Memorial, TX January 2021

JA N UA RY 2 02 1

LI F E + C U LTU R E SI M O N E B I L ES WELLNESS T H E P RO FO U N D P OWER O F B RE AT H I N G TR AV E L REL A X I N G RE T RE AT I N H O T SPRI N GS

above it all WE’RE HERE FOR ONE ANOTHER. We’re united in a

collective pursuit to keep the people we care for healthy, happy and connected through uncertain times. Even if at a distance, we stand together — inspired by a renewed sense of community and common ground.

Because above it all, we here at The Buckingham hope to be a resource for you in ways that reach beyond the search for a senior living community. If you’d like to open up a dialogue, call 713-364-0202. We’re eager to learn how The Buckingham can support you now and in the future.

Call 713-364-0202 or go to RetireBuckingham.com to learn more.

8580 Woodway Drive Houston, TX 77063

OFFICIAL FERRARI DEALER

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Houston 6100 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77057 Tel. 713-772-3868 houston.ferraridealers.com General Manager - Tony Nevotti tnevotti@ferrariofhouston.com

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JANUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@lifestylepubs.com

Time to Hit the Reset Button!

Savannah Schakett | savannah.schakett@lifestylepubs.com

WELL FOLKS, WE HAVE ARRIVED IN 2021! This past year felt like it went by in a blur

Whitney Lockhart

and also like it would never end. But one thing is certain—we would not have made it here without the support of our incredible community.

What’s your vision for the new year? It’s a good time to get back to basics – and there is nothing more basic, or precious, than the power of our breath. In The Profound Power

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

AD DESIGNER

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Spicks Photography

of Breathing, we introduce you to a very unique fitness studio right here in Memorial where the science of breathing is the core focus. Next, come with us to Hot Springs, Arkansas for a Relaxing Retreat where we explore wondrous ways to slow down and enjoy a weekend (or weekday!) getaway unlike any other. In Places We Love, photographer Bryan Malloch shares unique images of Houston through his lens – there is so much curiosity and beauty all around us!

In Walking the Walk, humanitarian, best-selling author, and spiritual leader Francis Chan gives us just a small glimpse into his profound personal journey towards rejecting the ‘selfie’ mentality in exchange for a focus on others in need. Through his example and generosity, he invites us to a heart space where we genuinely want to do better, be better, and leave a legacy for others to benefit from.

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

Last but certainly not least, we had the pleasure to spend a rainy Saturday morning

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

with a true hometown hero. In our feature Simone Biles on Strength and Motivation, we

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

learn firsthand how coronavirus impacted her training plans and how she is ramping

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

up her sights (again!) for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She also shares her winning

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

mindset and how she manages to stay focused on her dreams despite the whirlwind

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

of distractions around her.

Whatever your plans for hitting the reset button, we want to be a part of it. Share your January goals with us on social media and stay in touch. We will see you back here again next month!

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN

Suzanne F. Schakett, Publisher

MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Simone Biles LOCATION World Championship Centre MAKEUP Moni Pradier PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS SPICKS PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

Proverbs 3:5-6 Memorial Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Memorial area’s 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 Memorial Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

exquisite fine art & custom framing

HANSON’S A RT

FRAMING

Hanson’s has specialized in museum quality materials for over 35 years. Offering a wide variety of fine art, antique maps, and an extensive selection of frames. The gallery features eclectic works from local artists and promises to offer pieces to suit any collection. Come see us at our new, modern gallery.

713.932.7164 1 4 3 4 0 M e m o r i a l D r.

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A r t i s t | J o h n Ve l a s c o

|

INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2021

FEATURES 14 The Profound Power of Breathing BreatheFit focuses on optimal health through proper breathing techniques.

18 Simone Biles on Strength & Motivation Simone Biles shares how she stays on top of her game despite a challenging 2020.

22 Relaxing Retreat Soak in the beautiful scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and historic mineralrich waters of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

18 32

32 Places We Love Houston photographer Bryan Malloch showcases the beauty of Houston.

22

14

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Open House

14

Healthy Lifestyle

18

Hometown Hero

22 Travel Destination 27 Inspired By 30 Lifestyle Calendar 32 Our Town

New Year New Home!

Your Neighbor.

Your Realtor.

Rachel Conkling Top Producing Realtor 713.894.9070 rachel.conkling@compass.com

Sold in Spring Valley

Sold in Hedwig Village

Sold in Wilchester/Memorial West

All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate, but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

AHA Keeps the "Heart of Houston" Healthy with Community Impact Initiative American Heart Association’s Houston Chapter is moving beyond the traditional gala fundraiser. This year, the heart-healthy organization is pivoting from the annual, glamorous Heart Ball to the new Heart of Houston campaign. The campaign aims to improve the struggles of our neighbors, increase the impact of community partners and focus on the hearts that can be improved through their support and philanthropic efforts. heart.org/houston 1. Andrew Johnson, Shatria Greene, Lydia Davies, Kristin Luby, Daisy Perez, Lharissa Jacobs | 2. Shataria Greene, Andrew Johnson | 3. CSA Produce

1.

2.

3.

LCAHouston Celebrates Festival of Lights to Support Children in Need LCAHouston founder and Editor-in-Chief, Ruchi Mukerjee, along with Fabergé Boutique Director, Yoon Smith, collaborated to open the evening’s celebration of Diwali. A portion of the proceeds were donated to the Correa Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Ricky Flores, M.D. and Houston Astros player, Carlos Correa, which is dedicated to providing support to ill children. LCAHouston.com 1. Samantha Holsomback, Natalie Galerne | 2. Toni and Howard Tate | 3. Yoon Smith, Ruchi Mukerjee

REAL ESTATE

Redefined 170 WESTCOTT ST

Offered at $1,650,000 Commercial Property Memorial Park Area

LE NGUYEN |

Realtor / Managing Partner

• Top Producing Team • Certified Luxury Specialist • New Construction Consultant • Certified Negotiation Expert • Proven Results with 5 Star Reviews

8

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

Owner occupied, recently renovated of fice space in a high traf fic, central location by the upscale Memorial Park area. A rare oppor tunit y to own one of Houston’s most iconic of fice buildings spanning over 3,000sqf t of workspace on a 9,600sqf t lot.

7RS 5HDOW\ | 8389 WESTVIEW DRIVE, 77055 (281) 818-8177 | LE@TEXASTOPREALTY.COM | LEROCKS.C21.COM

AROUND TOWN recovering from Covid or other respiratory or illness challenges, or just wanting to ‘up level’ your health, BreatheFit is the solution. breathe-fitness.com

GET YOUR JAZZ ON In case you missed the announcement earlier this year, Scott Gertner is back with a unique live entertainment experience, along with a Cajuninspired menu and exciting cocktail offerings.

THE RENOVATION OF ROTHKO

The Rhythm Room is an intimate lounge located

The most recent restoration project at Rothko

on Memorial Drive in the Bayou Bend area not far

Chapel, spearheaded by the New York-based

from Memorial Park. Three-time Grammy nominee

Architecture Research Office (ARO) is now com-

entertainer Gertner is known for his standing only

plete and ready for visitors, with timed tickets for

room crowds at his famous Houston venues in the

pandemic-related safety. The renovation by ARO

past. There’s no party like a Scott Gertner party -

and lighting experts George Sexton Associates

book your spot today! scottgertnermusic.com

includes a new skylight, which uses louvers and laminated glass to convey light, and was inspired by the skylight that captured the artist’s imagination at the carriage house on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Rothko’s non-denominational chapel is open to everyone. rothkochapel.org

BREATHING LIFE INTO YOUR FITNESS REGIME The importance of proper breathing techniques is crucial to vibrant health yet is often overlooked.

BreatheFit is a fitness and wellness program with a big difference. The focus on technique and aware-

10

MASRAFF'S LANDS IN MEMORIAL

ness allows your body to perform at optimal levels.

Discover Masraff’s weekday happy hour fea-

Whether you are an elite athlete, a weekend warrior,

turing craft cocktails, rare spirits, small bites and

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

ocean-fresh seafood selections from the raw bar, all set in a high-energy bar and lounge. They offer secluded private rooms, open public spaces, candlelight patio dining and takeout from an exciting new menu featuring the finest in Prime Steak selections.

An

impressive

Wine

Tower in the Main Dining room displays an extensive wine collection, recognized by The Wine Spectator.

Masraff’s is the popular choice of both locals and international visitors alike. masraffs.com

A WONDROUS WORLD TO EXPLORE Houston’s

highly

anticipated

new permanent experiential art museum, Seismique, opened in late December. Seismique offers guests 40-plus unique exhibits overflowing with dazzling displays of light generated by 9 million LEDs, color, sound, and natural elements. Designed for all ages, the 40,000-square-foot arts and entertainment concept features works by over two dozen established and emerging artists along with advanced technological elements like projection mapping, holograms, augmented reality, light mapping, motion tracking, gamification, and more. Tickets are priced at $35 for adults and $28 for children 12 and under. seismique.com

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Memorial using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

11

H O M E

OPEN HOUSE

CLASSIC COMFORT 12

TUCKED AWAY AMONG TOWERING PINE TREES,

square foot lot professionally redesigned by renowned

THIS BEAUTIFUL ESTATE, LISTED BY LE NGUYEN

Imperial Builders in 2019. Two living areas off the

OF C-21 TOP REALTY, OFFERS TRUE PRIVACY

kitchen allow easy entertaining and feature a large bar

IN THE EXCLUSIVE HEDWIG VILLAGE NEIGH-

area equipped with an ice maker and refrigerators for

BORHOOD. Surrounded by stately homes, a private

easy entertaining. This home features a split floor plan

driveway off prestigious Echo Lane leads to an excep-

with two master suites, each with massive walk-in

tionally rare single-story home on a massive 35,989

closets and gorgeous bathrooms.

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

01

02

752 Echo Lane, Hedwig Village, Texas 77024

THIS CLASSICALLY APPOINTED HEDWIG VILLAGE HOME OFFERS ALL THE AMENITIES LUXURY HOME BUYERS ARE LOOKING FOR.

01

Upon entering the tall double wooden doors, take in the gleaming hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and walls of windows. The wide-open floor plan flows to a gorgeous island kitchen with Thermador appliances and endless countertops.

ARTICLE MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

02

Outside features a sparkling pool with a large cabana complete with a full kitchen and fireplace. This beautiful home is steps away from Memorial High School and just minutes from everything else.

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

13

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

THE

PROFOUND P

O F B R E AT H I N G R E OW

BREATHEFIT FOCUSES ON OPTIMAL HEALTH THROUGH PROPER BREATHING TECHNIQUES.

LOCATED

AREA,

This realization led to BreatheFit, the only fitness and

BREATHEFIT FOCUSES ON SOMETHING WE TEND

IN

HOUSTON’S

MEMORIAL

wellness program in Houston that focuses solely on

NOT TO THINK ABOUT UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE – OUR

breathing mechanics.

BREATHING. Business partners Mel Arenas, Harry

The winter season brings an increase in people suf-

Stafford, and Ciro Villarreal, who have a combined 30

fering from respiratory issues like pneumonia, the flu,

years of experience in fitness, wellness, and cardio-

or COVID-19. BreatheFit shares its three most popular

pulmonary rehabilitation, noticed not enough atten-

programs to help clients suffering from health issues or

tion was paid to respiratory health and performance.

looking to improve their overall wellness.

ARTICLE MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF

14

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

“OUR IDEAL CLIENT IS ANYONE WITH SYMPTOMS OF SH O RT N E S S O F B R E AT H , P H YSI C A L D ECO N D I T I O N I N G , O R SO M EO N E SEEK I N G P ER F O R M A N C E B R E AT H I N G TO R E A C H D E S I R E D P E R S O N A L A N D P E R F O R M A N C E G O A L S .”

PERFORMANCE BREATHING BreatheFit helps clients utilize proper ventilation to enhance their breathing performance.

Performance Breathing programs help clients optimize their performance thresholds while increasing stamina and endurance.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING Customized programs assist clients in achieving their fitness and wellness goals. BreatheFit helps clients with weight management, body sculpting, core training, and overall conditioning.

P R O G R A M

3

P R O G R A M

2

P R O G R A M

1

M EL A R EN A S , CO - OW N ER O F B R E AT H EFI T

COVID RECOVERY In reaction to COVID-19, BreatheFit designed programs to help clients restore their ability to breathe effectively and increase lung function. BreatheFit works with clients to correct the inability to move air and dramatically expand lung volume.

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

15

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Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

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.

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HOMETOWN HERO

simone biles on streng th & motivation

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS SPICKS PHOTOGRAPHY

SIMONE 18

ON A RAINY SATURDAY MORNING, SIMONE BILES WALKED INTO HER GYM, WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CENTRE, OFFERED EVERYONE A SMILE, AND DID A QUICK TWIRL. Watching her talk to her mom about her schedule for the morning, it is easy to forget that the petite 23-year-old is a household name, an icon in her sport, and the most decorated gymnast of all time.

However just like the rest of us, Biles, who has dominated her sport for decades, has been grappling with all the issues that have plagued 2020.

regarding her indecision about returning to train-

Poised to go to Tokyo for the summer Olympics

ing after the announcement. She said the biggest

last year, she was favored to win the second

challenge was walking into the gym each day, not

consecutive Olympic all-around title. Biles was

knowing how long the postponement would last.

devastated, however, when the games were

“It has been hard both mentally and physically,”

postponed because of the coronavirus. She was

said Biles. “It has been a little bit harder men-

very open with the media in the spring of last year

tally, because I was ramping up my body and my mind to compete in the Olympics last summer.

Everyone was gearing up to be at the top of their game, and then we just got shut down and had to start that process all over again. Everyone thinks it is a one-year process, but it is a four-year process, so to add one more year to that is difficult.”

BILES

HEADING INTO THE TOKYO OLYMPICS, SIMONE BILES SHARES HOW SHE STAYS ON TOP OF HER GAME DESPITE A CHALLENGING 2020.

Once the International Olympic Committee announced that the games would resume on the same dates in 2021, Biles felt more assured. They have since stated that the games will occur even if there isn’t an audience in attendance. After watching the NFL, NBA, MLB, and other professional sports resume their seasons, Biles has settled in with the knowledge that even if things look a little different, she will be competing. “We will have to be secluded in a bubble, which is hard mentally, but we have to make it happen because the Olympics only happens every four years,” she says. “Everyone around the world has trained for these moments since they were little, and this is how some people make their living. We just have to go on with it even if there is no audience.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

19

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

20

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

When Texas opened back up after a sevenweek mandatory shut down of all non-essential business due to coronavirus, Biles got to work and ramped up her training once again. Six days per week for six to seven hours per day, Biles works with her coaches at her self-proclaimed “home away from home” World Championship Centre gym. Biles, who has been training this way since she was 13 years old, has a strong support system both in and outside the gym.

The 52,000 square foot training facility is a family business run by Biles’ parents Ron and Nellie Biles. Her brother Adam is the general manager and says Simone is treated just like any other gymnast there. Working with athletes from all over the country, Nellie Biles firmly believes that education is a large part of the training process and is currently working on getting the homeschooling por-

voice for the voiceless. While she didn’t partic-

tion of the gym certified as a private school. She

ipate in any in-person protests because of the

guided Simone through her educational decisions

pandemic, she did participate in peaceful protests

and knows how important it is for elite athletes to

through social media. “To see everything that has

have a good scholastic foundation. “We are help-

happened has deeply saddened me,” says Biles.

ing them realize two dreams at once,” she says of

“It has been hard because I am African American,

her academic programming.

so this sort of injustice could happen to me, or my

Although Simone hasn’t had to deal with academic issues for quite some time, she has

boyfriend, or my brothers. It is really sad, and it just hits on a different level.”

had to deal with the political and racial tensions

With only six months left for training, Biles has

that troubled the country in 2020. As an African

put all distractions aside and has her sights set on

American athlete, Biles knows many turn to her

Tokyo 2021. She self-motivates by testing her limits

as a role model, and she is often looked to as

in the gym. “Yeah, I have all the medals, but just

the spokesperson for her sport. Although many

seeing how far I can go is what keeps me moti-

professional athletes see being a role model as

vated and keeps me going.” When asked about

a disadvantage, Biles says she is grateful for the

retirement, which she has hinted at several times

platform she has been given and uses it to be a

over the past few years, Simone just smiles and says no firm plan is in place. Thanks to COVID19, there is only a three-year gap until the next Olympics in Paris 2024, so she is leaving the door open for future competition. “I actually feel like I am aging like a fine wine – it is so crazy,” says the gymnast. “I really feel like each year I get physically better and mentally stronger, so I am excited to see what I can do this year. I have to go into each competition like it might be my last though, because you never know – it might be.”

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

21

TRAVEL DESTINATION

relaxing retreat

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

SOAK IN THE BEAUTIFUL SCENERY, VIBRANT CULTURAL SCENE, AND HISTORIC MINERAL-RICH WATERS OF HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS.

WHETHER YOU WANT TO TAKE A THERMAL SOAK,

laid-back atmosphere. Located less than seven hours by

EXPERIENCE NATURE ON TWO WHEELS, OR

car or two hours by plane, it is a great weekend getaway

ENJOY BEAUTIFUL VIEWS, THERE ARE SO MANY

destination for Houstonians.

WAYS TO RELAX AND UNWIND WHILE VISITING

Accommodations are plentiful in Hot Springs and range

HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS. The southern city is

from luxury boutique hotels like The Waters and Hotel

nestled in the Ouachita Mountains foothills and has

Hale to more mainstream chain hotels or rental cottages.

a rich history, great food, a bustling downtown, and a

But first things first, a weekend of relaxation is waiting.

Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Photo credit Hot Springs CVB

22

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

FRIDAY Get Outside Take a hike in Hot Springs National Park and don’t worry about an entrance fee because it is one of the country’s only free national

time lakeside. Don’t worry about bringing your own gear; there are several local outfitters for your equipment rental needs.

parks. There are several hikes at all experience levels to enjoy, and

After working up an appetite, stop in at Deluca’s Pizzeria. Owner

make sure to stop at any one of the thermal-fed fountains (hot and

Anthony Valinoti, a New York transplant, has made a name for him-

cold) to fill up your water bottle. Mountain bike enthusiasts will

self with his delicious house-made pizzas and pasta. Valinoti and his

enjoy an abundance of trails in this International Mountain Bike

crew make their pizza dough fresh daily and were recently named

Association (IMBA) Bronze-level Ride Center location. Multiple

“Top 101 Best Pizzas in America” by The Daily Meal.

trails for every skill level wind their way through the area, making it easy to take in picturesque views.

Located just a short drive from Hot Springs are Lake Hamilton

SATURDAY Soak in Local History

and Lake Catherine, two of the five Diamond Lakes in the state’s

Start your day with a pancake breakfast at local favorite The

southwestern region. Perfect for fishing, boating, standup paddle

Pancake Shop. Their delicious pancakes will fill you up for a day of

boarding, or just enjoying the water, you will want to spend some

walking along historic Central Avenue in downtown Hot Springs.

CONTINUED >

Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House at Garvan Woodland Gardens.

Photo credit Hot Springs CVB

Explore the Five Diamond Lakes while visiting Hot Springs. Photo credit Hot Springs CVB

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

23

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

Historic Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs. Photo Credit Hot Springs CVB.

Stop in at the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center and request

SUNDAY

a tour of Bathhouse Row, where you will hear about the area’s his-

Relax in Nature

tory dating back to the 1800s. Beginning with the Native Americans,

A trip to Hot Springs would not be complete without

the thermal water, which is a scalding 143-degrees, has been

a stop at Garvan Woodland Gardens. But before you go,

known for its healing powers. Lore of the healing water spread and

fuel up with a homemade cinnamon roll and coffee at

people traveled from all over to “take the waters,” eventually set-

Will’s Cinnamon Shop, where you can customize one of

tling in what is now downtown Hot Springs. Originating with crude

their fresh baked rolls with an assortment of delicious

wooden structures that evolved into elaborate destinations cater-

toppings. With coffee and cinnamon roll in hand, enjoy a

ing to the elite, Hot Springs became known as America’s first “spa

stroll through 219 acres of the lush woodland landscape.

city.” Tour Fordyce Bathhouse to see the detailed stained glass and

Highlights of the gardens included the famed Anthony

art common of that era, and if you are looking for a modern way to

Chapel, Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House, as well as the

enjoy the mineral-rich waters, make a reservation at Quapaw Baths

Garden of the Pine Wind, which is recognized as the fifth-

for a thermal soak or spa service.

best Japanese garden in North America.

Keep the relaxing day going with lunch or dinner at Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery – the only brewery in the world using thermal water to brew beer. Located in a historically renovated bathhouse from 1916, Superior Brewery prides themselves on their tasty beer and menu full of scratch-made and locally sourced fare.

24

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

Planning on making a move in 2021?

Contact me to start the conversation.

Opening Doors for You in Houston

281.546.9444 | KAREN.HARBERG@COMPASS.COM | KARENHARBERG.COM

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You Got Sick...

So, now what?

If you still have lingering symptoms of fatigue, lack of air or just not feeling yourself, we have solutions to get you feeling better.

BreatheFit creates individualized exercise sessions to improve breathing capacity, strength and stamina.

Don’t just breathe, BreatheFit! Contact us for a complimentary breathing performance evaluation P: 713-487-9811 / Team@Breathe-Fitness.com Breathe-Fitness.com 26

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

Start the New Year with a Real Estate Fitness Assessment Is your home the Right Fit for you?

Visit my website for a Complimentary Home Valuation!

(Comparative Market Analysis)

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erron@er-properties.com | westhoustoncommunity.com

INSPIRED BY

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

IMAGINE YOURSELF AS THE LEADER OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH IN VENTURA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, WITH MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING. You’re a New York Times bestseller making a million dollars in royalties from your first book and people love you—you’re on top of the world.

Would you leave that all behind?

Better yet, would you trade all of that, giving away 90% of your income to end up living in the poorest region of Hong Kong surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day?

For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate and unwanted result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, a church planter and best-selling author who speaks to thousands of people around the world each year, it’s exactly what he did. And exactly what he needed—an opportunity to walk down a winding path that led him toward fulfilling his purpose; toward becoming a

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

man who can truly say he lives the life he’s been called to and encouraging others to do the same.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

27

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com!

Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a very traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died while giving birth to him. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer.

Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with a membership of 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. By 2000, membership grew even more to 1,600. And by 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ then-new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller.

Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it behind in pursuit of a more humble and impactful way of life.

The $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking.

After making the decision to leave Cornerstone and wrestling with what the next step would be, Francis and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China, where he was able to embrace new interests and activities by doing what the locals do, and where he also saw an inspiring shift in culture and spiritual values.

“I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he says. “Their mentality really isn’t a consumer mindset of ‘Here’s my needs, here’s what I feel, no one cares about me— me, me, me, me. Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other and thinking about how to get to the poor—the truly poor—like ‘We’re going to starve today,’ or ‘We’re selling off kids today.’ That type of poor. There’s just a lot more urgency.”

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of life, Francis’ message of focus and fulfillment can be summed up simply: take your eyes off yourself.

“People that I’ve found that have spent their lives truly loving others are the j o y f u l p e o p l e .”

28

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

“A l l w e r e a l l y n e e d t o d o is hit that little button that s w i t c h e s i t o f f s e l f i e m o d e .”

“It’s so counterintuitive because, physically, if I break my arm, I’m not going to be thinking about anyone else. The only thing that’s going to bring me pleasure is getting this thing fixed. ‘Everyone look at me—my arm is broken; someone fix

he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’”

Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals.

it for me,’” he says. “But...the answer is actually to take your

“She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like,

eyes off of yourself. People that I’ve found that have spent

you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

their lives truly loving others are the joyful people. You’ll find very few generous people who are miserable.”

Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing him-

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says, fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to certain things and God has something so much better for us.”

self, goes on to describe how he sees this generation

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the

as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that

Sham Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong

you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls

with most of his family, including his wife, all but one of

and you’re always in the picture—always the center

his daughters, two sons-in-law and two grandchildren.

of everything.

It’s a place he later found is where his mother also did

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that

ministries in the 1950s, and allows him the continued

switches it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t

humbling opportunity to live out his journey working with

even see myself.”

the ultra poor to bring relief and sharing his spiritual ful-

Looking toward the future, Francis (non-prophetically, he clarifies, laughing) goes on to recall the story of his oldest daughter, Rachel—one of seven children and two grandchildren, when she was 5 years old.

fillment with others, even while enjoying a pickup game with locals on the neighborhood basketball court.

“It’s a pretty bizarre journey to think that, first of all, my wife has stood by my side for 27 years, and it’s just been

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city

an amazing marriage. Two years ago at our 25-year anni-

called Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was

versary, she asked me ‘Do you know of anyone on the

this old maze you walked through with only a few walls,

planet that is more blessed than we are? Because I feel

some little ceramic things you could paint and this big

like we’re the happiest people on earth. It’s almost like

bubble machine that was just a hula hoop dipped in

that can’t be true, but I haven’t found anyone happier,’”

bubble solution. There really wasn’t much more to it,

he says. “It’s one thing for me to say because that’s the

but she loved it.”

way I feel, but to hear that from my wife as well and those

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’”

truly to be her sentiments. It just feels like an impossible life all the way around.”

CityLifestyle.com/Memorial

29

JANUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

8 - 17

20

LIVE MUSIC IN THE PLAZA

CHEVRON HOUSTON MARATHON GOES VIRTUAL

26TH ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING PARADE HOUSTON

every weekend (weather permit-

The 49th Annual Chevron Houston

Celebrating its 26th Anniversary, the

ting). A new line-up with perfor-

Marathon,

Aramco

Parade is one of the largest single-day

mance times is posted every week.

Houston Half Marathon and We are

multicultural events in the U.S. that

Enjoy a wide range of sounds, from

Houston 5K will be virtual in 2021. The

is held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther

smooth jazz to Caribbean steel

virtual running events will take place

King, Jr. During The Annual MLK

drums, and classic rock to country.

over the course of 10 days. Participants

Grande Parade, 300,000 Spectators

Jan 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 6-9 pm.

can complete the distance between

are expected and has a viewing audi-

citycentrehouston.com

Jan 8-17. During this 10-day period

ence of more than 4,000,000. The

you will have the opportunity to sub-

annual

2

mit times for your desired distance.

Parade floats & 30 Marching bands.

chevronhoustonmarathon.com

mlkgrandeparade.org

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON PRESENTS "MANDELA: STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM"

8

23

LIVE FROM THE CULLEN: SASHA COOKE/KIRILL KUZMIN

STAGES REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS GALA AT THE GORDY

justice in South Africa. Visitors can

Two-time Grammy Award-winning art-

Gala at The Gordy will feature special

experience the tiny cell where Nelson

ist Sasha Cooke has been called a “lumi-

entertainment, a silent auction, and

Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in

nous standout” by the New York Times.

a meal by Wolfgang Puck Catering.

prison, take a stand in front of a giant

Cooke is an experienced recitalist who

Stages' annual fundraising event at

22-foot long by 9-foot tall armored

has performed at Carnegie Hall and the

their new home supports the theater’s

vehicle, or enter a secret apartment

Kennedy Center, among many others,

full scope of artistic, education and

for freedom fighters forced under-

and will draw from her extensive reper-

community engagement programs.

ground. hmh.org

toire for her digital recital with Houston

Chaired by Cabrina and Steven

Grand Opera. Studio alumnus and

Owsley, featuring Kay Brazelton Bruce

7-9

principal coach Kirill Kuzmin on piano.

as the event's honoree. Contact Gala@

houstongrandopera.org

StagesHouston.com or 346-335-8201

IMPROV HOUSTON PRESENTS WHITNEY CUMMINGS

9

Comedian Whitney Cummings is

SECOND SATURDAY AT SAWYER YARDS

City Centre

Come enjoy live music in the plaza

Holocaust Museum Houston

Mandela: Struggle for Freedom, is an experience explores the fight for

20th

Annual

Virtual

parade consists

of

15

Stages Repertory Theatre

for tickets. stageshouston.com

Improv Houston

best known for creating and starring in the NBC series Whitney, and

30

San Jacinto & Elgin Street

Virtual

Sawyer Yards

31 HOUSTON CHAMBER CHOIR: A TIME TO LIFT UP

she also co-created and co-wrote

The artists of The Silos, Silver Street,

the Emmy-nominated CBS com-

Winter Street, Sabine Street, and

Part of Houston Chamber Choir's vir-

edy series 2 Broke Girls. In 2019,

Summer Street Studios will open

tual season, A Time to Lift Up makes

Cummings

pod-

their studios to the public. Wander

its debut. There is nothing new in the

cast, Good For You, which features

through six repurposed warehouses

notion that teachers are essential.

her sitting down to interview both

and discover selections of painting,

However, the realization of just how

her friends and experts from a variety

sculpture,

photography,

resilient and fearless these profes-

of fields. Tickets $50-$210 per table.

clothing, textiles, printmaking, mixed

sionals are has lifted them to hero sta-

improvtx.com

media and more. Second Saturday

tus over the past year. A special tribute

is a free event and open to the public.

is paid to music educators and their

sawyeryards.com

students. houstonchamberchoir.org

launched

her

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

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31

OUR TOWN ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BRYAN MALLOCH

P L AC E S W E LOV E HOUSTON PHOTOGRAPHER BRYAN MALLOCH SHOWCASES THE BEAUTY OF HOUSTON.

JANUARY IS THE PERFECT TIME OF YEAR TO REFLECT ON WHAT A BEAUTIFUL CITY HOUSTON IS – ESPECIALLY AS SEEN THROUGH THE LENS OF LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER BRYAN MALLOCH. Self-taught, Malloch became interested photography about five years ago when he bought his first DSLR and hasn’t put it down since. His favorite place to capture great shots is along Buffalo Bayou “The contrast between dense urban development and lush greenery is a great backdrop for all kinds of photos.”

32

Memorial Lifestyle | January 2021

M EM ORIA L LIFESTYLE

TM

Let’s Take Care of Each Other.

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