happier with the plants that are survivors and with
the plants that fail us. Now that the row of shrubs is
gone and my neighbor and I have lost our mutual
privacy, I can feel loss. But I can also enjoy the
thrill of replacing this area with something that I’ve
always wanted, like a grove of black mulberry trees.
Yes, the timing of this book was perfect.
By now you know which plants in your yard are
dead and need to be pulled out and replaced. That
row of hedges across the front of your house that
have been there for 20 years could now become a
sunny area for herbs. The shady space that is now
“available” in the back yard could be the future
home of a gorgeous Japanese maple.
Gardening is the ultimate expression of freedom.
As we rebuild our gardens and replace frozen
plants, we can remember that the garden is a constant
experiment. I continued to read and forgot just how
cold it was in the house, “You can study change and
get comfortable with it, and that opens the door to
feeling a lot more joy in your life.”
With a garden, whatever can go wrong will go
wrong. Yes, we’ve had hurricanes and freezes that
have changed our area’s topography. Think of trees
and plants lost as an opportunity for change and
change for the better. Consider using native plants
44 CHARM
this next go around.
When you are at the garden center be aware of
the tag information. Just because it is being sold
here doesn’t necessarily mean that it should be
grown here. If you do your research and have a
plan in mind you can find plants for our Zone 8 or
9 and refresh your outdoor spaces.
Maybe you lost a tree. With new areas of
sunshine, you now can search and find a place
for growing tomatoes or bright blooming flowers
like blue plumbago. Semi-sunny areas would look
gorgeous with hydrangeas or Lily of the Nile.
Smith talks about the neuroscience of being
outdoors. Bacteria in the soil, when activated
by water, emit an aroma that has a pleasing and
soothing effect on most people. She says that
with this comes a lowered heart rate and blood
pressure drop within minutes of exposure to natural
surroundings, like gardens and parks. Scents from
lavender, rosemary, citrus and roses actually allow
us to calm down from the inside out. Do you now
have a place for one of the peace-giving aromatic
sun lovers?
Your garden is an expression of your mind.
Garden centers are finding it difficult to meet
demand for new plants. This gives you a little time
to think about the possibilities. Think big. Possibly
think change.
A hardback copy of Stuart-Smith’s book will be
awarded to the winning email that I receive on the
topic: Can the garden save us? Please limit your
response to one typed page or approximately five
paragraphs by Aug. 1, 2021. Send to joreger@msn.
com.

CHARM 45
 Board Certified in
Cardiology
and
Interventional
Cardiology
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Kothapalli, MD

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Phone: (409) 296-2265 Toll Free: 866-526-EASE
810 Hwy. 124 • Winnie, Texas 77665
46 CHARM
 Cool Kids of Summer
Easy care cotton to beat the heat!
Temperatures have warmed up and the kids need new summer clothes. When choosing fabrics, you can’t
go wrong with 100% cotton. Soft, comfortable, breathable — it’s the perfect natural fabric for our sweltering
summers. Our young models had a ball playing and posing in these all-cotton selections courtesy of So Adorable
Too Children’s Boutique.

PHOTOS BY JESSIE GOODMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

CHARM 47
WHAT THEY ARE WEARING:
BLUE SHIRT BY PROPERLY TIDE
BROWN/WHITE STRIPES JUMPER BY EMMA JEAN
DRESS AND BLOOMERS SET BY TRUE

48 CHARM
CHARM 49
 WHAT THEY ARE WEARING:
RED GINGHAM DRESS BY SAGE AND LILLY
FLORAL PRINT SHIRT BY KNUCKLEHEADS
SHORTS BY SOUTHBOUND
ORANGE SHIRT BY PROPERLY TIDE
SHORTS BY ME AND HENRY
50 CHARM
CHARM 51
WHAT THEY ARE WEARING:
PLAID SHIRT BY HENRY AND ME

52 CHARM
CHARM 53
DOWNTOWN
CHARM BEAUMONT
54
 Events happening in Southeast Texas
YMBL SOUTH TEXAS STATE FAIR
May 20 - 30
Ford Park
CHRIS KNIGHT IN CONCERT
June 2
Courville's in Beaumont
FIRST THURSDAY ON CALDER
June 3
Calder Ave in Beaumont
BABY SHARK LIVE
June 3
Ford Park Arena
5TH ANNUAL CRAFT BEER FEST
June 4
Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown
THE ART OF FLOWERS
June 4
The Music Studio
CAJUN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
June 5
Carl A. Parker Multipurpose
Center in Port Arthur
BRIAN REGAN
June 10
Julie Rogers Theatre
ORANGE LIONS CLUB CARNIVAL
June 16 - 19
June 23 - 26
June 30 - July 3
Orange Lions Club City Park
JAZZ & WINE @ SPINDLETOP-GLADYS
CITY BOOMTOWN
June 18
Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown
FIRST THURSDAY ON CALDER
July 1
Calder Ave in Beaumont
CITY OF BEAUMONT FOURTH OF JULY
CELEBRATION
July 4
Event Centre in Beaumont
ORANGE CVB FOURTH OF JULY
CELEBRATION
July 4
Riverfront Boardwalk and Pavilion CARVIN JONES BAND
BACK TO THE '80S NIGHT
July 17
Book Nook Inn in Lumberton
LET'S JINGLE & FLAMINGLE
CHRISTMAS IN JULY MARKET
July 24
The Cottage Boutique
FIRST THURSDAY ON CALDER
August 5
Calder Ave in Beaumont
BACK TO SCHOOL ADULT PROM
August 7
Book Nook Inn in Lumberton
CARVIN JONES BAND
August 20
Jefferson Theatre in Beaumont
CHARLEY CROCKETT
Sept 30
Jefferson Theatre
For the most up to date events, visit
www.beaumonteventstx.com
CAJUN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
CHARM 55
 The roast
of the Children's Boutique

Gulf Coast

W W W . T E X J O Y. C O M

Taste the
THRILL
of the
GRILL The Best Children’s Boutique
409-223-1140 | 5955 PHELAN BLVD STE O, BEAUMONT, TX

R.N. & LICENSED ESTHETICIAN

SPECIALIZING IN

& ANTI-AGING

chevette.lewis@theglowskinspa.com
56 CHARM W W W.T H E G L O W S K I N S PA . C O M 430.558.1280
 Natural Products
Early in the coronavirus pandemic,
a story came out of the U.K about a
dog who was so happy with his family
working from home, that he sprained
his tail from excessive wagging.
Worldwide, there are dogs and cats
who are spending more time with their
humans than ever before. Dogs are
ecstatic about it. Cats, maybe not so
much. But one thing is for sure, we are
getting to know our animals better and
noticing new things about their health
and behaviors.
“Pet owners are noticing things
like allergies,” said Debbie Vincent,
owner of Puppy Love in Beaumont.
for Healthier Pets
“Customers tell me that their dog Healthy Coats
doesn’t have fleas, but it itches all the Only use shampoo especially made
time. They think it’s something outside for dogs. Never use human shampoo
in the environment, but I think it’s on your pet. Some additives may be
something on the inside.” harmful to their skin. There are plenty
“Some dogs react to of natural products on the market. If
corn, soy or wheat with you want to make your own
ear, skin and stomach at home, try this simple
problems. A sure sign of an recipe:
allergic reaction is to notice
if your dog licks it’s paws all
the time. That’s a sign of
inflammation in the body,”
says Vincent. “The best
thing to do is switch to a
grain free diet.”

DIY Dog Shampoo

• 1 cup natural liquid dish soap such DIY Cat Shampoo
as Method or Meyer’s Bathing a cat is rarely necessary, but if there is a time when
• 1 cup organic apple cider vinegar your cat needs some help with hygiene, this is an easy fix:
• 1 cup warm water In a blender, mix equal parts baking soda with oats,
• 2 oz. glycerin bran or corn meal. Blend to a fine consistency. Sprinkle
• Large mason jar over the cat fur. It will deodorize and absorb excess oils.
Coconut oil is a safe moisturizer for cats. With anti-fungal,
Pour all ingredients into jar and shake anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is ex-
to combine. Use as you would any other cellent for matted fur and removing burrs. A small amount
shampoo. rubbed over the fur will leave it shiny and lustrous.

CHARM 57
58 CHARM
 Don’t forget your four-legged friends when planning for the
D O G D AY S O F S U M M E R !
ROCK A NEW HAIRDO AU NATURALE
That lustrous mane that kept them What’s causing your pet’s
warm in the winter will find its way to uncontrollable scratching doesn’t
carpets and clothes in the summer have to be pests, it could be the same
if you don’t prepare for the summer thing that causes you to sneeze and
shed. American Kennel Club (AKC) itch, as well. Corn, soy and wheat can
recommends regular brushing have a harsh effect on dogs, and can
and the use of pore- and follicle- trigger allergies. Puppy Love owner
dilating shampoos and baths as the Debbie Vincent recommends a grain-
most effective way to keep your free diet to ward off the itches. Shop
home hair-free. Get a new summer for healthy alternatives at Puppy
’do and pamper your pet with a Love, 6460 Phelan Blvd. in Beaumont,
complete spa day at For Dogs Sake or call (409) 892-9663.
Grooming Salon in Vidor starting at
just $38 depending on breed and
temperament. Call (409) 679-8861 or
email fordogssake1@gmail.com for
an appointment.

FIND A KEEPER
If you’re still looking for a loyal
sidekick, Beaumont Animal Care
has the perfect companion waiting
for you. The shelter is a temporary
home for dogs and cats of varying
breeds, sizes, colors and ages that
are looking for their forever home.
On occasion, they even have rabbits,
birds, ferrets and other small pets
for adoption. The adoption fee for
all animals is $70 and each go home
vaccinated, microchipped and
spayed or neutered. Call (409) 838-
3304 or visit BAC at 1884 Pine St. in
Beaumont.

CHARM 59
 Get in on the
H OO P-LA

60 CHARM
 l hoop gro
hu a ws
e

up
Th
For more than 50 years, hula hoops have kept
hips swooshing and fat burning generation after
generation. They’re fun, easy to use, cheap and a
total workout that doesn’t leave you with a pulled
hamstring.
According to the Mayo Clinic, upwards of 200
calories can be vaporized in just a single 30-minute
hooping session. If you can’t do 30 minutes at one
time, break it up into small sessions. Start slowly and
build up over time.
“One way to get a good workout without watching the
clock is to put on music,” says Angela Richter, certified
hoop teacher, formerly of Port Arthur. “If you listen to 5
or 6 songs, you have easily hooped for 20 minutes. Your
heart rate will be up by then.”
Increased cardiovascular strength also leads
to lower blood pressure, less stress and reduced
anxiety. As your heartbeat goes up, the body releases
endorphins which make you happy, often called the
Runner’s High.
Richter says the best way to choose a hoop is to find
one that will come to your belly button when you stand it
up straight.
“The smaller the hoop, the faster it will go – which means it
will take more energy to keep it going. Larger hoops move
more slowly. It’s your choice. You may want to experiment with
different ones. Even if you decide to use a regular hoop, you will
reap the benefits.”

CHARM 61
 #GOWITHJO
Jo
FIND YOUR INNER GREEK AT ELSA’S
BIENVENU REALTOR®

Dana Johnson Team

409-333-1191 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

2604 DOWLEN RD, BEAUMONT, TX
Mobile: 409•504•4122
MON-SAT 11AM -9PM | SUN 11AM -8PM gowithjo4realestate@gmail.com
8245 Gladys Ave.
GET IT DELIVERED! NOW AVAILABLE ON FAVOR! Beaumont, TX 77706

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 ak e a
_ h ik e
Go t
Southeast Texas has plenty of places to explore.
Trails in the Big Thicket are well marked for hikers. Cattail
Marsh has a 5-mile loop for walking, jogging or biking.
Sea Rim State Park has areas for kayaking, crabbing
and enjoying the beach. Whatever your level of activity,
from a slow stroll to a fast hike, there are places nearby
to come together for fellowship and fresh air.
Just being with girlfriends while sharing stories and
laughter can be energizing all by itself, but add in the
benefits of a simple hike and you are creating memories.
Walking in the woods, or wherever you decide to go,
is excellent exercise. Since you will be busy visiting and
sharing what you know about plants and wildlife, you
won’t even notice you are getting a good workout and
soaking up Vitamin D.
Hiking is educational, helps with stress reduction
and can be just plain fun. So grab your gal pals, some
good walking shoes, a picnic lunch and hit the trail!
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 rediscovering
hand embroidery
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 C reating contemporary art with needle and thread requires
concentration and creativity, but the beauty to be had is the time.
Getting started is easy. All you need is a pack of embroidery
needles, a hoop and some fabric. Hoops come in several sizes and prices
will vary. Start with a simple plastic or wooden hoop. This can be used over
and over, or it can serve as the frame to your finished work.
Cotton in a solid color is a good choice if you are a beginner. It is a stable
fabric that holds its shape and is easy to stitch. Pre-packaged fabric can be
purchased in lengths of a yard or less.
A transfer pencil and wash-out transfer paper can come in handy if you
want to trace a pattern, or you can also draw the pattern directly onto the
fabric.
You may want to do a sampler of practice stitches. There are hundreds of
techniques, but all you need to learn are a few basic stitches such as satin
stitch, backstitch, straight stitch, stem stitch and feather stitch – all available
on YouTube tutorials or through a good how-to book. For embellishment,
learn the fun French knot.
As you get comfortable with the process, you will begin to imagine all
kinds of ways to “fancy-up” things in your home. Doesn’t that pillow need
some extra color? How about a vine added to the collar of your favorite
blouse? You can even transfer a photograph onto fabric, embroider it and
hang it in your photo gallery.
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 CONVENTIONAL & ORGANIC RICE
AND RICE BY-PRODUCTS
795 SOUTH MAJOR DRIVE • BEAUMONT, TEXAS 77707
(409) 866-2297 • WWW.DOGUETS.COM

ARMOR SHRED
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When it comes to
meats, eats & treats, What do we do?
we can’t be beat! • Personal Care & Companionship
• Assist with hospital recovery & mobility
Lunch Menu • Deli-Specialties • Wine & Beer • Light Housekeeping
Prepared Entreés • Prepared Sides
Party Dips • Desserts • Bakery Items
• Southeast Texas most trusted source of
Soups & Salads Custom Cooking Non-Medical home care for Seniors
Full Service Meat Market • Serving Southeast Texas since 1998 &
Providing services 24/7
Jack’s Pak-It is an established
neighborhood meat market, deli and
ONSITE SERVICE CONTAINERS WHAT TO SHRED FREE QUOTE grocery store owned and operated
by the Blanda family in Beaumont, Texas.
Business or Residential To you it’s about making the right
choice... To us, it’s personal
409-727-SHRED 4505 Calder Ave. Beaumont, TX 77706 2750 IH 10 East, Suite 100 in Beaumont
7 4 7 3 M-F: 7am - 7pm SAT: 8am - 6pm For any questions call 409-892-7494

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DO YOUR SHARE
for CLEANER AIR

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