River Oaks, TX May 2020

MAY 2020

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Support Local

INTRO TO THERAPY WITH ESTER JIMENEZ

CHEF KIRAN’S BISON BURGER RECIPE

PREVIEW OF PLUSH HOME

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Kamilla Batchelor | kamilla.batchelor@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nicole Vickers | nicole.vickers@lifestylepubs.com

Who Runs The World?

LADIES OF HOUSTON, WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT YOU? It is during May that we, as a country, celebrate mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers.

But here at River Oaks Lifestyle, we also want to recognize the other women who build our community and all of your roles as well.

AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@lifestylepubs.com Abby Strickland | abby.strickland@lifestylepubs.com Gabriela De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@lifestylepubs.com

It takes a village to raise a child, and our village has women who are our children’s

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

teachers, doctors, first responders, law enforcement officers, authors, entertainers,

Chris Spicks, Julie Soefer

nurses, social workers, counselors and so much more.

You are our children’s inspiration, and you are ours. This month, we thank you for everything you pour into Houston.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Kamilla Batchelor, Publisher

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks ON THE COVER xxxxxxxxxxxx PHOTOGRAPHY BY ????????

4

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Summer bodies are made in the winter!

Come start your Coolsculpting journey with us!

BONUS OFFER: Mention this ad for a FREE GIFT from

We are offering complimentary cosmetic consultations with Dr. Tracy Katz and Dr. Jennifer Deaver Peterson

Jennifer Deaver Peterson, MD is a triple-board certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon through the American Board of Dermatology, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery in Dermatologic Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. She was born and raised in Houston, TX, and graduated magna cum laude from Texas A&M University. Dr. Deaver Peterson completed her dermatology residency training at Texas Tech in 2009. In 2010, she completed a prestigious laser and cosmetic surgery fellowship program at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in La Jolla, CA.

Tracy Katz, MD is board-certified through the American Board of Dermatology and has practiced cosmetic and medical dermatology in her native Houston, Texas for the past six years.

She attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated with Honors with a degree in Government and Biology in 2002. She then attended the University of Texas Medical School in Houston from which she graduated in 2007. Dr. Katz completed an internship in internal medicine at The University of Texas Medical School in Houston followed by residency in dermatology at The University of Kansas in Kansas City, MO.

550 Post Oak Boulevard, Ste. 550, Houston

713.497.1417

thepearldermatology.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020

FEATURES 10 Chef Kiran Chef Kiran’s Recipe for Bison Burgers

20 Talk it Out Therapy, Counseling, and Talking it Out with Therapist, Esther Jimenez

24 Plush Home An Interview with Plush Home’s Owner, Ellie Faghihi

30 10

30 Support Local How to Help Support Local Businesses

24

20

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Healthy Lifestyle

14 DIY 24 Trend Setter 26 Our Town 30 Giving Back 34 Culinary Creations

GOOD TIMES

Reverie Art Show Reverie is an art show that showcases local artists while ending the stigma surrounding mental illness. Our mission is to raise funding for mental health organizations. This year we collaborated with the Peace of Mind Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life of OCD sufferers and caregivers through education, research, support, and advocacy. www.reverieartshow.com

It’s time to think Inspired by Community

locally

ADVERTISE WITH US to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.

lifestylepubs.com/riveroaks

8

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

From traditional to modern, eclectic to electric, luxurious furnishings, accessories and objects d’ar t from around the world.

Creating Homes since 1967

Established in 1967

2401 BISSONET STREET, HOUSTON, T X

713.524.3171 | ALYSONJON.COM

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Chef K iran

ARTICLE NICOLE VICKERS | PHOTOGRAPHY A

CHEF KIRAN’S RECIPE FOR BISON BURGERS

KIRAN VERMA, BORN IN DELHI, CONSIDERED THE ‘GODMOTHER OF INDIAN FINE DINING,’ HAS CREATED WORLDCLASS INDIAN CUISINE AT HER EPONYMOUS RESTAURANT, WHICH REOPENED AT ITS NEW LOCATION IN UPPER KIRBY HOUSTON IN JANUARY 2017. Kiran is a self-taught chef who has been guided by her Indian upbringing and a love of fine cuisine.

10

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

BIS ON ME AT B AL L S Serves: 6

INGREDIENTS + 2 lbs ground bison (all fat trimmed) + ½ lb cream cheese + 1 LG red onion (chopped fine) + ½ oz ginger paste

DIRECTIONS + 1 tsp garam masala (available in Indian grocery stores) + 1 Tbsp dry methi leaves (optional;

Mix all ingredients into the ground bison and roll into 2 oz balls. Bake for 20 minutes at 375 degrees.

available in Indian grocery stores)

+ ½ oz garlic paste

+ 1 bunch fresh cilantro (finely chopped)

+ ½ oz green chilies paste

+ Salt to taste

+ ½ tsp cayenne pepper

+ 1 egg

+ ½ tsp chili powder

+ ¼ cup breadcrumbs

+ ½ tsp paprika GARNISH INGREDIENTS + 4 oz butter

DIRECTIONS Take butter and melt into a pan.

+ 2 oz baby green peas

Caramelize the onions. Add ginger sliv-

+ ½ bunch of cilantro leaves

ers and cook for a couple of minutes.

+ 8 cherry tomatoes

Add peas, tomatoes, and cilantro. Cook

+ 12 ginger slivers

for a couple of minutes. Cut the meat-

+ 1 medium-sized red onion, sliced

balls in halves and garnish with cara-

+ 6-8 sprigs of mint, chopped

melized onions and mint.

Bon Appétit from Chef Kiran

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

11

DIY

PACK YOUR SMALL SPACES WITH A BIG PUNCH BY STARTING YOUR OWN CONTAINER GARDEN

IT MAY BE THAT YOU DON’T HAVE MUCH SPACE TO WORK WITH; MAYBE YOU ARE ALWAYS ON-THE-MOVE; OR, MAYBE YOU JUST SIMPLY COLOR TO YOUR SPACE. It doesn’t matter what your reason may be. Container gardening—the practice of growing plants exclusively in containers rather than in the ground—is a great way to pack some punch into a small (or portable!) space.

With container gardening, there are almost endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking to grow decorative plants or edible ones, there’s likely an option for you— and it doesn’t have to be limited to simply growing herbs

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

WANT SOME GREENERY TO ADD A LITTLE BIT OF

on your windowsill.

There are several factors to keep in mind when you first start your container garden, the first of which being to decide whether you’re going to keep it indoors or out.

Different plants grow best in different environments, so be sure to choose species that will thrive where you’ve decided to put them—making sure they are receiving the proper amount of sunlight and moisture.

DETAILS HEADER Details line 1 information Details line 2 information Details line 3 information

14

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

Here are a few other things to be aware of when you get started: CONTAINER SIZES: Large containers may be easier to grow plants in than small since

they have more space for large root systems and larger amounts of soil retain more moisture. + CONTAINER DRAINAGE: Your container must have a drainage system—even if it’s just a few holes you drill in it yourself. For plants that need to be watered more frequently, consider self-watering containers. + CONTAINER MATERIALS: The fun thing about container gardens is that you don’t have to limit yourself. Get creative with the containers you use (while keeping the above information in mind)! We love repurposing vintage items into unique containers.

garden tips

+

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

15

the more the greener

DIY (CONTINUED)

16

Why stick with one kind of garden? Once you’re a container garden pro, there are tons of different theme gardens you can create all around your home.

CLEAN-AIR GARDEN Snake Plant + Spider Plant + Dragon Plant + English Ivy FRAGRANCE GARDEN Lavender + Lemongrass + Mint LEMON GARDEN Lemon Verbena + Lemon Balm + Lemongrass + Lemon Geranium

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

+

Save some space by building your garden vertically instead of horizontally. If you’re running out of room indoors, try placing all your pots on an old bookshelf or baker’s rack.

The containers you choose are going to largely depend on the type of plant you’re trying to grow and the best space and environment for it to grow in.

If you’re looking for the bare basics, there are a lot of different vegetables—like cabbage, celery, green onions, lettuce and leeks—that can grow in water alone. If you’re looking for a way to use that vintage glassware or pitchers hiding in your cupboards, here’s your chance!

If you don’t have a lot of counter space (or space in general for that matter), herbs don’t need a ton of room to grow. Consider turning several small planters into a window garden for basil, cilantro, dill or thyme.

In order to grow larger plants, such as tomatoes, lemons or—yes, even avocados—you’ll need some larger containers, like large pots, baskets or box planters.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

17

DIY (CONTINUED)

all toget her now Grow these plants and herbs together

to

create

dish-specific

combinations. To create your own combination, determine your favorite dishes and what fresh elements you could grow in your garden. There are tons of possibilities!

18

JALAPEÑO

CILANTRO

ONION

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

THAI BASIL

BELL PEPPER

BROCCOLI

GREEN ONION

pi zza garden

TOMATO

stir - fr y garden

salsa garden

Try these container garden combos: BASIL

OREGANO

GARLIC

ROMA TOMATO

T A LK IT OUT

THERAPY, COUNSELING, AND TALKING IT OUT WITH THERAPIST, ESTHER JIMENEZ THE HUMAN MIND IS THE MOST POWERFUL COMPUTER THE WORLD HAS EVER SEEN. Millions of neurons constantly firing, emotions being mapped out in different parts of the brain… it’s a wonder we’ve only mapped about 20% of our brains. With something as amazing as our brain, complex situations are bound to arise with everything else. I got the chance to talk to Esther Jimenez, a therapist, about how we can better understand our brains- therapy style.

ARTICLE NICOLE VICKERS PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS SPICKS 20

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

Esther with a client

ESTHER JIMENE Z THERAPIST

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN

& reduce stress levels, doing things that you enjoy like exer-

SELF-CARE AND ACTUAL THERAPY? Self-care is any activ-

cising, painting, journaling, going out with friends, - boosting

ity that we do in order to take care of our mental, emotional,

your self-esteem, eating healthy, getting enough sleep, talking

and physical health. It refuels us & does not deplete from us.

things out & sharing, building resilience, and loving yourself.

It’s also having clear boundaries to care for ourselves & others.

Therapy can be a form of self-care.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR PRACTICE AND HOW YOU GOT

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a way to help individuals

INTO IT? I got into it because coworkers were coming to me

with a broad variety of mental illnesses and emotional difficul-

for advice about how to improve within their relationships or

ties. It’s the treatment of a mental disorder by psychological

about ways to manage stress, or anxiety and such and I figured

rather than medical means- Talk(ing) It Out!

I should do it for a living since I enjoyed helping others ... and so, here I am!

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR PEOPLE WHO

Within my practice, I help people with an array of issues

WANT TO GET INTO THERAPY BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE

such as difficulties in relationships, depression, codependency,

TO START? Going to psychologytoday.com is a great start-

attachment issues, sexual problems, managing life transitions,

ing point to find a therapist near you. Take time to find one

and also do life coaching for those that seek that service.

who will be a good fit as it’s a relationship that will be ongoing for some- most people invest more time in shopping for shoes than they do a therapist.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? “Never search your happiness in others. Search it in yourself

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS YOU’D GIVE FOR WOMEN TO

and you will feel happy even when left alone.” I actually read

BE AT THEIR HEALTHIEST MENTALLY? Learn to manage

this in a Buddhist teaching quote and I liked it.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

21

PERIMETER ART GALLERY & FRAMING

LOCATED IN HISTORIC RICE VILLAGE

DESIGNER DIVA

FOR OVER 25 YEARS

C O U T U R E

• PAINTINGS • SCULPTURE • GLASS • POTTERY • FRAMING • Fill your wardrobe with our latest finds!

Custom Made Gowns Proms, Galas, Events

Up to 90% Off Storewide!

HUGE Selection of Designer Shoes

Fine Jewelry & Rare Stones

Men’s Resale “Mancave”

(281) 497 - 6991 designerdivacouture.com | designerdivallc.com 22

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

2365 RICE BLVD • HOUSTON TEXAS 77005 • 713.521.5928

WWW.PERIMETERART.COM

SPAR Houston HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING

+ THE ART OF BOXING START EXCELLING TODAY WWW.SPARHOUSTONTX.COM

Spar Houston is a unique boxing fitness facility on Washington Avenue across from Memorial Park. Our classes are designed to master the skills necessary to take your fitness to a new level while learning the art of boxing.

P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy.

Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

Develop the skills necessary to take your fitness to a new level - pushed outside your comfort zone and motivated for more.

Our facility is equipped with heavy bags, towel service, boxing ring, and complete strength training area.

(281) 501-0715 | sparhoustontx.com | 6010 Washington Avenue Houston

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

23

TREND SETTER AN INTERVIEW WITH PLUSH HOME’S OWNER, ELLIE FAGHIHI

Plush Home TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND

personal, where I genuinely get to know their needs – not only

HOW YOU GOT STARTED IN IT.

their design aesthetic but also how their family lives – so we

Over the years, as I traveled, domestically or internationally,

can find pieces that are perfect for them.

I found myself collecting pieces that I couldn’t find in Houston.

As you may notice, our store is set up with an open floor plan,

I found stores in Houston to all carry the same selection of

with a dining table at the center. This is so our clients can come

products and brands, without anything unique that related to

in, sit down to enjoy a cup of tea or glass of wine, and browse

my sense of home. So, in 2004, I decided to open Plush Home

at their leisure. We want the shopping process to be one of dis-

to curate a selection of luxury linens and home décor pieces

covery by inspiring you to find pieces that are not only beautiful

from around the world. I not only sourced from the well-known

but crafted to last so they can enjoy them for many years. Unlike

national brands but smaller European companies that would

other boutiques, price is not a deciding factor; we have gifts

allow our clients to design a home that felt thoughtful, per-

ranging from $20 to several thousand dollars.

sonal and collective. To this day, Plush Home not only offers a fully bespoke collection of luxury linens, but we have an exten-

4. WHAT MAKES PLUSH HOME STAND OUT FROM

sive bath shop, a unique selection of gifts, a diverse array of

OTHER STORES?

decorative pillows and some one-of-a-kind home accessories.

My family has been involved in luxury textiles for over 5 generations, and I’ve specifically been involved with

2. WHAT MAKES OUR SPACES AT HOME SO IMPORT-

bespoke bed, bath and table linens for more than 30 years,

ANT? HOW CAN WE RELATE IT TO SELF-CARE?

so personalization and customization are the cornerstones

Our homes are the ultimate refuge. It’s where we start each

of our business.

day and return to each night, so it’s where we should feel the

Your home is personal and should be a true reflection of

safest, the most relaxed, and the happiest. It should reflect our

you, so we’ve sought out vendors across the world who allow

personality, needs, likes, and vision. Once it embodies all these

us to customize their products to our clients’ specifications.

characteristics, it allows one to achieve self-care however he

We want to make your dream home a reality. Whether it's find-

or she defines it.

ing the right color or pattern, or customizing the size, we love helping our clients’ visions come to life.

3. HOW DO YOU PRACTICE SELF-CARE IN YOUR OWN HOME? HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS REFLECT THAT? I surround myself with beautiful pieces that make me happy.

5. AS A WOMAN IN BUSINESS, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE?

I create spaces that allow me to enjoy time with both my family

Be always proud of what you are and what you have

and friends. I love entertaining, so my home is where I can

achieved. Be confident in showing your strength but be hum-

share time and happiness with them.

ble at the same time. Be ready to change with time and open

I take a similar approach to Plush Home, where my clients become my friends. I want their shopping experience to be

to learning new things. As you become successful, don’t forget the people that have helped you to achieve your goals.

ARTICLE NICOLE VICKERS | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS SPICKS

24

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

25

OUR TOWN

PURSUIT

ARTICLE NICOLE VICKERS

Of Health WORDS AND ADVICE FROM HOUSTONIAN DIETICIAN, DENISE HERNANDEZ

26

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

UNDERSTANDING “HEALTH” AS A WHOLE CAN BE QUITE TRICKY. Health is a layered and complex topic to tackle for most people; a starting point is often hard to find.

There is a lot of information that is readily available for us, but a majority of it might not make sense unless one has a background that allows one to understand some of the diction that is present when researching healthy foods, diets, and lifestyle changes. Women in particular struggle a lot with this, and sometimes the internet and social media present an unhealthy view of fitness and health. Dieting, detox, and cutting out certain foods might not be as healthy as we think. With all of this in mind, I sat down with a registered dietician, Denise Hernandez, and asked her some questions about health, specifically with women in mind.

1. WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON ADVICE YOU GIVE TO YOUR FEMALE CLIENTS? I commonly recommend that my female clients follow a personalized approach when attempting to work on their nutrition. Many times, women heed the advice of social media personalities, celebrities, or public personas. What they fail to realize is that one size does not fit all. They may cause more harm than good in their pursuit of "health." The best way to get a personalized approach is to visit a registered dietitian who can take into account your health and nutrition history and align it with your goals.

2. WHAT ARE SOME SELF-CARE TIPS YOU WISH YOU COULD SHARE WITH EVERYONE? The self-care tips that I remind people of are tried and true. Get adequate sleep, water, and exercise! When it comes to nutrition, my favorite tip is to include more servings of plant-based foods per day. Plant-based foods

Currently, I work out of the Houstonian Fitness Club, seeing

include vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and

both members and non-members. I also work as an online

seeds. What I tell my clients is to include one of these

nutrition coach helping clients across the country achieve

foods at every meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).

the results they desire: optimum health. I also enjoy helping

Incorporating these foods will give your body an advantage

women achieve better metabolic states, something that is

because when we eat them, we inherit their natural ability

often damaged when chronic dieting is the case.

to fight off disease and damage.

I've worn many dietetic hats throughout the years: nutrition coach, health educator, adjunct teacher, and corporate

3. TELL ME ABOUT HOW YOU GOT INTO THIS PRO-

wellness seminar leader.

FESSION & YOUR BACKGROUND? Having prematurely lost both of my grandmothers to heart disease, I decided to become a dietitian because I

4. ANY BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS YOU'D PASS ON TO YOUR CLIENTS?

wanted to help others prevent chronic disease. I believe

My utmost favorite nutrition book is "Intuitive Eating" by

that the approach should be preventive instead of reac-

Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch. It helped me make peace

tive. I saw the value in using food as medicine, as much

with food and has taught me some useful strategies to help

as can possibly be done. I received a Bachelor of Science

my clients find the same peace. Chronic dieting is so harm-

in Biological and Physical Sciences, then went on to com-

ful to a woman's body and will many times lead to serious

plete a Master of Science in Nutrition at Texas Woman's

consequences. A renewed mindset around food and your

University. I have been licensed and practicing since 2012.

body is crucial to sustainably reach your goals.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

27

April

Helen of Troy Nicolle Dhimes River Oaks

art makes life prettier .

jackrabbitgallery.com 228 E 27 St Houston TX 77008 CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

29

GIVING BACK

T R O P SUP OL C A L !

LOCAL B US

IN

AND RESILIENCE. Maybe it’s the Texas spirit infused in us, or perhaps it is just plain old stubbornness, but as a community, we have weathered our fair share of storms and come out the other side stronger than we went in.

Although COVID-19 is a different kind of storm, one we’ve never seen before, local businesses found a way to come together (at a socially appropriate distance) and shine a light on just how strong our community is.

DISH SOCIETY Multiple Locations https://www.dishsociety.com/ Already one of the most prominent purveyors of locally sourced food in Houston, Dish Society took their love of local one step further by providing their customers with a virtual farmers market.

A “Farm Box” full of local produce, meats, eggs, milk, bread, and tortillas from Houston area farmers, ranchers, and food artisans was available at three of the farm-to-table restaurant’s locations.

Dish Society was not only able to support local farmers, but through this initiative, they were able to provide their employees with additional hours.

In addition to their to-go and delivery service options, the restaurant also provided half-priced meals to hospitality professionals. As a way to help first responders and health care workers, customers were able to purchase a $15 meal, which Dish Society would deliver to one of 10 local hospitals and first responder units.

30

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

ORT

AGAIN THAT THEY ARE MADE OF RESOLVE

PP

HOUSTONIANS HAVE PROVEN TIME AND

UPPORT LOCA S S L

SUPPORT LOCA S LS ES

LOCAL BU SIN ES

support local!

UP

T POR

SU

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

MAD AND BCN TASTE & TRADITION 4444 Westheimer Rd, HTX 77027 https://www.madhouston.com/ MAD and BCN Taste & Tradition may be owner Ignacio Torras and executive chef Luis Roger’s love letter to Spain, but they wrote a new love letter – this time to the hospitality workers of Houston and their families. Beginning in late March, the restaurants teamed up to start a curbside community kitchen. Their goal was to serve 200 complimentary meals to hospitality workers and their families.

A common practice in the hospitality industry, Family Meals are when staff come together before their shift starts to enjoy a meal together. When restaurants and bars were shut down in Houston, many hospitality workers were left without this daily treat. MAD and BCN Taste & Tradition stepped in to fill the void with their curbside kitchen and served over 800 meals to individuals in need.

MAD and BCN Taste & Tradition

business name business name

URBAN HARVEST FARMERS MARKET 2752 Buffalo Speedway, HTX 77098 https://www.urbanharvest.org/farmers-market/ What started as a handful of vendors in 2004 has turned into one of the largest farmers markets in Texas, supporting over 70 local farmers market vendors. Exempt from the executive order shutting down bars and restaurants and with the guidance of local, state, and federal officials Urban Harvest remained open. By doing so, the farmers market provided support to some of the hardest-hit regional farms and small businesses.

Urban Harvest implemented a curbside pickup service for those who preordered or participated in the online produce boxes so that customers never had to leave their cars. To ensure the safety of both customers and vendors, handwashing stations, as well as other health and safety measures were implemented throughout the market.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

31

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

BREAD MAN BAKING CO. https://www.breadmanco.com/ When shelves at grocery stores were wiped out of kitchen staples like bread, Bread Man Baking Co. began hosting popups where customers could pick up a loaf of fresh-baked artisan bread at a discounted price of $5, without waiting in line or touching a grocery cart. Even better, hospitality workers got their loaves at even deeper discounts.

The wholesale bread company, which began in 2018, provides bread to many Houston area restaurants, hotels, as well as HEB and Whole Foods Market grocery stores. When COVID-19 cost them business on the hospitality side, they were still able to get their bread into the hands of customers through their popups and increased grocery store locations.

OUR CARE SENIOR SOLUTIONS 430 Highway 6 South, Suite 209, HTX 77079 https://ourcareseniorsolutions.com/ The most vulnerable population and their caregivers still needed help during even the hardest times of COVID-19, and Our Senior Care Solutions never wavered in their approach to helping those in need. They knew that social distancing didn’t have to mean social isolation for seniors and provided caregiving services, all the while ensuring their caretakers were taking proper precautions to keep everyone safe.

THRIVE DRIP SPA Multiple Locations https://thrivedripspa.com/ ThrIVe Drip Spa, with multiple locations and concierge services, has seen an uptick in appointment requests. Although the wellness spa has a variety of IV services, including everything from a detox drip to a beauty drip which promises to tighten and brighten from the inside out - the most requested service on their drip menu as of late is the High C drip. The immunity-boosting drip consists of 10 grams of Vitamin C which is the highest dose available.

Following strict sanitation guidelines is already commonplace for ThrIVe Drip Spa. Still, whether it is at one of their locations or a house call – they are making sure that CDC guidelines are met for the safety of both patients and staff.

32

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

how can you help your local businesses? + ORDER TAKEOUT OR DELIVERY Keep your favorite local restaurants in mind and order from them directly instead of using a delivery service. Call ahead to place your order to avoid waiting during busy meal times. + DON’T FORGET TO TIP Everyone in the hospitality industry is feeling the cash crunch right now, so make it a point to tip generously if you can. + PURCHASE GIFT CARDS Purchase gift cards from local businesses

“Some talk to you in their free time, and some free their time to talk to you

Know the difference” – Buddhist Teaching –

to ensure they have cash flow right now, as well as activity in the future. Many have their

Talk It Out

gift cards available online or over the phone. + KEEP SHOPPING Instead of buying from large retailers, keep your local shops and boutiques front

LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

and center for your next purchase.

Therapy is sought for many reasons, such as anxiety, depression, relationship

+ DONATE Many non-profits are struggling more

issues, difficult life events, career change or issues, grief and loss. Or you may be

than ever to meet their goals. Whether it is

seeking therapy because you find yourself repeating the same unhealthy patterns

food, blood, or money, consider donating to

wondering why you can’t make a change and remain stuck. You may also feel

your favorite local non-profit agency.

T LOCAL BU SIN

SU

T R O P P SU OL C A L !

Sexual, Physical, and Emotional Trauma

UPPORT LOCA S S L

PP

ORT

LOCAL B US

SUPPORT LOCA S LS ES

Psychological Services

ES

U

OR PP

disconnected and out of balance.

Depression

/

Anxiety

/

/

/

Neglect

Premarital Counseling

Abandonment

/

Infidelity

Esther Jimenez PsyD, Clinical Psychology,Doctoral Intern / PhD, Clinical Sexology, Student MS, MFC/T, LPC, LCDC-CI, EMDR, CTL

www.talkitout.net | 346.214.4189 SERVING: UPTOWN

|

GALLERIA

|

RIVER OAKS

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks 33

IN

DRESS UP YOUR

CULINARY CREATIONS

DRINK BOLD COLORS. Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment.

We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk.

BLUE M ARTINI WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES + 2 ounces Absolut Citron + 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao

But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of

+ 1/2 ounce lemonade

ways to push the limits with creative twists

+ 1 ounce Sprite

on classic recipes and unique adornments

+ Edible flowers such as rose,

guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason

lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums

your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand.

These options are bound to taste as delicious as they look.

Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.

Combine

ARTICLE CATE MARIAN

Absolut

Citron,

Blue

Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.

34

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2020

The River Oaks | 3433 Westheimer PH 3W 3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3 Reserved Parking Spaces The last available penthouse in River Oaks. This move-in ready, never-lived-in unit is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Floor to ceiling glass walls and over 1,000 sq. ft. covered patio provide incredible natural light with North, South, and West views allowing one to take in the breathtaking sights of River Oaks, St. Johns Ball Fields and The Galleria. This penthouse is 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath, with a gas fireplace, plentiful entertaining space, and a fabulous bar. Oversized media room could converted to a 4th bedroom.

Unit comes with 3 reserved parking spaces, as well as 4 designated storage lockers.

The River Oaks is located on a 3 acre piece of prime real estate and boasts five star level service and amentities including: two resort style pools, pet grooming, spa and dog park, massage therapy room, yoga/pilates studio, fitness center with Peloton bike, catering kitchen, private conference room, hotel style room for guests, valet parking and concierge.

Contact William at Wheless Realty for further details & appointments.

1512 SOUTH BOULEVARD, HOUSTON Wonderful English Tudor originally designed by L.W. Lindsay circa 1925, and carefully renovated. This light filled home is one of a kind. Sitting on a fully fenced/gated 21,000+ sqft corner lot. Updated Poggenpohl kitchen with Miele appliances, wood flooring, grand formals, high ceilings, separate guest-house (961 sqft) with billiard room and quarters.

Beautiful oversized pool perfect for keeping cool!

SA

LE

Offered at $4,850,000 | 4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,982 sqft

OR

Wheless Realty

2113 BELLMEADE STREET, HOUSTON

Offered at $3,950,000 | 5 Bed | 5.5 Bath | 6,075 sqft

Beautiful custom home built in the contemporary French country style circa 2012 on 11,250 sqft lot per HCAD. The property backs up to River Oaks Elementary Spark Park, where kids can run and play. Wonderful features including a walk-in wine cellar, fabulous formals and large kitchen, oversize master with views of the park, garage apartment with large movie theater, custom outdoor kitchen.

1512 SOUTH BLVD

3458 INWOOD DRIVE, HOUSTON

WITHIN $7,805,001 - $9,000,000 PRICE RANGE

OR

SA

LE

SOLD

Selling Houston’s Classic Homes!

SELLING HOUSTON’S CL ASSIC HOMES! William M. Wheless IV Real Estate Agent

william@whelessrealty.com 713-299-0252