River Oaks, TX August 2023

ARTS + CULTURE

INTRODUCING THREE HOUSTON ARTISTS YOU NEED TO KNOW

EDUCATION

CHANGE MAKERS: UNIQUE SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

FOOD + BEVERAGE

CHEERS TO 20 YEARS OF HOUSTON RESTAURANT WEEKS

BACK TO NATURE WITH CELEBRITY CHEF RICHARD SANDOVAL

Love Makes the World

Welcome to our Annual Kids and Pets issue!  This is one of my favorites, because this is ultimately an issue dedicated to LOVE.  Is there anything better?  Of course, our children and grandchildren hold irrefutable places in our hearts, but for many of us, our fur babies rank up there pretty high also, don’t they?  This month, our team has put together a fabulous collection of special finds, innovative resources, and colorful inspiration we hope you will love as much as we do.

In our cover feature, Palette Personalities, we invite you to meet three talented local artists who are expressing their love for animals in such beautiful ways.  From the most vibrant strokes to the most minute details which mimic photography, the art and journeys of these award-winning three women will astound you. I first met April Murphy last September at Karbach Brewery, at an event celebrating her limited edition can design of Light Circus Hazy IPA in honor of the Bayou City Art Festival.  Instantly, I fell in love with her use of color and vowed she would be featured in a future issue. You will find her stunning work “Praise Every Morning” on our cover this month.

With Change Makers , we are delighted to showcase some very special resources in the community, all of which exist to offer creative guidance, foster a positive learning environment, promote emotional well-being, and encourage the development of essential life skills in children through cutting-edge techniques and imaginative play. From home tutoring to occupational therapy, dyslexia, and autism support, to equine therapy, we hope these ‘hidden gems’ will touch your heart and connect you with the amazing pioneers behind these local businesses.

At its core, this highly anticipated issue is designed to spark meaningful conversations, inspire new ideas, and reaffirm the profound impact our children and pets have on our lives.

Last but not least, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to my Editor, Gabi De la Rosa, for her unwavering commitment to always bringing the best forward, whether in her coverage of a trendy new restaurant, a cool new boutique, or tossing down breadcrumbs for us to find our way back to our heartstrings. Thank you.

Please follow us on Instagram @riveroakslifestyle. I wish you joy in these final summer days.

SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Schakett

suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Gabriela De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Suzanne Schakett suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jeremy Hetmaniak jeremy.hetmaniak@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Savannah Schakett

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Laura SanchezQuan

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @riveroakslifestyle

1: Joe Kirk and Roland Coy-Burt at the VIP Grand Seiko event at Zadok Jewelers. 2: Dror and Helene Zadok during the VIP Grand Seiko event at their namesake store. 3: Duyen & Marc Nguyen, Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl at the BeDESIGN celebration introducing Frerejean Frères champagne. 4: Sneha & Nick Merchant at the BeDESIGN fête introducing Sorellina Rooftop and Frerejean Frères champagne. 5: The crowd enjoyed DJ Druw at the Glassell School of Art ‘weird’ gala. 6: Holly Josey, Michelle Whitney, Marina Fernandez at the Glassell School of Art ‘weird’ gala 7: Greg Cook & Dr. Roxy Riefkohl at the CAPS Celebrity Paws Gala launch party.

JACOB POWER

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

WILSON PARISH

WILSON PARISH

ALEX MONTOYA

ALEX MONTOYA

Dr. Koutrach is an exceptional prosthodontist with more than 25 years of experience in all aspects of prosthodontics: dental implants, crows and bridges, aesthetics dentistry and removable prosthesis. He has an energetic personality and impressive background. He is a board-certified prosthodontist and a Diplomate of The American Board of Prosthodontics, and also board-certified dental implantologist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology.

Dr. Koutrach received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, and his specialty training in prosthodontics and implant dentistry at Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1996. He also has completed a one-year implant fellowship at University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

Dr. Koutrach currently teaches part-time as an Associate Professor in The Department of Prosthodontics at The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston, and has published numerous articles related to prosthodontics and dental implant in several scientific dental journals.

Dr. Koutrach is a devoted husband and father and is happily married to his wife Racha and has two teenage children, Raman and Hay. When he is not working, Dr. Koutrach enjoys playing guitar, outdoor bicycling and traveling the world. He is someone who I believe can uphold the state of art and quality of care that I have afforded our patients. You will find him to be a competent and approachable practitioner who will take excellent care of our mutual patients.

I am pleased to welcome Dr. Mo Koutrach to our practice.

Aligning Your Brand With the Right Audience is Key.

For local business owners, we offer two publications to showcase your brand with the most affluent homeowners in these specific communities:

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Battle of the Bruschetta at Postino

Postino’s iconic bruschetta are throwing down this summer with the inaugural  Battle of The Bruschetta , a bracket-style competition between 8 limited time bruschetta recipes. Guests can order two competing bruschetta flavors and vote on their favorite by texting “BATTLE” to (602) 637-1510. The champion bruschetta will earn a permanent spot on the Postino menu this fall. The final rounds are from August 10 through September 6 and guests who vote will be entered to win a $50 gift card.

Photo courtesy of Postino

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Dyslexia School of Houston and Miss River Oaks Teen USA

Miss River Oaks Teen USA, Ellie Millett states, “In the third grade, I was diagnosed with dyslexia following careful observations made by my teachers. I am deeply appreciative of the subsequent process of dedicated brain retraining, as it has had a profound and lasting impact on shaping my education.” Millett will present at the upcoming Cirque Dy Slexia Gala on September 9, 2023.

Barbie™ x Kendra Scott Collection

The limited-edition nine-piece capsule collection inspired by positivity, individuality, and inclusion consists of three necklaces, two bracelets, and four pairs of earrings. Featuring the design and material innovations that the Kendra Scott brand is known for, paired with the iconic silhouettes and colors of the Barbie brand, the versatile collection includes convertible styles, as well as a variety of nostalgic and new designs.

Photo courtesy of Ellie Millett

Photo courtesy of Kendra Scott

ROOFING DONE RIGHT

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR STORM SEASON?

It is the perfect time to have the experts at Duque Roofing inspect your roof to ensure it’s safe and sound. We protect your family and give you peace of mind.

TRES CHIC

Pucci Café & Pet Boutique offers luxurious goods and gourmet offerings for pets and their parents.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLAUDIA CASBARIAN FOR JULIE SOEFER PHOTOGRAPHY

Pucci Café & Pet Boutique, a unique and luxurious concept, debuted at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch in Katy just last year. The vision for this one-of-a-kind establishment had been brewing in the minds of owners Maria and Bobby Davidson for several years, and they spared no effort in creating an exceptional place for their customers.

The inspiration behind Pucci Café came to the Davidsons during their frequent European trips, where it is common to see dogs accompanying their owners on street patios. However, they aimed to take this concept to new heights, transforming it into a sophisticated and upscale experience. Thus, Pucci was born. It is a destination for luxurious dog goods and a space where people can gather with their furry companions on a beautiful back

Pucci showcases a wide range of designer canine accessories imported from various countries worldwide, including an exclusive collection of dog spa products.

patio overlooking the serene Cinco Ranch Lake. While dogs are warmly welcomed, they are not a requirement for visiting.

The expansive 2,500-square-foot, multi-level dog-friendly patio at Pucci is a haven for canines. It features a fenced-in play area where patrons can leave their furry friends under the attentive supervision of a dedicated staff member while they explore the boutique inside.

Pucci Café itself offers an impressive array of high-quality offerings. From coffee and tea to specialty beers, wine, pastries, and charcuterie boards, there is something to satisfy every palate. Customers can enjoy a delightful snack while their four-legged companions indulge in tasty treats from the upscale gourmet dog bakery. Pucci is a sophisticated space to enjoy happy hours, morning meetings, or take a break during neighborhood walks.

The interiors of Pucci Café, designed by the Houston-based Gin Design Group, exude a European charm. With curvaceous millwork, accent lighting that creates a warm ambiance, and cascading greenery, the atmosphere is inviting and elegant. Plush textiles in rich jewel tones with houndstooth accents add

a layer of softness, perfectly contrasting the cool gray concrete plaster and cherry red mosaic tiles.

Maria Davidson, the co-founder of Pucci Café, describes it as a destination where both dogs and their owners can indulge in pampering and relish delicious beverages while enjoying the picturesque lake view. She emphasizes that Pucci offers a complete package of luxury, an inviting atmosphere, and fun.

In addition to the café, Pucci showcases a wide range of designer canine accessories imported from various countries worldwide, including an exclusive collection of dog spa products free from genetically modified organisms and harsh chemicals. The boutique boasts bejeweled collars, pet jewelry, exclusive dog carriers, high-end clothing, and more.

PUCCI CAFÉ & PET BOUTIQUE

LOCATION: 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Suite N200 in Katy, Texas.

WEBSITE: www.puccicafe.com

The La Centerra destination is a place where both dogs and their owners can indulge in pampering.

The café offers high-quality coffees, teas, specialty beers, wine, pastries, charcuterie boards and other sharable options.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

CHEERS TO 20 YEARS

CELEBRATING HOUSTON RESTAURANT WEEKS 20TH YEAR, HOUSTONIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO “DINE OUT & DO GOOD.”

Houston Restaurant Weeks (HRW), Houston’s highly anticipated foodie event, is set to celebrate its 20th year from August 1st to September 4th, raising crucial funds for the Houston Food Bank. This 35-day extravaganza will feature an impressive roster of the city’s most popular restaurants, offering specially priced prix fixe menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner, available for both dine-in and take-out options. Participants can expect an extensive selection of two to four-course meals, with restaurants from various neighborhoods joining the culinary celebration.

Since its inception in 2003 by Cleverley Stone, the renowned “Diva of Dining,” HRW has become a beacon of support for the local restaurant industry during the historically slow month of August. Stone’s vision to give back to the community and assist struggling restaurants has resulted in HRW becoming the largest event of its kind in the United States. Over the past two decades, HRW has raised

an impressive $18.8 million, equivalent to 56.4 million meals provided to those facing food insecurity in the region. This milestone year of HRW will be commemorated with a new logo, symbolizing the event’s commitment to making a positive impact. Brian Greene, president and CEO of the Houston Food Bank, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of the Cleverley Stone Foundation, stating, “We look forward to being a part of this event for the next 20 years.”

Following Cleverley Stone’s passing in 2020, her daughter Katie Stone has taken on the responsibility of carrying forward her mother’s legacy. Establishing The Cleverley Stone Foundation, Katie ensures the continuity of HRW while supporting Houstonians in need. Speaking to her mother’s legacy, she said, “HRW became my mother’s sole purpose. I know that she would be so happy that it continues to thrive.” houstonrestaurantweeks.com

LEFT: B&B Butchers and Restaurant, Chef Tommy's Bacon. Photo by Kristen Gilliam

MIDDLE: Traveler's Table, Nigerian Suya Skewers. Photo courtesy of Traveler's Table

RIGHT: Brennan's of Houston, Gulf Shrimp Pontchartrain.

Photo by Debora Smail

Change Makers

THESE UNIQUE SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WILL HELP THEM REACH THEIR GOALS AND THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL.

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

TutorVille

It’s a brand-new school year, and advancing to the next grade can be exciting for students. However, it can also be a source of stress and anxiety with new courses, new teachers, and sometimes a new school. In Houston, selective parents and their children have been flocking to locally-based TutorVille for over 14 years. Since its inception in 2009, the boutique concierge education service has built a reputation for excellence among discerning parents and kids.

TutorVille has worked with more than 10,000 students over the years, supporting students in primary school through college with its holistic, individualized, and nurturing approach to tutoring and homeschooling.

TutorVille provides academic tutoring for all core subjects, foreign languages, college courses, organizational and study skills, as well as test prep tutoring for ISEE testing, all standardized testing, entrance exams, honors exams, and more. At TutorVille, each student is custom matched with a highly trained, experienced, and motivated tutor who works diligently to maximize each student’s potential while also making learning exciting and fun. TutorVille offers students and families the flexibility of distraction-free learning at their corporate office or at-home learning. Through TutorVille’s mentorship program for middle and high school students, tutors are trained to build each student’s confidence, mentor them through all aspects of life’s cycles and nurture the whole child. To learn more about all that TutorVille can offer you and your family, please visit tutorvilletutors.com

TutorVille owner, Jess Rogers with students.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Foundations

Pediatric Therapy

At Foundations Pediatric Therapy, building strong and trusting relationships with the child and their family is a fundamental principle, whether through Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, or Feeding Therapy services.

Therapists at Foundations Pediatric Therapy understand that progress is not a linear path but rather a complex interplay of various factors. Thus they utilize the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR®)/ Floortime™ Model with every child that comes through the door, no matter their diagnosis or presenting problem. They take the time to understand what a child loves and what excites them, which enables therapy to become a more meaningful and motivating experience. Every child attending Foundations Pediatric Therapy wants to be there and has fun while doing “the work” to improve functioning at home, school, and in social environments.

Therapy plans are tailored to the specific needs of each child and family as Foundations Pediatric Therapy integrates a wide variety of evidence-based therapy techniques. Their in-depth knowledge of sensory processing, gross and fine motor skills, expressive and receptive communication, social-emotional skills, and more enables them to help determine where holes lie in each child’s development. Rather than placing a bandaid on problem areas or challenging behavior, they determine the underlying deficits and address them directly, leading to lasting and generalizing progress for your child. Foundations Pediatric Therapy also heavily emphasizes parent education and collaboration with teachers, caregivers, and other professionals on a child’s team.

Foundations Pediatric Therapy provides Occupational Therapy (OT), Speech Therapy (ST), and Feeding Therapy services for ages 0 to 18 and accepts older individuals on a case-by-case basis. foundationspediatrictherapy.com

"Building strong therapeutic relationships can cultivate lasting and meaningful change in our children's emotional, social, physical, and mental development."

– Foundations Pediatric Therapy

Photo courtesy of Foundations Pediatric Therapy

Apara Autism Centers

Apara was founded by parents of children on the autism spectrum, and their goal is to help children living with autism live to their fullest potential while giving parents and caregivers the help and information they need to make the right decisions for their child’s future.

Apara uses Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy (ABA), an evidence-based treatment for individuals diagnosed with autism and related disorders. ABA therapy and its principles are derived from years of scientific research and have been endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control since 1999. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid and the National Institute of Mental Health have also listed BA as the Standard of Care for individuals with autism.

ABA therapy is based on the principles of learning. When implemented at an individualized level, the treatment can decrease problem behaviors while increasing appropriate and wanted behaviors, such as communication and daily living skills. Apara’s Board Certified Behavior Analysts create individualized ABA treatment plans for each client based on initial and ongoing assessments.

With locations throughout the greater Houston area, Apara Autism Centers offers ABA therapy for children ages 18 months and up. Apara provides social skills, life skills, feeding programs, and parent training. Their team collaborates with the client’s speech and occupational therapy providers to ensure the best possible outcome. Apara Autism Centers accepts most insurance plans. aparaautism.com

"At Apara Autism Centers, we uncover a happy and empowering future for your child."

Photo courtesy of Apara Autism Center

Foundations Pediatric Therapy

Dyslexia School of Houston

Dyslexia affects 1 in 5 people who will be diagnosed with the neurobiological disorder. At the Dyslexia School of Houston (DSH), children receive the proper treatment needed to read and write. Since opening in 2020, DSH has served hundreds of families in the community lacking the customized support to ensure their children succeed beyond the classroom.

For founder and CEO Tammy Spencer, turning children with learning disabilities into spellers with superpowers, like confidence and character, results from her passion-filled efforts.

Spencer has joined forces with Scottish Rite for Children to provide the Take Flight, A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia curriculum in Houston and the surrounding areas. Scottish Rite is one of the nation’s leading pediatric orthopedic centers. A wide range of orthopedic conditions are treated, as well as certain arthritic, neurological, and learning disorders, such as dyslexia.

When Spencer founded DSH, she desired to bring quality curriculum, treatment, and learning to all children with dyslexia, regardless of their family’s ability to afford private therapy. As a public school educator for 27 years, she saw firsthand how students with learning disabilities statistically become entrepreneurs or incarcerated. The most significant catalyst in preventing the latter is the therapy and support DSH provides. “I want to be the solution,” Spencer says.

Thus, the 501c3 organization, The Code Academy, was founded in direct alliance with DSH to improve literacy by providing scholarships to children with dyslexia.

The Code Academy will benefit from the upcoming September 9th gala, Cirque Dy Slexia, hosted by DSH at The Health Museum and sponsored by Scottish Rite, among many other literacy and local supporters.

As DSH expands its scope across Houston in collaboration with Scottish Rite, they look forward to serving the Memorial community together. Development for DSH’s Certified Academic Language Therapist training center and lab school for children began earlier this year. dyslexiahouston.org

"At Dyslexia School of Houston, we recognize dyslexia as both a challenge and an opportunity. We're here to help students tap into their talent and build confidence in their reading ability."

Dyslexia School of Houston founder, Tammy Spencer and students. Photo courtesy of Dyslexia School of Houston.

Inspiration Ranch

Located on 40 sprawling acres in Magnolia, Inspiration Ranch uses equine-assisted therapy to help children, youth, and adults overcome physical, emotional, and social disabilities. The therapeutic riding program provides hope and encouragement while strengthening core muscles and improving mobility and communication skills.

Inspiration Ranch differs from similar programs because of its highly trained and skilled horses and experienced, compassionate staff. The keenly trained horses instinctively react to nonverbal cues, with a natural gift of analyzing a situation to encourage safe and healthy interaction no matter the obstacles to overcome. Inspiration Ranch team members are breaking barriers and shattering stigmas, allowing clients to reach their goals through equine therapy in a loving, inclusive Christian environment.

Since its opening in 2010, Inspiration Ranch has grown from 20 clients a week to serving over 115 therapeutic riding clients weekly and over 50 mental health clients annually. Committed to never turning away anyone due to financial reasons, Inspiration Ranch offers scholarships thanks to their partnering supporters. The volunteers at Inspiration Ranch play a vital role in making equine therapy programs available to the community; from side-walking during therapeutic sessions to committee members and ranch chores–every volunteer plays a valuable part in the mission of Inspiration Ranch. With an average of at least 175 volunteers each week serving at Inspiration Ranch, the volunteers often say they are the ones who are blessed to be there.

Safety is taken very seriously at Inspiration Ranch, with no compromise as a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. Inspiration Ranch strives to create a joyful, peaceful environment while maintaining harmony with the land, horses, and one another, honoring God in every encounter and action. inspirationranch.org

"Inspiration Ranch team members are breaking barriers and shattering stigmas, allowing clients to reach their goals through equine therapy in a loving, inclusive Christian environment."

Photo by Gerri Francis, Memories for Keeps

The Way You Age Matters

“Needing to place my mom in a care facility was one of the most difficult and daunting decisions we had to make. Care Patrol was patient, insightful, helpful, and empathetic to the challenge. They were on standby as my mom went back and forth from hospital to skilled nursing. My mother floundered and got sicker in skilled nursing facilities. Here in the home, Care Patrol found, she is flourishing and gaining strength as well as better cognitive function. I didn’t even know such places existed. Thank you so much.

I am forever grateful to Care Patrol.”

- LYNDA P.

Houston’s most anticipated dining event is celebrating its 20th year! That’s 35 days of delicious meals & super deals raising necessary funds for the Houston Food Bank. More than 250 of Houston’s most popular restaurants will serve specially priced, multi-course prix fixe menus.

PALETTE PERSONALITIES

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

In a stunning display of artistic ability, Mia Huckman , an 18-year-old prodigy from Lamar CISD, has set a new benchmark at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Auction. Huckman’s mesmerizing painting, “Our Last Roundup,” claimed the prestigious Grand Champion Work of Art title and fetched an astonishing $275,000, shattering the event’s previous sales record. For Huckman, this momentous achievement represents the realization of a lifelong dream. Huckman says, “I’ve always

Three talented Houston artists share why animals inspire their award-winning artwork.

"A Cowboy's Pride," Mia Huckman

considered myself an artist. I decided art was what I wanted to do for a career when I was around 13.”

Breaking records for two consecutive years with her rodeo art has both astonished and fulfilled her. She was caught completely off guard when she won, as breaking records wasn’t even a thought in her mind. However, the subsequent success filled her with a deep sense of pride, because of the significant milestone she had achieved.

The impact of Huckman’s work on others is proof of her remarkable talent. She humorously recounts instances where she has been approached for selfies and autographs, but cherishes the unexpected interactions.

Looking ahead, Huckman will attend Savannah College of Art and Design, where she hopes to be a concept artist and ultimately live abroad.

"Our Last Roundup," Mia Huckman. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Grand Champion.

April Murphy is an extraordinary Houston artist who has been drawing since childhood. As a young girl, her parents furnished her bedroom with a round yellow table and art supplies – it is where she discovered her love for art.

As Murphy’s artistic journey has unfolded, her work has evolved in remarkable ways. Her earlier pieces had a more straightforward aesthetic, but her creative vision has remained a constant throughout the years. Her current artwork has taken on a more intricate and multi-layered nature while retaining simplicity. Recently, a young girl summed up Murphy’s style at a Dallas art festival perfectly, describing it as a beautiful fusion of simplification and abstraction.

Murphy’s profound love for art extends beyond her own work. She is constantly immersed in the art world, whether through art festivals or alongside fellow artists at Sawyer Yards, which allows her to collect pieces from artists she admires.

Houston holds a special place in Murphy’s heart, particularly as a dedicated runner. She has discovered three cherished spots, which she calls “filling stations.” One is the Eastern Glades in Memorial Park, where she recently painted a breathtaking sunrise. The symphony of bullfrogs and the graceful presence of ducks create a serene atmosphere that fuels her creative spirit. Along Buffalo Bayou, Murphy finds inspiration in two picturesque locations—one offers a stunning view of the downtown skyline, while the other features a tranquil waterfall near Dunlavy. Rather than rushing through her runs, she deliberately pauses at these havens of natural beauty, finding renewal and artistic inspiration within their embrace.

Animals have always held a profound significance in Murphy’s life, and her affinity for them shines through her art. When she transitioned to painting as her full-time job, it was only natural for animals to become central to her artistic expression. Creating what she is genuinely passionate about allows her to forge a connection with her audience.

Murphy’s artistic journey began later in life, unexpectedly triggered by a layoff from her corporate marketing and graphic design job. Seeking solace, she turned to painting, never anticipating it would lead her to her true calling. Displaying her artwork in a neighborhood Starbucks was a life-changing decision that led to a fulfilling and lifelong artistic career. aprilmurphy.com

"Catch First Light" inspired by the Clay Family Eastern Glades. April Murphy

“People often tell me that they want to be an animal in my paintings – I take that as a high compliment.”

– April Murphy

"Concert for Two," April Murphy

Robin Kachantones

Robin Kachantones discovered her passion for art at an early age under the guidance of her father, who was an artist. From the moment she could hold a crayon, Robin was immersed in art. Surrounded by art supplies and observing her father’s painting and drawing lessons, her artistic journey began to take shape.

Over time, Robin’s work has evolved and as her skills have developed, her art is now remarkably close to its photographic references. However, Robin remains committed to a style that goes beyond photorealism. She tries to accurately capture the essence of her subjects while infusing her work with the unmistakable touch of an artist.

Robin draws inspiration from expressionism, pop art, and Renaissance portraiture – her art spans many styles. Her versatility and openness to exploring different aesthetics shine through in their creations.

An unexpected source of influence for Robin is the doubters who claimed she couldn’t make a living as an

artist. Robin embraces the unconventional, constantly pushing boundaries and surpassing expectations on her artistic journey – she is fueled by the determination to prove naysayers wrong.

In Houston, Robin finds inspiration in nature. She enjoys immersing herself in walks among trees, leaves, and moss to connect with the textures and elements around her. When depicting animals, Robin tries her best to capture their physical likeness and evoke the sensation of realism. This approach breathes life into the artwork, making it a vibrant reflection of her subjects.

Robin credits her love of animals to her rural upbringing, where horses, bunnies, chickens, ducks, cats, and dogs were her cherished companions. While her artistic repertoire extends far beyond pets, Robin acknowledges the profound bond between humans and animals and tries to immortalize that bond on canvas. www.robink.art

Robin Kachantones

Back to Nature

ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RICHARD SANDOVAL HOSPITALITY

Renowned chef Richard Sandoval ventures into children’s literature with his captivating debut, “Viva Abejas.” This enchanting book explores the themes of sustainability, the crucial role of bees in our food system, and the importance of conservation. The book, written for early readers and bee enthusiasts, follows young Ricardo on a transformative journey through his grandmother’s backyard.

In this heartwarming tale, Ricardo encounters a wise Queen Bee who becomes his enlightening mentor. Through their interactions, the young boy learns about pollination and the significance of protecting these industrious creatures. Sandoval seamlessly weaves an

engaging narrative that empowers children to understand bees’ vital role in maintaining a sustainable food cycle. Chef Sandoval concludes the book with his signature guacamole recipe to add a flavorful touch.

Its commitment to making a real-world impact sets “Viva Abejas” apart. Sandoval dedicates the book to three essential purposes: raising awareness about the sustainability of our food system, educating the next generation about bees, and giving back to the community. All proceeds from the book will be donated to two influential organizations.

The first beneficiary is the World Bee Project, which employs advanced AI technology to monitor the

Chef Richard Sandoval, of Four Seasons Houston restaurant Toro Toro, debuts his first children’s book.

Chef Richard Sandoval reading his book "Viva Abejas" to kids in Akumal, Mexico.

health of over 30,000 hives worldwide through the World Hive Network. The second organization is the Akumal Cultural Foundation, which supports a children’s library in Akumal, Mexico, where students learn about bees and sustainability as part of their curriculum.

Beyond children’s literature, Richard Sandoval is a global pioneer in contemporary Latin cuisine. With over 60 locations across four continents, he has combined Latin ingredients with modern culinary techniques, captivating diners worldwide.

“Viva Abejas” is a testament to Richard Sandoval’s multifaceted talents and dedication to making a positive impact. Through storytelling, culinary expertise, and philanthropy, Sandoval has created a captivating children’s book that educates, inspires, and raises awareness about the importance of bees and sustainable food practices. richardsandoval.com/viva-abejas

“Working towards a higher literacy rate with bee sustainability and their impact on the foods we eat is something I believe needs more amplification and is a teaching that can start with early learners.” – Chef Richard Sandoval

"Viva Abejas" is available on Amazon Prime. The book is meant to amplify awareness about sustainability of our food system via bees.