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Welcome to Mikel Marketing's newsletter - issue 29

Each month we are coming to you with up-to-date news, reports, links, and informative announcements from a wide range of sources, including Houston or national events by Mikel Marketing or by others; our recommendations of outstanding seminars, workshops and readings focus on improving skills, furthering professional and personal growth & development.

Scroll down or click here to read Mikel Marketing's September 2003 newsletter online.

mikel marketing newsletter- september 2003

who are we? Headed by Mimi Dinh, Mikel Marketing is a 'company to watch' - a full service public relations and events production company with services such as promotion, event coordination, fashion show production, fund raising, marketing, and public relations. To learn more about us, check out our website at http://www.mikelmarketing.com/

houston networking news keeps business in touch Networking events in Houston tend to always be happy hour gatherings. But recently on August 21, hundreds of professionals convened for the launch of a new "social network", HoustonNetworkingNews.com (HNN). This first-of-its-kind online calendar provides you with the latest and greatest information on pertinent networking and business development events for the Greater Houston area. HNN has identified the use of creating and nurturing an extended network of contacts, by hosting an online directory. HNN lists events from over 200 organizations including Chambers of Commerce, BNI groups, sales networking groups and business professional groups. The idea was born when a group of executives got together to create a mechanism to connect professionals and entrepreneurs in a different way than the standard networking event, by giving the individual a plethora of networking possibilities. "HNN brings together entrepreneurial individuals and professionals who recognize the benefits of making time to leave the office to meet new, like-minded people," says president R.D. Yoder. "The group's main focus is on developing relationships. The goal is that members will come back every month, get to know other executives and eventually become comfortable sharing business information with each other," says Yoder. With event coordination overseen by Mikel Marketing, HNN will meet once a month on every third Tuesday at various locations throughout Houston. Annual membership costs $48; however, HNN offers 1, 3, and 6-month memberships as well. Membership will allow one to attend these networking events free of charge. Non-members are charged $6.95 pre-paid and $10 at the door that includes a one month membership to HNN, a cocktail, hors d'oeuvres, plenty of networking under a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The next event will take place on Tuesday, September 16th from 5 to 7:30 PM at Vietopia Restaurant, upstairs banquet room - 5176 Buffalo Speedway @ Westpark. To receive an e-vite for this event, click here, or visit HNN's website at houstonnetworkingnews.com, send an email to katherine@mikelmarketing.com, or call 281-412-9643 X 6. Houston networking news selects mikel marketing as marketing and event coordinator Houston Networking News is pleased to announce that Mikel Marketing will be the event coordinator and marketing firm for Houston Networking News's monthly networking events! Mikel Marketing brings vast experience of event coordinator and marketing to make HNN an upper echelon organization. So come out to their next networking event at on September 16th from 5 to 7:30 PM at Vietopia restaurant and meet other business professionals while enjoying some of Houston's finest Vietnamese cuisine. ****THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR HNN SUBSCRIBERS- OTHERS PAY $10 AT THE DOOR**** To become a subscriber, pay just $6.95 (prepaid) and you receive a subscription to houstonnetworkingnews.com, their weekly email newsletter and FREE admission to their event! They will also be giving out door prizes as well. Don't miss out. RSVP today to ensure your place at Houston's new hot event! Here is your opportunity to be a sponsor at the next Houston Networking News event(s). Three levels of sponsorship packages are available: Individual Sponsor, Corporate Sponsor, and Underwriter. So act now and get your company "on the map" with HoustonNetworkingNews.com. Click here to find out more about sponsorship opportunities, or send an email to mimi@mikelmarketing.com or call 281/ 412.9643 X 1. performance saab to celebrate grand opening in sugarland with unveiling of 2004convertible A $20 Donation for Every Test Drive in October Will Benefit CanCare Houston's first Saab-only dealership, Performance Saab, is set to celebrate the opening of their gorgeous new dealership with an official grand opening that will also highlight the latest addition to the Swedish-made Saab family of automobiles, the sporty, new 2004 Convertible. Much like the smooth, sleek performance of its popular line, Performance Saab will celebrate their grand opening with style and sophistication. Performance Saab will hold a first-class event that will capture the essence of what a Saab lifestyle stands for and celebrate Houstonian's passion for high-performance cars and the finer things in life. Convertible In October, Houstonians will not only be able to feast their eyes on the sleek, design of the new Performance Saab showroom, but also catch a glimpse of the sporty, new 2004 Convertible that Forbes Magazine rated as "one of the top 10 convertibles" for 2004. The new convertible was recognized as being the best among the trendiest convertibles in the industry for its stylish design, better handling and roomier interior. The Facility The over 20,000 square feet state-of-the-art property is the second largest Saab dealership in the country and the first dealership in Houston dedicated only to the Swedish-made Saab family. It houses a showroom that was modernly designed by Everton, Oglesby, Askew Architects to represent a Scandinavian look with Saab-brand only furniture and artwork from famed Swedish artists. The facility includes over $4 million in inventory, as well as, a separate, pre-owned building housing all Saab makes and models. Customers are also given a treat with a unique, indoor delivery service where new car owners can admire their latest purchase indoor with special lighting. The new dealership also offers Houston's only Saab service center with numerous service bays and a huge inventory of Saab factory parts. A second Performance Saab dealership in Humble/Kingwood is underway and set to open in late December. In celebrating the grand opening, Performance Saab will also punctuate their opening with an offering to a great charity, CanCare, a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors and their families. During the month of October, Performance Saab will donate $20 for every test drive to CanCare. Performance Saab will also raffle off a weekend rental in the new ; Convertible. The showroom is located at 10505 Southwest Freeway. Call 713/ 981.4400 for a test drive now!

Houston technology center Houston Technology is pleased to announce the fourth annual Houston Technology Forum, featuring HP Chairman and CEO Carly Fiorina, to be held September 25 at the Westin Oaks Hotel. Both $10,000 and $5,000 sponsorship packages are available for Houston Technology Forum. To learn more about sponsor benefits call Veronica Walker at Greater Houston Partnership at 713-844-3606. Tables of 10 are available for $1,000. Individual tickets are available for $125 or $75 each. Special thanks to their media sponsor the Houston Chronicle. Register today to reserve your seat for this exciting event. This Program is presented by Houston Technology Center and Greater Houston Partnership Date: Thursday, September 25 Time: 12PM - 1:30Pm Where: Westin Oaks Hotel, 5011 Westheimer How: Register online at www.houston.org/carly women's fund for health education and research The Women's Fund will hold their 21st Annual Luncheon on October 30, at 11:30 AM. The event will take place at The Westin Galleria and honors Trini Mendenhall, co-founder of Fiesta Mart, Inc. Trini's generosity has touched the lives of many minorities and children across the city of Houston. The Women's Fund will award over $100,000 in grants for research into cardiovascular disease as it specifically affects women. The speaker for the event is heart disease survivor and women's health advocate Jackie Kallen. Ms. Kallen is also the world's most successful female boxing manager and the inspiration for the upcoming film Against the Ropes, starring Meg Ryan. Harriet Hart and Meredith Barineau are co-chairs of the event. Please contact The Women's Fund at 713/623.6543 for reservation and ticket information or visit http://www.thewomensfund.org/ dominic walsh dance theater Dominic Walsh Dance Theater opens its second season with a performance of Walsh's "The Miller's Daughter" at the Cullen Theater on Thursday, November 6. This marks the debut of Walsh's first narrative work, a new ballet based on composer Franz Schubert's songs for Wilhelm Muller's poems. "The Miller's Daughter" will be performed at 8 PM at the Wortham Theater Center's Cullen Theater on a program with Ayman Aaron Harper's "Bed Fears, Dream Piles." Walsh, founder of DWDT and principal dancer with Houston Ballet, began working on "The Miller's Daughter," more than a year ago, following discussions with Vinhlac N. Tran, a Houston Ballet pianist with a particular interest in Schubert. After studying Schubert's musical compositions as well as his biographies, Walsh was ready to add a new layer - one of movement - to the already dark and mysterious. Ticket reservations are available by calling 713/ 652.DWDT or by visiting http://www.dwdt.org/ fgi upcoming events benefit style event Fashion Group International Benefit Style event - Tuesday, September 9th from 6 to 8 PM. Meet Parisian Eyewear Designer for cocktails at Gayla Bentley's Studio - 11221 Richmond Ave., Ste 107C. This event is especially for FGI members, Sneak Preview of the fabulous return engagement of Dr. Annette Hoffman & Caroline Abrams - 2003 European Eyewear Collection which will be September 10th to 13th. This is a fantastic opportunity for FGI. The press were lined up to get fitted the last time Gayla brought these folks to town. Be sure to come to the sneak preview on the 9th but make your appointment now for your customized selection of a frame to suit your face and personality! For more info, call 281/ 496.2922. fashion forum awards Save the date - Thursday, September 25th - 7 to 9 PM - FGI Fashion Forum Awards and cocktail reception. Honorary Chair: Roz Pactor - VP Fashion Director, Foley's stores. Where: Foley's Galleria, Designer Sportswear Dept. Honoree: Janet Gurwitch - Founder and CEO of Laura Mercier Cosmetics, former Exec. VP at Neiman Marcus, and former Senior VP and GMM for Foley's. Fabulous Raffle and other surprises Tickets: $40 / Students: $20 RSVP: 713/ 405.6975 Proceeds to benefit the Scholarship Foundation and FGI Houston. If you are unable to attend, you may make a tax deductible donation to the Fashion Group Foundation of Houston, Inc., a 501 c 3 foundation. c/o Jane Carlton Hall - 11391 Meadowglen Lane, Ste. C, Houston, TX 77082. cy-fair photo exhibit President of Cy-Fair College cordially invites you to join the faculty, staff and students to the opening of the photography collection and lecture by José-Pablo Fernández at the Mexican Institute of Greater Houston - Wednesday, September 17, at 6:30 PM Cy-Fair College Center for the Arts- 9191 Barker Cypress Road * Cypress, Texas. cancer stars luncheon Fashion and fun will come together this fall to benefit cancer research at Baylor College of Medicine. The Cancer Stars Luncheon & Fashion Show, the event is scheduled for November 7 at the Houstonian Hotel. The event will benefit the Prostate Cancer Research Initiative and the Texas Children's Cancer Center. The holiday-themed show with fashions from A.TAGHI and Harriet Hart will honor two special local individuals, Lester Smith and Zo Ann Dreyer, M.D. for their contributions to cancer research, treatment and awareness. Visit their website at http://www.cancerstars.org/, a creation and gift of Ideation One, Inc., for ticket information or all Christinia Sacco at 713/ 798.8698. fasthouston "LIVE FIRST. WORK SECOND." Rebecca Ryan of Next Generation Consulting (http://www.nextgenerationconsulting.com/) explains why some places have become magnets for young talent...and what you should look for in a strong community that can provide you a more satisfying selection of jobs. "Cool Communities" have a higher quality of life, which attracts more talent. A growing pool of talented workers attracts more vital, growing companies, which creates a thriving cycle of more jobs and opportunities. Find out what YOU should look for in the community where you work. What are the strengths of Houston that attract talent and growing companies? Are you enjoying all the advantages of a good place to work? Find out... Thursday, September 11 - 6PM to 9 PM Baba Yega Restaurant - Near downtown: 2607 Grant St. Houston, TX 77006. Visit their website http://www.babayega.com/ for directions or 713/ 522.0042 $15 prepaid, $20 at the door. Complimentary hearty appetizer buffet, drinks for purchase. Learn more, register, and prepay by credit card by clicking here. Houston professional women "Lunch & Learn" seminar-Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling'. Do you find it tough to get ahead? Are you trying to make it in a man's world? When: September 16 Where: Sheraton Brookhollow 3000 North Loop West (Loop 610/290) Time: 11:30 AM- 1PM Cost: $25.00 Join the Federation of Houston Professional Women in welcoming Becky Robbins as seminar speaker. Ms. Robbins is a business coach and a senior consultant with a Houston based consulting firm. Reservation form can be downloaded at http://www.fhpw.org/click on side bar Events/ Reservations. Reservation deadline is September 9 If you have any questions, please contact Judy Carlini at 2jcarlini@earthlink.net or Sheri Parrack @ sheriparrack@tmtc2000.com gerald d. hines college of architecture lecture HOME GROWN: An exploration, exposition, and celebration of the talents within the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture. 2:30PM Tuesday September 9, Rob Civitello "Wo/anderings" 2:30PM Tuesday September 16,Joe Colaco "Design and Construction of Houston's Tallest Building: J. P. Morgan Chase Tower" 2:30PM Tuesday September 23, Robert Burrow "Some Personal Myths" 2:30PM Tuesday September 30,Ronnie Self "What I'm Up To" 2:30PM Tuesday October 7, Joe Mashburn "Building in the Landscape" 2:30PM Tuesday October 14, Dietmar Froehlich "Drama of Space" Exhibits August 25 - September 19- 5th year Student Work (Gallery) September 1 - September 12 -Saintes Program Student Work (Archives) September 15 - October 3 Robert Lindsey Exhibit (Archives) October 11 - October 25 Blueprint Ball Silent Auction (Gallery) November 3 - November 28 Faculty Show (Gallery) All talks will be held in the Architecture Theater, Room 150, and begin at 2:30PM For information 713/743.2400 or http://www.arch.uh.edu/news Other Events: October 9 at 6PM Architecture Theater Room 150 Graciela Hasper, Argentine Artist "Site Specific Work" October 18 -The Blueprint Ball - The Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture Gala. Honoree: Michael Rotondi Honorary. Chair: Carolyn Farb For information contact 713/ 743.2368 or raffle@uhaaa.org several dancers core The Field & The Houston Community College Central Dance Department to Offer Fieldwork Houston - July 1. They will present the Fall 2003 session of Fieldwork, which consists of ten weekly sessions of facilitated performing and viewing of works-in- progress with artist feedback. The workshop series will be held weekly from 7-9PM, in Studio A at 3517 Austin, on the Houston Community College Central campus, beginning Wednesday, September 24. Houston dancer, instructor and choreographer Sara Draper will facilitate this Fieldwork session. The cost is $50 per ten-week session. For further information and to apply, please contact Several Dancers Core at 713/ 862.5530 or sdcinfo@mindspring.com. Each ten-week session culminates in a performance of the work developed by each artist. The Field Showcase for this session will take place on November 23 also at HCC Central. cotton exchange bar Cotton Exchange Bar, downtown Houston's newest and most exciting "speakeasy" is pleased to announce they are now offering great drink specials from Tuesday thru Friday evening, beginning at 5PM until 9PM as well as beginning Thursday, August 14 at 10PM they will be offering music and The Bella Dona Belly Dancers. The music will be a combination of eclectic and traditional music. Cotton Exchange Bar is open from Tuesday through Saturday and offers a limited menu of appetizers as well as a completely stocked bar featuring specialty drinks such as: Cotton Gin Fizz, Mint Julip Martini, High Cotton, Red Scarlet and Cider House Rules among many, many others. For more information regarding the longest and happiest happy hour, please contact Ralph Barrientos at 713.236.0499 or visit http://www.cottonexchangebar.com/.

orange show foundation events In honor of Jeff McKissack's book How to Live 100 Years and Still be Spry, The Orange Show is offering a health fair so you can learn all kinds of ways to stay healthy. Jeff built The Orange Show to demonstrate his belief that good nutrition, exercise and having a hobby will prolong life. We will offer fresh fruit, fresh juices, yoga demonstrations, nutrition information, massage therapists, a book shop, kung fu demonstrations, Brazilian martial arts - Capoeira, break-dancing, plus a host of other health minded folks to demonstrate the many ways to be healthy. Look for free samples and go back to class with 50's Health movies. Music from the Free Radicals, of course!Fun for the whole family and it's FREE! The Orange Show 2401 Munger Street from 5 - 10 PM piñata making workshop Velia Treviño has been making piñatas for many years at her shop on Studewood. Just in time for Fiestas Patrias, learn how to make piñatas using traditional techniques and materials. Custom make one for your own special occasion or just because it feels so good to whack down all of those hidden treasures! Great workshop for kids! Saturday, September 13, 9 AM- 12 PM Sunday, September 14 - Eyeopener Tour: Collectors in the Burbs The Orange Show Eyeopener Tours explore Houston's rich cultural diversity and look at our wonderful city through a different eye! Tickets include expert guides, tour aboard climate controlled bus, beverages, snacks and an eye-popping look at Houston! Saturday, September 27 - Sideshow Carnival Live Music event with Attic Ted from San Marcos, Houston's own Freedom Sold and VHX. Live music event with Attic Ted from San Marcos, Houston's own Freedom Sold and VHX. Get into it! Dark electronic country, indie hip-hop, innovative psychedelic grooves, cotton candy, hay and The Orange Show, (of course!) create the carnival atmosphere! $5 All ages. 7 - 11PM Wednesday, October 1 Orange Show Anniversary Party Celebrate 21 years of Orange Show fun! Musical guests Jimmy James and the Enablers countrify the night with their Americana groove. They will have a FREE art workshop to make gifts for their 2003 Orange Show Gala donors. 7 - 11PM Saturday, October 4 - Fun Art Workshop Glitter and glue The Orange Show way! They put out the supplies; YOU bring your creative juices (& the kids!) 12 - 4PM Thursday, October 16 - Dixie Cup Welcome to Houston Party The Dixie Cup celebrates award winning home brewers and brews! Back again at The Orange Show for the second (or maybe third- pardon me!) time, The Dixie Cup serves up Porters, Ales, Stouts, Lagers and food. This is the 20th annual Dixie Cup, the nation's oldest homebrewing competition and is noted for its great mix of irreverent fun as well as its seriousness about beer. The Orange Show and St. Arnold Brewery pitch in to help host the welcome to Houston party for this years' competition. Musical guests and more make for frothy fun at The Orange Show. FREE The Orange Show Gala 6 - 10:00 pm - Saturday, November 8 "Tutti Fruitti". Houston's "funnest" fundraiser and "best art party" (says PaperCity). Support The Orange Show Foundation and have a terrific time too. Entertainment provided by the inimitable Little Richard! Dinner catered by A Fare Extraordinaire. Exceptional Silent Auction - the likes you have NEVER seen. A real cornucopia of a party! Call The Orange Show for donor information, 713/ 926.6368. The Houston Polo Club - 8552 Memorial Drive 7:30 - Midnight Sunday, November 9 Eyeopener Tour Eyeopener Tours. The Orange Show Eyeopener Tours explore Houston's rich cultural diversity and look at our wonderful city through a different eye! Tickets include expert guides, tour aboard climate-controlled bus, beverages, snacks and an eye-popping look at Houston! Extreme Homes II You know those really people you meet who are in the kind of business that requires great taste? Like owning one of the chicest boutiques in Houston, or an up-and-coming gallery? Ever wonder how they create the environment they live in, considering what they've done with how and where they earn a living? We have put together a tour that focuses on the homes of those who earn their living with their visual sense. Expect to see homes of interior designers, artists, and other creative types. Certainly expect the unexpected! $50 / $35 Orange Show Members. Bus departs from The Orange Show @ 12:30 PM Make reservations EARLY! 713/ 926.6368 Saturday, November 22 - Movie & (Music Night)! No longer just a summer time tradition here at The Orange Show. Join is for another monumental outdoor Movie (& Music) Night! A true Orange Show debut- World famous Invisible Scratch Piklz's first feature length animated film "Wave Twisters" plus turntabalist performances by Kracker Nutz, The Truth, Lights out on Sound, Phonographers and more! $5. 7 - 11 PM The Orange Show Closing Party Saturday, December 13 Come celebrate as we celebrate another fantastic year of fun at The Orange Show. We are lighting up The Orange Show so come by and enjoy a warm wassail and other family fun surprises. We'll have snow, twinkly lights and musical guests JW Americana, at 8:30 PM, celebrating their latest album release. What a winter wonderland! FREE! 5 - 11 PM outback pub party Help celebrate Teachers & all ISD Employee's Appreciation Party. With your reservation for this FREE event your group will receive FREE cover privileges between 5-8PM on Friday, September 12. This FREE package also includes FREE appetizers for your group. Say you are with HISD when you arrive and you will receive one drink ticket per guest (redeemable for a well cocktail or domestic draft beer.) Bring as many guests as you would like to and you may distribute copies of this invitation to others. Please RSVP with a headcount for your group by calling Kimberleigh 713/ 780.2392 Monday-Friday during office hours or email her at madchatter@hotmail.com. The OUTBACK PUB is located at 3100 Fountain View, near Richmond Avenue. cancerstars' media party Cancerstars.org Texas Children's Cancer Center and Baylor will host a media party on Wed., Sept. 17 6:30-8:30PM at Bella Rinova Spa and Salon at Uptown Park. Everyone who attends will receive a gift pack as well as a gift certificate for a free massage or a spa pedicure. They will also have food and drinks!!!!! For more info call 713/ 572.0022. dha events Downtown Houston Association & Theater District Association present the 2003 Mayoral Forum & Luncheon - Tuesday, September 9 On stage at Jones Hall 615 Louisiana 11:30AM - 12PM, Registration 12PM. - 1:15PM., Luncheon & Forum Chair, Alice Aanstoos ,Guest Moderator, Richard Murray Featuring: Michael Berry, Orlando Sanchez, Sylvester Turner, and Bill White. Individual tickets for DHA & TDA members are $60, Nonmembers $80. Tables are also available for $600 and $800. For reservations or more information, please call the DHA Office at 713/ 658.8938. emerging leaders' annual q&a It's nomination time! Please join the current EL Steering Committee, EL Chair Matt Harris, and DHA Board President Susan Elmore, to find out all you need to know regarding this outstanding group of young professionals. Learn how to nominate yourself and others for the Community Outreach, Membership, Programs, Special Events, and Steering Committees. GET INVOLVED. BE A PART OF THE CHANGE IN DOWNTOWN HOUSTON. Come early, stay late! Join them immediately following in Quattro. Tuesday, September 17 6:PM- 7PM Four Seasons Hotel - Houston 1300 Lamar Street. Houston museum of science FEATURE EXHIBITIONS Pearls Opens September 27- January 18 Magical, mysterious and radiant, pearls are the only gems born of a living organism. See the most spectacular collection of nature's perfect gem in a gorgeous exhibition that combines nature, science, history and glamour. The exhibit includes a necklace that dates back to 200 B.C.; Marilyn Monroe's cultured pearl necklace, a honeymoon gift from Joe DiMaggio; pearls belonging to royalty, pearls with religious ties and more. With more than 600 objects and nearly half a million pearls, this is the largest, most comprehensive exhibition of pearls ever put together. Pearls was organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York, with participation by The Field Museum, Chicago. EXHIBIT Molas of the Kuna Panama September 27 - January 4 The Kuna people of Panama traditionally adorned themselves with body paint, feathers and beads. With the introduction of western textiles, the Kuna women adapted their painted designs into designs on cloth. Today, the art and craft of mola-making continues as a vibrant, evolving art form that is a window into the Kuna culture. This exhibition will feature selections from the Museum's extensive collection of molas. IMAX FILM Jane Goodall's Wild Chimpanzees Opens September 2003 Journey into the hearts, minds and world of wild chimpanzees with the world's most famous field researcher, Dr. Jane Goodall. The film chronicles Dr. Goodall's more than 40 years of legendary work among the chimps at Gombe Park on Lake Tanganyka in Africa. Follow Dr. Goodall and a new generation of young researchers into the daily lives of the now famous Gombe chimp families; Fifi and sons Freud and the turbulent alpha male Frodo, along with Gremlin, Gaia and the endearing Galahad. Hours 9 AM-6PM Mondays-Saturdays, 11PM - 6PM Sundays. General admission to permanent exhibit halls: $6 for adults, $3.50 children (3-11) and seniors (62+), free for members. Wortham IMAX Theatre: $7 adults, $4.50 children and seniors, $4 for members. Cockrell Butterfly Center and Burke Baker Planetarium: $5 adults, $3.50 children and seniors, $3 for members. One Hermann Circle Drive in Hermann Park,713.639.IMAX. http://www.hmns.org/. koelsch gallery Exhibit: Cisco Tucker Kolkmeier. From September 4 through October 4, 2003. Koelsch Gallery - 3202 Mercer Street. Tel 713/ 626.0175 or franny@koelschgallery.com quote of the month "The higher up you go in an organization, the more you need to let other people be winners and not make it about winning yourself." Marshall Goldsmith - Taken from Fast Company magazine, August 2003.

bulletin board The Bulletin Board section is for you (our newsletter subscribers) to post professional announcements, promotions, sales, or press releases. If you would like to take advantage of this free service, e-mail us the text (as informative as possible) to info@mikelmarketing.com by the 25th of the month in order to be listed in the following month's newsletter. Images must be e-mailed in a JPEG file (no larger than 100 dpi please). We currently have over 4,000 subscribers. ligne roset celebrates anniversaries of two contemporary classics - "TOGO SEATING" and "MALY BED" Ligne Roset is delighted to announce two significant autumn design anniversaries. TOGO seating, the streamlined but cushy channeled lounge seating designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973, is celebrating its 30th birthday as a best-seller, a thirty-something leader among the company's line of modern lifestyle pieces. Peter Maly's namesake platform bed, which reaches its 20th birthday after Labor Day, joins the ranks of Roset's new old guard as a leader of the twenty-something generation of elegant minimal solutions to the demands of contemporary living. Ligne Roset is proud to announce that these two designs join the rare ranks of pieces that not only last, but that get better as they get older. Since introducing TOGO in 1973, Ligne Roset has sold over 800,000 of Michel Ducaroy's lounge pieces. The well-crafted seating emphasizes the advantages of a quasi-quilted one-piece construction, a style much explored by innovators in the 1970s. The design continues to provide today's sitter with an unmatched degree of comfort both physical and visual. Togo looks best in bright red, and indeed its best-selling fabric and colors are Alcantara Goya Red and Alcantara Pompeian (Bordeaux). The Maly bed is an architect's dream: a sleek platform with head/corner support and attached night tables. Since its 1983 premiere, it has been an answer to the dreams of 60,000 sleepers. When this bed, Maly's first design for Ligne Roset, went into series production, neither Ligne Roset nor Maly realized that they had succeeded in creating an entirely new type of bed with a timeless form and peerless utility. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Ligne Roset has created a special edition that recalls the original upholstery design, which featured visible edge seams. To commemorate these two anniversaries, Ligne Roset Houston will offer 30% discount for the TOGO group when upholstered in alcantara (ultra suede), and a 15% discount on the upholstered Maly bed throughout the month of October 2003. In addition, Ligne Roset will hold an upscale, private event in early October 2003. Ligne Roset will host this ultra-chic affair in their spacious showroom with hip, modern furniture designs and statuesque models. To add to the aesthetic surroundings, stylish bites, hip drinks and progressive music will provide the finishing touches for this extraordinary evening. Ligne Roset is located at 5600 Kirby Drive. For more information please call 713/ 629.7722 or visit http://www.ligne-roset-texas.com/. vietopia restaurant offers banquet facilities   Local favorite, Vietopia Restaurant, is throwing open its doors to private dinner parties and banquets. The restaurant, which was voted "Best Vietnamese Restaurant," by Houston Press and citysearch.com, as well as "Best New Restaurant" My Table magazine not only packs in guests both day and night, but also caters events all over the Houston area. Owner Mrs. Ky is taking it one step further and expanding their services to include in-house banquets. If you are thinking of throwing a birthday party, are hosting guests from out of town, or are charged with organizing a business gathering, Vietopia has got the right space for you. Whatever the occasion, the restaurant can be transformed at night with live music, soft lighting and a delicious buffet or by day complete with high-tech business equipment. Vietopia has a perfect interior design that lends itself to a one-of-kind atmosphere of simplicity and style. Whether you'd like to host drinks on the ground level, bar/lounge area or a sit-down dinner in the second level banquet room, Vietopia offers a unique and sophisticated setting for guests. The restaurant's banquet facilities offers an open, spacious area that can accommodate up to 120 standing guests or 80 seated, depending upon the day and time of the function. The over 1,400sf banquet area can also come equipped with a full service bar staff. An additional 200 standing or 100 seated guests can be accommodated in the main restaurant. To complement the perfect event is always the right selection of dishes. Vietopia has recently added new dinner items to their extensive catering menu. Signature dishes including Ca Chung Mo Hanh, Vietopia Steamed Fish fish topped with peanuts, scallions, roasted onions, accompanied with rice paper and fresh vegetables; Nem Nuong, Vietnamese Grilled Pork Meat Ball wrapped in rice paper with fresh vegetables served with peanut sauce; Banh Hoi Chao Tom, Vietopia's Ground Shrimp wrapped around sugar cane served over pressed steamed rice; and Cua Lon Rang Me, Dungeness Crab in house tamarind and garlic sauce, can be served buffet or family-style for a group to enjoy. Vietopia is an inviting Vietnamese bistro-style restaurant located at 5176 Buffalo Speedway @ Westpark. Opened since 2000, Vietopia has received rave reviews for their fresh, Vietnamese cuisine at unpretentious prices in an exhilarating and dynamic atmosphere. For more information, please call 713/ 664.7303. texas professional mortgage for lowest interest rates! Mimi Dinh, President of Mikel Marketing, recently used Texas Professional Mortgage to mortgage her new home. After having shopped around for quotes from many mortgage companies, she found Texas Professional Mortgage to have the lowest interest rate, with minimum closing cost and superior customer service. "I will stake my reputation on his unbeatable service," says Mimi Dinh. Texas Professional Mortgage, LLC is a full service mortgage brokerage company founded on the practice of exceeding customer expectation for service and competitive interest rates. They provide mortgages for all real estate transactions including purchases, refinancing, home equity loans/cash outs, second mortgages, and Jumbos. This is what you can expect from Texas Professional Mortgage: - Customized loan packages - we will design a mortgage product for each customer's unique financial situation - Extremely competitive interest rates - Pre-Approval Letters - provided in one day to facilitate your home purchasing process (*) - Extremely accessible and responsive professionals - our customers always hear back from us within 24 hours or less, 24/7 - Personalized service - we will meet with you personally to start the loan process - Step by step application consultation - we fill out your mortgage application with you, explain everything to you, and tell you what to expect throughout the process; you will never fill out an application over the internet - Timely communication - you will know the exact status of your mortgage at any given time - Attend your closing - to ensure your closing goes smoothly - Integrity, ethics and professionalism - the foundation of our service to you Contact Jeff Blackwell** at Texas Professional Mortgage today to discuss your mortgage needs: - Office - 713-869-8874 - Cell - 832-978-0807 - email - Jeff@pro-mtg.com Individuals, Real Estate Agents, and Builders welcome. Customer references available upon request. (* Must meet minimum credit and income requirements.) (** TBL # 28501) mod squad party Ray + Hollington Architects hosted a great party in their "Good Brick" award winning office with William F. Stern rousing the crowd at Lawndale Art Center with his lecture to promote preservation of Houston's modern architectural legacy. According to Shelby Hodge of the Houston Chronicle, the turn out included, "200 hip and architecturally enlightened". We agree. Click here to go to the link to the article from the Houston Chronicle, Section C, Monday, August 25. Shelby Hodge Column.Look for "Preservation Alert". They would also like to encourage you to help in their first mission, saving the Prudential Building at 1100 Holcombe Boulevard from demolition. A sample letter and the names and addresses of those who determine the fate of the Prudential Building will be coming to you via e-mail the first week of September. You will be encouraged to write the boards and regents of M. D. Anderson and the University of Texas. If you are up to the challenge of saving the Prudential Building, the Mod Squad will do everything they can to lead the way. Houston Mod is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to promoting knowledge and appreciation of modern architecture and design in Houston and Texas. Houston Mod advocates the preservation of this cultural legacy and seeks support from its members and the general public in achieving this goal. Houston Mod's programs include exchange of information, documentation of cultural resources, classes, lectures, publications, exhibitions, study tours, and preservation advocacy. You are invited to join the cause by visiting their website, http://www.houstonmod.org. new Houston community college building Local historian and educator, Willie Lee Gay opened the doors at Houston Community College Systems' (HCCS) new campus bearing her name on Thursday, August 14. The grand opening for Willie Lee Gay Hall featured remarks by Gay, a ribbon cutting, a reception and a tour of the new campus located at 1990 Airport Boulevard at Highway 288. Classes for fall will begin on August 23. Gay, a retired history teacher, was the first African-American appointed to the Texas Historical Commission and served from 1991-1997. The naming of the campus honors Gay's many years of work preserving the history of Southeast Houston while working with the Harris County Heritage Society.The estimated cost for the new 38,000 square feet facility is $7,198,200. It will serve approximately 1,260 students with nine classrooms and five state-of-the-art computer labs. The design includes a towering rotunda in the center of the building. The new campus is part of HCCS Central College.For a full listing of courses and times offered, pick up a schedule at the campus or log on to the Internet at http://www.hccs.edu/, click on "For Students" and go to "Search Schedule or please call 713/ 718.6634. unique handbags, purses, and totes These signature trait of each bag is embroidered with the words of The Fruits of the Spirit, from the book of Galatians, in various languages, to fit the bag's style. Many of the bags are embroidered on the outside, but all styles are lined with the embroidered words, making each bag as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. They are fun to carry and make very special gifts. Look through the collection of handbags and totes and see for yourself that every bag has its own unique style. Ordering online through the shop is very convenient. After placing the order and payment is made, your bag should be in your hands within 2-3 weeks and sometimes sooner. Don't hesitate to ask about special orders, ie: certain colors, etc. They will let you know if it is possible. To view photos or learn more about these handbags, click here. Houston press named mike snow for best dance dj Mike Snow was selected winner of Best Dance DJ at this year's Houston Press's awards ceremony. "All of us dance-club DJs are praying and hoping that will someday happen," says Mike. "People will get into dance music like they are into hip-hop and live music and rock and country and everything else." "I never feel like I'm gonna win, you know," he adds. Mike may find this recognition hard to believe, but we at Mikel Marketing think it's long overdue. A big congrats to Mike! To read more from the Houston Press, click here. used mercedes-benz for sale Privately owned 1988 VC 230 4-door Sedan Only 45,000 miles with all options including moonroof, 6-CD changer, power seats. Silver with grey leather interior. Immaculate condition inside and outside. $15,400 or best offer. For more info or photos, contact triadinh@yahoo.com or call 713/ 791.1607

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