River Oaks, TX August 2022

LI F E + C U LTU R E

I NTRO DUCI NG FOU R YOU NG L ADIES RE ADY TO TAKE O N TH E WO RLD F O O D + B E V E R AG E

PET FRI EN DLY PATIOS FO R YOU R FU RRY LOVED O N ES HOME + DESIGN

TH E U LTI M ATE CLOSET M AKEOV ER

AU G U S T 2 022

m architecture believes in developing a strong relationship between client and architect. Owner/Architect, Megan Gaydou, has over 14 years of experience designing in the architecture world. Her focus on residential architecture was driven by her love of working with people and sharing the experience of creating a long lasting place of comfort through innovative design. ___________________________

“With the collaboration of practical design and creative solutions our designs serve as functional works of art.”

361.648.3633

meg@marchitecture.com www.marchitecture.com

Photography Credit : Josh Gremillion

GE T THE S MILE

YOU ’ VE ALWAYS WANTED

IMPL ANTS PROS THODONTIC S COSME TIC DENTIS TRY RECONS TRUC TIVE DENTIS TRY

W W W. E VO LU T I O N D E N T I S T RY H O U S T O N . C O M 5 0 B R I A R H O L LOW L N S T E 1 2 5 W H O U S TO N , T E X A S 7 70 2 7 ( 7 1 3) 2 3 4 - 6 6 9 2

August 2022 PUBLISHER

Alan Eixman | Alan.Eixman@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

A Little More Summertime AS SUMMER BEGINS TO WIND DOWN and the start of school approaches, our carefree days give way to busier schedules. Although the routine of school for our children is often a welcome friend, by the time August rolls around, it is generally a little bittersweet.

The summers tend to progressively feel like they fly by the older we get, as do the years, but the simple pleasures of summer never get old. Make those last few weeks of summer count by bringing in some last-minute adventure!

This month we are proud to spotlight four female graduates that have earned their degrees and are ready to spread their wings. These young women are intelligent, focused, and prepared to take on the world.

We are happy to introduce you to Ceci Torn, founder of Ethos Wellness.

She shares her story with us, along with tips on improving children's overall well-being.

For all of you pet lovers, we rounded up a list of restaurants with patios that will welcome your furry friends. The best part is that your kids will enjoy them too! Also in this issue, we are featuring an impressive closet makeover by Closet Concepts; plus, you can read about Laguna Beach and enter to win a free 2-night stay!

I hope you enjoy this issue!

EDITOR

Christa Eixman | christa.eixman@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Olivia Eixman AD DESIGNER

Hunter Richie LAYOUT DESIGNER

Eva Tucker CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Amanda Thomas, River Oaks Lifestyle Staff, Christa Eixman CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Dylan McEwan

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

C H R I S TA E I X M A N , E D I TO R @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/RIVEROAKS |

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 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 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Suzanne Kasler® Collection

7150 Old Katy Road • Houston, TX 77024 • 832-485-2100 • www.hickorychair.com/houston

AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 Girls on a Mission

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Lifestyle Letter

12

City Scene

16

Local Experiences

18

Local Limelight

26

Open House

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Local’s Choice

42

Trend Setter

46

Travel Journal

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Giving Back

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Events

These impressive high school graduates are ready to leave home and take on the world

26 The Ultimate Closet Makeover

Turn your old, outdated closet into the room of your dreams with the help of Closet Concepts

38 Two Careers, One Passion

Meet the Houston woman helping kids live their best lives

42 Pet Friendly Patios

The perfect patios to bring your whole family, including your furry friends.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Ren & Rose Photography 8

LI FE + C U LT U R E

HO ME + DES I GN WELLNES S

FO O D + B EV ER AG E T R AV EL

LI FE + C U LT U R E

Whether your taste is modern and contemporary or rustic and earthy, we will work with you to make sure you love your new space. Visit our online gallery to see the beauty and elegance we can bring into your home.

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AUGUST 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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JENNY ANTILL

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PRISCILLA DICKSON

2 EMILE C BROWNE

7 PRISCILLA DICKSON

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JENNY ANTILL

EMILE C BROWNE

PRISCILLA DICKSON

1: Event emcee Ilona Carson with Jamie Broach Bryd at the Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala 2: Tena Faust and Tama Lundquist looking chic at The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Luncheon 3: Linda McReynolds and Lynn Wyatt dining at The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Luncheon 4: Bryan and Deanna Kotrla with Rainey and Tom Richardson at the Stand Up For Brain Cancer Gala 5: CEO of Nan Properties, Nancy Almodovar and husband, Jose Almodovar with Ella the Nan Dog 6: Rosangela Capobianco, Milka Waterland, and Lianet Gurr at the Nan Properties birthday brunch benefitting the Houston Methodist nursing staff 7: Emeka and Uche Ndefo at the Stand Up for Brain Cancer Gala

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C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @riveroakslifestyle

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DANIEL ORTIZ

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ALEX MONTOYA

9 AMY CARMAN

14 ALEX MONTOYA

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DANIEL ORTIZ

AMY CARMAN

EMILE C BROWNE

8: Hector Villarreal, Bob Manelis, and Suresh Kumar enjoying Gentle Ben distillery cocktails 9: Amanda Mills and Roland Maldonado at the Christopher Martin Gallery and Valobra Master Jewelers summer VIP event 10: Abigail Henningsen, Antonio Cortez, Blake Kilgore and Ally Ondarza at the Christopher Martin/Valobra summer VIP event 11: Bahara Anna, Lana Page, Albina Kond, and Hector Villarreal admiring men’s clothing from Lucho 12: Jenny Carolina Restrepo and Clovis Restrepo enjoying the music at the Nan Properties annual birthday brunch 13: Courtney Zavala, author Ronel Golden, Natalie Ariz, and Sarah Pappas pose for a photo at Arsin Rug Gallery 14: Author Ronda Carman with Shelby Hodge at the “Art of the Pantry” book signing

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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CAR WRECK?

BRIAN

WHITE

MILLIONS RECOVERED MONTHLY 713.500.5000 3120 Southwest Fwy Suite 350

AUGUST 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

August is the hottest month of the summer, and the kids are starting to get restless!

As the end of summer approaches, cool off at these go-to spots around town.

Sweet Treats EVELYN'S PAR K: With a brand new splash pad and playground, Evelyn's is perfect for warm summer evenings. Grab a bite at Betsy's and check out their many free events! 4400 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX TODDLER SKATE AT DAIR Y ASHFOR D R OLLER R INK: On Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm, kids seven and under can practice skating in a relaxed, slow-paced environment. Rent skates or bring your child's favorite ride-on toy.

1820 S. Dairy Ashford , Houston, TX MILK + SUGAR : Cool off at this Houston-based creamery, which makes all of its ice cream in-house. Choose from many exotic flavors or create your own!

1848 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX TR ACK 21 INDOOR R ACING: Older kids will enjoy karting on two indoor racing tracks, while the younger ones can play a round of mini-golf or a game of laser tag. 4815 Highway 6 N Houston, TX SECR ET SPY GAME - CHILDR EN'S MUSEUM OF HOUSTON: Armed with intel, gadgets, and access to hidden clues, kids can crack codes, and outsmart villains in this SECRET spy experience! 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

T O US , IT’S ABOUT YOU 832-203-8161 | closetconceptshtx.com Call for a free design consultation or visit our showroom: 3410 Yale St, Houston, TX 77018

YOUR Space YOUR Taste

YOUR Budget

THESE IMPRESSIVE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES ARE READY TO LEAVE HOME AND TAKE ON THE WORLD

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

Girls on a Mission

Lauren White

COLLEGE: University of Utah FIELD OF STUDY: Communications/ Nursing

WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER ASPIRATIONS? I want to go into the medical field. I enjoy aesthetics and skin care and would love to be a dermatologist.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED? Always challenge yourself. Don’t be afraid of failing.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? When someone I know does not think I can achieve a goal, it drives me to succeed more than anything.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED? Before I leave the house, my mom says, “Remember who you are.” Mostly, I found it annoying that it was on repeat every time I left the house, but I’ve come to realize that making certain poor decisions is not part of who I am. It was a short quote, but will never forget being the truest to myself.

WHAT CAUSE ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Stricter laws in the US to end school shootings.

Going to school afraid of a shooter is not acceptable.

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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Caitie Torn

COLLEGE: Texas A&M FIELD OF STUDY: Communications

HOW CAN A PERSON MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE? Being devoted to other people’s success. The most successful people I know are constantly pouring into others.

WHO INSPIRES YOU THE MOST? My grandfather, Sam Torn, is the owner and director of Camp Ozark and Camp OTX. He made it his life’s mission to bring kids to Christ, and he is devoted to impacting the lives of others. He taught me how important it is to pour into the lives of others and showed me the reward it brings to yourself.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Serving underserved children. Every summer, I spend a week at my family’s camp devoting that whole session, 24/7, to impacting the lives of kids who don’t have the material things, guidance, or role models I had.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED? To look at life in the long term and make decisions considering the bigger picture rather than seeing things in the present.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Olivia Jenkins

COLLEGE: University of Oklahoma FIELD OF STUDY: Nutrition

WHAT ARE YOUR CAREER ASPIRATIONS? I plan to become a nutritionist or dietitian to help people with their health goals. I try to eat healthy with less processed foods, and I think that is important for everybody.

HOW CAN A SINGLE PERSON CHANGE THE WORLD? You have to take care of your part in the world and be a good person that is kind to others.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED? My mom taught me that you must work hard for what you want.

HOW HAS HIGH SCHOOL PREPARED YOU FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER? Learning to manage my time and keeping a schedule has helped me achieve my goals and decrease my stress.

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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Olivia Eixman

COLLEGE: Texas State University FIELD OF STUDY: Business

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED? Taking many advanced courses required lots of extra studying and homework, and I learned many skills like organization, time management, perseverance, and balance.

WHO INSPIRES YOU THE MOST? My mom because she sets a great example of how to be a hardworking, independent woman who has a healthy lifestyle.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED? My dad always says, “You won’t know until you try.” I often stray from trying new things because I’m afraid of failure, but there are so many missed opportunities in having that mindset.

HOW CAN YOU MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE? I strongly believe in “treat others how you want to be treated.” I think if people would use that in their everyday life, it would significantly improve society.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

tuum?

Quel est votre héritage?

Was ist Ihr vermächtnis? quid legatum

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THE ULTIMATE

CLOSET MAKEOVER TURN YOUR OLD, OUTDATED CLOSET INTO THE ROOM OF YOUR DREAMS WITH THE HELP OF CLOSET CONCEPTS

ARTICLE BY CHRISTA EIXMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DYLAN MCEWAN

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

GETTING ORGANIZED CAN BE IMPOSSIBLE without a suitable space and the right system for your storage needs. While a cluttered, unorganized, and stuck in the past closet may be unpleasant to look at, living with one may be even more challenging. Not to mention the hassle created by having more clothing items than room to fit them. We have all been there, having to wrestle that over-stuffed rod to find the garment you're looking for, just to see it creased and wrinkled from being packed tight.

The homeowner for this project was fed up with the lack of space in her master closet, causing her to have clothing spread out through whichever spare rooms had extra closet space. Working with Closet Concepts HTX, a company specializing in designing, manufacturing, and installing custom storage systems, the homeowner's closet transformed into the perfect space with the ideal custom system specifically tailored to her needs and taste.

Closet Concepts HTX handled the space planning and construction of the expansion and designed, manufactured, and installed the new closet system. In addition, they selected and installed new flooring, lighting, and countertops. The master closet is now a functional and opulent oasis with plenty of storage and high-end finishes to fit in with the rest of the home.

Read on to see what changes and additions Closet Concepts

INCREASE SPACE: This house has a ton of square footage, but the closets

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were relatively small for the size of the home. The homeowner was storing items in whichever closets throughout the house had extra space. By opening up the wall between the master closet and the room on the other side, an additional 250 sq ft was added, creating a closet large enough for all the homeowner’s items to be housed in one location.

CONTINUED CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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CUSTOM CABINETRY: Cabinets are

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

a great way to organize space and ensure that everything is as easy to access as possible. Since cabinetry and storage systems are what Closet Concepts HTX specializes in, they were able to create a system that made the space most functional. The doors and drawer facing were custom-matched to the existing top-of-the-line fixtures throughout the master, so there wouldn’t be a conflict of styles.

ENHANCED LIGHTING: Closets can be dark, narrow spaces that can quickly become disorganized, making it hard to find anything. Incorporating lighting is one of the most important things to add. While system lighting adds a lot of function, it is also a great way to create a “wow” factor to the system as a whole. It can also highlight a display cabinet for purses, shoes, or other show-worthy pieces.

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CUSTOM ISLAND: This particular island includes jewelry drawers, pull-out shoe storage, and a bench to sit on. The highlight of this island is the built-in hamper. Available in tilt out and slide out, they allow for a seamless look while keeping the functionality. Because the bags are removable, they can be taken to the laundry room without hassle.

MOTORIZED HANGING RODS: These rods allow the homeowner to utilize that hard-toreach space at the top of their closet as the rod will come down to a reachable level that they can easily put back up. Traditional hanging rods are generally manual, but the pull-downs used for this project are motorized, so they come down on their own with the simple press of a button.

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PACKING ROOM WITH DRAWER SAFE: An

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additional space was added for luggage storage and packing, as this particular family travels quite a bit. This space has a wrap-around counter for laying out clothes and nice deep shelving for storage. There is also a loose safe drawer to store travel valuables such as a passport.

FULL HEIGHT, 360 DEGREE MIRRORS: One of the most stunning features of this closet is the dressing room style, full-height mirrors arranged to allow a view from all angles, similar to a dressing room at a high-end store. The mirrors are framed to match the closet system, along with the addition of crown molding and dimmable lighting.

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Experience you can trust Carol is known for providing her clients with first-class, top-notch service from start to finish.

Carol Rowley

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REALTOR®

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832.277.1552

I

carol.rowley@compass.com

Ranked #72 in Sales Volume in the State of Texas by RealTrends 2022 Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

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AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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Let this neighborhood spot spoil you for dinner and/or brunch!

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Two Careers, One Passion

MEET THE HOUSTON WOMAN HELPING KIDS LIVE THEIR BEST LIVES ARTICLE BY AMANDA THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CAMP OTX AND ETHOS BEHAVIORAL GROUP

Not many people can say they have two careers they’re passionate about.

But Ceci Torn, DSW, LPC-A, is one of them.

The Houston mother of five is the CEO of Ethos Wellness, part of the Ethos Behavioral Health Group family of mental and behavioral health treatment centers.

She is also director of camper care at Camp OTX, a residential summer camp for kids.

So how did she find herself immersed in what appears to be two separate worlds?

Well, it all started in 2005, when she and her husband, Chris, left their corporate jobs to begin a journey that would take them to the great outdoors. They joined Chris’ parents in the family business running residential summer camps at Camp Ozark in Arkansas.

While there, Ceci developed a camper care program. Over the years, she saw an increase in the behavioral health needs of children and their parents’ willingness to talk about what their children were going through.

This sparked her interest in building policies and programs to meet behavioral health needs. So she returned to school to obtain her master’s from Wake Forest and

Ceci Torn, DSW, LPC-A

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | WEL L NE S S

her doctorate from the University of Southern California.

This allowed her to become a licensed professional counselor, delivering direct clinical services to children, adolescents and adults — providing individual and family therapy.

“I fell in love with being able to sit in a space with someone who is stuck and provide support for them to move forward,” she says. “I found it to be a very sacred place and a real honor to participate in that work.”

While working as a therapist, she partnered with Will Davis and Robert Hilliker, LCSW-S, LCDC, to found Ethos Behavioral Health Group in 2018. The company has grown considerably and, over the last 18 months, has increased its focus on expanding its services for children and adolescents.

But her work didn’t end there. In the summer of 2021, Camp OTX was launched. Her husband, Chris, serves as the director, and they now spend their summers bringing the Ozark model of camping to kids in the Texas Hill Country.

“Being Native Texans ourselves, raising our family in Houston, it was a natural fit to expand here,” she explains.

Residential camping and behavioral health care are different. But in many ways, the work is very similar.

In both spaces, she works with children, adolescents and families to improve their well-being. Ethos Behavioral Health Group exists to provide support to help people cope with existing mental disorders and substance abuse issues.

“Over time, I see their ability to thrive, spend time with their peers, have success in academic and social settings, and find a path back toward the things they enjoy,” she says.”

Camp OTX, on the other hand, is about fun and growth, providing a space for kids to discover agency and independence, go on outdoor adventures and make new friends.

“What I love about working with children is that they see the world actually as it should be with less bias and more curiosity and excitement,” she says. “To be able to provide fun, well-run, safe, excellent programming for children is my passion.”

CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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Kids and Mental Health: Advice for Parents

ENCOURAGE KIDS TO GET ACTIVE. Hiking, playing sports, swimming and other outdoor activities will give them access to sunshine and vitamin D, which are vital to mental and physical health.

ASK FOR HELP. If you notice your kids are losing interest in things they used to enjoy or are significantly more anxious around activities that used to not induce anxiety, call a trusted behavioral health group to get an assessment.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE. In order to take care of your kids and make the best decisions on their behalf, working on your health and well-being is a great place to start.

To learn more about Ethos Wellness or get help, visit ethoswellness.com.

For more information on Camp OTX, visit campotx.com.

“I fell in love with being able to sit in a space with someone who is stuck and provide support for them to move forward,” 40

LOCA L’S CH OICE | WEL L NE S S

IMPARALI C U S T O M

T A I L O R S

SOLD IN 3 DAYS OVER ASKING

5214 Eigel Unit B, 77007

BUY | SELL | RELOCATION (832) 928-3208 · jane.thomas@compass.com www.janethomasrealtor.com 4200 Westheimer, Suite 1000 Houston, TX 77027

3100 Timmons Lane, Suite 125 Houston, TX 77027 281-888-7633

imparali.com

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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D’A L B A

6 D O G F R I E N D LY PAT I O S ( T H AT YO U R K I D S W I L L L O V E T O O!) THE PERFECT PATIOS TO BRING YOUR WHOLE FAMILY, INCLUDING YOUR FURRY FRIENDS. ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

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Photo courtesy of d'Alba

D'alba offers elevated Modern-American cuisine in an elegant, family-friendly atmosphere. Some menu highlights include pizzas with house-made dough, fresh salads, and handmade pasta. Their entire huge patio is dog friendly, with plenty of space for your kids to roam around as well. 3715 Alba Rd, Houston, TX 77018

Valencia's has top-notch food with festive decor and an upbeat vibe. Their dog-friendly patio offers tons of shade, fans, and water to keep your pet cool. They also host several events each year, including a Halloween doggie costume contest and a Christmastime pet supply drive. 2009 W 34th St Suite A, Houston, TX 77018

VA LENCI A’S TE X-ME X Summer brings warm evenings and a lot of opportunities to eat outside at restaurants and cafes with your friends and family. If you love dogs as much as we do, you know that leaving your dog at home can be one of the hardest parts of enjoying an evening out. Thankfully, there are some great options for dining with your pets that even your kids will love!

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Photo courtesy of Valencia's Tex-Mex Garage

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RELISH

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Photo courtesy of Monkey's Tail Photo courtesy of Relish

M O N K E Y ’ S TA I L

Serving cold beer, creative cocktails, and great food, this quirky and modern pub is a great place to bring your pets. Their expansive, dog-friendly patio has picnic tables, umbrellas, TVs, and plenty of fans.

Kids are welcome until 8 pm daily. 5802 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009

Photo courtesy of Heartbeet

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With American classics doused with Mediterranean influences, Relish uses fresh and local ingredients served in a chic, upscale setting appropriate for the whole family. Kids can order classic favs from the kids' menu, and your furry loved ones will enjoy the fabulous shaded patio. 2810 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098

With healthy selections for little ones, this spot is a great place to bring the entire family. Favorite menu items include baked goat cheese, lemon pasta with shrimp, and smoked salmon avocado toast. Their pet-friendly patio provides plenty of shade, with a small green space nearby. 2003 W 34th St E, Houston, TX 77018

L O C A L TA B L E

HEARTBEET

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The food and drinks at this new plant-based restaurant are made entirely of fresh ingredients, including locally-sourced fruits, juices, vegetables, and plantbased proteins like tofu and black beans. Heartbeet also offers a kid's menu and welcomes furry friends on their patio. 14714 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

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Laguna Beach

Why This Quintessential California Colony Should Be Your Next Travel Destination!

Visit

There’s a reason people visit the southern California coastal city of Laguna Beach an average of five times in their lifetime. From its stunning ocean side bluffs overlooking 30 Pacific Ocean beaches and coves to its fusion of beautiful canyon wilderness with tranquil ocean life, fresh-ingredients cuisine and eclectic arts culture, Laguna Beach is a time-honored destination full of vibrant and invigorating seaside experiences.

This month, our City Lifestyle community of luxury travel enthusiasts are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Laguna Beach to present a breathtaking view into this idyllic West Coast artist community. Plus, together, we have created an exclusive GIVEAWAY opportunity to win a 2-night trip for two. Get ready to experience the upscale and creative culture alongside the lively, yet quirky personality of Laguna Beach!

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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Ente r for a chance to win a geta way to Laguna Beach!

Read on for details.

When it comes to prestigious travel hospitality, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is highly regarded by luxury and discerning travel authorities such as Conde Nast, Forbes, and Travel & Leisure for its congenial service, elevated ambiance and reputable guest experience.

The upscale, outdoor wellness offerings range from the uniquely designed 9-hole golf course within the canyon setting to the full-time farmer facilitating outstanding local dishes offered on the original homestead of Laguna Beach.

At the helm of this privately owned ranch is lifelong Laguna Beach resident Mark Christy, who works alongside his wife Laurie, who hails from surfing pioneer Hobie Alter. Together they took the original architecture of this hotel property and fully renovated it from top to bottom.

With a strong focus on sustainability, the property centers itself on earth-friendly practices such as line-caught seafood from neighboring coves, genuine farm to table ingredients from the Harvest Garden (which guests can tour), recycled glass and composting that return to the sand and dirt on site, and other sustainability measures.

When it comes to feasting on the local fare, resident restaurant and bar, Harvest, focuses on organic farming for seasonal breakfast, lunch and dinner options.

It boasts beautiful 180-degree views of Aliso Canyon as well as craft cocktails to sip and savor while overlooking the first tee of the golf course.

If sand beneath your feet is more your dining style, make the short walk to Aliso beach where you will find Lost Pier, an elevated eatery serving the likes of warm beignets and coffee in the morning, and ceviche, shrimp rolls and fisherman’s catch fish tacos for lunch. Gather your fellow travelers around an oceanfront fire pit complete with beach chairs and umbrellas. Enjoy live music every night where locals mix in with the guests at this popular venue.

The Ranch’s 9-hole golf course and country club has views unlike any other. Take in the tranquil canyon aesthetic where deer frolic, and you’ll soon forget anything other than the moment you are in.

Laguna Beach has also had a massive impact on the surfing world, which began with native Californian Hobie Alter who invented the fiberglass surfboard that you’ll find most common with both pros and surf hobbyists. Surfing remains an important element of Laguna Beach’s culture, and nearby Dana Point is the most famous beach for “skimboarding” on the accessible shore waves, in which surfers run into the approachable waves, throw their boards down, and surf their way into the ocean.

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And what would the Laguna Beach culture be without all of the seaside activities? Kayaking, snorkeling and diving, whale and dolphin watching, SUP—you name it, you can experience it. In fact, Laguna Beach is not only the top place in the world to shore dive, but their dolphin community is larger than Florida, Hawaii and the Caribbean combined, thanks to their marine protection program enlisted years ago that attracts marine life to the calm waters and rich kelp to feed on.

Take a two-hour guided kayak tour and visit Seal Rock for more sealife observation.

Throughout your stay, you of course will want to make your way into town for endless entertainment options of “Laguna flavor.” Visit the community theater, The Laguna Playhouse, where Harrison Ford got his start.

Hop on a free trolley and pop from brewpub Laguna Beach Beer Company pouring locally made craft beer, to one of two wine-tasting rooms where McClain Cellars serves award-winning wines from Santa Ynez Valley.

If craft beer is your jam, LBBC names each creation after different places around the community, even dubbing one “The Greeter” after an infamous tourist who never left the area, greeting all who entered this inviting and charming town.

If wine is more your style, McClain Cellars only offers their wine locally in Laguna Beach, outside of their Santa Barbara area vineyard. The “you can only find it here” sentiment is a special aspect of Laguna Beach and supports why people return repeatedly and begin to call this place their home away from home.

Complement your thirst with a variety of cuisines among more than 100 restaurants to choose from.

Local favorites include The Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill for a twist on Hawaiian flavors in a tiki-style venue, Las Brisas for its incredible brunch menu and scenic views of Laguna’s Heisler Park overlooking cliffs that resemble the French Riviera, Broadway by Amar Santana for some of the most elevated cuisine you will find from a multi-Top Chef finalist, along with cocktails crafted seasonally by the restaurant’s mixologist. Lastly, The Cliff Restaurant offers one of the best views in the area with all outdoor eating and delicious tacos.

Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll find a wide selection of live music and festivals. Two notable summer festivals include the Pageant of the Masters where famous paintings come to life… literally on human bodies that pose to look like counterparts in the originals, as well as the Sawdust Art & Craft Festival with a focus on locally made crafts.

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You’ll also find live music at many of the restaurants around town, including Mozambique and The Cliff Restaurant, perfect places to relax and enjoy after exploring the area’s abundant art galleries. Take advantage of First Thursday’s Art Walk year round, often including live paintings and musicians, dance performances and gorgeous art you won’t find anywhere else.

Take the trolleys from gallery to gallery, and be sure to include the Laguna Art Museum, the second oldest museum in the state of California, specializing in California-themed art and artists. A special component to the Laguna Beach art scene is its foundation on ‘en plein air’ paintings, the outdoor painting style that Monet made famous. Every year the Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational attracts painters from around the country

to participate in a week’s worth of events, including a two-hour challenge of live painting. Visitors can enjoy this unique experience only in Laguna as they observe the variations between the artists, even being able to purchase the creations while the paint is still wet.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for art collectors looking to add to their personal assortment.

In short, Laguna Beach is seven miles of coves and beaches uniquely its own with breathtaking cliffs and recreational canyons and a hippy-loving-self-expression-embracing artist colony that you won’t want to miss in this lifetime. What you see today strongly resembles what you would have seen 50 years ago. Laguna Beach is a special destination, and we hope we have inspired you to add it to your travel bucket list!

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WIN a 2-night GETAWAY to Laguna Beach!

City Lifestyle and Visit Laguna Beach are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Laguna Beach, CA with the ultimate Southern California escape encompassing scenic canyon and seaside views, fresh chef-driven cuisine and local recreation.

This giveaway closes on August 31, 2022. This trip must be taken by August 31, 2023.

For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitlaguna on Instagram and tag friends and family on the August 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

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$2,300 LAGUNA BEACH GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • •

2 nights at The Ranch at Laguna Beach Breakfast at Harvest Tickets to The Laguna Playhouse Guided Kayaking Tour with Laguna Ethos Tickets to Laguna Art Museum $200 Visa Gift Card for Dining

20 2 1 T O P P R O D U C E R

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Alexandra Killion, Shellyn Shoenthal, and Missy Amschwand Bellinger

Joie de Vivre ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY

Alexandra Killion assembles all-star team from Houston’s design community in preparation for the first annual La Petite Maison Gala.

Some of Houston’s most renowned architects, builders, and interior designers are teaming up to create one-of-a-kind dollhouses to be auctioned off benefitting ASCF

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

Houston interior designer Alexandra Killion released official details surrounding the debut of the first annual La Petite Maison Gala to be held on September 7 at The Junior League of Houston. Centered around a collection of oneof-a-kind dollhouses created by distinguished builders, architects, and designers, the gala will benefit A Shelter for Cancer Families (ASCF). This organization provides private residences and support services for families receiving cancer care in the Texas Medical Center.

“We’re thrilled to be named the beneficiary of the La Petite Maison Gala,” said ASCF Director of Development and Communications Shellyn Shoenthal. “This innovative fundraising effort would not be possible without the creative capabilities and generous spirit of the Houston design community, and we’re grateful to the architects, builders, designers, and sponsors involved.”

Killion selected ASCF, whose passion for home design, art, and architecture began at an early age. Born and raised in Houston and the daughter of celebrated opera singer Paul Fink, Killion traveled extensively as a young girl. She completed her B.A. at the University of Texas at Austin before continuing her design training at several firms and garnering experience in a range of specialties. In 2019, Killion founded her eponymous design firm.

“Since the beginning of my career in design, I’ve sought to leverage my industry expertise to benefit the Houston community, and the La Petite Maison Gala is the embodiment of this vision,” says Killion. “ASCF’s impact is remarkable, and their work providing housing and support services to families during their cancer journey is a lovely tie-in to our work as designers. Living in a home environment that’s safe and serene is life-altering, and ASCF provides homes like this for people enduring unimaginable hardship, free

of charge. I’m thrilled to rally around ASCF alongside such an accomplished group of Houston designers. Initial enthusiasm for the gala from these colleagues and the Houston community at large has been awe-inspiring, and we look forward to an incredible event in September.”

Several dollhouse creators attended the La Petite Maison kick-off event on May 11, a Champagne Pop Up at The Avenue. Hosted by The Avenue owner and ASCF Board member Lyndsey Zorich, the event was a festive opportunity for Houstonians to meet the talent behind the dollhouses and learn more about the September gala and ASCF. Sponsorship levels for the La Petite Maison Gala range from $500 to $5,000 and tickets are $175 per guest. During the week leading up to the gala, attendees will enjoy the opportunity to view the completed dollhouses at sponsor locations. To learn more about La Petite Maison Gala, visit petitemaisongala.com.

Teaming up to create the one-of-a-kind dollhouses are some of Houston’s most renowned architects, builders, and interior designers:

DOLLHOUSE ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION Newberry Architecture Erin Stetzer, Stetzer Builders

DOLLHOUSE DESIGNERS Alexandra Killion, Alexandra Killion Interiors Ashton Taylor Oberhauser, Ashton Taylor Interiors Courtnay Tartt Elias, Creative Tonic Design Devon Liedtke, Devon Liedtke Hallie Henley Sims, Hallie Henley Design Julie Dodson Webster, Dodson Interiors Meg Lonergan, Meg Lonergan Interiors Sari Imber Moore, SariImber Interiors

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AUGUST 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

J U LY 2 8T H AU GUST 6T H

Houston Shakespeare Festival

AU G U ST 4 T H & 5T H

Kevin Hart: Reality Check Tour 2022

AUG U ST 1 6T H - 2 1 ST

AU G U ST 1 0 T H

MILLER OUTDOOR THEATER , 6 0 0 0 H E R MA NN PA R K DR I V E , H O USTO N, T X 7 7 0 30 Houston Shakespeare Festival returns to live performances of King Lear and Cymbeline in the summer of 2022. Come check out these free performances in collaboration with the University of Houston and Miller Outdoor Theater.

T HE TOYOTA CEN TER , 1510 POL K ST R E E T, H O USTO N, T X 7 7 0 0 2 Toyota Center is excited to welcome back Pollstar’s comedy touring artist of the decade Kevin Hart for two shows on August 4 & 5. This will be Hart’s first major tour in over four years!

Mean Girls - The Musical

T HE HOBBY CEN TER Direct from Broadway, Mean Girls is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer TINA FEY (“30 Rock), composer JEFF RICHMOND (“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), lyricist NELL BENJAMIN (Legally Blonde) and director CASEY NICHOLAW (The Book of Mormon).

Los Lobos with special guest Nuevo

T HE HEIG HTS THEATER - 339 W 1 9 T H ST. H O USTO N T X 7 7 0 0 8 | 8 :0 0 P M Rescheduled from its original date of May 14th. Los Lobos leaps headfirst into their fifth decade as they open fresh and exciting new Gates of Gold, their first full-length studio album since 2010. They will be joined by Tejano Soul band, Nuevo.

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AU G U ST 2 6T H

Jack Johnson with Ziggy Marley

T HE CYN THIA WOODS MITCHE L L PAV I L I O N, 20 0 5 L A K E R O B B I NS DR , T H E WO O DL A ND S , T X 7 738 0 | 7:15 PM Jack will perform his eighth studio album and first full-length release in five years, Meet The Moonlight. The album was released on June 24th to coincide with the start of his summer tour.

AU G U ST 2 7 T H

An Evening with Lyle Lovett and His Very Large Band

SMART FIN AN CIAL CEN TRE, 18 1 1 1 L E XI NGTO N B LV D, S UGA R L A ND, T X 7 7 4 7 9 | 7 :30 P M Texas native Lyle Lovett will be performing in Sugar Land on his last stop on his summer tour. In an intimate and conversational setting, Lovett will be performing songs from 12th of June, his first album in over a decade.

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