District: Spring 2012

TM

A CITYCENTRE MAGAZINE

SPRING SUMMER 2 0 1 2

Your Ultimate Bridal Planning Source Green eating guide Must-have fashion Wheels to go

EAT, SHOP, LIVE: S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 12

Where to do it all in style!

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PLANNING THE PERFECT EVENT?

FROM WEDDINGS, SOCIAL EVENTS TO CORPORATE EVENTS; HOTEL SORELLA IS THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS.

OUR ATTENTION TO EVERY LAST DETAIL LEAVES NOTHING TO CHANCE.

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HOTEL SORELLA CITYCENTRE 800 SORELLA COURT

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77024

WWW.HOTELSORELLA-CITYCENTRE.COM T.713.973.1600

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F.713.973.1601

TOLL FREE RESERVATIONS.866.842.0100

2/28/12 4:55 PM

WORLD-CLASS AMENITIES CITYCENTRE THREE & FOUR

CITYCENTRE | I-10W AT BELTWAY 8 | CITYCENTREHOUSTON.COM

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Two towers with 240,000 SF of Class-A office space & retail under development at CITYCENTRE. now leasing for fall 2012 occupancy.

WORLD-CLASS AMENITIES: 

Hotel Sorella, 255-room luxury flagship hotel offering spacious & stylish residential-style guest rooms, connected via skywalk to the 5,000 SF Sorella Meetings & Events Centre & 30,000 SF state-of-theart Norris Conference Centers.



CITYCENTRE is a landmark mixed-use development with carefully chosen retail, restaurant, fitness & entertainment tenants that attract over 11,150 people a day to the district.



Exciting environment providing more than 135 unique events at CITYCENTRE in 2011.

MIDWAY | 713.629.5200 COLVILL OFFICE PROPERTIES | 713.877.1550

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DISTRICT

Spring & Summer 2012

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

14 | Weddings at CITYCENTRE

6 | Memo

CITYCENTRE offers the ultimate in one-stop luxury wedding planning, attracting

Welcome to DISTRICT magazine—and to the delights of CITYCENTRE!

out-of-towners as well as Houstonians who want a “destination wedding”—without the trouble of travel.

20 | Are you man enough to visit a spa?

9 | Front & Centre The scoop on what to wear, where to eat and how to have fun in our dazzling district.

Most guys scoff at the thought of spa treatments. So did the author, until he met his

12 | Get This Look

masseuse.

How to make a Paris runway style your own—without leaving the neighborhood.

22| Soothing Sedona

40 | Wine and Dine in Style

There’s balm for the spirit in this stunning Southwest setting.

Take a sip, take a bite and take your time at The Tasting Room wine café.

28 | Sexy Accents

42 | Cocktail Calorie Countdown

How to finish an outfit beautifully? Choose the perfect handbag, of course. That’s

Be the toast of the town with your choice of libations, from light to indulgent.

what Audrey would do.

36 | Your Guide to Green Eating

44 | Things to Do Live music, dancing, group cycling, a doggy party and much more—all happening

Try these four tips to make your diet more earth-friendly.

at CITYCENTRE this season!

38 | Immortal Oil

46 | Tenant Directory

The fruit of the ancient olive tree yields one of nature’s most sublime creations.

48 | Get Your Motor Running The world’s “supercars” are a rare and special breed—and so are the people who

ON THE COVER Anthropologie, featured, is one of many sophisticated retail options at CITYCENTRE. Photo

love them.

by SHANNON O’HARA.

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THE PLACE TO GO

in Houston for food & cocktails, coffee & pastries, flowers & friends! Flora & Muse—a bistro & bar and late-night eatery all nestled into one spot—the heart of CITYCENTRE!

EVENTS & LIVE MUSIC

PRIVATE & CORPORATE EVENTS We can accommodate from 10-200 guests!

FRESH FLOWERS Choose from a pre-made arrangement or have our resident florist put something special together for you.

LIVE MUSIC: OPEN MIC TUESDAY

Live performances by our host and local performers.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

Dance the night away to rhythmic beats provided by local musicians.

SUNDAY MUSE HOURS

Relax with live jazz music and special food & wine packages.

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday from 4-7pm Enjoy great food & drink specials!

STAY CURRENT SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

at www.floraandmuse. com for our specials and upcoming events.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

at www.facebook.com/ floraandmuse

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

@floraandmuse

12860 Queensbury Lane, Suite 143, Houston, TX 77024 • 713-463-6873 • www.floraandmuse.com

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DISTRICT

welcome!

CITYCENTRE ONE 8 0 0 T O W N & C O U N T R Y B LV D. , SUITE 200 H O U S T O N, T X 7 7 0 2 4 TELEpHONE: 713.629.5200 citycentrehouston.com Editorial & Creative Director Da N a L E E H a R m S

We hope you enjoy this

Editor

peek into our district—a

Art Director

biannual showcase of what

Contributing Editors

makes CITYCENTRE and its surroundings unique, from its people and places, to a look at the local, national and

R I Ta g U a R N a S T E p H E N m . V I Ta R B O

L E E L U S a R D I C O N N O R , STUaRT ROSENBURg

Contributing Writer CaROLINE L e BLaNC Contributing Photographer SHaNNON O’HaRa

international influences and

Art Assistant

trends that impact and parallel

Editorial Assistants

our community.

C a RO L I N E C O N WaY,

Many of you might be

paT R I C E H O RVaT H

a L L I S O N Da L I D U N a S - pa L m E R

wondering how the magazine

Publishing staff

was named, when the more

SHaE maRCUS

Publisher

obvious choice might have been

Sales & Marketing Coordinator

CITYCENTRE. While conceived

SHaNNON WILBER

as a mixed-use development, CITYCENTRE has blossomed beyond its borders, growing into something that has gone well beyond our initial plans and hopes.

It’s become a destination in Houston, a gathering place for the surrounding area, a home to residents, a place of business and leisure and an introduction to the city for our hotel guests from around the globe. DISTRICT communicates this larger sense of place in the world.

Production & Circulation Director CHRISTINE HamEL

Marketing Manager

amaNDa THOROgOOD

Advertising Services Manager JaC q U E LY N N f I S C H E R

Senior Art Director, Agency Services KIJOO KIm

It’s appropriate that the first issue of DISTRICT, a celebration of CITYCENTRE’s coming of age, has a special section on weddings. At CITYCENTRE, the happy couple can do everything in high style in one location—from picking out the rings to finding myriad ways to eat, drink and be married! We offer a rich variety of venues for hosting the perfect night or day.

And we hope all our readers will enjoy an assortment of fashion, dining and entertainment features, including an exclusive Arizona escape; a Houston Motor Club test drive; a palate-pleasing respite at The Tasting Room; and a perusal of

Accounting amaNDa aLBaNO, agNES aLVES

Published by Chairman

C a R RO L L V. D O W D E N

President

maRK DOWDEN

Senior Vice President SHaNNON STEITz

Vice Presidents a m Y a . D O W D E N, R I Ta g U a R N a

some of the world’s most inspired accessories from designer Elaine Turner, whose flagship store is at CITYCENTRE. Welcome to our world!

Dana Lee Harms Editorial & Creative Director

Claudia Freels CITYCENTRE Events Director

D I S T R I C T magazine is published by Wainscot media, 110 Summit avenue, montvale, NJ 07645, in association with CITYCENTRE. Copyright © 2012 by Wainscot media, LLC. all rights reserved.

Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, DISTRICT, 110 Summit avenue, montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.782.5730; email mark.dowden@wainscotmedia.com.

The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.

Subscription Services: To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, midway Companies,CityCentre One, 800 Town & Country Blvd., Suite 200, Houston, TX 77024 advertising Inquiries: Contact Dana Lee Harms at dharms@midwaycompanies.com CITYCENTRE is developed, owned and operated by:

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RETAIL LOCATIONS RICE VILLAGE | 2439 UNIVERSITY BLVD. | HOUSTON, TX 77005 | 713.255.0052 CITYCENTRE | 800 TOWN & COUNTRY BLVD. | HOUSTON, TX 77024 | 713.255.9095

ELAINETURNER.COM

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The beginning of a lifetime of beautiful memories.

Every couple is unique, and so is our approach to your celebration. We want you to capture the spirit of your love at your wedding reception. We are here to make your dream a reality.

Share with us your dreams and vision of the perfect event. Whether it’s a fabulous cocktail reception, or a five-course dinner appointed with elegance and sophistication. Our goal is simply to design your perfect day - your way. You’ll discover why most people who walk through our doors were told by a friend to come see us first.

Begin your memories.

Begin your lifetime together. Schedule your tour of the Red Oak Ballroom today.

Houston - CityCentre (713) 590-0953 www.redoakballroom.com

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front &centre Glory on the Gridiron— and the grill

J.Crew set to saunter into CitYCentre

Sports fans on Houston’s west side now have the perfect upscale game-

Known for its effortless style,

watching atmosphere—and the best part is the city’s favorite football team

J.crew will soon make it easy

is at the helm! The Houston Texans Grille offers a diverse, extensive menu

for cItYcentre denizens

of made-from-scratch appetizers, salads, sandwiches and comfort foods

to keep up with its latest

like barbecue chicken and a ridiculously decadent chicken-fried rib eye. The

looks. the purveyor of iconic

place is a feast for the eyes as well: It sports more than 60 large flat-screen

American sportswear for men

televisions in its Texas-size (11,000 square-foot) space. The Houston Texans

and women is in the process

Grille is at the south end of CITYCENTRE, upstairs next to Eddie V’s. To whet

of constructing a 5,000-plus-

your appetite, check out the menu at texansgrille.g3restaurants.com.

square-foot store on the first floor of cItYcentre one, between LMD Boutique and

shoe love hits new heights Fashion insiders count on designer elaine turner to put the “fun” in functionality, in her signature

Amegy Bank. Stay tuned for grand opening event details!

(P.S. our spies tell us that summer will see stripes, polka dots, navy-and-orange color combos, updated military classics for men and pretty

handbags and in footwear as

mid-shin skirts and dresses

well. devotees flock to acquire

for women.)

her shoes of giddy heights—from strappy woven sandals to haircalf stilettos—and delirious lows, as in golden python thongs or ballets of intricately woven leather. no matter the specifics, each pair elicits the same question: “Where did you get them?” to which you’ll be able to reply, “At the elaine turner flagship store in CityCentre!” settle into the shoe salon’s plush pink couches and savor a feast for the soles.

SPrIng • SuMMer 2012

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front &centre

beyond The baSICS LIVe tHe SUIte LIfe Love cItYcentre so much, you just never want to leave? the good news is you don’t have to. Approximately 1,000 Houstonians now call cItYcentre home, staking claim

If you lust for lingerie, you will love belle la vie, a European-

to a variety of residential options available around the district. from baby boomers

influenced lingerie boutique that recently debuted at CITYCENTRE.

attracted to the luxurious, low-maintenance lifestyle of the Brownstones townhomes, to

Here, shoppers select from exclusive brands not found elsewhere

singles drawn to the trendy, urban environs of the Lofts, to young couples seduced by

in the area, such as La Perla, Chantelle and Aubade. For that

the space and sophistication of the Domain apartments to expats lured by the chic and

foundational essential, a perfectly fitting bra, belle la vie provides

secure residences at Hotel Sorella, there is truly something for everyone. Give living at

professional fittings, maintaining a fit database for repeat

cItYcentre a try with a month-long stay in one of Hotel Sorella’s 11 residential-style

customers. The pretty boutique doubles as a lovely lair for bridal

penthouse suites, which average 1,500 square feet and feature plush contemporary

showers, complete with catering and shopping incentives. Look for

furnishings and gourmet kitchens with Viking appliances.

belle la vie at the south end of CITYCENTRE near Brio Tuscan Grille.

Why We love LuLu Since debuting just off CITyCeNTRe’s plaza late last year, lululemon has quickly made waves in the District—and not just because the store has raised the bar on stylish workout wear! The high-quality fitness clothing and gear company quickly embedded itself in the CITyCeNTRe consciousness, hosting workshops, boot camps, a running club and more in and around their store. Check lululemon’s Facebook page to get in on the fun.

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A new experience.

A heAlthier wAy of life.

Life Time Athletic City Centre is more than a health club. It’s a way of life.

A place where you can become the person you’ve always wanted while enjoying the finer things in life. We offer the best places, people and programs to make sure of it. You set the goals. We’ll help you reach them.

ContaCt us today to reCeive a Complimentary trial membership pass* and details on the latest enrollment offers.

Call: 713-630-8409 CliCK: lifetimefitness.com/join Come in: 815 Town and Country Lane, Houston

*Go to lifetimefitness.com/join and click on “try us for Free” to view full terms and conditions. Membership levels, types, prices, dues, fees and benefits are subject to change at any time. © 2012 Life Time Fitness, Inc. All rights reserved. MKMG2083

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Rosy “boy” shirt in ultralight cotton voile, available at J.Crew in CITYCENTRE.

This updated trench from Anthropologie at CITYCENTRE has a double collar and touches of marigold.

take this pretty, polished style from the runway to your closet.

The fashion flock raved about the ladylike looks in Christian Dior’s Spring 2012 ready-to-wear show in Paris. Here’s how to make this sophisticated style your own—without leaving the DISTRICT.

Rounded sunglasses in white, pink or neutral, like these by Emilio Pucci, are a must this season. Available at Eye Couture in CITYCENTRE. 12

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A striped lightweight wool pencil skirt from Banana Republic, in Town & Country Village, keeps the look streamlined.

Strappy sandal with chain ankle detail and back zipper, from Nine West in Town & Country Village.

Veronica Ostrich Satchel in mushroom,at Elaine Turner in CITYCENTRE.

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Wh at c r it ic s ar e s a y i ng …

S T R A I T S

S I N G A P O R E A N R E S TA U R A N T | L O U N G E 800 WEST SAM HOUSTON PARKWAY NORTH HOUSTON, TX 77024 713-365-9922

“Straits is another one of those new restaurants in CITYCENTRE that have really opened up the dining experience on the west side of town.”

—HOUSTON PRESS

F I R ST TASTE OF STR AI TS: “I was immediately sold on the feathery, flaky round of roti prata (the famous Malaysian flatbread) that Straits sends out in a pinched-up crown, with a side of creamy, hot-and-sweet curry dip that I wanted to lap up straight.”

—ALLISON COOK, FOOD CRITIC

STRAITS owner Chris Yeo was born in Hong Kong and grew up in Singapore—the brilliant culinary melting pot. In 1987 he opened STRAITS in San Francisco and introduced Singaporean cuisine to the sophisticated diner. Named for the Singapore Strait that separates Singapore from Indonesia, “The Strait of Malacca,” STRAITS became an instant success.

HOU STON’S STR AI TS: HELLBENT ON GOOD FOOD “The straight dope on Straits: Handsome space with an intriguing Singaporean fusion menu … Taste your way through a menu that will have your taste buds buzzing for days.”

—HOUSTON CHRONICLE

“It has always been my dream to have a restaurant to make people happy! Food is my passion and through food I make people smile!

Welcome to my Humble Home.”

— CHRIS YEO, CHEF/OWNER

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHannOn O’HaRa 14

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weddings at citycentre

Weddings are increasingly bigger affairs than ever before, with brides and grooms constantly seeking interesting and impressive locations for their big day.

For Houstonians who want to stay home but still enjoy a “destination wedding,” CITYCENTRE offers patrons the ultimate in luxury wedding planning. Those who celebrate their special day in the District can literally park their cars upon arrival and enjoy every component of the wedding weekend without ever having to leave the property! We’ll show you how to plan the perfect wedding at CITYCENTRE— from ordering invitations, to staging the ceremony and reception, to feting the newlyweds at a farewell brunch.

spring • summer 2012

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FIND YOUR FOREVER RING

LOCK IN YOUR LOCATION

Every engagement begins with a ring, and Paul Carter Jewels may have just the

Wedding party members and guests often want the option to stay over in posh

one you’re looking for! This Houston-based jeweler is passionate about baubles, seeking out the rare, the dramatic and the beautiful. The boutique sells exquisite jewelry of exceptional value, carries a wide variety of designers’ work and is the exclusive Houston home to several luxurious lines! Make an appointment to shop for your sweetie by calling 713.465.5353 or by simply stopping into the shop at the south end of CITYCENTRE below Eddie V’s.

digs. For them, CITYCENTRE’s Hotel Sorella adds another level of luxe fun to the festivities. The flagship facility debuted in August 2009 as a key anchor for the District. Highlights of the award-winning 255room, luxury hotel with globally-influenced, contemporary design cues, include dramatic, residential-style guestrooms with dark hardwood floors; a sophisticated second floor lobby-lounge; and Monnalisa, a posh bar featuring a central fireplace and starlit ceiling that

SPREAD THE WORD WITH STATIONERY FROM PAPER SOURCE

to nearby Life Time Athletic spa and health club (for a nominal per-person fee); state-of-the-art

perfect place to find beautiful invitations, save-

meeting and event facilities; plus the beautiful

the-dates, and tabletop décor for all wedding

Bistro Bar and Bistro Alex restaurant. The

festivities. For crafty types, this boutique is

hotel offers regular guest rooms and a

heaven. Many brides want to make their own

variety of suites. Perhaps the bride and

invitations, but aren’t sure what’s involved or

groom will book the super-chic 1,400-square-

where to begin; Paper Source has all the

foot Presidential Suite, boasting a highly-

needed to create personal DIY invitations, place-cards, and wedding stationery. The boutique is also stocked full of ready-made all-occasion cards and invitations, gifts, wrapping paper and gift bags, so look no further than Paper Source at CITYCENTRE for your wedding paper needs! |

and a lush courtyard. Hotel guests enjoy access

Presentation is everything and Paper Source is the

materials, resources, and even templates

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opens to Sorella’s rooftop pool, draped cabanas

designed living room with a romantic fireplace, a separate dining room, a kitchen, a half bath off the living quarters, and a master suite with a luxurious, large bathroom and walk-in closet. What better place to spend the first few hours of marriage?

And with CITYCENTRE being a hop down Beltway 8 from Bush Intercontinental Airport, the newlyweds can make a quick getaway for their honeymoon.

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What’s the desired look, feel and flavor of your festivity?

A myriad of great spots—with private dining rooms and chef’s tables—are situated throughout the District.

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BACHELOR/BACHELORETTE PARTIES

walls, individual thermostat controls, full-spectrum lighting, and a variety of menu options

Brides and grooms interested in hosting bachelor and bachelorette bashes at

from their in-house catering company, Norris ensures guests are as comfortable as

CITYCENTRE have several options. RA Sushi hosts and toasts brides and their favorite

possible while attending weddings in the impressive Red Oak Ballroom.

friends with special “Fling before the Ring” menu package options: three tiers of themed prix fixe menus, plus reserved tables and fun gifts for attendees. No need to

DON’T FORGET THE DETAILS…

ditch after dinner; ladies will delight in RA’s super-chic, second floor balcony bar, the

Of course, no wedding is complete without the weekend’s requisite but festive

Geisha Lounge, for post-dinner drinks. Flora & Muse also offers a girly getaway, with its

satellite soirees. Imagine a wedding weekend in which all activities are a quick

whimsical interiors, indoor/outdoor bar and patio, and European-inspired menus, while

walk away, eliminating the bother of traffic snarls, dubious GPS-driven gaffes, or

belle la vie has special event space perfect for hosting lingerie-centric showers.

the potential for post-cocktail driving! We suggest the following for pre- and post-

Bachelors who want to watch games with their guys should head to the always popular Yard House for a fun, casual atmosphere, plenty of TVs and

ceremony activities at CITYCENTRE. Depending on the desired look, feel, and flavor of the festivity, a myriad of

an impressive selection of beer. The Houston Texans Grille offers a subtly

great spots with special chef’s tables and semi- to fully private dining rooms are

sophisticated setting that still sports over 60 flat-screens, plus lounge and patio

situated throughout the district for cocktail and seated gatherings like rehearsal

options for private viewing opportunities. More debonair dudes need look no

dinners, luncheons, or Saturday and Sunday brunches. Be sure to tour Brio

further than Bistro Bar in Hotel Sorella, a dramatic, wood and leather-laden bar

Tuscan Grille, Cyclone Anaya’s, Eddie V’s, Flora & Muse, RA Sushi, Ruggles

ambience designed for both cocktails and conversation.

Green, Straits and The Tasting Room to fully appreciate the variety of amazing dining spaces available for soirees large and small.

REVVING UP FOR THE RECEPTION Before the honeymoon begins, however, the reception is the big show and CITYCENTRE has several opulent options sure to suit even the most discerning

Grill rents out whole theaters via a variety of packages to groups; of course, guests

bride and groom. Hotel Sorella’s brand-new Meetings & Events Centre pops with the

are also welcome to simply attend movies on their own at the on-site 8-screen

presence of a rich palette of contemporary details, favoring chocolate, black and white.

premier cinema. Shopping is fun at CITYCENTRE’s many local and national

Stepped and angled ceilings add charm to the space, as do marble, wood and leather

retailers, like Anthropologie, Sur La Table, OLIVE & VINE, and LMD Boutique. (Hint:

accents, Italian glass chandeliers, sleek cabinetry and antique mirrors. The focal point

The District’s shops are also great for last-minute, wedding-related gifts!)

of the facility is the La Scala Ballroom, encompassing just under 4,000 square feet with seating for 300. Critically acclaimed Bistro Alex’s culinary team oversees food and beverage for the venue, making smart use of the expansive, on-site catering kitchen.

rooftop soccer field, and state-of-the-art fitness equipment. The LifeSpa|Salon

Sorella Meetings & Events Centre, was designed specifically with social events in mind, making it a super setting for a large wedding celebration as well. With soundproofed |

More adventurous types will love Life Time Athletic, a one-of-its-kind multilevel gym and spa with a three-story climbing wall, several swimming pools, a

The Red Oak Ballroom in Norris Conference Centers, positioned directly above the

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Finally, for families and friends coming in for the big day, CITYCENTRE offers ample opportunities for fun and fraternizing throughout the weekend. Studio Movie

handles wedding hair, make-up, and nail services, serving as a welcome respite from the real world and the stress of the big day.

Come to CITYCENTRE for a wedding … conveniently make it a weekend!

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Unforgettable wedding gifts Looking to make a lasting impression with a unique present for a wedding or bridal shower? It’s time to think out of the gift box! CITYCENTRE and adjacent Town & Country Village let you do just that with creative offerings that are sure to wow. From the chicest of sheets to the softest of sofas, Pottery Barn showcases a sophisticated array of essentials and indulgences designed to make a house a home. From panini presses to pie makers, Williams-Sonoma will make the happy couple’s mealtime easier—and counter cooler—with some of the most sought-after appliances and gadgets around. While you might think of Sur La Table as the perfect spot for stocking a kitchen, it’s also the go-to location in Houston for couples who want to hone their culinary skills. For the gourmets who have everything or the groom who wants to expand his prowess beyond the grill, the gift of a series of cooking classes is sure to be the “toque” of the town.

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are you

man enough to visit a spa?

Most guys scoff at the thought of spa treatments. So did the author, until he met his masseuse.

By Mark Kinsella

GuyS traditionally have Shunned Spa viSitS for two reaSonS.

the first is a generally acknowledged objection that it is un-manly and unnecessary to be pampered by anyone other than one’s wife or girlfriend. the second reason is specific and unspoken: it’s the fear that the centerpiece of the spa visit—the full-body massage—will be performed by a dude rather than a woman. this secret anxiety, like so many others, was lampooned hilariously on Seinfeld in the episode where the gang gets massages. George, predictably, is assigned a strapping young masseur and proceeds to freak out. that this fear is universal among straight men can be proven by a simple question: would you be up for a spa visit if you knew for certain you were going to be rubbed from head to toe by a suitably lovely young woman who whispered words of encouragement to you as she performed her ministrations? of course you would. what’s more, the appeal of a massage that definitely will not be performed by a dude is so strong, it trumps the basic objection that pampering is for sissies. face it, there is no other scenario whereby you will be rubbed long and hard by a woman who is not you wife—and have it done with your wife’s full knowledge and consent. there is no other scenario! add to this the likelihood that you will spend some hours sitting in a darkened lounge, clad in a skimpy robe, sipping booze with a veritable harem of young women who are similarly clad, with nary another guy in sight, and you have the makings of a decent afternoon. at least, that’s how it was for me when i went to a fine local spa recently, toting libations (many spas are ByoB), and told them to give me the works (with the guarantee that my massage would be by a woman). and once things got under way, i discovered that the other treatments are pretty sweet in their own right.

Consider the “gentleman’s facial.” i assumed this would involve glopping various muds and herbal concoctions on my face (it did), but there was a lot more to it: scalp massage, arm massage, slathering of lotion on the hands, finger pulling (in a good way), steam treatment and some poking and probing of the sort the dermatologist does. then there was the salt rub and seaweed wrap, which sounds like a Korean

barbeque technique but isn’t. the full-body rub was abrasive and invigorating. how about the pedicure? Man, i was apprehensive about that. i can clip my own toenails, thank you. or so i thought. apparently i’ve been doing it wrong for 40 years. i was given a lesson. and beyond the clipping, there were all sorts of other activities—planing the heel with a tool that looked like a carpenter’s plane; lubing up the toes with lotion and then pulling them (into orthopedic alignment?). i swear, i thought a shrimp job was coming next, but it didn’t happen. let’s get back to the massage: i opted for the therapeutic massage, which involved deep tissue work and hot stones. “is that too much pressure for you?” my therapist whispered. She was whispering because she strives to create an atmosphere of calm. the lighting was dim, and a recording of nature sounds was playing softly. “there’s no such thing as too much pressure,” i replied. well, it turns out there almost is. She did this thing where she uses her forearm like a rolling pin, applying all the weight she can muster, and rolls the muscles over your bones like so much bread dough on a baker’s table. i highly recommend it! and about those hot stones. i had seen pictures, like the one on the opposite page, and didn’t understand what was so special about some black rocks that just sit there on the spine. But that’s not how she used them.

She’d take a smooth stone out of a little oven, palm it, and then run it over the skin (which was oiled, mind you) applying a huGe amount of pressure. it felt great. in massage-speak, i guess “therapeutic” equates to pressure, and pressure is good. for many hours after the session was over, i felt awesome: rested, relaxed— and hooked. once you’ve had a positive spa experience, there are many paths to go down— the medi-spa route, with medically supervised screenings and treatments; the weight-loss spa; the detox spa. i’m not especially interested in those things. nor am i of a mind to disentangle the health benefits, the cosmetic effects and the purely feel-good aspects of what i experienced. i simply know that i enjoyed the treatments and their aftermath. you should give this spa thing a try.

LifeSpa | Salon, CityCentre, 815 town & Country Lane, Houston, tX 77024. to make an appointment call 713.630.8424 spring • summer 2012

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Soothing

there’s balm for the spirit in this stunning southwest setting.

Sedona photos: shutterstoCK

Without a doubt, the best travel experiences are transformative, healing mind, body and spirit alike. We come home not merely refreshed and recharged, but somehow rejuvenated and changed for the better.

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The gorgeous red hue of Sedona rocks comes from iron that has accumulated in sandstone over the millennia.

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If ever a destination dealt in transformation, it’s Sedona, Arizona. You needn’t

difference: In Sedona, rather than looking down on the striated sandstone cliffs

believe what they say about the spiritual energy of the place to see that there’s

and monoliths, you’re surrounded by them. That’s part of the power of the place.

something powerful about Sedona. Nor do you have to visit an alternative healer,

Most days, the backdrop for this beauty is a vast, intensely blue sky and

take a walk with a “coyote talker” or experience the sublime at one of Sedona’s

a bright desert sun whose long rays cast a fiery orange glow on the cliffs at

spas (though you can do all these things). The setting alone—with its soaring

sunrise and sunset. (Desert sun notwithstanding, Sedona’s climate is comfortable

red rock buttes, sculpted spires and stunning cliffs—is enough to work magic.

year-round; it’s only in July and August that the mercury regularly soars into the

Even down-to-earth, grounded-in-reality types say they feel a special energy in

90s, and even then nights are cool.)

Sedona. Reports one recent visitor: “Something there really spoke to me.”

Over the past few decades, this once sleepy town and longtime magnet

Depending on where you stay in Sedona, you can step outside your door, keep on walking and within 15 minutes find yourself high up on one of those

for artists has evolved into a first-class resort community. Besides fine lodging,

magnificent cliffs. But the best news is that you don’t have to be especially fit to

dining and shopping, Sedona offers activities and attractions that promise to

hit the hills, since there’s a wide choice of hiking trails, from easy to difficult.

In Sedona, rather than looking down on the striated sandstone cliffs and monoliths, you’re surrounded by them. That’s part of the power of the place. soothe the souls not only of spiritual seekers and nature lovers, but also of art

Even avid hikers will want to put aside their hiking gear for a jeep tour

and culture buffs, history and archaeology fans, active adventurers and anyone

of Sedona’s backcountry. These off-road tours bounce along through rugged

else in need of renewal.

territory, exploring area canyons, following old stagecoach routes, visiting ancient

You can reach Sedona by flying into Phoenix, renting a car and driving about two hours north. When you arrive, you’ll be in a bowl-shaped valley that

ruins and climbing to the top of the 2,000-foot-high Mogollon Rim. The great outdoors in Sedona is so alluring that you may feel you can never

sits about 4,500 feet above sea level. First-time visitors expecting a sandy desert

get enough. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for exploring it, including

landscape are surprised by the broad swaths of pine forest surrounding Sedona.

guided horseback excursions, mountain biking and sightseeing aloft by hot air

The green trees create a striking contrast to red sandstone monoliths with names

balloon, helicopter or plane.

such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Two Nuns and Elephant Rock.

If you’ve been to the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rock formations will feel

Or just hop in a car and drive. Among nearby sights worth a visit are Chapel of the Holy Cross, an inspiring modern shrine built right into the red rocks,

familiar. That’s because the rock layers of Sedona’s half-mile-high cliffs are nearly

scenic Boynton Canyon and Red Rock Crossing, whose views of Oak Creek and

identical to those found in the upper half of the Grand Canyon. There is one key

Cathedral Rock have been photographed so often they’ll seem familiar.

Continued...

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Opposite, Cathedral Rock, whose spires stand 1,000 feet over the road below, is known as a vortex center and a place for blissful meditation. This page, the Chapel at Tlaquepaque evokes the feel of a quaint Mexican village with its Spanish tiled roof, hand-carved leather pews and stunning mural over the altar. It’s located in an arts and crafts village with unique galleries, shops and restaurants.

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PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Hiking in Sedona is an exhilarating experience, with trails for every fitness level. Visitors can hire a spiritual guide to lead them to vortex areas. Opposite, low-slung adobe casitas sit amid cottonwood trees at the Enchantment Resort; pan-seared veal chop with Morel sauce from the menu of the resort’s Yavapai restaurant.

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You can even drive or take a tour from Sedona to the South Rim of the

1920s, Hollywood discovered that red rock country makes a dramatic film set, and

Grand Canyon, just two and a half hours away. Or stay closer to home and visit

numerous Westerns have been filmed here since. The first well-known visual artist

the former hillside mining town of Jerome.

to “discover” Sedona was surrealist painter and sculptor Max Ernst, who lived here

One drive not to miss is Highway 89A as it winds up 16-mile long Oak Creek Canyon. With sheer walls and unusual rock formations, this stretch of road has been named one of the nation’s most scenic drives. In summer, the creek

in the 1950s, initiating an influx of artists that continues today.

Today, Sedona has a thriving art scene. Art lovers can spend days perusing collections of Native American, Southwestern and Western arts and crafts in

is stocked with trout and swimming holes beckon. Between late September and mid-October, you’ll be treated to blazing autumn foliage. And no matter when you visit, you can stop along the way for a hike or a creek-side picnic.

Leave time to drive all the way to Oak Creek Vista for a dramatic bird’s-eye view of the area. While there, you can pick up locally crafted wares on sale by Native American artisans. If you’re traveling with children—or you’re kid-minded yourself— you’ll want to stop at Slide Rock State Park, don your bathing suit and splash your way down a natural water slide.

Nature is not Sedona’s only attraction. The region’s human history is just as compelling. Numerous ruins and rock art sites tell of ancient peoples who were skilled in pottery, weaving and agriculture and who traded with peoples throughout the Americas long before Europeans came.

The most impressive of the sites is Montezuma Castle, about

more than 40 galleries, and the Sedona Arts Center offers a

Art lovers can spend days perusing collections of Native American, Southwestern and Western arts and crafts in more than 40 galleries.

25 miles south of Sedona. Constructed in the 12th century by the Sinaguan people, this five-story, 20-room dwelling is built into the sides of a high cliff. A few miles away is Montezuma Well, a huge sinkhole that’s fed by underground

full calendar of exhibitions, plays and workshops. At Sedona Cultural Park, concerts are held in an outdoor amphitheater.

As if nature didn’t provide enough in the way of spectacular settings, visitors can also book a stay at the luxurious Mii Amo spa, which takes its name from the Native American word for journey. A world-class destination in itself, it’s set within the grounds of the luxurious 70-acre Enchantment Resort in secluded Boynton Canyon. Lodgings here have unmatched views of undulating red rock walls and formations, contrasting with the deep green of trees.

For some, however, what makes Sedona most compelling are not the visual delights, but a handful of energy fields called vortexes that are said to elicit profound healing and spiritual experiences. Never scientifically proven, the vortexes are nonetheless the reason so many seekers, mystics and healers find their way to this spot. Perhaps they’re also why this area

has long been considered sacred by native peoples.

Find out for yourself by taking a vortex tour, or strike out on your own for

springs that support a verdant oasis. You can take tours of these and other sites that

the vortex sites, many of which are located at Sedona’s most dramatic rock

focus on the archaeological, cultural and geological history.

formations. One way or the other, you’re bound to find it a powerful—perhaps

Artistic types have long found that Sedona’s beauty fuels the muse. In the

even transformative—experience.

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Sexy

Accents Few women can match Audrey Hepburn’s unique brand of elegant sex appeal. But anyone can follow her fashion wisdom, one aspect of which was to always complete an outfit with a statementmaking handbag. On these pages, our young Hepburn look-alike models bags from bold and big to petite and demure—all from designer Elaine Turner, and each heartbreakingly beautiful.

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photos courtesy of elaine turner

how to finish an outfit beautifully? choose the perfect handbag, of course. that’s what audrey would do.

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The playful pink Payton Stingray clutch can be dressed up or down. See it and more at Elaine Turner’s flagship store in CITYCENTRE.

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This page, the Michelle Distressed Leather Tote is a globetrotter’s best companion. Opposite, the Madeleine Tab Clutch in a zigzag pattern transitions effortlessly from day to night.

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Opposite page, top, the Alex Ostrich Work Tote in mushroom combines elegance and function. Bottom, the Eleanor Glitter Haircalf Minaudiere with classic kisslock closure carries all that’s needed for a romantic evening.

This page, the Veronica Ostrich Satchel is perfect for a power lunch.

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This page, leather Veronica Marble Croc Satchel is a tailored look with a twist.

Opposite, the Stacy Python Haircalf Hobo is fashionable fun.

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Your guide to

green eating Try These 4 Tips To make your dieT more earTh-friendly.

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Did you know you can fight global warming with a knife and fork? Our eating habits have a significant impact on climate change because the food system is responsible for a whopping one-third of the world’s greenhouse gases.

By adopting a green, or “low-carbon,” diet, you can help reduce emissions—and it’s also much better for you.

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Cut back on red meat, dairy products and rice. Of all the food changes you can make, this is by far the most eco-significant. “Everything else pales in comparison,” says environmental educator Helene York of Bon Appétit

Management Company Foundation.

Why? Animals like cows, sheep and goats—the sources for our red meat and dairy—emit a greenhouse gas called methane, which is 23 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. All told, livestock is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, one study shows that a diet high in red meat contributes more to global warming than driving an average sedan.

Meat production also requires a tremendous amount of resources, from energy and water to the huge stretches of land used to produce feed. In one year, it takes 60 percent of all irrigated farmland in the country to produce feed for U.S. livestock, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest. The energy used to create the fertilizer alone could provide power to about 1 million

Dine delightfully—and lightly—at CITYCENTRE: Left, Ruggles Green, the only “4-star Certified Green Restaurant” in Texas, uses local produce. Above, the Straits menu unites the best of four major Asian cuisines.

Americans for a year.

Of course, you needn’t shun these foods entirely. “We just need to think of them as treats rather than everyday must-haves,” says York. Cutting down on portion sizes,

fish that has been “processed and frozen at sea,” which chefs widely regard as

going meatless once a week or substituting other meats for beef can have a big impact.

high quality. This fish travels by ship, which is 10 times less emissions-intensive than

For example, choosing a chicken sandwich instead of a cheeseburger once a week for

air-freighting them. For more info about the best seafood choices by region, see

a year saves 132 pounds of emissions.

www.seafoodwatch.org.

Vegetarians, too, can make a difference by watching their dairy intake. Calcium and other nutrients found in dairy can be obtained from a plant-based diet, says dietician Linda Antinoro. Kale, broccoli and calcium-fortified soy foods are all good choices.

As for starches, rice (brown and white—not wild) also has a large carbon footprint because it’s cultivated with manure; when fields are irrigated, methane gas is released

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Don’t waste food. Scientists estimate Americans waste 4.5 million tons of food a year—which also means wasting the energy that went into producing, transporting and cooking it. And while many people are concerned about

throwing away plastic and other recyclables, most don’t bat an eye at tossing food scraps. But food waste in landfills releases significant amounts of methane gas.

What can you do? Composting food waste prevents emissions, but making an

into the atmosphere. Opt for bread over pasta, which requires more processing to

effort to reduce your consumption is even better. Advance planning for meals ensures

produce.

you’ll make the most of the food you purchase; if you routinely toss out leftovers from

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Buy seasonal, regional food, especially produce and fish. Avoid air-freighted food. These days, we’re used to getting whatever foods we desire, regardless of season. But fresh produce and fish are highly perishable; if they aren’t grown or

caught locally, they’re most likely air-freighted (sometimes very far from where you live), which is extremely inefficient.

Aside from the environmental effects, “Local produce has been picked more recently, it’s fresher and it’s probably of a higher nutritional value than something grown 3,000 miles away, picked a month ago and preserved,” explains York.

But don’t get carried away with the idea of “local” and forget about “seasonal.”

restaurants, order smaller portions or split entrées.

“As food becomes more expensive—and it certainly has over the past year—we have an opportunity to consider whether we really need as much food as we’re used to purchasing,” says York. “It’s OK to buy less and better quality.”

4

Avoid highly processed, packaged foods. They might boast “healthy,” “organic” or “natural” ingredients, but the fact is, processed and packaged snacks, sweets and other foods generally aren’t good choices for the environment. The

energy that goes into producing, processing, boxing and transporting these items—from frozen dinners to breakfast cereal to fruit juice—is considerable, especially compared with

Fruits and veggies grown in local hothouses (think tomatoes in winter) usually generate

their whole-food alternatives (an apple instead of apple juice; nuts instead of chips). Try

far more emissions than those coming by train or truck from a warmer region of the

to buy these items sparingly, and don’t be thrown off by packaging that promises “eco-

country. If you’re in a pinch and need something out-of-season, frozen fruits are a better

friendly” boxes or the purchase of renewable energy credits.

choice than air-freighted or hothouse varieties. For monthly tips on seasonal produce in your area, see www.fieldtoplate.com/guide.php.

As for fish, finding fresh regional offerings caught from healthy, well-managed populations or farms can be a challenge because of overfishing.The next best option is

“Many messages out there right now about ‘green cuisine’ have more to do with marketing than with real environmental responsibility,” says York. The difference made by eco-friendly packaging is fairly minimal in terms of environmental effect, she notes; it’s the products inside that have the biggest impact on the earth.

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Immortal Oil

THe fRuIT Of THe AncIenT OlIve TRee yIelds One Of nATuRe’s MOsT sublIMe cReATIOns.

It’s a kind of magic, really: an elixir that enriches civilizations, enlivens cultures and enhances health.

And has been doing so for millennia. The olive tree is tenacious, a scrappy survivor—these trees often live 700 years or more, making them seem immortal—that needs minimal water and cultivation.

While the Ancient Greeks didn’t necessarily fully appreciate the taste, they did pour oil over their bodies, and they used the tree’s branches to fashion crowns for Olympian athletes. In The Odyssey, Homer called olive oil “liquid gold,” acknowledging its worth as an economic engine for many Mediterranean countries. The Romans also treasured it, and to this day, many different cultures use it for important ceremonies—baptisms, blessings, anointing the dead.

In homes around the world, olive oil elevates domestic rituals.

It delights the eye with a variety of gorgeous shades, from green through gold, and features taste notes from apple through butter, grass, lemon, pepper, herbs and more. Plus it moisturizes skin, conditions hair and

PHOTOs: sHuTTeRsTOcK

helps people get a close shave.

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All that and it’s good for you too. Back in the ’60s, scientists noted that few people living in countries near the Mediterranean Sea were afflicted with cardiovascular

salad; light for baking; a cheap kind to use if you happen to have an oil lamp.

To best understand olive oil, set up an informal

disease or cancer. They theorized the reason was

tasting. As with wine, pour a bit in a small wine glass or

the abundance of heart-healthy olive oil in their diets.

other small container (experts use a round glass that

Subsequent research showed that olive oil contains

fits in the palm of the hand, the better to warm up the

unsaturated fats that may help lower a person’s risk of

oil). Swirl it around. Bring your nose close to the glass

heart disease, “bad” cholesterol levels and blood sugar.

and inhale deeply. Let your mind free-associate to help

Plus, it boosts the HDL, or “good” cholesterol, which

you describe what you smell—is it fresh-cut grass?

helps combat heart disease. In addition, high levels of

Cinnamon? Avocado? Nuts? Butter?

vitamin E and oleic acid support healthy bones.

Perhaps that’s why Americans have been having a

Then, take a good sip. Holding the oil in your mouth, suck in air, then close your mouth and breathe

gastronomic love affair with olive oil. Between 1982 and

out through your nose. This is called “retronasal

2001, U.S. consumption grew from 64 million pounds to

perception” and will expose your palate to an even wider

380 million pounds.

range of flavor notes. You will also pick up bitter notes—

Still, health benefits aside, the truth is that the thrill

not surprising as olive oil is made from non-cured olives,

of olive oil is really in the eating. For those whose palates

which are naturally bitter. Though an acquired taste, a bit

have tasted only the bland, mass-produced imported

of bitterness is a good thing when it comes to olive oil.

blends, you’re in for a wake-up call: even the mildest

(For a good example of this, try the Cobrancosa varietal

artisanal oils are bursting with flavor. And because there

from Portugal, available at OLIVE & VINE, an olive oil and

are more than 700 kinds of olives, it’s impossible to say

vinegar boutique in CITYCENTRE.)

what the “best” olive oil is, any more than one could choose the “best” wine.

When you swallow the oil, be aware of a pungent, peppery sensation—a sort of chemical irritation that’s

As with wine, the fun is in the trying and tasting.

Nonethless, aficionados have given us a few solid guidelines for selecting olive oils:

present in all olive oils, and can range from barely noticeable to intense.

Test two or three different kinds of oil if you like,

1 2 3 4

Olive oil should be stored out of light and away from

cleansing your palate between each with plain or

heat, lest it turn rancid. Don’t buy unless the seller is

sparkling water, or a piece of neutral-tasting bread.

displaying it according to those guidelines.

As with most things, higher quality tends to correlate with higher price.

Choose oils in different price ranges. You will likely be surprised by the wide variation between them.

This remarkably versatile substance is key to

Look for a harvest or best-by date on the label;

countless recipes, from salad and pasta dressings to

don’t buy olive oil that’s more than two years old.

sauces and even cakes. Of course, it’s also the basis

Know the differences between various grades of

for an excellent dipping experience—not only of crusty

oil (see sidebar below), so you can match your

bread, but of fresh mozzarella, bread, ripe tomatoes,

purchase to its intended purpose: High quality for skin

cubes of grilled chicken, roasted vegetables and more.

moisturizing, for health and to drizzle over bread or

Take your pleasure, and enjoy!

Know the labels Cold-pressing is a chemical-free process using only pressure, which produces the highest quality olive oil.Though the term lingers, most makers now achieve the same result by using centrifuges for the first press.

Olives are a fruit; olive oil is their “juice.” Like any fresh juice, it should be enjoyed as soon as possible after extraction.

Extra-virgin is the highest quality of olive oil. Just 1 percent acid, it’s made from the first cold-pressing of the olives, which best preserves their nutrients.

Light olive oil is not lighter in fat. Rather, it’s been processed until it’s lighter in color and essentially flavorless, making it a good choice for baking.

Virgin olive oil is also a first-press oil, with an acidity level of between 1 and 3 percent.

Refined olive oil (sometimes called “pure” olive oil) is low-quality olive oil that has been treated with charcoal and other filters. The term “olive oil” used alone refers to a blend of refined and virgin olive oil.

Fino olive oil is a blend of extra- virgin and virgin oils.

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Wine and Dine

IN STYLE TAKE A SIP, TAKE A BITE, AND TAKE YOUR TIME AT A WORLDCLASS WINE CAFÉ

The Tasting Room Wine Café has been part of the CITYCENTRE community for just over a year now. During that time, it has become a favorite meeting place

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While The Tasting Room has become synonymous with great wines, Chef

for casual lunches, after-work drinks and lazy weekends spent catching up with

Raymond Van Der Gaag is also building a foodie following with menus that are a

friends and family. In an environment that feels very much like a home away from

delight to the palate. From soups and salads to artisan sandwiches and wood-fired

home, it’s easy to get lost in the comforts of delicious food and wines.

pizzas, the lunch menu attracts businesspeople on the go and those with the time

Boasting Houston’s longest restaurant bar at 80 feet, give or take, it also

to linger. While the dinner menu changes seasonally, highlighting scrumptious small

features a first for the city: a self-serve Enomatic wine dispensing system. The

and shared plates, the dessert menu focused on staple decadences like the chef’s

Enomatic showcases up to 16 different bottles “on tap” with each wine stored at

daily cookie served in a skillet and topped with vanilla ice cream.

the ideal temperature for taste. With pours as small as an ounce, it challenges

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company’s innovative retail wine-buying concept, The Black Door.

Whether for food, drinks or both, The Tasting Room has found a home at

guests to create their own flights and provides a guiltless opportunity to test the

CITYCENTRE, where the open-air plazas and beautifully designed green spaces

waters without committing to a glass. And if customers discover a new favorite

encourage visitors to take a deep breath, relax and perhaps raise a glass of wine

vintage, there is always the opportunity to take home a bottle or a case through the

to toast the day.

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filling a

NEED

A UNIQUE CHARITY ADDRESSES THE HUMAN THIRST FOR DIGNITY The need for water is something many may not consider upon passing a homeless individual. But how and where does a homeless, woman, man or child access clean, safe drinking water?

Bringing two dichotomous worlds together into one campaign, former Ford model Elena Davis has drawn from her personal history—which includes an impoverished, transient childhood as well as a career as a highly paid fashion model— to fuel her mission to physically and spiritually hydrate the American homeless.

Established in 2009, the I Am Waters Foundation will deliver its millionth bottle of water branded with messages of HOPE, PEACE, DREAM and LOVE to homeless shelters and service providers in the summer of 2012. It’s the only organization of its kind in the United States.

In addition to delivering hydration, the I Am Waters Foundation has established a unique way to engage with the homeless by sponsoring portrait photography sessions at shelters. Images of men, women and children, veterans and the elderly, are captured in an inspiring, positive light.

fine oils and vinegars

The foundation uses these images as a vehicle to begin a dialogue with the homeless regarding their feelings about the present and their prospects for the future. The photos bolster the subjects’ self-image, while providing a valuable keepsake. (Many homeless have not seen their own photograph in years.) I Am Waters sees the images as a tool to dispel stereotypes and bring a human face to an issue with widespread impact. Along with its academic partner, the University of California at Los Angeles, the foundations conducts surveys to measure the benefits of IAW’s branded bottled water and the impact of the photos. “When the homeless learn the water is made expressly for them it makes them feel that someone on the ‘outside’ knows they are there,” Elena Davis says.

On April 25th, 2012, iconic supermodels of the ‘80s will join Elena to highlight some surprising parallels in the lives of models and homeless Americans. I Am Waters will bring together some of the most frequently photographed American models in

OLIVE & VINE features over 40 premium extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars from around the world. Our unique tasting bar allows you to sample all of our products before making your selection. We then bottle it on the spot ensuring the freshest oils and most flavorful vinegars. Whether you’re a novice cook or an adventurous home chef, you will taste the difference at OLIVE & VINE!

history to discuss the commonalities between the seemingly disparate groups. The participants will share ideas surrounding the issues of objectification, their insight into the I Am Waters project, and how the topic relates to everyone’s life.

Guests of the event include Cheryl Tiegs, Kim Alexis, Kelly Emberg, Joan Severance, Tara Shannon, Kim Charlton, Dianne deWitt, Tony Spinelli, and Jack Scalia. All have graced covers of the most established and prestigious magazines in the world, including Vogue, Elle, Cosmopolitan, GQ,

OLIVE & VINE CITYCENTRE 713.468.1183 OLIVEANDVINESHOP.COM

Town & Country, Glamour and many others.

For more information on the I Am Waters Foundation, please visit www.iamwaters.com

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CoCktail

calorie countdown

Sure, you want to be the toaSt of the town at hotel Sorella’S biStro bar, but you don’t want your celebration to Show up on the Scale. calorieS can vary—and depend on how heavy a hand the bartender wieldS! here’S a handy liSt So you’ll know what you’re getting with your happy-hour libationS.

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Long Island iced tea

Daiquiri

Rum and Coke

Rum and Diet Coke

(8 ounces):

(8 ounces):

(8 ounces):

(8 ounces):

780 calories

240 calories

185 calories

100 calories

Mudslide

Mojito

Gin martini

Scotch, 80 proof

(8 ounces):

(8 ounces):

(2.5 ounces):

(1.5 ounces):

568 calories

214 calories

175 calories

97 calories

Piña colada

Gin and tonic

Sangria

Champagne

(8 ounces):

(7 ounces):

(8 ounces):

(4 ounces):

504 calories

200 calories

155 calories

84 calories

Chocolate martini

Cosmopolitan

Regular beer

Red wine

(6 ounces):

(4 ounces):

(12 ounces):

(4 ounces):

438 calories

200 calories

149 calories

80 calories

Margarita

Screwdriver

Light beer

Dry white wine

(8 ounces):

(8 ounces):

(12 ounces):

(4 ounces):

336 calories

190 calories

110 calories

75 calories

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WHERE SURBURBAN SPACES MEETS URBAN STYLE. City meets urban style and you are the centre of attention. Surrounded by open-air plazas and beautifully designed green spaces, fine dining, upscale retail and entertainment. Steps away from Houston’s hip mecca, CITYCENTRE. LUXURY 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM HOMES AVAILABLE FOR LEASE. INTERIOR APPOINTMENTS INCLUDE:

• Opulent and Serene living spaces with custom design features • All homes feature 10 foot ceilings with wood style flooring • Gourmet Kitchens featuring Stainless Steel Appliance package, granite tops and prep island • Spacious bedrooms, custom closets and spa bathrooms

SMART,

SOPHISTICATED ONE, TWO AND THREE BEDROOM LUXURY APARTMENT HOMES

OPULENT AND SERENE LIVING SPACES WITH CUSTOM DESIGNED FEATURES

RESORT-STYLE OUTDOOR LIVING AREA WITH PRIVATE CABANAS, FIREPLACE AND CALIFORNIA KITCHEN

24-HOUR FULLY-EQUIPPED FITNESS CENTER AND YOGA STUDIO

CONFERENCE 811 TOWN & COUNTRY BOULEVARD HOUSTON, TX 77024

713-463-0400 CITYCENTRE@GREYSTAR.COM

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CENTER, MOVIE SCREENING ROOM, CLUB ROOM AND GAMING ROOM

PRIVATE

LUSHLY LANDSCAPED COURTYARDS AND CONTROLLED ACCESS ENTRY

3/5/12 2:36 PM

things to do

the good times are always rolling at citycentre— and you’re invited!

Spring’s First Events: n March 30: concert in the Plaza, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. n March 31: dancing under the stars, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. n April 1: the market, featuring art, vendors and more, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

n April 21: doggy Party on the Plaza, noon to 5 p.m. n April 28: green 6.2 run, 8 a.m. to noon n July 4: music & Fireworks texas unlimited Band, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ongoing Events:

check out citycentrehouston.com for schedule changes and the latest event updates

n live music every weekend n the market, every sunday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. n dancing under the stars, last saturday of the month, march - october, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

a little night music: spring is music to our ears, as citYcentRe’s roster of eclectic live entertainment sets the stage for seasonal sounds in the plaza. the fun kicks off in march with weekend performances throughout the month, crescendos in april with the spring’s First events and hits a high note during the July 4th spectacular. and the district rocks and rolls indoors as well as out. many of citYcentRe’s top restaurants and bars feature an array of local and visiting talent, with venues ranging from the tasting Room and monnalissa to eddie V’s, Bistro Bar and Flora & muse.

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DOggY PaRtY On the PlaZa: celebrity judges give scores to every sparky and spot that enters dog-trick and costume contests at citYcentRe’s Doggy Party on the Plaza on april 21. Pet-centric activities plus vendor and sponsor booths will fill the Plaza, featuring enough wares to make any tail wag. local rescue groups will benefit from this event and will bring adoptable dogs in hopes of matching them with new families. it promises to be a great day for Fido and dog-lovers alike!

RiDe OF a liFe time: Join 300+ riders for an amazing two-hour workout on stationary bikes, hosted by life time athletic on citYcentRe’s central plaza, march 24, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. the 3rd annual Ride of a life time will be led

by Jeff Rosga, national Director of Fitness Research and Development for life time, while music will be provided by Roberto costa, national Director of music. Proceeds will benefit the life time Fitness Foundation.

Registration ($50 for life time members, $60 for nonmembers) includes a 2012 life time cycle jersey, as well as post-party food and beverages.

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3/2/12 4:46 PM

FIRM BELIEVER IN

TWO-A-DAYS (SO WE ARE OPEN LUNCH AND DINNER) OVER 70 MENU ITEMS MADE FROM SCRATCH

GOURMET BURGERS

SEAFOOD

12848 QUEENSBURY LANE IN CITY CENTRE 713.431.2002

STEAKS

FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER WWW.HOUSTONTEXANSGRILLE.COM

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Tenant Directory THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO AT citycentre, WE kNOW YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS A THING. USE THIS INFORMATION TO SCOUT OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING AND WHEN AT OUR STORES AND RESTAURANTS. COMMERCIAL

Phone

Website

Amegy Bank (Branch) ............................... 713.232.6524 ..................... amegybank.com Anthropologie ........................................... 713.973.0561...................... anthropologie.com belle la vie................................................. 713.465.1122 ..................... bellelavieboutique.com Bistro Alex ............................................... 713.827.3545 ..................... bistroalex.com Bar Alex.................................................... 713.827.3545 ..................... bistroalex.com BRIO Tuscan Grille .................................... 713.973.9610 ...................... brioitalian.com Chipotle .................................................... 713.343.0521 ..................... chipotle.com Cyclone Anaya’s ........................................ 713.461.1300 ...................... cycloneanaya.com Eddie V’s Prime Seafood ........................... 832.200.2380 .................... eddiev.com Elaine Turner ............................................. 713.255.9095 ..................... elaineturner.com Eye Couture.............................................. 713.935.9966..................... eyecouture.com Flora & Muse ............................................ 713.463.6873 ..................... floraandmuse.com FLOSS Dental ........................................... 832.255.0101 ..................... flossdental.com Free People .............................................. 713.464.8423 ..................... freepeople.com Hotel Sorella ............................................. 713.973.1600 ...................... hotelsorella-citycentre.com Houston Motor Club ................................. 713.481.4469...................... houstonmotorclub.com Houston Texans Grille ............................... 713.461.2002...................... houstontexansgrille.com Jamba Juice ............................................. 713.464.0652 ..................... jambajuice.com J.Crew ...................................................... OPENING in 2012 .............. jcrew.com LifeCafé .................................................... 713.630.8441 LifeSpa | Salon ......................................... 713.630.8424 LifeTime Athletic........................................ 713.464.1200 ...................... lifetimeathletic.com LMD Boutique .......................................... 713.722.9923 ..................... lmd-boutique.com lululemon athletica .................................... 713.464.1257 ...................... lululemon.com Monnalisa ................................................. 713.973.1600 Norris Conference Centers........................ 713.590.0950 ..................... norriscenters.com OLIVE & VINE............................................ 832.377.1610 ...................... oliveandvineshop.com Paul Carter Jewels .................................... 713.465.5353 ..................... paulcarterjewels.com Paper Source ........................................... 713.984.8619 ..................... paper-source.com Bistro Alex

RA Sushi .................................................. 713.331.2792 ...................... rasushi.com Red Mango .............................................. 713.463.3830..................... redmangousa.com Ruggles Green ......................................... 713.464.5557 ..................... rugglesgreen.com

Flora & Muse

Straits ....................................................... 713.365.9922 ..................... straitsrestaurants.com Studio Movie Grill ...................................... 713.461.4449 ...................... studiomoviegrill.com Sur La Table ............................................. 832.201.3492 ..................... surlatable.com SWEET .................................................... 713.647.9338 ..................... sweethouston.com The Tasting Room ..................................... 281.822.1500 ..................... tastingroomwines.com Urban Outfitters ........................................ 713.467.1840 ...................... urbanoutfitters.com Yard House ............................................... 713.461.9273 ...................... yardhouse.com RESIDENTIAL

Phone

Website

The Brownstones at CITYCENTRE ........... 713.465.4205 ..................... thebrownstonesatcitycentre.com The Domain Apartments ........................... 713.463.0400 ..................... domainatcitycentre.com The LOFTS CITYCENTRE ......................... 713.463.4663 ..................... theloftscitycentre.com The Residences at Hotel Sorella ............... 713.973.1600 ...................... hotelsorella-citycentre.com

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Houston Texans Grill

Studio Movie Grill

LifeSpa | Salon

Urban Outfitters

SprinG • SUMMer 2012

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Get Your Motor Running THE WORLD’S “SupERCARS” ARE A RARE AND SpECIAL BREED—AND SO ARE THE pEOpLE WHO LOvE THEM.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

Every day is life in the fast lane for the city’s savviest auto enthusiasts, thanks

or pair of pants. The Club also offers opportunities to meet and socialize with

to Houston Motor Club. This one-of-a-kind local business, headquartered at

like-minded individuals who love motoring.

CITYCENTRE, offers a limited number of drivers exclusive access to a fleet of

the big game or join in the fun of specialty events like poker nights, art exhibits

other club perks.

and wine tastings.

The price of admission is a one-time membership fee, plus monthly dues.

variety also adds to its appeal. Gary Hailey, D.D.S. has been a club member for

eclipsing—six figures, many in Houston’s smart set are turning in the keys of their

a little over two years now. “After learning about the club through a friend who is

weekend exotics to take advantage of this hassle-free arrangement.

a member, and attending a social event, the decision was easy,” says Dr. Hailey.

when your biggest concern could be selecting a dream drive from prestigious

“It made no sense for me to buy, service, maintain and insure more cars than I would be driving on a daily basis.”

marques like Ferrari, Bentley, Aston Martin and Lamborghini? Your choice will

While Dr. Hailey has had the privilege of driving all the vehicles in the club’s

be delivered to your door, detailed and gassed up and ready to go. Operating

stable, his favorite so far is the Ferrari F430 Spider. Although he loves the current

on a point system with allocations based on three tiers, memberships provide

variety, his hopes for the future include the possibility of driving the Bugatti Super

sizable mileage allowances that range from 5,000 to 10,000 per year. (The most

Sport, the fastest street-legal production car in the world.

voracious drivers can buy additional points.)

For many members, Houston Motor Club is not just about solo enjoyment of these beautiful rides and the ability to change cars almost as easily as a purse |

Houston Motor Club has acquired a diverse roster of members, and that

With annual costs of owning a supercar easily approaching—and in some cases,

Which makes perfect sense. Why worry about depreciation or maintenance,

48

It’s also the perfect place to make a pit stop for coffee or cocktails, catch

classy chassis for daily spins or special occasions, in addition to a myriad of

“I am really enjoying the Houston Motor Club,” Dr. Hailey says. “You can actually drive the supercars for days and have the opportunity to experience them. It’s much better than taking test drives to evaluate them.”

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LIVE THE LOFTY LIFE...

Designed for an uncompromising lifestyle, THE LOFTS CITYCENTRE are elegant and sophisticated rental residences for those who prefer to live with a sense of style.

FEATURES AND AMENITIES: Spacious one, two and three bedroom lofts Open, natural light-filled floor plans Exquisitely landscaped terraces Internet & media lounge with Wi-Fi Life Time Athletic onyx membership per residence Concierge resident services

12808 Queensbury Lane | Houston,TX 77024 | 713.463.4663 | THELOFTSCITYCENTRE.COM

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Texas A&M MBA programs, now delivered in your backyard.

For 12 years, Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School has answered the educational needs of a highly experienced executive audience with its Houston-based Executive MBA program. Now, Mays is answering the demand to educate the next generation of business leaders. Launching fall 2012, the Texas A&M Professional MBA program will target young working professionals seeking to expand their skills and education without disrupting their careers.

Both the new Professional MBA, and Executive MBA, which will relocate from its current location in The Woodlands, will be offered in a first-class, custom-finished facility in Houston’s CITYCENTRE III building. Nestled in the heart of Houston’s westward growth, CITYCENTRE will serve as a home in Houston for Mays Business School to educate Texas’ business leaders for years to come.

Learn more about our world-class business education at an information session this spring, held in the Hotel Sorella Conference Centre. Upcoming dates are available at emba.tamu.edu or pmba.tamu.edu.

Professional MBA | Full-Time MBA | Executive MBA mbaprograms.tamu.edu

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